World, Civics, 12th Focus

World:  We finished up the 5 pillars today.  By now you should have a good handle on what each of the pillars mean and their significance. Think about DR EASE.  Why would people convert to Islam.

We will begin after break with the spread of Islam.

Rest, relax and re energize.  No School Work!
Enjoy your family and friends. Happy Holidays!

Civics:  Test today.  If you were absent, plan to make the test up on the Thursday we return, January 6.  Objective portion has been graded and posted on power school. Once I complete the short answer section, that too will be posted.  Top score on the objective was 35... they set the curve.  Nice work!

Rest, relax and re energize. No School Work!
Enjoy your family and friends. Happy Holidays!

12th Focus:  Initiatives and goal setting.  Remember, you are transitioning to college.

Have a wonderful break!

World-Civics

World:

World: 5 pillars of Islam.  Finish reading analysis tonight. Annotate belief handout.  You will be given credit for this material tomorrow.

5 pillars to be continued tomorrow


Civics: test tomorrow:

 Objective (40 pts), Short Answer(20 pts)
Very Basic Review Sheet

Constitutional Convention

Political Parties - Chapter 8.1-8.2 (141-147)

Political Spectrum  -See above

Washington Farewell Address

Civic Virtue (Washington)

Citizenship/Immigration

Chapter 7: Civics Participation and Democracy

Electoral College material (Background readings), Support and Reform Content

10.1-10.4(10.6)-voter behavior)

            -Key terms and content

Bring a pencil and pen to class tomorrow.

World, Civics, 13th Sem

World: Today in class we went over the recent quiz/test.  Well Done!!  During the last part of class, you completed a prompt according to your knowledge of of caste/class. I will post the prompt on the website. Students turned in the prompt at the of the period.

DIA trip tomorrow.  We will begin Islam next class.

Civics: Fishbowl debate today on the electoral college.  Documents turned in: Persuasive argument and self evaluation of fishbowl performance.  There is a test on Thursday.  Begin with the Constitutional convention material. It covers the Constitutional Convention, Political Parties/Spectrum (chapter 7, and 8.2), citizenship (10.4) and the Electoral College. Refer to background readings on the Electoral College, Washington's Civic Duty reading as well as his farewell address.  On Wednesday, we will do an informative assessment to gage your understanding.

In the meantime, where do you stand on the issue of the electoral college?

13th Sem: Portfolio work today. Portfolio is due on Monday, January 6.

World-Civics-13th Sem

World: We finished Monsoon Wedding today.  There was a short time to have a discussion but we are not finished because students need to fully complete the film questions. Over the weekend, think about comparing western culture to Hindi culture in the context of weddings.  What parallels can you make between the two cultures. Be sure to consider class/caste.  On Monday, we will go over the most recent quiz and you will do a short in class writing prompt related to the film.

Be sure to check power school for your quiz III grade.

Civics:  In class we prepped for Monday's fishbowl on the Electoral College. You may need to do more preparations at home this weekend... but it should not take too much time. You know how I feel about  homework. :(

For those absent, be sure to reconfigure your argument map.  In the position box, include one position for support, and one for reform.  In the boxes below, one should be claim 1 and the other claim 2. use those boxes to set forth your claims in support of the thesis you set forth in the position box.  On the lines beneath the boxes, your are to set forth the evidence/facts that you can use to support the claim that supports the thesis.

You will argue both sides of the issues, so be sure to come to class prepared.

On Monday, come to class with your persuasive argument map related to reforming the electoral college.  We will hold the fish bowl debate on Monday.  On Thursday, 12-19, you will take a test related to the material covered to date beginning with the Constitutional Convention, political parties/spectrum, citizenship/voting/elections, and the electoral college.  The test will be in the usual format.

13th Seminar:  Portfolio work today. Remember, it's due right after break, on January 10.  Monday is a comp day for those who attended the full day OEC event. Have a great break. For those who are required to attend, we will work with you on your portfolio.

World-Civics-12th Focus

World:  We continued with Monsoon Wedding again today and will finish during the first part of class tomorrow.  Be sure you are working through your film guide and to really think about the answers to your question.  You will be asked to do a short essay reflection on the film as a exit to the class tomorrow.

Civics:  More work on the electoral college.  We debriefed yesterday's material on the pro/cons and realities of the electoral college and today we did began  a reflection activity.  You also received the fishbowl information.  Tomorrow in class,  you will have time to work on your preparations. Complete what  you did not have time to do today in class this evening.  Tomorrow we will debrief, then prep for the fishbowl.  Reminder: Quiz on material to date, next Thursday, 12-19.

12th Focus: J294 -  presentations, ACT, Success Principles Applied.

World-Civics

World:  We began the film Monsoon Wedding today. You received a film guide that you should be working on.  We will continue with the film tomorrow. Remember, you will be asked to respond to a writing prompt with respect to the film, so think critically about the film and the concepts reflected.

Thursday, 1st hour only - Meet in Mrs. Maddalena's room, B-108.  Thanks!

Civics: In class we continued with the electoral college material. At this point you should have an understanding of its origins and positions associated with reforms and support thereof.  After our discussion, you were in the lab recapping your knowledge related to the underlying function of the electoral college.  Be sure you complete the 9 tasks assigned on the handout. In additon, you should create a "T" chart of the arguments that call for support of the electoral college and those that call for reform of the electoral college. We will continue with our preparations tomorrow.

World-Civics-12th Focus

World: Today students completed Quiz III (Fall of Empire-Caste).  If you were absent, plan to make up the quiz tomorrow unless you have arranged something different.  Quizzes will be returned by the end of the week.  Power School is up to date minus today's quiz.

Civics: In class we continued with the electoral college.  You received credit for your 10.4 homework/some of you owe note taking.  We debriefed the key ideas from the reading and analyzed some issues related to the origins of the electoral college.  Due tomorrow, read the remainder of the two readings we began together on Monday related to the problems and reforms of the electoral college.  We are slowly gaining information to organize into arguments for debate. Please come to class with the material read and a bulleted list of the information related to problems and reform.

12th Focus:  In class work on presentation prep from Success Principles, 3 presentations.  Try to reflect upon the issues/content represented in the presentations.  Remainder of presentations will be heard on Thursday.

World-Civics-13th Seminar

World: Test Tomorrow. Today we did an in class informative assessment.  Study according to that and the other overview document provided.  (see web if you were absent).  Bring a #2 pencil and  pen.  Test = 50 points.  You're going to do fabulous!

Civics: More electoral college today.  Our focus was on its origins.  We will continue tomorrow.  Those absent can pick up documents in class.  Focus tomorrow, on problems with the electoral college.  Due tomorrow: You own notes 10.4 and my handout related to questions and terms.

13th Seminar.  Portfolio work and capstone presentations today.

World-Civics-13th Seminar

World: In class we debriefed 8 Rupees, and had a Mandela discussion.  We also concentrated on the issues related to internal and external causes for fall of empire.  We read together the LORAX and contemplated a quote that "civilizations die by suicide, not murder," which we linked to Jared Diamond and his resent conclusions in a book he wrote called collapse. We will continue with that topic on Monday and prepare for Tuesday's test on fall of empire thru caste.  See website for handout on Collapse.
The QUIZ is TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10. We will do an information assessment in class on Monday, but in the meantime, get organized and begin your studying. Your focus is on fall of empire in the context of internal and external factors. Focus on each empire independently Review text: 6.3.6.3, 7.1, 7.3, 3.1, 3.2.

Civics: Today we debriefed Washington's document on Civic Virtue. Be sure you know the meaning of the document and the WHY behind its use. Do you know and understand the factors of civic virtue set forth? (There are four of them).    And, discussed Mandela.  We also began our coverage of elections. Due Tuesday, is reading 10.4, note taking and questions related to the reading. See website.

13th Sem:  Work on Portfolio, Resume drafts due.  Holiday cards today, teach in discussion continued and portfolio work.

World-Civics-12th Focus

World: In class we concluded our exploration with caste.  Can you make a solid comparison with Class?  You viewed a couple short clips, one from 60 minutes the other from documentary in order to obtain context and the reality of the system.  Total time spent on the clips was about 20 minutes.  We then focused on ARTA, how to get what you want. A common theme among Hinduism.  You participated in the 10 wishes activity, then received the Eight Rupees reading.  Please complete the reading, you will enjoy the story, and DO the questions.  Be prepared to share and discuss.

Due tomorrow: Eight Ruppees.
The QUIZ HAS BEEN RESCHEDULE FOR TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10.  We will do an information assessment in class on Monday, but in the meantime, get organized and begin your studying.  Your focus is on fall of empire in the context of internal and external factors. Focus on each empire independently  Review text: 6.3.6.3, 7.1, 7.3, 3.1, 3.2.

Civics:  Today we focused on Washington's document on Civic Virtue. Be sure you know the meaning of the document and the WHY behind its use.  Do you know and understand the factors of civic virtue set forth? (There are four of them). 

Due tomorrow: Complete the reading of the "essay," and DO the questions.  Be prepared to share your responses.  Why is citizenship so important?

12th Focus: Met in J-294 today for Mentor prep and completion of success principles 1-3.  In addition, we did an activity related to ACT English.

World-Civics

World:  Our focus today was Caste v.Class.  We moved through the handout via discussion and you made vivid comparisons related to caste and class. Be sure to consider the pro's and con's and to know the similarities and differences.  Bottom line, caste/class is divisive but creates order in a  society.  See:  http://www.nytimes.com/pages/national/class/

On Friday there is a quiz on fall of empire thru caste. (usual format)  Be sure to use time after school to organize your materials and begin studying.  You need to focus on the fall of empire reading in chapter 6.3 (Rome), 7.3 (Han) and 7.1 (Gupta), and 3.1 & 3.2 related to caste. You can use your Cornell notes/Venn diagrams or other notes you took on the quiz. Be sure to assemble the Reasons for the fall of empire in the context of all topics. (Han, Rome, Gupta)

We will finish up caste tomorrow and make sure you feel ready for Friday's quiz.

Civics: Continue with the citizenship material.  Complete Part III only.  Read and respond to the few questions related to the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.  Due tomorrow!

World, Civics, 12th Focus

World: In class we debriefed the similarities and differences related to the Roman, Han and Gupta Empires.  Be sure to review the factors and to contemplate why GUPTA was so different.

For tomorrow, you will do PART III of the handout provided on Caste (Jati)

More on caste tomorrow.

Quiz on fall of empire - caste on Friday.  Review chapter 6.3, 7.3 & 7.4 among other things as you being to think about preparing,

Civics:  We debriefed the political spectrum material and moved onto citizenship.  For tomorrow, complete the citizenship inquiry questions, and the short reading & analysis of citizenship.  More on this tomorrow in class.

12th Focus: Discussion of success principles (4) and then to the J. 

World-Civics-13th Seminar

World: Today in class you finished up your small group couplet poems and shared them with the class.  Tomorrow, we will spend a short amount of time trying to put them together into one poem.

For this evening, read and annotate the Hephthalites handout.  Be sure to ANNOTATE.  At the same time you have some comparing to do.  Remember, you are considering how such a brilliant and successful empire could collapse. (consider the factors that you already know)
-Is the story of the Gupta SIMILAR to that of the Han and the Romans?
-Your task is to COMPARE the story of the END OF THE GUPTA EMPIRE to the fall of Han and Rome.  You can do this comparison by creating a Venn Diagram, or a graphic organizer comparison chart.  Do whatever suits you, but your work is DUE at the start of class TOMORROW
(TUESDAY).

 

World:  Plan for a quiz on Fall of Empire for Friday of this week

Civics: In class today we continued with the political spectrum.  You further inquired about the details of spectrum and have a good working knowledge of who's who  on the spectrum. 

For tonight, you to Choose TWO of  the FOUR issues listed on the chart handout provided in class.   CHOOSE TWO ISSUES.  Identify the position of the groups listed on the chart with respect to the issues you choose. Your assignment is due at the start in class tomorrow (Tuesday).

13th Seminar:  Draft Resume was due today.  Feedback was provided and you began working on other portfolio requirements.  There was a discussion related to the February teach-in. What do you want to accomplish.  How do you want to accomplish it?  Roles were delegated.  Let the work begin.

World-Civics-12th Focus

World: Today we debriefed the chaotic and productive periods along with the content from 7.1.  During the second half of the period, you worked in a partner group on created a couplet poem related to the Gupta.  We will continue this after your return from the Thanksgiving break. Enjoy!

Civics: Today we began covering political parties.  Just an introduction.  We concluded Iron Jawed.. and I collected the analysis questions for credit.  You also received credit for the double entry diary on the reading in 7.4, 8.1, and 8.2.   There is not homework over Thanksgiving.  We will continue with the material when  you return next week.  Enjoy!

12th focus:  English ACT prep and debriefing of success principles and a new chapter... 4.

Have a nice Thanksgiving.

World, Civics, 13th Seminar

World: Read. 7.1 and complete note taking and chart evaluation related to Gupta.  Today we introduced the Gupta by annotating and discussing the introduction.  The big questions:
-What's different about the Gupta?
-Internal v. External Reasons for Fall

Remember, Gupta is the considered the Golden Age. Why?

Rumble packets were returned for completion today. Those not finished need to complete unfinished portions and resubmit tomorrow.  Focus on annotations.

Civics: We finished the film today.  Be sure debriefing questions are completed for tomorrow.  Also, complete the reading 7.4 and 8.1 & 8.2 related to the political spectrum and political parties for tomorrow.  There is a Double Entry Journal (chart) to complete for note taking.

13th Sem: Draft Resume and Personal Statement

World, Civics, 13th Sem, Focus

World: Today we completed the RUMBLE activity related to why Rome fell. GREAT JOB! I collected your prep materials. You will receive two grades for this activity. One grade will be for your oral participation, and the other will be for the written work you submitted.  Over the weekend, review fall of empire.  We will begin the Indian Empires on Monday, specifically, the GUPTA EMPIRE.

Civics: We continued with the film and watched through 1:29. The scene where Alice Paul demands to be added to the picket list.  We will finish the film on Monday, debrief, and move into the political spectrum.  Over the weekend, read 7.4,(129-133) 8.1 & 8.2 (141-147) in the text.  Do a note taking activity. (not electronic).  Simply create two columns on a piece of paper, (A double entry journal).  One column: List what is important in the reading (use bullet points).  Second Column: Explain WHY what you wrote down is important. (Ask yourself the question, Why? Who cares?)  The Double Entry Diary and completed reading is expected for TUESDAY.  Please begin over the weekend so you are prepared when we begin in class on Monday and can finish up on Tuesday.  I do not intend on giving homework over the short break, but I do intend on completing what we begin in class on Monday & Tuesday.

13th Sem: Town Hall, followed by Resume construction.  The portfolio requirements are coming due, so you must make progress.  Be sure to adhere to draft guideline and due dates.

12th Focus: Town Hall/your 5th period.  We will continue with ACT prep and the success principles on Tuesday.

World-Civics-Focus12

World: We debriefed the Tolerance/Persecution reading and had a work day preparing for the Roman Rumble of information. Remember, this will be a battle of words as we proceed through the rounds tomorrow.  If you were absent today, I will post what I can on the website for your prep, but not all of the documents are electronic.  In class tomorrow, The Roman Rumble

Civics: The first 48:00 of Iron Jawed Angels was shown today. We will continue tomorrow. Be sure you are reading the journal reading and responding to the film questions.  Certainly, you have recognized the stereotypes and issues related to women and patriarchy thus far in the DVD.

12th Focus: We debriefed Believing in yourself and moved onto Chapter 3, Decide What you Want.  For this reading and discussion activity we completed a four corner activity using the 3 "C's". Town Hall tomorrow.

World-Civics-12th Focus

World: Bashi and Hefflebower covered the class today.  Due tomorrow is the Religious Tolerance Reading... I will also provide credit for the 42 reasons activity today.

Civics: Mrs Newman covered class today. You evaluated yourselves according to the rubric and provided a grade for your performance. You also provided feedback related to your participation at the convention.

12th Focus: Our focus today was attitude and believing.  We began class with a debriefing of the mentoring activity.  Second we composed, "I can and I can't" lists.  After discussing attitude, you read chapter 2 from the success book and completed a double entry diary related to what you used to think and think now related to the reading.  At the conclusion of the class, you disposed of I can't and will begin to try something from your I can list as much as possible.  Remember, if you believe, you will achieve.

World-Civics-13th Seminar

World: You received credit for Cornell on Rome today, and we debriefed the material related to Doll Sized feet, the chart and patriarchy.  In addition, we used the Historical Background reading on Rome to incite your understanding of the reasons why Rome Fell.  You used your Cornell to decipher the reasons by supporting them with content. 

You received a Religious Tolerance and Persecution reading today in class (4th see the website  and print it, or wait until tomorrow and receive it from Mr. Heffelbower).  You are to READ AND ANNOTATE ONLY.  We will do the questions in class.  Please have the reading and annotation completed for WEDNESDAY AT THE START OF CLASS.

TOMORROW YOU WILL MEET IN AN ALTERNATE CLASSROOM.
1ST MEET IN MS. BASHI, ROOM G-221
4TH MEET IN MR. HEFFLEBOWER, ROOM B-204

Civics: Constitutional Convention today.  Tomorrow you will complete a debriefing and rubric on behalf of your group and submit your organizational chart along with your questions.  These are requirements for credit of this assignment.  Be sure you read over the rubric and are sure you have all required materials to turn in tomorrow.

Mrs. Newman will be running the class tomorrow in the classroom.

13th Seminar: Professional Portfolio: Personal Statement is due now. Resume is due in one week. Next Monday.  We worked in the lab today to refine your work.

World-Civics-12th Focus

World:  The topic today was the role of women, their vices and virtue and patriarchy.  Our goal was to make light of the Confucian tradition and the reality of women. In addition, you obtained a Birdseye view of patriarchy whether within the readings or contained within the content of foot binding. 

Tomorrow, I will be absent, and Mrs. Iden will be here.  Be SURE TO TREAT HER WITH LOVE AND RESPECT.  In class (some will be at CPR training).  You will finish up foot binding.  Be prepared to work together, to discuss and to make inferences about beauty and stereotypes.  Why do we make the choices concerning beauty that we do?  The activity should be completed in class. Those absent, please finish your reading and analysis at home.

Due tomorrow: Cornell Notes, Chapter 6, sec. 4: Fall of Rome.  Remember to read in the context of fall of empire while considering the reasons that swirl around in your head about why empires fall.

Civics:  Final speech drafts were due today. I collected a copy from you.  Continue to practice your speech and brush up on your use of talking points and questions.  The final prep day is tomorrow.  You should leave here tomorrow, polished and ready to go on Monday with the Convention.  If you are absent, you will miss the convention. Remember, to dress up in character for the event...how about extra credit for that?  Be sure to complete ONE large poster and 3 small posters related to your position. These are "would-be" propaganda posters.

Convention starts on Monday.  Be sure you are in attendance.

12th Focus: In class, we attempted to finish up the remaining presentations. The remainder of the period we concentrated on Mentoring and completed an activity related to same.  Are you Just a Right Mentor (good), a Bad Mentor (bad), or an Over Bearing Mentor (ugly)?  What was your take away from today?

World-Civics

World:  Today we debriefed Mulan and discussed the comparisons, similarities and differences.  The Mulan handout was collected.  During the second portion of the class, you were given a short reading to annotate in a small group. The reading highlighted some unconventional ideas about women and certainly clash with Confucian principles.  We will finish the conversation tomorrow. 

You received a Cornell Notes for the Fall of Rome.  Be sure to have that completed for Friday.  Do the Cornell in the same context that you did for Han.  Look for the "reasons" and add evidence.

Tomorrow we will continue exploring Women of China and their traditions.

Civics: Work day for Constitutional Convention.  Rough draft of Individual speech due today.  I read them and provided feedback. Due tomorrow, final draft of speech.  Also, you should be finalizing  your convention talking points and you team's questions.  More tomorrow.

World, Civics, 12th Focus

World:  We finished up Mulan today. Your completed analysis and comparison on due tomorrow for debriefing.  Be sure you come to class prepared.  Tomorrow we will wrap up Mulan and zoom in on the role of women for the next couple class periods.

Civics:  In class work on Constitutional Convention. due tomorrow is the rough draft of the personal speech which is related to your research and talking points.  You received an organizational chart today. Be sure to follow the chart and to adhere to the requirements.  In class tomorrow, we will focus on editing your rough draft so that you can create a final draft.  In addition, the goal is to move toward creating convention questions and further prep and practice.

12th focus: First half in J294 for individual analysis of ACT. 2nd half, we finished up career presentations in the classroom. Next class is on Thursday.  Meet in the classroom.

World, Civics, 13th Sem

World:  Mulan started today. Be sure to work through the chart related to evidence and comparing similarities and differences.  We will finish Mulan tomorrow.

Civics: Work on Convention prep today.  Issues stance should be complete and you should know your allies.  Focus on getting together a speech on the issues according to the talking points. Also, work on posters... More class time is given tomorrow. We will begin the convention on Thursday or Friday.

13th Sem:  You received professional portfolio assignment today.  We also debriefed the teach in. Due next Monday is the Personal Statement assignment.

World-Civics-13th Seminar

World: We finished debriefing the Mulan Pak today and are ready for the film on Monday. Credit was given for the Cornell Notes, ch. 7, sec. 3.  Nice work discussing your evidence related to fall of empire from the text and your understanding. Great!  Review your material over the weekend.  We will begin again with fall of Empire on Monday.

Civics:  In class you were assigned team for the constitutional convention and given role sheets. We also went to the lab to do a little more research on the issues of suffrage and slavery. Over the weekend, spend a short amount of time finding a reading that you can print and share with your partner related to your assigned position and topic.  We will continue with the convention prep on Monday.  In the meantime, think about how you can get into character and who your allies and enemies are.

13th Sem:  Teach-In today.  Monday, meet in the classroom for debriefing and planning of what's ahead.

World-Civics-12th Focus

World: In class we recapped with detail the reasons for the fall of empire, then we moved on to the ballad of Mulan where we interpreted the ballad and assessed it according to Confucian values.  For tomorrow you are to have the example column of the chart completed.  In addition, your Cornell Notes are due for credit, chapter 7.3

Civics:  After a brief review of the essential vocab for the constitutional convention, you received a briefing on the groups that will attend the convention.  When you arrive in class tomorrow, you are to have that briefing sheet completed and your top three choices so that we can form teams for the convention.  Further explanation for the convention will be provided tomorrow, and the work will begin. Save the "T" charts on suffrage and slavery.  You will need them again.  Good start with the issues.

12th focus: Career presentations and reminder about teach in attendance for tomorrow. Be sure to meet in your assigned focus to receive your schedule for the two hour teach in.

World-Civics

World History:  In class we assembled a list of reasons related to why the Han Empire Fell.  Indeed, these reasons will be very similar as we look at other empires, so be sure to process the reasons.  We held a discussion on the Han Graphic Organizer.. good job deciphering the information.

Due today: 3 paragraph essay on religion topic, argument map and briefing statement from summit.

Due on Friday, Cornell Notes chapter 7, section 3.  Be sure to consider the reasons for the fall of empire when you read.

Civics: Today in class we were to hold a Socratic seminar... on the Founding Rivalries. Since you did not complete the questions, you were assigned one in class, we reported out and hopefully you were able to gain understanding. 

Due today were vocabulary for the constitutional convention.  You received credit today.  We will go over the vocabulary tomorrow.  For tonight, google suffrage and slavery and find arguments in the context of the constitutional convention.  Put them in a "T" chart.  Convention prep begins tomorrow.

World-Civics-13th Seminar

World:  We debriefed the quiz today, nice work!  Also, we revisited what it takes to be an empire.  Our next big idea to focus on is, "if empires are so great, why do they fall?"  We did a pre-reading of the Han to get reacquainted.  While we learn this material, remember to focus on inference...reasons why empire might fall.  Due on Wednesday is the short essay on Religion.

Tomorrow you will have a sub, Mrs. Iden.  You will work in class with a graphic organizer activity on the reasons for the fall of the Han.

Civics: We debriefed Quiz II today. Nice work!  We the People  was the topic and hopefully now you have a better understanding of what that reading is about.  Especially we are on the eve of learning beginning our constitutional convention prep.  You received some vocabulary to work through, due on Wednesday. 

Tomorrow you will have a sub, Mrs. Iden. You will work in class with a reading and questions on the Founding Rivalries related to Constitution making.

13th Sem: Initiatives in B.  Teach in Organization. Remember, Friday is YOUR teach in.

World-Civics-Seminar

World: World Religions summit today.  Outstanding!  I handed out the 3 paragraph essay due for Wednesday.  Use the weekend to re energize.  If you have time, brainstorm for the essay.  If not, begin on Monday.  Those absent, will need to produce a summary of their views for the summit in order to gain credit.  It's too bad you missed.  The activity went really well.  Essay assignment is posted on the website.

Civics:  Quiz II today.  On Monday we will begin in the direction of the constitutional convention.  We will take the time to read We the People as well.

13th Sem: Planning for Nov. 8 teach-in.  Discussed stress component and learned two initiatives.
You need to be present in class.

Have a nice weekend.

World, Civics, 12th Focus

World History:
We concluded our in school preparations for tomorrow's world religions summit. If you did not complete your argument map and briefing statement today, you need to do so at home.  The more prepared you are the greater enjoyment you will have during the summit  Remember, you will need to INFER in order to set forth a perspective based upon your assigned religion.

After the summit, you will turn in your briefing statement and argument map for credit. Please be sure your documents represent your BEST effort.

Civics:

Quiz II tomorrow:  Please bring a #2 pencil for the objective portion. There will be a short answer portion as well.  The quiz is worth 50 points.  You're going to do great.  Be sure to bring your artifacts for the quiz. (Cornell Notes, and Read to Learn)

Ch 3: Roots of American Democracy; Cornell Notes and a focus on the Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. Be sure you understand how we as a country moved from Declaring Independence to making a constitution. Know the steps along the way and have an understanding of conflict and rebellion that ensued. Be sure to reflect on the historical marker events, and the Enlightenment Thinkers.

Focus on Vocabulary
Differences between Federalist & Anti-Federalists
The ratification process, what it took to get the constitution ratified.
Significance of the Bill of Rights & James Madison
Significance of the Federalist papers (there were 82 of them)

Ch. 4: Constitution
Understand the purpose and the process of the constitutional convention. Who attended?
Focus on Vocabulary
Our goal is to understand Articles I - III and the structure and function of the government. Be sure to fully understand the concept of federalism, limited government, separation of powers and checks and balances. 

Bill of Rights, the protections of individual rights.  Be able to set forth content related to your understanding of the first ten amendments of the Bill of Rights.

12th Focus:
Career Presentation in assigned classrooms first 55 minutes, followed by an ACT debriefing
in J-294.

World, Civics

World: Today we began our prepartions for the World Religions Summit that will be held on Friday.  Please do not be absent on Friday or you will miss the summit. We spent time in the lab researching the two topics: censorship and stem cell research.  The goal today was to complete your briefing statement in preparation to formulating your argument map tomorrow. If you did not finish the briefing statement in class, be sure to do so at home this evening. You need the time in class tomorrow to formulate your thesis statement and arguments for the summit.

Remember to research the arguments for and against first... before you try to determine your arguments from the perspective of the religion assigned to you.

Check Power School.  Grades have been updated and include yesterday's quiz. Great Job!

Civics: We continued with the steps leading to Constitution today.  We supplemented visually the Federalists papers and finished our discussion of Federalist 51. In class we focused on the components of the Constitution, Articles I, II, III.  Structure of the government, and the powers.  Those articles represent the ideal of limited government and separation powers and were the result of compromise between the Federalists and Anti Federalists.

We will wrap up in class tomorrow and ready ourselves for Friday's Quiz on:
Ch 3: Roots of American Democracy; Cornell Notes and a focus on the Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.  Be sure you understand how we as a country moved from Declaring Independence to making a constitution.  Know the steps along the way and have an understanding of conflict and rebellion that ensued.  Be sure to reflect on the historical marker events, and the Enlightenment Thinkers.

Focus on Vocabulary
Differences between Federalist & Anti-Federalists
The ratification process, what it finally took to get the constitution ratified.
Significance of the Bill of Rights

Ch. 4: Constitution
Understand the purpose and the process of the constitutional convention.  Who attended? 
Focus on Vocabulary
Our goal is to understand Articles I - III and the structure and function of the government.  Be sure to fully understand the concept of federalism, limited government, separation of powers and checks and balances.  Our focus in class on Thursday will be the Bill of Rights, albeit general.

We will begin to work through the  We the People Reading  and finalize the content for the quiz tomorrow. In the meantime, review and study for Friday's quiz.

Format: Objective (multiple choice, matching & short answer)
Please bring a #2 pencil
You may use artifacts: Cornell Notes & Read to Learn.

World, Civics, 12 Focus

World: Quiz II was today.  If you were absent, plan to take the quiz during lunch beginning tomorrow. Please see me.  Tomorrow we will prep for our mini world religions summit to be held on Thursday.


Civics:  We revisited the concepts of Independence to gain a deeper understanding of the Constitutional Convention and compromise.  We also began in class a reading on Federalist paper 51. (Classroom pick up) It's is about division or powers and separation of powers.  We will quickly debrief for understanding tomorrow before we move on to the Bill of Rights.

For Homework: Read 4.3 & 4.4 on the Bill of Rights.  Complete the Read to Learn handouts but skip the very last page on related to doing symbols.  Use the simplified constitution handouts if you wish to supplement your understanding with a streamlined version. (those absent pick up in the classroom).

Reminder: There is a Quiz covering the material to day on Friday.

12th Focus: Career presentation work today in the lab.  Presentation needs to be ready to go on Thursday. Interest packets were collected today for credit.

World-Civics-13th Seminar

World:  Tomorrow you have QUIZ II (50 pts) that covers the material to date.  Be sure to concentrate on:

Population growth and the net works of exchange material. Remember the Big 6 PPT?

Artifacts for Quiz:
Cornell on Empire (Rome & Han)
Graphic Organizer of What it takes to be an Empire
Cornell on World Religions
Dr. Ease Chart World Religions
Venn Diagrams on World Religions

Review:
PPT Big 6 (population growth, networks of Exchange, Religions)
Concepts related to rise and spread (expansion of Empire and Religion)
Remember to consider the why here why now questions
Bridging World History on Rise and Spread of Religion (WEB)
Spread of Religion Packet

 Today we focused on the proverbs and their significance on various cultures.

Be sure to arrive to class on Tuesday with a Pencil.  The quiz with be both an objective and short answer format.

Civics: We needed to back up a little today, so the We the People Reading has been placed on the back burner until Tomorrow or Wednesday.  Reminder... Quiz II is on Friday.  Be sure to assemble your artifacts; Cornell Notes.

In class we concentrated on Federalists v. Anti-Federalists, the weaknesses related to the Articles of Confederation and the convention process itself.  We will continue with process tomorrow.  This evening you are to complete the BRIEF summation of some of the happenings that inspired the
D of I.  Try to make the connection related to their significance and the constitution itself. 
We will continue tomorrow in class, please review the reading in chapter 3.4-3.6.  Our plan is to evaluate the arguments of the Federalists related to ratification of the Constitution.  Please don't forget about the significance of the Bill of Rights.

13 Seminar:  U of M Dearborn was here for a college visit and to administer on site admissions.  During the second portion of the class, we focused on planning for the November 8 teach-in.  Time is fleeting.  All input and organizers are needed.

World, Civics, 12 Focus

World: Great job finishing up the spread of religion!  Be sure to complete the Missionary portion to solidify your understating.  At this point, you should have a solid understanding of the rise and spread of religion while being able to answer the why here, why now. 

TOMORROW 1ST: MEET IN B108, 4TH MEET IN B204, THANK YOU!

Over the weekend, begin to prepare for TUESDAY, OCTOBER 26, QUIZ II.  Assemble your artifacts.  We begin with Population growth and the net works of exchange material. Remember the Big 6 PPT? 

Artifacts for Quiz: 
Cornell on Empire (Rome & Han)
Graphic Organizer of What it takes to be an Empire
Cornell on World Religions
Dr. Ease Chart World Religions
Venn Diagrams on World Religions

Review:
PPT Big 6 (population growth, networks of Exchange, Religions)
Concepts related to rise and spread (expansion of Empire and Religion)
Remember to consider the why here why now questions
Bridging World History on Rise and Spread of Religion (WEB)
Spread of Religion Packet

Quiz Format:  Objective (matching, multiple choice, short answer essay).

Civics:  Remember: Tomorrow, Friday, Mr. Snyder will be leading the class in some form.
We wrapped up our journey of the D of I with the D of Sentiments. (I owe you a page, Janelle has it to provide to you.) Great analysis and discussion, more on this Monday.  On Monday I will try to pull everything together as we dive into your completed Cornell Notes on 3.4-3.6 and we move into deciphering the constitution.  We are taking steps to have a constitutional convention. 

Be sure you are caught up with the material.  See me with any confusion.  Tomorrow you will focus on WE THE PEOPLE.  I hope you enjoy and are intrigued by the content. 

Plan for QUIZ II next week, either Thursday 10/31 or Friday 11/1.


12th Focus:  Debriefing of success principles and continuation of career activity today.  You should be preparing for your career presentation.

World, Civics

World: Our focus today was on the spread of religion.  We contemplated the reasons why religion spread based on our understanding of the maps and inferences from the material we have covered to date.    You viewed a segment from Bridging World History, http://www.learner.org/vod/vod_window.html?pid=2150 ,
and completed a couple graphic organizers related to Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam.  There was significant vocab too, so be sure you have that competed as well.  We will debrief tomorrow in class.  Key idea for today, SYNCRETISM.  Do you know what it means and why it is significant when we consider the spread of religion?  It means, the blending of cultures....

For tomorrow, you are to be sure your materials from today's lesson are complete, but also you are to DO Part "C" in your package.  SKIP the timeline. We will do that together in class.

Reminder: Quiz II, is Tuesday, October 29.  Review material to date as often as possible.

Civics:  Today's class zoomed in further on the interpretation of the D of I.  We debriefed and revisited our journey with the document using debriefing questions, and also zeroed in on segments of the primary source itself.  Be sure that you have a good understanding of the contents of the document.  You received a handout related to the grievance contained within the D of I, and the events leading to the formulation of the document and revolution.  Those absent, pick up the handout in the classroom, it's not electronic.

For tomorrow, READ Zinn's Spirit of Rebellion, (in the pack back of page 9 and then again on page 12), and complete the questions by annotating the responses in the reading.  We will continue with the material tomorrow.

Credit was given for Cornell 3.4-3.6 today.  We have already begun journeying through the key ideas.

You can expect Quiz II sometime next week.  Most likely, Friday, November 1.

Wold, Civics, 12th Focus

World: In class we had a wonderful debriefing of Hinduism and Buddhism by our student peers. Well done!  You exhibit a terrific understanding.  For the remainder of the session, our focus was on the SPREAD OF RELIGION. Ideas set forth related to reasons for the spread of religion were: conversion, trade, conquest, missionaries, and the portable nature of religion.  We worked through part II of the spread of religion material and viewed Maps of War, Spread of Religion a, 90 second rendition, a number of times for analysis.  http://www.mapsofwar.com/ind/history-of-religion.html.

For homework you are to complete questions related to Map A-C.  Remember, A was the Spread of Buddhism, B the Spread of Christianity, and C the Spread of Islam.  Think critically about the maps for analysis. More tomorrow on the spread. Be sure to review material today. Your quiz II is one week away.  (TUESDAY, October 29.

Civics: Our concentration today was on deciphering the D of I. We read it together and held discussion for analysis and annotations.  You then completed the debriefing questions to check for you understanding.  You should have completed these in class.  Tomorrow, we will recap and move on to looking at the D of I as a primary source and to Zion reading that is contained within the handout.  Nice job today.  You applied concepts of democracy, the enlightenment, natural rights, state of nature, nationalism and humanism to the D of I. 
Due tomorrow are Cornell Notes for 3.4-3.6

12 Focus:  Met in F204 and the across the hall lab today for work on Success principles and further work on Career activity. We will continue more on Thursday and conclude this unit next week, when our focus will return to the ACT.

World, Civics, 13th Sem

World:  QUIZ II WILL BE RESCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29.  Be sure to continue reviewing your material beginning with Population growth, networks of exchange, the rise empire and religion, and the world religions.  Also, you should be assembling your artifacts that your will use. You have Cornell notes, charts and the like to sort through.  Also add the recently completed Venn diagrams.

Today we debriefed your understating using the Venn Diagrams.  We will now go into a deeper analysis (zoom in).  Complete the questions on the handout with the Pie graph for tomorrow. We will continue with world religions.

Civics: Op-Ed was due and collected today.  In class we began the material related to the Declaration of Independence. You viewed a 14 minute clip from:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYyttEu_NLU and then we began an in class activity which we will continue to work on tomorrow. In the meanwhile, you should be reading 3.4 - 3.6 in your textbook & complete Cornell Notes. A handout was provided in class.  The completed reading and Cornell are due on Wednesday 10/23.

13th Seminar:  Visit to Oakland University today.  NO 13th Sem on Friday.

World-Civics-12th Focus

World:  We covered Christianity today and you were give some time to work on Cornell for Islam. Please be sure you are finished with Islam before tomorrow's class.  In class tomorrow there is a sub because I am presenting at a conference.  Mr. Ingram will facilitate a Venn Diagram graphic organizer activity.  Be sure your Dr. Ease and Cornell are in your possession for class.  Venn diagrams and summary questions should be completed in class.  You are receiving credit on Monday. Those not finished need to do so for homework.

Civics:  Today we set the state for learning about the government.  We will begin next week with the D of Independence.  Tomorrow in class Mr. Ingram will facilitate. You will be in the lab working on your Op-Ed assignment on Health Care.  Remember, you completed Op-Ed is due on Monday.
Use your time wisely so you do not have homework.

12th focus: Today we continued with the career focus.  Next phase, career research and presentations.

Have a great day!

World, Civics

World:  Good job deciphering the information on Judaism.  Tonight you are to complete the Cornell for Christianity.  Be sure to consider all comparisons with the world religions you have covered thus far.  Think Dr. Ease and think about the history of the religions in the context of  "rise of religion."  We will continue tomorrow.  Due for credit, Cornell Notes for Christianity.

Civics:  We finished SICKO and debriefed. You received the Op-Ed assignment and Rubric. Use tonight for brainstorming. We begin new material tomorrow in class. On Friday, time will provided in class for work and completion of your Op-Ed.  The Op-Ed article is due on Monday.

World-Civics-12th Focus

World:  We debriefed and cleared up any confusion related to Hinduism and Buddhism. Be sure to separate out the pertinent vocabulary and to be able to compare and contrast the teaching of both disciplines.  Due tomorrow are Cornell notes for Judaism.  A suggestion is for you to go through your Cornell note and to identify the DR EASE points that you noted. 

Civics: Almost finished SICKO today.  10 minutes remain.  Certainly by now, you have an opinion about health care.  You are almost ready to begin the Op-Ed assignment coming out tomorrow. In the meantime, finish the film guide and cruise the Internet for more health care stories.  Remember our topic. Government-public good-health care-affordable care.

12th Focus: Today we met in J294 and our focus was Careers...

World, Civics, 13th Seminar

World: Today we verified that everyone was on the same page related to DR EASE and the Rise of Religion.  If you remain unclear about the concepts, please see me.  Your chart on the world religions should be completed at this time.  If not, you have some work to do.  The chart provides a quick snap shot of the tenants but really does not cover the history, so there is still work to be done.  For this evening you are going to focus on Hinduism and Buddhism. You will be completing Cornell Notes on the two belief systems. In doing so, please pay attention to detail. The Cornell Notes are yet another artifact for your use.  DUE TOMORROW FOR CREDIT, CORNELL NOTES ON HINDUISM AND BUDDHISM.

Civics: In class we continues with the film, SICKO, and watched a good portion. Remember to complete the segment analysis before class tomorrow. Some of you are getting behind.  Due today was the assignment related to health care stories.  If you did not complete this, it's late, please turn it in tomorrow. We should complete the film tomorrow.  Please come prepared.  As a final assessment of public good, you will be asked to formulate a short essay, so please keep that in mind as you view the film.  Reconsider our debated resolution:  Is health care a right that should be guaranteed by the government?

13th Seminar:  Pre planning for our November teach-in. UDM visited today.

World, Civics, 13th Seminar

World: Today we portrayed philosophers as we began our study of the world religions  We discussed the framing question: How did the development of interregional networks of exchange and alphabetic writing systems contribute to the spread of world religions?   We also revisited a couple slides from the intro ppt, which is posted.  I pointed out the text resources available to you related to the world religions, pages 282-297.

In class we discussed and heard viewpoints related to the philosophy questions.... Do you know the difference between philosophy and religion?  Do you understand why these sort of questions led to the development of religion?  For the weekend, begin your own journey studying religion.  Choose up to two religions from the Dr. Ease Chart to learn about complete the chart.  We will continue with this in class, but please begin.

Have a great weekend!

Civics: We wrapped up the fishbowl with a pro-con counterpoint discussion. Thank you for sharing your research and viewpoints on the health care issue.  The briefing statement and argument map was submitted for credit.  I will read them and return them to you asap.   Yesterday, you received a jingling handout.  With this you are to journal about three stories related to health care.  You are to obtain those stories from people around you.  Neighbors, family.... Bring those journal entries to class on Monday.  During the last 20 minutes of class we began viewing SICKO, a film by Michael Moore, which highlights questions related to health care. We will finish the film on Monday... I hope. There is a guide to some of the segments which requires your response.

Have a great weekend!

13th Seminar:  Town Hall (elections today) and a visit from Madonna.  Are you working on your college applications?

World-Civics-12th Focus

World: Short 2 paragraph essay was due today.  We debriefed in the classroom and also discussed any questions you had related to Himalaya.  I will return your graded short essay next week. Meanwhile, be sure that you are keeping tabs on power school.  Today we introduced another aspect of empire... RELIGION. Why here? Why now? We used your understanding of Rome and Han to point out evidence of religion and discussed why it was so significant for each empire.  Bottom line, as population grows, life becomes more complicated,  With complication comes questions, lots of them.  Religion seems to provide human nature to answers to "hard" questions.  We will continue with the content tomorrow in class.  Until then, spend some time reviewing your materials to date.

Civics:  Today we held a fish bowl debate related to the affordable health care act.  Your participation was essential in order for you to verbalize  your understanding of the issues.  We have not finished, but will plan to do so tomorrow within the fist 20 minutes of class.  If for some reason you did not participate today, plan to do so tomorrow.  Certainly, what you have to say is valuable.  At the conclusion of the fishbowl frenzy debate, you will submit your briefing statement and argument map for credit.  For homework, you are to begin work on the journaling assignment. (posted on website) The journaling is due on MONDAY.

12th Focus:  Team building today in H-113 East.  If you missed it, you missed out.  :(

World, Civics

World:  Himalaya was completed today.  Extra credit (Han Questions) was collected today.  Due tomorrow are the film focus questions and the 2 paragraph short answer essay I provided in class.  Remember, we went through the tenants of civilization and the society represented in the film, so you do have a starting point for your response. Please respond the the prompt on the handout provided and please adhere to the length.  In class tomorrow, we will do some sort of share and debrief the content before moving on to an exploration of religion in the context of Rome and Han. 

Civics:  Today we finished up the debate prep.  Tomorrow in class, we will have our fishbowl frenzy on Health Care.  Be sure you arrive to class prepared and ready to participate.  Your ticket to participate includes a completed briefing statement and a completed argument map.  You earn points for completion of the materials and for participating.  So plan on sharing your ideas in the fish bowl.

World, Civics, 12th Focus

World: We continued with the Himalaya film today. There's about 40 minutes remaining.... I think.  For tomorrow, be sure you have completed questions 1-7. As you reflect on the film be sure to consider your understanding of agriculture, civilization and trade.  What you are seeing is a network of exchange along the silk road.  What do the people and their Yak''s encounter?  What is the role of family and religion in this culture?  Do you see evidence of social class?  How so?  Is this a surplus society or a subsistence society?   Please set aside time to review the material to day in World History.

Civics:  Today was another prep day for our fishbowl debate slated to take place on Thursday.  By now you should have completed the vocabulary and learned about health care providers and the coverage available.  You should have a completed briefing statement and begin working on your argument map.  By the end of class tomorrow, your argument map should be completed and all that is left for you to do is to apply finishing touches in preparation for the Thursday's fishbowl Frenzy debate on Affordable Health Care.

What have your been learning about the government shut down and the impact on everyday Americans?

What sort of political game playing seems to be occurring within the congress?  What is the role of the President as politics in continues to unravel?  Watch the news!  Be informed!  You have a duty to be in the know!

12th Focus:  Today we finished the ACT practice baseline testing. We now will begin to process the results.  In about a weeks time, we will have feedback for you and begin to focus on converting your weaknesses into strengths.

World, Civics, 12 Focus

World:  In class we finished up our collaborative reading and gained a general understanding of What it Takes to Be an Empire.  We will continue to formulate this understanding using what you know about Rome and Han.  See the website for today's info on Rome and Han.

I will be out tomorrow at a meeting.  Mrs. Iden will be here to instruct.  She's great and you won't miss a beat.  You will continue developing the tenants of empire and apply your Cornell by way of evidence in a graphic organizer during class.  You should be able to complete the work in class, however, it you don't you need to for homework.  We will continue with empire on Monday.

Attn Zaria:  We won't begin the film until next week, so no worries...

Civics: Finally we finished our discussion and application of democracy using the Arab Spring reading.  You received documents to help with your understanding of the government insurance marketplace... use those tomorrow in the lab when you are researching health insurance providers, their policies and coverage.  By then, you should have completed the vocabulary for the content. 

I will be out tomorrow at a meeting. Mrs. Iden will be here to instruct. She's great and you won't miss a beat.  You'll be in the lab researching.  You know what to do because you have the handout related the top insurance companies.  Please have that aspect of your research completed for Monday.  Our goal is to have our Fishbowl Frenzy Debate on Thursday, but there is much work to be done.

12 Focus:  Another section of the ACT was completed today, then you attended a MAGIC MOMENT... a jazz presentation school wide event in the Smith.  You will complete the final section of the ACT next week.

World-Civics

World History:  Today we used a "speed dating" method to exchange and obtain information through face to face discussion.  From the activity, you should have a solid understanding of population growth and networks of exchange along with their consequences.  During the last part of the period, we began to pull back the layers of empire. We will finish this activity tomorrow.  You received a handout on empire, please bring it to class tomorrow. It is unfinished and should remain that way. 

Due tomorrow: Cornell Notes on Han. What does it take to be an empire?

Civics: Ttoday we held discussion groups on the different forms of government, while focusing on pro/con reasoning. Again we visited the Arab Spring reading...  and discussed the implications of totalitarianism and democracy in different contexts.  Finally, we headed to the lab to research health care and the affordable health care act. Our focus will remain here through next Tuesday.
Be sure to pay attention to the healh care news and the gov't shut down.

Have a great day!

World-Civics-12Th focus

World: We continued with population growth and expanding networks today.  See the ppt for clarification of your information for the stop and jot note taking.  Consider the big questions set forth and more importantly realize that TRADE IS A BYPRODUCT OF EMPIRE.  Can you take a position on that statement and support it with evidence? 

Due tomorrow are the Cornell notes for Rome (Empire).  Be sure to focus the context of what it takes to be an empire.  Think about PERSIA for your reading analysis.  You are trying to identify the number of "components" of an empire.  Just like we did for civilization.

Civics: Although you came prepared to discuss Democracy in the context of the Arab Spring, we spent time learning about the government shut down.  We visited the lab to evaluate various print sources on the issue to become more informed citizens.  Good job!  We began to consider Democracy in the context of the Arab spring, but need to finish up tomorrow.  PLEASE REVISIT THE FORMS OF GOVERNMENT.  IDENTIFY THEIR MEANING AND THE PRO'S AND CON'S.  The reading in in your text chapter 2.  The required material can be found on the back of the handout we used in class yesterday.

12 Focus:  Today we met in J294 to begin baseline testing for the ACT.  We will do the same on Thursday.

Have a great day!

World-Civics-13th Sem

World History:  You received your graded QUEST today, it is also posted on power school. We went over the quest and then began the topic of expanding networks of exchange and population growth.  I have posted the power point that we will be using for the next couple class periods as we contemplate the BIG questions related to trade and population growth.  See the website for today's handouts and the BIG questions.  Cornell notes for Rome are due on Wed., and Han (China) on Thursday).  The pages to read are on the Cornell note taking document.  While we are focusing on our big questions in class, you need to be reading the text and completing the note taking for Rome and Han China this week.  Please adhere to the due dates.

Civics: You received your graded QUEST today, it is also posted on power school. In class we revisited the content from the foundations of government and continued with our coverage.  In class we formulated a time line for government evolution and looked at democracy in what is referred to as the, "Arab Spring."

The health care debate continues.. We will pick up with our topic on Tuesday.  Read the news, learn about the gridlock related to Obama care.. What is the position of the House & the Senate on the topic?

13th Seminar:  Trip to LTU today Meet at the Taubman Center off 10 mile road. The center is located at the back of the campus.  Our tour guide is Mark.

World-Civics-13th Sem

World & Civics:  You completed a quiz today. If you were absent you will make it up at lunch at an arranged time next week.  Grades are posted as of today.  Nice work!

No homework over the weekend.  Enjoy!

13th Sem: Career Cruising and draft essay.

Have a great weekend!

World- Civics-12th Focus

World History & Civics

Your first QUEST is tomorrow.  Check Monday's blog for stated topics and materials. World, add GGS.  You're ready to do fantastic work. Be sure to prepare and have usable materials organized.

World:  Informative assessment due when you enter.

Bring a #2 pencil and a pen.

12th Focus:  Mentoring is Friday. Today you received mentoring assignments.  Reflect on mentoring training.  You'll do great!

World-Civics

World History:  You viewed a segment from Jared Diamond's, Guns Germs & Steel. Think about the BIG question presented by Yali: Why do you white men have so much cargo and we so little?"  At the same time consider why the world over time has become so unequal.  The segment reveals some roots of inequality and ties that that to the type of farming, productive and non productive farming, and ultimately, geographic luck!  You were asked to complete film questions during the film.  Bring your completed questions to class tomorrow.

Be sure to work on your Informative assessment, it's due on Friday.  Also, there is a QUEST on Friday.  See blog post on Monday for details.

Civics: Our focus today was on public good and health care...we will continue this again after the quest.  Due tomorrow is the handout related to forms of government systems. Also, you should be preparing for Friday's Quest..  Check the blog from Monday for details.

World-Civics, 12th, Focus

World:  Great job deciphering the documents related to civilization.  As a result of the activity you should have a solid handle on what it takes to be a civilization while being able to produce some examples using Mesopotamia and Egypt.  You received an informative assessment to complete for Friday.  This INFORMATIVE is to be used as a study guide for Friday's QUEST.  See yesterday's blog post for your focus as you prepare and for details related to the format.  Review the material to date and begin preparing and completing the INFORMATIVE so that you are ready for Friday's Quest.  We will cover one final topic related to our current material tomorrow when we experience Jared Diamond's Guns Germs & Steel.
Civics:  Principles of Govt material was due today, you received credit.  Be sure to check yesterday's blog post for details about Friday's quest.  There are details and format information posted.  Nice job debriefing today.  Continue to review you material to date.  You were given a handout to day to use for part of chapter 2 in your text.  Actually 2.3-2.5: government systems & economic systems.  Complete that material for THURSDAY, you will receive credit and it is further application of what was covered today.  Remember to take control of YOUR learning journey.  We finished class by switching gears and addressing another preliminary step with health care for our public good focus. More on that tomorrow in class. For now, focus on reviewing the material to date and completing the systems assignment for Thursday.

12th Focus: Mentoring is on Friday. You completed mentoring training today and received mentor assignments.  Begin thinking about what your first mentoring experience will look like.  You also had a little more time to work on your career cruising.  If you have not turned in required forms (blue, yellow, green), please do so.  Next class is Thursday.

World:  In class today we discussed HOW to analyze primary source documents, then you were assigned a number from the Document package (receive last Friday), to complete according to the CHART categories.  The chart allows you to analyze the document according to some form.  Once the chart was completed for YOUR ASSIGNED documents, you were to answer the document questions on a separate piece of paper.  In addition, you were to answer I & II at the top of the handout..it reads HOMEWORK FOR EVERYONE.  Come to class tomorrow with your analysis and questions completed.  We will debrief and more on.  Remember, the framing question is:  What does it take to be a civilization? Do you see the TENANTS of civilization in the primary source documents?

If you were absent today, just pick a number 1-4 off the document sheet to complete. (we counted off in class).  With your assigned number and having to complete I & II, you will have 4 columns on the chart completed for tomorrow.

Friday there is a quiz/test on the material to date. Begin preparing.  You should review and study:
1. Cornell notes (PERSIAN) chapter 2
2. Reading and annotations from in class materials, and included discussion questions
-The Beginnings
-The Foragers
-Goucher
-What it takes to be a civilization
3. The positive and negatives of farming "T" chart.
4. Primary Source document analysis related to comparing civilization (river valley's)

The quiz/test (quest), will be in the format:  Some objective (multiple choice, matching), and some short answer essay. (typically the short answer essay look like the questions and entry/exit slips we do in class).

Civics: Due tomorrow is the reading & Cornell from Principles of government reading packet. Be sure you have fully completed the material.  In class today, we began exploring public good and whether or not health care is a public good.  Is it the charge of the government to provide health care to its citizens?  We headed to the lab to search for 5 health related headlines from credible news sources. Upon returning to class, we shared to obtain a pulse on the issue. Our discussion prompts were: What do you know about the health care reform law passed by Congress?, What are people most concerned about?, and What are the current challenges facing the American health care system? We will continue this journey tomorrow as we begin to acquire knowledge that will be eventually transferred in to a debatable topic.

On Friday there is a quiz/test (quest).  Be sure to begin your preparations by reviewing all materials to date.  Our topics thus far have been Power and Authority, and the Principles of Government.  Along with the text reading we have done a number of activities and reading to support the topic. Dig those materials out and review, and study the concepts. Be sure to review the power quotes, the philosophers along with any thought questions covered and exit slip content.

The quiz/test (quest), will be in the format: Some objective (multiple choice, matching), and some short answer essay. (typically the short answer essay look like the questions and entry/exit slips we do in class).

13th Seminar: College essay drafts were collected today, after small encounter of peer feedback.  We were briefly in the lab for career cruising and WSU came today for a college presentation.  You received documents to be signed and returned.  Technology form, bullying policy and concussion form.  All require signatures and must be returned. 

There is class on Friday!

World, Civics, 12th Focus

World: Our focus today was on What it takes to be a civilization.  After revisiting your poster overviews, we debriefed the reading and few questions; then identified the tenants, there are 7.  We will continue to work in the civilization context.  Plan for a quiz late next week, end of the week.  By Monday, you need to read the documents provided in class today. Our next step is to learn about civilization from the people who where there.  Come to class on Monday with the documents I asked you to read.  DO the BEST you can. 


Civics: Today we concentrated on developing our understanding of the principles of democracy.  We used Locke to gain understanding and used the terms; equality, inalienable rights, natural rights, & liberty.  Credit was given for reading, annotating and doing the 3 questions related to the biography on Locke.  (See website to access locke materials)  At the end of class you received an exit slip to check for understanding; in addition, you received a reading that is being put in place of chapter II; however you may consult with Chapter 2 for information. The material is on the principles of government. There are Cornell notes that go with the reading. The notes contain vocabulary.  The reading and Cornell Notes must be completed for full credit on TUESDAY.  Plan for a quiz end of next week.  Check the website for uploaded documents.  If the reading is not posted, it's not electronic and you will have to pick it up in the classroom.

12th Focus:  Continued with mentor training today and the career cruising.  You also received power school  updates.

World, Civics

World:  Our concentration today was on our framing question; What does it take to be a civilization.  You accumulated the remaining information for you PERSIA chart by journeying around the room and obtaining information from the visual snapshots of the river valley civilizations.  Prior to debriefing, you analyzed your chart and came up with a bulleted list of what you think it takes to be a civilization.  For this evening, I want you to continue to contemplate the framing question.  In addition, READ & ANNOTATE the handout, What Does It Take To Be a Civilization.  After reading and annotating, complete PART I only, the Debriefing questions.  DUE TOMORROW for credit  (If absent today, you can find the reading on the website).

Civics: In class we debriefed Machiavelli and implemented the terms of state of nature, natural rights, soveriegnty,.... we also revisited the philosophers to discuss whether or not people could be trusted to govern based upon their theories.  Consider power: How to get it, use it and keep it.  Finally, in class we began taking a closer look at LOCKE.  For tonight READ/ANNOTATE the LOCKE biography and complete the 3 bullet questions.  Due for homework credit.  We will finish up with Lock tomorrow.  Be sure to review your material to date. Plan for a quiz on the material NEXT WEDNESDAY.
Have a nice day.

World-Civcs-12th Focus

World: Upon entry, you completed an entry slip on farming.. whether or not is was a good idea.  You made a claim, and supported that with detailed evidence.  It was collected, read, commented and returned.  The focus today was, PERSIA(N), related to the River Valley's.  You collaborated in your small team, then formulated a visual snapshot of your assigned river valley. Our framing question is:  What does it take to be a civilization?  We will continue tomorrow.  There will be a brief time in class to put finishing touches on your visual, then you will begin to accumulate the necessary information as you interpret the other visual river valley's.  For tonight, review material to date.  Be prepared to show an solid understanding of the river valley's tomorrow in class.

Check power school for grade updates!

Civics:  We continued with POWER today and viewed it through the the lens of Machiavelli and some of the concepts present in his book known as the Prince.  We debriefed the quotes and  your interpretations and you showed an understanding of Power, where you get it, what to do with it and how to keep it from Machiavelli's perspective, then you viewed a short video clip on the PRINCE so that you could see the application of the concepts to real world politics.  For tomorrow you are to complete the questions that followed the Machiavelli quotes. Also, review the vocabulary in the packet containing power quotes (state of nature, natural rights...) .  Finally, be sure you have an understanding on the "philosophers" regarding whether or not people can be trusted to govern.  Ie:  Consider Hobbes, Locke... Check your chart. Be able to support your claim related to whether or not people can be trusted to govern.

12th Focus: 1/2 Mentoring prep - Awareness of Self/Self Image, Lab for career cruising & google account.  There was discussion related to Fun Friday.  See Ms. R. Vinter for info.

World History, Civics, 13th Seminar

World: Our framing questions today: Was farming a good idea?  What does it take to be a civilization?  We read together and annotated a reading, Was Farming A good Idea?  We then complied a "T" chart indicating the positives and negatives of farming.  Nice job with this. Be sure you can respond to a prompt: Was farming a good idea?  You should be able to take a position and support that position with details.  For tomorrow, you are to review your material to date on river valleys.  Today you were assigned ONE OF THE FOUR River Valleys.  You are to do a PERSIA analysis on the chart provided on your assigned river valley.  COME TO CLASS WITH THAT COMPLETED.  Yes it is homework. 

* (1st period only) YOU WILL BE MEETING IN ROOM G221 (WITH MR. BASHI) FIRST PERIOD ONLY.  I have a  meeting to attend in the morning, and Ms. Bashi is covering my class.  When there, you will work in your assigned river valley team to collaborate on the information you complied on your chart.  Together you will begin to create an informational poster which reflects the tenants (PERSIA)(N) of your civilization.  You will be provided with necessary materials.  Work diligently and complete your task in class tomorrow.

Cornell notes were credited and returned today.  Some were good, others were not.  Check power school end of today/tomorrow, for grade updates.

Civics: We continued with power and authority today.  What it is, how to get it and how to keep it.  In class you deciphered the philosophers related to the foundations of power, considered the state of nature and natural rights.  Framing question from this activity: Can people be trusted to govern themselves?  For this evening, read and complete the Machiavelli quote and interpretations due tomorrow for class.  Please review the material to date. We will continue with this material tomorrow, please come prepared.


13th Semiar:  Internship inventory was taken today. Also a CMU rep was here.  See you Friday.  Remember, it is a special event day and you are asked to be here for the day, although you are only required to attend 12:50-2:50.

World, Civics, 13th Seminar

World:  Cornell notes were collected today, I will return them on Monday.  We continued to discuss and explore why farming is important and why if, hunting and gathering was so great, Farming developed.  In class, we used the Goucher reading about early agriculture to learn and embrace a theory about agriculture, how it was an accident and how it developed in places other than the river valleys.  We wrapped up by reviewing the focus questions for the reading.  There is no homework, except in 4th period, we did not finish the debriefing, so could you please do finish those questions.  On Monday, we will pick up with an analysis of farming and hunting & gathering and the river valleys. (Handout, please pick up on the classroom.)

Civics:  Cornell notes were credited today. We also debriefed the content.  Although we are moving on, we will continue to develop the ideas set forth related to power-authority and politics.  At the end of class, we began exploring the questions, can people be trusted to govern?  You received a packet of information for analysis and you were assigner one philosopher. Please take the time to read your bit, answer the 3 focus questions and transfer the information onto the chart provided at the back of the packet.  We will continue with this quest on Monday.  Philosophy Document can be found on the website.

13th Seminar:  Received info related to Senior photos, internship, teach-ins.... If you were absent, :(, you missed out.  Class again on Monday.

World, Civics, 12th Focus

World History:  Due tomorrow for homework credit are the Cornell Notes for Ch. 2.  If you need additional sheets to write on, just use your own paper and attach. Remember, the goal is to gain an understanding of What it takes to be a civilization.  We completed the foragers reading and discussion and compiled a preliminary list on what it takes to be a civilization. I made clear that the list will be modified and condensed, so be patient.  Nevertheless, you have a start point. 

Civics: Due tomorrow for homework credit are the Cornell Notes for Ch. 1. We continued with power and authority today.  By analyzing the "power quotes" you were to gain a better understanding of the relationship between power and authority.  Consider the current situation with Syria and today's NYT OP ED from Russian's Vladimir Putin. (Provided the reading in class for you to read.  We will explore that first thing tomorrow.  If you don't have it, google it).  We discussed the significance of the United Nations, looked at the structure and function, (World peace and security) and zoomed in on to the Security Council.  15 members, 10 rotate, 5 permanent (US, UK, France, Russia, China).  ONLY the five permanent members have veto power. Also, we provided an understanding related to the significance of the Security Council (politics-power-authority), and compared it & the entire UN to the failed League of Nations.  We will finish up power and authority tomorrow and prepare to begin a new topic for Monday.

12th Focus:  Building and Helping Relationships, communication.  Also lab work related to establishing a Gmail contact list,  career cruising & Power School.  See you on Tuesday.

World History, Civics

World:  In class we spent time sharing with a partner the reading and annotations related to the Prequel.  You then compiled a main idea list which we debriefed while gaining a pulse on annotations.  We spent time on modeling the foraging reading and will continue tomorrow as we move into our focus on farming (agriculture). Continue working on the reading and Cornell for chapter 2.  The assignment is due on Friday.

Civics:  We continued with power and authority today.  Taking time to listen and analyze the Presidential speech with respect to power, authority and the Constitution was an excellent teachable moment for Art.2: Executive Power. We had a spirited discussion related to Syria and the government's current foreign policy and push for diplomacy.  There was time to begin interpreting with a buddy the power quotes but you probably have not finished, but we will do so in class tomorrow.  Continue to work on your reading assignment and Cornell notes due for Friday.  More on power and authority tomorrow.  Remember, pay attention to your world!

Have a great day!!

World-Civics-12th Focus

World History: Today we continued with Subsistence and Adaptation.  We discussed food getting patterns (posted), and began to think about civilization.  You viewed seven minutes of Gods Must Be Crazy to obtain a visual about civilization and to begin contemplating what it takes to be a civilization. In 4th period, we need to finish the segment.  For tomorrow, you should have the prequel reading read and annotated.  Although we began an in-class annotation on Foraging... it is NOT homework. We will continue with that in class too.  In addition, you should be working on your Cornell Notes for the Ch. 2 Assignment.  I will provide further explanation tomorrow. 

Civics:  Today we focused on POWER and AUTHORITY.  You finished viewing the Lord of the Flies Clip to gain an understanding of Power, it's form, how to gain it and how it becomes evil.  The understanding of power is essential for Civics.  Be sure to view the President's speech on Syria tonight at 9:00 p.m.  Think about how the use of power is being utilized. Due Friday are the Cornell notes for Chapter 1 (1.0-1.5).  Be certain that you are working on that assignment.

12 Focus:  Meet in the classroom first, then it's off to J294.  More on Mentoring next time.

Enjoy your day!

World History, Civics

World History: Today we finished up introducing the idea of scaling (zooming), periodization... We also began exploring the concept of subsistence. Do you remember what the terms mean and why they are important?  We will continue with Subsistence tomorrow.  In the meantime, begin reading and annotating the Prequel reading. It's completion is due on Wednesday at the start of class.  The reading is not electronic, so you will need to come to class to fetch it.  Have a nice day!

Civics: Today we began exploring POWER.  (WE WILL REVISIT THE CITIZENSHIP SURVEY SOON).  We began with a power assessment, then, you viewed a segment from Lord of the Flies to gain a visual of POWER.  You might be able to get the 27 min clip on YouTube. We used discovery education streaming. If you cannot access it from home, you can in school because I have an account.  The handout given in class today will be posted on the website later today.We covered the warm-up and group collaboration.  You received a CORNELL NOTE ASSIGNMENT related to learning and processing information.  That too will be posted.  Reading, chapter 1.0-1.5 & Cornell notes will be due on Friday.  More on POWER tomorrow.  Enjoy your day!

13th Seminar: Meets in B108 today