Daily Reading Blog Journal for Beowulf- Worth 20 points

After EVERY reading assignment post a blog where you document any questions, comments, observations, or other thoughts that come to mind as you read Beowulf. The purpose of this is for all of you, including myself, to support each other with the reading assignments- as we did with last Thursday's post. I understand that some of you do not have internet access, if this is the case you must post the following day in school during a study hall or first thing in the morning. Write your ideas in your notebooks first to make things easier for yourself.

Rather than creating a NEW POST- edit your original post and include the day followed by a hyphen with your new insights/comments/questions. You MUST post something even if you think you have nothing to post. Each day is worth 10 points- for a total of 40 points. You will also be graded on your level of insight- "I understand everything." will not award you any points.

Example:
Monday- I understand what is happening between the characters in Beowulf. I find it really interesting that Grendle is Cain's descendant. It is now wonder why Grendle is so evil.

Tuesday- I am still confused as to why Grendle's mother attacks Herot. Can anyone help me?

Beowulf as a Hero? Due Friday 10/09/09

As you read, identify and describe some of Beowulf's heroic traits. Focus on the following two essential questions:

*How did the motivations of the main characters affect relationships, loyalties, and national struggles?

*What qualities are essential in an Anglo-Saxon hero? (Reflect back on the lieutenant's recognition of Beowulf as a hero- "Grendle's First Attack--Beowulf's Arrival"

Beowulf

Hi Everyone,

Please do not continue with the reading for this weekend!!! Yes, I mean please DO NOT continue with the reading. Rather I would like you to review the beginning pages of Beowulf and make sure you understand what is happening. Try to figure out on your own "who is who" by using the lineage packet the sub gave you. THis is the first step to help you in understanding Beowulf.

On Monday- we will look at "who is who" in Beowulf and review the first 8 pages we read. We will litearally take line by line apart and jot our ideas down. Doing this will give us a better understanding of the epic poem. This will also be a good time for us all to participate in a close reading. Based on our last class discussion and what I've heard through the grapevine people are not understanding it. Rather than rushing through this I want us to slow down, destress, and grasp what is going on. Once we do this we will begin to enjoy this classic piece of literature.

Until then- if you have questions, email me, post a blog question, phone a friend, or use google as a verb. I am really excited about what I discovered and cannot wait to share with you all on Monday!!!

Be good, and have a safe, healthy, enjoyable weekend!