Rory's English Blog

 Prompt: If I had to write a poem about my life right now, it would be about change and uncertainty. I would focus on the feeling of moving through different moments without always knowing what comes next, and the mix of hope and worry that brings. The poem would explore small routines that give me comfort, like reading, learning, or connecting with others, while also touching on challenges I face. I’d use imagery of shifting seasons and roads to show both progress and obstacles. Overall, it would be about trying to find balance and meaning in the middle of everything happening right now. Summary: Today we took notes on writing a rhetorical analysis. Reflection: I learned how to write a thesis for a rhetorical analysis.

 Prompt: When I am in a mood I do not like, I try a few strategies to change it. I take a short walk or get some fresh air to clear my mind. I listen to music that makes me feel calm or happy. Sometimes I talk to a friend or family member to share how I feel. I also focus on doing a small task or activity I enjoy to distract myself. These strategies help me feel better and shift my mood. Summary: Today we did a newsela. Reflection: Today I learned how to read a passage and answer questions about it.

 Prompt: I approach creativity by planning my idea and figuring out the steps before I start. I gather materials and experiment with different designs to see what works best. One project I’m most proud of is making a roller coaster out of popsicle sticks. It was exciting to see the marble travel smoothly through the twists and turns I built. Summary: We got new vocab and worked with them on writable. Reflection: I learned 15 new vocab words.

 Prompt: The rhetorical device I find most effective is pathos because emotion drives attention and response. Emotional appeals shape how your audience feels before logic even enters. Ads, speeches, and social media posts use music, images, and personal stories to create empathy or urgency. A charity video showing one person’s struggle pushes stronger reaction than statistics alone. When I analyze rhetoric, I look for emotional cues first because they often explain why a message feels persuasive even when evidence stays weak. Summary: Today we had our rhetorical devices quiz. Reflection: I used and learned test taking skills.

 Prompt: The word I chose is gibberish. It describes moments when my thoughts feel messy and unorganized. I remember stressful school days when my notes looked like random words. This word reminds me that confusion happens before clarity. Summary: Today we did vocab lesson 7 and some exercises with it. Reflection: I learned 15 new vocab words.

 Prompt: I did not feel like myself during a period of burnout from school and activities. I felt disconnected from my usual motivation and routines. My focus dropped and small tasks felt harder than normal. Rest and support helped me regain balance and confidence. Summary: We found rhetorical devices in the I Have A Dream speech. Reflection: I learned how to find rhetorical devices in speeches.

 Prompt: I feel the most at peace at the beach early in the morning. The quiet water and steady sound of the waves help me slow down and clear my mind. The open space gives me time to think without distractions. Being there helps me reset and focus on what matters. Summary: Today we learned many rhetorical devices. Reflection: I learned the difference between rhetorical devices and literary devices.

 Prompt: I had to rely on a teammate during a group project when I could not finish my part on time. I felt uneasy because I prefer handling responsibilities on my own. Trusting someone else forced me to communicate clearly and let go of control. The experience showed me support strengthens results and builds stronger relationships. Summary: We learned more rhetoric devices. Reflection: I learned how to use more rhetorical devices.

 Prompt: High school taught me time management through balancing schoolwork, sports, and other commitments. I learned financial responsibility by managing money from work and tracking spending. I built communication skills through group projects, presentations, and working with others. Discipline, responsibility, and decision making are essential for my success after high school. Summary: We learned more rhetoric. Reflection: I learned new rhetoric techniques.

 Prompt: I took a break from gambling after realizing it was starting to control my time and money. I noticed I was chasing losses and spending more than I could afford. I stepped back completely for a few months, avoided casinos and online platforms, and focused on other hobbies and responsibilities. During the break, I gained perspective on my habits, rebuilt financial stability, and learned self-control. When I returned, I approached gambling more cautiously, setting limits and prioritizing moderation. Summary: Today we learned more rhetorical devices. Reflection: I learned how to use 3 more rhetorical devices.

 Prompt: Today’s lesson about rhetoric felt longer than the entire school year. It was a small challenge to understand. The lesson was not unhelpful for me. Summary: Today we learned different rhetorical devices. Reflection: I learned how to use hyperboles, understatements, and litotes.

 Prompt: During winter break, I went to Nashville to see a holiday country concert at the Grand Ole Opry and it was a lot of fun. Afterwards, I got the flu and could not do anything for a week of the break. When I was cured from the flu I hung out with my friends a lot and we went to a New Years party.  1. The first goal that I want to achieve this year is gaining at least $1,000 on PrizePicks.  This goal is important because it will show my sports knowledge and let me have more money.  To accomplish my goal, I will study trends and do research on how players will do against certain teams. By June, I plan to be at least at $500 earned and will earn the rest by the end of the year. I plan to earn about $50-100 a month to possibly exceed this goal. 2. My second goal is to get and keep a job. This goal is important because it will teach me discipline and budgeting. To accomplish my goal, I will begin applying to jobs once my baseball season ends. I will stay...