Advanced American Studies
1. Vietnam War Era exam. If you were absent, you must make up this exam within 3 school days.
American Studies
1. WWI Quiz #2
2. Review 14 points / Treaty of Versailles
Assignment: Ch.10.4 (p. 311-315), questions 4, 5, 6.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Tuesday, October 28th
Advanced American Studies
1. We began today with a brief overview of the shift in American foreign policy during the Nixon administration to a philosophy of realpolitik and detente. Specifically, we examined how these policies opened relations with China, led to arms reductions with the Soviets, and played a part in ending the Vietnam War.
2. Exam Review. Review vocabulary, unit objective questions, and content from the following areas:
*origins of the Vietnam war
*the war (strategies, outcomes, and turning points)
*1968-turmoil in Vietnam and the homefront
*the anti-war movement
*Nixon, vietnamization, and the aftermath of Vietnam
*Nixon and the Cold War
American Studies
Today's class focused on Woodrow Wilson's 14 points and the Treaty of Versailles (handout)
Assignment: Finish handout on treaty of Versailles. Quiz #2 Wednesday
1. We began today with a brief overview of the shift in American foreign policy during the Nixon administration to a philosophy of realpolitik and detente. Specifically, we examined how these policies opened relations with China, led to arms reductions with the Soviets, and played a part in ending the Vietnam War.
2. Exam Review. Review vocabulary, unit objective questions, and content from the following areas:
*origins of the Vietnam war
*the war (strategies, outcomes, and turning points)
*1968-turmoil in Vietnam and the homefront
*the anti-war movement
*Nixon, vietnamization, and the aftermath of Vietnam
*Nixon and the Cold War
American Studies
Today's class focused on Woodrow Wilson's 14 points and the Treaty of Versailles (handout)
Assignment: Finish handout on treaty of Versailles. Quiz #2 Wednesday
Monday, October 27, 2008
Monday, October 27th
Advanced American Studies
To begin, we finished all memo briefings that were not completed Friday. Finally, our focus turned to the end of the Vietnam War. We discussed the following:
1. Paris Peace Accords -- Return of POW's and American withdrawal from Vietnam.
2. The aftermath -- Fall of Saigon, communism in Laos and Cambodia.
Assignment: Read Ch. 20.5 (p. 672-677), questions 4, 5, and 6.
American Studies
Today ends the film "The Lost Battalion"
Assignment: Read Ch. 10.3 (p 301-309) questions 4, 5 and 6.
To begin, we finished all memo briefings that were not completed Friday. Finally, our focus turned to the end of the Vietnam War. We discussed the following:
1. Paris Peace Accords -- Return of POW's and American withdrawal from Vietnam.
2. The aftermath -- Fall of Saigon, communism in Laos and Cambodia.
Assignment: Read Ch. 20.5 (p. 672-677), questions 4, 5, and 6.
American Studies
Today ends the film "The Lost Battalion"
Assignment: Read Ch. 10.3 (p 301-309) questions 4, 5 and 6.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Friday, October 24th
Advanced American Studies
1. Vietnam Quiz #2. If you were absent, make arrangements to take this quiz within the next three days.
2. Memo briefings.
Assignment: None (Vietnam War era exam scheduled for next Wednesday (10/29)
American Studies
We are currently viewing the film "Lost Battalion".
1. Vietnam Quiz #2. If you were absent, make arrangements to take this quiz within the next three days.
2. Memo briefings.
Assignment: None (Vietnam War era exam scheduled for next Wednesday (10/29)
American Studies
We are currently viewing the film "Lost Battalion".
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Thursday, October 23rd
Advanced American Studies
The focus of today's activities is the role of the Nixon administration in the Vietnam War. Collectively, we answered the following questions:
1. Richard Nixon was elected in 1968. Why did he seem to be such a divisive character?
2. In what ways did Nixon change course in Vietnam? In what areas did his administration struggle with regard to Vietnam?
3. What prompted the events at Kent State? (photo on left courtesy of New York University Archives)
4. According to Tommy Burns (reading), what angered the "hard hats" in May of 1970? Who do you believe was right in this confrontation?
Assignment/Reminders: Briefing/memo, Vietnamization questions and Quiz #2 are all slated for Friday.
American Studies:
We focused on the definition of Civil liberties and discussed how the balance between individual liberty and collective security is at times controversial during times of war. Specifically, during WWI, we discussed the Espionage and Sedition Acts, as well as the impact of the war on German culture in America.
Secondly, we began the movie "Lost Battalion". This film will conclude on Monday.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Wednesday, October 22nd
Advanced American Studies
Today's focus is on the tumultuous events of 1968. We began by viewing a video clip focusing on the impact of the Tet Offensive and the increasing turmoil at home, including the declining of the democratic nomination by LBJ and assassinations of RFK and MLK. The clip concludes with a discussion of the election of 1968, including the Democratic Convention in Chicago and the general election between Democratic candidate Hubert H. Humphrey and Republican Richard Nixon.
A discussion and notes followed the 15 minute video clip.
Assignment: Review Nixon's speech on "Vietnamization". Answer 6 questions neatly on separate sheet of paper---due Friday.
Reminders: Quiz #2 and Research Briefings/Memos due Friday
American Studies
Today's focus was the homefront during WWI. In class, we examined propaganda from the WWI era.
Assignment: Read Ch. 10.2 (p.292-299). Complete notes from chapter in format of organizer on p. 292 (Categorize information: Mobilization--Opposition to war----Social Changes)
Today's focus is on the tumultuous events of 1968. We began by viewing a video clip focusing on the impact of the Tet Offensive and the increasing turmoil at home, including the declining of the democratic nomination by LBJ and assassinations of RFK and MLK. The clip concludes with a discussion of the election of 1968, including the Democratic Convention in Chicago and the general election between Democratic candidate Hubert H. Humphrey and Republican Richard Nixon.
A discussion and notes followed the 15 minute video clip.
Assignment: Review Nixon's speech on "Vietnamization". Answer 6 questions neatly on separate sheet of paper---due Friday.
Reminders: Quiz #2 and Research Briefings/Memos due Friday
American Studies
Today's focus was the homefront during WWI. In class, we examined propaganda from the WWI era.
Assignment: Read Ch. 10.2 (p.292-299). Complete notes from chapter in format of organizer on p. 292 (Categorize information: Mobilization--Opposition to war----Social Changes)
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Tuesday, October 21st
Advanced American Studies
Today's focus is the mounting frustration on the ground in Vietnam and the growing anti-war movement in the late 1960's. Together we analyzed:
1. Reasons for the growth of the anti-war movement
2. The rise of SDS and the growth of opposition on college campuses
3. Specific anti-war activity at UW-Madison (Dow Chemical protests and Sterling Hall bombing)
4. The Music of Protest
Assignment: None (Next Quiz--Friday 10/24
Images on right courtesy of Wisconsin Historical Society
American Studies
Finish work on Trench Journal. This mini-project is due at the end of class today.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Monday, October 20th
Advanced American Studies
Today, we used most of class to begin a mini research project. Essentially, you will fulfill the role of a congressional staffer responsible for briefing a Senator and Senate Committee on some aspect of the Vietnam War. With a partner, you will produce both a one page memo and a two minute briefing outlining key elements of your research. Briefings will take place on Friday.
Assignment: Read Ch. 20.3 (War Divides America). Answer questions 4, 5, 6.
American Studies
Continue work on your trench journals. These are due at the end of class on Tuesday.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Friday, October 17th
Advanced American Studies
1. Vietnam Quiz #1 (based on the origins of the Vietnam War). If absent, please make up this quiz within 3 days.
2. After our quiz, we took a look at some of the tactics used on the ground in Vietnam after American Marines land at Da Nang in 1965. To analyze the impact of these tactics, we collectively read a few accounts from individuals such as Phil Caputo, John Kerry, Wallace Terry, Truong Nhu Tang and others.
Assignment: None
American Studies
Today begins the mini project, Herr Brice's Webquest. You are a member of a German platoon specifically assigned to gather information about the fighting on the Western Front during the Great War and put that information in a trench journal.
You will use the following websites for your research:
www.firstworldwar.com
http://www.worldwar1.com/dbc
Assignment: This webquest/mini project will be due at the end of class on Tuesday
1. Vietnam Quiz #1 (based on the origins of the Vietnam War). If absent, please make up this quiz within 3 days.
2. After our quiz, we took a look at some of the tactics used on the ground in Vietnam after American Marines land at Da Nang in 1965. To analyze the impact of these tactics, we collectively read a few accounts from individuals such as Phil Caputo, John Kerry, Wallace Terry, Truong Nhu Tang and others.
Assignment: None
American Studies
Today begins the mini project, Herr Brice's Webquest. You are a member of a German platoon specifically assigned to gather information about the fighting on the Western Front during the Great War and put that information in a trench journal.
You will use the following websites for your research:
www.firstworldwar.com
http://www.worldwar1.com/dbc
Assignment: This webquest/mini project will be due at the end of class on Tuesday
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Thursday, October 16th
Advanced American Studies
Today's focus is the Gulf of Tonkin incident in 1964. Together, we examined the events surrounding the supposed attack on US Destroyers in the Gulf of Tonkin and how it was used as a pretext for expanding the war in Vietnam. In doing so, we read a number of primary source documents, such as the Tonkin Gulf Resolution, transcripts from the LBJ tapes, and commentary from the only 2 Senators to vote against this resolution.
Assignment: Ch. 20.2 US Involvement Grows Questions (handout)
American Studies
After finishing the video Foot Soldiers, we discussed the reasons for US entrance in the Great War. Reasons included:
1. Economic and cultural ties to the allies
2. Sinking of the Lusitania and German U-Boat warfare
3. The Zimmerman Note
Assignment: None
Today's focus is the Gulf of Tonkin incident in 1964. Together, we examined the events surrounding the supposed attack on US Destroyers in the Gulf of Tonkin and how it was used as a pretext for expanding the war in Vietnam. In doing so, we read a number of primary source documents, such as the Tonkin Gulf Resolution, transcripts from the LBJ tapes, and commentary from the only 2 Senators to vote against this resolution.
Assignment: Ch. 20.2 US Involvement Grows Questions (handout)
American Studies
After finishing the video Foot Soldiers, we discussed the reasons for US entrance in the Great War. Reasons included:
1. Economic and cultural ties to the allies
2. Sinking of the Lusitania and German U-Boat warfare
3. The Zimmerman Note
Assignment: None
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Wednesday, October 15th
Advanced American Studies
Both Lit and Comp and History classes were combined to view the film Dear America: Letters Home from Vietnam. This documentary reflects the diverse attitudes and opinions regarding the Vietnam conflict through the words of those who lived it. Highlighting some of the events both in Vietnam and at home between 1964 and 1973, the film incorporates letters from soldiers, nurses, and family members of veterans along with music associated with the time period.
Assignment: None
American Studies
1. Class began with World War I quiz #1. If you have not taken this, please make arrangements within 3 days.
2. We reviewed some of the new technologies that made WWI so deadly and also discussed the fact that military leaders had a difficult time changing their thinking to adapt to new technology with extremely deadly consequences.
3. Finally, we watched about 25 minutes of the video "Foot Soldiers" and answered questions on a related video guide.
Assignment: None
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Tuesday, October 14th
Advanced American Studies
The focus for today's class was the origins of the Vietnam Conflict. Class notes were taken on the rise of Ho Chi Minh, the disintegration of the political structure of South Vietnam, and the key events in the escalation of US involvement in Southeast Asia.
Assignment for Oct. 14: None
American Studies
In class today we continued our discussion of the causes of WWI, specifically the role militarism, nationalism, imperialism, and alliances played in bringing about the Great War.
Assignment for Oct. 14: Text Ch. 10.1 (p. 282-291). Answer questions on related worksheet (handout)
WWI Quiz #1 -- Wednesday
The focus for today's class was the origins of the Vietnam Conflict. Class notes were taken on the rise of Ho Chi Minh, the disintegration of the political structure of South Vietnam, and the key events in the escalation of US involvement in Southeast Asia.
Assignment for Oct. 14: None
American Studies
In class today we continued our discussion of the causes of WWI, specifically the role militarism, nationalism, imperialism, and alliances played in bringing about the Great War.
Assignment for Oct. 14: Text Ch. 10.1 (p. 282-291). Answer questions on related worksheet (handout)
WWI Quiz #1 -- Wednesday
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Advanced American Studies
Today begins the Vietnam War Era Unit. You will find that this era will be one of the most tumultuous in American history and remains fresh in the American psyche.
We began by reading A Different Kind of War-- a brief overview of the Vietnam War and why it the experience at home and abroad was unique. Through today's discussion, you should begin to answer the questions:
1. How does the US get involved in Vietnam?
2. How is the Vietnam War different from all other wars?
3. What were some of the root causes of tension and dissent in American society during this era?
4. Why was the mot powerful military and economy in the world unable to defeat a force of peasant farmers?
5. What is the legacy of Vietnam?
We will continue to examine these questions / learning targets throughout the unit.
Assignment for Oct. 13: Read Ch. 20.1 (p. 644-648) Origins of the Vietnam War. Answer questions 4, 5, & 6.
American Studies
Today we are beginning our study of The Great War, or World War I. In class, we discussed and took some notes on some of the basic content regarding the war (when fought/who it involved, etc.). We also analyzed why this war nearly a century ago continues to affect modern events today.
Assignment for Oct. 13: Complete WWI Map (handout)
Today begins the Vietnam War Era Unit. You will find that this era will be one of the most tumultuous in American history and remains fresh in the American psyche.
We began by reading A Different Kind of War-- a brief overview of the Vietnam War and why it the experience at home and abroad was unique. Through today's discussion, you should begin to answer the questions:
1. How does the US get involved in Vietnam?
2. How is the Vietnam War different from all other wars?
3. What were some of the root causes of tension and dissent in American society during this era?
4. Why was the mot powerful military and economy in the world unable to defeat a force of peasant farmers?
5. What is the legacy of Vietnam?
We will continue to examine these questions / learning targets throughout the unit.
Assignment for Oct. 13: Read Ch. 20.1 (p. 644-648) Origins of the Vietnam War. Answer questions 4, 5, & 6.
American Studies
Today we are beginning our study of The Great War, or World War I. In class, we discussed and took some notes on some of the basic content regarding the war (when fought/who it involved, etc.). We also analyzed why this war nearly a century ago continues to affect modern events today.
Assignment for Oct. 13: Complete WWI Map (handout)
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