DEAR Response # 8

10/15/2012

I HAVE CLOSED ALL PREVIOUS DISCUSSIONS. YOU ARE NO LONGER ABLE TO POST ON DISCUSSIONS FROM EARLIER WEEKS. THIS WEEK'S POST WILL CLOSE ON SUNDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2012.

NOTE the change in directions below from APA formatting to MLA formatting.

Choose a quote from your D.E.A.R. reading this week. Cite the direct quote below. Include the title of the book you're reading, the author and the page number where the selected quote is located.

1. Briefly summarize the quote in your own words
2. Explore the quote's meaning (your interpretation)
3. State why you think the quote matters to the whole of the story (the implications).

After you have posted, respond to one other person's entry.

The person you respond to does NOT have to be in your same class period or your same grade. Your initial post is due each Wednesday. Your response is due by Friday.

Do NOT WRITE, "I AGREE" TO SOMEONE ELSE. You may write, "Your post made me consider ____," "Your post reminded me of this other _____ I read and how _____," etc.

You must write your first name and last initial and class period each time you post. Example: Shelia S, period 1. You must also use academic language. Absolutely NO texting abbreviations.

SEE MODEL POST BELOW!

Gregory Boyle, in TATTOOS ON THE HEART, wrote, "You stand with the belligerent, the surly, and the badly behaved until bad behavior is recognized for the language it is: the vocabulary of the deeply wounded and of those whose burdens are more than they can bear"(179). (This is cited in MLA format.)

Say:

This says that bad behavior is a way of communicating one's pain and that standing with the badly behaved is necessary until the pain is revealed and understood.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that it means that when people act out and misbehave that they are doing so because they are in tremendous pain. Either they've been neglected and their own needs are not being met, or they have been abused or hurt in some way, or perhaps they've suffered a loss that is too big for them to bear. Instead of using their words about how much pain they're in, they act out by doing things that are inappropriate and often illegal (This is a book about gangs.)

Matter:

This passage matters because it offers an explanation for bad behavior and challenges us to see beyond the behavior to the heart of the matter. If we can do that, then we may feel more empathy, and as a result, be able to stick it out with those who are acting badly rather than quickly dismiss, judge and abandon them.

Kristen W. Period 1

10/16/2012 04:17:26 am

"This affliction -hope- is so cruel and stubborn i believe it will kill me." page 136 (Sold by Patricia McCormick)

Say:
This quote is saying that her hope is so cruel and stubborn, not as easy to come by, is killing her. In her situation all she can think about is hope, yet it is so far away and it's slowly killing her hopes and dreams inside. There are so many struggles in her life that the hope she is longing for, she can't reach.

Mean:
This means that she is hoping for and longing for a new start, a new life, however it is taking forever to come. The waiting is cruel because she is so desperate for the affliction to come and save her. This waiting is slowly "killing her" inside, crushing her dreams and imaginary lifestyle she wishes to have.

Matter:
This quote matters because everyone hopes and dreams about what they want in life or what they hope to become in the future. However, when you have your dream so far away that you cannot "reach" it,

Jacelyn K., Per 6

10/21/2012 12:54:09 pm

I agree with you about how there are things that we hope for but can never come true. There's a lot of dreams and hopes that are just so far out, like a light at the end of the tunnel, that it may never happen. But, as long as you dare to dream, it's possible for it to happen one day.

Jose F. Period 6

10/16/2012 12:50:43 pm

Ian Fleming in "Casino Royale" wrote "There's a Good Book about goodness and how to be good and so forth, but there's no Evil Book about evil and how to be bad" (161)

Say: This is saying that although there are guidelines on how to be good there really isn't a way to determine what is evil in the world and being evil means different things to different people which ends up causing all sorts of problems.

Matter: This matters because if there isn't a way to determine the clear lines between good and evil you can't have either, it's like the saying "There can be no darkness without light" which is true since without one extreme there can hardly be another and this causes all sorts of issues on where to draw the line between what is good for someone and what is evil for someone.

Matter: This is important in the story since in the scene James Bond wants to retire from his spy affairs and he was thinking to himself was he really a hero for watching a Soviet spy get executed by his superiors for the sake of money which was owed by the said spy. This led James Bond to believe in a certain moral code on what is right and what is wrong, this being the first James Bond book, he was at his coldest and most ruthless in this book . This causes some character development in James Bond which transcends this book and heads into later novels.

Jose F. Period 6

10/16/2012 01:37:47 pm

Ian Fleming in "Casino Royale" wrote "Now, about that little problem of yours, this business of not knowing good men from bad men and villains from heroes and so forth. It is, of course, a difficult problem in the abstract. The secret lies in personal experience, whether you're a Chinaman or an Englishman".

Say: This quote is saying that heroism is based solely on what your circumstances and experiences are. If you are not able to act according to your own experiences then the whole idea is wasted on your own shortcomings and overall, I think that the ideas of heroism are wasted on whether or not you have a noble cause.

Mean: This means that heroism is simply a state of mind, what can be called heroic for someone may be called villainous for another person and so on. The meaning however is not the same for everyone. Some would believe that this simply isn't true while others do believe that heroism comes from a sense of patriotism.

Matter: This matters because it affects the storytelling which comes from the perspective of James Bond, by showing that heroism in the form of patriotism for one's country is a very noble cause indeed.

An H., Period 5

10/21/2012 04:51:32 pm

I really agree with the mean part. Because even if one see a person as a hero, the opposition side could think they are the villain and vice versa. Heroism is really what just a group of people consider when a person did something extremely incredible for them, but the opposing side could also see that action as evil.

An H., Period 5

10/16/2012 04:32:51 pm

Julia, in SARAH'S KEY, wrote "I closed my eyes. But I could still see the moment when the policemen tore the children from the mothers at Beaune-la-Rolande. I could not get the image out of my mind" (173).

Say: In this quote, Julia had found out about what happen to the children that was rounded up, and she couldn't stop thinking about how cruel it was that the children and parents were separated.

Mean: This quote means that when something really troubles you, you could never stop thinking about it until you resolve that problem or at least try to do something about it.

Matter: This quote matters because when you have a problem or a situation that you couldn't stop thinking about, it could be easier to try to solve it and face it up front, instead of just mourning and grieving about it and do nothing.

Dinh T, Period 5

10/21/2012 01:34:43 pm

This reminds me of the time in 8th grade when I got in trouble with my friends. We were sent to the principal's office, but no one ratted me out and when I got home, I got worried and kept on thinking about what she would do to us the next day.

Jeffery W, Period 5

10/17/2012 09:38:54 am

Rick Riordan, in THE MARK OF ATHENA, wrote, "Giants?" Annabeth reached for her dagger, which of course wasn't there. "I thought their army was defeated." "It isn't the giants," Reyna's eyes seethed with rage. "You've betrayed our trust."

Say: This says that Annabeth got attacked, by what she thinks was giants, but actually was the Romans.

Mean: This means that Annabeth and Reyna were on the same team but Reyna felt that something Annabeth did betrayed them.

Matter: This matters because even if it is a temporary alliance with somebody, you can never trust them until you fully know them.

Justin Tang Per 5

10/17/2012 09:38:56 am

In MARK OF ATHENA by Rick Riodan, he writes, "Good luck is sham. True success requires sacrifices."

Say: In the book, the 7 demigods go on a quest to try and save the world, but when they meet a goddess to help them. she says this to them. It makes them think about how they will perceive the quest considering what she said.
Mean: They thought that they were going to make it out all alive and live happily ever after, but now they are doubting that will come true.
Matter: This matters because in real life, success does take a sacrifice, whether you know it or not. If you are trying to pass your math test coming up, you will sacrifice your free time to do well. Most success comes from un-acknowledged sacrifices.

Zerlinda L., Period 5

10/17/2012 10:08:50 am

Tatiana de Rosnay in SARAH'S KEY wrote, "She wanted to thank him, for his help, for the money, she wanted to hold her hand out to him, but Rachel grabbed her by the arm and took off, they ran as fast as they could through the high golden wheat, straight ahead, lungs bursting, legs and arms helter-skelter, far away from the camp, as far away as possible." (p.92)

SAY: This says that although Sarah is grateful to the French policeman for helping her and Rachel escape from the camp, she mustn't waste time and run away as fast as she can.

MEAN: This means that if you're escaping for your life, you shouldn't look back and keep going otherwise you might get caught and get into a more dangerous situation than you already are.

MATTER: This matters because some people don't realize the dangerous situation they're putting themselves in and they need to learn that they shouldn't just take their time running away. They need to keep moving forward without being reluctant about it.

Thuc T. , period 6

10/17/2012 11:56:56 am

Philippa Gregory, in THE QUEEN'S FOOL, wrote, " I looked from the red roaring face of the bishop to the twinkling smile of his clerk and shook my head. I bowed my head to the bishop, and to the man I had once been honored to know, and I left them with their bloodstained hands to interrogate innocent people and send them out to be burned" (333).

Say:
This says that Hannah Verde cannot deal with the horrifying truth so she leaves the room and the two men who will continue to send people to death.

Mean:
The two men are trying to root out heretics by all means. They use the most atrocious ways to torture people and send to be burned. The contradictory imagery, the smile and bloodstained hands, in this passage further emphasizes the evilness of the deed.

Matter:
It matters because this passage helps us understand how heretics were treated in the old days. Even ideas that question the reliability of the Bible such as science were considered heretical. Thousands of people died to give us this new age of knowledge, proven knowledge. It is surprising to see how society has transformed into. Nowadays, we have the freedom to question anything, even if it's against the conventional ideas. We are given and protected by human rights. Therefore, it is important that we appreciate what we have and use it well.

Aron I. Period 5

10/17/2012 12:13:13 pm

In SUNRISE OVER FALLUJAH, Walter Dean Myers wrote " Not over here where the booming goes through you, where explosion in the distance shake your whole body." (Myers 125)

Say:
This says that explosions are powerful enough to be felt from a far distance.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that explosions shake your body both physically and mentally.

Matter:
This passage matters because it explains that explosions can be felt and also scare people with its power.

Wei L. Period 5

10/22/2012 12:15:28 pm

This reminds me of the soldiers in movies that would get haunted by explosions throughout their entire life.

Zishan (Angela) T., Period 2

10/17/2012 12:30:37 pm

Anne Schraff, in ONE OF US, wrote "Strangely, he thought the hot water could wash away what had happened to him tonight, with all its fear and horror. He remembered seeing a very old movie once, starring an actor named Kirk Douglas. In the movie Douglas talked about pulling his brain from his head and rinsing away the terrible thoughts that were tormenting him. That's what Derrick wanted to do, but he couldn't" (124)

Say:
This says that when you do something you regret, it'll always be with you. No matter how much you want to get it away, you can't because you can't undo what you've done.

Mean:
My interpretation of what this means is that you should think twice about what you do. You may end up doing something you regret and it'll always be with you no matter. You can't undo what you've done, so it's telling you to think about what you do and have no regrets in the end.

Matter:
This passage matters because if people keep doing things they regret, it will be with them forever and it's not something they want. Having to live with something you regret for the rest of your life can be tiresome and this is why we must all think about our actions before we do anything.

Tara D., Per. 5

10/17/2012 12:52:46 pm

Dave Pelzer, in THE LOST BOY, wrote, "I now lived in another world of prejudice" (80) .

Say: This explains that prejudice lives with us and we can not get rid of it because it is everywhere.

Mean: My interpretation of this quote is that wherever we may go there is always going to be prejudice people who will judge you based on how you look, how you dress, how you talk or even based on what race you are. Prejudice can be at school, at work, anywhere. They might also judge you because of your past mistakes or just judge you because they hear negative comments about you.

Matter: This matters because David in the book who is now thirteen years old, has been living in very prejudice environments.Growing up and now being a foster child has not been any better for him because people assume he is bad that's why he ended up in foster care. People should really get to know others before they judge them.

Brandon Yip Period 5

10/17/2012 01:04:53 pm

Quote in, Shutter Island, says, "She hadn't wanted him to go to work that morning. In that final year of her life, she'd grown inexplicably skittish, prone to insomnia that left her tremor-filled and addled."(125)

Say: This says that after this wife's husband left her to go on duty, she got extremely sick. During her sickness she got insomnia, and she got crazy after that.

Mean: This means people can get emotionally sick after their loved ones left them when they told them not to go.

Matter: This matters because it can teach you that your friend or family members could be hurt emotionally if you disobey them on certain things. I can also reflect this to my life as well. One time my grandpa wanted me to visit him since I haven't seen him in a while, but I refused because I had a gaming addiction at that time. After that day he got very sick.

Jessica Lai, Period 6

10/17/2012 01:52:26 pm

“So that’s why you brought me here, thought Ender. With all your hurry, that’s why you took three months, to make me love Earth. Well, it worked. All your tricks worked. Valentine, too; she was another one of your tricks, to make me remember that I’m not going to school for myself. Well, I remember. (243)"

Say: Ender knows that he is being manipulated by the government and the teachers, but he goes along with it anyway. He also knows why he is continuously pushed through Battle School and why he was promoted to Command School so early.

Mean: Ender knows his purpose and continues to do it even though he is bitter. Ender had wanted to give up, but the world cannot afford him to do so. Therefore, he is brought back to Earth and is forced to speak with Valentine, whom he loves, and is persuaded to continue fighting.

Matter: Someones one must sacrifice himself for the greater good. Even though the odds seem unfair or daunting, he must complete them. While situations such as this occur most often in fiction novels, this is important because it sends the message: In the face of adversity one must push on to succeed.

Aren Lim

10/17/2012 01:56:35 pm

My quote is from the book "Twilight" by Stepehen Meyer: "In that brief flash of a glance, his face held nothing of interest -it was as if she has called his name, and he'd looked up involuntarily response, already having decided not to answer."

Say: In that brief flash of a glance, it was obvious that Edward held no interest to talk. Purposely ignoring her.

Mean: The main character Edward holds no interest in Bella. It was quite well displayed through true body language that he did not want to start a conversation, and that Bella should not start a conversation. The ignorance displayed explained what was going on with the two. It was quite obvious Bela wanted to start something, but was quickly rejected by Edward's stare, a sign that told her to back off.

Matter: This matters to the story, because the main characters Edward and Bella are still wary about themselves. They are not sure what is going on in their relationship. They are still in the radical phase, and need to sort things out.

Lika M. period 5

10/17/2012 01:58:39 pm

Kathryn Stockett in, THE HELP, wrote, "My heart racing, I drive fast on the paved town roads, heading for the colored part of town. I've never even sat at the same table with a Negro before who wasn't paid to do so. The interview has been delayed by over a month" (167).

Say:
This quote says that the Eugenia was making her way to a colored neighborhood and she felt very nervous because she knew she was going to face consequences for going there. Eugenia was about to experience something that was forbidden during her time - befriending and sitting with black people.

Mean:
This passage means that even though Eugenia knew that she was going to get in trouble if anyone caught her going into Abilleen's house, she still decided to go for the sake of her job and her dreams. Eugenia never went to a black neighborhood. She was not only nervous about getting in trouble, but she also felt scared because she did not know what to expect from going into a neighborhood where she was never allowed to be in. She was scared they would not accept her for wanting to help them.

Matter:
This passage matters because it shows the type of setting there was in the early 1960's. The late 1950's and early 1960's was full of racism and hatred among the "white" people and the "black" people. Black people were segregated from the white people. They had fewer rights, they were mistreated, and they got less respect. Eugenia was scared about getting in trouble because she knew she was breaking "rules" she always had to follow her whole life. She view black people as people that were not superior to them. However, the fact that Eugenia wanted to go there to reach for her dreams and help the black people's stories be told to the whole world, shows that she was different from other people at the time. Eugenia was a person who respected black people, especially because she needed their help.

Cally M, Period 5

10/17/2012 01:59:48 pm

Kathryn Stockett, in THE HELP, wrote,"If Miss Hilly know, she know...Stopping ain't gone save us now."

Say: Aibileen is stating what she believes they should do after Skeeter tells her that Hilly knows about Skeeter's civil rights opinions. She thinks they should continue with their project because there would be no point in stopping,

Mean: My interpretation of the quote is that Aibileen believes that they should continue with their project because Hilly's knowledge doesn't help or save them from anything. There would be no difference in the reaction of the public to their book of interviews if people found out now or later.

Matter: This quote matters because it explains that sometimes, when people find out about things, it doesn't change what the end result will be. Consequences may be the same whether or not you finish what you started.

Lika M. period 5

10/20/2012 02:05:07 pm

Your quote made me consider about how brave Skeeter and Aibileen were for continuing the writing of the book. They are brave for knowing the consequences that might come about from publishing the book - arrest, hatred from old friends, and ignorance from her society, and perhaps getting fired from their jobs. Despite those possible outcomes, they decided that they needed to get the word out about how these hardworking, African american maids work and live during times of severe racism and segregation. This quote teaches also might teach one about being scared to do something but doing it anyway, one can learn that courage is something that all types of people can gain if they put their determination into doing it.

Andrew L. , Period 5

10/17/2012 02:16:00 pm

Ingrid Tomey, in NOBODY ELSE NEEDS TO KNOW, wrote "When his father died so suddenly, Webb had told Grampa he wanted to go to Fatty's Funland in Tennessee. He'd seen it on TV. And Grampa had told his mother, "He will never, for the rest of his life, have his father to hang around with, to take him places... " (1999, pg. 138)

Say: This quote is saying that once his father had died, there is no one to help him explore the world and go on exciting new adventures. His grandfather who wishes to help carry on the duties his father would have done for him. His grandfather would be very well delighted to do such a thing for him.

Mean: Webb's grandfather, feels an immense amount of affectionate for his grandson, Webb. By having to live without the guidance of the man in the house, His grandfather wants to take the place of his father as someone he could look up to and be a helping hand to him. He wants to teach Web like his father had taught him.

Matter: Many orphans who have no relatives, are surely in need of a someone to guide them. Like a father like figure like Webb's grandfather, he will help Webb. Many orphans or fatherless children all need someone to follow and look up to for advice and guidance in life.

Bryan L. Period 6

10/17/2012 02:19:03 pm

Suzanne Collins, in MOCKINGJAY, wrote "I hear my name rippling through the hot air, spreading out into the hospital. "Katniss! Katniss Everdeen!" The sounds of pain and grief begin to recede, to be replaced by words of anticipation. From all sides, voices beckon me. I begin to move, clasping the hands extended to me, touching the sound parts of those unable to move their limbs, saying hello, how are you, good to meet you. Nothing of importance, no amazing words of inspiration. But it doesn't matter. Boggs is right. It's the sight of me, alive, that is the inspiration" (87).

Say:
This says that just the sight of Katniss inspires the people in the hospital to be happy and relieved. Her strong presence there lifts the spirits of the injured to have the goal to keep fighting against the Capitol.

Mean:
This quote means that when certain people have really good qualities, they are seen as heroic figures that make people feel safe and inspire them to never give up. Being this heroic figure, he or she should set good examples for the people who look up to them because those people should have good leadership from a good leader.

Matter:

This passage matters because a heroic figure in the world does not have to be all masculine and buffed up like Superman or Batman. They can be normal citizens who act brave and persevered and are able to set good examples for the people who will look up to them. Those are the people who can lead a good society. They can inspire many to take action for what is right and can heal the wounds of the emotionally injured.

Alex D. Period 5

10/17/2012 02:41:15 pm

Suzanne Collins, in THE HUNGER GAMES, wrote, “It's hard to hate my prep team. They're such total idiots." (2008, pg. 112)

Say: This quote says that Katniss thinks her prep team is full of idiots, but she cannot hate them because of that. She hates the Capitol and its people, but cannot hate them.

Mean: This quote means that she cannot hate them for being such idiots. She can only feel pity for them and want to help them because they're dumb. She wants to help them, but she already knows that the Capitol has already brainwashed them.

Matter: This quote matters because many people have encountered not so smart people. They don't want to be around them, but you can't help but feel sad for them and help them out. This applies to the real world in this way.

Dawson W., Period 5

10/22/2012 05:49:29 am

The quote means that when you feel angry about others cause they are dumb or stupied then you feel the urge to tell them. All you could really do is just feel pity like my friend treat a guy one time when he was cruel and mean but all her realy wanted to do is just feel sorry for him.

Lilian D., Per. 2

10/17/2012 02:54:55 pm

In MAGIC SLAYS, Ilona Andrew wrote, "I knew this wasn't how the world worked...I'd seen the grit, savagery, and cruelty." (pg 121) (This is cited in MLA format.)

Say: This quote states that this world is quite a cruel and unforgiving place.

Mean: Many idealized situations depicted in T.V. and drama are unrealistic because they turn away from the cruel aspects of reality that doesn't involve romance (is not explicitly limited to love). They also ignore the fact that people around us, especially loved ones, can be hurt, killed, or traumatized.
Matter: While innocence is a characteristic that seems appealing because it is seemingly unflappable, nativity is a whole different matter. It makes people vulnerable to trickery, and despite what we've learned from Ms. Bronte's speeches, being vulnerable is not always a good thing. It leaves people open to harm. Therefore, being informed and knowledgeable about what the world consists of would be beneficial.

Alvin O. per. 5

10/17/2012 03:05:34 pm

Kristina, in CRANK, said ," And you want to shout, can't you see I'm here? can't you see I'm brand new? Can't you see me at all?" (188). (This is cited in MLA format.)

Say: After coming back from her trip, along with her new experiences with methamphetamine, she believes that she is now a brand new person, but has no way of revealing this to her family.

Mean: This might mean that Kristina is now craving for not only methamphetamine, but also for attention, but is also stuck in a dilemma between whether to reveal her addiction or not.

Matter: This shows that drugs can definitely ruin a persons life, not only by health, but socially too, making them distant or scared of their friends and families.

Andrew L. , Period 5

10/21/2012 02:43:03 am

This quote makes me consider about the time when I was new to a place and that there was this once young lad who just started to order me around. It sort of created a social hierarchy although it was not supposed to be that way. This quote relates to me in the sense that I understand what it is like to be told to do things even as a fledgling.

Benjamin L., Period 5

10/17/2012 03:13:37 pm

Washington Redskins by Jack Clary, wrote " if you want anything from the old man, today's the day to go in and get." ( 1974, pg.21)

Say: Frank, one of the redskins' player team need something or ask someone something very important and has not ask him/her yet.

Mean: Frank has not yet ask someone something, which is making him waste his precious time. Also, Frank would soon finally have a chance to talk to the old man ( which could be the coach) about something important.

Matter: The reason it matter is that people must hurry up and step up to tell someone that is important. It is better not waiting for he/she. People should also just go ahead and find them so the person will know the type of concern, demand, or situation you are having or need.

Andy B. Period 1

10/17/2012 04:16:25 pm

Ron Paul, in THE REVOLUTION: A MANIFESTO, wrote, "When we agree not to treat each other merely as means to our own selfish ends, but to respect one another as individuals with rights and goals of our own, cooperation and goodwill suddenly become possible for the first time" (11).

Say:
Cooperation and civility among people are possible only if we treat each other with respect and as rational individuals.

Mean:
Everyone is their own person with unique dreams, interests, needs, and wants. In these ways we are different, but it is also what makes us the same. We all have them, no matter what they are, and when people with similar mindsets come together with an open mind and voluntarily to work on a common goal, it promotes more respect and tolerance within society.

Matter:
If people cannot respect each other, then it makes cooperation and social harmony impossible. We would start to feel hostile and closed off from everyone else around us because people would only see each other as a means to their selfish ends and not as actual human beings with the same desire to have their dreams and interests fulfilled. We are each individuals, but that does not mean we were meant to live as isolated islands.

Art Medina Period 1

10/21/2012 04:27:57 am

This quote brought to mind the situation that many in our community face. Many of us have not yet learned to respect one another and come together as a moral, social community, and we have instead only catered to our selfish needs. I find it extremely critical that each individual respects one another so that everyone can live and thrive in a peaceful enviroment.

Bryan L.

10/21/2012 11:48:30 am

I agree that we should treat others the way we want to be treated, and that when we come together and share our ideas, we can work together to create a better and more communicated society.

Qihong C Period 6

10/22/2012 07:30:15 am

your quote reminds me that the teamwork is very important , since team can do more things than individual, and when people work togethter, there will be more ideas come out. however, this works only if we respect each other and trust each other.

Qi Hong C Period 6

10/17/2012 04:40:23 pm

A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.
by-George Bernard Shaw
Saying: This quote says that we should do something in our lives.

Meaning: we should do something in our lives, may be we always make mistake but ,it's better than doing nothing.

Matter: I think this quote matter, because, nowadays ,many people think that they are make mistake everyday, so that choose not to do anything, but after your learn this quote, you will find that doing nothing in your life is the worst thing ever.

Justin Tang Per 5

10/20/2012 10:47:46 am

I agree with this quote because if you aren't doing anything in your life, you're wasting it. It is better to always be learning than doing nothing.

Courtney Thong Per 5

10/28/2012 12:47:13 pm

I agree with your quote because I know people who thinks their life is a mistake. When the person wakes up, he/she feels sorry to be alive and doesn't have the energy to do anything. So, I would always help that person out.

Ryan L., Period 1

11/11/2012 02:31:03 am

I completely agree with this quote. Nowadays people are lazy to do the smallest things. If you aren't doing anything in your life, you're basically wasting it. This quote makes me want to go out and do something in my life so I don't end up like those homeless people on the streets. I hope more people encounter this post and think the same thing as me.

James Zhijie R., Period 5

10/17/2012 04:47:42 pm

J.D. Salinger, in THE CATCHER IN THE RYE, wrote,"The best thing, though, in that museum was that everything always stayed right where it was. Nobody'd move. You could go there a hundred times, and that Eskimo would still be just finished catching those two fish, the birds would still be on their way south, the deers would still be drinking out of that water hole, with their pretty antlers and their pretty, skinny legs, and that squaw with the naked bosom would still be weaving that same blanket. Nobody'd be different. The only thing that would be different would be you." (121)

Say: This says that everything in the museum has remained unchanged through out the years. The only thing that changed was Holden himself.

Mean: My interpretation of this quote is that it means that in the reality, everything is still the way it was back then. However, the thing that makes a difference is that he was looking at every through everything in a different field of perspective, a different mindset, and most importantly, a different person.

Matter: This matters because this quotes offers an example of Holden looking at something now that appeared exactly the same to him in the past. But at the same time, he is realizing how much he has changed through out the years compared to the mere number of changes to parts of the museum.

Joanne W., Period 6

10/17/2012 06:27:38 pm

Tatiana de Rosnay, in SARAH'S KEY, wrote,"Where are you, my little Michel?...The years have gone by and I still have the key. The key to our secret hiding place...It has never left me since July 16, 1942... No one here knows about the key, about you. About you in the cupboard. About Mother. About Father. About the camp. About summer 1942. About who I really am. Michel. Not one day has gone by without me thinking of you...Sometimes, I want to die. I cannot bear the weight of your death...I cannot bear the weight of my past....Coming here was a terrible mistake. I though I could change. I though I could put it all behind me. But I cannot...This life is too much for me to bear. I look at the key and I long for you for the past...I know now my scars will never heal..No one will ever know. Remeber. Never Forget...."

Say:
This says that even though it's been so many years since her brother died, she still can't forget the terrible night she left her brother alone and the promoise between them.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is this shows that war changes people. It shows that 60 years later, the pain and hardships of that war, that summer were still eating away at her, and it was just too hard for her to deal with.

Matter:
This pessage matters because we always keep thinking about the past althought we are trying to look forward. The girl feels regretful for letting her brother hide in the closet and later he died. She still remembers the whole thing and she miss her brother so much,

Courtney T, Period 5

10/21/2012 02:05:28 pm

I can relate to this because I would always remember the past, even though I am trying to move pass it. There are still somethings I can't move pass by, but as days pass by, I am trying my best to move on.

Eric Lo, Period 5

10/18/2012 10:50:42 am

Craig Lesley, in STORM RIDERS,wrote," I'll tell you the truth. i was afraid he might run over somebody, I've been kind of glad to have him in jail. that keeps people safe on the street."(298)

Say: She just wants to protect the pedestrians from the recklessness people have sometimes.

Mean: Natalie isn't just trying to just keep herself from embarrassment but also keep the people of the town safe. He has been in and out of jail and that is good because it keeps track of when he can't be on the streets trying to joy ride again. Natalie has concern for him and wants to give me a future that doesn't involve crime.

Matter: This quote matters because it shows that some people are thinking about more then themselves. They choose society over themselves. I feel that they have done their good deed for the day.

Cergio Angel Period 5

10/22/2012 11:36:27 am

This quote relates to me because I've known or heard two people that have gotten runned over. When one was walking and another when he was riding his bike. This is terrible because people should be more careful cause its not the guys fault its the drivers fault

Wei L. Period 5

10/18/2012 01:23:30 pm

Alan Lawrence Sitomer in HOMEBOYZ, wrote, "He began to feel admiration for this man, for standing up for himself regardless of the potential physical peril he might face." (2007, pg. 20).

Say:
This is describing a hard working man who is trying to stand up for what he owns.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that you should help someone that would smooth things down before conflicts start to happen. You shouldn't just feel bad about someone if actually do something for them otherwise you'll you have completed nothing.

Matter:
This quote matters because this usually happens to people everyday just watching other people having problems or being very frustrated upon others.

Aron I. Period 5

10/21/2012 01:02:15 pm

This quote reminds me of the reason why people decide to be followers or supporters of one a certain person.

Alex D.

10/21/2012 01:38:56 pm

I will always feel admiration for people that stand up for themselves. People that never quit, go against all odds and try their best, those are the people that i admire. Even if you fail or make a mistake, if it doesn't kill you, it makes you stronger. I admire people like that and want to be like them.

Jason Tran Period 1

10/18/2012 03:39:51 pm

Ray Bradbury says in Fahrenheit 451, "She didn't want to know how a thing was done, but why. That can be embarrassing. You ask Why to a lot of things and you wind up very unhappy indeed, if you keep at it. The poor girl's better off dead." (pg 60)

Say: It's trying to say that sometimes asking why is embarrassing, and the truth might hurt you. And the more things you want to know you might be better off not knowing.

Mean: This quote means that sometimes you don't want to know why something happens because it can lead to negative things. And that you are better off not knowing instead.

Matter: It matters in the book because the book has a society where people don't want to know anything and only seek pleasure. Because that, to them, is their happiness. Which is better off than being dead.

James Zhijie R., Period 5

10/23/2012 01:30:49 am

I find my self doing this to myself a lot of times. That is I keep censoring my self from real life suitations to keep myself in a positive mood. I agree with how othe characters in this book always seek for pleaure. Its one of the most important things to do in one's life.

Lisa Z., Period 2

10/19/2012 06:32:01 am

Judy Goldman, in THE SLOW WAY BACK, wrote, “There were long spaces between Thea’s breaths. Whatever all that had been about, she felt sad to have missed it. She pictured her sister’s fingers picking at the fibers of the blanket- as if she could trace the shape of something, their relationship maybe, their years together, the ridges and dips of the bed linens setting everything in bas-relief” (251).

Say: This says that no matter where they are in the world, they will always be together. Though many things happened between them, their relationship won’t change. When she runs her fingers through the blanket, she can feel that they are she was here.

Mean: This means that they really care about each other and nothing can change that. They will always love each other no matter what happens and the circumstances that they are in. This shows in the way that she acts towards people and how she really is though she doesn’t show it.

Matter: This matters because this shows their relationship and how close they are. This will later reflect the way that she will react to situations. This will also show that they have a close bond with each other and they have been through many tough situations, but they are able to get through them.

Jenny Yik, Period 2

10/19/2012 07:17:04 am

Lesley Kagen, in WHISTLING IN THE DARK, wrote, "Right when the sun was going behind the trees, Daddy made everybody else go out of the hospital room and asked me to come lie down next to him in his bed that he could make go up and down whenever he wanted. "Sally?" He had all these tubes coming out of him. And next to him was a machine that ping ping pinged just like the submarine in the movie Troo and me had seen at the Uptown Theater called '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea."(2007, pg. 207)

Say: This quote says that Sally's dad is slowly passing away and he has limited time of living. He spends the last couple of moments with this oldest daughter.

Meaning: My interpretation of this quote means that being with his daughter is important to him. The fact that he had everyone else leave the hospital room besides his daughter shows that he wants his daughter to be able to live life physically without him. The onomatopoeia used in this quote shows how his death his slowly coming and how Sally, the daughter, reminisce about the time she spend with her younger sister.

Matter: This quote matters this is someone's biological father who is passing and this is the last few moments he has with her. It shows how important and strong a relationship can be and how they can cherish their last time together. It builds up a stronger connection and a better understanding of how each character reacts to one another.

Jeanette F., Period 5

10/19/2012 11:36:12 am

In the book, DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE, Pat Mora writes:
"When we're talking, and others jon us,
when you laugh with them, I feel tangled
up in side, angry. I struggle not to be rude.
I want to be alone with you.
I love our aloneness"(79).

Say:
This says that this person loves someone so much that they are the only person they want to be around. They know that they feel this way, only around that one person. The person says that they think love is the reason people paint, dance, etc.

Mean:
This means that the person realizes that they feel a certain way about this one person. I means that they are experiencing love. They are understanding why people say they love to dance, or create. They love the feeling and are writing a letter to the person they love, but they will not send it. It is only a message that will never be heard.

Matter:
This matters because many peopple love something without realizing why they love it. Some do not even know what it feels like. They just us the word "love" for everything. They say they love their friends, but they just like their friends. Theydon't love them like they would love a boyfriend or girlfriend.

Art Medina Period 1

10/21/2012 05:06:26 am

Patricia Mccormick, in Sold, wrote,"If you look hard enough, chaos turns into order the way letters turn into words”(145).
Say: Lakshmi, the main character, says that eventually in due time things will get better. She relates it to letters and words because one object leads to another, or in other words one object is simply a result of the other. It can be thought of in two different ways.
Mean: My interpreation of this quote is that if one thinks positively about a negative situation then it will eventually turn positive. One must think positvely about any tough situation in order to overcome it. It is basic commen sense; if one thinks negative about a negative situation then the situation will only get worse, whereas if one thinks positive the situation is bound to improve.
Matter: This quote is significant to Lakshmis current situation. She is in the Happiness House and truly wants to leave and go home to her family. She thinks about going home each and everyday and it is those thoughts that pull her through her hardships. She continues to think positively that she will be rescued, despite the chaos that surrounds her everyday.

Alvin O. per. 5

10/21/2012 12:42:52 pm

I feel like I can totally relate to this a long time ago, since I would always feel acknowledged when talking to someone, but feel unknown when interrupted.

Berlin T, Period 2

10/20/2012 12:59:24 pm

Sarah Dessen says “Because this is what happens when you try to run from the past. It just doesn’t catch up, it overtakes … blotting out the future.”

say: this quote says a lot, the quote itself is saying that no matter how much you try to run from the past it will always come and catch up to you.

Mean: this means that even though something bad has happened in your past and as much you dont like it, it will always be there, you cant run away from it.

Matter: this quote matters a lot to me because everybody in the world has a dark past, and as much as we try to run away from it it will aways catch up and take over your life filling you with depression you can't shake away.

Eric Lo, Period 5

10/22/2012 11:23:53 am

I favor this quote because this happens to me sometimes. When i am playing tennis and i would look back on all the things i could have done but didn't. There are so many things i would like to redo and want to get a new start to. This quote is what i feel when i am having a bad day and would like to start over.

Yen T., Period 1

10/25/2012 04:19:30 pm

I agree with this quote because we often try to "erase" our mistakes, regrets, and history, but what we do not realize is that it is nearly impossible to do so because our past is imprinted into our memory, and it also plays a huge role in who we are today. Do not dwell on the past, but rather learn from it, because sometimes it isn't the experience that matters, it's what we can take from those experiences to better ourselves.

Courtney T, Period 5

10/20/2012 02:48:40 pm

Cornelia in THE POWER OF FIVE said "Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend."

Say: It says don't try to tell people what to do or expect someone else to make all life decisions for you. Treat all people as equals.

Mean : It means walk beside me, be my friend, not ahead and acting like you are better and don't walk behind like a loser! Keep up with me, and be my partner.

Matter: It matters because sometimes you shouldn't be a follower and just be a leader. When you are a leader just be a friend or companion.

Kristen W. Period 1

10/23/2012 03:59:09 am

This quote says walk beside me, as in be there with me till the very end. I need to know thaty you will always be there me, beside me, supporting me. Walking in back of me, is different because I cannot see you. I cannot see if you will stay or run away with me. You could run away from me and leave me and I won't even know because my back is turned against you.

Dinh T, Period 5

10/21/2012 03:07:58 am

Rick Riordan, in THE LAST OLYMPIAN, wrote,"I looked out at the fires of Harlem, wondering how many sleeping mortals were in danger right now because of Luke's bad choices"(232).

Say:

This says that Luke's bad choices has gotten many mortals involved in the war with Kronos, and their lives are also in danger. Luke decided to work with Kronos and Kronos is now using his body, and it is up to Percy to decide whether or not to kill Kronos along with Luke or save his life.

Mean:

This means that a person's choice can affect the other people around them and whether they make a good or bad choice is for them to decide. Sometimes, when people believe that they made a good choice, it can actually be bad depending on the outcome.

Matter:

This matters because if Luke didn't decide to work with Kronos, many of the innocent mortals wouldn't be involved in the war and there probably wouldn't have been a war.

Jacelyn K., Per 6

10/21/2012 12:51:03 pm

In the story, A Child Called It, Dave Pelzer once said,“My two brothers and I were blessed with the perfect parents. Our every whim was fulfilled with love and care.” (17)

Say: Pelzer said this when his mom was still normal. Before his mom changed, she was caring and a great mom. This quotes shows how much people can change over time.

Mean: As Dave mentions this in the story, he touches on how a person could change so much in a short period of time. Before the change, his mom was someone he looked up to, but now, she is a monster.

Matter: This matters because not many people realize this. They take everything they have as a given. This quote lets people realize and understand that nothing in this world is a given. Anything can change in a blink of an eye. Cherish what you have and hold it close because you might not have it the next day.

Art Medina Period 1

10/21/2012 01:59:40 pm

Patricia Mccormick, in Sold, wrote,"If you look hard enough, chaos turns into order the way letters turn into words”(145).
Say: Lakshmi, the main character, says that eventually in due time things will get better. She relates it to letters and words because one object leads to another, or in other words one object is simply a result of the other. It can be thought of in two different ways.
Mean: My interpreation of this quote is that if one thinks positively about a negative situation then it will eventually turn positive. One must think positvely about any tough situation in order to overcome it. It is basic commen sense; if one thinks negative about a negative situation then the situation will only get worse, whereas if one thinks positive the situation is bound to improve.
Matter: This quote is significant to Lakshmis current situation. Each day is another struggle for her. All she can possibly do it hope that she will be able to go home to her family as soon as possible or get rescued. She tries to maintain positive thoughts no matter how negative situation because in reality that is the only way things will get better.

naomy cueva period 6

10/25/2012 07:05:11 am

For some everyday is a struggle. They deal with a lot and sometimes they do not talk about making matter even worse.People should just learn how to take each day as it comes.

Kemberly Molina 6

10/25/2012 07:06:49 am

I agree with the post, because we should take everyday as it comes day by day. Rather than stressing about what is going to happened or has happened

Cergio Angel Period 5

10/22/2012 11:52:18 am

In Gullivers Travels the author wrote, "My gentleness and good behaviour had gained so far on the emperor and his court and indeed upon the army and people in general, that I began to conceive hopes of getting my liberty in a short time. I took all possible methods to cultivate this favorable disposition. The natives came by degrees to be less apprehensive of any danger from me."

say: This says that Gulliver is making really good friends with the emperor and everyone else who lives there. And is trying to gain more respect and freedom.

mean: This means that Gulliver is trying to be as nice and helpful to them as possible, so that he can have more freedom to walk around the island by himself. And then later be able to find a way to get out of the island.

matter: This matters because it shows how Gulliver is going to act with these people so that he may find a way out. And get away from their over protection on him with arrows always pointing at him

Dawson W., Period 5

10/23/2012 06:32:38 am

Chanda Hanh wrote in UNECHANTED., "When life feels empty you feel dead"(189).

Say: What this quote is saying is that when your life has nothing then you feel like the emptyness of nothing that can fill that emptyness. Feeling like theres nothing you can do.

Mean: What it means is that life can have times when you feel like theres nothing that you can do to fill that emptyness. The sad feeling that comes into your body and sadness.

Matter: This matter to many people cause there are times when you feel like you cant do anything and that there is a big emptyness in body.

Brilliant H., Period 2

10/23/2012 03:21:44 pm

Andrew Tobias, in THE ONLY INVESTMENT GUIDE YOU'LL EVER NEED, wrote "But time heals all wounds. When the New York Stock Exchange celebrated its 200th birthday in May 1992, it could report that a person who bought shares in all of the companies on the exchange on any day in its history would have made a profit over any 15 year stretch and would have beaten bonds and savings accounts over virtually any period exceeding 20 years" (127).

Say: This quote says that although the stock market is risky, if you put your money into safer, blue chip stocks, and hold it out rather than constantly trading stocks, you would have definitely made a profit. That is over any 15 years, including years with dramatic recessions, such as one of the many examples of stock market devastations Tobias lists in the paragraph previous to this quote.

Mean: This quote means that when investing in stocks, and in any type of investment, really, it is important to hold onto all your purchases. This does not apply to risky speculations, as the fluctuations for those stocks probably will mean that you cannot hold on to them for 20 years or more like you can with safer stocks. Holding onto investments you are sure about, even if they go through tough times, is a sure way to come out on top with any kind of investing - financially or otherwise.

Matter: This quote matters because it shows that people who have feared investing in the stock market are simply looking at it from the wrong perspective. Many people look at investments as get rich quick options, but in reality the only option that entails this is pure speculation. Get rich quick options rely solely on luck. With investing in stocks, luck is definitely helpful, but knowledge and patience is the most important factor in trying to make a profit.

Tara K., Per. 6

10/24/2012 03:10:00 pm

Frances Burnett, in THE SECRET GARDEN, wrote "She said that very often-"It was the custom". The native servants were always saying it. If one told them to do a thing their ancestors had not done for a thousand years they gazed at one mildly and said, "It's not the custom" and one knew that was the end of the matter. (1911, 29)

Say:

This quote talks about Mary Lennox's response, "It was the custom", in response to the maid Martha's of why she was waiting for Martha to help her put on her shoes instead of doing it herself. Mary never expected to be asked such a question and was flummoxed by the fact she was supposed to put on shoes herself.

Mean:

It basically means that Mary was accustomed to a lifestyle like the one she had in India-where her ayah catered to her every need and want such as putting Mary's shoes on for her. She was spoiled and didn't even know how much.

Matter:

This quote matters because "It was the custom" or any similar phrase is merely an expression people use when they can't explain something. It's surprising how many people do that instead of admitting they don't know or challenge the "custom" or rules.

Kemberly, Molina. period 6

10/25/2012 07:01:27 am

Jodi Picoult, in CHANGE OF HEARTS, wrote, "You know how I see it? There's always going to be bad stuff out there. But here's the amazing thing - light trumps darkness, every time. You stick a candle into the dark, but you can't stick the dark into the light."(130)

Say:

This says that once you over come a hard time in your life, everything must be easy from there and on. When you face that dark side it cant or shouldn't ruin your happiness. We should learn how to get up from hard times and look at the bright side.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that This passage matters because it offers an explanation for a brighter day and a peaceful loving life. Sometimes our days get ruined by the little bad stuff that goes on and we waste our tears and energy on it instead of being happy .

Matter:

This passage matters because it offers an explanation for a good living life. The lady in the book always found a way to be over look the bad in her life and thank God for everyday he gave her to live, even if her daughter got rapped and killed by her husband.

naomy cueva period 6

10/25/2012 07:02:55 am

George McGovern in ABRHAM LINCOLN wrote "in life he was underappreciated and often misunderstood.In death he was transformed to martyl. to legend, and to myth."

Say: No one agree with Lincoln ideas. But once he died everyone saw his decision as the most precise.

Mean:When Lincoln live he was not taken seriously. People taught he was insane they did not agree with anything he said or did.But when he passed away everyone wanted to be just like him.

Matter: If there is disagreement in the beginning in some point in the future there will be mutual agreement.

Yen T., Period 1

10/25/2012 04:13:37 pm

Suzanne Collins, in CATCHING FIRE, wrote, "The only time I really get to see Gale now is on Sundays, when we meet up in the woods to hunt together. It's still the best day of the week, but it's not like it used to be before, when we could tell each other anything. The Games have spoiled even that. I keep hoping that as time passes we'll regain the ease between us, but part of me knows it's futile. There's no going back." (5).

Say:
The Hunger Games have ruined everything for Katniss. She can hardly trust anyone any more, including herself. She has become someone she does not wish to be: a murderer. She had lost herself in the arena. She's come back out, but she can't return to the way things used to be. With the tangled love story between her, Peeta, and Gale, and the Capitol chasing after her, she has a difficult time finding herself again. Her relationship with Gale, especially, is going downhill because the communication's lost.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that it means that when we are faced with different pathways and obstacles in life, we often end up drifting away from those who once mattered to us. Katniss is still the same person, but her relationship with Gale and others around her at the District will never be the same.

Matter:
This passage matters because I believe many people can relate to this. High school is like our Capitol. Most people start to drift from their old friends back in middle school and often go their separate ways, forgetting each other. A huge part of growing up is finding the courage to accept the fact that the person you once knew is no longer a part of your life, but merely a stranger.

Courtney Thong Per 5

10/28/2012 12:59:59 pm

hay in THE POWER OF FIVE said "History will be kind to me for I intend to write it" (pg 208 2006)

Say:He could have been saying that he was going to win, as we all know History is written by the winners.

Mean:It means that he will be shown as a hero in history books because of his contributions which shaped the course of history.

Matter: This matter because he wants to make the world a better place. He doesn't like the world right now and tend to make more excellent.

Jacelyn K., Per 5

10/31/2012 02:50:35 pm

Katniss, from Mockingjay, said, "Fire is catching. If we burn, you burn with us!"

Say: This shows Katniss' burning passion for revenge and power. She shows the Capitol that she and the rebels will not back down. Even though humanity might've been lost in other districts, she shows that District 13 is still going strong and ready to end this battle.

Mean: This means that Katniss understands the power in her words as the Mockingjay. Her message is sent across the districts. She shows that she is tired of fighting like this. Tired of having her people hurt, and she's willing to win this war no matter how much it takes.

Matter: This matters because it shows part of the outcome in the story. At the end, people from both sides are hurt- a show that even after centuries of living, humans have not learned their lesson.

raymond morales

11/8/2012 06:26:34 am

Patricia Mccormick, in Sold, wrote,"If you look hard enough, chaos turns into order the way letters turn into words”(145).
Say: Lakshmi, the main character, says that eventually in due time things will get better. She relates it to letters and words because one object leads to another, or in other words one object is simply a result of the other. It can be thought of in two different ways.
Mean: My interpreation of this quote is that if one thinks positively about a negative situation then it will eventually turn positive. One must think positvely about any tough situation in order to overcome it. It is basic commen sense; if one thinks negative about a negative situation then the situation will only get worse, whereas if one thinks positive the situation is bound to improve.
Matter: This quote is significant to Lakshmis current situation. Each day is another struggle for her. All she can possibly do it hope that she will be able to go home to her family as soon as possible or get rescued. She tries to maintain positive thoughts no matter how negative situation because in reality that is the only way things will get better.

Ryan L., Period 1

11/11/2012 02:23:52 am

Sue Monk Kidd, wrote in THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES, "There is nothing perfect, August said from the doorway. "There is only life." (p 256)

Say:
August said this to Lily after Lily tells her the truth about her running away from her and about her mom's death. This quote shows that life isn't perfect.

Mean:
This quote means that life isn't going to be perfect for anyone. There will always be speed bumps on the road through out lifetime and we need to deal with it.

Matter: This matters because it implies to everyone in the world. Every person in the world will go through some adversity in their lives and they have no power to stop it from happening. All we have to do is endure it and continue life.

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DEAR Response # 8

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We are students in Ms. Sutton's Classes at Mark Keppel High School!

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DEAR Response # 8

AuthorsWe are students in Ms. Sutton's Classes at Mark Keppel High School!

Archives

Categories

Authors
We are students in Ms. Sutton's Classes at Mark Keppel High School!