Diary Project
OVERVIEW: The Diary Project is a year-long project, in which you will write from
the point of view of a fictional person or create the "lost diary entries" of a
famous person, during an important time and/or event in American or world
history. You will select the time period from the list below or suggest one to
me. NOTE: the event is linked to a Wikipedia page that gives some information about it.
This is a reading, writing and research project. You need to know your subject inside and out, in order to make your diary
entries realistic. Spend plenty of time reading about your time period and the events from it. Use many resources.
Take plenty of notes about your subject, before you write your first diary entry.
Spend plenty of time considering your character. Once you begin writing, there's no turning back.
Choose one of these time periods and events
Get started: follow these steps
Sample Diary project entries
In the sample diary project entries below, the narrator is a
16-year-old soldier fighting under George Washington in the American
Revolutionary War. Notice the specific dates and places from the actual time and
events in bold.
April 10, 1777
It rained last night. It's unseasonably cold here in the Blue
Hills. As the rain pelted my tent, strung loosely between two trees, I
considered the battles ahead, wondering if I'd ever be back home, huddled around
the dinner table, eating mother's apple pie. Even through the chill in the air
and the heavy smell of rain-soaked leaves, I could smell that pie. It surely
made my mouth water. I miss my family, even Sarah, who typically annoys me more
than a swarm of mosquitoes on a hot summer day. Still, her smile is warm, like
sunshine, and she has an infectious laugh. Tomorrow, we continue our journey
toward Philadelphia, where I hear a major battle awaits. More later, I
hope, John Phillip Saunders.
June 22, 1777
Today we were marching south, out of the Watchung Mountains,
when suddenly we turned back and returned to the high ground. General
Washington got word by messenger that Howe was positioning his
regiment to cut us off as we descend. If we were ambushed in the valley, we'd
certainly have been doomed to a vicious death. Although I have found myself
questioning Washington sometimes, I now realize that he is a truly brilliant
tactician and a great leader. As this endless war moves forward, I see no end in
sight, but I believe that if it does end, we will be victorious, mainly due to
General George Washington. Who knows, maybe if I stay alive I'll even play a
small role. Best, John Phillip Saunders.
OVERVIEW: The Diary Project is a year-long project, in which you will write from
the point of view of a fictional person or create the "lost diary entries" of a
famous person, during an important time and/or event in American or world
history. You will select the time period from the list below or suggest one to
me. NOTE: the event is linked to a Wikipedia page that gives some information about it.
- You might be a young soldier fighting in WWII, writing about daily battles and the struggles to survive.
- You might be a pharoah's son from Ancient Egypt who befriends a slave and has to keep your friendship a secret.
- You might be a child whose family lost its home during the Great Depression, and you are traveling across the U.S. trying to find work and food so you and your family can survive.
- You might be a young suffragette who writes about her daily battles t win the right to vote for womoen.
- You might write the "lost diaries" of Malcolm X, explaining what you are learning about Civil Rights and the best way to fight for it.
- You might be a soldier or the wife of a soldier fighting for the 54th Regiment during the Civil War, explaining what it's like to be a black man fighting in a war fought mostly by white soldiers.
- Or something based on any of the time periods below.
This is a reading, writing and research project. You need to know your subject inside and out, in order to make your diary
entries realistic. Spend plenty of time reading about your time period and the events from it. Use many resources.
Take plenty of notes about your subject, before you write your first diary entry.
Spend plenty of time considering your character. Once you begin writing, there's no turning back.
Choose one of these time periods and events
- 1549 BC-1069 BC: New Kingdom of Egypt
- 206 BC-220 AD: Han Dynasty
- 1775-1783: American Revolutionary War
- 1860s: The American Civil War
- 1913: Women's Suffrage
- 1914: World War I
- 1930s: The Great Depression
- 1940s: The Holocaust
- 1950s-1960s: The Civil Rights Movement
Get started: follow these steps
- Create your diary in your Mr. Harbour's folder on your H drive. The document should be called, Diary Project.
- Return to this page and begin researching your time ad event.
- Read about several different times and events before deciding what you want to select.
- Once you decide on a place and time, think about the character you'll create. Is he/she fictional or famous? How does this decision affect your writing? Can you "be" this person? How does this person look, move, talk, and feel?
- Use your new Diary Project as a place to take notes or to add useful links to places you'll return to later as you write.
- After at least three days f research, note-taking and consideratin of who your characteris, write your first diary entry.
- Important!: To learn how to add real history into your diary entries, see the guidelines and examples linked here.
Sample Diary project entries
In the sample diary project entries below, the narrator is a
16-year-old soldier fighting under George Washington in the American
Revolutionary War. Notice the specific dates and places from the actual time and
events in bold.
April 10, 1777
It rained last night. It's unseasonably cold here in the Blue
Hills. As the rain pelted my tent, strung loosely between two trees, I
considered the battles ahead, wondering if I'd ever be back home, huddled around
the dinner table, eating mother's apple pie. Even through the chill in the air
and the heavy smell of rain-soaked leaves, I could smell that pie. It surely
made my mouth water. I miss my family, even Sarah, who typically annoys me more
than a swarm of mosquitoes on a hot summer day. Still, her smile is warm, like
sunshine, and she has an infectious laugh. Tomorrow, we continue our journey
toward Philadelphia, where I hear a major battle awaits. More later, I
hope, John Phillip Saunders.
June 22, 1777
Today we were marching south, out of the Watchung Mountains,
when suddenly we turned back and returned to the high ground. General
Washington got word by messenger that Howe was positioning his
regiment to cut us off as we descend. If we were ambushed in the valley, we'd
certainly have been doomed to a vicious death. Although I have found myself
questioning Washington sometimes, I now realize that he is a truly brilliant
tactician and a great leader. As this endless war moves forward, I see no end in
sight, but I believe that if it does end, we will be victorious, mainly due to
General George Washington. Who knows, maybe if I stay alive I'll even play a
small role. Best, John Phillip Saunders.
Our Own Storycorps Project:
1. Pick a Storyteller
Start by deciding whom you want to interview. A beloved relative? A mentor? A local hero? Some people may be hesitant to participate; emphasize how important that person’s story is to you and how you think it is worth preserving for the future. Let him or her know that you would be honored to record the conversation.
2. Create a List of Questions
Preparing ahead of time will greatly improve the quality of your interview. Think about what you would like to learn from your partner, then make a list of
5-10 questions. Here are some questions that have led to great conversations:
The recording equipment can be as simple as a tape recorder, a video camera, or a computer. You can find both basic and more sophisticated recording
equipment at your local electronics store or for purchase online. You might even borrow equipment from a friend or relative. Whatever recording equipment you choose, we strongly suggest that you practice with it before your interview.
4. Choose an Interview Location
Pick the quietest place possible. A carpeted room is best. Be sure to turn the volume off on any TV, radio, or stereo. Close the door and listen for
anything else that’s making noise: buzzing fluorescent lights, ticking clocks, air conditioners, etc. If possible, turn them off or move them out of the room.
Avoid kitchens, which have reflective surfaces and noisy appliances. Listen for noise during the interview as well. If your storyteller fiddles with a necklace,
for example, feel free to tell him or her if the microphone picks up the sound. Make the space as peaceful as possible by turning the lights low.
5. Set Up and Test the Equipment
Set up your equipment as early as possible before the interview and make sure you know how to use it. Once the interview starts you will be able to focus on your interview partner and not the equipment. Before the interview, record your storyteller answering a few throwaway questions, such as, “Tell me what you had for breakfast.” Stop, rewind, and listen to the sample recording to determine if everything is working. Remember to press RECORD again when you begin the actual interview.
A few tips for better audio quality:
If possible, wear headphones when recording. Your headphones are your “ears” for the interview; they tell you exactly what you’ll hear on your finished recording.
Before you turn off the recorder, ask the storyteller if there is anything else that he or she wants to talk about. Then make sure to thank the person;
opening up can be difficult. Express your gratitude, and let him or her know that it was a privilege to listen to the story. Finally, hit STOP on your
recorder.
9. Preserve and Share the Conversation
Start your own archive at home by labeling the interview properly and storing it in a safe place. (At this time, StoryCorps only has the capacity to archive
interviews recorded with StoryCorps equipment.) The recording is likely to become a treasured family heirloom. If you can, make copies of the interview to
distribute to friends and relatives. Invite loved ones to your home to listen to the recording and talk about it. Bring it to special occasions, reunions, or
memorials.
Here are some apps that enable you to use your phone to record the interview.
1. Pick a Storyteller
Start by deciding whom you want to interview. A beloved relative? A mentor? A local hero? Some people may be hesitant to participate; emphasize how important that person’s story is to you and how you think it is worth preserving for the future. Let him or her know that you would be honored to record the conversation.
2. Create a List of Questions
Preparing ahead of time will greatly improve the quality of your interview. Think about what you would like to learn from your partner, then make a list of
5-10 questions. Here are some questions that have led to great conversations:
- What are some of the most important lessons you have learned in life?
- What are you most proud of?
- What was the happiest moment of your life? The saddest
- Is there something about yourself that you think no one knows?
- How would you like to be remembered?
The recording equipment can be as simple as a tape recorder, a video camera, or a computer. You can find both basic and more sophisticated recording
equipment at your local electronics store or for purchase online. You might even borrow equipment from a friend or relative. Whatever recording equipment you choose, we strongly suggest that you practice with it before your interview.
4. Choose an Interview Location
Pick the quietest place possible. A carpeted room is best. Be sure to turn the volume off on any TV, radio, or stereo. Close the door and listen for
anything else that’s making noise: buzzing fluorescent lights, ticking clocks, air conditioners, etc. If possible, turn them off or move them out of the room.
Avoid kitchens, which have reflective surfaces and noisy appliances. Listen for noise during the interview as well. If your storyteller fiddles with a necklace,
for example, feel free to tell him or her if the microphone picks up the sound. Make the space as peaceful as possible by turning the lights low.
5. Set Up and Test the Equipment
Set up your equipment as early as possible before the interview and make sure you know how to use it. Once the interview starts you will be able to focus on your interview partner and not the equipment. Before the interview, record your storyteller answering a few throwaway questions, such as, “Tell me what you had for breakfast.” Stop, rewind, and listen to the sample recording to determine if everything is working. Remember to press RECORD again when you begin the actual interview.
A few tips for better audio quality:
If possible, wear headphones when recording. Your headphones are your “ears” for the interview; they tell you exactly what you’ll hear on your finished recording.
- If possible, use a microphone when recording. Always hold the microphone in your hand, moving it between you and your storyteller. Hold
the microphone about 7 inches from your storyteller’s mouth. If you’re using an internal microphone on a camera, set up the camera just far enough away to keep the picture in focus. - Listen closely. Look your storyteller in the eyes. Nod your head. Smile. Stay engaged.
- Stick with the good stuff. Try to keep to the topics that move you. If the current topic isn’t what you wanted to put on tape, gently
steer the conversation in another direction. - Ask emotional questions. Asking‚ “How does this make you feel?” often elicits interesting responses. Don’t be afraid to ask.
- Respect your subject. If there is a topic that your interview partner does not want to talk about, respect his or her wishes and move on.
- Take notes during the interview. Write down questions or stories you might want to return to later.
- Be curious and honest, and keep an open heart. Great things will happen.
Be careful of “mic-handling” noise. That’s the low, rumbling sound you hear when you move the microphone in your hands. Use a light
touch when handling the microphone, and minimize movement.
6. Begin the Conversation
Start the interview by stating your name, your age, the date, and the location of the interview. For example, “My name is Marissa Martinez. I’m forty
years old. The date is November 28, 2008, and I’m sitting with my grandfather, Frank Jackson, in his living room in Hamilton, Missouri.” Then ask your storyteller to do the same.
Remember, the questions you prepared in advance are just suggestions. Trust your instincts and ask questions in whatever order feels right. If something interests you, ask more about it. Sometimes your storyteller may need to know that it’s okay to talk about a certain topic. Grant permission by saying, “Tell me more.” Take breaks if your storyteller needs them. Avoid saying “uh huh” or interrupting. Instead, use visual cues like nodding your head to encourage the storyteller to keep going.
7. Keep the Conversation Flowing
Before you turn off the recorder, ask the storyteller if there is anything else that he or she wants to talk about. Then make sure to thank the person;
opening up can be difficult. Express your gratitude, and let him or her know that it was a privilege to listen to the story. Finally, hit STOP on your
recorder.
9. Preserve and Share the Conversation
Start your own archive at home by labeling the interview properly and storing it in a safe place. (At this time, StoryCorps only has the capacity to archive
interviews recorded with StoryCorps equipment.) The recording is likely to become a treasured family heirloom. If you can, make copies of the interview to
distribute to friends and relatives. Invite loved ones to your home to listen to the recording and talk about it. Bring it to special occasions, reunions, or
memorials.
Here are some apps that enable you to use your phone to record the interview.
Story Corps Writing:
Each student will write the following before the end of the year:
Each student will write the following before the end of the year:
- A poem about or through the eyes of your subject.
- A short biography of
your subject.
Write Your Own Book!
OVERVIEW & RESEARCH: Susan Eloise Hinton wrote the world's most popular young adult novel, The Outsiders, when she was just 15 years old. The Outsiders was published when Hinton was 17. Over 14 million copies of the book have been sold. If Hinton can do it, why can't you? If you love writing, the MAD project is your perfect opportunity to chase your dream, while completing our most important project.
When researching your project, consider the following questions, which should help you plan the year-long development of your book:
MATERIALS & PROCEDURES
To complete your project, you will need to use a variety of tools and skills. Please use as many of the following as possible to demonstrate mastery of the applications and expertise in these areas of language arts:
OVERVIEW & RESEARCH: Susan Eloise Hinton wrote the world's most popular young adult novel, The Outsiders, when she was just 15 years old. The Outsiders was published when Hinton was 17. Over 14 million copies of the book have been sold. If Hinton can do it, why can't you? If you love writing, the MAD project is your perfect opportunity to chase your dream, while completing our most important project.
When researching your project, consider the following questions, which should help you plan the year-long development of your book:
- Where do your experiences lie? Good writers usually stay in their comfort zone, writing about what they know or have lived.
- On whom can you base characters and their story
- What genre is your book?
- Which kinds of books have you read the most? Your writing style will likely go this way.
- Is there anything similar to your story already out there? This is where research is important. You don't want to regurgitate someone else's story
- From what point of view will your story be told?
- This is critical. Imagine if The Outsiders was written in the third person, instead of from Ponyboy's POV. Would it have been as popular?
- On the other hand, many stories would lose their appeal, if we couldn't see other characters thoughts, without being held back by a first-person narrator.
- What is the setting of your story -- time and place?
- You'll need plenty of research about your setting. Great storytellers are experts in this area.
MATERIALS & PROCEDURES
To complete your project, you will need to use a variety of tools and skills. Please use as many of the following as possible to demonstrate mastery of the applications and expertise in these areas of language arts:
- Numerous sources for research -- books, web sites, encyclopedias; Noodle Tools will be used to complete the research
- A variety of web tools that contribute in some way to your project and demonstrate expertise in the use of these applications -- see the web tools page for help
- Writing throughout the project that supports it:
- advertising
- brochures
- posters
- What else? your own materials and procedures, which you clear with me
Bucket List Project
Are there things you want to do before you die? For this project, you will create a graphic bucket list. More specifically, you will save a picture to microsoft paint. Next, you will use a text box to write your item across the front of it. Lastly, you will write a paragraph stating why this item is important to you and when you hope to accomplish it. Following, are a few examples of the pics.
Are there things you want to do before you die? For this project, you will create a graphic bucket list. More specifically, you will save a picture to microsoft paint. Next, you will use a text box to write your item across the front of it. Lastly, you will write a paragraph stating why this item is important to you and when you hope to accomplish it. Following, are a few examples of the pics.
Facebook Project
Download the following documents. Then edit them and save them under Harbour's folder on your H drive.
PowerPoint Example
Facebook Template 1
Download the following documents. Then edit them and save them under Harbour's folder on your H drive.
PowerPoint Example
Facebook Template 1