DEAR Response Log, Week 1

8/27/2012

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" (2010, p. 179). (This is cited in APA 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.

Cynthia H., Period 1

8/28/2012 10:29:12 am

Anna Bodbersen, in THE LUXE, wrote, "He tried to look careless as he exhaled, but even saying the word 'poverty' gave him an unpleasant feeling in his stomach. The word had a sick lilt to it, he had always thought. His first semester at Harvard he had shared a suite with a scholarship boy named Timothy Marfield - his father's idea of character-building, Henry later discovered. Timothy's father clerked twelve-hour days at a Boston bank to pay his son's tuition, and Henry liked Tim, who knew all the best watering holes in Cambridge. But it was the first time Henry had every really thought about someone doing that soul-crushing thing called working, and the realization still haunted him" (2007, p.50).

SAY:
This saying says that just by the word 'poverty,' Henry could not handle the thought of working a single day in his life, when he has everything set for him already.

MEAN:
My interpretation of this matter is that no one in the 21st century is not working for something they want. People need to buy something so they get a job to help them buy want they need. We want to get an "A" on a test, we work by studying for the test. We want to run a mile in 4 minutes, we work by training ourselves to running a mile. Henry had things all set for him. He had money from his father to pay for his tuition at Harvard. And Timothy's father had to work twelve-hour day shifts to be able to pay for his son's tuition. Henry's father had things all set for him, his father did not really work as much as Timothy's father did.

MATTER:
This passage matters because it shows the true character of those that live in the Upper-East side of Manhattan, New York, back in the 19th century. Most of the characters in the book come from rich family backgrounds. Their ancestors have worked hard to give their children a happy life. And because of that the newer generations have sort of become spoiled brats. And when they happen be in dept and loose that money, what will happen next. They will be in poverty and will have to work to earn that money back.

Elaine T., Period 2

8/28/2012 03:12:48 pm

Your post reminds me a lot about our current generation. Students currently have to deal with the problems of rising college tuition and parents have to work really hard to pay for their children's tuition, like Timothy's father. Also people like Henry do not know how difficult it is to work because he has everything handed to him. But working shows people how to value money and how hard it is to make money.

Naomy cueva period 6

9/12/2012 01:04:02 pm

There is a lot of people who don't know how to appreciate what they have and what is given to them.And those who have little to appreciate have to work harder for the things they want.

Cindy T., Period 1

8/28/2012 03:31:15 pm

Your quote could really open the eyes of many. Some people are very fortunate to come from such a stable background and do not stop to realize that others really do have to work for what they want. Henry seems to be beginning to realize that not everything comes easily in life. Hopefully, Henry will not be taking things for granted as you read further into the story. I believe that appreciating what you have and how fortunate you may be will always be a strong quality.

Yang Y., Period 2

8/29/2012 01:25:26 pm

Your passage remind me of some child of the riches, how they are so ignorant and don't respect others because they think they are better than them and higher class than them. Henry did not experience hard work like Timothy and his father, and I hope he will start to realize how many of his other classmates are like Timothy too, who came to Harward with scholarships and hardwork.

Berlin T

8/29/2012 04:22:03 pm

i can see that your response to this quote has put in a lot of time and thought. Your passage indeed does matter because it does mean it shows the true character

Ms. Sutton

9/18/2012 05:52:09 am

How can you see that they put a lot of time into it? Be specific.

Kimble Yuan, Period 1

8/30/2012 01:43:25 pm

This quote was really nervous at first. Henry had to finish his tuition. He knew about Timothy's father who had to work to pay for his son's tuition. A lot of the people had to face this kind of problem. The best way to solve this problem is that for example, the son cannot pay for the tuition, then the father will need to work. Henry understood about working.

An Huang, Period 5

8/31/2012 04:53:24 pm

Your post reminded me of other books and stories I read that showed the rich kids, whose attitude are arrogant and spoiled. This quote's matter really does represent what happen in the past and how it effected their descendant's future.

Marisa Lim, Period 6

8/28/2012 11:32:55 am

Misty May-Treanor, in DIGGING DEEP IN VOLLEYBALL AND LIFE, writes, "In 2008, at the Beijing Olympics, because of the torrential down-pour that had inundated our gold medal match, the volunteers had built a wooden platform to surround the medals podium and keep the dignitaries bestowing the medals from having to maneuver on the doggy sand, I was so excited, so wound up, and so in the moment that I just tossed Mom into the air, not paying any attention to the direction in which I was throwing her ashes from a film canister. Lo and behold, they ended up strewn across the wooden platform. Oops."

Say:

This says that Misty May was so wound up from winning her second Olympic gold medal in a row in Beijing that leaving her mom's ashes in Beijing where she won was not carefully thrown and didn't land on the beach sand as intended.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that when people achieve a high level of excitement and happiness they forget what matters most and do not concentrate on what they are doing. They are so wound up and "high" that they become careless and are not diligent and do not pay attention to what they are doing.

Matter:

This passage matters because it shows us that even when we are at our highest level of happiness and excitement that we still have to be mindful, diligent, and concentrate on what we are doing during our excitement. We still have to be able to control ourselves and be able to function properly when we reach this range of emotions. If we can do that, then we will not make mistakes, such as throwing our mother's ashes in the wrong place.

Naomy Cueva period 6

8/28/2012 12:05:16 pm

I liked your deep thinking.Showing mindful at all times is something that we should be taught as kids.For me personaly thats' one thing that I am hoping to achieve this year,because hot headed people do not look friendly at all.(at times)

Alvin O., Period 5

8/28/2012 01:01:52 pm

I see where you are going at. I can relate to this on many levels. I have suffered the results of procrastination throughout my school years, and it's time for me to start focusing.

Janssen F., period 1

8/28/2012 01:13:23 pm

This is funny! But I can so relate because when I get super excited I forget so many things like my homework. I did finish it, but forgot to put it in my bag.

Benny C., Period 2

8/28/2012 04:03:44 pm

I can relate to this. Many times, my excitement or happiness had hidden my responsibilities, cloud my judgments, and keep me from focusing. I did learn from this mistake, but I still have this kind of situation coming. Seems like I am unable to overcome this weakness, but I will still fight and finish my unending responsibilities.

Evy Z Period 6

8/29/2012 03:06:59 pm

I believe everyone can relate to this quote, I'm a huge fan of Misty May and Keri Walsh but I never knew Misty's mom has past away. I probably can't relate to winning a gold medal at the Olympics but, I've had my head clouded with emotions that i just forgot about everything else going on in life. Lets face it we all get caught up in the moment. In the future I hope i don't forget whats really important.

Kaylin T., period 6

9/1/2012 08:20:57 am

I really like this quote Marisa. It makes me appreciate what i have and don't have in life. The way she reacted when she won the gold medal she was just filled with excitement and joy but couldn't help herself. And i can also relate to this quote a lot too!

Naomy Cueva period 6

8/28/2012 11:58:35 am

Victor Alba,in THE HORIZON CONCISE HISTORY OF MEXICO,wrote "however,Morelos' death did not end the struggle;guerillas he had organized carried it on."(1973,pg.62)

say:The fight for indepence and good government had to be long fought before we were granted certain right.Nothing came easy it was a long struggle wich cause a lot of deaths but at the end everybody benefit from it.

mean: What I understand from the reading is that Mexico had a long struggle with a lot of different issues, but over time the one thing that matter to the indigenous people and to the people who habited Mexico was what the king or ruler did for there people.They wanted there own government.They were looking for certain rights,but the king did not agree with there view, so they decided to fight the military and the king in order to get what they wanted.

matter:This is important to the Mexican history because things will either improve for them or get worse for them. And the change will be noticable a couple of chapters ahead.

Alvin O.

8/28/2012 12:58:08 pm

Gandalf, in THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING, wrote "All that is gold does not glitter..." (1954, p. 193). (This is cited in APA format.)

Say: On literal terms, Gandalf is saying that although sometimes gold looks dull, it's still gold.

Mean: This quote was written by Gandalf in a letter sent to Frodo to describe Strider, a dark and gloomy but wise and strong man. This means that although something may not look as worthy, it may actually have great value.

Matter: The basis of this quote is "do not judge a book by its cover". I believe that if the world stopped judging everything through appearance and actually took the time to look within, it may actually be a better place.

Alvin O., Period 5

8/28/2012 01:00:07 pm

forgot period

Yen T., Period 1

8/28/2012 02:48:32 pm

I love that quote, and I think society would be much more peaceful if people were to actually take the time to get to know a person instead of immediately judging them by their appearance and making assumptions about their lifestyles. It's become almost innate--the way we label people by first glance. If we are not perfect ourselves, we should not be criticizing others.

Mikar C. Period 1

8/29/2012 02:20:23 pm

This quote made me consider how our society works. Some may feel that just because that person is good looking, it automatically makes them a good person, but that's not the case. Even now, people say that looks don't matter and it's all about personality, people will still judge another based on how they look.

Yesenia Martinez Period:1

8/29/2012 03:00:57 pm

This quote relates a lot to life for example, in sports, academics, or life in general.
Sometimes we care a lot about winning and most of the time life is all about competition but it's not always about that. You also have to think about the hard work and everything you did to make it where you are today.
Now days we get caught up in winning!

James Zhijie R., Period 5

8/30/2012 05:20:09 pm

I agree with how you compared this quote to another common saying, which is,"don't judge a book by its cover". I also believe that by judging someone by only their outer appearance is something that our society shouldn't do. From my perspective of view, I thought of another saying while I was reading this quote. "The truth (gold) speaks for itself." So if the gold was missing some of its external characteristics, we still know the fact that the gold is still the gold itself.

Danny D Period 1

8/31/2012 05:28:15 pm

I believe in this quote because our society right now just judge people without getting to know them. These people would judge you without knowing your life and their words would affect you. We aren't a perfect homo sapiens sapiens, so we have no right to judge another kind of us, without knowing.

Jeanette F., period 5

9/3/2012 03:10:06 am

I see what you are trying to explain. This reminded me of another book I read about a girl who would wear these weird costummes but she herfelf was a normal average teenager. The qoute is true. "Don't judge a book by it's cover"

Jose R period 5

9/18/2012 06:14:12 am

I can relate to this quote because I learned a lesson that all gold doesn't glitter when i was little i use to be a show off and i just learned not everybody cares what you have

Alan V Period 2

8/28/2012 01:01:23 pm

Steven D. Levitt, in FREAKONOMICS, wrote, "Conventional wisdom is often wrong" (2005, P. 10).

Say:

This says that many things we hear that are often believed to be true are actually not. The "wisdom" is actually not "wisdom" at all, but just untrue statements.

Mean:

My interpretation of this quote is that people often believe everything they hear. Just because many people say something and believe that it is true, that does not necessarily mean that the statement is true itself. For example, drinking eight glasses of water a day has never actually been shown to be healthy. These everyday statements are often passed around and around from person to person but many people don't realize that the things they hear or say are unproven and therefore can not be said as true. Ideas are often to hastily accepted without anyone looking into further details.

Matter:

This passage matters because it offers insight to disprove certain conventional wisdom. It is often shoddily formed and difficult to see through, which means it is able to trick people easily. If we base off our knowledge only on what other people say, we can never be too sure that our statements are true. We could also be possibly passing around false information as well. Therefore, we can not always trust the things we hear, even if sounds true.

Siyao L., Period 1

8/28/2012 03:26:03 pm

That's a good quote. I thought is was funny because if it was conventional it wouldn't be wisdom at all. Also I think it shows how poor our social mindsets have become -- we constantly listen to others and start forgetting how to think for ourselves.

Tyler Takeshita, Period 2

8/29/2012 01:14:56 pm

I feel as though this quote is contradictory. Wisdom is born of experience, and to say that past experiences, and the wisdom that you gain from those experiences is wrong is contradictory to me. To say that wisdom is wrong doesn't make much sense in my opinion.

Mark C., period 6

9/1/2012 11:25:02 am

This quote is very true along with your analysis saying that what we think is true may not actually be correct in reality. Knowing physics certainly helps with this quote because the study of reality reveals the actual workings of everything. For example if you were to shoot a bullet straight and drop a bullet they would both hit the ground at the same time.

QI HONG C Period 6

9/9/2012 08:58:49 am

i think this quote is very true , sometimes we hear something from someone and many people say this is true and we just believe it, but sometimes it's false. so actually, i think that we can not just believe what you have heard, and do not believe what people say, you need to think about it, then you can decide it's true or false by yourself.

Kemberly M

9/13/2012 03:01:49 am

This is a good quote and even more because in high school people will start rumors that everyone will believen and talk about, we should just learn to stop and forget about it live our own lives. Also do what makes us happy.

Qi Hong C Period 6

9/16/2012 04:30:42 pm

i love this quote, because, it's truth in nowadays' society. people usually believe what they hear, but actually most of these thing which they hear from others are not true at all. so this quote reminds us that we have to decide the correctness of the thing that we hear from others.

Tracy O., Period 2

8/28/2012 01:02:17 pm

Suzanne Collins, in CATCHING FIRE, wrote, “The footsteps on the stairs renew my panic from last night. I’m not ready to see my mother and Prim. I have to pull myself together to be calm and reassuring, the way I was when we said our goodbyes the day of the reaping. I have to be strong. I struggle into an upright position, push my wet hair off my throbbing temples, and brace myself for this meeting. They appear in the doorway, holding tea and toast, their faces filled with concern. I open my mouth, planning to start off with some kind of joke, and burst into tears. So much for being strong.” (2009, p. 188)

Say:
This says that Katniss feels the need to stay strong and not show emotion in front of her family. She does not like to seem weak or burden her mother and little sister with how worried she may be. Even though she tries so hard to keep her emotions in check, she fails and starts to cry in front of her family.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that no matter how strong you may be or feel the need to be, sometimes you just cannot hold in how you feel. Even when you think you need to spare the feeling others around you, you should not hide or hold in your pain. Because sooner or later you will crack and end up doing what you tried to prevent in the first place.

Matter:
This quote matters because it shows how Katniss feels the need to hold in her emotions. It shows how Katniss has trouble trusting and even letting down her barriers around those she loves. It explains why it takes her so long to trust those in her life.

Chelsea A., Period 1

8/29/2012 07:20:39 am

This is a great quote that can relate to vulnerability and the video with Brene Brown. If people let their fears get in front of them, they will eventually break down. Sometimes people are braver when they express their feelings rather than holding them in. Katniss tried to portray this strong figure towards her mother and sister, and sometimes I feel that way too. Especially towards my Mom and brother and I have broken down several times, as well.

Cynthia H., Period 1

8/30/2012 11:06:31 am

This is a really good quote that could be referred back to the TED video that we watched. The quote is a great example of shame and vulnerability. Katniss wanted to be strong to those around her, however she felt vulnerable. And when one feels vulnerable, he or she keeps to themselves and hides behind his or her own shadow. They start living in fear of themselves and of people around them as well.

Lisa Z., Period 2

8/30/2012 02:00:30 pm

This is a good quote because this is something that everyone faces daily in their lives. Many people think that you can hide their feelings forever, but that is not true because eventually you will have to let it all out. We all try to hold out on our feelings because we sometimes feel that it would be a burden to people and don’t want to disturb them but sometimes we just need to let it all out.

Felix Zhu, period 5

9/3/2012 11:14:28 am

This is a nice quote, an excellent example its true that emotion is something we can not control, emotion is also something thats beyond strength, i am also ready catching fire, i will make sure i pay attention when i got to this part

Janssen F., period 1

8/28/2012 01:08:49 pm

Eric Ludy, in WHEN GOD WRITES YOUR LOVE STORY, wrote, “There are two ways each of us can approach life: spending our days meeting our needs or looking for ways to meet others’ needs. The mystery is that when we spend our life focused on our own needs, we are never satisfied and our deepest needs never seem to be met. But when we pour out our life and focus on how we can serve others, not only do we find incredible fulfillment, but our deepest needs are met as well! (2010, p. 205)

Say:
This says that achieving a fulfilled life isn’t acquired by meeting your needs. In order to attain a more fulfilled life, we should focus on others instead of ourselves.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that we have a choice whether to live our lives in a selfish way or in a way that serves others. If we choose to only look after ourselves, we will never be content because we will ALWAYS want more. However, if we choose to look after everyone else before ourselves, we actually feel more fulfilled because somehow our needs are met as well as we make others happy.

Matter:
This passage matters because it shows a different side of attaining fulfillment. If we can put the needs of others before our needs, not only will you make that person’s life better, but your own life will be better as well.

Erin T., Period 2

8/28/2012 05:38:15 pm

I like this quote! Whether we realize it or not, many people are only concerned with their own needs and wants. However, no matter how much they try, they will never be satisfied because they will always be left wanting more. Instead of trying to reach happiness based on unlimited wants and needs in this materialistic world, we should start trying to seek happiness by trying to meet other peoples' needs. Maybe more people can reach a fulfilled life by trying to make others happy.

Jessica L. Period 6

8/29/2012 12:42:47 pm

I really like this quote. This has much relevance for my life. I believe that we should live life by helping not only ourselves, but also others. However, I have been told that one cannot succeed in life if we fulfill others' needs. So this quote reinforces my own beliefs of a more positive and optimistic view of life.

Kristin W., Period 1

8/29/2012 02:04:44 pm

I absolutely love this! It is so true. I went on a mini missions trip last year to Mexicali and it was a great experience. We were given the opportunity to serve the people of this church and it was wonderful. I think I've realized that serving others, just to serve, brings me so much joy.

Art Medina P.1

8/29/2012 02:02:42 pm

I find this quote quite reminiscent of what my junior American Literature once taught and was known as a catch 22 situation. No matter how you decide to handle the situation and which desired path you choose to take, there will always be an undesired result or outcome. In this quote, or case, no matter how one finds him or herself "approaching life" that person will always experience a negative outcome and in turn will quite frankly never be satisfied. In this quote, and in all catch 22 situations, i think it boils down to way the individual has broken down and analyzed the situation and decided upon which outcome, negative in either manner, will affect him in the least negative way. Individuals in this society are bound to handle these kinds of problems throughout their lifetime and i believe that these problems will shape and revolutionize the way the think and handle adversities. Adversities will always find their way to us and we must learn to confront them through critical thinking and good decision-making and catch 22 situations are the perfect practice.

Stephanie U,. P.1

8/29/2012 04:24:17 pm

I entirely agree with this quote. When you focus on only your own needs, you will never feel fully satisfied because you will always crave something more. Instead, to seek ultimate happiness, we should stop centering in on ourselves and try to give a helping hand to others to help them find their own happiness.

Gloria M., Period 2

8/30/2012 09:55:39 am

When I first volunteered for VBS I thought about my own needs but now that it is over, I had come to realize that it was all for the glory of God. It brought me happiness and joy to see the smiles on the children's faces when they learn about the things the creator had made. This experience left me wanting to serve God even more.

Ryan L. Period 1

8/28/2012 01:12:26 pm

Rosa Guy, in THE DISAPPEARANCE, wrote, "But of course things will happen. We know that. We talked about it. You can't expect him to crawl into your house and grow plastic covers because you were good enough to take him in." (1985, page 30)

Say:
This says just because someone did something nice or good for you, doesn't mean that they owe you anything.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that if you're going to do something good for someone; do it from the goodness of your heart and not expect anything in return. If you're doing it for something in return, then its not really from your heart.

Matter:
This passage matters because I think it tells us the real idea of doing good in the world. Which is doing good deeds because you want to instead of doing it so you can get something back in return.

Fnu L

8/29/2012 10:50:31 am

This quote really gives me a lot of flashback. I remembered once, I was being very nice and helpful to my friend and she thought that I was doing that because I was feeling guilty for the actions I had done in the past to her.But it really wasn't the reason. The point is that we shouldn't put too much accusation on other people, it might hurt them in some way.

Albert L. Period 1

8/29/2012 02:44:34 pm

This quote reminds me of a time when I helped a student find her classroom. I expected a thank you but i didn't care it was great that I had helped made someone's life simpler. Anyways I totally agree with this quote, people should do something from the goodness from the heart and should feel good about it. There is a job that revolves around this quote, volunteer service.

Randall C., Period 6

8/29/2012 06:12:46 pm

I believe this quote can be related to everyone. At least once in our lives we have done a generous deed expecting something in return, but that is not always the case. To me, a true friend will do the actions not expecting anything in return.

Elaine T., Period 2

8/28/2012 02:23:53 pm

Sarah Weeks, in So B. it, wrote, “We had “school” every morning at the kitchen table. In the very beginning Mama would sit with us too—especially when we were working on letters. But after a while I’d learned all my letters and my numbers, too, so while I moved on to other things, mornings became Mama’s coloring time… Mama used all the crayons—yellow and pink and my favorite color purple, but no matter what color she used, she called it blue. Sometimes I worried that maybe the reason Mama only had one word for colors was that she only saw one color. It made me sad to think that Mama’s world might have no pink or yellow or purple in it. But I knew Mama loved me even though she didn’t have words to tell me, so I decided the same thing was true of the colors—just because she didn’t have words for them didn’t mean she couldn’t see them.” (2004, p. 30)

SAY:

Heidi is homeschooled by her neighbor and caretaker, Bernadette, because Heidi’s mom is mentally disabled. Heidi was concerned about her mom because she called all the colors she saw, blue. Heidi thought it would be sad if her mom could only see the world in one color. Later Heidi came to the conclusion that even though her mom could not find the words to name all the colors, it did not mean she could not see all the colors. Heidi believes this because she knows that her mother loves her even though her mom does not have the words to express it.

MEAN:

My interpretation of this passage is that actions can express abstract emotions and thoughts better than words can express them. This passage is not about Heidi’s mom not being able to name all the colors that exist, but rather it shows that Heidi knows her mom expresses her love through other means besides words. Although many moms express their loves using words, mothers can express their unconditional love to their child without say a word. Through a mother’s action, like a hug, towards her child, the child can feel happiness, warmth, and love. People’s actions can show that they care for another person. Other words such as courage, success, freedom are all abstract and are hard to describe with word, but these words can easily be corresponded with examples of people’s actions. Therefore I believe this passage shows that actions are greater than words.

MATTER:

This matters because we experience these kinds of situation every day. For example, your friends do not have to state that they are your friends every single day. Our friends show us they care by how they treat us. Sometimes we have to prove to people that we are courageous, caring, or determined by what we do, since not all people will believe in what we say. This passage shows how our actions can define and shape us.

Cassidy A. Period 1

8/30/2012 04:32:58 pm

I think this quote is beautiful and really is true in life. Often we can't find the words to express how we feel or what we are seeing, but that doesn't mean that they aren't happening. And i think in this quote, Heidi's mother is lucky because she has a daughter that knows that her mother loves her, even if she cant say the words.

Isabella G. Period 2

8/28/2012 02:37:11 pm

Luis J. Rodriguez, in ALWAYS RUNNING, wrote, "There was nothing like it, this rush, and here i was on the edge of a new fraternity which crossed barrio and sex lines, this fellowship of la carga, so integral to 'la vida loca.' " (1993,p.131)

Say: In this quote, Luis is shooting up heroin, he is saying by doing this drug it completes his cycle of "la vida loca." What it truly feels like to be a "vato" within a gang. This drug is what makes him feel complete by not having to feel any pain that surrounds him.

Mean: It is a pivital point in this stage of his life because he is coming to know what "la vida loca" truly is. He doesn't know another way to cope with his problems other than to get high and forget about everything. This is a turing point in his life because he is saying this drug will now be apart of his life. When he states "fraternity," he is saying he will go through a brotherhood with this drug.

Matter: This matters because it is painting a picture of ganster life. The challenges these kids or vato locos go through at such a young age to cope with thier issues or maybe to fit in. This quote is a real eye opener due to the harsh drugs Luis is doing at only age 15!

Maggie W. Period 2

8/30/2012 04:44:04 pm

This quote reminds me of all the struggles that people face in this day and age. People would change their likes and dislikes in order to be accepted. I've read a book, Rx by Tracy Lynn, which also talks about drugs, prescription drugs, but drugs nonetheless. Both of the main characters are close to our age and it always astounds me how they can fall into peer pressure so easily even though it breaks laws and harms themselves and others just to achieve monetary gain like acceptance from peers or numbness from pain.

Benjamin L., Period 6

8/28/2012 02:39:54 pm

Boris Pasternak in DOCTOR ZHIVAGO, wrote, "Nikolai Nikolaevich was bringing Voskoboinikov the proofs of his little book on the land question, which, in view of increased pressure from the censorship, the publisher had asked him to revise." (1890, pg 7)

Say:
This quote expresses the oppression some people face when trying to express their opinions. From the perspective of the book, an authoritarian government is prohibiting anything negative or against the countries values to be published.

Mean:
Censorship to a certain extent is beneficial. However if it comes to a point were it restricts freedom then it is actually detrimental to society. What is surprising is that people are willing to give up their opinions in order to retain a positive attitude about what is going on. Although one may argue that censorship is done by the government, why do we remain mute about it? In the example of the book people just seem to be contempt with just obeying a biased government without questioning the motives.

Matter:
This idea is of extreme importance today as our society is able to access information and opinions faster and easier then ever. With information there is always good and bad with hundreds of externalities that classified them. The truth is, no one wants everything revealed, and in order to achieve this goal, censorship is used based on the idea that what people don’t know can’t hurt them. The conflict arises from this point, who’s right is it to tell us what we can know and what we can’t. There is no simple solution to this problem. Information is powerful and can turn hordes of people against you. A good example of this is the anti-piracy bill. At first it was waved off as another useless piece of legislature, however, once people started getting more information, there was basically an outright peaceful revolt that forced congress to repel the bill. Even though facts about the bill were blown way out of proportion, form and anti-piracy act to governmental censorship, this information help to incite people to do something usually no one ever cares about. When was the last time was in American history has been such a cohesiveness among the people when it comes to legislature?

Yen T., Period 1.

8/28/2012 02:42:48 pm

Stephenie Meyer, in NEW MOON, wrote, “'It’s not your fault',” Carlisle comforted me with a chuckle. 'It could happen to anyone.'
'Could,' I repeated. 'But it usually happens to me.'" (2006, pg. 33).

Say:
This says that when something unfortunate happens to us, we feel like the entire world is against us. Despite the fact that certain situations could happen to anyone, we focus so much on our own misfortunes that we think that it only happens to us.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that life inevitably has its ups and downs, and when we are faced with difficulties, we tend to convince ourselves in the moment that we are the only ones cursed with misfortune.

Matter:
This passage matters because it shows us a reflection of our own attitude and perception on the way we deal with life's unfortunate events. We need to realize that even though we were unlucky enough to be in a bad situation, that others might have experienced the same or even worse incidents. We also need to keep in mind that there is always a bright side, so when something bad happens to us, we need to remind ourselves that it is not the end of the world. Everything is about perspective and how we choose to view our whereabouts.

Dawson W., Period 5

8/29/2012 01:18:45 pm

This reminds me of a friend that I have, whenever something bad happens she feels like she cause harm to someone or to everyone in the world. It's just like you said people can have there ups and down and that's just like what I have and everyone that I know.

Jose R., Period 5

9/18/2012 05:51:33 am

I agree because you can't control any ones emotions or thoughts so you really have no idea how any one feels

Jenny Y, Period 2

8/29/2012 02:35:18 pm

I agree to your response for this quote. It is something that most people can relate to. A friend of mine would always get a parking ticket and cannot understand why it always happens to him. He doesn't understand why he always ends up with it even if there were no restrictions of when to park there or not. Not everyone can get what they want or make everything perfect.

Siyao L., Period 1

8/28/2012 03:19:52 pm

Lynne Griffin, in LIFE WITHOUT SUMMER, wrote " There's a thud as her little body collides with the steel fender. No scream. Just a soft sigh, a surprised breath inhaled as she's lifted from the ground only to return there... Neither of us could've known that the light kiss and fleeting hug she gave me outside the gate of the playground would be our last." (2009, pg. 3)

Say:
This quote is describing a car accident that killed Abby, Tessa's 4 year old daughter. Although Tessa did not witness the accident, she imagines the scene in replay. Tessa is still in shock as she realizes the kiss and hug was the last she will ever get form her beloved child.

Mean:
You never know what will happen in the future. This quote is a little reminder to enjoy the present and enjoy what you have.

Matter:
This quote is important because it outlines the rest of the story. Tessa's response and process of recovery to this very accident is the main plot.

Justin T. Period 5

8/29/2012 05:46:10 am

This is a lesson that most of us need to know, that you never know what is going to happen in the future. Dont take anything for granted and be happy for what you have now. Dont complain because other people might not be as grateful as you.

Andrew L. , Period 5

8/29/2012 11:11:17 am

This quote makes me consider about many different individuals in life that take many things for granted. Those just enjoy the present in a careless manner and do not consider the fact that, what is provided may not last forever. There is a time everything stops being the way that one wants.

Kimble Yuan, Period 1

8/28/2012 03:25:50 pm

The Director, in Brave New World, wrote, "We condition the masses to hate, which is that a weight will be different. (1932, p. 23)

Say:
This says that we have to look at the weight to know that this person is strong or weak. We will find out about the weight. When the person is fat, we cannot laugh.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that it means that everybody can be eating too much chips. Almost everybody has a lot of parties. Everybody will have to know about health.

Matter:
This passage matters because we are maybe not exercising that much. We will need to understand how to enjoy. A person can eat fruits and vegetables. Everybody will drink a lot of milk.

Ryan L., Period 1

8/29/2012 12:35:24 pm

Your post made me consider that I should start eating better and I should start exercising more. I should replace chips and candy with some fruits and vegetables. I should also replace soda with more water and juice.I also think that more people should consider eating healthier and exercise more.

Jasmine L, period 1

8/30/2012 01:52:53 pm

Your quote reminds me of this generation's thinking, and that is getting healthy. Our surrounding nowadays is filled with pretty and skinny models, it puts us teens on a great amount of pressure. That's why I strongly agree with you, because it's health that matters. Everyone's going to get old someday and eventually we'll be putting on a few pounds, so there's no point of always worrying about our weight and just enjoy life.

Courtney T , per. 5

8/31/2012 11:34:19 am

Thinking about your quote made me realize that i need to start eatting healthier. I would always pick junk food over vetgetables.

Bobbi G.,Period 2

9/1/2012 09:03:12 am

This quote is wry effective and now we live in a world where weight is a big issue.Eating habits are hard to break but I doesn't define who we are . If we condition then we can see change .

Matthew I., Period 1

8/28/2012 03:32:15 pm

Jack London, in CALL OF THE WILD, wrote, "For the pride of trace and trail was his, and sick unto death, he could not bear that another dog should do his work."
- Jack London, The Call of the Wild, Ch. 4

Say:

This says that it's hard to let something or someone go when you've been with it all your life.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that it means that it's hard to let something or someone go when you've been with it all your life. You've spent your entire life time with someone you love and it's hard to move on. This dog made him very happy everyday and he would not feel the same way with any other dog.

Matter:

This passage matters because it offers an explanation for his reason not to move on with another dog. It shows how committed he was to this dog and if he used another dog throughout his travel, it would not be the same.

David L.

8/29/2012 01:29:51 pm

I definitely agree with you. This quote really shows how we cling to our loved ones and its hard to live without them. Although as time passes we have to let things go in order to continue on our lives and we can't dwell on the things that happen in the past.

Benny C., Period 2

8/28/2012 03:33:24 pm

Alyson Noel, in EVERMORE, wrote, "Everyone has to start somewhere." (2009, page 57)

Say:
This says that everyone begins their life differently.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that everything has a beginning and an ending. Everyone begins their life from birth and that is where everyone starts. This is what the quote, “Everyone has to start somewhere”, mean.

Matter:
This quote matters because it helps encourage the main character to face her supernatural life. Rather than hating her new power and her new life, she should enjoy her new life.

Kemberly M.

8/29/2012 04:56:45 am

I agree with this passage many wealthy people started from the bottom making their way up. It should be an example for people to not be ashamed of where they start at. You never know where you will end up in life.

Isabella G. Period 2

8/29/2012 08:43:40 am

I agree with this quote!! I feel that this quote is very true. For example, when someone goes and applies for a job, they might not be the best at whatever their boss puts them to do but they have to work hard and sooner or later they will progress into a great worker. "Everyone has to start somewhere" is a quote that should inspire people to want to work hard and thrive for the highest in whatever it is that they do.

Zishan(Angela) T., Period 2

8/29/2012 01:16:04 pm

HI Benny (: I really like this quote because it just explains how different/original life can be. In a way to me, it shows me that you can give hope to life even if its a new life or old life. I also like how it shows that nobody shouldn't hide who they are since that's who they are, it' s their life.

Tiffany Louie, Period 2

8/29/2012 02:17:01 pm

I really liked your interpretation of the quote, Benny! Everything, indeed, has a start somewhere. What's great is, even if you start off in an unstable position, there is always room for growth. Whether you're at the highest level or the lowest, improvement can always take place with practice and perseverance.

Brilliant H., Period 2

8/28/2012 03:50:39 pm

Andrew Tobias, in THE ONLY INVESTMENT GUIDE YOU'LL EVER NEED, wrote "This one is about the forest, not the trees. Because if you can find the right forest - the right over all investment outlook - you shouldn't have to worry much about the trees." (2002, pg. 6)

Say: This quote is Tobias' theory on investing. If you put yourself in the right investment outlook, the smaller details of the investments shouldn't be worried over. He compares this to forests and trees. An example relating to investments would be that the forest is exchange traded funds, the trees would be stocks that fall under this category.

Mean: Many people buy investment guides or research about stocks, bonds, and other investments in very specific ways. People find interest in one particular stock and invest in only that one when recommended. Some invest in commodities. What Tobias explains is that these smaller details should not matter if you have found the outlook of how you are going to invest. If you are a person with a more aggressive investing profile, you should not be looking in the same forest as another individual looking to save up for retirement.

Matter: This quote is important to me because I am very interested in finance. This one quote basically embodies the several chapters I have read. Although the concept of forests and trees may not be universal to any topic, it is one that matches finance extremely well. As I read this quote, however, it did occur to me that the analogy could be applied to various situations in my life. A forest could be compared to the group that you identify with at school; your friends, your clique. If you find the right group to associate yourself with, the trees don't matter as much. In this case, I wouldn't compare trees to friends. If the forest was a group of friends, trees should be smaller details that many experience with their friends; embarrassment, insecurities, and the need to define themselves by comparisons with the group. These things should not matter if you find a forest that you feel comfortable and happy with. There are numerous examples that this quote could relate to, but the beauty of it is that it is dependent on an individual's opinions and experiences - just as the forest, or the right investment outlook - is also subjective to an individual.

Anna V. Period 6

8/29/2012 03:29:21 pm

Hi Brilliant!
This quote is incredibly insightful with the versatile application of its analogy. As I read the words "forest" and "trees", I cannot help but think of environmental science. Taken literally, this quote can be analyzed in the environmental aspect. Although a single tree contributes significantly to the forest, one bad tree will not spoil the entire forest, as rotten apples do. In fact, a tree can provide countless opportunities subsequent to its downfall. The remains can decompose, providing life for new trees and food for microorganisms. As the cliche goes, the end can also bring the beginning. Your "Matter" portion of the review reminds me of our society as well. Sometimes, people just need to step back and observe the world as a whole, rather than scrutinize every minuscule detail about a specific person or group. This insightful quote has enlightened me.

Zhicheng(James) W.

8/28/2012 03:55:48 pm

J.K. Rowling, in HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS, wrote, "Mudblood’s a really foul name for someone who is Muggle-born – you know, non-magic parents. There are some wizards – like Malfoy’s family – who think they’re better than everyone else because they’re what people call pure-blood." (1998, pg.89).

Say:
This says that Muggles and Wizards are not alike in any way even though both are part of the human race. This can compare to the Nazi's and to the Jews in which the Nazi's never thought of the Jews are equal therefore exterminating over 3 million Jews.

Mean:
My interpretation is that there are people that ridicule others just by the color of their skin and their race. However, people like Mr. Weasley admire the Muggles and would prove to everyone in the world of magic that Muggles and Wizards are not much different from each other.

Matter:
The passage matters because this is a non-prejudice example of race or specie. We need to understand that as human, we can't judge a book by its cover and because we do that, war and chaos occur. It is better if the developed help the undeveloped so that both people benefit and the skills can be made to improve to economy rather than using it against each other.

David D., Period 2

8/29/2012 03:09:08 pm

Your passage reminds of the world in which we live in today. I think Rowling is using her work to convey problems of discrimination and treating people differently for things they cannot control (in this case, their lack of magical parents). The plight of mudbloods in Harry Potter is comparable to the the plight of many minorities today, such as blacks in America and like you said, the Jews during the Holocaust. It goes to show that even books that are for leisure can teach powerful lessons about contemporary society through insightful social commentary.

Kevin W., Period 6

8/29/2012 04:17:13 pm

the quote really refers to what is happening to the Holocause.
like Malfoy’s family – who think they’re better than everyone else because they’re what people call pure-blood." - Similar to the master race

Erin T., Period 2

8/28/2012 04:49:05 pm

Anne Lamott, in CROOKED LITTLE HEART, wrote, "The girls were doubles champions, that was true, but Simone was lazy, and Rosie had a tendency to "choke," to blow solid leads by spooking herself into a state of dread. Real champions entered matches assuming that they would win; Rosie played many singles matches driven by terror of losing" (1997, p. 5).

Say:
This quote says that true champions are those who have the confidence in their abilities and work hard to prove their talents. When Lamott describes Simone as lazy and Rosie as fearful, she is implying that these are the characters’ weaknesses that will lead them nowhere. If they continue these behaviors, they will never reach success in their tennis tournaments.

Mean:
I believe that Lamott is trying to enforce the idea that everybody should go into something with the positive attitude that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. This is especially true for athletes; they need to have a tough mentality in order to reach success. They cannot let the fears and nerves get the best of them before or during a game, because they are only hurting themselves by underestimating their own abilities. The author describes each character individually by their weaknesses, however, when they play as a team they are considered “doubles champions.”

Matter:
This quote matters because it stresses the idea that people should have confidence in themselves because anything is possible. It is not good to live in fear of something, because this fear can take over and eventually get the best of you. In some cases, the outcome that one feared of the most will soon become reality. This passage is also trying to teach its readers that hard work and passion for something, whether a hobby or profession, will pay off greatly in the end. I think that this passage is significant because many people, especially athletes, have experienced not only the nerves and fear, but also the laziness that comes after exhaustion. Through this quote, Lamott is advising everyone to overcome these weaknesses and challenges in order to accomplish great things in life.

Cindy T., Period 1

8/28/2012 04:59:20 pm

Jay Asher, in TH1RTEEN R3ASONS WHY, wrote, “Her voice is angry. Almost trembling.
Hannah Baker is not and never was a slut. Which begs the question, What have you heard?
I simply wanted a kiss. I was a freshmen girl who had never been kissed. Never. But I liked a boy, he liked me, and I was going to kiss him. That’s the story—the whole story—right there.
What was the other story? Because I did hear something” (2007, p. 23).

Say:
This says that words and actions can easily be misinterpreted. Hannah Baker was accused of being something that she wasn’t; this also says that people should think before they speak, because what they say can easily affect others.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that what people say may easily hurt another. For example, rumors may be spread that are not entirely or at all true, yet people still believe them. What you say can really hurt someone else, so people should take into consideration another’s feelings. Right in the beginning of this story, you find out that Hannah Baker, one of the main characters in this story has committed suicide for thirteen reasons and how people judged her was a factor.

Matter:
This passage matters because it quickly makes people more aware of what they say. Not everyone understands that their actions do follow consequences. You may not understand what another has or is going through difficulties and if you make mean remarks, you could ruin their entire day easily. What this passage really shows is that we should be more careful in the words we choose to speak and to be more considerate of another’s feelings, because you may not understand how deeply you may hurt them.

Eric lo

8/29/2012 02:44:09 pm

This quote really open my eyes. How something maybe fictional and some things maybe facts. You cant really judge until you know the whole story.Yet half the times its too late and you cant fix what has already happened. Somethings are out of our hands and are up to faith to decide what will happen to us.

Anna V.

8/28/2012 05:15:30 pm

In DEVIL IN A BLUE DRESS, Walter Mosley wrote, "I was nervous on the ride over. In my mind I knew that Mouse was dead, but in my heart I had never accepted it. The attending nurse said that he had no pulse minutes before EttaMae came and carried him out of the emergency room bed. But I could never find EttaMae after that, and some deep part of me still held out hope" (2002, pg. 14).

Say
This short paragraph says that the protagonist, Easy Rawlins, still believes his friend, Mouse, is alive. However, all the facts seem to defy his belief. No matter how blatant Mouse's death is, Rawlins cannot accept the death of his close friend.

Mean
My interpretation of this short passage is that people remain hopeful even in the face of apparent facts. It takes time for people to absorb the truth and slowly accept it for what it is. Hope and friendship cannot merely be extinguished by death. In fact, the ending ultimately brings hope and realization.

Matter
This passage matters because it explains how people can remain hopeful in tragic times. The small spark of hope within us, however, can also be detrimental as we steer clear of acceptance. If we can accept the occurrence of an event, then we will be able to cope better and not suffer.

Anna V., Period 6

8/28/2012 05:16:58 pm

Period 6. I apologize for forgetting to put my period number.

Brilliant H. Period 2

8/29/2012 08:30:09 am

I really liked this quote and I felt like it could be applied to many different situations. I felt that almost anyone could empathize with the feeling of clinging onto hope, even as the odds in their favor were slim to none. As I read your "mean" paragraph, I wondered, "realization of what?" Death can bring hope and realization? Is it he realization of an end? This opposite of the arrival of hope befuddled me but I also acknowledged that in the time of end and death, contradictory emotions arrive all at once in a manner that we cannot control.

(Minnie) Chi Ying Yu

8/29/2012 02:40:18 pm

I can relate to this, because every time a loved one dies , even a small pet, my immediate reaction is always denial. I can't and won't face the truth and only hope they can start moving all over again. It usually takes a month for me to accept the truth, but eventually I will be able to cope reality. And each time I see deaths, I treasure friends and families even more.

minnie

8/30/2012 09:51:51 am

Period 1

Jessica L, Period 6

8/29/2012 12:04:06 am

In BRISINGR, Christopher Paolini wrote, "'If I failed to explain myself clearly enough before, then I apologize. However, do not blame us for what has happened; we cannot help our nature. And do not blame yourself, either, for we live in an age of suspicion. To allow us to pass unchallenged would have been negligent on your part. It is regrettable that such an unpleasant incident should mar this historic meeting between us...'" (2008, p. 78).

Say: Much of this passage is part of a conversation with polite trivialities. Blödhgarm, one of the elves, is apologizing for the sacrifice that Gavin made as he was reading the elves' minds. Gavin had become a changed man, no longer fierce and determined like he was before the ordeal. However, Blödhgarm says that it was not their fault nor their intention for Gavin to become so. Furthermore, Blödhgarm is making Nasuda, whom he is talking to, understand that it is not her fault and remove the guilt that she is feeling.

Mean: There are some things people cannot change nor control because it is the way they were born or is their nature. Some traits are inherit in an individual and cannot be changed.

Matter: This passage matters because it offers an explanation to the causes to some of the things that may happen. Sometimes, consequences may happen not because of someone's actions, but because of his or her actions. Furthermore, the passage indicates that some things may be out of our hands. There are some things that are unpleasant, but must be done due to the circumstances, such as war.

Kemberly M., Period 6

8/29/2012 04:43:36 am

Jodi Picoult wrote :“When you're different, sometimes you don't see the millions of people who accept you for what you are. All you notice is the person who doesn't.”
(2007, pg 30) .

Says:

This says, people that don't feel like they fit in is because they are trying to get the attention of the wrong crowed.
When they should just care about being themselves.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that people that feel like they aren't fitting in are trying to be around the wrong crowed of people. Usually if you are around the right people they would not judge you and like you for who you really are. To find people that are for who you really are.

Matter:

This passage matters, because many kids now a days try to hard to be someone they are not just to try and be "cool". They often change who the truly are instead of being themselves.

Tracy O., Period 2

8/29/2012 03:16:38 pm

Your post made me consider that maybe everyone who feels out place or unwanted with the group of people they are trying to fit in with, can be overlooking others who see them and appreciate them as they are. Sometimes you are better off with someone who sees you as you are and not someone they want you to be. I really liked how you interpreted this quote. it shows how people can be afraid to be themselves around others.

Mikar C., Period 1

8/29/2012 06:14:55 am

Gail Carson Levine, in ELLA ENCHANTED, wrote "Oh, why is there trouble? Two reasons, mostly. People know we can do magic, so they want us to solve their problems for them. When we don't, they get mad too. The other reason is we're immortal. That gets them mad too. Lady wouldn't speak to me for a week when her father died (1997, p.25)."

Say:

This says that some people may use another person for their special ability or talent.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that people may take advantage of someone else if they find out that they have a talent or specialty. They've tried letting other people know what they really are, but it didn't quite turn out the way they expected it to, which is why they decided to keep it a secret. It may cause trouble for themselves and probably mischief for others.

Matter:

This passage matters, because many of us have a special talent but decide to hide them from the world. They are afraid of what might happen if they told other people and how those people may react to their secret. Many may want to keep their secret talent a secret because they might feel that it's not special or that it's not as great as another.

Tara K., Per. 6

8/29/2012 12:56:03 pm

Your post made me remember how much I liked this book when I was younger! I like how you interpreted this quote as people will take advantage of someone once they know that person has a special talent. It's so true. But I want to add that though that may be a bad thing most of the time, it can also be viewed as a compliment since people acknowledging the talent.

Minnie Yu

8/29/2012 07:28:14 am

James Dobson, in Love Must Be Tough ,wrote "The most vulnerable victims of family instability are the children (1996,pg.15)

Say:
When families go through divorces, even though children may not completely understand, they can feel the growing distance and unhappiness among the family. And this feeling leaves a detrimental impact and memory for the children.

Mean:
I think this quote is a reminder to both parents, one who is detached, and other who is hurt and lost, that they need to make sure the children don't feel lack of love or attention. They need to tell the children it is not their fault that the marriage breaks apart.

Matter:
This quote matters, because divorce leaves psychological and behavioral problem for the next.generation. Children from broke families have been made fun and wrote "I wish I had a M1 rifle so I can shoot those who make fun of me" in his homework. As a way of self-defense, he turns to violence. If the mindset is not corrected as a youth, this child may develop into a harmful adult in his community.

Garrett P., Period 1

8/29/2012 10:45:38 am

This passage has a lot of truth to it. Children are very sensitive to behavior of adults and try to follow it. When families go through divorce, people don't understand that the kids take it the hardest. To see parents fighting is extremely traumatic to a kid, and makes them feel unloved and neglected. Many memories from our childhood stick with us through our lives, and it is important that children don't bear tainted memories with them through adulthood.

minnie Yu

8/30/2012 09:52:36 am

Period 1 class.

William L, Period 6

8/31/2012 04:34:10 pm

I agree with this passage because most children, especially those at a young age, are easily influenced by many factors. Children are not able to think as reasonably or thoroughly as adults/teenagers because they are still in the process of understanding what happens around them. As a result, children are significantly impacted by a divorce because they are unaware of the reasons why their parents decided to separate. Often times, childhood memories of spending time with mom or dad carry on, and children will start questioning why they received the support and love of only one of their parents growing up.

Tom Huang, Period 6

8/29/2012 07:41:56 am

Christopher Paolini, in ELDEST, wrote, "Many dangers exist that I cannot protect you from Eragon. With Galbatorix set against us, you need allies, not enemies around you." (2005, p. 18)

Say:
This says that with the amount of danger Eragon soon has to face, he must create as many friends as possible. That would allow Eragon to have support to fight against his rival Galbatorix. It would also allow him to trust those around him and not fear of any betrayal.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that it means allies, or friends, are beneficial to you no matter what. You should always make more friends and not enemies. It may help you in the future by allowing you to be friends with those around you so you can all help each other. It will also give you and others around you confidence because you won't feel like you will be betrayed.

Matter:
This passage matters because it would make the world a better place if everyone just became friends with each other. The more enemies created around you the more hatred there is around you. This passage helps show everyone the importance of friendship and how it may affect you if the future. It will also allow you to succeed more because of the impact it creates on your life.

Alan V. Period 2

8/29/2012 12:53:50 pm

Today has become quite a bit of a dog-eat-dog world. We are too overly concern with our personal lives that we tend to forget about making friends. Many of us quickly conjure enemies for our own selfish desires; however, just like Eragon, we do need allies, or friends, to surround us. With friends, we can all help each other to succeed and follow on to the pursuit of happiness.

Leon Y., Period 1

8/29/2012 01:02:16 pm

I really like this quote because in life there are a lot of danger in the world that happens and you can not always have your parents there to protect you from it. You should make friends and if something bad does happen you will have them to depend on. It is much hard in life with no one to depend on and only have yourself.

Kenny V., Period 2

8/31/2012 04:18:16 pm

As I read this quote I find it very true today. Going through life now without anyone on your side is very difficult. Having friends with you, lets you know that you have at least someone you can depend on and it is always better to be surrounded by your friends rather than enemies.

Chelsea A., Period 1

8/29/2012 07:48:10 am

Jane Hamilton, in Map of the World, wrote,"I often had the fanciful thought that the pond would save us; it would be the one thing that would postpone our deaths by scorching as the climate of our part of the world changed. We were going to spend the long summer months ahead thinking always of the relief of our own unspoiled waters" (1994, pg.4).

Say:

This says that looks can be deceiving in many different ways and that you may experience it in an untimely and unlikely matter.

Mean:

My definition of this passage is that it means to not judge so quickly. Looks can definitely be deceiving until you have come across its consequence. For example, the speaker believed that her harmless, unspoiled pond would have never done harm to anyone until one of her daughter's friends have drowned in it. This incident portrayed the dangers of her harmless, unspoiled pond.

Matter:

This passage matters because people will never know what life would throw at them. Society can come across situations so untimely and unlikely and that they just have to be prepared for them. This passage especially is referring to the young adults who are coming out to this world unprepared and not aware of what is coming towards them.

Jeffery W. Period 5

8/29/2012 08:36:46 am

Robert Lipsyte, in THE CONTENDER, wrote, "Anyone can fight. But to be a contender, that you need to do yourself." (1997, pg. 97)

Say:

This says that people can do the basics of many things, but if you want to become good at something, then you need to work hard and achieve it on your own.

Mean:

My interpretation of what this means is that to achieve what your ideal image is, you have to work real hard, never give up, and learn to accomplish something on your own.

Matter:

This passage matters because if people didn't have the determination to do something they want to do, then everyone wouldn't be able to achieve what they want and the world would be full of restriction.

Fnu L.,Per 1

8/29/2012 09:25:12 am

In the book The Joy Luck Club, one of the character name An Mei Hsu,wrote,"I know this, because I was raised the Chinese way: I was taught to desire nothing, to swallow other people's misery, to eat my own bitterness."

SAY:
This quote is saying that the character has gone through a lot of obstacles living as a Chinese. She has to hold back her desire and pleas everyone surrounding her. She can't do anything about her fate because she was born that way.In a way, she is also saying that " She was born in a Chinese way", which means that her parents had been very tough on her ( probably putting high expectation on her or pressuring her to do something she had no desire on)

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is very profound.The tone of this quote is depression. She has lived a very tough life since she was little.Therefore, she understand people who are struggling in their lifes because she had gone through worse circumstances that could possibly happen. But she never give up, she keep trying and here she is telling the story to her daughter. The moral of this quote to me is that in order to survive through lifes and all the dramas in life, we should never give up and remember there must be someone else in the world that have been living in poor conditions in comparison to us.

Matter:
This matters because this quote shows us that no matter what you obstacles are if you keep trying, you will always have better ending. If you don't try at all, you'll regret for the rest of your time. To me, this quote is very inspiring that we should realize how wonderful our life is, there are people who life in a very bad condition out there, but they never give up, they will do anything just to survive for a day. Compare to us who always have foods on our table, house, money and everything. I choosed this quote because I find it very ironic that people living under pressure tend to be more realistic than those who are careless. Therefore, we should be happy and enjoy our life, and try our best in everything.

Man Ieng (Winnie) C., Period 1

9/2/2012 10:00:44 am

Your post actually reminded me of myself and what I've come through. I understand that it's not easy to move to a new country. New culture, new language and new people are not the only things that you have to struggle with. You have to put much more effort than everyone else to gain a better life. However, some people who are living in a perfect condition never appreciate what they already have. We should learn to be thankful, and not to give up trying even though it seems so hard.

Joanne W., Period 6

9/2/2012 11:59:54 am

This post made me realized how tough Chinese was raised back then. It's like a total opposite of how kids behave toward their parents nowadays. But anyway, we really shouldn't give up our life for anything. If others can survive, then so can we. No matter how tough our life might get just remember that we have to be brave and confident.

Dinh T, Period 5

8/29/2012 09:28:31 am

Rick Riordan, in THE LAST OLYMPIAN, wrote,"For a second I saw worry in his eyes. Then he put on his old confident smile" (2012, p.12)

Say:

This says that Beckendorf is worried about whether or not he and Percy could make it back to camp alive.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that it means that even if people are confident or look confident, they could still be worried. Sometimes, you can't really tell what other people are feeling just by looking at them.

Matter:

This passage matters because it shows that when people are with their friends, they are able to pretend to be confident so that they won't make their friends worry about them. It shows that Beckendorf cares about Percy.

Zerlinda L.

8/29/2012 10:32:22 am

I remember reading this book and I understood that the meaning you wrote is true.

Dinh T

8/29/2012 11:22:26 am

I made a mistake on the year. It's 2009.

Kevin T., Period 1

8/31/2012 04:41:25 pm

I like your quote because it shows that even if the character is worried and scared, he puts on a strong confident smile to show that he believes that they can make it out alive. He stays strong and puts on a smile so there wouldn't be any demoralization between them, and so they both know that they'll make it out alive.

James Endo (Period 1)

9/1/2012 09:20:49 am

I really like this passage because I believe it's true in the real life. People are may not be the same person you know from the outside. There's a quote most people know, but it is "Don't judge a book by its cover" and I think this quote works well with this passage.

Zishan(Angela) T., Period 2

8/29/2012 09:31:30 am

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" (2010, P.23-24).

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.

Zhicheng(James) W., Period 2

8/29/2012 02:59:37 pm

Your post definitely makes sens. Regret is a lifelong shame and punishment to those that do not commit to a action. It shows that you should take the risk rather than regret it because an opportunity like that might not happen ever again. I am now in regret that I didn't get to audition for a television show coming out soon and now another lucky person has taken that spot from me. Basically, I shall now think before I perform.

Mark C., Period 6

8/29/2012 09:51:27 am

Johnathan Swift, in GULLIVER'S TRAVELS, worte," Having condemned by nature and fortuned to an active and reckless life, two months after my return from Lilliput, I again left my native country."(2001, pg 73)

Say:

This quote says that when one has the ability and desire to do an activity then one should do it, because it is only following one's natural instinct.

Mean:

My interpretation of this quote is that one cannot ignore his nature. It is not good for one to neglect what he yearns to do. If that is done then there will be better results in whatever they do and everyone can enjoy the benefits. As in the story, Gulliver loves exploration and goes on one only two months after his last one that lasted over a year. He then discovers a new island where the creatures are different then they are in his world and brings this information back home.

Matter:

This matters because when everyone does what they want to do when they have the skills to do it then everyone will work better and happier. If that happens the world will function better and create a more efficient and prosperous species.

Benjamin Lin period 6

8/31/2012 01:46:22 pm

I disagree with your analysis of the quote. I think that the only reason we have to do things is because some circumstances force us to do it. We can all claim that we are proactive but in reality we don't do anything until wee are forced to.

Garrett P., Period 1

8/29/2012 10:36:13 am

Dean Koontz, in SOLE SURVIVOR, wrote, "Why did the people who invented the atomic bomb work on it...knowing what they were making? Because others, elsewhere in the world, will do it if we don't...so maybe we have to do it to save ourselves from them?" (1997, p.352).

Say:

This says that people who are perceived as evil are only acting in fear from someone or something else.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that people are not naturally evil. All acts of violence and hatred stem from being fearful and feeling threatened. Those who have invented weapons or hurt others around them feel that they need to do so in order to protect themselves or their country. Many are aware that they are hurting others, but they do it to be in control. People rather be powerful than to be vulnerable and show weakness.

Matter:

This passage matters because society doesn't realize that people who are violent and seemingly evil, are only acting in fear. When we watch the news, we immediately assume that all criminals have bad intentions. It is important to keep multiple perspectives before passing judgement.

David L.

8/29/2012 10:40:18 am

James Bennett, in The Squared Circle, wrote, "Personal goals. Scoring, rebounding, that sort of thing. Have you set any?" It seemed like a long time he had to think. Finally he said the only thing that came to his mind: "I just want to play." A reporter near the back shouted, "Louder, please? Could you speak into the mike?” Sonny leaned forward to pull the mike closer. “I just want to play,” he said again, this time loud enough for everyone to hear. It was the reporters’ turn to be astonished, and their guffaws revealed just how much.” (2002, pg. 29)
Say:
This quote from the author is saying that the character, Sonny, didn’t care about all the worldly things that the world was spoiling him with, but the fact that all he cared about doing was playing the game of basketball.
Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that people should do things that they are passionate about despite what other people think. They shouldn’t care about the attention they are getting for being good at something, but to realize that what they’re doing is what they care about.
Matter:
This quote matters because we shouldn’t care about the things we get for something that we accomplished. For example, we shouldn’t try to accomplish something just because we want the reward at the end, but do it because we enjoy what we are doing. We should be humble about the things we do because we enjoy it and not use it to please others.

Ryan C. Period 1

8/29/2012 12:43:03 pm

Your post reminded me of the character Guy Montag in the book FAHRENHEIT 451. In the story, Montag fights to prevent the burning of books, something that was accepted by the society. He too acted with passion for something that he felt was the right thing to do. Montag also saw books as something that was more important than material possessions: knowledge.

Jose V. Period 2

8/29/2012 03:18:42 pm

Your post made me consider that as an athlete you must stay humble. Any moment of glory can be taken away faster than it was earned. An athlete should just be happy for having the honor to play the game and play with all their heart.

David L. Period 1

8/29/2012 10:43:38 am

I'm sorry. I forgot to put the period number.

Bobbi G.,Period 1

8/29/2012 10:52:38 am

Ms.Johnson,in MY POSSE DON'T DO HOMEWORK,wrote "Respect yourself,and everyone else in the room.If you can't respect yourself, you cant respect other people.And if you don't have self respect,you have a problem".(1992,pg.27)

Say:
This quote says that you should respect yourself and show respect to your peers.If you have no respect for yourself it is a major problem in your life.You need to learn to respect yourself for you and respect others for them.

Mean:
I think this quote is saying that you need to value yourself and your own opinion.Self respect is a quality many people look for,your parents,teachers,colleges,bosses,e.t.c.Self respect shows your dignity and integrity in life.Everyone should respect everyone for who they are.Respect brings out the best in people.

Matter:
From reading this book i have learned some students doubt there learning ability in the classroom,which shows low self esteem.This quote matters because students and everyone should show respect for themselves it helps you with confidence in life .When you have self respect you can do many thing.The students in this book feel low and dumb,when you show confidence it gives you a chance.We all need chances,the students in this story need a chance to show how bright and intelligent they really are,and that all starts on respecting yourself and others.

Andrew L. , Period 5

8/29/2012 10:52:51 am

Ingrid Tomey, in NOBODY ELSE HAS TO KNOW, wrote, "His eyes were drawn to the poster on his bedroom wall that his father used to have hanging in his workshop: YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE, BUT ONCE IS ENOUGH IF YOU DO IT RIGHT" (1999, p. 44).

Say: This quote is stating that one merely has just one life and that making it the best of it means more than just touching bases.

Mean: My interpretation of this passage is that when one does a certain task, all the effort shown is mainly to do it right. One only has one life and there is not enough time for one to commonly make profound mistakes, which they are unaware to realize that they are wasting their life. Thus, if one were to do a task, it is only worth it that they know they did their best. Being able to accomplish their achievement is a moment for gratification. It is important that one makes their best effort because there are no second chances in life.

Matter: This passage matters because it offers a view point in life that only living once is not an excuse to make regrettable decisions. Rather, it is quoted to show that life is invaluable. If one was able to do just that, to do their best on their first try and make it worthwhile, they would be actually making something of themselves and start going places.

Aron I., Period 5

8/29/2012 11:10:50 am

Walter Dean Myers, in SUNRISE OVER FALLUJAH, wrote "Check out the real situation Nation war against nation Where did it all begin? When will it all end?"(2009, p. 16(I think))

Say:
This says that you have to be able to see the war, why it started and when it will end.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that to be able to truly see and understand a war, is to know what caused it and to figure out when it will end (judging by the cause).

Matter:
This passage matters because it explains that in a war, it is not all about the fighting and killing, but it is also about why the war may or may not have been avoided.

Aron I.

8/31/2012 03:09:46 pm

It is actually page 37.

Adam K., Period 2

8/29/2012 11:12:39 am

Dan Brown, in The Da Vinci Code, wrote," 'Jesus' message is one of peace...of nonviolence...of love.' This was the message Silas had been taught from the beginning, and the message he held in his heart. And yet this was the message the enemies of Christ now threatened to destroy. 'Those who threaten God with force will be met with force. Immovable and steadfast.' '' (2003, p.31)

Say:
This quote summarizes what Christianity is about and how the character Silas is taught to obey the message of Jesus and nonviolence. However, outside forces are threatening to uproot this belief that Silas had held on to his entire life, but it comes with a stern warning at the end to those who tries to attack this belief.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that Christianity is a religion centered around the teachings of Jesus Christ and his teachings of love and peace for all on the face of this earth. This belief is one that has stood the test of time and is vigorously defended by those who believe in such a truth. Anyone who tries to attack or threaten this teaching will be met with unwelcome hostility and face the wrath of God head on. It is not just a tiny fraction of God's wrath dissidents face, but the full might and power of God's anger upon those who dare to question such authority.

Matter:
This passage matters because no other time in history has such a belief been more powerful and more meaningful than in a world like today, where corruption, war, and immorality rule supreme. All these are the enemies of Christ which threaten to ruin the good within human nature and Christianity itself. If we were all to put these negative thoughts and feelings aside and take into heart what Jesus taught about love and peace, then we will be able to overcome such harsh realities and live lives of harmony and peace. This does not apply only to my broken and corrupt life, it can also be a beacon of hope and a source of joy to those who are living shattered lives of their own.

Zerlinda L., Period 5

8/29/2012 11:29:59 am

Merilyn Reynolds, in NO MORE SAD GOODBYES, wrote, "We all laughed at that because Dad's put on a little weight recently, and it's funny my blind grandmother would notice. Scary to me though, because what if she's noticing my waistband, too."

Say: This quote means that although a person is blind, that person is still alert of things around him/her.

Interpretation: My interpretation of this passage is that Autumn's grandmother is a smart person who could be put to use although she is blind.

Matter: People can be handicapped, but they are not useless. It is there intelligence and understanding that puts them to good use. A person may me deaf, blind, or mental, but within time that person can learn how to work around his/her inabilities to do what s/he can do and perform the best of themselves.

Ryan C. Period 1

8/29/2012 11:34:10 am

In SUPER FREAKONOMICS, Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner wrote, “ Humankind has a great capacity for finding technological solutions to seemingly intractable problems, and this will likely be the case for global warming. It isn’t that the problem isn’t potentially large. It’s just that human ingenuity-when given proper incentives- is bound to be larger” (Dubner and Levitt 11).

Say: This quote states that humankind has an ability to use our minds and innovations to solve even the toughest of problems. This, of course, only occurs when we have the proper incentives, or a kind of reward.

Mean: My interpretation of the quote is that human ingenuity will continue to grow as long as the appropriate incentive is available. As long as we have reason to collaborate with one another and solve problems, our minds will continue to expand with knowledge. For instance, at one point in our history we had to solve the problem of getting clean water in our homes. The incentive in this case would be to improve our general health and well being, since water was often plagued with germs and bacteria. As we all know we eventually solved that problem. Ultimately as long as we have a seemingly good reason to do something, humanity is going to do it.

Matter: This passage matters because it revolves around the underlying theme of the entire book: we live in a world of incentives. Whether we realize it or not, our lives are run on incentives. The book itself only mentions several instances of this, but upon further analysis I came to the realization that incentives are everywhere. Without fully understanding this idea, one cannot fully comprehend the significance of the experiments done in the book.

Jennifer Pei, Period 2

8/29/2012 11:34:51 am

Kate Brian, in PRIVILLEGE, wrote, “Heaven forbid anyone exert any sort of individuality—it might make them start to long for other things as well” (2008, p.10).

Say:

This quote says that once people get a taste of freedom, they will start to crave for more.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that people will always want more. If we are given a little taste of anything, we will always start to long for more things. People are greedy and selfish by nature. Giving them a taste of anything will start to feed their hunger and it will start to fester inside. As in the story, Ariana Osgood wants her freedom after being sentenced in Brenda T. prison for 20 years.

Matter:

This passage matters because it shows us how people are like when they are confined and restricted from doing anything they want. Having to live a restricted life, it powers the longing and desire in our hearts more than normal circumstances. As our desires grow, the more willing we are to do anything we can to obtain it.

Judy L., Period 1

8/29/2012 01:18:40 pm

Your post reminds me of what I learn in my economic class, about the unlimited wants versus limited resources. It is true that when people are exposed to exotic things, they tend to want more. Yet with all these desires and wants, there are always boundaries. Even if it is a mental desire such as to be more beautiful or successful, there’s always the need for physical resources (such as money) which are limited. Because of all these wants, people become more “blinded” when they go shopping: buying what they want instead of what they need.

Judy L., Period 1

8/29/2012 11:51:05 am

Markus Zusak, in THE BOOK THIEF, wrote, “The words. Why did they have to exist? Without them, there wouldn't be any of this. Without words, the Führer was nothing. “(2005, p. 93)

SAY:
This quote says that Liesel is so disillusioned with the words that she believes that Hitler could not have done anything if the words did not exist.

MEAN:
My interpretation of this quote is that words can be powerful. They can form a very strong force behind actions and can drive those actions to their fullest extent. The words can help the speaker achieve what he or she want the mind of people to think, to believe, and to do. This, sometimes, can result in negative consequences such as people being tricked, betrayed, or lost in beliefs. In this case, Liesel believes that Hitler needed words to do what he did. She concludes that he ruled though words and his power lay in the words he spoke.

MATTER:
This quote matters because it shows that the words can be as powerful as the actions. Nowadays, most people think that “actions speak louder than words.” They believe that what you do is more important than what you say. However, this quote provides a contradiction of which “words can do better than actions.” It illustrates how good speakers can use their words, whether to their benefits or not, to control and change others’ thinking, actions, and most important, beliefs. The second point made by this quote is the words can give people power and knowledge, and also take it away. A salesperson can use his speaking skills to lure you into buying something that you wouldn’t need for your whole life. His or her words have made you lose control over your actions as well as the understanding of what is needed and what is not. In other worse cases, they can take away your direction of right and wrong.

Cynthia C., Period 1

8/29/2012 12:47:51 pm

I thought this quote was a strong one and your interpretation of the quote is the same as my view of it. I believe that words can be as strong as actions. Words may not affect a person physically but it can affect them mentally which can lead to situations that can harm themselves or others. People should let out their words wisely, especially to whom they're saying the words to.

Ryan H. Period 2

8/29/2012 06:49:28 pm

Hitler was quite the speaker and was able to persuade many to support him. Interesting how one man was able to make a nation follow him in eradicating a race.

Tara K., Per. 6

8/29/2012 12:11:03 pm

Carl Hiaasen, in FLUSH, wrote, "Don't worry about it Pop. Someday Dusty Muleman will get what he exactly deserves. People like him always do. This was her famous what-goes-around-comes-around theory." (2005, p. 218)

Say:
This quote says that the bad things people do will eventually catch up to them and they will get what they deserve.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that people get what they deserve. If you do good things, then good things will happen to you. If you do bad things, then bad things will happen to you. It may not happen right away but it will happen over time. Basically, it is called karma.

Matter:

This passage matters because if everyone believed in this theory then the world would be a much better place. People would not do as many-if not none at all-bad things because they don't want bad karma.

Cally M., Period 5

8/29/2012 12:25:16 pm

Sarah Weeks, in SO B. IT, wrote, "But there are some things you can just know for no good reason other than that you do, and then there are other things that no matter how badly you want to know them, you just can't." (2004, p.4)

Say: This quote states that there are things in life that a person will never learn or find the answer to. In contrast, there are things that people just know for no reason at all.

Mean: I interpreted this quote as a statement about how a human being is only capable of knowing so much about a certain topic. There is information that is easily attained, and other material that is not. Sometimes, it is not possible for us to acquire facts to make ourselves knowledgeable about something no matter how important it is.

Matter: This quote matters because it indirectly discusses the subject of acceptance. Things are the way they are. Often times, you cannot change what is concrete. The quote suggests that in some cases, when there is absolutely nothing that can be done, it's best to just accept, let go, and move on.

Cynthia C., Period 1

8/29/2012 12:38:59 pm

Madeleine L' Engle, in A Wrinkle in Time, wrote, " The heart has its reasons, whereof reason knows nothing." (1962, pg.28)

Say:
This quote says that people tend to listen to what their heart "tells" them to do even if there's no reason for it.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that people will listen to what their heart "tells" them to do because something good will come out of it. There is no real reason why people do what their heart tells them to do but we just have a feeling that our hearts are right. Following your heart seem to have good outcomes as if it your heart has its' own instinct of knowing why you should do something. So it "tells" you with no exact reason that you should know but the reason will later be found after you've followed your heart.
Matter:
This quote matters because sometimes a person may be involved in a situation where they have to choose between two "subjects". The person will then have a feeling to choose one over the other because they feel that one "subject" is the right one to choose or the right thing to do even if there's no reason as to why they should choose that one. However, the person will later realize the reason for choosing one over the other choice due to a positive outcome.

Courtney T., Per. 5

8/29/2012 12:40:14 pm

Alexa, in THE DARK HILLS DIVIDE, wrote, " Alot of secrets are held inside these walls: alot more are roaming around outside." (2006, page 8)

Say:This quote says becareful of who you are going to tell your secrets to because not everyone can be trusted.

Mean: My interpretattion of this quote is that do not tell gossip people your secrets because there are a possible chance it can get around. If you don't want anything to get out in the open, you can only trust yourself.

Matter:This quote matters because it shows us to trust one person which is yourself. Having a lot of people know your secrets is not a fun thing because people are just going to get hurt.

Tara D.

8/29/2012 12:52:59 pm

Trust is very important but unfortunately you can't trust other people because then they are the ones who start the rumors and gossips even if they are your own friends. This book sounds interesting since I like reading these type of books.

Kristen W. Period 1

8/29/2012 01:21:59 pm

I thought this quote has a lot of meaning to it. Not everyone can be trusted. Everyone has secrets that have never told anyone, ones that are too personal. The only person you should trust is yourself because you never know when someone will turn their back against you.

Yang Y Per2

8/29/2012 12:46:13 pm

David Michaels, in END WAR, wrote, "Perhaps there was, as Chopra's mother had once told him, a conetion between people with like minds and pure hearts." (2010, p.23)

Say:
This quote says that people who thinks alike has similar minds and a kind heart and they have a bond between each other.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that there are billions of people out there and between some of them, they have a bond between each other, they could be thinking the same thing when someone says something and has the same reaction to something. Like this other quote I've heard, "Great Minds Think Alike" it means that intelligent people tend to come up with the same ideas at the same time.

Matter:
This quote matters because if people who think alike are put together, they could become friends or if you put smart people who thinks alike, they could come up with solution to problems, and work out a cure for sickness and diseases.

Vivian H., Period 2

8/29/2012 03:25:30 pm

I agree that there may be a possible connection between people. I also like that you inserted the quote "Great Minds Think Alike." In fact, I believe that people can be related in other ways other than having the same mindset and being kind-hearted.

Kemberly M.

9/7/2012 06:09:29 am

I agree, there is many people that bond over a certain intrest they both have. For example I will get along more with a vegan, because we have the same beliefs and care for animals.

Tara D.. Period 5

8/29/2012 12:50:16 pm

Lisi Harrison, in MY LITTLE PHONY, wrote, "A friend that is true, will stand by you." (2010, p.37)

Say: This quote is basically saying that true friends will always have your back and will stand by you no matter what happens.

Mean: My interpretation of this quote is that everyone has friends but it doesn't mean that they are true friends. True friends are the ones who are always there for you no matter what and they are the type that won't walk away from you when you need the most.

Matter: This quote matters because it assures us that true friends will always be there for you. Even if it's family problems or school problems they will always be there to help you out and comfort you. Unfortunately not all your friends are true friends because some will just walk away from you whenever they want to that is why true friends are rare and that you should be thankful for them. These days you can only find at least one to two true friends that will always have your back in anything and that will always stand by you.

Adam K., Period 2

8/29/2012 01:46:28 pm

This quote is one that certainly applies in my life, and I can say that my closest friend has stuck with me through everyday of my life since the start of my high school career. Nowadays, with social media, a friend can be someone you add through Facebook and not talk to them ever again. A true friend, however, is connected to you not just on Facebook, but on a deeper, more emotional level in the real world. That is how I feel about my friend, and I believe that this quote will stand true for generations to come.

Joe Arguijo Period 2

9/9/2012 01:23:56 pm

The idea that a friend will stand by you in times of need and despair is certainly a benefit for anyone. As I transcend more into my life I'm starting realize the people that would just use me or stand with me until the end of times. At times a close friend is all you need to help you accomplish more in life.

Leon Y., Period 1

8/29/2012 12:51:08 pm

J.O. Salinger, in The Catcher in the Rye, wrote, "Life is a game, boy, life is a game that one plays according to the rules." (1951, p.8)

Say: This says that people should go by the rules and should not break them.

Mean: My interpretation of this is that even though you feel alone and victimized as though the world is against you, you should still follow the rules because if we break these rules there will be consequences that will follow. Even though life can be bad sometimes you should always find ways to fix it without breaking rules that will get you in trouble.

Matter: This passage matters because when people feel down and think that their life is bad they start to do things that will break the rules. Having to live life by playing by the rules will not get you in trouble unlike breaking the rules will.

Jose F. Period 6

8/29/2012 12:59:30 pm

It's interesting how you think that when people think that their life is bad that they start to do the things that break rules. I believe that quote means, everything that you do has a consequence and due to this people can either play fairly or cheat to win. There is no REAL victor in this game of life however people tend to use each other for personal gain and if you don't "Play" correctly you lose.

Lesley T, Period 2

8/30/2012 10:41:12 am

Your post reminded me of our kick off day today. There are many rules that we have to follow in order for us to be successful at school and in life. I liked what you had to say about getting in trouble if you break the rules because a lot of the times, breaking the rules does get you into trouble.

Joseph T., Period 2

8/29/2012 12:55:01 pm

David Benioff, in City of Thieves, wrote "What Kolya said was true enough, as far as it went, but it seemed to me that the Nazis had no interest in a subtle invasion. They didn't want to change anyone's mind, at least no one among the inferior races. The Russians were a mongrel people, spawned by hordes of Vikings and Huns, raped by generations of Avars and Khazars, Kipchaks and Pechenegs, Mongols and Swedes, infested by Gypsies and Jews and far roaming Turks. We were the children of a thousand lost battles and defeat was heavy in us" (2008, pg.114)
Say: its the main characters response to his partners ideas on the Nazi's motives. it offers insight into the beliefs of the Nazi party during World War 2 from the perspective of a Russian citizen who's life has been uprooted by the war.
Mean: My understanding of the quote is that the Nazi's started the war because they believed they were the most superior race. They were against impurity and their motivation was a twisted idea of Darwinism. Russians being descended from so many races were seen as savages and unfit to live by the Nazis.
Matter: This passage matters because it questions the motivations of Nazis during WWII and it reveals the main characters beliefs on his own race and why he believed the Nazis wanted them killed.

Kaylin T., Period 6

8/29/2012 12:56:29 pm

Suzanne Collins, in Catching Fire, wrote., "I think of Gale, who is only really alive in the woods, with its fresh air and sunlight and clean, flowing water. I don't know how he stands it. Well...yes, I do. He stands it because its the way to feed his mother and two younger brothers and sister. And here I am with buckets of money, far more than enough to feed both of our families now, and he won't take a single coin. Its even hard for him to let me bring in meat, although he'd surely have kept my mother and Prim supplied if I'd been killed in the Games. I'd tell him he's doing me a favor, that it drives me nuts to sit around all day. Even so, I never drop off the game while he's at home. Which is easy since he works twelve hours a day." (2009)

Say: This quote indicates that even though you may not have all the luxuries in the world you will still have a friend by your side that will be there for you when times get rough.

Meaning: My interpretation of this quote is that Gale does not want to impose upon the help of his long time best friend and lover, Katniss. Gale, being the eldest in the family has a responsibility to take charge causing him to struggle with financial issues and Game for his family of 5 including himself. Katniss winning the Hunger Games led her to have enough food supply and money to support Gale and his family.

Matter: This passage matters because many men feel that it is necessary for them to support their family and the ones they love, instead of being the one requiring the support. No one wants to feel like a burden on someone, but sometimes when you are in need, you just have to accept the generosity from the person and simply just thank him or her. And its important to be thankful for what and who you have in your life.

Dawson W., Period 5

8/29/2012 01:11:01 pm

Chanda Hahn, in UNECHANTED, wrote, "She was much more graceful in the air than on the ground where her feet always seemed to be tripping her up." (2012, p.9)

Says: What the quote means when your your up in the air you feel like you can do anything and when you land on the floor it feels like there's road block that's blocking you. It's like floating on clouds and nothing can stop you, but when you come to the floor ther always something that comes into your way.

Mean: The understanding is that whenever this girl is in the air she can accomplish a lot of things in life and when she comes to the ground she always have problem, little problem that affect her life. She feels that nothing bad goes wrong when she's up in the sky like, the sky is peaceful and happy, but the ground is hard, rough and painful.

Matter: The quote matter cause everyone feels this way, or they have a different way where they can feel peaceful and a place where there's roadblock that stops you from accomplishing your goal.

Michael Z. Period 3

8/29/2012 01:11:42 pm

In The Hunger Games Suzanne Collins wrote “Here your dreams are sweet and tomorrow brings them true. Here is the place where I love you.”

Say:
This is when the main character Katniss Everdeen was volunteer to the Hunger Game, her mother basically she is tell Katniss “This is always your home.” That is the role of her mom, or last sentiment she for her daughter, because she does not know she is going to survive the Hunger Games.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that it means that when people know maybe the last moment of their life or their most beloved is about to end, they’ll know what is trust love and what is the most important thing to them, and how pain is to lost their precious. That is the trust about humanity, have feelings love, pain, selfish, foolish, and jealous.

Matter:
This passage matters because the main thing about the book is to show what we human really are. For example, the main rule in the The Hunger Games is to eliminate all other player in order to survive, when we are were in this kind of situation, we’ll do want ever to take to survive, that is the nature of humanity, because we don’t want to die, that what we are, we are selfish, we want the best thing that we can have, will love became hate, all this became for us.

Michael Z. Period 2

8/29/2012 02:19:27 pm

IS PERIOD 2 SORRY!!!

Tyler Takeshita, Period 1

8/29/2012 01:12:01 pm

John Green, in LOOKING FOR ALASKA, wrote: “When adults say, "Teenagers think they are invincible" with that sly, stupid smile on their faces, they don't know how right they are. We need never be hopeless, because we can never be irreparably broken. We think that we are invincible because we are. We cannot be born, and we cannot die. Like all energy, we can only change shapes and sizes and manifestations. They forget that when they get old. They get scared of losing and failing. But that part of us greater than the sum of our parts cannot begin and cannot end, and so it cannot fail.” (2006, pg. 220).

Say: This quote is talking about a teenager's inability to feel mortal is, perhaps, their best quality. It's something that adults forget, and, because of this forgetfulness, it is what separates teens from adults.

Mean: When I first read this quote, it had no significance to me. But then I reread it, and it started to click. As a teen, I too have ruled death out of the equation. I feel as though anything is possible for me, and that is something that has helped me to get back up when things are down. I agree with Mr. Green when he says that adults forget this. Adults are restricted by the fear of failure, and it is perhaps that unwillingness to live as thought you are invincible that keeps some from being great.

Matter: This quote is something that we all can learn from. When the author says, "But that part of us greater than the sum of our parts cannot begin and cannot end, and so it cannot fail.”, it speaks to the youth of the world. When we have something that means more to us than perhaps even us ourselves, we will always strive to perfect that, because "that part of us that is greater to the sum of our parts" cannot and will not end, and therefore true failure is impossible.

Derek Ing

8/30/2012 11:04:23 am

I think your quote is relevant to today's society. I believe that it is true teenagers believe were invincible. We put ourselves in tough predicaments and usually pull through, adults grow up forgetting how it was to be a kid, and to take risk. An example that justify the difference between teenagers and adults.

George M. Period 2

8/30/2012 02:26:29 pm

I feel that this comment does describe the mind of a teenager. Teenagers feel life is all fun and don't realize how difficult life becomes as you get more responsibility in life. Although, teenagers will learn more about the world and their courage will lead them to success

Kristen W. Period 1

8/29/2012 01:16:41 pm

Anna Quindlen, Object Lessons, “The beginning and the end are never really the journey of discovery for me. It is the middle that remains a puzzle until well into the writing. That's how life is most of the time, isn't it? You know where you are and where you hope to wind up. It's the getting there that's challenging.” (1991, pg. 17)

Say:
This says that life is full of mysteries, anything can happen. In life the most memorable part is getting to your goal. You go through struggles and obstacles that may or may not be challenging. It's not the beginning and end that are the most memorable, its the journey getting there.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote means that there is always a beginning, middle, and end to every goal. The middle is the most memorable because that is your climax of your journey. That is when you run into challenges, meet new people, and excel in life like you've never done before.

Matter:
This quote matters because it helps people motivate people to succeed even though they might have a rough start. It also helps people realize about how much they've come and gone through to get to where they are now.

Jiaxin(Janet) W., Period.1

8/29/2012 04:38:35 pm

Your post made me think of our four-years high school career. As the long-term goals, most of us wished that we would be able to get into our dream colleges or schools. However, I believe truly that the most valuable things are all the experiences which we gained through school activities and classes, and the lessons which we learned from teachers, classmates, and friends. Maybe we would still think that the final result is more important; but, we should remember that all the experiences and lessons became parts of us. They would never be lost and forgotten in our lifes.

Jose F., Period 6

8/29/2012 01:25:47 pm

Ellen Kushner, in The Fall of the Kings, wrote.,"Doctor Tortua," Crabbe interrupted. "I really don't think...""A fascinating theory," said Basil helplessly. "But there's no way to prove it. The Council of Lords burned all the wizards' books and papers, and declared all mention of them outlaw.""Aha!" Doctor Tortua's wizened face became almost frighteningly animated. "Aren't you forgetting something?" For a moment, Basil felt as if he were back in old Tortua's lecturehall, and the moment of truth was upon him. "The Book of the King's Wizard," the old man hissed. "A complete book of spells, brought down from the North with Alcuin's wizard, Mezentian. Hollis mentions it, and so does Vespas."Crabbe cleared his throat. "Trevor states categorically that it did not exist."Trevor," Basil St Cloud asserted crisply, "would have stated categorically that his mother did not exist if the Council told him to.(2002)

Say: This quote is saying that even with all the proof in the world of something, someone could easily go against what they say by listening to an authoritative power.

Meaning: My interpretation of this is that even though Tortua is trying to explain to Crabbe that wizards did indeed exist in one form or another, Crabbe is too stubborn to accept this fact and even though there was evidence that supported there being wizards in the olden days, Crabbe still would not believe based on being rational.

Matter: This quote is showing that people will obey the sayings of any authoritative figure if it sounds reasonable enough, even if there is a large amount of evidence supporting the facts. People should learn to think for themselves rather than to blindly obey people who might not always know what they are talking about.

Jeremy C. Period 6

8/29/2012 01:28:29 pm

Frank McCourt, in Angela's Ashes, wrote., " I wish I could swing up into the sky, up into the clouds. I might be able to fly around the whole world and not hear my brothers, Oliver, and Eugene, cry in the middle of the night anymore. My mother says they're always hungry. She cries in the middle of the night, too. She says she's worn out nursing and feeding and changing and four boys is too much for her." (1996, P.23).

Say: There are many struggles in life that you cannot just fly out of. You can never escape from reality because life is life.

Meaning: This quote is depicting Frank McCourt's struggle with his family because of the pain and suffering they are going through. He wishes he could escape from this turmoil and zone out of reality.

Matter: This passage matters because there are millions of people that want to escape from their turmoil in life. Thousands of drug addicts, alcoholics, and etc are facing this type of mentality, which ends up causing a huge affect towards their close ones. In the book, Frank McCourt, the child, wants to fly away from his suffering, crying siblings and depressed mother because of his alcoholic father's abuse.

Tiffany Louie, Period 2

8/29/2012 01:41:07 pm

Randy Pausch, in THE LAST LECTURE, wrote, “I flashed a giant image of the CT scans on my liver onto the screen. The slide was headlined ‘The Elephant in the Room,’ and I had helpfully inserted red arrows pointing to each of the individual tumors. I let the slide linger, so the audience could follow the arrows and count my tumors. ‘All right,’ I said. ‘That is what it is. We can’t change it. We just have to decide how we’ll respond. We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand.’ ” (2008, P. 17).

Say:
This quote states that even though Randy Pausch was diagnosed with a sickness, he advised the audience, himself included, that the best thing to do in any given situation is to make the best out of it, even if it’s fighting cancer. Because the “cards”, representing challenges in our lives, have already been “dealt”, or set in front of our very eyes, the variables of the set of challenges will always stay constant and only the way we overcome these challenges can change if we decide to take action.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that sometimes, when one is put in a situation, good or back, one needs to decide to make the best out of it. Because we cannot change the given course, it is our job to use any tools or resources available to counter all obstacles and make our way through the long journey.

Matter:
This quote matters because often times when people suddenly face overwhelming challenges, they tend to do nothing but complain and question why such a thing would happen. Because what has happened has already taken place, all questioning would do no good. Instead, we should make the best out of the situation, no matter how good or bad it is.

Lilian D. Per. 6

8/29/2012 02:23:59 pm

What optimistic thinking. It's a way of life I follow by closely, except with a lot of mayhem and hysterical laughter. I believe that while overwhelming challenges should be dealt with with the least amount of whining, not questioning these challenges at all is not a very good idea. Challenges are best solved after some logical and rational inquiries and thinking, especially psychological ones. I believe that it could even be helpful as an introspective reflection of yourself. (I really liked the humor in the quote.)

Justin T. Period 5

8/29/2012 01:46:54 pm

J.D. Salinger, in THE CATCHER IN THE RYE, wrote, "Life is a game, boy, life is a game that one plays according to the rules." (1951, 8)

Say: This quote says that you should not play around in life because life has unwritten rules that you have to follow. These rules were not meant to be broken and if did, chaos would break out within society.

Mean: My interpretation of this quote is that too many people isn't a game for everyone to enjoy. You can have fun and games but there is a fine line between fun and stupidity. You shouldn't let your conscious overwhelm you and break rules.

Matter: This passage matters because it's a true statement. Rules were not meant to be broken and intend to keep us together. No matter how you are feeling, you shouldn't try to be a attention-hungry and do bad stuff to stand out of a crowd.

Derek Ing

8/29/2012 01:47:23 pm

Steve Lopez, The Soloist, wrote "music is an anchor, a connection to great artists, to history and to himself."

Say:
This quote was taken from a thought Steven Lopez, the author, had when he allowed Nathaniel Ayers, a homeless on skid row, to temporarily play a cello that Steven had. The quote represents the love and compassion that musicians have for music. Nathaniel Ayers studied at Julliard before becoming homeless. He showed Steven his benevolence for music couldn't be stopped, even as a homeless on skid row.

Mean:
The meaning of this quote is that musicians need music in their lives. The anchor represents the compassion that artist feel throughout their music, almost a break from their troubled life. I also think that Steven Lopez refers to this as the instrument connecting with the musician, both physically and mentally.

Matter:
This passage matters because this was the first time Steven Lopez was able to truly realize Nathaniel Ayers deep emotion for music. He was able to see the true talent that he had. Nathaniel Ayers had a dark past, and it was through this act of Steven letting him borrow the cello, to be able to connect with him, and make a new friend.

Lesley T, Period 2

8/29/2012 01:52:36 pm

E.L. James, in FIFTY SHADES DARKER wrote, "... and I know it's because he loves me. I no longer have to hide" (2011, p. 217).

Say:
This says that the main character in the book, Anastasia, used to feel slightly ashamed and not completely open but when Christian, the man she is in love with, confirms his love for her, she feels more open.

Meaning:
My interpretation of this passage is that not everyone opens up easily. Especially when a person in love with someone and they haven't told you that they feel the same way, he/she may feel ashamed and insecure. Once the feelings are established mutual, there's a sense of openness as opposed to a one sided relationship.

Matter:
This passage matters because it portrays one of the many reasons why one may be insecure or awkward around their significant other. If each party in the relationship expresses their feelings and they are mutual, it may be the answer to some problems.

Maggie W. Period 2

8/29/2012 01:56:24 pm

Monica Sone, in NISEI DAUGHTER, wrote," 'Thank you.' Father retired gratefully behind the paper and I lost contact with him for the evening. He was gentle. He did not go into a rage. He always remained courteous and polite. And he always said 'No'."

Say: Monica's father denies her of her dreams to dance as he believes that western style dancing is disgraceful. He calmly and politely forbids her.

Meaning: This quote illustrates Monica's usual round-about writing. She does not plainly state that her father rebuffed her dream about becoming a dancer but tells the reader about her father's solid response. Although she respects her father's calm response, Monica could not deny the opportunity to place a jab towards him at the end to display her antipathy in his answer.

Matter: This quote is one of many that describes Monica's family and their personalities to the reader. We can see her father's concrete attitude while also retaining his manners. It matters to the autobiography because it describes how Monica sees her father as well as the approximate answer to the disagreement between them in the lines before the quote.

Kristin W., Period 1

8/29/2012 01:59:16 pm

Greg Laurie, Run to Win, wrote, "Paul tells us that he is running the race of life, looking forward to a reward that will last forever - long after every Olympic gold medal has dissolved into dust."

Say:
Paul believes that there is much more to live for than just earthly prizes. Prizes and rewards are great to receive, but they are not going to last forever. There are greater and longer lasting rewards in living your life to be the best person you can be.

Mean:
For me, this quote is something I should be living by. This book is by a Christian and as a Christian, his words are really relatable and they are ways that I should be trying to live my life. Paul's goal in life was to be in heaven with God, and I want that to be the same for me. Sadly many times I am caught up in worldly objects and rewards, and I forget that those are temporary and I shouldn't be living my life to gain them.

Matter:
This quote matters for everyone. It can remind us that getting some prize shouldn't be the most important thing in our life. Sometimes not winning a prize is no that bad. Many times people get an object or prize they really wanted, and later on they just forget about it and go for the next best thing. Instead dwelling on objects, people could be focusing on their values or relationships.

Lika M period 5

8/29/2012 01:59:24 pm

Anne Schraff, in SHADOWS OF GUILT, wrote, "' Bad stuff happens all over,'" Pop argued. 'Couple of college students were walking outside their nice, ritzy campus, and a drunk driver killed them. Big baseball rookie, a kid with a great future, gets killed in a hit-and-run accident. You can't let fear run your life. It's okay to take precautious, like having our kids staying away from the deli at night, but we got a good neighborhood here. We got good friend. There's no need to flee from our home.'" (2012, p. 13).

Say:

This says that the father of the Spain family, Pops, justified his decision of not leaving their town just because one of their close family friend's daughter gets shot unexpectedly at a deli by a drive by car of "gangbangers". Pops wanted to keep his family safe, but their lives were alright in the town they already occupied.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that there is crime everywhere, and crime may not be controllable in certain places, for instance, Pops wanted to explain that a couple of college students got hit by a drunk driver. He adds on that all kinds of people die, even people that perhaps would have had a great future ahead of them.

Therefore, we shouldn't be feared by the things that people can't expect and control. This is because if we fear, everyday we will concentrate on that and end up not being able to accomplish things we've always wanted to do. Those kind of crimes that happen should not be feared of, but should be taken as advice to everyone to be careful of our surroundings and take precaution so that we might be able to avoid getting hurt.

Jiaxin(Janet) W., Period 1

8/29/2012 02:05:51 pm

Mildred D. Taylor, in ROLL OF THUNDER, HEAR MY CRY, wrote, “I asked him once why he had to go away, why the land was so important. He took my hand and said in his quiet way: ‘Look out there, Cassie girl. All that belongs to you. You ain’t never had to live on nobody’s place but your own and long as I live and family survives, you’ll never have to. That’s important. You may not understand that now, but one day you will. Then you’ll see” (1997, p. 6).

Say:

This says that people in this competitive society need to try their best and work hard for what they have been aiming. In addition, this passage discusses the importance of having ownership of the land; in this case, the land symbolizes the independence of people.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that it means as the little girl grew up, she would eventually learn through her social experiences that being independent is important. Especially in this case, African-Americans were being looked down by the Whites at that period of time. They were mainly poor and uneducated; thus, they did not have the ability to be independent. What Cassie’s father was trying to tell her is the fact that by working even harder than the others, they would eventually achieve their goals and gain respect from the others.

Matter:

This passage matters because it offers an explanation for people’s willingness to work hard in exchange of the independence. This story happened during the Great Depression which took place in the United States from 1920s-1930s. Cassie’s father, an African-American, had left to work on railroad in order to pay off the land’s mortgage. It was easy to imagine the hardships that he had to face due to his race and the social situation at that time. However, he understood the importance of independence; therefore, he worked hard to save the ownership of the land. In the other hand, he also knew that it was important for his children to value the freedom because their previous generations had once lost it.

Alex D. Period 5

8/29/2012 02:07:26 pm

Peeta, in THE HUNGER GAMES, wrote, "Only I keep wishing I could think of a way to…to show the Capitol they don’t own me. That I’m more than just a piece in their Games." (2008, pg. 142).

Say: This quote means that Peeta no longer wants to be the Capitol's puppet. He wants to show Panem that he is himself and he is in control of his own life only, not the Capitol.

Mean: My interpretation of this quote is that people should be in control of their own life and do whatever they want. Nobody should be telling you what to do, only yourself may do that. You are the pilot of your own life.

Matter: This quote matters because a lot of people are bullied and pushed around being told what to do, and those people need to stand up. They can't be pushed around forever and need to take control of their own life.

Jason T. Period 6

8/29/2012 02:21:24 pm

Your quote reminds me of a time when I felt suppressed by my parents. And like Peeta, I did not want to be their puppet, so I rebelled against them for a bit, but realized that everything they do is for the best of me.

Andy B. Period 1

8/29/2012 02:40:22 pm

Your quote made me consider the implications of living under an authoritative government. It is a tragedy to think that even today, there are such brutal and restrictive regimes that serve to oppress it's own people. This makes me believe that the only way to safeguard liberty is to be politically aware and vigilant.

lika m period 5

8/29/2012 02:08:12 pm

The last paragraph is a part of MATTER.

Lilian D. Per. 2

8/29/2012 02:15:21 pm

In T. Davis Burns' TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH, a character stated that he was "feeling the world moving faster and faster, flying off beyond his power to control or predict." (1996, pg 33).

Say: Just as the quote states, there are times when the world changes so abruptly that it leaves us reeling, trying to grasp at familiar things that can ground us and allow us to feel secure enough to face the world again.

Mean: Even without us noticing, the world moves on, changing continuously and almost without regard to what anyone wants. It doesn't stop for anyone, and sometimes, suddenly, a blink of an eye, a decade has passed and everything is different. There are things in which you think you know, but you don't anymore because everything has changed into some unknown form and you've forgotten how the world works.

Matter: Everyday, there is something new happening on the news such as the still worsening economic crisis plaguing the U.S. When the financial crisis happened in 2008, it happened suddenly, and the world shifted. For us teenagers, when puberty hits, we’re in a psychological crisis where we’re suddenly pressurized to be responsible, mature, and independent. In this situation, people can’t expect us to be very rational about our situation, because foreign concepts and rules are coming into play. As a result, we have no idea what we should do about since no one is willing to give us some time to sit down, breathe, and think.

Jennifer P. Period 2

8/30/2012 08:20:14 am

This quote made me consider throwing all my plans right out the window. The world won't stop regardless of anything you do. It makes me want to stop planning ahead and just live in the moment while I can.

Joe Arguijo, Period 2

8/29/2012 02:17:13 pm

Jennifer Braszile in THE BLACK GIRL NEXT DOOR, wrote, "for the first time all summer, maybe since we'd moved to Palo Verdes, ditching stone gave me first taste of it felt to be an insider. It was a relief not to be on the receiving end of the cruelty"(2009, p. 25).

Say:
This quote, which was said by the author when she was little, tells us how she felt when being around other people her age in her community. Her quote gives us a better understanding of what burden she had carried throughout the years of her childhood. It was not to often that she would be able to say such a thing, based on the life she endured before this moment of change.

Mean:
This statement means that Jennifer is now seeing a different perspective of life. Now that she was able to see how it felt to pity someone, she herself felt almost grateful that she was now part of the majority in her community. She can now take affirmative action, based on the different view points she has, when the moment of being an "insider" becomes an "outsider". With enduring such a different conformity level in society, its up to her to decide if she wants to be a follower or a leader of her own individual self.

Matter:
This transition of her position in the community can now help her realize that she could do something about bullying in society. When she feels ashamed or bullied, this moment of being an "insider" can remind her that she is not alone when it comes to being bullied. Therefore, the idea of not being alone can help her to turn her dissatisfying moments of life in to her strengths as she continues to move forward in life.

Jason Tran Period 1

8/29/2012 02:18:49 pm

Rosa Guy wrote in her book, THE DISAPPEARANCE, ""That Jacques! But where he is? I waiting long. Why I must wait? I a young woman," she said. "Lovely. I keep meself that way for me man -- and I ain't mind paying the price for he. Why I must be alone? I ain't want to be alone--" Her eyes sucked him in. He wanted to snatch himself away. Run. Never stop running. She leaned against him. His arm fell down around her waist. He squeezed the soft flesh. No bones. He felt himself sinking into her soft flesh. A warm stirred in the pit of his stomach."

Say: This quote is talking about how a man left a woman by herself when she was willing to pay the price to be with him. And it ended up breaking her apart.

Mean: My interpretation of this that in relationships, the majority of the time women end up heartbroken, and they need support and comfort. And person who comforts her is the person who truly loves her and cares about her.

Matter: I think this quote matters because it shows how caring for one another after something traumatic can be beneficial for you and those around you. And since the story is about a family with a huge problem, it shows the significance of sharing emotions, human interaction and support.

Timothy P., Period 1

8/29/2012 03:59:52 pm

This is a very inspirational passage. This quote makes me realize how some people can give up so much for someone they truly care about. I can somewhat say that I can relate to this, but not to that extent.

Jenny Y. Period 2

8/29/2012 02:20:31 pm

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. 7)

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.

April V. Per 2

8/30/2012 12:33:40 pm

Your quote means to me that when the dad was dying, he was entrusting all of his trust on his eldest daughter to take care of the family. This reminds me of a good father because he wanted to be with his kids even till the moment he died.

Dominic G. Period 5

8/29/2012 02:22:38 pm

In the book Greek, Myth, and Legends compiled by James Squire, and Barbara Squire wrote "But when Prometheus decided to disobey the king of the gods, he paid a terrible price for his decision

Say: This says that the main character in this book/ legend that certain people can handle the power that other people can't and you should never give it to those that can't wield it.

Meaning: This passage says that disobeying a law can really affect your life especially the thing you obeyed was harmful to others.

Matter: This passage matters because obeying a law is very important and it has been disobeyed and obeyed through the years. If your parents said you have to be home at midnight and actually come home at 12:30 your consequence maybe that you can't go out for a month, or your have to be home at 10 a 2 hour difference. That is what could happen if you disobey the law.

Danny D, Period 1

8/29/2012 02:23:22 pm

Julius Lester, in TO BE A SLAVE, wrote.,"When I came here, colored people didn't have their ages. The boss man had it." - Anonymous, (Chapter 1, p. 30).

Say: Back in the days, Slaves didnt have anything because they were just a piece of property in this time of era. They didn't know their own identity but on the other hand, their masters had full knowledge of their life.

Meaning: My interpretation of this quote is that, during that era, not many slaves knew their own identity, they didn't have control of their lives because they didn't exist as an equal. Its so unfortunate that slavery still exists in other countries. It makes me cherish my life so much more.

Matter: This passage matters because back then hundreds of thousands of people that were in slavery wanted to run away from their turmoil in lives. This book educated me with what slave owners did with their slaves and how brutal and cruel they treated the slaves. Also knowing that, they treated the slaves as a object, I feel that our generation was lucky to not experience that.

Joe Arguijo, Period 2

8/30/2012 02:15:11 pm

This quote reminded of how much America has changed in just the past five decades. Its amazing how with "compromising," our nation was able to change its policies and rights of an individual for the greater good of society. Those who stood up for a good cause in America continue to be an inspiration for the many more generations to come.

Joe Arguijo Period 2

8/30/2012 02:18:24 pm

Brandon Yip, Period 5

8/30/2012 02:25:10 pm

Your quote did remind me of how cruel colored people are back then before Martin Luther King and when Abraham Lincoln stopped slavery. I feel good about today since there is not as much racism like before. I also hope America will stay this way forever.

Alex D Period 5

9/17/2012 12:51:53 pm

This quote makes me feel compassion for the slaves and how they were treated. Racism made the minorities become slaves and treated poorly. The slaves were nly known for how many years they would serve, which is their "age."

An H., Period 5

8/29/2012 02:24:08 pm

Ethan Wate, in BEAUTIFUL CREATURES, wrote "They all kept talking about her, her clothes and her hair and her uncle and what a freak she probably was. That's the thing I hated most about Gatlin. The way everyone had something to say about everything you said or did or, in this case, wore." (2009, pg. 21).

Say: In this quote, it means that Ethan was tired and sick of people gossiping about everything, even though the subject isn't significant, they still comment about it and spread rumors around.

Mean: My interpretation of this quote is that not everyone likes gossiping, especially when you talk about a person you have never met before and already set an image of that person. It might also hurt the person that was talked about, especially when they are new and don't know how anything works around in the new place.

Matter: This passage matters because even though people don't show it, rumors and gossip might hurt other people's feelings. Also, spreading rumors and gossip makes people feel conscious about themselves and they feel like they got an expectation to live up to. In addition, it hurts more especially when people already talked about a new kid in a horrible way, it makes the new kid feel rejected and hurt.

Jodi A., Period 1

8/29/2012 03:19:42 pm

Your quote is a very real example of what goes on everywhere and all the time. People gossip and judge each other so much without knowing each other. This is a big problem in our society today. There is such a small number of people who are willing to accept and get to know a person before labelling them.

Andy B. Period 1

8/29/2012 02:30:56 pm

Maya Angelou, in I KNOW WHY THE CAGED BIRD SINGS, wrote, "This book is dedicated to my son, Guy Johnson, and all the strong black birds of promise who defy the odds and gods and sing their songs." (1969, 1)

Say:
This quote is saying that those who are strong enough to do what they want without the fear of others or intimidation deserve recognition.

Mean:
The meaning behind this quote is that the most courageous person is not someone who follows the status quo or does what other people demand, but rather it is someone who defies conventional ways. It implies the importance of being able to freely express one's self.

Matter:
This quote matters because it underlines the point that no one should be stopped from reaching their full potential. More often than not, we limit ourselves because we are afraid of what other people will think. If we realize that the only way to improve, develop, and grow as a person is to break a few social boundaries, then we will also realize what it means to truly be yourself.

Eric H. Period 2

8/29/2012 09:14:40 pm

This quote reminded me of the current school system, a place where people are too afraid to speak up against conventional thinking or authority. When they do, we often put them down for even trying to break the paradigm in which we are all indoctrinated under. Hopefully we can one day face up to this ghastly system of oppression and change our perspective on other people's ideas. Freedom.

Coco L., Period 1

8/30/2012 06:39:06 am

This quote must have been an inspiration to all the Blacks who had faced discrimination. Without brave woman like Maya Angelou, this world might still have a big issue of racism. I think Maya Angelou is a very big figure in the anti-racism movement.

Albert L. Period 1

8/29/2012 02:32:42 pm

Eoin Colfer, in ARTEMIS FOWL THE LOST COLONY, wrote,“No matter what dimension you're in, there's a big-headed male trying to take over the world.” (2012,pg 299).

Say:This quote has significance when Atemis enters a huge problem. He has this problem of Demons that were trapped in time by a spell. Now the spell is deteriorating. Demons want revenge on the humans and so Artemis says this quote.

Mean: My interpretation of this quote is that the demons are trying to get revenge on the humans. The demons want to take over the world by waging war.

Matter:This quote matters because there are many people trying to take over the world. It may start as an act of terrorism but it builds up. Conflicts with other countries can cause war which leads to world domination. For example during WW2 Hitler wanted world domination.

Bryan L. Period 6

8/30/2012 09:08:13 am

This quote makes me think of all the dictators that have been in the world that tried to took over the world. The dictators arise from around the world and have an idea of taking over the world, but fails.

eric lo

8/29/2012 02:40:47 pm

Craig Lesley, in STORM RIDERS,wrote,"Plugging those fellows wasn't even like that. You never got up close. You never got blood on your hands." (2001, 26)

Say: The character Emmett expressed how he felt how murder feels like and doesn't want anyone else to feel it.

Mean: The meaning behind this quite is that most people thinking killing or have killed someone is cool. But is sad reality that its not. Killing someone is taking someone very special away from ones family. Somewhere that person meant a lot to someone and you just ended a life.

Matter:This quote matters because the author expressed the feeling that no one else should feel. Death is a sad and tragic thing but knowing that you ended a life and you took that special person out of someones life. That the worst thing of all, knowing that somewhere you just killed someone that meant dearly to someone.

Evy Z Period 6

8/29/2012 02:45:32 pm

T.R. Thomas, author of TRUE CRIME:DNA EVIDENCE, wrote, "it wasn't til 1986 that forensics first used dna testing in cases, in the past people thought it wasn't infallible".

Say:

Forensics didn't want to be dependable on dna testing because they weren't sure if it was trustworthy or correct. Perhaps it wasn't until 1986 that we had the technology for dna testing.

Mean:

In my personal perspective this quote means that the source of dna testing wasn't reliable for cases. No one would rely on dna testing if it wasn't absolutely correct.

Matter:

This specific quote matters for several reasons such as being wrongly accused due to dna testing. There are many cases where innocent people were accused for crimes they didn't commit. Our dna can also be found at a crime scenes but, that doesn't exactly mean that we are guilty of a crime. Lastly i don't believe dna testing should be proof for trials because everyone's dna are everywhere.

Brandon Yip Per. 5

8/29/2012 02:50:06 pm

Teddy, in SHUTTER ISLAND, wrote, "Couldn't tell you. There's quite a few of them out here on the different islands. Most of them were target practice for artillery shells during the war. Not too many left standing."(2003, pg 13)

Say: This quote is talking about some different forts or barracks scattered across the area being used for target practice during a war . Now there is only a few left.

Mean: My interpretation for this quote is that they practice using the artillery so they can shoot off any prisoners escaping or using it for important training exercises.

Matter: This quote matters because maybe this quote can help foreshadow for what is going to happen later on during the story. Also it shows some of the atmosphere of the entire story.

Jodi A., Period 1

8/29/2012 02:50:44 pm

Sarah Dessen, in THIS LULLABY, wrote "What I mean... is that you'd just have to know what it's like to want to do something nice for somebody else. Out of consideration. Out of love."

Say: Remy's brother is telling her that she doesn't quite understand yet what it feels like to love and care for someone. She has never truly loved someone. As a result, anything she does for a person is not out of consideration or love, but because she feels like she has to do it.

Mean: This means that most people show their consideration and love by doing things for each other. If a person cares for someone, they don't mind doing any favors or errands for that someone. Remy's brother is saying that Remy has never truly loved someone the way he loves his girlfriend. This explains why Remy complains or feels indifferent about doing favors for people like her mom or her past boyfriends.

Matter: This quote matters because it shows what true love feels like. It is not a full definition of love and compassion, but it gives an idea of the heights people are willing to go to make each other happy.

Art Medina Period 1

8/29/2012 02:53:29 pm

E L James, in Fifty Shades of Grey, wrote, "Placing my head on my knees, I let the irrational tears fall unrestrained, I am crying over the loss of something i never had. How ridiculous. Mourning something that never was-my dashed hopes, my dashed dreams, and my soured expectations." (James 51)

Say: The following quote clearly explains how devastated the main character in the novel, Anastasia Steele, because she believes that her dreams and hopes have come tumbling down before her very eyes. The guy, whom she believed she shared mutual feelings with,
has made her cry with a only a few words. She cannot believe what had just happened and becomes utterly overwhelmed with emotions and bursts with tears. She realizes, after being consumed with tears, that she never actually had a relationship going on with the guy, Mr. Grey.

Meaning: My interpretation of this quote is that many women, especially young adults, can be completely lost and clueless when it comes to their love life. It also comes to show that many young women do not know how to handle even the smallest situations when their emotions come to place. As soon as emotion are involved, they are completely indulged and there is no way for them to think rationally and logically at the time. These women should learn to stop and think about a situation before letting their emotions take over because that is not going to help one bit. If they stop and analyze the situation for some time, then they will most likely make the right decision and will learn how to better handle situations and avoid emotions.

Matter: I believe that this quote is critical because it shows how Anastasia is utterly confused in almost every aspect of her love life and cannot seem to comprehend the situation in which she is involved in. She seems like the type of girl who panics for every little situation and cannot get a grip of herself. She also seems like a weak girl, both mentally and physically, and the quote shows that if she cannot handle a situation like this, maybe later in the novel she might be even more lost and clueless. It also shows that maybe as the novel progresses her character might drastically change and she will no longer be the same girl she was in the beginning. In many novels the character(s) presented in the beginning receives critical changes that shows character evolution and progress which can tie back to the plot. All in all, the character might be presented a certain way in the beginning and can be perceived a completely different way later in the novel. Needless to say, i must continue reading to find out.

Jennifer P. Period 2

9/6/2012 10:10:48 am

This quote stood out to me because no matter how ridiculous "crying over the loss of something you've never had" may sound, it happens too often. We can't help it because we're dreamers.

David D., Period 2

8/29/2012 02:54:19 pm

Boris Pasternak, in DOCTOR ZHIVAGO, wrote, “For as long as he could remember, he had never ceased to marvel at how, with the same arms and legs and a common language and habits, one could be not like everyone else, and besides that, be someone who was liked by few, someone who was not loved. He could not understand a situation in which, if you were worse than others, you could not make an effort to correct yourself and become better. What did it mean to be a Jew? Why was there such a thing? What could reward or justify this unarmed challenge that brought nothing but grief?” (1957, p. 15).

Say: This quote expresses the thoughts of Misha Barton, who is a small child that is ashamed of his Jewish heritage. Barton’s source of grief and inability to get along with others in the novel stems from this problem.

Mean: In this passage, I see the effects of racism on an individual scale. The passage paints racism as illogical by questioning its characteristics. Why should someone be treated differently when they are the same physically and habitually? Does being of a different religious group make you different as a human being? Does being a Jew warrant unequal treatment that is perpetual despite efforts to better one’s self? In addition, the fact that Pasternak speaks these thoughts through a child further emphasizes racism’s irrationality by implying that even a child can see through its illogicality. After dismissing racism as foolishness, the passage continues on to highlight effects of racism, which includes grief and shame towards one’s own culture, something that should be a source of pride.

Matter: Although racism is not the central theme in the novel, Pasternak does an excellent job in highlighting the problem of racism in this passage, including its seemingly lack of justification. Racism is not a problem that is limited only to Russia (where the novel takes place) as Jews and other minorities face discrimination in places around the world. It is time for people to stand up against racism and end the “unarmed challenge that [brings] nothing but grief.”

April V. Per 2

8/29/2012 02:56:15 pm

Christopher Golden in Poison Ink wrote "The gloomy weather of the past few days had at last abated, and the blue sky stretched forever in all directions. September always seemed a tug-of-war between summer and fall."

Say: Samantha Hollands, the main character of this novel expresses how she felt when she arrived at school. She was feeling very down, upset and didn't want to attend school on a Tuesday morning.

Mean: The meaning behind this is Samantha had a lot of stuff that were going on in her life. Her parents were thinking about getting a divorce and that left her terrified. She compared her feelings with the weather stating that she always did like the weather in Covington but that might change if her parents were to really separate.

Matter: This quote matters because Samantha's parent's relationship was always like a tug-of-war. Although her dad doesn't pay much attention to her she still wants her parents to stay together. She doesn't like the idea of her parents even thinking about getting a divorce. As much as she can see that her parents shouldn't stay together, she still wants them to.

Christian L., Period 6

8/29/2012 02:58:59 pm

Anonymous in, TO BE A SLAVE (by Julius Lester), writes "To be a slave... To know joy, laughter, sorrow, and tears and yet be considered only the equal of a table" (Anonymous, c. 1700).

Say:

The speaker intends to send the message that although slaves were able to comprehend a scenario and respond by feeling an emotion, a characteristic most would agree separates humans from savages, slaves were considered lesser beings.

Mean:

Society saw slaves as an object; therefore, abuse and belittlement was considered humane. This quote refers to how we as humans, captured and enslaved other humans against their wills, how we stripped them of their rights, their freedom, and their loved ones, yet gave them no rudimentary value.

Matter:

This quote matters because it reveals the thoughts and emotions of a race of people whom were victimized for free labor. It also portrays the sad time in human history in which a group of humans enslaved another group of humans to work against their will. We must constantly be reminded of our failures and our mistakes so that we will never perform the very same action again.

Cassidy A. Period 1

8/29/2012 03:03:00 pm

John Irving, in A PRAYER FOR OWEN MEANY, wrote, "But although Owen would complain to us ,he would never complain about us. If he was occasionally capable of being a stoic in the air, he was always stoic when Mrs. Walker accused him of childish behavior. He would never accuse us. Owen was no rat. As vividly as any number of the stories in the Bible, Owen Meany showed us what a martyr was." (1989, p.6)

Say: This says that no matter what the rest of the Sunday school class did to her, he refused to get them all in trouble. He didn't want to make everyone else feel what they made him feel daily.

Mean: My interpretation of this quote is that Owen Meany, though made fun of constantly, was highly respected. He was ridiculed for his size, his voice even his family, but he took it all in and nothing on anybody else. He embodied a martyr, and even though they were all so young, they realized that Owen was special. He didn't take the easy way out of his torment, by simply reaching out to an adult and relaying his problem. He chose to show them all that he wasn't "a rat". And this changed everything for the young John Wheelwright and his friends.

Matter: This quote matters because Owen plays an essential part throughout the whole book. He often is described as the boy/man that made Johnny believe in God. This could have been the very start of it. It was at least the point where Johnny realized that Owen was an important part of his life. I think this made Johnny realize just how faithful Owen was and how he should strive to be the same way.

Jose V. Period 2

8/29/2012 03:03:55 pm

Anne Schraff, in SHADOWS OF GUILT, wrote, “People see them and know who they are, but they’re scared to tell. Or maybe they know the guys and don’t want to get them in trouble.”
SAY:
Jaris says this because he believes that people are scared to report gangbangers putting graffiti on walls and act bad. Jaris also believes that by people speaking up about the graffiti and other bad actions the gangbangers have committed, gangbangers will target the people who told the police about their actions.
MEAN:
I believe that people are scared to tell police or other authorities about gang members’ bad actions or doings. Some people may know the person committing the action but wouldn’t want to be in bad terms with the person; therefore the witness or friend won’t say anything about what happened.
MATTER:
This matters because people shouldn’t be afraid of speaking up. We as people have the right to speak up. If we feel that people are trying to cause harm then we must report it. If it’s a person you know, you must find a way to reach the person and show them the way to become a better person instead of being a bad one.

Jacelyn K., Per 5

8/29/2012 03:06:31 pm

JoAn D. Griddle, in THE ODYSSEY OF A CAMBODIAN FAMILY, said, "To destroy you is no loss.To keep you is no gain." (1998, p210)

Say: This quote was said by Khmer Rouge. It's pretty much saying that their lives are nearly worthless. To be alive is no different than being dead. Everything in the Cambodian's lives were nothing and could be ended in a second with no regret.

Mean: It is meant to be a warning for all rebels and people living under Khmer that he controlled their lives, from what they did everyday to what they spoke and thought. He decided who would live and who would die; life is condemned with no regrets.

Matter: This quote matters because it shows the horrid side of the world. It shows how we are capable to slaughter in cold blood and exert so much control. It gives us a glimpse on how cruel and vicious a person can be.

Joanne W., Period 6

8/29/2012 03:08:53 pm

Lisa Klein, in LADY MACBETH'S DAUGHTER, wrote, ''The old sun dies and the new one is born. Dead souls rise, their graves to scorn. The spirits come, mankind to warn.'' (2009, p.16)

Say:

This says that forget about anything bad that happens to you, the people who bully you will be punished and all you need to do is to keep looking forward and start your new life.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that it means whenever you meet obstacles, you would feel sad and depressed but you can't knock yourself down, you need to keep your spirit and have notivation to start a new life.

Matter:

This passage matters because it shows the main character of the story who's been through all this kind of problems and it also outlines the rest of the story.

Joe Guan

8/29/2012 03:13:25 pm

Stephanie Meyer, In NEW MOON,wrote, "You’re only a senior once. Might as well document the experience."(2006, Pg. 9)

Say:This quote says to document the experience of your senior year and take note of things since senior year is important, all the important aspects and memories should be saved for the future

Mean:The meaning behind this quote is to remind us that we only have one life to live and so we should live it to the fullest because when we look back, we might regret not taking the chances we had

Matter:This quote matters because it reminds people that in the end all you really have is memories

Jeremy C.

8/29/2012 03:33:36 pm

This quote stood out to me because memories are sacred and all experiences should be cherished. Bad or good, experiences are essential to our lives because it helps us learn from our past mistakes or smile back to the good times.

Joe G.

8/29/2012 03:33:42 pm

Period 6 .

Luke Qian

8/29/2012 06:17:45 pm

This quote stood out to me because senior year is our last year of high school. Even though we move on and become seniors again in college or university there is only one senior year in high school. We should take advantage of every moment in our last year of high school.

Angie C., Period 6

9/10/2012 03:52:06 pm

this quote is simply saying that we can't go back into time but we can enjoy the time we have here and reminisce about it. there's only so much time we have and we should cherish every single moment we get until then.

Vivian H., Period 2

8/29/2012 03:15:54 pm

Judy Goldman, in THE SLOW WAY BACK, wrote, "She'd study the elderly men in their fringed shawls on the bima reading from the Torah, the way they swayed to the rhythm of their chanting, and she wished she had their passion, their uncomplicated acceptance of their religion" (1999, p. 47).

Say:
This says that Thea, the main character, is envious of others' ability to worship their religion passionately. It shows that she struggles with connecting spiritually with God and accepting her faith.

Mean:
This passage means that even though one comes from a highly religious family, not everybody feels the same way about God. Thea, in this case, questions her self-worth while in a temple. As she watches those around her, she starts feeling impatient, guilty, and annoyed. She feels ashamed of wanting to leave and thinks she let down generations of Jews. She evens compares herself to her sister, who is heavily involved in the Jewish community. Thea realizes no matter how many times she visits synagogues, she can never be like her family or the praying elderly men. She can't force herself to believe in the same values and worship in the same way others do. She eventually stops going to synagogue.

Matter:
This passage matters because it shows that people struggle to find acceptance with religion. Just because kids are taught to pray and worship, it doesn't mean that they feel a passion and connection to God. It also depicts the pressures and emotions that people can feel when isolated from their family and religious community.

Jasmine Li, Period 1

8/29/2012 03:26:59 pm

Nicholas Pine, in BOY CRAZY, wrote "A problem taking care of itself...the plan was in motion. The die had been cast. It has to work, she told herself. But even if it didn't, it was too late for them to stop." (1995,142).

Say: This quote means that even she's starting to regret what she have done, but it was at a point where it was too late to stop.

Mean: My interpretation of this quote is that as humans we often do things that we regret. But we can't just stop, we have to force ourselves to keep going.

Matter: This quote matters because we should never regret what we do, if we spend all our life regreting what we did isn't that a disgrace to our parents for giving us the gift of life? It's ok to make mistakes, that's how we learn. like what the quote says a problem will take care of itself.

Gloria M., Period 2

8/29/2012 03:36:47 pm

Jay Asher, in THIRTEEN REASONS WHY, wrote, “Because it may seem like a small role now, but it matters. In the end, everything matters” (2007, p.13).

Say:
This says that even the littlest things can start something big. It can hurt or help someone even if you think it may not. You never know the impact you have on others.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that we have to be careful with our actions. We need to think before we act. Our actions can have a huge effect on somebody. It can change how someone will act and feel for the rest of the day.

Matter:
This quote matters because most of the things we do without thinking we later regret. When someone says something insignificant to us, they may not expect it to hurt us, but it can hurt us because they don’t know the struggles we have. If someone kept all the little things that were said to them inside, it could build up and cause them to do unthinkable and surprising things. For us, we may regret the things that we did or could of done because in the end, anything you do can have either a positive or negative effect on others.

Jacqueline (Jackie) T. Per. 2

8/29/2012 04:04:33 pm

Your quote is a great example of what people don't take into account today. People don't realize that even the smallest of things they do can have the greatest results. Teenagers in today's society don't realize that their actions can lead to greater results.There are cases where someone made said something mean to another person and that person went and committed suicide. Every little action can have a huge result.

Jasmine Li , period 1

9/6/2012 12:06:44 pm

I can relate to this quote, I always say something that I'll later regret. For an example, I would say " how come your team haven't done anything lately", after a few seconds I would think to myself wait a seconds...that sounded kind of rude. This quote really reminds me of what I've said to my friends these past years.

Timothy P., Period 1

8/29/2012 03:51:21 pm

TWILIGHT by Stephanie Meyers.

"I do a good job of blocking painful, unnecessary things from my memory." (2005, page 6)

Say:
This quote is saying that Bella, the main character of the story, is capable of preventing all bad memories that might come into mind, for example, remembering her parents getting divorced.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that Bella is familiar with emotionally painful memories that may cross her mind. She has grown up living through many difficult situations that a normal teenage girl may never face. Even so, she somehow finds the strength to ignore those memories, and continues on with her daily routines. Edward, the main male character of the story, falls in love with Bella, but tends to bring upon trouble into Bella's daily life, due to the fact that Edward is a blood thirsty vampire. Towards the end of the book, Bella is held captive by an evil vampire, named James. He later attacks Bella and causes severe injuries. However, due to her ability to block out the bad memories, she later forgets everything that happens, and just explains the situation as a "bad staircase fall." It shows how composed Bella can be during tough situations and to just forgive and forget.

Matter:
This quote matters to the whole story because the book is essentially based off of Bella's mentally strong-willed mind, and her love for Edward. She simply forgives Edward for all the trouble he causes her, and continues to love him regardless. This passage shows how love can change someone even though that person can hurt us mentally, emotionally, or even physically.

Lesley T, Period 2

8/30/2012 10:26:27 am

Your quote reminds me a lot of myself at times. I think a lot of the time when I have bad memories I tend to block it out and try not to think about it. I like what you had to say about Bella's love and forgiveness for Edward and how love can change someone.

Jacqueline (Jackie) T. Period 2

8/29/2012 03:54:05 pm

Carolyn Meyer, in DOOMED QUEEN ANNE, wrote "I thought again of Mary's words. This may be your last card. Dare to play it." (2002 pg.178)

Say:
This quote was about Mary, Anne's sister, telling her to take a chance. At this point, Anne was getting desperate and was doing everything she could to become the queen. Anne was running out of time and Mary told Anne to take a risk and give up her "last card".

Mean:
This quote to me is about taking a risk when you know you are all out of options. At this point in the story, Anne was getting older and the king still has agreed to marry her. All of the King's advisers were telling him to marry someone else in order to conceive and heir. Anne was getting worried and was sharing her doubts with her sister. Mary told Anne to play her "last card". By taking the risk and finally sleeping with the King, Anne is risking her virtue in hopes of conceiving an heir to the throne, therefore ensuring her place on the throne. However, her virtue was what was keeping the King's interest in her.

Matter:
This quote matters because we need to know when to play our last card. When we reach a point in our lives where a huge decision needs to be made, we need to know when to "play our last card". Sometimes being conservative is a good thing, but when time is running out and there is nothing else to do, then we need to decide if we are willing to take the risk or just never try.

Kenny V. Period 6

8/29/2012 03:57:38 pm

Boris Pasternak in DOCTOR ZHIVAGO, wrote, "In periods of sorrow and care, the conversation between the two friends afforded them mutual relief. The relief consisted in Shura Schlesinger and Anna Ivanovna exchanging biting remarks of an ever more caustic nature. A stormy scene would break out, quickly ending in tears and reconciliation. These regular quarrels had a tranquilizing effect on both women, like leeches on the bloodstream." (1957, pg 63)

Say: Shura Schlesinger and Anna Ivanovna are best friends but despite that they argue regularly. These arguments usually become very “caustic” in nature but always results in a reconciliation. These argument seems beneficial for them both as the arguments has a “tranquilizing” effect on them.

Mean: Sometimes the best of friends do not get along and quarrel but usually concludes with reconciliations. It also shows that these daily quarrels are healthy in a friendly relationship. This also shows that good friends can argue in a healthy way and that they aren’t afraid to talk through disagreements.

Matter: Anyone who shares a strong bond with another person can relate to this quote some way or another because there is always ups and downs in a good friendship. As the quote states, these arguments and reconciliations are healthy and brief. The quote also says that “a stormy scene” would break out, and in real life we see that quite a lot as well. We usually recognize the people that are “bestfriends” and when an argument or disagreement arises it is usually ugly as if the closer you are with someone, the worse it can possibly be. When a storm ends, it is usually bright and optimistic and this surely applies to argument within a friendship.

Kaycel C., Period 6

8/29/2012 03:57:59 pm

E L James, in FIFTY SHADES OF GREY, wrote, "My belief is to achieve success in any scheme one has to make oneself master of that scheme, know it inside and out, know every detail... I make decisions based on logic and facts."

Say:
This says that for one to actually achieve their goals they should devise a plan, in order to be one step ahead of the competition. And to not just make impulsive decisions but to plot a well thought-out strategy, even if it involves stepping on people along the way.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that it means in any profession, there will always be competitors. And it is in your best interest whether or not you choose to surpass your acquaintances with a clever course of action. But occasionally, you may bring others down along the way. But in doing so, the outcome may be positive and beneficial for yourself.

Matter:
This passage matters because in many cases this is the mentality for the majority of people. It's a dog eat dog world and not everyone plays by the rules. As humans we strive for personal gain and if you're too sympathetic, the results for you achieving your own goals may be far fetched.

Lika M. period 5

9/3/2012 11:35:36 am

I totally agree with you. This world may not be fit for people who have sympathy and don't know what to do and not have plans because they won't be able to achieve their goals that way. This passage feels like it saying that the world is for "the survival of the fittest" and won't wait for people who get left behind. Everyone must work their hardest to get to their dreams.

Kaycel C., Period 6

8/29/2012 04:00:30 pm

Forgot to add this, (2011, p. 10)

Bryan L. Period 6

8/29/2012 04:07:44 pm

Suzanne Collins, in MOCKINGJAY, wrote, "I want everyone watching – whether you're on the Capitol or the rebel side – to stop for just a moment and think about what this war could mean. For human beings. We almost went extinct fighting one another before. Now our numbers are even fewer. Our conditions more tenuous. Is this really what we want to do? Kill ourselves off completely? In the hopes that – what? Some decent species will inherit the smoking remains of the earth?"

Say:
This quote says that both sides, the Capitol and the rebels, should not fight because a huge war would diminish the population even more because before, there was already a huge war.

Mean:
This quote means that war is a bad way to settle a problem. With not a lot of people left in the population, there shouldn't be a war to diminish it even more. In addition that, this civil war would cause us to kill each other, which would be very inhumane. For the winners and survivors of the war, life would be extremely harsh and difficult. Everything would be scarce and there really isn't any point of living anymore in a world that is destroyed.

Matter:
This quote matters because this quote brings out the humanity of mankind. There are people who oppose war and those who are pro war. This quote in particular, wants the people in the world to not go to war. What good is a war that will lead to a more destructive world that is tarnished by war.

Bryan L.

8/29/2012 04:09:27 pm

(2010, PG25)

Albert L Period 1

9/5/2012 02:58:03 pm

This quote reminded me of gladiator matches back in the day. Two people or animals would enter a arena and have a match to see who survives. People would watch as entertainment as they would hurt the other opponent. People should do this just for entertainment.

Kevin W., Period 6

8/29/2012 04:07:46 pm

J.D, Salinger, "The Catcher in the Rye" Mr.Spencer- "Life is a game, boy. Life is a game that one plays according to the rules."Chapter 2 (1951, pg 72)

Say: This quote means that life is a game, it has its rule that one have to follow. Spencer lectures Holden about the importance of playing by the rules.

Meaning: My interpretation of this quote is that we all follow to rule of life, because life follows guideline or rules like game. It keeps us from acting out.

Matter: This quote matter because by the end, we either win or lose in our life.

Michael, Zhang Per 2

9/5/2012 02:45:00 pm

Hey man, to shoot, write it again!!

alex ramirez

8/29/2012 04:08:35 pm

Walter Dean Myers, in MALCOLM X: BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY wrote "The war to end all wars"(1994, pg.8)

Say:
This says that people thought that after World War I, all wars would end and there would be world peace and how heroes of the war would be treated better; such as colored people. However, it was the total opposite of what they had expected.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that people thought after fighting in World War I, all wars would stop, but the war against racism is still going on to this very day and colored people thought they would be treated better having served as war heroes and putting their lives on the line for their country. In many states they had segregated schools, seperate drinking fountains, and also specific parks for colored and whites. Whites felt that they were above colored people and that they should be separated and be higher then them.

Matter:
The matter is that racism is a big issue up to this very day and it needs to stop because there are many situations in which people have lost their lives. Colored people are also mistreated just because they are different skin color than other people.

James E., Period 1

8/29/2012 04:12:26 pm

Pittacus Lore, in THE POWER OF SIX, wrote, "I look away from John Smith's familiar eyes on the screen. Besides the computer sits a small flower that's been forgotten. It's wilted and tired, shrunken down to half its normal height, a brown, crispy tinge at the edge of its leaves. Several petals have dropped, now dry and crinkled on the desk around the pot. The flower isn't dead yet, but it's not far off. I lean forward and cup my hands around it, move my face near enough so that my lips brush against the edge of its leaves, and then I blow hot air over it. An icy feeling shoots down my spine and, in response, life bursts through the small flower." (2011, p. 17)

Say:
The author expresses how Marina (Number 7) is feeling through something so simple as a flower and how it represents her emotions as tired and ready to give up on her life of living. But with the help of hope, she is able to overcome her emotions to find the one called "John Smith" (Number 4).

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that even though life could be hard at times and you may feel neglected, with just a little task like caring, could make a whole difference. And that difference could shine as beautiful as a flower.

Matter:
This passage matters because it's the spark of fire that sets Marina to go searching for the others like her. It gives her the hope she needs to pursue the challenges that awaits her.

Jinoto C. , Period 6

8/29/2012 04:13:12 pm

Robert Liparulo,in "Gatekeepers" wrote, " Love for his mother and disappointment at not finding her welled up from his chest. It dried his mouth and wetted his eyes. So, the emotional lnumbness had been only temporary, he thought. It was like getting punched in the arm so hard you couldn't feel it for a while.

Say:
This quote says that what he feels for his mother is truly strong and he yearns for his mothers love once again. His love towards his mother has made him weak and vulnerable for only a brief second.

Mean:
My perspective of this quote is that a child's love for his mother is truly strong no matter what. Even if she has been gone for a long time you will always feel that love in your heart.

Matter:
I believe this quote matters because every child should feel this way towards their mother. Your mother is the only nurturing thing in life and is the one who gave you life. Without your mother you wouldn't exist in this world.

Dominic Per. 5

9/18/2012 06:25:56 am

i like this quote because our mothers help there kids to have a better future and how they helped us to have a better life.

Stephanie Ugalde, P1

8/29/2012 04:13:23 pm

In THINGS I WANT MY DAUGHTERS TO KNOW, Elizabeth Noble says, "do not stand at my grave and cry
I am not there, I do not die" (2009, p. 2).

Say:
This quote says that Barbara might physically be deceased, but her spirit will live on. She does not want people to weep because she is still with them.

Mean:
This short quote has a lot of meaning; to me at least. In those two lines, the author gives a bright side to death. She tries to leave her children with sense of security by explaining how she will always be with them.

Matter:
This quote matters because it portrays death as something not as bad as it sounds. The pain you feel when someone dies is only temporary because they are not leaving your life, they will always be with you.

Courtney C.

8/29/2012 04:14:09 pm

Jane Austen, in PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, wrote, "When a woman has five grown up daughters, she ought to give over thinking of her own beauty" (1813, p.).
This says that when women become mothers, their beauty loses importance.
My interpretation of this quote is that the values of a woman change over time. When women are young and in their prime, beauty is very important. Women typically want to look their best and show men what makes them stand out among the rest. However, as a mother, a womans focus on beauty has shifted to her daughters. She wants her daughters to find a good husband and to have the best future possible. As a mother, children always come first.
This quote matters because it displays how women change over time. With age comes different perspectives as well as new values.

Thuc T., Period 6

8/29/2012 05:07:33 pm

Your interpretation really gives extra meaningfulness to the quote in a sense that such a simple, matter-of-fact sentence can be elaborated into a thoughtful description of mothers. Even though my mom always complained how much weight she gained whenever we discussed about having babies, the fact that she is willing to stay up until 12 to make foods for us ( and she is ) really proves otherwise. Loving nature is the most beautiful thing that a mother has.

P.S. Pride and Prejudice is a great novel! :D

William, L. Period 6

8/29/2012 04:21:14 pm

Boris Pasternak, in Doctor Zhivago, wrote, "Thus, in disorder and amidst perpetual riddles, Yura spent his childhood, often in the hands of strangers, who changed all the time. He became used to these changes, and in this situation of eternal incoherence his father's absence did not surprise him" (1957, pg. 5).

Say: This quote is describing Yura's difficult life as he grew up without a father to support him. Yura coped with this particular hardship by tagging along with different strangers throughout his childhood.

Mean: My interpretation of this quote is that you should never take for granted who you currently have in your lives. Yura had to experience the unfortunate event of his father abandoning him early on, thus forcing him to mingle with strangers during most of his life. Although you may become upset with your parents at times, you should understand that there are reasons behind their actions, and learn from their advice because most parents will always want the best out of their children.

Matter: This passage matters because it emphasizes just how important family is. Because hardships are inevitable, you will need to overcome them during any part of life, and that is where your family comes into play. Regardless of the circumstances, your family will always offer their undivided attention and support in order to help you overcome certain obstacles. Friends come and go, but it is your family who will always be your number one motivating factor in life.

Kenny V.

8/31/2012 01:41:49 pm

I agree, Yury grew up without a sense of belonging and it is reflected in his adult life. In the first chapter at his mother's funeral, his reaction to her death showed how much she meant to him and this can easily be related to real life when you lose a loved one. His negligence as a child probably brought him to care about others thus being a doctor.

Kenny V. Per 6

8/31/2012 01:42:36 pm

Edit: Period 6

Winnie C., Period 1

8/29/2012 04:30:52 pm

Rosa Guy, in THE FRIENDS, wrote, “This unexpected compliment gave me a rush of pleasure. I felt suddenly warm and friendly toward Edith. But then I looked down and saw her run-over shoes, saw the gaping holes in her stockings, and in annoyance I thought if someone had to like me, why couldn’t it be Marian, or someone like Ruby’s silk-stockinged friend.“ (1996, p. 35)

Say:
This says that the speaker, Phyllisia, begins to have a good feeling on Edith because of her friendliness. However, she cares more about Edith’s appearance and she would want to be friends with someone who has nicer clothing.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that most people always care more about one’s external appearance than one’s earnestness. They may look down on the others if they are not wealthy enough to dress nice. Making friends has become uneasy and untrue because of all those measures of value in the society. Moreover, sometimes we are jealous of the others because they and their friends look so good with each other. But we actually do not know if they are real best friends or they just pretend that they love each other. Friendship is no longer pure but complicated.

Matter:
This passage matters because it shows an early connection between Phyllisia and Edith. Phyllisia moves to a new place and no one seems to like her. She is insulted and bullied by her new classmates. At this moment, all she needs is a friend to support her. Edith shows up to help and she obviously wants to become friends with Phyllisia. A friend in need is a friend indeed. I believe Phyllisia will accept Edith as who she is and they will become true friends after they go through all the difficulties.

Jacelyn K.; Per 5

9/3/2012 03:12:49 am

I agree with you interpretations of the quote. One should not be judged by appearance alone. It should not matter. What matters is the personality.

James Zhijie R., Period 5

8/29/2012 04:33:51 pm

J.D Salinger, in THE CATCHER IN THE RYE, wrote,"I'm the most terrific liar you ever saw in your life. It's awful. If I'm on my way to the store to buy a magazine, even, and somebody asks me where I'm going, I'm liable to say I'm going to the opera. It's terrible."(1951,p.16)

Say: This says that a person is feeling terrible and sorry for himself because he is so terrific at lying.

Mean: My interpretation of this passage is that it means that when people get to become very fluent in lying, they will start to think of it as a bad thing. This includes the many people who have the inability to having normal conversations and relations with their peers.

Matter: This passage matters because it tells people that instead of considering the talent of lying as a good factor, situations like this can show us that lying can also be disadvantageous towards one's inner conscious.

Cally M., Period 5

8/31/2012 05:01:35 pm

I agree with your opinion that being able to lie is not a good quality to possess. It can be harmful to yourself as well as others.

Kenny V., Period 2

8/29/2012 04:34:26 pm

Will Hobbs, in Downriver, wrote, "For my part, I was fighting in the most hurtful way i could think of, by feeding the silence and making it grow and grow." (1991, p. 10)

Say:
This quote states that the main character, Jessie, was keeping her problems inside instead of telling her dad because it could lead her to more difficulties.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that, when you have a problem you shouldn't be keeping it inside you or be trying to ignore the problem. When there is a problem it is best to deal with it as soon as possible. Keeping a problem to yourself and leaving it unattended will cause the problem to become a bigger one.

Matter:
This passage is significant because it reflects on how people act today. People who are unable to resolve their own problems often end up keeping it inside instead of trying to seek answers for it. Consequently, this could lead to more difficulties and even hurt oneself.

Qi Hong C Period 6

8/30/2012 05:54:21 am

to me i think that this quote reminds me to talk with your parents when you need help , to me i think i have a problem with communicating with my parents. I think that if i talk to them, they wouldn't understand me and always try to avoid me. After reading this quote, i realized that maybe i really need to talk to my parents about my future.

Berlin T. Period 2

8/29/2012 04:41:34 pm

Susan Colasanti from 'When It Happens' says "When you find something rea, everything falls into place"

Say: This Quote Susan Colasanti says, means that she herself belives that something good and real happens and you can just feel the excitment when it comes to face you with your fate.

Mean: What i belive this quote means to me is that anything can happen to anyone. When you find something or someone real and everything falls into place, you feel happy and get exstatic! Sometimes people may not know whats in front of them to realize what they have is something real but there is always something there to belive in.

Matter: This quote matters because without knowing what you feel when you feel something real, you will never know what comes in life because you don't exist to try it. You should always be aware of what is in front of you because everything will click and "Once you find something real,everything falls into place."

Thuc T., Period 6

8/29/2012 04:46:25 pm

Philippa Gregory, in THE OTHER BOLEYN GIRL, wrote, “ Every woman has to have something which singles her out, which catches the eye, which makes her the center of attention. I am going to be French.”(2001, p.15)

Say:
This quote says that if a woman wants to have the attention from other people, she has to be unique in some ways, which makes her stand out in a sea of people.
Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that it means a woman does not have to be beautiful, but she has to be smart. Being smart, in this case, is not about knowing how to solve extremely complicated math problems but rather about knowing how to get her way. Even though the idea itself does not sound so bad to me, the implied reason based on the content of this novel gives it a very malicious denotation. A smart woman knows how to play to her strength, which can make her a very desirable woman to men. Consequently, she can get what she wants through indirect means. For example, some women have to save money for, let say, a Coach bag, but there are women who just choose to wear clothes are are just enough to cover what needs to be covered, flirt, wink, smile and receive little gifts like Burberry.

Matter:
I think this quote matters in the novel because it really sets the momentum for the rest of the story (sisters turning against each other, competition for the king’s love, enmity).
It matters because in life, at one point or another, women have to choose whether to follow the heart or the head. However, our society has become so materialistic that sometimes we are forced to flow in the river of life without having a chance to stop and listen to what our hearts have to say. 5000 years ago, we might love just because it is in human nature that we love but not because of Burberry. It is unfortunate in the way our society functions because our hearts are not given the chance to grow and fonder in the best environment. Nevetherless, it is imprinted deep in my belief that every girl in this world is a flower and that each and every one of you girl out there deserve to be treasured and loved. You have to be smart, yes, be smart, but smart in a way that makes you beautiful inside out. Don’t let it ruin the flower that has not yet fully grown inside you.

Wei L. Period 5

8/29/2012 04:48:37 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.

Aldo H.

8/30/2012 07:13:45 am

to me i think this means not to help people who will smooth things out, just help people in gerneral, also fight for what is right.

Aron I.

8/31/2012 03:05:27 pm

This reminds me of those quotes like "Stand up for yourself" or "Don't be afraid, fight for what you believe is right"

Aron I. Period 5

9/18/2012 05:52:53 am

I forgot to write my period

Cuong T. Period 5

9/3/2012 04:19:42 pm

This quote remind me of a book like " To Kill A MockingBird" that Atticus Finch stand up for a blackman that being accused to raped a white woman even though Atticus know that he going to lose in court, but he showed courage to fought back for Tom Robinson

Andy T Period 5

9/18/2012 05:51:52 am

This quote tells me that people should never give up for anything no matter what others may say about you.

Kevin Thai

8/29/2012 05:00:56 pm

Suzanne Collins, in MOCKINGJAY, wrote, "Positioned on my dresser, that white-as-snow rose is a personal message to me. It speaks of unfinished business. It whispers, I can find you. I can reach you. Perhaps I am watching you right now"(2010, p. 15).

SAY:
This says that there is a feeling of fear, a feeling that you cant shake off when you know that you're being targeted and watched. Katniss felt afraid of the unfinished business between her and President Snow.

MEAN:
My interpretation of this passage is that an object can be a symbol of many things. An object contains many words, and they can convey a personal meaning to you. In this case, it is fear that the rose possesses that threatens Katniss.

MATTER:
This passage is important because it shows that intimidation comes in many forms. It shows how scared a person can feel and how they react to fear. It makes us feel empathetic towards the character, and it builds suspense towards what'll happen in the future and it contains a form of foreshadowing.

Kevin T.

8/29/2012 05:05:06 pm

Kevin T. Period 1 (messed up title)

Dinh T Period 5

8/31/2012 01:50:31 pm

I can relate to this because sometimes i get the feeling that I am being watched at night when I walk home alone. I do agree that objects can be symbols of things because just seeing someone standing in the dark frightens me.

Ryan H.Period 2

8/29/2012 06:22:24 pm

Walter Dean Myers, in MALCOLM X BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY, wrote, "For any child it is difficult to believe that a father who was so central to his life could be so quickly taken away. Malcolm would never forget the night that his father was killed. He would remember the screams of his mother, and of the suddenly fatherless family huddled together in yet another tragedy." (1993, page 22)

Say:

This is quite the turning point in Malcolm's life. A father figure someone who is viewed as a leader and role model to be killed. This experience may have pushed Malcolm into the man he was.

Mean:

What this passage means is Malcolm's father was killed for doing something he believe was right. This event may have driven Malcolm to do change the world.

Matter:

This passage matters because this event changed Malcolm's view of the world. Someone as important as a father to be killed at a young age while going through difficult times worsen the situation.

Randall C., Period 6

8/29/2012 06:27:54 pm

Jess Lair, in I AINT WELL-BUT I SURE AM BETTER: MUTUAL NEED THERAPY, wrote "Another thing we do when we admit we are powerless and helpless, is we become willing to give up our surface relationships" (1975, p.23)

Say:
This quote is telling the reader that when you are fully vulnerable you are able to give up your friendships made when you had your defense up.

Mean:
I think that this quote is telling the reader to open up his/her wall. Throughout out life we hide and keep things away from other due to the fear of being judged. Because of this many people only have certain friends that they are able to be exactly who they are with making them their "true" friends. If we were always the way we were finding relationships would be easier because we usually do not live the life we want to until we are alone in our room.

Matter:
This quote matters to the story because the story talks about the need of others to become more emotionally stable. In the story the narrator speaks of different cases of people in group therapy and the results of being closed in and open. The ones that were more open to others became better and the ones that stayed closed in had to results.

Andy B. Period 1

9/12/2012 03:30:46 pm

This quote made me consider my own relationships and friendships. It is true that some people will behave differently with different sets of friends, and that it is primarily caused by the need to be accepted. I think a way out of this cycle is to realize that those who mind when expressing yourself shouldn't matter, and that those who matter to you wouldn't mind.

Luke Q., Period 6

8/29/2012 07:02:10 pm

Huck Finn, in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn says " that is just the way with some people. They get down on a thing when they don't know nothing about it." (1885, p.6)

Say:
This quote is telling the reader to figure out a problem before trying to solve it without knowing how.

Mean:
I think that this quote is telling the reader to think before acting. Many people who jump right in to solve a problem will most likely get it wrong if they do not know how to solve it. Though if they first learn how to find the solution to the problem they will succeed in solving the problem. It would be easier to jump right in and solve a problem and it may be quicker but there is a higher chance of getting it wrong which will cause problems.

Matter:
This quote matters to the story because Huck thinks that he is grown up now which fits the theme of the book: Growing Up. Since he thinks that he is all grown up now he thinks he doesn't need the widow anymore because she is constantly going at Huck about things that she doesn't know anything about.

Tom Huang, Period 6

8/31/2012 03:13:36 pm

This quote stood out to me because it states that if you don't do anything, they won't change anything. This quote inspires others to take action and lead and do something about it. It reminds me of any time where we are supposed to take advantage of the moment and not let it slip away. It will allow you to be confident and take charge which is a good quality to have.

Eric H. Period 2

8/29/2012 08:56:19 pm

Ernest Hemingway, in THE OLD MAN AND THE SEA, wrote, "He no longer dreamed of storms, nor of women, nor of great occurrences, nor of great fish, nor fights, nor contests of strength, nor of his wife. He only dreamed of places now and of the lions on the beach. They played like young cats in the dusk and he loved them as he loved the boy."

Says:

This says that we often retreat to the calmness of our blissful thoughts when faced with a daunting journey ahead, and is pertinent in order to face challenges ahead with utmost prudence and attentiveness.

Means:

My interpretation of this quote is that people today are too focused on what other people perceive as relevant in modern culture. Whereas, when people stay true to themselves they often do not need to care about the subjects of relevance, but they’d be more concentrated on the things that matter most to them. When people are focused on societal norms they often lose sight of what matters most to them, thus challenges and tribulations that impend on them are faced with no heart or soul.

Matter:

This matters because it offers us insight on how we behave differently with different mindsets.Inspirations and goals would be apparent to really analyze what makes us tick about our distracted mind set in the modern era.

Coco L., Period 1

8/29/2012 09:40:49 pm

Sophie Kinsella, in REMEMBER ME,wrote, "Okay. Now my skin is really prickling. I've read all the Harry Potter books, all five of them. I don't remember any half-blood prince.
"What's this?" Trying to sound casual, I point at the ad, "What's Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince?"
"That's the latest book," Garth the other trainee, says "It came out ages ago."
I can't help gasping. "There's a sixth Harry Potter?"
There's a seventh out soon!" Diana steps forward eagerly "And guess what happens at the end of book six-"
"Shh!" exclaims Nicole, the other nurse "Don't tell her!”
They continue bickering, but I don't hear them anymore. I stare at the newspaper print until it jumps about in front of my eyes. That's why nothing made sense. It's not Mum who's confused---it's me." (2009,p.31)

Say:
This says when Lexi Smart wakes up in a hospital in London after a car accident, she can't remember anything in the past three years. She believe that she is in 2004, but it's actually 2007. The nurse in the hospital and her mother try to convince her it's 2007 right now.

Mean:

My interpretation of this passage is that it means that when people lost their memory, they suffer the great fear, doubt and feel insecurity. When they first wake up, they don't know what is going on in this world, why are they in the hospital, their life doesn't seem right. To make things worse, they might lost their most valuable memory for the whole life. For us, it is hard to imagine the feeling of loss of memory, and I guess no one would like to experience it. But in this book, the author seems to lead us go through loss of memory, and the way to discover our life.

Matter:

This passage matters because the whole story start at Lexi loss her memory. She was confuse about her life, what happened in the past three years? How come she change a lot after three years? Is she really happy about the life she has right now? This make me think not only about the suffering of memory lost, but also the choices that I made in my life,

Qi Hong C period 6

8/30/2012 05:48:04 am

T.R. Thomas, in True Crime, wrote about that Often young people think it is cool to party. if seems fun to try drugs and alcohol. But partying can easily get out of hand, drugs are illegal. using them is a crime. Alcohol and drugs can ruin your life.

Mean:i think this paragraph means a lot to me because when i came to the United States, my mom always told me that there are many students who sell drugs in school and she told me that if you try drug once then it will destroy your whole life and i have some friends who tried drugs, finally they were kicked out by the guild
Say:This paragraph talks about that people think it's fun to try drugs and alcohol and usually these students and teenagers think it's cool to try the drugs and alcohol. Unfortunately, some of friends tried drugs and finally they were kicked out by the guidance office. Now i m a senior in this school and i know a lot, but when i read this paragraph, it reminds me a lot about what my mom taught me when i came here.

Matter:This paragraph matters, because the selling of drugs in school is a very critical problem in the United State's school. Many students would have a very nice future if they don't try drugs and because of drugs and alcohol, many students' future become dark and horrible, so i think this paragraph is very important.

Aldo H. Period 5

8/30/2012 07:10:33 am

"for my conscience would not suffer me to imitate the bad practice of too many among my brethren. Having therefore consulted with my wife, and some of my acquaintance, I determined to go again to sea. "

Say:he had alot of things going wrong in his life so he decided to go to sea

Mean:what this means is that he does not want to go in the wrong path that so many have gone in, he wants his life to be right.

Matter:this matters because its always important to be optimistic.

Jeanette F., period 5

8/30/2012 09:52:38 am

Suzanne Collins wrote, in THE HUNGER GAMES, "'I almost forgot! Happy Hunger Games!' He plucks a few blackberries from the bushes around us. 'And may the odds--' He tosses a berry in a high arc toward me. I catch it in my mouth and break the delicate skin with my teeth. The sweet tartness explodes across my tongue. '--be EVER in your favor!' I finish with equal verve."

Say: This qoute basically says how they are trying to get rid of their nervousness and joke about the hunger a games. They make fun of the capitol by copying what they say. They try to take away the depression of this horrific game.

Mean: This means that they do not want to participate in these games, yet they have to. And the famous qoute, "May the odds be ever in your favor." means that the names of who will participate in the hunger games in random and only one out of many names is chosen.

Matter: This matters because this book is all about the Hunger Games. It would be very hard to understand the book without knowing how people felt about this game that is for "the capitol's entertainment".

Angie C, Period 6

8/30/2012 01:54:51 pm

P.C. Cast wrote, in Marked, “Remember, darkness does not always equate to evil, just as light does not always bring good.” (2007, pg. 41)

Say: This quote was said by the goddess Nyx as a reminder that dark is not always associated with evil, as for light is not always associated with good.

Meaning: I believe this quote has a more profound meaning to it because we can't differentiate evil and good to dark and light. Looks may be deceiving, society constantly misinterpret people merely on their appearance. If you didn't have to experience darkness then you wouldn't know the feeling of light, basically both can't exist without each other. The concept of yin yang plays a role in this quote, evil and good is inside everyone.

Matter: Nyx gives her these words of wisdom because she gives Zoey the gift to restore balance between good and evil.

(my computer internet didn't work on me yesterday night)

eric lo

9/5/2012 01:23:57 pm

I feel that this quote means that there is no definite shape of fear or happiness only things that make you upset or happy. Nothing can make you fear another thing only something envokes fear into you.

Lisa Z., Period 2

8/30/2012 02:25:23 pm

Judy Goldman, in THE SLOW WAY BACK, wrote, “Mama looked at me with those eyes as I stood there with a tear that was streaming down my face on the floor as she was hugging me telling me sorry” (1997, page 15)

Say:
This is saying that they mother is regretting the decision that she had made. That decision that she made will not only affect her, but both because the relationship that they had of mother and daughter is close, but because of this incident, the mother will be less trusting of the daughter by herself because she will think that she went through her personal belongings.

Mean:
My interpretation of the quote is that everyone makes mistakes but there are some mistakes that one makes that are really hard to even believe that one made. Slapping your daughter really is something that no mother does but that just shows how important that wedding dress was to her.

Matter:
This matters because as time passes, many of the secrets that the mother has been keeping, will be reviled. This will later act as a sort of leverage for the curious daughter that wonders why the mother keeps so many secrets from her about the wedding and why she refuses to speak about it.

Kristen W. Period 1

9/5/2012 02:14:48 pm

This quote shows how much love the mother has for her daughter. It takes a lot for a mother to sit down and apologize to their own child. In this case the mother was responsible enough to not only think about herself, but about her daughter too.

Felix Zhu

9/3/2012 11:08:41 am

Suzanne Collins, in Catching Fire, wrote,"then suddenly,as i was suggesting i take over the daily snare run, he took my face in his hands and kissed me"

says:That Gale still loved Katniss even though she kissed Peeta during the hunger game.

means:my interpretation was that Gale always loved Katniss when they first meet, even through that Katniss broke his heart by telling the audience that she is madly in love with Peeta

Matter: The capital believe Katniss loved Peeta but in reality Katniss still loves Gale, but is unable to show her love, because she is being watched all the time.

Felix Zhu , period 5

9/3/2012 11:09:50 am

Cuong T, Period 5 link

9/3/2012 04:10:51 pm

Rick Riordan, in The Lightning Thief, worte,"Go on with what your heart tells you, or you will lose all."

says: This quote tell Percy Jackson going to go save his friend from a dangerous monster that kidnapped his friend

mean: My interpretation on this quote is that you should do what you think is right before you might regret for not doing the things you love.

matter: this quote matter because it tell you to do things you love even though somebody opinions are going to affect how you think. Always make the decision yourself and make other do it for you, the choice are always yours to chose.

Jeffery W., Period 5

9/5/2012 08:41:07 am

I can relate to this because I was in a situation where if I didn't tell that person what I needed to say, then I might have regretted it for the rest of my life.

Tara K., Period 6

9/4/2012 01:23:59 pm

Lauren Oliver, in BEFORE I FALL, wrote, "I know what it's like to be on the other side. i was there for the first half of my life. the bottom of the bottom, the lowest of the low. I know what it's like to have to squabble and pick and fight over the leftovers. So now I have first pick of everything. So what. that's the way it is. Nobody said life was fair." (2010, p. 18)

Say:

This quote is what the main character, Samantha Kingston, says about popularity. She used to be one of the most unpopular girls back in elementary school but then she became one of the most popular girls in 8th grade. Ever since then, she has ruled the school with her friends. However, her stint with unpopularity hasn't made her sympathetic to those who are unpopular. In fact, she just acts like she was entitled to be this popular.

Mean: My interpretation of this passage is that popularity is a fickle thing as illustrated by the following quote. Samantha used to be this unpopular girl but one day she just becomes popular after being befriended by Lindsay. This quote also basically says that people who gain higher status in life (popularity, money, etc.) don't sympathize with others in the same position.

Matter:

This passage matters because it raises questions of popularity, luck, and the unfairness of life in mind. It's a fine example of how much a person can change. It also brings hope to people who wish their life would change for the better. After all, Samantha used to be unpopular. And life is unfair. Who says it can't be unfair in your favor?

Art Medina Period 1

9/5/2012 11:50:23 am

I find this quote quite cliche but true at the same time. Everyone knows that almost any individual cannot start from the top in any aspect of life, especially in this example of high school social life. One must build his/her way up to the top and know that starting at the bottom is only part of the process that seems daunting at first thought. Slowly but surely the individual will see his ascent in the process and better understand why it is so important to start at the bottom before he/she can reach the top. I can relate to this quote because in my life i have experienced my friends and relatives grow and mature through this process and i have come to realize that is a part of life that is simply inevitable and in the end simply normal.

Lisa Z., Period 2

9/4/2012 04:56:57 pm

Judy Goldman, in THE SLOW WAY BACK, wrote, “First of all, she didn’t even know if Helen could do the translations. She should be putting all her energy into hoping Helen would say yes. Into hoping she’d finally get a straight perspective on her family” (1997, page 21).
Say:
This says that because she grew up separated from her grandparents, her knowledge about her roots are very limited. This also shows about how little her family talks about their past and childhood memories because she has translate the letters written in Yiddish from her grandmother in order to find out something, anything from her grandmother.
Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that it means that when you want to know about your past, you will do anything because you will always want to know where you come from. Knowing where you came from, makes you have a stronger bond to family. Even though she hasn’t met grandmother since her early years of her life, she is still curious but I think because of that, it is more interesting. She wants to see how much has changed.
Matter:
This passage matters because it shows her determination. Her determination to know where she comes from and know more about her history and in a way know more about her parents also. These letters might also explain why her mother doesn’t want to talk about her wedding to her father.

naomy cueva period 6

9/5/2012 12:07:27 pm

I think its important to know about your heritage because that is what makes you. (character) It is a touching subject when it comes to family because family is something that we will have in good or bad.

Kemberly M., period 6

9/5/2012 07:54:21 am

Jodi Picoult wrote in the book The Change of Hearts“You change your life by changing your heart.”

Say:
This says that to be able to change your life to good you must change your heart to good. Taking the evil out of your heart will only do good.

Mean:
what i understand from this passage is that even if you try to change somebody that does not want to it wont happen. There heart wont be in the right place they'll just look for evil.

Matter:
This matters because if your not able to change in life you wont be able to blend in life is able change and learning how to except and learn.

Jeffery W., Period 5

9/5/2012 08:37:43 am

Robert Lipsyte, in THE CONTENDER, wrote, "Don't worry, James, I have lots of blood for you."

Say:
This says that in life you will always have friends around and they will always try to help you.

Mean:
This means that the main character will help out his best friend no matter what. He will give him whatever is needed in order for James to live.

Matter:
This matters because without good friends, there could be problems that you are forced to deal with alone. If you don't have much people around, then you might be troubled in life.

Yang Y., Period 2

9/5/2012 11:13:42 am

Your passage reminds me of my best friends around me, we would do our best for each other. We always got each other's backs no matter what happens. We would tell each other our problems in life and help each other solve it. When we say thanks to each other, the other person would say "that's what friends are for right?"

Yang Y., Period 2

9/5/2012 10:55:48 am

David Michaels, in END WAR, wrote, "They weren't just stereotypical soldiers; they were real people with real hopes and dreams." (2010, p.42)

Say:
This quote reveals that no matter what kind of a person they are, they would still have dreams and hopes of their own.

Mean:
My interpretation of this quote is that just because a person is in some kind of occupation does not mean they wanted the job. There are many people in the world that wanted to be something they have always dreamed of but ended up else where. In the book, the soldiers were an secret team that did not exist, they were not real, they are erased from everything, no ID, no nothing, but they are still people who has hopes and dreams of their own that they can not fulfill.

Matter:
This quote matters because no matter what kind of a person you are you can achieve your goals through hard work. Everyone has their own dreams and goals, it depends on themselves if they can succeed.

Zhicheng (James) W., Period 2

9/5/2012 03:39:15 pm

This quote definitely speaks out to all others. Any individual can achieve their goals and dreams through hard work and that is the most interesting part in a human life. The passion to exceed expectations is the most inspiring thing that could happen in a life because it states that "I" accomplished my goals and "i'm" ready for the real world.

Yu chi Ying Period 1

9/5/2012 11:24:31 am

James Dobson, in Love Must Be Tough ,wrote "Death itself would be easier to tolerate than being tossed aside like an old shoe. (1996,pg.125)

Say:
This quote expresses the feeling of many people who have been turned away from loved ones, like families or martial partners. These victims find it so hard to face the betrayal that they would rather die.

Mean:
Often times, the unloved panics to the abandonment and resort to appeasements, but doing so only worsen the situation. When they are repeatedly rejected, the unloved one feels extremely painful and lost for a period of time before they have the courage to overcome the experience So.I believe this quote is not always to be taken literally.

Matter:
The quote matters because the abandoned people need to know that they are not alone and that many have survived this. There are counselors to help families recover to the happy days, but if it doesn't work, they can always move on with life and find other form of love in the world.

Ryan C., Period 1

9/5/2012 12:36:12 pm

This quote reminds me of how students need to feel a sense of belonging in a classroom for a beneficial learning environment (not to the extent of death). When students don't feel a sense of belonging in the classroom, they can feel as if they are neglected from the community. It is important to prevent this and promote an environment that promotes growth for every student.

Ryan C., Period 1

9/5/2012 12:27:06 pm

In SUPER FREAKONOMICS, Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner wrote, “In general, Krueger found, ‘terrorists tend to be drawn from well-educated, middle-class or high-income families.’ Despite a few exceptions-the Irish Republican Army and perhaps the Tamil Tigers of Sri Lanka-the trend holds true around the world, from Latin American terrorist groups to the al Qaeda members who carried out the September 11 attacks in the United States.” (Dubner and Levitt 63).

Say: This says that research shows that terrorists tend to come from middle-class and high-income families rather than low-income families.

Mean: My interpretation of this passage is that things are not always as they seem in the world. For instance, many would probably assume that terrorists come from low-income families because of their tendencies to negative thoughts and actions. However, research shows that this is not always the case. Humanity relies is usually overconfident with their assumptions of certain people in society, which leads to false correlations.

Matter: This passage matters because it offers an important truth: things are not always as they seem. Making assumptions and jumping to conclusions often creates a negative view of things, in this case, the family background of terrorists. Our world is full of people and objects that may look completely different than what they truly are. By understanding a situation before making assumptions, we can improve our world.

Dinh T, Period 5

9/5/2012 01:07:01 pm

Rick Riordan, in THE LAST OLYMPIAN, wrote,"Being dyslexic is one mark of a demigod, but sometimes I really hate it. The more nervous I am, the worse my reading gets"(2009, p.55)

Say:
This says that sometimes when you are nervous, you aren't able to do things very well.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that many people get nervous when they perform or present things in front of a crowd. The adrenaline sometimes causes people to do poorly in front of an audience.

Matter:
This matters because when people are dyslexic, they sometimes misinterpret a word for another and they sometimes can't follow written instructions.

Andrew L. , Period 5

9/5/2012 01:19:39 pm

This quote makes me consider about many different individuals in life that are unable to focus on a certain task due to their lack of confidence. Being nervous may do some harm to one because of their possible dysfunction and breakdown. However, it is better that one does not let being nervous get in the way of what ever they are doing.

Andrew L. , Period 5

9/5/2012 01:16:36 pm

Ingrid Tomey, in NOBODY ELSE NEEDS TO KNOW, wrote "He told me that you got up at five-thirty every morning this summer to run for an hour and a half before you went to work"(1999, pg. 89)

Say: This quote says that this young man dedicates his mornings to be in shape and shows a will to do something greater. This young man does his best for his goal.

Mean: This quote as I interpret it is that this young man wakes up to run. To be able to wake up at five thirty every single day shows his commitment to running. Running for an hour and thirty minutes, shows his dedication to his passion of running. Being able to show this type of dedication means something and trying to achieve what they are trying to achieve shows they spend much time to doing so.

Matter: This quote will really open eyes of many. This kind of dedication might inspire others to being able to be this dedicated into doing the things they like and show improvement. Many people should be just like this young man in this story and do greater and achieve and hope big. To do just that, they must show commitment and show action and will.

naomy cueva period6

9/5/2012 01:21:31 pm

Anke de Vries in BRUSES, wrote "Did I hurt you badly?" (1992,61)

Say: Judiths mother apologizes for beating on her daughter.

Mean: Judiths mother does not love her daughter she blames everything on that poor child. She beats her up everytime she isn't having a good day.She is bipolar in some way. But that doesn't justify her actions.She needs medical help.

Matter: What Judith mother does isn't right, but the poor girl doesn't seem to realise that.She only want to please her mother in every way she can.But anything she does it seem to have the opposite reaction then the one she expects. She is blind to see that ,what is going on is an unhealthy relationship that should be avoid.

Eric lo

9/5/2012 01:30:48 pm

Craig Lesley, in STORM RIDERS,wrote,"pressing both palms against its flimsiness. Nothing seemed real to him or permanent."(2001, 39)

Mean: I think this means that nothing felt real to him. He couldn't feel anything because he has lost so much and now nothing could hurt me mentally. He could only feel pain when his loved ones are put in pain.

Matter: He felt sad that anything he cares about will end up in pain and that only if he doesn't care will they stop being pained. He only wants whats best for them but he doesn't want anyone else to get hurt either.

Alvin O., Period 5

9/5/2012 01:34:51 pm

Frodo in, THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING, said, "Short cuts make delays, but inns make longer ones." (1954, p. 99). (This is cited in APA format.)

Say: In the story, he is telling his friends that trying to find shortcuts may even lead to more obstructions and that staying at inns will make no progress at all.

Mean: I think this means that instead of being lazy and trying to find a way around something, you must progress forward and must certainly not stop and make no progress.

Matter: This is under a bigger and more vague concept: procrastination. Procrastination is always a bad thing to come across especially when you are in a hurry. You must make full and complete progress and must not allow laziness to overcome you.

Joe Guan

9/5/2012 01:45:24 pm

Stephanie Meyer, in NEW MOON, wrote, "Like everything in life, I just had to decide what to do with what I was given". (2006,pg.35 )

Say: This quote says life comes with a lot of obstacles and you just have to learn to adapt and figure out what to do to overcome them.

Mean: My interpretation of this passage : When life gives you lemons you make lemonade !

Matter: This quote matters because it reminds us that there are no do-overs in life so we should embrace what life throws at us.

Joe Guan

9/5/2012 01:47:16 pm

Period 6

Art Medina Period 1

9/5/2012 01:50:33 pm

E L James, in Fifty Shades of Grey, wrote,"His look is so intense, half in shadow and half in the bright white light from the landing lights. Dark night and white night, it's a fitting metaphor for Christian."

Say: This quote expressed how Anastasia feels about Christian Grey and how she has come to think about him throughout the time that she has known him. She believes that he two sides, a dark and a light side. Both of these sides contribute to his overall personality and makes Christian Grey who he really is. She knows that every person has two sides to them and the way she relates him to the darkness and light is a perfect analogy.
Mean: Everyone has two sides to them, whether a person chooses to believe it or not. No person has the same personality when surrounded by their peers everyday. An individual can be have a dark side when approaching their parents and then all of a sudden switch off to their light personality with their comrades. It simply is the nature of human beings and no one can change that. Anastasia realizes that Christian has two sides, and to her surprise she has seen them both. Even though it is simply human behavior, she has finally realized it and embraced it.
Matter: This quote truly builds to the character of Christian Grey. From what i have read, at first he seemed like a kind, intimidating entrepreneur but later his other personality unravels and he is a completely different person, a determined, manhandling mega-industrialist. This quote clearly expresses how the main character Anastasia has finally realized that he has another side that she has finally seen and knows contributes to his overall character. Christian has two sides to him and now that Anastasia has seen them, she has yet to determine how her relationship will go with him and how she will handle future adversities.

Kristen W. Period 1

9/5/2012 02:09:35 pm

"And sometimes, when the children were small, still attached to me, by the umbilical cord of weakness and primitive need, I still felt that my children would be the joy of my life." pg. 37

Say:
This quote expressed the emotion and feelings the mother had towards her children. Her mother realized that the tie and connection between her and her children wasn't as strong as she had hoped for during her pregnancy.

Mean:
This quote means that the mother and her children aren't as close as she had hoped. During the time when she was pregnant with the children in her, she felt connected, as one, but now it's much different.

Matter:
This quote matters because it shows the love the mother feels towards her children. The connection she wished her and her children had. The connected she hoped for her life while pregnant.

Joe Arguijo Period 2

9/5/2012 02:13:18 pm

Jennifer Braszile in THE BLACK GIRL NEXT DOOR, wrote, "Something within me turned. I spent too much time exiled as the new black girl. I wanted these kids to be my friends. But if I didn't do something to hold their attention, those good feelings would evaporate. So I began to lie" (2009, p. 38).

Say:
This quote is basically saying that Jennifer feels like she has to do more than just be herself in order to be part of the "crowd". In this case, lying to her friends is the alternate choice in trying to be part of the group. The unethical choice of lying was her first act to do in order to remain at ease with her friends.

Mean:
Her fear of exile has enabled her to do something that is clearly immoral based on her family values. She knows the possible consequences of her actions, however her fear of being left out is most likely higher than the fear of being punished. Jennifer is already starting a gap between what she does at home and outside. She is putting her friends before her family because she is willing to ignore the values her family cherish deeply.

Matter:
Many people put down their values when they wish to achieve something of preference. At times when people want something they don't think of the consequences, but rather the positiveness of that moment of achievement. This act of fear should tell us that we should always look at the outcome of our input in life. The present may last for some while, but it is the future that we should keep in mind when trying to achieve something.

Jasmine Li, period 1

9/5/2012 02:30:53 pm

Stephanie Hemphill, in " THINGS LEFT UNSAID", wrote "Why I like theater, freedom to fall into someone else, not worry what to say. Because the lines are written down, can be memorized exactly. On the stage, I feel safe from judgment, can step out of sarah, drape myself in cloak of character, play the children's game pretend, escape into scenario and not look foolish at all." (2007, pg 97).

Say: This says that the stage helps her to escape her terrible life, it let's her to be someone else. Pretending she have another life where there's no judgement.

Mean: This passage shows that people like to find ways to escape reality, they like to listen to music, watching movies, or other hobbies that can temporary erase their memories.

Matter: this Quote matters because we always try to run away from our problems. Instead of running away from it we should find ways to solve it.

Jasmine Li, period 1

9/5/2012 02:33:38 pm

Say: This says that the stage helps her to escape her terrible life, it let's her to be someone else. Pretending she have another life where there's no judgement.

Mean: This passage shows that people like to find ways to escape reality, they like to listen to music, watching movies, or other hobbies that can temporary erase their memories.

Matter: this Quote matters because we always try to run away from our problems. Instead of running away from it we should find ways to solve it.

Jasmine Li

9/5/2012 02:35:37 pm

Slow internet sorry...

Justin T Period 5

9/5/2012 02:42:36 pm

JD Salinger, in THE CATCHER IN THE RYE wrote "If you're supposed to sock somebody in the jaw, and you sort of feel like doing it, you should do it" (1979,117)

Say: This quote says that he was pissed and wanted to punch someone. But he didn't want to punch anyone, being a nice guy.

Mean: This quote means that in life, you should do what your mind tells you to do. If your brain tells you to do that for a reason, there is a good chance that you should.

Matter: This quote should mean a lot to other people because if they are indecisive about things they should do, they should just do it. It's like starting a project and never finishing it, you supposed to but you didnt.

Jeffery W., Period 5

9/12/2012 05:30:44 am

This quote reminds me of how you always have to have a way of releasing your anger. If you don't do something, then you will regret it later.

Lika M. period 5

9/5/2012 02:48:20 pm

Anne Schwarff, in THE SHADOWS OF GUILT, wrote, "'We're going,' Pop insisted harshly. ' If it was one of our kids shot like Maya, Lonnie, and Mattie Archer would be there for us, and you know that, Monie.'" ( 2009, p. 6).

Say:
This says that the whole Spain family except the mother, Monie was willing to go visit the girl, Maya, who got shot. The father, Pop, was showing how careful he was for the other family. He knew that he couldn't help in the cause of the situation, so all he and his family could do was to comfort them as well as possible.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that it means that even poor families that live in poorer areas are helpful and loving to others. Even they can help out another family and show their love and kindness to others. The world would expect ghetto families to be more aggressive and is also a broken family. This passage shows that sometimes stereotypes are false. I also perceive this passage as a nice and encouraging inspiration to others, because people know what respect and the word "family" is as ghetto families like the Spain's who wanted to help Maya and her family by being thoughtful and taking the initiative to visit her.

Matter:
This Passage matters because it offers the explanation that not all ghetto families are broken. Perhaps most might be the opposite because they understand how to "have each other's backs" and that they understand the word, "family". This challenges us to be thoughtful to other people and know that even though there might not be much to help them with, we can always think of ways to comfort and cheer them up.

Jasmine Li, Period 1

9/6/2012 12:21:28 pm

I agree, because no matter what happens I know I'll have my family. Family are international, no matter what if you're high class, middle class, or even low class you would always have a family that'll support you. Some of the familes might be strict but inside they still love their family.

Eric lo

9/12/2012 12:47:43 pm

I feel that the quote expresses consent and shows compassion towards family. They feel that family is more important than any possession or object. That life is worth more than money. That your family will always be there for you.

Albert L Period 1

9/5/2012 02:52:31 pm

Eoin Colfer, in Artemis Fowl The Lost Colony, wrote, "If I win, I'm a prodigy. If I lose then I'm mad. That's the way history is written." (2012, pg 168)

Say: This quote expressed how confident Artemis was because he was known to be a prodigy.That is until he meets his rival. Sparks flies everywhere as these two geniuses race for the title of prodigy.

Mean: The strong survives the weak looses. It's another term for survival of the fittest. Throughout history we have never won a battle with a defeat. Since Artemis has been winning at every battle that has been faced to him there is now a new challenger that has settled him so now winning won't be easy.

Matter: This quote builds the character of Artemis because throughout the series of the books he has always been ahead of the game. He mentions the history part because in our ifetimes we win battles by winning not by loosing.

Kaycel Carlem, Period 06

9/5/2012 02:57:42 pm

E.L James, in FIFTY SHADES OF GREY, wrote, "Romantically, though, I've never put myself out there,ever. A lifetime of insecurity--I'm too pale, too skinny, too scruffy, uncoordinated, my long list of flaws goes on."
(2011, p.51)

Say:
This says that Ana, is baffled and puzzled as to why Christian Grey would even be interested in her. When she, herself cannot see any positive aspects about herself.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that many people have little to no self confidence, whether it's about looks, intelligence, personality, etc.. They are consumed with the fact that they are unattractive or not good enough for anyone including themselves. They fail to see the positive features that other people may see. That when someone shows slight interest they are astonished and in disbelief.

Matter:
This passage matters because this issue is something that everyone deals with no matter how old you are. At some point or another, everyone has had low self-esteem. They over analyze themselves, compare themselves to others, want to improve their physical appearances. When in reality, the only thing that are really doing is misjudging and underestimating themselves.

Andy B. Period 1

9/5/2012 03:14:52 pm

This quote reminded me of a conversation I had with a friend. He told me of a quote that went,"We become what we think." This made me realize that every insecurity is just a perception or opinion, and not fact. It could always be changed, and what other people think about you is irrelevant if you think that you are good enough.

Andy B. Period 1

9/5/2012 02:59:27 pm

Maya Angelou in I KNOW WHY THE CAGED BIRD SINGS wrote, "They don't really hate us. They don't know us. How can they hate us? They mostly scared." (1969, P. 39)

Say:
This quote is saying that fear, when caused by the unknown and perpetuated by ignorance, can bring about an atmosphere of animosity.

Mean:
Fear is the engine that drives hostility and hate. Lack of understanding is the source of fear, and when that sentiment is allowed to grow, it affects our relationship with one another.
In this quote, Maya Angelou expresses how white people's ignorance of other races leads to social prejudices against African Americans.

Matter:
This idea that fear causes social problems among people matters because it affects everyone, from school to the workplace. We do not readily embrace the unanticipated; rather, we tend to follow what is already familiar to us because it is perceived as safe. This is not always the best or wisest of choices, especially when in the context of other human beings. If people just opened up and tried to get to know each other, then hatred or fear will start to dissipate.

Kaycel Carlem., Period 6

9/7/2012 04:11:11 pm

Your post made me consider how little minded and inconsiderate people can really be. They tend to stick to what they are accustomed to , rather than explore beyond their limits, just because it is deemed normal but is really, mediocre. People fear change because they think that what the the current situation is will not get better and may even worsen if they accept any changes. But what they really don't know is, the world is constantly changing around them and people often change their minds. In order for things to get better, you must go through trial and error. And in the end the situation may turn out better then you ever expected.

Janssen F., period 1

9/12/2012 10:22:46 am

I agree with this because I think you're right about what you said about fear and how it affects everyone. I think people do judge what is foreign to them because they feel threatened by someone or something, and so they distance themselves to that, feeling as if that's how they can protect themselves. However, I also believe that opening up and trying to get to know each other is easier said than done, so we need to come up with a way to make everyone comfortable about opening up

Wenda (Michael) .Z Period 2

9/5/2012 03:02:39 pm

Katniss Everdeen, "The Hunger Games Catching". “The bird, the pin, the song, the berries, the watch, the cracker, the dress that burst into flames. I am the mockingjay. The one that survived despite the Capitol's plans. The symbol of the rebellion.”

Say:
The main character Katniss, she is ready to rebel against the peace keeper, she is describing the feeling she is expressing. And the Capitol’s is there symbol of the rebellion.

Means:
Everything around her, the bird, the pin, the song, the berries, the watch, the cracker, the dress that burst into flame, she is the mockingjay, a bird that wants to be free, all the thing around her is speaks to her just like her want to be free, she want freedom.

Matters:
Well, this is the second book of the Hunger Games, Catching Fire, the story is to rebel sees for freedom, this the a quote of Katniss take action to sees for the freedom, that was miss place on her lift.

Kevin T., Period 1

9/5/2012 03:11:37 pm

Suzanne Collins, in MOCKINGJAY, wrote, "People of Panem, we fight, we dare, we end our hunger for justice" (2010, pg. 72).

Say: This says that everyone is going to stand up, be brave, and fight for their freedom and rights.

Mean: My interpretation of this passage is that the people are tired of being controlled by the Capitol and that they are going to put an end to it. People have human rights and if you restrict them from that for a long time, they will start to rebel.

Matter:
This passage matters because it's going to start a revolution for the district and the people are going to rebel and that may end up to be a good thing or a bad thing in the story, depending on the outcome.

Kevin T., Period 1

9/5/2012 03:42:18 pm

haha jk wrong week

Zhicheng (James) W., Period 2

9/5/2012 03:30:33 pm

J.K. Rowling in, HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS, wrote, "Voldemort is my past, present, and future..." (1998, p.231)

Say:
This quote tells that Tom Riddle will be born and die as Lord Voldemort, the most powerful dark wizard of all-time. All the events that occurred in Hogwarts were because of his mischief powers to control others to do his bidding. He wishes to be known as the most fearful wizard and his dream came true. All that stands in front of him is Harry Potter.

Mean:
I think that there is a hidden message within this quote. I assume that the quote states that no person can become the thing they wish to be without getting hands on experience in the first place. However, the Tom Riddle is just a ghost from the past so he has done with all his might to become the most powerful dark wizard of all-time.

Matter:
This quote matters because it shows that hard work pays off whether positive or negative. Without hard work, there may be no success in life so somehow Tom Riddle has created a quote on life and a fearful sentence towards Harry Potter at the same time.

James Zhijie R., Period 5

9/5/2012 05:00:46 pm

J.D Salinger, in The Catcher In The Rye, wrote,"It's really too bad that so much crumby stuff is a lot of fun sometimes." (1951, p.64)

Say: This says that sometimes little things can also play a role in your life.

Mean: My interpretation of this passage is that it means that when the main character, Holden, misses out on a lot of people and activities during his life, he regrets making those decisions. At the same time, he is living a lonely life. Not having a lot of choices at the moment, he realizes that having friends could be a fun thing.

Matter: This passage matters because it teaches a lesson that everyone on this world should take their chances whenever they get the chance to do so, even if its a small thing. That way people will have a more joyful and grateful life.

Lisa Z., Period 2

9/6/2012 06:32:15 am

Yes, I agree because we get distracted so easily that we tend to forget the simple things in life. Sometimes we just need to slow down and think about life and remember what really matters because those things will not always be there.

Justin T Period 5

9/7/2012 04:38:18 pm

I agree with your thinking because little things do play a big role in our life, how ironic. Something as little as not locking your front door can lead to a big change into your life. The little things are very disastrous because we focus little attention to them, rather than thinking about everything.

Jennifer P. Period 2

9/6/2012 09:44:19 am

Kate Brian, in PRIVILLEGE, wrote, "The greater the obstacle, the more the glory in overcoming it." (2008, p.34).

Say:
This quote says that the greater the obstacle, the harder it is to overcome. The bigger the obstacle, the more we can acquire from this experience.

Mean:
The main character, Ariana Osgood, has to overcome the biggest obstacle she has ever encountered. She has planned her escape meticulously right down to the very last second from the hell hole, Brenda T. Correctional Facility for Women. Over coming this obstacle means that she can go back to living her glamorous lifestyle and getting revenge.

Matter:
This passage matters because it shows that we will obtain experience through the hardships we have to overcome. The bigger the obstacle, the more we will want to overcome it and feel that glory on the other side.

Jason Tran P1.

9/6/2012 02:58:40 pm

I agree with the quote because it's true. The harder you work for something the more proud you feel. For example, if someone wanted to work towards buying a new car with a minimum wage job. That person would have to work a long time and eventually, it will pay off for a new car. And that person would treat that car with great care and condition.

Randall C. Period 6

9/6/2012 03:42:45 pm

This quote is very much true in the goals that we set for ourselves. If a task requires more time and thought to accomplish then the reward is much greater. Although this is the case sometimes we set goals for ourselves that are too great to acheive. The way I get around this, is to set small goals within a large goal, so if I do fail, I have not lost that much.

Kristen W. Period 1

9/11/2012 12:29:03 pm

This quote is true because the bigger the obstacle the success is far greater. When you're challenged with a huge obstacle the end is so much more worth it. You can see all that you've overcome during the journey.

Yang Y., Period 2

9/12/2012 11:09:12 am

This quote is true and meaningful to many people in this world because they are challenged with problems everyday, like for example, students who go to school everyday so they can succeed later on in life, its a obstacle thats in their way to success. When they overcome this obstacle, they would be very satisfied with the results they get

Jason Tran P. 1.

9/6/2012 02:56:33 pm

Ray Bradbury says in his book Fahrenheit 451, "People want to be happy, isn't that right? Haven't you heard it all your life? I want to be happy, people say. Well, aren't they? Don't we keep them moving, don't we give them fun? That's all we live for, isn't it? For pleasure, for titillation? And you must admit our culture provides plenty of these."

Say: What this quote is saying is that everyone desires happiness, but what people fail to realize is that it's already there for us. Fun things to do, activities to enjoy, and food to eat.

Mean: I think the meaning behind this quote is trying to tell us to enjoy the small things in life, we have had pleasure at least once in our lives. And we can continue to enjoy it, as long as we don't look so hard for it.

Matter: The passage matters in the novel because in the novel people are given their "pleasure" by being controlled into watching television. Their sense of reality is altered so they can experience maximum tranquility.

Alvin O. period 5

9/12/2012 01:15:53 pm

I can totally relate to this quote. I feel that me and many others are consumed by greed and just want more than what we already have.

Randall C. Period 6

9/6/2012 03:59:59 pm

Jess Lair wrote in, I AINT WELL, BUT I SURE AM BETTER, " What I want you to do is mentally to go through your list of people you call friends, including relatives. See how much mutuality there is. And where it is. Look at your relationships and look for the Mount Everests."(1975, p. 50.)

Say: This quote is telling the reader to evaluate their friendships to find the real ones.

Meaning: Everyone has a large group of friends, but only a select few that they are 100% comfortable with. Jess Lair is telling us that we should find those that we are most comfortable with and cherish them. Also to treat them better because they are the ones that are letting you be yourself.

Matter: In the story Jess is looking over his life thinking about the causes of his heart-attack. If Jess had been with the friends that he held closely maybe he would have prevented his accident from ever happening. The Irony of this being that if he did not have the heart-attack the story would not have been written.

QI HONG C. Period 6 link

9/9/2012 08:53:28 am

Ray Bradbury wrote the quote I spent three days a week for 10 years educating myself in the public library, and it's better than college. People should educate themselves - you can get a complete education for no money. At the end of 10 years, I had read every book in the library and I'd written a thousand stories.

Say: so he thinks that it's not necessary to go to the college to get education, we can get education by ourselves. We can read books to get education.

Meaning: to me , i think this quote means that we also can be
successful by ourselves, and do not think that go to go college is the only way for you . sometimes, we can learn by ourselves and Ray Bradbury wrote his experience in this quote and prove to me that go to the college is not the only way for us.

Matter: i think this quote is very important. Because, nowadays more and more students cannot go into college because the government does not have enough money to give to schools, so many of students go to city college, and they are wasting their time there, so actually, we can learn something from Ray Bradbury, we can educate ourselves, it's much better than stay in the City College and waste your time there.

Kristen W. Period 1

9/11/2012 12:18:41 pm

“Ever morning, until you dead in the ground, you gone have to make this decision. You gone have to ask yourself, "Am I gone believe what them fools say about me today?” (pg. 27) The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Say:
This quote says that when you wake up in the morning, you have to ask yourself a simple question. Are you going to let what other people say about you affect you? That's really how you're day will turn out, what you let people think of you. If you start to listen to what people have to say about you, you'll eventually believe them and you're self esteem could lower. That is why you shouldn't bother to listen to others opinions about you.

Mean:
This quote means that you shouldn't let other people's opinion make a difference in your life. Someone will always have an opinion about everything, but it is your choice to believe it or not.

Matter:
This quote matters because asking yourself this question every morning reminds you to not let what other people say about you affect you. All that matters is what you think of yourself. You shouldn't let other opinions and harsh comments ruin your day or change your mind. It's your life and you live it the way you want to, not by someone else.

Kemberly M., period 6

9/12/2012 05:17:42 am

In the book A Change of Hearts, Jodi Picoult says "In the space between yes and no, there’s a lifetime. It’s the difference between the path you walk and the one you leave behind; it’s the gap between who you thought you could be and who you really are; it’s the legroom for the lies you’ll tell yourself in the future.” (pg.55 2007)

Meaning:

When you know the difference between the right and wrong you will find out who you truly are.

Matter:

In the book it talks about murder and the mother forgiveness after she knows who did wrong and learns the person she thought did wrong really did right .

Jeffery W., Period 5

9/12/2012 05:28:26 am

In the book Ofre, by CYNTHIA VOLGE, "I nodded. I didn't care what she said. Her words had no meaning, no importance."

Say: This says that it didn't matter what she said. She was just singing with no meaning for it.

Meaning: This means that she has nothing left to say, she was just singing to break the silence.

Matter: This matters because she was forced to sing in order to pay her rent but she was recruited into a metal band. She was forced to throw up and she didn't want her best friend asking her questions so she decided to not say anything.

Janssen F., period 1

9/12/2012 10:12:25 am

Nic Sheff, in TWEAK: GROWING UP ON METHAMPHETAMINES, wrote, “The truth was, I didn’t want to stop. It’s not like I enjoyed stealing or hurting my dad, or whatever. I mean, I hated it. But I was so scared of coming off the drugs. It was like this horrible vicious cycle. The more I used, the more I did things I was ashamed of, and the more I had to use so I never had to face that. When I reached a certain point with my drug use, going back just seemed like too far a journey. Accepting responsibility, admitting guilt, making restitution, hell, just saying I’m sorry – it had become too daunting. All I could do was move forward and keep doing everything in my power to forget the past” (2008, p. 20).
Say:
This tells the readers how addicts might feel when they’re so into drugs and they feel like they can’t escape the craving anymore.
Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that this is how life feels for some people who lost their lives to addiction. Some of them know what they’re doing. It might be a haze at times because of the drugs, but they’re aware of the bad things they do. However, the need to feed their craving is a lot more powerful than their will to stop the bad things they do like stealing to get their drugs.
Matter:
This passage matters because it gives the readers a vantage point when we see drug addicts. It shows us their point of view and how they feel about things. This passage lets us know that they get hurt too and that they don’t really like what they’re doing, it’s just that it’s hard for them to stop because they feel like they can’t escape the craving of their bodies for that perfect high.

Yang Y., Period 2

9/12/2012 11:02:47 am

David Michaels, in END WAR, wrote "Chopra smiled inwardly; the family had more money than they could ever spend in a thousand lifetimes, but her father had been trying to teach her responsibility, and it seemed that their world of lavish homes and exotic cars had made it nearly impossible to do that, unless he became much more of a disciplinarian."

Say:
The quote is trying to say that no matter how rich and how powerful you are, you should be a responsible person.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that no matter how rich the father is, he is trying to teach his daughter to be responsible for her own actions. Being rich does not mean you can do whatever you want and leave a mess everywhere.

Matter:
This matters because if no one is responsible for their own actions, the wolrd would be in chaos. Taking care of their own things and business, it would make them more of an adult and the world a better place for everyone else to live on.

Eric lo

9/12/2012 12:55:08 pm

Craig Lesley, in STORM RIDERS,wrote,"...."Did you hear me?" I tried falling in love with you, but I can't." (2001,85)

Say: This quote is saying that you can't let your fear get he best of you.

Mean: When you set your mind to something you can acheive it. It doesn't matter if there are going to be hardships and hard times. As long as you know that you did it and you accomplished what you set our to do, you can do anything.

Matter: Everything can be achieved if you just believed in yourself. Nothing can ever put you down or make you feel like you can't do something because you can do anything as long as you try.

Alvin O. period 5

9/12/2012 01:14:05 pm

Gandalf, in THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING, "... All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us." (1954, page 56). (This is cited in APA format.)

Say: He is saying that they must quickly make their decision before time runs out.

Mean: MY interpretation of this quote is that you must not make any rash decisions even though you lack the time to think. You must keep calm and decide wisely.

Matter: I believe that wise decisions lead to better outcomes. The overall society of this world would have been a lot better if wise decisions we make. We cannot let desperate anxiety to control us.

Justin T Period 5

9/12/2012 02:45:36 pm

I agree with your analysis of this quote because you need to use your time wisely. You only live once. Once your biological time clock stops ticking, game over.

Justin T Period 5

9/12/2012 02:40:26 pm

In CATCHER IN THE RYE, JD Salinger quotes, "Oh, I feel some concern for my future, all right. Sure. Sure, I do." I thought about it for a minute. "But not too much, I guess. Not too much, I guess."

"You will," old Spencer said. "You will, boy. You will when it's too late."

Say: That he wasnt looking into his future like someone should. Everyone has to have at least one concern about their future.

Mean: I think this quote means that not enough people are looking into their bright futures, and should start.I mean if u have no clue on what you're going to do, when you actually do grow up, you wont have anything to do.

Matter: This means a lot becuase in real life, when you grow up and have no intent on doing anything, you might actually do nothing. Set goals when you are young let yourself work up. Doesn't matter if you fail, attempting is always better than not even trying.

Andy B. Period 1

9/12/2012 03:18:29 pm

Patricia McCormick, in SOLD, wrote "“Simply to endure is to triumph.”

Say:
This quote is saying that the ability to endure hardship is a sign of positive attributes like strength and courage, which makes a person great and a winner in the end.

Mean:
This quote means that if you are strong enough to survive a tough ordeal, then you have already won the situation. The fight is within us to determine whether we have the sufficient amount of perseverance to be successful. The goal is within reach if we have a set determination.

Matter:
This quote matters because it gives a whole new perspective to those times when we think that it is easier to give up than to continue doing what is being arduously done. In essence, once we make it far enough to realize that it is difficult, it is then that we decide to either be enduring champions or dropout losers.

Kaycel Carlem., Period 1

9/12/2012 03:42:23 pm

E L James, in FIFTY SHADES OF GREY, wrote, "Don't hang your head like you're ashamed. you have nothing to be ashamed of, and it's a real joy to stand here and gaze at you." (2011, p. 134)

Say:
That he wants her to have more self-confidence. He doesn't want her feeling that she has something to be embarrassed about because he doesn't feel that there's anything wrong with her.

Mean:
My interpretation of this passage is that he doesn't see how she can feel so disgusted by her own body and physical features. He believes that she has many good qualities, that she fails to see because she is too distracted by her flaws.

Matter:
This passage matters because it reflects on how many people feel about themselves, whether they are male or female. Many people lose self-confidence because they choose to ignore their positive features. They always feel inadequate and don't feel they are good enough. But in other perspectives they don't see the qualities you think are poor about yourself.

QI HONG C Period 6 link

9/16/2012 04:26:31 pm

Oscar Wilde wrote the quote"Be yourself; everyone else is already taken."

Say:
This quote says nowadays, in this complicated society, we should be ourselves, we should be true to ourselves. we need to think before first, and have our own opinion.

Mean:
To me, i think this quote reminds me not to forget that i need to be true to myself. i am almost 18 and i will graduate from high school. Since, i will go to college, that means i i really need to be true to myself in this complicated society.

Matter:
I think this quote matters, because, nowadays, in this complicated society, most of people can not be true to themselves. They always say something fake to people, that means be true to yourself is really important in today's society.

Aren Lim period 5

9/18/2012 06:25:06 am

This quote made me think of how everyone these days are trying to copy others, and just try to be like someone else. I think this quote is significant to everyday society, because it tells the world to be different, be bold, and to do what you feel like to do.

Andy T Period 5

9/18/2012 05:48:14 am

Orson Schott wrote, "I see, you are the judge of dreams."

Say
Novinha is grateful for what happened. She loves to be a scientist.

Mean
To me, the quote means that her dreams came true, even though she was such a cold person and that it only came because of a certain someone.

Matter
This matters, since Novinha had no place in society, and she needed help to move back up, and this shows that she is proud for her dreams coming true.

Wei L. Period 5

9/18/2012 06:06:01 am

This quote reminds me of a friend that was in the same situation but someone encouraged him to move on and push forward.

Andy T Period 5

9/18/2012 06:12:24 am

PG(9)

Jose R periond 5

9/18/2012 06:02:58 am

Patricia McCormick "To much of a good thing"

Say;
Lakshmi's little sister explains how there was no rain for weeks and when they get there rain there patty field drown.

Mean;
Shes trying to say that no matter what happens if you need it or you dont need it it to much of it could screw something up

Matter;
This matters because she needed these rice patties so her family could pay the people they owe

KAI HARRIS.

9/18/2012 06:06:14 am

Patricia McCormick in SOLD wrote, "A tin roof means the family has a father who doesn't gamble away the landlord's money playing cards in the tea shop. A tin roof means the family has a son working at the brick kiln in the city. A tin roof means that when the rains come, the fire stays lit and the baby stays healthy."
SAY:
The writer is saying that he or she has been through a tough time and has seen what goes on in a family and is explaining what happened to her and how it shaped her to want to get her priorities straight by accomplishing a tin roof.
MEAN:
This means that the children will grow up to be strong and healthy as long as theirs a tin roof, also that the father has came between a family and their necessities by taking the landlords money and gambling it away.
MATTER:
This matters because the father will continue to do wrongfully things to the family until their is nothing else left to lose. The mentioning of the son working is a example of the man of the house being the son instead of the father. Also the rain will come and the tin roof is a need in order to survive the rainy season.

Raymond M period 5

9/18/2012 06:18:32 am

this quote reminds me of the same book I'm reading the same book.

Ryan K. Period 5

9/18/2012 06:06:32 am

Jack Lopez wrote this quote on pg. 5 in the story IN THE BREAK said "F wouldn't let him out of the house until he mowed the lawn.He wouldn't do it Friday and he wouldn't do it yesterday. He just sat in his room. Until this morning."

Say:
This says just do what your parents tell you to do, then you can do what you want. The longer you take to do something, the longer you have to wait until you can do what you want.

Mean:
To me, I think this quote means that if you are told do something and you want to do something else, then just do what your told and you can do what you want.

Matter:
I think this quote matters, because when you tell your parents you want to go do something but then they tell you to do something first and you don't want to do it, just do it even though you don't feel like it, or else you have to wait longer to what you want to do.

raymond m period 5

9/18/2012 06:13:53 am

Lakshmi says, "Instead there is a ghostly hush that tells us we have lost everything" (McCormick, SOLD, 2006, p. 33).

Say: She means that the rain ruined her crops.She is lefted with nothing.

Mean: To me, this quote means that all her crops are gone and she doesnt have any crops to sell or to eat.

Matter: Lakshmi and Ama need food to eat and sell so they can pay there landlord there rent.

Aren Lim period 5

9/18/2012 06:19:00 am

The quote from the book "Homeless Bird" by Gloria Whelan that was significant to me was "You're lucky to be leaving the city where one day is like another and you hardly notice the weather. It's like living inside a glass bottle. You'll be happier on your farm."

summarize: you are lucky to be getting out of the city, because you will be set free, and live your life happy.

meaning: the quote in my own words is that when you live in the city, you're basically trapped, and you can't really get out. It is always gloomy, and basically a torture place. Everyday is the same, and nothing changes. No fun, no excitement, and nothing at all to make life exciting.

matter: This relates to the story because the story is all about finding a home, and doing what it takes to find where you truly belong. The main character Koly has went through a lot in this story, traveling all around to find a place where she feels like she belongs. Going back to the farm, where she was born and raised would probably benefit from living in the city. and so the journey goes on.

Cergio Angel Period 5

9/18/2012 06:26:45 am

The quote from the book Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift wrote that "but the charge of maintaining me (although I had a very scanty allowance) being too great for a narrow fortune

Say: He says that he is too great for something little that he thought he was.

Mean: To me the quote means that he feels that he can reach bigger dreams

Matter: This quote matters because it can inspire people of thinking for their future or what they earn

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DEAR Response Log, Week 1

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

Archives

Categories

DEAR Response Log, Week 1

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!