WaldvogelHistory - Mr. W's Blog

ALL Projects DUE!

2010-05-24T15:19:00.000-07:00

Students and parents,
Final projects are due! This includes all parts! Do not turn in research papers that are shorter than 4 pages or missing bibliography, timeline, 4Square outline. This project is 30% of your grade. You are in serious risk of failing SS if you have not completed it!

You still have time to complete your class presentation! Be prepared to share your thesis and proofs by next Monday. This is a required part of your project! Every student must present their findings.

Parents - Progress reports are going out for all classes

2010-05-12T16:48:00.001-07:00

Parents
Progress reports have been created and are out this week. Please make sure your student is up to date with assignments in all classes and is completing their SS research project! See previous posts.

Next Review test Friday Unit 3 Multiple choice

2010-05-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

8th graders - be ready for review quiz this Friday of Unit 3 in review book!
Scores were not good on Mondays review! Please study! I will use the same questions!

Final Projects are due on 21 of May

2010-05-09T20:53:00.000-07:00

Your student should be well on their way toward completing their final research project. All students have received research packets. (dates, instructions, possible topics included)
All students should have completed (Parent sign-off sheet, 10 research questions to get started)
Has your student done the following????
1-preliminary bibliography (see packet for correct formatting)
2- Timeline with 5- 10 important dates explained in students words
3- 4 square outline to direct research and layout proofs of thesis
4- Completed a 4-7 page first draft
5- working on presentation for class (Powerpoint/Windows Movie)
6- preparing to turn in completed research paper with all the above, per assignment instructions, on May 21

Parents 8th grade - we are taking a series of review exams

2010-05-09T20:44:00.000-07:00

Starting Monday we will be taking weekly review exams to prepare for the state test in June. Students have received testing books. My test questions will be drawn directly from this book! Monday will include 25 questions taken from Unit 1-2 Multiple Choice tests (p.13, p.25)
Next test will include Units 3-4 on friday of this week.

7th Graders must turn in Essay!

2010-05-09T20:40:00.000-07:00

I am missing essays on Shay's rebellion based on the information we all gathered in class, question sheet, and 4 Square we developed together as a class!

Assignment: What do you think about Shays’ Rebellion?
Explain all of the following in a 5 paragraph essay using the 4 square we created in class!

1)What was the condition of the Articles of Confederation government?

2) Why did Shay’s rebellion happen? What happened?

3) Would you have supported Shay’s or Adam’s?

4) Was Shay’s rebellion a success? Was it good or bad for the country?

5) What kind of government would you design to replace the Articles?

Project tear off due Friday!

2010-04-21T19:11:00.000-07:00

Parents,
Students have received final research packets! Students must submit parent slips with signatures, Topic and thesis statement by Friday!

Have you turned in your assignments????

2010-04-06T19:35:00.000-07:00

7th - You will lose points for missing the following!
1)Revolution timeline with at least 8 important dates explained
2) Declaration of Independence foldable with all 4 parts listed and translated in 7th grade language
3) Completed test study - Test next week!!!

8th -
1) Cartoon of WWI causes (see previous post)
2) Completed test study sheet
Test coming Friday or Monday

8th Grade please use the website posted in the INFORMATION section of this blog to study for state exam in June!

2010-04-04T17:18:00.001-07:00

Be prepared for next exam!!!

2010-04-04T17:12:00.000-07:00

8th Grade will be having Unit exam this Friday or the following Monday.
7th Grade will have Unit exam on Wednesday or Thursday next week!

Study sheets must be turned in completed on the day of the exam to receive extra credit.
Study sheets have been posted on this blog in previous posts. Paper copies will be distributed on Wednesday of this week!

Some 8th Grade Cartoons not turned in - see storyboard and samples below

2010-03-28T16:19:00.000-07:00

7th Grade Study sheet - Test Monday After Break!

2010-03-28T15:44:00.000-07:00

See Feb 21 entry! Complete sheet and turn in with exam!

8th Grade study sheets for next 2 units- please complete and turn in with exams

2010-03-28T15:33:00.000-07:00

Still Waiting for late work!

2010-03-08T16:37:00.001-08:00

Please turn in projects and any missing essays! Failure to do so will hurt your grade. See previous posts!

The 240th Anniversary of the Boston Massacre

2010-03-06T17:33:00.001-08:00

The 240th Anniversary of the Boston Massacre

Posted using ShareThis

Final Chance to complete work! Grades are due

2010-03-04T08:10:00.000-08:00

Parents all work is Due! Students have been reminded to turn in all work that has not yet been completed!

Look back at progress reports!
Recent assignments are as follows -
8th grade - (see old blog posts)
1) Research Project 30% of grade! Due Feb 10 (All Parts!) Presentations starting now!
2) 5 paragraph Essay on American Expansion

7th grade- (see old blog posts)
1) Research Project 30% of grade! Due Feb 10 (All Parts!) Presentations starting now!
2) 5 paragraph Essay on Causes of Revolution
3) Revolution Timeline

Study sheets for 7th and 8th grade

2010-02-21T20:30:00.000-08:00

Unit 7 8th Grade

Unit 3 7th Grade

Parents Semester Projects Past Due 7 and 8 grade

2010-02-19T14:15:00.000-08:00

8th Grade essay on Amercan Expansion/Imperialism

2010-02-16T08:31:00.000-08:00

All 8th Graders!
Please use the 4 square you made in class to write an essay that supports US expansion or criticizes it as Imperialism. (1890-1914)

Please use all the information you collected in class, facts, Quotes in every paragraph!

Use all of Chapter 5 in textbook (quotes, facts, arguments) to create your argument! (p.108-133)

7th Grade Essay on Causes of Revolution

2010-02-16T07:59:00.000-08:00

Please use the 4Square outline you created in class to create a 5 paragraph essay on the causes of the American Revolution.

Paragraphs

1- Hook (Quote, story, poem, etc.)

Historical Context (dates of causes, long process of give and take, countries involved, situation of Mother country and colonies, Mercantalism/Triangle trade, etc.)

Thesis Statement - There were many causes of the American Revolution including longterm ideas, as well as moe immediate British and American actions.

2- Body 1 - Long term (3 causes) please explain each with at least 2 sentences each!

3- Body 2 - British actions (3 actions)explain at least 3 with at least 2 sentences each!

4- Body 3 - American actions (3 actions) explain 3 with at least 2 sentences each!

5 - Conclusion paragraph

Restate Thesis, restate proofs, give opinion based on facts (could the war have been avoided?), Wrap up and use quote

Parents - Projects due Feb 10

2010-02-04T21:04:00.000-08:00

All parts of research project due Feb 10
Presentations begin week of 23

Student progress reports have been handed out for all classes

Parents - Article on importance of Core Curriculum

2010-01-06T14:49:00.000-08:00

From the author of the program our school has begun to implement. Thank you for reading the article and helping your kids expand their interest and knowledge in our history and the democratic principles. With your help they will grow and thrive!

7th Grade HW 1/4/10

2010-01-04T15:55:00.000-08:00

Please complete all questions on British Colonial Policy and be prepared to share!

All 8th graders must turn in Essay! Due before break

2010-01-03T12:00:00.000-08:00

Many have not turned in their essays on the Gilded Age! These were due before the break. Please get them in. They should be at least 7 paragraphs long!

7th Graders must turn in Essay and worksheet!

2010-01-03T11:26:00.000-08:00

All 7th graders were asked to complete a 5 paragraph essay on the Mystic Massacre. This essay must be based on the 4 square outline we created in class and the question sheet! If you use these two resources your essay will easily be constructed.

1) Intro- Hook, Historical Context, Thesis statement

2) Trade relationship turned to fear and raids

3) reasons for fear and hatred - T chart from class on differences between Pequot and Puritans

Ideas on land, religion, Roles of men and women, warfare,

4) The experience of the massacre and the Pequot today

5)Conclusion - restate thesis, restate proofs, Your opinion on the question, "Could things have been different, or was war inevitable?", wrap up

All students should be working on Projects!

2010-01-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

The first step of the project is due on friday!

This should include (typed)

1) parent sign off sheet from packet

2) Topic

3) Preliminary thesis statement (what the project will prove)

4) 10 questions that will drive your research

7th grade map quiz friday 12/4

2009-12-03T09:17:00.000-08:00

Please study your map sheets! Memorize the names and locations of all 13 colonies. You must also know which colonies belong to New England, Middle and Southern sections. You should also be aware of the growing conditions, climate, geographical features, crops and products of the colonies. (Use your notes) maps and info are also on p.73-91 in your text.

7th grade Exam 12/10 Be prepared!

2009-12-03T06:20:00.000-08:00

Please come to the test with a completed study sheet!

TEST 12/10

You must complete it for HW or you will be penalized 5 points! Once again YOU MUST TURN IN A COMPLETED STUDY SHEET!!!

If you study the test will be simple. YOU MUST COMPLETE ALL QUESTIONS USING RAFT and turn them in at the start of the test.

8th grade HW notebooks/folders Due 11/24

2009-11-22T08:15:00.000-08:00

I will be checking the last several assignments as 8th grade takes their exam. Please bring your study sheet answers and homework so that you can receive full credit. I will post all of this semesters assignments for those of you who are missing work.

7th Grade Study sheet - Test tuesday after Thanksgiving Break

2009-11-21T20:20:00.000-08:00

7th Grade - Study Sheet Below

This sheet is required Homework! Please complete all questions using RAFT

Exam 2 Fall 09 Grade 7 If every question is completed using RAFT on a separate sheet of paper it can be turned in for up to 5 points at the time of the exam

1) Why were Europeans so interested in going to the Far East? What were these places called? What were they looking for?

2) How did the First People reach America, according to scientists?

3) What were the astrolabe, caravel, and the magnetic compass? How did they transform navigation?

4) What area of the world was Columbus trying to reach?

5) What area of the world did Columbus actually reach? What did he call the area he reached?

6) What is a primary source? What is a secondary source?

7) Why did colonial farmers settle near oceans and rivers?

8) During what time period, did most explorers explore?

9) When did the English Colonies begin in America?

10) When did the Colonies declare freedom from England?

11) Why were European explorers searching for a Northwest Passage?

12) What was the main reason people came to the Colonies of Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island?

13) What was the Virginia House of Burgesses? Why was it created?

14) Why were African slaves brought to America?

15) Before England controlled New York in 1664, who did the colony belong to?

16) How did Native Americans help early colonies?

17) Who wrote the Mayflower Compact? What was its purpose?

18) What does the term “Body Politick” mean?

19) List the New England Colonies.

20) List the Middle Colonies.

21) List the Southern Colonies.

22) Name the five tribes of the Iroquois League?

23) Why did those five tribes work together?

24) What type of government is a Democracy?

25) What civilization did Pizarro conquer with the help of native allies?

26) What group of colonies produced the most lumber, fish and rum?

27) In what group of colonies was tobacco mostly grown?

28) Why were different crops produced in different regions of the country?

29) What areas of North American did the Spanish control?

30) What were the Spanish looking for in Mexico?

31) Who conquered the Aztec?

32) What is a cash crop? Give example from the colonies

33) What is mercantilism?

34) What are the triangles of trade?

35) Why did the Puritans and Pilgrims leave England to come to America?

36) What were the main resources that the French were interested in taking from North America?

37) What areas of North America did the French control?

8th grade test - Required Study sheet posted below for you

2009-11-21T13:30:00.000-08:00

8th grade - We will take our next exam on Tuesday! 11-24-09 Please be prepared by using your study sheet. A completed study sheet will guarantee success on the exam!

ALL STUDENTS are required to turn in their completed study sheets as HW on Tuesday. Those who complete all questions using RAFT will receive up to 5 points of Extra Credit on their exam. If you do not turn in your completed answers you will lose 5 points on your Exam! Again, the study sheet is not voluntary, it is a HW assignment due the day we take the exam. 11-24-09

The test will consist of 30 multiple choice questions taken directly from the study sheet. Students will be responsible for 2 of the 3 extended response topics. Please see video and study sheet below.

8th Grade Exam 2 Fall 09 Review Sheet

If every question is completed using RAFT on a separate sheet of paper it can be turned in for up to 5 points at the time of the exam

1) Why was Uncle Tom’s Cabin, by Harriet Beecher Stowe, such an important book?

2) What were The Compromise of 1850 and The Kansas Nebraska Act of 1854 about?

3) What was the outcome of the Supreme Court Dred Scott decision of 1857?

4) What political party did Abraham Lincoln help start?

5) What was the Fugitive Slave Act?

6) Why do we remember Fort Sumter?

7) What advantages did the North have over the South in the Civil War?

8) What was the main goal of the North at the beginning of the Civil War?

9) What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?

10) What amendments ended slavery, guaranteed the rights of citizenship, and the right to vote?

11) What was sharecropping?

12) What did the Bessemer process do for the production of steel?

13) What is a corporation? A stock? A trust?

14) What does the term Manifest Destiny mean?

15) Why was the battle of Gettysburg important? What was the Gettysburg Address? What American ideals did it celebrate?

16) What was the result of most of the peace treaties between the American Government and Native American Tribes in the 1800’s?

17) What was the result of the Mexican War?

18) What were the dates of the American Civil War and Reconstruction?

19) What were the NY Draft Riots?

20) What were the causes of the American Civil War?

21) How did the Assembly Line transform factories?

22) How did the railroad transform America?

23) What was the Trail of Tears?

24) Why was the Erie Canal so important to NY and the rest of the country?

25) How did the Railroad change America and the relationship between the states?

26) What problems and dangers did children experience in factories?

27) What was the purpose of the black codes? How were they different from the post-war amendments to the Constitution? Who made them?

28) What was the purpose and Freedman’s Bureau? What did it do?

29) Why did Reconstruction come to an end in 1877? Explain

30) How did the Supreme Court decision Plessey v Ferguson (1896) hurt civil rights in America and encourage segregation? What is segregation?

Extended Response - Compare and Contrast

Each must have an intro. sentence with dates, restate question, six clear/explained proofs, conclusion statement that tries to pick a side

1) Reconstruction Success/Failure? - clearly explain three proofs for each (DATES?)

2) Was Manifest Destiny winning/losing the West? - clearly explain three proofs for each (DATES?)

3) The Gilded Age of the Industrial Revolution gold/grit – (growth or suffering) - clearly explain three proofs for each (DATES?)

Parent teacher Conferences 11/10

2009-11-09T17:47:00.001-08:00

Please come out to meet your child's teachers. We hope to see you there!

HW Due Thursday and Friday 11/12-13

2009-11-09T17:39:00.000-08:00

Use RAFT!

8th Grade - read p.39-43

Thursday p. 42 #1-3 , p.43 FMI

Friday p. p39Key terms and people, all Reading Checks

7th Grade- read p.72-77

p. 72 Key terms and people

All Reading Checks

7th grade response to mystery question

2009-11-02T11:51:00.000-08:00

Question: How were a small force of Spanish able to defeat and control a large civilization like the Inca?

1) Why have stories and sources been doubted until now? What new types of evidence have emerged to help clarify the story?

2) Name and discuss 5 reasons why the Spanish were able to conquer

HW for week of 11/2-11/6

2009-11-01T16:29:00.000-08:00

8th Grade - Read p. 13-25
p. 5 all key terms section 2-3
and Academic vocabuary

7th grade - read 46-57
p. 51 S3A 1-3 all questions use RAFT
p. 57 S4A 1-4 all questions use RAFT

Parents and students

2009-10-29T03:16:00.000-07:00

Students were handed reminder sheets. These listed the few big assignments of the semester they needed to have handed in by now. Please confirm that this was done. See Below! If a student is not sure reprint assignment, share at google docs, or mail at waldvogelhistory@aol.com

Conferences are on Nov. 10

8th Grade
Have you turned in
1) Why Study History?Essay
2) 54th Essay
3) Completed Reconstruction Scrapbook
4) How the West was won and lost - foldable
In HW Notebook textbook HW
Check Blog
waldvogelhistory.blogspot.com

7th Grade
Have you turned in
1) Why Study History?Essay
2) Legend
3) Maya essay
4) Inca mystery
In HW Notebook all textbook HW
Check Blog
waldvogelhistory.blogspot.com

Parents

2009-10-23T18:06:00.000-07:00

Please check for missing assignments and HW due tuesday.

8th grade students should hand in their Reconstruction scrap books by Monday! I have only received about half of the scrapbooks. Please look at your students outlines and discuss their projects with them to ensure they have successfully completed their scrapbooks (30% of grade)

7th grade - we have completed in class debate presentations on Columbus. After grading and examining peer grading sheets it is clear that most students in the 7th grade need lots more preparation and effort when presenting their arguments before the class. On Monday students will journal on the ways they can work on improving their arguments and presentation skills. Please ask your student to explain the ways they will attempt to improve their work!

Marking period coming to an end soon please catch up with missing work!

HW Due Tuesday 27th

2009-10-23T04:35:00.000-07:00

7th Grade - Please read and complete questions on p. 28-29

Read pages 34-45 Use RAFT to define and give examples of KEY TERMS p. 37

8th Grade - Read pages 2-12 Answer questions completely p.12 #1-4 Use RAFT

PARENTS REPORT CARDS COMING SOON PLEASE CHECK OLD POSTS TO MAKE SURE YOUR STUDENT IS UP TO DATE!

Parents and students

2009-10-17T06:18:00.000-07:00

7th & 8th Grade - here is a list of important assignments that should already have been handed in.

Every essay must contain a thesis statement that body paragraphs clearly develop and prove!
(see examples of 4 Square outline and thesis statements in earlier posts)

All assignments need to follow the standard format of 12 font, Times New Roman, Double space, no extra space between paragraphs

7-
1)Why Study History essay (at least 5 paragraphs with 4 Square we developed in class)
2) Student created legend based on Native American examples we charted in class
3) Maya essay based on artifacts we examined and PBS documentary using 4 square we created in class (Students must follow 4 square outline and expand on each bullet with at least 2 sentences)

We are working on presentations in class. Please ask your student to explain their project and proofs! If they cannot explain their point of view please try to help them develop their ideas.
One of the most important skills that class presentations teach is the ability to formulate an argument and deliver it in a convincing form to an audience. This is an invaluable life and work skill.

8 -
1) Essay test on labor DBQ
2) Why Study History essay (at least 5 paragraphs with 4 Square we developed in class)
3) Essay on the Civil War using the 54th as our example (We created the 4 Square outline in class and each student has a question sheet to help with essay info)
4) We are working on our most recent project in class to answer the question "Was Reconstruction a success or failure" Please discuss your child's thesis and the proofs they are using to convince the reader. Please ask to look at your students scrapbook outline. Research can also be done at home.

7th Grade Legends due

2009-10-01T03:11:00.000-07:00

Please turn in the legends you have created using the charts we made in class and the hypothesis scientists have come up with to explain the arrival of the first people in North America.
Elements that should be included are things such as light, dark, water, earth/clay/dirt, source or force of creation, animals, story that explains the arrival of people, values and lessons incorporated into the story to be passed on to the next generation.

9/24

2009-09-24T03:10:00.000-07:00

Students and parents,
All "Why study history" essays were due on Monday the 21st. Several students have not turned them in. Please make sure I have a printed copy. If this is immposible please share your assignment with me ingmail or email me at my waldvogelhistory@aol.com Please indicate that you would like me to print your work in the subject line. Please do not ask me to print your work if you have access to a printer!
Meet the teacher is today from 8:30-9:30am at 87. I will discuss our goals, projects, my blog etc.

Essay steps - Please see samples

2009-09-12T18:26:00.000-07:00

Above are steps to creating an essay-

creating thesis

brainstorming ideas

4Square outline

Final essay

Please see earlier post for more quotes and essay ideas if needed

Second post of 2009-2010 school year

2009-09-10T01:48:00.000-07:00

Parents and students,

Above are student responsibilities, some reasons why the study of history is so important and quotes about history. Students should be working on their first 5 paragraph essay. "Why Study History?" The essay must be typed and include

a 4Square outline(set up in class)

an introduction with quote about history and a thesis statement

3 Body/proof paragraphs - reasons

Conclusion that restates thesis summarizes proofs and uses a second quote about history

Sept 9-09

2009-09-06T20:09:00.000-07:00

Welcome back! Parents thank you for checking out this blog. See parent letter above. (Click on document to expand. You can copy the image into word if you want a copy.) There are some important documents mentioned the letter that will soon be included. Grading policy is posted on the left side in the HELP box. Thank You. Onward and upward!

7 & 8 Grade year end work

2009-06-08T03:32:00.000-07:00

7th Grade-
1)Study using review sheet for Unit 4 Exam
30 Multiple chioce questions
6-8 short answer questions on Bill of Rights and Checks and Balances
2)We are working on final project in class --- Read several pages each night by using index (R120) from slave auctions -to- slaves to supplement information we are using in class

8th Grade - Some Students still missing Exit Projects - Projects are worth 30% of Grade
Please turn in all parts as soon as possible! See packet for instructions and rubric. We have very few full days left till graduation! (aprox. 6)

8th grade State test Tuesday-Wednesday practice

2009-05-29T23:12:00.000-07:00

Please refer to this link for practice exams and quizes. Start with the online SS quiz, this will give immediate feedback. Then look at past state exams. Also click on "Test Yourself" on the green bar to the right.
http://www.edusolution.com/intermediate/socialstudies/socialstudiesindex.htm

8th Graders Please make sure project is in! Due May 28

2009-05-29T23:03:00.000-07:00

8thgrade project was due on the 28th of May. Please refer to project packet and rubric.
4square, timeline, bibliography, four page paper, presentation in class June 8.

Final Research Project Due May 28

2009-05-08T09:41:00.000-07:00

8 Graders have a research project due on May 28. Students have recieved a project packet that includes a parent letter and sign-off sheet. I will publish this project packet soon.
8th Graders have also recieved a project subject sheet to help pick a topic. They may work with one partner.

Study Materials for 8th Grade State Test June2-3

2009-05-08T09:30:00.000-07:00

Parents and students,
The following web site is a place to go to review for the State Test. 8th grade students will be taking their exam on June 2&3.

1)You can do US history quizes for Middle and High School and see how many you get correct.

2) There are old test you can print out as well. To study please go through the multiple choice part of each test(Part 1)Answers are at the site also.

3)You may also want to work on DBQ essays. Part 2 & 3 of the State test. If you would like more study materials please look at NYS Regents exams in US History for High School.
http://www.edusolution.com/intermediate/socialstudies/socialstudiesindex.htm

Students missing essays and letters

2009-04-27T14:10:00.000-07:00

Dear parents,
Please check that your child has turned in their written assignments for this week, see previous post.

HW DUE MONDAY TYPED

2009-04-23T06:09:00.000-07:00

8th Grade - Complete your imaginary letter written during Great Depression by using the printed outline, your notes and textbook as a guide. Please follow the instructions on the outline and the format carefully to recieve full credit. Please type and carefully proof read your letter! It should be at least one page long! STAPLE OUTLINE TO BACK OF LETTER!
Paragraph 1 Explain term Depression, explain causes of Depression and crash
Paragraph 2 Explain how business and the nation were effected
Paragraph 3 Explain how your family was effected
Paragraph 4 Explain what will help end the Depression

7th Grade - please work on you essay (WE WILL WORK ON IT MONDAY) on Shay's Rebellion. It should be 5 paragraphs and at least one page long and complete all parts of the task. Please use your 4 Square, movie notes sheet, textbook, notebook to give full answers.
INTRO. 1)Quote - explain how it connects to Shay's
2)Historical context: Date, people involved, events occuring at time, short explanation of Shays Rebellion,place
3) Thesis
BODY1 Failures of Articles of Confederation- Long term causes
BODY2 Why Shay's rebelled - immediate causes
BODY3Effects on the state and nation
CONCLUSION Opinion - Was Shays a patriot or a terrorist? Why? Did he succeed?

HW over the break 7 & 8 - Vocabulary and Terms

2009-04-08T05:19:00.000-07:00

8th grade - please complete all define & identify in all sections of chapter 24 p. 730-759
7th Grade - please put all vocabulary (key terms and people)in your own words p.158-173

HW for 4/6

2009-04-06T10:31:00.000-07:00

7thGrade - You have created a simple government in class. Please describe what problems your government might encounter. Remember to discuss the following.
Leaders
Laws
Taxes
Protection

8th Grade-
To be completed by end of break
Chapter 24 in textbook all define and identify

Parents

2009-03-29T18:17:00.000-07:00

Parents,
I have not recieved 8th grade MAIN cartoons and worksheets from several students this is the first important grade of the marking period

7th Grade - I have not recieved some "Causes of the Revolution" essays and 4Squares - This is the first test grade of the semester

HW week of 3-30-09

2009-03-29T17:42:00.000-07:00

8th Grade - ****Please make sure to read all pages and give complete answers!
Monday
Text p. 698-701 Define and Identify
Tuesday
Text p. 702-705 Define and Identify
Wednesday
Text p. 706-710 Define and Identify
Thursday
Text p. 711-714 Define and Identify
Friday
Text p. p. 715-719 Define and Identify

7th Grade -
Monday
Read Text p. 152-155
on p. 152 Copy Key Terms and People - put definitions in your own words
Tuesday
Read Text p. 152-155
p.155 Reviewing Ideas, Terms and People
Wednesday
Read Text p.152-155
p.155 Critical Thinking
Thursday
Read p. 158-162
p.158 Key Terms and People - Copy in your own words
Friday
Read p. 158-162
p. 162 Reviewing Ideas, Terms and People

Homework for week of 3-23-09

2009-03-23T19:13:00.000-07:00

8th Grade- Test Monday (changed from Friday)

HOMEWORK FOR WEEK
- Have you turned all 3 pages of your cartoon? It is your first classwork/homework grade of the new semester?
Tuesday
- re-Read p.666-677
- Read p. 678-681
Explain Completely - Espionage Act of 1917, Sedition Act of 1918,
Selective Service Act, Liberty Bonds, War Industries Board
Wednesday
- Read p. 682-685
Explain Completely - Communists, armistice
- Read p. 686-691
Explain Completely - Wilson's Fourteen Points, self-determination,
League of Nations, reperations, Treaty of Versailles
Thursday
- Read p.692-chart694
Friday
Complete and turn in study sheet for up to 5 extra points on Monday's test

7th Grade-
- Have you completed your womens roles and Thomas Paine assignments and turned them in?
- Have you completed the essay we started last week and 4 Square on causes of American Revolution due on Friday 3-27-09(to be graded as essay test) please type if possible, at least 5 paragraphs with 5 sentences in each (please explain at least 2 causes and how they led to war in the each body paragraph)
Due Thursday 3-26-09
- Complete Chapter 4 Review (p. 141 only) (Please write out questions and answers)
Due Tuesday 3-31-09
- Complete p.143 write out questions
- Complete p.145 Doc 3 and 4 only using RAFT

Due soon Test 8th and essay 7th

2009-03-22T17:27:00.000-07:00

8th Grade- Test on Unit 8 Friday - see study sheet
*****up to five points extra credit for completed study sheets*****

7th Grade- Please Turn in completed 4Square and essay on the causes of the American Revolution

Projects - PLEASE READ

2009-03-02T14:11:00.000-08:00

7th Grade -
All first drafts must be turned in by tuesday 3/2/09
Final Drafts - 7th Grade only due 3/9 with all parts attached (see packet)

8th grade -
Project - All parts due 3/4/09

Parents and students - Projects due soon

2009-02-15T14:51:00.000-08:00

Parents and students,
Please be aware that March 2 is the project due date. All parts must be turned in on this date. Please examine and print the packet from the previous post if you have not yet recieved one. Simply click on any image you would like to see. You can easily print the 5 pages by copying the images into Microsoft Word, adjusting them to fit your page and printing as a normal word document. I have not recieved thesis statements/ten questions and tear off letters from several students. These are required please make sure your child has turned them in.

I am also missing 5 paragraph essays arguing for or against Manifest Destiny from some 8th graders. This assignment took place in class and was to be finished at home. See instructions in earlier post.

Progress reports should have been signed and returned to all subject teachers. Many students have room to improve in all their subjects before the end of the marking period. Please encourage your child to take advantage of the time they still have to make up work in their classes, improve test scores and complete research projects in science and history.

Below are current textbook assignments that must be completed in homework notebooks. Please check to see that your child can explain the importance of each term and is answering questions using RAFT. Thank You. Your participation is much needed and deeply appreciated.

7th Grade - Use RAFT to create complete answers!
Read p. 98-103 Complete Section Assesment - due Wednesday 2/25
Read p. 112-116 Complete Section Assesment - due Friday 2/27

8th Grade - Use RAFT to create complete answers!
Students should have already completed the following - they are past due!
p.638-645 Define and Identify & Reading Checks
p.646-651 Define and Identify & Reading Checks

Assignment Below is due 2/25
p. 653-659 Reading Checks & Define and explain importance of the following terms:
dollar diplomacy, Panama Canal, Monroe Doctrine p330-331, Roosevelt Corallary

Project Packet - Parents have you read and signed?

2009-02-15T14:19:00.000-08:00

Parents,
All Students should have handed in their project thesis and ten research questions on Feb 2.
See above for explanation of a thesis statement and directions to create one (see sample)
See cover letter below and print if you have not signed it.

Parents,

Above is the cover letter that you should have been given to read and sign by your student at the end of January.

Project dates are listed. Please read the letter and pages that follow.

To see complete images click on each of the pages.

To print
----copy individual images and paste into Microsoft Word document
----then print Word Document and use

2009-02-05T09:38:00.000-08:00

Parents,
- progress reports will be out shortly
- Please take a look at project packet
Has your child turned in their Thesis Statement and 10 Research Questions?

8th -
Manifest Destiny/American Expansion essays with 4 Square are due to me
Please use your 4Square and class notes, text book readings to pick a point of view for/against
Intro - Define Manifest Destiny , "Sea to Shining Sea", Describe rise of American power/Second Industrial Revolution, Thesis statement for or against expansion and Manifest Destiny
Body - 2 paragraphs of proofs 1 paragraph that acknowledges/discusses the point of view opposite from your own and explains why it is wrong
Conclusion - restate thesis, summarise proofs, your opinion, connect to expansion today

7th-
Complete your British actions charts so they can be used in class!

2009-02-01T14:37:00.000-08:00

Parents and students 7 & 8
1) Project packets have been handed out and cut-off slips need to be returned.
2) Topic, preliminary thesis statements and ten research questions need to be typed and turned in. Please refer to packet for instructions on creating thesis statements.
3) Timelines and 4Square outlines are due next. See project letter and schedule.

8th

2009-01-05T19:53:00.000-08:00

Due wednesday - 5 paragraph (at least 1 page) How can you rework and improve your essay technique to recieve a 5 on your 8th grade DBQ essay.

Students have just taken last years final essay exam to gauge their progress and prepare them for their state exam in June. Please discuss tonights HW with your child!

missing work

2008-12-20T21:12:00.000-08:00

7th - I am still missing several Mystic Massacre essays and work sheets,
turn in your 13 colonies map

8th- Have you completed your robber baron vs entrepenuer assignment for Rockefeller using your notes from class?
Have you completely answered the question "Is America a melting pot or salad bowl?" Use your notes from class as well as your own opinions!

HW Due

2008-12-10T20:07:00.000-08:00

7th - Please complete your essay, 4 square, and worksheet by Friday.

8th-
- Please turn in both DVD work sheets for quiz grade "Heaven will protect the working girl" and "Homestead Strike".
- Interview several older family members to figure out the push-pull factors that brought your family to America/Queens.

HW 12/4

2008-12-04T08:46:00.000-08:00

7th grade - complete all vocabulary and start answering questions!

8th grade - Write a short letter to a relative describing the conditions of a garment factory in 1910.

12/2 HW

2008-12-01T23:31:00.000-08:00

8th Grade - Please use your understanding of capitalism pro/con, p.582-584, and your class notes, Youtube clips to answer the following question completely. Was John D. Rockefeller a Robber Baron or a Business Pioneer?

Don't forget to use the vocabulary words and understandings you have developed during this unit!

HW Due Tuesday 11/24

2008-11-21T00:28:00.000-08:00

8th grade
Please be sure to read carefully!
p. 585-589
p. 589 SR #1&2 Define & Identify
SR #3

7th grade
Please be sure to read carefully!
p.78-84
78- Copy Main Idea, big idea
define in short paragraphs key terms

wednesday 11-12 in HW notebook

2008-11-11T17:01:00.000-08:00

7th- p.72-77 READ
Section assesment p77 Due Monday

8th - p.578-584 Read
Complete Define and Identify Due Monday

7th and 8th for Wed

2008-11-11T16:58:00.001-08:00

7&8 - all work must be in
7th- letters following 4 square outline
8th - all parts of report

7&8

2008-11-09T15:53:00.001-08:00

Please make sure all work has been turned in the marking period is complete. thank you

Election Day

2008-11-04T00:46:00.001-08:00

7&8 - If you have not handed in your Radio broadcast assignment please do so on Wednesday.

Parents and students
The marking period is fast drawing to a close please turn in any missing work! See Blog!

8 - Final projects with all parts due Friday.

Friday

2008-10-31T09:28:00.000-07:00

7 & 8- Using Your Graphic organizer from Friday class write a 1 scene radio broadcast. You must include an announcer, and 2 characters in your scene. What would scare you? Use your idea.

8- Complete Research project

thursday

2008-10-30T17:21:00.000-07:00

7th - We saw some great presentations today 703!

HW- Please write a 2 paragraph journal entry
1) describe the positive ways people presented their projects (what can you imitate)
2) describe what you must improve when you present

8th - be prepared for final 15 minutes of your essay test on Monday

PLEASE READ
1) have you explained your topic using outside information and included a thesis statement in your introduction?
2) have you used at least 2 documents for each of your body paragraphs?
3) have you used at least 2 types of outside information for each body paragraph? (see you notes!)
4) have you restated your thesis in different words, listed your proofs, given your opinion based on the evidence in your conclusion?

Please make sure you bring your HW notebooks to school (currently 13 assignments should be in your book)

Final Draft date changed to Nov.7

2008-10-29T06:50:00.000-07:00

Parents and students final draft date has been changed to 11/7
8th grade - Your Final Paper should include all of your report (Thesis/questions, timeline,bibliography, 4Square, first draft, Final Draft) see your packet and rubric

Weekend

2008-10-25T15:33:00.000-07:00

8 - Please study your classroom notes and create and rough draft of your essay in class on Monday.

7- Please be ready to present your projects on Tuesday. Complete your 4 square essay by Tuesday and turn it in!

Parents and students (current assessments)

2008-10-22T06:46:00.000-07:00

7 - Please discuss the project your child is working on in class. We will begin our presentations thursday. Each group will turn in and be graded for their want ads, maps, bullet list, speech to king and queen. These 4 things will aid in the group presentation to the class. Students should be using all of their resources (atlas, class notes and charts, primary source documents, etc.)
The best presentations from each class will go up against each other. Your child should be able to explain all four parts to you and how these 4 things will be used in their argument.

8-
1) Please discuss youre child's progress on their research project. Refer to project packet for dates and tasks.

2) Please make sure youre child has kept up with their HW assignments. We are currently working on the period called Reconstruction.
Your child will be using the information they have learned in class, and HW as well as seven documents to create a DBQ test essay starting Friday/Monday? review 4square procedures with your student

HW

2008-10-21T20:54:00.000-07:00

8th - first drafts should have been turned in
Read p. 512-519
Define, Identify, Reading checks

7th - Read p. 51-57
Section assessment p.57

First Draft of reasearch project Due!

2008-10-18T14:28:00.000-07:00

8 - first draft due, see project rubric

7 - have a good weekend

tuesday 10/14 HW

2008-10-14T06:25:00.000-07:00

7th - bring in your completed "inca rebellion" 4 square

8th - make sure you have turned in the following project items:
- thesis and ten research questions
- parent tear off slip
- timeline
- 4 Square outline

ALL THE ABOVE SHOULD BE TYPED AND SAVED on your own computer so they can be used and edited!

802 - test on 10/15 please be prepared, 80% is passing

Tuesday

2008-10-07T19:26:00.000-07:00

7th- Complete Aztec 4 Square (Research Paper packet coming soon)

8th - Test Wednesday - retake of last weeks 8th graded final exam (80% passing grade)

Due Friday Timeline & 4 Square Due for project

Parents alert! Please read research packet, take notice of due dates and sign/return parent letter cut-off. Thank You.

Weekend 10/4-10/5

2008-10-04T18:07:00.000-07:00

7th
PLEASE COMPLETE MAYA ESSAY TEST!
p. 10- 15
p15Review,terms,people

8th -
Quiz Monday

Read p. 492-497
define, identify
read to discover

(Quiz will include 478-482, 492-497, classwork/hw on differences between North and South)

weekend 9/26-9-28

2008-09-26T07:04:00.000-07:00

7th grade- continue your Maya 4 square using info from our documentary. Based on the artifacts we have examined and the documentary answer the following: REMEMBER HISTORY NEVER HAS A SIMPLE ANSWER!! Look at all perspectives
Were the Maya civilized? Explain!
Should the priest have taken the action he did in 1852? Explain!

8th - If you have not handed in Friday's assignment you must do so on Monday!!
Please complete the 5 dates neccesary for your timeline! Use your research and textbook.

hw thursday

2008-09-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

7th- please ad new information from class to your 4 square
8th- please complete the assignment given on tuesday!

HW

2008-09-24T08:35:00.000-07:00

7th - Work on your 4square to organize the information we have discovered in class using SCREAMGP. You should have a thesis statement already written! proofs in bullet points only in your boxes! Decide what information you can put together in each box that makes sense. (PARENTS - look back at old post - Sept 8 - to see 4Square examples)

8th grade- what are some multiple chioce strategies/tricks we can use to help us on our tests?

Work on last nights HW!!!!! Collected Friday!

8th grade - DUE FRIDAY!

2008-09-23T16:34:00.000-07:00

I will ask for two topics from each student for their first project.
Your first topic must have a Thesis Statement or possible statements and a list of at least 10 questions you will be working to answer in your research. List the books and websites you will start with.

Read! Read! Read! Take notes as you read! If you use a direct quote or idea write down the page and author

HW Tues in your HW notebook - we will share our answers

2008-09-23T16:14:00.000-07:00

8th - use the information gathered from our presentations (three colomun chart)to write a short summary that explains the differences between the North and the South in the 1850's and the ways the country was spliting apart. What things were holding the country together, what did we share? Do you believe most Americans in the North wanted to end slavery? (BE PREPARED TO SHARE YOUR SUMMARY!)

7th - use the notes gathered today to write a short summary that does the following:
-explains theories on first Americans
-describes what a civilization is
-describes location, name and facts about civilizations in South, Central and North America
(BE PREPARED TO SHARE YOUR SUMMARY!)

8th Grade Parents and Students

2008-09-21T05:58:00.000-07:00

Students will be receiving their first practice 8th grade state exam this week. Please look over the exam with your student. See what type of thinking, reading, writing activities will be required of them. Notice vocabulary words and terms that may give your student difficulty. Students, please begin to explain to your parents your test taking strategies. How will you achieve your best possible score? It is very important to understand all parts of this exam so that we can do our best in June. Thank You

Students should have picked their first research project topic by now. Topic lists have been handed out and posted on this blog (sept. 11). Students should be creating the thesis statement that they will be proving through their research. See above.

Parents/ Students 8th grade

2008-09-18T13:48:00.000-07:00

Students/Parents 8th Grade.
Please see Calender above for HS dates.
See events for this weekend!!

PARENTS!

2008-09-17T08:45:00.000-07:00

Is has come to my attention that some students are not completing their HW assignments.
1) without textbook HW a student will not be able to collect the definitions and factual information to for the big ideas we need to understand about our nation.
2) I also give many HWs that are directly linked to classwork participation. Some assignments are started in class and completed at home. Other assignments are started at home and completed in class. If your student is not completeing these HW assignments their classwork is suffering and they are not able to help the class move forward.

Wednesday HW

2008-09-17T08:36:00.000-07:00

7th - Please complete the outside of your classwork foldable. List the 7 most important aspects of a civilization. What are the 7 things you believe must exist to have a civilization? Below your answer explain how it brings people together and makes them secure. Please use the internet to research youranswers and think about what civilization is.

8th - Read p.407-412
Complete Define and Identify

You should be working on your research project. What will your thesis statement be now that you have a topic? Is your topic small enough so that it will be interesting. What are people arguing about when they talk about your topic? Why is this topic grabbing your attention? Why is it important to you today? Why do you care?

Tuesday night

2008-09-16T11:01:00.000-07:00

7th - Please be sure to complete your Venn Diagram. Legend and Science (fill in the center of your diagram with things that match both sides) Bring your legends. -

8th - Text 451-455
Read to Discover
Reading Checks

COMPLETE ALL PARTS OF FOLDABLE!!!
Quotes - Summaries
Discuss and evaluate your findings. How do you understand slavery based on the classsroom documents? Do you agree or disagree with the arguments you have read? Many of the new arguments atre true, how would you answer someone with this point of view? How are the arguments made in the documents connected to us today? Does this new perspective make you feel uncomfortable? Why? What questions would you like to ask the people in history we have just read from? What questions would you like to ask the class?

HW Monday

2008-09-15T15:26:00.000-07:00

7th - Make sure you are prepared to share your legend on Tuesday!
Read textbook p. 6-9
Reading Checks
Geography skills

8th - Textbook p451-455
Define & Identify

Weekend

2008-09-12T07:21:00.000-07:00

7th - Complete your essay using the 5 boxes from your chart. Combine the legend promps with your own info to write a legend similar to those we have worked with.
As shown in the chart:
1) Creative force
2) Characters
3) Creation of land and humans (How did they get to America?)
4) Values the legend will pass on

8th grade- Find at least 2 topics for your first project. Yesterday's post contains a topic list and questions. Start your research. figure out what you will be trying to prove. Remember your thesis satement must be something that can be argued. It is not a fact, or question.

thursday HW

2008-09-11T14:25:00.000-07:00

7th
Brainstorm some ideas for your final coloum
Myth/legend due Monday

8th
Complete Big Idea Question and research 2 topics for first project (Revised Topic list below)

Possible Research Topics 8th Grade
Remember every event or person on this list was very important in shaping or changing American history. Create a Thesis Statement and prove it! Your research must tell us:
·How America was changed by this person or event?
·How is the impact of the person or event still felt today?

Philosophy & Utopian Communities How did American thinkers attempt to create a perfect society on earth? Did their ideas and communities work? (Onieda, Harmony, etc.)Second Great Awakening How did this religious movement effect everyday Americans and change the country? (Finney, Burned over district, Revivals, Temperance)
Slavery Could the United States have developed into a powerful nation without slavery? How did religion, family life, and culture help slaves cope? How did some slaves attempt to defeat slavery? Was slavery the cause of the Civil War?
Civil War The Civil War divided and devastated our country between 1861-1865.
Causes of the Civil War, Fort Sumter, Battle of Antietam, Battle of Gettysburg, effect of war on American people, Emancipation Proclamation)
Native Americans
How did the Native Americans struggle to control their destiny on the American continent come to an end in the late 1800s?
(Cowboys, Little Big Horn, Fort Laramie, Reservations, Crazy Horse, Treaty of Medicine Lodge, Sitting Bull, Ghost Dance, Massacre at Wounded Knee, Geronimo, Dawes General Allotment Act)
Moving West Was the idea of Manifest Destiny positive or negative?
How and why did Americans move West after the Civil War?
(Manifest Destiny, Morrill Acts, Homestead Act, Exodusters, Transcontinental R.R., Donner Party, Mexican War, Gold Rush, Mormon Trail )
Second Industrial Revolution
How did technology, free enterprise and the factory system make America the most powerful nation in the world?
(Entrepreneurs, Corporations, Trusts, Vertical and Horizontal Integration, Andrew Carnegie, John Rockefeller, Social Darwinism, Sherman Antitrust Act, Unions, Anarchists, Homestead Strike, Pullman Strike, Hay Market Riot, Knights of Labor, Technology - Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Eugene Debs)
Immigration
What struggles and successes did immigrants face in their new country? (Know-Nothing Party, Chinese Exclusion Acts, Immigration Restriction League, Tenement Housing, Benevolent Society, Old Immigrants, New Immigrants, Hull House, Chinese, Italian, Irish, Mexican, Push/Pull factors to immigrate)
Progressive Movements
How did different Americans attempt to improve their society at the turn of the century? Did the reforms work? Prison Reform, Temperance, Education, urban renewal, labor reform(Progressives, 17th Amendment, Muckrakers- Ida Tarbell, Upton Sinclair, John Dewey, Socialism, Initiative Recall, Referendum, Hull House, Triangle Shirtwaist Factory, Child Labor Laws, Temperance Movement, Booker T. Washington, Ida B. Wells, W.E.B. Dubois, NAACP, Teddy Roosevelt- Arbitration, Food and Drug Act, Conservation, Federal Trade Commission)

Extra Credit

2008-09-09T18:08:00.000-07:00

Please read the following articles. Underline anything that you feel helps you answer the asignment. Connect the underlined articles to a seperate sheet of paper and answer the following in the order you choose:
Explain how the author is trying to convince you that they should be president
Explain what they want you to do
What arguments or appeals are they making?
What are they saying about our country?

Choices for a Rising Generation
Essay by the 2008 Democratic Party Presidential Nominee
by Senator Barack Obama
We are in a defining moment in our history. We're fighting two wars. Our planet is in peril. Our economy is in turmoil. And the dream that so many generations fought for feels as if it's slowly slipping away.
Now, I know that the easiest thing in the world for young people to do is nothing at all. To turn off the TV, put down the newspaper, and walk away from the stories about Iraq or Darfur or the rising levels of joblessness and hopelessness in our own communities. To go about their busy lives, wishing these problems away, expecting someone else to solve them. To remain detached and indifferent.
But I hope they don't do what is easy — because sometimes, there are moments when what's truly risky is not to act. What's truly risky is to accept things as they are instead of working for what could be.
Taking action can mean getting involved politically. We've seen huge numbers of young people taking part in our campaign. They're knocking on doors and making phone calls and helping fight to bring about real change in this country.
But action can also happen outside the political arena. I was born the year that John F. Kennedy called a generation of Americans to ask their country what they could do. And I came of age at a time when they did it. They were the Peace Corps volunteers who won a generation of goodwill toward America. They were the teenagers and college students who knew it was probably safer to stay at home, but still decided to take the Freedom Rides down South. And because they did, they changed the world. And they inspired me, just out of college, to move to Chicago to help lift up neighborhoods that were devastated when the local steel plants closed.
So at this historic moment, we must ask our rising generation to serve their country as Americans always have — by working on a political campaign or joining the military, by doing community service or relief work abroad. Because that's how real change has always come — from ordinary people coming together to do extraordinary things; from all those, young and old, black, white, and brown, who were willing to do what was risky and what was hard and put their shoulders to the wheel of history, and turn it towards opportunity and equality and justice for all.

A More Peaceful and Prosperous World
Essay by the 2008 Republican Party Presidential Nominee
by Senator John McCain
Throughout this election we've been fortunate to witness the inspiring involvement of so many young Americans, many of whom are not even old enough to vote. Families are bringing their children to campaign events; teenagers are canvassing neighborhoods; and college students are organizing student groups. With so much at stake in this election, I am proud to witness the involvement of this new generation of Americans. They understand their participation is not limited to the ballot box: they are volunteering their time and effort to improve the well-being of our country.
Blogs, MySpace, Facebook, and YouTube have changed the way young people participate in the political process. I have made it a priority to reach young people by participating in such venues as the MTV/MySpace Presidential Dialogue, hosting a blog on my website, and reaching out through social networking sites.
Reaching young people isn't simply about the logistics of how you communicate; it is about what you communicate. Young people are not fixated on a single issue. They want leaders who will address the many critical issues directly affecting their lives, the lives of their families, and the people in their communities.
At town hall meetings across the country, I am repeatedly inspired by the commitment of the young women and men who crowd in to have their voices heard — veterans home from Iraq, relating what they saw, telling us to let them win; volunteers with the ONE Campaign talking about their efforts to alleviate global poverty; recent college graduates wondering what I will do to make health care affordable; and the countless young people who ask how I plan to combat the problem of climate change.
After 9/11, leaders in Washington missed an opportunity to call young people to service. Young men and women, who are willing to give of themselves and sacrifice, want a leader who will ask something of them. Young people want — and deserve — to have their opinions respected and their concerns taken seriously. I know this and will continue to call on young people to serve causes greater than their own self-interest.
Young people understand the power that the political process wields as a force for change, and they are actively engaged in harnessing that power to bring about change for their families, their communities and their world. I see, in the efforts and enthusiasm of America's youth, that our nation's best days are ahead of us. I hear the message of young people loud and clear, and as President, I will honor the obligation of today's leaders to leave the next generation a more peaceful and prosperous world than the one we have today.

HW DUE THURSDAY! PLEASE READ

2008-09-09T17:33:00.000-07:00

Parents and students,
I will be collecting all of the acronym/acrostic posters as well as 4 square and essay assignments on Tursday. I am giving an extra day to complete your work. Below I have posted my essay as an example. Please turn in the following;
---HISTORY acrostic poster with clear explanations of why we study history and (Quote)
---SCREAMGP acronym with 3 examples of each category and pictures/symbols
---4 Square complete (see sample)
---Essay using 4 Square

I will not except incorrect or incomplete HW. Please follow my directions as posted. You may have to look back at previous posts!

ESSAY

(paragraph indent shown as---) You will notice that i cut some of my 4 square info to shorten my essay.

Mr. Waldvogel Class:
U.S. History

---It has been said that, “We cannot escape history”. Yet, studies have shown that many middle school students seem to want to do just that. Some students can think of nothing worse than being stuck in another class about dead people. If kids can be shown that history is connected to their lives they just might change their opinion on the subject. When we investigate history we learn how incredibly meaningful and complex our world is. In fact, it is clear the study of history is one of the most important subjects in school and everyone should study it.
---One reason we study the past is because history explores so many topics. It is a great way to learn about our world and how to live in it. For example, in class we used an acronym, SCREAMGP. It stands for the many areas of the past that historians investigate. These areas are Science, Culture, Religion, Art, Military, Geography, and Politics. Our acronym makes it possible for us to remember just how complicated and interconnected history is. We can see that history involves all parts of the human experience. Even this simple memory trick shows us that in order to know ourselves and our world we must get involved with the past.
---Another reason we should study history is it allows us to walk in other peoples shoes. Our world is filled with fighting and problems because there are so many different cultures, religions and governments. If we learn about each others history we can start to understand why people and nations act the way they do. When we understand we can empathize and maybe even talk. The differences that have separated us do not have to lead to conflict.
---Yet, there are some very educated people who don’t agree with these proofs of the importance of remembering and studying history. Leo Tolstoy even remarked that “happy people have no history.” This statement seems to say that ignoring the past with its problems and pains is the best way to live life. Thankfully there are educated and intelligent people who have shown us that history is not best when it is forgotten. Maya Angelou put it this way. “History despite is wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, however, if faced with courage, need not be lived again.” This shows us that knowledge, while often uncomfortable, can be our hope for the future. Others have said that history retold by historians is not true and is therefore a waste of time. Santayana responds to the argument that history is incorrectly remembered with an appeal to all thinking, honest people. “History is always written wrong and so always needs to be rewritten.” Yes, our written history is imperfect, he seems to say. But he doesn’t stop there. He encourages us to rewrite it, to do something! We can get involved instead of ignoring our past or complaining how it is written.
---As you can see, contrary to what many middle school kids think, history is an important and life changing subject. Studying it expands our knowledge of all parts of our world. It helps us fit together with and appreciate many different people and cultures. When we dig into the past we discover so many new possibilities and choices that can be applied to our own lives. And finally, the study of history makes us aware of the incredible impact of people who can remember, think and act. Any middle school student who puts in the effort to untie the complex knot of history becomes someone powerful. When we remember, when we think, we will act and the world will never be the same. When the author William Faulkner said, “The past is never dead; it is not even past” he was absolutely correct. When we learn history we see how much we are still connected to it. We cannot escape history, and we will not want to, because history will open the world to us like no other subject.

Essay on why we study history --- Due wednesday 9/10

2008-09-08T20:09:00.001-07:00

7th and 8th ------ All posters and essays due Wednesday. Please include a copy of your 4 square. A reminder. Incomplete work will not be accepted. These are the first set of assignment and will be added to this years portfolio. Look at my samples to give you a feel for the essay I want.

Above are

a sample 4 square
my 4 square

things to finish this weekend

2008-09-05T20:16:00.000-07:00

Students,
please complete your poster work! I will be collecting everything on Monday. See last posts for help and instructions. To recieve a 3 or 4 you must complete your assignments and use changes/suggestions we talked about on Friday. Have you answered your assignment questions?

8th grade - Please bring a rough draft of a four square outline on Monday. We will put together a short essay that argues that history is important to know and study. Use the ideas you have already come up with to put as reasons in your four square.

Thurday/Friday classwork and homework

2008-09-05T00:12:00.000-07:00

Some Famous Quotes about History

Students,
Over the last 3 days we have been trying to untie a complicated knot of questions! Why do we study history? What are the many parts of history we should include when we think about the past?
Above are the activities we have started in class and completed at home. Please be sure that you complete both activities and turn them in. A rough draft of both activities should appear in your classwork/homework notebooks.

Please include one quote about history that you feel has helped you think about history in a new way. Some quotes are included above. You may find your own. You may include more then one. If you run out of space you may use the back of your paper to explain your quote. Please include the author of the quote.