GREETINGS, CLASS of 2014!!!

Greetings, Class of 2014!

Thanks for visiting the blog. I've set this up as a way for us to communicate with each other, and share ideas about Social Studies, school, the world, etc. I'd like to use this a way for us to even complete our homework assignments; saves paper, time, trees, etc.

As 9th graders, you and the other members of our Freshman Learning Community (FLC) will be engaged in a rigorous course of study in US History and Government. It is an extremely challenging course. Some members of our learning community will be taking Advanced Placement (AP) US History. This is a college-level course, with a demanding exam that is taken in the beginning of May; students who are successful on this exam can earn up to six (6) college credits for their efforts!

Assignment # 1 - 9/08/2010

Here is your first assignment. There are five things you need to do. Please note that you must complete each of these five steps by MONDAY SEPT 14, 2010.

1. Purchase a copy of A Quick Review of US History and Government. You can order the book by clicking here. The cost of the book is approximately Eight (8) dollars. It is the BEST review book for US History that I have seen published! Please bring this book with you on the first day of school, as well as every other day of school. This book should always be on your person when you come to US History class.

2. Purchase the supplies for this class. CLICK HERE FOR THE LIST OF SUPPLIES. Please note that you are responsible for both the personal supplies, and classroom supplies!

3. CLICK HERE, print out the WELCOME LETTER. Please read the letter with your parents. Both you and your parents must sign the letter. Please bring it with you to class on Monday September 14th.

4. CLICK HERE, print out the CLASS CONTRACT. Please read the contract and bring it with you on the first day of school. You, and your parents must sign the contract. The contract must be on your person every day that you are in this class!

5. Click HERE to set up your account with POWER MEDIA PLUS. You will need this account, as sometimes you will be asked to watch videos for this class at home. DON'T WORRY! IT'S FREE! Enter the following passcode (copy and paste works best) yPNvYtchCh

Assignment #2 Due Date 9/14/2010

This assignment is due on TUESDAY SEPT. 14th 2010.

CLICK HERE, and READ THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE.

Based on the article, in your opinion, what are the FIVE most important reasons the author gives for studying history? Please briefly explain WHY you chose those five.

Before todays' class, and before reading this article did you think studying history was important? Why, or why not? Has that perception changed? Why, or why not? PLEASE BE HONEST. I will not be offended if you don't think studying history is important. All I ask is that you explain why you believe it is not. Please note that you can complete this part of the assignment, either by writing it on looseleaf, or by posting on-line.