Showing posts with label foreign policy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label foreign policy. Show all posts

Friday, June 14, 2019

Finals, Day 2 - Class Recap


Sunset over Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii. Photo taken in 2011.

Hello everyone,

Today was our very last class together. There were around 92 A days this year, and of course, if you had my class last year, it is about double that in the amount of time we have shared - it has been hundreds of hours! Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "Thankful" by Kelly Clarkson.  Selected for today because I always choose this song for the last day of class, since I am so thankful to get to teach you all. Thank you! Lyrics (some of which I read aloud in class) are here.

AGENDA 6/14/19:
News Brief - Ellie C.
Presentations?
Survey
Letters Back
Free Advice
Big Circle Friend Talk
Walk on Water
Handshakes, High Fives, and/or Hugs

Homework: Read the blog! Come to the summer Fritz/Puterbaugh meet up at the Tanasbourne Starbucks attached to Barnes and Noble, on Tuesday, August 6, at 1:00 PM! Have a wonderful summer! See you next year!

News Brief: Ellie C. had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: NBCNews.com - Alligator with knife sticking out of its head spotted swimming in Texas lake. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class over the summer.

Here's my map of flights (so far!) this summer as we visit family and friends in Europe and the Caribbean.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


I talked in class about the importance of following the news and trying to stay up to date with what is happening in your city, state, country, and world. Knowledge is power! Try to stay plugged in to what is going on, if you can!

Presentations?: Before we ended the class with a celebration, we needed to finish the final presentation on an assigned conflict in United States history. Here was the assignment:


Here is the PowerPoint that shows who was in what conflict presentation group:


Here was the calendar of what we did for the last month of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

Thank you for your work and notes on these! As I said in class, all students that completed this assignment will receive a Communication score. Only if another score would improve your grade (and of course, you demonstrated that as part of the presentation assignment), will I enter scores for any of the other starts. Grades are due for teachers at 3:00 PM on Monday, June 17th, as a heads up.

Survey: After students presented in class, I had everyone complete a survey on their experience in American Studies 10 and Lit and Comp 10 (if you had Mr. Puterbaugh) this year. This survey was accessible via Google Classroom. We really appreciate your feedback on how everything went!

After presentations and the survey, I asked that students silence and put away any electronic devices into their backpacks as a condition of moving next door to Mr. Puterbaugh's room, where our closing ceremony for the year took place (with him)!

Note: the second half of the class roughly followed this Google Slides presentation.

Letters Back: Most of these letters are from the start of this year in American Studies. We wanted students to take a look at how they described themselves and consider where they are now, as well as where they might be in another year to two years (when they graduate)!

Free Advice: One of the feedback items from the mid-year survey that I did was that students were looking for more sort of "life advice" from us as teachers. This was a "Ask Me Anything" time, where Mr. Puterbaugh and I were basically willing to answer any question that students had for us.

Big Circle Friend Talk: This was modeled after an activity that Senior Inquiry does here at Westview, as a time for each student to share a bit about their experience. The prompts were:

First time around the circle - Reflect on the class: favorite, important, funny, or meaningful memory from your year or two years. We realize possibly not everyone had a positive experience - try to find something good to reflect on.

Examples: What knowledge and/or skill(s) will take with you from this class? What is one thing you struggled with and overcame this year? Did you have a favorite activity/topic/day?

Second time around the circle - Reflect on the people: Shout out! Who have you appreciated during your time in these classes? Who has helped you or inspired you or made class more tolerable?

Examples: People who helped you in the class. People who seemed quiet in the large group but helped you with your work. People who made the class better. People who challenged you or pushed you to do more (or saved you countless times). People who tried to distract you or cheered for you during Jeopardy. People who always had something interesting to say?

We used the ball of yarn from our start of the year activity to help make the circle and keep track of who was talking.

Walk on Water: Last year, I ended Global Studies with a video that highlighted many different places and people around the world. I wanted to do the same this year, with a video that highlighted a day in America: "Walk on Water" by 30 Seconds to Mars.


Handshakes, High Fives, and/or Hugs: At the very end of class, it was time for year end handshakes (which I always do as students leave class for the last time). This year, I also taught students a new high five/low five for when they see me in the halls next year. And, if any students wanted, they could give each other and/or us hugs.

We have been so grateful to teach you all this year (or past two years)! Thank you SO much for all of your hard work, kindness, and understanding. Keep in touch! Go forth and make the world a better place.
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Monday, June 10, 2019

Finals, Day 1 - Class Recap


Sunrise over the (muddy) Alvord Desert on Memorial Day Weekend, 2019.

Dear class,

After a year of work together (two, in many of your cases!), we are down to the very last week! Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "At Last" by Etta James. Selected for today because it is the last week of school! Lyrics here.

AGENDA 6/10/19:
News Brief - Kylie
Presentations

Homework: Read the blog! Next news brief: Ellie C.

News Brief: Kylie had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: CNN.com - At least 1 person is dead and 6 others injured after crane falls on Dallas apartment building. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Ellie C. was assigned to do the next news brief.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


Presentations: Today was the due date for the final presentation on an assigned conflict in United States history. Here is the assignment:


Here is the PowerPoint that shows who is in what conflict presentation group:


Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

The majority of class was given to presentations and taking notes on them. Any presentations that were left at the end of class will have to go on finals day, later this week - though Mr. Puterbaugh and I also have plenty of other fun/memorable activities planned, as well. We are looking forward to seeing you! One more class to go!
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Thursday, June 6, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 12 - Class Recap


Today marks 75 years exactly since the Allied invasion of Normandy, France (codenamed Operation Overlord) during World War II. This is a photo from Pointe du Hoc on Omaha Beach - the steep cliffs were particularly challenging for American forces. Photo taken in 2017.

Hi everyone,

This was our last work day in class on the conflict presentations, before it is due next class! Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "Merci" by Stromae. Selected for today because of the D-Day invasion anniversary and because of the Women's World Cup in France, starting tomorrow! This is a techno song with no lyrics.

AGENDA 6/6/19:
News Brief - Ms. Rice
Work Time
Presentations?

Homework: Read the blog! The conflict presentation is due next class! Turn in your current foreign policy assignment if you have not already. Next news brief: Kylie.

News Brief: Ms. Rice had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: CNN.com - Beverly Hills to ban the sale of nearly all tobacco products. It's the first US city to institute such a sweeping crackdown. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Kylie was assigned to do the next news brief.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


Work Time: The rest of class (if there was any time) was devoted to work time on the conflict presentation - assigning roles for what to do, creating the presentation, etc. Here is the assignment for the United States conflict presentations, which is the final major project of the year (hopefully not too stressful, though):


Here is the PowerPoint that shows who is in what conflict presentation group:


Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

Presentations?: If there were any student groups that were ready to present today to get it out of the way, I took volunteers to go. Next class, I will start with volunteers and then we will move to randomly selecting groups. One more week to go, everyone!
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Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 11 - Class Recap


Today is June 4, or, 6/4. My favorite number is 64, which I wore playing football at Wilson High School. Photo taken in 2003.

Dear class,

It is the week before finals! Wow! We wrapped up our look at current foreign policy today as we start to embark on the final presentations soon. Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "When I'm Sixty-Four" by The Beatles. Selected for today because of the connection to the date today! Lyrics here.

AGENDA 6/4/19:
News Brief - Richard
Current Foreign Policy
Issues Assignment
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Continue working on your conflict presentation! Next news brief: Ms. Rice.

News Brief: Richard had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: WashingtonPost.com - Jury finds South Carolina father guilty of murder in deaths of 5 kids; jurors will now decide if he gets life or death. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Ms. Rice was assigned to do the next news brief.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


Current Foreign Policy: Much of our time in the past couple of months has been spent analyzing what happened during the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union. Today, we learned more about what happened after, and current foreign policy. Here's the PowerPoint presentation that I went through in class:


Here is the sheet for notes that I passed out to the class:


As noted in the presentation near the end, we then turned our attention to current issues with the U.S. relationship with the world. There were a fair amount of handouts in class about this, which were all about current positions that President Trump has about the world. Students read these positions and attempted to summarize them into an overall statement.

Issues Assignment: To build on the work we did last class, the assignment related can be found here (it is also posted in Google Classroom if you would like to complete an electronic version):


The link referenced in the assignment can be found here:


The prompt for the assignment is: Based on your notes, and your definition of current foreign policy, decide what could become a major conflict or escalation for the United States. Make sure you support your claim with evidence.

Work Time: The rest of class (if there was any time) was devoted to work time on the conflict presentation - assigning roles for what to do, creating the presentation, etc. Here is the assignment for the United States conflict presentations, which is the final major project of the year (hopefully not too stressful, though):


Here is the PowerPoint that shows who is in what conflict presentation group:


Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

See everyone next class! Only two more to go until finals!
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Friday, May 31, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 10 - Class Recap


We learned about current American foreign policy today in class, which is largely directed by the President of the United States in recent years. Photo taken in 2010.

Hi everyone,

Today was really our last day of new content this year, before preparations for finals next week. Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "Differences" by Ginuwine. Selected for today because of the dramatic differences in U.S. foreign policy of President Obama and President Trump. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 5/31/19:
News Brief - Daniela
Post-Cold War
Current Foreign Policy
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Continue working on your conflict presentation! All late/missing/revised work is due ***TODAY***! Next news brief: Richard.

News Brief: Daniela had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: CNN.com - US checking reports North Korea executed top official after Trump summit, Pompeo says. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Richard was assigned to do the next news brief.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


Post-Cold War: Much of our time in the past couple of months has been spent analyzing what happened during the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union. Today, we learned more about what happened after, and current foreign policy. Here's the PowerPoint presentation that I went through in class:


Here is the sheet for notes that I passed out to the class:


Current Foreign Policy: As noted in the presentation near the end, we then turned our attention to current issues with the U.S. relationship with the world. There were a fair amount of handouts in class about this, which were all about current positions that President Trump has about the world. Students read these positions and attempted to summarize them into an overall statement. Next class, we will be working with these statements on the last assignment before finals.

Work Time: The rest of class (if there was any time) was devoted to work time on the conflict presentation - assigning roles for what to do, creating the presentation, etc. Here is the assignment for the United States conflict presentations, which is the final major project of the year (hopefully not too stressful, though):


Here is the PowerPoint that shows who is in what conflict presentation group:


Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

See everyone next week! Almost there to the end of the year - keep at it!
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Wednesday, May 29, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 9 - Class Recap


For Memorial Day weekend, I visited the Alvord Desert in Southeastern Oregon (and a lot of other landmarks in our state) with family!

Dear class,

This was our designated work day this week on the conflict presentations (the final project for the year), along with wrapping up Apollo 11 from last class. Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "Space Oddity" by David Bowie. Selected for today because we finished Apollo 11 in class today, and this song was made in 1969, as well! Lyrics here.

AGENDA 5/29/19:
News Brief - Darren
Apollo 11
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Continue working on your conflict presentation! All late/missing/revised work is due this Friday! Next news brief: Daniela.

News Brief: Darren had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: CNN.com - Mueller: 'If we had had confidence that the President clearly did not commit a crime, we would have said so'. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Daniela was assigned to do the next news brief.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


Apollo 11: Last class, we watched most of this impressive documentary on the Apollo 11 mission to land people on the moon for the very first time, in 1969 (this July will mark 50 years). There were only a few minutes left in class to watch, but I wanted to be sure to do so. I hope everyone enjoyed this documentary - our last of the year!

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to work time on the conflict presentation - assigning roles for what to do, creating the presentation, etc. Here is the assignment for the United States conflict presentations, which is the final major project of the year (hopefully not too stressful, though):


Here is the PowerPoint that shows who is in what conflict presentation group:


Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

See everyone next class, which will focus on current American foreign policy. Keep working on any late/missing/revised work to get to me at the end of this week, please!
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Friday, May 24, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 8 - Class Recap


The movie poster for Apollo 11, which we watched in class today.

Hi everyone,

Today was billed as "Cold War Review" on the foreign policy calendar. What better way to review part of the technological impact of the Cold War than by watching my favorite documentary (so far) of 2019: Apollo 11, which is about the moon landing 50 years ago this July 21! As such, I greeted each student at the door (as usual), with the additional question of: Are you willing to pretend it is 50 years ago for this class? Everyone answered Yes, so here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "Fanfare for the Common Man" composed by Aaron Copeland. Selected for today because of the soaring trumpets being associated with the space program.

AGENDA 5/24/19 (or July, 1969):
News Brief - Loyle
Apollo 11
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Continue working on your conflict presentation! All late/missing/revised work is due next Friday! Next news brief: Darren.

News Brief: Loyle had the news brief today and selected an article about this story from June 1969 to talk about: History.com - Stonewall Riots. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Darren was assigned to do the next news brief.

Due to wanting to watch the documentary ASAP, we skipped watching the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day:


Apollo 11: Come on. You didn't seriously think I could end our time together without watching a powerful documentary, right? To be kind to students (especially those who missed class on Memorial Day weekend trips), I did not have any notes or worksheet as a part of this process, but we will have a short discussion about what we learned about the space race in the Cold War after the film ends. I really love this documentary (just released earlier this year!) and I hope that students do, as well.

Work Time: The rest of class (if there was time) was devoted to work time on the conflict presentation - assigning roles for what to do, creating the presentation, etc. Here is the assignment for the United States conflict presentations, which is the final major project of the year (hopefully not too stressful, though):


Here is the PowerPoint that shows who is in what conflict presentation group:


Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

See everyone next class, which will be Wednesday and a work day! Thanks!
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Wednesday, May 22, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 7 - Class Recap


The World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. Sent to me by McKenzie in Period 3!

Dear class,

This was our designated work day this week on the conflict presentations (the final project for the year). Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "Battlefield" by Jordin Sparks. Selected for today because the end of the year often feels like a battlefield and because we are continuing to research foreign policy conflicts in American history. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 5/22/19:
News Brief - Ella
Presentation Rubrics
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Continue working on your conflict presentation! All late/missing/revised work is due next Friday! Next news brief: Loyle.

News Brief: Ella had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: SeattleTimes.com - Washington becomes first state to legalize human composting. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Loyle was assigned to do the next news brief.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


Presentation Rubrics: As noted on the calendar, we walked through the rubrics attached to the conflict presentation, which has now been posted on Google Classroom for students to see (in addition to the links below). As I stated in class, I am approaching the grades for the final project as an opportunity to maintain or improve your overall grade in class, unless you do not contribute your best effort to your group and/or do not show up for finals.

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to work time on the conflict presentation - assigning roles for what to do, creating the presentation, etc. Here is the assignment for the United States conflict presentations, which is the final major project of the year (hopefully not too stressful, though):


Here is the PowerPoint that shows who is in what conflict presentation group:


Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

See everyone next class, which should be a good way to review some major Cold War concepts. Thanks!
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Monday, May 20, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 6 - Class Recap


Various photos from the American Cemetery in Normandy, France, which was the site of the D-Day landings in World War II. Photos taken in 2015.

Hi everyone,

This is our last week of the year with three "A" Days at Westview! Time to get to work! Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "The White Cliffs of Dover" by Vera Lynn. Selected for today because it is a song made during World War II, hoping for peace in the United Kingdom (where Dover is). Lyrics here.

AGENDA 5/20/19:
News Brief - Bradley
World War II
Poster Analysis
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Complete and submit the United States Imperialism assignment if you did not in class. Continue working on your conflict presentation! Next news brief: Ella.

News Brief: Sean had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: HuffPost.com - Florida Man Gets DUI After Crashing Lawnmower Into Police Car. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Bradley was assigned to do the next news brief.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


World War II: For the past two years, we have talked a lot about the impacts of World War II, as well as the causes of it, but never really what actually happened, except for our unit on the Holocaust in Global Studies. It is impossible to cover everything about World War II in one day, so this was only a brief overview (as there is also a student group presenting on it for finals):


The page for notes that students were taking is here:


I took a study abroad course in London on World War II and it was my favorite class that I have ever taken. I also have multiple family members impacted by the war, including my grandmother and my grandfather-in-law. So, this is definitely a conflict I am very interested in!

Poster Analysis: To transition from the notes, we took a look at various different World War II propaganda posters up around the room (an activity we have done a fair amount this year). Here is the link to the assignment and the color versions of the posters:


Here's one of my favorite World War II propaganda posters:


Beat "Firebomb Fritz" - wow! We debriefed this activity and then students turned in the assignment.

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to work time on the conflict presentation - assigning roles for what to do, creating the presentation, etc. Here is the assignment for the United States conflict presentations, which is the final major project of the year (hopefully not too stressful, though):


Here is the PowerPoint that shows who is in what conflict presentation group:


Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

See everyone next class, which will be another work day (we will also look at the rubrics for the assignment more). Thanks!
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Thursday, May 16, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 5 - Class Recap


The World War I group simulation was a big hit last class! Here are Period 1's Secretaries of State, in the middle of negotiations.

Dear class,

As promised, today was another work day on the foreign policy conflict presentation with your small groups. Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "War of Man" by Neil Young. Selected for today because students are researching conflicts in United States history. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 5/16/19:
News Brief - Angel
Zimmerman Note
Conflict Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Complete and submit the United States Imperialism assignment if you did not in class. Continue working on your conflict presentation! Next news brief: Bradley.

News Brief: Angel had the news brief today, but was late to class, so I filled in and selected an article about this story to talk about: CNN.com - Alabama governor signs nation's most restrictive anti-abortion bill into law. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Bradley was assigned to do the next news brief.

My update for what I was up to outside of class involved noting that there is a 25th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide commemoration in Portland this Sunday, from 1-3 PM. I am planning on going and I would love if any students (especially those who were really interested in the unit last year) were to come! Here are the details:


Let me know if you would like to go and/or would like me to email your parents with details about the event!

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


Zimmerman Note: Part of the presentation last class had to do with the Zimmerman Note, sent by Germany to Mexico to propose an alliance during World War I. We did a short analysis (with OPVL) in class on this document, here:


After students completed this, we talked in class about what we thought for the analysis and had a conversation about the role of the United States in World War I.

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to work time on the conflict presentation - assigning roles for what to do, starting to create the presentation, etc. Here is the assignment for the United States conflict presentations, which is the final major project of the year (hopefully not too stressful, though):


Here is the PowerPoint that shows who is in what conflict presentation group:


Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

See everyone next week, when we will talk about World War II on Monday! Have a great weekend and Go Blazers!
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Tuesday, May 14, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 4 - Class Recap


The World War I memorial (a Stonehenge replica) in Maryhill, Washington, overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. Photo taken in 2015.

Hi everyone,

Today marks exactly one month to go until the last day of finals for the year. Plenty to do with that time left. Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "GDFR" by Flo Rida. Selected for today because it was "Goin' Down For Real" when the United States entered World War I.

AGENDA 5/14/19:
News Brief - Aidan
Group Scenario
World War I
Document Analysis
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Complete and submit the United States Imperialism assignment if you did not in class. Continue working on your conflict presentation! Next news brief: Angel.

News Brief: Aidan had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: TheStar.com - Toronto police arrest man dressed as Joker in tip jar theft. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Angel was assigned to do the next news brief.

I also talked about the new education funding that passed the Oregon legislature yesterday and will likely be signed into law soon, here: OregonLive.com - Oregon Senate sends multibillion-dollar tax, education funding bill to Kate Brown. This *could* mean some really good things for next year, depending on how the Beaverton budget is made.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


Group Scenario/World War I: To start this section of the class, I had students form four groups based on a scenario from World War I, and to try and have everyone determine their course of action from an assigned country. Here's the presentation we went through with this:
After the group scenario, we debriefed and then went into the overview (also in the PowerPoint above), which was mostly review for students in my Global Studies classes last year. Here's the note sheet I passed out:


Document Analysis: Part of the presentation had to do with the Zimmerman Note, sent by Germany to Mexico to propose an alliance during World War I. We did a short analysis (with OPVL) in class on this document, here:


After students completed this, we talked in class about what we thought for the analysis and had a conversation about the role of the United States in World War I.

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to work time on the conflict presentation - assigning roles for what to do, starting to create the presentation, etc. Here is the assignment for the United States conflict presentations, which is the final major project of the year (hopefully not too stressful, though):


Here is the PowerPoint that shows who is in what conflict presentation group:


Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

See everyone next class, when we will have another work day on the conflict presentations!
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Friday, May 10, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 3 - Class Recap


The Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C.. Photo taken in 2010.

Dear class,

It was great to see everyone again today! I introduced the final major assignment of the year today (there will be other assignments in class) and we began work. Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "Edge of the Ocean" by Ivy. Selected for today because yesterday, I was in Seaside for a 9th Grade Success conference and the weather has been amazing! Lyrics here.

AGENDA 5/10/19:
News Brief - Nika
Conflict Presentations
Form Groups
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Complete and submit the United States Imperialism assignment if you did not in class. Next news brief: Aidan.

News Brief: Nika had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: TexasTribune.com - Texas LGBTQ Caucus marks major victory, killing bill they feared would hurt gay people. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Aidan was assigned to do the next news brief.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


Conflict Presentations: At the end of last class class, I showed students what the United States conflict options are for the final presentation of the year, which were:

1. Spanish American War
2. World War I
3. World War II
4. Korean War
5. Bay of Pigs/Cuba
6. Vietnam War
7. Central American Conflict (Grenada, Panama, Nicaragua)
8. Persian Gulf
9. Bosnian War
10. Afghanistan
11. Iraq
12. Involvement in Syria

I posted a survey link in Google Classroom for students to tell me what their top three choices are (after doing a bit of research in class and/or at home) in terms of a conflict in United States history they are interested in learning more about for the presentation, and used this information to make groups.

Here is the assignment for the United States conflict presentations, which is the final major project of the year (hopefully not too stressful, though):


Form Groups: Here is the PowerPoint that shows who is in what conflict presentation group, based on your survey input (if you did not fill out the survey by Thursday, I put you in groups that had space left):


If there were any groups that seemed like they would not work, I reserve the right to move students within these first few days of work time.

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to work time on the conflict presentation - assigning roles for what to do, starting to create the presentation, etc. Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

See everyone next week, when we will do some review on World War I!
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Monday, May 6, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 2 - Class Recap


The Pearl Harbor memorial in Hawaii. Photo taken in 2011.

Hi everyone,

As we continue our last unit of the year, on foreign policy of the United States, I thought it was important that we review a key concept from Global Studies last year: imperialism. Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "The Imperial March" from Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. Selected for today because of the connection to imperialism and because of it being May The Fourth over the weekend!

AGENDA 5/6/19:
News Brief - Kori
Imperialism
Cartoon Analysis
Conflict Research

Homework: Read the blog! Complete and submit the United States Imperialism assignment if you did not in class. Take the survey on Google Classroom for what conflict you are most interested in learning more about for your final presentation! Next news brief: Nika.

News Brief: Kori had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: CNN.com - Former Trump fixer Michael Cohen reports to prison for three-year term. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Nika was assigned to do the next news brief.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


Imperialism: This was a bit of review from last year in terms of the concept of what imperialism is, but I did want to make sure students understood how the United States was involved, as well. Here's the presentation we went through together in class:


And here is the sheet for notes that I passed out in class to help guide students:


Hopefully this helps give some context to how the United States is viewed around the world and the reverse.

Cartoon Analysis: The next step was to use this information to determine what some of the reactions to imperialism in the United States were, via some political cartoon analysis. Here is the assignment given in class (posted on Google Classroom, so it can be submitted electronically - I also had paper copies available in class):


Most of the rest of class was devoted to work time on this assignment, which I would like to have turned in on Friday during our next meeting.

Conflict Research: At the end of class, I showed students what the United States conflict options are for the final presentation of the year, which are:

1. Spanish American War
2. World War I
3. World War II
4. Korean War
5. Bay of Pigs/Cuba
6. Vietnam War
7. Central American Conflict (Grenada, Panama, Nicaragua)
8. Persian Gulf
9. Bosnian War
10. Afghanistan
11. Iraq
12. Involvement in Syria

I posted a survey link in Google Classroom for students to tell me what their top three choices are (after doing a bit of research in class and/or at home) in terms of a conflict in United States history they are interested in learning more about for the presentation, and will use this information to make groups.

Here is the calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):

Google Drive - American Studies 10 Foreign Policy Calendar 2019

See everyone next class, when I will introduce the final presentation assignment and we will begin to work on it!
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Thursday, May 2, 2019

Foreign Policy, Day 1 - Class Recap


Today, we started our last unit of the year (and for most students, the last unit of the past two years in my class), which is an investigation of United States foreign policy - how the U.S. relates to other countries around the world. The Olympics (hosted again in Los Angeles in 2028) is an example of this! Photo taken in 2010.

Dear class,

Welcome to our last unit of the year! Hopefully, students have submitted their Historical Investigation research project (due today on Google Classroom) and are ready to move on. Here's what happened in class today:

Learning Targets Addressed:
Knowledge LT 8: I can identify how technological knowledge and innovation shapes a society, place, or region.
Knowledge LT 22: I can describe the influences, impacts and resolutions of historical conflicts.
Critical Thinking LT 4: I can evaluate information and explanations within a given context and develop a relevant conclusion.
Critical Thinking LT 5: I can justify and support arguments or interpretation with appropriate evidence.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.

Soundtrack: "A World Alone" by Lorde. Selected for today because of the relationship of the United States to the world. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 5/2/19:
News Brief - Shawn
Personal Scenarios
Intro to Foreign Policy
Global Scenarios

Homework: Read the blog! The Historical Investigation final draft is due TODAY - submit on Google Classroom! The peer review sheets must be turned in as a part of getting a grade on the Historical Investigation. Next news brief: Kori.

News Brief: Loyle had the news brief today, but was not in class, so I asked Shawn to fill in and they selected an article about this story to talk about: CNN.com - Amid America's opioid crisis, deaths from stimulants are steadily rising. After discussing the story, we also checked in to see if anyone was up to anything interesting or fun outside of class.

Kori was assigned to do the next news brief.

As part of the news brief, we also watched the one minute BBC World News update. Here's the link to see the latest one minute update, at any time of day (it will probably be different from what we watched in class):


I also passed out a calendar of what I think we will be doing for the rest of the year in American Studies, to help students plan. That calendar is linked here (and may be updated, so use the link over the paper copy you were given):


Personal Scenarios: To introduce some of the concepts involved in foreign policy, I split the class up into seven groups and had the groups debate these seven scenarios (first page):


After a few minutes, I had the groups discuss their proposed solution to the given situation and asked the class if they agreed. This is basically what the idea of diplomacy is - talking about problems instead of fighting.

Intro to Foreign Policy: Next, I walked students through a brief history of how the United States has related to other countries around the world, with this PowerPoint:


Here is the sheet of notes that I passed out to help students, as they added to it with details from the presentation:


Global Scenarios: Finally, we ended class by going back to the scenario document linked above and having the assigned groups discuss what the United States should do in specific scenarios based off of actual events in our history. This is where we ended class for the day - we will pick back up next week, on Monday!
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