Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Boo's Journal Part 2
Well, I've had a crazy night! I went outside! I can't believe I had the courage to go out there by that big oak tree and save Scout and Jem's lives. I am so happy that those two children are okay. It was so kind of Mr. Heck Tate and Atticus to agree that Bob Ewell slipped on his knife, instead of saying who really killed him. I suppose that Heck, Atticus, and Scout all know that it's a sin to kill a mockingbird. What I mean by this is that someone finally understands that it was never my intention to hurt or scare anyone, and it hurt me so much to hear all of the mean, untrue rumors that the people of Maycomb have made up about me over the years. It makes me feel better to know that at least those three people know how to empathize with others instead of making judgements about another person without fully understanding what they go through every day. It is people like Atticus who bring justice to our society by empathizing with others and seeing us all as equals, instead of thinking like the people of Maycomb who look down upon those who do not meet the standards of their society. Atticus is teaching his children right, and I appreciate him so much for agreeing to lye about the Bob Ewell in order to express his belief that there is no use in causing harm to a person who has never hurt anyone else- me. I can see that his ideas and beliefs have rubbed off in his kind, empathetic children and I know that they will forever carry on his effort to establish justice and equality among the people of Maycomb. I respect the Finch family for showing me that someone understands what I am going through, and I am especially grateful for Atticus for never making any judgements or assumptions about me before actually seeing me. I trust that there will always be a few people like the Finch family, who stand up for empathy and justice through a society of prejudice and injustice.
Friday, December 13, 2013
TKAM response journal chapters 26 and 27
#7-
A detail that was particularly striking to me was when Miss Gates tells the class about Hitler and she says, "Over here we don't believe in persecuting anybody. Persecution comes from people who are prejudiced. Prejudice" (Lee 245). This was striking to me because it shows how hypocritical the people of Maycomb really are. All of the people who live in Maycomb were so prejudiced during the trial, and it was unbelievable to me that Miss Gates could teach the class that the U.S. is not prejudiced like Germany when they see people being prejudiced to black people every day. Maycomb has a striking sense of conformity and the residents are prejudiced toward anyone who does not perfectly conform to their society. They are racist, biased people and it is ironic and surprising to me that Miss Gates would teach her class the complete opposite of what Maycomb really is.
Another phrase that was striking to me was when Scout brings the topic of Hitler home to Atticus, and when she asks him if it is okay to hate Hitler he answers, "It's not okay to hate anybody" (Lee 246). I think that this is another example that shows how empathetic and wise Atticus really is because he is saying that no matter how immoral a person is, it still doesn't make it okay to hate them. He is not directly saying it, but it adds to the theme of empathy in TKAM because even when talking about one of the most ruthless men in the history of the world, Atticus still uses empathy to understand why a person does the things he does. He is saying that even if you don't respect another person's actions, you can use empathy so that you will not go so far as hating them.
A detail that was particularly striking to me was when Miss Gates tells the class about Hitler and she says, "Over here we don't believe in persecuting anybody. Persecution comes from people who are prejudiced. Prejudice" (Lee 245). This was striking to me because it shows how hypocritical the people of Maycomb really are. All of the people who live in Maycomb were so prejudiced during the trial, and it was unbelievable to me that Miss Gates could teach the class that the U.S. is not prejudiced like Germany when they see people being prejudiced to black people every day. Maycomb has a striking sense of conformity and the residents are prejudiced toward anyone who does not perfectly conform to their society. They are racist, biased people and it is ironic and surprising to me that Miss Gates would teach her class the complete opposite of what Maycomb really is.
Another phrase that was striking to me was when Scout brings the topic of Hitler home to Atticus, and when she asks him if it is okay to hate Hitler he answers, "It's not okay to hate anybody" (Lee 246). I think that this is another example that shows how empathetic and wise Atticus really is because he is saying that no matter how immoral a person is, it still doesn't make it okay to hate them. He is not directly saying it, but it adds to the theme of empathy in TKAM because even when talking about one of the most ruthless men in the history of the world, Atticus still uses empathy to understand why a person does the things he does. He is saying that even if you don't respect another person's actions, you can use empathy so that you will not go so far as hating them.
Thursday, December 12, 2013
TKAM response journal chapters 24 and 25
#1-
When Atticus reflects on Tom Robinson's death while in the kitchen with Calpurnia, Miss Maudie, Aunt Alexandra, and Scout he says. " I guess Tom was tired of white men's chances and preferred to take his own" (Lee 236). I agree with what Atticus says because if I were in Tom's situation I would do something similar if not the same thing that he did at the jail. Atticus is saying that Tom was sick of the odds always being against him because he was black, and he took the chance of trying to escape even though the odds were against him because of his left arm. I can understand that Tom really had nothing left to loose and felt the need to at least try to escape from the horrible situation he was in. I respect Tom for taking the chance he did because after taking so many chances with the white people of Maycomb, he needed to take his own chance for once.
Something else brag intrigued me is when Aunt Alexandra tells Miss Maudie that the people of Maycomb are willing to let Atticus do the things that they're are too scared to do and Miss Maudie replies, " Have you ever thought of it this way, Alexandra? Whether Maycomb knows it or not, we're paying the highest tribute we can pay a man. We trust him to do right. It's that simple" (Lee 236). I think that this is a brilliant way of looking at the way that the people in town look to Atticus to solve their problems. They respect him and look up to him to help them because of his knowledge and determined attitude towards everything he does.
When Atticus reflects on Tom Robinson's death while in the kitchen with Calpurnia, Miss Maudie, Aunt Alexandra, and Scout he says. " I guess Tom was tired of white men's chances and preferred to take his own" (Lee 236). I agree with what Atticus says because if I were in Tom's situation I would do something similar if not the same thing that he did at the jail. Atticus is saying that Tom was sick of the odds always being against him because he was black, and he took the chance of trying to escape even though the odds were against him because of his left arm. I can understand that Tom really had nothing left to loose and felt the need to at least try to escape from the horrible situation he was in. I respect Tom for taking the chance he did because after taking so many chances with the white people of Maycomb, he needed to take his own chance for once.
Something else brag intrigued me is when Aunt Alexandra tells Miss Maudie that the people of Maycomb are willing to let Atticus do the things that they're are too scared to do and Miss Maudie replies, " Have you ever thought of it this way, Alexandra? Whether Maycomb knows it or not, we're paying the highest tribute we can pay a man. We trust him to do right. It's that simple" (Lee 236). I think that this is a brilliant way of looking at the way that the people in town look to Atticus to solve their problems. They respect him and look up to him to help them because of his knowledge and determined attitude towards everything he does.
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
TKAM response journal chapters 22 and 23
#10-
A quote that made me stop and think was when Atticus talks to Jem and Scout about the verdict of Tom Robinson's trial and the people in the jury and he says, "They've done it before and they did it tonight and they'll do it again and when they do it- seems that only children weep" (Lee 213). This quote was moving to me because Atticus is saying that the jury frequently makes a decision based on prejudice ideas and the only people who seem to get upset about it are children. I think that this is because only children see everyone as equals because they cannot understand the differences that most adults believe make some people superior to others. Children only see that we are all humans and they cannot comprehend the idea that one person is better than someone else.
Another quote that was similarly moving to me was when Jem and Scout are discussing the different kinds of people in Maycomb and Scout says, "Naw, Jem, I think there's just one kind of folks. Folks" (Lee 277). Scout is saying that when it comes down to it there really are no different groups of people that are better or worse than each other- there is only one big group of people. We all want to have happy, fulfilling lives and there shouldn't be any differences between us. No matter where someone lives, where their family comes from, how much money they make, or what color skin they have, they are still a human being and what Scout is saying is that there is absolutely no reason for them to be treated better or worse than another human being.
A quote that made me stop and think was when Atticus talks to Jem and Scout about the verdict of Tom Robinson's trial and the people in the jury and he says, "They've done it before and they did it tonight and they'll do it again and when they do it- seems that only children weep" (Lee 213). This quote was moving to me because Atticus is saying that the jury frequently makes a decision based on prejudice ideas and the only people who seem to get upset about it are children. I think that this is because only children see everyone as equals because they cannot understand the differences that most adults believe make some people superior to others. Children only see that we are all humans and they cannot comprehend the idea that one person is better than someone else.
Another quote that was similarly moving to me was when Jem and Scout are discussing the different kinds of people in Maycomb and Scout says, "Naw, Jem, I think there's just one kind of folks. Folks" (Lee 277). Scout is saying that when it comes down to it there really are no different groups of people that are better or worse than each other- there is only one big group of people. We all want to have happy, fulfilling lives and there shouldn't be any differences between us. No matter where someone lives, where their family comes from, how much money they make, or what color skin they have, they are still a human being and what Scout is saying is that there is absolutely no reason for them to be treated better or worse than another human being.
Monday, December 9, 2013
Rhetorical device video and analysis
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=lgFuCvjSf0E
This commercial uses ethos because it shows children who have been treated at Saint Jude hospital for cancer and know what donating will do for the hospital and it's patients. It also shows Shaun White, who donates to the hospital and knows their purpose- childhood cancer research.They are credible because they are experienced in the treatment of cancer and are worth listening to because they know all about cancer research. The video also uses logos because it explains that Saint Jude hospitals have boosted the child hood cancer survival rate from 20% to 80% across America. This is a logical reason to donate to Saint Jude hospitals because they have continuously treated and saved children with various cancers across the country, and it just makes sense to donate to such a successful foundation. Finally, this video uses pathos to appeal to the viewers emotions and therefore persuade them into donating to Saint Jude. There is music with a rather sad tone in the background of the commercial that makes he viewer feel sad for the cancer patients. This will make the viewer want to donate because they will want to help childhood cancer patients if they feel bad for them. The commercial also depicts the dreams and hopes of the patients, which makes the viewer feel bad for them and in turn want to give the hospitals that save their lives money. At the end of the video the use of pathos is evident when it connects on a personal level with the viewer by making them think of the children that they love in their life. This makes the viewer very emotional and leads them to understand how they would feel if the children that they love had cancer, and makes them want to help other children at Saint Jude even more. This video uses all three rhetoric devices to persuade the viewer to donate to St. Jude children's research hospital.
Sunday, December 8, 2013
TKAM response journal chapters 20 and 21
#6-
A quote that I agree with is when Dolphus Raymond tells Scout and Dill that he lies about who he really is to the public of Maycomb and he says, "It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason... Secretly, Miss Finch, I'm not much of a drinker, but you see they could not understand that I live like I do because that's the way I want to live" (Lee 200). I agree with this quote because it is so true that when people cannot understand why a person does something that they do, they need a reason to justify it. Instead of trying to empathize with Mr. Raymond, the people of Maycomb judge him and make rumors about him to help themselves to understand why he prefers to spend his time with black people instead of white people. I agree with Dolphus Raymond's decision to pretend to be a drunk and I think that it is extremely humble of him to pretend to be such a troubled person just to help the people of Maycomb "understand" why he does what he does.
Another quote that I agree with is when Atticus gives his closing argument to the jury and he says that, "...the evil assumption- that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are basically immoral beings, that all Negro men are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption one associates with minds of their caliber" (Lee 204). I agree with the author when she writes this because I also believe that people who are uneducated like the Ewell's are ignorant about the world and other people. This makes them extremely vulnerable to prejudice and racism because they do not have enough knowledge to have empathy for others.
A quote that I agree with is when Dolphus Raymond tells Scout and Dill that he lies about who he really is to the public of Maycomb and he says, "It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason... Secretly, Miss Finch, I'm not much of a drinker, but you see they could not understand that I live like I do because that's the way I want to live" (Lee 200). I agree with this quote because it is so true that when people cannot understand why a person does something that they do, they need a reason to justify it. Instead of trying to empathize with Mr. Raymond, the people of Maycomb judge him and make rumors about him to help themselves to understand why he prefers to spend his time with black people instead of white people. I agree with Dolphus Raymond's decision to pretend to be a drunk and I think that it is extremely humble of him to pretend to be such a troubled person just to help the people of Maycomb "understand" why he does what he does.
Another quote that I agree with is when Atticus gives his closing argument to the jury and he says that, "...the evil assumption- that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are basically immoral beings, that all Negro men are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption one associates with minds of their caliber" (Lee 204). I agree with the author when she writes this because I also believe that people who are uneducated like the Ewell's are ignorant about the world and other people. This makes them extremely vulnerable to prejudice and racism because they do not have enough knowledge to have empathy for others.
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
TKAM response journal chapters 18 and 19
#3-
How can we use empathy to break through the barriers of prejudice?
According to chapters 18 and 19, we can use empathy to break through the barriers of prejudice by understanding how another person feels and relating to their struggles. This helps us to forget about the things we judge others for and remember that deep down we are all humans. For instance, when Scout reflects on Mayella Ewell's testimony she thinks, "When Atticus asked had she any friends, she seemed not to know what he meant, then she thought he was making fun of her. She was as sad, I thought, as what Jem called a mixed child: white people wouldn't have anything to do with her because she lived among pigs; Negroes wouldn't have anything to do with her because she was white" (Lee 192). This justifies that we can use empathy to break through the barriers of prejudice because although Mayella comes from the Ewell family and is not liked by the town, Scout tries to understand what she is going through and relate to her loneliness. This helps Scout to be less prejudice to Mayella Ewell, and she understands that even though they both come from different families and backgrounds they are still both humans.
Dill also shows that empathy can be used to break through the barriers of prejudice by relating to another persons life and realizing that we are all humans no matter what. For example, when Dill tells Scout why Tom Robinson's testimony upset him he says, " I don't care one speck. It ain't right, somehow it ain't right to do 'em that way. Hasn't anybody got any business talkin' like that- it just makes me sick" (Lee 199). This displays that we can use empathy to break through the barriers of prejudice because even though Tom Robinson is black, Dill is empathetic toward him and understands that he is human and he should not be spoken to in any way that a white person would be spoken to. He can relate to the way that Tom Robinson feels when Mr. Gilmer talks to him so disrespectfully, and this is why Dill is not prejudice toward Tom Robinson like most of the town residents are.
How can we use empathy to break through the barriers of prejudice?
According to chapters 18 and 19, we can use empathy to break through the barriers of prejudice by understanding how another person feels and relating to their struggles. This helps us to forget about the things we judge others for and remember that deep down we are all humans. For instance, when Scout reflects on Mayella Ewell's testimony she thinks, "When Atticus asked had she any friends, she seemed not to know what he meant, then she thought he was making fun of her. She was as sad, I thought, as what Jem called a mixed child: white people wouldn't have anything to do with her because she lived among pigs; Negroes wouldn't have anything to do with her because she was white" (Lee 192). This justifies that we can use empathy to break through the barriers of prejudice because although Mayella comes from the Ewell family and is not liked by the town, Scout tries to understand what she is going through and relate to her loneliness. This helps Scout to be less prejudice to Mayella Ewell, and she understands that even though they both come from different families and backgrounds they are still both humans.
Dill also shows that empathy can be used to break through the barriers of prejudice by relating to another persons life and realizing that we are all humans no matter what. For example, when Dill tells Scout why Tom Robinson's testimony upset him he says, " I don't care one speck. It ain't right, somehow it ain't right to do 'em that way. Hasn't anybody got any business talkin' like that- it just makes me sick" (Lee 199). This displays that we can use empathy to break through the barriers of prejudice because even though Tom Robinson is black, Dill is empathetic toward him and understands that he is human and he should not be spoken to in any way that a white person would be spoken to. He can relate to the way that Tom Robinson feels when Mr. Gilmer talks to him so disrespectfully, and this is why Dill is not prejudice toward Tom Robinson like most of the town residents are.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
TKAM response journal chapter 16 and 17
#1-
In both chapters 16 and 17, Atticus Finch has become my favorite character in the book because of his empathetic perspective of the world and his calm yet determined attitude during the trial. For example, when Atticus reflects on the way that Scout unintentionally stopped the men from taking Tom Robinson from the jail the night before he says, " That proves something- that a gang of wild animals can be stopped, simply because they're human" (Lee 157). This shows the empathy that Atticus has for Walter Cunningham and the rest of the men that wanted to take Tom Robinson to another jail because he understands that they all wanted to fit in with the majority- in this case, the people who wanted Tom Robinson dead- and that even though they were acting so unjust, they were all humans. This means that deep down they understood what they were doing was wrong, and all it took was the innocence of a child like Scout to make them realize it.
I was very entertained while reading the trial because of the way that Atticus does his job. He is a clever, experienced lawyer and this makes the trial exciting and suspenseful to read about. For instance, when Atticus makes Mr. Ewell write his name on a piece of paper, Mr. Ewell is confused at the purpose of the request and Judge Taylor says, "You're left handed, Mr. Ewell" (Lee 177). This made me think and led me to keep reading to find out that Atticus was proving the point that if Mr. Ewell was left-handed, he could have beaten the right side of his daughter's face. I thought that this was extremely clever of Atticus and it made me want to read more of the trial. Atticus Finch is a fantastic lawyer and I can't wait to see what else he does during the trial.
In both chapters 16 and 17, Atticus Finch has become my favorite character in the book because of his empathetic perspective of the world and his calm yet determined attitude during the trial. For example, when Atticus reflects on the way that Scout unintentionally stopped the men from taking Tom Robinson from the jail the night before he says, " That proves something- that a gang of wild animals can be stopped, simply because they're human" (Lee 157). This shows the empathy that Atticus has for Walter Cunningham and the rest of the men that wanted to take Tom Robinson to another jail because he understands that they all wanted to fit in with the majority- in this case, the people who wanted Tom Robinson dead- and that even though they were acting so unjust, they were all humans. This means that deep down they understood what they were doing was wrong, and all it took was the innocence of a child like Scout to make them realize it.
I was very entertained while reading the trial because of the way that Atticus does his job. He is a clever, experienced lawyer and this makes the trial exciting and suspenseful to read about. For instance, when Atticus makes Mr. Ewell write his name on a piece of paper, Mr. Ewell is confused at the purpose of the request and Judge Taylor says, "You're left handed, Mr. Ewell" (Lee 177). This made me think and led me to keep reading to find out that Atticus was proving the point that if Mr. Ewell was left-handed, he could have beaten the right side of his daughter's face. I thought that this was extremely clever of Atticus and it made me want to read more of the trial. Atticus Finch is a fantastic lawyer and I can't wait to see what else he does during the trial.
Monday, November 25, 2013
TKAM response journal chapters 11 and 12
#2-
A quote that I can connect to is when Atticus is explaining why he is defending Tom Robinson to Scout and he says, "...but before I can live with other folks I've got to live with myself. The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience" (Lee 105). I can connect this to my own life because I can see people around me who do things to fit in with others, but even though their actions fit in with others, that does not mean that what they do goes along with their personal morals and standards. For example, their are people that I know that drink to be accepted by their friends, but I know that I would not be able to drink because I would be guilty and, as Atticus explains to Scout, my conscience does not abide by the morals of the majority of people that I know.
Another quote that I made a connection to while I was reading was when Calpurnia answers Scout's question about why she speaks differently in church than at the Finch's house and Calpurnia says, "...folks don't like to have somebody around knowin' more than they do. It aggravates 'em" (Lee 126). I can see this in the world and people around me, as well as in myself, because it makes a person feel inferior and belittled when they are made out to look like they do not know as much as another person. When other people know more about any particular subject than I do, I admit that it makes me frustrated because I have the natural desire to be more knowledgable than others and I do not like it when someone is superior to me. I can connect this concept to the rest of the world as well because I think that people feel threatened by others who are smarter than them, and they become angry and defensive towards the person because they do not know what else to do.
A quote that I can connect to is when Atticus is explaining why he is defending Tom Robinson to Scout and he says, "...but before I can live with other folks I've got to live with myself. The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience" (Lee 105). I can connect this to my own life because I can see people around me who do things to fit in with others, but even though their actions fit in with others, that does not mean that what they do goes along with their personal morals and standards. For example, their are people that I know that drink to be accepted by their friends, but I know that I would not be able to drink because I would be guilty and, as Atticus explains to Scout, my conscience does not abide by the morals of the majority of people that I know.
Another quote that I made a connection to while I was reading was when Calpurnia answers Scout's question about why she speaks differently in church than at the Finch's house and Calpurnia says, "...folks don't like to have somebody around knowin' more than they do. It aggravates 'em" (Lee 126). I can see this in the world and people around me, as well as in myself, because it makes a person feel inferior and belittled when they are made out to look like they do not know as much as another person. When other people know more about any particular subject than I do, I admit that it makes me frustrated because I have the natural desire to be more knowledgable than others and I do not like it when someone is superior to me. I can connect this concept to the rest of the world as well because I think that people feel threatened by others who are smarter than them, and they become angry and defensive towards the person because they do not know what else to do.
Sunday, November 24, 2013
TKAM response journal chapters 9 and 10
#10-
A quote that I found particularly moving was when Scout is listening to Atticus' conversation with Jack and he says, "Why reasonable people go stark raving mad when anything involving a Negro comes up, is something I don't pretend to understand..." (Lee 88). This quote tells a lot about the kind of person Atticus is because he is saying that he does not understand why people are so prejudice towards others. He is saying that it is pointless for people to make such a big deal of any situation with a black person in it because he sees everyone as equal human beings. Unlike others, Atticus uses empathy instead of being prejudice, and I can apply this to my own life by putting myself in other people's shoes instead of judging them and pointing out their differences. This was yet another quote from Atticus that proves that in the end, we are all equal human beings.
Another quote that was moving to me was when Miss Maudie is talking to Jem and Scout about their father's shooting skills and she says, "If your father's anything, he's civilized in his heart... I think maybe he put his gun down when he realized that God had given him an unfair advantage over most living things... People in their right minds never take pride in their talents" (Lee 98). This quote made me stop and think because it says a lot about the world and how people think. Miss Maudie is saying that Atticus has no intention of being superior in any way to any other living things on earth. She is also saying that people who have real talents do not have any desire to share them with other people. I can see this in my own life because I know people that have unique talents, but do not share them with others because they do not feel the need to be better than others, just like Atticus.
A quote that I found particularly moving was when Scout is listening to Atticus' conversation with Jack and he says, "Why reasonable people go stark raving mad when anything involving a Negro comes up, is something I don't pretend to understand..." (Lee 88). This quote tells a lot about the kind of person Atticus is because he is saying that he does not understand why people are so prejudice towards others. He is saying that it is pointless for people to make such a big deal of any situation with a black person in it because he sees everyone as equal human beings. Unlike others, Atticus uses empathy instead of being prejudice, and I can apply this to my own life by putting myself in other people's shoes instead of judging them and pointing out their differences. This was yet another quote from Atticus that proves that in the end, we are all equal human beings.
Another quote that was moving to me was when Miss Maudie is talking to Jem and Scout about their father's shooting skills and she says, "If your father's anything, he's civilized in his heart... I think maybe he put his gun down when he realized that God had given him an unfair advantage over most living things... People in their right minds never take pride in their talents" (Lee 98). This quote made me stop and think because it says a lot about the world and how people think. Miss Maudie is saying that Atticus has no intention of being superior in any way to any other living things on earth. She is also saying that people who have real talents do not have any desire to share them with other people. I can see this in my own life because I know people that have unique talents, but do not share them with others because they do not feel the need to be better than others, just like Atticus.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
TKAM response journal chapters 7 and 8
#5-
I am having trouble understanding how Scout did not notice Boo Radley putting the blanket over her shoulders when she was standing next to Jem and watching the fire at Miss Maudie's house. I think it is unusual that Jem did not tell her what was happening when Boo Radley was behind her. Also, when Jem tells Atticus and Scout that the blanket came from Boo Radley he says, "Just think, Scout... if you'd just turned around you 'da seen him" (Lee 72). I don't understand why Jem did not say anything to Scout about the blanket before Atticus brought it up with her, and as I was reading this part of the chapter I could not tell whether or not Atticus and Jem were joking with Scout or if they were serious.
Also, I am wondering how Miss Maudie is so optimistic about her house burning down. When Scout and Jem talk to her about it the next day she says, " 'Don't you worry about me, Jean Louise Finch. There are ways of doing things you don't know about. Why, I'll build me a little house and take me a couple of roomers and- gracious, I'll have the finest yard in Alabama" (Lee 73). It surprised me that Miss Maudie was not very upset about her house burning down just a few hours before she talked to Scout and Jem. I don't think that I would be as optimistic as her, and while I am confused at her behavior, I understand the way I reacted to her because I cannot relate to what she is going through.
I am having trouble understanding how Scout did not notice Boo Radley putting the blanket over her shoulders when she was standing next to Jem and watching the fire at Miss Maudie's house. I think it is unusual that Jem did not tell her what was happening when Boo Radley was behind her. Also, when Jem tells Atticus and Scout that the blanket came from Boo Radley he says, "Just think, Scout... if you'd just turned around you 'da seen him" (Lee 72). I don't understand why Jem did not say anything to Scout about the blanket before Atticus brought it up with her, and as I was reading this part of the chapter I could not tell whether or not Atticus and Jem were joking with Scout or if they were serious.
Also, I am wondering how Miss Maudie is so optimistic about her house burning down. When Scout and Jem talk to her about it the next day she says, " 'Don't you worry about me, Jean Louise Finch. There are ways of doing things you don't know about. Why, I'll build me a little house and take me a couple of roomers and- gracious, I'll have the finest yard in Alabama" (Lee 73). It surprised me that Miss Maudie was not very upset about her house burning down just a few hours before she talked to Scout and Jem. I don't think that I would be as optimistic as her, and while I am confused at her behavior, I understand the way I reacted to her because I cannot relate to what she is going through.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
TKAM Response Journal chapters 5 and 6
#3:
When do people stand up for what they believe in?
People stand up for what they believe in when other ideas challenge their beliefs. A quote that displays this was when Scout is talking to Miss Maudie and she says, " but sometimes the Bible in the hand if one man is worse than a whiskey bottle in the hand of- oh, of your father" (Lee 45). Miss Maudie is saying that many people can become very defensive of their religion when they meet people who may challenge what they believe in with other religions. These people have the idea that their beliefs are the only right beliefs, and this can cause serious tensions between them and others.
How can we use empathy to break through the barriers of prejudice?
Atticus Finch answers this question when he is mad at Jem, Scout and Dill for trying to give a note to Boo Radley through his window and he explains, "What Mr. Radley did might seem peculiar to us, but it did not seem peculiar to him" (Lee 49). This shows that although the things that others do may seem unusual or weird, it does not make sense to judge them for it because some people may judge you for the things that you do. I can connect this to our discussion in class and the "Nacirema" activity that we did because when it comes down to it, we are all human beings and there is no reason for us to judge each other.
Sunday, November 17, 2013
A day in a paramedic's shoes
My alarm is the most annoying sound in the world- one of those repetitive Iphone marimba ringtones. It's still dark outside, and cold too. I roll over and my alarm must have woken up my husband, George, because his tired eyes glare back at me through the darkness.
"Good morning," he groans.
"Ugh," I say jokingly. George rolls over and falls back asleep almost immediately. He doesn't have to be at work until 8:00. I escape the grasp of my warm, fluffy blankets that don't want me to get up just yet. I take a warm shower- the only one I'll take for the next 24 hours. I really do love my job, and I don't mind working today. I only work two 24 hour shifts a week- Friday and Sunday- but don't get me wrong, it adds up. It just seems that most people hate everything at 5:30 in the morning, so here I am in the shower, thinking about quitting and curling up in my bed for the rest of my life.
When I get out of the shower I tip-toe to the closet to get my uniform. I put on my white collared shirt that smells of chlorine bleach, and stick my paramedic pins into it on the short-sleeve. Next, I pull on my blue, polyester pants that have about a million Velcro pockets on the sides of them. In the bathroom I dry my hair and put it into a ponytail. No makeup today- I'll just be dirty and sweaty anyway. I grab my backpack that I packed last night, my blanket and pillow for my bunk at the garage and my paratrooper boots, and kiss George goodbye. When I get downstairs I throw everything on the table and sit in one of the black dining room chairs. I proceed to untie my black boots. They have been through a lot more than one could imagine, but certainly don't appear that way. The two paratrooper boots have miles of black laces and reach a few inches higher than my ankle. They are made of squeaky black leather and have thick rubber bottoms. Their toes are steel, but this is concealed by sparkling, polished rubber. I slip them on and tie them up.
When I get to the garage I check in and put my stuff in my bunk room- it's almost 7:00. I greet my partner.
"Happy Friday, Rachel. How are you feeling?" This is Rachel's second week back from recovering from a back injury she got from lifting a heavy patient down a flight of stairs.
"Hey, Sarah. I'm great! Fully recovered!" She replies.
We go through our routine check list of all of the medicine and equipment in our ambulance, and then relax and wait for our first call. Normally we would be on a call from the moment we walked in to the moment we checked out, but Rachel and I have been with the company for a while and we have the lightest 911 shift there is- it is for the paramedics with the greatest seniority.
Then we get a call at around 8:30 in the morning. A woman in her late 50's is having a heart attack and we respond to her house with our lights and sirens. The police and fire department show up with us, and we carry the very stubborn, 350-pound woman down the flight of stairs in her apartment building. She is embarrassed that the police and fireman are there, and I tell her that they were only there to help carry her down the stairs. When we are in the ambulance heading to the hospital I explain to the woman that I need to give her four aspirin, start an IV morphine, and nitroglycerin. She tells me that I am not a doctor and she only needs me for a ride to he hospital. This annoys me because I am trying to save her life and I can do everything that a doctor can, but we take her to the hospital anyway.
We return to the garage and for the rest of the day we take naps and get some easy calls. I sleep through the night, and I get home at 7:00 AM the next day. I say hello to George, take off my tight, uncomfortable boots, and get in the shower.
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Although he has not played a big role in the story so far, my favorite character is Atticus Finch. He is a wise, leading character that guides Scout and Jem when they have questions or are confused about something that has happened to them. For instance, when Scout is conflicted about Miss Caroline's reaction to her literacy after her first day of school he tells her, "You never really understand a person until you consider things in their point of view- until you climb into his skin and walk around in it" (Lee 30). This displays his knowledge about the situation that Scout is in, and that he knows the power of empathy. I think that he is motivated to help others solve the issues in their lives because he has the point of view that everyone is equal. This makes me wonder how he came to view all people and situations this way. I have never met someone like Atticus, who never judges or looks down on another person. I predict that Atticus will become a more important character in the events in the novel, and will try to solve the issues that the characters may face with his deep understanding of justice and empathy. This understanding is shown when Scout says that it is wrong of Mr. Ewell to spend his children's food money on alcohol and he says, "Of course he shouldn't, but he'll never change his ways. Are you going to take out your disapproval on his children?" (Lee 31). Atticus Finch looks at every point of view before making assumptions, and I am sure he will play a cricial role as more events unfold in the story.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Response Journal- #10
A quotation that was particularly moving to me was when Scout explained that she was born knowing how to read and she says, "Until I feared I would lose it, I never loved to read. One does not love breathing" (Lee 18). Scout is saying that she was born reading, so it has never seemed like a privilege to her- just as breathing seems to everyone. This idea made me think about the things that I take for granted in my life. The things that I have had since I was born, such as a warm home, food on the table, and new clothing. I have always had all of these things, so I do not see them as privileges as another person might. As Scout does not love reading, I do not love the things that I have had since birth because I do not understand how lucky I really am to have them.
Another quote that was moving to me was when everyone is Scout's class wanted her to defend Walter Cunningham and she thought, "Miss Caroline and I had conferred twice already, and they were looking at me in the innocent assurance that familiarity breeds understanding" (Lee 20). She is saying that when someone knows who another person is and has spoken or met with them before for one reason or another, it makes it easier for them to understand the person and therefore solve an issue with them. I can apply this to my own life because it is always easier for me to talk to a person that I am familiar with than someone that I don't know at all because a person that knows me will most likely understand where I am coming from and will respect my point of view. This idea can also apply to all of the prejudice in the world because if racist people could be familiar with and understand the other side if their argument that one race is superior to the other, they might see what the other side is going through and stop being prejudice.
A quotation that was particularly moving to me was when Scout explained that she was born knowing how to read and she says, "Until I feared I would lose it, I never loved to read. One does not love breathing" (Lee 18). Scout is saying that she was born reading, so it has never seemed like a privilege to her- just as breathing seems to everyone. This idea made me think about the things that I take for granted in my life. The things that I have had since I was born, such as a warm home, food on the table, and new clothing. I have always had all of these things, so I do not see them as privileges as another person might. As Scout does not love reading, I do not love the things that I have had since birth because I do not understand how lucky I really am to have them.
Another quote that was moving to me was when everyone is Scout's class wanted her to defend Walter Cunningham and she thought, "Miss Caroline and I had conferred twice already, and they were looking at me in the innocent assurance that familiarity breeds understanding" (Lee 20). She is saying that when someone knows who another person is and has spoken or met with them before for one reason or another, it makes it easier for them to understand the person and therefore solve an issue with them. I can apply this to my own life because it is always easier for me to talk to a person that I am familiar with than someone that I don't know at all because a person that knows me will most likely understand where I am coming from and will respect my point of view. This idea can also apply to all of the prejudice in the world because if racist people could be familiar with and understand the other side if their argument that one race is superior to the other, they might see what the other side is going through and stop being prejudice.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
A kink in the hose...
In the play A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry, Walter's actions constantly set back the dreams and goals of his family. For instance, when Mama talks to Walter in the kitchen she says, "Oh-so now it's life. Money is life... You something new, boy" (74). This shows how Walter's actions constantly set back his family's goals and dreams because it is Mama's goal in life to bring up her children to be successful and kind people, and he lets her down and delays her dream from coming true when all he thinks about is money. Mama strives to teach her children to appreciate the important things in life, and he sets this goal back by letting money consume his life. Walter's actions not only affect Mama's dreams, but others in his family as well. For example, when Walter and his family find out that Willy stole the inheritance money from Walter, Beneatha "leans forlornly against a wall, fingering a piece of red ribbon from the mother's gift" (129). This displays the way that Walter's actions set back the goals and dreams of his family because he was not responsible enough to put Beneatha's college money in the bank, and her dream to be a doctor cannot come true unless she has money to finish college. This will make it harder for Beneatha to achieve her life goal. Walter's irresponsible actions get in the way of his family's life plans coming true, just as many other selfish people's actions negatively affect the dreams of hard-working people in the world.
Sunday, October 6, 2013
A dream poem from Ruth
Remember the days that didn't drag on?
Our future was bright,
Our dreams in sight
It once was there, but now it's gone.
Remember when we slept after dawn?
We never fought,
Money was a small thought
It once was there, but now it's gone.
Now our faces are wrinkled and drawn
We barely cope,
There is no hope
It once was there, but now it's gone.
Our dreams are the king, we are the pawns
We cannot win this game of life,
We are all in a constant state of strife
It once was there, but now it's gone.
Our dreams are just an unwatered lawn
We lost track of time,
Dreaming is a crime
It once was there, but now it's gone.
Our future was bright,
Our dreams in sight
It once was there, but now it's gone.
Remember when we slept after dawn?
We never fought,
Money was a small thought
It once was there, but now it's gone.
Now our faces are wrinkled and drawn
We barely cope,
There is no hope
It once was there, but now it's gone.
Our dreams are the king, we are the pawns
We cannot win this game of life,
We are all in a constant state of strife
It once was there, but now it's gone.
Our dreams are just an unwatered lawn
We lost track of time,
Dreaming is a crime
It once was there, but now it's gone.
Monday, September 30, 2013
Powerball plans...
I my family were to suddenly win the lottery, we would be overjoyed! It would feel relieving to have so much money because we would never have to worry about losing all of our money or going broke. It would be amazing because we could live differently- meaning that we could buy more things than we could before. On the other hand, we might become worried that people may treat us differently because of all the money we have. It might be scary to think that someone might try to steal our money as well. My parents would most likely keep working and save the money, but also spend a little more here and there on nicer things than we have now. They would put some of the money in my brother's and my name, and save some for our college funds as well. In addition, we would probably give some money to our family and closest friends.
There are several conflicts that might arise between us and other family members if we were to win the lottery. First, as I mentioned before, our friends and family might treat us kinder to get money from us or be bitter towards us from jealousy. Also, some friends and our family might argue about what they think that we should do with the money. This could lead to a change in relationship between our friends and family, and between us and our family. In addition, my parents or my brother- or even I for that matter- could potentially change from suddenly coming into so much money. It might go to our heads, and we may be overwhelmed when trying to deal with all of the money. Winning the lottery could be equally positive for my family and I, as it could be detrimental to our lives and the lives of our friends and family.
There are several conflicts that might arise between us and other family members if we were to win the lottery. First, as I mentioned before, our friends and family might treat us kinder to get money from us or be bitter towards us from jealousy. Also, some friends and our family might argue about what they think that we should do with the money. This could lead to a change in relationship between our friends and family, and between us and our family. In addition, my parents or my brother- or even I for that matter- could potentially change from suddenly coming into so much money. It might go to our heads, and we may be overwhelmed when trying to deal with all of the money. Winning the lottery could be equally positive for my family and I, as it could be detrimental to our lives and the lives of our friends and family.
Monday, September 23, 2013
End of OMM
I think that John Steinbeck ended the book the way that he did to show that Lennie and Candy's dog both died in a similar way- they were both happy and content when they died.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Day dreamers...
It is extremely important for people to have dreams because it creates one's purpose in life, and helps a person to discover who they are by striving for their goals every day. In the novella Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, Lennie and George exemplify this idea as they dream about owning a ranch together one day. This creates a sense of purpose for both of them. For example, when George and Lennie are making a deal with Candy to pay for their own ranch together George says, " 'Look, if me an' Lennie work a month an' don't spen' nothing, we'll have a hunderd bucks. That'd be four fifty. I bet we could swing her for that' " (60). This illustrates how important it is for people to have dreams because Lennie and George create a purpose for themselves when they plan to work for a month in order to buy a ranch with Candy. It is their purpose to keep working and help old Candy to quit his job and have a place to live before he is fired from his job, and dreaming about the ranch will help them fulfill their purpose. Furthermore, having dreams in life helps a person to discover themself as they work towards what they want in life. For instance, when George and Lennie are discussing how they would live if they had a ranch Lennie exclaims, " ' We could live offa the fatta the lan' ' " (57). This proves the importance of having dreams in life because as George and Lennie think about who they will be and how they will live , they discover who they are at the moment and what they want to become. It is so important for people to dream because without dreams, one has nothing to live for or contribute to the world.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Do what I say, or else!!!
The relationship between George and Lennie in the novella Of Mice and Men is abusive because of George's short-temper, and the way he controls Lennie. George's short-temper contributes greatly to the abusive relationship between him and Lennie. For instance, when George is mad and yelling at Lennie by the fire he says, "When I think of the swell time I could have without you, I go nuts. I never get no peace" (Steinbeck 12). This shows that Lennie and George's relationship is abusive because it makes Lennie feel awful that George has to take care of him, and George intentionally makes him upset this way. Also, the way that George controls Lennie creates an abusive relationship between them. For example, as George explains to Lennie that he cannot get into trouble at the new ranch they are going to work at he states, "But you ain't gonna get in no trouble, because if you do, I won't let you tend the rabbits" (Steinbeck 16). This illustrates that George and Lennie have an abusive relationship because George is controlling Lennie by telling him what he can and cannot do, and it is unfair and cruel that Lennie has to do what George says all the time. George is abusive to Lennie, and it is wrong of him to be so mean to a person who sincerely needs his help and could not live without him.
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Conclusion
The brutal yet important part of history that it reveals to the reader, the theme that one should always be greatful for what they have it displays, and the touching love story it beholds all make Between Shades of Gray a book that all freshman in high school should certainly read. This book, if read by freshman, will teach them many lessons about relationships with others and to value their possetions. It is also a heart-felt love story that will grab the attention of freshman readers because they can relate to the young love aspect of the story. It is extremely important for freshman to read Between Shades of Gray so that they can take the lessons they learn from the story, apply what they learn to their own lives, and help make the world an overall better place.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
MEAT outline
M: The brutal yet important part of history that students should be aware of that Between Shades of Gray uncovers makes it an important novel for freshman to read.
E: For example, at the beginning of the book Lina writes, " 'Twenty minutes' the officer barked. He threw his burning cigarette onto our clean living room floor and ground it into the wood with his boot. We were about to become cigarettes" (Sepetys 5).
A: This displays the brutality that the NKVD officers showed to the Lithuanians while re-locating them to Siberia. Although this brutality may be a harsh and disturbing to read, it is important for students to understand this part of history because it has been covered up for too long.
E: In addition, Lina is deported from her home in Lithuania because her father helped her cousin to escape before the NKVD got them, and she realizes that, "Joana's freedom had cost me mine) (Sepetys 291).
A: This quote illustrates why freshman should read the book because it explains how unfair it was to some families who helped others to escape Lithuania in 1941, which is important for students to understand when thinking about our world's history.
T: Freshman should understand the hardships that people went through during World War II because nobody has said anything about it, and it is important to think about why history has happened the way it did.
M: Between Shades of Gray is a boom that should be read by freshman in high school because it teaches the reader to be grateful for what they have.
E: For instance, at the beginning of the book when Lina is being arrested she writes, "I shut the bathroom door and caught sight of my face in the mirror... It was the last time I would look into a real mirror for more than a decade" (Sepetys 12).
A: The reader can learn to be grateful for what they have from this part of the book because it shows how one can lose something so simple in the blink of an eye, and that it is important to cherish the simple things in life. This is important for students to learn because many freshman take the things they have for granted, and it can help them to realize how lucky they are to have the things that they do.
E: Furthermore, Lina writes that when she was rushing to get all of her things together to leave with the NKVD, "I snapped the latches closed and rushed out of the room, the curtains blowing, flapping over the loaf of fresh bread still sitting on my desk" (Sepetys 8).
A: This exemplifies why freshman should read this book because of how insignificant a loaf of bread was to Lina before she was taken. After she made it to Siberia she would have given anything to have the loaf of bread, which also shows the reader how important it is for one to value they're possessions.
T: The reader can learn to be grateful for what they own from Between Shades of Gray.
M: The intriguing love story within Between Shades of Gray makes it a book that freshman in high school should certainly read .
E: For example, at the end of the book Lina writes that the boy she fell in love with while being re-located by a train, Andrius, will eventually end up with her. She writes. "I closed my eyes. I felt Andrius moving close. 'I'll see you,' he said" (Sepetys 336).
A: This quote expresses how deep the love story within the book is, and it shows how interesting the book is. It illustrates why freshman should read the book because they could relate to the young love story within the main plot because they may have been in a similar relationship with another person before, and they can apply the situation in the book to their own lives.
E: In addition, when Lina sees her father for the last time in the train car, he says, " 'Say your prayers children, and I will hear them' " (Sepetys 44).
A: When her father says this it exemplifies the love he has for his children, and high school freshman should read this book because it is important to understand the love that parents have for their children no matter what the situations they are in is. This will help the freshman to be more grateful for their parents, and have a stronger love for the people who have raised them.
T: The theme of enduring love in Between Shades of Gray is both touching and tragic.
E: For example, at the beginning of the book Lina writes, " 'Twenty minutes' the officer barked. He threw his burning cigarette onto our clean living room floor and ground it into the wood with his boot. We were about to become cigarettes" (Sepetys 5).
A: This displays the brutality that the NKVD officers showed to the Lithuanians while re-locating them to Siberia. Although this brutality may be a harsh and disturbing to read, it is important for students to understand this part of history because it has been covered up for too long.
E: In addition, Lina is deported from her home in Lithuania because her father helped her cousin to escape before the NKVD got them, and she realizes that, "Joana's freedom had cost me mine) (Sepetys 291).
A: This quote illustrates why freshman should read the book because it explains how unfair it was to some families who helped others to escape Lithuania in 1941, which is important for students to understand when thinking about our world's history.
T: Freshman should understand the hardships that people went through during World War II because nobody has said anything about it, and it is important to think about why history has happened the way it did.
M: Between Shades of Gray is a boom that should be read by freshman in high school because it teaches the reader to be grateful for what they have.
E: For instance, at the beginning of the book when Lina is being arrested she writes, "I shut the bathroom door and caught sight of my face in the mirror... It was the last time I would look into a real mirror for more than a decade" (Sepetys 12).
A: The reader can learn to be grateful for what they have from this part of the book because it shows how one can lose something so simple in the blink of an eye, and that it is important to cherish the simple things in life. This is important for students to learn because many freshman take the things they have for granted, and it can help them to realize how lucky they are to have the things that they do.
E: Furthermore, Lina writes that when she was rushing to get all of her things together to leave with the NKVD, "I snapped the latches closed and rushed out of the room, the curtains blowing, flapping over the loaf of fresh bread still sitting on my desk" (Sepetys 8).
A: This exemplifies why freshman should read this book because of how insignificant a loaf of bread was to Lina before she was taken. After she made it to Siberia she would have given anything to have the loaf of bread, which also shows the reader how important it is for one to value they're possessions.
T: The reader can learn to be grateful for what they own from Between Shades of Gray.
M: The intriguing love story within Between Shades of Gray makes it a book that freshman in high school should certainly read .
E: For example, at the end of the book Lina writes that the boy she fell in love with while being re-located by a train, Andrius, will eventually end up with her. She writes. "I closed my eyes. I felt Andrius moving close. 'I'll see you,' he said" (Sepetys 336).
A: This quote expresses how deep the love story within the book is, and it shows how interesting the book is. It illustrates why freshman should read the book because they could relate to the young love story within the main plot because they may have been in a similar relationship with another person before, and they can apply the situation in the book to their own lives.
E: In addition, when Lina sees her father for the last time in the train car, he says, " 'Say your prayers children, and I will hear them' " (Sepetys 44).
A: When her father says this it exemplifies the love he has for his children, and high school freshman should read this book because it is important to understand the love that parents have for their children no matter what the situations they are in is. This will help the freshman to be more grateful for their parents, and have a stronger love for the people who have raised them.
T: The theme of enduring love in Between Shades of Gray is both touching and tragic.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Introduction and Thesis
Lina took the warm loaf of bread on her desk for granted, not realizing how much it really meant until they took her. The book Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys is a heart-wrenching, tragic story about relationships and the will to survive, as well as an informative novel about an important yet unfamiliar historical event. It is about a 15- year- old girl named Lina who is arrested from her home in Lithuania in 1941, along with her younger brother, Jonas, and her parents. They are re-located by the NKVD to a camp in Siberia as Joseph Stalin attempts to take over Lithuania. Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys should be read by freshman in high school because it uncovers a brutal yet important part of history that students should be aware of, it teaches the reader to be grateful for what they have, and it is an intriguing love story.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
What do humans need in order to live a fulfilling life?
In my opinion, there are several things that a person needs in order to live a fulfilling life including happiness, goals, family, challenges, and love. First of all, happiness is a necesity when trying to build a fulfilling life. It is extremely important for a person to do what makes them happy in life because if you don't enjoy what you do every day, there is no reason to wake up every morning. It only makes sense to me to find something you love to do and do that special something every day you possibly can. Next, I personally believe that a fulfilling life should include goals and aspirations that a person can work towards over time. Without goals, you won't have a purpose in your life, and will have no reason to stay alive. Family is another significant aspect of a fulfilling life in so many ways. Family is extremely important, especially when a person is in need of support and care during challenging or sad times in their life. Without a family it would be too hard to cope with hard times in life, and people would never be able to keep reaching for their dreams without care from their family whenever challenges arise. Although these challenges get in the way of our goals, they are another crucial part of a fulfilling life in my opinion. This is because when we run into challenges, they make us stronger and make us experienced. Being experienced makes a person wise, and that to me is a huge part of having a fulfilling life. Lastly, love is a valuable piece of a fulfilling life because everyone wants to be loved, and everyone wants to give love. I think that a life full of love is certainly a fulfilling one. In conclusion, I think that in order to live a fulfilling life humans need happiness, goals, family, challenges, and love.
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