First: Last week, a paragraph was assigned as homework. For those who were absent from class without a valid excuse, you can still write and hand in the paragraph this week in class.
The topic for this one paragraph is Christmas and you need to choose one of two points of view: either that Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year or that Christmas time is a pain in the butt.
You need a topic sentence, 2-4 supporting details, and a concluding sentence.
Also, there is specific formatting you need to observe. The details of the formatting and the exact grading breakdown are explained in this rubric.
You need to print the rubric and staple it to your paragraph. If your paragraph is not typed, double-spaced, or attached to the rubric, it will not be accepted.
Also, no late paragraphs will be accepted. You will simply receive a zero for the assignment. Note, special attention will be placed on comma usage, so if you were absent from class, make use of the comma sheets attached in last Monday's blog post.
In the future, any homework assigned in class will be posted on the blog Tuesday nights. If you are absent, you are responsible for checking the blog and determining what work you need to make up.
Second: British vs. American comma (and punctuation) usage
After some digging, Allison found only two accepted differences.
1. Read here
2. Read here
For further rules and explanations about anything related to English grammar, use this site.
Third: For this week, print and bring this. Since it's the last class before Christmas feel free to bring baked goods (esp homemade) and/or liquid refreshments so that a good time can be had by all.
Remember,
