Historical Investigation, Day 7 - Class Recap

A tree with prayer flags on the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu. It was quite an experience to climb up to this point! There are multiple students studying an aspect of a Chinese revolution for their historical investigation. Photo taken in 2014.

Dear class,

Today was our last day working with the historical investigation in class (hooray!) which means there is a lot of work ahead before Monday, especially for students that did not have completed rough drafts today! Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.
Behavior LT 1: I can manage my responsibilities as a student.

Soundtrack: "You've Got A Friend" by Carole King and James Taylor. Selected for today because a good friend doing a peer review helps a lot, and I wanted everyone to know I was going to try to help as much as possible to get you in a position to be successful on this project. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 4/13/17:

News Brief - Irene

Peer Review
Work Time
Conferences

Homework: Read the blog! Final draft of Historical Investigation is due at the start of next class (submitted on Google Classroom or printed if you cannot turn it in there). Next news brief: Ranger.

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News Brief: Irene had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: BBC.com - Swedish anti-abortion midwife loses court case. We found Sweden in our world maps and talked about this story for a bit, in terms of trying to understand what was going on. We will start the religion unit next class, so more insight might be given as a part of that. Thanks, Irene!

The next news brief was assigned to Ranger.

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

Peer Review: Today's class was supposed to be focused on getting as many good peer reviews on your historical investigation as possible. Here was the sheet I passed out in class for people to use.

Google Drive - Historical Investigation Peer Review Rubric

Make sure that you look to correct spelling and grammar, as well as the format issues!

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to working on review or doing whatever possible on the historical investigation. Here is the final assignment, again, if you need to look at it:

Google Drive: Historical Investigation - Detailed Assignment

Conferences: As students were working on review, I called every student that I could in the class up to talk about where they were at, what support was needed, what changes I saw needed to be done, or in some cases, just asking what in the world has been going on for the last month, since there was so little productivity to be seen. For many students, there is a LOT of work over these next couple of days to be done.

As always, if you are confused about what to do, please email me or comment and I would be happy to help. I suspect at this point most students know what to do - they just wanted to put it off until the very last moment to get it done. Well, that moment has arrived. Work hard to get this done, please. Thank you!

Historical Investigation, Day 6 - Class Recap

Mahatma Gandhi's bed at his home in Delhi, India. Sometimes, simple living can be powerful - Gandhi's message helped prompt a revolution! Photo taken in March of 2015.

Hi everyone,

Today was our last day of in class time working for the Historical Investigation before next class, when the rough draft is due to be peer reviewed! Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.
Behavior LT1: I can manage my responsibilities as a student.

Soundtrack: "This Time is the Last Time" by Mae. Selected for today because it was the last time we worked together as a class before the Historical Investigation rough draft was due! Lyrics here.

AGENDA 4/11/17:

News Brief - Adamari

Rough Draft Expectations
Final Questions?
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Your Historical Investigation rough draft is due next class. Next news brief: Irene.

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News Brief: Adamari had the news brief today and selected this article about this story to talk about: CNN.com - Russia could soon control a U.S. oil company. We found Russia in our world maps and talked about why Russia continues to face sanctions/restrictions after their take over of Crimea, in Ukraine.

The next news brief was assigned to Irene.

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

Rough Draft Expectations: Here's a copy of how you will be peer reviewing the Historical Investigation next class, which is so important to being able to turn in a good research paper:

Google Drive - Historical Investigation Peer Review Rubric

Please be sure to bring in your Chromebook (or if you do not have a Chromebook, a printed version of your paper) at the start of class  so that we can peer review and I can have a look at it as well. I will call students up one by one in class so we can look at it together and I can go over any last changes that I am requesting. Make sure that you look to correct spelling and grammar, as well!

Final Questions? Here is the final assignment, again, if you need to look at it:

Google Drive: Historical Investigation - Detailed Assignment

It seemed like students knew what they were doing at this point and wanted to get to work, so we started up work in class.

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to working in class on the assignment, and I was happy to try and answer questions, as well as help as much as I could. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do! Almost done! Keep it up!

Historical Investigation, Day 5 - Class Recap

Some students are researching the French Revolution for their Historical Investigation. Here is the French flag waving in Paris, in 2013.

Dear class,

Thank you for your continued hard work on the Historical Investigation. Only about a week left until it is all due! Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.
Behavior LT1: I can manage my responsibilities as a student.

Soundtrack: "Won't Get Fooled Again" by The Who. Selected for today because was recently April Fools Day! I did not try to fool anyone in class. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 4/6/17:

News Brief - Miriam
Parts C and E

H.I. Questions?
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Historical Investigation rough draft due next Wednesday. Keep working on it over the weekend and submit what you have on Google Classroom if you want my feedback and revision suggestions! Next news brief: Adamari.

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News Brief: Miriam had the news brief today and selected this article about this story to talk about: NYTimes.com - Mapping the Targets of the American Military Attack on Syria. We found Syria in the world map, and talked in depth about this story for a while, in terms of trying to understand what happened and why. Thanks for all the questions, everyone.

We also checked in about the weekend and what people were up to.

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

The next news brief was assigned to Adamari.

Parts C and E/HI Questions? During the Russian Revolution unit, I passed out a guide to help with Part E (an OPVL analysis of the sources you used in your Part B research). The last part of your historical investigation is this analysis of your sources. It is page 5 on this document:

Google Drive: Historical Investigation - Detailed Assignment

I explained that if you are not up to Part C (the conclusion, which is on page 4), you are behind schedule, but there is still time to make it up and I am here to help! Part B (all the research and finding good sources) is the most difficult part, for sure. Let me know if you are in need of help!

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to working in class on the assignment, and I was happy to try and answer questions, as well as help as much as I could. I was really pleased by how hard everyone seemed to be working - I hope it is all coming together for you!

Have a great weekend! Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to help you be successful!

Historical Investigation, Day 4 - Class Recap

Revolution Square, in Bucharest, Romania has this monument to King Carol I. The square is quite famous in Romanian history! Photo taken in 2013.

Hi everyone,

Welcome back from Spring Break! We had a day in class of peer review and working on the historical investigation. Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.
Behavior LT1: I can manage my responsibilities as a student.

Soundtrack: "Come Together" by The Beatles. Selected for today because Part B was due. Beatles. Part B. Get it? Also, because peer review involves coming together to improve. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 4/4/17:

News Brief - Kenny

Part B/D Peer Review
Part C
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Keep working on your Historical Investigation. If you do not have Parts A, B, and D at least as a rough draft, you are behind! Next news brief: Miriam.

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News Brief: Kenny had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: BBC.com - Syria chemical 'attack': Russia clashes with West at UN. We found Russia in the world map packet and noted we did a story related to it, as we talked about chemical weapons in Syria and what happened with this tragic story.

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

The next news brief was assigned to Miriam.

Part B/D Peer Review: There were many students who needed me to help them print their Part B documents, and it seemed like lots more who need to catch up with the rest of the class. If you have not finished the first draft of Part B and D, you are behind! Here's the peer review form/checklist that I passed out today to help with getting better:

Google Drive - Peer Review for Parts A, B, and D of Historical Investigation

It is your responsibility to get a great peer review and give one, too! It helps make everyone's work better. Please continue working on improving these sections!

Part C: For students who were done with Part B, I introduced Part C, which is the conclusion, where you answer your research question, now that you have found and used your sources of information in Part B. but it is on page 4 here:

Google Drive - Historical Investigation Assignment Details

We will continue to work on this next class! If you are on schedule with your historical investigation, these next two days in class will be spent wrapping up your work and refining your final paper.

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to working quietly on the assignment, and I was happy to try and answer questions along with print off papers.

Thank you for your hard work - please let me know if there is anything else I can help with!

Historical Investigation, Day 3 - Class Recap

After Spring Break note: Please see below for what we did in class today, with the exception of Kenny being assigned the next news brief and your Parts A, B, and D due at the start of next class (on Wednesday) for peer review.

Note: Today was an open walled class with Mr. Puterbaugh, where my Period 2 would normally be. As such, Period 2 got all of this information today, and will continue to work on finishing Part B in class the Monday after Spring Break, before it is due on Wednesday. Thus, this post is a review for today (the Friday before Spring Break) and a preview for the Monday after break. :-)

Over Spring Break in 2015, I traveled to India, and went to Mahatma Gandhi's home. These footsteps mark where he was, leading up to the spot where he was assassinated. Many students are doing historical investigations into India's revolution! Photo taken in March of 2015.

Hi everyone,

Welcome to Spring Break! We have plenty to do in class, in finding information to complete your Part B research and then using that research to write. Here's what we did in the last class before the break:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts..

Soundtrack: "Roam" by The B-52's. Selected for today because of my encouragement to explore the world around you, even if you are staying at home during Spring Break! Lyrics here.

AGENDA 3/24/17:

News Brief - Kira

Part B, Explained
Sources

Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Have a great, safe Spring Break! Please work on Part B - researching your historical investigation and using that information to write your research paper! Two to three pages are due to be turned in on Google Classroom before our second class after break (on Wednesday, April 5)! Next news brief: Mr. Fritz.

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News Brief: Kira (from my Period 1) had the news brief today and selected this article to talk about: BBC.co.uk - Attack in Westminster: What happened?. We found the United Kingdom in our world map packet and noted we did a story on this event. I talked for a bit in class about about this story, and how I have a good friend in the British government (Westminster is one of my favo(u)rite places in the world). I will have the next news brief after Spring Break.

Finally, we checked in about what students were up to over Spring Break this year. I will be heading to South Korea with my wife for the week! We are looking forward to exploring the country and coming back refreshed and rejuvenated. :-)

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

Part B, Explained/Sources: Before we started in class work again, I went over the MLA citations guideline and how you should be citing your information that you find as part of your investigation. Here is the paper that I passed out in class: MLA citation guide - 7th edition. Every source that you use for your project should fit into one of those categories on the second page. That is what you are adding to your bibliography (Part D) as you go along.

Finally, for Part B - the Summary and Use of Evidence, please look at page 3 of the Historical Investigation assignment.

That document will help you with understanding what Part B is all about. Remember, Part B (which is 2-3 pages) is due on the Wednesday of the week we get back, turned in on Google Classroom.

To help with Part B, here is a second document - a template for filling out as you find good sources of information that relate to your research question:

Google Drive: Part B Taking Notes Template Document

This is a nice and easy way to complete Part B. Remember that you need to have at least three good sources (so you could fill out this document four different times, if you wanted). Again, no Wikipedia - the source has to be reliable information.

The best way to find good sources is using the Westview High School Library website. Here is the guide that I wrote up for using it.

Another good way to find good, reliable information is through a search on Google Scholar, which looks through academic articles (make sure you aren't using a book review as a source, though).

I know this is a LOT to take in. Please let me know how I can help better explain what you need to do.

Work Time: After explaining all of this, we had in class work time. At this point, you really need to have Part A done, and know what you are doing with Part B.

I know this is quite a lot of information, all at once. I am here to help at almost any time - just take into account the time in Korea for me to get back to you! Email, post a comment on the blog, or come see me! Have a great, safe Spring Break and I will see you all in April! :-)

Historical Investigation, Day 2 - Class Recap

Another picture from my Spring Break trip to Washington, D.C. in 2010: this is the National Archives building, where the original copies of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution are held. Those are extremely important documents for historians researching the American Revolution!

Hi everyone,

Our last official class before Spring Break (though we are combining classes tomorrow so I will see you again)! Lots to do, for sure. Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.

Soundtrack: "Marry The Night" by Lady Gaga. Selected for today because it was super dark out the past few weeks in the morning, for Daylight Savings Time. Now getting a little better! Lyrics here.

AGENDA 3/23/17:

News Brief - Ayra

Finding Sources
Research Questions
Finish Part A

Homework: Read the blog! Turn in your Part A research question paragraph ASAP on Google Classroom if you did not today. Start working on research for Part B! Next news brief: Mr. Fritz.

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News Brief: Ayra had the news brief today and selected this story to talk about: BBC.com - Venezuela shocked as children arrested for soldiers' killings. We found Venezuela on our world maps and discussed this story together. There were lots of really interesting questions and comments during this time - thanks, everyone!

We checked in about what people were up to outside of class, before moving on.

I will do the next news brief, as it is after Spring Break.

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

Finding Sources: For this section, I explained how to do research using the Westview Library Website - particularly the EBSCO and Destiny Library Catalog tools. If you can access the internet at home to research for your project, here is the guide for the login and password information that I showed in class. Then, Ms. Schulz (who is our technology helper here at Westview) came in to talk with the class about some Chrome extensions and other research tips, which can be found on Canvas, under the All Students tab. Here is the document she went through with various different Chrome extensions (you will need to make a copy if you did not in class, in order to view it).

Research Questions: I then talked again about how to make a good research question, which involves finding something specific (like a person or event - or better yet, both!) within a revolution to investigate. Here is the information I had up on the projector for the rest of class:

• All good research starts with good questions. Part A, framing the issue, is a brief description of your research plan. The plan should include some of the key questions driving your research.
• Please include:
• Your research question
• What interests you about the topic
• What questions might you need to answer before you can answer your research question.
• Where will you find your information, specifically what types of sources will you need to look at in order to answer your research question(s).
• Explain your goals or what you hope to learn
• Explain the types of sources you will get your information from
• Explain the different perspectives you will look for?
• Write this in paragraph form.

Finish Part A: After explaining all of this, we had in class work time to finish Part A. I wanted to make sure that I approved each research question before you moved on to writing out the whole paragraph for Part A. Hopefully, everyone was able to complete this in class. If not, please upload it to Google Classroom, please. Also, this could have been a time you were looking at what to do for Part B.

I hope that you are feeling okay about this major project! Keep up the good work!

Historical Investigation, Day 1 - Class Recap

Today we started the Historical Investigation project, which is about revolutions. You cannot pick the American Revolution, but here is a lasting reminder of it: the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C.! I took this picture during Spring Break in 2010.

Hi everyone,

Today was the start of a really big assignment: the historical investigation that all freshmen need to do at Westview (most sophomores will, as well). Here's what happened in class:

Learning Targets:
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.

Soundtrack: "At the Beginning" from Anatasia. Selected for today because of the movie's connection to the Russian Revolution, and our work starting on the Historical Investigation. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 3/21/17:

News Brief - Reuben

The Historical Investigation
Part A Research
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Come prepared with a revolution in mind to investigate. You will be finishing your Part A paragraph in class. Ayra has the next news brief.

Here is the calendar for where we are at with the historical investigation.

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News Brief: Reuben had the news brief today and selected this article to talk about: NBCNews.com - Royal Jordanian Tells Passengers U.S. Is Barring Electronic Devices From Its Flights. We found Jordan in the world map packet and noted we did a story about it, as we talked about what is going on with this story. I related my own experience as a baggage handler at PDX, working for Lufthansa.

We checked in about the weekend and what people were up to.

Ayra was selected for the next 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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

The Historical Investigation: Alert, alert! This is the start of a massive assignment. Here is what I passed out in class today:

1) The "simple" explanation sheet, with the possible revolutions to research on the second page:

Google Drive: Historical Investigation Basics

2) The more in depth assignment, with all of the learning targets and step by step process for Part A (on the second page):

Google Drive: Historical Investigation Assignment In Depth

We went through both of these thoroughly (at least 20 minutes) in class. Basically, the assignment consists of five parts. The back side of the paper has a list of possible revolutions to choose from. If you want to choose one that is not on that list, you must clear it by me first. This is NOT a partner assignment. In fact, if you choose the same revolution as someone else, I am going to make sure that you have completely different research questions and sources.

For Period 2, the rough draft of this will be due on April 13th. The final draft will be due the next class after that, which is April 17th.

As I was saying in class: if you want to do well on this project (and you should, considering it is one of the biggest assignments of the entire year), you will probably have to be working on it at home, as well as working very hard in class on it.

3) A calendar of the plan for the next month. Remember that we will be doing other activities than just the historical investigation. This calendar has all of the major due dates on it. Note that Part A is due at the end of next class! We will go to the computer lab for most of next class, but you need to have a plan of attack going in.

Part A Research: Today's assignment was to start working on Part A - Framing the Issue. This means that you need to find a revolution that you are interested in, then narrow down a specific research question about that revolution. If you were not in class, or did not have the questions you will be answering in your one paragraph for this, here they are:

1) Why is this topic important?
2) Why did you choose this particular question?
3) What kinds of sources might you plan on using in your research?

To start this section, and thinking about what good research questions and sources look like, we analyzed four different Historical Investigations from other classes (note that these were not about revolutions, as yours is required to be). Students looked at what was good, what needed work, and tried to give a score on the Research LT. This was to help with what the research might look like. We shared out as a class and tried to determine what each paper should get.

Work Time: For the rest of class, we worked in class using Chromebooks to start researching revolutions and choosing which one you are going to investigate. This is a major decision - do not take it lightly! For next class, please come in with a good idea about what you want to investigate. Again, this needs to be a focused question. Instead of "what happened in the Russian Revolution?" think more along the lines of "How did Vladimir Lenin lead the Bolsheviks during the October Revolution in Russia?"

Please let me know if you have questions, comments, or concerns! I would be happy to help you begin this project. I am confident that all of you will do well on this! :-)

StEPP Class Recap

This weekend, I went to the Aviation Geek Fest in Seattle. I loved all of the flags hanging in the Future of Flight Museum, because it reminded me of Global Studies!

Hi everyone,

For most of you, I assume that today was a huge relief in that you turned in your Historical Investigation! We spent much of the class with your counselor, going over post high school options in attending a community college or four year college. Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Behavior LT 1: I can manage my responsibilities as a student.
Knowledge LT 21: I can explain how religious ideas impact the shaping of societies.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.

Soundtrack: "Step in the Name of Love" by R. Kelly. Selected for today because we were doing the "StEPP" activity with a counselor in our class, which is a graduation requirement. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 4/12/16:

News Brief - Lauren

Turn in Historical Investigation
StEPP with Ms. Nutters
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! If you have not turned in your historical investigation, you need to do so ASAP so the F grade for the assignment will be taken away. Next news brief: Trevor.

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News Brief: Lauren had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: NBCNews.com - Yellow Fever Moves to Congo. We found the Democratic Republic of the Congo in our world maps and talked about this tragic story for a bit. We also checked in about the weekend and what people were up to.

The next news brief was assigned to Trevor.

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

Turn in Historical Investigation: The big day finally arrived and it was time to turn in your historical investigation research projects! I was in contact with a ton of students and parents about it, so I hope that there was a lot of productivity happening. I am excited to read the research projects! If you did not turn it in today, it will be an N grade in the gradebook (basically, an F) until you do. Once 100% of students have turned the assignment in, I said that I would show the class a music video that I made in high school with some friends. :-)

StEPP with Christine: Today, we had Christine (your counselor) come in and lead an activity with the class about college options. This involved doing a "philosophical chairs" (or Forced Choice) style debate. I thought that the class did a great job, and I was proud of you for remembering the debate format and working with Christine to work towards your career education credit for the year!

Work Time: At the end of class, after completing the exit ticket for Christine, we had a few minutes of work/free time. I am excited to start looking at religion next class with everyone! See you then!

Historical Investigation, Day 8 - Class Recap

A tree with prayer flags on the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu. It was quite an experience to climb up to this point! There are multiple students studying an aspect of a Chinese revolution for their historical investigation. Photo taken in 2014.

Dear class,

Today was our last day working with the historical investigation in class (hooray!) which means there is a lot of work ahead this weekend, especially for students that did not have completed rough drafts today! Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.
Behavior LT 1: I can manage my responsibilities as a student.

Soundtrack: "You've Got A Friend" by Carole King and James Taylor. Selected for today because a good friend doing a peer review helps a lot, and I wanted everyone to know I was going to try to help as much as possible to get you in a position to be successful on this project. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 4/8/16:

News Brief - Lisa

Peer Review
Work Time
Conferences

Homework: Read the blog! Final draft (printed copy) of Historical Investigation is due at the start of next class. Next news brief: Lisa.

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News Brief: Lisa had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: CNN.com - 4 ISIS suspects arrested, weapons seized in Denmark, police say. We found Denmark in the world maps (a new one, I think!) and talked about how ISIS seems like they are losing control of some of their previous territory in Syria and Iraq, so they possibly might be wanting to attack places in Europe to show their strength. Thanks, Lisa!

The next news brief was assigned to Lauren.

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

Peer Review: Today's class was supposed to be focused on getting as many good peer reviews on your historical investigation as possible. Here was the sheet I passed out in class for people to use.

Google Drive - Historical Investigation Peer Review Rubric

Make sure that you look to correct spelling and grammar, as well as the format issues!

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to working on review or doing whatever possible on the historical investigation. Here is the final assignment, again, if you need to look at it:

Google Drive: Historical Investigation - Detailed Assignment

Conferences: As students were working on review, I called (with Eli helping) each student in the class up to talk about where they were at, what support was needed, what changes I saw needed to be done, or in some cases, just asking what in the world has been going on for the last month, since there was so little productivity to be seen. For many students, there is a LOT of work over this weekend to be done.

As always, if you are confused about what to do, please email me or comment and I would be happy to help. I suspect at this point most students know what to do - they just wanted to put it off until the very last moment to get it done. Well, that moment has arrived. Work hard this weekend, please. Thank you!

Historical Investigation, Day 7 - Class Recap

Mahatma Gandhi's bed at his home in Delhi, India. Sometimes, simple living can be powerful - Gandhi's message helped prompt a revolution! Photo taken in March of 2015.

Hi everyone,

Today was our last day of in class Computer Lab time for the Historical Investigation. Next class, the rough draft is due to be peer reviewed! Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.
Behavior LT1: I can manage my responsibilities as a student.

Soundtrack: "This Time is the Last Time" by Mae. Selected for today because it was the last time we went to the computer lab together as a class to work on the Historical Investigation! Lyrics here.

AGENDA 4/6/16:

News Brief - Mindy

Rough Draft Expectations
Final Questions?
Computer Lab N210

Homework: Read the blog! Printed copy of Historical Investigation rough draft due next class. Next news brief: Lisa.

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News Brief: Mindy had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: CNN.com - Panama Papers: Iceland President declines call to dissolve parliament. We found Panama in our world maps and talked about a lot of interesting parts to this story: tax evasion, hacking, shell companies, oligarchy, and the impact this release could have. Thank you for the good questions, everyone!

The next news brief was assigned to Lisa.

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

Rough Draft Expectations: Here's the copy of how you will be peer reviewing the Historical Investigation next class, which is so important to being able to turn in a good research paper:

Google Drive - Historical Investigation Peer Review Rubric

Please be sure to bring in a printed copy at the start of class (I do not want a ton of students needing to print their papers out) so that we can peer review and I can have a look at it as well. I will call students up one by one in class so we can look at it together and I can go over any last changes that I am requesting. Make sure that you look to correct spelling and grammar, as well!

Final Questions? Here is the final assignment, again, if you need to look at it:

Google Drive: Historical Investigation - Detailed Assignment

It seemed like students knew what they were doing at this point and wanted to get to work, so we went to the computer lab.

Computer Lab N210: The rest of class was devoted to working in the Computer Lab on the assignment, and I was happy to try and answer questions, as well as help as much as I could. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do!

Historical Investigation, Day 6 - Class Recap

Some students are researching the French Revolution for their Historical Investigation. Here is the French flag waving in Paris, in 2013.

Dear class,

Thank you for your continued hard work on the Historical Investigation. Only about a week left until it is all due! Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.
Behavior LT1: I can manage my responsibilities as a student.

Soundtrack: "Won't Get Fooled Again" by The Who. Selected for today because last week was April Fools Day! I did not try to fool anyone in class. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 4/4/16:

News Brief - Daisy
Parts C and E

HI Questions?
Computer Lab N210

Homework: Read the blog! Historical Investigation rough draft due on Friday. Next news brief: Mindy.

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News Brief: Daisy had the news brief today and selected this article about this story to talk about: BBC.com - Migrant crisis: Greece starts deportations to Turkey. We found Greece on the world map and talked about what is going on with the geographic, economic, and political situation in Turkey and Greece, and why refugees are being sent back.

We also checked in about the weekend and April Fools Day.

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

The next news brief was assigned to Mindy.

Parts C and E/HI Questions? I passed out a guide to help with Part E (an OPVL analysis of the sources you used in your Part B research)  It is page 5 on this document:

Google Drive: Historical Investigation - Detailed Assignment

I explained that if you are not up to Part C (the conclusion, which is on page 4), you are behind schedule, but there is still time to make it up! Part B (all the research and finding good sources) is the most difficult part, for sure. Let me know if you are in need of help!

Computer Lab N210: The rest of class was devoted to working in the Computer Lab on the assignment, and I was happy to try and answer questions, as well as help as much as I could.

Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to help you be successful!

Historical Investigation, Day 5 - Class Recap

Revolution Square, in Bucharest, Romania has this monument to King Carol I. The square is quite famous in Romanian history! Photo taken in 2013.

Hi everyone,

We had a day in class of peer review and working on the historical investigation. Many students (over half the class) seemed to be way behind on the assignment, which is quite concerning. We have plenty to do! Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.
Behavior LT1: I can manage my responsibilities as a student.
--- I talked for a bit in class about this, and the importance of managing your responsibilities as a student with this project. Print off your papers before class! Ask me for help if you need it at the start of Spring Break, instead of the night before it is due!

Soundtrack: "Come Together" by The Beatles. Selected for today because Part B was due. Beatles. Part B. Get it? Lyrics here.

AGENDA 3/31/16:

News Brief - Yanuel

Part B/D Peer Review
Part C
Work Time

Homework: Read the blog! Keep working on your Historical Investigation. If you do not have Parts A, B, and D at least as a rough draft, you are behind! Next news brief: Daisy.

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News Brief: Yanuel had the news brief today and selected an article about this story (okay, so it was more me coaxing it along) to talk about: CNN.com - Salah Abdeslam, Paris terror suspect, captured; four others arrested. We found France again in the world map packet and talked about the connection with the recent terrorist attacks in Brussels, Belgium.

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

The next news brief was assigned to Daisy.

Part B/D Peer Review: There were many students who needed me to help them print their Part B documents, and it seemed like lots more who need to catch up with the rest of the class. If you have not finished the first draft of Part B and D, you are behind! Here's the peer review form/checklist that I passed out today to help with getting better:

Google Drive - Peer Review for Parts A, B, and D of Historical Investigation

It is your responsibility to get a great peer review and give one, too! It helps make everyone's work better. Please continue working on improving these sections!

Part C: For students who were done with Part B, I introduced Part C, which is the conclusion, where you answer your research question, now that you have found and used your sources of information in Part B. but it is on page 4 here:

Google Drive - Historical Investigation Assignment Details

We will continue to work on this next class! If you are on schedule with your historical investigation, these next two days in class will be spent wrapping up your work and refining your final paper.

Work Time: The rest of class was devoted to working quietly on the assignment, and I was happy to try and answer questions along with print off papers.

Thank you for your hard work - please let me know if there is anything else I can help with!

Historical Investigation, Day 4 - Class Recap

A picture that I took on the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa (the tallest building in the world) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates during last Spring Break. I used my dad's camera (a Canon EOS 5D Mark II, which is super nice) and a 15mm fisheye lens to make it look like the world was a city. Fun effect!

Dear class,

Welcome back Spring Break! I hope you enjoyed the week off from school. There is also plenty of work for all of us to get back to! Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.

Soundtrack: "Edge of the Ocean" by Ivy. Selected for today because I imagine that a few students headed to the beach over Spring Break! Lyrics here.

AGENDA 3/29/16:

News Brief - David

Spring Break
Part B Recap

Library

Homework: Read the blog! Keep working on Part B - researching your historical investigation! Part B (2-3 pages of your research in at least three paragraphs) and Part D (your works cited information) due next class. Next news brief: Yanuel.

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News Brief: David had the news brief today and selected an article about this story to talk about: CNN.com - EgyptAir hijacker in custody, all passengers evacuated, officials say. We found Egypt on our world maps and talked about this developing story. It sounds like everyone thankfully ended up safe and sound.

Yanuel volunteered to do the next 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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

Spring Break: I asked the class if there was anything interesting or noteworthy that people did over Spring Break. It is always nice to check in with everyone about what you are up to outside our classroom. I stayed at home and was very productive, which felt nice, because I usually travel over  I hope that everyone was able to enjoy the time off somehow! :-)

Part B Recap: Before we headed over to the Library again, I went over the MLA citations guideline and how you should be citing your information that you find as part of your investigation. Here is the paper that I passed out in class: MLA citation guide - 7th edition. Every source that you use for your project should fit into one of those categories on the second page. That is what you are adding to your bibliography (Part D) as you go along.

Finally, for Part B - the Summary and Use of Evidence, please look at page 3 of the Historical Investigation assignment.

That document will help you with understanding what Part B is all about. Remember, Part B (which is 2-3 pages) is due the Wednesday we get back from break.

To help with Part B, here is the second document - a template for filling out as you find good sources of information that relate to your research question:

Google Drive: Part B Taking Notes Template Document

This is a nice and easy way to complete Part B. Remember that you need to have at least three good sources (so you could fill out this document four different times, if you wanted). Again, no Wikipedia - the source has to be reliable information.

The best way to find good sources is using the Westview High School Library website. Here is the guide that I wrote up for using it.

Another good way to find good, reliable information is through a search on Google Scholar, which looks through academic articles (make sure you aren't using a book review as a source, though).

I know this is a LOT to take in. Please let me know how I can help better explain what you need to do.

Library: After explaining all of this, we headed over to the Library to work. Part B and Part D is due as a rough draft next class! This means having two to three pages of research using, like an essay (in paragraph format with citations). Let me know if you need support with this! See you next class!

Historical Investigation, Day 3 - Class Recap

Last Spring Break, I traveled to India, and went to Mahatma Gandhi's home. These footsteps mark where he was, leading up to the spot where he was assassinated. Many students are doing historical investigations into India's revolution! Photo taken in March of 2015.

Hi everyone,

Welcome to Spring Break! We have plenty to do in class, in finding information to complete your Part B research and then using that research to write, which should be your homework over the break. Here's what we did in the last class before the break:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts..

Soundtrack: "Roam" by The B-52's. Selected for today because of my encouragement to explore the world around you, even if you are staying at home during Spring Break! Lyrics here.

AGENDA 3/17/16:

News Brief - Matthew

Part B, Explained
Sources

Computer Lab N210

Homework: Read the blog! Please work on Part B - researching your historical investigation and using that information to write your research paper! Two to three pages will be due on the Thursday after break! Next news brief: David.

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News Brief: Matthew had the news brief today and selected an article about ISIS executing 6 alleged spies. To go along with this, I showed this update: CNN.com - John Kerry: ISIS responsible for genocide. We found Iraq in our world map and noted we did another news brief about it.

Finally, we discussed the presidential nomination process results from Tuesday: NYTimes.com - March 15 Primary Results.

Lots going on!

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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

Part B, Explained/Sources: Before we headed over to the Computer Lab again, I went over the MLA citations guideline and how you should be citing your information that you find as part of your investigation. Here is the paper that I passed out in class: MLA citation guide - 7th edition. Every source that you use for your project should fit into one of those categories on the second page. That is what you are adding to your bibliography (Part E) as you go along.

Finally, for Part B - the Summary and Use of Evidence, please look at page 3 of the Historical Investigation assignment.

That document will help you with understanding what Part B is all about. Remember, Part B (which is 2-3 pages) is due the week we get back.

To help with Part B, here is the second document - a template for filling out as you find good sources of information that relate to your research question:

Google Drive: Part B Taking Notes Template Document

This is a nice and easy way to complete Part B. Remember that you need to have at least three good sources (so you could fill out this document four different times, if you wanted). Again, no Wikipedia - the source has to be reliable information.

The best way to find good sources is using the Westview High School Library website. Here is the guide that I wrote up for using it.

Another good way to find good, reliable information is through a search on Google Scholar, which looks through academic articles (make sure you aren't using a book review as a source, though).

I know this is a LOT to take in. Please let me know how I can help better explain what you need to do.

Computer Lab N210: After explaining all of this, we headed over to N210 to work. At this point, you really need to have Part A done, and know what you are doing with Part B.

I know this is quite a lot of information, all at once. I am here to help at almost any time! Email, post a comment on the blog, or come see me! :-)

Historical Investigation, Day 2 - Class Recap

Another picture from my Spring Break trip to Washington, D.C. in 2010: this is the National Archives building, where the original copies of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution are held. Those are extremely important documents for historians researching the American Revolution!

Hi everyone,

One more week to go until Spring Break! Lots of work to do until then (and probably some during the break, too). Here's what we did today in class:

Learning Targets: 
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.

Soundtrack: "Marry The Night" by Lady Gaga. Selected for today because it was so dark out this morning, due to the loss of an hour over the weekend, for Daylight Savings Time. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 3/15/16:

News Brief - Eric

Research Questions
Finish Part A

Computer Lab N210

Homework: Read the blog! Turn in your Part A research question paragraph ASAP (printed - not emailed) if you did not today. Start working on research for Part B! Next news brief: Matthew.

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News Brief: Eric had the news brief today and selected this story to talk about: NYTimes.com - American ISIS Fighter Is Captured in Iraq. We found Iraq on our world maps and talked about who Kurdish people are and why it is important to continue to learn about ISIS. Thanks, Alex!

We checked in about last weekend and what people were up to.

Matthew was selected for the next 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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

Research Questions: For this section, I explained how to do research using the Westview Library Website - particularly the EBSCO and Destiny Library Catalog tools. If you can access the internet at home to research for your project, here is the guide for the login and password information that I showed in class.

Finish Part A/Computer Lab N210: After explaining all of this, we headed over to N210 to finish Part A. I wanted to make sure that I approved each research question before you moved on to writing out the whole paragraph for Part A. Hopefully, everyone was able to complete this in class. If not, please print it and give it to me ASAP, please. Also, this could have been a time you were looking at what to do for Part B.

I hope that you are feeling okay about this major project! Keep up the good work!

Historical Investigation, Day 1 - Class Recap

Today we started the Historical Investigation project, which is about revolutions. You cannot pick the American Revolution, but here is a lasting reminder of it: the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C.! I took this picture during Spring Break in 2010.

Hi everyone,

Today was the start of a really big assignment: the historical investigation that all freshmen need to do at Westview (most sophomores will, as well). Here's what happened in class:

Learning Targets:
Knowledge LT 19: I can explain the impacts of nationalism and revolutionary movements.
Communication LT 1: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Research LT 1: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
Critical Thinking LT 2: I can explain connections between events, issues, problems and concepts.

Soundtrack: "At the Beginning" from Anatasia. Selected for today because of the movie's connection to the Russian Revolution, and our work starting on the Historical Investigation. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 3/10/16:

News Brief - Abby

The Historical Investigation
Part A Research
Library Computers

Homework: Read the blog! Come prepared with a revolution in mind to investigate. You will be finishing your Part A paragraph in class. Eric has the next news brief.

Here is the calendar for where we are at with the historical investigation.

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News Brief: Abby had the news brief today and selected this article to talk about: CNN.com - Top ISIS leader 'critically injured' in U.S. airstrike, activists say. Another look at what is currently happening in Syria, which we found again on our world maps. This is obviously an important continuing story!

We checked in about the upcoming weekend and what people were up to.

Eric volunteered for the next 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):

BBCNews.com - One-minute World News

The Historical Investigation: Alert, alert! This is the start of a massive assignment. Here is what I passed out in class today:

1) The "simple" explanation sheet, with the possible revolutions to research on the second page:

Google Drive: Historical Investigation Basics

2) The more in depth assignment, with all of the learning targets and step by step process for Part A (on the second page):

Google Drive: Historical Investigation Assignment In Depth

We went through both of these thoroughly (at least 20 minutes) in class. Basically, the assignment consists of five parts. The back side of the paper has a list of possible revolutions to choose from. If you want to choose one that is not on that list, you must clear it by me first. This is NOT a partner assignment. In fact, if you choose the same revolution as someone else, I am going to make sure that you have completely different research questions and sources.

For Period 2, the rough draft of this will be due on April 8th. The final draft will be due the next class after that, which is April 12th.

As I was saying in class: if you want to do well on this project (and you should, considering it is one of the biggest assignments of the entire year), you will probably have to be working on it at home, as well as working very hard in class on it.

3) A calendar of the plan for the next month. Remember that we will be doing other activities than just the historical investigation. This calendar has all of the major due dates on it. Note that Part A is due at the end of next class! We will go to the computer lab for most of next class, but you need to have a plan of attack going in.

Part A Research: Today's assignment was to start working on Part A - Framing the Issue. This means that you need to find a revolution that you are interested in, then narrow down a specific research question about that revolution. If you were not in class, or did not have the questions you will be answering in your one paragraph for this, here they are:

1) Why is this topic important?
2) Why did you choose this particular question?
3) What kinds of sources might you plan on using in your research?

To start this section, and thinking about what good research questions and sources look like, we analyzed four different Historical Investigations from other classes (note that these were not about revolutions, as yours is required to be). Students looked at what was good, what needed work, and tried to give a score on the Research LT. This was to help with what the research might look like. We shared out as a class and tried to determine what each paper should get.

Library Computers: For the rest of class, we headed up to the Library to start researching revolutions and choosing which one you are going to investigate. This is a major decision - do not take it lightly! For next class, please come in with a good idea about what you want to investigate. Again, this needs to be a focused question. Instead of "what happened in the Russian Revolution?" think more along the lines of "How did Vladimir Lenin lead the Bolsheviks during the October Revolution in Russia?"

Please let me know if you have questions, comments, or concerns! I would be happy to help you begin this project. I am confident that all of you will do well on this! :-)