Safety VS Freedom Unit

I'm excited to say that we will be starting The Giver this week.  Students have done wonderfully with sharing their ideas and opinions about the topics of what makes societies perfect and imperfect.  We will continue to discuss dystopian societies and what it is that they truly lack.  Occasionally students will need to bring home their books and their journals for HW.  I will provide them with a folder to hold these items.  Students are expected to keep these items in good condition -- the books are quite small and easily crushed, but they need to last.  

Students will also be signing a "Spoiler Contract."  Some students have either read this book or seen the movie and it is important for them to not release any knowledge prematurely.  A huge part of the enjoyment of this book is exploring the world the author created.  If students intentionally discuss the ending or the outcome of any future events in the book, a lengthy essay will be required of the responsible student.  The essay will be graded.

Homework will be assigned on a day by day basis depending on what is finished in class.  Sometimes I will have the opportunity to post it on the blog, but that is not a guarantee.  It will, however, be written on the homework board when it is assigned and it is up to the students to write it down.