The Kick Off
By
Nina Aaltonen
Ms. Johnson
Writing 1
05/18/2007
10 scenes
INT-GYM-AFTERNOON
The boys Varsity Basketball team is having a practice in the gym. They are doing an intense dribbling drill.
The COACH is watching expectantly and nods in satisfaction on the sideline.
JASON MILLER is the last person that goes and half-way through, he messes up.
The ball rolls across the gym floor and he glances quickly at the coach, his dad.
The coach shakes his head.
COACH
(yelling with impatience)
Miller! Miller! Get over here!!
JASON
(mumbling)
Yes, sir.
He slowly walks to the coach with his head down.
TYLER, the captain of the basketball team stops his friends.
They look at Jason and point at him. They whisper and starts to laugh.
COACH
(shouting)
Why are you the one that’s always messing up?! Why can’t you play? Is it that hard? Everybody else is doing fine! You embarrass me! Goodness grief! I’m the basketball coach and my own son can’t even play basketball!
(rubs his forehead)
Go practice!
Jason doesn’t say anything. He only looks at his feet.
Tyler and his friends laugh even louder.
The coach walks away furiously and as he is walking out the door, Jason just watches the back of his dad.
JASON
(heaves a sigh)
Man…
Tyler, sensing Jason’s depression tries to make it even worse.
TYLER
Ha-ha! That’s so pathetic. I wonder how our coach even deals with—
(snorts)
Never mind! Let’s get on with practice! Everybody, let’s scrimmage!
Jason slumps down. He quietly walks to the locker room by himself.
Tyler notices and yells for him to come back.
TYLER
Hey, Gay-son! Sorry, I mean Jason!!
(snickers)
Come back! You can’t leave practice! I’m telling you not to! I’m the Captain! I know nobody would want you on their team, but worth a try!
(laughs)
It’s only a scrimmage. You can mess up if you want to!!
Tyler starts to laugh so hard. So does his friends. They give each other a high-five and laughs some more.
Jason drags his feet slowly and goes into the locker room.
INT-LOCKER ROOM-AFTERNOON
Jason is in the locker room taking a shower. His teammates come in and they are talking about bad stuff about Jason loudly, wanting Jason to hear everything.
INT-KITCHEN-EVENING
Jason is at the kitchen to get some food for dinner. He looks over at his dad, who’s just watching TV and sighs.
INT-BEDROOM-NIGHT
Jason is lying on his bed. He’s eating chips and listening to music.
He sings and hums along to the music.
His back starts hurting so he turns around to lie on his stomach.
He sees his mother’s photo on his desk.
He has sudden flashbacks.
FAST SERIES OF SHOTS-THE NIGHT JASON’S MOTHER DIED
A) In his bed about to fall asleep.
B) Dad rushing in and grabbing his arm and pulling him out.
C) Dad cursing and swearing.
D) Car stops (screech!) in front of hospital.
E) Dad runs out.
F) Jason tries to catch up.
G) Sees mother covered in blood.
H) Doctors pushing her on the bed running.
Jason shakes his head and gets up.
He goes to his desk and puts down the photo upside-down.
He sits at his desk and gets out his homework from his backpack. He starts to do his homework.
His writes carelessly and messy. His handwriting is sloppy.
The phone rings, so he stops his homework.
He picks up the phone.
JASON
Hello?
COREY (VO)
Hey! It’s me! Corey.
JASON
Oh. Hey.
COREY (VO)
You ok? Sound kinda depressed or quiet or whatever
JASON
Hm.. yea…
COREY (VO)
You busy tomorrow? If not, let’s hang out
JASON
Sure. I don’t care.
COREY (VO)
Cool.
(excitingly)
See ya tomorrow at Starbucks! Don’t be late!
JASON
Ok. . .
Jason hangs up the phone.
He turns off the light and flops on his bed to go to sleep.
INT-BEDROOM-MORNING
Jason wakes up in the morning by the mowing noise. He looks outside to see his father mowing the yard like usual.
INT-KITCHEN-MORNING
Jason is getting milk out of the refrigerator. He pours it in a cup and start to drink it.
His dad comes in.
He washes his hands and dries them with the kitchen towel.
He studies his son and his clothes.
He’s still holding the kitchen towel.
DAD
(frowning)
Where you going?
JASON
Just somewhere….
DAD
I asked where you going?!
JASON
I’m going to hang out with my friend…
The dad flings his towel and smacks it on the table.
DAD
God!! Practice some basketball during your free time!! You’re the worst one on the team and you’re the one that never practices!! What’s wrong with you! You never—
Jason doesn’t say anything. He only looks away.
As his dad is yelling at him, he walks out the door.
DAD (CONT’D)
—listen to me! Don’t you dare ignore me! I’m telling you not to go!
The door closes.
INT-STARBUCKS-NOON
Jason meets Corey in Starbucks. They get some coffee and head off to watch a movie.
EXT-ON THE WAY TO THEATER-NOON
Jason and Corey run into Tyler and his friends on the way to the theater. Tyler and his friends insult Jason and Corey and walk off laughing.
INT-THEATER-AFTERNOON
The movie ends and Jason leaves because he has to go practice basketball.
EXT-BASKETBALL COURT-AFTERNOON
Jason is practicing basketball all by himself in the park. He misses many shots and lay-ups. He shoots a three-pointer but misses and then flops down and closes his eyes hopelessly.
INT-GYM-DAY
It’s the day of the tournament.
QUICK SHOTS-THE VICTORY OF THE FIRST TWO GAMES
A) Few shots made
B) score board
C) Jason’s team celebrating
D) Three-pointers and lay-ups
E) score board for second game
F) Jason’s team celebrating again for their second win
Two other teams are playing a game.
Jason and his team are stretching in the locker room.
TEAM
One! Two! Three! Four! ...
It’s busy in the gym. Cheerleaders are cheering on the sidelines.
CHEERLEADERS
Go Panthers! Go! Go PANTHERS!
The audience is also cheering and yelling.
AUDIENCE
Shoot it! No, pass! Pass! Pass!
Ooo… what a bad throw.. It’s ok!! Shake it off!
He’s open!
(repeats)
SERIES OF SHOTS-THE AUDIENCE IN THE GYM
A)drums beating
B)feet stomping
C)hands clapping
D)people yelling
Jason’s dad looks around at the audience and waits for his boys.
Jason’s team comes out jogging right when the buzzer goes off to end the present game.
COACH
You guys ready? Haha! Get pumped up!!
TYLER
Let’s get starting! Warm up drills!!
The team jogs onto the court. They do their warm up drill of lay-ups, passing, and shooting.
The coach watches his team warm up.
The buzzer goes off to start the game.
The coach motions his team to gather up around him.
COACH
All right you guys. This is it! We came all the way to the championship. We can do this! Let’s make our school proud!
TEAM
Yeah!!
(everybody cheers)
COACH
Guys ready?
TEAM
Yes, sir!
COACH
Ok! One, two, three!
ALTOGETHER
Bulldogs!
The starters go to where they are supposed to be around the circle.
The ball is thrown and Tyler jumps to get it.
Tyler’s hands reach it first and he grabs it.
The game is on.
Every one cheers!
QUICK SHOTS-THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
A) pass
B) dribble
C) shot
D) dribble
E) pass
F) shot
G) three-pointer
H) score board (bulldogs-45 & warriors-35)
The coach is looking happy but also concerned.
Then without even turning and looking, he calls Jason.
COACH
Miller, come here!
Jason hurries over with a worried look.
COACH
I’m going to put you in. It will be a disgrace if the coach’s own son does not play in the championship.
(sighs)
We only have four minutes left. Just hold on for only four minutes. We are ten points ahead so with your teammates scoring a bit more during the last few minutes, I think it will be okay even though you play.
JASON
(worried)
But. . you know I can’t. . it’s really ok if I just sit—
COACH
Go! What are you doing! Now, show yourself out there!! Don’t embarrass me again! Go!
He pushes his son towards the score-keeping table.
Jason looks nervous as he kneels in front of the table to be subbed in.
The ball rolls out and the refs call the subs in.
Jason runs in as another starter comes out.
Tyler sees Jason coming and his face turns red.
TYLER
What’s he doing on the court?! Get him off!! We can’t use him right now! He’s no help! No! No!!
JASON
(exhales loudly)
Oh man…
The coach gives Tyler a scary look.
COACH
Tyler! I’m gonna take YOU out if you don’t shut up!
Tyler shuts up but his face is red.
The ref calls the game to continue.
SERIES OF SHOTS-WHEN JASON GOES IN TO PLAY
A) Tyler making shots
B) Jason looking lost
C) Jason passing the ball to the other team
D) Other team shoots
E) Other team does a lay-up
F) Scoreboard (50-45 with 1 minute left)
G) Jason gets the ball stolen
H) Other team’s shot
I) And another one
J) Scoreboard (50-49 with ten seconds left)
K) Jason fouls the other team with four seconds left
L) Other team makes the free shots
M) Buzzer rings
N) Scoreboard (50-51)
The game is over and the other team, Warriors, all shouts and run towards each other. They celebrate their victory.
MONTAGE-AFTER THE LOSS OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
-Tyler yells and pounds the floor.
-Jason looks terrified and devastated. He can’t say anything.
-Coach’s face is red. He doesn’t have any words either.
-Other players sigh and give dirty looks to Jason.
TYLER
(yelling)
You friggin mess up everything!! I hate you! I hate your guts! You son of a—
TEAMMATE
Whoa! Keep it cool.
(patting Tyler on the back)
Everybody knows we should have won, if it wasn’t just for that worthless . . yea well whatever. We deserve 1st place and you deserve MVP. You know that!
Jason grabs his head with both hands and closing his eyes hating his life.
INT-SCHOOL-DAY
Corey is waiting in front of Jason’s locker. When Jason comes to get his stuff, Corey tells Jason that his mother has cancer.
INT-LOCKER ROOM-DAY
Jason enters the locker room in the gym to get ready for basketball practice. All the other teammates get quiet when Jason steps in. Then they leave as fast as they can.
INT-GYM-DAY
The team starts the practice without the coach. Nobody talks to Jason. The coach comes and Jason keeps on messing up during the practice. The coach calls an end to the practice.
EXT-SOCCER FIELD-DAY
Jason walks across the soccer field. He plays a scrimmage with the guys there and has a lot of fun.
EXT-PARKING LOT-EVENING
Jason arrives at the parking lot. He steps out and then realizes that his father might find out. He’s in frenzy and he is jumping around.
INT-LIVING ROOM-NIGHT
Jason comes inside the house cautiously.
He sees his dad on the couch watching TV like usual.
He hesitates in the hallway. He looks around.
SERIES OF SHOTS-JASON IS IN FRENZY
A) the kitchen
B) the stairs
C) his dad
D) stairs
E) kitchen
F) dad
G) stairs
JASON (VO)
Crap! Should I go up to my room as if I did nothing wrong, or should I at least say hi?
Finally Jason he decides to just go up to his room.
As he takes one more step, his dad talks.
DAD
(without even turning around)
Where were you?
JASON
(silence)
um…
DAD
(still watching TV)
I let the team out early today. You should have been here earlier.
JASON
(quietly)
I know. . .
His dad gets up and comes to Jason.
His dad looks straight at his face.
DAD
What were you doing?
JASON
(fidgeting)
I was just hanging out. .
DAD
Hanging out?!! What would you say if I tell you that I got a phone call from a teacher telling the basketball coach how great of a soccer player his son is??!!! What the heck were you doing playing soccer?! Basketball!! It should be basketball!! Basketball is your life!! It’s my life and it should be yours too!! How can you only disappoint me? Why is it that you’re never able to please me!!
He stops and looks at the black bag behind the couch.
He points at it.
DAD
That’s yours. Take it and leave. A son who does not even try to please his own dad doesn’t deserve to be a son. I tried so hard! I thought you would at least fulfill my dream for me! You can’t be a son!! Leave!
Jason obeys and quietly takes the bag and walks out the door.
He walks without looking back and his dad slams the door shut.
DAD
UGH!!
(grumbles)
INT-COREY’S HOUSE-NIGHT
Jason goes to Corey’s house for a place to stay and Corey welcomes him and takes him in.
EXT-SOCCER FIELD-DAY
Jason goes to the soccer try-outs taking place on the soccer field after school.
INT-SCHOOL-DAY
Jason and Corey arrive at school. Jason jumps out of the car.
Jason drags Corey out of the car.
Corey looks around confused and surprised.
JASON
(through gritted teeth)
Come on!
COREY
(bewildered)
Where are we going?
JASON
(thrilled)
Let’s go!
They enter through the school door.
Jason lets go of Corey and starts running down the hall.
Corey looks puzzled for a second and then takes after.
Jason is in front of the bulletin board searching intently.
Corey comes huffing and puffing.
COREY
(bends down)
What’s up?
(panting)
Why are you all like in a hurry?
(looks up at Jason)
Oh~ what are you looking for?
Then Corey looks up and reads the words “Soccer List”
The Corey nods in realization.
JASON
(eyes darting everywhere)
Hey! Help me search! There’s JV and Varsity mixed. I can’t find my name!
COREY
Ok!
(jumps right into action)
Corey slides his finger down one name after another.
His finger stops at the name, Jason.
COREY
Here!
(stabbing at the name)
Oh no never mind! That’s Jason Lee. Ooo. . wait.
His finger slides down more.
COREY and JASON
There!! Varsity!
JASON
(yells)
I’m on!! I got on the team!!!
COREY
Hey! Congrats, man!!
JASON
I’m on! I’m on !!
COREY
That’s awesome!! Good job!
Corey and Jason jump and do a perfect high-five.
They hug each other in so much happiness.
They part and there is a huge grin placed on Jason’s face.
INT-LOCKER ROOM-DAY
Jason enters the locker room to get ready for the first day of practice. He and many first year players celebrate.
EXT-SOCCER FIELD-AFTERNOON
Jason has his first practice and the coaches show appreciation. They really like him and they tell him that he might become a starter.
INT-COREY’S HOUSE-AFTERNOON
Jason arrives at Corey’s house and sees Corey waiting for him. Corey gives Jason a big hug to congratulate him.
INT-LIVING ROOM-NIGHT
Jason and Corey have a small celebration party with beer and food in Corey’s living room.
EXT-SOCCER FIELD-AFTERNOON
Jason has his first game. Luckily, the other team wasn’t that good, and Jason’s team won by 4-1. Jason put in two goals.
INT-HOSPITAL-AFTERNOON
Corey is at the hospital because of bad news of his mom. He receives more information that his mom is getting worse and she might not be able to recover.
INT-SCHOOL-MORNING
Jason and Corey are at school waiting for school to start. There is an announcement asking Corey to come to the office.
INT-CAFETARIA-NOON
Jason is waiting for Corey. Corey finally comes excited and happy. He tells Jason that he had earned a scholarship from the school he desired to go to.
EXT-SOCCER FIELD-AFTERNOON
Jason and his teammates are in a big circle passing the ball around.
COACH
OK you guys! Huddle up! Come! Come!
Waits till all of his boys get in a small tight circle.
COACH (CONT’D)
This is the most important game of the season. Have that in mind. (takes a look at all his players) But other than that, I just want you guys to do your best, something every coach wishes. Remember what I told you many times before! Be aggressive! Win the ball in the air! Do you best! Never give up! All these little things make big things happen. We have a great team and I have hope! We can do this!
He puts out his hand.
Other hands start to place on top of his.
As this is happening, the ref calls the captains.
The captain pulls out of the huddle and jogs towards the ref.
His teammates watch him as they wait patiently.
He runs back to his huddled team.
CAPTAIN
Hey, we have the kick off!
TEAM
(cheers)
COACH
You guys ready?
Ok, time for our game cheer!
Jason’s team does their game cheer.
CAPTAIN
Who’s gonna win this game?!
TEAM
We are!
CAPTAIN
Who’s gonna wins this game?!
TEAM
We are!
CAPTAIN
Who are we?
TEAM
Brandywine!
CAPTAIN
What are we?
TEAM
Bulldogs!
CAPTAIN
One, two, three!
TEAM
Bulldogs!
The starters spread out in their positions on the field.
Before Jason starts to head off, the coach stops him.
COACH
I know you’re the most nervous one out there. You’re the only first year starter, and I know that’s a lot of pressure. But that only shows that you have the talent. I know you have potential and that’s why I have you on my team.
(looks right in Jason’s eyes)
Try not being nervous, but refreshed. That’ll help you make less mistakes and help you think more clearly. If you do make mistakes, shake it off and don’t worry. Just think of it as starting a kick off; it means new, beginning, starting again, whatever.
(patting Jason’s back)
Now, go! Do your best!
JASON
(breathes deeply in and out)
Yes, sir!
EXT-SOCCER FIELD-AFTERNOON
Jason is playing the most important game of this season. He makes a goal which makes the score a tie and assists the last goal. His team plays a great game and they win.
INT-COREY’S HOUSE-AFTERNOON
Jason arrives at Corey’s house to share the great news about their victory. He goes into the kitchen and finds a note from Corey.
INT-COREY’S HOUSE-EVENING
Jason and Corey are both happy. Jason takes a shower and comes out when the doorbell rings. He opens the door and meets his father.
INT-HOSPITAL-AFTERNOON
Jason enters the hospital with a bouquet of flowers for Corey’s mom.
He calls Corey on his cell and Corey comes to the lobby to meet Corey.
COREY
Hey!
(waves at Jason)
Aw. . why’d you come? You must be tired from the soccer game. You shouldn’t have come. So how was the game?
JASON
How’s your mother? Yeah, the game was awesome! How is she? Any more news?
COREY
Gosh.
(laughs)
We sound crazy. We’re like talking about everything nonstop.
JASON
Haha. Yeah, I was just so worried. But now it doesn’t seem like I have to be. You seem happy.
COREY
Oh yea definitely. The doctor just told me that my mom is showing improvements. Some kind of miracle he called it. Either way, I’m really happy and thankful. Especially to you.
JASON
Me?
(laughs)
I haven’t really done anything. Don’t thanks me.
(smiles)
Anyways, that’s great news about your mom! It’s awesome! Congrats!!
COREY
Yeah, I know. And now I can even afford the hospital care financially because I don’t need the money that I saved for my college anymore. Yeah. . you were great help. I realized this is what friendship is for. For us to understand each other and just knowing feelings and helping each other out and just staying beside each other. With you right next to me, I felt more hopeful and encouraged. And seeing you succeed in your dream, it gave me hope to keep fighting with my mom for her life.
JASON
Man. . .
(sarcastically)
you always touch my heart.
(laughs)
Yeah. . . I don’t know what I would have done without you also. Thanks, man!
COREY
Haha!
(mockingly)
Don’t thanks me.
Corey and Jason both laugh out loud and they put their arms around each other’s shoulders.
COREY (CONT’D)
That’s what friends are for!
INT-LIVING ROOM-EVENING
Jason and his father enter through the door with his father in the lead.
Jason’s father is walking slowly with Jason’s bag in his right hand.
MONTAGE-JASON’S DAD HUGS JASON
-He stops in the middle of the hallway.
-It’s dark except for the light coming from the kitchen.
-He sets the bag down carefully.
-He turns around to face his son.
-They look at each other for a little bit.
-Then the dad takes a step close to Jason and embraces his with a big, warm hug.
-Jason hugs back with all his might.
-He starts crying.
DAD
I missed you, son.
Jason starts crying harder.
DAD
I’m sorry. And I truly mean it.
JASON
(still crying)
It’s...
(sniff)
ok
(sniff)
It’s silent and Jason’s father just holds Jason there for a little bit more time.
Jason starts to settle and soon is done with his crying.
They part and his father stands few steps back. He looks at Jason and gives a slight smile.
EXT-WAY TO THE CEMETERY-EVENING
Jason and his father are driving. They pass beautiful, wondrous sceneries. Jason’s father holds his son’s hands.
EXT-MOTHER’S GRAVE-EVENING
Jason and his father are standing in front his mother’s grave.
They stand there is silence.
Jason then goes and cleans off the dust on the stone.
He replaces the old flowers with the new ones they brought.
His dad just watches with a peaceful feeling.
Jason comes back and stands next to his father.
His father then puts his arm around his son’s shoulders.
DAD
I love you.
JASON
I love you too.
They stand there quietly and read the quote engraved on the grave.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Research Essay
Time goes by so fast. My life is like a candle melting away by a vicious fire. I am currently in high school, and soon I will be graduating and going to college. As a high school student and preparing to go to college, talks about my career emerge often. “What do you want to be when you grow up?” people will ask. I always responded with a shrug and merely an “I do not know”. Well, now it is time for me to know and it makes me quite nervous. Wondering about what job will fit me just right, I came up with a few possibilities, which I narrowed down to one. This job is the result of a survey I have taken which shows that my characteristics, personality, and my atmosphere fits this job (Holland AB, 11 and TOF, 13). This job, wondering, you might be, contains joy, adventures, knowledge, and the intensity of not missing a beat and being exact! The nature, the working conditions, the payment, the environment, the expectations, and the requirements of this job are something I am willing to do and something that fits me. This job is called an interpreter!
It is not certain that this job will suit me, but according to my interest, skills, and values, I think it will be possible. I am a pretty fast learner, which will influence me greatly when trying to learn other languages. Add on to that, I am already bilingual and am learning a foreign language in school. As said in the career encyclopedia, generally interpreters have interests in books, reading, and traveling (Cifelli 308), which are my top interests, too. Also, considering my values, I could see that this job satisfies most of them. My top three values are helping others, feeling peaceful, and being successful. Through this job, being successful and feeling peaceful can never be guaranteed, but I think I could help others as a big matter. I am not yet quite sure what kind of an interpreter I want to be, but an interpreter translating sign language is very helpful for those who cannot speak. This is not the only way how being an interpreter can be helpful but it is a good example. Also, according to the results from the Keirsey Test, I turned out to be something called a Field Marshal. This is a quote from the Keirsey book that applies to me: “This decisive and outspoken Rationals will usually rise to positions of responsibility in the work place and enjoy being in charge” (Keirsey 3). This quote explains that if I get a job, I will be responsible of it and put a lot of effort in what I am doing as well as take charge. This could also help me greatly in becoming an interpreter because people who have to talk like interpreters cannot be shy. But if I am outspoken and like to take charge and responsibility, I could take care of my job as well as have fun while doing it.
Interpreters allow many things to happen and to be an interpreter, you need to have certain skills. A description of what an interpreter does is pretty simple and clear: “Interpreters and translators enable the cross-cultural communication necessary in today’s society by converting one language into another” as well as concepts and ideas (Interpreter 1). They need to thoroughly understand the subject matter and have open thoughts about other cultures and religions. They also need certain skills such as strong research skills, analytical skills, and a brilliant memory (Interpreter 2). Many qualities, you should have, and should always be ready to face challenges.
Becoming an interpreter is not all that easy as well as other jobs. To become an interpreter, you have to go through a lot of training and take broad ranges of courses. To become an interpreter, not only should you come prepared to face hard courses, but need some basics from the start. Containing something before training to become an interpreter is great help, such as being fluent in a language in addition to a native language. One requirement is a bachelor’s degree but you do not have to major in language to become an interpreter, although it might be helpful (Interpreter 3). To take an early start, there are courses in high school you should take such as English writing and comprehension, or a foreign language. There are also many training programs and courses you should take after high school (Interpreter 4). Through these ways, you have advantages of earning a job as an interpreter.
Working conditions are very satisfactory for me. I really like unexpected and adventurous events, and it is even better when it varies a lot, which are most cases for interpreters. They work under a broad range of situations and conditions (Cifelli 312). I also like traveling which takes a huge part of this job. Interpreters work in a variety of settings and they have to travel to the sites where they are needed. Their schedules are unpredictable because it is freelance. Sometimes work could be long and it may require many hours, but at times, interpreters could work only few hours (Interpreter 5). As it mentions above, the working environments vary. I think this will make my job even more interesting and thrilling.
Earnings of interpreters are satisfactory for me. It might not be that much but I think it will probably be enough to make little savings of my own for my family and to donate some for the poor. These are the general earnings: “Salaried interpreters and translators had median hourly earnings of $16.28 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $12.40 and $21.09. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $9.67, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $27.45” (Interpreter 6). But these earnings just do not go into the hands of any interpreters. You have to worth as much as you get paid. Earnings rely on one’s qualities and skills, education, experience, etc: “Limited information suggests that some highly skilled interpreters and translators—for example, high-level conference interpreters—working full time can earn more than $100,000 annually” (Interpreter 7). As you can see, earning money is not easy, but the harder you work and the more you improve, better offers reach you.
Whenever people ask me what I want to be when I grow up, I did not have an answer. They keep telling me I do not have that much time left and I always ended the conversation worried. But through this research essay, I feel like I have found a job I should look forward to and a job that I actually want to have when I am older. What this job offers satisfies me and as for my expectations, this job is very close to perfect for me. I think I could learn and experience so many things I like through this job and will make my life a more exciting and interesting series of events.
It is not certain that this job will suit me, but according to my interest, skills, and values, I think it will be possible. I am a pretty fast learner, which will influence me greatly when trying to learn other languages. Add on to that, I am already bilingual and am learning a foreign language in school. As said in the career encyclopedia, generally interpreters have interests in books, reading, and traveling (Cifelli 308), which are my top interests, too. Also, considering my values, I could see that this job satisfies most of them. My top three values are helping others, feeling peaceful, and being successful. Through this job, being successful and feeling peaceful can never be guaranteed, but I think I could help others as a big matter. I am not yet quite sure what kind of an interpreter I want to be, but an interpreter translating sign language is very helpful for those who cannot speak. This is not the only way how being an interpreter can be helpful but it is a good example. Also, according to the results from the Keirsey Test, I turned out to be something called a Field Marshal. This is a quote from the Keirsey book that applies to me: “This decisive and outspoken Rationals will usually rise to positions of responsibility in the work place and enjoy being in charge” (Keirsey 3). This quote explains that if I get a job, I will be responsible of it and put a lot of effort in what I am doing as well as take charge. This could also help me greatly in becoming an interpreter because people who have to talk like interpreters cannot be shy. But if I am outspoken and like to take charge and responsibility, I could take care of my job as well as have fun while doing it.
Interpreters allow many things to happen and to be an interpreter, you need to have certain skills. A description of what an interpreter does is pretty simple and clear: “Interpreters and translators enable the cross-cultural communication necessary in today’s society by converting one language into another” as well as concepts and ideas (Interpreter 1). They need to thoroughly understand the subject matter and have open thoughts about other cultures and religions. They also need certain skills such as strong research skills, analytical skills, and a brilliant memory (Interpreter 2). Many qualities, you should have, and should always be ready to face challenges.
Becoming an interpreter is not all that easy as well as other jobs. To become an interpreter, you have to go through a lot of training and take broad ranges of courses. To become an interpreter, not only should you come prepared to face hard courses, but need some basics from the start. Containing something before training to become an interpreter is great help, such as being fluent in a language in addition to a native language. One requirement is a bachelor’s degree but you do not have to major in language to become an interpreter, although it might be helpful (Interpreter 3). To take an early start, there are courses in high school you should take such as English writing and comprehension, or a foreign language. There are also many training programs and courses you should take after high school (Interpreter 4). Through these ways, you have advantages of earning a job as an interpreter.
Working conditions are very satisfactory for me. I really like unexpected and adventurous events, and it is even better when it varies a lot, which are most cases for interpreters. They work under a broad range of situations and conditions (Cifelli 312). I also like traveling which takes a huge part of this job. Interpreters work in a variety of settings and they have to travel to the sites where they are needed. Their schedules are unpredictable because it is freelance. Sometimes work could be long and it may require many hours, but at times, interpreters could work only few hours (Interpreter 5). As it mentions above, the working environments vary. I think this will make my job even more interesting and thrilling.
Earnings of interpreters are satisfactory for me. It might not be that much but I think it will probably be enough to make little savings of my own for my family and to donate some for the poor. These are the general earnings: “Salaried interpreters and translators had median hourly earnings of $16.28 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $12.40 and $21.09. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $9.67, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $27.45” (Interpreter 6). But these earnings just do not go into the hands of any interpreters. You have to worth as much as you get paid. Earnings rely on one’s qualities and skills, education, experience, etc: “Limited information suggests that some highly skilled interpreters and translators—for example, high-level conference interpreters—working full time can earn more than $100,000 annually” (Interpreter 7). As you can see, earning money is not easy, but the harder you work and the more you improve, better offers reach you.
Whenever people ask me what I want to be when I grow up, I did not have an answer. They keep telling me I do not have that much time left and I always ended the conversation worried. But through this research essay, I feel like I have found a job I should look forward to and a job that I actually want to have when I am older. What this job offers satisfies me and as for my expectations, this job is very close to perfect for me. I think I could learn and experience so many things I like through this job and will make my life a more exciting and interesting series of events.
Thursday, February 1, 2007
Character/Spiritual Goal
Nina Aaltonen
Block H- Writing
Starting a new year, I decided that I should have important goals for myself this year; a way of making myself a better person along with improving my character.
Character is very important to humans. Everybody has their own character whether it is good or bad. But character is something that one can change, or build, for one to become a different person. Sometimes this works successfully, but a lot of the times, we have the greed to change our character but not enough courage to actually accept the challenge. Here is a quote made by Kurt Vonnegut, “Another flaw in the human character is that everybody wants to build and nobody wants to do maintenance.” This quote means that humans have a mind that wants to do something and just start it, but doesn’t want to continue and finish it. An example to clear out this point would be: people do the bad stuff, but nobody takes the blame. Having to apply this to my life, I can see that I sometimes do exactly what the quote says. I call myself a Christian, but never act like one. I might go to church, pray, and look up to God, but those are times when I need help or I want something for myself. Most of the time, I have an excuse such as “I don’t have time”, but that isn’t a reasonable excuse. So, to change this, I have decided to build a better character for myself as a Christian, and not only start it, but maintain it straight on, build persistence within myself, to make myself a better person.
Vonnegut, Kurt. Hocus Pocus. Berkley Edition. New York: Berkley, 1990.
Block H- Writing
Starting a new year, I decided that I should have important goals for myself this year; a way of making myself a better person along with improving my character.
Character is very important to humans. Everybody has their own character whether it is good or bad. But character is something that one can change, or build, for one to become a different person. Sometimes this works successfully, but a lot of the times, we have the greed to change our character but not enough courage to actually accept the challenge. Here is a quote made by Kurt Vonnegut, “Another flaw in the human character is that everybody wants to build and nobody wants to do maintenance.” This quote means that humans have a mind that wants to do something and just start it, but doesn’t want to continue and finish it. An example to clear out this point would be: people do the bad stuff, but nobody takes the blame. Having to apply this to my life, I can see that I sometimes do exactly what the quote says. I call myself a Christian, but never act like one. I might go to church, pray, and look up to God, but those are times when I need help or I want something for myself. Most of the time, I have an excuse such as “I don’t have time”, but that isn’t a reasonable excuse. So, to change this, I have decided to build a better character for myself as a Christian, and not only start it, but maintain it straight on, build persistence within myself, to make myself a better person.
Vonnegut, Kurt. Hocus Pocus. Berkley Edition. New York: Berkley, 1990.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Learning Resolutions~
Nina Aaltonen
Block H-Writing
January 25, 2007
Goal 1: I want to be able to look at my work from a different point of view such as being the audience of my own work. Because I’m the one that wrote it, I feel like I don’t have anything to fix.
Method: I should ask for checklists from the teacher when revising my own work so I could think outside of the box and to help me think more openly so I could easily spot out places I need to fix.
Standard 2
Goal 2: In my writing, I want to be able to use different lengths of sentences (sometimes short and sometimes long) while all my sentences flow smoothly to the next one instead of being choppy.
Method: When revising my work, I should highlight every other sentence with a highlighter so that the lengths will stand out. Then I should take some sentences and see if there are better ways to write those sentences which will also help varying the lengths.
Standard 3
Goal 3: I want to improve on picking the right, colorful but not cheesy adjectives to make my work more interesting because I think that sometimes my nouns seem so plain and general. I need to describe these nouns with adjectives so that the audience could picture what I’m talking about.
Method: I should have a thesaurus and a dictionary with me when I write so I could look up words to use. I should also improve my vocabulary by studying and reading more books.
Standard 4
Goal 4: I want to fix my habit of scanning too fast. Because I’m usually in a hurry, I scan so fast that I have to go back and read it all over again.
Method: I need to make a list of questions and points I should look for while reading something. That way, I will slow down when I read and will look deeply into the information.
Traits
Goal 5: I want to improve on my word choice. Sometimes my descriptive words aren’t accurate or it doesn’t fit the subject. I also need to use more variety of adjectives/adverbs.
Method: When I write, I should just write using simple words first. Then use a thesaurus to find more colorful and advanced words to replace the dull and simple ones.
Block H-Writing
January 25, 2007
My Learning Resolutions
Standard 1Goal 1: I want to be able to look at my work from a different point of view such as being the audience of my own work. Because I’m the one that wrote it, I feel like I don’t have anything to fix.
Method: I should ask for checklists from the teacher when revising my own work so I could think outside of the box and to help me think more openly so I could easily spot out places I need to fix.
Standard 2
Goal 2: In my writing, I want to be able to use different lengths of sentences (sometimes short and sometimes long) while all my sentences flow smoothly to the next one instead of being choppy.
Method: When revising my work, I should highlight every other sentence with a highlighter so that the lengths will stand out. Then I should take some sentences and see if there are better ways to write those sentences which will also help varying the lengths.
Standard 3
Goal 3: I want to improve on picking the right, colorful but not cheesy adjectives to make my work more interesting because I think that sometimes my nouns seem so plain and general. I need to describe these nouns with adjectives so that the audience could picture what I’m talking about.
Method: I should have a thesaurus and a dictionary with me when I write so I could look up words to use. I should also improve my vocabulary by studying and reading more books.
Standard 4
Goal 4: I want to fix my habit of scanning too fast. Because I’m usually in a hurry, I scan so fast that I have to go back and read it all over again.
Method: I need to make a list of questions and points I should look for while reading something. That way, I will slow down when I read and will look deeply into the information.
Traits
Goal 5: I want to improve on my word choice. Sometimes my descriptive words aren’t accurate or it doesn’t fit the subject. I also need to use more variety of adjectives/adverbs.
Method: When I write, I should just write using simple words first. Then use a thesaurus to find more colorful and advanced words to replace the dull and simple ones.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Poetry Portfolio
DEDICATION PAGE
For the Aaltonens, who supported me throughout my life.
For Miss Johnson, my fabulous writing teacher, who helped me come this far as a writer.
For my wonderful editors, Jean and Christina, who made my poems publishable.
PREFCACE
Note from the Author
My most inspired work comes when I usually lie on my bed letting my mind wander anywhere and my ideas flow on and on. I can go into detail and look for specific thoughts that I could work with in my writing. Ideas flow in and out of my head while I check and categorize the ideas as good, bad, funny, interesting, scary, mysterious, etc. I tend to get more fascinating ideas when I rest or relax because the more relaxed I am, I can think more broadly, resulting in more different and wide variety of ideas to come through my head.
Things that inspire me the most would probably be…nature. Nature is just so amazing, in how everything is created so perfectly and balanced. It is so incredible in how the ecosystem and the environment is fit for every living thing on earth. There are so many aspects of nature and it contains unlimited amount of elements.
Events that inspire me the most would probably be when it snows, when it rains, when the wind blows through the trees, and when the sun is shining down on me. These events might be pretty small, but it can be so powerful containing deep emotions, creating passion to move my soul. It seems like for a second, that I glimpsed something that is untouchable. When everybody of this harsh world is trying to have control over everything, these events that are happening everyday in our life, events that no one really pays much attention to, shows the right of nature and originality—God’s creation.
Person who inspired me the most would probably be God. He created this world, with the perfect, balanced, nature which really gets me thinking. Most of the times, my thoughts about Him and his creation is what makes me keep on writing. I feel like sometimes I could reach the truth, or at least further than the prejudices that builds a wall between us and Him when I keep on writing. I feel something likes trust building within me with God when I write.
In the writing process, I value ideas the most. Without ideas, you can’t get anywhere with your writing. Ideas give you a start and from there you can branch out, explaining in detail and supporting your main idea. Also, the idea is the center—without a good idea, your writing won’t be interesting, resulting in your audience getting bored and just throwing away your piece of writing. Ideas are always important, and for me, the most valuable part of the writing process.
Throughout this semester, I have learned so much in writing class. I learned about ideas, organization, voice, word choice, and conventions. As we learned from one trait to another, the only thing my writing did was get better and better. The knowledge of these five traits helped me to write better quality work—focused, well-planned, understandable, interesting, etc.
SOUND POEM
High School Students
School
Students chattering
Feet shuffling
Pens clattering
Papers ruffling
This is our school.
Hundreds of students
S W I S H
We pass one another
Too busy to even whisper “hi”
As we rampage down the hall
Slamming of lockers
Grinding of doors
The bell rings,
Sings out its music
Silence creeps over
As students go to classes
Halls are hollow
It’s too LOUD
The silence
Inside classroom:
Teachers shouting
Over our loud roars
Students pouting
As teachers punish us with work
Complaints!
Whines!
Cries~
Whimpers. . . .
All too common
Soon school ends
And the students cheer
Once again filling the halls
As they meet their friends
They fly across the hall
Down the stairs and up the stairs
As one runs to the arms of another
And embrace each other with tears
“Thank God it’s over!” one yells
“But there’s tomorrow!” the other wails
“Oh no!” both cry out
“Just go home!” the teachers shout
Laughter, cackle, chortle, snicker
Giggle, chuckle, snortle, titter
Mixed with the only language: Korean
It sounds quite bitter
The buzzing of murmurs,
Secrets and rumors
Everybody gossips
And the news flies around fast
Five minutes whiz by, then ten
Slowly we break apart
And sadly do we croak out our “Good Byes”
And “See You Tomorrows”
The next day same routine.
Students blathering
Feet scuffling
Pens clinking
Papers crumpling
This is our school.
NARRATIVE POEM
Young Atheletes
On the Field
Hair tied
Slick and back
Maybe hardened with gel
I stand out there
The sun blazing over our bodies
As we get ready for the next move
All are tense
Watching the ball as it flows from
One player to another
I get ready to leap!
And tackle
If I have to
Making sure the ball doesn’t go past me
The enemy is coming closer
Digging its own grave
I plant myself in front
Ready to take on anything
As soon as the opponent glides in front of me
I stick out my foot and tip the ball to my side
I take charge! Dribbling down the field
I could hear the shuffling of feet beside me
Trying their best to catch up
I pass the defenders
The goalie gets ready
But too late
I kick the ball with all my might
Aiming for the top left corner
Swish~ it hits the net
Shaking the whole goal
The goalie falls
THUD!
She punches the ground
She’s blaming it
My teammates come
All cheering me on
Because I broke the tie
The whistle blows
Like a sweet song for our team
But a shrilling threat,
And a baleful song
For the other
Our team celebrates
Let our spirits free
We are happy,
Happy indeed
For our victory!
PROCESS POEM
Kindergarteners
How to Eat Vegetables
Grab many at once; maybe a handful?
Carrots, celery, cucumber, everything
Stuff them in your mouth
And feel the soggy texture.
Scrunch your nose
Cringe your face
Shut your eyes
Hold your nose
And then chew. . .
Chew. . . .and chew. . .
Think about playing with friends
Rolling with your dog
Swinging on swings
All the while chew. . . chew. . .chew. .
Think about the colorful playground
You play on every day
The snacks you get to eat
The TV show: Sesame Street
All the while chew. . chew. . chew. .
Now stop! Stay still! And concentrate!
Collect the bits and pieces
Make a pile on your tongue
Swallow all at once
Do
Not
Choke.
Drink a glass of orange juice
To vanish the after taste
Tell your mom
You’re done
And
Run
Away!
PANTOUM
Young Women
Coming of Christmas
Look over there, it’s coming
The beginning of Christmas, how lovely
It wanders around, roaming
Arriving here, slowly
The beginning of Christmas, how lovely
It carries white, fluffy snow
Arriving here, slowly
While we stand under the mistletoe
It carries white, fluffy snow
Gigantic and small green trees
While we stand under the mistletoe
Oh! I hope everybody sees
Gigantic and small green trees
With angels, stars, and shining light
Oh! I hope everybody sees
It is beautiful and bright
With angels, stars, and shining light
It wanders around, roaming
It is beautiful and bright
Look over there, it’s coming
CONCRETE POEM
Mysterious Star
A
glow
in the
d ay r k
starry sky
starry night
small and B I G
shine shine shine shine shine shine shine shine shine shine shine
bright bright bright bright b r i g h t bright bright bright
twinkle sparkle t I n g l e twinkle sparkle t I n g l e
light light faraway bright bright this way
blac black dark black dark black black
can’t see can’t see can’t see can’ tsee
disappears appears!!!disappears fades
gone gone gone SNAP!! back back back
bright bright brightstarbright bright bright
light light lightstarstarstarstarlight light light
glow glowstarstarstarstarstarstarstarglow glow
a starstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstastara star
starstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstarsstar
I wrote a process poem called “How to Eat Vegetables.” The message of this poem is clear and focused. My title is not confusing, whereas to say that it pinpoints the exact idea: How to Eat Vegetables. Throughout this poem, I do not flow onto a different topic but clearly explain only how to eat vegetables in an easier way. This poem is directed to young children, specifically kindergarteners, because that is the age when you hate to eat any kind of vegetables.
There are a few errors in this poem, including spelling mistake and capitalization, but none of them affect the clarity of my message of my poem. I show control over numerous conventions, particularly basics (easy spelling, end punctuation, basic capitalization, and simple stanzas). Citations are not needed for this poem and the presentation has eye appeal and highlights key information. The organizational pattern is ideally suited to the gene, topic, and purpose. The structure makes the discussion or story easy to follow, meaning, the poem isn’t confusing and leads the reader/audience to my main point and lets them understand it easily. Elements within the piece are creatively arranged to promote understanding.
I know the topic in-depth and I was self-assured when writing this poem because I’ve personally experienced this struggle and went through this hard phase. I think I have showed enough enthusiasm to keep the readers reading and make the poem fun so that my specific audience (kindergarteners) would be interested in it. My poem and the voice I used for this poem is appropriate for my audience. My poem is clear, original, and precise. The language is well suited to the writer’s purpose and audience. The writing is generally balance, not inflated or simplistic, meaning I did not exaggerate too much making the process shown in the poem impossible. Instead, I used fun, descriptive words to make the poem interesting and still possible to do/act out in reality. However, I think I needed to be a bit more specific. Little kids have a wild imagination and could fall in a different direction anytime. So, to prevent my audience to accidentally falling in a different direction, I should be more specific and narrow down all the possibilities. Overall, I think I did pretty well with the poem and I think that this piece is ready to be published with minor tough-ups.
For the Aaltonens, who supported me throughout my life.
For Miss Johnson, my fabulous writing teacher, who helped me come this far as a writer.
For my wonderful editors, Jean and Christina, who made my poems publishable.
PREFCACE
Note from the Author
My most inspired work comes when I usually lie on my bed letting my mind wander anywhere and my ideas flow on and on. I can go into detail and look for specific thoughts that I could work with in my writing. Ideas flow in and out of my head while I check and categorize the ideas as good, bad, funny, interesting, scary, mysterious, etc. I tend to get more fascinating ideas when I rest or relax because the more relaxed I am, I can think more broadly, resulting in more different and wide variety of ideas to come through my head.
Things that inspire me the most would probably be…nature. Nature is just so amazing, in how everything is created so perfectly and balanced. It is so incredible in how the ecosystem and the environment is fit for every living thing on earth. There are so many aspects of nature and it contains unlimited amount of elements.
Events that inspire me the most would probably be when it snows, when it rains, when the wind blows through the trees, and when the sun is shining down on me. These events might be pretty small, but it can be so powerful containing deep emotions, creating passion to move my soul. It seems like for a second, that I glimpsed something that is untouchable. When everybody of this harsh world is trying to have control over everything, these events that are happening everyday in our life, events that no one really pays much attention to, shows the right of nature and originality—God’s creation.
Person who inspired me the most would probably be God. He created this world, with the perfect, balanced, nature which really gets me thinking. Most of the times, my thoughts about Him and his creation is what makes me keep on writing. I feel like sometimes I could reach the truth, or at least further than the prejudices that builds a wall between us and Him when I keep on writing. I feel something likes trust building within me with God when I write.
In the writing process, I value ideas the most. Without ideas, you can’t get anywhere with your writing. Ideas give you a start and from there you can branch out, explaining in detail and supporting your main idea. Also, the idea is the center—without a good idea, your writing won’t be interesting, resulting in your audience getting bored and just throwing away your piece of writing. Ideas are always important, and for me, the most valuable part of the writing process.
Throughout this semester, I have learned so much in writing class. I learned about ideas, organization, voice, word choice, and conventions. As we learned from one trait to another, the only thing my writing did was get better and better. The knowledge of these five traits helped me to write better quality work—focused, well-planned, understandable, interesting, etc.
SOUND POEM
High School Students
School
Students chattering
Feet shuffling
Pens clattering
Papers ruffling
This is our school.
Hundreds of students
S W I S H
We pass one another
Too busy to even whisper “hi”
As we rampage down the hall
Slamming of lockers
Grinding of doors
The bell rings,
Sings out its music
Silence creeps over
As students go to classes
Halls are hollow
It’s too LOUD
The silence
Inside classroom:
Teachers shouting
Over our loud roars
Students pouting
As teachers punish us with work
Complaints!
Whines!
Cries~
Whimpers. . . .
All too common
Soon school ends
And the students cheer
Once again filling the halls
As they meet their friends
They fly across the hall
Down the stairs and up the stairs
As one runs to the arms of another
And embrace each other with tears
“Thank God it’s over!” one yells
“But there’s tomorrow!” the other wails
“Oh no!” both cry out
“Just go home!” the teachers shout
Laughter, cackle, chortle, snicker
Giggle, chuckle, snortle, titter
Mixed with the only language: Korean
It sounds quite bitter
The buzzing of murmurs,
Secrets and rumors
Everybody gossips
And the news flies around fast
Five minutes whiz by, then ten
Slowly we break apart
And sadly do we croak out our “Good Byes”
And “See You Tomorrows”
The next day same routine.
Students blathering
Feet scuffling
Pens clinking
Papers crumpling
This is our school.
NARRATIVE POEM
Young Atheletes
On the Field
Hair tied
Slick and back
Maybe hardened with gel
I stand out there
The sun blazing over our bodies
As we get ready for the next move
All are tense
Watching the ball as it flows from
One player to another
I get ready to leap!
And tackle
If I have to
Making sure the ball doesn’t go past me
The enemy is coming closer
Digging its own grave
I plant myself in front
Ready to take on anything
As soon as the opponent glides in front of me
I stick out my foot and tip the ball to my side
I take charge! Dribbling down the field
I could hear the shuffling of feet beside me
Trying their best to catch up
I pass the defenders
The goalie gets ready
But too late
I kick the ball with all my might
Aiming for the top left corner
Swish~ it hits the net
Shaking the whole goal
The goalie falls
THUD!
She punches the ground
She’s blaming it
My teammates come
All cheering me on
Because I broke the tie
The whistle blows
Like a sweet song for our team
But a shrilling threat,
And a baleful song
For the other
Our team celebrates
Let our spirits free
We are happy,
Happy indeed
For our victory!
PROCESS POEM
Kindergarteners
How to Eat Vegetables
Grab many at once; maybe a handful?
Carrots, celery, cucumber, everything
Stuff them in your mouth
And feel the soggy texture.
Scrunch your nose
Cringe your face
Shut your eyes
Hold your nose
And then chew. . .
Chew. . . .and chew. . .
Think about playing with friends
Rolling with your dog
Swinging on swings
All the while chew. . . chew. . .chew. .
Think about the colorful playground
You play on every day
The snacks you get to eat
The TV show: Sesame Street
All the while chew. . chew. . chew. .
Now stop! Stay still! And concentrate!
Collect the bits and pieces
Make a pile on your tongue
Swallow all at once
Do
Not
Choke.
Drink a glass of orange juice
To vanish the after taste
Tell your mom
You’re done
And
Run
Away!
PANTOUM
Young Women
Coming of Christmas
Look over there, it’s coming
The beginning of Christmas, how lovely
It wanders around, roaming
Arriving here, slowly
The beginning of Christmas, how lovely
It carries white, fluffy snow
Arriving here, slowly
While we stand under the mistletoe
It carries white, fluffy snow
Gigantic and small green trees
While we stand under the mistletoe
Oh! I hope everybody sees
Gigantic and small green trees
With angels, stars, and shining light
Oh! I hope everybody sees
It is beautiful and bright
With angels, stars, and shining light
It wanders around, roaming
It is beautiful and bright
Look over there, it’s coming
CONCRETE POEM
Kindergarteners
Mysterious Star
A
glow
in the
d ay r k
starry sky
starry night
small and B I G
shine shine shine shine shine shine shine shine shine shine shine
bright bright bright bright b r i g h t bright bright bright
twinkle sparkle t I n g l e twinkle sparkle t I n g l e
light light faraway bright bright this way
blac black dark black dark black black
can’t see can’t see can’t see can’ tsee
disappears appears!!!disappears fades
gone gone gone SNAP!! back back back
bright bright brightstarbright bright bright
light light lightstarstarstarstarlight light light
glow glowstarstarstarstarstarstarstarglow glow
a starstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstastara star
starstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstarstarsstar
SELF-ASSESSMENTS
MYSTERIOUS STAR
I wrote a concrete poem called “Mysterious Star.” Like a concrete poem should, it shows a picture of the topic of my poem. My shape is very crisp, meaning, it is well-formed or well-shaped. It is definitely inevitable that my shape is a star with five points and congruent sides. I think that my message of this poem is clear and concise. My title states that the star I’m talking about in my poem is mysterious. Well, throughout my poem, I give reasons why, completing my task about staying on my topic and explaining it to my audience.
My poem is easy to summarize and the main idea/thesis is easy to identify. It is well-defined, giving the piece a strong sense of direction. The words and short phrases I used within this poem support the main idea/thesis. I tried creating a bit of suspense within my words to give my text a more mysterious feeling (e.g. “black. . dark.” and “can’t see…)
I don’t think there are any errors in this poem, or even though there were a few, none are serious or affects the clarity of my message of the poem. Citations are not needed, and the presentation has eye appeal and highlights key information. The organizational suits the genre, topic, and purpose ideally. The structure guides the reader through the piece and showcases main ideas. Elements within the piece are creatively arranged to promote understanding. The pacing of this poem is just right. The opening is appealing and functional and the ending wraps up the discussion.
I think that this paper stands out from the others. You might share it aloud. The writing is clear and original and the words are used accurately. The language is well suited to the writer’s purpose and audience. I think I achieved a strong, consistent sense of balance. The modifiers support meaning, voice and imagery, but they are never overdone. I clearly know what I’m talking about was self-assured when I was writing this poem. My curiosity keeps my audience/readers reading. The voice used for this poem is appropriate for the audience and purpose. I think that I did fairly well writing this poem and that this poem is virtually ready to be published.
I wrote a concrete poem called “Mysterious Star.” Like a concrete poem should, it shows a picture of the topic of my poem. My shape is very crisp, meaning, it is well-formed or well-shaped. It is definitely inevitable that my shape is a star with five points and congruent sides. I think that my message of this poem is clear and concise. My title states that the star I’m talking about in my poem is mysterious. Well, throughout my poem, I give reasons why, completing my task about staying on my topic and explaining it to my audience.
My poem is easy to summarize and the main idea/thesis is easy to identify. It is well-defined, giving the piece a strong sense of direction. The words and short phrases I used within this poem support the main idea/thesis. I tried creating a bit of suspense within my words to give my text a more mysterious feeling (e.g. “black. . dark.” and “can’t see…)
I don’t think there are any errors in this poem, or even though there were a few, none are serious or affects the clarity of my message of the poem. Citations are not needed, and the presentation has eye appeal and highlights key information. The organizational suits the genre, topic, and purpose ideally. The structure guides the reader through the piece and showcases main ideas. Elements within the piece are creatively arranged to promote understanding. The pacing of this poem is just right. The opening is appealing and functional and the ending wraps up the discussion.
I think that this paper stands out from the others. You might share it aloud. The writing is clear and original and the words are used accurately. The language is well suited to the writer’s purpose and audience. I think I achieved a strong, consistent sense of balance. The modifiers support meaning, voice and imagery, but they are never overdone. I clearly know what I’m talking about was self-assured when I was writing this poem. My curiosity keeps my audience/readers reading. The voice used for this poem is appropriate for the audience and purpose. I think that I did fairly well writing this poem and that this poem is virtually ready to be published.
ON THE FIELD
I wrote a narrative poem called “On the Field.” This poem is a showcase of one of my soccer games I have played previously. As a narrative poem should, it talks about one event, and tells the story about this event. The message of this poem is clear, focused, and concise. My poem is easy to summarize and it shows my in-depth understanding of the topic. The main idea/thesis is east to identify because the details and descriptions I used support my main idea. The result is satisfying, answering the reader’s questions thoroughly and well.
A few errors are noticeable if you look closely, but none affect the clarity of my message. I show control over numerous conventions, particularly the basics (easy spelling, end punctuation, basic capitalization, simple stanzas). However, I need to separate my stanzas into smaller ones to make the poem more clear and understandable. Citations are not needed. The organizational pattern is appropriate for the genre, topic, and purpose. The structure makes the story easy to follow and the main ideas stand out. Elements within the piece are effectively arranged to promote understanding. Pacing is appropriate, meaning, I give extra time to complex or technical issues. Transitions connect ideas clearly, making the piece understandable and coherent. The opening is appealing and functional and the ending wraps up the discussion.
This paper stands out from others. It shows a balance between honesty and passion and courteous restraint. I clearly know the topic well and I was self-assured when I wrote this poem. My enthusiasm keeps my audience reading. The voice I used for this poem is appropriate for the audience and purpose. Words used in this poem are generally used accurately. The language is well suited to the writer’s purpose and audience. The phrasing is lively and the writing is generally balanced. However, I need to re-word or re-phrase few parts of my stanzas to make my writing clearer and less vague. Some phrases make an interesting part boring, so I have to change that too. Generally, I think that this poem is pretty well-written and is ready to be published after some corrections.
I wrote a narrative poem called “On the Field.” This poem is a showcase of one of my soccer games I have played previously. As a narrative poem should, it talks about one event, and tells the story about this event. The message of this poem is clear, focused, and concise. My poem is easy to summarize and it shows my in-depth understanding of the topic. The main idea/thesis is east to identify because the details and descriptions I used support my main idea. The result is satisfying, answering the reader’s questions thoroughly and well.
A few errors are noticeable if you look closely, but none affect the clarity of my message. I show control over numerous conventions, particularly the basics (easy spelling, end punctuation, basic capitalization, simple stanzas). However, I need to separate my stanzas into smaller ones to make the poem more clear and understandable. Citations are not needed. The organizational pattern is appropriate for the genre, topic, and purpose. The structure makes the story easy to follow and the main ideas stand out. Elements within the piece are effectively arranged to promote understanding. Pacing is appropriate, meaning, I give extra time to complex or technical issues. Transitions connect ideas clearly, making the piece understandable and coherent. The opening is appealing and functional and the ending wraps up the discussion.
This paper stands out from others. It shows a balance between honesty and passion and courteous restraint. I clearly know the topic well and I was self-assured when I wrote this poem. My enthusiasm keeps my audience reading. The voice I used for this poem is appropriate for the audience and purpose. Words used in this poem are generally used accurately. The language is well suited to the writer’s purpose and audience. The phrasing is lively and the writing is generally balanced. However, I need to re-word or re-phrase few parts of my stanzas to make my writing clearer and less vague. Some phrases make an interesting part boring, so I have to change that too. Generally, I think that this poem is pretty well-written and is ready to be published after some corrections.
HOW TO EAT VEGETABLES
I wrote a process poem called “How to Eat Vegetables.” The message of this poem is clear and focused. My title is not confusing, whereas to say that it pinpoints the exact idea: How to Eat Vegetables. Throughout this poem, I do not flow onto a different topic but clearly explain only how to eat vegetables in an easier way. This poem is directed to young children, specifically kindergarteners, because that is the age when you hate to eat any kind of vegetables.
There are a few errors in this poem, including spelling mistake and capitalization, but none of them affect the clarity of my message of my poem. I show control over numerous conventions, particularly basics (easy spelling, end punctuation, basic capitalization, and simple stanzas). Citations are not needed for this poem and the presentation has eye appeal and highlights key information. The organizational pattern is ideally suited to the gene, topic, and purpose. The structure makes the discussion or story easy to follow, meaning, the poem isn’t confusing and leads the reader/audience to my main point and lets them understand it easily. Elements within the piece are creatively arranged to promote understanding.
I know the topic in-depth and I was self-assured when writing this poem because I’ve personally experienced this struggle and went through this hard phase. I think I have showed enough enthusiasm to keep the readers reading and make the poem fun so that my specific audience (kindergarteners) would be interested in it. My poem and the voice I used for this poem is appropriate for my audience. My poem is clear, original, and precise. The language is well suited to the writer’s purpose and audience. The writing is generally balance, not inflated or simplistic, meaning I did not exaggerate too much making the process shown in the poem impossible. Instead, I used fun, descriptive words to make the poem interesting and still possible to do/act out in reality. However, I think I needed to be a bit more specific. Little kids have a wild imagination and could fall in a different direction anytime. So, to prevent my audience to accidentally falling in a different direction, I should be more specific and narrow down all the possibilities. Overall, I think I did pretty well with the poem and I think that this piece is ready to be published with minor tough-ups.
Definition Essay
DEFINITION ESSAY
Have you ever had a time when a friend asked your opinion about her clothes she recently bought, the new hairstyle she got or put on make-up for the first time? Even though the thought of “Ew. How ugly,” or “It just does not match. It is so not her” is flowing through your mind, you end up saying “Oh~! How cute and pretty!” “How lovely and adorable!”, or even “Oooh~! You look so hot!” Why would you say such a thing that is not true? A lie? It is so that you do not hurt your friend’s feelings. But then, you are not being honest. You are being a disgusting liar. Do you honestly think that is the right and the best way for your friend? Be honest.
No one ever said that being honest is easy. The truth is, it’s not. Honesty is something really hard for us, humans, to fulfill in. Being honest or dishonest could bring harm, complications, and difficulties in any situation, anytime, and in any way. The result that is brought by the act of being honest or dishonest makes one confused. In a situation like the one I have mentioned above, you do not know whether to be honest and maybe hurt your friend’s feelings; or be a worthless liar and let your friend have false happiness until somebody else tells her the truth. It is a tough choice. But be honest.
Honesty is being fair and sincere by using courage. It is beautiful, especially because you have to put in everything—your courage and braveness, effort and sweat, thoughts and consideration. It probably takes all the braveness and boldness that you can offer. The book She Said Yes shows a very deep implication on “honesty”. The book is about a normal high school girl named Cassie Bernall. It was an ordinary day when suddenly two of her classmates held her and her friends as hostages threatening with weapons. The two classmates asked Cassie if she was a Christian, and she said “Yes.” Then they murdered her. Even though Cassie knew what was coming up, she didn’t lie. She stood up for her faith and was honest about it. She told the truth and died for it. This is the “real” honesty. The honesty not a lot of us can reach and success in. The level of honesty in which we still have a lot more to learn about. It is just so beautiful and amazing at what it could result in. It touches your heart and blinds your eyes. Honesty might not always bring what you want, but still, believe in honesty.
Freedom from deceit and fraud. That is honesty. When you are not being honest, you are building your guilt and sin. Honesty can not be false. It is one and only—truth. Think about it: would you want to trap yourself in a world of guilt, sin, falseness, and lies? Being dishonest to someone is also being dishonest to yourself. Is it worth it? Is it a reasonable excuse? No. We like to be free. That is human’s nature. If you are honest, it gives you freedom from maybe something which could be the most horrible and scariest thing in our mental world. Freshness and pureness is what we should possess and continue to have, not more sin and guilt building until it reaches the sky. Be honest.
“Honesty is such a lonely word~”. This is a verse from the song “Honesty” by Billy Joel. Do you think this verse is speaking the truth? No, not really. Being honest might be hard and difficult. It might separate you from the others and finally, make you lonely. But the true, deep meaning of honesty shines. The word itself is bright, and it shows off its goodness and righteousness. For the short term, it might bring you loneliness, but it is promised that it will bring you something great towards the end. So be honest.
Your friend asks, “How do I look in my new skirt?” What would you say? Tell the truth. You might not want to embarrass her but it is the best way out. Honesty, like I have mentioned before, is great. You end up receiving one of the best prizes you can get—responsibility and trust. Friends will trust you and so will family members, teachers, and other strangers, even. Honesty is the only way of showing fairness, integrity, truthfulness, and sincerity. So far, it is said that honesty is the best policy of life. So definitely be honest.
Citation
1. angelsky1@hotmail.com (Daniel). "Honesty Lyrics." 2002. Sing365.com. 18 Oct 2006.
2. "Cassie Bernall: She Said Yes." Misty Bernall: She Said Yes. 2002. Good News Publisher. 18 Oct 2006.
Have you ever had a time when a friend asked your opinion about her clothes she recently bought, the new hairstyle she got or put on make-up for the first time? Even though the thought of “Ew. How ugly,” or “It just does not match. It is so not her” is flowing through your mind, you end up saying “Oh~! How cute and pretty!” “How lovely and adorable!”, or even “Oooh~! You look so hot!” Why would you say such a thing that is not true? A lie? It is so that you do not hurt your friend’s feelings. But then, you are not being honest. You are being a disgusting liar. Do you honestly think that is the right and the best way for your friend? Be honest.
No one ever said that being honest is easy. The truth is, it’s not. Honesty is something really hard for us, humans, to fulfill in. Being honest or dishonest could bring harm, complications, and difficulties in any situation, anytime, and in any way. The result that is brought by the act of being honest or dishonest makes one confused. In a situation like the one I have mentioned above, you do not know whether to be honest and maybe hurt your friend’s feelings; or be a worthless liar and let your friend have false happiness until somebody else tells her the truth. It is a tough choice. But be honest.
Honesty is being fair and sincere by using courage. It is beautiful, especially because you have to put in everything—your courage and braveness, effort and sweat, thoughts and consideration. It probably takes all the braveness and boldness that you can offer. The book She Said Yes shows a very deep implication on “honesty”. The book is about a normal high school girl named Cassie Bernall. It was an ordinary day when suddenly two of her classmates held her and her friends as hostages threatening with weapons. The two classmates asked Cassie if she was a Christian, and she said “Yes.” Then they murdered her. Even though Cassie knew what was coming up, she didn’t lie. She stood up for her faith and was honest about it. She told the truth and died for it. This is the “real” honesty. The honesty not a lot of us can reach and success in. The level of honesty in which we still have a lot more to learn about. It is just so beautiful and amazing at what it could result in. It touches your heart and blinds your eyes. Honesty might not always bring what you want, but still, believe in honesty.
Freedom from deceit and fraud. That is honesty. When you are not being honest, you are building your guilt and sin. Honesty can not be false. It is one and only—truth. Think about it: would you want to trap yourself in a world of guilt, sin, falseness, and lies? Being dishonest to someone is also being dishonest to yourself. Is it worth it? Is it a reasonable excuse? No. We like to be free. That is human’s nature. If you are honest, it gives you freedom from maybe something which could be the most horrible and scariest thing in our mental world. Freshness and pureness is what we should possess and continue to have, not more sin and guilt building until it reaches the sky. Be honest.
“Honesty is such a lonely word~”. This is a verse from the song “Honesty” by Billy Joel. Do you think this verse is speaking the truth? No, not really. Being honest might be hard and difficult. It might separate you from the others and finally, make you lonely. But the true, deep meaning of honesty shines. The word itself is bright, and it shows off its goodness and righteousness. For the short term, it might bring you loneliness, but it is promised that it will bring you something great towards the end. So be honest.
Your friend asks, “How do I look in my new skirt?” What would you say? Tell the truth. You might not want to embarrass her but it is the best way out. Honesty, like I have mentioned before, is great. You end up receiving one of the best prizes you can get—responsibility and trust. Friends will trust you and so will family members, teachers, and other strangers, even. Honesty is the only way of showing fairness, integrity, truthfulness, and sincerity. So far, it is said that honesty is the best policy of life. So definitely be honest.
Citation
1. angelsky1@hotmail.com (Daniel). "Honesty Lyrics." 2002. Sing365.com. 18 Oct 2006
2. "Cassie Bernall: She Said Yes." Misty Bernall: She Said Yes. 2002. Good News Publisher. 18 Oct 2006
Process Essay
PROCESS ESSAY
Hungry for a delicious snack? Is your stomach craving for something warm, soft, and sweet? Tasty food with brown swirly paste and colorful jelly—Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich!!!
Peanut butter and jelly sandwich is what keeps a big gap between people and the death of starvation. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich is very simple and easy to make, but with all of the results of deliciousness, tastiness, and scrumptiousness. It only takes a few steps along with some of your craftiness. (Warning: people who are allergic to peanuts should not eat even though it sounds like a wonderful recipe)
Going the “thrilling” grocery shopping is the first step. You need to pick the right brand of peanut butter, jelly, and bread. After you pick the brand, you might want to choose what type, or kind, for each of these yummy substances. Creamy or chunky peanut butter? Strawberry, blueberry, grape, or cranberry jam? White or wheat, hard or soft bread? The grocery store usually gives you a lot of options, but it is all up to you whether you choose the right combination that fits you the best. I, personally, prefer Skippers creamy peanut butter with Smuckers strawberry jam, and white soft bread. Also, while you are at the grocery store, it won’t hurt to get some milk to go along with your wonderful snack you would be making soon.
Next, happily bring your groceries into your homey kitchen and get prepared to make your palatable snack. You have to get all the materials ready. Get a toaster if you want your bread toasted; if not, just make your sandwich with untoasted bread. Meanwhile, get the shiniest knife and spoon you can offer—ones where you can see your pretty reflection—and place it right next to your peanut butter and jelly on the counter. Oh! By the way, you might want to wash your hands before getting everything prepared because you surely don’t want to mess up the delicious snack. Finally, you should be ready to establish your quick, but tasty snack!
Get two slices of bread out for the first-run. With one slice placed on your left palm and the other slice on the counter, pick up the shiny knife with your right hand. Then submerse it into the smooth surface of the peanut butter, shattering it into waves of gooey paste. You may begin spreading the peanut butter with a pattern of left to right, right to left, and so on. Once you’re done spreading the peanut butter, on the slice of bread which should be on your left palm, perfectly and squarely, place it down gently, and pick up the next slice of bread that has been waiting for your touch. With your shiny and not demented spoon, scoop up a big spoonful of the thick, jiggly jam and dump it with intense care onto the bread. Again, spread it neatly with the knife.
Once you are done with the “effort-taking” spreading, get ready for some puzzle matching. It won’t be as good if you don’t follow this step closely. You have to be very careful and tense about this step. You have to match the breads together, but in a way where there is no extra bread sticking out. Everything should be equal. This makes the sandwich a whole lot tastier by making each of your bite varied of peanut butter, jelly, and bread.
With your perfect sandwich in your gentle hands, I bet you can’t wait to gobble the whole thing down. But wait! To make it taste even more delicious than it already is, smell it—take a deep breath as you would do before diving into a swimming pool. At last, you are allowed to ferociously devour the compelling, edible item. Just sit back and relax and finally enjoy your lovely snack!
Hungry for a delicious snack? Is your stomach craving for something warm, soft, and sweet? Tasty food with brown swirly paste and colorful jelly—Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich!!!
Peanut butter and jelly sandwich is what keeps a big gap between people and the death of starvation. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich is very simple and easy to make, but with all of the results of deliciousness, tastiness, and scrumptiousness. It only takes a few steps along with some of your craftiness. (Warning: people who are allergic to peanuts should not eat even though it sounds like a wonderful recipe)
Going the “thrilling” grocery shopping is the first step. You need to pick the right brand of peanut butter, jelly, and bread. After you pick the brand, you might want to choose what type, or kind, for each of these yummy substances. Creamy or chunky peanut butter? Strawberry, blueberry, grape, or cranberry jam? White or wheat, hard or soft bread? The grocery store usually gives you a lot of options, but it is all up to you whether you choose the right combination that fits you the best. I, personally, prefer Skippers creamy peanut butter with Smuckers strawberry jam, and white soft bread. Also, while you are at the grocery store, it won’t hurt to get some milk to go along with your wonderful snack you would be making soon.
Next, happily bring your groceries into your homey kitchen and get prepared to make your palatable snack. You have to get all the materials ready. Get a toaster if you want your bread toasted; if not, just make your sandwich with untoasted bread. Meanwhile, get the shiniest knife and spoon you can offer—ones where you can see your pretty reflection—and place it right next to your peanut butter and jelly on the counter. Oh! By the way, you might want to wash your hands before getting everything prepared because you surely don’t want to mess up the delicious snack. Finally, you should be ready to establish your quick, but tasty snack!
Get two slices of bread out for the first-run. With one slice placed on your left palm and the other slice on the counter, pick up the shiny knife with your right hand. Then submerse it into the smooth surface of the peanut butter, shattering it into waves of gooey paste. You may begin spreading the peanut butter with a pattern of left to right, right to left, and so on. Once you’re done spreading the peanut butter, on the slice of bread which should be on your left palm, perfectly and squarely, place it down gently, and pick up the next slice of bread that has been waiting for your touch. With your shiny and not demented spoon, scoop up a big spoonful of the thick, jiggly jam and dump it with intense care onto the bread. Again, spread it neatly with the knife.
Once you are done with the “effort-taking” spreading, get ready for some puzzle matching. It won’t be as good if you don’t follow this step closely. You have to be very careful and tense about this step. You have to match the breads together, but in a way where there is no extra bread sticking out. Everything should be equal. This makes the sandwich a whole lot tastier by making each of your bite varied of peanut butter, jelly, and bread.
With your perfect sandwich in your gentle hands, I bet you can’t wait to gobble the whole thing down. But wait! To make it taste even more delicious than it already is, smell it—take a deep breath as you would do before diving into a swimming pool. At last, you are allowed to ferociously devour the compelling, edible item. Just sit back and relax and finally enjoy your lovely snack!
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