3/6/20

Today students did some source evaluation practice in groups.

Socratic Seminar Prep (requirements and suggestions)

Socratic Prompts

OPCVL chart

OPCVL guide

On Monday we will have work time on our source evaluations so please come prepared with your 2 primary sources. We will also have prep time for the Socratic Seminar.

Upcoming Dates:
3/10: Africa integrated Socratic Seminar
3/11: Source Evaluation Due 
3/13: Africa exam

3/5/20

Today we finished Hotel Rwanda and discussed UN responses to crises in Africa. We then reviewed guidelines and requirements for Tuesday's Socratic Seminar (see below).

Socratic Seminar requirements and guidelines (stop once you reach today is the day)

Socratic Seminar prompts

Upcoming Dates:
3/10: Africa integrated Socratic Seminar
3/11: Source Evaluation Due 

3/3/20

Today students did a gallery walk of their independence visuals. We then had work time in the library for our research papers.

Upcoming Dates:
3/10: Africa integrated Socratic Seminar
3/11: Source Evaluation Due 

3/2/20

Today students continued their analysis of Hotel Rwanda.  Tomorrow students will review their independence movement visuals and have time in the library to work on their research.

Upcoming Dates:
3/10: Africa integrated Socratic Seminar
3/11: Source Evaluation Due

2/28/20

Today students continued their analysis of Hotel Rwanda. Students also turned in their independence movement visual.

Upcoming Dates:
3/10: Africa integrated Socratic Seminar
3/11: Source Evaluation Due

2/27/20

Today students had time in the library to work on their research questions.

Upcoming dates:
2/28: Research question due
2/28: Independence Movement visual due

2/25/20

Today students received instruction on how to write a research question. We also discussed the 8 stages of genocide and went over context for Hotel Rwanda. We then started the film.

Research and Research Questions

Rwanda Intro

Upcoming dates:
2/28: Research question due
2/28: Independence Movement visual due

2/24/20

Today students had work time for their independence movement visuals. ***Due Date Change: Independence visual is now due Friday 2/28.

Upcoming dates:
2/25: Research paper prompt choice due
2/28: Research question due
2/28: Independence Movement visual due

2/14/20

Today students had time to work on their independence movement visuals.

Independence Movement Visual instructions

List of countries for visual

•Ghana

•Algeria

•Kenya

•Congo

•Angola

•Nigeria

Upcoming dates:
2/25: Research paper prompt choice due
2/25: Independence Movement due

2/13/20

Today we discussed South Africa and Apartheid. Students shared their questions from the reading and Mrs. Santos checked them off in class.

South Africa class notes

If you will be absent on Friday: Instructions for the Independence Movement visual are linked below. Please choose a country from the list on the slide in the class notes above. We will have Friday and the Monday after break to work on the visuals. Visuals are due Tuesday 2/25.

Independence Movement Visual instructions

Upcoming dates:
2/14: Research paper signature sheet due
2/25: Prompt choice due
2/25: Independence Movement due

2/11/20

Today we discussed the short and long term effects of colonial rule in Africa. Today was very discussion heavy. If absent, it is recommended that you read both articles that were due today and look through the class notes. Try to answer the questions in your notes and check with a peer to see what was missed.

Effects of colonization class notes

We also introduced our second semester research project. Final prompt choice is due by February 25th.

Research project overview and requirements

Prompt sheet

Homework: see below

Upcoming Dates:
2/13: Apartheid reading (Read and answer the highlighted questions on page 2)

2/10/20

Today we discussed the governing styles of colonization and the justifications for imperialism used by the Europeans. We also did some source analysis practice.

Colonization notes (Includes Berlin Conference discussion)

On Tuesday we will have a discussion on the effects of colonial rule. Today students chose one of the below to critically read in preparation.

Leopold and the Congo

Germany and the Hereros

Upcoming dates:

2/11: Leopold or Namibia reading due
2/13: Apartheid reading (Read and answer the highlighted questions on page 2)

2/7/20

Today we debriefed our Berlin Conference simulation. If absent, consider the questions listed below and jot down some thoughts in your notes.

•What would be the immediate consequences of the Berlin Conference for Africa?•What challenges will the Europeans face?•What might the long-lasting consequences of the this type of colonization be?•What can we infer about how the Europeans will govern and how they will treat indigenous peoples because of the Berlin Conference?

On Tuesday we will have a discussion on the effects of colonial rule. Students will choose one of the readings below to critically read. If you have a busy Monday, feel free to choose one to read over the weekend.

Leopold and the Congo

Germany and the Hereros

Upcoming dates:

2/11: Leopold or Namibia reading due

2/6/20

Today students participate in our Berlin Conference simulation. If absent, answer the following and give to Mrs. Santos:

1. Choose a country (Great Britain, France, Belgium, Germany). Using page 2 of the packet below, which areas do you think you would want the most and why?
2. Answer question number 4 and 7 from the packet.

Homework due tomorrow: All packet questions answered. (if not absent)

Berlin Conference Packet

2/4/20

Today we discussed the short-term and long-lasting effects of slavery on Africa. We also took a reading quiz. You will be pulled into flex time for a make-up unless you schedule a separate time with Mrs. Santos

Students also turned in their Africa maps.

Slavery in Africa class notes

Homework due Thursday: Take notes on the Scramble for Africa reading (link below)

Upcoming Dates:
2/6: Scramble for Africa reading notes

2/3/20

Today we discussed how Jared Diamond's Guns, Germs, and Steel theory applies to Africa and took a reading quiz on The Shape of Africa. We also looked at the ways in which it is not a perfect theory.

Guns Germs Steel class notes

Homework due tomorrow: Critically read Slavery's Lasting Effects (link below)

Upcoming Dates:
2/4: Africa Map due
2/4: Slavery's lasting effects critical read
2/6: Scramble for Africa reading notes

1/31/20

Today we shared our East/West Africa visuals. We also did some thesis practice. If absent, just take notes on the reading that you did not do a visual for to get the information.

Homework due Monday: Critically read The Shape of Africa

Upcoming Dates:
2/3: The Shape of Africa critical read
2/4: Africa Map due
2/4: Slavery's lasting effects critical read
2/6: Scramble for Africa reading notes

1/30/20

Today students had time to work on their East/West Africa visual. Instructions below.

Homework due 1/31- Reading Section Display

Ch 11, Sec 2 (West).  Ch 11, Sec 3 (East).

Display the important info on one side of 1 page:

1.Chapter  Title / Your Cool Title (5 pts)

2.Short (3-4 sentences) summary (5 pts)

3.Key terms defined (5 pts)

4.Important questions completed (5 pts) See below

    What technologies did African civilizations have access to? How advanced were they?   How did migration and trade affect African history?

      What forms of agriculture developed in Africa?

5.Important images with explanations; overall awesomeness (10 pts)

Students will read either the West Africa reading OR the East Africa reading and complete the above one page visual. Images can be hand drawn or printed. Information can also be typed.

West Africa Reading

East Africa Reading

Upcoming Dates:
1/31: East/West Africa Visual
2/4: Africa Map

1/28/20-1/29/20

Today introduced our Africa unit and discussed the geography and earliest development of the African continent.

If absent, class notes are below. Please also read Diverse Societies in Africa.

Africa Intro

Africa Map - due Tuesday 2/4. Label each country clearly on the political map. Color map (doesn't need to be different colors for each country but can). Use helpful coloring to label and distinguish the physical features listed below the physical map.

On Thursday you will have work time for your East/West Africa visual. Instructions are below and at the end of the class notes. If absent, you can choose whether you would like to do East or West Africa. Mrs. Santos will have examples in class. To be ready for Thursday, read and take notes on your chosen region.

Homework due 1/31- Reading Section Display

Ch 11, Sec 2 (West).  Ch 11, Sec 3 (East).

Display the important info on one side of 1 page:

1.Chapter  Title / Your Cool Title (5 pts)

2.Short (3-4 sentences) summary (5 pts)

3.Key terms defined (5 pts)

4.Important questions completed (5 pts) See below

    What technologies did African civilizations have access to? How advanced were they?   How did migration and trade affect African history?

      What forms of agriculture developed in Africa?

5.Important images with explanations; overall awesomeness (10 pts)

Students will read either the West Africa reading OR the East Africa reading and complete the above one page visual. Images can be hand drawn or printed. Information can also be typed.

West Africa Reading

East Africa Reading

Upcoming Dates:
1/31: East/West Africa Visual
2/4: Africa Map

1/22/20-1/24/20

FINALS

1/21/20

Finals Review Day

1/17/20

Today we finished foreign policy (see previous ppt. We just finished with NGOs and climate change).

Please study for finals

Finals Study Guide

For the integrated essay, you may bring one 3x5 note card that includes your evidence you plan to use from your chosen civics units and your chosen LA texts. These do not need to be quotes, just specific examples and evidence.

1/16/20

Today students did their timed write with Mr. Smith.

For tomorrow, please review your UN articles. We will do a short discussion and finish up foreign policy tomorrow.

Finals Study Guide

Upcoming Dates:
1/17: Critically read the UN articles
              UN overview (UN website)
              Role of the General Assembly (CFR)
              UN Explained (New York Times)

1/13/20-1/15/20

SNOW DAYS

1/10/20

Today students participated in a graded discussion on media and politics. This will go in both gradebooks.

**If absent: Choose 2 of the questions you wrote for the discussion. Prepare a written response for each question using your prep materials and hand in to Mrs. Santos.

Students also turned in: Critically read media articles AND prep sheet (including notes and citations for additional sources, questions, and reflection). This also goes in both gradebooks.

Homework due Monday: Don't forget to critically read the UN articles listed below.

Finals Study Guide

Upcoming Dates:
1/13: Critically read the UN articles
              UN overview (UN website)
              Role of the General Assembly (CFR)
              UN Explained (New York Times)

1/9/20

Today 5th period discussed Fake News. Block (periods 6/7) began our foreign policy discussion.

Foreign Policy class notes

Fake News class notes can be found in Wednesday's agenda.

Don't forget to have all your prep work ready to turn in after our discussion tomorrow!

Upcoming Dates:
1/10: Media and Politics graded discussion
1/13: Critically read the UN articles
              UN overview (UN website)
              Role of the General Assembly (CFR)
              UN Explained (New York Times)

1/8/20

Today we discussed fake news and the shifting definition of truth in modern politics and media.

Fake News class notes (You do not need to take thorough notes if absent. Just look through and watch some of the videos if you would like. Try to get the general understanding. You can also check with a friend for any notes they had from the discussion).

Note: Friday's graded discussion and prep work will go in both the SS and LA gradebooks. You can use information from today's discussion to guide your prep work as well.

Upcoming Dates:
1/10: Media and Politics graded discussion
1/13: Critically read the UN articles
              UN overview (UN website)
              Role of the General Assembly (CFR)
              UN Explained (New York Times)

1/7/20

Today in 5th period we began on our discussion on foreign policy. 6/7 block worked with Mr. Smith on LA content.

Foreign Policy class notes

Upcoming Dates:
1/10: Media and Politics graded discussion

1/6/20

Welcome Back!

Today students had reading time to prepare for our graded discussion taking place on Thursday. Assignment instructions can be found in today's class notes. Readings are linked below. There are other pieces you are required to find on your own so please read instructions carefully.

Media Graded Discussion prep

Role of Media reading

Global Information War reading

12/20/19

Today we reflected on the outline and project and students had extra time to work with Mr. Smith.

12/19/19

Today students had a work time for their 4-level outline. Please remember to upload to Tii AND bring a hard copy to class.

12/18/19

Today students worked on Persepolis with Mr. Smith. All students should have a score and feedback on their 3-level outline. Be sure to check as you continue your work.

Don't forget that the 4-level final outline is due Friday!!

Final Outline Rubric  (There is no word count requirement, however points will be lost for insufficient evidence/Body Thesis sections)

12/17/19

Today students took their elections and campaigns exam. If absent, please schedule a time to take the test with Mrs. Santos no later than Friday December 20.


Don't forget that the 4-level final outline is due Friday!!

Final Outline Rubric  (There is no word count requirement, however points will be lost for insufficient evidence/Body Thesis sections)

12/16/19

Today students gave each other a peer edit on their 3-level outlines.

Don't forget our exam on Elections and political parties tomorrow!!

Upcoming Dates:
12/17: Unit exam on campaigns and elections Study guide
12/20: Final 4-level outline due on Tii AND hard copy in class

12/13/19

Today students had work time for their outlines.

Please remember your gift drive items if you are buying them this weekend. Final donation day is Monday!!

**Important notes: 
          *Reminder that Mrs. Santos moved the due date for the 3-level outline back. This must be on Turnitin.com no later than Sunday 12/15 at 10pm. Students need to bring a hard copy to class on Monday for peer editing.
          *If you will be out of town on the 20th, your outline is still due. Per the syllabus, students with excused absences are still responsible for due dates on long projects. You will need to hand in your outline before you go or make sure you have reliable internet access to submit on Friday.

Upcoming Dates:
12/15: 3-level outline due (think of this as your rough draft)
12/16: Hard copy of 3-level outline in class for peer editing
12/17: Unit exam on campaigns and elections Study guide

12/12/19

Today we finished our discussion on Elections and looked at the problems associated with campaign finance. Students then had work time for their 3-level outlines (5th period will have work time on Friday).

Elections class notes The videos watched were the Crash course on Political campaigns and John Oliver's Congressional Fundraising (edited for class).

**Important notes: 
          *Reminder that Mrs. Santos moved the due date for the 3-level outline back. This must be on Turnitin.com no later than Sunday 12/15 at 10pm. Students need to bring a hard copy to class on Monday for peer editing.
          *If you will be out of town on the 20th, your outline is still due. Per the syllabus, students with excused absences are still responsible for due dates on long projects. You will need to hand in your outline before you go or make sure you have reliable internet access to submit on Friday.

Upcoming Dates:
12/15: 3-level outline due (think of this as your rough draft)
12/16: Hard copy of 3-level outline in class for peer editing
12/17: Unit exam on campaigns and elections Study guide

12/10/19

Today we discussed the electoral process and potential problems associated with it.

Elections class notes (We stopped on slide 10)

**Important notes: 
          *Reminder that Mrs. Santos moved the due date for the 3-level outline back. This must be on Turnitin.com no later than Sunday 12/15 at 10pm. Students need to bring a hard copy to class on Monday for peer editing.
          *If you will be out of town on the 20th, your outline is still due. Per the syllabus, students with excused absences are still responsible for due dates on long projects. You will need to hand in your outline before you go or make sure you have reliable internet access to submit on Friday.

Upcoming Dates:
12/15: 3-level outline due (think of this as your rough draft)
12/16: Hard copy of 3-level outline in class for peer editing
12/17: Unit exam on campaigns and elections

12/9/19

Today we discussed how to organize our research/evidence into categories to prepare for outline writing. We also looked at proper formatting for an outline.

Organizing and creating an outline

Outlining Template

Body Thesis Statements 

Students should be working through the organization process with their evidence tonight. Work on finding your categories and fleshing out your initial thesis (to be turned in tomorrow).

**Important notes: 
          *Reminder that Mrs. Santos moved the due date for the 3-level outline back. This must be on Turnitin.com no later than Sunday 12/15 at 10pm. Students need to bring a hard copy to class on Monday for peer editing.
          *If you will be out of town on the 20th, your outline is still due. Per the syllabus, students with excused absences are still responsible for due dates on long projects. You will need to hand in your outline before you go or make sure you have reliable internet access to submit on Friday.

Upcoming Dates:
12/15: 3-level outline due (think of this as your rough draft)
12/16: Hard copy of 3-level outline in class for peer editing
12/17: Unit exam on campaigns and elections

12/6/19

Today students had work time in the library for their source evaluations and outlines.

12/5/19

Today we had work time for our first semester outline. Students also received instruction on how to do an OPCVL source evaluation which is due Monday for your 4 sources.

OPCVL instruction

OPCVL guide

First Semester outline

~We will have work days for our outline on Friday. Students should still be working on their research between now and then. I have included some research guidance in today's slides. 

Upcoming Dates:
12/9: Source Analysis Due

12/3/19

Today we took the Civics Common Assessment. No need to make this up if you were absent. We then finished our Political Party notes (link in Monday's post).

12/2/19

Today we discussed trends in political participation and began our discussion on political parties.

Political Parties class notes (stop when you get to the homework slide)

Political Typology article

**Due tomorrow: Critically read and answer the questions for the political typology article above.

Tomorrow we will take our Civics Common Assessment. This is a standardized test that students do not need to study for.

First Semester outline

~We will have work days for our outline Thursday and Friday. Students should still be working on their research between now and then. I have included some research guidance in today's slides. I will give instruction on the OPCVL source analysis on Thursday.

Upcoming Dates:
12/3: Common Assessment
12/9: Source Analysis Due

11/26/19-11/27/19

Today we held our Citizenship Socratic Seminar. Students should have turned in their prep sheet and Native American Sovereignty assignment after the seminar.


Due Monday December 2nd : Reminder that last week we introduced our first semester Social Studies outline. Your first task is to decide which prompt you would like to write about. The assignment sheet is below. Please take some time to do some basic (britannica level) research for 2-3 of the prompts and decide which one you want to write about. We will begin this process on December 3rd and you don't want to waste your first research day trying to figure out what to write about. If you have questions, see Mrs. Santos.

First Semester outline

11/25/19

Today we debriefed and shared about our Native American sovereignty assignment. We then prepared for tomorrow's Socratic Seminar.

**Due tomorrow: Socratic Seminar prep sheet and Native American assignment.

Upcoming Dates:
11/26: Citizenship Socratic Seminar

11/22/19

Today students had work time for their Native American sovereignty assignment.

Native American Sovereignty Assignment (Links for step 3 are on page 2)

Tribal government reading 

Upcoming Dates:
11/25: Native American Sovereignty assignment
11/26: Citizenship Socratic Seminar

11/21/19

Today students had work time for their Native American sovereignty assignment.

Native American Sovereignty Assignment (Links for step 3 are on page 2)

Tribal government reading 

Upcoming Dates:
11/25: Native American Sovereignty assignment
11/26: Citizenship Socratic Seminar

11/19/19

Today we finished our discussion on voting rights and disenfranchisement.

Suffrage class notes

We also introduced our Native American Sovereignty assignment. Students will work on this Thursday and Friday in class. It is strongly recommended that students get started on step one as homework. Though students can finish the readings in class, there are three other steps that must completed during those work days so it will be helpful to have step one finished or mostly finished. Instructions are below. The readings were handed out in class and are linked below. You only need to read pages 2-5 of the pdf. Do not do the activity on page 5.

Native American Sovereignty Assignment (Links for step 3 are on page 2)

Tribal government reading 

Upcoming Dates:
11/25: Native American Sovereignty assignment
11/26: Citizenship Socratic Seminar

11/18/19

Today we finished our campaign presentations and began our discussion on voting rights.

Suffrage class notes (today we got through the slide asking if voting rights are all fixed)

Upcoming Dates:
11/26: Citizenship Socratic Seminar

11/15/19

Today students presented their campaign analysis projects.

**Don't forget to upload your project document to Turnitin by 10 pm!

Upcoming Dates:
11/26: Citizenship Socratic Seminar

11/14/19

Today we discussed Immigration and the Naturalization process in the United States.

Immigration/Citizenship class notes

We did watch a video by John Oliver today on Legal Immigration. It does show the 4 pathways to immigration and their various roadblocks very well. However, this is not required. You can get the notes from a class mate. If you do really want to watch it, it is on YouTube but remember that I edit the content heavily to make it clean. If you would like to watch the clean version, you can arrange that with me outside of class time (Wednesday mornings or during flex time).

**Don't forget to bring in your completed campaign analysis project tomorrow!!

Upcoming Dates:
11/15: Campaign analysis project due
11/26: Citizenship Socratic Seminar

11/12/19-11/13/19

Today we had our final work day for our campaign analysis project. Remember that the final product (poster or trifold) is due Friday.

Upcoming Dates:
11/15: Campaign analysis project due

11/8/19

Today we took our unit 3 exam.

** Remember that quarter grades are due next week. All late work for Unit 3 is due by Tuesday. No late work will be accepted after this day.

Upcoming Dates:
11/15: Campaign analysis project due

11/7/19

Today students did a gallery walk within their groups to learn about our landmark Supreme Court cases. Students then turned in their visuals.

Due today: Court case visual and campaign fact check

**Don't forget that our Unit 3 exam is tomorrow! Study guide below.

Upcoming Dates:
11/8: Unit 3 Exam (Unit 3 study guide)
11/15: Campaign analysis project due

11/5/19-11/6/19

Today we discussed the structure and process of the Judicial branch. Students worked in groups to research landmark supreme court cases from U.S. history.

Judicial Branch class notes

*Don't forget that our Unit 3 exam on the structure of the government (Federalism and 3 branches) will be on Friday the 8th. Study guide in below.

First semester Integrated Source analysis 

Government structure study guide

Upcoming Dates:
11/7: Landmark supreme court case visual
11/7: Campaign analysis 1st fact check due on Tii and hard copy in class
11/8: Unit 3 Exam
11/15: Campaign analysis project due

11/4/19

Today students had work time in the library to do research for their campaign analysis project.

*Don't forget that our Unit 3 exam on the structure of the government (Federalism and 3 branches) will be on Friday the 8th. Study guide in below.

First semester Integrated Source analysis 

Government structure study guide

Upcoming Dates:
11/7: Campaign analysis 1st fact check due (We will have a work day in class on Monday)
11/8: Unit 3 Exam
11/15: Campaign analysis project due

11/1/19

Today students did and in class timed write on the Executive Branch. Instructions in the powerpoint below. If absent, set a timer for 45 minutes. Complete the timed write in this time frame and turn in to Mrs. Santos.

Executive Branch Timed write

On Monday students will have a work day for their campaign analysis project. You should have been assigned your candidate today. Email Mrs. Santos if absent.

First semester Integrated Source analysis 

Upcoming Dates:
11/7: Campaign analysis 1st fact check due (We will have a work day in class on Monday)
11/15: Campaign analysis project due

10/31/19

Today we discussed the presidential image and how modern media has shifted the perspective on the executive office.

Presidential image class notes

Remember that tomorrow we will do an in class essay on the Executive Branch. You will have a choice of two prompts (in class notes above) and it is open note. If you feel the need to do some preparation tonight, I recommend creating a rough thesis or jotting down some ideas of what you want to talk about. You should have plenty of time in class to do these things however.
Things you should NOT do:

• Create a full rough draft of your essay. This will not be allowed as "notes". In class essays are meant to see what you can create in a class period.
• Create a full MLA outline for your essay. Same reasoning as above.
• Do a lot of outside research. This is meant to be an assessment of your understanding of concepts discussed in class.

First semester Integrated Source analysis 

Upcoming Dates:
11/1: Campaign analysis voter profile due (assigned Tuesday)
11/7: Campaign analysis 1st fact check due (We will have a work day in class on Monday)
11/15: Campaign analysis project due

10/30/19

Today students worked on their voter profiles for the source analysis project.

First semester Integrated Source analysis 

Homework due Thursday: Bring in any article about President Trump. Doesn't have to be political.

Upcoming Dates:
10/31: president article
11/1: Campaign analysis voter profile due (assigned Tuesday)
11/7: Campaign analysis 1st fact check due
11/15: Campaign analysis project due

10/29/19

Today we introduced our integrated campaign analysis project. The first part involves working with a partner to create a voter profile for the district. Assignment is below. If absent, see Mrs. Santos or Mr. Smith to go over instructions and get access to the community mailers.

First semester Integrated Source analysis 

Homework due Thursday: Bring in any article about President Trump. Doesn't have to be political.

Upcoming Dates:
10/31: president article
11/1: Campaign analysis voter profile due (assigned Tuesday)
11/7: Campaign analysis 1st fact check due
11/15: Campaign analysis project due

10/28/19

Today we discussed the evolution of Presidential power. We looked at how different presidents have expanded the power of the executive branch. We then looked at the expansion of executive orders.

Executive Branch class notes (updated from Friday)

Executive Order assignment Use this to look at Executive orders. No need to turn the assignment in. After looking at the chart on the initial page click presidents at the top, then scroll down and click search all documents, then choose the president from the drop down. Under document category choose Executive orders.

Homework due Thursday: Bring in any article about President Trump. Doesn't have to be political.

Upcoming Dates:
10/31: president article
11/1: Campaign analysis voter profile due (assigned Tuesday)
11/7: Campaign analysis 1st fact check due
11/15: Campaign analysis project due

10/25/19

Today we finished up the Legislative Branch and looked at the structure of the Executive Branch.

Executive Branch class notes (stop when you get to Bureaucracy)

No homework for Santos. :) Enjoy your weekend!

10/24/19

Today we looked at the Legislative Process, both how Legislative power is used and the problems within the system. We discussed a lot of things in addition to what's on the slides (expanding the basics) so be sure to touch base with a classmate to get more thorough notes.

Legislative process class notes

Upcoming Dates:
10/25: Bring an article about the Legislative Branch to discuss (read the article. no need to do the analysis).

10/23/19

Santos gone. Students worked on LA with Mr. Smith.

10/22/19

Today we discussed the structure of the Legislative Branch of government. We also took a reading quiz so make sure to schedule a time to take that with Mrs. Santos if absent.

Legislative Structure class notes

Upcoming Dates:
10/25: Bring a current news article about the Legislative Branch (no need to do the analysis)

10/21/19

Today we did some thesis practiced. We practiced identifying the different parts of a thesis statement. We also discussed how to identify the parts of a thesis from a prompt as thesis writing is hard if we don't understand what we're being asked to do.

Thesis and prompt analysis

Upcoming Dates:
10/22: Reading notes on Chapter 11 of TCI.

10/18/19

Today we finished our discussion of Federalism. We discussed and turned in our current events article analysis.

Federalism class notes (we just went through gerrymandering today and will finish tomorrow).

**Reminder that videos are not required. You may simply get the class notes from a peer.

Upcoming Dates:
10/22: Reading notes on Chapter 11 of TCI.

10/17/19

Today we discussed Federalism. We look at the benefits and problems within the system.

Federalism class notes (we just went through gerrymandering today and will finish tomorrow).

**please note that the John Oliver link is from YouTube. While I use an edited version in class, the links are not edited. Watching the videos is not required. He gives a good explanation of gerrymandering and its complexities but you are welcome to just get the notes from a classmate.

Upcoming Dates:
10/18: Current Events Article (topic should be Federalism, think states rights, state government, or local government. We will discuss the topic more on Thursday).
10/22: Reading notes on Chapter 11 of TCI.

10/16/19

PSAT DAY

10/15/19

Today we discussed media bias and how to assess the news we read.

Media Bias class notes (please note that the John Oliver link is from YouTube. While I use an edited version in class, the links are not edited. Watching the videos is not required. They are just examples of the media bias discussed).

Upcoming Dates:
10/18: Current Events Article (topic should be Federalism, think states rights, state government, or local government. We will discuss the topic more on Thursday).

10/11/19

Today students took their unit 2 exam. If absent, please schedule a time to take the test with Mrs. Santos, preferable during flex time next Wednesday.

10/10/19

Today students combined their LA and SS knowledge to create a propaganda poster that promotes the Constitution using one of the guiding principles. If absent, instructions are below. Your definition and explanations should be on the back.

Propaganda assignment instructions (goes in both gradebooks)


Upcoming Dates:
10/11: Unit 2 Test (study guide)

10/9/19

Today we had an in-class discussion on the Bill of Rights.

Upcoming Dates:
10/11: Unit 2 Test (study guide)

10/8/19

Today we had an in-class discussion on the Bill of Rights.

Upcoming Dates:
10/11: Unit 2 Test (study guide)

10/7/19

Today students looked through the Constitution to complete a scavenger hunt of important points in the document.

If absent, use the Constitution at the end of your textbook to complete the sheet below.

Constitution Scavenger Hunt

Due Tomorrow: Read the Bill of Rights and be ready to discuss the following for each amendment: What rights are protected? What does it mean to you? What other interpretations might cause conflict/controversy?

Upcoming Dates:
10/11: Unit 2 Test (study guide)

10/4/19

Today we finished our discussion on the structure of the Constitution.

Constitution class notes

Upcoming Dates:

10/11: Unit 2 exam

10/3/19

Today we discussed the creation of the Constitution. We also took a reading quiz. If absent, schedule a time with Mrs. Santos to do a make-up.

Constitution class notes

Upcoming Dates:

10/11: Unit 2 exam

10/2/19

Today students worked on LA with Mr. Smith.

6/7 block! If you received a pink sticky note from me today, it means you were absent during flex time on Sept. 11th when we watched the student handbook video. This is a mandatory school requirement. Please watch the video at the link below (not long). Then tell Mrs. Santos tomorrow to sign the acknowledgment form. If you do not, admin will be contacting you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMaf6MlBM98&t=4s

Upcoming Dates:

10/3: Readings notes on 3.3-3.6, 4.4 due (click link for a pdf if you are having trouble with the online book)

10/11: Unit 2 exam

10/1/19

Today we discussed the philosophies of the Enlightenment that impacted the founding of American government.

Enlightenment class notes

Students also worked in groups to create a motivational meme for one of the philosophies. If absent, follow the directions below to complete the assignment. In the directions you will also find four readings. The first two will help with the Hobbes/Locke poster. The last two give a little more information on Montesquieu and Rousseau, the other two Enlightenment thinkers we discussed in class.

Hobbes/Lock motivational meme

Upcoming dates:
10/3: Reading notes on sections 3.3-3.6 and 4.4 of your textbook

9/30/19

Today students presented and took notes on their comparative governments jigsaw. If absent, touch base with your group or Mrs. Santos to get access to your group's posters when you return.

Flex time tomorrow will be quiet homework time. Students can work on their reading notes that are due Thursday.

Homework due Thursday: Read and take notes on chapter 3 sections 3-6 and chapter 4 section 4 of your textbook (3.3-3.6, 4.4).

Upcoming Dates:
10/3: Chapter 3 and 4 reading notes (see above)

9/27/19

Today students finished their comparative governments jigsaw posters.

Upcoming Dates:
9/30: Comparative Governments Jigsaw due

9/26/19

Today students worked in the library on their comparative governments research.

Upcoming Dates:
9/30: Comparative Governments Jigsaw due

9/25/19

Today students worked in the library to research their government types for their comparative governments jigsaw.

Comparative Governments jigsaw

Upcoming Dates:
9/30: Comparative Governments Jigsaw due

9/24/19

Today we played a power grab game. We then analyzed our game by looking at Power, Political Power Games, and Economic systems. Students then got into groups for our Comparative Governments jigsaw. Instructions are below. Due on Monday Sept 30.

Power and Economics notes

Comparative Governments jigsaw

Upcoming Dates:
9/30: Comparative Governments Jigsaw due

9/23/19

Today we took some time to get signed into the online version of our Civics textbook. We then introduce our Civics unit.

Civics intro

9/20/19

Today students took the Culture Unit Test. Grades will go in as 2 scores, one for multiple choice, one for the short answer section. If absent, please schedule a time to make up the test with Mrs. Santos (preferably during flex time!). :)

9/19/19

Today we discussed Maslow's Hierarchy. Students also received initial instruction on how to write a thesis statement and then practiced what they learned. Due today was the 5 themes of Geography mind map.

Maslow class notes can be found in the 5 themes powerpoint from Tuesday.

Thesis Statements notes

Tonight was also curriculum night! Parents, you can find our presentation below.

Curriculum night presentation

Upcoming Dates:
9/20: Culture and Religions Unit Exam

9/18/19

Since today was an extended learning day, students spent most of the class period working with Mr. Smith on LA (yesterday was the opposite).

Homework due Thursday: 5 Themes mind map

Upcoming Dates:
9/19: 5 Themes mind map due
9/20: Culture and Religions Unit Exam

9/17/19

Today we discussed the 5 Themes of Geography. Students then worked to create a visual mind map of the 5 themes. Instructions and example are in the ppt.

5 Themes of Geography class notes (we will discuss Maslow on Thursday)

Homework due Thursday: 5 Themes mind map

Upcoming Dates:
9/19: 5 Themes mind map due
9/20: Culture and Religions Unit Exam

9/16/19

Today students worked in groups to create a triple venn diagram for the Abrahamic religions. If absent, use the instructions on the Islam ppt to create a triple venn on a piece of printer paper. See Mrs. Santos if you have any questions.

Upcoming Dates:
9/20: Culture and Religions Unit Exam

9/13/19

Today we discussed the origins of Islam. Students also turned in their cultural perspective paragraph and their scavenger hunt.

Islam class notes (Remember the Venn diagram we will do in class on Monday)

Upcoming Dates:
9/20: Culture and Religions Unit Exam

9/12/19

Today we discussed the origins of Christianity. We also had a reading quiz. If absent, see Mrs. Santos for makeup.

Christianity class notes

Don't forget to bring your cultural perspective paragraph tomorrow!

Upcoming Dates:

9/13: Islam Reading (ignore the reading questions. Just take your usual notes)
9/13: Scavenger Hunt due
9/13: Santos Who Am I Survey due
9/13: Cultural Perspective Paragraph (see Abraham ppt from Monday)

9/11/19

Today was an extended learning today. Students worked with Mr. Smith on LA today. (6th period)

Upcoming Dates:
9/12: Rise of Christianity Reading

9/13: Islam Reading (ignore the reading questions. Just take your usual notes)
9/13: Scavenger Hunt due
9/13: Santos Who Am I Survey due
9/13: Cultural Perspective Paragraph (see Abraham ppt from Monday)

9/10/19

Today we discussed the origins of Judaism. It was also our first extended learning day so well done surviving the 80 minute periods!

Judaism class notes

Remember that both the Christianity (due Thur) and Islam (due Friday) readings are fair game for a reading quiz! So take good notes!

Homework due Thursday: Rise of Christianity reading

Upcoming Dates:
9/12: Rise of Christianity Reading

9/11: Syllabus due
9/13: Islam Reading (ignore the reading questions. Just take your usual notes)
9/13: Scavenger Hunt due
9/13: Santos Who Am I Survey due
9/13: Cultural Perspective Paragraph (see Abraham ppt from Monday)

9/9/19

Today we continued our study of culture. We shared our charts and students were assigned a cultural perspective paragraph that will be due on Friday. (see class notes below for details).

We also began our study of the Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) as part of our culture study. Students discussed how religion can affect our actions/choices and thus events in history. We then read the story of Abraham in groups to get the foundation for these three religions. Students also turned in their Seattle Culture charts.

Abrahamic religions intro class notes

Story of Abraham (if absent, read and answer the questions at the top of each section in your notes)

Homework due tomorrow: Read and take notes on the Origins of Judaism reading

Upcoming Dates:
9/10: Judaism reading
9/11: Syllabus due
9/13: Scavenger Hunt due
9/13: Santos Who Am I Survey due
9/13: Cultural Perspective Paragraph

9/6/19

Turnitin.com codes:
5th Period Class ID: 22950937       Enrollment Key: Asia

6/7 Period Class ID: 22207057      Enrollment Key: Africa

Today we discussed the importance of perspective and bias when looking at culture. We discussed the rituals of the Nacirema peoples which surprise! turned out to be American spelled backwards. :)

We then looked at the 8 Cultural Universals or Elements of Culture (click link for definitions). We looked at examples of each one and discussed the questions the elements try to answer.

Cultural Universals Class Notes (Don't worry about the Cultural perspective paragraph listed on the first slide. I will introduce it on Monday, I just gave a heads up about it today).

Cultural Universals definitions

Homework Tonight: Fill in examples for each of the Cultural Universals to describe Seattle area culture (Ex: Starbucks under Economy). On the bottom of the chart, link below, write examples of elements of your personal control that differ from the mainstream. (Ex: the dominant language of the area is English. If you speak Spanish or Chinese at home you would write this in personal culture/language box). Some boxes for Seattle will have many, others may only have 1 or 2. Some of your personal culture boxes may remain empty.

To those that have already filled out the Who am I survey (link below) Thank you!.

Upcoming Dates:
9/9: Seattle Culture Chart
9/11: Syllabus due
9/13: Scavenger Hunt due
9/13: Santos Who Am I Survey due

9/5/19

Today students had pictures taken. We also worked on the Village of 100 activity and discussed cultural perspective to introduce our first unit. (No makeup required)

Homework tonight is to read the Nacirema article  (link below) about the ritual of a tribal people. Highlight/underline things that represent their culture. What do they appear to value? What drives their actions? Write your thoughts and questions in the margins.


Upcoming Dates:
9/6: Nacirema reading (directions above)
9/11: Syllabus due
9/13: Scavenger Hunt due
9/13: Santos Who Am I Survey due

9/4/2019

Welcome to 9th grade! Today we went over classroom expectations and got to know each other a little. When you visit by website (which I encourage you to make a daily habit), you will find:
      -A brief description of what was discussed in class (including a link to the day's powerpoint if applicable in case of absence or you need to add to your notes)
      -A description of the homework which will include links to any needed documents
      -A list of upcoming important dates, including links to important documents


Today students were given a syllabus (click link below for a digital copy). Please read this with your parent/guardian, sign the last page and return this (the last page) to Mrs. Santos or Mr. Smith no later than September 11th.

We also handed out the 9th grade scavenger hunt (link below). Feel free to work on this with a friend (must turn in separate sheets). This will help you get a good grasp on where to find important things (like your teachers!) so that you have the tools necessary to succeed in high school. This will be due no later than September 13th, though you can turn it in whenever you finish.

Finally, please fill out the Who Am I survey linked below. This helps me see a little of who you are and how I can best help you as a learner. Be honest and thorough! I do look at these and try to apply them to my teaching to make our classroom environment successful.

Upcoming Dates:
9/11: Syllabus due
9/13: Scavenger Hunt due
9/13: Santos Who Am I Survey due