December 24th - January 3rd

Have a great holiday season with family and friends!  See you January 4th!

Norman Rockwell Painting ca 1951

Wednesday, December 23rd

Advanced American History

NHD Work Day -- Be sure to have the following set for NHD meetings after break:

• Organizational System
• Active research with at least 5 sources
• The beginnings of a bibliography with sources in MLA format
• A thesis statement

Moreover, you should complete the NHD student worksheet for the UWGB Cofrin Library Trip before Thursday's trip.  Librarians at UWGB may ask to see this form.

American Studies

1920's Exam.  Be sure to make this test up immediately upon your return from break if you were absent!

Tuesday, December 22nd

Advanced American History

1920's Exam.  If absent, try to make the test up prior to the holiday break!

American Studies

Exam Review--Study Guide is extra credit.  1920's exam slated for Wednesday!

Tuesday, December 22nd

Advanced American History

1920's Exam.  If absent, try to make the test up prior to the holiday break!

American Studies

Exam Review--Study Guide is extra credit.  1920's exam slated for Wednesday!

Monday, December 21st

Advanced American History

1.  Review for 1920's exam--be sure to examine all points on the review guide prior to taking the 1920's test.

2.  NHD Thesis Statements -- Immediately after break we will be conducting NHD progress meetings.  In class today, we reviewed what makes a good thesis statements.  You should have the following for your meetings:

• organization system
• 5 sources
• the beginnings of a bibliography
• a defensible and comprehensive thesis statement

 President Calvin Coolidge canoeing on the Brule River in northern Wisconsin (courtesy history.wisc.edu)

American Studies

After taking a short oral quiz on the politics of the 1920's, we did some work on a short article and questions on the Harlem Renaissance.  If absent, be sure to turn in your handout on Ch. 11.2 to receive the points missed in the oral quiz.

Reminder:  1920's test Wednesday

Tuesday - Friday December 15-18

Advanced American Studies

1920's Exhibitions work/performances.

Reminder:  1920's exam is slated for next Tuesday!

American Studies

Tuesday - Thursday:  Headlines in History Newspaper project.  Based on an event in the 1920's, you must generate a newspaper front page that has a top story, feature or obitiuary, editorial and some other article from the 1920's.

Friday:  Discussion of conflict in the 1920's (ch. 11.3).  In class notes.

Assignment:  Pgs. 330-334 in your textbook.  Answer questions on pink handout.

Monday, December 14th

Advanced American History

This week, we will be working on the "1920's Exhibitions" in both history and literature classes.  The schedule is as follows:

Mon/Tues -- Project Development
Wed -- Project completion / Rehearsals
Thurs/Fri -- Exhibitions in Auditorium

danccing the Charleston in front of the Capitol (courtesy vintageperiods.com)

American Studies

Our discussion of the Roaring Twenties economy continues today with a few class notes and review prior to a short quiz on Chapter 11.1 The Booming Economy.

Assignment:  Ch. 11.3 Handout -- Due Tuesday

Thursday, December 10th

Advanced American History

1.  Quiz #1
2.  Discussion -- Politics of the 1920's.  Pay specific attention to the concepts of "laissiez-faire" economic policies and Harding's "return to normalcy."  After the progressive era and WWI, many Americans were both tired of progressive reform efforts and hungry for business growth.  The conservative philosophies that result will shape much of the decade.

Assignment:  Read 11.4 (343-351).  Finish Demon Rum Reading.


UPDATE:  Due to the snow day yesterday, the exam on the 1920's will now be scheduled for Dec. 22nd.

Henry Ford with Model T courtesy of www.hfmgv.org

American History

Americans in the 1920's were swept up in a period of great economic prosperity.  In class today we discussed Chapter 11.1 "The Booming Economy" to discover why.

Reminder:  Roaring Twenties Quiz #1 -- Monday

Tuesday, December 8th

Advanced American Studies

Our examination of the Roaring Twenties today continues with a discussion of the manifestations of the backlash against the onslaught of modernity in the decade.  Events like the Scopes trial, Sacco and Vanzetti, the rise of the Ku Klux Klan and the National Origins Act all represented a sudden and wrenching resistance to the pace of change rooted in urban America.

Assignments:  Quiz #1 -Wednesday.  Read Chapter 11.2 (330-34)--Wednesday.  Demon Rum Reading -- Thursday.

American Studies

To further introduce the 1920's, you will spend the class period working on a brief webquest to get an overview of life in the "Jazz Age".  Answer questions on the handout while viewing the website www.1920-30.com A Historical Snapshot of Life in the 1920's.

Monday, December 7th

image from Pearl Harbor courtesy of dartmouth.edu

On This Day.....December 7, 1941, the attack on Pearl Harbor claimed more than 2300 American lives and plunged the United States into WWII.

Advanced American History

After finishing the introductory video "Boom to Bust", we examined some of the economic aspects of the "Roaring Twenties."  Pay particular attention to new phenomena that shape the economic landscape of the twenties like installment buying, scientific management, and conspicuous consumption.

Assignment:  Read 10.3 335-342. 

American Studies

Today we are introducing the decade of the 1920's.  As we examine some of the people and events of this period, you will find that it is an era of both tremendous modernization and economic activity as well as one of conservative backlash. 

Assignment:  Read 10.1 324-29 due Wednesday

Friday, December 4th

Advanced American History

Today we begin our study of the 1920's with a few introductory activities.  After reviewing some of the key events and people of the era from the first assignment, we will begin to take a look at a short history channel documentary entitled Boom to Bust.  

American Studies

World War I Exam.  If absent, this must be made up within 3 days.

Thursday, December 3rd

Advanced American History

WWI "Quest" -- if absent be sure to make up within 3 days!

American Studies

Review for WWI Exam.  Exam is slated for tomorrow!  Complete study guides for extra points on the test!

Wednesday, December 2nd

image of "Big Four" at Versailles (Lloyd George, Orlando, Clemenceau & Wilson) courtesy of brittanica.com

Advanced American History

Our analysis of WWI concluded today with a comparison of Wilson's 14 Points with the final decisions made in the treaty of Versailles in 1919.  If absent, be sure to get a copy of the handout used in class where we analyzed political cartoons related to the treaty, the 14 points, and the League of Nations.

Reminder:  WWI "Quest" Thursday!

American Studies

Class today focused on finishing assignment 2 and 3 in the WWI assignment packet and beginning to do a bit of review for Friday's exam.  If absent, be sure to finish all assignments and turn them in ASAP.

Reminder:  WWI Exam Friday

Tuesday, December 1st

Advanced American History

Our discussion of WWI continued today with an analysis of America's entrance into WWI and the impact the War has on American society.  By the end of discussion, you should be familiar with:

1.  Economic Ties to the Allies
2.  Lusitania and U-Boat Warfare
3.  The Zimmerman Note
4.  The Selective Service Act and the War Industries Board
5.  The Committee on Public Information
6.  The Espionage and Sedition Act
7.  The Great Migration

Assignment:  Read 10.3.  Answer Questions 4,5&6.


American Studies

In class today we analyzed the end of WWI and the treaty of Versailles.  By the end of class you should have completed Assignment #2 in your packet.

Monday, November 30th

Advanced American History

Class time today was spent working on one of two things in the LMC--NHD research or WWI questions based on the website www.worldwar1.com.  This will be the final NHD work day before your first meetings later in December.

Assignment:  Complete WWI webquest

World War I Liberty Loan poster courtesy of www.ourdocuments.gov

American Studies

Today we examined/reviewed the impact WWI had on American society, specifically the impact on Civil Liberties.  We also discussed how the WWI example fits into the broader scope of American history, comparing WWI with other eras such as the Civil War or the Cold War.

Assignment:  Complete assignment #1 in packet (p. 301-309 q. 4,5 & 6).

Happy Thanksgiving!

Salvatore Lascari (1884-1967)
Thanksgiving, n.d.
Courtesy Smithsonian Institution (www.si.edu)

For a bit on the history of Thanksgiving in America, check out this LINK.

Friday-Monday November 20-23

Advanced American History

Class time on both Friday and Monday were reserved for either NHD research or work on WWI webquest based on information from the site www.firstworldwar.com.

Timetable for upcoming work:


NHD -- 1st Meetings will be held December 21-23.  No further class time for research will be utilized before this checkpoint.  Be sure to consult your NHD handbook for all requirements.


WWI -- "Quest" is Thursday December 3rd

American Studies

In class we completed the film The Lost Battalion.  WWI unit test is scheduled for Friday, December 4th. 

Thursday, November 19th

Advanced American History

Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie in Sarajevo prior to his assassination in 1914 (courtesy germanhistorydocs.org)

Our discussion of WWI continued today with an analysis of the causes of WWI.  In particular, we discussed how historical tensions between European nations fueled by nationalism, militarism and imperialism combine to create a powder keg in early 20th century Europe.  When Franz Ferdinand's assassination provides the spark in 1914, the first global war is set in motion.


Assignment:  Read text pages 282-291.  Take appropriate notes in preparation for quiz (after break).

Reminder:  NHD Contracts due tomorrow!

Wednesday, November 18th

Advanced American History

Today we begin our study of World War I.  Our introduction to WWI began with a discussion of the impact of the Great War.  This war left millions dead, disrupted the world economy, and led to the rise of fascism and communism in Europe.

Reminder:  NHD Contracts are due on Friday!

American Studies

1.  World War I Quiz #1 -- If absent, be sure to make this quiz up within three days!
2.  We will also begin the short film entitled the "Lost Battalion."  This is the true story of a battalion of doughboys--largely new immigrants from New York--who break through German lines in 1918 in the Argonne Forest.

Tuesday, November 17th

Advanced American History

In abbreviated classes due to ACT Boot Camp, we took the Americanism and Government test supplied for scholarship by the American Legion.  If you were absent and you would like to participate in this contest, see Mr. Brice.

Reminder:  NHD topics and contracts are due Friday!



American Studies

In abbreviated classes due to ACT Boot Camp, we took the Americanism and Government test supplied for scholarship by the American Legion.  If you were absent and you would like to participate in this contest, see Mr. Brice.

Reminder:  WWI Quiz #1 - Wednesday

Monday, November 16th

Advanced American History

History Day research continues for one final day until the end of the week.  Use the time to get some library books ordered and finalize topic selections

American Studies

Our focus today is the United States in the Great War.  We discussed economic ties to the allies, submarine warfare, and the Zimmerman note as reasons for the entrance into the conflict.


Assignment:  Read Ch10.2 (292-299).  Complete notes organizer in the format found on the bottom of 292.

Lusitania headline courtesy of the New York Times

Wednesday, November 11th

Please take a moment today to reflect on the sacrifice of all Veterans!

Advanced American History

NHD Work continues -- topic selection.


American Studies

For the remainder of this week we will be conducting a webquest on the Great War.  To create your trench journal, consult the following websites:

www.firstworldwar.com
www.worldwar1.com/dbc

Webquests are due at the end of class on Friday.

Tuesday, November 10th

Advanced American History

Work with National History Day continues today with a discussion on topic selection.  Suggestions for finding topics will be discussed. 

Reminder:  Topics due to Mr. Brice by November 22nd.

American Studies

In class we took notes on the causes of WWI.  Be sure to get class notes if absent on the historical context of WWI, and the factors of militarism, nationalism, imperialism and alliances that create WWI.

Monday, November 9th

Advanced American History

Introduction to National History Day by Sarah Michele Klentz of the Wisconsin Historical Society.

American Studies

Our introduction to WWI continued with a discussion of the impact of the Great War.  This war left millions dead, disrupted the world economy, and led to the rise of fascism and communism in Europe.

Assignment:  Read text pages 282-291.  Complete pink handout for class on Tuesday.

Thursday, November 5th

Advanced American History

Gilded Age State Legislature project presentations begin today!  Be prepared to present your speeches, artwork, dramatic readings, and music!

American Studies

Gilded Age Exam.  If absent, this must be made up by Monday (end of qtr. 1).

Wednesday, November 4th

Advanced American History

Gilded Age Project Prep and Rehearsals -- LMC/Auditorium.  Presentations begin tomorrow!

American Studies

Review for Gilded Age Exam.  Exam is tomorrow and it is the final grade for quarter 1---100 points.

Tuesday, November 3rd

Advanced American History

Today we begin the process of National History Day with a preliminary introduction.  We will discuss an overview of the program, a timetable for completion, and view past examples of student work.  For further details, check out www.nhd.org or www.wisconsinhistory.org.

American Studies

Our discussion of the Gilded Age concludes with an examination of the achievements of Teddy Roosevelt.  For further details, check out this A & E website on Teddy Roosevelt.

Reminder:  Gilded Age Exam Thursday.

Monday, November 2nd

Advanced American History

Work on the Gilded Age projects resumes today in both history and english classes.  Be sure to be ready for rehearsals this Wednesday and to present on Thursday/Friday!

Reminder:  Bring a binder and dividers to class tomorrow!

American Studies

We are culminating our study of the Gilded Age this week with an examination of the progressive movement.  Largely occurring between 1890 and 1920, progressives fought for a variety of reforms, but all felt that government should be more active and that social problems were susceptible to legislation.  In class today, we examined the actions of muckrakers, Jane Addams, Bob LaFollette, and Teddy Roosevelt.


Assignment:  Read text 212-219.  Answer questions 1,4,5,6.  Gilded Age Exam this Thursday.

Wednesday, October 28th

Advanced American History

Gilded Age State Legislature Project introduction:  The year is 1900 and you are a member of a specific interest group in the United States.  The state legislature in your state will address problems in society, but has limited resources and will fund only one problem area.  In your group, you will be responsible for persuading the state legislature for reform in one of the following areas:

City Problems
Women's Rights
Monopolies
Unsafe and Unsanitary Products
Labor Problems
Farm problems
Environmental Problems

You will be assigned a task based on your interest (speech, drama, music, art) to convince the legislature to address your problem.  If absent, see Mr. Brice or Mrs. Koehler ASAP to better understand your requirements.



 

Tuesday, October 27th

Advanced American History

Gilded Age Exam

American Studies

image of Sitting Bull courtesy denverlibrary.org

Class began with a review and discussion of text pages 160-68 (Westward Expansion and American Indians).  Discussion focused on changing federal indian policy, from Removal to Reservations to Assimilation and Allotment.  After this discussion, we began viewing the A & E Biography of Sitting Bull, a man whose life personified the struggle against these changing policies of the federal government.  If absent, click the link to gain access to clips and notes from the Bio website

Monday, October 26th

Advanced American History

To conclude our study of the Gilded Age, we are examining a few links to today and recognizing themes in from the Gilded Age in current editorials from modern newspapers.  After a brief discussion here, we will review for our Gilded Age objective exam.

Reminder:  Gilded Age Exam tomorrow.

American History

The focus of class today is westward expansion and Federal Indian policy during the 19th century.  To begin this discussion, complete questions (in-class handout) associated with text pages 160-168.

Assignment:  Complete 160-168 Questions.

Muckraker Suggested Resources October 22-23

American Studies

Below you will find a number of resources for use in completing your Muckraker article project.  Class time will be devoted to research and writing on Thursday and Friday of this week and completed articles are due on Monday!

Nellie Bly
http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/USAWbly.htm
http://www.ilr.cornell.edu/trianglefire/
http://newdeal.feri.org/library/d_4m.htm


Jacob Riis
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/1900/peopleevents/pande11.html
http://tenant.net/Community/LES/jacob4.html
http://www.masters-of-photography.com/R/riis/riis.html



Upton Sinclair
http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/Jupton.htm
http://www.boondocksnet.com/editions/jungle/jungle_060609.html

Ida Tarbell
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/rockefellers/peopleevents/p_tarbell.html
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/rockefellers/sfeature/sf_6.html
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/rockefellers/sfeature/sf_7.html

John Spargo
http://historymatters.gmu.edu/d/5571
http://www.historyplace.com/unitedstates/childlabor/index.html

Lincoln Steffens
http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/Jsteffens.htm
http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/database/article_display.cfm?HHID=211

Wednesday, October 21st

Advanced American History

1.  Quiz #3 (Immigration, Urbanization, Westward Expansion, Progressivism)
2.  To further our study of progressivism and the transformative figure that was President Theodore Roosevelt, we will be viewing A&E Biography:  Teddy Roosevelt.

Reminder:  Gilded Age DBQ in class essay - Friday.

American History

1.  Quiz #3 (Immigration and Urbanization)
2.  Introduce Muckraker project.  You will assume the role of an investigative journalist writing for McClure's magazine in the early 20th century attempting to expose a specific social problem.  Research and writing days will be Thurs/Friday and articles will be due Monday. 

Tuesday, October 20th

Advanced American History

The progressive movement at the onset of the 20th century did much to shape modern America.  While there was not one set of characteristics that defined all progressives, most shared a belief that government should be more active and social problems were susceptible to government legislation.  Progressive ideals were represented in things like the works of muckrakers, the settlement house movement, actions in places like Wisconsin by people like Bob LaFollette, and on the national level with individuals such as Teddy Roosevelt.

Assignment:  Read text pages 233-39.  Prep for Gilded Age Quiz #3 tomorrow.

Photo of Bob LaFollette courtesy of wisc.edu

American Studies

A major change created in the Gilded Age era was driven by millions of new immigrants who poured into American cities in the late 1800's and early 1900's.  For many who arrived at Ellis Island in this era, the promise of new opportunites to work in the newly developing industries of America was met with the reality of tough conditions in American cities, overcoming nativism and trying to build a life in a new land.  In the process, America was reshaped, but not before overcoming substantial urban challenges.

Assignment:  Read text pages 136-142.  Answer questions 4,5,6 on 142.  Prep for Gilded Age quiz #3 tomorrow (immigration and urbanization pages 128-142)

Monday, October 19th

Advanced American History

Class today is largely devoted to accomplishing a number of assignments.  Three things need to be completed for Tuesday.  First, the Riis and Olmstead readings will be due.  Further, we will briefly examine the impact of westward expansion on native people.  To do this, you must answer the questions based on a reading of text 160-68.  Finally, we will examine the progressive movement this week.  In preparation for this, read the text "Drive for Reform"  p. 212-219.

Reminders:  Essay Friday.  Gilded Age Test next Tuesday.

American Studies

Immigration had a profound impact on American life during the Gilded Age and in the years after.  To examine the pace of this change, you will plot data on a line graph using census data from 1850, 1870, 1890 and 1910.  If you missed class, be sure to pick up the pie graph info and graph paper.

Assignment:  Text 128-135 questions on handout.

Friday, October 16th

Advanced American History

The Gilded Age is a period of great change in American history.  Another element that changes the very nature of the country is the mass influx of immigrants between 1890 and 1914.  These immigrants were different from their predecessors in that they largely settled in urban areas, worked in a newly industrialized country, and originated in eastern and southern Europe bringing different cultures, customs, languages and religious beliefs.  If absent, be sure to get the necessary notes from the class discussion.

Assignment: Riis/Olmstead primary source readings and questions.  Due Tuesday.

American Studies

Gilded Age Quiz #2.  Be sure to make this quiz up in the next three days if you were absent! 

Thursday, October 15th

Advanced American History

After culminating a review of the Populist movement of the 1890's, we took the second quiz on the Gilded Age period.  This quiz focuses on the labor movement and populist movement of the late 19th century (text 114-121 and 197-203).


Assignment:  Read text 128-142 (Immigration and Urbanization)

The Cowardly Lion or William Jennings Bryan?  courtesy americanrhetoric.com

American Studies

Today our discussion of the Populist Movement continues with an analysis of the allegory The Wizard of Oz.  Written by Lyman Frank Baum in the waning days of the populist movement in 1900, the story is both a children's story and an allegory representing Populism and the issues surrounding farmers in late 19th century America.

Reminder:  Gilded Age Quiz #2 -- Friday! 

Wednesday, October 14th

Advanced American History

Today our discussion of the Populist Movement continues with an analysis of the allegory The Wizard of Oz.  Written by Lyman Frank Baum in the waning days of the populist movement in 1900, the story is both a children's story and an allegory representing Populism and the issues surrounding farmers in late 19th century America.

Assignment:  Read text 128-135.  Quiz #2 (labor movment and populism) on Thursday.

American Studies

As we finished our discussion of the plight of industrial workers and the labor movement, we transitioned to the situation of farmers in the rural areas of the nation in the late 1800's.  Using pages 197-203 from your textbook, be sure to understand the following questions:

1.  What problems did farmers face in the Gilded Age?
2.  Who were the populists?
3.  What were the main issues/characters in the election of 1896?

Tuesday, October 13th

Advanced American History

Our attention today turned away from the plight of the urban industrial worker during the Gilded Age to the rural farmer and the populist movement.  Be able to understand the following questions for upcoming quizzes and tests:

1.  What were the problems farmers were facing in the 1890's?
2.  Who were the populists and what were their demands?
3.  What was the outcome and significance of the election of 1896?

Image of William Jennings Bryan courtesy Washington.edu

American History

Our focus today was on the change in the nature of work as the nation becomes increasingly urban and industrialized.  Notes on the factors that led to poor conditions for workers were taken. 

Assignment:  Complete Labor Movement questions -- yellow handout pgs 114-121.

Monday, October 12th

Advanced American History

After a period of returning work, tests and essays, we continued our discussion of labor and labor rights in America in the late 1800's.  After culminating a discussion of the Homestead strike, we discussed questions related to the balance of political and economic power between workers and owners. 


Assignment:  Read p. 114-121.  Labor Movement handout.

American Studies

In class we viewed 10 Days that Unexpectedly Changed America:  The Homestead Strike.  If absent, be sure to get answers to the questions associated with this documentary.

Friday, October 9th

Advanced American History

Today we are finishing our viewing of 10 Days that Unexpectedly Changed America:  The Homestead Strike.  You should have an understanding of how this event came to define the conflict between workers and industrialists, and how the rights and expectations of labor in America were in many ways defined for decades by the events in Pennsylvania in 1892.

American History

After a brief review of some famous industrialists of the Gilded Age, we took a quiz on industrialization during the Gilded Age period.  If absent, be sure to make this quiz up within 3 school days.

Thursday, October 8th

Advanced American History

Gilded Age Quiz #1.  If absent, be sure to make this up within 3 days.

In a continuation of our discussion of the social philosophy of businessmen during the late 1800's, we will conclude class with a viewing of the documentary Ten Days that Changed America:  The Homestead Strike. 

American Studies

Class today was devoted to the concept of industrialists as either "Captains of Industry" or "Robber Barrons".  Be sure to know what made people like Andrew Carnegie, John Rockefeller, Richard Sears, Montgomery Ward, JP Morgan, etc. famous and the varying perspectives on these industrial leaders.


Reminder:  Quiz #1 on Thursday

Wednesday, October 7th

child laborer image above courtesy of nps.gov

Advanced American History

After finishing a brief discussion on key industrialists from the late 19th century, we discussed key concepts in the change in work during this era.  The industrial revolution leads to a corporation revolution which in turn has multiple effects on many in the working class, including the proliferation of child labor, long hours, low pay and a host of other abuses.  If absent, be sure to get the class notes.


Assignment:  Read Andrew Carnegie's Gospel of Wealth and answer accompanying questions.

American Studies

Our study of industrialization continues today with a look at the philosophies of industrialists.  We will discuss the corporation as a business form as well as the implications of the idea of "social darwinism".


Assignment:  Finish blue handout (text pages 107-113).

Tuesday, October 6th

Advanced American History

Our study of the Gilded Age continues today with the era of industrialization in America.  You should be able to identify the following:

• What factors led to rapid industrialization in America in the latter half of the 19th century?
• What are some examples of innovation from this time period?
• Understand the varying perspectives that lead to industrialists being called both robber barrons and captains of industry

Assignment:  Read text pages 107-113.  Quiz scheduled for Thursday.

American History

Today we are beginning our next unit of study, The Gilded Age.  This era from 1876-1914 includes things like industrialization, urbanization, immigration, and political change in the form of progressivism.  After a brief introductory discussion, students will be expected to take a look at text pages 100-106 to understand examples of technological and industrial growth from this era.

Assignment:  Part 1 of blue handout (p. 100-106).   

Monday, October 5th

Advanced American History

Today we begin our study of the Gilded Age.  Mark Twain coined the era between 1876-1914 the Gilded Age to represent the fact that the great wealth of some hid widespread problems for others.  Nonetheless, this is a period of unprecedented inventiveness as the United States becomes a substantial political and economic power.  Millions of new immigrants flood into America's rapidly expanding cities to provide the labor in a rapidly industrializing nation.

Assignment:  Read text pages 100-106.  Suggested notes questions 4,5,6. 

Image of steel magnate Andrew Carnegie above courtesy colombia.edu

Friday, October 2nd

Advanced American History

Civil War exam today!  If absent, this must be made up within 3 school days.

Thursday, October 1st

Advanced American History

DBQ Essay composition in class today.  Please remember to utilize citations from a minimum of 3 of the documents provided.

Reminder:  Civil War Exam Friday!


American Studies

To culminate our study of the Civil War, we will finish the week by viewing the film Glory.  It is the true story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, the first all black regiment to see combat in American history.

If you were absent for yesterday's exam, be sure to make up the test in the next two days!

Wednesday, September 30th

Advanced American History

After a brief discussion of the Reconstruction era, our major focus is preparation for the Document Based Question on the Civil War scheduled for Thursday and the exam scheduled for Friday.  If absent, be sure to get both the DBQ essay prompt and essay guideline handouts as well as the review guide for Friday's exam.

American History

Civil War Exam today!  If absent, you have 3 days from the day of your return to class to make up this test.  Make arrangements ASAP.

Tuesday, September 29th

Advanced American History

Today we are continuing our look at the decade after the Civil War, the period of Reconstruction.  To do so, please use the website www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/reconstruction and answer the questions distributed on the handout in class.

Reminder:  DBQ Essay in class on Thursday.  Objective Exam on Friday

American History

After a brief overview of a few final documents regarding the Civil War, including Walt Whitman's famous poem O Captain, we engaged in a review of Civil War material in preparation for tomorrow's test.  The review guide is worth a few extra credit points on your test tomorrow so be sure to complete as much of it as possible.  If absent, see Mr. Brice for a copy of the handout.


Reminder:  Civil War Exam Wednesday!

Monday, September 28th

Advanced American Studies

After culminating the film Glory, we will begin the final stage of analyzing the Civil War era with a look at Reconstruction.  To begin, please read pages 87-91 in your text and answer the corresponding questions on the handout in preparation for tomorrow.


Assignment:  p. 87-91 questions
Reminder:  Civil War Essay on Thursday.  Civil War Exam on Friday

image of Lincoln's funeral courtesy illinois.edu

American Studies

All assignments from my absence last week are due at the beginning of class today!

We finished our discussion of the Civil War today with an analysis of the war from Gettysburg to the end (Vicksburg, Sherman's March to the Sea, and the Surrender).  We also took a specific look at the Gettysburg address and how this short speech has come to define the meaning of the Civil War as well as a call to citizens today to carry out the unfinished work of building America that was begun generations ago.


Reminder:  Civil War exam Wednesday.  Study guide to come Tuesday, however, it is never to early to begin reviewing and preparing for your first major exam!

Friday, September 25th

Advanced American History

Student Services Presention in class today. 

American Studies

Student Services presentation in class today.  All work from Wednesday and Thursday (my absence) must be turned in by Monday.

Plan Ahead!!-- Civil War Exam next Wednesday.  Study Guide to come early next week!

Have a safe and fun Homecoming!  GO THUNDER!

Thursday, September 24th

American History

In my absence today you will be responsible for doing some research on the period of Reconstruction.  To do so, please use the website www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/reconstruction and answer the questions distributed on the handout in class.

Wednesday, September 23rd

Memorial in Boston dedicated to the 54th Massachusetts Regiment (photo coutesy of 54thmass.org)

Advanced American Studies

For the remainder of the week we will be viewing the film Glory.  This film chronicles the exploits of the 54th Massachusetts regiment, the first regiment of black soldiers to see action in the Civil War.  For background on the film and the true story of this regiment, click HERE.

American Studies

In my absence today we completed a few handouts/readings on a few aspects of the Civil War including Sherman's March to the Sea and Civil War era medicine.  All assignments should be completed by Monday at the beginning of class.

Assignment:  Complete questions associated with pgs. 87-91 in your textbook (The Reconstruction Era)

Tuesday, September 22

Image of Grant and Lee at Appomattox courtesy of army.mil

Advanced American Studies

In class today we are finishing our discussion of the key turning points in the Civil War from Gettysburg/Vicksburg through the surrender at Appomattox.  Particular attention was paid to the tone of the meeting between Lee and Grant in April of 1865 when the terms of surrender were negotiated.  The concilliatory and respectful tone set by Grant and Lee would do much to begin the process of reunification after the war.

We also examined the text and context of the Gettysburg address in class today.  Text of the speech can be found HERE.

American Studies

Our focus for class today was specifically on the events of the battle of Gettysburg.  We examined the three days of battle, with the Union taking up a fishook formation south of Gettysburg on July 2nd and successfully defending it against two flanking maneuvers and ultimately Pickett's Charge on July 3rd.  Be sure to understand what happened at Gettysburg and why it marked the beginning of the end of the Confederate Army.

Monday, September 21

Advanced American History

1.  Civil War Quiz #2 (1st Bull Run - Gettysburg)
2.  Examination of the Battle of Gettysburg.  In class we looked at both on-line battle materials as well as a  few selected clips from the film Gettysburg.

American Studies

After a brief examination of the draft during the Civil War and its impact on Wisconsin, we continued mini presentations.  Any battle between Antietam (Sept 1862) and Gettysburg (July 1863) was discussed in class today.  If absent, be sure to get notes that were missed.

Friday, September 18th

Advanced American History

Our mini presentations of key turning points during the Civil War continued today with the following battles:

1. 2nd Bull Run
2. Anteitam
3. Fredericksbug
4. Chancellorsville
5. Gettysburg

Reminder:  Civil War Quiz #2 on Monday (based on the Civil War from 1st Bull Run until Gettysburg

**For short summaries of some of the battles we are examining, check out this link to the History Channel-Civil War Overview

American History

After a brief discussion of northern and southern advantages at the beginning of the war, we highlighted the union 3 pronged plan for victory (On to Richmond, Tennessee River valley, Mississippi River).  After building this context for war, we saw mini presentations on the First Battle of Bull Run, Clash of the Ironclads, and Shiloh.

Thursday, September 17th

Advanced American History

(picture on right of  the deck of the ironclad USS Monitor courtesy of brooklynhistory.org)

Today begins the mini presentations on the key turning points of the Civil War.  Our focus today is 1861-62.  We will discuss the impact of First Bull Run, Clash of the Ironclads, the Peninsular Campaign, 2nd Bull Run and Anteitam.  If absent, be sure to get the notes on those particular engagements.

Reminder:  Civil War Quiz #2 on Monday.

American History

Today is a work day in the lab in preparation for your mini-presentation.  Be sure you are answering these items about your battle:


1.  Who was involved?
2.  Where did it happen?
3.  When did it happen?
4.  What is the context?  Why did it happen?
5.  What were the results?  Why was this a turning point?

Assignment:  Have slide show finished for Friday!

Wednesday, September 16th

Advanced American History

Today was strictly a work day to prepare for the Civil War mini-presentations you will be conducting in the next few days.  We will begin by taking a look at the first Battle of Bull Run on Thursday.


American Studies

1.  Civil War Quiz #1--if absent, you have three days to make this quiz up.
2.  Introduction to Civil War mini presentations.  In class we selected groups and a singular turning point to focus on (Antietam, Gettysburg, Vicksburg, etc.).

Reminder:  Presentations will begin of Friday (9/18)

Tuesday, September 15th

Advanced American History

After returning and discussing the first Civil War Quiz, we will be examining some of the strengths of the North and South at the onset of the Civil War.  While the north had the majority of economic and military might, the south did have the advantage of excellent military leadership and fighting a defensive war. 

After this discussion, we will begin the process of analyzing key turning points in the war itself.  Students will, with a partner, be responsible for presenting the key facts of a specific turning point beginning in class on Thursday.

American Studies

After sharing our political cartoons, we took a look at a few primary sources on Lincoln's views on slavery and secession (blue handout).  Finally, we viewed a short videoclip on the fall of Fort Sumter and the beginning of war.

Reminder:  Civil War Quiz #1 on Wednesday!

Monday, September 14th

Advanced American History

After a brief review of the events of the 1850's, we discussed the election of 1860 and the subsequent secession of a number of southern states.  When reviewing the 1860 election, pay specific attention to the collapse of the national party system into a patchwork of regionalized groups.  This is a fundamental cause of Civil War.  Finally, understand how Linconln's decision to resupply Fort Sumter was the beginning of armed conflict between north and south.

American Studies

After a brief review of events from the 1850's, we examined the election of 1860.  Please read pages 72-78 in your text for an overview.  Also, you will be responsible for the creation of a political cartoon to reflect the events of that election or the months after that lead to Civil War.  If absent, please ask Mr. Brice for further clarification.

For contemporary examples of political cartoons on local and national issues, click HERE.


Assignment:  Political Cartoon based on text pgs. 72-78.

Friday September 11th

Please take a moment to reflect on the tragic events that occurred on this day 8 years ago.

Advanced American History

After a brief review, students took the first Civil War quiz.  If absent, this quiz must be made up within the next three days.

Assignment:  Assault in the Senate Reading / Read Ch. 3 Sec. 2 (p. 72-79)

American History

Today, we continued our look at the 1850's and the path to Civil War.  If absent, be sure to ask for a review of questions on the gold sheet associated with Ch. 3 Section 1. 

Thursday, September 10th

Advanced American History

In class today we took a close look at the 1850's and the events and people that led the nation toward disunion and Civil War.  Specifically we examined the following:

California and the Compromise of 1850
Uncle Tom's Cabin
Stephen Douglas, popular sovereignty and the Kansas Nebraska Act
Founding of the Republican Party
Dred Scott v. Sanford (1857)
Lincoln Douglas Debates
John Brown and Harper's Ferry

Assignment:  Complete the reading "Assault in the Senate" (due Monday)
Reminder:  Civil War Quiz #1 Friday


American Studies

After reviewing some elements of the anti-slavery movement in the early 1800's, class time was used to complete the gold question sheet on events of the 1850's.

Wednesday, September 9th

Advanced American History

The Civil War did not happen in a vacuum, there were dozens of causes and decades worth of division between northern and southern regions in the United States.  Today, we explored this idea of sectionalism, the development of slavery as an institution in the south, the triangle of trade and the growing diversity and economic power of the north.  All of these factors drove a wedge between north and south that would inevitably lead to the outbreak of war.

Assignment:  Read Chapter 3 Section 1.  Answer questions on blue handout.
Reminder:  Quiz #1 Friday

American Studies

After a brief overview of some of the facts of the Civil War (see below), we discussed the development of slavery as an institution in North America and discussed how this created great differences between the northern and southern regions of the United States.

• 3 million served
• 620,000 were killed (2% of the population)
• it is the bloodiest conflict anywhere in the world in the 19th century
• it is the bloodiest conflict in American history
• 4 of 10 who served were killed or wounded
• One soldier killed for every 6 slaves freed

Assignment:  Read text pages 44-48.  Answer questions 2, 4, & 5 in your notebook.

Tuesday, September 8th

 video above courtesy of PBS

Advanced American History

Today we begin our first unit, a discussion of the American Civil War.  As we begin the examination of some of the root causes of the Civil War, consider these statistics:

• 3 million served
• 620,000 were killed (2% of the population)
• it is the bloodiest conflict anywhere in the world in the 19th century
• it is the bloodiest conflict in American history
• 4 of 10 who served were killed or wounded
• One soldier killed for every 6 slaves freed

Between 1861 and 1865, in the words of David McCullough, "Americans made war on each other and killed each other in great numbers, if only to become the kind of country that can no longer conceive how that was possible"

If absent or for review, please view the introductory piece by Ken Burns found above.

Assignment:  Read text pages 44-48 

American Studies

To finish our introduction to the study of American history, we discussed our oral history results about high school students of a generation or two ago.  After completing this, we introduced the first unit of study for the school year, The Civil War.  If absent or for review, please view the introductory piece by Ken Burns found above.

Thursday September 3rd

Advanced American History

Both American history and American literature classes are in the auditorium for a two period block.  Here students will be introduced to the nature of the interdisciplinary course with an overview slideshow of the two courses and other activities including quizzes, group trivia and music in history. (note:  Mrs. Koehler and myself have been known to entertain in this intro experience, but you won't see anything like the video above).

Assignment:  Be sure to cover your textbook by Tuesday

American History

Our study of American history continues with an analysis of the nature of historical study.  What does it mean to think "historically?"  Why would you want to?  Through a few informal class activities, we will come to understand how studying our collective past allows us to better understand our present and plan for our future.

Assignment:  Complete oral history interview questions for Tuesday.

Wednesday September 2nd

Advanced American History

As a precursor to our study of American history, we set out to try to define America and Americans, examined the responsibilities of citizenship, etc.  Questions on John Steinbeck's essay were collected.

Assignment:  Cover Textbook by Tuesday

American History

As part of a discussion of American citizenship, we took a sample citizenship test and examined a few statistics on American knowledge of civics and history.

Assignment:  Cover Textbook by Thursday

Tuesday September 1st

Advanced American Studies

Welcome Back! After a short explanation of the class syllabus, rules, expectations, etc., you will be responsible for providing a bit of info about yourself on a text info sheet. We will also begin our study of American history by examining what exactly binds Americans together as a people. To begin this process, we will examine an excerpt from John Steinbeck's America and Americans. Be prepared to discuss this reading Wednesday.

Assignment: Steinbeck Questions (Wed). Cover textbook (Mon).


American Studies

Welcome Back! After a short explanation of the class syllabus, rules, expectations, etc., you will be responsible for providing a bit of info about yourself on a text info sheet. After these tasks are completed, we will take a short quiz testing your knowledge of American history.

Assignment: Cover textbook for Thursday.

June-August

Have a great summer! Thanks for a great year!

-Mr. B.

June 3rd & 4th

Final Exams -- Be sure to bring your manila test folder and be on time!

Week of May 26-29

Advanced American Studies

Tuesday -- Civil War Exam
Wed-Fri -- Glory


American Studies

Native American History Assignments (all found in unit packet)

• Early history questions (p. 35-36)
• First Encounters 2-Column notes (p.37-38)
• Federal Indian Policy Boarding School Webquest (p. 24-26)
• Wisconsin Tribal Summary (p. 31-32)
  

Monday, May 25th

Memorial Day

Please take a moment to reflect on the sacrifice of those who gave the last full measure of devotion.

Friday, May 22nd

Advanced American History

Class today was largely a wrap up of the Civil War. After reading a few documents (Sullivan Ballou and Walt Whitman) we viewed 2 clips from Ken Burns -- the Gettysburg address and Lincoln's assassination.

Reminder: Civil War Test on Tuesday.



American Studies

Watergate - Present exam.

Thursday, May 21st

Advanced American History

These are the activities completed in class today:

1. Clip of Pickett's charge from the film Gettysburg.
2. Discussion of Vicksburg, Sherman's March to the Sea, and the End of the War

Assignment: Read pgs 87-91 (Reconstruction)


American Studies

1. Finish 1990's handout.
2. Review for exam (Watergate, 1970's, 1980's, the end of the Cold War, and the 1990's).

Wednesday, May 20th

Advanced American Studies

In class, we discussed the course of the Civil War from the Second Battle of Bull Run to Gettysburg. Be sure to fill out organizer and understand the general trend of union difficulty in the early stages of the war.


American Studies

1. Discussion of the end of the Cold War. Be sure to know the role of Reagan/Gorbachev, SDI, Arms build up, Economic troubles in the USSR, change in Eastern Europe, etc.

Assignment: 1990's handout (pink)

Tuesday, May 19th

Advanced American Studies

In class, we finalized battle presentations and began with the 1st battle of Bull Run, the clash of the Ironclads, Shiloh, and the Peninsular Campaign.


American Studies

1. Discussion -- Reagan and the 1980's

Assignment: Sequence End of Cold War (p. 751)

Image of Abraham Lincoln courtesy of whitehouse.gov

Advanced American Studies

We began class today by discussing/reviewing the election of 1860 and the beginning of the secession of southern states. We also discussed the advantages and disadvantages of both the north and the south as the war begins.

Assignment: Battle presentation. 1861-62 will begin tomorrow!

American Studies

1. 1970's Quiz
2. Discussion of the election of 1980.

Assignment: Finish Reagan's Inaugural speech and questions.

Friday, May 15th

Image of John Brown above courtesy of pbs.org

Advanced American Studies
After reviewing the 1850's, we took a quiz on the causes of the Civil War. If absent, make this up right away on Monday.

Assignment: Election of 1860/Secession organizer

American Studies

1. Discussion of the foreign policy and domestic struggles of the 1970's. Know the following items:

Stagflation
OPEC
Gas Shortages
Rust Belt
Camp David Accords
Iranian Hostage Crisis
Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan

Reminder: 1970's Quiz - Monday

Thursday, May 14th

Advanced American Studies

We collectively discussed many of the causes of the Civil War that take place in the 1850's. Understand the following events:

Compromise of 1850
Uncle Tom's Cabin
Kansas Nebraska Act
Formation of the Republican Party
Dred Scott Decision
Lincoln Douglas Debates
John Brown's Raid

Assignment: Extra Credit reading entitled "Assault in the Senate"


American Studies

1. Watergate notes. Get handout from Mr. Brice if you are absent

Assignment: Read 727-733, Questions 4 & 5

Wednesday, May 13th

Image of Declaration of Independence courtesy of the National Archives (nara.gov)

Advanced American Studies
Our discussion of the beginning of the Civil War will begin today with a discussion of the legacy of slavery, sectionalism, and an analysis of the founding documents of America to find evidence that the slave question is insufficiently dealt with in the early days of the republic. In class notes will be taken.

Assignment: Complete "Steps to War" handout associated with Chapter 3 Sec. 1.

American Studies

After completion and discussion of The Killing Fields, we will move to other topics in the 1970's, specifically the Watergate Scandal.

Assignment: Read pages 719-23, Answer questions 4,5, & 6.

Monday, May 11th

Check out Courtney and Beth's national qualifying NHD website on Jane Addams HERE or on the link to the right.

Advanced American History

Gilded Age Objective Examination today!


American Studies

We continue our viewing of The Killing Fields about the rise of the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia in the late 1970's.

Friday, May 8th

Advanced American History

In class DBQ Essay -- Populism.  Essay is due at the end of the hour.

Reminder:  Gilded Age Exam -- Monday.

American Studies

Today, we are culminating our unit on the Vietnam war with a focus on the chaos that ensues in Southeast Asia after the end of America's involvement in Vietnam.  Specifically, we are examining the rise of the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia by viewing the film "The Killing Fields".

Thursday, May 7th

Advanced American Studies

In class today we are scheduled to finish our discussion of Teddy Roosevelt, the Progressive era, and the closing of the Gilded Age. DBQ Essay topics will be handed out today and we will use class time on Friday to compose the essays.


American Studies

Vietnam War Era Exam. If absent, make up this test within the next three days.

Wednesday, May 6th

Picture of Theodore Roosevelt courtesy of msnbc.com

Advanced American Studies

1. Gilded Age Quiz #3. Quiz focuses on westward expansion and American Indians, progressivism, and Teddy Roosevelt.
2. View A&E Biography of Teddy Roosevelt


American Studies

Review for Vietnam Exam -- Test Thursday.

Tuesday, May 5th

Advanced American Studies

The focus for today is the progressive movement of the early 2oth century. While there is no single defining characteristic of "progressives", most generally believed that societal problems could be remedied by an active government that worked to create a more fair and just society. If you missed class discussion, review pages 212-219 in your textbook for an overview.

Assignment: Read 233-239 (Roosevelt's Square Deal)


American Studies

1. Videoclip: End of the Vietnam War
2. In class assignment: Read pgs 672-75 (Nixon and the Cold War) and complete handout.

Monday, May 4th

Congratulations to Courtney Banker and Beth Van Beek -- NHD National Qualifiers!!!

Advanced American History

Our look at problems of the Gilded Age period continues today with a discussion of Westward expansion and American Indians. Review text pages 160-68 for more information and the handout distributed in class.

Reminder: Quiz Wednesday


American Studies

We are examining the ideas of Nixon and his role in Vietnam in class today.

Assignment: Read 664-671 #4,5,6

Tuesday, April 28th

Advanced American History

1. To review our discussion of populism, we will view a short collection of video clips from the Wizard of Oz.
2. Discussion / Notes on immigration and urbanization.

Assignment: Read pages 136-142.


American History

Senate Roundtable briefings are being held today. Be sure to have memos completed as well.

Monday, April 27th

Advanced American History

1.  Read primary sources from Frederick Law Olmstead and Jacob Riis.  Answer questions that are on the front of the packet on a separate sheet of paper to be turned in on Tuesday.

2.  Read text pages 128-135.  Take notes as necessary.

American Studies

1.  Senate briefings/memos will be due on Tuesday.  Use class time to work on these to prepare for tomorrow.

2.  Read Text pages 656-663.  Answer questions 4, 5 & 6.

Thursday, April 23rd

Advanced American History

1. Gilded Age Quiz #2 (labor movement and populism)
2. Introduce Gilded Age projects

For Friday: Work on beginning projects


American Studies

1. In class -- Perspectives on Vietnam - discussion

Assignment: Senate Briefing project--memo and presentation due Monday.

Wednesday, April 22nd

Depiction of William Jennings Bryan and his Cross of Gold speech courtesy of historyteacher.net

Advanced American History

Our discussion of the Populist movement continues with an analysis of the election of 1896 and the issues upon which it was based, and the Wizard of Oz as a political allegory. If absent, get all relevant handouts from the red folders in the back of class.

Reminder: Gilded Age quiz #2 on Thursday.

American History

1. Vietnam Quiz #1 -- on the origins of the war.
2. In class reading -- "Phil Caputo's recollection of rage and doubt"