I finished another book on the weekend. I'm so proud that I have read four books since we started Sept. 22nd. I feel more relaxed and energized due to just setting aside a few extra minutes before dinner, before bed, when I get up in the morning, during USSR time etc. Putting effort into reading really pays off. It teaches empathy. It builds vocabulary. It expands the imagination. It opens the heart.
You can read anything you are interested in-- science, sports, math, literature, psychology, murder mysteries, horror, fantasy, poetry, plays, biographies.
It's your world. Make time for it.
Today we read for fifteen minutes and added two new words to our list.
We peer edited our stories. If you were absent, get a friend or family member to edit the first page of your story. You want detailed feedback.
Peer Editing:
Read it four times. Each time you read the page, look for something new.
1. Copy Editing: Check paragraphing and dialogue. Each new speaker starts a new paragraph which must be indented. Check dialogue punctuation using the dialogue handout. Check capitalization, grammar, spelling and punctuation.
2. Re-read our criteria. Does this page meet our list? If not, write down what is missing.
3. Check the use of descriptive detail and unique dialogue. Check the rhythm and the pace of the piece. Check sentence variety. Cut dull or redundant words. Cut excessive adjective usage. Remember the story needs to involve the reader by implying the conflict. Implying the character traits. This is not a diary entry.
4. Does the story interest you? Why or why not? Write your reasons on the back of the page.
Discuss your responses with your partner.
We used the remaining time during class to write.
Due date: Monday, October 27th. Double spaced. Edited, revised. Edited, revised.
