Luddite to Be?

I may become a Luddite...especially after so many technical problems this past week (and I know more lurk in the future).  We didn't quite finish Ch. 8 today - but that is OK.  You learned about Buying on Margin, and third period learned about "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and the acceptance and economic/political rationale of homosexuality in ancient Greece.  We'll finish tomorrow and maybe have a brief intro to Ch. 9. 

I will upload the "Presidential Eras" packet sometime tomorrow as well.  It is what you will be working on in E118 on Monday - with a penciled-in due date of Weds before Thanksgiving.  I'll accept hard copy or email. Then I'll upload the Supreme Court Cases packet you'll be completing in the same lab on Dec 6 & 7 while I am out some more.  I HATE missing school - especially for staff development things that would be much better served in the summer or on release days. 

So, I watched GI: Joe the other day.  Awful.  My guess is this woman was asked to go see it again...


Marriage Proposal FAIL - Watch more Funny Videos

Thank a Veteran

I hope some of you will look on Veterans and military service a little more kindly after today.  But you should continue to study WHY we get our military involved.  In your opinion, what would justify miiltary action?  This is a very touchy issue for many - and something you will continually update over your lifetime.  There is never a "correct" answer, simply a justifiable and well-supported one.  If all we cared about was money, we should have sided with the Nazis in WWII.  If all we cared about was a basic right to life, Darfur and Somalia would be peaceful and safe. 

I fixed the Moodle this morning so you should be able to get the chapter 8 handout (9 and 10 are also available).  We'll finish the Ch 8 lecture tomorrow and start 9 on Friday.  There is a Political Forum this Thursday, so maybe plan to go tomorrow.  I am going to grant you EC for attending the one on Dec. 10th.  Get involved, stay active...but most importantly - THINK and DO.  PikaPika

Not So Fresh?

Ooh, bad commercial memories with that heading.  But it is related to today's post.  The handouts for chapters 8, 9, and 10 ARE available for your use.  You may have to hit the REFRESH button on your browser.  If you are still having problems tomorrow, show me in class and we'll figure it out.  If you can get it to work, leave a comment so others know I am not the crazy one.  We started chapter 8 today...after a "brief" delay due to technical difficulties.  The tech guy fixed the internet connection so we should be good to go for tomorrow.

I hope to revisit our discussion from Monday as we read the Declaration of Independence (dig your copy out - I gave you one earlier) and the Preamble to the Constitution.  Then we'll watch a short segment or two about US Military use over the past 100 years.  We'll conclude with me showing you some web sites dedicated to the fallen from our recent engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq.

I secured the computer lab (E118) for three of the four days I will be gone over the next 4 weeks - you'll use the "interweb" to fill in some charts for presidential terms (if you read chapter 8, you'll have a little idea of what I may be asking for on Monday) and one for court cases in December.  I suggest you copy and paste info directly into the excel spreadsheet and then email a copy to yourself at the end of class so you can finish it at home...but that's just me.

Before my final say and advice, I gotta share this video of a girl you will NEVER want to cross.  Yikes.



The Forum for this week has also been created - it's about term limits.  And when people worry about Google taking over the world, I can't help but counter with an even greater fear - Apple.  I HATE censorship, so this is ridiculous.  Comments?

Manic Monday

Ooh, I'm old.  That's a Bangles reference in the title.  Kind of a weak 80's girls' group that bridged us from the Go-Go's to the Spice Girls.  Nothing to do with Government though.  I hope today's discussion made you actually think.  Peter made a perfect observation in class - my questions are easy if you could be specific, but they're so broad that...they...well...they make you think about it.  EXACTLY!   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?

Read Chapter 8 by tomorrow.  We'll finish on Thursday, with a test on MONDAY.  I am pulled out of class on Monday, so I figure it is a good day for you to take a quiz.  I will also be gone on M and T in December, so we have to figure out something for you to do for two consecutive days...I may try to get you into a computer lab for Presidential Legacies and another in-class essay.

I hate Florida and Texas college athletics, but the following video proves that if and when the odds are heavily stacked against you, there still may be a way out...



I gotta take a break...Shalom.

I couldn't find the McNugget video, but I did find something  that will make me think twice about reaching in and eating blindly from the McNugget box next time.  Ugh.

Turn The Page

Grades are done!  There are a handful of INCOMPLETES due to missing finals and previous agreements.  Unfortunately, there were also a few students who failed.  This was primarily due to attendance and missing work.  There is no reason to fail a class - if you're falling behind, see your teacher early and often.  Seek help and guidance.  I made the final out of 90, with one person (take a WILD guess) getting a 91.  That adjustment resulted in anyone scoring in the 80's seeing a nice bump to the final grade.  I can't even begin to relay what I had to go through with the final - one of my keys was messed up.  There I was, correcting exams and realizing that they key was wrong.  So I had to go back and re-correct not only that batch, but verify every other booklet as well.  Needless to say, I had a horrible headache...but I plowed through it all.  We will start with Chapter 8 on TUESDAY - READ THE CHAPTER BEFORE THE LECTURES!!!  I;m gonna step away from the computer now and not think of grades or school until much later...

Moving Right Along

Ah, the innocent days of The Muppet Movie during my childhood...ruined by the demands of adulthood.  At least I like my job.  I will have all forum posts, essays, and regular classwork updated by 3:00 PM Friday.  Qtr 1 Final scores will be entered by Sunday and your FINAL grades entered by Sunday night.  I have removed the Preamble score - too much confusion - don't ask.  There is a final column of "Romo Adjustment" in which I place points for EC and extra participation.  If you have any unexcused absences, you may lose points for participation.  I suggest you check your grade and let me know if I have to check for an essay or missing assignment.  I have to enter grades by Sunday, but if something pops up, we can request a change.  The Moodle now includes some past and upcoming goodies as well.  O dabọ! 

R-E-L-A-X

From the vibe I picked up in the room (HIGH TENSION!!!!), I achieved my initial goal.  You were supposed to feel some pressure...that's what finals are all about.  Especially for a college-level course.  But know that we covered HALF of what we should have, so next quarter's exam will be TWICE as FUN!!!  I hope you realized that, while it was difficult, the exam was still fair.  I only added about 6-7 "deep reading" questions and simply used the more complex wording of questions used in previous formal assessments.

I SHOULD have the exams scored and entered by tomorrow afternoon.  If there is a problem with your grade, shoot me an email and/or stop by on Friday morning.  Final grades must be entered by Sunday.

Leave a comment about the exam. Too hard?  Too easy?  What did you do to prepare?  Did you use the website for T/F, MC, or vocab help (flash cards)?  Share your experience(s) so I, and your peers, know how to better prepare you for the next BIG ONE (Unit III Exam is scheduled for Mon 11/23).

Now go breath and get Ch. 8 read BEFORE Tuesday.

RT1&2 is the ROMOTHINK we did with the note cards.  We'll be doing many more next quarter.

"It's Posterity, you Idiot"

Best quote of the day - and it's not mine.  It's also a hint for an easy 20 points in tomorrow's final.  So, if you get those 20, I am only expecting you to get 70 of the 80 multiple choice to get your B- minimum.  But it may be even less if you have been tracking how I determine quiz/exam values.  A message to 3rd period - have I EVER been unfair about something?  My record speaks for itself.  I honestly feel that the final is a true assessment of what you have learned in class.  But be mindful of the fact that we move much faster and you must work harder next quarter.  Things become more review-like during 3rd Quarter with a (hopefullt) very calm and easygoing Q4 (so you can be prepared for the AP Exam in May).  Now get back to studying...

Just how important is your job?

This is just so stupid I may end up buying one...but the comments are hilarious.

Trust and End of an Era

I am angry.  We will no longer be reviewing every quiz/exam after you take it.  Too many copies of the Unit II Exam floated away in the possession of untrustworthy students.  I had 43 copies of the exam.  Seven students took the test today, writing directly on the booklet (as I instructed).  I should have 36 copies left.  I have only 19 blank copies left.  You do the math.  As such, I will be making a NEW Qtr 1 Final.  It will have NO DUPLICATE questions from any quizzes or exams.  I am sorry, but that is the result of dishonest* student stealing copies of the exam.  You have betrayed my trust.  I know of at least 4 specific people who walked out with the exam - I SAW YOU HIDE IT!!!  If you bring it to me tomorrow, bygones.  You made a bad choice, learned from it, and we move on in a positive manner.  Otherwise, I go forward without trusting ANY of you EVER again.  To say that I am disappointed is an understatement.  I am sad, yes.  But I am truly angry.  And do not be surprised if I decide to give you the final tomorrow instead of Thursday. Great timing.  Anger a teacher at the end of the quarter when final grades are going to be determined.  Real smart.  I see a straight F for at least three (one person turned it in) of you - maybe more. (UPDATE - no straight F for anyone.  All 4 were turned in)

UPDATE: You will have a short essay to be completed in class tomorrow. The rest of the exam (80 MC) will be administered on Thursday.  There are six versions and each has only 6 or 7 previously-used questions. I suggest you consume EVERYTHING in the textbook.  You will NOT use clickers. I will hand-correct every exam, which means you will not know your final grade until Sunday. When you take the exam, you will separate desks so there are at least 3 feet between each of you - using up the WHOLE room. It is too bad that 20% of you had to ruin the trust that so many truly deserve.  After every quiz/exam, I will hold an analysis session that day after school and the next morning before school (3:10 - 3:40 and 7:45 - 8:15).  If you want to attend, great.  If not - you're loss.  That is what I am doing from now on.  I suggest you try to figure something out as a group of seniors (100 at last count) to correct this matter.

I thought I had been fair and accommodating - only to be taken advantage of by weaselly characters using dishonest methods to prepare for the exam*.  Dishonesty* hurts EVERYONE.   I cannot trust the group.  You cannot trust one another.  People who "get away with it" will continue to skirt the rules and really abuse the system later on (google AIG, Enron, etc.), causing financial, emotional, and social turmoil for everyone.  Don't even think about asking me for a favor or leniency.  It's not gonna happen.

*I edited "cheating" out and replaced with "dishonesty" since that is the term used in the building.  Remember "Honesty Before Grades."

3 Days to Go

We completed the Unit II Exam today (as indicated in the gradebook).  It will be analyzed tomorrow in class.  I am going to clear up some confusion or wishful thinking...the quarter final WILL COUNT as an EXAM.  There will be 70-80 multiple choice questions - you will have 50 minutes.  You have had the extra week, so please do not complain.  I am offering a pretty good deal with the B- minimum if you get a 90% for the final.  Do not ask for more, or I'll simply retract my offer and never give another deal throughout the year.  You should know that I do not like whining, complaining, or requests to stretch my offers even further. 

Read.  Learn.  Listen.  Think.  Study.  Know.  Prove it.

If you miss the final exam on Weds, you have to make it up on Thurs.  If you are gone both Weds and Thurs, you have to come in on Friday morning and take it then.  If you do not take it by noon on Friday, you will FAIL THE CLASS - that's how much it is weighted.  The only exception will be for the one or two of you who have EXCUSED absences for roughly a week (you know who you are) - I will give you an INCOMPLETE until you have made up the assessments.

Lastly, many people are still in the FAILURE zone, but only a few have spoken with me.  PLease be aware that there will not be any last-second miracles.  I may be God-like or Devilish in your eyes, but I do not have the power to make you work.  If you fail, accept it and move on, knowing you have to take an ALC course for the REQUIRED CREDIT.  Then start next quarter wth a new emphasis on AP Govt.

Yes, I'm a NERD

I do consider myself a nerd, but I just found something that looks hilarious, which will make me even more of a nerd.  It's ok though - nerds rule the world.

I embedded the "Greed" and "Is America #1?" videos from youtube.  If you were absent either of those days, get the handout (I'll put it on Moodle next week) and watch the videos.  Please check the portal for your grades.  I input all tests (except for one person's old one) but those who took the Ch. 7 quiz before or after school.  I will input the forum post Sat/Sun.

Reading

I am still disappointed by how many of you do not read the textbook BEFORE the lectures.  This is going to burn you eventually.  Tomorrow's quiz has more textbook-deep questions than usual.  I also opened a new forum - you must have TWO postings (one BEFORE Sunday and one AFTER Saturday).  I will clean up the gradebook tomorrow - look at your grade over the weekend, find what may be missing and have a clear explanation or proof so we can fix everything.  I will NOT discuss grades during class or if others are around. Here is the Rochester Runway Hostage story I mentioned to some of you.

Final Turn

So we've almost made it to the final stretch (next week).  I will be cleaning up the gradebook over the next couple of days, so keep an eye on your grade.  The Google calendar has been updated to show you what is planned through next week.  I swapped out the "Discussion" category and just placed it within the Classwork category.  So everything is either a Quiz/Exam or Classwork.  Please study chapters 1,2,3,6,7, & 11 so you can score a 90% on the quarter final - guaranteed B- minimum.  Please do not ask for extra credit or I will be much less likely to offer any.

Interested? Form a Group!

I will start the CH. 11 Lecture tomorrow and finish Thursday with the quiz on Friday.  I just spent the day working with my social studies colleagues and sharing how much I share using the interweb.  Apparently, many of your Miller peers are not succeeding because they deem AP to be too hard.  Buck up!  It is only going to get MORE difficult, considering my increased expectations and your decreased interest in learning as seniors.  I encourage you to share anything I give you with your Miller friends (textbook, Moodle, etc.) - I may even create a WHS group within Moodle.  This whole web thing is making things interesting.  Some of you are strangely seeking me out on Facebook - which just changed its feed methodology.  I wonder how Ted Stevens is doing with his Facebook...

Below is the video shown in class today:

ROMOTHINK

I asked you two ROMOTHINK questions today.  I do not care much about your answer(s). Rather, I care about your reasoning.  You need to THINK, process, THINK, argue, reason, etc.  And it is OK to change your mind!

1. Would you rather be a slave-owner or a slave? Consider all aspects of either role; what you can do and what you have to put up with on a regular basis. As always, think and explain. 
2. Choose one of two options:
• The closest person to you emotionally dies in a car crash.
• 1000 people die in a plane crash and explosion in India.

 I will be gone Tuesday, so you'll watch another Stossel report:  "Is America #1?"  Complete the handout, turn it in, and come back ready to talk about it and Ch. 11.  Also - someone please remind me to waste 5 mins. entering your Ch. 7 answers into the clickers.  I need the data for the unit exam. Dasvidania...

Whew! That was quick!

Think about it - you thought about, briefly researched, and then wrote an essay within an hour.  I should have them all read by Monday.  If you missed class today - you better get it excused, otherwise you get a ZERO.  To all:  Read Ch. 11, and get a jump-start on 8,9,10...

Greed is...

I gave you enough hints, didn't I?  You will be writing about Greed.

Think - Research - Formulate - Research - Organize - Write - Proofread - Submit.

Prove to your community (family, friends, neighbors, enemies, etc.) that GREED is either good or bad in a well-written essay.  Do not worry about length (although keeping it around 500 words would be nice).   Make no "I" statements (me, my, we, us, you, I, etc.).  Instead of writing, "I think..." just write out what you think.  Keep run-ons and comma use to an absolute minimum while avoiding contractions ('s, 'nt) whenever possible - write it out.  Be simple, yet precise.  You can redefine the terms if you'd like, or you can use a dictionary definition for greed, good, and bad.  You should read some other viewpoints online, including one from a religious perspective, Gekko's speech you will see in class today (hopefully), a long WSJ commentary defending Wall Street Executive Pay, a different view of the same issue, Stossel's short commentary (based on his video segment we watched in class), an ABC commentary opposing Stossel, and/or a harsher criticism of Stossel.  No matter what, avoid Phil for Humanity since it is the first thing that pops up when googling.  I encourage you to copy & paste - but cite your sources (use endnotes - put a # in parentheses and then list your numbers at the end with a URL next to it)!  When you have finished, submit it to turnitin.  NO EXTENSIONS.  You have until the end of class today.  Take 15 minutes to research and read while formulating your idea(s).  Use 30 minutes to organize, write, and proof your essay - and maybe find one more great supporting statement.  Use the last five minutes to add a catchy title and make sure you submit your paper.  GO!!!

When will we...

I promised some people I'd put a link to the simplified textbook with quizzes and flash cards.  Bookmark it.  Things have been weird this week, and they will contibue to be so through tomorrow (actually through Tuesday).  We will be in the computer lab tomorrow (E118, I think).  If you are in 1st hour and have a laptop with wifi, consider bringing it if you want to all be in the same room.  Otherwise, I'll send about 3-4 of you to the MC for your essay.  The Ch. 11 quiz will be on Weds at the earliest. I placed part 1 of Monday's video about greed in Monday's post.

Delirium

I just got home after having to keep the clock during the football game - apparently I messed up one time and it caused some confusion.  I am positive I was right, but oh well.  I also looked at the calendar for the next 3 weeks and I goofed on a couple of days.  Remind me to announce the end-of quarter schedule tomorrow, including a day next week reserved for grade clean-up/correction (probably Friday).  I hope anyone and everyone who showed up after school today got clear help from Clare (Thanks!), since I had to run off to the field after a brief academic meeting.  Here is the plan for the next two days:  Thursday - 40 minute video.  Friday - in-class essay.  I am going to bed now...yeah, check that time stamp. 

I Shall Return

I'll be back tomorrow.  MacArthur and Arnold couldn't have said it better.  While still drained of enthusiasm and extra energy, I will be conveying what I know of chapter 11.  I know the routine of class can become boring - but know that everything is planned for a reason.  College is filled with routines, which is what makes the fun moments that much more fun and memorable.  Trust that we are laying down a nice foundation for further understanding in Q3 when we review everything.  So we'll cover Ch. 11 tomorrow and Thursday with an in-class essay on Friday in the computer lab.  Quick note about Greed:  Think about whether or not it really is good.

Out Again

I'm out again for Tuesday.  My fever broke this morning and we're supposed to wait 24 hours until returning to work, so I am taking another day just to make sure I don't share bad germs and come back Weds with some actual energy.  You'll have the Ch. 7 quiz on Tuesday - use the answer sheets, do NOT write on the test booklet, 25 mins from start to when you have to turn it in - NO CLICKERS!!!  The sub will go over the answers with you (after all answer sheets have been turned in), but no data.  We'll look at Ch. 11 on Weds and Thurs with the quiz on Monday since we are in the computer lab on Friday.  The Unit II Exam (6,7,11) will be on Wednesday, followed by analysis on Thursday (with a possible peek at you Q1 final grade).  I am out next Tuesday so I'll probably just have you watch another Stossel segment - what did you think of Greed?  I will make it this week's forum...if I get the energy to do it.   zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Burning Man

No - I'm not referring to the desert "cleansing" event in Nevada.  I have been fighting a fever over the break - so, IF I am not in class tomorrow, be nice to the sub and to each other - knowing you have a 1-day reprieve from the Ch. 7 exam.  There are handouts and a DVD (John Stossel In The Classroom) in a metal bin on the bookshelves against the back wall by my desk.  The DVD player is by the light switches next to the whiteboard...the remot e is somewhere (desk, computer, DVD player).  Watch the episode on Greed - there is a handout with questions.  Get 'em done by the end of the hour (vid is about 40 mins. long) and place them NEATLY on my desk (which may be somewhat clean).  So, if I'm there tomorrow = Ch. 7 Quiz.  If not = I'm oink oink and you learn about Greed...

UPDATE:  I'm out.  I'll see everyone (hopefully) on Tuesday.  Regardless, you'll have the Ch. 7 quiz on Tuesday (20 MC, 4 T/F, 6 Fill-in-the-blank).

If you missed class on Monday, you can watch the video on youtube.  Below is part 1 of 6.  Follow it up with 2-6:

Miracle?

A funny thing happened yesterday after school.  The football team played a very good Washburn team and nearly came away with the upset victory.  The Washburn coaches in the press box next to us were going ballistic while the Laker defense kept stopping the Miller machine.  The result was a 20-18 loss in overtime to a team that hasn't lost a conference game since 2002 and dominated Southwest for more than a decade (maybe 2).  But that wasn't the miracle.  It was more personal than a game.  I actually felt bad about the loss to Washburn.  I wanted Southwest to win not due to any direct involvement on my part (which excludes soccer and softball - since I had coached those sports at WHS, and even helped out the SW softball team last year).  It still feels weird to acknowledge that I am a Laker now.  The orange and blue still runs in my vein as an alum, but my role at SW has taken on more than just being a job.  I grew to enjoy teaching again last year thanks to my freshmen and ELL/DHH classes.  But I grew to enjoy being a Laker and feeling a part of SW through my seniors this year - when I watch SW face off against WHS (and others), I see MY students, rather than other students in the school at which I teach.  That comes from working with many of you on a daily basis in class, talking with you outside of class, emailing, commenting, etc.  So, thanks...now get back to studying Ch. 7 for Monday and Ch. 11 on Thursday...

Grinch vs. Romo

OK, you know the Grinch has nothing on me with his heart being only two sizes too small.  I easily have a heart four times too small.  But something funny happened - it grew to the siez of the Grinch's.  I don't know why or how, but here's the result:  I am accepting Essay 1 (Constitution) LATE through Wednesday evening.  I am also accepting Essay 2 (College) ON TIME through noon tomorrow.  You MUST hit the SUBMIT button TWICE!!!  You will get a confirmation email.  ALWAYS verify the confirmation email.  If you get it - great, you've submitted it successfully.  But be aware that I will NEVER allow this again.  NO LATE WORK for ANYTHING EVER AGAIN.  Got it? And tomorrow is LAST CHANCE for Preamble.

HONEYCRISP!!!

Minnesota's own apples are in!  YUMMY!!!  We went over the Ch. 6 quiz today.  I will red flag those of you who missed the textbook-based questions.  I can't help you if you're not reading at home.  I have input the latest Moodle forum question.  You need at least TWO postings (one BEFORE Thursday and one AFTER).  We'll start Chapter 7 tomorrow...oh, and your essay is due tonight!  If you want to submit a revised version, email me and I'll delete the one already submitted.  I'll check email at 8ish and 10ish.  Get workin'!  Or relax if everything is done...

And see how politicians really treat one-another...

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

Recommendations?

OK - I need two things from you, aside from reading Ch. 7 for W and Th...

1)  Someone needs to find a chat or forum site that is iTouch friendly.  I'll start using it in class this week (more likely next) if you can find one - I think I might be the only teacher using the iTouches if we can find a purpose.

2) I've finished Venture Brothers and need something light to watch before I go nite-nite.  I started Curb Your Enthusiasm, but it just makes me want to watch the next one.  Gimme some ideas...I've watched ALL Simpsons and Futurama episodes...Family Guy is hit or miss, American Dad is awful, King of the Hill is OK, Conan has lost his edge, Dave is annoying, and anything news-like just makes me think too much.  HELP!!!

Words are Powerful...

So we watched the Boondocks "Return of the King" episode.  MLK slips into a coma, rather than dying, and awakens in our present day (actually 2004 or so).  The man who had a gift with words and electrifying a crowd seemed a bit disappointed, right?  I really hope you discuss the episode with friends, family, and each other.  There is MUCH MORE to it than we even explored in class.  I have changed the Google Calendar to give you the schedule over the next 2 weeks.  Don't forget to write and submit your essay - email a copy TO YOURSELF in case you have difficulties and I can help you before or after school on Monday (due by 11:59 pm).  And use the link that Tenzin included in yesterday's post!  Arrivederci...
  

Election Judges Needed!

Read last night's post about the test.  I am suggesting that you google the publisher and name of your textbook.  You might find some useful things...amazed that I had to be the one to show you...and a bit disappointed...I am pasting the information requesting election judges below:

Dear Southwest High Student,

Once again, SW kids have the opportunity to train and be hired to serve as STUDENT ELECTION JUDGE through the City of Minneapolis.   Voting is on November 3rd.  You can be excused from schoolon that day.

1.  Earn $7.25/hour or earn Community Service CAS credit!
2.  You can request a specific polling location.
3.  Required training at SW on Tuesday, Oct. 13, periods 1 and 2.
4.  YOU MUST BE 16 YEARS OLD, A U.S. CITIZEN and IN GOOD ACADEMIC STANDING.

5.  SIGN UP IN THE IB OFFICE:  First come, first served.  A maximum of 45 students may sign up.
6.  Tell your friends.  All qualified students are welcome to sign up.

Questions?  See Dick Schwartz, IB Diploma Program Coordinator in the IB Office (behind the welcome desk in the West Building).

Dick Schwartz, IB Diploma Program Coordinator, Southwest High School

Struggles, Luck, but Victory

If anyone complains that things are not fair, there are too many obstacles, and/or that it's just too difficult, I'm gonna have you chat with some of the girls soccer players.  They worked for 70 minutes with a squad of little freshmen (and I mean little - like 80lbs. little - Sydney #2 would bounce off, fall down, and spring right back up) nipping at their heals, causing havoc and annoying them.  The Washburn girls came darn close to taking the lead with a rocket from the far side of the field that came back off the crossbar only to be muffed with an open net awaiting the ball.  But things cam through for us (yeah, "us" being Lakers - still weird for me at times) with a set piece - I know the goalie.  She was NOT going to be beaten with shots from distance or even breakaways - crosses and angled shots (Ashley almost beat her with the left foot at one point).  So, they persevered, used some luck, and won a hard-fought game. 

You too will have to plow through some drudgery, feel things are unfair, complain, whine, and voila - you'll use your skills to find a crack and exploit it to your advantage.  Read, Learn, Know, Study.  Control, Pass, Run, Shoot, Score.  That's life.

Your quiz on Friday for Ch. 6 will have 15 multiple choice, 5-10 fill-in-the-blank, and 1 short answer (3-8 sentences).  We will be in the computer lab 2 weeks from Friday - have ALL of your work ready to upload and store (so maybe you should email your essays to yourself, just to make sure you have access...do it...NOW!).  Sayonara...

NO Exceptions - Sorry.

I cannot make ANY exceptions to the essay expectations.  I have seen and heard many tears and pleas - but I have to hold EVERYONE ACCOUNTABLE to the SAME STANDARDS AND EXPECTATIONS.  Write and submit the current essay BEFORE confirmation next Monday.  I may be open to accepting late submissions for the Constitution Change Essay at the end of the quarter - but only if/when I have reviewed EVERY other piece of work assigned and submitted ON TIME, and then even only worth 10% at best.  I am a fair person - know that I will NEVER let ONE assignment ruin you.  BUT you need to become a RESPONSIBLE student.  It sucks for some of you, I know.  Instead of griping and complainnig, learn from this and NEVER LET IT HAPPEN AGAIN!!!

UPDATE:  It turns out some of you may not have COMPLETELY submitted your essay through turnitin.  Show up BEFORE SCHOOL tomorrow and show me your turnitin.com account - you may yet receive full credit for your submission...don't believe me?  Talk to Booth and Shelly...

Would an online version of the textbook help?  Let me know...

Figure it Out

You waited until the last moment.  Too bad.  Figure out how to use turnitin (use techhelp doc from my Southwest teacher page for signup information.  It is a REQUIREMENT.  If your essay is not in, you get a zero.  Plain and simple.  You're seniors.  You had plenty of time.  The emailed version is ONLY for formatting purposes, NOT a substitute for submission.  Many of will suffer for waiting until the last minute.  No more email pleas - rely on one another.  G'Night...

What Color is Your Blood?

Some of you shed some of your valuable fluid during today's exam.  I have put the scores in the portal..so go and cheer or weep, whichever applies.  Our Purple-Clad brethren will be taking on the Green-Clad "Sconees" tonight, but make sure your essay is done and submitted before then.  I have updated the Google calendar for the next two weeks as well.  Ch. 6 test on Friday, with Ch. 7 next Wednesday.  We'll analyze the Unit Exam on Wednesday.  I have also opened a new essay topic due next Monday at 11:59 pm.  Go to turnitin and see what it's all about.  I'll be checking for grammar, structure...overall "flow" of your writing.  I have updated the Moodle with this week's forum and handouts for chapters 6 & 7.  Lastly, my school email is working again, so go back to the "official" email when trying to reach me.  Later...

ALERT!

My school email is not working for some reason. Until it is fixed, send email to mrromo (at) yahoo.com if you have an emergency. I shut down Moodle Forums. Too late.

Last Chance Monday

All missing assignments MUST be turned in by Monday (some by Sunday).  Congrats to Caroline, Morgan, and Hannah for figuring out how to use turnitin. I will be closing the Health Care and Life, Liberty,... Forums Sunday afternoon (4ish).  And you should definitely check out the Moodle.  I added some goodies.  The Unit Exam has 63 questions right now - I will cut 13 by Monday.  As I trim it down, you should beef up your knowledge.  Enjoy HC and be smart.  This is supposed to be an amazingly fun year - but remember that you should also have (at least) 70 more ahead of you.  As you get older, don't only worry about what Santa, mom, dad, or your first grade teacher would think.  Consider what your sweet, loving grandmother would say if she had screens on the back of her eyelids that forced her to watch you at all times.  Scary, I know - but "mi abuelita" has saved me from a few bad decisions in my life thus far.  Ciao...

Brains, Gimme Your Brains!

Exhaustion abounds for all of us - my brain is wired and tired. So many ideas, so many things...I met many parents this afternoon/evening. I was pleased by many of your test scores - all I really wanted was some improvement from week to week. Monday will be the TRUE EXAM, with all material from Chapters 1, 2, and 3 included. You should be studying, not learning now. If you have not read the first three chapters - in their entirety - I suggest you do so tomorrow. Then you can spend Saturday and/or Sunday STUDYING. 50 MC questions: 15-20 of which will be IDENTICAL to ones I asked in the quizzes. No notes. Full class period. We will analyze it on Tuesday. If you have questions, use the comments, forums, email, etc. NO EXCUSES! If you have ANY missing forums or assignments, they MUST BE IN BY MONDAY!!! And do not forget about your essay. So much due on one day - those of you who have been reading, posting, etc. as I originally assigned everything should have plenty of time. Those of you playing catch-up may feel stressed...and you deserve it. I'll be at school tomorrow until noon, and then I'm working the clock for the games on Saturday - I hope to see many of you there...stop by and say hello.

Share and Share Alike

Power?  SHaring?  No Way!  When it comes to Federalism...yes way!  Your quiz is set.  It's a little more textbook-based sicne we zoomed through the in-class presentation, but there are still many that you can get simply by being somewhat coherent during class (Simon?  Florrie?).  Thirty Multiple Choice questions.  Thirty Minutes...not a second more.  I will be at school by 7:45 if anyone needs to take it early due to HC/SG stuff.  Otherwise...get back to studying (or at least start to do so)...

DC or not DC

So you learned about the DC trip - I hope some of you really explore the possibility.  It is an amazing opportunity.  I covered as much as I could regarding Federalism and will finish the rest, including Grants tomorrow.  I don't have much to add other than the following three items:

1. I will extend Preamble recitation opportunities to  next Wednesday.
2. I need some people - say about 1 per class - to collaborate once a day and post a "what happened in class today" recap for everyone.  Perfect EC opportunity for those of you who may need it.  I'll explain in more detail when we have the time.
   
3. Remember to wear as much orange as possible for your senior class picture tomorrow.

Oh - make some comments in the test forum (grouping 4).  I am playing with the moodle gradebook and want to test things out.  Remind me to show you BIG BROTHER mode.  Scary.

Adios...

Hungry? Thirsty? Dirty? Smelly?

I won't go into what else some of you have been missing over the past 20+ hours...especially my 3rd period class.  More than decimated due to Yom Kippur.  I gather many of you read up on Jonah.  Those of us in class went over yesterday's blog post, a few Preambles, and we watched some GI Joe PSAs (Knowing is Half the Battle) before browsing some Federalism videos to help introduce or better understand material.  This week is going to be a bit rushed due to some HC festivities, including the senior picture  - seniors are released at 11 on Weds - we miss a lot of Ch. 3 time - so I hope you read and are ready to ask questions - I hope to go through everything tomorrow, but we'll lose 10 mins to Hooper talking about the forums and the DC trip in February.

So, the videos we watched are linked to and explained below.  I am not embedding them or it will get too long.

You can watch Fred on Federalism as he explains what it means using a Republican (conservative - even more libertarian) viewpoint.  Even if you disagree with his politics, you have to respect his questions - which are at the root of any and all policy decisions.

There is also one that may be a little cheesy but informative.  You can also find links to other short segments produced by the same company.  There is even another, even shorter series you may want, but check out their explanation of federalism.

I will also suggest the DiscoveryStreaming  site.  You will need a password (coming soon) to get in, but search for relevant support if you are having difficulty understanding something.

Then there is the other short series you can use as an introduction to material. 

You can submit your Amendment essay into turnitin now.  Do not wait until the last minute...just in case you can't figure out how to turn it in.  No excuses.  If I were you, I'd submit a hard copy to me BEFORE you leave school next Monday.

My internet connection is getting weird now - I'll come back and update more later.

HELP! I'm Failing and I Don't Know What to Do!!

First off - a head's up. Anyone with less than 40% was marked as having an F at midterms. Just to wake you up to a possibility. Anyone under 55% got a D marked in. Grades will be sent home reflecting this. THIS IS NOT YOUR FINAL GRADE - IT ONLY MEANS WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT YOUR PROGRESS (effort, understanding, ability, interest, assistance/guidance, etc.). Now - what can you do about it (and many of you who are in the 60s-80s probably want better marks too).

1. Read to understand, not to just "get it done" so you can say to yourself you finished. It may take you more time to comprehend a textbook designed for Political Science 101 college students. But it is not beyond any of you. If you can't answer the why, or how after answering the what, who, and when - go back and reread it. It may even help to overcome a certain phobia...note-taking. Oh, the horror. Writing down main ideas, questions you may have, and even using new data to support or refute previous ideas may actually improve your understanding...and...wait for it...interest. This may even result in improved achievement!

But wait! There's more!

2. ASK FOR HELP. Seriously, you are seniors. If you have difficulties (time, ability, basic confusion, etc.), seek out someone who can help you. I'm available before or after school (even online) if you have questions. Some of you may even have friends willing and able to clear up some difficulties and share their secrets with you. I am sure many of you can even approach your financial supporters for some emotional and academic assistance - they're your parents. They love you and will, I am sure, do what they can to help you. They don't just pay the bills by buying you clothes, food, and providing some spending money at times. They're there to help nurture and guide you...use 'em.

3. If you're having trouble with the basics of the material, try shmoop. Google it.

4. Pick yourself up, dust off that ego, and believe in yourself. You've made it this far. Don't waste all of the hard work you, your family, your friends, even enemies, teachers, and society as a whole have put into getting you ready for life as an adult.

5. R - E - L - A - X. It's only been 4 weeks. Your first four weeks of life were spent sleeping, pooping, eating, crying, and disrupting your parent's lives. Take it easy on them and yourself and look forward to a new plan with new ideas.

We'll watch some short videos in class tomorrow and I'll share some study/test tricks that have helped me in the past.

Does anyone know the daily themes for Spirit Week?  Post them in the COMMENTS section, thanks.

Lastly - I think Odin is wearing #4 today.

Adios...

Technophobic? Sorry About That

I love how some people are so concerned about civil liberties, privacy rights, and individuality while posting everything about themselves on FaceBook, MySpace (so middle school, I know), flickr, Twitter, etc.  Many people are afraid of technology.  I understand that fear, while I also embrace as much technology as I can afford.  But we have to accept how much the computer and internet has permeated our society, to the point of it becoming required for eevrday activities.  I'll show you an episode of Dilbert (VERY short-lived cartoon from many years ago) taht talks about this issue.  Confront your fear(s) and accept what must be done - doing much of your work on a computer.  Follow my Google Calendar, the Moodle, the blog, and turn in your essay to turnitin.  I am trying to streamline everything as much as possible - and the more I work on it, the more Google and Moodle will become interconnected for my classroom.  I'll post more later...

MSECCH3QUE

So, you have some homework this weekend. Read Ch. 3 BEFORE Monday. We'll have a quiz on it on Thursday, followed by a Unit Exam (Chs. 1, 2, and 3) on Monday Oct 5. I have added a "next 5 days" calendar to the blog - look to the right. Skype should be working now. Send me a request to be added to my school account - lakerromo. Lastly - fix up your Moodle profile. Add your picture, change your name so it reads as you like to be called in class, and add a post to the latest forum. I have placed you into class-specific groups now - too difficult to manage as one large group. 

I uploaded the Constitution (columned, 10 pages), the outline dissection (4 pages), the Ch. 2 powerpoint, the Ch. 3 Handouts (vocab and reasoning), and the weekly Forum (at least one post by Sunday).  Portal Grades SHOULD be up to date.  Some people are MISSING things.  Get that cleared up with me tomorrow - NOT DURING CLASS (unless I invite queries).  I will also allow anyone to recite the Preamble in class (last 15 slots are 5 a day M, T, and W of next week before you lose points).   If you EVER miss a quiz or test, you have 1 week to make it up - before school, during lunch, or after school.  I am working on an online version (timed, of course), but it won't be available until Q2.  It is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to make arrangements - I do not track you down.  After 1 week, it becomes a MISSING ZERO, with no opportunity to make it up.

Lastly, Hooper will be visiting class next Tuesday to talk about the CloseUp trip to DC and the POlitical Forums held after school one Thursday every month - you have to attend 2 by January if you want an A, or 1 for a B.  If your schedule does not allow it, I will provide you with thrilling C-SPAN coverage of Washington Journal.  You will have to watch 4 hours and write a report.  My advice - figure out a way to attend at least 1, but you need 2 for the A.

Ch. 2 Test - Study!!!

There are 30 Multiple Choice questions and 3 short answer (maximum of 3 lines or sentences).  You will have 25-30 minutes to complete the test - You may use your notes, including the Constitution dissection and Ch. 2 vocab sheet.  But do not forget that the quiz is TIMED.  The sooner everyone arrives and gets settled, the sooner you may begin.  You should pick up a test booklet, clicker, AND answer sheet.  Write yuor answres on the little sheet AND enter them using the clicker.  You will use the back for the short answer questions.  I will collect ALL answer sheets at the top of each hour (9, 10, 11) - NO extensions.  You SHOULD be able to finish within 20 minutes - if you know your stuff.  We will go over the test immediately afterwards, so you'll know what you got right and wrong.  On Friday, we'll go over the Constitution Dissection so you have everything you may need.  You MUST have Ch. 3 read BEFORE Monday - hint, hint.  If you are struggling with teh Dissection, maybe go here.  Imagine what you can find on the interweb.  I'm off to get my MacBook.  Toodles...


UPDATE:  No MacBook for Romo yet.  Maybe next week...Until then, check out what my first Mac was like (and check out those specs...40 MB HD and 2 MB RAM):



Maybe I'll dig mine out of the basement and show you what I had "back in my day" as a freshman at Brown in the Fall of 1991.

How Low Can You Go?

I have opened the portal to your grades now - and wow - they are scattered with many more Consonants, Disappointments, and Fudge...that is to be expected since the only thing really there is the first quiz.  And that was a difficult one for many since you had no idea what you were facing.  There were five choices instead of the usual four - get used to it because that is the AP method.  There were also some very specific questions from detailed parts of the textbook.  We need to make the path clear, yet also clearly delineate between the As and the Bs...even the Bs and the Consonants.  So study up on the next chapter (2:  The Constitution) and shoot me an email within 24 hours telling me which President did NOT swear on the Bible...

But before you do that, watch below and make a comment about who you think messed up...and does/did it really matter? (only watch the first couple of minutes):

Learning Again

So we began the Constitution Dissection today.  Well, many of you started and progressed nicely.  Unfortunately, some of you used much of your time for chitchat.  That is fine with me - so long as you accept that more time will have to spent outside of class to get it done...

Which should be fine considering how hard the flu has been hitting lately. It will only get worse, too.  But I have anticipated this and planned accordingly.  There are five "Uh Oh" lessons banked in case I am gone or we get a nasty outbreak with many absences.  But it also means that those "mental health" days seniors are so keen to take will become more detrimental to your grade.  I'm going to start having more daily activities that must be completed BEFORE the tardy bell rings.  Missing a couple each quarter will not hurt, but more than that and your grade will suffer.

Lastly - you'll have to memorize the Preamble for class.  Every day until the end of the quarter, five people will be given the opportunity to prove their memory skills.  First come, first served.  After next Wednesday, you will lose points for every day that passes until you get it right.  This might help you...

Peace? At What Cost?

So Monday is the International Day of Peace. I guess I have to put away the beating stick for one day. Seriously, teachers used to be allowed to physically beat their students for not completing their lessons. Ah,m those must have been the days. Now we follow the carrot method - if you have no idea what I am referring to, think.

Which leads me to my next request...I need you to THINK. Don't just react out of fear or consequence...train your brain to make instant considerations and partial judgments. You will be amazed by how much more quickly you'll not only be able to process, but also analyze, synthesize, and categorize information much more quickly. THINK about how much you practice for your team, band, club, etc. Eventually, your movements become not only more fluid but your reaction times decrease as movements are committed to memory.

Your brain works the same way. Do you really have to think of 1+1 to get 2? No - it's committed to your memory. I know it scares you and may come across as time-consuming - even wasteful...but if you give me an honest 3 hours a week of homework (reading...learning...studying), you will do just fine in this class. Do it for all your classes, and you will improve your brain tremendously. If you are interested in not only passing with a C - which is average, and OK - but maybe achieving more and proving it, an additional hour or two a week may be necessary.

Until tomorrow...a classic that should stick in your brain due to repetition:

How Many Warnings Does it Take?

I hope everyone finishes the Ch. 2 reading tonight and comes prepared for the discussion tomorrow.  There COULD be a POP QUIZ tomorrow. I may ask MANY questions about the chapter and the Federalist Papers (47,48, and 51).  I will also offer Extra Credit to anyone who answers A,B,C,D for the first 4 questions - no matter what the question is.  I will divide up the EC among those of you who read this and follow through.  So, if only 10 of you do as I suggest, you share the EC (which could be about 3% added to your overall grade at the end of the qtr).  If all 110 of you do so, you will get MUCH less (about 0.34%)...so you would be wise to not share this tidbit with others...Let's see how many of you actually read this...

If you wanna share the warped vision experienced today, hit the vid below:

"Oh No! Not Brown!"

I quoted Lisa Simpson there as an recap title for what I shared with you today...my college application and selection experience.  I am willing to be an open book - if you have ANY questions for me, i will not only answer them truthfully and bluntly, but I'll turn them around and ask you other follow-ups.  Long story short - I applied to 12 schools, got into 10, ended up at Brown, had a terrible academic start to my college career, got some help from the dean, found my true path, and succeeded...all the way back to Mpls...where I now teach and hopefully help others reach their dreams.  I left out the story about a student I had as a 9th grader during my 2nd year teaching.  He graduated and went to Brown as well...becoming the captain of the football team and graduated with a chemical engineering degree.  Ask me about it sometime.

I asked you to read the Declaration of Independence when you find the time.  It really is well-written and a powerful indictment.  A lot of history, I know, but you need to understand the people, places, themes, etc. in place when the Constitution emerged - something we still follow over 200 years later. You will also need to make a Forum entry on Moodle and prepare for the test next Weds, with another one on Ch.3 on Friday.  Wow - you are going to hate me.

Lastly - you get to quiz me on Friday since I have finally created my cheat sheets and should be able to have your names and faces matched up - even though you have all aged a full year, trying to pass yourselves off as more mature.  Appearances can be deceiving.  I'm 36 (37 in Dec), sometimes move like a 90ish geezer (had a tree fall on my back when I was 18 - REALLY feeling it now) yet always seem to act like a 12-year-old.  And remember, just 19 years ago, I was where you are now...laughing at all those interest inventories and suggestions of "you should be a teacher" blah blah blah.  What fools. I had it all figured out and was going to be an engineer.  Funny thing happened - my engineering plan was like the Articles of Confederation...my Constitution was more like teaching...a perfect fit that is ever-changing and evolving...just like all of you.

Living and Dying

So, we talked about the Constitution today.  Is it a living document?  Or is it dead?  I, of course, hinted at its zombification over time.  We'll watch some video segments tomorrow about earlier documents that influenced the establishment of our current form of government (which happens to be the BEST EVER!!! - ROCK ON!!!)  But more importantly, I will now work hard to get all your names and faces committed to memory.  I have been assured that schedules are no longer changing, so my memory will begin to take shape tomorrow.  If you have annoyed me by talking when you're not supposed to, or simply sat there quietly with a zombie stare as I ask for responses, this week is your chance to start fresh - especially with Friday's discussion about the Obama Health Care Speech.  You'll also be REQUIRED to make a Forum comment on Moodle about what you liked and disliked about the speech...until then, enjoy this video of how a Bill becomes law (from the popular Schoolhouse Rock series of my youth - back when there were actually cartoons on all major networks every Saturday morning):


Or you can watch the Family Guy version here:

I Understand

Well, I just returned home after a long day of teaching and then working the girls games against Wayzata - the varsity girls had leads of 1-0 and 2-1 and ended up tying 2-2.  Well played.  So, when some of you complain about not having time to do your work - I call bologna (or baloney) sandwich.  I get mine done, so can you.  All I ask for are 30 minutes a day (average).  It's reading and thinking - no real quantity of writing...yet.  Get Ch. 2 read ASAP and you absolutely positively MUST hit the Moodle site and download the docs for the Obama speech analysis due Friday.  If you missed it, watch below (there may be an ad - sorry!?!?) and follow through to parts 2,3,4, and 5:

MN Rodents' New Nest

I was lucky enough to attend the opening of TCF Bank Stadium on Saturday.  Wow.  The stadium is amazing, and the atmosphere was electrifying.  Aside from some logistical problems (long lines to enter, no more water or food at halftime, the lack of cash registers resulting in the use of handheld calculators, and other concerns), it was great to see the Gophers outdoors again.  If you can go to a game this year, do it - and then look forward to seeing the Twins outdoors next year.  Now, as for the Vikings...ugh.  We built them their Metrodome and now it is no good. That monstrosity ruined Gopher football for 27 years, gave us comical baseball, and shortened the careers of numerous athletes.  Now they want a $1B "upgrade" somewhere downtown...in this economy.  Yeah, right.  Even with Peterson zigging, zagging, cutting, stopping, and then blazing down the field for touchdowns on a regular basis.

I updated the calendar to reflect this week's plan.  The Obama Health Care speech will be shown in class tomorrow - it will take the whole class period.  You will have to download the file of analyses (pre and post) and your worksheet to be completed at home from moodle.  We'll discuss your findings on Friday.  We're getting into the Constitution this week, with some video segments about historical documents sandwiched between lectures on Tuesday and Thursday.  Your quiz will be Monday.  We'll close up Ch. 3 and Unit 1 next week as well.  A little behind, but expected.  You should anticipate a "triple-up" of chapter analysis in 2 weeks - 6,7,11. 

Collige?

Yes, I spelled it like that with a purpose. First off, I have a t-shirt with that on it (mocking the Animal House "COLLEGE" shirt worn by Mr. Belushi). Secondly, I thik some of you may be headed for a "COLLIGE" if you do not learn from today's quiz.

You need to learn how to LEARN and STUDY, not simply read by looking at each word. Understand them. Put them together in a way that makes sense to you. Then connect everything at the end. Find ways to make it relevant to you on a personal level...and BAM! You'll know it.

Besides, read this to see what REAL COLLEGEs are looking for. 

So, as you prepare for next week's lesson(s) on chapter 2...think about actually reading and learning rather than looking at words on a page.  Enjoy Ch. 2 this weekend...

Read...Learn...Study

You should always follow that order...Read first to gather information...Think and Learn about how the information fits together...then study so it all sticks in your brain and can be recalled more easily.

Your quiz will have 30 questions (all multiple choice) and will be timed to 20-25 minutes.  You may use YOUR WRITTEN NOTES and/or handout.  You CANNOT USE THE SUMMARY OR OUTLINE!!!  So, what are you doing reading this...get back to studying (or learning...or if you are REALLY behind...reading - at least I gave you the simplification link yesterday).

BP: Bureaucratic Pork

We finished the Ch. 1 slide show today. Very broad in terms of material...but what did you expect for an introduction? I hope you listened more than just read and copied. And please have Ch. 2 read by Monday. We will discuss the Ch. 1 Handout tomorrow - all to get you ready for the Ch. 1 Quiz on Friday (roughly 25 multiple choice).

We will watch the Indoctrination Speech for Obama Youth (ISOY) tomorrow...and I want you to analyze it as a political scientist.

Also - You should check out the Moodle and see if there is something there that might help for Friday.  If you appreciate it, leave a comment...

Corruption of Impressionnable Young Minds

Many people are so ridiculously frightened about the President speaking directly to America's students about the importance of education. While not live, I will show his speech to you on Thursday, hoping that you pinpoint phrases or ideas that are rooted in in his liberal ideology versus what would be more universal...basically are (were) people justified in being worried about his indoctrination of our youth?

IN class today, we started the first chapter powerpoint. Periods 2 & 3 got their textbooks. Don't worry - 1st hour is tomorrow. Read away - because you have a quiz on Friday.

I'll summarize today's key points of interest later...any questions/comments/concerns? Comment below...

Fruits of Labor

Celebrate your final weekend before school begins (consider this past week the preseason). I hope many, if not all, of you got a sense of what to expect in terms of personality and style. I'm laid back yet intense and passionate - a true hypocrite - which is perfect for studying American Government and Politics.

Let's see if I can remember what we covered today - I reminded everyone of the email and techhelp doc, mentioned that a true scholar will research the author of anything assigned, referred to the color wheel in a political sense (red, blue, and purple - although SW is pretty blue if you ask me), challenged everyone to dig deeper and not only answer a question - but analyze and define the words of a question. We briefly went over Elazar and Locke, hinting at things to come, and began to differentiate between Plato and TJ. I hope you also understood the power of controlling information and access to the decision-making entity of any organization...maybe Bush Jr. wasn't so bad if you realize who was feeding him what in terms of information. Rush and Hannity don't care about "The Grand Old Party" as much as they really care about viewers/listeners which affects advertising, which affects their salaries.

Basically - Power and Money drive everything. Wisdom is not only learned through formal education, but gained through experience(s). College is closer than you think. Your senior year is going to fly by faster than ever, and numerous other tidbits were discussed, refuted, presented, referred to, blah, blah, blah...

But what you probably remember most is that the Japanese have a better way of folding T-Shirts...

Tick Tock

I worked the scoreboard at the football game today for the first time. It was a blowout for the Lakers over the Tommies. And I think I got it down so when we play some more difficult opponents, I'll be ready.

In class today, I changed things up and (hopefully) got most of you on google, Moodle, and turnitin. I will come up with a how-to cheat sheet and email it to everyone this weekend...but I'm sure everyone got it to work or remembers how to get everything working...right?

We'll discuss the Elazar and Locke readings tomorrow and maybe go over Plato as well. And if I goofed the attendance - it's probably because you goofed the email. Adios...

Monty Python and the Prupose of Government

The Meaning of Life is overrated (and the answer to the question is 42 - look it up).

You filled out an information note card, I asked that you procure some 4x6 note cards (100 should suffice for 2 of you) for future use, and you answered your first question today...

I'll upload the powerpoint later...I promise. I booked the E11? Computer Lab - the one across from Rees and Yang for Thursday. I'll get you set up at Moodle and Google. We may wait for Turnitin until next week.

So - the schedule will be shifted a bit next week - but count on a discussion on Friday...

Tired?

I am - and it's only 3:15. It was not necessarily an easy day - so much time went into having everything ready - but it went very smoothly. everyone should have a syllabus, 3-week calendar, and the readings (Locke 7 Elazar) to be discussed on Friday.

I need everyone to go over the family calendar sometime this week and figure out what days you know will be missing. I'll put together the "MIA" calendar next week and build around what I can.

You need to register at the following sites:
google (Gmail)
Moodle (MPS Email)

Figure out how to copy my calendar into yours and start participating in the forums.

Se ya later...

Jaws

For some reason, the theme music is in my head. I wonder why...

Almost All Grown Up!

I remember looking at all your pictures before school started last year. I hadn't taught 9th graders in many years, and I was a little surprised by how young everyone looked. But one of my students from last year had a REALLY different look. He's changed...a lot. We ALL wanted to see it one more time at the end of the year - but I "lost" it. Well - it was found. Cleaning out my files on the hard drive as I get my year planned, I found a picture. Should I post it?

I'm teaching all new courses this year - AP Govt, Sheltered US (ELL/DHH) , Sheltered World (ELL/DHH) - so I needed to get things in order. Things will be different for all of us. I feel more settled in as a Laker. But, just like The Godfather, I feel myself getting pulled back in - I'm coaching at Washburn this fall. The boys B-Squad coach walked out and I was "cordially" invited to return. So, from 3:00 - 5:00 (6 on game days), I'll be a Miller again. Don't hate me - feel sorry, but happy for me. I love coaching and everything at Southwest is booked solid. We'll see what happens in the spring, regarding softball.

Well, I simply wanted to give one more shout out to my former 9th graders before this site officially becomes my AP Government blog. You're free to check up and see what weird things I post, but you probably won't understand everything. However - since many of you are in APUSH, you might find some useful bits of info for your class.

So, did you want to see the pic? Beg. Or, if you're Evie - beg me NOT to post it...

Great Minds...

Hermione is One Smart Lass. And she has class. Didn't even plan on the rhyme...at least not this time.

Buses, Bruno, and Books

There is an interesting "discussion" going on in the MPS Parents Forum of Yahoo Groups. It seems there are concerns regarding the music being played on buses, and whether or not the radio should even be turned on in the first place. I'd be interested to know what STUDENTS actually think about the issue. At least share your thoughts with your parents who can then pass it along to district people.

I went to see "Bruno" on Sunday night at Block E. There were people buying tickets to the midnight showing of Harry Potter - one of whom I think may have been Ellen A. Yet another student sighting. BTW - The movie was a bit over the top at times while disturbing yet also hilarious. Not worth my money and NOT worth sneaking into. Go Watch Half-Blood Prince or UP again.

Such a beautiful, dry summer has been wonderful for outdoor activists. The stress fracture in my left foot and torn meniscus in my right knee have not helped me thus far. So, I will begin my summer reading now. Aside from my zombie books (Pride and Prejudice with Zombies!), what do you suggest? Please no Twilight novels. I'll be reading about Beckham, the deism of our founding fathers, and some pulp novels over thext 2 weeks. I hope you get your summer reading done...but check out The Road (McCarthy), or The Time-Traveler's Wife - both great books being released as films later this year.

Just for fun, here is a Panda Baby:

They Want Your Brains!

Yes - more zombies. But YOU WILL ENJOY THIS: I PROMISE!!! A friend told me about this game, which you can find cheaply elsewhere, but get a "taste" for it using the demo. If/When you survive to the end, the following video is played:


There are other web demos just as addicting from the same company. So, how have you been spending your summer?

BECOME A ZOMBIE!!!

Act now! You can send your picture to an artist who will then recreate you as a zombie. For FREE!!! I look forward to your submissions...

Passing...

Away, NOT gas. So, we have been hit hard with celebrity deaths lately. Farrah Fawcett actually took us into her world as we watched her die over the course of her show. Ed McMahon didn't seem to accept Conan as the new host of the Tonight Show and joined Johnny in the sky. The Streets of San Francisco, filled with the Gay Pride Parade, seemed to be too much for Karl Malden. Billy Mays finally succumbed to poisoning from an ingredient in OxiClean and OrangeGlow. I heard he's pitching plots to the Big Farm in the Sky now. Steve McNair taught us another lesson in morality and right-wrong regarding today's society - we need more gun control, especially with so much cheating and extra-marital affairs.

And then there's the weird guy who lived down the street, liked changing clothes, and lured children into his little fantasy world. No, Mr. Rogers died years ago. Michael Jackson was probably more synthetic than natural in his later years - supposedly his nose had to be reattached on a regular basis. While Prince was (and is, thankfully) better, Michael Jackson was more profitable and even liked by the Nazis. Check it out:

Holy Adnan! Was that Just...?

So I'm driving around the Kenwood area to find alternative tennis courts due to the lack of vacancies at Kenwood Park. I see a group of rough-looking teenagers, obviously up to no good - or at least planning to be so. And who should I recognize? None other than the Q-kid who switched out my class. So, my first "former SW student sighting" thus far. I ran into someone I'll have in class next year, but that doesn't count - she's a sister of one of my former WHS students - and I see them all the time. So, until the next sighting, why don't you check out what's been found in the sewers of North Carolina...Mr. Hankey and his friends!

Back in My Day

For some fun - have your parents read this and remember their past. I have to say - it is interesting to see that some of you are still checking this out occasionally. Wow - get a life! Especially now that the weather is more cooperative - it's been too hot for too many days. I dug out my tennis racket yesterday and will have a go with it on Tuesday, which should be interesting... But not more interesting than Beeker:

Upcoming Flicks

Did you know I LOVE zombie movies? Surprising? I introduced many of you to Dod Sno (Dead Snow for you non-Finnish types). If you enjoy reading (and with summer - you should have the time), I suggest you pick up a copy of World War Z by Max Brooks. It's also a fantastic audiobook. And a movie is in development. I tend to include vampire flicks into the zombie category (except for the Twilight/Anne Rice stuff- too much of a soap opera. Below are two trailers of upcoming films, followed by a classic George Romero sequel to his original that started it all.

Zombieland:


Daybreakers:


Dawn of the Dead:

Strange Dreams

I had a dream - no, nothing about equality or hope - just a weird dream about visiting some of you in college...and then having to crash for some time...then actually becoming a student again. How should we interpret that? My guess is that I may have become a student again after my experience teaching you this past year and so my subconscious is seeking a mode where I can become a student again, learning from you. Perhaps it has something to do with my need to seek knowledge and gain more from you. Or it could just be the result of a bad taco last night.

Be careful about over-analyzing things. You could go crazy trying to decipher images and thoughts throughout your life. As always, think, rationalize, and then act...but don't waste your time doing it or the opportunity may pass you by.

I guess Transformers2 is bad due to the story - but c'mon...it's about 50-ft robots that transform and they fight each other. Throw in Megan Fox for the guys and Josh Duhamel for the gals and you have a fun summer flick - right? I'll find out soon. What do you recommend - IMAX or the moving chairs at MOA?

The Twins are mired in mediocrity. The Wolves should have a GREAT day today, and I like the possibilities for the Wild. And lest we forget - there will be a #4 in purple soon.

But the BIGGEST news in sports thus far? USA beating Spain (#1 in the world, 15-game unbeaten streak) 2-0 in the Confederations Cup (a warm-up for next year's World Cup).

Until next time, think about this: Are freedom and democracy viable in every culture for all people?

Is it Over Already?

Yes, it is. We no longer must suffer together. I suggest you take this opportunity to dis-invite yourself, since this blog will be used for AP Government next year. You will be free to make comments, and I may even put some stuff up here during the summer.

The portal grades should be finalized - if you see a problem, let me know - I fixed some things with what I called "ROMOPOINTS" but you cannot complain to me about having done something anymore - that ship sailed.

I really enjoyed my year here, and you made it easier for me to transition in from a bad experience during the Spring and Summer of '08 at WHS. But I don't think I'll truly be a Laker until I see all of you graduate in 3 years...

What's in a Name?

I have had SO many complaints of "I did that!" and "I turned that assignment in" that I am about to have a bigger tantrum than you. I went through over 500 pieces of work in the last 2 days...and you will be AMAZED by how many things were turned in WITHOUT A NAME!!! As such, you better check the no-name bin. Everything there has a red slash through it - you will LOSE POINTS for wasting our time, creating stress for yourself (and parents) and harassing me for YOUR MISTAKES!!! But it's still better than missing.

I may have to purchase a pear for the next person(s) who bother me with the same complaint(s)...and for those of you who do not understand, ask 5th period students.

Crazy Canadian?

So, we started our final "unit" concerning THOUGHT. We'll be reading and analyzing some excerpts from a book by Marshall McLuhan, The Medium is the Massage. Read, Think, Reflect, Write. I also hope you go home and ask any adults if they know who this "crazy" guy is. I rather enjoy his wisdom and foresight. The book was published in 1967, yet everything still applies to us today.

The portal should be up to date with everything (except for test do-overs - those will be in tomorrow) - unless you did not put your name on work - check my non-name bin. And do not forget about the FINAL next Monday. You can't really "study" because it covers EVERYTHING we have studied thus far.

Energy, Torture, or Stress

What negative and positive results occur when making the change to "alternative energy sources" and how is added competition between nations for energy sources going to help or hurt our future?

Think about it - what line can be crossed (if any) regarding your morals/ethics and the need for information (regardless of its credibility)? Is torture worth it?

Why do we get stressed? Is it dangerous to you or someone you care about? Please think about what indicators may be high for you - and consider how this is related to the HAVES and HAVE-NOTS of the world.

Back Leg

We're almost done - but you cannot let up now. There will be a COMPREHENSIVE Final next Monday. I suggest you simply take a little time and skim through any and all notes and handouts related to class. If you threw everything away - oops. You should archive EVERYTHING in ALL OF YOUR CLASSES now...better to prepare you for doing the same in college. Trust me - keeping your notes, handouts, and hard copies of your work from college will sometimes help you later in life (especially if you become a teacher or need to prove what you covered in a class for transferred credits)

ALL Handouts (Resources, 24, 35, and 26) will be covered in class tomorrow. Have them finished BEFORE entering class.

On Wednesday, you will have the opportunity to retake ANY of the 4th Q tests. Know that whatever score you get this time will stand. I do not give you a choice of test scores - nor do I average them. If you choose to retake a test (which I suggest you do if you earned a low score), you are foregoing the points from the in-class activity others will be taking part in. It is a choice that will not severely harm you if you do dramatically improve your test score.

Thursday/Friday - More on the environment.

Monday - Final Exam

Tuesday - Final In-Class activity/assessment

Tell Me More!

You completed a packet for Ch. 7 today (hopefully after reading each section as well). When finished, you have to come up with a 2-3 sentence (or 3-4 line) explaining WHAT you learned or WHY this information is important. When looking at all four statements, summarize the entire packet into 2-3 sentences doing the same thing. What was/is the purpose of the lesson?

So, I came across another video today...does it compare to the SW production? I doubt it.

100th Post!

We did a ROMOTHINK today:
From the NEWS: A 13-year old boy has Hodgkins Lymphoma, a cancer that has a 90% survivability rate using traditional methods (radiation and chemo). His parents have recently lost a court case after choosing to follow alternative methods in seeking a cure. Knowing that the STATE serves the people, while also acknowledging that people need protection, do you believe the parents should be allowed to treat their son using alternative methods? Or should they be forced to follow what doctors (at the Mayo Clinic) prescribe?

We will "correct" the Guns, Germs, & Steel work tomorrow and follow up today's conversation with a connection to Abortion. Also tomorrow - some BBB that will be due Friday.