Turn your topic that you will debate next week into a script in which two people debate your topic, one taking the affirmative side (your side) and another arguing the negative side (the opponent’s side). Demonstrate a clear grasp of the main issues related to your topic, supporting details for BOTH sides, and an ability to understand both sides of the topic. YOU CANNOT DEBATE any topic unless you have researched the topic thoroughly. This “script” should show some evidence of having researched your topic.

The metaphor poems capture life by using comparisons. Write any poem or story using an extended metaphor (comparison without using like or as). Let the poem or story surprise the reader by using a unique metaphor that may have never been used before to describe some aspect of your life!!

The novel we began reading this week reveals how two teenagers find themselves crossing the generation gap by entering into the life of Mr. Pignati. They discover that old people have much to offer if we would only listen. You may either write a poem about an older person (grandpa, grandma, or older neighbor) that provides a poetic portrait of his or her world or you may write a biographical sketch or essay about that person. Either way,  you must include specific “show not tell” sensory details that would allow the reader to enter into that person’s world.

Write an English sonnet of 14 lines, using the form we looked at in class. Remember, you may not use any of the over-used “Valentine” words: Valentine, love, heart, rose, red, adore, miss, kiss, hug, sweetheart, beauty, beautiful, passion.