January 28th

Today in class we read the majority of chapter 5. Chapter 5 rules. As we read we made post-it notes when we found examples of McCandless separating himself from mainstream society. We had a bit of discussion on how although McCandless is sickened by mainstream culture and capitalist society, he takes a job at McDonald's. Please comment on other student's comments.

1. What is your opinion for why he took the job?


2. Why do you think he hates wearing socks?


3. If McCandless would have left a note to all the people at McDonald's when he left, what do you think it would have said? (Please use appropriate language please)

January 27th

Today in class we played a survivor auction game. I think Joe Laudani made some crafty purchases. I bet that Oscar did some wise spending as well. Anyway, tomorrow we will spend a few minutes going over the results of the quiz and our expectations for you as students during the second semester. We can also take questions about your expectations for us.

Tomorrow, we will debrief the auction, and begin reading chapter 5. We will do reading in class and then post answers to the quiz we will take on Thursday. That's right answers to the quiz.

Jan. 23rd Class Summary

Today in class we worked in our reading groups and answered discussion questions. One group member's paper was chosen at random to turn in for the group.

Over the weekend your homework is to read chapter 4. There will be a pop quiz on Tuesday. On Monday you will all be sent to begin choosing classes for next year. Lucky.

Being that you are checking the blog right now....the pop quiz is no longer a surprise. And guess what? The quiz questions are listed below. Be ready to write about the following questions in detail. Also, these may not be the exact questions and they may not be the only questions. Either way, make sure you are prepared.

1. What happened with McCandless's Datsun? Why did he give it up and what had become of it later on? What mistake did he make with the car?


2. What Henry David Thoreau essay is mentioned in this chapter? How did the reference specifically relate to the reading in chapter 4?


3. Explain the ups and downs of McCandless's canoe adventure through Mexico and California. What did he set out to accomplish? Did he accomplish his goal?

Day 3 (1/22) - Class Summary

Today in class we reviewed our expectations for the blog, how to access the blog, and began reading chapters 2 and 3 in small groups. Homework for tonight is to read chapter 3. Tomorrow we will begin the day with discussion topics in your small groups.

Topics for Discussion:

>McCandless and his parent's relationship
>Your opinion on McCandless's choice to reject his life as part of society
>Krakauer's (the author's) opinion of McCandless and evidence from the book

Happy Reading!

Day 2 (1/21) -- Question 3

Remember, comment on the question only.
3.Do you think that someone who leaves everything behind to live in the wilderness, alone, is a wacko?

Day 2 (1/21) -- Question 2

Remember, comment on the question only.
2.Why does the author choose to give that information to you early in the book?

Day 2 (1/21) - Question 1

Remember, comment on the question only.

1.What’s the conclusion of McCandless’s story?

Welcome to INTO THE WILD

This semester we, OD and T, are going to be focusing our efforts on your writing and comprehension of the literature that we read in class.

The first novel that we are reading is Jon Krakauer's 1996 novel Into the Wild. ITW chronicles Washington D.C.-native Chris McCandless's efforts to break free from a constrictive society by escaping to the Pacific-Northwest.

We will use this blog as an outlet for you to offer your opinions on the novel, give answers to discussion questions, and to better prepare you for quizzes (both pop and otherwise). Be sure to check this everyday for information regarding both the novel and activities in class.

PEACE OUT - OD&T