Thursday, August 26, 2010

Today, the instructor handed out the supplemental Reading Study Guides that accompany the Modern World History textbook.  The reading study guides can help all students "chunk" information and help simplify information in the textbook at home (if they are having difficulty).  In addition, the instructor explained how the Course Notebook will be used in the course.  The students received handout information on the course standards, how to take Cornell Style Notes for summarization, and how to use the textbook in order to grasp the information for long term recall.

Tonight's Homework:  None

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Today, at the beginning of class, the instructor worked with the students to finish the analysis and discussion regarding using APPARTS strategy to work with primary and secondary source material.  The students answered the worksheet questions using the secondary source from Time Magazine (The Case Against Summer Vacation).  Following this exercise, the students worked on an analysis of a visual source using OPTIC and SMELL strategies to identify and critique information seen in the visual (list of emigrants heading to American colonies...who are they?).

Tonight's Homework:  None

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Today in class, the instructor began by collecting the homework assignment from Monday (Course Syllabus Confirmation Page).  After collection of homework, the instructor began a classroom activity on Historical Thinking and Sourcing Materials using a recent article from Time Magazine.  The students were asked to read the article and using the APPARTS strategy handout...source the article and its credibility as evidence in the author's argument/topic.

Tonight's Homework:  Finish APPARTS worksheet from today's classroom activity (if not finished).  In addition, don't forget to pick up and bring a Five Subject (College Ruled) Notebook for usage in class tomorrow.

Monday, August 23, 2010

WELCOME TO WORLD HISTORY!

Today in class, the instructor introduced himself and shared some personal information with the students to help them feel at home in their new course. Following the sharing of personal information, the instructor went over the course syllabus and the expectations for being a student in World History.

Tonight's Homework: Review Course Syllabus with your parents at home and complete the last page and return it to instructor on Tuesday. In addition, please pick up a Five Subject (College Ruled) Notebook for usage in the course. Please have the notebook by Wednesday's class.

Friday, June 4, 2010

Today, the students played the final round of Jeopardy in their assigned table groups to prepare for the Final Exam. Each team will earn (at least) 5 points Extra Credit towards their overall course grade...with 10-30 points available for finishing in 1st-5th place during the competition.

Zero Period (Honors) took their Final Exam.

WH Honors Homework: None...you are Officially Done!

WH Homework: Study for Final Exam/Q4 District Assessment

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Today, the students played Jeopardy in their assigned table groups to prepare for the Final Exam. Each team will earn (at least) 5 points Extra Credit towards their overall course grade...with 10-30 points available for finishing in 1st-5th place during the competition.

Zero Period took their Q4 District Assessment today...Final Exam will be tomorrow.

WH Honors Homework: Study for Final Exam

WH Homework: Continue working on Final Exam Study Guide

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Today, the students worked in their assigned table groups to prepare for the Jeopardy Final Exam Review Game. Each team will earn (at least) 5 points Extra Credit towards their overall course grade...with 10-30 points available for finishing in 1st-5th place during the competition. The students were using their Final Exam Study Guides to prepare for Thursday and Friday's game.

Zero Period played Jeopardy today...Final Exam and District Assessment for Q4 are on Thursday and Friday this week.

WH Honors Homework: Study for Final Exam/District Assessment

WH Homework: Continue working on Final Exam Study Guide

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Today, the students worked in their assigned table groups to prepare for the Jeopardy Final Exam Review Game. Each team will earn (at least) 5 points Extra Credit towards their overall course grade...with 10-30 points available for finishing in 1st-5th place during the competition. The students were using their Final Exam Study Guides to prepare for Thursday and Friday's game.

Zero Period will be playing Jeopardy on Wednesday...since their Final Exam and District Assessment for Q4 are on Thursday and Friday this week.

WH Honors Homework: Finish Final Exam Study Guide and study for Jeopardy Game.

WH Homework: Continue working on Final Exam Study Guide

Monday, May 31, 2010

MEMORIAL DAY HOLIDAY...NO SCHOOL!

Friday, May 28, 2010

Students began the period by presenting their Iran Group Projects (Groups 1-3). They each displayed their 5 minute PowerPoint presentation on the assigned political viewpoint with regards to US-Iran relations. The group portion of the project is worth 60 points.

Following the group presentations...the students participating in a Socratic Seminar on US-Iran relations looking at a solution for the growing hostility in the region. This portion of the Iran Project grade is 40 points...giving the Iran Project-Socratic Seminar a potential of 100 points in total. Students were asked to complete a Summative Exit Ticket for the Socratic Seminar as a portion of the individual grade.

WH Honors Homework: Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend...but press ahead with Final Exam Study Guide to prepare for Final Exam (June 7-9), Q4 District Assessment and Jeopardy Review Game (Extra Credit...June 3-4).

WH Homework: Enjoy your Memorial Day Weekend...but press ahead with Final Exam Study Guide to prepare for Final Exam (June 7-9), Q4 District Assessment and Jeopardy Review Game (Extra Credit...June 3-4).

Thursday, May 27, 2010

The students worked in their Iran Project groups for the period to finalize their organization and assembly of the 5-minute group PowerPoint presentation on their assigned viewpoint (political option)...due at the start of Tomorrow's class period.

Following the group presentations tomorrow, students will be participating in a Socratic Seminar on Iran issues (individual component).

WH Honors Homework: Finish any last minute contributions to tomorrow's group presentation on Iran (project), review Socratic Seminar questions for tomorrow and begin working on Final Exam Study Guide.

WH Homework: Finish any last minute contributions to tomorrow's group presentation on Iran (project), review Socratic Seminar questions for tomorrow and begin working on Final Exam Study Guide.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

The students worked in their Iran Project groups for the period to finalize their organization and assembly of the 5-minute group PowerPoint presentation on their assigned viewpoint (political option)...due at the start of Friday's period.

Following the presentations on Friday, students will be participating in a Socratic Seminar on Iran issues (individual component).

WH Honors Homework: Finish contributions to group project and begin working on Final Exam Study Guide.

WH Homework: Finish contributions to group project and begin working on Final Exam Study Guide.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

The students were given their instructions for the final project of the year (Iran). They were divided up into equitable groups of 8-12 people and were asked to prepare a 5-minute group PowerPoint presentation on their assigned viewpoint (political option) for Friday.

Following the presentations on Friday, students will be participating in a Socratic Seminar on Iran issues (individual component). Today, the students were given the period to work in their groups (with instructor assistance for questions and guidance).

WH Honors Homework: Choices Unit Packet (Iran) and Why We Fight Video Guide due tomorrow. Begin working on Final Exam Study Guide and Group Project (Iran).

WH Homework: Choices Unit Packet (Iran) and Why We Fight Video Guide due tomorrow. Begin working on Final Exam Study Guide and Group Project (Iran).

Monday, May 24, 2010

The instructor was out of the classroom today due to a Social Science Meeting regarding Becoming a Historian Project (District Exam Analysis and Curriculum).

The students continued working on their Choices Program Unit materials for Iran (with the substitute teacher). Today, the students were to focus on the past 60 years of Iran's history and how the leadership of the Shah eventually developed into the Iranian Revolution under Ayatollah Khomeini.

WH Honors Homework: Finish all terms and questions from Choices Unit Packet (Iran)

WH Homework: Finish all terms and questions from Choices Unit Packet (Iran)

Friday, May 21, 2010

The students were given a Video Guide and they watched Part Two of the documentary "Why We Fight" by Larry Jarecki. The documentary examines the question...Why does America fight or get involved in World Affairs? (American Foreign Policy). The film examines the past 50 years of America's Foreign Policy and our recent involvement in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The instructor is using the film as an opposing viewpoint to the Choices Materials on Iran and a tie-together with the information on Iraq that students covered at the beginning of the year. The students will be using the information with their Iran Project next week and Socratic Seminar debate on Friday, May 28, 2010.

WH Honors Homework: None

WH Homework: None

Thursday, May 20, 2010

The students were given a Video Guide and they watched Part One of the documentary "Why We Fight" by Larry Jarecki. The documentary examines the question...Why does America fight or get involved in World Affairs? (American Foreign Policy). The film examines the past 50 years of America's Foreign Policy and our recent involvement in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The instructor is using the film as an opposing viewpoint to the Choices Materials on Iran and a tie-together with the information on Iraq that students covered at the beginning of the year. The students will be using the information with their Iran Project next week and Socratic Seminar debate on Friday, May 28, 2010.

WH Honors Homework: None

WH Homework: None

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

The students were given a copy of the Iran Choices readings and asked to move ahead with their review packets...getting through the first Study Guide (Intro-Part 1) by the close of the period. Tomorrow, the students will be spending time evaluating the film "Why We Fight" examining the US relations and involvement in the Middle East and other concerns of the globe. The students will return to the review for Iran on Friday and Monday before the beginning of the Iran Project and Socratic Seminar on US-Iran Relations.

WH Honors Homework: Iran Review Packet (Key Terms)

WH Homework: Iran Review Packet (Key Terms)

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

The instructor was out of the classroom today due to Personal Business.

The students continued working on their Choices Program Unit materials for Iran (with the substitute teacher). Today, the students were to focus on the early dynasties of Iran's history and how these dynasties eventually developed into the creation of the Ottoman Empire. Upon the instructor's return, the instructor will assist the students with the additional phases looking at foreign occupation (post-Ottoman Empire).

WH Honors Homework: Finish defining all Key Terms from Choices Unit (Iran)

WH Homework: Finish defining all Key Terms from Choices Unit (Iran)

Monday, May 17, 2010

Today, the students were introduced to the Choices Program Unit on the country of Iran from Brown University. The students were asked to read and develop answers to posed questions and graphic organizers detailing the history of Iran from its early civilizations until modern day. From their background information, students should develop an understanding of Iran's political, economic, social and cultural history. They should pay close attention to Iran's relationship with foreign occupiers including the United States, especially in the past 50 years.

WH Honors Homework: Complete Key Terms exercise at home through use of the Internet or a Dictionary

WH Homework: Complete Key Terms exercise at home through the use of the Internet or a Dictionary.

Friday, May 14, 2010

Today, the students participated in a Socratic Seminar regarding the "Emergence of China in Global Economics" and "North Korea as the Axis of Evil on the world's political stage". The students were asked to analyze a set of proposed questions on both countries and share their thoughts vocally amongst the classroom in a instructor-directed discussion.

WH Honors Homework: None

WH Homework: None

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Today, the students watched a video segment about North Korea and the daily life of living within a military dictatorship. The video was produced by National Geographic and features the documentary reporting correspondence of Lisa Ling from the Oprah Winfrey Show, The View and ABC News. Lisa Ling and her film crew follow a medical team as they perform vision surgery within the country of North Korea, while also documenting, interviewing and taking footage of the lives and feelings of its citizens (living behind the walls of military dictatorship)...when freedom in South Korea is just hundreds of miles away across the 38th Parallel.

WH Honors Homework: Southeast Asia Worksheets due tomorrow and prepare thoughts for Socratic Seminar on China and North Korea

WH Homework: Southeast Asia Worksheets due tomorrow and prepare thoughts for Socratic Seminar on China and North Korea

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Today, the students watched video segments from the ABC News Classroom series on the "Emergence of China". The series looks at the competitive nature of China's growing economy and the differences between our political, economic and social cultures. In a globalizing economy, the relationship with China going forward is important to our success. The students were asked to take notes and describe thoughts in preparation for Friday's Socratic Seminar on China and North Korea.

WH Honors Homework: Read Newspaper Article handouts on China and North Korea

WH Homework: Read Newspaper Article handouts on China and North Korea

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Today, the instructor stamped Reading Guide packets that were "fully complete" for extra credit. During the period, the instructor and the students reviewed the questions together and discussed the material during a discussion. The students were asked to finish any questions not fully completed before Friday's collection of the packet.

WH Honors Homework: Finish Asia Worksheets (due Friday prior to Socratic Seminar)

WH Homework: Finish Asia Worksheets (due Friday prior to Socratic Seminar)

Monday, May 10, 2010

The instructor was out of the classroom today due to Professional Development with our District Network Information System (NIS).

While the instructor was out of the classroom today, the students began their review of Asia through the use of annotated reading study guides on China and North Korea. The students were asked to work with the reading material and the textbook to answer the annotated questions on the reading guides in order to prepare for the upcoming video segments and Socratic Seminar during the latter part of the week. Extra Credit offered tomorrow to students with reading guides "fully completed".

WH Honors Homework: Asia Worksheets

WH Homework: Asia Worksheets

Friday, May 7, 2010

Today, the instructor led the students in a Socratic Seminar about the Middle East and the United States role in its history and its future. The students were asked to participate in an open discussion built around a grouping of posed questions from the instructor. The questions were designed to promote dialogue and the sharing of ideas on how to solve the hostility in the region and the opportunity to better working relationships going forward in our global economy and world.

WH Honors Homework: None

WH Homework: None

Thursday, May 6, 2010

In order to make connections between world politics and the role of the United States, the instructor and the students watched the documentary video, "The Road to 9/11". The documentary looks at the political, economic and social relationships of the United States with Middle Eastern countries and how our actions (in history) have contributed to a growing resentment among Arab nations. The students were asked to pay attention to the "choices" we have made and to examine whether our decision-making was based on short-term or long-term goals and what issues may have been present that could have influenced that decision (communism, oil, economics, etc).

WH Honors Homework: Review worksheets and examine ideas presented this week and come prepared for tomorrow's Socratic Seminar about the Middle East (open discussion)

WH Homework: Review worksheets and examine ideas presented this week and come prepared for tomorrow's Socratic Seminar about the Middle East (open discussion)

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

At the start of the period, the instructor continue with the review of the background worksheets before transitioning to a visual story of the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Using the ABC News segments from Israel: A Case Study, the students were given visual exposure to the feelings, emotions and beliefs of both Israeli and Palestinian people in the Middle East. The segments examined the development of the hostility and the lengths to which some citizens will go for their idealism (terrorism and ethnic persecution).

WH Honors Homework: Finish all worksheets from review packet

WH Homework: Finish all worksheets from review packet.

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

The instructor and the students continued their study of the Modern Era. Today, the instructor and the students continued with a review of past curriculum using the Reading Study Guide Worksheets that accompany the textbook. The students worked with the instructor to answer some of the posed questions and establish some background knowledge surrounding the Ottoman Empire and the creation of our Modern Middle East. Before the close of the period, the instructor introduced some notes on the Arab-Israeli conflict and its history in the past 75 years.

WH Honors Homework: Continue worksheet review

WH Homework: Continue worksheet review

Monday, May 3, 2010

Today, the instructor and the students began their study of the Modern Era. During this week of study (week 1), the students will be examining the issues of the Middle East with concentration on Israel and Palestine, with some focus on the growing problem of terrorist cells in this area of the world.

Today, the students began with a review of past curriculum using the Reading Study Guide Worksheets that accompany the textbook. The students were given an opportunity to work together in the classroom (with the textbook) to answer the background information on the Ottoman Empire and the beginnings of European Occupation (due to oil) and how Terrorism began to develop in this area of the world.

WH Honors Homework: Finish worksheets for tomorrow's class period

WH Homework: Finish worksheets for tomorrow's class periods

Friday, April 30, 2010

As a reward for all of the students' hard work in preparation for the CST exam in World History, the instructor and the students had some fun today watching a video segment from Jeff Dunham (examining his take on the world around us...domestic and foreign). The kids got a good laugh and had a chance to blow off some much needed steam from their preparation. Starting on Monday...we will transition to the Modern Era and examine the problems of our world today (Middle East, North Korea, China and Iran).

Tonight's Homework: Enjoy your weekend...None!

Thursday, April 29, 2010

CST Testing Schedule...Periods 2, 4 and 6 (CST World History Exam)

The instructor and the students finished watching a video segment on the political, social and economics events of the 1990's...focusing on the development of Clinton's economic plan and his goal of returning the country to prosperity (taxation/economic stimulus/social programming). While watching its developments, the students began to make connections to our shifting social policies of the Modern era, especially in relation to domestic programs and global competition.

Tonight's Homework: None

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

CST Testing Schedule...Periods 1, 3 and 5 (CST Mathematics Part 2)

The instructor and the students watched a video segment on the political, social and economics events of the 1990's...focusing on the development of Clinton's economic plan and his goal of returning the country to prosperity (taxation/economic stimulus/social programming). While watching its developments, the students began to make connections to our shifting social policies of the Modern era, especially in relation to domestic programs and global competition.

Tonight's Homework: Study for CST using Review Packet and Bubba Brain Site.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

CST Testing Schedule...Periods 2, 4 and 6 (CST Mathematics Part 1)

The instructor and the students watched a video segment on the political, social and economics events of the 1990's...focusing on the development of Clinton's economic plan and his goal of returning the country to prosperity (taxation/economic stimulus/social programming). While watching its developments, the students began to make connections to our shifting social policies of the Modern era, especially in relation to domestic programs and global competition.

Tonight's Homework: Study for CST using Review Packet and Bubba Brain Site.

Monday, April 26, 2010

The instructor and the students watched a video segment on the political, social and economic events of the 1970's and 1980's...focusing on the development of Reaganomics and his goal of returning the country to a more conservative viewpoint. While watching its developments, the students began to make connections to our political dilemmas of the Modern era, especially in relation to foreign policy relationships in the Middle East.

Tonight's Homework: Study for CST using Review Packet and Bubba Brain Site.

Friday, April 23, 2010

At the start of the period, students were given the opportunity to work together to finish CST Review Packet questions 75-90. Before the close of the period, the instructor and the students reviewed these release questions from the State of California CST packet for 10th grade students to assess retention and understanding of the covered curriculum.

In addition, the instructor introduced the website (http://www.bubbabrain.com/) to the students as a review tool for AP Testing, SAT Testing and CST Review. Following the website example, the instructor shared a video segment on the political, social and economic developments of the 1950's and 1960's.

Tonight's Homework: Continue working on CST Review packet (80-90) to assess your knowledge in preparation of next Thursday's exam (April 29).

Thursday, April 22, 2010

CST Exam Schedule (Periods 1, 3 and 5)...CST Science Exam (Parts 1 & 2)

At the start of the period, students were given the opportunity to work together to finish CST Review Packet questions 60-75. Before the close of the period, the instructor and the students reviewed these release questions from the State of California CST packet for 10th grade students to assess retention and understanding of the covered curriculum.

Tonight's Homework: Continue working on CST Review packet (75-90) to assess your knowledge in preparation of next Thursday's exam (April 29).

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

CST Exam Schedule (Periods 2, 4 and 6)...ELA Exam Part 2

At the start of the period, students were given the opportunity to work together to finish CST Review Packet questions 55-70. Before the close of the period, the instructor and the students reviewed these release questions from the State of California CST packet for 10th grade students to assess retention and understanding of the covered curriculum.

Tonight's Homework: Continue working on CST Review packet (65-90) to assess your knowledge in preparation of next Thursday's exam (April 29).

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

CST Exam Schedule (Periods 1, 3 and 5)...ELA Exam Part 1

At the start of the period, students were given the opportunity to work together to finish CST Review Packet questions 45-60. Before the close of the period, the instructor and the students reviewed these release questions from the State of California CST packet for 10th grade students to assess retention and understanding of the covered curriculum.

Tonight's Homework: Continue working on CST Review packet (50-90) to assess your knowledge in preparation of next Thursday's exam (April 29).

Monday, April 19, 2010

At the start of the period, students were given the opportunity to work together to finish CST Review Packet questions 34-50. Before the close of the period, the instructor and the students reviewed these release questions from the State of California CST packet for 10th grade students to assess retention and understanding of the covered curriculum.

Tonight's Homework: Continue working on CST Review packet (51-90) to assess your knowledge in preparation of next Thursday's exam (April 29).

Friday, April 16, 2010

The instructor began the period with 5 review warm-up questions over Unit 4-5 as a transition into going over (and re-teaching) some of the facts from Unit 4-5 (Industrial Revolution and Nationalism). Following the discussion of the warm-up questions, the instructor went over the answers for CST Review Packet Questions (23-33). In addition, the students watched an 18 minute video segment on The Fall of Communism (Fall of Berlin Wall and the end of USSR) and its impact on the Post-Cold War World (1986-1992).

Tonight's Homework: CST Review Packet and Review Course Notebook

Thursday, April 15, 2010

The instructor began the period with 6 review warm-up questions over Unit 3-4 as a transition into going over (and re-teaching) some of the facts from Unit 3-4 (Enlightenment and Industrial Revolution). Following the discussion of the warm-up questions, the instructor went over the answers for CST Review Packet Questions (15-22). In addition, the students watched an 18 minute video segment on Detente (Reducing Tensions with USSR) and its impact on the Cold War (1970-1985).

Tonight's Homework: CST Review Packet and Review Course Notebook

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

The instructor began the period with 6 review warm-up questions over Unit 2-3 as a transition into going over (and re-teaching) some of the facts from Unit 2-3 (Enlightenment and Revolutions). Following the discussion of the warm-up questions, the instructor went over the answers for CST Review Packet Questions (6-14). In addition, the students watched an 18 minute video segment on the escalation of the Cold War (1959-1969).

Tonight's Homework: CST Review Packet and Review Course Notebook

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

The instructor began the period with 5 review warm-up questions over Unit 1 as a transition into going over (and re-teaching) some of the facts from Unit 1-2 (The Roots of Western Thought). Following the discussion of the warm-up questions, the instructor went over the answers for CST Review Packet Questions (1-5). In addition, the students watched an 18 minute video segment on the creation of the Cold War (1945-1958).

Tonight's Homework: CST Review Packet and Review Course Notebook

Monday, April 12, 2010

Today, the instructor welcomed the students back from Spring Break and returned some of their graded assignments from previous units. Following the returning of past work, the instructor discussed with the students the importance of the upcoming CST tests in all subjects (English, Math, Science...and of course, World History). Following the discussion about the CST test, the instructor past out the CST Review packet for 10th Grade World History and gave the students the remaining 15 minutes to work on the packets with their peers in preparation of the Unit 1-9 review over the next two weeks (to prepare for CST Test). Starting on Tuesday, the instructor will work through the packet questions with the students while also recovering older material through questions and activities.

Tonight's Homework: CST Review Packet and Review Course Notebook

Friday, April 2, 2010

Today, the students turned in their final notebook for the year (Unit 9...The Cold War). Although we will continue to examine some of the Cold War and the Modern Era following Spring Break, there will no longer be a requirement of the notebook going forward...just individual assignments.

After turning in the notebooks, the students took their Unit 9 Exam over the Cold War Era.

WH Honors Homework: Enjoy your Spring Break!

WH Homework: Enjoy your Spring Break!

Thursday, April 1, 2010

HAPPY APRIL FOOLS DAY...I bet you are thinking that Mr. Gull couldn't possibly give us the Q3 District Assessment today (as already scheduled)...YOU WOULD BE WRONG!!! :)

Today, the students took their Q3 District Assessment (40 multiple-choice questions) over the curriculum from Quarter 3...Fallout from World War I, World War II, and the Cold War Beginnings.

WH Honors Homework: Study for Unit 9 Honors Exam and Notebook Prep (due Tomorrow)

WH Homework: Study for Unit 9 Exam and Notebook Prep (due Tomorrow)

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Today, the students began the period with their final warm-up question for Unit 9 (Warm-Up #4). Warm-Up #4 stated: Why was the policy of "Brinkmanship" replaced? What new policy took its place in the 1970's? In your opinion, now that the Cold War between the US and the Soviet Union is over, what should be the role of the United States (as a superpower) in today's world? EXPLAIN.

Following the discussion of the warm-up question, the students were given an opportunity to Peer-to-Peer review using the study guide in preparation for tomorrow's District Assessment and Friday's Unit 9 exam. The instructor walked the classroom helping individual students and their peers with the understanding of the posed questions and curriculum.

WH Honors Homework: Finish Unit 9 Study Guide and Notebook Prep

WH Homework: Finish Unit 9 Study Guide and Notebook Prep

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Today, the students began the period with their third warm-up question for Unit 9. Warm-Up Question #3 stated: How did the United States foreign policy toward Cuba in the 1950's backfire? How did this policy affect relations with Francisco Bautista (1950's) and Fidel Castro (1960's-Present)? What did the Cuban Missile Crisis (1962) reveal about the policies of the United States? EXPLAIN.

Following the discussion of the warm-up...the instructor and the students examined the segment of the movie "Thirteen Days" analyzing the backdoor channel negotiations between JFK and Nikita Khrushchev over the nuclear weapons in Cuba (Soviet) and Turkey (US/UN).

WH Honors Homework: Unit 9 Honors Study Guide and Unit 9 Notebook Prep

WH Homework: Unit 9 Exam Study Guide and Unit 9 Notebook Prep

Monday, March 29, 2010

In order to continue to assist the students in their understanding of the "heightened tensions" between the United States and Soviet Union during the Cuban Missile Crisis...the instructor and the students watched the second half of "Thirteen Days" together in class. The instructor and the students continued a short discussion near the end of the period examining the escalation of the hostility between the world's two superpowers during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

WH Honors Homework: Unit 9 Honors Exam Study Guide and Notebook Prep (Organization)

WH Homework: Unit 9 Exam Study Guide and Notebook Prep (Organization)

Friday, March 26, 2010

In order to assist the students in their understanding of the "heightened tensions" between the United States and Soviet Union during the Cuban Missile Crisis...the instructor and the students watched the first half of "Thirteen Days" together in class.

The instructor and the students participated in a short discussion near the end of the period examining the basis (creation) for the increased hostility between the world's two superpowers during the 1950's and 1960's.

WH Honors Homework: None

WH Homework: None

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Today, the students began the period with their second warm-up question for Unit 9 (The Cold War Era). Warm-Up Question #2 stated: What effects did the Korean War have on the Korean people (North and South) and the nation as a whole? What about the effects on the United States, China and the USSR (Soviet Union/Russia)? What differing U.S. and Soviet (Russian) policies led to the development of the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962? How did the Cold War influence the International Peace Conference (Geneva) of 1954 to divide Vietnam at the 17th Parallel? EXPLAIN.

Following the discussion of the warm-up question (and some side-bar questions about Nuclear Proliferation (amount of available missiles)...the instructor led a lecture and discussion about the impact of US-Soviet Relations on events in the 1950's and 1960's (Vietnamese relations, U2 Spy Plane, Cuban Revolution, Bay of Pigs Invasion and the Cuban Missile Crisis).

WH Honors Homework: Finish Chapter 17 Reading

WH Homework: Finish Chapter 17 Reading

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

The students finished watching the video segments from Korea: The Forgotten War about the causes and effects of the United States involvement in fighting communism in the Pacific Rim (1950's). At the end of the period, the instructor summarized how the cease-fire in 1953 established the beginnings of the "demilitarized zone" (DMV) along the 38th Parallel between North Korea and South Korea (still exists exactly the same way in 2010).

WH Honors Homework: Finish reading in Chapter 17 (Sections 4 & 5). Focus on Cuban Missile Crisis and Vietnam Conflict

WH Homework: Finish reading in Chapter 17 (Sections 4 & 5). Focus on Cuban Missile Crisis and Vietnam Conflict

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

The students started the period with warm-up question number one for Unit 9 (The Cold War Era). Warm-Up Question #1 stated: What actions might the United States have justified by "Domino Theory" (Truman Doctrine)? Have things changed much since 1947 with regards to Truman's Doctrine? What role did the policy of "containment" (Truman Doctrine) play in the involvement of the United States in the wars (conflicts) in Korea and Vietnam? EXPLAIN.

Following a discussion of the warm-up question for today, the students watched a video segment from Korea: The Forgotten War about the causes and effects of the United States involvement in fighting communism in the Pacific Rim (1950's).

WH Honors Homework: Continue reading in Chapter 17 (Sections 3 & 4)

WH Homework: Continue reading in Chapter 17 (Sections 3 & 4).

Monday, March 22, 2010

At the start of the period, the instructor walked the classroom "stamping" the completed homework assignment from Friday for student's notebooks in Unit 9 (the Cold War).

Following the stamping of the homework, the instructor picked up with the lecture and discussion of the Cold War era...focusing today on the elements of Truman's Doctrine (Domino Theory and Containment) and how the Marshall Plan was used as an "economic vehicle" for the democratization of Europe. In addition, the instructor and the students evaluated the dividing of Berlin and its impact on US-Soviet relations (Berlin Blockade/Airlift) during the end of the decade (1945-1949).

WH Honors Homework: Reading in Chapter 17 (Sections 3 and 4) for tomorrow's warm-up question and transition into Korean War video.

WH Homework: Reading in Chapter 17 (Sections 3 and 4) for tomorrow's warm-up question and transition into Korean War Video.

Friday, March 19, 2010

THE INSTRUCTOR WAS OUT OF THE CLASSROOM TODAY COORDINATING KING HIGH SCHOOL REMEMBERS FOR THE 11TH GRADE CLASSES (US HISTORY/AP US HISTORY).

The students were given three primary source readings from Winston Churchill (Sinews of Peace...Iron Curtain), Harry Truman (Truman Doctrine/Foreign Policy) and George Marshall (Marshall Plan/Economic Recovery). The students were asked to read the primary source documents and use their background information on the Cold War (from Thursday's lecture and discussion/last night's reading assignment) to answer the Critical Thinking Questions about the development of the tension between the United States and Soviet Union. The instructor will discuss and evaluate responses and ideas during Monday's class period.

WH Honors Homework: Finish Critical Thinking Questions...Have a Good Weekend!

WH Homework: Finish Critical Thinking Questions...Have a Good Weekend!

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Today, the instructor began the lecture and discussion with the students about the developments of the Cold War, following the post-World War II era. The lecture and discussion focused on the tense relationship between the United States and the Soviet Union and how this relationship developed into the fight between the ideologies of democracy vs. communism in the world. The students had a lot of good questions and much of the discussion transitioned into modern era events about specific countries and the fallout (blowback) from some of our foreign policies (United States).

WH Honors Homework: Reading in Chapter 17 (Section 1/2) about the United Nations, Iron Curtain, Truman Doctrine and Marshall Plan (Containment/Domino Theory)...you will use these topics tomorrow in class with your readings and handouts.

WH Homework: Reading in Chapter 17 (Section 1/2) about the United Nations, Iron Curtain, Truman Doctrine and Marshall Plan (Containment/Domino Theory)...you will use these topics tomorrow in class with your readings and handouts.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

THE SCHEDULE FOR 10TH GRADE STUDENTS IS MODIFIED TODAY DUE TO THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE CAHSEE EXAM...SOME WORLD HISTORY PERIODS WILL NOT MEET TODAY DUE TO EXAM. NORMAL CLASS SCHEDULES WILL RESUME ON THURSDAY.

Tonight's Homework: Continue reading in Chapter 17 and continue with Unit 9 Vocabulary (Cold War).

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

THE SCHEDULE FOR 10TH GRADE STUDENTS IS MODIFIED TODAY DUE TO THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE CAHSEE EXAM...SOME WORLD HISTORY PERIODS WILL NOT MEET TODAY DUE TO EXAM. NORMAL CLASS SCHEDULES WILL RESUME ON THURSDAY.

Tonight's Homework: Rest up and get focused for the 2nd half of CAHSEE exam.

Monday, March 15, 2010

THE INSTRUCTOR WAS AWAY FROM THE CLASSROOM TODAY DUE TO A FIELD TRIP IN THE ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT.

Today, the students began preliminary research regarding the development of the Cold War. Using the textbook and their knowledge of World War II (1945)...the students were asked to complete the Cold War Questions Backgrounder to prepare for the upcoming lecture and discussion (week of March 22) following CAHSEE Testing and King High Remembers.

Tonight's Homework: Begin reading in Chapter 17...finish Cold War Backgrounder....begin Unit 9 Vocabulary.

Friday, March 12, 2010

TODAY IS THE SPRING SPORTS ASSEMBLY...MODIFIED PERIOD SCHEDULE...EVERYONE GETS TO SEE MR. GULL (Yikes...that's me!) AND MR. POLLARD LOSE THEIR HAIR TO THE MR. BALDY FUNDRAISER TO SUPPORT AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY!!!

Today, the students turned in their Unit 8 Notebook materials and took the Unit 8 Exam over World War II.

WH Honors Homework: None...Have a good weekend!

WH Homework: None...Have a good weekend!

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Today, the students started the period with their final warm-up question for Unit 8 (6/6). Warm-Up Question #6 stated: What does the use of "Kamikaze" pilots indicate about the strength of the Japanese navy? What kinds of alternatives did the United States have to making a full-scale invasion of Japan or to use the Atomic Bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki? Why did the United States likely choose the bombs? EXPLAIN.

Following the discussion of the warm-up question, the students were broken up into groups of three where they looked at the options presented to the United States Government and President Harry Truman in dealing with the Japanese in the Pacific (to end the war). Each group was given an excerpt reading dealing with their choice and they had top explain their position to the rest of the students. Following the explanation of each group, the classroom was opened up to a discussion about the difficulty of such a decision and the impact it had (in 1945) for the future of the postwar world.

WH Honors Homework: Finish Unit 8 Notebook Organization and study for tomorrow's exam

WH Homework: Finish Unit 8 Notebook Organization and study for tomorrow's exam

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

In preparation for Thursday's Socratic Seminar on the dropping of the atomic bomb on Japan, the students watched a 50 minute video segment on the Manhattan Project. The focus of the video segment was on the development of the atomic devices "Fat Man" and "Little Boy" and the choices the United States Government had to make in order to end the war quickly with Japan, in order to save American lives in the US military. But behind the scenes, there were also other issues to consider such as the financial expense involved, the supremacy of the United States in the postwar world and the ideology of preaching democracy and promoting humanitarianism while also holding a weapon of mass destruction in your possession.

WH Honors Homework: Continue working on Unit 8 notebook organization and Unit 8 Exam Study Guide...but also read segment in textbook about Atomic Bombs (Chapter 16)

WH Homework: Continue working on Unit 8 notebook organization and Unit 8 Exam Study Guide...but also read segment in textbook about Atomic Bombs (Chapter 16)

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

THE INSTRUCTOR WAS OUT OF THE CLASSROOM TODAY DUE TO PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT MEETING (RIMS/AVID PROGRAM)

Today, the students started the period with warm-up question number five. Warm-Up Question #5 stated: Why did the United States create propaganda showing the Japanese empire as "evil" or sinister"? What was General Douglas Mac Arthur's "island-hopping" strategy? What kinds of advantages would a weaker army (fighting on its home soil) have over a stronger invading army? How does this idea apply to American in Bataan? EXPLAIN.

Following the warm-up question, the substitute teacher provided the students with their Unit 8 Exam Study Guide and the notebook order for the Unit 8 collection on Friday before the test. The students were given the period to begin their organization of their curriculum materials and their answers for the Unit 8 Study Guide.

WH Honors Homework: Unit 8 Notebook and Unit 8 Exam Study Guide (Honors)

WH Homework: Unit 8 Notebook and Unit 8 Exam Study Guide

Monday, March 8, 2010

Today, the instructor finished off the visual map for the European Theater of World War II and how the Nazis eventually fell to the power and supremacy of the Allied armies (US, France, Great Britain and Russia). At the close of the visual presentation, the instructor continued with the lecture and discussion about the Pacific Theater (PTO) versus the Japanese during the latter stages of World War II (Bataan, Coral Sea, Doolittle's Raid and Midway island)...focusing heavily on the aspects of MacArthur's Island-Hopping strategy.

WH Honors Homework: Finish reading in Chapter 16 (Section 2 and 4) to prepare for Tuesday's warm-up question.

WH Homework: Finish reading in Chapter 16 (Section 2 and 4) to prepare for Tuesday's warm-up question. Periods 4 and 5 students...be sure to finish your Chapter 16 Worksheet (today's in-class special assignment)

Friday, March 5, 2010

Today, the students started the period with warm-up question four. Warm-Up Question #4 stated: How was the "Final Solution" a natural outcome of Nazi racial theory? What was the difference between a "concentration" camp and an "extermination" camp? What was meant by the words of Elie Wiesel..."Never Shall I Forget"...what did he mean? EXPLAIN.

Following the discussion of the warm-up question, the instructor and the students read excerpts from Christopher Browning's "Ordinary Men"...the reading is about the massacre at Jozefow, Poland during the Holocaust and the interactions between Jewish prisoners and German soldiers.

WH Honors Homework: Finish Jozefow Questions for Unit 8 notebook

WH Homework: Finish Jozefow Questions for Unit 8 notebook

Thursday, March 4, 2010

As a comparative film to Elie Wiesel Goes Home, the students watched "One Survivor Remembers"...which is the Academy Award winning documentary short film about the Holocaust experiences of Gerda Weissmann-Klein.

The film documents her experiences as a Polish Jew during her deportation to concentration camps (fabric labor camp and coal mine camp) and finally, as a member of the one of the "death marches" through Czechoslovakia in the winter and spring of 1945.

WH Honors Homework: Finish Reading in Chapter 16-Section 3

WH Homework: Finish Reading in Chapter 16-Section 3

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Today, the students started the period with warm-up number three. Warm-Up Question #3 asked: What were the "immediate" and "underlying" causes of Kristallnacht (Night of Broken Glass)? How did anti-semitism (Jewish Racism) outside of Germany contribute to the problems of Jewish refugees? EXPLAIN.

Following the discussion of the warm-up question, the students finished the second half of "Elie Wiesel Goes Home" (Part 2). The focus of the video in today's segment was the visit to Auschwitz on the 50th anniversary and its emotional impact of Mr. Wiesel's life. The video was narrated using excerpts from his book "Night" played against the images from the Holocaust and the 50th anniversary visit.

WH Honors Homework: None

WH Homework: None

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Today, the students watched the documentary video entitled "Elie Wiesel Goes Home" (Part 1). In today's video, the students witnessed Elie Wiesel visiting his childhood home in Romania where he was deported to Auschwitz in April 1944. Mr. Wiesel tells the story of his deportation and the separation from his family and friends and the impact on his adult life (memories).

Tomorrow, the video will continue with Part 2 (the visitation to Auschwitz). In the background, the words from "Night" tell the story of the memories and experiences of the days between 1944-1945 in the concentration/death camps.

WH Honors Homework: Read in Chapter 16 (Section 3)...The Holocaust

WH Homework: Read in Chapter 16 (Section 3)...The Holocaust

Monday, March 1, 2010

At the start of the period, the students began with their second warm-up question for Unit 8. Warm-Up Question #2 was: How long had the German-Soviet Pact been in effect before Hitler began planning to invade the Soviet Union? What does the fact that German armies were not prepared for the Russian winter (1941) indicate about Hitler's expectations for Operation Barbarossa? Explain.

Following the warm-up question, the instructor covered the background lecture and discussion concerning the Holocaust and the implementation of Hitler's Final Solution plan for Jewish populations. Over the next few days, students will be exposed to the horrors and tragedies of the Holocaust through documentaries and personal stories pertaining to the event (visuals and written accounts).

WH Honors Homework: Finish Unit 8 Vocabulary

WH Homework: Finish Unit 8 Vocabulary for tomorrow.

Friday, February 26, 2010

Today, the students worked on a Map Skills activity. The objective was for the students to identify the key players in World War II and their relationship to each other (Axis Powers vs. Allied Powers, Neutral Countries, Countries overtaken by Axis).

On the Map Skills worksheet, students identified and classified the countries before answering key questions about the timeline and movements during the World War II era (1939-1943). The remainder of the war will be covered via virtual map as we progress through the Holocaust and Operation Overlord/Battle in the Pacific (1944-1945).

WH Honors Homework: Finish Map Skills Activity (Identifying & Coloring) plus Unit 8 Vocabulary Worksheet

WH Homework: Finish Map Skills Activity (Identifying and Coloring) plus Unit 8 Vocabulary Worksheet

Thursday, February 25, 2010

At the start of the period, the students had their first warm-up question for Unit 8. Warm-Up Question #1 was: How did the "Miracle of Dunkirk" affect Great Britain's ability to fight Hitler? Why was the outcome of the Battle of Britain important for the Allied Powers? How might the German attacks on Great Britain have strengthened their resistance movement? EXPLAIN.

Following the warm-up question discussion, the instructor went over the two worksheets from Wednesday's class period (The United States Declares War and American Production in WW2). After going over the worksheets, the instructor spent a few moments talking about Operation Barbarossa in 1941 and the impact of America entering the war after Pearl Harbor (turning of the tide).

WH Honors Homework: Chapter 16 Reading and Unit 8 Vocabulary

WH Homework: Chapter 16 Reading and Unit 8 Vocabulary

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

The instructor was out of the classroom today due to a Professional Meeting in preparation for King High School Remembers (U.S. History Veterans Project).

Today, the students were given two Primary Source Document/Backgrounders entitled "The United States declares War" and "American Production during World War II". The students were given the class period to read the documents/backgrounders and answer the posed questions using their notes, the textbook and information presented in the readings. If students finish early, they were given the opportunity to finish their Unit 8 Vocabulary Builder.

WH Honors Homework: Unit 8 Vocabulary and finish document readings

WH Homework: Unit 8 Vocabulary and finish document readings

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

At the start of the period, the students worked on a handout entitled "The Invasion of Poland" (Primary Source Document/Backgrounder). The students were asked to read the diary excerpt and the background information before answering the four posed questions at the bottom (15 minutes).

At the close of the work period (15 minutes)...the instructor talked with the students about the details of the questions before transitioning to the visual lecture and notes pertaining to the details of the Battle of Britain, El Alamein and Operation Barbarossa (Hitler's violation of the non-aggression pact with Stalin).

WH Honors Homework: Reading in Chapter 16 and Unit 8 Vocabulary

WH Homework: Reading in Chapter 16 and Unit 8 Vocabulary

Monday, February 22, 2010

The instructor returned students' graded notebooks at the beginning of the period...then, the students were given an opportunity to organize their notebook for Unit 8 information (World War II).

While the instructor passed out the Vocabulary and Timeline as well as the PowerPoint notes for the unit, the students were working on answering the following unit focus question in their notebook: If war seemed so unimaginable at the close of World War I, why did countries begin fighting again in 1939?

Following the discussion of the focus question, the instructor began the opening lecture and discussion about the start of World War II (Appeasement and Hitler's Aggression).

WH Honors Homework: Begin reading in Chapter 16 and start Unit 8 Vocabulary

WH Homework: Begin reading in Chapter 16 and start Unit 8 Vocabulary

Friday, February 19, 2010

At the start of the period, students turned in their Unit 7 Notebooks for grading of their Unit 7 curriculum assignments over Nationalism and Revolution (years between WWI and WW2).

Following the collection of the notebooks, the students took their Unit 7 examination.

Updated grades will be available on Monday (through Grade Check Forms and through online access at Weblockerz).

WH Honors Homework: None

WH Homework: None

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Today, the students had their final opportunities to work in Peer-to-Peer review groups to complete the Unit 7 Study Guide for Friday's exam. During the period, the instructor walked the classroom and answered questions with groups and individual students regarding any issues or concerns with review questions.

For those students done and prepared for Friday's exam, they were given the opportunity to organize their Unit 7 notebooks for tomorrow's collection (grading).

WH Honors Homework: Finalize notebook organization (Unit 7) and study for exam.

WH Homework: Finalize notebook organization (Unit 7) and study for exam.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Today, the instructor was out of the classroom due to Professional Development.

In preparation for Friday's Unit 7 Exam, the students were given the class period (with the substitute) to work on their Unit 7 Exam Study Guide to get ready for Friday's exam.

WH Honors Homework: Unit 7 Exam Study Guide and Notebook Organization

WH Homework: Unit 7 Exam Study Guide and Notebook Organization

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Today, the students presented their group project posterboards on their Totalitarian Dictator. Following the presentations, the instructor passed out the Unit 7 Exam Study Guide and Unit 7 Notebook grade sheets and the students were given the last 15 minutes to begin working on their review for Friday's exam.

WH Honors Homework: Unit 7 Exam Study Guide and Notebook organization

WH Homework: Unit 7 Exam Study Guide and Notebook organization

Monday, February 15, 2010

NO SCHOOL TODAY IN OBSERVANCE OF WASHINGTON'S BIRTHDAY (President's Day)...ENJOY YOUR DAY OFF AND I'LL SEE YOU IN THE MORNING! DON'T FORGET YOUR PROJECT!!!

Friday, February 12, 2010

NO SCHOOL TODAY IN OBSERVANCE OF LINCOLN'S BIRTHDAY...ENJOY YOUR DAY OFF AND HAVE A NICE VALENTINE'S DAY WEEKEND!

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Today, the students were given their final opportunity to work with their teammates to finalize the assembly of their Totalitarian Project (Posterboard) on either Stalin, Hitler or Mussolini. The project is due at the beginning of the period on Tuesday (February 16th).

WH Honors Homework: Finish Totalitarian Project...don't forget your Bibliography!

WH Homework: Finish Totalitarian Project...don't forget your Bibliography!

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Today, the students began the period with their fourth Warm-up Question for Unit 7 (Nationalism and the Rise of Revolution). Warm-Up Question #4 asked: What political problems did the Weimar Republic (Germany) face in the 1920's? How did the Weimar Republic further contribute to the post-WWI economic problems within Germany? Why did Germany begin to support Hitler in the 1930's? EXPLAIN.

Following the warm-up question, the students and instructor viewed 3 video segments dealing with the totalitarian regimes of Joseph Stalin (Communism) and Benito Mussolini (Fascism). The segments were designed to assist students with their research conclusions and fact findings for their group projects (due February 16, 2010).

WH Honors Homework: Project Research and Assembly...don't forget your Bibliography sources!

WH Homework: Project Research and Assembly...don't forget your Bibliography sources!

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Today, the students were given an opportunity to work in their assigned groups for the Totalitarian Mini-Project (Poster Board). The students spent the period coordinating their research and photographs to begin final assembly of the material for next Tuesday's deadline. The instructor walked around the classroom periodically to assist groups with answers and coordination of their materials.

WH Honors Homework: Project Research and Assembly (don't forget your Bibliography)

WH Homework: Project Research and Assembly (don't forget your Bibliography)

Monday, February 8, 2010

Today, the students and the instructor watched a video segment on Adolf Hitler from the DVD Series...The Occult History of the Third Reich by Wilderness Films. In the segment, the students watched the documentary section about Adolf Hitler and his rise to power using the occult beliefs of Houston Stewart Chamberlein and Yorg Luntz as his basis for the Final Solution and the social war between Germans and the Jewish culture during the Holocaust (WWII).

WH Honors Homework: Totalitarian Mini-Project (Research and Assembly)

WH Homework: Totalitarian Mini-Project (Research and Assembly)

Friday, February 5, 2010

Today, the students began the period with their third Warm-Up question for Unit 7. Warm-Up Question #3 was: What is the main social characteristic that all Totalitarian Dictators use to maintain power and control of their governments? From all of the elements of Totalitarianism, which element probably allows the most control or public obedience in the long run? What characteristics of Totalitarianism (including Communism, Fascism and Nazism) might make it attractive during a crisis like Economic Depression? EXPLAIN.

Following the warm-up question, the students and the instructor discussed the final lecture notes and topics for Unit 7 including the introduction of the Nuremburg Laws, Hitler's violations of the Treaty of Versailles in the 1930's and the failed attempts at war avoidance (appeasement by Neville Chamberlain) before Hitler's dash for Poland (invasion of the Danzig on Sept 1, 1939).

WH Honors Homework: Have Unit 7 Research Questions finished by Monday...continue with Mini-Project research and compilation for Posterboard assembly.

WH Homework: Have Unit 7 Research Questions finished by Monday...continue with Mini-Project research and compilation for Posterboard assembly.

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Today, the students were given the opportunity to work with their group teammates in coordinating and assembling their research for the Totalitarian Mini-Project on their assigned dictator (Benito Mussolini, Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler). The instructor walked around during the period working with the various groups and giving suggestions for assembling some of their information for visual presentation on their posterboard (questions and pictures).

WH Honors Homework: Unit 7 Research Questions (1-24) and Mini-Project

WH Homework: Unit 7 Research Questions (1-24) and Mini-Project

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Today, the instructor covered the early lives of Benito Mussolini, Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler and how their political developments lead to the rise of Totalitarianism/Dictatorships. During the course of the lecture and discussion, the instructor highlighted how "fear" or "terror" was used as a tactic to keep power (Black Shirts, Checka and SS/Gestapo) while they all used legal methods to initially gain the power and support of their citizens. Before the close of the period, the instructor also went over the Unit 7 Vocabulary to assist with language development and context for certain important terms in the curriculum.

WH Honors Homework: Finish Chapter Reading in Chapters 14 and 15, finish Unit 7 Research Questions (1-24) and continue with Mini-Project research (Posterboard)

WH Homework: Finish Chapter Reading in Chapters 14 and 15, finish Unit 7 Research Questions (1-24) and continue with Mini-Project research (Posterboard)

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Today, the instructor finished up the lecture material dealing with the Russian Revolution, focusing on Lenin's new government under the Bolsheviks and the New Economic Policies (NEP) he introduced to control and change Russia's political future. Following the lecture material, students were given an opportunity to work with their group peers in coordinating the research for their Totalitarian Mini-Project (Posterboard)

WH Honors Homework: Chapter 14 and 15 Reading, Unit 7 Vocabulary, Unit 7 Questions and Research for Mini-Project

WH Homework: Chapter 14 and 15 Reading, Unit 7 Vocabulary, Unit 7 Questions and Research for Mini-Project

Monday, February 1, 2010

Today, the instructor introduced the background elements of Russia's political and economic changes at the turn of the 20th century (1900). Following the background elements, the instructor led into the issues that cause the Russian Revolution (Bloody Sunday, Czar Reforms, World War I).

WH Honors Homework: Chapter 14 and 15 Reading, Unit 7 Vocabulary, Unit 7 Questions and Research for Mini-Project (Posterboard)

WH Homework: Chapter 14 and 15 Reading, Unit 7 Vocabulary, Unit 7 Questions and Research for Mini-Project (Posterboard)

Friday, January 29, 2010

Today, the students started the period with their second warm-up question. Warm-Up Question #2 was: Why did Industrialization in Russia during the early 1900's lead to revolution? What problems did Lenin and the Bolsheviks face after the Russian Revolution (as a result of the Czar rule)? EXPLAIN.

Following the warm-up question, the instructor worked with the group assignments regarding the project and the selection of their respective leaders for research. When finished, the instructor finished up the period with the remainder of the background information concerning the social changes that occurred in the Western Democracies following the end of World War I.

WH Honors Homework: Finish Unit 7 Research Questions and begin additional source research for your respective Totalitarian Leader (for your group project)

WH Homework: Finish Unit 7 Research Questions and begin additional source research for your respective Totalitarian Leader (for your group project)

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Today, the instructor explained the details of the Totalitarian Mini-Project (Poster-board Project dealing with the rise to power of Joseph Stalin, Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler). Students were exposed to the research requirements and questions needing to be answered for their visual presentation. On Friday, students will choose their group partners and their selected leader on which to research their information. Following the explanation of the project, the students were given an opportunity to work on their Unit 7 Research Questions, which will assist them in gathering background knowledge and information leading into the project.

WH Honors Homework: Chapter 14 and 15 Reading, Unit 7 Vocabulary, Unit 7 Questions and Mini-Project prep.

WH Homework: Chapter 14 and 15 Reading, Unit 7 Vocabulary, Unit 7 Questions and Mini-Project prep.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Today, the students had their first Warm-Up question for Unit 7. The posed question for Warm-Up Question #1 was: What role did World War I play in the development of Nationalism and Revolution in the following countries: Ottoman Empire, Africa, Russia and India? What do you think any nation might gain and lose by modernizing (changing) its economic and political practices? EXPLAIN.

Following the discussion of the warm-up question, the students and teacher discussed and looked at visuals regarding the social changes that took place in the Western Democracies (Literature, Science, Art, Music)...specifically looking at some elements in the United States and Europe.

WH Honors Homework: Continue reading in Chapter 14 and 15 and working on Unit 7 Vocabulary. Start the Unit 7 Questions (as they will assist in prepping for future discussions and the upcoming Totalitarian Mini-Project).

WH Homework: Continue reading in Chapter 14 and 15 and working on Unit 7 Vocabulary. Start the Unit 7 Questions (as they will assist in prepping for future discussions and the upcoming Totalitarian Mini Project).

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Today, the instructor and the students finished up the lecture notes and discussion about the nationalistic and revolutionary changes occurring in various regions of the world around and during World War I (Mexico, Latin America, India, Africa, China and Japan). The instructor and students focused on the issues of cultural unity, economics and politics and these elements affected relations between social groups and ethnic classes during this critical period.

WH Honors Homework: Continue reading in Chapters 14 and 15 in Modern World History (Warm-Up #1 tomorrow)...plus continue with Unit 7 Vocabulary.

WH Homework: Continue reading in Chapters 14 and 15 in Modern World History (Warm-Up #1 tomorrow)...plus continue with Unit 7 Vocabulary.

Monday, January 25, 2010

Welcome to 2nd Semester...EARLY RELEASE SCHEDULE TODAY
Today, the students were introduced to the expectations and units of study for Semester Two in World History. Following the discussion, the instructor passed out the Unit 7 Timeline and Vocabulary (The Rise of Nationalism and Revolution). Before the close of the period, the students took lecture notes over the beginnings of revolution in Mexico and Latin America (and the impact on U.S. Foreign Relations).

WH Honors Homework: Begin reading in Chapters 14 and 15 in Modern World History and begin Unit 7 Vocabulary

WH Homework: Begin reading in Chapters 14 and 15 in Modern World History and begin Unit 7 Vocabulary

Friday, January 22, 2010

TEACHER WORK DAY FOR FINAL EXAM GRADING AND SEMESTER GRADES...grades will be available on my classroom window at 9am for all classes. Grades will also be available on Monday, Janaury 25, 2010 in class with the instructor.

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND...thank you for a wonderful 1st semester!

Thursday, January 21, 2010

FINALS WEEK...today, students in Periods 3 and 6 take their final exams and/or district assessments in their respective subjects. There are no students in World History taking a World History final exam and/or district assessment in my assigned classes today.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

FINALS WEEK...today, students in Periods 2 and 5 take their final exams and/or district assessments in their respective subjects. Students in Period 5 have a World History final exam and district assessment (10:15am-12:25pm).

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

FINALS WEEK...today, students in Period 1 and 4 take their final exams and/or district assessments in their respective subjects. Students in both Periods 1 and 4 will be taking their final exam and district assessment in World History.

Period 1 is 7:50am-10:00am and Period 4 is 10:15am-12:25pm.

Monday, January 18, 2010

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. BIRTHDAY...today is a national holiday in observance of Dr. King...our school namesake...take a few moments to investigate his life and remember the legacy he left behind for us all!

NO SCHOOL TODAY...District Holiday.

FINALS WEEK: January 19-January 21

WH Honors Homework: Final Exam completed...so, study for the rest of your finals!

WH Homework: Prepare for Finals Week and the World History Exam/District Assessment in your respective period (Periods 1, 4 and 5).

Friday, January 15, 2010

Students in Zero Period (Honors) completed part 2 of their Semester One Final Exam (RUSD District Assessment)...60 questions over Units 1-6 (CA Standards).

Students in the remainder of the periods participated in Day 2 of the Jeopardy Review Game (Extra Credit Points).

WH Honors Homework: Semester One is done...prepare for the rest of your finals next week!

WH Homework: Review Final Exam Study Guide and come prepared for Final Exam Week!

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Students in Zero Period (Honors) began their Final Exam today. They completed the 100 questions over Units 1-6 and will completed Part 2 tomorrow with the District Assessment.

The remainder of the periods in World History began Day One of the Jeopardy Review Game (Extra Credit Points). The students were presented with 100-500 point questions about Judeo-Christian Traditions, Historical Figures, Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, The Renaissance and The Reformation. They will continue tomorrow with other topics from Units 1-6.

WH Honors Homework: Review Final Exam Study Guide and come prepared for District Assessment.

WH Homework: Review Final Exam Study Guide and come prepared for Day Two Jeopardy.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

The instructor was out today due to Professional Development at the District Office.

Today, the students were given their final day to work together in their Jeopardy Review Teams for the game on Thursday and Friday in class (extra credit). As a reminder, Unit 6 notebooks are due for collection and grading tomorrow.

WH Honors Homework: Unit 6 Notebook due tomorrow and come prepared for Final Exam (100 questions over Units 1-6). The District Assessment will be on Friday (60 questions).

WH Homework: Finish up review questions and prepare for Jeopardy Game for your team. Unit 6 Notebook is due for collection and grading tomorrow.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

The students were divided into their team for the Jeopardy Review and given time to work together to begin their study guides and curriculum review for Thursday and Friday's Jeopardy Review game for extra credit. The instructor worked with each group to help prepare for Thursday's round of questioning.

WH Honors Homework: Unit 6 Notebook Assembly and Final Exam Study Guide

WH Homework: Unit 6 Notebook Assembly and Final Exam Study Guide

Monday, January 11, 2010

Today, the students took their Unit 6 Exam over World War I. Prior to the exam, the instructor handed out the grading sheets for Unit 6 notebooks (they will be collected at the start of Thursday's class period).

In addition, the students received copies of the Semester One Final Exam Study Guide to help them prepare for Jeopardy Review (Thursday and Friday) and their scheduled Final Exam (either Next Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday morning).

WH Honors Homework: Notebook Assembly for Unit 6 and Final Exam Study Guide

WH Homework: Notebook Assembly for Unit 6 and Final Exam Study Guide

Friday, January 8, 2010

The instructor and the students went over the Unit 6 Exam Study Guide dealing with the curriculum for World War I. The instructor randomly selected students to share their thoughts and answers relating to the posed questions leading into Monday's exam.

Monday's exam will be worth 58 points and have questions dealing with Vocabulary (matching) and Multiple-Choice (critical thinking questions).

WH Honors Homework: Study for the Unit 6 Exam

WH Homework: Study for the Unit 6 Exam

Thursday, January 7, 2010

At the start of the period, the students worked on their final Warm-Up for Unit 6 (World War I). The question for Warm Up #3 was: Which of the non-European nations had the greatest impact on the war effort? What factors or events prompted this country to join the war effort? Which of the powers did this country join? EXPLAIN.

Today, the students and the instructor finished the remaining lecture notes and discussion regarding World War I. The focus of the presentation and discussion revolved around the end of the war and the effects of the Treaty of Versailles on foreign relations between European nations as well as the effects yet foreseen that would eventually unfold during the 1920's and 1930's (prelude to the future dictators and WWII).

WH Honors Homework: Finish any remaining work on Unit 6 Exam Study Guide

WH Homework: Finish any remaining work on Post-WWI Map activity and Unit 6 Exam Study Guide

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

The instructor started the class period by reviewing the Unit 6 Vocabulary. After the close of the Vocabulary review, the instructor introduced a Map Skills/Geography Activity to compare the differences in the Post-War (1918) Europe to Pre-War (1914) Europe (prior map skills activity).

Before the students left for the day, they were provided with the Unit 6 Exam Study Guide to begin working on for Monday's exam.

WH Honors Homework: Finish Map Skills Activity and start Unit 6 Exam Study Guide questions.

WH Homework: Finish Map Skills Activity and start Unit 6 Exam Study Guide questions.

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Today, the instructor picked up with the lecture and student discussion focusing on the details surrounding Unrestricted Submarine Warfare, the Zimmerman Note Telegram, and Woodrow Wilson's Declaration of War. In addition, the instructor discussed with the students the effects of the Russian Revolution on the balance of power and the initial reparations at the close of Armistice Day (November 11, 1918).

Before the close of the period, the students and the instructor evaluated the intentions and goals of Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points against the causes of World War I (Nationalism, Imperialism, Militarism and Alliances).

WH Honors Homework: Finish Unit 6 Vocabulary

WH Homework: Finish Unit 6 Vocabulary

Monday, January 4, 2010

WELCOME BACK! Hope you all had a nice winter break...I know I did!

At the start of the class period, the instructor collected any submissions for the Winter Break Extra Credit assignment. Following the collection of those documents, the instructor spent a few minutes reviewing some of the new technologies introduced during World War I (as a review to connect to information from prior to break period).

After the visual review on the new weapon technologies introduced during WWI, the instructor moved ahead discussing the turning point of the war (when the United States was brought into the fight by Germany).

WH Honors Homework: Reading in Chapter 13 (last two sections) and Unit 6 Vocabulary.

WH Homework: Reading in Chapter 13 and Unit 6 Vocabulary.