The end of the new beginning

In chapter 21, Ishmael says, "I couldn't return to my previous life. I don't think I could make it out alive this time." page 203.

That statement is so profound. I couldn't help but think, how many other teenagers have the same thought? While most teenagers do not become soldiers, or have to kill or be killed by the age of 12, they still face challenges everyday. The feelings of being "stuck" in a situation that you can not possibly imagine your way out of. Most adults call that a milestone in the development of becoming an adult.

I have spent some time thinking about that statement over and over this weekend. I can't help but wonder if Ishmael was talking about mentally, physically or both.

Even after his rehabilitation, he was still faced with so many challenges. What motivated him to leave his family and country and why were more people not trying to do the same? Do the countries in Africa face a similar illegal immigration issue, as we do here in America?

What are some of your thoughts?

Ms. Lines

9th grade Journal week 2

I hope that each and everyone of you had a great weekend!

This week we will be introduced to the "conflict" of the book and the rising and falling action. The story also introduces us to how Ishmaels' journey lead him to the United States and allowed him to finish his education. (The who or what that helped him).

In addition to the Journal entries, we are going to be writing him a letter. Use the friendly letter style, asking him to come visit us here at our school. I will present the details of a "friendly letter" on Wednesday.

I am working on the details to arrange his visit. I want all the letters that go out to be the best work you are capable of. The rough draft will be due on Friday. Be prepared to have to write more and one copy, as we want to stand out.

Remember to complete and publish your journal entries daily and for maximum points, add the passage and page number that you are referring to. Be sure to leave me a message/comment below so I know that you completed the task.
Happy blogging,
Ms. Lines

9th grades journal project.

9th Grade: you will be journaling on a daily basis. Your journal entry should include the following to get maximum points...
1. Excerpt or passages from the book and the page number it is on.
2. Your thoughts and feelings about the passages or chapters you read.
3. Thought provoking questions about the subject matter, revelations about the material and about the situation that Ishmael faces in each chapter.
4. Correct use of grammar and SPELLING!!! No excuses with a spell checker!!!!

An example is that in the end of chapter 4, he and his friends need to steal food. Despite having monies, no one would sell them anything. Do you think that was morally just? When if ever is it ok to steal? Why? What about this story makes you change you mind about stealing?

Some of you may have more questions than thoughts, and that is ok. This is a discovery process. The discovery is about you as much as it is about Ishmael.

I look forward to reading your daily posts. (Monday through Friday except this week, b/c we started on Tuesday) Each entry is worth 5 points, a 25 total each week. Remember Thursday is the field trip and you are still responsible for the entry.

Happy blogging!
Ms. Lines

The count down to summer....

Summer is almost here! Every year keeps getting shorter and shorter.

That is why it is VERY important to get in all your homework turned in on time. Don't wait until the last week of May. If the first few weeks were too stressful, here is a list of possible make-up assignments:

1. Fiction Book report.
2. Various reading comprehension handouts.
3. Geography/Social Studies worksheets.
4. Essay writing assignment: writing prompts.
5. ANY test, quiz, homework assignment can be corrected and turned back in for a possible 100%.

Students: All you need to do is see me before or after school for assignments. This will not take the place of an assignment, rather help you with your final grade. You make take full advantage of the "correct and return" policy. This is your chance to get 100% on any assignment. Remember that the correction sheet needs to be stapled to the front of what ever assignment you want a better score on. ***Tests, quizzes and homework**** ANY!!! Everyone should have an A!!!!!!

Parents: Please email me: (kmlines513@gmail.com or klines@vistasleadership.org ) or call with any questions. Corrections to the test, quizzes and homework assignments should be done weekly. The sooner I get them back, the sooner I can correct and modify the grade.

Ok, now class, we are burnin' daylight! Lets get to it!
Ms. Lines