Class for January 28

Hi classmates! I decided to post the info from class yesterday since so many people were sidelined by the weather.

Here's an overview:

• We talked about John Updike in class.
• We talked about the schedule for the semester. There will be journal checks on February 11, March 25, and April 15. The portfolios are due March 4 and April 22. There is much more on the schedule that was handed out.
• We need to read pp. 32-67 (chs. 6-9)
• There is a writing assignment due next week: Think back over your life and come up with 5 "firsts". Some of the suggestions from class were 'first time shoplifting', 'first Grateful Dead concert', 'first time your heart got broken'. Now think again and come up with 5 "lasts", like 'last time I saw my father', 'last time I went to a ballgame', or 'last cigarette I smoked'. Choose the one that moves you the most (off of either the "firsts" or "lasts" list, not one of each). As you are writing, describe the events with as much detail as possible using as many of the senses as possible. The goal is to transport the reader to the scene as thoroughly as possible. (I wonder if it would be possible for me to use the word 'possible' any more often in this description. Possibly.) The assigned length is 500-1000 words.
• We will be writing in class next meeting, so bring your laptop if you have one, are able, and want to. If none of those things rings true for you, there are two computers in the Honors room for use, as well as several computer labs close to the room. Or, you can always write longhand.
  

We had a lot of fun in class. I'm sorry some people weren't able to come. I hope this post helps bring you up to speed. If anyone has any questions, it's probably a good idea to email tcockrill@southwest.tn.edu before the next time we meet. (Just a suggestion)

Hope to see everyone next Wednesday!