Peace is bare feet in sand.
Tone: Serene, Tranquil, Harmonious
Mood: Reminiscent, Yearning, Dreamlike
Theme: My ideal state of being is in the quiet relaxation of the beach.
Subject: Peacefulness
Monday, September 10, 2012
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Reading Bucket List
1) The Catcher in the Rye- J.D. Salinger
This book was recommended to me by three members of my family, who all said Salinger should be required reading for high school students. My uncle, who is a professor of literature at University of Louisiana Lafayette, mentioned that it is surprisingly readable for a classic book. I plan to include it on the list of books on my scholarship application.
2) Going Bovine- Libba Bray
I read Libba Bray's Great and Terrible Beauty series in junior high and really enjoyed it, so I want to check this book out. It will probably be more of an easy read, but I think it looks a little more mature than some of her other books. It's categorized as a "dark comedy" and I enjoy some dark humor.
3) The French Lieutenant's Woman- John Fowles
I started to read this book when summer started, and I was enjoying it, but I got really busy with different summer camps and quit reading it a chapter or two in. I want to start it over and read the whole way through this time, because it was very interesting until I got sidetracked.
4) Paper Towns- John Green
I've only read one John Green book, "Will Grayson, Will Grayson," and I wasn't too crazy about it. But that one was co-written with another author and I've heard several different people say they absolutely love John Green's work, so I want to give him another try with a different book.
5) It- Stephen King
I want to read a horror novel to mix things up a bit. I've never read a Stephen King book, but I've seen a few of the movies and know that he definitely creates fascinating plots. I've never seen the movie "It," so I can read the book without knowing what happens already.
6) Franny and Zooey- JD Salinger
I have a copy of Franny and Zooey already that I've been meaning to read. Basically, I just like Salinger. I read a compilation of his short stories called "Nine Stories," and really enjoyed it. Salinger stories are enjoyable because he knows how to make his writing meaningful, yet still easily understood.
7) My Life- Bill Clinton
This is definitely one I want to put down on my college application. I also started this one several months ago and stopped reading because I got busy. However, I really admire Bill Clinton and he has lived a fascinating life, so I think I will enjoy his book once I can get into it.
8) The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time- Mark Haddon
This book caught my attention when we talked about it on the first day of school because I actually have two cousins on my dad's side with autism, and an aunt on my mom's side that specializes in communication with the autistic. So, I know a lot about it already and this sounds like a really interesting perspective of autism.
9) The Kite Runner- Khaled Hosseini
I probably know a lot less than I should about the many conflicts in the middle East, involving Afghanistan and the Taliban. However, the middle East is extremely relevant and important right now, so I think this book will be an interesting way to actually learn a little bit more about it.
10) Water for Elephants- Sara Gruen
This sounds like a pretty crazy plot, but the book caught my eye on the first day of school because I have heard so many people talk about it and say they loved it, teachers and students alike. I want to see the movie as well but I want to read the book first, because you should always read the book first before watching the movie of anything.
This book was recommended to me by three members of my family, who all said Salinger should be required reading for high school students. My uncle, who is a professor of literature at University of Louisiana Lafayette, mentioned that it is surprisingly readable for a classic book. I plan to include it on the list of books on my scholarship application.
2) Going Bovine- Libba Bray
I read Libba Bray's Great and Terrible Beauty series in junior high and really enjoyed it, so I want to check this book out. It will probably be more of an easy read, but I think it looks a little more mature than some of her other books. It's categorized as a "dark comedy" and I enjoy some dark humor.
3) The French Lieutenant's Woman- John Fowles
I started to read this book when summer started, and I was enjoying it, but I got really busy with different summer camps and quit reading it a chapter or two in. I want to start it over and read the whole way through this time, because it was very interesting until I got sidetracked.
4) Paper Towns- John Green
I've only read one John Green book, "Will Grayson, Will Grayson," and I wasn't too crazy about it. But that one was co-written with another author and I've heard several different people say they absolutely love John Green's work, so I want to give him another try with a different book.
5) It- Stephen King
I want to read a horror novel to mix things up a bit. I've never read a Stephen King book, but I've seen a few of the movies and know that he definitely creates fascinating plots. I've never seen the movie "It," so I can read the book without knowing what happens already.
6) Franny and Zooey- JD Salinger
I have a copy of Franny and Zooey already that I've been meaning to read. Basically, I just like Salinger. I read a compilation of his short stories called "Nine Stories," and really enjoyed it. Salinger stories are enjoyable because he knows how to make his writing meaningful, yet still easily understood.
7) My Life- Bill Clinton
This is definitely one I want to put down on my college application. I also started this one several months ago and stopped reading because I got busy. However, I really admire Bill Clinton and he has lived a fascinating life, so I think I will enjoy his book once I can get into it.
8) The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time- Mark Haddon
This book caught my attention when we talked about it on the first day of school because I actually have two cousins on my dad's side with autism, and an aunt on my mom's side that specializes in communication with the autistic. So, I know a lot about it already and this sounds like a really interesting perspective of autism.
9) The Kite Runner- Khaled Hosseini
I probably know a lot less than I should about the many conflicts in the middle East, involving Afghanistan and the Taliban. However, the middle East is extremely relevant and important right now, so I think this book will be an interesting way to actually learn a little bit more about it.
10) Water for Elephants- Sara Gruen
This sounds like a pretty crazy plot, but the book caught my eye on the first day of school because I have heard so many people talk about it and say they loved it, teachers and students alike. I want to see the movie as well but I want to read the book first, because you should always read the book first before watching the movie of anything.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
"Rebel Without a Cause" Review
In the 1955 film "Rebel Without a Cause," James Dean plays the iconic role of Jim Stark, the new kid in town who is ripe with teen angst. This is the role for which James Dean would secure his place as a film legend. Written by Stewart Stern and adapted by Irving Shulman, "Rebel Without a Cause" was directed by Nicholas Ray at Warner Bros. Studios. The movie also stars Natalie Wood in one of her first major roles.
Jim Stark (James Dean) comes to town with an already troubled past, and quickly catches the attention of Judy (Natalie Wood), Plato (Sal Mineo), and other rebellious teens at Dawson High School. When a contentious relationship develops between Jim and Judy's boyfriend Buzz, Buzz suggests they settle their dispute by participating in a "chickie run," where both boys will drive a car straight at a cliff. Whoever jumps out of the car first loses. However, disaster strikes. Buzz finds himself trapped in the car, as it hurtles over the edge of cliff, while Judy and the other kids from school watch in horror.
Jim feels a twisted sense of responsibility for Buzz's death and intends to turn himself in to the police. His image-obsessed parents object, and Jim storms out of the house in a violent fit of rage. He then flees to an abandoned house with Judy and his tagalong new friend, Plato, where Jim and Judy become romantically involved, and the trio assumes the roles of father, mother, and son. They are eventually found by members of Buzz's gang and the police, at which point Buzz attempts to fire his gun, resulting in being shot by police. The movie concludes with Jim Stark being reunited with his parents and introducing them to Judy.
The film is basically a discussion of the teenage psyche during the 1950's. It poses the question of who to blame for teen misbehavior- the parents, or the kids? We see parenting problems throughout the movie, from the self-concerned, jovial attitude of Mr. and Mrs. Stark, to the sexual tension between Judy and her father, to the absence of Plato's parents. Each of the kids will admit to their misbehavior as cries for attention.
While "Rebel Without a Cause" is an accurate depiction of the passionate rebellion of kids in the 50's, the movie is considerably out of date. It has not stood up to the test of time, because while adolescents are still openly rebellious, the teen psyche has shifted from rage to apathy. Tense relationships with parents, illegal activities, and teen angst are rampant as ever, but the age group as a whole is much less eager to share their emotions like the characters seen in the movie. Therefore, while the film is a good depiction of the early development of teenage rebellion, it has not stayed relevant. Entertaining, but out-of-date.
Jim Stark (James Dean) comes to town with an already troubled past, and quickly catches the attention of Judy (Natalie Wood), Plato (Sal Mineo), and other rebellious teens at Dawson High School. When a contentious relationship develops between Jim and Judy's boyfriend Buzz, Buzz suggests they settle their dispute by participating in a "chickie run," where both boys will drive a car straight at a cliff. Whoever jumps out of the car first loses. However, disaster strikes. Buzz finds himself trapped in the car, as it hurtles over the edge of cliff, while Judy and the other kids from school watch in horror.
Jim feels a twisted sense of responsibility for Buzz's death and intends to turn himself in to the police. His image-obsessed parents object, and Jim storms out of the house in a violent fit of rage. He then flees to an abandoned house with Judy and his tagalong new friend, Plato, where Jim and Judy become romantically involved, and the trio assumes the roles of father, mother, and son. They are eventually found by members of Buzz's gang and the police, at which point Buzz attempts to fire his gun, resulting in being shot by police. The movie concludes with Jim Stark being reunited with his parents and introducing them to Judy.
The film is basically a discussion of the teenage psyche during the 1950's. It poses the question of who to blame for teen misbehavior- the parents, or the kids? We see parenting problems throughout the movie, from the self-concerned, jovial attitude of Mr. and Mrs. Stark, to the sexual tension between Judy and her father, to the absence of Plato's parents. Each of the kids will admit to their misbehavior as cries for attention.
While "Rebel Without a Cause" is an accurate depiction of the passionate rebellion of kids in the 50's, the movie is considerably out of date. It has not stood up to the test of time, because while adolescents are still openly rebellious, the teen psyche has shifted from rage to apathy. Tense relationships with parents, illegal activities, and teen angst are rampant as ever, but the age group as a whole is much less eager to share their emotions like the characters seen in the movie. Therefore, while the film is a good depiction of the early development of teenage rebellion, it has not stayed relevant. Entertaining, but out-of-date.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
What to Say When You are Spectacularly Wrong: An Analysis of "How to Argue Effectively" by Dave Barry
Dave Barry's sardonic overconfidence subtly criticizes aggressive, ignorant people who are quick to argue when they have no knowledge about the topic. He purposely uses fallacies throughout an article which claims to teach the audience how to argue, even though fallacies are to be avoided at all costs in an argument. Barry then inflates many of these baseless statements through hyperbole. He finally employs satire by infusing his article with a sarcastic humor. With a combination of wildly untrue statements and an obviously false cocky attitude, Barry disparages those who don't gather their thoughts before jumping into a confrontation.
The author begins his list of tips with an entirely unjustifiable claim. He advises the reader to "drink several large martinis," and you'll discover you have a "wealth of information" about the "Peruvian economy." Any cognizant reader of this article will know that under the veil of alcohol, humans gain no knowledge but become less intelligent. This statement is automatically untrue, and the fallacy is easily realized by the reader. Barry then suggests that the reader should make the point that "Peruvians are underpaid," "based solely on the fact that you are underpaid." This second fallacy is also easily refuted, as the evidence does not support the claim. Barry purposely lists irrational points to convey the ignorance of those whose arguments are filled with alcohol-induced fallacies.
Barry then exaggerates his ridiculous claims through hyperbole. He states that the addition of "Latin abbreviations" such as "e.g." and "i.e." to your vocabulary mean that you now "speak Latin." Most Americans are familiar with these abbreviations as they have been incorporated into the English language. Therefore, to imply that the knowledge of these phrases constitutes the knowledge of the entire Latin language is an extremely inflated claim. Barry later advises the reader to accuse their opponent that their words "sound suspiciously like something Adolf Hitler might say. In this article, the author is particularly describing arguments related to trivial matters or policital small talk at parties. Since it is difficult to sound as extreme as Hitler during a debate about issues much smaller than the extermination of the Jews, the reader can easily recognize this hyperbole, which is again use to criticize those who exaggerate their points.
As is the standard for a Dave Barry article, satire is a key component. He encourages his students of argument to respond to their opponents with "the same tone of voice you would use to say, 'You left your soiled underwear in my bathroom.'" His crude humor pokes fun at the snobbery of the arrogant argumentative. By making such an obvious joke, he ensures that the reader understands that the article is not seriously suggesting such ridiculous tips. Barry finishes with a warning to his audience not to "pull any of this on people who generally carry weapons." He purposely ends the article with satire to reinforce the light, sardonic tone. He intends to make the reader laugh, as his work has become synonymous with humor.
Throughout the article, Barry successfully juxtaposes supposedly serious advice with a satirically critical undertone. The employment or fallacy and hyperbole is used to chastise those whose arguments are filled with empty claims. He then pokes fun at the argumentative through blatant jokes. Although Barry seems to take on a serious advice column, he does not disappoint his loyal readers who have come to expect nothing less than hilarity.
The author begins his list of tips with an entirely unjustifiable claim. He advises the reader to "drink several large martinis," and you'll discover you have a "wealth of information" about the "Peruvian economy." Any cognizant reader of this article will know that under the veil of alcohol, humans gain no knowledge but become less intelligent. This statement is automatically untrue, and the fallacy is easily realized by the reader. Barry then suggests that the reader should make the point that "Peruvians are underpaid," "based solely on the fact that you are underpaid." This second fallacy is also easily refuted, as the evidence does not support the claim. Barry purposely lists irrational points to convey the ignorance of those whose arguments are filled with alcohol-induced fallacies.
Barry then exaggerates his ridiculous claims through hyperbole. He states that the addition of "Latin abbreviations" such as "e.g." and "i.e." to your vocabulary mean that you now "speak Latin." Most Americans are familiar with these abbreviations as they have been incorporated into the English language. Therefore, to imply that the knowledge of these phrases constitutes the knowledge of the entire Latin language is an extremely inflated claim. Barry later advises the reader to accuse their opponent that their words "sound suspiciously like something Adolf Hitler might say. In this article, the author is particularly describing arguments related to trivial matters or policital small talk at parties. Since it is difficult to sound as extreme as Hitler during a debate about issues much smaller than the extermination of the Jews, the reader can easily recognize this hyperbole, which is again use to criticize those who exaggerate their points.
As is the standard for a Dave Barry article, satire is a key component. He encourages his students of argument to respond to their opponents with "the same tone of voice you would use to say, 'You left your soiled underwear in my bathroom.'" His crude humor pokes fun at the snobbery of the arrogant argumentative. By making such an obvious joke, he ensures that the reader understands that the article is not seriously suggesting such ridiculous tips. Barry finishes with a warning to his audience not to "pull any of this on people who generally carry weapons." He purposely ends the article with satire to reinforce the light, sardonic tone. He intends to make the reader laugh, as his work has become synonymous with humor.
Throughout the article, Barry successfully juxtaposes supposedly serious advice with a satirically critical undertone. The employment or fallacy and hyperbole is used to chastise those whose arguments are filled with empty claims. He then pokes fun at the argumentative through blatant jokes. Although Barry seems to take on a serious advice column, he does not disappoint his loyal readers who have come to expect nothing less than hilarity.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
"Kill 'Em! Crush 'Em! Eat 'Em Raw!"
1. John McMurtry's essay begins with a personal anecdote about the results of playing sports —especially football — since childhood. When he can no longer ignore his physical condition, he seeks treatment and is hospitalized. How does the anecdote lend credibility to his argument?
The main purpose of the inclusion of a personal anecdote in the beginning of the essay is to establish ethos. His own story gives him credibility because he has personally experienced the negative long-term effects of full contact sports. This demonstrates to the reader that the author has evidence to back up his argument.
2. Consider the language of football, especially the words shared by the military. What sports other than football have a militaristic side?
Any team-vs-team sport with an emphasis on organization can somehow be reminiscent of the military. Even non-contact sports such as basketball consist of set plays, drills, and the ability to function as a cohesive unit. Some other sports that employ these principles are lacrosse, rugby, and soccer.
3. Who is McMurtry's audience? Is it necessary for the reader to understand or care about football in order to understand what McMurtry is saying about society? Explain.
McMurtry has a fairly broad audience, but mostly appeals to football fans. I think a reader with a decent understanding of football is going to benefit more from this essay than someone who has no knowledge of the sport, because if you don't understand how passionate people can be about watching/playing football, you can't understand why the brutality is tolerated.
4. McMurtry characterizes General George Patton and President Richard Nixon as "jockloving...media stars" (para. 6). Think of contemporary media stars who associate themselves with football or other sports. Does the association enhance or tarnish their image?
President Obama has been known to attend both basketball and football games. When I went to the Cotton Bowl this past month, the camera showed on the jumbotron that Eric Stonestreet, the star of the ABC sitcom "Modern Family" was at the game, cheering on Kansas State. Beyonce and Jay-Z are often shown in the crowd at sports events. Basically, the vast majority of media stars associate with sports in some way. This association usually serves to enhance their reputation, making them seem relatable to the average American. Photos of stars sitting in stadiums are often found in the "Stars are just like us" section of popular magazines.
The main purpose of the inclusion of a personal anecdote in the beginning of the essay is to establish ethos. His own story gives him credibility because he has personally experienced the negative long-term effects of full contact sports. This demonstrates to the reader that the author has evidence to back up his argument.
2. Consider the language of football, especially the words shared by the military. What sports other than football have a militaristic side?
Any team-vs-team sport with an emphasis on organization can somehow be reminiscent of the military. Even non-contact sports such as basketball consist of set plays, drills, and the ability to function as a cohesive unit. Some other sports that employ these principles are lacrosse, rugby, and soccer.
3. Who is McMurtry's audience? Is it necessary for the reader to understand or care about football in order to understand what McMurtry is saying about society? Explain.
McMurtry has a fairly broad audience, but mostly appeals to football fans. I think a reader with a decent understanding of football is going to benefit more from this essay than someone who has no knowledge of the sport, because if you don't understand how passionate people can be about watching/playing football, you can't understand why the brutality is tolerated.
4. McMurtry characterizes General George Patton and President Richard Nixon as "jockloving...media stars" (para. 6). Think of contemporary media stars who associate themselves with football or other sports. Does the association enhance or tarnish their image?
President Obama has been known to attend both basketball and football games. When I went to the Cotton Bowl this past month, the camera showed on the jumbotron that Eric Stonestreet, the star of the ABC sitcom "Modern Family" was at the game, cheering on Kansas State. Beyonce and Jay-Z are often shown in the crowd at sports events. Basically, the vast majority of media stars associate with sports in some way. This association usually serves to enhance their reputation, making them seem relatable to the average American. Photos of stars sitting in stadiums are often found in the "Stars are just like us" section of popular magazines.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Standardized Testing
Everyone dreads standardized testing at the end of the year. It's a big source of stress and worry for both teachers and students alike. But while it may not be the most enjoyable time of year, it is basically unavoidable.
These tests are not perfectly indicative of teaching ability or a student's capacity to learn because many students are simply not good test-takers and may not perform up to their ability. However, standardized tests do give as good a proof as any as to whether or not a student is ready to move up a grade level. Even if a student is smarter than what their test scores show, if they cannot pass the minimum score required, they're not ready to advance to a higher grade. For this reason, standardized testing is a proven, necessary method.
These tests are not perfectly indicative of teaching ability or a student's capacity to learn because many students are simply not good test-takers and may not perform up to their ability. However, standardized tests do give as good a proof as any as to whether or not a student is ready to move up a grade level. Even if a student is smarter than what their test scores show, if they cannot pass the minimum score required, they're not ready to advance to a higher grade. For this reason, standardized testing is a proven, necessary method.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Analysis: Dress Irresponsibly
In PacSun's new series of "Dress Irresponsibly" ads, a fairly common depiction of teenagers is seen. The youth of today want to live it up while they're young; be carefree and irresponsible before they are forced to grow up. In this particular ad, appeals are made subtly through a simple picture and motto.
The use of ethos is seen through the young woman in the ad, who seems to be delivering the message of dressing irresponsibly. This girl, wearing a content smirk and showing a generally relaxed demeanor, is laying in a large pool of PacSun clothes, which are carelessly strewn about. She is basically saying, "Be like me and have no worries." She is being used as an example for what teens should aspire to be. By putting her in this position (someone better than the average kid), she has the authority to give advice on how to dress and how to live your life.
As for emotional appeals, look at the obvious grin on the model's face. She is content and carefree, which hardly any teens are. She seems to have come home from a night out partying, and is now basking in the sunlight with not a care in the world. It's all thanks to her choice in clothing. The picture emphasizes that the clothes are the reason for the joy seen in this PacSun customer.
While the background image of the ad is the main source of ethos and pathos, the slogan stamped across it is full of logical appeal. At first the words seem provocative. "Dress irresponsibly." However, it doesn't mean to dress in a vulgar way, but rather to dress freely. Wear whatever you want. This is logical because teens do not have freedom in a lot of areas, and just like the ad implies, freedom is something teens are craving. So thankfully, they have PacSun, where the clothes express individuality, freedom, and carelessness.
As for emotional appeals, look at the obvious grin on the model's face. She is content and carefree, which hardly any teens are. She seems to have come home from a night out partying, and is now basking in the sunlight with not a care in the world. It's all thanks to her choice in clothing. The picture emphasizes that the clothes are the reason for the joy seen in this PacSun customer.
While the background image of the ad is the main source of ethos and pathos, the slogan stamped across it is full of logical appeal. At first the words seem provocative. "Dress irresponsibly." However, it doesn't mean to dress in a vulgar way, but rather to dress freely. Wear whatever you want. This is logical because teens do not have freedom in a lot of areas, and just like the ad implies, freedom is something teens are craving. So thankfully, they have PacSun, where the clothes express individuality, freedom, and carelessness.
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