Journal 6: Dr Dolittle

Here's a silly journal topic for you!

One of my favorite movies as a child was Doctor Dolittle. It was about this professor named Dolittle who learned all the animals' languages. He could speak with every animal! Most people didn't believe him, of course. It always made me wonder, however, what animals would have to say to us if they did have a language of their own.

Prompt: What would happen if animals could talk? What are some of the questions you would like to ask animals?

Due Wednesday, Sept 14th by 10PM.

Note: You can listen to and read the story here.


Man is an animal too,

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: Sunday, Sept 11th 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: Wednesday, September 7th 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: Sunday, September 4th by 10PM.

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

Journal 2: 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 Wednesday, August 31st at 10PM

Watch out for traffic jams,

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 two short (1-2 paragraph) introductions. First, briefly introduce yourself. Please also include a photo of yourself.

Then introduce the classmate that you interviewed. Perhaps you could mention where your classmate is from, what his dreams or aspirations are, or what he's most afraid of! Remember you must have at least TWO classmates post a comment on your journal entry to receive full credit.

Due Sunday, August 28th at 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.

To receive a FULL grade for your journal entries, at least TWO classmates must post a comment.

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,