We're Halfway There!

We've passed the half-way point of the semester, which means we're going to be switching gears a little bit!

In class Monday, I'd like us to take a step back and think about how far along we've come. On that note, you'll be writing a reflective essay about your progress with Stages I-3 so far. To do this, you'll need the GRADED copies of stages 1-2 in class (I will bring your stage 3!).

Then, this also marks the beginning of our COLLABORATIVE PROJECT, which we'll begin discussing.

STUDIO WORK

Read the Bernstein article and address the following discussion questions. This can be a springboard into thinking about the collaborative project, too.

Bernstein Discussion Questions

1.      Summarize the main points of Bernstein’s argument in the essay. What problems does he see?

2.      WHO is Bernstein? Do you think he’s a credible source? Why or why not? 

3.      What do you think Bernstein’s purpose for writing this essay is? Do you think he’s successful in achieving his purpose? Why or why not?

4.      Thinking about YOUR high school experience vs. your experience in college so far, do you think Bernstein’s fears are accurate? What problems of issues have YOU faced? Discuss them and compare/contrast with what Bernstein says.

5.      Thinking about the problems or issues you’ve encountered – what do you think can be done to solve those problems, or even to make the transition to high school to college easier for students? Who do you think might be able to make those changes? You might even think about problems related to your construct (hint hint hint, preparing for the collaborative project).

HOMEWORK

Review the COLLABORATIVE PROJECT assignment details and bring a list of questions you have about it

Continue working on your STAGE IV essays. Rough drafts are due  Monday, October 28th. Here is an EXAMPLE in case you're in need of a little more direction.