Extra Credit

I emailed this to everyone on Weds Evening.  You MUST use Google Docs!  There will be three more options explained in class, including one for people VERY FAR from passing (like if you're in the 30%-50% range).  I will explain that one tomorrow and post it here tomorrow evening.  Check back!

Here are 8 Extra Credit Opportunities ranging from 5 minutes to 20 minutes:  (Check your email/GDocs)  You can do only 1 or all 8, plus up to 5 more (of your choosing, but related to citizenship, government, education, or "the future").  If you do others, you will have to submit them as a new GDOC with a separate sheet for each video with an included link.  This opportunity is due by Friday after the end of the break (Jan 7). 

There is also an opportunity to do four movie critiques.  You can watch a movie, write a review with your thoughts on how it could be of educational value (1 page - 300 words or so).  You must clear the title with me BEFOREHAND and make yourself subject to a one-on-one discussion with me.  If I found that you simply used wikipedia or IMDB, you will forfeit any existing and future EC opportunities. 
Suggestions include: 
Lions for Lambs
Bullworth
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
Children of Men
Soylent Green
Fahrenheit 451
Wag the Dog
The Candidate
Election
Dr. Strangelove
All the President's Men
The American President
Dave
*or something else if you have another preference

Movie Reviews are also due the Friday after break, with follow-up discussions the following week.

800 Pound Gorilla

We started the study of mass Media and Politics today.  What will take us about a week to cover is the source of what many study for life.  First lesson required that you Quickscan an outline.  If you were not in class, wait to do so when you return.  Then you started to do the BBB (Boring Busy Bookwork) for Ch. 8.  The PDF scans are on the Moodle.

Waste

This is your last school to work on this project.  This is a big part of your grade, so I suggest you make sure you do your best.  You should check your (school) email.  If you successfully set up forwarding earlier, you should see it there.  I sent you a link sharing the "Candidates (Students Paste Into)" document.  Only 2-3 people from your group can be logged in at the same time (the limit is 20, remember).  By Tuesday, you must have EVERYTHING filled in for YOUR candidate.  You will present your candidate to the class, using your poster as a visual, while I project the "Voter's Guide" on the screen.  I will print out a voter's guide and have students in my classes (and maybe others) vote for one candidate.  Results will be posted on or before Blast Day.  On Tues/Weds, you will decide (as individuals, then as a group) grades for effort and achievement.

Candidates for President

Group:  Gender, Race/Ethnicity, Education, Age, Marital, Children, Character
5.1 - Ezra, Elizabeth, Rachel, Thuy:  Female    Latino    JD (Law)    50's    Divorced    1 Kid    Wealthy
5.2 - Ruben, Lindsey, Kelsey, Breanna:  Female    Latino    MA/PhD    50's    Divorced    Duggars    Wealthy
5.3 - Caitlin, Oyuki, Fadumo, Amy, Rosa:  Female    Mix    High School    40's    Single    Duggars    Veteran
5.4 - Travis, John, Sam H, Robert:  Female    Black    College    60's    Married    No Kids    Media Personality
5.5 - Ayrton, Quinn, Sam K., Patrick:  Male    White    MD (Medicine)    40's    Single    No Kids    Politician
5.6 - Cole, Roberto, Brendan, Joey:  Male    White    College    50's    Single    1 Kid    Media Personality
5.7 - Asia, Cassidy, Zan, Heather, Ka:  Male    Asian    2-Yr Degree    30's    Single    No Kids    Veteran
5.8 - Muhammed, Zach, Deven, Jacob, Hunter:  Male    Black    High School    40's    Single    2 Kids    Politician
6.1 - Eva, Neka, Kym:  Male    Asian    High School    40's    Divorced    3 Kids    Veteran
6.2 - Dylan, Jazmin, Jamil, Emily, Rodney:  Male    White    College    50's    Married    No Kids    Politician
6.3 - Chris, Maureka, NeNe, John, Shenel:  Female    Latino (W)    High School    60's    Divorced    2 Kids    Media Personality
6.4 - Mohamed, Yasin, Mohamed, Jabraun:  Female    Black    High School    50's    Married    2 Kids    Politician
6.5 - Allison, Danny, Denisse, Elliot, Jermaine:  Female    Latino (W)    High School    30's    Married    2 Kids    Wealthy
6.6 - Paloma, daniela, Mayra, Jose, Aron:  Female    Asian    High School    30's    Single    3 Kids    Athlete
6.7 - Paige, Emmanuel, Alec, Felicia, Natalie:  Female    Asian    MD (Medicine)    60's    Married    3 Kids    Athlete

Testing

Perfect Candidate?

You will construct your ideal candidate for President of the United States. You will NOT be able to pick age, gender, race/ethnicity, etc. That will be randomly assigned. But you WILL determine your candidate's political philosophy. You will work within groups of 3-5 people. Your first task is to KNOW THE ISSUES. You will then develop policy positions and a campaign (Slogan, poster/image, etc.). The "Project" will be due next week after three days of computer lab access (Mon & Friday in Media Center, Weds in E118).

Here is a list of policy issues for which you must develop your candidate's position.  
You can check the following sites for information:


PresidentialElection.com
Ontheissues.org
Republican Party
Democratic Party
Libertarian Party
Green Party
Socialist Party
Politico

I suggest you learn about each issue in general terms, and then divide the intensive research among the 4-5 of your group members.Oh, and here are your groups:

5.1 - Ezra, Elizabeth, Rachel, Thuy

5.2 - Ruben, Lindsey, Kelsey, Breanna

5.3 - Caitlin, Oyuki, Fadumo, Amy, Rosa

5.4 - Travis, John, Sam H, Robert

5.5 - Ayrton, Quinn, Sam K., Patrick

5.6 - Cole, Roberto, Brendan, Joey

5.7 - Asia, Cassidy, Zan, Heather, Ka

5.8 - Muhammed, Zach, deven, Jacob, Hunter

6.1 - Eva, Neka, Kym, Jermeka

6.2 - Dylan, Jazmin, Jamil, Emily, Rodney

6.3 - Chris, Maureka, NeNe, John, Shenel

6.4 - Mohamed, Yasin, Mohamed, Jabraun

6.5 - Allison, Danny, Denisse, Elliot, Jermaine

6.6 - Paloma, daniela, Mayra, Jose, Aron

6.7 - Paige, Emmanuel, Alec, Felicia, natalie

I suggest you make a COPY of the Campaign Issues spreadsheet and share it within your group.

Bob Roberts Review

Bob Roberts

We started the movie today.  There are six questions you will have to be able to answer on Monday when we are in the E118 computer lab:

1. Summarize the film.
2. What did you like about the movie?
3. What did you NOT like about the movie?
4. Why do you think I screened this movie in class?
5. Review the film through the lens of a liberal Democrat.
6. Review the film through the lens of a conservative Republican.

You MUST KNOW YOUR LOGIN AND PASSWORD for Gdocs, your personal email, and anything else tech-oriented. 

The key to the Ch 567 work is here.It's also on the Moodle if you cannot access the GDoc for some reason.

There was a HUGE problem with tardiness to 6th period.  It is annoying, disrespectful, and downright wrong.  Your attendance DOES affect your grade in terms of not hearing important instructions and opportunities and not being able to participate in some activities.

We corrected 567 today.  I will enter everything into the gradebook by Friday (maybe even by tomorrow eve).  The wall will be filled with your campaign posters too.  You will begin watching Bob Roberts tomorrow, and finish it on Friday.  You will have a test on 567 next Tuesday.  You should already have read and learned the material (including the vocab list).  Use this weekend to study so you KNOW the material.  Monday evening should simply be review.  I am expecting top marks.  See ya tomorrow.

Week Ahead

    Grade sheets - bring back a signed note from parents for EC      
    Turn in Ch 567 Work      
        We will correct it Weds   
    Notebooks - We will continue slide show today    
        Tues:  Sr. Mtg  
        Weds: Correct 567  
        Movie: Thurs & Fri   
        Mon:  E118 Computer Lab  
            You NEED TO KNOW YOUR PASSWORDS!!!
        Tues:  EXAM Chs 567  

Upcoming Test

Here is a list of words with which you should be familiar...
Minor party    Coattail Effect
Major parties    Midterm Elections
Political party    Closed Primary
Tw-Party System    Open Primary
Multi-Party System    Caucus
Decentralization    Primary
Republican    Direct primary
Democrat    Petition
Progressive    Political Action Committee
Liberal    Runoff
Conservative    Poll
Suffrage    Mandate
Naturalization    Mass Media
Electorate    Sound Bite
Franchise    Public Opinion
Lregistration    Sample
Injunction   
Independent   
Political Socialization   
Political Efficacy   

Plato and Sacrifice

The Plato essay was due yesterday, but I allowed students to turn it in today with no penalty.  Unfortunately, many students believed an excuse would allow for extra time.  An assignment is due in hard copy format (printed out) by the beginning of class.  Students are able to print out their work in the media center before or after school, or during lunch.  I will still accept printed essays through Wednesday for partial credit.

We also discussed four questions.  For those of you not in class today (including ALL of you from 2nd hour), the four questions are shown below in invisotext (just click and drag over to read).  Take out a note card (you should have bought them last quarter) and answer the four questions in order...WITHOUT jumping ahead.  Part of the fun is answering each question before you know what the next one asks.  When you answer yes or no, follow with a brief explanation (1-2 written lines).  After answering all four, summarize what you thought about.  It's all part of my hope to have a frank and honest discussion on Veterans Day about serving your country.

1.  Would you DIE for your family?
2.  Would you KILL for your family?
3.  Would you KILL for your country?
4.  Would you DIE for your country?

On the back, answer this:  What is a valid reason to commit US soldiers to combat?  Defend?  Attack?  Basically, what would justify (make it OK) to send US sodliers to their death?

There is homework due Friday.  Chapters 567.  The handout was available in class.  I'll get it in the moodle soon..

Elections & Voting

I hope things cleared up a bit today.  After a 4-day break, I have decided to restart the unit on elections and voting.  You received a handout with questions for chapters 5,6, and 7.  It will be corrected on Friday.  There will be a test on those chapters next week (Tues or Weds).  Everyone received a grade report.  I am NOT accepting late work.  Do it when it is assigned.  Turn it in when it is due.  Pretty simple.  I'll have the handouts and slides up on the Moodle tomorrow AM.

Conferences

Regarding conferences, I wanted to let everyone know that I will be available in room E5 (East Building - Lower Level) during the following times:

Weds, 11/3  From 4:00 to 9:00 (staying 1 hour later) Thurs. 11/4  From 7:00 to 2:00 (starting 2 hrs earlier, but ending 3 hours earlier)

If you cannot meet me during those times, please contact me with questions or another request and we can figure out what to do.  Know that there are still over two months left until the end of the semester and EVERY student can dramatically improve his/her grade. 

There is an essay due next week about whether or not "you" (the student) agree with Plato's belief that only the wise should make decisions and rule. 

5 Pargraph Essay Model, 250-500 words, Typed, 12-pt font (normal font), double-spaced. 

Due Mon (but I'll take it Tues). 

Also keep up to date with classroom activities through my blog:  lakernerd.blogspot.com and know that ALL handouts and notes are available through the Moodle (students should know about this).

Thank you, and know that if you ever have any questions or concerns, email is the best way to reach me!

Campaign and Test

NO TEST Tomorrow.  But you MUST HAVE YOUR CAMPAIGN POSTER!!!  If you do NOT get it done by Weds, I will still accept it on Thursday - but YOU have to get to me on your own time and dime!

Stuyding, Distractions, and Plato Essay

So, I fooled many of you today in class.  If you lost your notes and/or didn't take any.  They are below.  remember that your essay is due Monday - but I'll take it Tuesday.   You must have a hard copy to me by then.  The turnitin version will be done next week as well.

Plato:                               
    Educated from birth to highest level possible for abilities and interests.                           
    3 Classes of People, all sharing Virtue of Justice:                           
        Ruling Class:  Virtue of Wisdom, minority group                       
        Military Class: Virtue of Courage                       
        Merchant Class: Virtue of Temperance                       
    People are controlled by mind, will, and appetite                           
        wants & needs                       
    "the especially wise people should make the decisions"                           
        Do you agree or disagree?                       
    Jefferson Disagrees - inform the people so they can make wise decisions                           
                               
                               
    5-Paragraph Model  
    (estimate 5-8 sentences per paragraph)
    Typed                     
    Double-Spaced                           
    12 Point Font                           
    Normal Font                            
    250-500 Words                           
    Hard Copy DUE Monday (I'll take it Tuesday)                           
                               
    Absolutely NO "I" Statements                           

Declarations, Articles, Constitutions, Oh My!

There is a test tomorrow on the Constitution.  I have uploaded the keys, annotations, etc. from what we have done over the past week on the Moodle.  The study guide is also there (in Folder 3).  Use it.  Study.  Succeed.

We the People of...

So, we analyzed the Constitution this week.  There were many handouts, readings, annotations, etc.  We'll correct everything on Monday - so get everything done and turned in at the beginning of class so you get full credit!  Ch. 3 Exam on Weds.

Constitution Introduction and Simplification

You picked up two handouts today (both available at the Moodle if you lost yours):

1. Ch. 3 Wksht
2. Constitution Simplification Packet

We will annotate the Constitution - LINE BY LINE - for 3 days, during which you should be simplifying it for your packet and completing the worksheet at home.  It will be "due" Friday, but corrected Monday.  Be prepared for a quiz on Friday, with a test on Tuesday.

Simple HW Assignment

Create an account, and leave a comment below.  That's it!  An Easy A!!!

Govt/Econ 12 (Periods 5-6)
Tues:  Lord of the Flies Analysis (Two ROMOTHINK Questions)
          1 - Should Jack and the "Hunters" be held accountable for their actions while on the island?  Explain why or why not.
          2 - What should happen to the kids upon re-integration to their civilization?  (Ralph, Jack, Twins, Rock-Pusher, the Others)
Weds:  Correct Ch. 2 Work and clean up Gradebook
Thurs:  Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists (reading, worksheet, sharing, discussion)
Friday: TEST (Ch. 2, plus some from Ch. 1)

Moodle Me This, Google Me That.

Please PAIR UP - and SHARE A COMPUTER!!!  Make sure you USE FIREFOX.  A maximum of 20 students can access the file(s) at once.  You have to go to the Moodle and look at the assignment for today.  It is in the first "Folder" and simply titled GDocs.

F Word

I prepped you for a movie tomorrow (Lord of the Flies) and Friday.  We went through a slideshow (on the Moodle).  The Ch. 2 packet will be corrected Tuesday - but turn it in to me BEFORE then to get credit.

Lord of...

You have been out of my control for two days this week, but the moments of pain and suffering will continue soon.  I hope to correct the Ch. 2 packet tomorrow, followed by a movie on Thursday and Friday (Lord of the Flies).

Devry

We had a speaker from Devry University (formerly Institute) visit today.  He had you go through a sort of interest inventory, using a PDA to fill in your profile, which you can check and follow online (devry.edu/careershop).

Tomorrow, you are to meet with your counselor during Government class.  I get the day off!!!  We will correct the Ch. 2 handout on Wednesday and discuss the Articles of Confederation.  On Thursday, we may start a film.

Goals, Dreams, Oh My.

We had a guest speaker in class today talking about success and setting goals.  I hope you enjoyed it but also have some questions.  We'll have another speaker on Monday who will help you take the next step toward your future success.  As I have said in class, know that the gradebook is an absolute mess right now.  Give me until Monday to clean it up.

Things can always get worse...but maybe turn out well in the end.

We settled down after some MAJOR schedule changes today.  I decided to move the Ch. 1 Test to Tuesday (maybe even Weds - so keep studying tonight).  In class today, we read Jefferson's First Inaugural Address from 1801.  Hopefully, you remember a little about TJ's political views, what he values in terms of the role of government, and the beginnings of political partisanship.  Some people wanted to know where to find the amazing video from Friday.  I have embedded it (from youtube) below:

Winds of Change?

There will be some schedule changes next week.  While I doubt any of you will be moved, there is a slight possibility.  As such, we'll be using this week to close down the American Idea unit, which includes chapter 1 from the textbook.  The weekly plan is below:

Mon: Short Video.  Then finish We the People-Lessons 1 & 2
Tues:  Individual Freedom vs Public Safety
Weds:  Correct Elections of the Past/We the People
Thurs: Ch. 1 Test/Discuss Liberty & Knowledge (Adams)
Fri: TBD

Elections of the Past

As our football team prepared to face Edina and the soccer teams looked forward to Soccer Saturday at South, I decided to assign an easy set of questions related to Elections of the Past.  There are 25 questions.  If you lost your copy or were not in class, check the Moodle.

John Adams

I assigned an excerpt by John Adams about Liberty and Knowledge.  As with any and all reading handouts, you are to annotate it and then write your reaction (opinion) with a note about who the intended audience appears to be.  This is a particularly difficult reading, so you should take that into consideration when writing your opinion and determining the audience.  Afterwards, you got some more time to plug away at We the People.

GDocs, Calendar, Moodle, turnitin, oh my!

We were in E118 today and I showed you how to access important online sites for class.  Hopefully, you signed in to everything and posted your responses.

Go to the classroom Moodle.  Green is Good.  Blue is Bad.

GDocs Survey "Test"

To access the Course Calendar, try one of the following links:
ID Tag:  pn7o1a6bd054l64lcgojukpo40@group.calendar.google.com
XML:
iCal:
html:

Turnitin information:
Period 5)  Class ID: 3468918  Password: lakernerd
Period 6)  Class ID: 3468918  Password: lakernerd

Silly Bus

So, I passed out a syllabus.  We went over the rules and expectations, took attendance, and I gave you 5-10 minutes to check base with your classroom friends.  You get your first homework assignment tomorrow.

Everone Passed Q4

That is all.

Ye Be Smart?

We took an IQ test on the last day.  Some of you panicked.  It was just for fun - something you can brag about...or feel bummed about.  Remember that any IQ test has some cultural components - especially the picture test with a missing item.  These exams are never completely accurate.  I wanted to send you out with one final measuring stick, because you will all begin at ZERO again.  You were kings of the school as seniors...big fish in the small pond of Southwest.  You will now be little fish in the big ocean of life.  Some of you will find smaller lakes as you become minnows in college.  But you're graduating as Lakers, so you'll be just fine.  And you never know - some of you may even end up back here in some capacity...although probably not as a teacher, since I'll probably have class sizes of 60 due to budget cuts by the time you graduate from college. 

Thanks for everything you did - and did not do this year.  You made my evolution from Miller to Laker more complete and helped me realize how much I love teaching...it's for the kids, NOT the building.  Igraduated as a Miller in 1991, but feel like I can now say I graduated as a Laker in 2010 - riding your coattails.  Be proud of who you are - I am.

Remember - Nerds Rule the World.

If you want to finish checking your test, stop by before you go to graduation practice. 

Alfie Kohn

Know the name.  I have always been very interested in his philosophies.  This is something you read earlier in the year, but we shall revisit the topic again, near the end of your final compulsory year of education.  Analyze, critique, dissect.  We'll discuss it over the next couple of days - please come in to class tomorrow ready to talk about Ellison, econ, and grades. 

Ellison

I'd like 3rd Period students to meet me outside the auditorium on Tuesday.  I'll bring the questions from periods 1 & 2 and print out what you've emailed me.  Let's be nice, listen, and learn something.  Add your question here.

Every Day Should Be Celebrated Like Today

You should treat your mom nicely every day.  Consider what she has done for you throughout your lifetime, beginning with, oh, let's think...oh yeah...carrying you around for probably the first two years of your life, then driving you around for the next 14-18.  How often does she put aside her wants to provide something for you?  After making mom happy, make sure you write your question for the Keith Ellison visit.  Period 3 students must email it to me - Lizzie is the only one to have done it thus far - firing a shot over my bow in the process...should I take offense?

A Dozen Disgruntled Males

Due to AP testing and a horrible headache due to major congestion (read yesterday's post), we are watching 12 Angry Men (1957) over the next two days, followed by an analysis/discussion on Friday.  Please have the SIX econ worksheets done by Wednesday - no class on Monday and we will be attending the Keith Ellison visit on Tuesday during Period 3 (Per 1 & 2 students should ask your Per 3 teacher if it is OK to attend - I will give you a pass if necessary).  If you are confused about characters, check this out.

Blah Blah Blah

We watched President Obama's Commencement Speech at the University of Michigan on Saturday, followed by a brief analysis/discussion.  I hope to go over some econ tomorrow.  But my cold really put me out this afternoon.  I blew my nose but was so congested that my ears plugged up.  The pressure on my inner ear was awful, resulting in me losing my balance and becoming nauseous while I crumpled to the floor.  It was not a pleasant experience.  I could not move and my head was spinning.  My poor dog must have thought I was dying and he didn't leave my side.  Five-and-a-half years later and he's still the best $350 I ever spent. Needless to say, my sinuses cleared up about 15 minutes later and I can at least walk and read...but my neighbors may be able to hear the Twins game on TV, since my hearing is still bad.  I guess teaching DHH kids may come to be more useful than I had originally planned.  So, I apologize if everything is louder in class tomorrow - or if there is a sub because it turns out I blew an ear drum.  buh-bye.

Tick Tock

You have one last night to study for tomorrow's "final" exam.  I expect everyone to pass with 70%.  If not, look forward to 1 make-up opportunity.  If you do not pass that one, you may not pass this quarter.  I gave you a study guide (check the Moodle).

AP PREP:  Great questions today - know your sequencing, and political ramifications of historical events.  The exam will be administered in the East Gym.  Study the vocab, outline the branches (authority, checks & balances, and separation of powers), and be confident in yourself.  If you have read everything, paid attention in class, and studied, you will do fine.

Justice For All?

I had no voice today - fighting a cold.  I could be miserable at home or miserable at school.  Thought I'd share the misery but keep my distance since the room is large enough.  We did the following:
Take out a sheet of paper:
Capital Punishment is reserved as a State Right      
    Do you support the Death Penalty?  Explain your position.  
      
Is our System of Justice set up for Rehabilitation or Punishment?      
       
We watched a 60 Minutes segment about the case of Alton Logan, convicted of murdering a security guard at a McDonalds in 1982 (Chicago, Illinois).  He was sentenced to life in prison.
       
Write a SHORT statement - Where does fault lie in his case?

Everyone Needs a Thneed

In honor of Earth Day, we watched Dr. Seuss' The Lorax today.  I asked you to watch it through the lenses of an economist:  Resources evident (Capital, Natural, Human), Goods Produced, term defining the Once-Ler, trade-offs, etc.  I will ask you to explain the story through the words of an industrialist in class tomorrow.  We'll also go over two of five handouts you picked up today.  The other 3 will be covered on Monday.  Remember your Government Final as a midterm next Wednesday.  You have the study guide, right?

AP PREP:  CHEW SOME GUM!!!

Mook and Midriff

So, we watched Merchants of Cool in class.  Can you identify who the Mook and MIdriff is in each of your classes?  Or in your graduating class?  What about the whole school?  I hope to have an interesting conversation about what you saw.  If you missed class (AVID, illness (including senioritis), etc.), watch it online.

AP PREP:  I made a spreadsheet (GoogleDocs) of important federal agencies.  Every test-taker has been assigned one to research and share what you find.  Get it done before the weekend so people can study.  I am planing on having T & Th as "ask the teacher" sessions during class, while the other students do some Econ work - we have plenty of space.  And know that I am easily available before and after school every day (except Tuesday next week).  Shoot me some questions through email, or even the Moodle (just made a AP QUESTIONS Forum).  Let's be collaborative, helpful, and supportive.

AP Prep

Go to the Moodle and find some additional resources.  You will get a packet tomorrow of some key concepts & terms, plus sample essay questions.  I uploaded the same thing to the Moodle.  I also put a vocab list on the Moodle as well.  CHEW SOME GUM!!!  If I can find it, we'll be watching South Park: Big Gay Al's Big Gay Boat Ride tomorrow for Day of Silence purposes.

Wal-Mart: Good, Evil, or Simply Misunderstood?

So, we started a documentary today, Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Living. We will finish watching it on Thursday, but I need everyone to watch a Frontline episode about Wal-Mart (60 minutes, viewable online, read an excerpt here.) that is more objective.  Also read a critique by Tucker Carlson here.  Please do so BEFORE Friday.  On Friday, we'll watch a Penn & Teller BS episode (I have to edit it during playback) that attacks the documentary. Here is a review of the P&T episode. You'll have to write a SHORT paper, due Wednesday.  If you are interested in what I showed in class today, check out the Target Virus and Wal-Mart Virus.  And please remember that we have the FInal Exam in 2 weeks, while you AP test-takers have less than 3 weeks to test day.  Chew some gum!

Circular Arguments & Ideology

I hope you learned something today - or at least thought about what was presented.  For those of you interested in sharing what we read, you can find the article from The Economist here and the AP article about 47% of US households not paying federal income taxes here.  We'll watch something about Wal-Mart tomorrow (maybe they're not so evil after all?), escape from one another on Weds and come back for some more Wal-Mart stuff on Th-Fri.

And Conan on TBS?  WT...???

And since we regularly use this, I thought you should know about the changes...



And the winner of the Pulitzer Prize for photography (pic is link to story):

Go Tax Yourself

The plan for the week looks like this: 
Monday:  Read about Taxation, write a reflection, and discuss.
T-W:  Wal-Mart Analysis
Th:  1040EZ and 1040A taxes
F:  TBD (Day of Silence, so discussion is out).

The AP Govt final will be moved to Tues/Weds (final week of April).

Please Vote for Me

So, we started the Please Vote For Me documentary, which will be finished tomorrow.  I gave you a handout (I'll put it up on the Moodle tomorrow) that you should finish after we finish tomorrow.  We'll discuss it in class as well.  I'll share something about the Media and Wal-Mart over the next two weeks as we wrap up and tie a knot around government.  You SHOULD be studying for the AP Exam (Official and in-class "Final") on your own time - that's why I have cut HW down to very little time needed.  I doubt the video is available online (maybe youtube or vimeo?), so if you are gone Fri, bring in a flash drive on Monday.

Finding Your Way

We met in Lab E118 today so you could chart your political ideology.  Please go to The Political Compass and read the introduction BEFORE taking the test!  Please take the test autonomously.  Do NOT talk, peek, or share your answers with anyone while test-taking is in progress!  After you take the test, read the analysis.  Please make sure you copy your chart onto a Word doc (and save as a .doc) and write up your reflection on the results.  Were you surprised or reaffirmed?  Basically, analyze your political ideology and how you do or do not practice what you believe.  When you have finished, save your file, but also copy everything and paste it into a journal entry on the Moodle (Political Compass in Folder 25).  Lastly, if you feel comfortable doing so, paste your compass results into the forum and share it with your peers.  If time remains, look at the FAQ and some Region Specific information.

Past, Present, Future?

We watched a Bill Moyers' Journal concerning Single Payer Health and Health Care Reform. I want you to watch/read the transcript and then read a part of this paper.  Pick one of the myths and compare/contrast the arguments from both sides.  A simple write-up about what you learned or thought about is acceptable - Due Friday (on the Moodle as a Journal entry).

Love or Money?

Glad to see that many of you returned safe and sound.  I had a couple of absences, so we'll have to wait for 100% until a later date.  Grades are done.  If you have a concern, please see me after school or during lunch.  In class today, we discussed a ROMOTHINK:  Love or Money...which is more important to you? Consider needs versus wants. If you would prefer, break it down into a percentage. For example, if both are equal, you would indicate 50/50. Think, discuss, decide, and defend.  Please prepare yourself for the AP Government Final on April 22/23.  A nice, BIG exam.  Toodles.

For a Few Dollars More

I have two concept maps WITHOUT NAMES!!!  Check the portal!!!
The topics are:
     Oil: USA - Iraq
     Pearl Harbor (Poster)

Broken Spring

Your final grades will be done sometime next week (look for something on Tuesday).  Please use your week to seriously relax and be prepared for the final 3-week push before the AP Exams start.  If you are taking the exam, use your time to study.  Yeah, it sucks, but this is college credit!  Those of you NOT taking the AP exam will still have to be ready for a COURSE FINAL as a mid-term to Q4.  So, enjoy your break...and come back alive.  Please check the GRADEBOOK for /MI (Missing) assignments.  Email me if there is a problem.  I will crossh-check with attendance for the Mr. Smith Forum, and I have yet to add any extra credit.

Getter Dunn

PANIC!!!  Get everything done ASAP - I am taking down the Moodle Site Weds AM.  So, if there are any files you want, grab 'em while you can.  I am shutting down the forums tomorrow at 10 PM.  So, if you have to do any of the recent ones or even some of the EC, that too will be closed tomorrow at 10.  I will then input your Moodle grades into the Portal, which SHOULD help balance off your (in some cases, very low) test scores.

We will spend tomorrow and Weds going over your Iron Triangles and Concept Maps with a little thing on Thursday.

FYI - today's exercise in futility was to get you thinking FAST.  It was the ultimate in multitasking, wasn't it?  When you take the AP Exam, you will be handwriting everything.  But if/when you go to college and eventually enter the professional world, you'll have to be able to seamlessly move from window to window on your desktop.  I hope some of you are seeing the method to my madness from today and the concept map.  The APExamEssays will simply be scored as assignments, NOT exams.

See ya tomorrow...

UPDATE:  There is some very pertinent data crunching going on here.  Any AP Govt students should find it interesting...and possibly relevant to the exam essays.

Final Week

We watched an episode of Dilbert today - about ethics. Strange that very few of you could define the word but admitted having some. I created two extra credit activities on Moodle that are due Monday. I may add another. This is EXTRA - please do not ask for explanations, more time, an alternative, etc.

Do not forget that your concept map is due Tuesday - and do not expect me to provide draft feedback anymore. One has been turned in (Nicely done Caroline), and Blake showed me a GREAT draft. Andrew had a nice draft earlier in the week. Remember that if you are not proud of your work (effort, achievement, etc.), then go back and do it again. Look at posts from March 4th and 10th for software link and examples.  Below is another example of "barely acceptable" in terms of quality (found online here):

If you do something basic like the one above, make sure you add mortar to the bricks and some pics.  You should actually be having some sort of fun with this project...while learning and organizing information.

We will have an in-class essay on Monday - 2 bullet-pointed essays with one fleshed out - in E118. I will post 3-5 questions from which you choose two.

The Final Exam is on Thursday (Weds after school for some of you). Use the Chapter outlines (available on the Moodle). The exam will cover the following:
Unit IVA (12,14,18)
Unit IVb (13,15)
Unit IVc (16,4,5)
Unit V (17,19,20)

Additional Assessment Opportunities

I added the Moodle Forum for those of you excused from last Friday. There will be some additional chances to gain extra credit this weekend as well. Please get your Concept Map DONE. It is due Tuesday. We will be in E118 on Monday for your in-class Essay. You will be presenting your concept maps to the class on Tues & Weds. The final (Units IVa, IVb, IVc, and V) will be Thursday. Tomorrow we learn about "The Leader" and maybe review some Concept Maps.

Pig Ears

A delicacy to dogs everywhere.  They smell horrible.  Can anyone who was in class explain the funny by using the title with today's lesson?  If you missed class, plan to take the AP exam, or are just interested in learning more (weirdly, there are some of you out there), go to the Moodle and check out the newest "Forum" added - NOTE:  You DO NOT have to enter anything in the Forum - I simply created it for future use.  If you just want to skip that, you can see the linked site here.  Watch, read, and learn.  I spent a few minutes in the copy room today...making copies.  Hint Hint.  Used the staple function too.  Hint Hint.  Freak out if you must...Maybe play the link below...

Dangers Around the Corner

I hope some of you found a new purpose for coming to school on a regular basis today.  Keep in mind that excused absences are not going to be a problem (unless they add up) - I simply want to make sure you take the final 3 months seriously.  Read your Machiavelli again and maybe you'll understand why the cost of skipping on Friday is so high.  I am having difficulties finding the 10-minute Daily Show clip.  When I do find it, I'll make a Moodle Forum for those of you needing to make up last Friday.

Some of you may be interested in reading this (long) because it provides some detailed insight into the growing rift between the US and China.  It really should be of interest to all of you.  The more you close your eyes and avoid the economics of our relationship with China, the more likely we'll see negative results in the relationship.  Check back later for a new Weekly Forum topic.

Warm Enough For Ya?

I will create the Moodle for Friday's lesson tomorrow.  I gotta say that I am a bit disappointed in the actions/behavior of some of you seniors.  Understand that you are REQUIRED to have four years of English and social studies.  One F/No Credit and you do not graduate on time.  You may be allowed to walk in the ceremony, but it does not mean you get a diploma.  Also, keep in mind that colleges are much more competitive nowadays and have been known to rescind acceptance based on second semester performance (or rather, lack thereof).  So, please understand this simple FACT:  by outright skipping a class on a day when I had an activity planned, some of you have chosen to lose the 3% of the quarter''s credit.  So, you have just traded a + or - for your day of fun.  Add up enough of them over the final quarter and, combined with your probable lack of effort and achievement, you may find yourself needing summer school just to get a diploma and a frantic search for a college that will take you in the Fall.  Remember this later this year when the weather is even nicer and the urge to skip becomes stronger due to senioritis.  Many of you wasted your skip day for nothing.  Stupid.

Court Cases/Amendments exam will NOT be tomorrow (Mon), but may appear this week.  I do not know when the final is scheduled, but expect to be tested on everything from Qtr 3 (Basically Units IV and V).  And there will be an in-class essay (actually 2) along with some discussions.  That's a lot in just 9 remaining days.  Oh and I will be closing past forums tomorrow evening.  Get 'em done or lose the points.  Be responsible and enjoy your senior year.

Miss Anything?

Yes, we know.  Many of you plan on skipping tomorrow.  You know how lenient I can be, but understand me when I write this:  you are NOT excused from my class tomorrow.  We will have an in-class activity that cannot be made up.  So, if you decide to skip, you must accept the consequences - knowing that any MI(ssing) assignment hurts much more than a 0/F.  Also understand that you forfeit your 8th Amendment rights and may be subject to one of these.  I gotta go find a way to Pandora now - I may have Avatar Withdrawal.

Concept Map

Please ASK if you are still confused about the Concept Map. It is "due" the 23rd, but get it to me sooner. Also, please check the Moodle for new uploads(Folder 20 for My ForPol Notes, notetaking - slides coming soon) and forums. Hectic day - come back tomorrow ready to contribute (Bullet-pointed essays).

Check out this site for mindmap ideas - even though a mind map is a little different (check wikipedia).  The key thing I want is ORIGINALITY - something new to you.  I cannot stand the "25 images centered around the Cuban Missile Crisis makng sure you have a large focus on USSR and another on USA with some minor focus on Cuba and Turkey, blah, blah, blah."

Remember how I told you that your college profs (and TAs) want NEW ideas.  They will NOT give you such structured requirements, other than question/topic and length.  You have to come up with the rest.  I gave you some info on Foreign Affairs - use, organize, and present it.

I found these concept maps by using the interweb - it's on computers now(click on image for source)):

Here's one on Music Culture (the site has MANY other cool links):

This one might be relevant:

Be careful.  This is a flow chart, NOT a concept map:

Lastly - Some of you may think there will NOT be a Court Cases/Amendments exam. Believe me when I say IT DOES EXIST AND WILL HAPPEN!!! Just not tomorrow or Friday.

Keeping Up

Yes, I told you so.  There, I got it out of the way.  I understand you feel burdened and overworked.  But I have warned you and given you plenty of time to get things done.  I keep getting requests for accommodations, especially asking for more time.  At some point, too many accommodations remove any sense of standardization.  You enrolled in AP Govt, which is supposed to challenge and prepare you for a standardized exam.  You should be checking the Moodle (Folder 22) EVERY DAY for an article to read, and there is a forum for every week (Folder 23).  You will have 2 this week, but plenty of time to get your comment(s) in.  If you are planning on taking the AP Exam in May ($30 due next Weds), you should be preparing EVERY DAY.  It is NOT an exam for which you can study 1-2 days before.  Read the outline notes - 1 chapter a day.  Read the article (5-15 mins. a day) on the Moodle.  Participate in discussions - butt in while one of the louder voices keeps trying tio monopolize the time.  Don't worry about being right - focus on thinking and sharing.  And do not forget about the Court Cases/Amendments Exam...it is still lurking.

UPDATE:  Kathleen K asked about the abortion policy change in the health care bill.  Yes, we will discuss this in the future.  Until then, familiarize yourself with this primer.

Who wins?

So, what are your predictions and/or hopes for the Academy awards?

Friend or Foe?

OK, maybe the Israeli soldier isn't one of the best (read why).  I started the HUGE Foreign Policy presentation today - we'll finish tomorrow.  I will upload the slideshow tomorrow as well.  Everyone seemed to be freaking out too much about the notes you were taking.  Don't.  Focus on the WHOLE story.  Be prepared to ask/answer questions tomorrow - you rarely ask questions (NOT a good sign when you hope to be college students).  You'll have to complete a concept map about US Foreign Policy (Due in 2 weeks).  OH NO!!!  FREAK OUT!!!  So, to recap what you should be doing and what is coming up:
Saturday - Mr. Smith Comes to Southwest Forum (moodle) closes.
Monday - Unit V Exam
Tuesday - Practice AP Exam 1 Essay 4 (bullet-point) Analysis, Practice AP Exam 2 MC Due
Thursday - Practice AP Exam 2 Essays due (bullet-point only)
??? - Supreme Court Cases & Amendments Exam
2 Weeks:  Concept Map (PaperPoster or DigitalPicture) due
     You can download free concept (mind) map software here.
Qtr3 Final - 2 Day Exam.  Comprehensive Final (100 MC, 2 bullet-point essays)
May 4 - AP Exam (You SHOULD be studying/preparing EVERY DAY)
     Do not forget to use the gum trick while studying.
Qtr 4 - Speech (2 minutes, American Citizenship - what it means)

Ongoing:  I will be linking to stories online and asking for your feedback in the moodle (Check Folder 23).  Use them as resources to think about and prepare for the AP Exam.  You choose to participate or not.  It's up to you. But it WILL be factored into your Q3 and Q4 grades.  But worry less about your grade, and more about actually becoming a member of the community (while also learning more for your AP Exam)

Fun:  Read this and understand why I do not like people photographing me.   Below is the commercial I have shown in class:

19 Days to go!

Actually, only 18 weekdays left until you get to start your Spring Break.  Please remind me to discuss Spring Break Stupidity with you.  We finished the Ch. 20 slides today.  The unit V (17,19,20) Exam will be next Monday (3/8).  The plan through then includes the following:

• Tues:  AP MC Exam Results (Enter your choices and see your score!)
• Weds: AP Essay Exam Results (Bring in your bullet-point answers)
• Thurs: Guided Notes - US Foreign Policy (Middle East)
• Fri: Guided Notes - US Foreign Policy (Latin America)
• Mon: Unit V Exam (60 MC, 45 minutes)

The only LOCK is the Unit V Exam on Monday.  You must be ready for the Supreme Court Cases/Amendments Exam to pop up at ANY time.  I may not even give it to every class on the same day.  Learn.  Know.  Study.  Own. Toodles.

Oh *&$%!

You picked up a Practice AP exam today.  Please follow the directions!  Use only 45 minutes.  Do NOT use your notes, book, or interweb.  Bring in your completed exam (EXCEPT for essays) on Monday March 1st.  Peek at the essays.  Cry.  Attempt to outline answers by Weds March 3rd.  Ignore the Google Calendar until I update it this weekend.  Today, you will....*evil grin & laugh*...I took out the box of clickers and pretended to introduce the Court Cases/Amendments Exam.  Oh, what fun it was to see the looks of horror and desperation appear on your faces.  In reality, we watched another episode of Law & Order (Sanctuary).  If you were absent, bring in a flash drive.  You also should check out the Moodle for the Amendments study spreadsheet.  Be Prepared!  See ya tomorrow.

Testing, Ranting, & Raving

Please do not ask WHEN the test is coming - just be ready.  Court Cases & Amendments (approx 60 total MC questions) will be tested "in the future" while the Unit V (17,19,20) Exam will be given next week. I uploaded the slides to Moodle and will put the outlines up soon.  In the meantime, read Noam's rant to Wired Magazine.

USA 5 Canada 3

Ever wonder what 30,000,000 people crying sounds like?  Turn so you can listen to the Great White North.  Ha Ha Ha.  That is all.  Now...Go Sweden!

Mr. Smith Came to Southwest

So, Mr. Millard Smith made his way into our classroom today (yesterday).  Energetic, right?  Fooled you at times, huh?  I hope you took something to heart, mind, and soul from his presentation.  What was the purpose (aside from educating you about MBC)?  In fact, I'd like you to head over to the Moodle and briefly reflect on what went through your mind.  It will be in the TOP SECTION.

Read this.  Scary, creepy...and, I believe, entirely illegal.

Lastly, you guys are probably a bit too young to know and appreciate Roger Ebert.  You can read an article about him in Esquire magazine (and his response).  Understand that he was (even IS) the preeminent film critic of this era.  I watched his show (with Gene Siskel EVERY weekend).  So, pass this on to your parents even if you don't care.

Please take what I shared with you today regarding goals and dreams, perspective, and money providing choice versus happiness.  Now go to the Moodle and get workin'

Scouts?

You'll be able to see this spreadsheet, but NOT edit it (so I suggest you copy/download, whatever)). There are 13 additional cases listed at the end.  Test will be administered at any time after Wednesday.  Be Prepared.  I also suggest you be ready for an in-class essay:  Would the US be better served by a dictator or even emperor?

We watched an episode of Law & Order today (Season 3, episode 2: "Conspiracy").  I will show another one in a few weeks with similar racial undertones.  To explore/discuss our justice system and NOT have an awareness of racial disparity would be supporting ignorance.  I hope the episode pushed some emotional buttons with ALL of you.  I suspect there was some hatred, anger, understanding, acceptance, shock, frustration, etc.  If not, check to see if you are human.  I stopped it a couple minutes early - either find out online or wait for me to finish it later in the week.

It's the Economy, Stupid

To study for the Court Cases exam (being administered next week -day TBD), please use your Court Cases spreadsheet from Google Docs.  If you didn't do it or have a lame doc, look at a previous post for a link to other groups' work.  We'll finish Ch 17 next week, have a speaker, take a test, and maybe watch a Law & Order episode.  The following week will be devoted to Chs 19 & 20.  Go read, study, and enjoy the free Monday.

Big Brother comments aside, consider the following regarding public vs. private in terms of public services.  Is internet access becoming a necessity for our citizens?  If so, what minimums should be set  - and who should pay for it?  Check this out (knowing that a typical DVD is 4GB and a Blu-Ray is about 20-30GB, while a 1 hr tv show in standard def is about 350mb or 700mb in HD):

Read!

I started the Ch 17 stuff today, but the bulk will come tomorrow.  There will be a PDF file on the Moodle with the slides from the econ intro.  I am piecing together the best slides from all 3 classes.  Please, please, lpease read Ch 17 BEFORE Friday.  It is so much better if you can ask/answer questions.  Then we have a court case exam next week (STUDY YOUR PACKETS!!!), a Law & Order episode, a guest speaker, and the beginning of the end (Chs 19 & 20) with the Unit V Exam the following week.

Open Brain, Insert Economics Info

Today's exam was difficult, wasn't it?  I warned you!  Your result is in the gradebook (I have yet to add your notes from last week).  Your score is really your percentage based on 60 questions asked.

When you come in tomorrow, we have to push through the basics of economics.  I doubt you have had much exposure to econ, but it is VERY important.  I have had a number of sophomores come see me and thank me profusely for covering econ in 9th grade geography because it made it so much easier to understand some APUSH stuff.  As we begin the final unit (17, 19, 20), you will need to recall much (if any) of your econ knowledge.  I'll give you a refresher tomorrow in class.  If you have questions...ASK!  I may have you write them down if we are running out of time.  I have a good 10-minute video sequence to show you as well.

Inside YOUR Mind

How can we get in there?  Simple - just ask Google.  We watched a video today (from CNBC) about the behemoth.  If you missed class or simply want to share it with others, you can either check out the main site or watch it here.  How do you think this video is relevant to us studying government?  Unit Exam is tomorrow (Handout and Outline for each chapter is on Moodle).  I have updated the Google Calendar and uploaded an excel doc of Amendments.  You will have a court cases/Amendments exam On Tuesday Feb 16.  There is aguest speaker on the 18th (Goal-Setting), and conferences are on the 25th - I WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE ON THAT DAY (I am at the girls' basketball game against Roosevelt).  Remind/Warn your parents!

Cambios

Unit IVc Exam is moved to Tuesday.  Check Moodle Later for Notes and Slides.

HammerTime

NO, not the parachute-pants kind.  I have let things get a little loosey-goosey (sp?) lately.  Too many people arriving to class late, getting by with little work, etc.  That is changing, I hope.  I'll give you a link to the slides I showed today at some point in the near future.  I hope some of you learned from today's lesson on Civil Rights and may even be a little more interested in Thurgood Marshall.  Here is his Bicentennial Speech (I mentioned it in class today).  Good stuff - even if you disagree with his argument.  I showed some funny pics to periods 1 & 2, and Kathleen talked about his one (interestingly, one of my best friends had a baby girl last night - maybe we'll get to join in the fun):

Anyone Else LOST?

We finished the Civil Liberties chapter today - we'll start on civil rights tomorrow with a brief video and some discussion.  The lecture will cover Th and Fri.  Please prepare for your exam on Monday.  Also, I need to make a list of people interested in taking the AP Govt Exam on May 4th.  Someone remind me tomorrow.  No vid or pic - gotta get LOST (Good Call Shane!).

Again with the Greed

So Friday was a bit messed up due to group pictures - we should have planned a "Gross Videos Group" and all gone together. Oh well.  I showed the Milton Friedman clip on Greed (as interviewed by 1970's/1980's Oprah - Phil Donahue).  I hope you realize that we can talk about the merits and faults of greed until we all become Navi warrior flying on creatures safer than what NASA has planned for us, but it doesn't change the fact the Greed just IS.  It exists.  To varying degrees.  The sooner you accept it, the closer you are to finding your place in our society.  It is not about good or bad - or even right vs. wrong.  Greed exists.  How will you use its existence to help yourself - and others?  And what will be the tipping point at which you may have gone too far, or not enough?  You have your whole life to play in this real game, called life.

Obama vs. GOP

Wow - this is amazing stuff.  President Obama attended a House Republican lunch on Friday and the Q&A was televised.  It's a little over 1 hour long, but worth it if you are a government and/or political junkie.  It almost approaches British Parliament levels of arguing.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

CivLib

Go through everyone's Court Case spreadsheets.  Cut and paste the best descriptions for each case, making yourself a nice, new one.  Make a new & improved one that can be shared for the matching quiz coming up in a couple of weeks.  Your 16, 4, 5 Exam will be a week from Monday.  Please read 4 & 5 this weekend.  If you want to see the SCOTUS chart I made, go here (Go ahead and add info if you want - like pictures?).  I'll race through the slides and spend more time with your Q&As regarding specific cases.  After nearly dying while tripping over the chair in 2nd period, I recovered for 3rd period and showed them what I think is better than the iPad.