Student Header:

March 11, 2008

I appreciated seeing so many families at conferences in February. As many of you know, we are near the conclusion of our unit on Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. Beginning this week, English I will begin our next unit on the classic novel, The Hobbit.

J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit follows the quest of an unlikely hero, Bilbo Baggins. Our studies will focus on the archetypal characters and plot elements of the story as well as the details of Joseph Campbell’s elements of the hero’s journey. Students will understand the stages of the hero’s journey and begin to recognize the journey in common works of literature and film. The unit will culminate with an assignment requiring students to write their own hero’s journey in the form of a children’s book. Students will then have an opportunity to read their books to young elementary students at Peak to Peak.

As always, I encourage you to support your child’s work in English this year by talking with him or her about the work we are doing at school. Please continue to check the homework page and Infinite Campus regularly to stay informed about your child’s progress. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me either by voice mail (303-453-4627) or email (jennifer.jouzdani@bvsd.org).

Sincerely,

Jennifer Jouzdani

English Teacher

Parent/Guardian Signature: _________________________________________________