The Revolutionary War

This week we read and discussed specifics on the American Revolution. We reviewed the causes and events leading up to America's decision toward independence; we read and paraphrased the Declaration of Independece and identified the specific reasons colonists sought independence; and we took notes and discussed the key battles and outcomes of the war.

Next week, we will read about the founding of the young nation, the Consitutional Convention, and Washington's presidency.

Exam 2 will be at the end of the week!

The Revolutionary Period

We finished our first unit and took our first exam. Now we move into the time period that shaped our government as we expereince it today.

HOMEWORK: Read Section 2.1--add terms and names (with descriptions) to your notes

Salem Witch Hunts & The Crucible

Don't forget to get your permission slips signed so you can view the film in class. Tomorrow you will take notes from a lecture on the French and Indian War. Monday/Tuesday we will view the film, Wednesday we will review for the exam, and Thursday will be our first EXAM. Although it's only over one chapter from the book, we've spent much of our time in class covering various details. Be sure to keep all your notes and classwork in order and together.

The Early Colonies

We've talked about the separtists and puritans, and the New England colonies. Today you read about the middle colnies and developments in colonial government and policy. We are nearing the end of our first chapter in American History...your first exam is coming soon!

HOMEWORK: Read Section 1.4, pp 31-40; Define the Terms and Names (bolded words) for the section

Impact of European Colonization on America

Today in class we finished our rough drafts of essays on European colonization and America. If you were absent, be sure to finish your essay and turn in ASAP.

HOMEWORK: read section 1.3, pp 21-30; there will be a reading quiz on Friday, so any notes you take may be used on the quiz

Next Week: No school Monday--rent Blades of Glory, that movie rocks@; we will watch a film on the Salem Witch Trials, explore Puritan and colonial England, and have our FIRST exam--Friday, September 7--30 multiple choice questions and 2 free-response questions (i.e. extended response)

American History--Week 2

We've spent the past 10 days reviewing and discussing the effects of exploration and encounter on various people, including native, European, and African cultures. We've discussed the goals and purposes of imperialism, and compared those ideas to the world today. Finally, we focused on the impact European colonization had on indigenous groups in the Americas.

Now you get to show what you know by composing an essay that incorporates all the information you've been presented in the textbook, lecture notes, class activities, film, and primary documents.

We will use the writing process in class to prewrite, draft, and edit your work. You will need to complete the final draft at home.

Due date for the final draft of your essay is Friday, August 31.

Curriculum Night

Don't forget curriculum night--this Tuesday, August 28, from 6:00-8:00 pm at the High School. This is an opprtunity for your parents to meet your teachers, understand your courses and schedule, AND earn beaucoup (that's French for a lot) EXTRA CREDIT points to be applied to your first test.

Welcome to American History!

I am so excited to have you in class this year! I plan on updating this blog so you can regularly check your homework assignments, upcoming projects, and so you can communicate with your classmates about relevant topics to American History. Blog frequently and often...the more your participate, the better.

Homework: Syllabus sign-off

BLOG topic: What was the coolest or most memorable thing you ever had to do in a social studies class?