See you in 2011!

We had a beautiful last class of food, sharing, and accomplishments. It was not the same without Elsa, Teresa, and Maria though. We discussed that each member brings something different to our community, and we definitely can feel you missing when you're not there.

Here is a recap of the awards:

Best Attendance (60 hours):
Victor DeSantiago, Jesus Gonzalez, Juanita Griffin
Most Improved Reading: Melissa Maldonado
Most Improved Math: Victor DeSantiago
Most Improved Writing: Juanita Griffin
Participation Award: Orlette Gabbidon

Thank you for being a positive community for us all to grow and learn from. I'm so proud to be your teacher.

Congratulations to all for completing the cycle and improving. You are on your way to getting your GED one day.

Enjoy the holidays, and stay warm as we move into the new year.

I hope to see you all at the registration on Monday, January 10th at 5pm (don't forget your slips).

The next cycle will begin on Wednesday, January 19th at 5pm as usual.

Karen

to all my classmate

As you made know i was sick last week and i'm still sick now but today i will do my best to stay in class. This winter weather really get me sick but i'm not gonna give up i'm gonna fight it to the end. Thank you class you all are wonderful and i hope that someone can help me better focus..

The Treasure I Seek

The Treasure I Seek

Can’t be found in the largest pyramid,
Nor the deep end of the Sahara desert
or the dark end of the forest.

My treasure can be found on 15th street.
His name is Justin Jr., My grandson.
His pretty blond hair that glows
in the sun light, like the sun hitting the ocean.
His eyes that sparkle like marbles when he smiles at me, you can see his pretty white teeth.

He is truly my treasure, my hero, my superstar.
He is the one who make me feel like a kid again,
filling my life with happiness and joy.

I especially love the way he greets me at the door smiling ear to ear, with an high pitched “Hi!” following after.
The time we spend together means the world to me.
We always seem to have fun even
on the rainy, gloomy days.
I love to take him to the park and
see him grow right before my eyes enjoying the swings and sliding on the slide.

Seeing how everything is new to him makes me want to show him every beautiful thing that the world will soon offer him.

One of my favorite memories with Justin and me,
was just this summer, me and him at the beach
making sand castle,
even if he thought throwing sand was help. The way his toes had sand on them.
They felt like corn meal and smell like ocean air.
He was happy and so was I.
As he get older its sometimes feel crazy to see what
he learns even if it was not taught to him.

For example he loves football but I’m not to sure
how at 15 months he gets it,
he loves to yell touch down with his little arms above his head.
He amazes me everyday.

I truly treasure our cartoon time together.
I love to see him dance at “YO GABBA GABBA”
and sing along with “DORA AND DIEGO” as he learn a lesson with them.

I love my grandson a lot he means
everything to me, helping and reminding me about
the important thing in life.
He has changed the meaning of “baby sitting” and turned it into a joy.
Justin Jr., my amazing grandson is my
true treasure.

Upcoming Testing Dates

Hello, everyone!

It is surprising, but there are only 2 more weeks left of classes for the Winter Cycle. Just a reminder, we will be taking the Reading TABE this Monday, December 6th, and the Math TABE next Wednesday, December 8th.

Have a good weekend, everyone!
Karen

TO POPS

I remember a distinguished,
salt & pepper hair man, who was
cool
calm
and collected

His heart, big as the third rock.
With him he brings
value
ethics
and wisdom


I remember he was my
friend
confidant
and mentor

I have memories of him coming
home exhausted & reeking of work
inadditiion still had time to converse

Me
his son
his friend
his protege, will always remember
and cherish the fond memories until
we meet again.

Thanksgiving Poetry Celebration: Monday 11/22/10. Elsa, Linda, and Louis, it wasn't the same without you.

About the Literacy Review

Hi all,
Please see below for more information and a website to learn more about the Literacy Review. I really encourage all of you to submit your writing for the book. There is such spirit, passion, and heart in your writing that should be shared with the world.
I will try to put the photos from our pizza party this weekend.
Happy Thanksgiving, and see you next Monday. Reminder that the Literacy Review submissions are due on Wed., December 1st to ME. Computer savvy students can email them directly to me at karenbhanna@gmail.com.
THANK YOU!
Karen
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Friends of THE LITERACY REVIEW,

A gentle reminder: Submissions for THE LITERACY REVIEW, Volume 9
are due by MONDAY, DECEMBER 6th--two weeks from yesterday.

And again, tf you haven't read THE LITERACY REVIEW, Volume 8, we
recommend that you take a look at http://www.nyu.edu/gallatin/writing.
You might also enjoy viewing the video of the celebration readings and
listening to the podcasts of the complete readings, at the same site.

Again this year, our six wonderful Gallatin undergraduate editors will be
assisted in their selections by an editorial board of 20+ Gallatin students.

Thank you for all your hard work and high hopes, and happy Thanksgiving!

Best wishes,
EDITOR IN CHIEF Emily He
EDITORS Stephen Brown, Ryan Casey, Becca Cloyd,
Paolina Lu, and Elizabeth Mitaro
PHOTOGRAPHERS Amanda Knudsen and Aaron Berman
DESIGNER Courtney Hopkins
VISUAL AND EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS Molly Kleiman
and Evan Commander
ADVISOR June Foley, Writing Program Director
The Gallatin School, New York University

My Angel

My Mother who is my angel

I cry these tears from my heart

I release these memories with all my heart

I shall climb my mountain

I will cross my ocean one day soon

I will be at your side

I will be in your arms

I shall be safe once more

You are my angel

You are my light

Guiding me through my days

And protecting my night

You made be gone

But you're not forgotten

You're my angel now

But my mommy you'll be

until we meet again

You are my angel who walk upon the earth

You show me how much I am worth in this life

When i am sick you heal me and make me feel all better

You make sure that in time of need that we are all together

When we get into all kind of fusses in our life

You alway know how to settle thing right

My angel comes out strong as a mother and as a wife

My angel has raised me to be good and kind

My angel has made sure that I have a strong and intelligent mind

My angle is my guardian , my teacher , and my friend but most of all my mother till the very end

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO THE PREGED CLASS IN CONEY ISLAND LIBRARY

Hello,

Miss Karen and every classmates,

I am very sorry , I could not participate tonight' class and the Thanksgiving party , tonight is my family day, everybody get together because my brother just came from China yesterday.


Happy holiday and have a lot of fun Tonight !!!

Linda

The treasure I seek

Can"t be found in the largest pyramid,
nor the deep end of the Sahara desert
or the dark end of the foerest.


My treasure can be found on 15th street.
His name is Justin Jr.,my grandson.
His pretty blond hair that glows
in the sun light,
his eyes that sparkle like marbles when he
smiles at me .


He is truly my traesure , my hero, my superstar.
He is the one who makes me feel like a kid again,
filling my life with happieness and joy.
I especially love the way he greets me at the
door smilling ear to ear ,with an high piched hi follwing after.

The time we spend together means the world to me .
We always seem to have fun even
on the rainny , gloomy days.
I love to take him to the park and
see him grow right before my eyes.

Seeing how everything is new to him makes
me want to show him every beautiful thing that
the world will soon offer him.

One of my favorite memories with Justin and me,
was just this summer, me and him at the beach
making sand castles,
even if he thought throwing sand was help.
The way his toe"s had sand on them.

They felt like corn meal and smell like ocean air
He was happy and so was I
As he gets older its sometimes feel crazy to see what
he learns even if it was not tought to him.

For example he loves football but im not to sure
how at 15 monthes he gets it,
he loves to yell touch down with his little
armes above his head.
He amazes me everyday.

I truly treasure our cartoon time together.
i love to see him dance at "YO GABBA GABBA"
and sing along with " DORA AND DIAGO".
As he learn a lesson with them

I love my grandson alot he means
everything to me, helping and reminding me about
the important things in life.
He has changed the meaning of " BABY SITTING"
and turned it into a joy.

Justin Jr. , my amazing grandson is my
true treasure..

Mom

I love my mom
for she was more than a charm;
brighter than the sun
as I rise my day has just begun.

If their is a greater love it is what I have not known,
as I travel this yellow brick road alone.
I hope to god first,and mom most of all,that I make it back-up home without a fall.

The feeling I feel is a mystery in disguise and mutual at the same time, Why?
Becuse they go hand in hand,like fast forward and rewind.

Point made and i'm sure well given.
All wrapped up my delicious thanksgiving.

To sum this up in words I can not, for see, there is no love tighter than the bound of a knot.

HomeGoods - Discount Bedding - Luxury Bedding

HomeGoods - Discount Bedding - Luxury Bedding

Pasing Time

The world were.
2 The
2 beginning
2 of
skin
paints
2 like
a
dusk
orther
sure
down
your
end
one
certain
mine
This is all the worlds. Have a good week end.

For Monday

Hello, everyone--

Please bring your published poems to class on Monday to share. We will also be celebrating the season of giving together by enjoying a pizza dinner. If you'd like to contribute anything else to the dinner, please feel free! Otherwise, we have collected $3 per person for pizza and drinks. Looking forward to it!

Have a wonderful weekend!
Karen

P.S.
Victor- we missed you today! Today, we discussed line breaks (used to show pauses, rhythm, and highlight important words at the beginning of each line in your poem) and stanzas (a group of lines in a poem that shares the same idea; similar to a paragraph in an essay; each stanza is different from the next). When publishing your poem, add line breaks and stanzas to better organize your poem. Line breaks and stanzas will also help you to better communicate your message. Good luck!

Coming Up

Hello, everyone!

It was another inspiring class today.

This Wed. 11/17:
1. Jesus, Louis, Victor teach their poem
2. Orlette, Maria, Melo, Linda teach their poem
3. Line Break activity
4. Revise/edit your poems to prepare for Monday's class
*Please bring in $3 to contribute to the pizza party

Next Mon. 11/22: Pizza Party and Poetry Share
*Share the poems you wrote with the class

Next Wed. 11/24: NO CLASS

Mon. 11/29: Back to class

Wed. 12/1: Juanita, Elsa, Anthony, Teresa teach their poem

Keep up the phenomenal work, folks!
See you on Wednesday!
Karen

MY father

My father is special
My father is sweet
My father is kind and tolerance
My father is a dad who gives us sweet treats

He is always saying "yes" when I need to aske him do favor
He is always being patient to instruct me when I make mistake

He used to work hard as machine when he raised our sisbling
He used to busy as a giant yellow bee
He is always our family's sunshine
He is more respecful and important person than anything else

My apoligies

Hi everyone I have been struggling alot with my personal life and the goings getting tougher.Its me not no one else sometimes I just want to stop period.But I keep going because I really want this for myself.

BYE

Unitylou

Homework Due on Mon. 11/15

Hello, everyone!

For Monday, please use at least 4 different poetic devices (e.g. similes, metaphors, personification, imagery) in your poem. Revise your poem and update it on the blog for Monday. Make sure that you print out a copy of your revised poem and bring it to class on Monday so that you are ready to edit it.

Also, read the poem that your poetry book club chose and find as many poetic devices as you can to discuss with your club on Monday.

You did an outstanding job struggling with the text today and are building your comprehension in poetry. Keep up the good work, and have a wonderful weekend!

Karen
P.S. Don't forget to comment on at least 2 other posts and publish your own post each week! Thank you!

Thank you linda!!

Im so excited I inspire You I had to say it out loud!!

Unitylou

Homework Due Wed. 11/10

Hello, everyone!

Such a powerful class today. Thank you for creating a space that makes sharing a bit easier for all of us.

For Wednesday, please:
1. Reread the poem, "A Puerto Rican Girl's Sentimental Education" by Johanna Vega. Answer the following questions:
a) What is the poem mostly about?
b) What poetic devices do you see? How do they make the poem stronger and clearer?

2. Find at least 1 example of each of the following in the above poem:
a) simile
b) metaphor
c) imagery
d) personification

I can't say it enough-- you are a wonderful class and a joy to teach. Don't forget to post your poems (Teresa, I am talking to you too!)

See you on Wednesday!
Karen

Surviving the times

Today is a regular day history is made and not even in my way,its yesterday so much strain, so much pain i ask myself what is to gain.

Its sort of like being the boat without any water around, waves to me are of no usual sounds.A yacht am I, in this massive disguise,sitting alone analyzing the sky.In this gaze,everything seems so far away here I stand alone and afraid.

AS I strive and fight to stay alive the true question is will I make it or die.

So long for this colorful world, for see the darkness has covered me round like a girl.

Long lived me or like they say the king.I turn in my faculties, and eternally rest under his wings.

On 11/6, I got a blacberry metro pcs phone. Now I can use the internet, but sometimes I got internet problems in certain locations.

I got a blackberry metro pcs cell phone on 11/6

Revised Versions of Poems Due on Monday

Hello, folks!

Please revise all poems and update them on the blog by this Monday. Also, please bring a copy of your revised poems to class so that we can share them and continue to revise them.

Think about purpose, tone, and imagery as you revise.

Good luck, and have a lovely weekend!
Karen

THE TREASURE I SEEK........

The treasure i seek
cant be found in the largest pyramid,
nor the deep end of the Sahara desert
or the dark end of the foerest.


My treasure can be found on 15th street.
His name is Justin Jr.,my grandson.
His pretty blond hair that glows
in the sun light,
his eyes that sparkle like marbles when he
smiles at me .


He is truly my traesure , my hero, my superstar.
He is the one who makes me feel like a kid again,
filling my life with happieness and joy.
I especially love the way he greets me at the
door smilling ear to ear ,with an high piched hi follwing after.

The time we spend together maens the world to me .
We always seem to have fun even
on the rainny , gloomy days.
I love to take him to the park and
see him grow right before my eyes.
Seeing how everything is new to him makes
me want to show him every beautiful thing that
the world will soon offer him.

One of my favorite memories with Justin and me,
was just this summer, me and him at the beach
making sand castles,
even if he tought throwing sand was help.
He was happy so i was happy .
As he gets older its sometimes crazy to se what he
learns even if it was not tought to him.

For example he loves football but im not to sure
how at 15 monthes he gets it,
he loves to yell touch down with his little
armes above his head.
He amazes me everyday.

I truly treasure our cartoon time together.
i love to see him dance at "YO GABBA GABBA"
and sing along with " DORA AND DIAGO".


I love my grandson alot he means
everything to me, helping and reminding me about
the important things in life.
He has changed the meaning of " BABY SITTING"
and turned it into a joy.
Justin Jr. , my amazing grandson is my
true treasure..

What,s up class I am having a fair day.Let,s keep up the good work.

One love

Unitylou

TO EVERYONE

Yesterday class was intense. I was proud to be there, everyone did a fantastic job. Let's keep it up

Kudos and Extra Credit

Hello, everyone!

We had a fabulous class today sharing our Columbus essays, listening for:
1. structure (introduction, body, conclusion)
2. transition words
3. complete sentences
4. interesting words
5. purpose
6. tone

I am so proud of your hard work, reflective and receptive attitudes, and positivity. Our class is very special, and I owe that to each one of you.

Extra credit for those who want to continue practice on essay writing:

Write an essay arguing "Why should we celebrate Columbus Day?" The best debaters can argue the opposing viewpoint for their argument. Now it's your turn.

Try to use the persuasive essay structure:
*Introduction
*Body (detail 1, detail 2, detail 3, rebuttal)
*Conclusion

Looking forward to hearing Elsa, Maria, and Juanita's essays on Wednesday. Keep up the good work, everyone. It is truly a wonderful experience sharing Mondays and Wednesdays with you all.

Best,
Karen

Survival of the times

Today is a regular day

history is made and not even in my way, it's yesterday

so much strain, so much pain I ask myself what is to gain.

As I strive and fight to stay alive

the true question is will I make it or die?

so long for this colorful world, for see the darkness has covered me like a girl.

Long lived me or like they say the king.I turn in my ring, and eternally rest under his wing.

Peace

My Mother

My Mother who is my angel

I cry these tears from my heart

I release these memories with all my heart

I shall climb my mountain

I will cross my ocean one day soon

I will be at your side

I will be in your arms

I shall be safe once more

You are my angel

You are my light

Guiding me through my days

And protecting my night

You made be gone

But you're not forgotten

You're my angel now

But my mommy you'll be

until we meet again

Anthony's Poem "My Sister"

My sister likes to cook.
My sister cooks every week.
My sister fixes me and my mom a plate of dinner.
I feel good about my sister cooking for me and my mom.
She is a perfect dinner cooker.

She is in college.
She studies hard.
She likes college.
I'm so proud of her working hard to find a job.

She likes to go on a computer.
She likes to go on the internet.
She likes to chat with her friends online.
Sometimes I feel good using her laptop.

We share a room together.
Our room is small.
I really don't like to be in a room with her.

I love my sister because she cares about me. She cares about my health and my benefits.
Sometimes we argue about things. Well it happens, but it doesn't happen often.
Sometimes she helps me with fraction on my math homework.

Does Yolen endorse Columbus Day

I think Jane Hyatt Yolen doesn't endorse Columbus Day for many reasons.

To begin with a reason why Yolen doesn't endorse Columbus Day because Christopher Columbus did such bad things as carring Tainos to Spain as slaves. Yolen learned that Christopher Columbus set the spanish flag on the uninhabited island because he had to claim the beautiful little green island for his king and queen and country where the Tainos live. Yolen knows Christopher Columbus was a mean guy.

Secondally, Yolen learned that Christopher Columbus called the tribespeople "Indians" mistaking of India because he thought he was in India. Yolen knew that Christopher Columbus wrote in his journal that were "well made", with fine shapes and shapes.

Finally, the island were colonized by the spanish, native religions languages, and lifestyles were changed forever.

More than 50 years later, less than 500 Tainos remained. Now there are no Tainos alive.

Does Yolen tinks Christopher Columbus is evil to the Tainos?

Do you think the author endorses Columbus day? (homework)

I don't think the author Jane Yolen endorses Columbus day.
From the author's note, first , Yolen describe Columbus was self-esteem , because he
claimed the beautiful litttle green island for his king and queen and country; Scond, Columbus mistaked the land for India , he called the tribespeople "Indians". Furthermore, the Columbus's
sailors asked in sign where the native gold rings and armbands came from, he was very greedy
said it was the gold that interested them the most when the Taino exchange gift in friendship with sailors; In addiotin, Columbus very ridiculously to cart Tiano people to Spain as slaves and
finally cause no full-bollded Taino.
I enjoy the Columbus day every year, howere, I counfuse Christopher Columbus the way
he had done in the history. Before reading author Yolen note, I only know Columbus sailed into
the unknown without fear, I don't know that more about the entire process, I am very sorry for
the native indian american.

To Karen

From reading the article, I think what Christopher Columbus did was very wrong for coming to America and just taking over the Taino culture and their home.

I believe that he should have worked together with the Taino men and woman and found a way to live together and work. Making the Taino men and women slaves was the worst decision Columbus treated them like they did not even exist he wanted to just find a way to eliminate everything about the Taino culture,which was something he has accomplished. Columbus seemed greedy because it seemed like he was talking to the Taino men and women to find out information on how they lived and other information about Taino people such as where there gold came from.

I believe we should celebrate Columbus day because he discovered america but we all should know and realize all the wrong he has done also.

The treasure I seek..

The treasure I seek can't be found in the largest pyramid. Nor the deep end of The sahara desert or the dark end of the forests. My treasure can be found on 15th street . His name is Justin Jr. my grandson. His pretty blond hair that glows in the sunlight ,his eyes that sparkle like marbles went he smiles at me. He is truly my teasure , my hero , my superstar. He is the one who makes me feel like a kid again ,filling my life with happieness and joy . I especially love the way he greets me at the door smilling ear to ear , with an high piched hi following after. The time we spend together means the world to me , we always seem to have fun, even on the rainny, gloomy days. I love to take him the park and see him grow right before my eye. seeing how every is new to him , it makes me want to show him every beautiful thing that the world will soon offer him . One my favorite memories with Justin and me , was just this summer , me and him at the beach making sand castles, even if he thought throwing sand was help , he was happy , so i was aswell. As he gets older its sometimes crazy to see what he learns even if it was not tought to him, for example he loves football but im not to sure how at 15 monthes he gets it , he love to yell touch down with is little arms aboves his head , he amazes me every day. I truly treasure our cartoon time together, i love to see him dance at " YO GABBA GABBA'. And sing along with "DORA AND DIAGO". I love my grandson alot he means everything to me , helping and reminding me about the important things in life . He has changed the meaning of " BABY SITTING " and turned it into a joy . Justin Jr. is my treasure.

Do you think the author endorses Columbus

Do you think the author endorses Columbus Day. Why or Why not.

No I do not that the author endorses Columbus Day.
The author feels it was more of a tragedy then a celebration.

The Author Jane Yolen also speaks about the destruction
of the native people. When the spaniards colonized the island.
the native religion, languages, and lifestyles were changed
forever. She also states that 300,000 Taino Indians has de-
minished to a mere 500 in less than 60 years.

Columbus was a man of greed. He did not care much for the
natives. He was more interested in what had value which was
the gold, in addition he carried away 6 to 10 Taino men and
women according to different sources, then carting them back to
Spain as slaves.

The Taino Indians were gentle people. Sometimes they even.
painted their faces and bodies, to greet the strangers, furthermore
to share their bounty with a feast with them.

The author does not endorse Columbus day, she does not glorify
the destruction and the diminishing cultures of the natives. In which
he participated in, and changed the course of history. In my opinion
Columbus Day should not be celebrated, it should be day of rememberence
of the Taino Indians.

Essays Due on Monday, November 1st

Hello, everyone!

It was another productive class today. Louis, we missed you! Hope you're feeling better.

Please make sure that you post your final Columbus essay on the blog by Monday and bring
in the typed-version to class on that day as well. Also, don't forget to respond to your classmates' posts.

Happy Halloween, everyone. I see you all working very hard, and can't wait to finally read your finished essays.

Karen

Happy halloween!

I hope everyone enjoys their holidays,Furthermore i hope everyone stays safe.

P.S Unitylou

Three Parts of an Essay

Introduction-
*Remember your topic sentence by restating the question

Body-
*Use transition words
Sequence/order words (first, next, finally...)
Words that mean "and"/"also" (furthermore, moreover, in addition, additionally)

Conclusion-
*end with your opinion
*end with a question

Good times

Today I am having a healthy day. The weather is fair.And i had a good weekend.One of my favorite football teams won which is also good.

Unitylou

Does Uolen endorse Columbus Day

No Yolen does not endorse Columbus Day. She studies and learn about Columbus Day. Yolen is the writer of thee Christopher Columbus story. Yolen knows that Christopher Columbus carried away the Tainos and carting them back to spain as slaves. Yolen knows the three ships. Yolen is the author of the story. Yolen learn that Christopher Columbus landed on San Salvador, his first in the New world on October 12, 1942

Grammar Website

Hi everyone,

Per Louis's request, here is a website on grammar for writing. There are self-tests to practice too.

Enjoy:
http://aliscot.com/bigdog/index.htm

Also, you are doing an awesome job posting and commenting. I love seeing our online community growing!

See you all tomorrow,
Karen

My Weekend

Well my weekend was good I went to queen to spend some time with my nephew. He was so happy see me so was I. He means the world to me and he make me feel happy inside. Whenever I go to see him I love the way he put a smile on my face and warm my heart with his laugh. my nephew is the reason why I wanna do better for my life and get my education some time I do feel like giving up but what good will I be if my one and only nephew ask me about his homework and I dont know the answer to the question. My problem is not getting the help I need there are something I dont understand and it really bother me but all I do is try to focus.

It is a soultion for the janitor finally quits

I feel that It is a soultion for the janitor finally quits after I read the poem. Janitor is a
cleaner couldn't get people appreciated in the church ,even the guests complain about toilet paper, it is another way to say he doesn't do his job well, but his does his effort, he has always
mopped the floor, but on one can speak his name.he could't keep somthing that he doesn't like ;
therefor he quit even nobody know, I feel worry for him , I guess people will realize that he had done a great job for the church after he not there, you can imagine if no body doing clean, how dirty with the rest room and the floor, does the mop can push on without hands.
from this poem , people will be learned how to apprciated by the janitor in the church.

Good News

I got hired at Citibank so now i got a job. I'm so happy. Yaaaaaaay.

MTA NYC Subway R68 D Train Terminating at Herald Square-34 St/6 Av

To Maria

Good work, yesterday. It was pleasure to work with you & melo.

Jane Hyatt Yolen

Jane Hyatt Yolen is an american author and editor of almost 300 books. These include folklore, sciencefiction , fantasy. Did you know she was born in New York City

Jorge's Job (Homework)Unitylou

Jorge seems to be tired (Tone) of his job.This shows in the poem were he states "I have a bad attitude." Also I personally have been their so I am aware that physical labor can take it's toll.The reason for the poem and why? Is because of the fact that he wants a better job.Surly I do not blame him at all having the same experiance. As a reader my feet are exactly were his used to be.

2-day

Hey class! It's me unitylou I am having a good day thus far,I also think that i need some practice on my grammar.oops! Did you hear that Karen? (ha ha) peace.

P.S seriously

verbatim meaning word for word

The GED tests your thinking skills, not your memory. It tests the analysis and problem-solving abilities that you have been developing all along in school and in life. You've got what it takes to pass the GED,

Homework Assignments

Hello, everyone--

Just a reminder, the homework due this Wednesday is to please:
1) post and comment at least once on the blog
2) read the poem by Martin Espada and answer the following questions:
a) What is the tone?
b) What is the purpose?

By Monday, everyone is expected to have posted at least one of their writing pieces onto the blog.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Best,
Karen

Columbus

You lied to us about discovering something you didn't find. You tried to make everyone believe your lies. You said it once you said it twice by the third time it wasn't nice. You came here and took the land of Indians then salves to spain. How dare you? You should be embarressed about it. You know american have already been discover yet you acted like you found it. When you come to this New World people already lived there. How you gonna find a place when civitization had already existed here?

Hello

It is interesting, that all us have different backrounds and cultures, but we are here for the same reason.

Losing a love one

Its true what they say, you can never really understand what's it like until it happen to you. I once described losing a loved one. My mother carried me for 9 months, she gave birth to me, she was the first sight I ever set my eyes upon, she fed me when I was hungry, she got no sleep for months when I woke her up crying at night. She changed my diaper and watched me smile when I recognized her face. She watched me crawl and take my first steps and say my first word. She was always there. Memory I ever had growing up has her in it. When I was upset she was there to cheer me up. When I needed advice it was her who sought it out. When I stepped out of line it was her who put me back in step. She was a strong loving mother who I always knew was on my side and would do anything for me and my brothers. She gave us the perfect upbringing that made me the women I am today. I known her as my mother and as I become an adult I knew her as the women with a devilish sense of humor. She have always been a huge part of my life and now that she gone, I realize that I always assumed she would be. When the doctor phoned me early one morning to tell me my mother has past away. I was numb in the stage of depression. After months of her death I just couldn't grasp that she was really gone, like my brain just wouldn't accept that she was gone forever. Whenever i'm at home i come down in the morning before anyone else was up. I would watch t.v in the living room like I always did, I be sitting there waiting for her to wake a up. She would make us breakfast like she always did we were early rises. I cried for her more when she was suffering then after she died I couldn't hold back my tears. I learn to accept that she was gone but she kept turning up in my dreams. Sometime the dream would be set in my childhood and it was only when until I woke up to start feeling sad that it was just a dream. My other dream i would be telling her how much i miss her, waking up would just take me away from her. I woke up with tears on my pillow but then to leave all my sadness in the dream. My dream start to fade away although they do come back from time to time, I found that my mind seem to understand that she was gone. Its was as though in the preceding years and took it that long , it a good job I didn't take it all at once because it such an utterly terrible thing to have to get use to and live with it. I have to carry the pain and burden for the rest of my life, The only thing that changed is that I learn to live with it in my own way. As i said at the start It not a day goes by that I don't miss her I still get upset from time to time, but my mother never hid her tears from us and as a result we were brought up knowing that it was perfectly normal to miss some one we love , and it nothing to be ashamed of. She always admired my positive out look on life and to make the most of life as its so precious every day that goes by that exactly what I try to do.

Events of my weekend

This weekend was a bust for me.I stepped outside into a heavy breeze unaware of the change of weather.I was cold so i ran back into the house too change into pants and a long sleeved shirt.

My trip to Virginia and North Carolina

My family and I went to Williamsburg, Virginia from 10/3/10 through 10/10/10. In Virginia, We had a time share. During a time share, I watched television and played my wii console. On 10/5/10, My family and I went to the historic area to see old houses and stores. On 10/8/10, we went to Busch Gardens. I went to the haunted house. Some people tried to scare me but I jumped at them at a haunted house. I had a lot of fun in Busch Gardens.



On 10/10/10, we went to North Carolina to see my uncle and my grandmother until Columbus Day. It was a really nice vacation.
On Columbus Day we came to New York City. When I was coming to New York from Burlington, North Carolina, Near Newark, New Jersey it started thundering, lightning and raining.

A letter to Maria

Dear Maria
I think Columbus day it a big fraud. Because people don't know what he really did.
He went to a land were he met some Indians and made friends with them only to take
there land and turn them in to slaves, and took advantage of woman,children,and there man.
But all he really did was rob them of the gold and there pride that why I think they should not celebrate Columbus day.
They him seem like hero but he was a con man . That why people should read up on there history so they can learn
What they don't know . What kind of man you think he was.






Sincerely


Batman

my weekend

Well on Thursday I started to feel sick with a cold and asthma and chest pain. As you may know I have a heart problem so I'm always getting sick with the weather changing. So I was in bed this weekend but with the help of my boyfriend who took care of me and took me to the doctor. I'm now feeling a little better.

i want to thank all the people at the library for helping us with the computer, Elizabeth, Karen, and Stephanie.

Flowers

I like flowers all kinds of flowers.
Flowers makes everything look nice.
Like a wedding I went to . The had red and whit flower all over the church.
The bride had a bouquet of Jasmine flowers and all the bride's maid's .
I like flowers because the go with every occasion, like on mother's day and Valentine day, or when you visit family and friends,
or give flowers just because. I like flowers because the clean the air and makes the house smell fresh.
I't is also good for the environment. FLOWERS

my atlantic city trip

I went to atlantic city on friday Oct. 9th, 2010 I meet my sister and her husband and we were together , The next day my other sister came down with her husband and we all just chill out on saturday, They left sunday morning but we stayed until tuesday

Writing Homework Assignment Due 10/18

Hello, everyone!

AMAZING class last Wednesday. I am so impressed by the level of engagement, critical thinking, questioning, and citing of the text. You are doing high level work, dissecting and analyzing text-- if you can do this, questions on the GED will be quite simple for you. I applaud your commitment to the class and toward reaching your goals.

Remember that the week's writing assignment is to answer the following question:

Do you think that the author (Jane Yolen) endorses Columbus Day, based on the Author's Note at the end of Encounter? Why or why not (give evidence from the text)?

Your answer to this question should take up at least ONE COMPLETE PAGE OF PAPER. If you know how to write in essay format, even better.

We will share on Monday (I promise!)
Have a wonderful weekend, everyone.
Karen

Reconsider Columbus Day 2010

No Class Monday 10/11 and Homework Due 10/13

Hello, everyone!

Just a reminder- there is no class on Monday, 10/11, as the library will be closed due to Columbus Day.

As a follow-up to our class discussion about Columbus Day and the book, Encounter, I have assigned the following homework writing assignment:

Choose someone to address your poem.
For example:
"To Columbus..."
or "To The State of New York..." (great idea, Victor!)
"To my former teachers..."

Then, write a poem to this person telling how you feel about Christopher Columbus and Columbus Day and how you think they should feel about him/it.

Use the poem, "Coaches," as a guide if you're stuck. Think about tone (sarcasm is one way to give a cynical or bitter tone), which we discussed in class.

Good luck, and have fun with the assignment. We will share these poems as well as our stories from the other week on Wednesday.

Please call/email if you are having trouble.

Have a wonderful long weekend, everyone!
Karen

Reminders: Homework and Monday Math Test

Hello, everyone!

Just a reminder that you are expected to finish the stories you wrote about your illustration by this Monday. We will share our stories with the class on Monday. Also, remember that all new students will be taking the Math TABE assessment this Monday as well.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend, and it was lovely to meet you last Wednesday!

Karen

First Class Today, Wed. 9/29

Hello, Coney Island Students!

See you at our first class of the fall cycle TODAY at 5pm!

I hope you had a wonderful end to the summer.

Let's do this!

Karen

Congratulations and Important Dates

Hello, everyone!

A special congratulations to the graduates of the Summer 2010 Coney Island Pre-GED Class! The following students received awards for their hard work, dedication, and contributions to our classroom community:

Reading Award: Jesus Gonzalez
Math Award: Maria Alamo
Participation: Juanita Griffin
Best Attendance: Maria Alamo, Annalyse Padilla, Elsa Taylor

We had an excellent presentation day learning about healthcare reform, the BP oil spill situation, and immigration reform policies. It was evident that our students learned a lot in the process with their facts, passion, and opinions about the issues.

The Fall 2010 Cycle will begin on Wednesday, September 29th from 5-8pm. All returning students should bring their exit slips to the Coney Island registration on Wednesday, September 15th at 5pm to guarantee their spot in the fall class. You will NOT need to stay for testing.

Hope you are enjoying the rest of the summer. See you soon!
Karen

BP's Oil Spilled

Website on Grammar

Hi everyone,
Check out this website on grammar for writing. There are self-tests to practice too.
Enjoy:
http://aliscot.com/bigdog/index.htm

Information about the last class

Hello, everyone!

Our cycle is coming to a close, and this Wednesday is our last class together. I am proud of you all for your dedication to coming to the class even in the summertime when it's probably the hardest to be indoors. On Wednesday, we will have our group presentations, certificates, awards, and a party to celebrate our cycle together.

Here is the signup sheet for the party:
Jesus- rice and beans
Maria- roasted potatoes
Teresa- chicken
Anthony- lemonade
Karen- rice krispy treats

See you on Wednesday!
Karen

Opposing Viewpoints in Context

Hi everyone-

If you are still looking for articles for your news topic, check out this site:

http://www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org/eresources/alpha.jsp

click 'alphabetical', scroll down to click 'opposing viewpoints in context'

Then, search for your issue.

You will need your library card number and pin number. Let me know if you get confused.

Karen

What a "Hell-Of-A-Law!!"

Arizona SB 1070 is slowly breaking the barrier by allowing immigrates to be in Arizona without carrying the required documents. "But it doesn't end there" so as far as controversy goes, without documents would be leading ideas for pending legislation the fallowing states such as, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas and Utah. While all this is going on, its crating random thoughts and opinions across the world that's watching out there. Its bad enough the economy is slowly gone bad, will the Arizona immigration law help make a difference or will it help contribute to drain the economy down slowly?

Breaking News!

Look-- the Granddad Bandit has been arrested!

http://www.cnn.com/2010/CRIME/08/11/louisiana.granddad.bandit/index.html?eref=mrss_igoogle_cnn

This Week's Homework

Hello, everyone--

Please study your flashcards to be ready for Monday's Mad Minute!

Math Homework Due Wed. 8/18 on looseleaf:

returning students
pp. 37-39

new students
pp. 17-20

Also, be prepared to take your Reading TABE this Monday and the Math TABE next Wednesday.

The Immigration Group should post their fact and opinion onto the blog ASAP.

Everyone else, please comment on the other group's posts. Have a good weekend!
Karen

Leadership Program for Young Women

Sadie Nash Leadership Program http://www.sadienash.org/ is currently seeking applications for the 2010-2011 ELLA Fellowship Program!

ELLA is a unique program at Sadie Nash – it is a PAID fellowship for young women to design and implement a social justice project within their communities. It is open to young women ages 16-22, who have prior leadership experience and can commit to attending monthly retreats in the NYC area and to working on their projects for the 9 months of the fellowship program.

I am attaching information on the project as well as a “tips” sheet, summaries of former fellows & projects, AND the application. The application is due on AUGUST 20th, 2010.

Along with the Sadie Nash Leadership Project, there’s the Girls for Gender Equity Program running a paid internship called Sisters in Strength! http://www.ggenyc.org/

Poem about Loneliness

I too am learning how to embrace loneliness! Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7X7sZzSXYs

Times Table Practice Online!

http://resources.oswego.org/games/mathmagician/mathsmulti.html

Fun website to practice your times tables!

Free Graphic Design Class for 16-21 Year Olds!

BETA Academy is currently in the recruitment process for our Graphic Design class, which is slated to start in October and end in January. We are accepting students between the ages of 16-21 years old who live within the 5 boroughs. The class will be held at 1150 Carroll St, Medgar Evers College. The students will receive an official certificate of completion and they will have an opportunity to receive GED preparation, job readiness training and college enrollment assistance, when they are done with the Graphic Design course.

Anybody who is interested should feel free to call me at: 718-804-8843, or e-mail me at: anharris@mec.cuny.edu.

Best Regards,
Tony Harris
Case Manager/Counselor

School of Professional and Community Development

BETA ACADEMY

Medgar Evers College

1534 Bedford Ave. 2nd Fl.

Brooklyn, NY 11216

Phone: (718) 804-8843

E-mail: anharris@mec.cuny.edu

The Tea Party

Hey, guys what's going on well as for me and Annalyse were doing okay.. Well me and her are talking about the Tea Party the Bill of Health Care. The Tea Party is a group of people that are call Protester's.Protester's are people that disagree with congress. They only care about them selves. They threw things at you and expect you to agree with them.. Thats why their are two different party's. Did you know that the activist are trying to pass a bill that you and all the Amercan's will be having to pay for your own health care and others people's too.

This is Jesus-I think they should pass the bill. The reason why I think they should pass the law because the people that don't have health care it will benafit them in the long run. The other side of my thinks that they should not pass the law because its not fair to the people that have to work and pay for their own health care and for other's..

This is Annalyse- I dont think they should pass the law at all. The reason why I think they shouldn't is because their should not be aloud to have people pay for someone eles health care.. i would not mind paying for my own and my family's. For other people i would have a problem with it.. its not fair to the people that work hard and at the end of the week have to pay up for people that live off the state. I dont think its fair at all...

P.S HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT IT??

coney island for the Summer vacation

Hi,coney island is the place to be for the summer vacation, There are rides for the whole family on the amusement parks.and lotes of restaurant with a variety of food god bless.

Hope to see you in class today!

Hello folks!

I hope you had a wonderful couple of weeks. I heard from Eva that Kourtney was unable to teach last Wednesday, so you were on your own. I hope the class went well and that you were able to make it productive. I know that you are very independent and work well together, so I'm sure you made it work. The questions that you generated to help understanding your news topics were great by the way.

These are the questions that were passed along to me for those who were absent:

*Tea party article question: Why is health care reform necessary?
http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/health/diseasesconditionsandhealthtopics/health_insurance_and_managed_care/health_care_reform/index.html

*BP article question: Who else is responsible for the oil spill?
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/23/us/23hearing.html?_r=1&scp=4&sq=bp%20who%20is%20to%20blame?&st=cse

*Immigration law: Jose should continue working on the 5 Ws and H, and the questions.

This is the last day for research.

Important Dates:
1. We will begin putting our information in presentation form starting this Wednesday 8/11 and ending next Wednesday 8/18.
2. Presentations will take place on 8/23.
3. You will be taking the Reading TABE on Mon. 8/16.
4. You will be taking the Math TABE on Wed. 8/18.
5. The last class is Wed. 8/25- we will have certificates, awards, and a party.

Please note that the following math homework is due in class this WEDNESDAY 8/11:
Returning students- pp. 34-36
New students- pp. 14-16

I will be collecting last week's homework today.

See you in a few hours!
Karen

How's the class ?

Hey you guys .

Is Karen alright.

She hasn't been posting much.

I mean ,she usually has something to post about.

And what about Damian ,Juanita ,Teresa,Jose,and Maria.

They don't post much, so I can never tell.

some where inside

Hey,what's good everyone.

have you guys ever heard of a nonfiction book called Some where inside.

It's about a reporter from California who is helled captive in North Korea while her sister tries to free her.

I read some of it but someone placed a hold on it before I was able to renew it.

the title is either ''some where inside'' or ''some where inside north korea''.

By Lisa Ling and Laura Ling

Cat Stevens - The Wind

Gone High Tech

You may have noticed, teacher,
I am not in school today
But the tape deck on my desk
Will record each word you say
Switch on my laptop's Webcam
When you have something to show
And if you pass out homework
Find my fax number below
I’ve a pager and cell phone
So I won’t be hard to reach
Since I don’t need to be in class
I’ll do lessons at the beach

Yoga Meditation

WELCOME SUMMER CYCLE STUDENTS!

Hello, everyone!

Here is the homework due NEXT WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4TH:
*New Students*: Math Workbook- pp. 11-13
*Returning Students*: Math Workbook- pp. 30-33

Also, you should be collecting and reading articles for your news article group about the topic you chose. Then:

1. Write the 5 w's and H for each article (who, what, where, when, why, how).
2. Write questions that you have about what you are reading (these questions will help you find new articles to build your knowledge base).
3. Find a new article that helps you answer the questions. Write down the answers.

Please comment if you have any questions! Good luck!
Karen

Hey, what's going on class.. Hope you guys are all doing well.. As for me I'm just living my life to the fullest, tkaeing it day by day.. When I had frist came to this class I felt missed placed. I though I didnt belong here.. Afetr coming for awhile I stared to like it.. I hope by the end of this class I can go on and get my G.E.D. I hope the same for all.. Well I'm new to this web site dont have much to say..lol Untill we meet again.. Have a good day.. chow..

the murphy family reunion

The Murphy Family Reunion is August 6,7,8 2010 in Tennesse I hope to have a good time on my family reunion even thought three of my sisters are not going because they dont have the money to travel to that state. I am going to have a wonderful time there cause i never been there before and its alot of stuff around the area for me to do We have to leave on a thursday to get there on friday and we will leave on sunday to get back on monday so i will miss that monday class

I'm going away for two weeks

Hi guys. I'm not going to be here for the next two weeks. I'm going to Pine Bush Bible Camp upstate. Pine Bush Bible Camp is a camp where you can have fun and learn about the LORD. Don't worry. I'll see everybody on August 16, 2010

Summer Reading 2010

establishing the authors voice

I have a question to whomever feels they can answer it, or whoever just wants to comment.

Do I necessarily Have to establish the author's voice in the beginning of the story?

or can I just sneak it in there anywhere?, like I have been doing

Yeah, I know it's pitiful

I feel that my characters are either too squeaky clean or my evil characters are too obvious.

Or both.

I read about that in one of those Ralf Fletcher books.

I should have Robert woodstock pull out a gun and shoot George wilkenson.

Since he's such a cliche for a villain anyway.

That would be one less problem.

sigh...yeah

Oh thanks Karen,for the advice on my last writing peace draft.

Could you list the punctuation mistakes that I made please?

woodstock thunder third draft

It was a scorching hot summer morning of 1922 .The sun rose high over the Woodstock farm ,triumphantly chasing the moon back to it's shadowy retreat.

Artemis Riel Woodstock woke suddenly at 7AM to the sound of crows having a buffet out of this springs harvest.


It became clear to him that his paper mache scarecrow wasn't getting the job done.Art had recently requested of his father that he be allowed to construct a new scarecrow for the farm .The last one had mysteriously caught fire and almost set fire to a third of the farms crops. Art's father suspected the Wilkinson brothers, who were always trying to sabotage his plans.Art saw this as a great opportunity to earn some extra cash from his father.


''What in God's name is going on out there''Art's father yelled as he pulled open the window to his bedroom.


By this time Art was already in the fields fending off the shadowy black vermin with a broomstick.


''Uuh ,nothing Dad, just feeding the chickens.Feeding the chickens? he thought, what a ridiculous excuse for an excuse.I might as well have said the chickens were being abducted by aliens.His father's continued shouting brought Art back to earth.


''Well,try to keep it down. Your mother's trying to sleep.I'll be down in a minute'',his father said from within his room.


Robert Riel Woodstock was a moderately tall man whose' neighbors called him Woodstock willow.His gnarled, boney and vein filled hands and arms, along with his shaggy faded hair gave one the impression of a weeping willow tree.He was also of Native American and Scottish decent.
While his wife was African American.


''Egg soup again Lillian?''Robert said jokingly to his swan like daughter, as he walked past the kitchen.


''Well maybe if Mom was ever awake this early, she could tell me how she makes her omelets''Lillian said, her soft nugget candy skin changing to white chocolate in the sunlight as she wrestled with the fried eggs.{Please don't take this the wrong way. I'm just trying to use figurative language. }


I'd be exhausted to if i had to deal with you meddlesome kids all day long''.Her father said laughing as he stepped over his youngest child Lucy who was playing with Lego's in the middle of the hallway floor.


Lillian threw a damp rag at her Father's already damp looking willow head, as he hurried though the door.


Robert found his two sons talking in the field.


''You call that a scarecrow?Art's stocky older brother Benjamin said ,setting a stack of hay down that he brought back from the stables.Lucy has dolls that look scarier than that ''He continued as there father approached.

''We'll worry about the scare crow later'' there father said standing by the barn with his arms folded.Today is a very important day for all of us.''Today is the day that we drive three score of cattle to greydey farm.Now I want You both to be on Your best behavior, because your sister is coming with us.The two of you are enough trouble as it is''.

''Aw Pop,you know Lilly couldn't drive cattle to save her life''.Ben said as he sat on the stack of hay.


''I heard that'' Lillian yelled from the living room window.


''Yeah,well their's a lot more were that came from, so consider yourself lucky.Benjamin said his arms out wide as he walked towards the house.


Just then they heard a loud crash coming from within the house.Soon after Lillian cam running through the front door with a piping hot spatuler in hand.


''Oh hell naw'' Ben said flying past his brother in the opposite direction.


''Ouch''Robert said, feeling the hot sting of the spatuler as he restrained his oldest child.

Through the camotion Art directed everyones attention to a blood red pickup truck pulling into there driveway.

''What do the wilkenson brothers want now'' Robert sighed shaking his head.

''Good mornin'' George Wilkenson said as he steped out of the truck.George Wilkenson had a very piggish face with plump round cheeks ,pinkish skin and large nostrils.His shaggy mustache and forked beard added to his odd appearance.He was also 5 ft 4 in tall and had a bulging stomach.

''A fine day for driving cattle''Burt Wilkenson said,his head held high tacking in the breeze.Burt Wilkenson was ten inches taller than his older brother George.I swear, this guy could have easily past for a sack of potato's that had suddenly come to life.His huge oddly shaped wart riddled muscles, tanned and ashy skin, and bulb shaped head gave him a very spud like appearance.

''What is this about'' Robert said walking towards the Wilkenson brothers.

''We're just here to tell you not to worry about the deal from Greydey farms''George Wilkenson snickered.

''We'll be taking that off your hands'' Burt Wilkenson said.

''But Bob Greydey said first come first serve'' robert said with his hand out wide in exclamation.

{crap ,I'm running out of ideas for blocking.}

''Well I guess that means us then.But thats all for now,weve got work to do''.George wilkenson laughed as they piled back into the truck and drove off.

The woodstock family wasted no time in prepairing for the journey.They were packed and on the road in no time.

Their course was an easy one at first,wide open fields and shaded valleys.Then, well then the Wilkenson brothers happened.

{I'm not sure wether this should be a knew chapter or not}

Lilian was a great help when they crossed the Walawakah river.Her loud voice and fiery temper scared the entire herd of cattle across the shallow stream as the Wilkenson brothers tried to flood it.

As they passed through the cateract desert Art thought he saw a sand storm to the north.He informed his father of this.Now, I couldn't tell you if it was a sand storm or not because I'm not sure weather or not their are sand storms in western deserts.Art's father didn't seem to think so as he hopped off his saddle and pressed his body against the earth to listen.He then lifted his head.His face deathly pale and his eye's opened so wide his children thought they would pop out of their sockets.

"What's wrong Dad" Ben said breathing heavily.

''We won't be able to make that detour northwest to hillside vale as I had planed'' Robert said as he remounted his horse.

"Why not'' art said

''I'll explain later'' their father said as he steered his horse directly westward.

TO BE CONTINUED ..........Again

their scedule isn't working for me

New horizons class schedule doesn't fit my schedule .

With the class schedule and job readiness class schedule combined I wont be able to attend the study group sessions at the learning center.

I plan to sign up for weekend GED classes at laguardia community college.

The registration date for September classes is July 14

I will continue attending New Horizons' GED classes until september.

Woodstock thunder second draft

It was a scorching hot summer morning of 1922 .The sun rose high over the Woodstock farm ,triumphantly chasing the moon back to it's shadowy retreat.

Artemis Riel Woodstock woke suddenly at 7AM to the sound of crows having a buffet out of this springs harvest.


It became clear to him that his paper mache scarecrow wasn't getting the job done.Art had recently requested of his father that he be allowed to construct a new scarecrow for the farm .The last one had mysteriously caught fire and almost set fire to a third of the farms crops. Art's father suspected the Wilkinson brothers, who were always trying to sabotage his plans.Art saw this as a great opportunity to earn some extra cash from his father.


''What in God's name is going on out there''Art's father yelled as he pulled open the window to his bedroom.


By this time Art was already in the fields fending off the shadowy black vermin with a broomstick.


''Uuh ,nothing Dad, just feeding the chickens.Feeding the chickens? he thought, what a ridiculous excuse for an excuse.I might as well have said the chickens were being abducted by aliens.His father's continued shouting brought Art back to earth.


''Well,try to keep it down. Your mother's trying to sleep.I'll be down in a minute'',his father said from within his room.


Robert Riel Woodstock was a moderately tall man whose' neighbors called him Woodstock willow.His gnarled, bony and vein filled hands and arms, along with his shaggy faded hair gave one the impression of a weeping willow tree.He was also of Native American and Scottish decent.
While his wife was African American.


''Egg soup again Lillian?''Robert said jokingly to his swan like daughter, as he walked past the kitchen.


''Well maybe if Mom was ever awake this early, she could tell me how she makes her omelets''Lillian said, as she wrestled with the fried eggs.


I'd be exhausted to if i had to deal with you meddlesome kids all day long''.Her father said laughing as he stepped over his youngest child Lucy who was playing with Lego's in the middle of the hallway floor.


Lillian threw a damp rag at her Father's already damp looking willow head, as he hurried though the door.


Robert found his two sons talking in the field.


''You call that a scarecrow?Art's stocky older brother Benjamin said ,setting a stack of hay down that he brought back from the stables.Lucy has dolls that look scarier than that ''He continued as there father approached.

''We'll worry about the scare crow later'' there father said standing by the barn with his arms folded.Today is a very important day for all of us.''Today is the day that we drive three score of cattle to greydey farm.Now I want You both to be on Your best behavior, because your sister is coming with us.The two of you are enough trouble as it is''.

''Aw Pop,you know Lilly couldn't drive cattle to save her life''.Ben said as he sat on the stack of hay.


''I heard that'' Lillian yelled from the living room window.


''Yeah,well their's a lot more were that came from, so consider yourself lucky.Benjamin said his arms out wide as he walked towards the house.


Just then they heard a loud crash coming from within the house.Soon after Lillian cam running through the front door with a piping hot spatuler in hand.


''Oh hell naw'' Ben said flying past his brother in the opposite direction.


''Ouch''Robert said, feeling the hot sting of the spatuler as he restrained his oldest child.

Through the camotion Art directed everyones attention to a blood red pickup truck pulling into there driveway.

''What do the wilkenson brothers want now'' Robert sighed shaking his head.

''Good mornin'' george wilkenson said.

''A fine day for driving cattle''Burt Wilkenson said

TO BE CONTINUED

New school please

If anybody knows of a GED school that is still enrolling, let me know.

what i'm passionate about

Hi karen ,monday you asked me what i'm passionate about .

I was caught off gaurd because I've never really asked myself that question before .

I mean, there are some things that I would like to progress in like my education and career.

But,I would have to say that I am very passionate about being a father figure for my younger brothers and sisters.

You see, my father has never really been home much{because of his jobs}, so I've been trying to help my mother out with as much as possible.

Even now that i am no longer living at home.

I may not be very good at it ,but I intend to keep improving.

It's not just for them though, I would feel obligated to be a roll model for anyone who needs one.

When I see them struggling to succeed, I see myself.

Quote by Tiger Woods:

If you are given a chance to be a role model, I think you should always take it because you can influence a person's life in a positive light, and that's what I want to do. That's what it's all about.
Tiger Woods

I just didn't want to leave your question unanswered.

And thanks to you Karen, now I'm very passionite about writing.

That is ,I would like to put very influential and positive ideas into books.

Not that It's never been done before.

And I'll be sure to dedicate my first bestseller to you Karen{if I ever get that far that is}.

preferably a bestseller so that everyone will know what a positive infuence you have been to your students.

''I made it I'm in''

Yo, it was crazy at new horizons.

Everybody was gettin mad at the examiners and counsilers for not telling them ahead of time that they may be put on a waiting list before they can attend classes.

But thank God I was chosen to attend classes immediately .

Now the only problem is my schedule.

I was so busy trying to hurry and get enrolled in a school before the summer that I didn't bother checking to see if anyone had weekend or evening classes.

Soooo,I 'll probably be kind of late for the study group sessions at the learning center.

the classes are on the weekdays.

End of Class Celebration 6/28/10

Congratulations On Finishing the Spring 2010 Cycle!

Hello, everyone! Congratulations to everyone who finished the cycle: Maria, Jesus, Damian, Ralphie, Juanita, Teresa, Jose, Gabriela, and Abdussalaam! You worked until the bitter end of the cycle, and I am so proud of your commitment to our class. We had a delicious feast of chicken gumbo, rice, cupcakes, lemonade, and other goodies. Thank you to everyone who provided something to share with the class!

Most Improved Reader: Ralphie
Most Improved Writer: Abdussalaam
Most Improved Math: Anthony
Participation Award: Teresa
Best Attendance (60 hours): Juanita and Damian

Maria, Jose, and Teresa: We missed you!!!!

Gabriela, Ralphie, and Abdussalaam- you will be missed! Please keep us up to date with your GED preparation! Ralphie will be holding study groups at the Learning Center every Tuesday/Thursday 1pm, right?

For the rest of the class: please bring your TABE score slip to registration at the Coney Island library on July 7th at 5pm. You won't have to stay to take the test- just to sign up for the next cycle.

Enjoy the next couple of weeks off!
Karen

Childhood Narrative Writing Celebration 6/9/10