Mind-mapping or Diagramming

Mind-mapping (or diagramming) is a technique for brainstorming and visualizing the relations between words or ideas. Wikipedia has an article about mind-mapping. There is also a Japanese [日本語]version. I don't agree with everything it says, though. If you are interested in using computer software to make a mind-map, there are lists of free and commercial software that is available to download and use. Mindmapping.org is an organization that discusses and promotes various uses of mind-mapping.

Homework on May 29 (for June 5)

Description Paragraphs (or Descriptive Paragraphs)

page 54

Activity 2 (on a sheet of paper)

(Use the blank, unlined side)

__ Write your topic

__ Brainstorm (diagramming or mind-mapping)

__ Tell who your Audience would be

__ Write a one-sentence Purpose statement

__ Write your Topic Sentence (with a controlling idea)

__ Write some Supporting ideas

(Turn the paper over to the lined side)

__ Write a Title (centered, underlined, in Title Case)

__ Write a Paragraph of 6 to 12 sentences

The Textbook

Click for the textbook web site.

Make a blog!

Blogging is an optional component of this class that can give you bonus points on your grade. The purpose is to encourage you to write regularly in English about the topics of your choice, but preferably about learning English, school life, events and news in Tokyo and Japan, and so on.

Make a blog with Blogger (or another blogging platform of your choice). You can read some instructions here.

After you have created your blog, send me a message by making a comment to this post. Just click the "Comment" button below. It's easier than sending a mail, but you can send a mail if you prefer. Another very easy way is to click "Follower" -- I will be able to follow the link back to you.

Make a post on your blog! Write something! Are you having a good day? Did you hear any interesting news? How are your classes? WRITE in ENGLISH!!!

You can customize your settings as I explained in class. You control your blog! You may want to change the appearance, make a profile, upload a profile picture, control the comments, decide who can see the blog, and other things.

I have some suggestions for using your (Bunkyo) e-mail here.

Writing 2 Syllabus

Writing 2
Bunkyo Gakuin University
Spring 2009

Class A (10:40-12:10) and Class B (1:00-2:30)
Bruce Brinkman
CTR2
Textbook: From Great Paragraphs to Great Essays

Other materials: Students are also expected to have A4 size paper, pencils and pens of several colors for editing purposes, and access to a computer, word processor, or typewriter (to produce and edit typewritten documents).

Assessment:
Grades will be determined from:
Attendance (20%)
Participation (20%) 10% Self-Assessment & 10% by Teacher
Tests and Writings (50%) Written work and tests
Chat Lounge Report (10%) Visit the Chat Lounge once or more
Learning Journal (10% bonus) Maintain an online journal or blog in English

The schedule may change slightly.
Pay attention in class for announcements of changes to the schedule.
Schedule:

2009 Dates (Friday)
Lesson Plan

Week 1
April 10
Course introduction, Note cards

Week 2
April 17
Unit 1 Introduction to Paragraphs

Week 3
April 24
Unit 1 Introduction to Paragraphs

Week 4
May 1
Unit 1 Introduction to Paragraphs

Week 5
May 8
Unit 2

Week 6
May 15
Unit 2

Week 7
May 22
Unit 2

Week 8
May 29
Unit 3

Week 9
June 5
Unit 3

Week 10
June 12
Unit 3

Week 11
June 19
Unit 4

Week 12
June 26
Unit 4

Week 13
July 3
Unit 4

Week 14
July 10
Last class day!
All written assignments due, self-evaluation, course evaluation.

July 17
No Class

Week 15
July 24
Exam Week (No exam in exam week for this class)

Let’s work hard to develop our English writing power!