Mr. K's Blog

Declaring Independence

2011-11-17T06:54:00.001-06:00

Today in class, students are wrapping up their translations of Jefferson's D.o.I. into modern day English and will begin composing a Declaration of their choice.

Homework: finish rough draft

World History Wrap-Up

2011-08-19T06:31:00.002-05:00

TGIF!

Today in class, students learned about two very important cultural movements that changed Europe. The Italian Renassiance and the Protestant Reformation both had direct impacts on the colonization and conquest of the North American continent.

Reaching back to the glory days of the Romans and Greeks, the Renaissance reinvigorated Europeans to focus on the ancient values of education that allowed these two super powers to once thrive in the Mediterranean. Luther's reformation not only woke up a sheepish people being led by false doctrines, his work eventually paved the way for several religious groups to be formed and eventually make their way to North America.

Unit #1 Map

2011-08-17T19:43:00.003-05:00

Happy Wednesday!

Today in class, students finished up their Unit 1 Map of the World.

We began our Unit 1 discussion on the age old questions of who were the first Americans....

Tomorrow we will dig deeper into the history surrounding these early nomads and discover just how and why they came to America.

Homework:

finish map by Friday

Opening Day

2011-08-16T06:59:00.003-05:00

One Day Down!

Yesterday in class, students were introduced to the structure of the class and completed a scavenger hunt that allowed them to become comfortable with the textbook and classroom.

Today we will begin Unit 1 by completing a World Map designed to familiarize them with the people and places of Unit 1.

Homework:

none

Open House 2011

2011-08-06T23:00:00.004-05:00

Parents,

Hopefully by now you are finding the 2011 FMS Open House very useful. As you have probably already heard, I am most easy to contact through my email address tkrys@festus.k12.mo.us.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me using this address.

Thanks!

A Storm Brewing....

2011-04-18T10:13:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday Before the Civil War!

Today in class, students are looking into the importance of Fredrick Douglass and Harriet Beecher Stowe's works of literature. After discussing these books, students were introduced to Presidents 13 and 14 (Fillmore & Pierce) and their significance (Fillmore's Compromise of 1850 and Pierce's attempt to purchase Cuba from Spain).

We also began looking into the border conflicts between the Kansas Territory and Missouri in "Bleeding Kansas."

Homework:

none

Study Guide

2011-03-28T09:40:00.001-05:00

Happy Workday Monday!

Today in class, students were given the class time to prepare themselves for the GIANT Unit 5 Test on Wednesday. Students are expected to complete the 100 point Study Guide and have it ready to turn in on Wednesday.

Homework:

Complete Study Guide

The Whigs In Town

2011-03-09T14:55:00.002-06:00

Happy Late-start!

Today in class, students were introduced to our nations first Whig President; William Henry Harrison.

After discussing the Presidency of Martin Van Ruin (Van Buren), we dove headfirst into the restructured policies of the Democrats and Whigs of the 1840 election.

Sadly enough, Harrison only lasted 32 days as President before his Vice President John Tyler took the rains becoming the USA's 10th President.

3 Presidents in one day!!! Man we covered some years!

Homework:

none

Map Quiz & Jackson's War on the B.U.S.

2011-03-08T07:55:00.002-06:00

Happy Tuesday!

Today in class, students are taking a Map Quiz over the USA in 1830 and beginning our journey into President Jackson's war on the Bank of the USA.

Homework:

none

Test Day

2011-02-25T09:47:00.001-06:00

TGIF!

Today in class, students took the exam for Unit 4.

Homework:

none

Study Guide - Unit 4 Test

2011-02-23T06:44:00.003-06:00

Happy Wednesday!

Today in class, students are either finishing up their Unit 4 note-packet or beginning the Unit 4 Study Guide for their test on Friday.

Check out the message board on my website to check your study guide answers!

Homework:

Study Guide (due 2/25)

The Diplomacy of John Quincy Adams

2011-02-22T10:24:00.002-06:00

Happy George Washington's Birthday!

Today in class, student looked into the role of John Quincy Adams as Secretary of State under President Monroe.

Homework:

Begin preparing for the Unit 4 Test on Friday....

The Napoleonic Wars Drag the USA into the War of 1812

2011-02-18T08:45:00.003-06:00

Today in class, students looked into the challenges of the Jefferson and Madison administration when dealing with the Napoleonic Wars between Britain and France.

After downsizing the US Navy and Army, the Federalists went on the attack and blamed Thomas Jefferson for the impressment of our sailors.

After the British impressments and the US found out the British signed treaties of alliance with Tecumseh and the Tradionalist natives, President Madison had what he needed to convince Congress for war.

Homework:

Constituion Pre-Test (Friday)

Adams Legend Tainted

2011-02-07T10:16:00.002-06:00

Welcome Back From Snowtropolis,

Today in class, students reviewed, reviewed, and reviewed the French Revolution's pull on the 1st and 2nd Presidents of the USA.

After reviewing, we dove head first into the Presidency of John Adams and his famous XYZ Affair that was followed up by the infamous Alien and Sedition Acts.

Homework:

work on 1st Amendment projects!

Off With Your Head!

2011-01-25T10:20:00.003-06:00

Today in class, students learned about the stressing out of George Washington due to the French Revolution.

We studied the Reign of Terror by Robespierre and how Hamilton and Jefferson were locked in heated debate on which side to ally with during the European conflict.

Homework:

none

The $52,000,000 Question

2011-01-24T09:56:00.003-06:00

Welcome Back from the Snowy Break!

Today in class, students began learning how Alexander Hamilton's plan for reducing the United States debt was to take shape.

We also looked into the beginning of the French Revolution and how Hamilton and Jefferson's relationship inside of Washington's cabinet continued to sour.

Homework:

possible pop quiz tomorrow....

First Week Back From Xmas!

2011-01-07T07:12:00.002-06:00

Hey All,

This week in class, students have been broken into two assessment groups based on their final exam score. Students who have shown us that they "mastered" (84% and above) have been working on an enrichment activity involving the creation of a Facebook page for one of the founding fathers or Revolutionary heroes.

Students who did not master the material from the Unit 3 exam, are busy working to find out why, and work on ways to help them get to where they need to be. They have been working one on one with Mr. Driemeier doing a variety of activities to help them achieve.

Next week we will begin semester 2 instruction with the fall of the Articles of Confederation and the need to write a Constitution!

Example Essay Answer

2010-12-14T14:28:00.002-06:00

Question #46.

Imagine you are speaking to someone who knows nothing about the Revolutionary period. Describe to the individual what makes the Declaration of Independence, the American Revolution, and the creation of the USA wordy historical events.

Answer:

When you sit back and look at the events surrounding the American Revolution of 1776, it is easy to see the importance of a few notable moments that made the Revolution possible. The Declaration of Independence not only was the most famous break up letter to date in 1776, but its words alone were history in the making. "When in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another..."

Stepping back to see what Jefferson is stating and knowing that never before in human history had a colonial empire (the American colonies) created a war that would eventually become a success and lead to the creation of a new country (the USA) and a never before attempted form of government (a Republic) on this side of the globe, makes it difficult not to understand how the events surrounding the War for Independence are not considered worldly historical events. Anytime an event becomes a first in the annals of history, I would say that it should be known as more than just historical. Wouldn't you say it would be worldly historical?

Monday

2010-12-06T11:47:00.002-06:00

Hey All,

Sorry for the long period of no posts! Today in class, students are taking a pop quiz over the information we have learned over the American Revolution thus far.

This is a quick quiz that will help me understand if the kids are getting the information or not.

Tomorrow, we are going to finish the war and move onto creating our United States government!

And So It Begins...

2010-11-29T10:08:00.002-06:00

Happy Monday!

I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving break!

Today in class, students began the 10 year journey through the American war for Independence. We studied the difficulties of our early American army and its newly elected leader; George Washington.

We also looked into the roles of African Americans and women during the war for freedom.

Homework:

none

End of Unit 3 Part 1

2010-11-19T14:01:00.003-06:00

TGIF!

Today in class, students were either taking part in the enrichment activity (if they scored an 80% or above on the test), or they were relearning the information from the first section of Unit 3 in Mr. D's class.

If students were in the enrichment group, they are partaking in 3 day activity using US currency, the DOI, and the movie National Treasure!

Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend! Be safe in the woods and wear blaze orange!

Homework:

none

Test Day

2010-11-18T09:50:00.001-06:00

Happy Thursday!

Today in class, students took the Unit 3 Part 1 test.

This is the biggest unit of the 8th grade year. We just finished the events leading up to the American Revolution.

Next up will be the actual conflict.

Homework:

none

Jeopardy Review

2010-11-17T07:26:00.002-06:00

Today in class, students competed in the ever-famous Jeopardy Review vs. Mr. Driemeier's classes.

Homework:

study study study!

Test Prep Day

2010-11-16T09:05:00.003-06:00

Today in class, students completed work on the essay prep for the Declaration of Independence portion of the test on Thursday as well as the study guide.

Homework:

finish study guide and DOI questions for Thursday.

Final Day of the D.O.I.

2010-11-15T07:45:00.002-06:00

Happy Monday!

I hope everyone had a great weekend and harvested many deer!

Today in class, students began working on their Unit 3 Pt.1(Chapter 6) study guide and finishing up the final draft of their Declarations.

Homework:

none

Writing With Walnuts!

2010-11-12T12:10:00.002-06:00

TGIF!

One more day until deer season!!!!!!

Today in class, students took a trip back into history and wrote their own Declaration of Independence using walnut ink that we cooked in class, and wild turkey feathers which we used to make quill pens!

Homework:

none

Writing Your Own Declaration of Independence

2010-11-11T08:29:00.003-06:00

Happy Veterans Day!

Today in class, students began writing their own Declaration of Independence. Today's activity will set them up with a rough draft to use for tomorrow's history lab activity (ink and feathers).

Homework:

finish rough draft

Peer Editing the D.O.I.

2010-11-10T09:00:00.003-06:00

Happy Late Start!

After learning about how Ben Franklin and John Adams worked hard to edit Jefferson's original draft of the Declaration, students completed their own paraphrase of the entire document and then worked together to come up with a singular translation of Jefferson's words into modern English.

Homework:

none

The Declaration Of Independence Continued..

2010-11-05T07:13:00.002-05:00

TGIF!

Yesterday and today in class, students continue the long arduous task of paraphrasing the Declaration of Independence.

Because of the difficulty of this assignment, I have been using all of class to help students who are struggling to understand the extensive vocabulary of Thomas Jefferson.

Homework:

none

Translating Day 2

2010-11-03T07:27:00.003-05:00

Election Day Tuesday,

Today in class, students continued their paraphrasing of the Declaration of Independence into modern English.

We have begun cooking the walnuts and should be ready to use by Friday!!!

Homework:

paraphrase the Preamble and Natural Rights

The Words of Jefferson (II)

2010-11-01T13:45:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday!

Today in class, students were given the last of two full days in class to work on their Declaration of Independence vocabulary words.

Tomorrow we will begin translating the D.o.I.

Homework:

finish vocab definitions (yes all 63)!

What the Heck did Jefferson Say?

2010-10-27T07:08:00.002-05:00

Today in class, students began the long arduous process of translating the Declaration of Independence into modern day English.

We began first by reading the document aloud in class and writing down any words we did not know. Today we will be looking up the definitions of those words, so that we can paraphrase Jefferson's genius.

Homework:

none

Independence!

2010-10-26T07:09:00.002-05:00

Yesterday in class, students declared independence from Great Britain and King George III.

Today we will be reading the actual Declaration document, and looking at the different terms that we will need to translate into modern day English.

Homework:

look up the meaning of the words written down

Lee's Resolution is Passed

2010-10-22T10:05:00.003-05:00

TGIF!

Today in class, students were introduced to the most important resolution in American History. Richard Henry Lee's resolution that:

"Resolved, That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved. That it is expedient forthwith to take the most effectual measures for forming foreign Alliances. That a plan of confederation be prepared and transmitted to the respective Colonies for their consideration and approbation."

On Monday we will formally declare our Independence from KG3 and Britain!

A Break From History

2010-10-21T10:54:00.000-05:00

Today in class, students took the Explore Test.

Happy 1st Day of 2nd Quarter!

2010-10-20T08:49:00.003-05:00

Today in class, students worked together in groups of four to complete an activity designed to get them familiar with some of the role players and battles that will be discussed in Unit 3.

The topics of todays lesson were:

Thomas Jefferson
John Adams
George Washington
The Battle of Breed's Hill
The Battle of Lexington
The Battle of Concord

Homework:

none

The Road to Revolution

2010-10-11T12:33:00.003-05:00

Happy Monday!

Today in class, we began discussing the main events leading up to the American Revolution and got all the way to the Sons of Liberty and their methods of boycotting the British.

Key Points of today's discussion:

the Proclamation of 1763
the Quartering Act
the Sugar Act
the Stamp Act
the Stamp Act Congress of 1765
the Sons of Liberty

Homework:

none

French & Indian War Battle Tactics

2010-10-07T07:04:00.003-05:00

TGIThursday!

Today in class, students were outside simulating the differences in the British and French fighting styles during the French and Indian War.

We talked allot about Major Washington's struggles during the war, but never explained why. Our goal today was to show why it was difficult for the British and Washington to defeat the French who were using guerrilla tactics.

Mr. Driemeier's classes mastered the art of linear warfare while my classes were hiding n the woods awaiting the enemy (guerrilla tactics).

Homework:

none!

Unit 2 Test

2010-10-05T06:54:00.002-05:00

Tuesday Is Test Day!

Today in class, students will be assessed over the material from Unit 2.

Homework:

none

The Wisdom of Locke and the Silliness of the French and British!

2010-09-28T18:55:00.004-05:00

Today in class, students took a look into the wisdom of John Locke and his theory on "natural rights."

Locke says that the Creator endows all humans with the right to

Life,
Liberty,
Property,
the right to change any government that is not protecting these rights.

After debating Locke, we set up the French and Indian War and the causes of the conflict.

Homework:

none

The Wisdom of Locke and the Silliness of the French and British!

2010-09-28T18:55:00.002-05:00

Today in class, students took a look into the wisdom of John Locke and his theory on "natural rights."

After debating Locke, we set up the French and Indian War and the causes of the conflict.

Homework:

none

2010-09-28T07:01:00.003-05:00

Welcome Back!

Yesterday in class, students learned about two movements in American history.

The Great Awakening which was a religious revival swept through the colonies eventually bringing a greater emphasis on the abolition of slavery and early womens rights.

Key Players

George Whitefield
Jonathan Edwards

The Enlightenments was a movement focusing on humans using rational thought to improve themselves, rather than counting on the King of England to care for their needs.

Key Players

Ben Franklin
John Locke

Homework:

none

Its Been A While

2010-09-23T18:32:00.003-05:00

Sorry for not posting in a while!

While I've been busy writing my Masters thesis proposal, students have been busy learning the history behind why each of the 13 colonies was created.

By the end of this week, we will have completed our journey through the New England, Middle, and Southern colonies and be on our way to the Great Awakening, Enlightenment, and French and Indian War.

Thank you for being patient!

Friday Quiz Day!

2010-09-17T14:29:00.003-05:00

TGIF!

Today in class, students took a break from the content of Unit 2 and took a Quiz on the 13 Colonies.

We had an awesome interactive review game on the SmartBoard, and then took the test.

On Monday we will debunk the myth behind the "First Thanksgiving."

Homework:

none

Thursday in Class

2010-09-16T09:18:00.002-05:00

Today in class, students were introduced to the English settlement of America.

After discussing the first attempt at Roanoke, we looked at the true story of Jamestown and debated the fiction of Disney's Pocahontas.

Homework:

Study for the 13 Colony Map Quiz!

Start of Unit 2

2010-09-14T08:53:00.002-05:00

Unit 2 Begins!

Today in class, students kicked off a new unit today in the common fashion of labeling a map.

Maps are important because they give us an idea of where the places we are learning about are. Unit 2 is about the English colonizing North America. The map students are labeling today, will be the subject of their map quiz on Friday!

Homework:

none

P.S. Here is a link to the FMS announcements...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ETmmPxlAIs

Test Day Is Here!

2010-09-10T10:55:00.002-05:00

TGIF!

Today in class, the 2010-2011 8th graders took their first Social Studies test of the year.

Next week we start Unit 2!

Homework:

enjoy the weekend!

Jeopardy Review!

2010-09-09T20:00:00.002-05:00

Trash Talking Thursday!

Today in class, my students matched up against Mr. Driemeier's classes for Unit 1's Jeopardy Review.

After the day of battle, the score was tied at three wins a piece.

TEST DAY TOMORROW!!!

Homework:

STUDY!

Test Prep - Day 1

2010-09-07T18:33:00.002-05:00

Welcome Back!

Today in class, students began working on their first study guide of the year. Students will have two work days in class to complete their Unit 1 Test study guide before its due date on Friday.

Homework:

none

History Through Primary Sources

2010-09-02T08:57:00.003-05:00

T.G.I.technically a Friday!

No school on Thursday!

Today in class, students investigated a packet of Primary Sources (on right) describing the conditions on the Middle Passage.

Students are acting as members of Parliament aiding William Pitt and William Wilberforce in their movement to Abolish the slave trade in England.

We are now successfully finished with Unit 1, and will prepare for the test on Tuesday and Wednesday next week. Look for a test on Thursday.

Homework:

none

End of the First Installment of Slavery

2010-09-01T21:14:00.003-05:00

Happy Late Start Day!

Today in class, students ended their first part of the Slavery lesson. Using Olaudah Equiano's narrative as a guide, we ended with the 3rd stage of the slave trade, the auction process.

Review the Scramble and teach someone else about how this method of entertainment for slave traders, humiliated slaves.

Overall this year has been the best so far at Festus as far as maturity and understanding the importance of this sensitive topic by the students. I am very proud of them.

Homework:

none

The Middle Passage

2010-08-31T15:10:00.004-05:00

Sad Tuesday Is Here,

Today in class, students were taught the horror of the Middle Passage through the words of Olaudah Equiano.

Have the kids teach you what they learned today in class, and I'm certain you won't forget it....

Homework:

none

Slavery Started in Africa?

2010-08-30T20:26:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday!

Today in class, students learned the history of the slave trade, and how the Americas got involved.

When the Portuguese and Spanish decided to bring the idea of sugarcane plantations to the Americas, a suitable workforce was needed to harvest the labor intensive crop.

After experimenting with Natives, Spanish Prisoners, Black Christians, and Asians, Africans were seen as the best option. Africans had 4 attributes that led to their being chosen above all others

Africans were immune to European diseases brought by traders
Africans did not have allies to aid them in escape in the Western Hemisphere
Africans were experienced farmers
Africans were a cheap, permanent source of labor

The continent of Africa has run red with the blood of slavery since the book of Exodus, and when European traders found that Africans were more than willing (and would fight to control) to trade their own kin, Africa became the hot spot for human cargo.

Homework:

none

Mr. K. and Mr. D. go to DC!

2010-08-30T11:18:00.002-05:00

Me, Mr. D, and our friend Pooker decided to go to D.C. this weekend for the "Restoring Honor Rally." I have pics of the trip up on my facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/album.php?aid=36486&id=100000220081354&page=3

Bring Life Jackets!

2010-08-26T16:12:00.002-05:00

Happy Thursday!

Today in class, students finished up their maps of the Americas and began work on their new activity, a R.A.F.T.

Students were given time in class to begin work on the R.A.F.T. and are expected to have it completed and ready to turn in tomorrow.

Homework:

RAFT

Work Day

2010-08-25T17:31:00.002-05:00

Hey All!

Today in class, students worked diligently to complete their first map activity.

Some students finished, and began working on their first RAFTing assignment of the year.

Homework:

finish map

Bye Bye Ancient Civilizations!

2010-08-25T06:57:00.002-05:00

Late Posting (Sorry)!

Yesterday in class, we said goodbye to the last of the Ancient American civilizations and said hello to the Spanish conquistadors.

After the Spanish successfully destroyed the Aztec and Inca, more Europeans began showing up to colonize what by then had come to be known as "The Americas."

We also began working on our first map activity and will finish up today in class. This is not a homework assignment, because students need the atlas and textbook to complete it.

Key Figures of Tuesdays Lesson:

Hernando Cortes
Francisco Pizarro
Atahualpa
Montezuma II

Homework:

none

Treaty of Taco Bell?

2010-08-23T16:07:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday!

Today in class, students learned of the importance of Christopher Columbus's voyage and how it changed the world. We looked at how Columbus's exploration sparked a mad land hunt that saw the Portuguese and Spanish competing so fiercely, that Pope Alexander VI had to get involved.

The Line of Demarcation was Pope Alexander VI's solution to the problem. Spain would be granted access to all non-Christian lands East of the line, while Portugal would have it on the West.

This Papal decree was ruled unfair by Portuguese King; John II. John II demanded a rethink of the boundaries and the result was what we know today as the Treaty of Tordesillas.

Homework:

none!

End of Week #1

2010-08-20T17:14:00.002-05:00

TGIF!

Today in class, we finally got to America.... After learning about the three great European catastrophes of the 1300s and the two great Cultural movements that followed, we said goodbye to Christopher Columbus as he left the Spanish port en route to Asia. Next week we will see what Columbus found and Europes reaction to it when he returned home with news.

Homework:

none

Who Were the First Americans?

2010-08-19T15:20:00.003-05:00

TGIAlmost Friday!

Today in class, students dove into Unit 1 with the question of who the first Americans were. After taking a trip to the Bering Strait on Goggle Earth, we talked about the first six civilizations in America and some of the catastrophes Europe was working through that led to the Renaissance in Italy.

Homework:

none

Why Leave Europe?

2010-08-18T12:48:00.004-05:00

Happy Short Day!

Today in class, students finished their scavenger hunt that was started on Tuesday and then we worked on an activity together that looked into the different reasons that people decided to sail West from Europe.

Homework:

find 5 valuable items in your home and locate the country that it was manufactured in

Hello Textbook!

2010-08-17T15:44:00.002-05:00

Hey All,

Today in class, students got a feel for their new textbook and the classroom surroundings by completing a scavenger hunt exclusively designed to get them used to utilizing the tools available for them in class.

Tomorrow, we will begin our road to Lincoln's death by finding out just "who" the first Americans were....

Homework:

none

First Day Back!

2010-08-17T06:55:00.002-05:00

Welcome Back!

Today in class, students were introduced to the class syllabus, textbook, grading procedures, and the attendance policy of my class.

We made sure to go over how to do "Bell Ringers" because of how important they are to the participation grade of each student.

Homework:

show parents/guardians the class syllabus

You MUST watch this!

2010-08-11T13:56:00.005-05:00

Final Exam Study Guide Help

2010-05-18T09:23:00.011-05:00

To master the final exam you must know the following and be ready to teach me everything you know about them. Pretending that I know nothing on the subject and explaining every detail will get you an +A!

Know the following terms:

Habeas Corpus: a law that prevents the government from holding citizens without formal charges

Free Soil Party: a political party dedicated to stopping the expansion of slavery

Emancipation Proclamation: a document issued by President Lincoln that declared that all slaves in Confederate -held territory were free.

Anaconda Plan: the Union strategy to defeat the Confederacy

Rifles: a new invention that increased the number of casualties during the American Civil War

Minie Balls: ammunition fired from the rifle which increased the accuracy and range of the soldiers shooting the rifle.

13th Amendment: the Constitutional amendment that ended slavery in the USA.

Copperheads: a political party made up of northern democrats that opposed President Lincoln

Know the Following People:

John Wilkes Booth: a Confederate sympathizer that assassinated President Lincoln.

Abraham Lincoln: he was our 16th President and led the USA to victory over the CSA in the American Civil War.

Robert E. Lee: Lee was the top General of the CSA during the War. He was also given command of the US Army at the beginning of the war but declined President Lincoln's request.

Jefferson Davis: A US Senator from Mississippi who after secession, became the President of the CSA.

Dred Scott: a slave that attempted to sue in US Court for his freedom but was denied because he was considered personal property and the Supreme Court would not violate the 5th Amendment.

Know What Happened at the Following Locations:

Appomattox Court House: this is where Lee surrounded the Southern Army to General Grant and concluded the American Civil War.

Antietam: known as the bloodiest day in American History, Union forces knowing where the South was attacking, met them head on and a huge battle took force. over 40,000 deaths and injuries were a result.

Ft. Sumter: Confederates attacked the Northern fort to begin the American Civil War

Gettysburg: Considered by most as the last major battle of the American Civil War. Fought over three days in Pennsylvania. The South never recovered from there losses at Gettysburg.

Answer the following questions (you must RAP your answers).

1. Ft. Sumter

2. The Northern economy was based on large business and factory/manufacturing while the South was based on plantation and slavery.

3. To abolish slavery.

4. A case that made the Missouri Compromise void because Congress could not limit on slavery in the territories. The case thrilled slave owners, while it outraged free-soilers and abolitionists. Dred Scott was told that he could not sue his master in court because he was a piece of property and the 5th Amendment kept US citizens property from being taken by the federal government.

5. The North

6. A Republican was elected.

7. The attack on Fort Sumter.

8. Lincoln FIRED General McClellan for not pursuing and finishing off the retreating Confederates.

9. 13

10. North= BLUE, Gray= South

11. "To Abolish Slavery"

12.

South Carolina (December 20, 1860)

Mississippi (January 9, 1861)^[6]

^{Florida (January 10, 1861)^[7]}

^{^{Alabama (January 11, 1861)^[8]}}

^{^{^{Georgia (January 19, 1861)^[9]}}}

^{^{^{^{Louisiana (January 26, 1861)^[10]}}}}

^{^{^{^{^{Texas (February 1, 1861)^[11]}}}}}

^{^{^{^{^{^{Virginia (April 17, 1861; ratified by voters May 23, 1861)^[13]}}}}}}

^{^{Arkansas (May 6, 1861)^[14]}}

^{^{^{Tennessee (May 7, 1861; ratified by voters June 8, 1861)^[15]^[16]}}}

^{^{^{^{North Carolina (May 20, 1861)}}}}

13. Missouri, Kentucky, West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware

14. Twenty-three states remained loyal to the Union: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine,Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. During the war, Nevada and West Virginia joined as new states of the Union. Tennessee and Louisiana were returned to Union military control early in the war.

The End of the Civil War

2010-05-11T21:02:00.002-05:00

Hey All,

Today in class, we wrapped up the American Civil War by discussing the years of war from Gettysburg up to the surrender of the South at Appomattox Court House, VA.

We have one work day left for out Tic-Tac-Toe project and will begin working on our final exam study guides on Thursday in class.

Homework:

start wrapping up the Tic-Tac-Toe project and remember the due date is May 17th.

The Emancipation Proclamation

2010-05-07T14:15:00.002-05:00

TGIF!

Today in class, students discussed the impact of the Bloodiest day in American History, The Battle of Antietam.

After learning about President Lincolns firing of General George McClellan after not ending the Southern Army at Antietam, we looked at President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation and its impact on the American Civil War.

Focus Questions for today's discussion:

What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?
Why did the proclamation only free Southern slaves?
What loophole did President Lincoln find that allowed him to go around the 4Th Amendment?
Why is it important that the North allowed Black soldiers to fight?
Why was it dangerous for black soldiers to enlist in the US Army?

Homework:

Tic-Tac-Toe (Due May 17Th)

The Civil War!

2010-04-27T19:49:00.002-05:00

Welcome Back Everyone!

The MAP test is officially over and we are now on our way to discover the causes of the Civil War.

Students were given their final project for the 2009-2010 school year and have until May 17th to complete it.

Today we began with the Dred Scott Case and will continue its discussion when normal classes resume on Friday (minus the band members).

Homework:

none

MAP Testing/JFK Assassination

2010-04-11T19:22:00.002-05:00

MAP testing will begin on Tuesday this week!

As requested by the students, we will be doing an in-depth study on the JFK assassination, events leading up to it and the conspiracies surrounding the infamous day in 1963.

Look for updates to the blog when we pick back up with our regular schedule after MAP testing and begin our Chapter 14 on the history of immigration in the United States!

Welcome Back!

2010-04-06T21:27:00.002-05:00

Glad to be back!

Today in class, students began work on preparing for the Chapter 12 Test over "The Age of Jackson."

We will test tomorrow in class (study guides due at bell) and then begin Chapter 13 on Thursday!

Homework:

Chapter 12 Study Guide

"Obstacles to White Progress"

2010-03-31T19:20:00.002-05:00

Happy Midweek!

Today in class, students watched two more sections of the Andrew Jackson special from the history channel and studied the effects of the Indian Removal Act of 1830.

Was it Jackson's fault? Congress? It is hard to say, but it was definitely one of the darkest periods of our American History and it all happened under Jackson's presidency.

Homework:

none

Jacksonian Democracy

2010-03-30T21:42:00.002-05:00

Late Again!

This week so far, students have been introduced to what historians call the "Age of Jackson."

When Andrew Jackson won the election of 1828, he sought out to change the federal government to meet what he viewed as a real democracy.

We have been watching a 1 hour Jackson video by viewing 10 minutes each day before we begin regular instruction. This video does a superb job of showing the kids what Jackson was like.

Homework:

none

Second Discussion on Slavery

2010-03-26T06:57:00.003-05:00

I know, I know, I forgot to blog a couple of days!

I am sorry!!!

Yesterday in class, students began their second series on Slavery in America. In September, I take the students on a journey across the Middle Passage using the diary of Olaudah Equiano.

In the second part of our Slave story, students are taught the brutal realities of slavery in the South during mid 1800s.

The development of the Southern African American culture was also spoke of as we read and listened to Spirituals that eventually became blues and jazz.

Homework:

none

The Curse of Tecumseh

2010-03-22T13:05:00.002-05:00

Welcome to 4th Quarter!

Today in class (except 6th & 7th), students were introduced to the events leading up to the War of 1812.

We also discussed the Curse of Tecumseh and the impact it has had on our Presidents since Wililam Henry Harrison.

Homework:

none

End of 3rd Quarter

2010-03-16T13:17:00.003-05:00

Hey All!

Today in class, students took an open book test over Chapter 10. Due to last weeks Unit test, Mrs. Uding and I opted out of giving a final exam as not to overload the kids.

When kids come back from spring break, we will begin our final stretch of American history and do our best to fight the Civil War and see Lincoln assassinated.

Homework:

none

Judicial Review

2010-03-09T15:38:00.003-06:00

Happy Tuesday!

Today in class, students were introduced to the concept of judicial review. During the landmark Supreme Court decision, Marbury v. Madison, judicial review was established.

We also began our journey west with President Jefferson's Louisiana Purchase and the selection of the Corps of Discovery members.

Homework:

none

Amendment 1-25 Quiz and Chapter 9 Review

2010-03-04T10:39:00.002-06:00

Almost Friday!

Today in class, students continued to battle their way through the Amendments. Today's quiz focused on Amendments 1-25.

After the quiz, students continued to work on their chapter 9 test review in preparation of tomorrow exam.

Homework:

Know Amendments 1-27
Complete Chapter 9 Study Guide

Wednesday Means Amendments 1-20!

2010-03-03T21:39:00.003-06:00

Happy Short Day!

Today in class, students were quizzed over Amendments 1-20 before submitting their campaign poster projects and continuing work on the Chapter 9 review.

Homework:

Know Amendments 1-25

Countdown to Jefferson's Presidency..... 5 Days!

Amendment 1-15 Quiz & Workday

2010-03-02T09:27:00.003-06:00

Happy Tuesday!

Today in class, students took quiz number 3 which required them to know Amendments 1-15.

After the quiz, students completed work on their campaign poster for the Election of 1796.

Homework:

know Amendments 1-20

Amendment 1-10 Quiz & Political Party Decision Time

2010-03-01T10:51:00.003-06:00

Happy Monday,

Today in class, students took their quiz over Amendments 1-10 and then continued construction of their political campaign poster which should show their choice for the election of 1796.

Students chose on of the following candidates to support after viewing their political beliefs/goals:

John Adams - Federalist ticket

Thomas Jefferson - Democratic-Republicans

Homework:

Study Amendments 1-15 for Tuesday quiz.

Washington Out Adams In

2010-02-25T10:46:00.003-06:00

Happy Thursday!

Today in class, students discussed the end of Washington's presidency and the birth of John Adams's.

Amidst the horrors of the French Revolution, both Washington and Adams were charged with keeping the United States from the brink of destruction.

With Hamilton urging British support and Jefferson supporting the French, Washington's cabinet was headed for destruction.

John Adam's in all of his glory is known for the horrid Alien and Sedition Acts but fails to be known what some argue is the most important political career of any American in history.

A list of Adams accomplishments:

Convincing Congress to adopt a Continental Army
Convincing Congress to install Washington as General of the Army
Convincing Jefferson to write the Declaration
Helping Jefferson write the Declaration
Writing the oldest living Constitution in World History
Keeping the United States from war with France during the Revolution of 1798
Acting as a foreign ambassador in France, the Netherlands, and Britain

Homework:

none

Introduction to the Constituion

2010-02-22T10:26:00.002-06:00

Happy Monday!

Today in class, students were introduced to the seven basic principles of the U.S. Constitution.

Using a note packet, students also learned the basic idea of Federalism and began breaking down the first ten amendments.

Homework:

none

Washington Becomes #1

2010-02-17T17:53:00.004-06:00

Happy Wednesday!

Today in class, students entered the world of 1789 and took a field trip (Google earth style) to Federal Hall to watch the first inauguration of George Washington.

We also studied John Adams resume and wondered who we would have voted for had we been a member of the electoral college.

Homework:

none

Extra Credit Opportunity - Chapter 9

2010-02-16T18:44:00.003-06:00

Looking for a boost in your grade?

It has arrived!

Essay - 30 bonus points

Directions:

- Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, several paragraphs, and a conclusion.

- Use evidence from the documents to support your response.

- Include specific related outside information.

- Use black or dark ink to write your essay.

Historical Context: Following their victory in the American Revolution, the colonies were organized under the Articles of Confederation. This document proved to be flawed, however. The delegates quickly decided that a new constitution should be written. This document, the U.S. Constitution, was completed in September 1787 and approved by the states in June 1788. Its approval was neither automatic nor unanimous, and it was widely debated throughout the nation.

Task: Using information from the documents and your knowledge of social studies, write an essay. Be sure to include specific historical details. You must also include additional information from your knowledge of social studies.

Good luck!

Catch Up Monday!

2010-02-16T16:34:00.002-06:00

Today in class, we went over our Chapter 8 take home test and then worked together to make sure everyone understood the MAP test practice worksheet on the Federalist 51.

Tomorrow we begin Chapter 9!

Professional Development Day - Day Off For Kids!

2010-02-12T09:28:00.003-06:00

TGIF!

Today at school, students were at home resting their brains while teachers were at school learning how to be better teachers.

Homework for the 4 day weekend:

take home test over Chapter 8

MAP non-fiction reading practice on the Federalist 51

Choir Trip = Crazy Day

2010-02-11T08:04:00.002-06:00

TGI Thursday!

Today in class, students that were actually here worked on their take home test and document based questions over the Federalist Number 51.

Those who were on the trip are expected to complete the assignments by Tuesday when they return to normal classes.

Homework:

take home test
DBQ Federalist Number 51

Watching this one tomorrow...

2010-02-10T21:40:00.001-06:00

In Honor of Dr. King (a break from normal schedule to celebrate Black History Month)

2010-02-10T21:29:00.000-06:00

Anti-Federalists say hoooooold on a second!

2010-02-10T18:42:00.003-06:00

Welcome Back!

Today in class, we discussed the response to the call for ratification by the 13 states.

The Anti-Federalists had a few changes that they wanted make in the newly written Constitution. Not only did they not like the fact that the Constitution gave to much power to the federal government over the states, but they wanted something in writing that would guarantee the rights and freedoms obtained in the American Revolution.

Federalist answer: James Madison writes the Bill of Rights guaranteeing more than the naysayers even asked for.

Homework:

be ready for a pop quiz!

Population = Representation

2010-02-08T12:33:00.002-06:00

Happy No - Snow Monday!

Today in class, students learned how our representative voice was born.

When James Madison designed the Virginia Plan, the two house system of government was born. After debating over representation with the smaller states' New Jersey Plan, a compromise was made.

The Great Compromise created the modern two house legislature that we have today.

We also looked into the first political party in America, the Federalists.

Homework:

none

The King is Gone, Now What?

2010-02-03T14:36:00.003-06:00

Hey All,

Today in class, students learned how the Confederation Congress built our country into the power it is today.

When the war ended, our founders had to build a new government based on the idea of republicanism and find a way to give everyone a voice in their country.

Tomorrow, find out how the Articles of Confederation lacked the power needed to run an effective country.

Homework
:

finish MAP practice - Letter/Poem to George Washington

Chapter 7 Test - Non-Fiction Reading Practice

2010-02-01T07:59:00.002-06:00

Happy Monday!

Today in class, students took the test for Chapter 7 over the American Revolution.

After taking the test, students were given a non-fiction reading assignment over the question of states rights in the Articles of Confederation. This is excellent prep work for the MAP test which will challenge their non-fiction reading/comprehension skills this April.

Homework:

complete non-fiction reading assignment and answer questions

The USA

2010-01-26T17:06:00.003-06:00

Happy Tuesday,

Today in class, students discussed the end of the American Revolution and how the Treaty of Paris (the second one) shaped what would become the USA.

Homework:

none

Bring It Frenchie!

2010-01-25T15:05:00.004-06:00

Happy Monday!

Today in class, students discussed the impact of the French entering the war for American Independence. After turning around the American outlook at Trenton, George Washington was victorious again at Princeton.

After defeating the British at Saratoga, new allies were brought into the American picture. With King Louis XVI's public acceptance of American Independence, the French joined forces with the Americans with the Spanish soon following in France's footsteps.....

Glogster by Cole Sawyer....... Unreal Dude!

2010-01-25T07:14:00.000-06:00

Glog by Abby Tinnin

2010-01-24T12:05:00.001-06:00

Glog by Emily Garrett!

2010-01-23T17:30:00.001-06:00

Glog by Dustin Price

2010-01-23T17:28:00.001-06:00

Glog by Ashlyn Alcorn

2010-01-23T17:26:00.001-06:00