All Classes 11/7

At our next session we shall examine the structure of buildings and how their architecture keeps them standing (most of the time!).

All Classes 11/3 and 11/7

Continue to look at architecture. Analyze it according to the stylistic architectural details we listed (such as roofs, trim, windows, doors, stairs, railings, porches, siding, and location) and within the context of the artistic design elements we identified (texture, color, line, curve, edge, angle, shape, size, length, width, depth, balance, symmetry, repetition, contrast, movement, pattern, light/shadow, and direction). Notice how architects used these elements to create many different designs. We especially want to discover what physical and emotional reactions people have to architectural designs and why so that we can design the best possible house later this year.

In class we have already or shall soon examine ancient and modern architecture to identify the design elements and then look at the practical aspects of the designs. In other words, why were the structures designed the way they were, and why did the builders use certain building materials? In reverse, we could ask how building materials affect how a building is designed.

Kendall 10/28

Keep observing houses in the area. Notice what you like and dislike.

All Classes 10/25

We have finished very stimulating discussions of the Jr. Great Books story, Charles. I hope you all truly understand now how to think critically about literature and remember to ask yourself questions when you are reading. Think about questions like: What is the author REALLY trying to say? Why did the author select that particular word, perhaps because it has more than one meaning? Why do the characters say and do certain things? What do the character's behaviors tell me about their thinking and attitudes? Is the author including details that cannot be true, as in this story, to make me think about what is really happening? Think about what you read and question continuously.

All classes have begun the architecture unit by now. We began by considering the meaning of the term and then asked ourselves whether architectural style changes over time. We defined the details that contribute to architectural style. We then had fun looking at minute details in six paintings to arrange them chronologically.

We continue now to learn about details of architecture and architectural terms and then the different styles of houses. Please notice houses in your neighborhoods. Are they all similar or very different? What details do you like and dislike? Look at shapes, roofs, windows, doors, and all the other details we identified that contribute to style

All Classes 10/18

If you began the architecture unit and finished the initial discussion about architectural styles, then I assigned this homework.

Find a building you really like - one that makes you emotionally react in a positive way to it. Study the building carefully and determine which of its details is the one that most appeals to you. In other words, what is it about that building that attracts you to it? Draw that detail. Prepare to explain to the class what the detail is and why you liked it. Does it remind you of something? Does it have a link to something in your past? Bring your drawing to class next session. Have fun! Do a lot of looking before you decide what you like best.

Jefferson C-Day 10/14

Find a building you really like - one that makes you emotionally react in a positive way to it. Study the building carefully and determine what detail about it most appeals to you. In other words, what is it about that building that attracts you to it? Draw that detail. Prepare to explain to the class what the detail is and why you liked it. Bring your drawing to class next session. Have fun! Do a lot of looking before you decide what you like best.

Jefferson C-Day 10/5

Thinking about our discussion of Charles' punishments at school and about the alter ego, reread Charles and notice all the clues the author, Shirley Jackson, put into the story to let us know that Charles was not real. Think about why Laurie's own parents did not figure it out!

Fox Run F-Day 10/2

Reread Charles and think about the alter ego we talked about (does things we wish we could do but would never or could never really do, is invincible). How does your understanding of that concept change your interpretation of the story?

Kendall A-Day 10/1

We met for a shortened period because of my obligation at Central Office. I believe I gave you this assignment: Please reread Charles and mark where characters admire or approve of Charles' behavior and where they disapprove of his behavior. Reread the story again before coming to the next class, preferably the day before.

If I gave it to you, please give your parents the letter and schedule. Try to find an old spiral-bound notebook if I did not give you one (your A.T. one from the past years would be good), a pocket folder such as last year's A.T. folder, and a protective, closed container for your materials. I would recommend that you re-use old ones rather than spending money on new. I bought plastic bags and can give you one if you need it. I shall get new pocket folders and notebooks later if you need them.

Jefferson F-Day 9/30

Please finish rereading Charles and continue to mark where characters admire or approve of Charles' behavior and where they disapprove of his behavior. Reread the story again before coming to the next class, preferably the day before.

Be certain that you gave your parents the letter and schedule and that you try to find an old spiral-bound notebook if I did not give you one (your A.T. one from the past years would be good), a pocket folder such as last year's A.T. folder, and a protective, closed container for your materials. I would recommend that you re-use old ones rather than spending money on new. I can give you a plastic bag if you need it.

Jefferson C-Day 9/24

Be certain that you gave your parents the letter and schedule and that you try to find an old spiral-bound notebook (your A.T. one from the past years would be good) and a protective, closed container for your materials. I would recommend that you re-use old ones rather than spending money on new. I can give you a plastic bag if you need it.

Kendall A-Day and Fox Run B-Day 9/23

Please reread, Charles before coming to the next class. The day before class would be best. Be certain that you gave your parents the letter and schedule and that you try to find an old spiral-bound notebook (your A.T. one from the past years would be good) and a protective, closed container for your materials. I would recommend that you re-use old ones rather than spending money on new. I can give you a plastic bag if you need it.