LAST WEEK WE EXAMINED more closely how author's create meaning using language. We looked at an introduction to Estabrook's Tomatoland. We also reviewed the results from the finals and talked about how your journal can be a better resource if you add ideas to it on a regular basis, not just for the assigned in-and-out of class assignments.

Monday

No school today for snow day.
HW: Remember to bring Short Takes to class.

Tuesday

Today we will put into practice some of the skills we've learned first semester. For our journal, you will go to the cafeteria and record your observations. Pay attention to sensory detail: what do you see, specifically? What do you smell? What do people say? What are some of the larger themes you observe? Take down as much detail as possible. We'll then discuss the tomato essay.
HW: Create a reverse outline for the tomato essay. How is it structured, or organized? Add these notes to your journal.

Wednesday

Reading two short takes essays today: "Who's Watching Reality TV and Sports" by Frank Deford and Leight's "Playing House." You will choose one and answer the OTIS questions for class tomorrow.
HW: Finish your OTIS questions.

Thursday

We will start by collecting OTIS questions and then discussion the organizing principle in the tomato essay. We will read Safransky's "Many Alarm Clocks." Then, you will return to the cafeteria to observe again. Head to exactly the same place and record additional material for an essay on the cafeteria. You will have to develop an implied thesis, a specific tone, and establish an overt sensory image and thoughtful dialogue.
HW: Write a first draft of your cafeteria essay. Due tomorrow.

Friday

Small group workshop of first drafts. Bring five copies of your draft for class tomorrow. We will also begin reading another longer, non-fiction essay in the third-person.
HW: Finish reading the essay, "Shapinsky's Dream."