Assignments
Monday, February 25, 2013
Homework for Tuesday, February 26
Reading Assignment
Read the article on Nicaraguan Sign Language. There will be a quiz.
Writing Assignment
Write a short essay (three paragraphs) “Learning Language”
Paragraph 1: Describe your memories or observations about acquiring a
first language
Paragraph 2: Compare to your memories or observations about acquiring a second language.
Paragraph 3: Reflect on one or more of the following questions
o What is the difference between acquiring a first language and a second language?
o How does acquiring language affect our ability to think?
o How does acquiring a second language affect our view of the world?
o Would it would be good if everyone in the world spoke many languages?
o Would it be good if there were a universal language?
Homework for Wednesday, February 27
Drawing Assignment
Draw EITHER a map of the distribution of Indo-European languages OR the Indo-European language tree, whichever you find most useful. Color neatly and title properly. I appreciate clear, informative captions.
Writing Assignment
Write a one paragraph description of the work of William Jones. What evidence convinced him of the existence of a “parent language”? When and how did he present his evidence and how have others built on his work?
Approximately 150 words.
Homework for Thursday, February 28
Writing Assignment
Write a short essay in the form of a letter advising a friend on whether or not to choose to learn English as a second language. Give advantages and disadvantages, citing at least ten of the characteristics of English that we have mentioned. Conclude by suggesting that English would be a good language to choose or by suggesting that they devote their energy to a different language.
We will have to imagine that your friend will magically understand your letter written in English.
Approximately 400 words.
Homework for Friday, March 1
Reading Assignment
Read Beowulf pages 14-24 (up to the picture of the goblet.) There will be a quiz.
Writing Assignment
Write a riddle in the style of the Anglo Saxons.
The riddle should be written in the first person. (Use “I”.)
There should be a variety of consistent clues.
At least 10 lines.
Homework for Monday, March 4
Reading Assignment
Read Beowulf pages 25 – 36. Stop at “Beowulf returns to Geatland.” There will be a quiz.
Homework for Tuesday, March 5
Reading Assignment
Finish Beowulf, pages 36 – 52. There will be a quiz.
Writing Assignment
Write a poem following the rules of Anglo Saxon poetry.
Four beats per line with a pause in the middle.
Two or three alliterations per line.
Kennings are appreciated.
Direct, vigorous language.
At least 12 lines.