Journal 7: Birds of a Feather

Some people say "birds of a feather flock together", and others say "opposites attract". When you look at your friends, which seems to be true for you?

Prompt: Compare your best friend (or friends) with yourself. How are you alike or different? You can compare any areas of your life - hobbies, beliefs, likes & dislikes, etc. If you're different, how can you be friends? Be sure to use the organization and unity strategies we've studied for Compare/Contrast essays.

Due Wednesday, Feb. 16th 10 PM

Note: "Birds of a feather flock together" is a very old saying which means people who are alike will hang out together and probably be close friends.


Your very different friend,

Journal 6: Getting Around

Vroom! Vroom! It has often been said that the USA has the best roads in the world. . . but the lousiest public transportation. What do you think?

Prompt: Write about how you get around here in America. Do you drive? Take the bus? Do you own a car? Do you want to own a car? How does Orange County's transportation system compare with your hometown?

Due Friday, Feb 11th by 10PM

Watch out for traffic jams,

Journal 5: Life's Soundtrack

Just like a movie our life has a soundtrack. We can't help but associate songs we hear with the memories we make. The song above, "Such Great Heights", is a song which I will always associate with my relationship with my wife, Lisa. Many of our friends have told us that the lyrics to this song really describe our relationship. (I also like this acoustic version, which is very pretty.)

Prompt: What is your favorite song (or one of your most favorite)? Or, what song is very significant to you? When did you first hear the song, and how has it described or affected your life?

Due: Wednesday, Feb 9 by 10PM.

Rock out!

Journal 4: Weather

It is often said that California has no weather. What people mean is that California does not have a lot of variety in its seasons. Actually, many people think we are lucky to live in Southern California, where the weather is usually mild and pleasant. Some people don't like sunny weather all of the time though. Personally, I really like hazy, foggy weather or the hours just before a storm.

Prompt: What is your favorite kind of weather? Why? How often can you enjoy this type of weather in your home country?

Due: Friday, February 4th by 10PM.

Note: Here are some words used to describe the weather.

Journal 3: Old Fears

The couple in this picture are obviously not afraid of heights! Personally, I am very scared of heights. There are lots of things which people are afraid of - insects, the dark, death, speaking in front of people, failing, being alone, and so on.

Prompt: Everyone has fears that must be overcome. What are some things you used to be afraid of? How did you get over those fears?

Don't forget to read and comment on at least two of your classmates' blogs.

Note: In English we can say: "face your fears" and "overcome fears". Try using these in your journal.

Due: Wednesday, Feb 2nd by 10PM.

"...the only thing we have to fear is fear itself..."
Franklin D. Roosevelt

Journal 2: New Year's Resolution

The New Year is here! In America it is customary that in January everyone decide on a New Year's Resolution - that is, something they hope to accomplish or a change they wish to make. Common resolutions include losing weight and quitting smoking. You might notice that there are many weight-loss commercials at this time.

Prompt: What is your New Year's Resolution? Is there something you hope to change about yourself? Is there something you hope to accomplish this year? Why did you choose this resolution? What will you do to be true to your resolution? Will it be difficult?

Due: Friday, January 28th

Resolving to be your favorite teacher this year,

Journal 1: Introductions

It is time for introductions! All of you, brave students of Proficient level, will be stuck with one another for many hours every week. It's best if we "start off on the right foot".

Prompt: You will write a short (1-2 paragraph) introduction. First, briefly introduce yourself. Please also include a photo of yourself.

Perhaps you could mention where you are from, what your dreams or aspirations are! When you are finished, be sure to mention at the bottom of your journal entry the names of the classmates whose posts you read.

Due Wed, 26th 10PM

Nice to meet you!