Marking Period 2, here we go!

One week until Thanksgiving and one marking period in the can...this year is moving along. I have to admit that I was loving the milder weather and I still don't feel ready for freezing temps. Sometimes I think it might just be easier to hibernate for the winter months but then I would miss out on a lot of fun like the holidays, Battle of the Classes, holiday concerts, and winter sports. There are lots of fun things to look forward to.

I continue to be pleased for the most part with the way all five classes are going. Students have gotten used to the routines and have learned to rely on the Edmodo page for guidance and resources.  We are continuing to work on important research and informational skills while learning interesting content. The AP students have been writing a lot and we continue to work on improving thesis statements.  They finish up WW I with an essay and a test this week.  We have had the opportunity to really discuss Woodrow Wilson as a leader and a visionary while being critical of some of his values and political skills. We compared and contrasted the League of Nations to the United Nations and debated the possibility of whether World War II could have been avoided. It is so wonderful to be able to discuss historical content on such a high level.

In ELL, they have just started to learn about WW I.  We will have a chance to discuss the causes and outcomes, as well as trench warfare and other strategies.  In the Academic classes, they have moved onto the 1920s and have started a fun group project that will have them research social and cultural events in the 1920s to create an electronic presentation.  They have been reading some primary and secondary documents about immigration restrictions and the Ku Klux Klan.

Our student teacher, Ms. Kirchmer, is with us until December 13th.  Although I have enjoyed her company and presence in the classroom, it is almost time for her to graduate and move onto her own classroom. Meanwhile, Happy Thanksgiving. I hope everyone is able to enjoy their family and friends!