Goodbye, Old Blog

I have decided to start a fresh, new blog for the next school year. If you want to see what we are doing in SY 2008-2009 click here.

Have a Great Summer & High School Experience!

I wish you all the best! Stop back by CMM or send an email and let me
know how you are doing in high school.

Lost Textbooks

If you lost your textbook the fee is $49.95. I turned in report card
holds today.

Point Sheets Do Not Have to Be Signed

Please ignore the note at the bottom of the point sheets about signing
and returning the sheets. I am not taking new grades this week. The
only changes might come through make-up work required by policy or
participation points. I am closing the opportunity to submit the extra-
credit historical marker photo bonus after Tuesday.

Last Point Sheet

The last point sheet for the year went home today. Your final grade
could change from that on the sheet because of lost participation
points or make-up work (if the make-up is required by CPSB policy).

Monday

Be prepared to present your Alternative History Projects on Monday. Any Pick-a-Projects scheduled for Monday will be presented on Monday.

Textbook Return Reminder

Anyone failing to return a textbook loses five participation points PER DAY. Please return your books!

Pick-a-Projects Due Monday

The Pick-a-Projects should be ready for presentation by Monday. If your project requires you to know the day in advance please see me by Friday to schedule your presentation.

Change of Plans

Because of a technical problem we will view the Marshal Zhukov video today and take a quiz on the video on Wednesday.

End of the School Year Information

We have a number of tasks to accomplish before we end the school year:

• Return your textbook on 07 May 2008. I will deduct five participation points per day that your textbook is late.
• Return all library books by 12 May 2008.
• Locker clean out will be 13 May 2008.
• THE DEADLINE FOR MAKE UP TESTS OR WORK IS 16 MAY 2008 -- NO EXCEPTIONS.
• All items left in lost and found will be given to Goodwill at the end of the year. Any items left in my classroom go to the lost and found on 07 May 2008.
• Comply with the dress code. I will write tickets through the last day of school.
• Final locker clean out is 20 May 2008.
• No backpacks after 20 May 2008.
• Eighth Grade Celebration is 21 May 2008.
• All cleared report cards will be mailed; those held for money owed will not be mailed.
• No one may leave the classroom without escort on 22 May 2008.

Return your Textbook on Wednesday, 07 May 2008

Please return your textbook to me on Wednesday, 07 May 2008. Any textbooks not returned will result in a hold on your report card. I will subtract five participation point per day that your textbook is late!

Google Docs

Google offers a free set of "office" programs. You may use these to create presentations, documents, and spreadsheets. You have to sign up for a gmail account, but that is free. Still, please get parental permission to create the account. See:
http://docs.google.com/

Problems Replying to Email from AOL Users

A couple of you on AOL emailed me today. When I replied I got a "permanent fatal errors" response from AOL after my first reply went through. I will post my reply to you here in the hope that you will see it.

If you are doing the "analyze a computer program" project use the PowerPoint Rubric and be sure to explain how your simulation demonstrates the reality it seeks to portray as a game.

If you cannot open a PowerPoint 2007 (.pptx) at home you may email me your file as-is and I will try to translate it into something you can use. You might also give OpenOffice a try. See:
http://www.openoffice.org/

If you have another non-AOL email account try to email me from that account.

The Prime Meridian

A Model of the H1 Sea Clock

The Quest for Longitude

Alternative History Project Presentations

We will begin alternative history project presentations on Monday, 05 May 2008.

ALL STUDENTS SHOULD BE PREPARED TO PRESENT ON MONDAY. AFTER VOLUNTEERS HAVE PRESENTED I WILL RANDOMLY SELECT GROUPS TO PRESENT, GROUPS NOT READY TO PRESENT WILL RECEIVE A ZERO ON THE ASSIGNMENTS.

This information was conveyed in class; I repeat it here as a reminder.

Military History Unit

On Monday we begin the Military History Unit.

Links on the leaders we will study in the Military History Unit may be found here:
http://del.icio.us/LouisianaStudies/militaryhistory

Make Up Tests on Friday Mornings During Stallion Roundup

I give make-up tests on Friday morning during (not before) Stallion Roundup. If you have missed a test or quiz please see me on Thursday for a hall pass. The deadline for makeup tests (or any makeup work, including projects) is Friday, 16 May 2008. Of course, you do have one dropped test per grading period ("nine-weeks") so if you miss the deadline you will drop one missed test or quiz.

Help with the Alternative History PowerPoint Presentation

Look in the iDisk under 8th Grade folder for the example presentation. Note that the bulk of your presentation should be in 2008 in your world -- spend SEVERAL slides on your alternative present. I posted both PowerPoint and Acrobat versions. The presentation is the same I showed in class this week sans the pictures.

You may also download these from my site:
http://www.paulblankenship.com/AlternativeHistoryProjectPresentationExampleB.pdf
http://www.paulblankenship.com/AlternativeHistoryProjectPresentationExampleB.ppt

Weekly Preview: 19-22 May 2008 -- LAST WEEK OF SCHOOL

I am posting this early. See below for the weeks of 05-09 May 2008 and 12-16 May 2008.

Monday

• Quiz on Cortés
• Risk as a simulation of military history before the use of weapons of mass destruction

Tuesday

• Risk as a simulation of military history before the use of weapons of mass destruction

Wednesday

• 8th Grade Celebration
  

Thursday

• Risk as a simulation of military history before the use of weapons of mass destruction
• LAST DAY OF THE SCHOOL YEAR FOR STUDENTS

Friday

• TEACHER WORK DAY -- STUDENTS DO NOT ATTEND

Weekly Preview for 12-16 May 2008

Weekly Preview for 12-16 May 2008

Monday

• Present Pick-a-Projects
• Video on Marshal Zhukov
• Quiz on El Cíd

Tuesday

• Present Pick-a-Projects
• Video on William T. Sherman
• Quiz on Marshal Zhukov

Wednesday

• Present Pick-a-Projects
• Video on William Howe
• Quiz on William T. Sherman

Thursday

• Present Pick-a-Projects
• Video on Andrew Jackson
• Quiz on William Howe

Friday

• Present Pick-a-Projects
• Video on Cortés
• Quiz on Andrew Jackson
• LAST DAY TO MAKE UP MISSING TESTS OR OTHER WORK!!!

Next week (the last week of school): Risk Week (Quiz on Cortés Monday).

Weekly Preview for 05-09 May 2008

Activities for the Week of 05-09 May 2008

Monday

• Present Alternative Histories
• Video on Cromwell

Tuesday

• Present Alternative Histories
• Quiz on Cromwell
• Video on Napoleon

Wednesday

• Present Alternative Histories
• Quiz on Napoleon
• Video on Julius Caesar

Thursday

• Present Alternative Histories
• Quiz on Julius Caesar
• Video on John C. Fremont

Friday

• Present Alternative Histories
• Quiz on John C. Fremont
• Video on El Cíd

The quizzes will be 15 questions each @ 4 points per question.

Next Week (12-16 May 2008): Pick-a-Project Presentations and more military history videos

Locate your textbooks and be prepared to return them to class. I plan to call for them as soon as possible.

No Pictures Required on the Alternative History Timeline

You do not have to add pictures to the alternative history timeline. You do need them for the presentation.

Alternative History Project Rubrics

See:

http://del.icio.us/LouisianaStudies/alternativehistoryproject

Watch The Elegant Universe Online

You may view The Elegant Universe online at:
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/elegant/program.html

Alternative History Projects

We are working on the alternative history project. Students take some event in history, change it, and imagine how today's world would be different. The projects will be a timeline and a PowerPoint explaining the alternative history. Most students are working with a partner. I have allowed a few groups of three so that no student has to work alone. I will be giving class time to work on the project during the next week -- students should be able to complete the assignment in class without additional homework if they wisely use their class time (i.e., they work rather than socialize). The alternative history must be logical, realistic, and probable. Omit references to mythological figures or anything that would be impossible in the real world (such as unicorns, dragons, or magic). Also exclude anything not known to exist, such as space aliens. Even in the alternative history all the rules of physics still apply.

The Final Month

Now that we are approaching the end of the school year I want to remind you of some important things:

• Good behavior matters. At the end of each year some student seem to have the idea that they are immune to the consequences of their actions. I have recently had to speak with some students about dress code violations, tardies, and a lack of respect. The tardy policy, dress code, and classroom rules will be enforced through the end of school. I will be writing tickets for dress code and other violations in G-Wing and elsewhere.
  
• Good grades matter. The last two tests have gone well for most of my students and I want to congratulate those with good grades. If your grades on the tests were poor do not count on the drops and the participation points. They matter less as more test grades are entered in the gradebook.
• Please locate your textbook and prepare to return it to me. Wait until I call for it. If you cannot find your textbook you will have to pay for it.
• Fun matters. I want you to have a positive experience in your final month at CMM. Help me to help you have a good final month by being well-behaved, respectful, punctual, and compliant with the CMM dress code.
  

Binder Check Friday

The Binder Check on Friday will include:

• The job shadow day mind map
• The notes or mind map on the 1960s to the present
• The point sheet I issued today (signed by a parent or guardian)
• The notes or mind map on French history from Monday

Point Sheets Today

Point sheets go home today. Please have a parent/guardian sign and return! I still have to add a couple of minor grades but all the tests except the one we took today are on the point sheets.

Study Guides for the Test on 1960 to the Present

Tomorrow's test will cover 1960 to the present. See:

http://www.paulblankenship.com/louisiana1960

or

http://www.paulblankenship.com/louisiana1960.pdf
http://www.paulblankenship.com/louisiana1960key.pdf

Test & Binder Check Wednesday

The test on Louisiana from 1960 to the present will be on Wednesday of this week. We will review on Tuesday. Expect a quiz Tuesday over the video on French history shown Monday.

Binder Check Friday

Please have GLEs 76 to 81 and your signed Point Sheet ready on Friday. I am posting this in case you overlooked my note on the board in class.

The test on Louisiana from 1960 to the present will be next Tuesday.

Have you changed your mind?

If you have changed your mind about your high school since your IEP meeting your IEP teacher needs to know. Otherwise, you will be sent to military boarding school in Alaska (just kidding about that last part, but we really do need to know about any changes ASAP).

Five Year Plans are Due

Please give your Five Year Plan to your English teacher ASAP!

Online Version of Crossword Puzzle from Class

See:
http://www.paulblankenship.com/gles7681puzzle

The test is on Tuesday, 15 April 2008.

Lake Peigneur: Current Issues

Lake Peigneur Disaster Video

Help with the Outlines

If you have trouble downloading the outlines from the iDisk try the del.icio.us site:

http://del.icio.us/LouisianaStudies/outline

More about the Pick-a-Project

Please be sure that your project addresses your IEP objective AND one or more of the GLEs.

Your proposals are due Monday.

Pick-a-Project

Your last project for the year is the most flexible assignment. You may select the topic (with my approval) and the means of presenting the topic. Your project should fulfill your IEP objective. Past projects have included cooking videos, video game re-enactments of a famous battle, and web pages. See the Rubric Index for ideas, although I will consider developing new rubrics for innovative projects. Projects are due in mid-May; we will schedule presentations in each class period.

Weekly Preview

Monday
GLE #76 Presentation and Activity
GLE #77 Presentation and Activity
Jazz video (if time permits)

Tuesday
Open-Notes Test & Binder Check 4.2 (over first jazz video)
GLE #78 Presentation and Activity

Wednesday
Louisiana history video (1960 to the present)
GLE #79 Presentation and Activity

Thursday
Louisiana history video (1960 to the present)
GLE #80 Presentation and Activity

Friday
Louisiana history video (1960 to the present)
GLE #81 Presentation and Activity

Strange Fruit

"Strange Fruit" refers to the practice of lynching. The song is a protest against illegal executions of African-Americans.

My Jazz Links

For information on jazz see:
http://del.icio.us/LouisianaStudies/jazz

CMM JazzFest

We need parents!

The first ever CMM JazzFest will be held on Friday, 04 April 2008. Mrs. Berg's students will join us for this event. We will learn Cajun dancing, enjoy a crawfish boil, and listen to two live jazz bands.

We do not need your money, but we do need about ten parents to join us to help supervise this event.

Festivities begin at 11:00 a.m. with Cajun dance instructors. The crawfish boil starts at noon. The jazz bands from Byrd and Magnet start after the crawfish boil. We will conclude around 2:30 p.m.

The CMM JazzFest is part of an academic unit on jazz in Louisiana history. The event partially fulfills the requirements of GLE #81: "Explain cultural elements that have shaped Louisiana’s heritage (e.g., festivals, music, dance, food, languages)."

Binder Check Tuesday

Please have the Game Learning Guides for Life, Risk, Monopoly, and A. D. 1504 ready for Tuesday. Write a five-sentence paragraph on opportunity cost in chess for this binder check.

Something to Anticipate

I know we are all under a lot of stress with the LEAP test next week. I want to give you something to anticipate after all this is over. The Simulation Unit is probably the most fun we will have in class this year. We will play Life, Risk, Monopoly, and a computer simulation of the colonial period. It is a fun, low stress week. After Spring Break we will wrap up what little is left of the required curriculum.

During LEAP week we will play Jeopardy and other games to relax after testing.

GLE #69

We will cover GLE #69 in class Friday -- please bring the blank sheet.

Dropped GLE #64 from the Binder Check

I dropped GLE #64 from the Binder Check, but please keep the sheet and we will revisit the assignment next grading period.

Reminder: Test/Binder Check Friday

As posted on the board in class...

The last test/binder check for the week is Friday, 07 March 2008. The test is open-GLE-worksheets. Please have the following for your test & binder check:

• GLE #65
• GLE #67
• GLE #68
• GLE #71
• GLE #72 -- up to Earl Long
• GLE #73 (five sheets, one per video)
• GLE #77 -- up to WWII

The test is over the video series and the PowerPoints. You only need the wars discussed in the video on GLE #77.

The answers are on the iDisk under the history folder.

You may use your handwritten GLE worksheets on the test. No printed notes on the backs of the sheets. The test will cover the materials on the videos.

Louisiana Story: The Reverse Angle

EXTRA-CREDIT OPPORTUNITY

Ten extra-credit points for bringing one-page summary of the new film and the original documentary. A parent must sign and write a note that you watched the entire film. The show airs on TV Channel 24 at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, 05 March 2008.

Make sure your summary includes information not on the web about the film -- I want your original work, not a summary of a Wikipedia or other article.

See:
http://www.lpb.org/programs/louisianastory/
http://www.lpb.org/whatson/index.cfm?Year=2008&Month=3&Date=5

Louisiana History Timelines Link

If you have trouble with the links in the post below try this link:
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/index.html

The Great Typo Hunt of 2008

The many presentations and outlines I have created this year have some typos (I'm not a trained typist). I will award 2 extra credit points per typo that you locate in any of my presentations (not the blog or the site, just the GLE presentations). The maximum awarded will be 10 points per student. You must be the first student to contact me in person or via email with the typo. Identify the GLE number and the slide number.

The deadline is 3:00 p.m. on Friday afternoon.

Louisiana History Timelines Index

The six Louisiana history timelines may be found at:
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/index.html

Corrected Louisiana History Timeline Links for GLE #63

http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline1.htm
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline2.htm
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline3.htm
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline4.htm
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline5.html
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline6.htm

Louisiana History Timeline #2 -- Antebellum Louisiana

The link I posted earlier is broken, use this one instead.

http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline2.htm

Louisiana: A History Timeline #4 -- Reconstruction

For the Take Home Test (5 questions):

http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline4.htm

Timelines for GLE #63

Correction: Item D on #20 should be 1896.

On the question about Huey Long becoming a Senator, please give the year he was elected.

Cut and paste these into your browser if the del.icio.us site is not working for you.

World History
http://ehistory.osu.edu/world/TimeLineDisplay.cfm?Era_id=4
http://ehistory.osu.edu/world/TimeLineDisplay.cfm?Era_id=5

American History
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/country_profiles/1230058.stm
http://www.britannica.com/blackhistory/timeline?tocId=9433428

Louisiana History
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline1.htm
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline2.htm
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline3.htm
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline4.htm
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline5.htm
http://www.louisianahistory.org/timelines/timeline6.htm

Binder Check Friday

We will do a last binder check for this grading period on Friday. I will want to see the material covered by the video series and presentations. I'll list these on the board in class.

Hint on the Timeline Project and Take Home Test

If you use the timelines provided for the GLE #63 take home test to make the GLE #62 timeline your work will be much easier. The projects compliment each other if you do them together.

http://del.icio.us/LouisianaStudies/takehometestgle63

Weekly Preview: 3-7 March 2008

The last push before the LEAP!

DUE DATES:
GLE #62 Timelines are due Tuesday (this has been posted on the board in class for a long time)
GLE #63 Take Home Test is due Wednesday (this has been posted on the board in class for a long time)

I will test you on Friday, 07 March 2008. Look for a study guide around Wednesday.

Please return the Point Sheets I issued Friday on Monday.

I know this is crunch time for you. Please know that this is also crunch time for your teachers. I have spent the entire weekend preparing presentations to get you ready for the LEAP test. I added GLEs 72, 78, and 79 to the iDisk today. The LEAP is a high stakes test for all concerned. If we all do our jobs we will succeed.

Those who attended the LEAP Academy on Saturday will get 10 bonus points. The same bonus is available next Saturday.

Make-up tests will be given on Monday and Friday mornings during Stallion Roundup.

After the LEAP we will have our Simulations Unit -- you will enjoy it.

Make-Up Tests During Stallion Roundups on Fridays

If you need to make-up a test please come to my Stallion Roundup at 7:30 a.m. on Friday morning.

Economics Test 3.4 on Thursday

I will test you on GLEs 52 to 61 on Thursday. In addition to the vocabulary on the crossword, be sure you understand the charts in the notes and the following distinctions:

• Public v. private
• Tangible v. intangible
• Goods v. services
• Inflation v. deflation
• Unemployed v. "not in the labor force"

Interactive Crossword Puzzle:
http://paulblankenship.com/economicsxwd34/

Printable Crossword Puzzle:
http://paulblankenship.com/EconXwdGLE52to61.pdf

More iDisk Help

A student sent me his step-by-step guide to using the iDisk:

1. Open the iDisk
2. Double click 8th grade folder
3. Double click Economics folder
4. Double click the GLE folder that you want
5. Click the far right arrow on the presentation type

Kudos and 5 bonus points to this student!

Annoying Campaign Songs

From NPR:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=19304252

Political Cartoons for GLE #68

I have bookmarked several pages of political cartoons for GLE #68. I'll pick a couple for class but I wanted you to see more examples. Don't let your feelings be hurt if your favorite candidate is lampooned; political cartoonists take aim at all candidates.

http://del.icio.us/LouisianaStudies/gle68

Sean Hannity v. Ron Paul

A debate between talk show host Sean Hannity and Congressman/Presidential Candidate Ron Paul from May 2007. Just play this on my blog by clicking the triangle below.

Al Gore on David Letterman

We will analyze this video for bias and propaganda for the GLE #67 assignment.

Help with iDisk

Having trouble with the iDisk? Enable Javascript:
http://www.google.com/support/bin/answer.py?answer=23852

Binder Check Monday

Please have the GLE worksheets 42-50 (except #47) ready for a Binder Check on Monday.

Crossword Study Guide for this Friday's Test

The test on Friday covers GLEs 42-51. In addition to the clues on the crossword puzzle understand the four sectors of the economy, the three sectors of industry, and light v. heavy industry.

The puzzle:
http://www.paulblankenship.com/economicsxwd33

Sneakernet

I have copied the GLE outlines, presentations, and worksheets to the "MY DOCUMENTS" folder on the computer in the back of my classroom. You may bring a USB stick and copy from that computer.

Weekly Preview: 19-22 February 2008

Monday: Presidents Day, no school

Tuesday: Economics GLEs -- Presentations and Activities

Wednesday: Economics GLEs -- Presentations and Activities

Thursday: Economics GLEs -- Presentations and Activities
We will finish the economics GLEs.

Friday: History GLEs -- Presentations and Activities
TEST 3.3 on Economic & Binder Check

GLE #49 Mind Map

I posted the GLE #49 mind map on the iDisk in the GLE49 folder under Economics.

Weekly Preview: 11-15 February 2008

See my iDisk for outlines, presentations, and worksheets (should you miss class).

Monday
GLE #48 -- presentation and activity
GLE #49 -- presentation and activity
GLE #50 -- presentation and activity

Tuesday
Test 3.2 -- study guides (crossword puzzles) were distributed in class and posted online last Thursday; see below on this blog.
GLE #51 -- presentation and activity
GLE #52 -- presentation and activity
GLE #53 -- presentation and activity

Wednesday
GLE #54 -- presentation and activity
GLE #55 -- presentation and activity

Thursday
GLE #56 -- presentation and activity
GLE #57 -- presentation and activity
GLE #58 -- presentation and activity

Friday
GLE #59 -- presentation and activity
GLE #60 -- presentation and activity
GLE #61 -- presentation and activity (end of economics unit)

Fake Resumé Due Date

The Fake Resumé due date is 29 February 2008. Remember that the Google Calendar at the bottom of this page has the project due dates posted.

Del.icio.us Help with GLE #50

I posted a number of helpful links for GLE #50 here:
http://del.icio.us/LouisianaStudies/gle50

Point Sheets Due Monday

If you did not return Thursday's point sheet on Friday I will take them on Monday. Remember that the participation bonus becomes less of a factor with each test you take. A strong "A" at this point could drop dramatically by the end of this grading period with low scores.

GLEs on "The Economy as a Whole"

The final subunit on economics concerns "The Economy as a Whole."

Economics
The Economy as a Whole

• 59. Explain the meaning of various economic indicators that help describe the state of an economy (e.g., GDP, CPI, stock market indices, rate of unemployment or inflation) (E-1C-M1)
• 60. Define inflation and unemployment in terms of an economic system as a whole (E-1C-M2)
• 61. Describe the influence/impact of inflation or unemployment on different groups of people (e.g., consumers, business owners) (E-1C-M2)

GLEs on Individuals, Households, Businesses, and Governments

The next subunit in economics is on "Individuals, Households, Businesses, and Governments."

Economics
Individuals, Households, Businesses, and Governments

• 52. Explain how supply and demand affect prices (E-1B-M1)
• 53. Explain and analyze factors affecting production and allocation of goods/services in Louisiana and the United States (E-1B-M2)
• 54. Explain the difference between private goods/services and public goods/services and give examples of each (E-1B-M3)
• 55. Identify the costs and benefits of a given government policy (e.g., trade agreements, minimum wage) on a competitive market (E-1B-M4)
• 56. Identify various types of taxes and user fees and predict their consequences (E-1B-M5)
• 57. Explain reasons for trade between nations and the impact of international trade (E-1B-M6)
• 58. Describe historical and economic factors influencing the economic growth, interdependence, and development of Louisiana and the nation (e.g., mass production, oil boom and decline) (E-1B-M7)

The GLEs on Fundamental Economic Concepts

Grade-level expectations (GLEs) are the state-mandated curriculum for each academic subject. We are on the economics unit and the "Fundamental Economic Concepts" subunit.

Economics
Fundamental Economic Concepts

• 42. Analyze situations involving scarcity (limited resources) at the individual, group, and societal levels to determine the need for choices or what is gained/lost by a decision (E-1A-M1)
• 43. Explain how effective economic decisions (e.g., determining the best level of consumption) require comparing the additional costs of alternatives with additional benefits (E-1A-M2)
• 44. Explain choice/trade-offs, cost/benefits, and opportunity costs related to making personal economic decisions (E-1A-M3)
• 45. Analyze the role of specialization in Louisiana's economy (E-1A-M4)
• 46. Use a variety of resources to research education and training for jobs and careers (E-1A-M5)
• 47. Cite examples of how skills/knowledge and technical training increase personal productivity and career opportunities, and which skills/knowledge would enhance particular career prospects (E-1A-M5)
• 48. Characterize and analyze the use of productive resources in an economic system (E-1A-M6)
• 49. Describe how the four basic economic questions are answered in traditional vs. command vs. market economies (E-1A-M6)
• 50. Describe institutions (e.g., banks, government agencies, large companies, small businesses) that make up economic systems (E-1A-M7)
• 51. Use economic concepts (e.g., scarcity, opportunity cost) to explain historic and contemporary events and developments in Louisiana (E-1A-M9)

Your Fake Resumé (GLE #47)

The Fake Resumé is worth 50 project points. Examples abound, see the following links for help:

The Worksheet and Related Information
http://www.paulblankenship.com/SocialStudies/LaStudies/LaEcon/louisianaeconomf.html

The Resumé Rubric (sorry, I cannot use the accent mark in the title of a Rubistar rubric for technical reasons):
http://rubistar.4teachers.org/index.php?screen=PrintRubric&rubric_id=1526601&

The presentation is available on my iDisk and my web site (PowerPoint, Quicktime, iPod, Word, text, or rich text).

The Right of Habeas Corpus

Daylight Saving Time

Basic Economics Crossword: GLEs 42-45

I posted a short crossword puzzle on my web site to help with GLEs 42-45. Do not confuse this crossword with the one I posted last night that covers GLEs 37-41.

http://paulblankenship.com/econvocab01/

Regional Social Studies Fair Entry Form

Please see me for a copy of the entry form if you were selected to enter the Regional Social Studies Fair.

Regional Social Studies Fair

Those selected by the judges to attend the Regional Social Studies Fair will attend the Fair on 27 February 2008. The schedule:

8:00 AM -10:00 AM Registration and setting up of exhibits
Registration at the University Center, First floor, LSUS Campus – Set up projects.

10:00 AM- 1:00 PM Judging
Students must be present in their assigned exhibit area during the judging hours. Only one** student per project is allowed in the exhibit area.

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Lunch Break
Cafeteria facilities are available.
Exhibit area will be closed.

2:30 pm– 3:30 PM Exhibits are open to the public.
Students need not be present.

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM Awards Presentation, University Center Theater
Students must be present.

4:30 PM – 5:00 PM All projects must be removed from the University Center.

Test Review Crossword Puzzle GLEs 37 to 41

For the online version of the Test Review Crossword Puzzle (GLEs 37 to 41; test next Tuesday) see:
http://paulblankenship.com/testreviewpuzzle37to41/

About the Economics Unit

The GLE presentations for the Economics Unit are relatively brief, so I schedule more per day than I do with the Civics Unit. If you miss class it is imperative that you download and read the outline of the material you missed. If you need help I tutor on Friday mornings by appointment.

The Rest of this Week

Wednesday
Complete the Civics Unit (through GLE #41) in those classes that have not finished the Civics Unit. Classes that have completed the Civics Unit will review the Civics Unit.

Thursday
Binder Check on the Civics Unit -- Be prepared to turn the worksheets on GLEs 31, 32, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, & 41 in for a classwork grade.
We start the Economics Unit with GLE #42.
GLE #42
GLE #43
GLE #44

Friday
GLE #45
GLE #46
GLE #47

I will test you on GLEs 37, 38, 39, 40, & 41 on Tuesday of next week.

Please see tonight's previous post about downloading the outlines for the Economics Unit from my iDisk.

Downloading Files from my iDisk

I am having technical problems uploading files to my main website so I am uploading the economics GLE outlines and presentations to my iDisk. The link is:

http://idisk.mac.com/kd5rui-Public

If you use the iDisk please send an email and let me know if it works. If you have trouble please include the name of your operating system (Windows XP, for example) in the email.

Binder Check Delayed Until Thursday

I want to discuss the binder check with you beforehand; so I am delaying it until Thursday.

Binder Check on Wednesday

Please bring all bellringers and GLE worksheets assigned in January for a binder check. See the Weekly Previews posted on this blog for the assignments.

The Costume

Please be creative and original with your costume. Remember that the look we want is "float-rider" not "formal ball." ABOVE ALL COMPLY WITH THE CMM AND CPSB DRESS CODE. Some students have asked about wearing athletic shorts or other items that do not comply with the dress code. You do not have permission to violate the dress code in any way. If you violate the dress code you may spend Mardi Gras in the office and lose credit for the costume.

Weekly Preview: 28 January through 1 February 2008

Monday
Bellringer: 7 facts on the American Civil War (also known as the War Between the States)
Finish GLE #37 and GLE #38; review for Test 3.1.

Tuesday
Bellringer: 7 facts on Reconstruction
Test 3.1
GLE #39

Wednesday
Bellringer: 7 facts on the Compromise of 1877
Video on the French & Indian War

Thursday
Bellringer: 7 facts on John Quincy Adams
GLE #40
GLE #41

Friday
Bellringer: 7 facts on Andrew Jackson
GLE #42
GLE #43

Test Tuesday

Test 3.1 is on Tuesday, 29 January 2008.

I will test you on GLEs 31, 32, 35, and 36. Please study the notes on the web site. I drew all the test questions from my online notes.

I will cover GLE 37 on a later test.

The test is 25 questions. Most are multiple-choice, some are true/false.

Helpful hints:
GLE #31 -- Know Montesquieu and his book. Know the three branches of government and the function of each. Be able to compare the Constitutions of the U.S. and Louisiana. (6 questions)
GLE #32 -- Know ways to peacefully resolve conflicts listed in the notes. Know how the majority vote functions in an indirect democracy. Know about consensus and non-violent protest. Understand the quote from von Clausewitz. (6 questions)
GLE #35 -- Know the function and origin of the Electoral College. Why do we call it a "college?" What medieval country had electors? Know the number of electors. Know about "faithless" electors. Who may NOT serve in the Electoral College? Who really votes for the President and Vice President? (11 questions)
GLE #36 -- Know how a citizen may participate in the political process and in an election. (2 questions)

Ancient Greece Rocks!

The XYZ Affair

Weekly Preview: 22-25 January 2008

Monday
Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday -- School Closed

Tuesday
Bellringer: Why did Europeans colonize the New World?
GLE #31 -- Presentation & Activity
GLE #32 -- Presentation & Activity

Wednesday
Bellringer: Why did the American colonists declare independence from Great Britain?
OPEN-NOTES TEST: The first five Presidents
OPEN-NOTES TEST: The North American explorers

Thursday
Bellringer: 7 Facts on the War of 1812
GLE #35 -- Presentation & Activity
GLE #36 -- Presentation & Activity

Friday
Bellringer: 7 Facts on the Mexican-American War
GLE #37 -- Presentation & Activity
GLE #38 -- Presentation & Activity

Out Thursday

It looks like I won't be back Thursday after all. I apologize for any inconvenience; I would be there if I could be there. I do hope to be back Friday.

We will test the day after I return. Watch this blog for updates.

Out Wednesday

I will be out Wednesday. You will continue to review explorers with Mr. Nix.

Presidents Test

The test will cover only Washington, Adams, Jefferson, Madison, and Monroe.

Open-Notes Presidents Quiz on Friday

I will give an open-notes quiz on the Presidents covered in class this week on Friday.

Removal of Social Studies Projects and the Water Problem

Given the early end of school I will give EVERYONE until Friday to remove projects. All classes meet in G-102 on Friday.

Think "Parade," not "Ballroom"

When assembling your Mardi Gras costume, try to look like a float rider, not a ballroom dancer. The dance is a costume dance, not a formal. See my previous post or the Arthur Hardy Guide (available in my classroom) for ideas.

Mardi Gras Float Rider Interest Form

If you are absent on Thursday or lose your form please print one from this link:
http://www.paulblankenship.com/FloatRiderInterestForm.pdf

Deadline: 1:00 PM on Friday, 11 January 2008.

Mardi Gras Float in the Krewe of Highlands

We will participate in the Krewe of Highlands parade on Sunday, 03 February 2008 (a.k.a. Superbowl Sunday). Participation will be through a drawing held this Friday after school. Each student interested in participating will receive one chance. Participants in the poinsettia Ssale will receive an additional chance for each poinsettia sold. For example, a student that sold 10 flowers will have 11 chances to win. I will send home a form on Thursday that must be returned with a parent signature on Friday. If you will be absent Friday please arrange to have the form brought to the school no later than 1:00 PM.

The top selling student from my classes is guaranteed a place on the float. Four additional spaces are available. The four additional students are asked to make a $45 donation to cover the costs of beads and throws (however, if this is a hardship the suggested donation will be excused upon request).

Mardi Gras Costume Rubric

I have changed the rubric for the Mardi Gras costume. Since I know you have all put in so much work on your Social Studies Fair papers, displays, and monologues I have simplified the requirements for the costume. Rather than using themes from Mardi Gras Krewes we will simply use a Mardi Gras theme. I have a copy of the Arthur Hardy Mardi Gras guide that you may peruse during Stallion Roundup for ideas. The colors are purple, green, and gold. Typical figures include clowns, harlequins, kings, queens, characters from films, Elvis, knights, vampires, pirates, cartoon characters, werewolves, matadors, explorers, foreign costumes (Scottish, Japanese, etc.), mythological figures, and animals. As always, be tasteful and comply with the CMM Dress Code. I know we will have a great time!

Mardi Gras is 5 February 2008. Your costume must be worn to and from school that day. No changing at school! The costume is a 30 point project grade.

The Mardi Gras Costume Rubric

Board Cam #2: The Monologue

The following was on the marker board a week before the break (again, pardon the sideways orientation):

Board Cam #1

The part above the line was posted and discussed before the Christmas break; the part below was on the board today. Pardon the sideways orientation.

Weekly Preview

Monday
Who is your favorite president, and why? (5 sentence paragraph)
Video on Presidents

Tuesday
How is the role of the President like the role of the Governor? (5 sentence paragraph)
Video on Presidents
Social Studies Fair Displays and Monologues Due

Wednesday
Whom do you support for president? Why? (5 sentence paragraph)
Video on Presidents
Social Studies Fair Displays and Monologues: Continuing Presentations

Thursday
How is a president different from a king? (5 sentence paragraph)
Video on Presidents
Social Studies Fair Displays and Monologues: Continuing Presentations

Friday
Who was the worst President? Why? (5 sentence paragraph)
Test on Presidents
GLEs 31 & 32

Mardi Gras Projects

We will NOT do the Mardi Gras Mini-Float or Doubloon this year. The only Mardi Gras project will be a costume. We will discuss this in more detail after the Social Studies Fair projects are presented this week.

Take Your Project to the Cafeteria Gym

As I (repeatedly) mentioned in class, bring your Social Studies Fair Projects to the Cafeteria Gym. Do not leave them in G-Wing.

Reminder: The Rubric Index

I know we have discussed this in class, but in case anyone has forgotten I have a page listing all my rubrics. If you need to view a rubric you can find all my rubrics posted here:

http://paulblankenship.com/SocialStudies/LaStudies/rubricindex.html

Hope this helps!

No Quiz on Monday but the Social Studies Fair Projects are Due Tuesday

I will not quiz you on Lorenzo Medici on Monday but I do want you to save those notes for later.

Remember that the display AND monologues are due on Tuesday, 8 January 2008. I will deduct 50 points per day late on each project.