Great Day

What a glorious way to end 2018 in Room 853.

Wow.

Period 5 brought it.

Have a beautiful holiday break.

READ A BOOK.

Love and Light,
Beltran

So Close

One.
More.
Awesome.
Day.

Thanks for another good round of CS 1.0 and thanks for putting up with my fawning over former Lovelies.

Love and Light,
Beltran

The Raffle Happened!!!!

Too much fun today. And congrats to period 1 raffle winner A.O.  So happy for you!!!

Two. More. Days!

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “Fantasy” Mariah Carey

CS 1.0

Today’s highlights? I think we have some budding entrepreneurs. I can’t wait to see what becomes of you!

The creativity continues...See y’all tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “I Would Walk 500 Miles”

A Good Day

Thanks for a fantastic day of presentations - from animation to coding to cooking to art to meditation to music. Can’t wait for tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “Opposites Attract” Paula Abdul

Ooh ooh ooh

Some of y’all might know I love baseball but what you might not know is that one of the reasons is its similarity to life. Don’t get me started but as I watched presenters today, literally stepping up to bat, I saw homeruns, near misses and straight up strikeouts. And that’s why I love Create Something. No rubric to hide behind, no teacher expectations just capital F freedom to show everyone whether or not you have those intangibles every quality coach looks for: effort, grit, character, imagination.

Thank you for every single lesson I learned today.

The fun continues next week. Be ready.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Q2 Rhetorical Analysis In Class Timed Writing

Thank you for your work today.  I am reading each of your essays and will be returning them after Winter Break with comments and a score between 0-9 (per the College Board rubric).  If any of you have questions or need extra help beyond what I will provide in class, you are welcome to set up a time with me during Advisory or lunch.

For now, our focus shifts to Create Something 1.0.  All of you should have your projects tomorrow and BE READY TO PRESENT.  You are not excused from presenting just because you signed up for a different day. And if you didn't sign up, I will assign you a slot.

The next 6 school days will be all about you showcasing your projects.  I expect you to follow the same SAS protocol (Greeting, Visual, Explaining WHY you chose to create what you created, opening up for questions and a closing - Thank You, Have a Nice Day, etc.)

Can't wait to see who's who.

Enjoy the rest of the day and again, thanks for the work.  I appreciate it.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Model Essays - College Board

2018 Released Essay Questions

1.  Access and read the 2018 Q2 prompt from Madeline Albright.
2.  Access and read the 2018 Q2 Scoring Guidelines.
3.  Access and read the 2018 Student Samples and see what College Board is seeking.

TED Talk Tuesday

Rewatch the TED Talk here and consider for yourself the privilege of an education.  Tomorrow in class we will be working with the Faulkner piece again.  So be ready.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Celebrate" Pitbull

Create Something Is Almost Due

Cannot wait for Friday!  It's when we start presenting CS 1.0 so hope hope hope you're ready.  See me with questions. 

Thanks for working on MC reflections today.  If you were absent, you can ask me about it tomorrow.

See y'all for a "TED Talk Tuesday" and another...wait for it...book recommendation.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song:  "Ooh Child"

SAS

Gentle reminder that you’re expected to have an SAS at the ready since everyone’s presented at least once. Don’t arrive in class unprepared or underprepared. It reflects poorly.

Have a great weekend.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “Suspicious Minds” by Elvis Presley

Rhetorical Triangle and Chunking

Thanks for working on the rhetorical triangle and paragraph chunking today.  If you were absent, either ask a classmate or me about what you missed.  Make sure your work is done for class next Wednesday.  (That's when we'll return to dear ol' William.)

Be ready for SAS tomorrow.  Anyone can present so step into your space and call deep on your courage (love you, Brene Brown).

Enjoy the early out.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Wednesday Faulkner Stuff

Thanks for the listening and work today, Lovelies.

For tomorrow, we will be working on truly reading the Faulkner piece again.  So please make sure you have it, can discuss it, and are ready to work.

Sign up for your CS 1.0 presentation please. 

See y'all tomorrow and enjoy the rain.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Stronger" Kelly Clarkson

Cleo Wade

Thanks for considering the ideas in Cleo Wade's TED Talk.  All I ask is that you consider it.  For tomorrow in class, make sure you know who wrote the MC excerpt..."The vacant ice..."  Just google it and have the rhetor's name.  We will be working with some Rhetorical Analysis tomorrow and TH and a bit next week.

Don't forget to sign up for Create Something.  If you're not signed up by next week, I will assign you a slot.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" Frankie Valli

Sorry

Lovelies,

Not going to be in today. Don’t worry because all is well. I’ll see y’all tomorrow and thanks in advance for being kind to the substitute and doing a good job on the Multiple Choice.

Love and Light,
Beltran

HELP!!! (Here's An Act of Kindness for Ya)

There are some Lovelies who didn't submit a grade request to me...If you have their number or ability to DM any of the following kiddos, please do so...Spread the word!

Period 1:
Sarah
John
Angel
Fernando
Marcus H.
Marcus L.
Justin
Nico

Period 2:
Cody C
Brenda
Rachel
Stephan
Daniel L.
Mariani
Jessica
Iman
Ebony
Efren

Period 4:
Matt
Virginia
Gianna
Cody R

Happy Weekend!!!

Enjoy enjoy enjoy.

Thanks for great presentations as usual. 

Go read!

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "All-Star" Smash Mouth

Another Fantastic Day

Thank you for another glorious day...I so very much appreciate it.

SAS tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Classic" MKTO

Today

Just.
No.
Words.

WOW.

We will continue tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Locked Away" R. City, Adam Levine

We Need To Talk About An Injustice

Hiya, Lovelies -

I love Bryan Stevenson's TED Talk mainly because it makes me think.  I hope it prompted some thought in your brain, too. Here's a little NPR piece on Mr. Stevenson.  Feed your brain if you dare...

If you're interested, a gentle reminder that Just Mercy and The Sun Does Shine are both on our First Semester Book List and available for check out.  Anthony Ray Hinton's story sounds fictional but is sadly very, very true.  But be forewarned...once you read the books, you will see the world differently.

Tomorrow your letters are due for presentation so be ready.  If you'd like to volunteer, just let me know when you get to class.  Also, don't forget to email me your 2nd Six Weeks grade request. 

Go be kind.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Don't You Want Me" The Human League

Welcome Back

Four weeks, Lovelies.  Let's make them amazing. 

As you hunker down for the next month, keep in mind the following:

• Who Do You Need to Thank Letter due WED. 11/28
• Email me your 2nd 6 weeks grade request by WED 11/28 at midnight.
• CS 1.0 due FRI 12/14
• CS 1.0 Sign ups being posted outside my classroom THIS FRIDAY
• Basket Contest/Random Acts of Kindness starts today and goes through FRI 12/14 - submit entries that include your name, class period and a description of your Random Acts.  I'll have a box to enter them in tomorrow.
• Drawing held WED 12/19 at the beginning of lunch.

TED Talk tomorrow!

Love and Light,

Beltran

Today's Song: "Come On, Let's Go" Ritchie Valens

Have a GREAT Break

Just all the love and light.

Thank you for the best Friday SAS ever.

Beltran :)

Today's Song: "no tears left to cry” Ariana Grande

My Favorite Day

Dear Lovelies -

A thousand thank you's to the fun of today.  I hope the activity brought a little joy to your day.  Just watching you write and then read your Post-Its brought a ton of joy to me.

If you'll be in class, come prepared with an SAS for tomorrow.  :)

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Celebration" Kool & The Gang

Gratitude

Lovelies,

Your job is to brainstorm either a person, experience or thing/object to which you'll write a letter of gratitude.  The letter (I prefer typed) should include a visual and is due for PRESENTATION in class on Wednesday 11/28 - two weeks from today.

I shared a few examples of letter/expressions in class.  One was from Story Corps.  Access it here.  And the others were letters to Acrylic Nails, a dog, a sprained ankle and even the IRS (some classes heard different ones).

I'll see y'all tomorrow.  BRING YOUR POST-IT NOTES!!!

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Twist and Shout" The Beatles

Lollipop Moments

Lovelies -

Thanks for watching (or trying to watch - I see you period 5) the TED Talk for today.  Each of us has the potential to be a leader in big and small ways to positively impact other people.  As Gabe said today, I am absolutely "indoctrinating" you.  I want you ALL to question, to consider, to come up with your own opinions and to be kind.  Make no mistake, though.  Kindness is not weakness and it doesn't mean staying silent in the face of wrong.  I also hope I am absolutely transparent when it comes to my biases - READ, READ, READ.  It broadens your world and you'll never regret learning.

Come to class tomorrow with open hands. 

See y'all then.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "High Hopes" Panic at the Disco

Enjoy

Enjoy your three day weekend.  I hope you have fun, relax, and get to do things you want.

Thanks for a great SAS and congrats to the class periods that finished their first round of presentations.

The Counseling meeting scheduled for Friday 11/16 was cancelled so be ready for SAS before Thanksgiving Break.

AND...CHECK THIS OUT!!!

If you're interested in applying to give an actual TED Talk on a TED stage.  Thanks to RK for the link.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Take on Me" A-Ha

Thank You

Thanks for listening to the little life lesson today about listening to your instincts.  It's easy to dismiss your gut, but be mindful of your inner compass.  It's there to help you and alert you when something's a bit off.  You can always apologize later.  And in my humble opinion, we as people are so, so, so conditioned to be "nice". 

Don't BE NICE.  Be kind. 

And the first kindness starts with you. 

Thanks also for working in your groups today.  It seems some went better than others but one of the other life lessons we all need to learn is how to work with people we normally wouldn't.

Tomorrow we have SAS.  If you haven't yet presented, please be ready.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Let's Groove" Earth Wind and Fire

Maya Angelou

Hi, Lovelies -

Happy Wednesday.  If you were absent (physically or mentally) from class today, watch a little snippet of Dr. Maya Angelou offering her sage life advice.  And then reread her essay "In All Ways A Woman" from her 1993 book Wouldn't Take Nothing For My Journey Now.  You are expected to be able to:

1) articulate Angelou's purpose, thesis, subject and audience and
2) discuss how this text connects to Fadiman's + Brady's essays

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Bohemian Rhapsody" Queen

If I Should Have a Daughter - Happy Election Day

Dear Lovelies,

Sarah Kay is one of my favorites.  Rewatch her TED Talk HERE.  And don't forget that second semester, I will be checking your TED Talk notes...if you're coasting along enjoying the ride (and not doing the work), I'd rethink your plan.  Second Semester starts on Monday, January 28th.

Tomorrow make sure you have what you need.  I assume if you're reading this you know what's up so perhaps consider helping others. 

The rest of the week looks like this:

Wed - Maya Angelou research, reading and small group chats
Thurs - Putting "it" all together
Fri - SAS

And next week will be glorious and I CANNOT WAIT.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "I'm Yours" Jason Mraz

Happy Creativity Monday

Thank you, Lovelies, for a good day of creativity.  I think Angela will be stoked. And remember the value of gratitude...

Make sure you check out last Friday's Announcement Post.

It's got important information.  Please help each other out, too.  You know some people don't check the blog.

Have a great rest of the day and gear up for a fabulous TED Talk tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher & Higher" Jackie Wilson

A Preview of Next Week

Happy Friday, Lovelies. 

I hope you are being kind to your substitute.

As a courtesy, I am posting some announcements for class next week.  See below.

I'll see y'all Monday.

Announcements:

• You need a hard copy of THIS DOCUMENT. No need to annotate ahead of time.
• For Monday, we are doing a little something that involves creativity so if you have colored pencils, markers, crayons, etc....please bring them to class.
• I need you to also bring some Post-Its to class on Thursday 11/15.  I'd prefer pretty ones, not yellow but do your best.
• SAS resumes next Friday 11/9 so...
• Counselor 1:1 Meetings on Friday 11/16

Love and Light,

Beltran

Judy Brady Part 2

Happy November, Lovelies -

Thanks for appearing today....quite the quiet campus with so many missing.  If you weren't here, we grouped up to work on "The Strategies" (page 591).  Use those answers and all your other notes for class tomorrow. 

I won't be here so the work is as follows:
-Be kind to the substitute.
-Have your Readings for Writers
-Write a Rhetorical Precis for "I Want a Wife" and include your answer to either Q1 or Q2 under "The Issues"

For Monday, please have some creative supplies - any you have - like markers, colored pencils, etc.  And look for some Post-It's - the regular size, but avoid plain yellow.  I like color.  :)

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Bad Mama Jama"Carl Carlton

On Average

Dear Lovelies,

Happy Halloween!!

Today we read the 1971 "I Want a Wife"  (Readings for Writers).  You are to complete a Rhetorical Triangle, know the essay's thesis and Rhetorical Devices/Strategies used, and have answers to Q1-5 "The Facts" pages 590 & 591. Have this for tomorrow. 

Tomorrow - Partner Work on "The Strategies" Q1-5 (page 591)

Friday - Write a Precis for "I Want a Wife" AND answer EITHER Q1 or Q2 ("The Issues") page 591

Make sure you have your book the rest of the week.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Monster Mash" Bobby Pickett & The Crypt-Kickers

Take Your Space

Today's TED Talk.

Take your space.

Pay attention.

Lily Myers.

Justin Timberlake..

A lot of Legos.

Bring your Readings for Writers tomorrow. 

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Mirrors" Justin Timberlake

Monday Musings

Thank you. Lovelies, for writing and sharing today.  I appreciate it and you.

As for stuff you need to know...

Readings For Writers on Wednesday and Thursday and Friday!!!
No SAS Friday - I won't be here.

That's it for now.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "The Middle" Zedd, Maren Morris, Grey

Happy Friday

Thanks for another eye-opening day of SAS.  I learn so much from listening and observing.  Do you?

Have a great weekend and be safe.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "We Are Family" Sister Sledge

"The His'er Problem"

Dear Lovelies -

Thank you for writing today.  It's always fascinating to see how you create.  If for some reason you didn't finish (or you were absent) you can turn in your 2 paragraphs tomorrow.  (The Assignment: Write an Introductory Paragraph following the Precis format and a second paragraph in which you respond to whether or not you agree, disagree or qualify Fadiman's stance on gender-neutral language.)

FYI - We will be going over your Precis writing in class next week. I'll share my example then.

SAS tomorrow and a heads up that YOU WILL NEED THE READINGS FOR WRITERS BOOK NEXT WEDNESDAY 10/31.

Also, you will have 1:1 Counselor Meetings in the Office on Friday 11/17.

Do you even read this far in the blog?  If you do, thanks.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Safety Dance" Men Without Hats

So Much Quality Info

Thanks for listening to me wax poetic about all I learned from Julie Lythcott-Hains' book How To Raise and Adult.  I hope it can help you on your search for a college match. (I copied it onto the bottom of this post.)

Tomorrow make sure you bring your Rhetorical Precis notes (the two handouts from last Wednesday) and bring The Norton Reader.  You'll be using them in class.  And if you didn't do the work from Monday, HAVE IT DONE.

Enjoy the rest of your day.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Dancing With Myself" Billy Idol

Fiske Guide to College
Forbes’ America’s Best Colleges
Niche’s College Prowler
The Princeton Review
Colleges That Change Lives (ctcl.org)
***www.alumnifactor.com (Ultimate Outcomes)

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Don’t want to see scores: Hampshire College in Amherst, MA

Bard College - option to use Common App or respond to 4/21 essays. If you earn a B+ or higher on each (reviewed by Bard Faculty) you’re in! 2014 acceptance 38%

Tufts University - Medford, MA tests are one element; embrace gap year concept

Joshua Foer

It's important to remember to remember.

Ahh, yes, Joshua Foer.  Rewatch here. 

I wonder what your thoughts are on the TED Talk...but how would I know? 

Don't forget The Norton Reader for tomorrow and Thursday.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Bidi Bidi Bom Bom" Selena

For Paul Erdos...

Thanks for the effort on today's MC.  It's one of my favorite passages because of the subject.  Glorious math...and really - glorious learning.  It's supposed to be fun and engaging and bring you to life. 

Sigh.

A couple quick reminders:  bring The Norton Reader to class on WEDNESDAY and THURSDAY.   You will be using them in small group discussions on Wednesday and group work on Thursday.  Thanks in advance. 

And speaking of "in advance", please have the following done for Wednesday: Create and fill out a Rhetorical Triangle (make sure you can fully discuss each aspect), Define the following words: nimbus, sanguinary, eland, hoi polloi, neologism & lissome, and Create a list of the pros and cons of using gender-neutral language.

Here's to a positive week full of happiness and joy.  I truly hope each of you will find a reason to authentically smile this week.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: Michael Jackson's "PYT"

P.S. If you're interested in the Harvard article I referenced in class, HERE YA GO.  And if the link doesn't work, just google "Harvard's Admissions Process is Unveiled in Federal Court" via The New York Times. It's fascinating.

Happy Friday

Thanks for another fascinating slew of SAS. And a huge shout out to our period 3 artist. I love the henna tattoo!!

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “I’m Coming Out” Diana Ross

The Norton Reader

Honestly it is a trip to see y'all with the textbook for this class.  I haven't used it in years but the Anne Fadiman essay is too good.  Besides, "The His'er Problem"  was originally published in Fadiman's book Ex Libris which I read after it being mentioned in Anne Bogel's I'd Rather Be Reading.  Follow the Instagram if you want to read along and get some new ideas for reads - most of which aren't on the school book list. (@beltranbooks)

Have the Fadiman essay read and annotated (including a completed Rhetorical Triangle) by class NEXT WEDNESDAY 10/24.  We will be having small group discussions and then a large group chat as well.  Be ready.

I would also expect you to look up unfamiliar vocabulary too.

Thanks in advance for that effort and for wholehearted everything when it comes to Room 853.

SAS tomorrow!

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: ASAP Rocky's cover of Otis Redding's "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay"

The Ugly Truth About Beauty

Ahhh Dave Barry.  Thank you for writing something 20 years ago that still elicits a response in 2018.  I thought I had selected a text that was going to be mellow.  Lesson learned.

For tomorrow, Lovelies, please have The Norton Reader.  You will be taking your Rhetorical Triangle Worksheet quiz and then using the book for an essay.

Have a great rest of you day and thanks for the great dancing.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Sorry Not Sorry" Demi Lovato (clean version, y'all)

Tuna Fish

Today you met Benjamin Zander, author, composer, and all-around inspiring human being.  In his TED Talk (that you can access here) he theorizes the value of classical music.  He reminds us all to stop "playing" on impulse and to be mindful of who we are "being".

The part that gets me every single time is the anecdote he shares at the end of the talk.  Recounting the survivor of Auschwitz, he cautions us to be mindful of the "last" words we say.  When we lost my mom (quite unexpectedly and quickly), life became a blur.  But one thing I did remember from that challenging time was the last conversation I had with her.

Without going into too much detail, I will say she was wearing a mask so her voice was muffled.  We talked about dinner.  My sister and I were leaving the ICU and before we left and said "I love you", I asked her if I could make some tuna fish. She nodded.

Tuna fish.  Of all the things.  My last conversation.

I hope you can appreciate what Zander is trying to impart.  Take from it what you will and consider it another Lego piece.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Dancing in the Moonlight" King Harvest

Monday Musing

Happy First Day of the 2nd Six Weeks -

I am so curious as to what you will accomplish in these next 6 weeks - how they will unfold and what you will manifest.  Will you open your hands (if they're still closed).  I wonder wonder wonder...

But first, stuff you need to know (and please, spread the word to the people who don't read the blog).

*Quiz on the Rhetorical Triangle and the Questions (that worksheet posted from before).  You will receive a blank template and need to fill it in.  QUIZ ON THURSDAY 10/18. 
*Change on the Textbooks.  Bring The Norton Reader on THURSDAY 10/18.

Ted Talk tomorrow!

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Come on Eileen"

Finally Friday

Huge shout outs to GG and EC for letting us borrow the pom poms today.  And thank you all for the Friday dancing.

Have a happy and safe weekend.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" Wham!

Create Something 1.0

It went down. 

Do you have questions?

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Rich Girl" Gwen Stefani

Pssssst....PSAT

I missed a ton of you lovelies today and class was lacking without your presence. 

Those of you who were in class, you submitted a "creative" Rhetorical Triangle to me.  (Using the Rhetorical Triangle Notes I posted earlier, you went through and created a rhetor and included all the answers to the 15 questions on the document.)  See me if you were absent and those instructions don't make sense.

Tomorrow, I am hopeful you will all be back.  We've got a little somethin' somethin' to discuss.  All good, I promise.

SAS returns on Friday as well so be prepared. 

Is it almost 3 o'clock?  I've gotta go check my email...(hint hint)

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" Cyndi Lauper

TED Talk Tuesday - You Can Call Me Sir

Happy Tuesday.

Hope you got something out of the glory that is Sir Kenneth Robinson.  Rewatch HERE. 

And for the love of all that is good, go find something you're good at...and do it.  I think the world needs more creativity.

Speaking of creativity, good luck on the PSAT.  Wink wink.  I'm sure you'll do great.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Poison" Bel Biv Devoe

Lots of Info - Please Read

Happy Monday, Lovelies -

I hope you had a nice weekend and are enjoying a new week of possibilities.  "Tis the season for head colds, sore throats, and lethargy but I promise two things: 1) daily lemon water will keep you healthy and 2) you can do hard things.  Just attack each task one thing at a time.

Take the next.  Right.  Step.

That being said, here are a few items for you to take care of:

• Please print yourself a copy of THIS or if you don't have a printer, take quality notes on it into your English notebook.  You will need to know this information like the back of your hand as it pertains to the Rhetorical Triangle. HAVE THIS DONE FOR CLASS ON WEDNESDAY.
• I need you to EMAIL me your 1st 6 Weeks Grade Request by Wednesday 10/10.  If you don't email me your request by 3pm Wednesday I will assign you a 70.  Because that would be "below average" work in my eyes.   
• You will need your book Readings for Writers in class (next week) on WEDNESDAY, October 17th.
• You will need your book The Norton Reader in class (next week) on THURSDAY, October 18th. 
• PSAT is this Wednesday.  If you're testing, A-K in the Library, L-Z in the Small Gym.  Good luck! Make sure you check the blog that day to see what you missed.

TED Talk Tuesday tomorrow so come ready to learn.  

Have a happy rest of your day.

Love and Light,

Beltran

Today's Song: "Havana" Camila Cabello

Friday FAST

Dear Lovelies,

Thanks for the effort on the FAST Assessment.  I appreciate you getting the work done. 

Hope you all have a happy and healthy weekend.  I'll see you Monday for some MC.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "ABC" Jackson 5

Soft Opening

Dear Lovelies -

Discussion today.

Opened my eyes.

Speaking of open...Open House tonight.  6pm.

Thanks for today.

And see y'all tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Hey Ya" Outkast

Gratitude

Thank you for the projects and for presenting today.  And thank you to those of you who acknowledged mistakes.

I'm excited that tomorrow we get to engage in our first book discussion.  If you have a copy of LWD please bring it.  If it's one of my copies, for sure bring it back.

Enjoy the rest of your day!

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Move Your Feet" from Trolls

My Current Thinking & Adichie

Exceptions always prove the rule.  Think about that - when you stand out for anything really, it's because the "average" is doing something else.  In Room 853 there are no grades for a reason.  Mainly there are "pretty" A's and "authentic" A's and you all know the difference - how some of you have gorgeous GPAs but chase grades - or worse, cheat, copy homework, share test answers.  But then there are some of you who blast those typical teen stereotypes to smithereens.  I speak to the exceptions right now when I say, "Thank you, lovelies, for doing your work on time as expected.  You are wholehearted and appreciated and seen."

For those of you who forgot to check the blog, do your work, turn it in, etc. mistakes that don't get acknowledged or fixed become habits.  And habits become character.  And character is WHO YOU ARE.

Who are you being?

Use the time you have been gifted in our classroom to learn and grow because life is coming at you fast.

-TED Talk from today HERE.
-Projects due TOMORROW.
-LWD discussion THURSDAY.
-SAS Friday.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Put Your Records On" Corinne Bailey Rae

Gentle Reminder and Happy Monday

Happy Monday, Lovelies -

Don't forget that your Long Way Down discussion questions (posted last week) are due typed by 3pm.  Email them to ybeltran@sandi.net

Thanks for working today on MC #2.  I appreciate your effort.

Enjoy the rest of your day and keep in mind TED Talk tomorrow, project due Wednesday and LWD Discussion on Thursday.  Make sure you bring in any copies of the book that belong to me. 

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Love on Top" Beyonce

Happy Friday!!

Another day of very eye opening SAS presentations.  So thank you.  I hope you have a fabulous weekend and enjoy your time away from school.

On Monday we will go over last week's MC.

See y'all then.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Dynamite" Taio Cruz

Long Way Down Discussion Questions - DUE MONDAY

Hi Lovelies,

Below you will find the Long Way Down discussion questions.  PLEASE EMAIL ME YOUR RESPONSES.  My email is ybeltran@sandi.net

Your answers are due by Monday at 3pm.

And a HUGE thank you for writing today in class.  I look forward to reading and getting a sense of your writing style.  Don't forget SAS #3 tomorrow in class. 

Questions:
1.  Will and his family are immersed in a distinctive culture.  How would you describe their culture?  

2.  What aspects of Will's culture do you identify with?  What aspects are foreign to you?

3.  Why not break The Rules?

4.  What are the unspoken rules in high school culture?  In society? In your culture?  

5.  What are your thoughts on the book's ending? 

6.   Regardless of your opinion, what do you think Jason Reynolds meant with those last words?

7.  What creates the cycle of violence described in Long Way Down?

8.  How do you think the cycle of violence could be stopped?

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Build Me Up Buttercup" The Foundations

Marina Keegan - Stability in Motion

Today in class you received a copy of Marina Keegan's "Stability in Motion", a chapter in her book The Opposite of Loneliness (on your First Semester Book List).  You are to research her (image, bio, accomplishments, job, etc.) and then "Adler" up the text paying particular attention to the rhetorical devices (use the list from the project to help you).

Tomorrow in class you are expected to OWN this text - talk about it, write about it, think about it.  Thanks in advance for that.

Since a slew of you were absent (where were you?) you will need to get a copy from me in class when you return.

And as long as we're on the subject of school absences, I absolutely understand that life happens - illness, family emergencies, etc. - but you are a vital part of the energy and magic of Room 853 so I guess I just want you to know you were missed.

For those of you who had an APUSH test, I hope you did your best.  That's all you can ask of yourself.  Try to remember that chasing grades will leave you exhausted, but pursuing learning will propel you toward success (however YOU define it).

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "You're the One That I Want" Grease Soundtrack

Julie Lythcott-Haims

My bias is coming out FULL FORCE today with this TED Talk.  Rewatch, rewatch, rewatch. 

And tomorrow ooh la la.  Show up. We will be feeding your brain some delicious tidbits.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "More Than A Woman" Bee Gees

Sugar Sugar

Oooh ooh...Monday feelings over here in Room 853 but thank you so much for showing up.  It's all I ask of you.  I appreciate the Empty Your Cup writing (and can't wait to read them) and I also thank you for the effort on MC #2.  We will go over annotations, answers, and pro tips next Monday in class.

For now, the major items are working on your Rhetorical Devices Project and reading Long Way Down.  Those due dates are next Wednesday and Thursday respectively.

Cannot.

Wait.

I hope you have a beautiful rest of your day and I'll see you tomorrow for TED Talk Tuesday.  And by the way, each of you will be more than fine if you don't allow the stresses of high school to overrule your common sense.  You don't need perfection for success; you need a whole heart, a healthy mind and body, and the ability to critically think.  Mostly you need people who see you and can support you - maybe that person isn't a parent...Maybe it's a friend or (dare I say) a teacher?

Hasta manana.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Sugar Sugar" The Archies

Happy Friday

Happy Friday!!!

Thanks for the SAS presentations today.  As always, I appreciate your feeding of my brain.

I hope y'all have a beautiful weekend and start/finish reading Long Way Down and work on your Rhetorical Devices Project.

See you Monday.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: AT LAST Earth Wind and Fire's "September" on this 21st day

The 5 Canons

Happy Thursday, Lovelies -

Below you will find the notes you need for The 5 Canons.  Please make sure you copy the info down into your class notes...And sorry it has to be done like this.  Y'all know how I feel about mindless staring at the computer and calling it teaching.

Invention: have something to say instead of having to say something; develop and generate ideas

Arrangement:  put ideas together for effect; what is WHERE and WHY? ***key to success on AP exam

Style: text to itself; specific word choice (diction)

Memory: oral culture in Aristotle's era - you would memorize the speech or text; now we're a print and media culture BUT you need to know HOW to access the information you need and the VALUE of knowing things (culture literacy).  This canon is basically SAS so pay attention and wake up.

Delivery:  how does the text appear on the page; graphics and visuals

Put this info IN YOUR MIND.  I remember them with the acronym of I.M.S.A.D.

Your job for today/tonight is to Adler up the "Haiku History" text and pay close attention to how the 5 Canons are alive and well in Spike Gillespie's piece.

Also, don't forget that SAS #2 is tomorrow.  BE PREPARED.

Love and Light (and happy almost Friday!!),
Beltran

Today's Song: Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody"

Project #1

Happy Wednesday, Lovelies -

Your first project for class will be the Rhetorical Devices Project that you can find HERE.  The final product is due in class on Wednesday 10/3 which gives you 2 weeks from today.

I absolutely cannot wait to see what you create.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song:  Mariah Carey "Emotions"

TED Talk Tuesday - And the Promethean Board Just Died

It's vital to always have an attitude that is adaptable so this morning (like 5 minutes ago) when I turned on the Promethean Board and IT DIED, I decided to just go with a different plan.

Until we get it fixed, access the TED Talk HERE. I assume most (if not all) of you have Me Machines so after our lesson today and our rhetor research, enjoy Shawn Achor.  He's amazing.

Make sure you rewatch the video and take quality notes before next Tuesday.  And don't worry about all the different requirements for notes...I haven't taught you devices or appeals or the 5 Canons...yet.

Have a great Tuesday.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Walking on Sunshine: Katrina & The Waves

I Am a Writer Lesson - MC #1

Happy Monday, Lovelies -

Hope the weekend was good to you.

Today in class, we used the Amy Tan text as a launching pad for understanding (and slaying) the beast that is the multiple choice section of the AP exam.  Access the more in depth info on the 8 Types of questions you'll likely see HERE. This knowledge is also very useful for those of you who say you are college bound.

Finish your CHUNKING if you didn't in class.  But be sure to return all work to the CLASS TRAY tomorrow.

Start paying attention to what you're consuming.  Rhetoric is ALL AROUND and if you're not mindful (this is water) you'll become the puppet society loves.

TED Talk Tuesday tomorrow and are you reading???

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: Joan Jett "I Love Rock N' Roll"

First SAS

Too many highlights to list on your first day of SAS. Well done.

I learned so much about topics, interests, passions and people.

So thank you for presenting.

I wish you all a glorious (reading for pleasure) weekend!

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”

Amy Tan Annotations

Happy Thursday, Lovelies!

Today we worked on annotating the Amy Tan piece.  In case you want to read the entire essay, it's called Mother Tongue.  Actually a good read.  And don't forget, Amy Tan is on your First Semester Book List.  #diversityandinclusion

Tomorrow, BE READY WITH YOUR SAS even if you're not signed up to present.  I can't wait to learn about all sorts of things.

Enjoy your night - maybe read?

I'll see y'all tomorrow,

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Higher Ground" Stevie Wonder

Just Read

Tonight, after all the other important stuff is done, find some time to read.  Adler it up and go.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: Katy Perry "Roar"

Brene Brown

I hope you opened your hands and listened to Dr. Brown’s message in her amazingly popular TED Talk “The Power of Vulnerability”. Your job between now and next Tuesday is as follows:

1.  Add Brene Brown to your TED Talk chart.
2.  Rewatch Brene Brown and take QUALITY notes (include strategies you hear her using like anecdotes, appealing to ethos, etc.) If you want to print out the transcript and annotate it, that’s ideal but for now QUALITY notes will do.
3.  Know what you think of her y’all - not your feelings, mind you, but your thoughts. Be able to cite specific evidence that supports your thinking.

You are entitled to your opinions but not your facts.

Have all of this work/thinking done by next Tuesday.

And tomorrow, make sure you’ve read and annotated the Adler piece. It was posted last week under “Heads Up”.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “You Can’t Hurry Love” The Supremes

Thus It Begins: Multiple Choice Monday

There isn't any way to sell the fun of a multiple choice test - they can be pretty awful, but it is my hope and intention that MC Mondays become a sort of ritual to embrace.  Thank you for your effort today and your willingness to at least try.

We will be using the piece again on Thursday and next Monday so it will become a touchstone text of sorts.  And I hope you realize why I selected it...Reading a diverse and inclusive array of authors isn't just something I'm all about.  Seems College Board is as well.

For tomorrow, be prepared to step into our first TED Talk Tuesday.  I can't wait.

In the meantime, are you reading??  How's Long Way Down?

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Take It Easy" Travis Tritt version of the Eagles classic

Fri-Yay

Dear Lovelies,

Happiest of Fridays to you.  Over the weekend, consider the expectations for SAS (thanks to all the former students who modeled an SAS today).  Your first attempt will be next Friday 9/14.

I'll review it all with you next week but feel free to email with questions.

Since you are to be reading Long Way Down, why don't you spend a few minutes getting to know the author?  This is a great video that nicely shows Jason Reynolds' philosophy.  Please watch and consider.  After all, you can spare 3 minutes and 23 seconds, right?  And if you're interested in doing what a student does, read this Washington Post article.  I found it very telling of Reynolds' intentions as an author.  Besides, if you've paid attention, the rhetor is pretty much the puppet master of the Rhetorical Triangle.

If you're open to even more "food", check out this brain food.

Have a great weekend and I look forward to seeing y'all Monday.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Everything Now" Arcade Fire

HUGE HEADS UP

Dear Lovelies,

Thanks for your open hands in class.  I look forward to hearing your thoughts about the books and answering any questions you might have.  Announcement below:

For class next Wednesday 9/12 you will need to have read and taken notes on
THIS DOCUMENT.  

If you don't have a printer, hear me when I say that all you need to do is READ the document and TAKE NOTES on it.  If you do want to print it out, feel free.  But in this case, please do not ask me to print it for you.  Ask a friend.

What I would do - seeing as how when I was a student - I never had a working printer, I would open the doc on my computer or phone (either here at school or at home or at the library...you get my drift).  I would have out my notebook.  I would READ the piece first and DRAW a rhetorical triangle.  THEN I WOULD READ IT AGAIN and take some quality notes on each paragraph/section.

Love and Light (and see you soon),
Beltran

Today's Song: "Can't Stop the Feeling" Justin Timberlake

The Book List Is Going Live Right Now

Lovelies,

Tomorrow we will be discussing all things books.  So here it is:  Beltran's AP Language Book List - First Semester.  I don't know how long I will keep this link active so grab it while you can.  Either print it, copy it, take a picture of it, etc.

The expectation is that you show up to class tomorrow with knowledge of the list. 

We will be working with it in class and engaging in the lesson:  We Read.

Thanks for the attention today...The Circle Thingy, y'all.  It's everywhere.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" Stevie Wonder

Not Much to Say

Thank you for showing up today. Hope y’all heard the message and understand why we TED.

You know what you’re supposed to do.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “Think” Aretha Franklin

No Opportunity Wasted

Happy Labor Day Weekend, Lovelies.  I can honestly say it has been a pleasure getting to meet you this week.  I appreciate your kindness as I learned your names (may I applaud myself for learning them by the end of class Tuesday?) and as I blathered on about the class.  Also, a HUGE thank you for stepping up and presenting.  That certainly isn't easy.  I know that, and I recognize that.

I'm off to enjoy some rest and relaxation with my husband and daughters, and I hope you get to enjoy yourselves too.  Before Tuesday, make sure you do something kind for yourself (watch Shakira's "Try Everything" video and watch those tigers).  I do have one teensy little "test" for you though. 

Comment on this blog post. 

I'll be checking the comments a couple times this weekend and I'll publish the ones that are there (unless you explicitly say DO NOT PUBLISH).

Let's see what kind of Jamba Juices we are dealing with.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Try Everything" Shakira

This Is Water

Dear Lovelies,

Thank you for the attention and focus (and dare I say, fun) today.  Your job as my student is to rewatch David Foster Wallace's This Is Water.  If for some reason the hyperlink doesn't work, just google it. 

As you're rewatching, take better notes and fill out the Rhetorical Triangle.  Specifically including "Subject" and "Purpose". 

After that, please answer the question: How Do You See?  I explained the expectations in class which basically said anything goes as long as there's NO SPIRAL EDGES.  They hurt my heart.

Tomorrow (with the exception of Period 4) you will be given the chance to present your response.  Woot woot.

Period 4:  Y'all meet me in the Big Gym for the Assembly.  I'll take attendance there so make sure I see you.  Your work should be turned into the class tray before the end of 5th period.  Thanks in advance.

If we ever have extra time at the end of class, here's the Priority List of What I Expect You To Do:
1.  Talk to people in REAL LIFE.  Maybe even people you don't really know.
2.  Finish up any work you happen to have.
3.  Read (your book list will go live next Thursday!!!)

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "I'm Still Standing" Elton John

David Foster Wallace

Dear Lovelies,

Your job tonight is to research David Foster Wallace.  Research basic biographical information (D.O.B., work, his image, quotes) and come to class tomorrow armed with knowledge.

If you didn't email me an Intro email, please do so.

I'll see y'all tomorrow for class.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Boogie Shoes" K.C. and The Sunshine Band

Here’s An Opportunity

Thank you for circling up today and trying. What’s weird to you is only in relation to what you think is normal. Hmm.

Your homework tonight is to send me an Introductory email to ybeltran@sandi.net.

Please remember to begin with a greeting and a pleasantry (Hope you’re having a good day/Thanks for a nice class/Hope all is well, etc.). Then introduce yourself. Who are are? What are you about? What should I know about you? End with a closing (Sincerely/See you tomorrow, etc.) and put your name.

Also be sure to read the blog. Comment if you’d like.

Tomorrow gear up for more of Room 853.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “Second That Emotion” Smokey Robinson

Day One, Year 21

Dear Lovelies,

What a pleasure meeting a whole crew of new faces, personalities and perceptions. I have to admit, though, I was still half expecting my former students.

If you’re reading this, and today was your first time as a student in my class: Welcome. Apologies for talking at you so much. It’s just important that you have the chance to decide if you’re up for the experience. Are you?

Tomorrow we will be checking out textbooks (have your ID or printed schedule) and doing a little something something so SHOW UP. It’s the only class rule.

Have a look around the blog and feel free to comment. I moderate the site and will be checking in later tonight.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Gearing Up for Monday

Dear Lovelies,

I just finalized the Semester 1 Book List.  If you are interested in feeding your brain, I'll be posting it soon enough.

Hope everyone is enjoying the last weekend before school. 

Here's to Year 21 and a whole new crew.

Love and Light,
Beltran

P.S. - If any alums still read, care to post some advice for the incoming juniors??

Changing Your Mind

Hello Lovelies,

It's the night before I return to PLHS for teacher prep, and I changed my mind about this blog.  I originally intended to say goodbye to it (her?) and use Google Classroom instead.  But I don't want to...I want this space to continue. 

I changed my mind.

So...here's to Year 21. 

Love and Light,
Beltran

Twenty Years

Dear Periods 1 and 2 (and all of you who read),

Thank you for a beautiful ending to my 20th year in the classroom.  I couldn't have imagined a more perfect way to close out the year.  There's a ton I could say about the wonderful TED Talks from your classes or even the last go 'round of dancing, but I'll just say this:  Thank You.

When I stepped into my first classroom two decades ago (Room 109 at Fondren Middle School), I could never have imagined how much my "job" would hand me: relationships, connections, life lessons, opportunities, growth, failure, love.  Lots and lots of love.

Having grown up with very little in the way of stuff, my mother did her best to fill my sister and me up with self-worth, confidence, and love.  We shopped at discount stores, wore thrifted clothes (and it wasn't because we were trendy), ate free and reduced lunch.  We sweated with no A/C and shivered with no heat but through it all, she taught us that we had so much and thus had so much to give.

I hope that my efforts as your teacher this year gave you something - whether it be a test strategy or a strategy to navigate life.  Because life is hard but you still need to show up.

Much love and light to all of you.  Thank you for making Room 853 magical.

I am grateful.

Love and Light,
Beltran

P.S. - Goodbye dear blog.  You have served me well.  If any of you want to still "hear" from me remember that I can be found on Instagram (@beltranbooks) and at Mostly Love Now.  xoxo

To the Period 5 Family

Dear Lovelies,

It's 11 o'clock, I'm all alone in my classroom and you are off doing whatever it is you do.  I just wanted to quickly remind you that I appreciate each and every one of you, that I see you, and that you all matter to me.

Thank you for a heartbreakingly beautiful year.  You made each afternoon one to look forward to - from dancing to learning to just being. 

Thank you for seeing me too.

As I close, I want to wish you all the same wish.  May the wind forever be at your back and may the road ahead always rise up to meet you. 

I can't wait to see you change the world.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Goodbye

The first two goodbyes happened today...and there's one more to come.  But first, goodbye to the lovely periods 3 and 4.  It has been a pleasure learning from each and every single one of you.  Even if you didn't realize, I took a piece of wisdom from each of you.  Thank you especially to those of you who opened your hands.  It was an honor seeing you.

As for the third goodbye, this blog is ENDING. 

It began many years ago and became the source for the kiddos who embraced it.  But as of Wednesday, I will no longer be posting on the good ol' cluebus.  For some of you, that won't mean a darn thing because you never checked it anyway but for those of you who grew accustomed to stopping by, rest assured that the archives will remain.  I will just be using a new platform for my new students.

Anyone, however, can stay connected via my book recommendations on Instagram.  Find me at @beltranbooks. 

AND, for those of you who used to read it, Mostly Love Now is coming back.  I know!  I'm excited to open up my former personal writing blog again.  I will use it as a means of furthering my writing practice and "teaching" even though you are no longer in Room 853.  Follow along if you want.

Love and Light to you, Lovelies,
Beltran

Clear Eyes, Full Heart

Today was everything an end of the year Friday should be.

Thank you for that.

Here’s to one last day together. See periods 3 and 4 on Monday.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Day Four of TED Talks

Well, let’s see.

Period 1 rocked it as usual. Super shout outs to the ridiculously professional talks given. And y’all are best dressed as a class for sure.

Mad respect for the presenters in period 2 and 3. And to Thor for being Thor and the rest of period 4.

The boys made an appearance in period 5 - all of them slayed and we ended with some laughs and open hands.

Senior Awards tonight at 6:30. Special presenter = the eldest child.


Love and Light,
Beltran

PLEASE!!!!!

Please please please return my books. So many are missing and my heart hurts. PLEASE.

Magnificent

Today was really good. Fed brain and full soul.

Can’t wait for more.

Love and Light and the last few days,
Beltran

Day 2

I’m seeing some magic, y’all. And I love it.

Thanks to today’s presenters. Can’t wait for more tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

P.S. Some news headed your way...

Day 1

Dynamic.

Prepared.

Ownership.

I was mostly just impressed.

Good job to the Lovelies from today. And extra shouts to the flower in period 4.

Love and Light,
Beltran

P.S. - the book account on Instagram can be followed...@beltranbooks

The Story of Fear (and TED Talk Info)

There were only a few of you here today - not even enough lovelies to constitute an entire class.  The first thing I heard when I rose this morning was from the beloved who said he'd received a ton of emails.  (I went to bed early and watched clips of Ellen on youtube because she's all about kindness so I was not on my email or social media.)  At any rate, the hubby and I felt appreciated that so many students reached out to update us.  That appreciation quickly turned to sadness at the state of the society we live in when kids have to be afraid to go to school.

Kids are afraid to go to school.

Of course, some absentees likely used the information to enjoy a day off of school (and to enjoy the beautiful weather) but some - to be sure - were, in fact, afraid.

Fear.

That's a bit of a beast, isn't it?

As a minority woman, I know my share of fear.  In fact, it used to be the constant narrative of my life.  I was scared to try, to speak up, to go over there, to fail, to get the answer wrong, to mess up, to order something new off the menu.

Then I read a book (you knew that was coming) and a piece of it stuck to my heart.

I'll share it below and wish you a happy weekend.

(Oh, TED Talks start Monday.  If you are presenting BRING YOUR BLANK RUBRIC.  And, Period 3, y'all are a hot mess.  Anyone know why??)

Love and Light,
Beltran

"Fear, to a great extent, is born of a story we tell ourselves, and so I chose to tell myself a different story from the one women are told.  I decided I was safe.  I was strong.  I was brave.  Nothing could vanquish me."  ~Cheryl Strayed, Wild

P.S. - Not going to lie, though.  I did wear sneakers today.  Just in case.

Joe!!!

A few words:  pasta, Joe, wow.

I’m so grateful. Just grateful.

Love and Light,
Beltran

My Former Students

Today is a tough day for me and my family. Most of you current readers don’t know why, and that’s okay. What matters is that some of my former readers do and their kindness flowed my way in many forms today.

So to my lovelies, thank you. You may no longer be in my class, but you’ll forever be in my heart.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Tuesday Testing

Math today.

Math, math, math.

More Math tomorrow and the next day and the next. 

But the AWESOME news is that TED Talks are next week, and I am beyond excited to see and hear what you create.  Though I can imagine you are stressed, I hope you realize what a glorious opportunity this is to put a punctuation mark on your junior year in Room 853.

Shout outs to the 2 amazing Create Somethings I witnessed at lunch.  Books and books.

Much love and light,
Beltran

Today's Song:  No song so how 'bout a quote? "There are always flowers for those who want to see them." ~Henri Matisse

Gratitude

Maya Angelou said that “Thank You” are the greatest words you can say. So to all of you well wishers and laugh makers and Light creators, Thank You.

Today was a good day.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “Sugar” by Maroon 5

Week One of Testing Done

Thank you for doing your best on the tests.  You are doing a good thing for the school.

In great news, tomorrow is Friday and we have Create Something Presentations in periods 1, 2, and maybe 3.  (Though 3rd might have a little "fun" planned.)

Periods 4 and 5, meet me in the PAC so 1) I can mark you present for Attendance and 2) so you can be let in to the Slam.  It should be good!!!

Next week, there is no school on Monday and testing/Block schedule resumes on Tuesday with periods 1, 3, and 5.  Math is on the agenda.

Starting the following week (the last full one of the year...) TED Talks commence.  Make sure you sign up for a slot.  If you don't, your final grade will slowly wither away...

Enjoy the rest of your day!

Love and Light,
Beltran

P.S. - Rereading Cheryl Strayed.  Have you read the book that shall not be named?  It's DELICIOUS!!!

When Your Soul Isn't On Fire

I haven't danced 5 times in one day.
I haven't socially interacted with my students.
I haven't had my brain fed with your voices.
It.
Is.
Soul.
Crushing.
Is this what your school days are like?
Sit.
And.
Get?

I am grateful for...
- laughs at lunch,
- chips in freezer bags,
- morning chats with M.E.
- sweet smelling hand lotion,
- and the chance to reread some Cheryl Strayed.

Thanks for the presentations at lunch...very nice indeed.

See periods 2 and 4 tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

How Is It Only Tuesday?

Today’s Create Somethings were amazing. Shout out to Team S - Sarah, Sean, Sophie and Sal. Wow wow wow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Dylan Saved the Entire School

Mad respect to period 1 for their calmness and kindness today with the testing "chaos" and made shout out to DR for saving the day (and likely the whole school's test scores).

I can't say I'm a fan of these tests but y'all did great.

Thanks also to those of you who presented Create Something 2.0 during lunch.  If you want, stop by and see some presentations tomorrow, Wednesday and Thursday.

Friday we will be presenting CS 2.0 in periods 1 and 2 and heading to the PAC for the Poetry Slam (periods 3, 4 and 5). 

Also, TED Talk sign ups were posted today at lunch so sign up for your slot.  First come, first serve.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Testing Sadness"by Teacher Lady

Happy Friday

I hope you all have a great weekend.  Enjoy the time away from school and I'll see you on Monday for testing. 

Monday's schedule is ODD so I will see periods 1, 3 and 5.  :)

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Dancing in the Moonlight"

Happy Thursday!!!

Hope you had a wonderful day today.  Thanks for listening to all the info.  Any questions??  Email me.

NOTE: We are slated to attend the Poetry Slam (It's back on!!!!) next Friday 5/25 during period 3, 4 and 5.  So if you signed up to present Create Something we will have to squeeze you in at lunch.  We will figure it out.

I'll put TED Talk Sign Up Sheets in the hall tomorrow at lunch so sign up when you're ready.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "This Is How We Do It" M. Jordan

Empty Classroom, Full Heart

So...it's 7:39am and a ton of you are testing...is the proctor talking right now?  Are you power posing?  Winking? 

Tommy's here so all is well.

Love and Light,
Beltran

You Got This

I have no doubt that you are ready.  Crush the test.  Use your whole heart (and maybe this review form too!)

Have fun and know that you are prepared. 

Take your time, wear layers, find that cutie pie and power pose.

I'll be sending you all my love and light,
Beltran

Today's Songs: Dance Party!!

I Just Want Wednesday to Be Here Already

Lovelies Who Read the Blog,

You are ready if you're taking the test so just trust that and breathe.  Be humble when approaching the exam and review all you have been taught. 

Tomorrow we will dance a bit and do some last minute reminders.  I will be here early as usual on Wednesday and I will be sending you lots of love and light as usual.

Make sure you leave your pages read Post-Its since the contest ends on Wednesday as well.

See you tomorrow for the last pre-test day.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Meet in the Middle" Diamond Rio

AP Language Testing Locations:
LIBRARY:  A-K
Auto Shop:  L-R
Dance Room:  S-Z

Hi, Lovelies -

If you are interested in some test prep for Language (archaic and footnotes work), consider checking out the link below.  I would specifically look at the first passage on the 2017 released exam.  The 2013 exam has great practice passages for footnotes as well as "archaic" texts. 

Or not.

Some quality test prep.

Also, instead of freaking out about rhetorical devices and cramming for the Rhetorical Analysis essay, why not focus on some of the more commonly found devices?  Below is a list...Make sure you know what they each are and WHY THE RHETOR WOULD USE THEM.

Or not.

1.  The Appeals: Logos, Ethos, and Pathos 
2.  Juxtaposition: when two words are put in opposition or two paragraphs....any time it's used to show contrast
3.  Antithesis: direct opposites
4.  Tone:  whatever you do, aim to understand the TONE of the passages you're given...All MC answers will fall under that "Tone Umbrella"
5.  Allusion:  references to history or literature or common knowledge
6.  Hyperbole:  exaggeration...why do rhetors use this device/strategy??
7.  Parallel Structure: the same grammatical pattern
8.  Denotation & Connotation:  literal meaning and evoked meaning

And, in the 2017 Princeton Review Book there is a 1792 released passage by Mary Wollstonecraft.  It's great practice on the off chance you get an antiquated text for MC. 

Good luck on APUSH tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song:  Not Telling because some of you peek before class!

Wednesdays Are Tricky

Hi Lovelies,

Today was a day for you with built in study/prep time.

Thanks for completing the CHKS (if you had to) and for using your time wisely.

Tomorrow, plan on more study time and before I forget, BEST OF LUCK on APUSH on Friday.  :)

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Tricky" Run DMC

You are Fierce

What a competition.

I am exhausted. 

See you tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Freedom" Wham!

Final Multiple Choice Monday

And a good time was had by all...Make sure you study footnotes if you're taking the exam next Wednesday.  :)

Tomorrow we will be reviewing TED Talks - so maybe a little friendly competition?  Bring your notes on TED Talks and be ready to remember...

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday are test prep days for whatever you need.  And let me say good luck to all of you taking AP exams.  It's not easy but you can do hard things.

I'll see y'all tomorrow,

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Mighty Quinn" Manfred Mann

Have a Great Weekend

Good luck on the SAT if you’re taking it.

See you Monday!

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “Poison”

Dribble Dribble Margaret Drabble

I started calling today's rhetor Dribble, not Drabble.  Oops.

Today you reviewed a Q3 and hopefully got a refresher on what the AP exam expects in terms of evidence and structure.

If you have any questions, please make sure you ask or send me an email.

SAS is tomorrow so make it count, please.

I'll see y'all then (and maybe at the volleyball game as well??).

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: All over the place..."Tainted Love" to "Bohemian Rhapsody" to "Ain't No Mountain High Enough"

Fallacy Day

Lovelies,

Make sure you know and can identify the common fallacies on the AP Language test.  The list was gone over in class today.  See me if you were absent or have questions. 

Tomorrow we will be working on some Q3 so look over some of the released prompts if you have the time or desire.

Friday is SAS and check out that Kanye West video.  The "reporter's" response is classic in terms of its control, credibility and concession. 

See you tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Walking on Sunshine" Katrina and the Waves

Final TED Talk Tuesday

We ended with the blunt Larry Smith and his 2011 TEDx Talk. I’m not feeling like linking but I’m sure you’re quite capable. And the cherry on top was Angela Duckworth’s TED Talk on grit. You can google that one too.

Tomorrow we will be prepping for the test with some work on fallacies so please have your test prep book.

Enjoy the rest of the May Gray Day.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “Put Your Records On” CBR

Happy Monday to You

I'm alive and I'm well and I'm grateful for each breath.

I read voraciously and I write willingly and I'm thankful for my education.

I love with my whole heart and I feel with it too.

As we near the AP exam date, know that every moment in class has been geared toward educating the whole of you - not just the part that can bubble in answers.

How did MC go today?  Reflect for a moment...were you humbled?  Were you able to handle it?  Did you complete the task with your whole heart?

What I know for sure in this 42nd revolution of mine on this pale blue dot, is that you can't teach tenacity or grit.  Do you power through or do you give up?  Any test in life, be it for College Board or not, tests your tenacity.

What did you learn about yourself today??

I'll see you for another opportunity tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Wish I Knew You" The Revivalists

I Laughed A Lot Today

Thanks, Lovelies, for a Happy Friday. Off to cheer on some swimmers.

See y’all Monday for a doozy of a MC practice.

Love and Light,
Beltran.

Today’s Song: “We Didn’t Start the Fire” Billy Joel

Whole Heart

Whole heart?  Do you have one?  Do you approach every task - be it washing dishes, doing homework, talking with friends - with your whole heart?  I know I try to and I fail repeatedly.  But I am stubborn and I don't like being lazy or losing to people who aren't smarter or better but just work harder.  That bugs. I especially don't enjoy paying money to not do well - be it on an AP test or a cooking class.

With that said, whole heart?  Do you have one?

If you are serious about passing the AP Language exam, here's what you do:
1.  Go through your practice MC tests.  Ask me if you can take your folder home.
2.  Reread your passages (starting with "I am a writer.." and annotate for devices and strategies.
3.  Review the terms/devices/strategies and HOW they create the rhetor's intended purpose.
4.  Stalk the College Board site and find released Q2 prompts.  Write them.  Compare your work to the released model essays.
5.  Rinse and Repeat.

SAS tomorrow so be ready.  And TONIGHT starting at 5pm, Poetry Symposium in the PAC.  Free!!!

Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard.  That might be my new mantra.  Love and Light.  Kick ass.

Beltran

Today's Song: "Can't Help Myself" Four Tops

Final Book Talk...

...but hopefully not the last book you'll read and discuss.

Thank you for your dedication to upping your reading game.  I hope a fire was rekindled that reminds you that stories are freedom - that education is a game changer.

I'll see you all tomorrow for some Rhetorical Analysis prep.  In the meantime, I'll be dining al fresco tonight, wearing some purple, playing with Rosabelle.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Hurts So Good" John Mellencamp

TED Talk

"Oh no, that's not good." - Jacob Martinez, author and senior

When told that only 49 lovelies read and checked the bliggity blog, Jacob, aforementioned, said the quote from above.  As he sadly shook his head in disgust he also said, "Hi, Martin." 

At this point, I checked out of the conversation as Jacob and Martin were about to fight.  I don't know who won.  But I know I'm still looking for more people to read the blog.

Here's the TED Talk from today.  Tomorrow, be ready to chat about BOOKS!

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "No Excuses" Megan Trainor

"What a great post!" - Jacob Martinez, author and senior

Multiple Choice Mania

On Mondays we do Multiple Choice.

Declarative Statement of the Day.

Thanks for the effort and the thinking...test prep is no fun but hard work is necessary to achieve...well, pretty much anything.

Tomorrow we will enjoy a TED Talk and on Wednesday keep in mind the Period 4 Assembly for What Goes Around.  ALSO, Wednesday is the BOOK DEADLINE for our reading so come to class prepared to discuss books.  Since we have testing, this Wednesday will be our final Book Talk Day for the year.  So sad...

P.S. 16 school days until the AP Language test.

Much love and light to you all,
Beltran


Today's Song: Smokey Robinson "Second that Emotion"

Happy Friday!!

What a stupendous day.  I learned so much about you.  And all I can say is WOW!!!!

Enjoy your time away from school!

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Dynamite" Taio

Your "Homework" Tonight

I need you to please follow the link provided HERE and fill out a quick survey.  Please and Thank You.

As for the Q2 work today.  If you want to submit an entire essay, have that for me tomorrow or Monday.  If you don't need the practice, an outline will suffice (and that should have already been turned in or put in the class tray tomorrow).

SAS is how we will end the week - either an autobiographical presentation or a regular "feed" our brains one.

Have a great rest of the day and don't forget that the Pre-AP registration is happening.  For most of you that begins tomorrow period 1.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "The Middle" Zedd, Maren Morris, Grey

Popcorn Scandal

What a day. 

Thanks for looking at Q2 and reminding yourself of what needs to be done.  You asked great questions and (hopefully) did some good work.  The old saying goes that hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard.  I may not be the brightest or the fastest or the most talented in the rooms I'm in, but I for sure work harder than most.  What about you?

Have a beautiful rest of the day and I'll see you in class tomorrow.  (You have 7 and a half weeks left of school.) 

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Halo" Queen B

Susan Cain: The Power of Introverts

In case you missed it, the TED Talk today was Susan Cain’s. Normally I’d link it, but I know you are quite capable of googling as well.

Tomorrow we start review of Q2: Rhetorical Analysis. Even if you’re not taking the test, the critical thinking and writing is vital for you. We all need to be able to reed and right reel good. (Hee Hee)

Enjoy your day and I’ll see you tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “Love on Top” Queen B

MCM

Multiple Choice Monday!!  Woot woot.  Am I the only one excited?  It's okay - enough joy for us all to share.  Thank you for your hard work....the test is one month from today so every little bit of practice counts.

If you have any questions about the passage or why certain answers are why they are, please just ask.

Also, today I announced CS 2.0 information due to testing.  Sign up sheets for the voluntary presentations will be up on Friday.  If you are interested in presenting, take a lunch slot and your work will be seen.

Other info: pre-AP test sessions (the ones where you bubble in info, take care of business, etc.)  opens on Friday for juniors.  See me for your session time.  And return slips for the "What Goes Around" presentations if your parents DO NOT want you to attend.  That is next Wednesday 4/25 during period 4.

I think that's it for now....period 2, you have until 4/30 to submit what I requested.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: Destiny's Child "Say My Name"

Happy Friday the 13th

My youngest daughter August was born on Friday the 13th and she’s got the best energy and luck in the world so I no longer believe it’s an unlucky number. All in your perception.

Thanks for a fun Friday full of learning about each other. I’m looking forward to a weekend with my family, though. It’s always nice to decompress, though we are usually pretty busy.

Any thoughts or suggestions on Create Something 2.0? I’ve got some ideas so I’ll announce Monday. And speaking of announcements, CONGRATULATIONS to Period 2 for winning the dance competition. Honestly, though, you should all be proud. You came together and created. Respect.

I’ll see y’all Monday.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: “September” Earth Wind and Fire

BEYOND BUMMED

Hi, Lovelies -

I just found out that we will be doing Smarter Balance Testing in our English classes on all of the upcoming Block Schedule Days.  That means we have 2 regular classes after the AP Lang exam on 5/16.  Then, starting Monday 5/21, we will be testing.  You will test in my classroom.  I will spend the entire day giving the test.  The.  Entire. Day.  My birthday is 5/25 so at least we have regular class together then but we will essentially be testing until Monday 6/4 when your TED Talks start.  That SADLY MEANS WE WON'T BE DOING CREATE SOMETHING 2.0.  I could cry.  Maybe that's great news for you, but not for me.  :(  We won't even be able to do the College Project in class either.  (Although I will be more than happy to help you with anything college related.)  Any suggestions for how we can still share awesome CS 2.0 projects???  Comment below.

I am beyond bummed. 

Love and Light still but...BOO.
Beltran

Today's Song: David Bowie "Let's Dance"

Block Schedule

MAY 21, 23, 29, 31 – ODD PERIODS

Period 1: 7:30-9:28

Period 3: 9:34-11:35

Lunch: 11:41-12:11

Period 5: 12:17-2:15

 

MAY 22, 24, 30, & JUNE 1 – EVEN PERIODS

Period 2: 7:30-9:28

Period 4: 9:34-11:35

Lunch: 11:41-12:11

Period 6: 12:17-2:15

Wacky Wednesday

Thanks for the test prep presentations.  I definitely laughed, and I definitely owe period 3. 

Please have a folder OR a binder so we can organize some previous MC tests.

We will be working on Synthesis tomorrow so bring your own laptop if you don't want to use the ones we have.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: Panic at the Disco "Nine in the Afternoon"

Three for the Price of One

Thanks for paying attention to the three rhetors today.

TED Talk from Luvvie Ajayi.

TED Talk from Clint Smith.

Video from Maya Angelou about "Just Do Right".

Rewatch and enjoy.

I'll see you tomorrow for strategy presentations and more prep.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Songs: All Over the Place

MC Monday

A little group work today...ready for presentation on Wednesday.  You and your group members are "teaching" one of the MC test strategies (Active Reading, Words in Context, Process of Elimination or The Two-Pass System).  Nothing fancy...just explain the strategy, show how it would be useful on the MC test for Language and then offer an example of how it would be used.  As always, see me or email me with questions.

Also please have a binder or a folder for all of the tests we have completed since September.  We are going to be organizing our previous tests and using them to study.

Make sure you vote for ASB president starting on Wednesday.  Have a picture id and exercise your democratic right. 

I'll see y'all tomorrow.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "All We Ever Knew" The Head and the Heart 

What A Friday

Funny how no internet led to autobiographical presentations and interesting class discussions. Always a good time in Room 853.

Have a safe and fine weekend.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today’s Song: No song in the morning and some Bob Seger later on.

Model Essays

Thanks for the work today on model essays for Q1.  What did you notice in the one that scored an "8" versus the one that scored a "3"? 

Tomorrow we get to enjoy some SAS and then back to work on Monday with some MC.

Enjoy tonight and why not read a little to feed your heart and your mind.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Superstition" Stevie Wonder

Second Post of the Day

Hi again, Lovelies -

I know my previous "College Board" post was pretty amazing but I thought I would just summarize today and some of the expectations for test prep.

I certainly am no wizard or master of behavior because I know full well that you will do what you want no matter how much I push or prod.  Test prep is no fun.  I know.  Believe me, I know.  BUT, it is a necessary evil for the test and I want to honor that.  My only test prep rule is THAT YOU DON'T HARM ANOTHER PERSON'S CHANCE TO LEARN AND PREP FOR THE EXAM.  And since 99.9% of you are kind, thoughtful, aware and lovely meatsuits, we shall have no issues. 

Tomorrow in class we are going to start class off with any questions or comments you have about Synthesis and then we are going to look at some model essays.  We will use the laptops in an effort to save paper but you are welcome to bring your own to use if you prefer.

Make sure to also check out the entirety of the Maya Angelou "Master Class".  She had a lot of wonderful, sage advice.  Happy Birthday to her and to SG.  And thank you Dr. King for your life and service to a vital cause.

Love and Light,
Beltran

Today's Song: "Livin' on Love"

College Board

Brene Brown Brings It

Another lovely TED Talk from the incomparable Brene Brown.  (For some reason my computer isn't letting me link the video but you can access it on your own.)

Tomorrow we start some test prep with Synthesis so buckle up for the fun.

Much love and light to you all,
Beltran

Today's Song: "You Can't Hurry Love" The Supremes

Hi Lovelies

Hi there...so sorry I was out today but we kind of had a first day of school with the kids since we moved.  Happy to report that all went well...and I will be back tomorrow with a TED Talk and a lot of love for you.

Y'all ready for the AP testing season?  April, April, April.  Let's all stay positive and choose joy even though stress will no doubt be lurking behind every corner.

Can't wait to see you.

Love and Light,
Beltran