In 7th grade English, we will write a journal entry at least once per week. Most of the time, the students will be given a period of time in class to write the entry (usually 15 minutes), and will be given a topic to write about. At the end of each grading period, I will collect the journals. The purpose of journal-writing is for the student to write as much as possible in the time given. The parameters of the journal entry are: *Write the date. *Write the topic. *Use blue or black pen. *Use both sides of the page. *If you need help getting started on the topic, you may draw for up to 3 minutes. *At the very minimum, write one whole page 2nd Quarter Entries Christmas Break: Choice #2 Christmas Break: Choice #1 12/9/09 Is it winter? What does winter mean for you? 12/2/09 Choice 11/18/09 Think of a movie you've seen that you really enjoyed. Write a movie review. 11/11/09 What are some of the more important or interesting experiences you've had in your life? As you grow older, your memory of events is bound to fade. Capture one of these experiences now using as much vivid detail as possible. Be sure to tell why the event was important to you. 1st Quarter Entries (There are 8 entries for this quarter. Journals will be collected between October 28-30.) 10/28/09 Topic: What is your family's favorite food to make at home? Describe why you like it, what the recipe is, and the steps to prepare it. 10/21/09 Topic: Someone you admire. Write an essay about someone you admire. This should either be about someone you know well or a historical figure, living or dead. Tell how you feel about this person, what qualities you admire, and how you might like your life to be more like his/hers. MEA Break Topic: Your choice 10/14/09 Topic: Describe your first attempt at something. 10/7/09 Topic: Your choice 9/30/09 Topic: Write a letter to a friend telling about something you did recently. 9/23/09 Topic: What are you really good at doing? 9/16/09 Topic: Strengths and challenges so far this school year. What will you continue to do that is working? What do you need to change or improve?