Dear Mr >B...

(click image below to submit)

• Use specific examples, and be sure to note strengths and weaknesses
• Limit yourself to one to two pages MAXIMUM
• Use paragraphs to structure your writing
• Leave enough time to edit your writing in order to make it stronger

Here are some questions you might consider (pick only the ones you are most comfortable with):

1. How did this class help you grow as a learner? Where, specifically, do you see this growth? Cite at least one specific example in one or more of the following areas: 
1. Thinking
   Reading
   Writing
   Discussing

2. What idea(s) of yours have you reconsidered as a result of the discussions, texts we explored? 

3. What was your greatest strength in this class? This was exemplified by [explain specific instance here]

4. How did you contribute to the whole classroom experience throughout the year? What was your most significant contribution in this regard?

5. What are you most proud of having accomplished in this class? Explain it in detail.

6. How well did you work with your classmates? What did you learn from them? Cite at least one specific example.

Here is another form I have used with students to get them to reflect on their class participation. Feel free to use parts of it in your final reflection.

If you missed the film or need to review it, please watch it here or you might find it here.

A transcript is available here.

Model essay: click here

Directions for today's summative assessment:

1. If you haven't already done so, create a Google doc called, "The Bloody Massacre".
2. Share this doc immediately with me (boloss@nths.net).
3. Carefully read the directions on the form, first.
4. Write your essay in your Google doc. I might "stop by" as you're writing, so don't freak out ;)
5. When you are finished, please fill out the entire form (heading featured below) by clicking here.

Top issues/problems in past essays:

1. Failure to argue HOW (specifically) your chosen witness was the very BEST witness (compared to another witness, for example)
2. Too much narrative at the expense of YOUR own argument ("Witness said this, then goes on to say this, and then claimed...") / Instead, try following the CLAIM (your argument, not the witness's) / EVIDENCE (short quote) / EXPLANATION (how quote supports argument) formula
3. Jumping to other witnesses' testimony without thoroughly assessing the testimony of your chosen witness
4. Utilizing generic transitions such as, "Moving on...", "Adding on...", "Another thing..."

When you finish, you may work on HW as long as you do not disturb others.