Today, Robin and I discussed chapters 3 and 4 of My Sister's Keeper, and we read chapter 5 together. We discussed plot, characterization, limited vs. omniscient point of view, and sensory details.
Today, Robin and I discussed plot, characterization, and conflict in the first two chapters of Jodi Picoult's novel "My Sister's Keeper." We listened to a podcast about the inspiration for the novel, and Robin worked on her reading journal entry.
Today, Robin and I discussed the short descriptive essay "Great Splendor," which is a sensory rich description of the Grand Canyon. We discussed the use of sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste to add details to any work, and then I had Robin practice description by applying this technique to the "Cafe at Night" painting by Van Gogh, as well as to the musical composition of "Desert Rose" by Sting. She composed vivid descriptions during our session.
Assignment
Read chapter 1 of "My Sister's Keeper."
Session Minutes
75
Minutes Student Attended
75
Lesson Comments
Her screen is still not working, and today we had trouble with audio at the beginning of our session. We had to restart Skype twice. Barbara was very helpful with this.
Today, I graded Robin's grammar pretest. She earned a 62% and we identified weaknesses to work on for the rest of the term, using our great new grammar book titled "The Best Grammar Workbook Ever." We worked on vocabulary chapter 2. Her test is tomorrow.
Today, Robin and I completed some exercises (workbook and online) in chapter 3 of her vocabulary text. We also worked on verb types in her grammar text.
Today, Robin and I reviewed unit 3 of her vocabulary book. She completed some exercises, and then we worked together on linking verbs, helping verbs, action verbs, etc. in her grammar text. We brainstormed ideas for her next novel reading, and she chose to read "My Sister's Keeper" by Jodi Picoult.
Assignment
Review for Vocabulary Test on Friday.
Session Minutes
75
Minutes Student Attended
75
Lesson Comments
She has a broken camera on her computer, she says. We can't see her when we Skype. This needs to be fixed because we can't see her during exams.
Today, Robin took her Unit 3 vocabulary test and earned a 95%. Then we switched our focus to the author of our new novel, "My Sister's Keeper" by Jodi Picoult. We watched video interviews with the author, a primary source, to learn about her writing process and standards. Robin learned that Picoult has chosen to be seen as a "commercial writer" instead of as a "literary writer," after a comparison and contrast of both roles. She also learned her biography and opinions about "book to film" changes.
Robin completed the Pretest from The Best Grammar Workbook Ever. We corrected the test but did not have time to go over the incorrect answers. With 64% correct, clearly a grammar review is indicated.
