Summer Quarter-- Week 1, Day 2

Good morning! Unfortunately, this will be a short post. I am beat. I spent yesterday afternoon and night moving and cleaning (and cleaning and cleaning).

We began yesterday's class with our vocabulary (side effect). Then we introduced the general concepts of adverb phrases (connecting word + subject + verb; 2 subjects & 2 verbs per sentence; comma use-- only when the adverb clause begins the sentence).

Next, we did our 4-minute quick write to brainstorm ideas on social studies. Since several groups mentioned the pilgrims and Columbus, I will incorporate short lessons on them into this summer's curriculum. We followed that with map work. Though we still haven't done reading on a text, the map is still reading, just in a different form. We'll get to our first text tomorrow after working on maps today.

I hope yesterday afternoon was more relaxing for you than mine! I'll see you very soon!

Summer Quarter-- Week 1, Day 1

Good morning! Here is a quick recap of yesterday's class.

It was great to meet all of you yesterday! The purpose of the first day of class is to introduce you to the quarter and what we'll be doing. We began the grammar-- adverb clauses through the speaking exercise. It is my goal for you to see that you are already using the grammar in your everyday life though you may not know all of the rules that apply.

For me, it is most important that you felt comfortable in your new class yesterday with your new teacher and classmates, have a general understanding of what is expected this quarter, and are excited to learn!

We have a busy quarter ahead. See you very soon!

Summer Quarter: Welcome

Good evening everyone! I hope you have had a blast over the break! Time flies-- our class will be starting before we know it!

I will be using a blog again this quarter to reflect on our class time together. Just as in the spring, the blog will allow me to explain our lessons in class and why we do certain activities. I also use the blog to provide you with new vocabulary (slang, idioms) and follow up on questions and comments from class.

I'm looking forward to summer quarter. For the very last GED (for ESL) class, I have lots of exciting things planned! We will be studying the 13 colonies/the Revolution for social studies and reading Three Cups of Tea (the shorter version) for literature. If you have a Costco membership, Greg Mortenson is on the cover of this month's magazine! If you don't know who Greg is or haven't heard of his book, check out his web site here: http://www.gregmortenson.com/ We will also be studying adverb clauses/conditionals in grammar and apply essay form to emails and business letters. As every quarter, you will vote on guest speakers to invite to our class. The speaking component will be different this quarter as we will 1) be readers for Cannell Library's story time 2) visit seniors at Luepke Senior Center 3) give mini-presentations (you choose the topic with/without partners).

I hope you are enjoying this gorgeous weather! See you very soon!