So, we’re getting close: both to the end of the career unit and then the book circle extravaganza.  Thursday, the job shadows are due and we’re going to plan a short speech with that.  But today…I want to talk about your book circle books.

In small groups, you’re going to create a short Keynote or PowerPoint presentation that will explain the basics of what goes on in your book and evaluates whether or not the book should be considered for full-group 10th grade curriculum or small-group book circles.  Here’s how the presentation should go.

Slide 1:  Title slide. Simple, with the title of the book and maybe a picture of the cover (see Amazon or other book site).

Slide 2: Wha t X is about. Less than 10 words on the slide, but you’ll tell us the basic plot without giving away the ending. Pics?

Slide 3: What the main character is like.  3 words (ex. compassionate, cynical, cautious–George from OMM).  Explain why you chose these words. Pics?

Slide 4: An excerpt from the book that shows the writing style. A quote of less than 20 words. Give us context for the quote and then explain what it means.

Slide 5: Should this book be for all 10th graders. Explain.

Slide 6: Should some kids read this in small groups?  Who would like it?

Slide 7: End with a pretty picture and a quote from the book or author.

I’ll give groups time to work on this in class and then we’ll present.

Finally, I’d like you to read the following article describing a Virtual Job Interview (use this if that doesn’t work) and answer the following questions in a blog post.

1. What is Second Life?
2. How is Mr. Gould dressed? The author? Why?
3. What are some positives to having interviews in Second Life?
4. What are some distractions to having interviews in Second Life?
5. How do you think job hunting and the workplace will change when you are ready to enter it?

So, we might do a bit of Obama. Just a taste to talk about his speech. Or even better..here.

Next, we have rough drafts of the expository speech. Let’s get 3 editors.

Editor 1: Look for proper set-ups for quotes, correct citation, and justifiable sources.

Editor 2: Look for clarity in understanding the current research and the think pieces made by experts.

Editor 3: Look for originality and creativity in the speculations and “What does it all mean?” sections.

Then, I’ll give you a bit of time to work.

Next, we’ll talk Google. In small groups, discuss what would happen if the Internet disappeared tomorrow.  Make a list of pros/cons. Also, each group should choose a specific quote that they thought made a good point or is a useful point of discussion.

Then, we talk about the article.  Each group will reveal their quote and the other groups will respond.

Finally, I’d like to take a shot at Digital Maoism in class.

HW:  Finish the Final Drafts. Start work on the presentations.

Image credit: boston.com