The Last Lecture Assignment

The Last Lecture Assignment What is our ultimate persuasion on this earth?

The Background: Randy Pausch dedicated his book in the following way: “With thanks to my parents who allowed me to dream, and with hopes for the dreams my children will have.” There are people in each of your lives, like family members, teachers, and friends, who want to help you to be successful. Making those dreams a reality requires you to be resilient, determined, and empathetic.

Your Task: Write 2 page paper (typed, double spaced, MLA format) giving your “last lecture.” This is not a formal essay in the usual sense—however, please make sure your paper is clear, pays attention to grammar conventions, and has an organizational sense about it. Your assignment is to write about what your dreams are and how you are going to demonstrate resiliency, determination, and empathy despite the obstacles you may encounter during your high school years. Please share those times in your life, if you are comfortable with sharing personal issues, where you had to overcome or deal with a difficult time, and explain how these events have shaped you into who you are. Please share what you hope for those around you—your family, friends, and other relationships. Use Randy’s speech to guide you if you need it. This is not a will—you are not leaving things behind. Rather, you are sharing wisdom with the rest of the world. This is your reflection on the human condition-- this is your personal response.

Due Date: These are due Monday, September 24 th. We will share these in class (if you are comfortable) and then turn them in. Please have these ready to turn in—a neat copy for me to review!

Rubric: I am looking for deep insight & thought—did you attempt to make an emotional connection to this? Did you use rhetorical devices to help make your point clear? Did you show a deeper understanding of the ideas mentioned? Did you truly make a statement about the human condition? Did you adhere to Standard English devices? See the back of this sheet for more details.

When we Share:  Only the person with the “item” may talk  We will take volunteers to go first  You do not have to share, but it is strongly encouraged. Remember to work like you want to graduate!

1. Write from the heart. Your writing should be something that is personal and important to you. It is not just a collection of words on a page but something that expresses who you are and what you value.

2. Write small. Don’t focus on the big picture. Instead, focus on the details of an experience. If you want to talk about your neighborhood, focus on one aspect of it and develop the piece of writing with details.

3. Write real. Dive in. Don’t hold back. This is not about observing writing or even just writing. It is about diving in head first, immersing yourself in the process and the emotions that go along with it. It isn’t real if you can’t feel it!

4. Write before you write. (this is the journal...or at least the journal concept...) No critics. Writing first with the door closed before the door is opened. Using the journal as a dumping ground, or a sandbox, or a lab, where things don’t have to make sense.

+ don't be boring. This is important.

Elements of the “Last Lecture” Writing Piece Superior Satisfactory Not yet Structure of Written Piece (10 points max each):  Presents a strong feeling  Begins sections of the writing with ______engaging & interesting sentences ______ Has an original title and MLA format  Conveys “strong” memories & hopes with ______precision and DETAIL ______

Style of Written Piece (10 points max each):  Uses a variety of sentence structures ______ Employs advanced, concise vocabulary ______ Typed (Times New Roman, 12 Font) ______

Mechanics of Written Piece (10 points max each):  Writes in complete sentences or designed to make sense in fragments (i.e.: poetry, ______rap, etc.)  Punctuates correctly ______ Uses correct grammar and spelling ______

Total: ______/ 100

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