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!

Welcome

Welcome! This is our class weblog. A "blog" is a place where you can share your experiences and opinions. What better time to do that than now when you are living in a strange country learning a very strange language!? Blogging is also a great way to learn about your classmates and to help each other improve your English writing skills.

KEEPING AN ON-LINE JOURNAL

Once or twice a week I will post a prompt. A prompt is a question or topic which you respond to in writing. Your journal entry should be at least 3-4 paragraphs (approximately 15+ sentences) in length. If you want, you may post pictures or links to help your reader understand what you are talking about. As you learn more about English writing and grammar, feel free to come back and edit and correct your journal entries.

At the end of your journal you will write the names of two classmates whose journal entries you've read and commented on. If you're the first one to post a journal entry, you'll have to come back later.

Of course, I hope you will also use your blog to write just for fun, too! ALP professors love to see their students enjoying their American life and the English language.

So, what are you waiting for!? Create your own blog and start showing us who you are!

Yours,