videos in defense of debating skills

Debate gone wrong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiOZsGL5gCo

Here is a more civil form of argument--about how we should argue! Follow this speaker's argument-- Should you take notes?

Essential Question: What is Michael Sandel trying to convince us to do, and how does he structure his argument? 
We will write a short reaction/reflection paper after we watch/take notes.

Why We Should Debate: The Lost Art of Democratic Debate

http://www.ted.com/talks/michael_sandel_the_lost_art_of_democratic_debate?language=en

Here is just a great example of traditional debate:

A Debate About Nuclear Power

Philosophical Chairs Topic Assignment

Here are the instructions as well as an example of the assignment you must complete-- We should have lively and engaging debates/discussions with the topics you choose--thanks!
Mrs. E
DUE WEDNESDAY, FEB 25TH-- BRING TO CLASS
AVID Topic for Debate Assignment

Friday, February 13th Instructions and Practice Tests

Today: You may work on assignments from your other classes OR use the time to take practice tests.
You may NOT simply choose to chat and/or play computer/phone games--thank you, guys. Have a great long weekend!
Mrs. E

Please go to the following sites and take the practice tests.  Remember, you will be required to complete the Compass test either on Feb. 20th, with the rest of us, or on your own BEFORE the end of February. The practice REALLY helps!
Mrs. Eddy

Compass Reading Test (.pdf format--answers in the back).

Online Compass Reading Test (you can check each answer as you go)

Link From Chemeketa's site to practice sample questions in all areas (reading, writing, math): Sample Questions

Oakland CC Practice Math Questions  and  Answers

Rules about what kid of calculators are allowed at the testing site.

Motivation to Finish Well-- together!

We will work on some skills we need in college courses this week while we take a look at what it takes to get ourselves going when we lack the energy or drive to do so. If you were absent on Monday, please complete the following critical reading exercise-- thanks!
Monday's Assignment
Here is the second part--
 writing about motivation-- you can do it on the same piece fo paper:
1- view the video here and think about the ideas: finishing together news article
2- Journal Style reflection writing:
EQ: What is motivation and how does it connect to you personally?

Write for three minutes as you consider this question—journal style write: sentences that come naturally from your thoughts—not any extra worry about correctness—but be as correct as you have the skills for being.

Scholarships!

Today we go to the computers to complete OSAC AND any requirements of scholarship app. you started on finals day (essays or short answers or requests for letters of recommendation).  If you need a scholarship to apply for and were not eligible to complete the OSAC-- here is one for you to do instead:

Scholarship for students NOT filing the FAFSA or OSAC

If you complete the OSAC, your name will show up on a list in the counselor's office and I will be able to look it up for your grade-- and the new registrar will make sure that OSAC gets your transcript, including your semester seven grades--YES!
NOTE: I feel like I need to remind you that you must do your best writing on these applications-- too short or improperly executed responses are not acceptable-- thanks!
Mrs. E

Reflection Time!

Here's what we did in class today-- please make it up right away if you were absent-- thanks!
Mrs. E

The Empire Strikes Back! (Great sound Effects for Writing!)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rQSJDLM8ZE

Write a full page reflection on your grades—yes, last semester, but also in general.  Hook up your ideas to your plans and schemes and hopes and dreams for the future. Yes, this next semester, but also for the big, bright future you have waiting for you!

Semester End Check Off!

Please make sure you have everything on your AVID checklist from the beginning of the year finished EXCEPT the College Portfolio (we did not do this yet) and the AVID Senior Data (we will do this at the end of the year).
I will hand around a form to fill out this week and next so that I can give you an amazing grade for finishing these tasks.

Final Exam Choices:
Option #1 Socratic Seminar followed by a reflection paper. We would have to start on Tuesday and continue on Thursday (our final day) to get finished-- but the main part of your grade would be the quality of your written reflection with "A" grades available for participating respectfully and thoughtfully and encouraging participation of others through courtesy and respectful questioning..
Option #2: Complete and submit a scholarship application(s) during the final exam time. I will supply the application(s).