Sentence Composing #127 & #128 - Participle Phrases

#127 Expert Sentence:
He had sailed for two hours, resting in the stern and chewing bit of meat from the marlin, trying to rest and to be strong, when he saw the first of the two sharks.

#127 Mr. Chappell’s Sentence:
The cat had napped all the afternoon, cuddling in the sun and licking its tail with its sandpaper tongue, curling to rest and be contented, when it noticed the first of three bluejays.

#127 James’ Sentence
She had thought for one month, sitting on the couch and tapping on a glass table, trying to not cry and to not think about what she had done, when she looked at her court date.

#127 Ryan’s sentence
She had talked for four hours, sitting in the chair and drinking a ton of water from a bottle, trying to work and give sentencing, when she spoke to the girl of the five people.

#127 Cash’s Sentence
He had waited for three hours, squirming in the lobby and rehearsing a portion of sentences from his script, trying to be confident, when he stood in front of the single judge.

#127 Michael’s Sentence
Curry had choked for three years, waiting in the seats and chewing on his nails, hoping to get cut short of deep trouble and survive, when he saw Judge Lebron.

#127 Kieran’s Sentence
Cuffed while weeping from the sentencing of life in prison, he was dreading his last day in the real world in the court room, and dragging his shoes with clumsy feet, he overlooked the previous years of his gloomy life with regret.





SENTENCE #128
Creeping without sound through the underbrush, he at last came to a thicket at the very edge of the water, and parting the leaves with careful hands, he beheld a most beautiful sight.

#128 Chappell’s Sentence:
Grinning without shame through the crowd, Mickey Mouse at last came into view at the front of the Main Street Electrical Parade, and dancing among the princesses with high kicks, he somersaulted into a most amazing acrobatic stunt.

#128 Catherine’s Sentence:
Talking with a slight stutter to the judge, she finally told her story about her mistakes in the courtroom, and holding her hands behind her back, the woman knew she was going to be taken away to jail.  

#128 Franco’s Sentence
Sitting without emotion on her face, the judge finally reached a verdict at the near end of the hour, and looking over the evidence with a biased mind, she issued a terribly unfair punishment.

#128 Franco’s Sentence en espanol
Sin emoción en el rostro, el juez finalmente llegó a un veredicto final cerca de la hora, y mirando por encima de la evidencia con mente sesgada, ella emitió un castigo terriblemente injusto.

#128 Nickita’s sentence
Murdering without even thinking about it, the gang member finally came to court at the very center of New York City, and was thinking about the consequences he was about to face, when he had a large grand jury waiting for him in the large building.

#128 Eric’s Sentence:
Peering through the oval-shaped window from within the plane, he started to relax on the reclining seat, and listening to music from his phone, he hated dreadful plane flights.

#128 Jake’s Sentence:
Running without a clue through the woods, he finally came to a hollow log at the very end of the forest, and crawling into the the opening with dirty hands, he witnessed a most frightening figure.

#128 Hunter’s Sentence:
Looking without interest through the bedroom window, he soon came to a stop at the far end of the neighborhood, and seeing his friends playing without him, he grasped an ill feeling.

#128 Elizabeth’s sentence:
Running with a pounding thump around the forest, she finally came to a stop by the end of the river, and sitting down with tired legs, she came across an extremely beautiful lake.

Ava’s Sentence:
Growing very slowly down in the soil, the rose barely made it above the ground near the beginning of the stony brook, and leaving the forest as fast as a cheetah could run, the rose was in a new dystopia.

Curran’s Sentence:
Running without fear in the sunshine, he finally met with his friends at the city park, and jumping in the grass with excitement, he was ready to have fun.

Alex’s Sentence:
Growing in between the cracks on the driveway, the weeds were the first to sprout up at the beginning of spring, but hurrying to stop them from growing, she sprayed her new weed killer.

Sofia’s sentence:
Coming out without a snowflake in sight, the sun at last came very laggard like a simple tree growing out of the ground, and picking the daisies with durable hands, a young maiden witnessed an incredibly pretty sunrise.

Sentence Composing - Participle Phrases #127

Expert Sentence:
He had sailed for two hours, resting in the stern and chewing bit of meat from the marlin, trying to rest and to be strong, when he saw the first of the two sharks.

Mr. Chappell’s Sentence:
The cat had napped all the afternoon, cuddling in the sun and licking its tail with its sandpaper tongue, curling to rest and be contented, when it noticed the first of three bluejays.

Megan’s Sentence:  
She had sobbed for four hours, laying in her bed and throwing a couple of pillows across the room, hoping to forget and to be happy, when she heard the last of her best friend.                                        

Alexander’s Sentence:
Harry had ran for ten minutes, resting in a hotel and eating a bit of chicken from Hagrid’s house, trying to rest and get his strength back, when he saw a group of Death Eaters coming his way.            

Leo’s Sentence:
He had ran for four hours, laying in the side of the road and eating a piece of chocolate from his backpack, trying to recover for the next four hours of the race , when he saw the first of his competitors, passing him.

Anna’s Sentence:
He studied for one hour, looking at the small text and memorizing a section of the paragraph from the science textbook, trying to think and to be focused,when he saw the first of thirty paragraphs.

Aadi’s Sentence:
They had been arguing for three days, shouting in the Supreme Court and thinking about the murderers from Manhattan, trying to get their points across and to be smart, when they saw the faces of the killers.

Griffin’s Sentence:
She had lectured for a couple of hours, conversing with the defendants and opening their eyes to their poor prior actions, attempting to keep the public unharmed, after she had read the blood alcohol content of one of the men who plead guilty.

Nicholas’ Sentence:
She had driven for five minutes, speeding on the road and burping a scent of alcohol from the party, appearing to be intoxicated and weak, when she noticed the flash of the cruiser’s lights.

Ella’s Sentence:
She had slept in all morning, drooling on her pillow and dreaming a lot about the assembly, trying to keep calm and stay cool, when she witnessed the first of the seven arrests.

Max’s Sentence:
He had been driving drunk for one hour, dozing in the seat, and intoning an old tune from the bar, trying to get home to sleep,   when he first made out the siren of the police car behind him.

Keytante’s Sentence
She had condemned herself for many decades, drinking in the car and eating cups-of-noodles raw from the store, refusing to palliate and let go, when she saw the first of the two deceased children.

Tom’s Sentence:
He had stood for a short time, staring at the judge and thinking about all of the mistakes he had made, trying to relax and to be tough, when he listened to few of his many wrongdoings.

Angela’s Sentence
He sat for about an hour, shaking very nervously and twiddling his thumbs, trying to stay calm, until he was called by the judge.

Brooke’s Sentence:
I had sat for what felt like forever, worrying about my trial and praying an awful lot for the best outcome, trying to unwind and stay tranquil, when I heard the noise of the wooden gavel.

Natalie’s Sentence:
The woman had prepared for months and months, paying tons for a lawyer and stressing about what the judge would say, longing to succeed and be declared innocent, before she took in the sight of the looming brick building.

Clara’s Sentence:
She waited for far too long, debating what to say, but truly knowing exactly the point she needed to make, realizing her life depended on what was said in that courtroom, though she knew that the wisest thing she could do was be honest.

Marki’s sentence:
She had been in court for four hours, scared in her seat and hoping that everything would be okay, trying to relax and to be calm, when she saw the judge walk to the podium.

Quizlet Vocabulary - Informational Text

Students may find the next set of 60 Quizlet.com vocabulary here:

https://quizlet.com/_3a9hkh

The 50 point quiz for these vocabulary words is tentatively scheduled for 4/10/17.

This Week's Agenda 3/27 - 3/31

Participle Phrases #121 - #125

#121
Mounted on high-stepping horses, / a pair of soldiers were advancing / along the river road.

#122
High up under the roof, / in the farthest corner of the barn, / the bats were hanging upside down, / wrapped in their brown wings.

#123
Chagrined, / Ramona tore down her sign, / crumpled it, / threw it into the fireplace, / and stalked out of the room, / resolving to do better the next time.


#124
For a long time, / he just stood there, / defeated, / listening to the hammer, / hoping the chopper would come back, / but knowing that it would not.

#125
Fighting his way through one / of the wildest races / of the season, / Pollard, the jockey, / swung Seabiscuit clear of a set of chain reaction collisions / on the far turn.

Sentence Composing - Participle Phrases #123

Expert Sentence #123
Chagrined, / Ramona tore down her sign, / crumpled it, / threw it into the fireplace, / and stalked out of the room, / resolving to do better the next time.

Mr. Chappell’s Sentence
Embarrassed, Edward tossed down his books, kicked them, pushed them down the stairs, and got up in Jeffrey’s face, threatening to bully him more after school.

Maeve’s Sentence:
Saddened, Debbie looked at her toothbrush, smacked it, dropped it onto the ground, and stomped out the door, hoping to get a new one next week.

Jonny’s Sentence
Annoyed, Alex pulled off his jersey, crumpled it, flung it into the locker, and sprinted into the bathroom, settling to do better next game.

Ella’s Sentence:
Irritated, Sarah threw away her test, spit on it, kicked it down the stairs, and dawdled out of the corridor, deciding to study harder next year.

Hunter’s sentence:
Saddened, the players took off their hats,  held them, dropped  them into a circle, and prayed for their friend, hoping to bring him  back to life.

Expert Sentence #123
Chagrined, Ramona tore down her sign, crumpled it, threw it into the fireplace, and stalked out of the room, resolving to do better the next time.

Mr. Chappell’s Sentence
Embarrassed, Edward tossed down Jeffrey’s books, kicked them, pushed them down the stairs, and got up in his face, threatening to bully him more after school.

Max’s sentence
Bedazzled, Mr. Keith held up her poster, gaped at it, laid it on his workplace, and walked up to Katherine’s desk, congratulating her on her beautiful work.

Erin’s Sentence:
Tired, the girl set down her belongings, opened her textbook, flipped to the first chapter, and read the long section, trying to get her work done by the end of class.

Angela’s sentence
Irritated, the little girl threw the mug, stomped on it, hurled a toy at her parents, and ran to her room, slamming the door behind her.

Tom’s Sentence:
Frustrated, David ripped up his paper, crushed it, tossed it into the trash, and got up to grab a new sheet, knowing he can do much better than before.

Elizabeth’s Sentence:
Raging, Sally pushed her papers off the table, stomped on them, recycled them in the bin, and collapsed on the couch, promising to get back to the assignment later.

Zayd’s Sentence
Scared, Claudio Bravo bolted toward the ball, acquired it, punted it down the pitch, and retreated back to the six-yard line, trying to keep the ball out of the net.

Jack’s sentence:
Angered, the architect snatched the blueprint, tore it, flung it out the window, and started over with the design, promising himself to make this the last prototype once again.

Marley’s Sentence
Thrilled, Haley ripped the package, emptied it, flung the objects onto her bed, and sat down on her bean bag, knowing she received new gifts.

Matthew’s sentence
Annoyed, he tossed his test away, burned it, threw it into the trash, and ran out of the school, hoping to do great next time.

Marki’s sentence:
Determined, Bella picked up her brush, got paint, threw it onto the picture, and looked after she was done, excited to be finally finished.

Alex’s Sentence:
Terrified, Daryl pulled out his crossbow, loaded it, shot it into the horde of walkers, hurrying to kill them all.

Aristotle’s Sentence
Demoralized, Enes took off his jersey, ripped it, threw it into the garbage, and flounced out of the locker room, endeavoring to not get dunked on the next time he stepped on court.

Bryan’s Sentence
Scared, the boy took the shot, missed it, got the rebound, passed it out, and his teammate shot, winning the game.

Sentence Composing #122 - Absolute Phrases

Expert Sentence:
High up under the roof, in the farthest corner of the barn, the bats were hanging upside down, wrapped in their brown wings.

JChappell Sentence:
Deep down within the castle, in the darkest cell of the dungeon, Belle was imprisoned behind bars, shaking in her own fear.

Jackson’s sentence:
Deep beneath the water, in the middle of the ocean, the sharks were swimming side to side, camouflaged in their victim’s blood.

Elisabeth’s Sentence:
Far down beneath the ground, in a forgotten corner of the forest, the spirits were stirring uneasily, shrouded in their dark mists.

Marcus’ Sentence:
Hunkered down under the siege barricades, in a war torn Japan, Eby was sulking in despair, wrought by the Samurai.

Anna’s Sentence:
High up under the stars, in the closest branch of a tree, the owls were sleeping all around, warmed by their white feathers.

Erin’s Sentence:
Down low in the basement, on the oldest couch in the house, Ashley was sitting down on it, covered in the colorful blankets.

Zayd’s Sentence
Down the pitch below the lights, in the closest corner of the field, the defenders were sprinting back and forth, dressed in their fluorescent jerseys.

Ashley’s sentence:
Under the box, on the stage, Erin was laying there, to do magic.

Ava`s Sentence
Far away by the shoe rack, near the closest section of the clothes, people were walking very fast, wrapped in their warm jackets.

Ashley’s Sentence:
High up in the kitchen, by the farthest corner of the shelf, the cat was curled up sleeping, covered in flour.

Kiersten’s Sentence
Deep down in the basement, in the dirtiest room of the house, the webs were hanging low, coated in ancient dust.

Mallory’s Sentence:
Far down below the house, at the edge of the property, the rabbits were running around, covered in mud and filth.

Drake’s Sentence:
Far down under the stadium, in the biggest part of the control room, the kids were playing basketball, covered in their Allen Iverson jerseys.

Carter’s Sentence:
High up in the stands, in the farthest row of the stadium, the baseball was resting on its side, covered in very cold water.

Tom’s Sentence:
Right at the half court line, at the center of the arena, the players were standing up straight, excited for the game ahead.

Bowen’s Sentence:
His brains far and wide, small globs in between the seats, J.F.K had been shot in the head,  assassinated in cold blood.

Miles Sentence:
High up over the clouds, in the biggest village on the mountain, the kids were playing inside the barn, covered in their wool blankets.

Lilli’s sentence:
Right above the puffy clouds, over the Great Plains, a single red balloon was floating, filled with secret messages.

Suzanne’s Sentence:
Swallowed up by the majesty of everything, amongst the barest reaches of our multiverse, the lapis-blue world remained in balance, clutched in place by the runty mass of golden hydrogen that they dubbed “the Sun.”

Fern’s sentence:                                                                                                                                
Way down under the old oaken table, in the quietest nook of the bustling household, the young child was studying feverishly, consumed within her many subjects.

Bryan’s Sentence
Up on top of the bunk bed, in the highest point of the room, the boy fell asleep, covered by the big blue blanket.

Parent Teacher Conference Reminder

Hello Parents,

Just a reminder that I will be available from 4 to 7 pm on this Wednesday, 3/22/17, in room 205 to anyone who was unable to meet with me last week.

Best,
Jonathan Chappell

Weekly Agenda

From Reader Logs to Close Readers

We will be taking a break from our Daily Reading Logs activity in order to finish up the HMH Close Reader Workbooks.  Students were given their readers back last week and instructed to not throw them away, but to keep them either at home or in their lockers.

The following assignments will be due in class on the days listed.

* For China-travelling students, make sure that you are all caught up when you return from Spring Break.  Safe journey!  :)

TLT

Absolute Phrases Study Guide #111 - #120

#111   The skeleton I had uncovered / lay curled on its side, / every bone neatly in place.

#112   His hand trembling, / Billy laid the peanut-butter-and-fried-worm sandwich down / on the table.

#113   The creatures, /some sitting on chairs, / others reclining on a sofa, /were all watching him intently.

#114   The newcomers so forlorn, / and the old dog team so worn out, / the outlook was anything but bright.

#115   A wild-eyed horse, / its bridle torn and dangling, / trotted frantically through the mounds of men, / tossing its head, / whinnying in panic.

#116   Head down, / tail flying, / the young dog gave chase, / swerving and turning in pursuit, / but always the rabbit / was just out of reach / of his hungry jaws.

#117   The raptor struck out / with its hind claws, / and with a single swift movement / ripped open the belly / of the fallen animal, / coils of intestine falling out, / like fat snakes.

#118   This was a room / about fifteen feet by twenty-five, / its walls almost completely lined with glass-fronted cases / that reached up / nearly to the high ceiling / patterned with rosettes.

#119   For a few seconds, / Harry and his Uncle Vernon, / with hands around Harry’s neck, / struggled, / Harry pulling his uncle’s sausage-like fingers / with his left hand, / his right maintaining a firm grip / on his raised wand.

#120   Charles Wallace, /in yellow footed pajamas, / his fresh wounds band-aided, / his small nose looking puffy and red, / lay on the foot of Meg’s big brass bed, / his head pillowed on the shiny black bulk / of Fortinbras the dog.


********************************

•  An absolute phrase is a group of words that contains both a noun and a participle. 
•  A participle is a word formed from a verb and used as an adjective (working woman, burned toast) or a noun (good breeding).
•  Absolute phrases often begin with: my, his, her, its, our, or their (possessive pronouns).  If there is no possessive pronoun, then one is implied.
•  TRICK:  You could change an absolute phrase into a sentence simply by adding the word "was" or "were.”

Absolute Sentences #117 - #119 - Absolute Phrases

EXPERT SENTENCE #117
The raptor struck out / with its hind claws, / and with a single swift movement / ripped open the belly / of the fallen animal, / coils of intestine falling out, / like fat snakes.

JCHAPPS’ SENTENCE
The dementor lashed out with its ghostly tendrils, and with a single blurring lunge pulled upon the soul of a fallen student, wisps of ephemeral life force draining her, like steam from a tea kettle.

Will’s Sentence
The man charged forward with his bat, and with a single swing shattered the glass of the bank window, shards of shrapnel flying everywhere, like deformed arrowheads. e

Jackson’s sentence:
The policeman flung out his taser, and with a simple push of a button zapped the falling criminal, abundance of electricity flowing in, like a lightning bolt.      

Bella’s Sentence-
The sky spoke with its hard angry voice, and without warning struck sending destruction through the well known city, buildings of great height soon to be falling, like they are worth nothing.

Mitch’s sentence:
The spartan struck out with his green-armored elbow, and with a couple of clunky movements knocked down the grunt with great force, dust from the ground billowing up, like a great fire.

Katie’s Sentence
The girl stood up with her hand raised, and with little movement ready to tell the teacher the answer, her teeth shining bright, like a star in the sky.

SANA’S SENTENCE
Tyrone stood up pulled out his gun, and with one pull of his Glock 32 he took someone's life the man he shot fell, Tyrone put his gun back in his pants, just like that.

Allison’s Sentence:
The girl sprung up with a smile on her face, and with a couple big steps grabbed her backpack on the kitchen table, dozens of crayons plunging out, like it was raining rainbows.  

Ava’s Sentence:
The pooch erupted out with the darkness behind him, and with one quick movement clenched the bone from the not-so-alive creature, the scent of pig guts drifting around, like being in a meat locker.

_____________________________________

EXPERT SENTENCE #118
This was a room / about fifteen feet by twenty-five, / its walls almost completely lined with glass-fronted cases / that reached up / nearly to the high ceiling / patterned with rosettes.

JCHAPPS’ SENTENCE
There was a hobbit hole about a dozen yards deep by a dozen yards wide, its curved hallways almost completely lined with oaken archways that crested near the low ceiling decorated with elven sculptures.

Kieran’s Sentence:
‘Twas a house about 2,500 square feet, its rooms almost completely filled with furniture that blanketed nearly all of the floor patterned in various different designs.

Franco’s Sentence:
This was the truck undoubtedly four by four, its bed entirely filled with two by fours that piled nearly through the security strap tightened by a knot.

Ava`s Sentence
This was a house about twenty-five square footage by thirty, it`s rooms almost completely overdone with big fancy furniture that took up nearly the whole room furnished with decorations.  

Jonah’s Sentence
This was a player about seven feet tall and 250 pounds, his arms almost completely covered in colorful tattoos that reach up to his long neck burrowed in a beard.

Iman’s Sentence
There was a boy nearly six feet and one-third inches, his legs could closely be compared with a small giraffe baby’s that extended miles nearly to the hot treetops covered with organisms.

Lily’s Sentence
This was a building about a hundred feet by sixty-five, its floors almost completely filled with art-filled walls that stretched across almost to the corners patterned with colors.

Aristotle’s Sentence
This was a wall about 40 feet tall and ran 1,000 miles in between Mexico and the U.S, its materials made of the most powerful concrete and  covering the rugged surroundings of the rio grande, and vast areas like the Sonoran Deserts.

_____________________________________

Expert Sentence #119
For a few seconds, / Harry and his Uncle Vernon, / with hands around Harry’s neck, / struggled, / Harry pulling his uncle’s sausage-like fingers / with his left hand, / his right maintaining a firm grip / on his raised wand.

Mr. Chappell’s Sentence:
For a few years, Jarrett and Sir Percival, with his flaming broadsword secured safely in its fireproof scabbard, trained, Jarret testing his mentor’s iron will with his deviltry, his sense of humor pressing upon the knight’s exhausted patience.

Ashley’s Sentence:
For a couple minutes, Jessie and her best friend, with her fingers clenched around Jessie’s phone, wrestled, Jessie lunging for her phone’s midnight-black case with her right fist, her left continuing to tightly hold her good friend’s device.

Max’s Sentence:
For a few hours, Bear and his owner, with food in Bear’s bowl, sadly, eating his sandpaper like food with his sharpened teeth his tail keeping a slow motion movement in fur.

Megan’s sentence:
For a few hours, Nina and her boyfriend, with his fingers intertwined with Nina’s, wandered the streets, Nina hugging her mother’s leaf-green sweater with her right arm, her left hand maintaining a gentle clutch on his right hand.

Max’s Sentence:
For a brief moment, Paul and his pitbull Peter, with his sharp teeth in Paul’s knee, scrambled, Peter taking out his favorite ninja-like katana with his right hand, his left punching the dog tearing on his foot.

Suzanne’s Sentence:
Within only moments, Buck and his owner, with strong mits on Buck’s rough carpet-like fur, reunited, Buck trying to gnaw playfully on his leathery fingers with his powerful jaws, his neck distorted oddly to bring his teeth closer to the target.

Note to Chinese Students

Announcement:

Chinese Students Travelling –

Your Travel Journal can be substituted for the Daily Reader Log. You may document your journey ever day in lieu of doing the reading assignment.

Updated Agenda

Quizlet - Figurative Language Vocabulary

The next 60 new vocabulary words for Quizlet will focus on both Figurative Language and Poetry Terms.  The test will be tentatively scheduled for Monday 3/27.

To help students understand, there are two versions of Quizlet set to study from:  one with pictures and one without pictures.

It is recommended that students begin by using the pictures to aid in their comprehension, but then use the second set that does not contain the pictures for mastery.  Both sets are of the same words.

Here are the links:

Quizlet Figurative Language and Poetry Terms with Pictures

https://quizlet.com/_fiewy


Quizlet Figurative Language and Poetry Terms without Pictures

https://quizlet.com/_up34d

Sentence Composing - Absolute Phrases #116

ABSOLUTE PHRASE  =
OPTIONAL POSSESSIVE PRONOUN (it’s, her, his, our, their)
+ NOUN
+ PARTICIPLE

PARTICIPLE =
VERB CHANGED TO NOUN OR ADJECTIVE

************************


EXPERT SENTENCE:
Head down, / tail flying, / the young dog gave chase, / swerving and turning in pursuit, / but always the rabbit / was just out of reach / of his hungry jaws.

MR. CHAPPELL’S SENTENCE:
Claws extended, fangs snarling, the young mutant sprang into the melee, striking and whirling through the mercenaries’ dropping bodies, but always the girl was just a second out of reach of their blazing gunfire.

Hannah’s Sentence:
Backs straight, toes pointed, the dance team gave a show, leaping and swaying to the music, but consistently the routine was just not enough for the critical judges.

Megan’s Sentence:
Head forward, wings flapping, the baby bird gave flight, spinning and twisting in confidence, but sometimes the branch was just beyond the reach of its tiny claws.

Maddie’s Sentence :
 Heads down, hair back, the six girls did a spin, swaying and leaping in happiness, but always the lift was just too high for the six of them.

Mitch’s Sentence:
Eyes down, legs flying, the speedy player took off, not looking back or forward, but always just out of reach of the frustrated players.

James Sentence.
Head up, arms swaying, the big boy was running, tired and out of breath in seconds, but becoming thin was just out of reach of a short term goal.

Erin’s Sentence :
Curtain up, lights shining, the talented Ashley sang loud, walking and dancing in excitement, but always the other actors were just acting with her.

David’s Sentence
Eyes down, head up, the young man gave way, telling and acting in disguise, but never the judges weren’t impressed with him by his riveting monologue.

ASHLEY’S SENTENCE:
Bag down, leash up, Erin walked the dog, stopping and running happily, but always the other dogs were waiting just on the other side of the fence.

Eric’s Sentence:
Splitter lowered, spoiler raising, the new Porsche began to roar, turning and speeding on the track, but always the curb was just inches away from the tires.

Kiersten’s Sentence
Face down, hand writing, the famous author put effort, cheering and smiling in accomplishment, but always the book wasn't finished to finally get published.

Caleb’s Sentence:
Eyes up, legs shifty, the experienced player came to a sprint, juking and spinning at the same time, and repeatedly defenders were barely out of range of his quick body.

Charlotte’s Sentence:
Paws down, nose sniffing, the tiny wolf searched the woods, turning and stopping every once in awhile, but always two steps away from finding the treasure.    

Miles’ Sentence:
Back straight, arms flailing, the injured pigeon tried flying, spinning and flipping while falling, but always his mom would just catch him before he hit the ground.

Olivias’ Sentence:
Face down, tears flowing, the small child mourned, sobbing and wailing in sadness, but always the mother was just in reach of his small hands.

Tino’s Sentence
Head forward, tail swaying, the fast coyote pursued ahead, turning and traveling through the trees, but sometimes the young fawn outmaneuvered the coyote and disappeared in the thick woods.

Cayden’s Sentence
Head up, arms free, the wrestling boy struggled, rolling and bridging in panic, but always the opponent was just out of reach of his short arms.

Claire’s sentence
Tail up, legs jumping, the young spry bunny frolicked around, hopping and playing in time, and just the grass was only under its body of its fluffy fur.

Jaden’s Sentence
Blood pumping,  nostrils flaring,  the track star gave his all,  sprinting and hurdling in excitement, and again the opponent was just behind so as always he got the flawless victory.

Marki’s sentence:
Eyes focused, hands grabbing, the young girl chased down, happy and excited in an instant, but her favorite boots were nowhere to be found in her messy closet.

Absolute Phrases #111 - #115

Absolute Phrases

- An absolute phrase is a group of words that contains both a noun and a participle.

- A participle is a word formed from a verb and used as an adjective (working woman, burned toast) or a noun (good breeding).

- Absolute phrases often begin with: my, his, her, its, our, or their (possessive pronouns).  If there is no possessive pronoun, then one is implied.

- TRICK:  You could change an absolute phrase into a sentence simply by adding the word "was" or "were.”

************************

#111    The skeleton I had uncovered / lay curled on its side, / every bone neatly in place.

#112    His hand trembling, / Billy laid the peanut-butter-and-fried-worm sandwich down / on the table.

#113    The creatures, / some sitting on chairs, / others reclining on a sofa, /were all watching him intently.

#114    The newcomers so forlorn, / and the old dog team so worn out, / the outlook was anything but bright.

#115    A wild-eyed horse, / its bridle torn and dangling, / trotted frantically through the mounds of men, / tossing its head, / whinnying in panic.

CHANGE - Parent Teacher Conferences Schedule Spring 2017

Hello Parents,

I'm looking forward to seeing you next week to discuss the progress your child has made in reading, writing, and language arts this year.  Parent-Teacher conferences are normally schedules for:

Wednesday 3/15 from 4 pm to 7 pm

Thursday 3/16 from 4 pm to 7 pm

However, I will be unavailable for the Thursday session of next week (3/16/17).  To compensate, I will be available in Room 205 on the following week:

Wednesday 3/22 from 4 pm to 7 pm.

Hope to see you either next week, or the week after!

Best,
Mr. Chappell

Planbook Going Dark

Just a reminder, in an effort to be work, more effeciently, Planbook.com is going dark for this class.  You will be able to get updates on the weekly agenda through this blog in the future.

Best,
JC

This Week's Agenda

A QUICK NOTE TO PARENTS

We're trying something new today.  Because of time restraints, I haven't been keeping Planbook.com up to date as I usually have done during Flex Fridays.  If you noticed on Powerschool there has been several recently-graded tests that have required my time, as well as students needing extra support.   

While communication with parents is always important, the students who are at my desk always come first.  

So here is a new idea.  With the Blogger app I can take a picture of the week's agenda that is posted on the white board for students every week.  

This agenda is tentative because some lessons might take longer, sometimes substitute teachers are required for unplanned illnesses, we have fire drills, and pop quizzes, etc etc..  But this weekly agenda is a good indicator of what we did or will do in class each day.

I make a note, when appropriate, of upcoming tests, papers, or projects that are coming up.  For example, on the Friday section in the photo it mentions that the Quizlet test for SAT vocabulary words for The Outsiders is on next Monday.

Also a reminder:  every day we have class the minimal homework for students is to read a choice novel 30 minutes and document that reading through the reader logs.  

I sincerely hope that this system proves to be un-encumbering and valuable for all stake holders.

Best,

Mr. Chappell

Appositive Phrases Student Work in Class #101 - #110

102

Expert Sentence

Fudge, / a portly little man / in a long, pinstriped cloak, / looked cold and exhausted.

JChapps’ Sentence

Skywalker, a grizzled, bearded hermit in a brown cloth robe, appeared haggard and ancient.

Will’s Sentence:

He, a small, plump child in corny, oversized clothing, looked crazy and happy.

Olivia’s Sentence:

Maddie, a humorous young girl in a textured, pink shirt, laughed loudly and proudly.

Maeve’s Sentence :

Marcus, a weird little man in a funny, Boy Scouts shirt, looked tired and fashionable.

Sam’s Sentence:

Alex, a taller teenage boy in black, oversized glasses, looked tired and clumsy.

Michael’s sentence

Stephen Curry, a choking overrated man, in a clown suit, bandwagon jersey, looked small and flimsy.

Zayd’s Sentence

Mesut Özil, a powerful midfielder wearing bright, neon shoes, seemed aggressive and tireless.

Brody’s Sentence

Michonne, a strong, brave woman, in torn, raggedy clothes, seemed infuriated and anxious to leave the prison.

Drake’s Sentence:

Alex, a built little man in a tight, super hero costume, looked heroic and powerful.

Ella’s Sentence:

Sparky, a fierce giant dog in a baggy, salt-and-pepper hoodie, appeared tired and overwhelmed.

Seth’s Sentence:

Jack, a small and enthusiastic boy in a loose, Michigan jersey, seemed happy and satisfied.

Kiersten’s Sentence

Buddy, a wild little dog with a silky, brindle coat, appeared excited and happy.

Nyla’s Sentence

Emma, a sporty defensive specialist in a black, comfortable Unified uniform, felt sore and drained.

Olivia’s Sentence

Yuki, a mysterious young man in a neat, clean school uniform, looked warm and joyful.

Gabi’s Sentence:

Christina, a feisty little woman in a lengthy, white lab coat, seemed finally worn out and weary.

Madison’s Sentence

Jenna, a happy, pretty woman in a yellow, summery dress, looked beautiful and pure.

Norah’s sentence

Pudding, a delightfully yummy treat, in a short, rustic container, seemed gross and smelly.

Marki’s sentence

Bella, a funny, tiny girl with very curly hair, felt happy and excited.

Cayden’s sentence

Sam, a happy little boy with cool, new shoes, looked quick and fashionable.

Drew’s sentence

Josh, a chubby short kid in a long-sleeved, green Vineyard Vines shirt, looked hungry and stressed.

103

Expert Sentence:

From every hill slope came the trickle of running water, the music of unseen fountains.

Mr. Chappell’s Sentence:

Upon every mountain peak came the rumble of distant thunder, the clash of invisible titans.

Collin’s Sentence:

From everyone in the office came the sense of boredom, the intention of unhappy employees.

Kai’s Sentence:

From every classroom came the feeling of boredom, the disappointment of being in school.

Jacob’s Sentence:

From neither ghost town came the sounds of civilization, the pandemonium of daily life.

Bryce’s Sentence:

From every camera angle came the view of confetti falling, the image of champions being born.

Jack’s Sentence:

From every school corner came the inevitable torrent of happy students, the sign of a day’s end.

Jonah’s Sentence

From every stadium seat came the boom of screaming fans, a joy to champions’ ears.

Brendan’s sentence

To every mountain side came the struggle of creating base camp, a long uphill battle against the cold.

Erin’s Sentence:

From every room came the laugh of cheerful people, a happy sound to everyone.

Tyler’s sentence:

In all baseball stadiums comes the clamorous tumult of troublesome fans, the noises of unbearable screeches.

Jack’s Sentence:

Around every city building came the roar of nearby screams, the cheering of diehard fans.

Jonny’s Sentence

In every basketball gym occurs the yelling of a mad coach, the sound of a crazy man.

Eric’s Sentence

For every gentle breeze / came the crash / of powerful waves, the rhythm in a song.

Lily’s Sentence:

From every beat came the booming of loud singing, the music of pop.

Miles’ Sentence:

From every big boss fight came the rush of rare loot, the flow of great items.

Sofia’s Sentence

In every Bamboo tree came the breaking of sturdy branches, the result of hungry pandas.

Jacob’s sentence:

On every river came a run of fresh salmon, a feast for hungry grizzly bears.

Clara’s Sentence

In each theater came performers ready to portray a new character, the stars of the night. 

Aristotle’s sentence

From every tree top came the flow of falling leaves, the outcome of Fall.

106

Expert Sentence

The guidepost of her ancestors, the North Star would soon be visible and would point the way when the birds had all gone South.

JChapps Sentence

The hub of the universe, the Well of Worlds would soon be apparent and would provide portals for the time travellers to slip between the chrono-streams.

Bella’s Sentence:

A sanctuary from the outside world, her bedroom would be visible and would show the evidence when the argument had really gone south.

Olivia’s Sentence:

The bloodline of the city, the highways would soon be visible and would have constant jolts until rush hour was over.

Bryce’s Sentence:

The guidepost of the greats, the Lombardi Trophy would soon be within reach and would paint the way when their motives have all gone down.

Jackson's Sentence:

The leader of his team, the quarterback would be a star and lead the way so the Lions could win the game.

Nolan’s Sentence

The clue of the national treasure, the unknown map would soon be found and would guide the seekers to the exact location when the numbers had all been encrypted.

Ben’s Sentence

The energy source of the factory, the machine would soon come to a halt and the blaring sounds would conclude when the workers had gone to lunch.

Franco’s Sentence

The primary target of the job of his life, the suitcase would shortly be stolen and would contain the unmarked bills after the bank had been leveled down.

Ryan’s Sentence

The worn wool of her loved one, the sweater would soon be stained and would tell the story when her voice had gone silent.

Nicholas’ Sentence:

The compass of the night, the lighthouse would become lit and mark the port when the sun had gone down.

Ella’s Sentence:

The staple food of her father, the peach pie would momentarily be devoured and would be replaced once the tarts had all been consumed.

Seth’s Sentence:

The guide to the nearest restaurant, the G.P.S. would soon direct the way to Coney Island when the family was hungry

Drake’s Sentence:     

The map of his journey,  the Northern lights would eventually be disappearing and wouldn’t lead the way when their animals are all gone. 

Noah’s Sentence

The one force that kept him going, the fire within him to find his missing sister burned like a fierce inferno.

Katie’s Sentence

A stream of beaming light, a sunrise would eventually be seen and would show the motion of the waves crashing onto the beach.

Max’s sentence:

The sign of their army, the flag of Rome would soon burn and mark the end to when the thousand year old empire fell.

107

Expert Sentence:

In the locker room, I packed for the trip to New Orleans, the road-trip that would change my life and destiny as an athlete forever.

Mr. Chappell’s Sentence:

Inside the classroom, she studied for her exam in French, the test that would alter the trajectory of her academic career towards becoming a foreign exchange student for a summer.

Bella’s Sentence:

In the meadow, I walked through the flowers along the grass, the blooming lilies that would open my eyes and my mind with the truth.

Zak’s Sentence:

At the rink, we prepared for the game ahead, the championship  that would determine our season and ranking as a team for the season.

Sam’s Sentence:

On the field, I got ready for the football tournament, the last game that would decide if we made it to the playoffs as a wildcard.

In the locker room, I packed for the trip to New Orleans, / the road-trip that would change my life and destiny as an athlete forever.

Jacob’s Sentence:

In the lively garrison, I prepared for the campaign to the rampart, the trek that would change the worlds of many soldiers as drastically as possible.

Sydney’s Sentence

In the kitchen, I prepared dinner for the Queen, the three course meal that would change her life and taste buds forever.

Brody’s Sentence

Inside the labyrinth, / I trudged through on my journey through the mazes to the demon lich King Acererak, / the quest that would set me closer to the prize and fame / as the greatest gunter ever.

Andrew’s Sentence:

In the huge house, I ran for the basement by the door, the area that I had always remembered and  hated as a man forever.

Ethan’s Sentence

In the player's room, we prepared for the journey to Chicago, the adventure that could decide the place and fate of our team temporarily.

Aadi’s Sentence:

In the jungle, I sniffed for the smell of animals, the scent that would impact my journey as a hunter forever.

Sam’s Sentence:

In the abandoned mansion, I explored for the sight of ghosts, the hunt that would change my mind and thinking towards the belief of afterlife.

Ashley’s Sentence:

By the old desk, I studied for the admittance exam,  the nine hundred point test that could affect my future college and my education.

Nia’s Sentence:

Behind the curtain, I prepared for the performance in New York, the show that would change my career and future as an actress forever.

Marley’s Sentence:

In the Urgent Care, she thought about the recent game on the field, the game that provided her injury and affliction in her life chronically.

Olivia’s Sentence:

In the Sohma Family’s past, anyone who found out their secret of the Zodiac curse had their memory wiped, Tohru Honda had changed that outcome from the day she found out forever.

Sana’s sentence

Inside the military aircraft, I packed the bombs for this bloody war, the combat that may end my life and my future as a human being forever.

Brooke’s sentence

In the library, I worked on an essay to turn in, the paper that could change my grade and GPA as a student for the rest of the year.

Lilli’s sentence:

Past the woods, I followed the curious dog deeper into the field, the white lab that had lead me to some of the happiest moments of my life as my days unfolded.

Marki’s sentence

In the bakery, she prepared the cake for the party, the amazing treat that would let everyone look and taste it at the birthday celebration.

Josh’s sentence:

Outside the Principal’s office, Drew waited for mean Mr. Chappell to reprimand him, the teacher who would soon be giving him an after school detention as playing his “diss-track” on the P.A. system during the staff meeting.

Fern’s sentence:                                                                                                   

In the makeshift tent, we prepared for the hike through the Rocky mountains, the trek that would distinguish my score and future as a certified guide in the Sierra Club.

109

EXPERT SENTENCE

In New York, / the most important state in any Presidential race, / and a state where politics were particularly sensitive / to the views of various nationality and minority groups, Democrats were joyous / and Republicans angry and gloomy.

Mr. Chappell’s Sentence

In Los Angeles, the most important city in the entertainment industry and a location where commerce is particularly interested in the work of artists and musicians, actors were embarrassed and Price Waterhouse was financially ruined.

Janel’s Sentence:

Under the sun, an ancient clock that never fails, and a giant ball of fire which is bright enough to blind you at a single glance, buildings were in ruins and people were in danger and panic.

Mitch’s sentence:

In Ashfeld, the most important region in any campaign of war, and an area where battles were particularly fierce about who won knights or vikings, knights are victorious and vikings were defeated.

Megan’s Sentence:

In swim, the most important sport out of any other athletic to me, and a sport where breaststroke is particularly difficult in the views of many backstroke and butterfly swimmers, coaches are excited and disqualifiers casual and nonchalant.

Anna’s sentence:

In the White House, the most valued house in any state, and a house where laws were carefully selected to the views of thousands of the people in the United States and the Congress, many were thrilled, while citizens who propose a bill nervous and scared.

Ben’s Sentence

During the Super Bowl, the most entertaining pastime of the football season, and a crucial game for the teams playing in the view of a variety of different fan groups, Patriots fans were astonished and Falcons fans were grim and irate.

James’ sentence

In Birmingham, the most beautiful city in Michigan, and a city where people were pretty wealthy to the views of others and outsiders, kids were in school and adults were out and at work.

Erin’s Sentence:

At the park, the biggest playground in the neighborhood, and a place for Ashley to bring her dog with a stick to throw and fetch, kids were excited to see the animal and the cats were terrified.

Ashley’s sentence

In the store, the most exciting place Erin could be, loaded with clothes and shoes and various types of accessories and bags, she grabbed everything with excitement and cashiers hurried to check out customers.

Caleb’s Sentence

In Ohio, the most important state in the amusement park world, and a place where the breeze from Lake Erie was felt by the people of different cultures and origins, basketball fans thrived and football fans disappointed and outraged.

Trevor’s Sentence

In Michigan, the most important state in the United States, and a place where there was four seasons for everyone of different cities and counties, parents were happy and kids playful and cheerful.

Reese’s Sentence

In the park, the most soothing place in the busy city, and a place where you can witness all of nature’s beautiful and delicate scenery, birds were chirping and children laughing and playing.

Angela’s Sentence

In the deep blue, the most colorful place on earth, and a place where sea life live in peace, to where people travel and enjoy, where fish swim happily, and dolphins dance beautifully.

Nyla’s Sentence

In the Amazon Rainforest, the largest tropical jungle in the world, and a wilderness where many species of animals were hiding deep in the undergrowth of giant trees and damp moss, loggers were thrilled and environmentalists ashamed and bitter.

SANA’S SENTENCE

In Michigan, the most important state for the automobile industry, and a state surrounded by all the great lakes with various fishes and animals and coyotes, Lansing being the capital and Detroit being the heart of Michigan. 

Iman’s Sentence

In Disneyland, the most enjoyable place in the whole world, and a place where dreams are relatively not a fantasy to the countless amount of younger children and childish adults, rides are exciting, and imaginary cartoons intriguing and humorous.

Brooke’s Sentence

Around Belmont Bay, the very smallest town in booming California; a rural land where citizens were oddly interested in the whereabouts and small details of your day, I was panicked and my family eager and enthusiastic.

Norah’s Sentence

In Arizona, one of the hottest areas in the United States, and a place where people would come for vacation and business trips, children were excited and parents worn out and drained.

Josh’s sentence

In Josh’s home, a place where Drew would always wear Stinson Mellor sweatshirts and cause pranks, and the house that was coated in a blanket of wet pancake mix and dried flour, Drew was pleased and Josh upset and nauseous.

Apposotive Phrases #101 - #110

#101
A bald little man, / he reminded me / of a baby bird.

#102
Fudge, / a portly little man / in a long, pinstriped cloak, / looked cold and exhausted.

#103
From every hill slope / came the trickle of running water, / the music of unseen fountains.

#104
The dawn came quickly now, / a wash, a glow, a lightness, and then an explosion of fire, / as the sun arose out of the Gulf.

#105
A short, round boy of seven, / he took little interest in troublesome things, / preferring to remain on good terms / with everyone.

#106
The guidepost of her ancestors, / the North Star would soon be visible and would point the way / when the birds had all gone South.

#107
In the locker room, / I packed for the trip to New Orleans, / the road-trip that would change my life and destiny / as an athlete forever.

#108
When it was quite late, / he murmured something, / went to a closet, / and drew forth an evil weapon, / a long yellowish tube ending in bellows and a trigger.

#109
In New York, / the most important state in any Presidential race, / and a state where politics were particularly sensitive / to the views of various nationality and minority groups, / Democrats were joyous / and Republicans angry and gloomy.

#110
Beneath the dragon, / under all his limbs and his huge coiled tail, / and about him on all sides / stretching away across the unseen floors, / lay countless piles of precious things, /gold wrought and unwrought, / gems and jewels, / and silver red-stained in the ruddy light.