In the Blink of an Eye

Letter Frequency in the English Language

e t a o i n s r h l d c u m f p g w y b v k x j q z

Aim: How do we evaluate Bauby's mindset in writing his memoir?

Quick Write: What does imagination mean to you? How important is it? What about memory? Can you have one without the other?

Step 1: Today, we are going to try to understand Bauby's method for writing his memoir by reading "The Alphabet" and applying his technique ourselves.
Step 2: After reading the chapter, think of 1) something that you need to do today, 2) something you want to do today, and 3) an opinion you have about how this day is unfolding for you. Pretty simple stuff, right? Here's the catch: Communicate these three things to a partner using Bauby's blinking technique. (Left eye only!) Use the English letter frequency chart above to spell out the words with your partner.
Step 3: Write a reflection about the experience. State your opinion about Bauby's mindset based on your own personal experience with this grueling communication technique.

Next week, we will be reading the memoir seminar style. Although everyone is responsible for reading all of the memoir, each student will take charge of a section of the book for a day, teaching a lesson and leading the discussion. The sign-up sheet for sections is in the classroom.

A reminder that before you left for Spring Break, you should have synthesized all of our heavy thinking about the soul and science into a cartoon that gives a graphic reflection of your opinion on the human vs animal debate. The cartoon counts as a project/test/quiz and is worth 50 points. You might also check out this site. Show your readers your opinion on what and how animals think as opposed to what and how people think. Be creative with your graphic story. (Don’t forget that writing conventions still count.) Post your cartoon to your blog using screen capture. (Shift, command, 4) Thanks, Tajmah!

Remember independent reading books? Time to start thinking about your reading projects. Here's a list of suggestions. However, other ideas are encouraged. Just run them past me.

Argument Essays are way overdue!!!!!!

*****Always check Engrade for your up-to-the-minute progress in this class.*****