Exam News

The EXAM is Thursday, December 17, 2015 at 2:00.

You will be writing. To prepare, be thinking about the objects, activities, shows, transportation, heroes, heroines, villains, news, gossip, etc. that might become the folklore of the future.

You must be present- no exceptions.

We will finish the All About You presentation - 2 1/2 minutes each.
 Submit your notes.

Then, you will write an original "folktale" and post in CANVAS. Instructions will be handed out during the exam. Bring your imagination!

Thank you for a delightful and imaginative semester! Enjoy the holiday break.

 

December 10, 2015 - Thursday

Class Work

1. Folklore and You Presentations
2. Use the chart provided and take notes on each presentation. The chart will act as a grid of sorts to use to answer the questions at the bottom of the second page.

Reminder: The EXAM is next Thursday at 2:00. You will be writing. To prepare, be thinking about the objects, activities, shows, transportation, heroes, heroines, villains, news, gossip, etc. that might become the folklore of the future.

You must be present- no exceptions.

No Class on Tuesday, December 8,2015

We will not be meeting as a class on Tuesday, December 8, 2015. Please use the time to work on the Folklore and You assignment. Check the December 3 post for the instructions.

We will meet on Thursday, December 10, 2015.

December 3, 2015 - Thursday

Class Work

Before we share our "fables" in play form, I want to tell you about the last classwork assignment for the semester. There is a separate activity for the exam. You MUST attend class the day of the exam to earn credit for the course. We have an exam assignment to complete.


Exam date and time:

Thurs.,12/17/2015 from 2:00pm ‐ 3:50pm

Next assignment:
There are many aspects of folklore that we did not have time to explore. Your task is to discover who you are in relation to folklore. Some of these topics relate to topics we studied. Others are new, and as yet, unexplored.

Who are you?
1. What is your birth flower? Is there any symbolism related to the flower and to you?
2. What is your birthstone? Is it symbolic of you in any way?
3. What is your zodiac sign? What does that say about you?
4. In what year were you born? Year of the tiger, the rat, or perhaps the snake? Find out. (Asian) What does this say about you?
5. If you were Native American, you might have an animal that is symbolic of you. (Raven, tiger, wolf, sparrow, etc.) What would you like for your symbolic animal? Explain. http://spirit-animal.net/find_your_magical_power_animal.htm Please note that you are simply exploring this information. Many cultures have religious beliefs in the power of spirit animals. Unless you are part of one of those cultures, you are simply an interested student, not a true believer. Be respectful of the beliefs of others. Also see: http://www.animalspirits.com/index1.html
6. What is your number? http://www.astrology-numerology.com/numerology.html Caution - many sites try to get information from you. You should do your own calculations. Don't give away your information! In this report, just include your final numeral!
7. Remember the color reports? What is your color? What does that color say about you?
8. What is your sign or symbol? According to Signs and Symbols, An Illustrated Guide to Their Origins and Meanings, a sign is straightforward in its function. It may be written or visual and may dictate direction or a warning.
A symbol is a visual image or sign representing an idea - a deeper symbolism. Think of the American Flag. It is a symbol of freedom, courage, 50 united states, 13 original colonies, etc. Herbs, plants, even insects can be symbols. See also: http://www.ehow.com/info_8361620_difference-between-sign-symbol.html

Here is a place to start: http://www.symbols.com/
 9. Put all of this together in a report about you. How does the information you researched relate to you. Tell us who you are. Include stories from your life to illustrate your discoveries.
 10. You may prepare a PowerPoint presentation, poster, story, song, brochure, collage, or speech all about YOU! These will be presented next Thursday. You will have some class time on Tuesday to work on this.
10 Keep track of your sources. You must submit the visual, the written report, and the Works Cited page on CANVAS. Due: December 10, 2015. No late work will be accepted on this assignment. We are too close to the end.

Now - on with the plays - take a few minutes to ask others to read the parts. Please be enthusiastic and read with expression.

Keep track of the messages of the stories! (We will list on the board . . . scribe please!)

December 1, 2015 - Tuesday

Class Work

1. Finish the reports. Be sure to take quick notes!
2. Aesop's Fables have been charming readers and listeners for over 3000 years. Each ends with a lesson that is as important to people today as the lesson was 3000 years ago. Enter the world of Aesop's Fables.

Homework
http://aesopfables.com/

There are seven sections of fables. Select ONE from each section to read. In a paragraph, respond to the moral of the story. Explain how the moral does or does not apply to people today. Is the moral a message that we in 2015 need to hear and heed?

In addition, select ONE of the seven fables read and turn it into a play. (See sample below.) We will "present" the plays on Thursday.

Sample: The Scorpion and the Frog - http://aesopfables.com/cgi/aesop1.cgi?4&TheScorpionandtheFrog

Fable in play form:

Original

 

The Scorpion and the Frog

 

  A scorpion and a frog meet on the bank of a stream and the

scorpion asks the frog to carry him across on its back. The

frog asks, "How do I know you won't sting me?" The scorpion

says, "Because if I do, I will die too."

 

  The frog is satisfied, and they set out, but in midstream,

the scorpion stings the frog. The frog feels the onset of

paralysis and starts to sink, knowing they both will drown,

but has just enough time to gasp "Why?"

 

               Replies the scorpion: "It’s my nature..."

 

 

Fable in Play Form

Setting: Bank of a stream

Characters: Scorpion – you know, the kind that loves to sting!

Frog: - the green slimy sort with webbed feet to use for swimming

*****

Narrator:  Once there was a scorpion that came to the bank of a stream.

Scorpion: Wow – that is a powerful stream of water! How am I supposed to cross this stream? I have neither fins to swim nor wings to fly. I must get to the other side. I hear there are yummy things to eat over there and wonderful scorpions to meet. There is also a stinging contest scheduled for this afternoon. I know I can win that one!

Narrator: Just then, a green spotted frog hopped onto the bank by the scorpion.

Frog:  (Croaking sound)   How are you fine scorpion this wet and wonderful afternoon?

Narrator: Scorpion turned and aimed his tail at Frog. Frog backed up a few hops.

Scorpion: I must get across this stream. You see, kind sir, that I have no webbed feet for swimming. I don’t have wings, so I can’t fly. However, I will pay you richly if you will carry me on your back.

Frog: What? I am not crazy. If I should get close to you, you will sting me, and I will die! I want no appointment with death today.

Scorpion: (Laughs) You are being too silly. If I should sting you, I would have no way to get across the stream as I would die, too! Let me sit on your back as you use your powerful, webbed feet to swim across this water. I have a stinging contest to win this afternoon. I can’t afford to use my power on you!

Frog: I guess that makes sense. Hop on.

Narrator: Scorpion climbs onto Frog’s back and Frog begins to cross the stream. When they are somewhere in the middle Frog feels a horrible sting!

Frog: What the heck was that! Oh no. You must have used your stinger on me. I am having trouble moving my legs. I am paralyzed. We will both drown now! Why did you do that?

Scorpion: (Without emotion) It is my nature. Stinging is what I do.

Narrator: And so, they were both washed away by the swift current of the water.
Moral: Some characters, like people are what they are no matter what.

 

 

November 24, 2015 - Tuesday

Class Work

Let's meet the birds! This was the assignment.
Find out all you can about the real bird.

• Common name
• Geographic location
• Habitat
• Nesting habits
• Color (male & female)
• Size
• Song
• Eggs, incubation period, who sits on the nest?
• Food
• Who feeds the young?
• Fledging information
• Migration?
• Endangered or plentiful - use numbers

B. Locate your bird in story, rhyme, or song. Write down a brief version or sample of the tale. rhyme, or song.

C. Locate your bird in history. Did the ancients revere or fear the bird. Share what you find.

D. In many folktales, the bird is personified. That is, it takes on the characteristics of a human. What human qualities does your bird possess? Is it a problem solver? Is it a thief? Does it run from danger? Is it dangerous or a bully? etc. Describe your bird as you would a human. Give it a name if you wish. In Disney's Pocahontus, the humming bird was named Flit!

E. Be ready to share today! (You are getting good at this!)

C. Put it all together in a PowerPoint, Prezi, or Word Document poster/flyer.

D. Take notes on the other presentations . . . note page provided.

 

Homework:

 

Enjoy family, friends, food, and fun as you celebrate Thanksgiving - an American tradition thanks to the Native Americans, Pilgrims, and Jamestown settlers.

 

Bird stories to read:

1. "The Story of the Smart Parrot" from Puerto Rico - p. 748

2. "Raven Brings the Light" - Alaskan Indian - p. 719

3. Oni and the Great Bird (Africa-Yoruba Tribe) p. 644

4. "Why the Parrot Repeats Man's Words ( Thailand) p. 563

5. The Bul-Bul Bird (Latvia) p. 395

6. The Goose with the Golden Eggs" (Ancient Greece) p. 178

 

Read any four of the stories. In a brief paragraph for each, explain what the bird had to do with the story. Was it the hero or the villain? Did it have special powers? How did people respond to the bird?

 

Post in CANVAS.

 

Happy Thanksgiving!

 

 

November 19, 2015 - Thursday

Class Work

1. Let's take a few minutes at your tables to share your game-day stories. Read your memory to the others at your table, Or, if you prefer, just tell the story. Nominate one person from your table to share with the class.  Be sure that your story is posted on CANVAS.

2. Birds of a feather . . . Birds play a role in folklore. See: http://www.birds.com/blog/birds-in-folklore-from-around-the-world/


See National Geographic pictures from today. animals.nbationalgeographic.com


Samples:

http://www.story-lovers.com/listsbirdstories.html#birdandbirdssos
 (rhymes, too)
http://www.pitt.edu/~dash/type0150.html

http://www.sacred-texts.com/neu/ftr/chap03.htm

Reader's Theatre: http://www.aaronshep.com/stories/019.html

etc.

You will "adopt" a bird much like you adopted a monster. This time, you will draw the name of your adoptee from the box.

This is the task:
A. Find out all you can about the real bird.

• Common name
• Geographic location
• Habitat
• Nesting habits
• Color (male & female)
• Size
• Song
• Eggs, incubation period, who sits on the nest?
• Food
• Who feeds the young?
• Fledging information
• Migration?
• Endangered or plentiful - use numbers

B. Locate your bird in story, rhyme, or song. Write down a brief version or sample of the tale. rhyme, or song.

C. Locate your bird in history. Did the ancients revere or fear the bird. Share what you find.

D. In many folktales, the bird is personified. That is, it takes on the characteristics of a human. What human qualities does your bird possess? Is it a problem solver? Is it a thief? Does it run from danger? Is it dangerous or a bully? etc. Describe your bird as you would a human. Give it a name if you wish. In Disney's Pocahontus, the humming bird was named Flit!

E. Be ready to share on Tuesday. (You are getting good at this!)

C. Put it all together in a PowerPoint, Prezi, or Word Document poster/flyer.

Here is the task:
1. Find out what you can about the real bird.

No class on Tuesday, November 17, 2015

We I'll not have class on Tuesday, November 17, 2015. We will meet on Thursday.

November 12, 2015 - Thursday

Class Work

1. Group Presentations - Please jot down a sentence or two about each game.
Group 1:

• Heads Up 7 Up (Courtney)
• Mancala (Merritt)
• Ouija (Tara)
• Jump Rope (Roxanne)

Group 2

• Charades
• Mafia
• Scooter Pacman
• Slide

Group 3

• Limbo
• Bloody Knocking
• Freeze Tag
• Poker

(Angel, Dezara, Rodrigo, Kenny)

Group 4

• Super Mario
• Ring Around the Rosy
• Connect 4
• Duck, Duck, Goose

Group 5

• Shoogi - Jorge
• Liar's Dice - Gabe
• Hot Potato - Adriana
• Mario Kart - Sonia

Group 6
Presented by Maria, Stephanie, Bianca, Marisa

*******************************************************************
Individual original games -
1. Share at your table. Pass the toys around and take a moment or two to play with the toy. Creators, be sure to share instructions!
Be sure that you posted a picture of the toy and the required information on CANVAS.

*********************************************************************

Homework

Hop into your mental time machine and travel back to your childhood. Think of a time when you played games with your family and/or friends. Tell the story of game playing. Be sure to name the game, identify the players, describe how the game went, and tell of the winner. Were there good sports, bad sports, or everything in between?

Recreate the game day or night for the reader. Use details. Help the readers to visualize the event. Describe the location. Use dialogue.  (This should be one to two pages.) Post in CANVAS. Due: November 17, 2015.

Novemer 10, 2015 - Tuesday

Class Work

We will spend the last half of class polishing the "game" PowerPoint or Prezi slides. Presentations will be given on Thursday.

The first half of class is for making and playing with homemade toys.

1. Hummer
2. Clothes pins and bottles
3. Yarn dolls


TOYS!
Did you know that there is a toy hall of fame? What toys were/are your favorites? What toys would you like to see in the Hall of Fame?
http://www.mprnews.org/story/2014/11/06/here-are-the-three-toy-hall-of-fame-entries-for-2014-and-the-alsorans?refid=0

Here are some past winners!
http://www.toyhalloffame.org/
2015 Winners = http://news.yahoo.com/puppet-twister-super-soaker-toy-153128082.html;_ylt=AwrXnCbLVkJW9gIAqePQtDMD;_ylu=X3oDMTByNDZ0aWFxBGNvbG8DZ3ExBHBvcwM2BHZ0aWQDBHNlYwNzcg--

 Then there is Toy Story: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYz2wyBy3kc

Homework
Make a toy. Conduct a bit of research and find and make a toy. If you are a fan of Pinterest, you could find ideas there. Listen for examples in class. Your task is to make a toy out of odds and ends that you find around your home or yard. Do NOT spend money on this project. Think about it. What toys might interest children? Would boys prefer something different from girls? These could be toys from another culture and/or time.

In addition to your toy, write a one-page report on the history of your toy. Tell the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the toy. Give credit to your sources. Or, if you made up the toy and are the creator, tell how to make it! Provide step-by-step instructions. We will play with the toys after the group presentations on Thursday. BRING your toy to class to share.

Ideas:
http://www.motherearthnews.com/diy/homemade-toys-zmaz74ndzraw.aspx
http://www.naturalmomsblog.com/old-fashioned-toys-make-kids-smarter.html
http://www.marthastewart.com/275402/homemade-toys-and-games/@center/276975/marthas-crafts-kids#264932


 More ideas:
http://engagingtoddleractivities.wordpress.com/category/homemade-toys/
http://www.artistshelpingchildren.org/gamestoysartscraftstideaskids.html
https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=AwrTHR357WRUgysAY79XNyoA;_ylu=X3oDMTB0dGM3OHBhBHNlYwNzYwRjb2xvA2dxMQR2dGlkA1ZJUDQxOF8x?_adv_prop=image&fr=yfp-t-250-s&va=colonial+toys+from+the+1600%27s
https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=AwrTcXoE7mRUBTAAEIWJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBsZ29xY3ZzBHNlYwNzZWFyY2gEc2xrA2J1dHRvbg--;_ylc=X1MDOTYwNjI4NTcEX3IDMgRiY2sDMjllajBmMWEybG1waiUyNmIlM0Q0JTI2ZCUzRDhoY3VNMXRwWUVJamJLOFVLNERMVzdXZjlNRUhVVU1TaXV5R1FnLS0lMjZzJTNEM2slMjZpJTNETzdqcGVQT2VMSVBWeEVuT0hGOVkEZnIDeWZwLXQtMjUwLXMEZ3ByaWQDSmUxbGxtdG5RVjJINEF4dndHN3poQQRtdGVzdGlkA251bGwEbl9zdWdnAzEwBG9yaWdpbgNpbWFnZXMuc2VhcmNoLnlhaG9vLmNvbQRwb3MDMgRwcXN0cgNwaW9uZWVyIHRveXMEcHFzdHJsAzEyBHFzdHJsAzI1BHF1ZXJ5A3Bpb25lZXIgdG95cyBmb3IgY2hpbGRyZW4EdF9zdG1wAzE0MTU5MDA3MjgEdnRlc3RpZANudWxs?gprid=Je1llmtnQV2H4AxvwG7zhA&pvid=PxpScjIwNi4kumB4VCrbMwIdNjguMgAAAAAQ3ALF&p=pioneer+toys+for+children&fr=yfp-t-250-s&fr2=sa-gp-images.search.yahoo.com&ei=UTF-8&n=60&x=wrt

https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=AwrTcX087mRUCg4A232JzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBsZ29xY3ZzBHNlYwNzZWFyY2gEc2xrA2J1dHRvbg--;_ylc=X1MDOTYwNjI4NTcEX3IDMgRiY2sDMjllajBmMWEybG1waiUyNmIlM0Q0JTI2ZCUzRDhoY3VNMXRwWUVJamJLOFVLNERMVzdXZjlNRUhVVU1TaXV5R1FnLS0lMjZzJTNEM2slMjZpJTNETzdqcGVQT2VMSVBWeEVuT0hGOVkEZnIDeWZwLXQtMjUwLXMEZ3ByaWQDeWRyT2UuQlNScFcyUmJaUXdjOG91QQRtdGVzdGlkA251bGwEbl9zdWdnAzEwBG9yaWdpbgNpbWFnZXMuc2VhcmNoLnlhaG9vLmNvbQRwb3MDMARwcXN0cgMEcHFzdHJsAwRxc3RybAMxMgRxdWVyeQNhbmNpZW50IHRveXMEdF9zdG1wAzE0MTU5MDA3NzIEdnRlc3RpZANudWxs?gprid=ydrOe.BSRpW2RbZQwc8ouA&pvid=3hdVEDIwNi4kumB4VCrbMxMENjguMgAAAAAUMmv7&p=ancient+toys&fr=yfp-t-250-s&fr2=sb-top-images.search.yahoo.com&ei=UTF-8&n=60&x=wrt

https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=AwrTcX.47mRU9PYAPbCJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBsZ29xY3ZzBHNlYwNzZWFyY2gEc2xrA2J1dHRvbg--;_ylc=X1MDOTYwNjI4NTcEX3IDMgRiY2sDMjllajBmMWEybG1waiUyNmIlM0Q0JTI2ZCUzRDhoY3VNMXRwWUVJamJLOFVLNERMVzdXZjlNRUhVVU1TaXV5R1FnLS0lMjZzJTNEM2slMjZpJTNETzdqcGVQT2VMSVBWeEVuT0hGOVkEZnIDeWZwLXQtMjUwLXMEZ3ByaWQDSTgyVWNBWVNRM2VPWkF1S0FlM0NwQQRtdGVzdGlkA251bGwEbl9zdWdnAzAEb3JpZ2luA2ltYWdlcy5zZWFyY2gueWFob28uY29tBHBvcwMwBHBxc3RyAwRwcXN0cmwDBHFzdHJsAzI0BHF1ZXJ5A2FuY2llbnQgdG95cyBmcm9tIGMgaGluYQR0X3N0bXADMTQxNTkwMDkwMAR2dGVzdGlkA251bGw-?gprid=I82UcAYSQ3eOZAuKAe3CpA&pvid=4BO6ADIwNi4kumB4VCrbMxCHNjguMgAAAAAbnQhA&p=ancient+toys+from+c+hina&fr=yfp-t-250-s&fr2=sb-top-images.search.yahoo.com&ei=UTF-8&n=60&x=wrt

November 5, 2015 - Thursday

Class Work

Honor's Project - Snow White

 On Tuesday we played some board, card, and chip games and reflected on three of them.

What makes games part of folklore? (Discuss at your table. Elect one person to speak for the group.)

Today, we will research games. Here are the instructions:
ext Assignment for homework, begin your individual research.

A.  Groups of four -
B. Chose four of the following:

• Required as one of the four - an ancient game
•  a modern game. (No drinking games, please.)
• a team game.
• a video game. (tablets included - Candy Crush, Bejeweled, etc.)
•  a board game.
•  a card game.
• a birthday or other party game.
•  a game played with dice.
• a game played outside

C. List your names and games on the board by the end of class.

Instructions: Prepare a PowerPoint or Prezi to explain each. (Two or three slides for each game for a total of no more than 10) Post your sources as an additional slide/bubble.

1.  Tell where each game started.
2. Explain if it is or was popular.
3. Tell how it is played. Were there prizes?
4. Why do or did people enjoy the game?
5. Was it better to be a spectator or player?
6. Predict if you think each game will exist into the future.
7.  Be sure to include a title page with your names and a final slide with the sources listed.
8. 12 slides total.

You will work in groups of four. Divide the work. Turn in a piece of paper today telling me what game each individual in your group will research and report.   We will present on Thursday. 

Here are a few helpful links:
http://www.topics-mag.com/edition11/games-section.htm  

http://www.estcomp.ro/~cfg/games.html  International children's games

http://nrich.maths.org/8261 games from around the world

http://www.ccgs.com/games/index.htm history of board games

http://listverse.com/2013/01/20/10-most-important-board-games-in-history/

http://www.wopc.co.uk/history/ History of card games

You get the idea . . . happy searching!

 

November 3, 2015 - Tuesday - Games

Class Work "Let the Games Begin!"

Today you will play three different games. Some you might remember these from childhood. Others may be new to you.

Think about it:
1. Why do we play games anyway?
2. Have you played children's party games such as Duck, Duck, Goose, or Red Rover,  or Hide-and-go-seek? Have you ever been in a Snipe Hunt? What about playing Ring Around the Rosey or London Bridge? Spin the Bottle, anyone?

http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=snipe+hunt

Read all about Snipe Hunts at: http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/SnipeHunt

How about "I Have a Little Doggie and He Won't Bite You!" Maybe you played "Button, Button, Who's got the Button?"

How about "Pictionary" or Charades?

Any takers for checkers or chess?  Did you ever play Old Maid, Crazy Eights, or War? What about Slap Jack?

Today we are going to play a few games. Some are board games. Others are card games. Some are just plain silly. Laughter is wonderful! You will have 12 minutes to play a game. Then, post your thoughts/reactions in CANVAS. We should have time for you to try at least 3 games. (30 pts.)

Like I said before, "Let the games begin!" And then there are the Hunger Games and other "games" of war.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMfddZboSE8

Next Assignment for homework, begin your individual research.

A.  Groups of four -
B. Chose four of the following:

• Required as one of the four - an ancient game
•  a modern game. (No drinking games, please.)
• a team game.
• a video game. (tablets included - Candy Crush, Bejeweled, etc.)
•  a board game.
•  a card game.
• a birthday or other party game.
•  a game played with dice.

Prepare a PowerPoint or Prezi to explain each. (Two or three slides for each game for a total of no more than 10) Post your sources as an additional slide/bubble.

1.  Tell where each game started.
2. Explain if it is or was popular.
3. Tell how it is played. Were there prizes?
4. Why do or did people enjoy the game?
5. Was it better to be a spectator or player?
6. Predict if you think each game will exist into the future.
7.  Be sure to include a title page with your names and a final slide with the sources listed.
8. 12 slides total.

You will work in groups of four. Divide the work. Turn in a piece of paper today telling me what game each individual in your group will research and report.  You will have time on Thursday to prepare. We will present next Thursday unless this goes very quickly.

October 29, 2015 - Thursday

Class Work

Costume parade - pictures please!

Time to share! Pass the candy, please - chew, watch, listen, learn!

Day of the Dead
1. Cempazuchil flowers
2. Skulls - this could also go with Halloween
3. Alters/offerings
4.Other

Halloween
1. Costumes
2.Spooky Story (break out the candles)
3. Yummy stuff
4.Recipe
5. Song or dance
6. Other


If time permits:
Thriller! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOnqjkJTMaA (Long version) 14 minutes

or

music video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hG6oy46qKE4 (5 minutes)

Homework Treat - NO HOMEWORK! Make a Day of the Dead and/or Halloween memory.

 

October 27, 2015 - Tuesday

Class Work

Do you celebrate Halloween and/or Day of the Dead? Please share memories or plans.

This is a great article about both holidays: http://edsitement.neh.gov/feature/origins-halloween-and-day-dead (Read this article.)
History Chanel: http://www.history.com/topics/Halloween

This is a YouTube article about Halloween: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9pzNpKKRYc

Here is a Day of the Dead video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzaZidVrebA
and
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUUAgEWeYeI

 These articles tell a little about both holidays. Read them first.
http://edsitement.neh.gov/feature/origins-halloween-and-day-dead
http://www.history.com/topics/halloween

Assignment:  Prepare a 6-7  PowerPoint  or Prezi slide presentation related to Halloween OR Day of the Dead. You may work with a partner or two or you may work alone. (No more than three in a group.) Sign up for your topic

http://edsitement.neh.gov/feature/origins-halloween-and-day-dead (Read this article.)
Suggestions:
1. Create a visual haunted house
2. Design visual costumes - explain the importance of each.
3. Create a visual Day of the Dead celebration.
4. Explain how to make something edible for either holiday. Show us the steps and the end result.
5. Create a visual Halloween party/carnival.
6. Illustrate and tell a ghost/spooky story.
7. Google search: Images for Day of the Dead to see pictures. You could pick one element of Day of the Dead to research and report upon.
8. Teach us a Halloween or Day of the Dead song or dance!


Homework:
1. Dress up for class on Thursday. If you do not what to dress up, design a visual costume and share a picture with us. Be ready to explain why you selected the outfit. It must relate to Folklore.

2. Finish your Day of the Dead or Halloween Powerpoint/Prezi. Post in Canvas. Be ready to share on Thursday.

October 22, 2015 - Thursday

This was the homewok:
What would you expect to find in a haunted house? List at least 20 items. Bring your list to class on Thursday. Who has the longest list? (Prize alert!)

Having trouble? Check this site: http://www.virtualsalt.com/gothic.htm 

B. Think about it. Why do these items scare people? Select one to research. 

Today's homework:

• It's Thursday!  Select a haunted house item to research.
• Find out the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the item.
• What is the history?
• Where did the "fear" begin?
• Does your item appear in any stories or on a work of art?
• This should be at least one page in length.
• Cite your sources. The "news" needs to be posted by the beginning of class on Tuesday, October 27, 2015. (This should sound like a news story . . . you are the reporter!)

 

On Tuesday, yes, this is a change, you will work with a group to create a visual haunted house. More details to follow!

 

Class Work Today

Now - on with the monster reports! Continue to take notes - yes, there is a grade for this!

October 20, 2015 - Tuesday

Homework: Over the weekend, you watched a horror movie or read a scary story.

This is a list of the top 100 horror movies, just in case you need some suggestions.
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/top/bestofrt/top_100_horror_movies/
Some full length movies are on YouTube, but I can't promise that they are worth watching!

Here are some more suggestions: http://horror.about.com/od/horrorthemelists/tp/20basedontruestory.htm

Horror stories adorn this site! Just click on the title, and the entire story appears! Magical!
http://www.blastr.com/2013-10-17/25-scary-stories-stephen-king-and-other-great-horror-writers-you-can-read-now

Write a brief review of the movie or story. Be the critic!  This is due Thursday, October 22, 2015.  You may choose to write this as a letter to the class convincing us that we should or should not view the movie.

Writing Reviews:

Here are some helpful hints for writing a review: http://twp.duke.edu/uploads/media_item

Class Work

Meet the Monsters! Introduce your monster to the class.

Class - take notes!Submit your notes at the end of class.
List:
Monster name:
Presenter name:
Details from the questions such as looks, origin, size, abilities, fame, difficulties, etc.

This was the assignment:Be sure to tell us:

• The name of the monster.
• What the monster looks like.
• Where the monster originated.
• Where the monster lives.
• The size of the monster.
• Special abilities of the monster.
• Why the monster is famous or should be.
• What hardships are faced by the monster.
• What the monster has done to become famous.
• What classmates and friends think or know about the monster.
• How to avoid or kill the monster

Have a bit of fun with this. We will share next Tuesday. Don't forget to bring your monster! Post in CANVAS today - Tuesday, October 20, 2015.

This is where we are going. 
 A. What would you expect to find in a haunted house? List at least 20 items. Bring your list to class on Thursday.
Having trouble? Check this site: http://www.virtualsalt.com/gothic.htm 
B. Think about it. Why do these items scare people? Select one to research. 

On Thursday, you will select a haunted house item to research. Be thinking of what might interest you. Find out the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the item. What is the history? Where did the "fear" begin? This should be at least one page in length. Cite your sources.  

Also on Thursday, you will work with a group to create a visual haunted house. More details to follow!

OPctober 15, 2015 - Thursday

Class Work

Take a look at The Div! (Pictures are posted around the room.) Would our culture find this monster frightening? Explain.

Next:

• Pick a monster, any monster, from literature or film.
• Sign the "adoption" board - one monster/one parent.
• Read all that you can about that monster.
• Interview three friends or classmates to see what, if anything, they know about your monster. (You just adopted a monster! Congratulations!)

Be ready to introduce your monster to the class next Tuesday. Prepare a poster, Prezi, or PowerPoint to use to describe the monster. 

Be sure to tell us:

• The name of the monster.
• What the monster looks like.
• Where the monster originated.
• Where the monster lives.
• The size of the monster.
• Special abilities of the monster.
• Why the monster is famous or should be.
• What hardships are faced by the monster.
• What the monster has done to become famous.
• What classmates and friends think or know about the monster.
• How to avoid or kill the monster

Have a bit of fun with this. We will share next Tuesday. Don't forget to bring your monster! Post in CANVAS by Tuesday, October 20, 2015. (You will have some class time today to work on this. Be sure to conduct your interviews today.)

What horror movies have you seen? What suggestions can you offer?

Why do people go to horror movies anyway? Why do we humans seem to enjoy a safe scare? What happens to us when we watch? Read the "news" from WebMD for clues.

Let's see: http://nofilmschool.com/2013/10/psychology-behind-why-we-watch-horror-films

http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/features/why-we-love-scary-movies


Over the weekend, you need to watch a horror movie or read a scary story

This is a list of the top 100 horror movies, just in case you need some suggestions.
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/top/bestofrt/top_100_horror_movies/
Some full length movies are on YouTube, but I can't promise that they are worth watching!

Here are some more suggestions: http://horror.about.com/od/horrorthemelists/tp/20basedontruestory.htm

Horror stories adorn this site! Just click on the title, and the entire story appears! Magical!
http://www.blastr.com/2013-10-17/25-scary-stories-stephen-king-and-other-great-horror-writers-you-can-read-now

Write a brief review of the movie or story. Be the critic!  This is not due until next Thursday. We will talk more about it on Tuesday after the monster introductions. Your assignment this weekend is to view a horror movie or to read a scary story.
Here are some helpful hints for writing a review: http://twp.duke.edu/uploads/media_items/film-review-1.original.pdf

 

 

October 13, 2015 - Tuesday

If you have triskaidekaphobia, today is a bad day for you!

 

Class Work
1. What frightens you? Take a look at this L-O-N-G list and jot down the names and definitions of several that occasionally or always apply to you.
For example, do you have Ophidiophobia? There might be a good reason for that! http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/31/science/afraid-of-snakes-your-pulvinar-may-be-to-blame.html?_r=0
2. For the next 3 minutes, discuss fears at your table.

• What frightens you?
• Is there a logical reason for this?
• Tell of a time when you encountered that frightening thing!
•  Have you conquered that fear? Could you?

3. What about nightmares? What frightened you as a child? (Brief discussion) Did you have monsters under the bed or in the closet? (Discuss)

Let's look at Monsters Inc. for possible answers!
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvOQeozL4S0
A few scenes . . .

4. And now for a "real" monster!
Listen to the audio story of a folktale monster from Afghanistan.
A. Just listen the first time.
B. Draw a picture of the monster during the second reading.
C. Share! Post your picture on the board. Sign your name!
D. What was most frightening about this monster?

4. The Top 10 monsters in movies: https://search.yahoo.com/search;_ylt=AwrSbg.Tax1WRUQAToJXNyoA;_ylc=X1MDMjc2NjY3OQRfcgMyBGZyA3lmcC10LTkwMQRncHJpZANMZWl6S2EuZVE3NmFJY1AuV0tFbTVBBG5fcnNsdAMwBG5fc3VnZwMxMARvcmlnaW4Dc2VhcmNoLnlhaG9vLmNvbQRwb3MDMARwcXN0cgMEcHFzdHJsAwRxc3RybAMxNwRxdWVyeQNtb3N0ZXJzIGluIG1vdmlldwR0X3N0bXADMTQ0NDc2ODcwNw--?p=mosters+in+moview&fr2=sb-top-search&fr=yfp-t-901&fp=1

5. Be thinking about monsters. You will need to "adopt" a monster and introduce your monster to the class. Bring a list of your top three favorites on Thursday. (Look back at the monsters you studied for homework over the weekend.) You MUST have your own monster to introduce! There are plenty to go around.



Homework
Read these articles about fear or phobias.
1. https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/brainsnacks/201203/the-only-5-fears-we-all-share
2. https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/fighting-fear/201206/overcoming-phobias-6-important-principles
3. http://fristcenter.org/calendar/detail/fairy-tales-monsters-and-the-genetic-imagination (video)

Read 1 and 2. Watch 3.

• Summarize each.
• Explain if any of these fears or monsters could play a part in a good fairy tale! If so, explain. If not, explain.
• (30 pts.)

October 8, 2015 - Thursday

Class Work
It's story time! You will hear five Cinderella stories. Please fill in the chart for each. (handout)

What monsters do you know of? (Brainstorm at your table. Do a quick search for pictures/illustrations of these monsters. Also, see what written  information is available. Create an annotated list of links. (List the link - tell what you found there - one submission per table.) (Four or five per group.)

 

Homework: It's time to look for a monster to adopt!

This site has some "monster" information. Peruse it for homework.

http://public.wsu.edu/~delahoyd/monsters.html

 Feel free to visit additional sites if the information about your favorite monsters is somewhat sparse!
Select a monster from each category:

• Early
• Classic
• Animals & Insects
• Other monstrosities

Provide a brief description of each monster selected.

• What does the monster look like?
• How big is the monster?
• Does it have special powers?
• Is it loved or feared? Explain.
• Where does it live?
• Does it have any friends?
• For what is it famous?

These are just a few of the many items to consider when describing a monster.

Also, tell why you selected each.
Consider:

• Do you remember being frightened by it as a child?
• Did you see the monster in a movie?
• Did you dress up as the monster on Halloween?
• Other?

Post all four "monsters" in CANVAS by Tuesday, October 13, 2015.

 

 

 

October 6, 2015 - Tuesday

Class Work

1. What did you find out about your culture? Share you information with the others in your group. Make sure that you all have the same understanding about:

• Climate
• Geography
• Clothing
• Furniture
• Food
• Housing
• Plants
• Animals
• Customs
• Hair styles
• Other?

The visuals add to the story need to reflect the time and location in which the story took place.

2. Create the storybook using PowerPoint or other presentation software. You MUST include appropriate illustrations/pictures. Music and sound effects are optional but may enhance your presentation. Many ancient stories were told by story tellers who traveled around and shared stories around the fire while playing a stringed instrument or drum. Be creative!

3. Make sure that each group member takes a turn telling the story and creating two or three pages.

4. Google Docs works well for group projects. Of course, nominating a "glue" person to piece it all together via e-mail is also an option.

5. Presentations are Thursday. ONE person per group needs to post the final project. All others need to note who posted. It is your responsibility to check to be sure your name appears on the title slide. (75 possible  points for the PowerPoint- 25 points for presenting well.)

6. If time permits, we will play Story Cubes!

October 1, 2015 - Thursday

Class Work

1. You will be given a slip containing part of one of the articles we read. The passages are numbered.

• Read the lines.
• Be ready to discuss/agree/or disagree with the statement.
• You will also be given a notes sheet. Take notes as you walk around the room and discuss the statements with your classmates.
• Ready - BEGIN walking/talking/note taking.
• A full class discussion will follow.

2. Cinderella is a story that occurs around the world.

Let's look at "Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters" as an example.
Trailer: https://search.yahoo.com/yhs/search?hspart=mozilla&hsimp=yhs-006&ei=utf-8&fr=ytff1-yff25&p=mufaro%27s%20beautiful%20daughters&type=
Music please: https://search.yahoo.com/yhs/search?hspart=mozilla&hsimp=yhs-006&ei=utf-8&fr=ytff1-yff25&p=mufaro%27s%20beautiful%20daughters&type=

Now settle back and listen . . .

• Join a group of no more than 5.
  2. Select a Cinderella story and culture.3. Explore the possibilities!
  http://nancykeane.com/rl/322.htm - Write your choice and group names on the board. No duplicates!
• Another source: http://therealcinderella.wikispaces.com/The+Mexican+Cinderella (Check the other options on the side.)
• Of course, a simple search for a specific country should bring up options! Don't be afraid to look!
  5. Prepare to share the story with the class.
  6. Use PowerPoint. Tell the story as the slides progress. Add facial expression and vocal inflection as the pages "turn!" Make sure that the pictures you select reflect the culture and location of the story. You wouldn't put palm trees in a story about Cinderella in the frozen north!
•  Please use PowerPoint for this or be sure you add pictures to Prezi or other presentation software. This is a story book!
   7. All must participate.
   
  Let the fun begin!

 

Homework - Post in CANVAS by Tuesday. (Individual work)

Conduct research. Find out more about the country or origin and the time period of the Cinderella your group selected.

1. What is the setting? What is the climate?

2. What are some customs?

3. How did they dress?

4. Were there any challenges of the day? Wars? Plagues?

5. Why would "Cinderella" be an important story for that place?

6. In what ways does the cultural Cinderella differ from girls/women in our place and time?

 

30 pts.

 

 

Groups will present on Thursday. You will have part of the class time on Tuesday to polish the project. Post the project in CANVAS by Tuesday. Be sure to have ALL names of group members on the title slide along with the country and story title.

 

Check Aaron Shepherd's Readers' Theatre for some Cinderella stories . . .

http://www.aaronshep.com/cgi-bin/search_rt.pl?terms=cinderella&boolean=AND&case=Insensitive

 

 

September 29, 2015 - Tuesday

Class Work

1. We will finish the COLOR presentations. Continue with your notes. 

This WAS the homework:

• If you have not already watched a Cinderella movie, please do so by Tuesday. If you cannot find access to a Cinderella movie, Any princess will do.
• Watch for the characteristics of the princess and of the prince. If you watched the movie as a child, do you feel differently about the princess and the prince now that you are an adult? How do you feel about the use of Prince Charming and a Princess in movies for children? Explain in paragraph form. Post your response in CANVAS. 25 pts. Due Tuesday. 
• Read http://sutterfield.weebly.com/uploads/1/2/6/8/12686139/kolbenschlag_article.pdf. Be ready to discuss in class on Tuesday along with a discussion of the other "Cinderella" articles. Do you agree of disagree with the statements in the articles?

2.  We are going to "play" Tea Party.

• You will receive a slip of paper containing a short segment from the reading.
• Read your segment. Get ready to explain the segment and to share your opinion. Do you agree or disagree with the slip? Explain.
• Move around the room. Share with others.
• There are 20 different segments. It will take 10-12 minutes for you to gather all thoughts.

3. We will begin here on Thursday. Please be sure you have read the Cinderella articles. 

Cinderella Articles: http://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/24/magazine/24princess.t.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

 

http://sutterfield.weebly.com/uploads/1/2/6/8/12686139/kolbenschlag_article.pdf (Links to an external site.).

In CANVAS, post your overall impression. Is Cinderella a strong role model for young girls, or does Cinderella leave young girls and boys with the wrong impression about women? Explain in about three paragraphs. (15 points - get started in class. Finish for homework)



4. If time permits, we will play Story Cubes. Get ready for some fun!

Thursday, September 24, 2015

Class Work

1. Take the first five minutes of class to review and make last-minute touch ups to your color presentation. By the end of class, you will know more about colors than Crayola!
2. Take notes Listen for:

1. A terrific introduction.
2. A comparison of the color to other colors. Was it superior or inferior to other colors?
3. The history of the color (Check out a dictionary site.)
4. Information about the color in stories, art works, and nature.
5. Information about who or what "wears" the  color.
6. An explanation as to why the color is or is not important.
7. Information about how the story of Little Red Riding Hood would have been different if she had been wearing the color in the report.

A note sheet will be provided.

Homework:

If you have not already watched a Cinderella movie, please do so by Tuesday. If you cannot find access to a Cinderella movie, Any princess will do.

Watch for the characteristics of the princess and of the prince. If you watched the movie as a child, do you feel differently about the princess and the prince now that you are an adult? How do you feel about the use of Prince Charming and a Princess in movies for children? Explain in paragraph form. Post your response in CANVAS. 25 pts. Due Tuesday.

2. Read http://sutterfield.weebly.com/uploads/1/2/6/8/12686139/kolbenschlag_article.pdf. Be ready to discuss in class on Tuesday along with a discussion of the other "Cinderella" articles. Do you agree of disagree with the statements in the articles?

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Class Work

1. When you sign in today, please note your "color" for the color presentations.
2. We have one more "Three Little Pigs" presentation. . . on with the huffing and puffing and blowing down of houses!
3. Have you viewed a Cinderella movie? If not, please do so by Thursday.
The original Disney movie is fine as are more current versions.
Consider:

• Enchanted
• Ever After
• Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella
• Disney's remake of Cinderella 2015

Be ready to discuss the movie you chose.

Just to get you in the mood for viewing, let's take a look at these:
Who is Cinderella? How faithful was Disney to the original stories you read from the book?
2. What are some common elements?
3. What is different?
4. What are the qualities of the Prince in the story?


 A really short Disney version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ggS61GeN-dA

Another version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5yJRIMuMYs

And . . . here we go again! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wppM8ycod0

*******************************************************

Cinderella today...If Cinderella came to our day and time, what would she need to change? What should remain the same?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRYU4cqUAUs

What about Prince Charming today? What qualities should remain the same? What would he need to change?http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLgodxO8L0k
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLgodxO8L0k

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywnS8sUYD6Q

What about a Fairy God Mother????

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQmQQYWBmo0

What other "magic" does a princess need? How about a little help with the work?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAsG__XjU8Q

And then... you need an evil "queen", "step-mother", "dragon"...

http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/enchanted-2007/

The magical ball...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfpiATTT7OY

And they lived happily ever after...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gtghn3v5zg0


You may use the rest of the class time to work on your color presentation.

So, what is significant about "red?" What if Red had been wearing blue, or yellow, or green, or purple, or black?

You will "adopt a color" to research and to present. (Partners are OK)
Homework #2: Please begin your research this weekend.

You need to:

• Introduce your color - have fun with this! Entertain us!
• Compare it to other colors - is it superior or inferior to other colors?
• Tell the history of your color (Check out a dictionary site.)
• Tell of your color in stories, art works, and nature.
• Tell who or what "wears" your color.
• Explain why your color is or is not important.
• Tell how the story of Little Red Riding Hood would have been different if she had been wearing your color. ("No change" is not an acceptable response!)

Keep track of your sources and include them in your last slide. (Seven slides are required plus the Works Cited page. ) We will present on Thursday, 9/ 24/14. You have at least 2 1/2 minutes but no more than 5.) (100 points)

PowerPoint Tips
1. Use a light background with a DARK font or use a dark background with a LIGHT font.
2. Use bullets - not "deep text".

• No more than six bullets per slide
• No more than six words per bullets.
• You are giving the presentation, not the machine

3. Add visuals - but not too many - just enough to keep it interesting.
4. Make the font size big enough to see - at least 16.
5. Use a footless font such as Ariel, Helvetica, or Veranda.
6. Make the text bold; it shows up better.
7. Once you have at least three slides, get someone to take a look at your work and check
 for 1-6.
8. Make revisions as necessary before you post in CANVAS.