Jolynn Walek | English

2nd hour Review

1st hour Review

Ms. Walek’s Mythology

Congratulations on the beginning of a great trimester.  I’m excited to get to know you all and hope you feel the same.  If you ever have any questions or concerns, please feel free to stop in and see me.  I’d love to hear what you have to say. 

This English class will challenge you in many different ways, including your willingness to go above and beyond.  Please remember that this is an honors class, and all work will be graded with that in mind.  I set high expectations for my students and am anticipating seeing you ALL rise to the challenge.  Maintaining a solid work ethic is extremely important for success.  All assignments, tests, and quizzes should be completed to the best of your ability.  (Remember, a minimum of a B- is necessary to stay in the program.) 

Good luck! 

Don’t forget to prepare for a possible quiz over “The Return of Odysseus” and “Argus” for Tuesday!

Things have been going well so far in our reading of the Odyssey.  I’m having a blast reading it.  (I think students enjoy listening as I use my dramatic voices–I’ve always had a hidden want to be an actress :) 

If you are having a difficult time interpreting, please don’t hesitate to come in and grab a book to reread at home.  We’re finishing our reading on Friday and begin Julius Caesar next Monday.

April & May Calendars

Students already know who Odysseus is, and now we have the opportunity to understand his 10 year journey home after the Trojan war.  I think students will genuinely enjoy hearing about this epic hero and all of his encounters.  It is said that Western literature begain with Homer’s epics the Iliad and the Odyssey.   Smithsonian Magazine said, “It [the Odyssey] is one of the greatest poems in all literature, rich with psychological insight into the stresses of abandonment, jealousy, pride and shame.”  Students will recognize many of the elements in this narrative poem even in today’s society. 

I’m so excited to get started blogging!  This is going to be a great way to communicate with both students and parents.  My intent with this blog is to keep everyone informed on a regular basis about what is going on in our classroom.  This is a wonderful opportunity for our school and community to stay updated with what is happening.