Critical Thinking Today, we learn whether you should be institutionalized or not! I’ll give you a scenario with two characters, and you’ll then write down the response of one of the characters. You’ll only have 90 seconds on this one and you only get one try, so choose wisely. It may just determine whether you should be institutionalized or not. No talking; no cheating.

The Scenario It doesn't hurt to take a hard look at yourself from time to time. This little test should help you get started. During a visit to a mental asylum, a visitor asked the Director what the criteria is that defines if a patient should be institutionalized. "Well," said the Director, "we fill up a bathtub. Then we offer a teaspoon, a teacup, and a bucket to the patient and ask the patient to empty the bathtub." Okay, here's your test: 1. Would you use the spoon? 2. Would you use the teacup? 3. Would you use the bucket? "Oh, I understand," said the visitor. "A normal person would choose the bucket, as it is larger than the spoon." What was the director's response?

The Response "No," answered the Director. "A normal person would pull the plug.“ Should I load up the van for any of you?? 

Goals for the Day I can identify how various clauses function within a sentence. I can identify the various features of a body paragraph within a synthesis essay and begin to include them in my writing.

Clauses

What questions do you have?

Discuss Clauses for Processing Partner for processing. Be sure both partners understand the definition of participles and what function they can serve. THEN, practice with your partner. Follow the steps for partnering for practice. Be sure both partners feel confident with participles. Remember, if you have questions: 1. Ask your partner. 2. Refer back to the book or worksheets (look it up). 3. Ask me.

Features of Synthesis Body Paragraphs We noted that there were four features of highly effective opening paragraphs. With your small group, discuss and then create a list of the features that you believe would be evident in a highly effective body paragraph of a synthesis essay. You might want to consider the opening paragraph as a lead-in to the body paragraphs. If so, what is needed in the body paragraphs to help ensure your opening is successful? Additionally, consider what is necessary in any highly effective body paragraph.

Our list of Qualities for Body Paragraphs Topic sentence – a subclaim of your thesis. Evidence/support – 2-3 pieces of evidence/from 2-3 sources (synthesis) Explanation of your evidence Transitions that tie information together ***sometimes – counterarguments/rebuttals Recognition of the complexities of the issue

Homework Reminder a new set of Albert assignments are up. You must complete at least one by Sunday at midnight – you may complete the others for extra credit. Some of you need to complete Albert assignments that you have not completed yet! Some of you need to make up participation assignments that you never did! Some of you need to make up the annotation assignments! Get caught up!!