Week+11.10-11.14

__**Monday, 11.10.08**__
Today we introduced our first novel John Steinbeck's Depression-Era tale of the working man, //Of Mice and Men//. We started off by writing a bit in our journals about friendship and the qualities we look for in our friends. We then read chapter one and surveyed the friendship of the protagonists George and Lennie. If you do not have a reading schedule please see me.

We also checked out Salinas and Soledad on Google Earth and discussed the causes and effects of the Great Depression.

__Tuesday, 11.11.08__
Veterans Day. Enjoy your day off.

__Wednesday, 11.12.08__
Characterization was the order of the day. We examined George and Lennie and discussed how each character's physical makeup mirrors his emotional makeup and personality. We continued on reading and were introduced to Candy and the Boss. We also checked out Salinas and Soledad on Google Earth and discussed the causes and effects of the Great Depression. Bust day!

__Thursday, 11.13.08__
Finally the memoirs were returned. Great job guys. Today I allowed the class to read ahead in the novel and work on vocabulary while I met with each class member individually, gave out grades, and discussed goals for quarter #2.

__Friday, 11.14.08__
Today we discussed the concept of Microcosm and compared the ranch to American society in the 1930's. We also looked more closely at the characterization of Slim, the jerkline skinner and prince of the ranch. We then wept as poor Candy's dog was put down by Carlson. Have a great weekend.