I’ve created separate New Assignments pages in the Menu for this OpenLab site, above. So, in future, find your 1101 section # and look there. I’ve also posted some of these assignments on the main page, here, and I apologize for any confusion and repetition as I’m getting the digital universe of my two class(es) (Section 376 and LC 20) up and functioning. Thanks : )

If you are in my section 376 your assignments for Wed. Sept 7 are:

•Pick two new words you learned in class while unpacking the word “exceptional” and use them each in a sentence. Try to write your sentence(s) in a way that really give a sense of the word.

•Writing Assignment. No length. Handwritten: Tell me about your family. Don’t use the indefinite article in your writing — namely, don’t use the word “a” or “an.”  An example of use of the indefinite article would be something like, “Hey, did you see an elephant walking down the street?” “No, I didn’t see an elephant walking down the street, I saw a cat walking down the street.” Hence, you couldn’t write the words in bold. You can, however, use “the” this time. As in, “I saw the elephant I saw yesterday just walking down the street….” Good luck! Once again, the topic is: tell me about your family. Any way you like.

•Reading Assignment: Here is a link to an article on Albert Einstein and how he got his ideas. Just quickly read the article. Be prepared to discuss in class whether or not you agree with ideas like this one that they quote: “Imagination is more important than knowledge” and this “I very rarely think in words at all. A thought comes, and I may try to express it in words afterwards…” and also about the concept of “associative play.”

For my section CL 20, to do by Wednesday, Sept. 7: Pick a sentence that seems impossible to get around using the word “the” — and write around it until you express what you need to express. One good choice would be about the subway: “I had to take the B Train yesterday, but …” or “I went down to the subway to catch the A Train, only I found out that….” If you like, you can challenge yourself to use an example from your first writing — namely, a place where you felt you couldn’t adequately get around not using “the.” (Play with your problem until you get it ; ))

If you are in my English class section LC20 — To do for Wednesday, Aug. 31: write about your worst day/most embarrassing day or experience without using the word “the.”

No length. Handwritten is acceptable. Hand in to teacher at end of class.

If you are in my English class section C376, meeting in Namm 519 and G-208 — To do for Wednesday, Aug 31: write about a disappointing experience. Was this something where you had expectations that weren’t fulfilled? Do not use the word “the” in your writing.

No length limit, but at least one page. Handwritten.

Who is the Professor, anyhow?

I’ve been a professional writer on the fine arts since 1996, and have been published regularly in magazines like TimeOut, Art in America, ARTNews, and Photograph, and in newspapers like The New York Times and The New York Post. I’m also a fine artist and my hobby is freestyle dance. I’m looking forward to hearing all about you, and to working with you to help you express yourselves freely and clearly. Here’s to a great semester!