Federalism Mini Project

Objective: Students will:
a. analyze the nature of the relationship between the Federal and State governments
b. explain how various government actions illustrate the system of Federalism in their daily lives.

Background information: The concept of Federalism is one that underlies all concepts about the power of government in the US system. Federalism within the United States system is the balancing of power between a Federal Government and State Governments. Within this system, the Federal Government is superior to the State Governments. For example, a state could not pass a law that directly contradicted a law passed on the federal level. Within these principles, power is divided among the federal (delegated powers) and state governments (reserved powers). Power is also shared between the federal and state governments (concurrent powers).

How does Federalism affect your daily life? For this assignment, you will carefully observe your school, your neighborhood…In short, the world around you. You will then express this idea in a written (and visual, if you choose) form.

What do I have to do?
1. For the next few days, carefully observe your surroundings. Using the list of powers that you were given in class, as well as in the Constitution (p. 158 of your TB), look for examples of these things in action around you. These examples can consist of almost anything; buildings, street signs, even people!
2. Using a notebook, or your reporter’s pad, make a list of these things. Record where and when you saw these things, and the example of the power you see in action. For added information (and extra points) take pictures of them. Here are some examples:

• a. A Post Office, or a USPS mailbox. This would be an excellent example of a Delegated Power, because the Federal Government has the power to establish post offices and postal roads.
  
• b. A hairdresser. A hairdresser needs a license to cut hair in New York State. One of the RESERVED POWERS of the state government is to license professional workers.

3. Your goal is to find AT LEAST two examples of each of the powers occurring in your daily lives. Remember, the powers are the:

• a. Delegated: Federal Government
  
• b. Reserved: States
  
• c. Concurrent: Shared
  

4. After finding your examples, compose an essay that:

• a. Discusses how Federalism works (one paragraph)
  
• b. Identifies at least two examples of each power (one paragraph for each of the three powers). Your examples must identify where and when you saw them, as well as a brief description of the example.
  
• c. Has a strong introduction and conclusion. Therefore, your essay should be at least 6 paragraphs.
  

5) Your essay must be TYPED or neatly handwritten in ink. If you type your essay, it must be double spaced, and you must use 12 point font (Arial, or Times New Roman only).
6) For added visual impact, and extra credit (up to 20 points), you may attach photographs of your examples to a poster board along with your essay, similar to the “What America Means to Me” project. Please note that this is an optional step. You will not be penalized if you do not complete this step.
7) BE CREATIVE…WORK HARD…HAVE FUN!
8) Make sure that you include your name, and class period on your assignment.

HW 11/14/07 - Federalism

Based on today's class about Federalism...

Do you think the balance of powers is fair to the states and to the Federal gov’t? Explain in a composition of no more than 100 words.

Here's a link to help you, if you're not sure what Federalism is all about.

http://regentsprep.org/Regents/ushisgov/themes/government/federalism.htm

Tonight's HW 11/9/07

Over the years, the Constitution has been referred to as a "living document."

In a post of at least 50, but no more than 100 words, please explain why the Constitution is called a "living document."

Here's a link with information to help you write your post.

http://bensguide.gpo.gov/6-8/documents/constitution/about.html

See you on Tuesday!

HW 11/8/07 - Reflection on the Amendments

Hello, Everyone:

Excellent job on the Amendment charts.

Listed below are a series of questions about the amendments. Use the questions to write a brief summary of what you've learned from the Amendment activity.

• What reasons might explain why these amendments were passed?
  
• How do these amendments expand the Constitutional Rights of the American people?
  
• In what ways do these amendments RESTRICT people's rights?
  
• Which THREE amendments do you believe are the MOST important?
  

Due Tomorrow!

Notes for the Amendment Mini-Project

What is up, people:

Here are some good sites to find out information on the Amendments.

http://www.usconstitution.net/constkids4.html - Explains how the whole thing works.

http://www.usconstitution.net/constamnotes.html#Am13 - Gives you a history, and rundown of the amendments. It briefly discusses why each one is important. Scroll down the page for more information.

Tonight's HW 11/5/07

Due by Wednesday 11/7/07

Think of an amendment you'd like to see added to the US Constitution. In a post of no more than 100 words (but at least 50), explain:

1. What your proposed amendment is about.
2. Why your amendment should be added to the Constitution.

Here's a link to a list of amendments that have been proposed in recent years.

http://www.usconstitution.net/constamprop.html

Thank you for hard work. Looking forward to your responses.

Blog Assignment 11/01/07

This assignment is due Monday.

Step 1: Based on the issues we discussed in class today, click on each of the links below to learn more about them. Carefully read the information contained at each site.

Gun Control

Death Penalty

Student Free Speech

Subway Searches

Step 2: Answer the questions below. Your responses should be at least three sentences, but no more than 5 sentences long.

• Do you think the death penalty should be used on people under 18, or does that violate the bill of rights?
  
• Do you think that people should be able to buy assault weapons, like machine guns?
  
• Should the police be allowed to search people's bags in subway stations to prevent terrorism?
  
• Should schools have the right to punish students for behavior that happens outside of school?
  

Looking forward to hearing what you have to say. See you Monday!

Bill of Rights HW 10/31/07

Hello, Everyone:

Here's your HW for this evening.

1) Using your textbook, handouts, or the internet, locate the Bill of Rights, or the first ten amendments to the US Constitution. Here's some cool links below to help you.

http://www.constitutioncenter.org/constitution/details_explanation.php?link=120&const=08_amd_01

http://www.ushistory.org/documents/amendments.htm

2. Carefully study the amendments, then create a "Top 10 List" of the amendments in order of importance. In other words...Which of the 10 amendments is the most important to you? Second? Third, Etc.?

3. In a brief composition, explain WHY you chose to put the amendments in that order.

See you in school tomorrow!

"Promote the General Welfare?"

Click on the links below, and carefully read the articles:

Bush Vetoes Child Health Care Bill

House to Vote on New Child Health Bill


Then, based on the article and our discussion in class, reflect on the following questions:

What are the checks and balances taking place here?
Is healthcare a federal, city, or individual responsibility?
What are the limits of "promote the general welfare?"

Homework 10/16/07

Imagine...Only ONE of the 10 Amendments that make up the Bill of Rights could be added to the Constitution. In other words, you can only one have one freedom guaranteed to you by the Constitution.

Which one would you choose? Free speech is nice, but what about the rights of people accused of crimes? Or, it doesn't really sound like it does a whole bunch, what about the 10th amendment, which gives powers not specifically given to the Federal gov't back to the states?

Think very carefully. Then write a post of at least 50 words, but not more than 100 that identifies the amendment you choose, and more importantly, a detailed explanation about your reasons for keeping that amendment.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Notes on Ratification

RATIFICATION DEBATES:
Immediately following the Constitutional Convention the delegates to Philadelphia brought the newly crafted Constitution to their home states for ratification (or approval). Most states held special ratification conventions, with elected officials representing counties or regions throughout the state. The New York ratifying convention was held in the city of Poughkeepsie.

While many of the smaller states quickly ratified the new Constitution, the debate in the two largest and most important states, New York and Virginia, raged on for months. The debate in New York was particularly divisive. The Constitutional supporters, the Federalists, took the debate into the public forum of the press, publishing a series of pro-ratification essays collectively known as the Federalist Papers. While the Federalist Papers were simply signed "Publius" they were the work of Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and John Jay and they still stand today as some of the greatest commentary on the meaning and intent of the Constitution's chief authors.

The Anti-Federalist opposition to ratification was strong and while all of the states eventually accepted the new government, states such as Virginia and Massachusetts did so only after attaching recommendations concerning the addition of a Bill of Rights. The first 10 amendments to the Constitution were added soon after ratification and became the U.S. Bill of Rights and stand as the Anti-Federalists greatest contribution to the Constitution they so opposed.
/Users/901/Desktop/feds_antifeds2.gif

Tonight's HW 10/12/07

Here's tonight's HW assignment:

1. READ: The handout you were given in class today. You'll be reading pages 70-74. Since these are yours, feel free to highlight, annotate, etc.


2. When you're done reading, complete the following:

a. "Terms to Know" on p. 70
b. "Reviewing and Using" p. 74. You are only responsible for completing numbers ONE, FIVE AND SIX (that's 1, 5, and 6).

Due Monday.

Keep up the good work!

Exam Review Notes

Foundations of US Govt
Influences
1. Enlightenment Thinkers: (J-Locke)
a. Power from THE PEOPLE
b. PEOPLE have RIGHTS
c. POWER must be SEPARATED
i. 3 BRANCHES

2. Colonial Gov’t
“MC HOB NET M”
a. Mayflower Compact
b. House of Burgesses
c. New England Town Meeting
IMPORTANT! PEOPLE P.I.G. (participate in gov’t)

3. American Revolution
a. D.O.I. – Jefferson wrote it
i. People’s rights being abused
ii. Gov’t must be removed

4. Articles of Confederation (AOC)
a. 1st US Gov’t – Didn’t Work
i. States have too much power

5. CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION
Created NEW Gov’t
Needed COMPROMISE to get it done
a. GREAT COMPROMISE
i. 2 houses of CONGRESS (makes laws)
ii. Senate (2 per state)
iii. H.O.R. (based on population)
b. 3/5
i. 3/5 slaves could be counted for representatives and taxes
c. COMMERCE
i. Over Control of Trade
ii. Southern and Northern States
iii. Federal gov't gets the power to control trade, but...
1. No Tariffs (TAXES) on exports
2. Slave trade ends 1808

Constitutional Foundations Study Guide

Good Review site:
http://regentsprep.org/Regents/ushisgov/themes/government/index.htm

30 Short Answer: 10 Vocab, 20 M/C
1 Essay
People, Terms and Concepts
• Articles of Confederation
• Mercantalism
• Declaration of Independence
• Great Compromise
• Enlightenment
• Three-Fifths Compromise
• Common Sense
• John Locke
• Thomas Jefferson
• John Peter Zenger Trial

Multiple Choice:

• What was important aboutr the Mayflower Compact, Va. House of Burgesses; What are they examples of?
• What were the differences between the Va. Plan and the NJ Plan?
• What was John Locke’s theory of natural rights?
• Who had a big influence on Thomas Jefferson, and what he wrote in the DOI?
• What are the basic ideas stated in the DOI?
• How are the DOI and Bill of Rights similar?
• What’s the fundamental purpose of gov’t?
• What did the Great Compromise do? What issues did it settle?
• How did the AOC work?
• Why was the AOC unsuccessful?
• Why was Common Sense Important?
• Why was the John Peter Zenger trial important?
• How did Mercantalism work?

Thematic Essay: Constitutional Issues

The Constitutional Convention of 1787 adopted several compromises to resolve disagreements over major issues facing the new nation.

Task:

Identify two issues from the Constitutional Convention of 1787 (what were two disagreements that occurred?).

For each issue identified


• Describe the disagreement that arose over the issue at the C.C. (tell us about the disagreement; don’t just say what it was! Who was it between? What was it over?)
• Explain how the issue was resolved through the use of Compromise (Give the details behind the compromises; how did they work? What did each side get?

You may use any Cold War problems from your study of United States history. Some
suggestions you might wish to consider include, but are not limited to:

• Representation in Congress
• Slavery
• Taxation


Resources:

Chapter 4 (p 20-34) of the BLUE Review Books (the big handout from class),

Textbook Chapter 4

Regentsprep.org – follow the links for Government.

Fdmurphy.com – follow the links for essay writing

Socialstudieshelp.com

Assignments 10/1-10/5/07

For the upcoming week, I have listed a tentative set of
assignments. Hopefully, this will help both students and parents to
plan their study and homework sessions accordingly.

Monday: Read pp. 140-144 in Textbook. Complete "Terms and Names,"
and "Critical Thinking" #4 on p. 144

Tuesday: Reading of an in-class handout pp. 50-56. Complete "Review
and Using the Lesson" p. 52 (#1 only) and p. 56 (#1 and #3).

Wed: Blog Assignment: Was the 3/5 compromise the best possible
solution to the issue of slavery?

Thu/Fri: To Be Determined.

In addition to these assignments, our first exam is tentatively
scheduled for Friday October 12th. The exam will cover the
foundations of America's government, from colonial times through the
constitutional convention. It will consist of roughly 25-30 short
answer questions, and one essay question.

The following website has all of the material that will be on the
exam:
Regents Prep

Blog Assignment #7 - Can you trust the Federal Gov't?

The Articles of Confederation, the first government of the United States, was set up with very little power over the states. This was done as a result of a fear, or distrust of a strong central government. This likely came from the colonist's experiences under Britain in the 1760's.

Today, many people continue to distrust the Federal Government. In your opinion, is this distrust justified? Or, is it OK to trust your federal government?

Reflect on this question, and write a reaction of at least 50, but no more than 100 words.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Blog HW Assignment #6 - "Tasered"

TASERED

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Swg4E2FzTzE
democracynow.org

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pkjyKDtbCcI
cnn

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JHfW1zDMSQ
first advocate

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Awxc6Yq7YJc
dennis miller

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HikH0jjp6s

bill oreilly

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QTr-UPpqfA

hardball

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_IexfMaDXc
wolf biltzer


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QnEs7QOYE0
last advocate



Watch all the videos.

How are they different?
What does the public have to say about this event?
How does the article distributed in class differ from the videos?
What really happened?
Which of the above video clips seems to be the most accurate?

Where do we get our news from?

How are individuals supposed to express anger at the elected officials?

Here's what other high school students think about this situation. Click to see their thoughts

HW 9/18/07

Democracy means "rule of the people." In other words, people are the source of power in this form of government. People in a democracy use thier power when they vote.

Here's a question to consider. Write a reflection of at least five, but no more than eight sentences based on this question.

What reasons might explain why people have been denied the right to vote?

If possible, please use specific examples.

Remember, ANONYMOUS POSTS WILL NOT BE COUNTED. You must sign your name somewhere, preferably at the bottom of your post. You must write your first name, last initial, and class period.

See ya tomorrow!

Extra Credit Blog Assignment

Go to the following article

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/11/nyregion/11councils.html?_r=1&ref=education&oref=slogin

Read the article carefully.
Post a response to the following questions.

1. Who has jurisdiction, or authority over the school discipline code?
2. Are students "rights" being violated?
3. How can rules and laws be changed?

NO CREDIT WILL BE GIVEN FOR ANONYMOUS POSTS! You must identify yourself

Tonight's HW 9/17/07

Tonight's HW:

Here are the terms for tonight's HW. Remember, for each one, you have to
1. Write a brief definition or description.
2. Discuss its purpose
3. State why the person, term, or concept is important.

You should write at least three, but no more than five sentences for each term.

The terms:

1. John Locke (he's a person)
2. Virginia House of Burgesses
3. Mayflower Compact
4. Declaration of Independence
5. Articles of Confederation
6. Northwest Ordinance
7. Constitutional Convention
8. Great Compromise.

You should find all of the information you need in your hand-out. If you want, or need more info, feel free to click on http://regentsprep.org/Regents/ushisgov/themes/government/index.htm for more information. Follow the links on the right hand side of the page to help you.

Blog Assignment # 3 - 9/11 Illness

Please click on the link below (or the posting title) and read the article that follows.

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/09/06/nyregion/06health.html?ex=1315195200&en=555a379d601bc494&ei=5090
After you read the article, write a reflection, based on the following questions:

How has money played a role in the care of 9/11 cleanup victims?
Who is at fault for the illness?
What changes in finance need to be made to correct the problem?
Is health care a federal, city or individual responsibility?

Mr. Walter Brown, a teacher at the Queens High School of Teaching, has a senior government class that is working on the same assignment. Click on the link below to access their class blog, and see what his kids had to say.

http://qhst-seniors.blogspot.com/2007/09/911-illness.html

See you Tuesday!

A Word About Posts

Hello, Everyone:

Just a short note about posting.

1. Posts are not IM's, or texts. They are serious pieces of writing. It is a homework assignment. Please write the same way you would when you are turning in a composition for grading.

2. PLEASE sign your name, and class period to your post. It will make it much easier for me to determine who is who, and give credit to the people who deserve it.

3. Avoid using your last name. Your First Name and last initial, as well as your class period will be just fine.

4. Please avoid multiple postings of the same posts. Posts are moderated, which means I have to approve them before they go on the blog. That's why you won't see it right away. It doesn't mean that I didn't get it. If you sent it, I'll get it.

Thanks!

Blog Assignment #2 - What does it mean to be an American?

Hello, Everyone:

Here is your assignment for this weekend. I think you will find it to be helpful as you complete your project "What America Means to Me."

Here's what you have to do.

1. Click, or copy this link into your browser. You can also access the article by clicking on the title of this post.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2006-07-02-americans-cover_x.htm

2. After you access the article, please read it carefully.

3. After you read the article, post your response to the following question:

"What does it mean to be an American?"

4. Make sure your post is at least 50 words long, but no more than 100.

5. Please spell check your post before sending. Thanks!

See you Monday!

Blog Assignment #1: THe Human Barometer

Think about the "human barometer" exercise we completed in class today. Then, using the questions to guide you, complete a reflection on that activity.

How did you feel?
What emotions did you experience?
What surprised you?
What, if anything made you angry?
How will this help you to do things differently now? What will you change?

Please be open, and honest. Your response should be at least 40 to 50 words. You'll probably write more, and that's OK, too.

DBQ Homework Assignment

Hello, Everyone:

Here's your assignment:

1. Go to the following link, and download the August 2005 Regents Exam

http://www.nysedregents.org/testing/socstre/ushg-805.pdf

2. After you download the exam, answer the DBQ Questions.

3. Create an outline for your DBQ essay, using the block outline we have discussed in class.

Good luck!

Cold War Test Study Guide!

Test Date: Monday May 13th
HELP CLASSES will be given!

Vocabulary: About 10-12

· Containment
· Détente
· McCarthyism
· Cold War
· Iron Curtain
· Marshall Plan
· Truman Doctrine
· Berlin Airlift
· Gulf of Tonkin Resolution
· NATO
· Bay of Pigs
· Cuban Missile Crisis
· H.U.A.C.

Multiple Choice: About 20

How were the Red Scare after WWI, and McCarthyism SIMILAR to each other?
What the TRUMAN DOCTRINE, MARSHALL PLAN, and EISENHOWER DOCTRINE all had in common
WHY did the Cold War take place?
What was the constitutional issue with the Vietnam War and Korean War (hint: was war ever declared?)
How did America’s foreign policy change after WWII (hint: what is NATO?)
How did the US try to stop the spread of communism in Europe?
Why did President Truman dismiss General MacArthur during the Korean War?
What was the purpose of the WAR POWERS ACT?
What has been the aim of America’s foreign policy THROUGHOUT its history?
What was a RESULT of the GULF OF TONKIN resolution?
What caused the Bay of Pigs invasion, Cuban missile crisis, and building of Berlin Wall?
What was a major result of the Korean War?
How are the Korean War, Vietnam War, and Persian Gulf Wars all similar (no declaration of war).
What was the main reason for the Marshall plan?
Why did the US become involved in Vietnam?
Reason for HUAC investigations
GOAL of the policy of Containment
Why did the relationship between USSR and US become strained after WWII

Thematic Essay: Cold War (from the August 2005 Regents Exam)

Following World War II, the United States and the Soviet Union were engaged in
a conflict that became known as the Cold War. The Cold War created problems
that the United States addressed with specific actions. These actions had varying
degrees of success.

Task:

Identify two problems faced by the United States during the Cold War and for
Each

• Explain how the problem led to conflict between the United States and the
Soviet Union (Give the reasons why this problem led to conflict)

• Describe one action taken by the United States in response to the problem (tell us about the action; don’t just say what it was! How did it work? What happened?)

• Evaluate the extent to which the action taken was successful in solving the
problem (how successful was the action? Why?)

You may use any Cold War problems from your study of United States history. Some
suggestions you might wish to consider include the postwar economic upheaval in Western
Europe (1945–1947), Soviet takeover of Eastern Europe (1945–1948), threat of Communist
takeover in Greece (1947), Soviet blockade of Berlin (1948), nuclear arms race (1950s–1970s), and placement of Soviet missiles in Cuba (1962)

Resources:
Chapter 9 (p 90-99) of the BLUE Review Books, p. 108, 112 of the BLUE Book (for Bay of Pigs, Vietnam)

Textbook Chapter 26

Regentsprep.org – follow the links for Foreign Policy/Cold War

Fdmurphy.com – follow the links for essay writing

Socialstudieshelp.com

HW Assignment 5/8/07

Internet Assignment.

You will need to have internet access to complete the assignment. If you are reading this, then you have internet access.

Here is what you need to do:

1. Click on the link below for "The Vietnam War: A Study in Photographs"

http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/vietnam-photos/

2. Follow the webpage down, and click on the links for the pictures related to the war.

3. Choose THREE PICTURES, and complete a PHOTOGRAPH ANALYSIS WORKSHEET for each picture. The link is also listed below.

http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/worksheets/photo.html

Due Thursday

Extra Credit Part II

http://qhst-seniors.blogspot.com/2007/04/privacy-vs-safety-on-campus.html

Click on the link above. Post a creative, thoughtful comment. Make sure it is checked for spelling, and grammar.

NO CREDIT FOR ANONYMOUS POSTS! If I don't know who did it, you don't get credit!

Worth up to 2 points on your final semester grade!

Tonight's HW 5/1/07

DUE DATE THURSDAY 5/03/07

Counts as a quiz (25 pts)

Review Chapter Section 3 in your textbook.

Complete "Alternative Assessment" #1 on p. 837

Due Thursday!

Cold War Notes

Become an expert on the Cold War!

Impress your teachers!

Be the smart, popular kid that everyone looks to for the answer!

Here's some links to some of the topics we'll be covering in the next couple of days.

http://www.socialstudieshelp.com/Lesson_97_Notes.htm

http://www.socialstudieshelp.com/Lesson_98_Notes.htm

http://www.socialstudieshelp.com/Lesson_99_Notes.htm

http://www.socialstudieshelp.com/Lesson_100_Notes.htm

http://www.socialstudieshelp.com/Lesson_101_Notes.htm

http://www.socialstudieshelp.com/Lesson_102_Notes.htm

http://www.socialstudieshelp.com/Lesson_103_Notes.htm

Know it. Learn it. Live it!

Homework Assignment 4/23/07

The Cold War

Click on the picture, or on the heading of the blog post to access the documents you will need for the assignment.

Based on the documents...

1. What did Churchill and Kennan believe were the goals of the Soviet Union?
2. What did the authors believe should be the response of the United States to Soviet actions?
3. Historians generally agree that the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union began between 1946 and 1947. How do you think Churchill and Kennan would define "cold war?"

Your posts must be spell-checked! I am looking for some really deep thinking here. Don't give one-word answers!

Understanding the DBQ

Part of knowing what to write on a DBQ is knowing what you are being asked to do.

Here's some information about the words used on DBQ essays, to help you understand what you are expected to produce. This information comes from the website www.fdmurphy.com


Analyze. Here you break something down into parts in order to understand it. A coach may play a tape of a game and analyze specific plays by running them over an over.

Analyze the reasons for the United States involvement in Vietnam.

Compare. When you compare, you are looking for similarities in separate issues or occurrences. Parents will often compare their children to look for common behavior patterns.

Compare the long-range causes of WWI and WWII

Contrast. Show the differences between two things. You may wish to contrast your recent performance with that of your friend, who is failing a certain class.

Contrast the beliefs of Hinduism and Islam.

Define. Here you tell exactly what something is. It can be as simple as word definition like peninsula, and as complicated as the definition of racism.

Define the term Totalitarianism.

Describe. When you describe, you tell about the parts of something. You can describe how a car looks, or you could describe the causes of WWII.

Describe the key factors that lead to global warming.

Develop. When you show development, you show how something came about; how it grew and came to be. When you develop an argument, it grows because of the specific things that you wish to say. (The difference between seed and a flower.)

How did the Jim Crow Laws develop in America?

Discuss. When you discuss, (rather than yell or become belligerent), you formulate an argument around certain well thought facts, details and reasons. These are the bricks in your wall. Without them, your argument is literally transparent.

Discuss the reasons for the American Revolution

Evaluate. Once you have presented facts, details, opinions, then you are able to evaluate the strength of your information. You can evaluate a teacher’s performance, but it would be unfair to do so after the first ten minutes of your first class. It would be equally unfair
to be evaluated for a marking period because of a grade on one homework assignment.

Evaluate America's success in the war on terrorism

Explain. Give reasons for something. Demonstrate what something is or how something works. Explaining why the sky is blue to a child is difficult.

You can explain how the system of Mercantilism worked.

Show. Make information presentable to someone. You can show how a vacuum cleaner works, and that would be easier than describing how it worked.

Show how Napoleon made errors concerning his invasion of Russia.

Cool Thing to Do!

A good friend of mine coaches baseball @ Queens High School of Teaching.

On Thursday April 19, they're playing a "home" game at Alley Pond Park.

Game starts @ 4PM. Anyone interested in going to check out the game, let me know!

Spring Break Assignment

Start it now, and save time over the break!

Over this spring break, I will asking that you complete a DBQ essay on the United States' reaction to the start of WWII.

Here's what you have to do:

After World War I, events in Europe caused the United States to review its foreign
policy. This review led to controversies between those who supported a return to
isolationism and those who wanted to see the United States take a more active role
in world affairs.

Using information from the documents and your knowledge of United States
history, answer the questions that follow each document in Part A. Your answers to
the questions will help you write the Part B essay in which you will be asked to

Discuss United States foreign policy toward Europe prior to World War II. In
your discussion, include the arguments used by those who supported isolationism
and those who were opposed to it.

The essay comes directly from the June 2005 Regents Exam. For the DBQ's and the essay CLICK HERE.

Essays may be typed, emailed, or neatly handwritten. The assignment is due ON WEDNESDAY APRIL 11, 2007. NO EXCEPTIONS. NO EXCUSES! Any papers not turned in at that time will receive a grade of ZERO.

If you choose to email me the essay, you must save it as a document first. I will not accept essays inside of an email.

CLICK HERE for a rubric to guide you as you write the essay!

World War II WIKI

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Causes_of_World_War_II

Very in-depth. Great background info for a DBQ Essay

Homework Assignments 3/26 and 3/27

Hello, Everyone:

In case you missed them, here are the HW assignments for today 3/26, and tomorrow 3/27.

Tonight's HW: READ Chapter 24 section 4. Complete "Terms and Names" and "Critical Thinking: Evaluating Decisions (#3)" on page 763.

Tomorrow's HW: "Terms and Names" p. 764, and "Main Ideas" #7, and #8, on page 764

REGENTS REVIEW SITE - START STUDYING NOW!!!

http://www.edusolution.com/regentsquiz/ushistorypackage/index.htm

Don't Wait Until June!!

Start Studying NOW!!

Don't say you weren't warned!!!

Homework 3/21/07

1. READ Chapter 24 Section 1 (pages 734-741)
2. Complete: Terms and Names, p741
3. Complete: "Analyzing Political Cartoons" p.740

This assignment will be graded as a 20 point quiz!

Notes on Isolationism

Just in case you were absent today...

ISOLATIONISM

What? BELIEF that the US should stay out of foreign affairs

When? 1920-1941

Why?
People not happy with results of the war
Believed US couldn’t be attacked
US superior to other nations

How?
Not joining the League of Nations
High Tariffs on European Goods
Limited Immigration
Washington Naval Conference 1921
a. US agrees to limit the size of its navy

Effects
Destroys trade w/other countries
Leads to Great Depression
Leads to anti-immigrant feelings
LEADS TO WWII - US was the only nation with the power to stop Germany, Japan and Italy, but did nothing about it.

Tonight's HW

Based on our class discussion today...

Was the policy of ISOLATIONISM good, or bad for the United States? Explain your answer in a post of AT LEAST 75 Words.

Please CHECK SPELLING AND GRAMMAR before posting. Thank you!

Isolationism

The next part of U.S. Foreign Policy that we will be researching is called Isolationism. Basically, what that means is...

Following our involvement in World War One, the United States entered a nearly two decade long period of isolation from world affairs. The result was not only a rejection of leadership and membership in international organizations, but a restricting of our borders and an anti-foreign feeling among society

Here are some links to help you learn more about this part of US Foreign Policy:

http://regentsprep.org/Regents/ushisgov/themes/foreignpolicy/isolation.htm
http://www.socialstudieshelp.com/Lesson_75_Notes.htm

This is a very short unit, and should only take a couple of days. After that, we jump into WWII.

What are YOU Willing to Work For

As we start the 3rd trimester of our first year at WJPS, we've made some significant progress. We've still got a ways to go, however. We won't get to where we have to be without hard work.

Your assignment: What are the things that you are willing to work hard for?

Good Study Links!

Here are some good places visit to study not only for this test, but for all of the topics we'll be looking at, and for regents prep!

The link below will take you to a bank of about 12 questions that have to do with the US entry into WWI.
http://regentsprep.org/Regents/core/questions/question.cfm?Course=USHG&TopicCode=5a&QNum=1&Wrong=0

Great all-around study site, for all subjects!
www.regentsprep.org

WWI Notes - Will be very helpful for your essay!
http://www.socialstudieshelp.com/Lesson_72_Notes.htm
http://www.socialstudieshelp.com/Lesson_73_Notes.htm
http://www.socialstudieshelp.com/Lesson_74_Notes.htm

World War I Study Guide

World War I Study Guide:

Exam Dates: Day 1: Thursday March 15

Day 2: Friday March 16

Day 1: Multiple Choice and Thematic Essay

Day 2: DBQ, DBQ Outline, and Essay

Multiple Choice: approximately 10 vocab questions, 20 m/c (A, B, C, D) questions

Thematic Essay Topic: Supreme Court Cases Concerning Constitutional Civil Liberties
Task: Using the case of Schenck vs. United States,

• Discuss the facts of the case (what do you know about it?)
• Identify a specific constitutional civil liberty issue addressed by the Supreme Court (what rights were in question)
• Discuss how the decision of the Supreme Court either expanded or limited a specific constitutional civil liberty in the United States (how did the decision affect how people were able to use that right?)

DBQ – Topic: Why did the US enter WWI?

Will be VERY similar to the assignment we did in class, and the essay you were already assigned

You’ll have about 5 DBQ’s to answer. Each document will relate to the US’s entry into WWI.

After you finish the DBQ’s, you’ll have an outline to complete

After the outline, you’ll write your essay.

Has to have intro, conclusion, and body paragraphs

Answer MUST make reference to the document(s) (ex: “in document 1, it shows that the US was exporting nearly 2 billion dollars to Britain by 1916.”

Vocab	Multiple Choice	Thematic	DBQ
Militarism Alliances Imperialism Nationalism Lusitania Zimmerman Note Espionage/Sedition Acts 14 points	The effects of the “clear and present danger” test from Schenck vs. US The US policy at the start of WWI. Can the government limit your civil rights during wartime? What was the purpose of the 14 points? Why did the US Senate object to the Treaty of Versailles What was the IMMEDIATE cause (“trigger) of WWI? How did President Wilson persuade Congress to enter WWI? What was the purpose of the League of Nations? WHEN did the US enter the War? WHO were the members of the Allies/Central Powers?	Schenck vs. US (1919) Supreme Court Case Information can be found on pages 602-603 of your textbook.	Review the reasons why the US entered the war. Submarines Spies Sales (exports) Democracy

Tonight's HW: Civil Liberties and the War on Terrorism Periods 2 and 5 Only

Think about the current war on terrorism. Do you think that your freedoms are being limited during this war?

Explain why or why not in a post of at least 100 words.

Friday's HW (Hour 2 and Hour 5 ONLY)

Sorry for the late post. Anyway, if you didn't get the HW yet, here it is...

Hour 6 classes, you are in the process of writing the DBQ essay on the causes of WWI. Hope you will have it by Monday!

Hours 2 and 5, based on our lesson Friday...

What is more important; your rights and freedom, or the safety and security of your country?

You may post your reply here, or handwrite it (posts are preferred, but not necessary to receive credit). Please write at least 125 words.

"The Art of Persuasion" World War I Poster Project

Due Date: Tuesday March 4, 2008

Background: HUGE promotions in 20 major cities, expensive ads in over 10,000 magazines; millions of posters in every corner of the country. Nike vs. Reebok? Coke vs. Pepsi? Nope.

Try World War I.

In April 1917, when President Wilson announced he was sending U.S. soldiers to fight in Europe, he was afraid the people would not support his decision. To help sell the war, he set up the Committee on Public Information, which produced a bunch of posters for the war effort. The goals of these posters were to convince people to support the war by:

1. Buying “Liberty Bonds.” A bond is basically a loan that people that make to the government. When you buy a bond, the money goes to the government. In a few years, after the bond “matures,” you get more money than you paid for it.
2. Conserve food for the soldiers. People were encouraged not to waste food, and to limit their consumption of certain foods (wheat, meats).
3. Join the Armed Forces

Task: Imagine that you are alive during World War I, and are working for the Committee on Public Information. Your task is to design and draw a poster that will convince people to support the war effort. You can design a positive cartoon supporting your side, or a negative cartoon against the other side. Your poster should use pictures and words to get its message across. Listed below are websites where you can see samples of different posters.

http://www.firstworldwar.com/posters/usa.htm: 42 pages of posters from WWI.
http://www.authentichistory.com/images/ww1/ww1_posters/Poster21.html: 4 pages of some really cool posters.
http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/sow-seeds/#documents: These posters relate to conserving food for the soldiers.
http://www.ouboces.org/tclc2002/projects/CoynBorhau/lesson01.htm Examples of actual posters created by students. I think you can do better!

Here's the rubric which will explain how you will be graded. If you have any questions, you can email me at MTessler@schools.nyc.gov. Good Luck!

HW 2/13 and 2/14/07

Hello, Everyone:

Here's a breakdown of the assignments for tonight and tomorrow:

Tonight: Imagine you were president of the US at the time of WWI. Describe how you would have reacted to the start of the war in Europe.

Tomorrow night: READ pp. 583-593.
Complete: Terms and Names on p. 593
Complete: Taking Notes on p. 593.

There will be a short quiz at the start of class Thursday. Make sure you are on time. The quiz will be on America's Entry into WWI.

Mini Test on Imperialism

Review for Mini-Test on Monday!
Good Study Websites: http://regentsprep.org/Regents/ushisgov/themes/foreignpolicy/index.htm

http://regentsprep.org/Regents/core/questions/question.cfmCourse=USHG&TopicCode=4a&QNum=1&Wrong=0

Approx. 35 Questions

• 10 Terms & Names (25 points)
• 20 Multiple Choice (50 points)
• 2 Short Answer Question DBQ (10 points)
• 1 Short Answer Essay (15 points)

Terms and Names Vocabulary Words

Imperialism
Yellow Journalism
Dollar Diplomacy
Open Door Policy
Roosevelt Corollary
Boxer Rebellion
Panama Canal
Alfred T. Mahan
U.S.S. Maine
Monroe Doctrine

Multiple Choice Questions

What were the annexation of Hawaii, the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine, and Dollar Diplomacy all examples of (expansion of US Power)?

What did the Foreign Policies of Presidents Taft, Monroe and Reagan all have in common? (HINT: THINK LATIN AMERICA!)

What idea, or principle did the Roosevelt Corollary establish?

What were the arguments FOR imperialism?

Why did the US intervene in Latin America?

Why did the US support a rebellion in Panama against the Colombian gov't?

Why did the US announce the Open Door Policy

What was the goal of the US's foreign policy towards Latin America from 1900-1920?

What was the purpose of "dollar diplomacy?"

What was the goal of the "big stick" and "dollar diplomacy" policies?

Short Answer/Essay: The Spanish American War

Write about:

1. The time period when it took place
2. ONE cause of the United States' involvement
3. ONE effect of the US involvement.

A Word About Posts

Hello, Everyone:

In going over some of the posts to the blog, I think it's important that we're all on the same page about what we should and should not be posting.

When you're posting, you are supposed to making comments on a question, or idea that's been given out to the group for discussion.

The blog really isn't supposed to be the place where you post questions like "can I hand in my homework tomorrow?" or "what's going to be on the test?" those type of questions are better left for the classroom, or for email. You can email me at MTessler@schools.nyc.gov for things like that.

Thanks, and happy posting!

HW assignments 2/5-2/9/07

In case you've missed HW, or would like to stay on schedule

Monday's HW: Read Ch. 18 Sect 2. Complete "Terms and Names" and "Critical Thinking" #4.
Tuesday: Read Ch. 18, Section 4. Complete "Terms and Names" and "Evaluating Decisions."
Wednesday: Begin Reviewing for test on Imperialism (details to follow)
Thursday: Study for test on Imperialism
Friday: Read Ch. 19 Sections 1. Complete "Terms and Names" p. 586, "Analyzing Issues," P. 586.

Imperialism Notes

In case you missed class notes from the past two days:

Imperialism A belief that a nation’s power comes from taking over other nations

Why did the US adopt this idea?
1. Economy:
- The US needed markets for goods, and raw materials to make them
2. Protection:
- Keep foreign countries out of US territory
3. Culture:
- People in foreign countries would benefit from contact with Americans

The Spanish American War (SPAM)

When? 1898
Where? Cuba, Phillipines
Who? Spain, US
Why? To Help Free Cuba, Protect American Business
Why is it important?
1. US Becomes a World Power
2. US gets Phillipines, Puerto Rico, and Guam
3. US controls Pacific, and Latin America

Causes of the SPAM WAR
1. Social: Sympathy for the Cubans
2. YELLOW JOURNALISM: Exaggerated stories; made people angry towards Spain
3. CASH: US had lots of $ invested in Cuba, didn’t want trade cut off
4. Sinking of the Maine: Spain was blamed

The US and Imperialism

Hello, Everyone:

Here's tonight's HW. Posting must be received by 11:00 PM Sunday in order to receive credit.

Should the United States, once a colony of a foreign country itself, have adopted the policy of imperialism (the colonizing of other nations)?

Write at least 100 words. Make sure your work is:

• Spell-Checked
• Related to the topic
• Appropriate for a forum that can be seen by the entire world

Teacher Assistants Wanted

WJPS is Hiring!
Earn Community Service Credit or Hourly Pay

Job Title: TEACHER ASSISTANT (TA)

Job Description/Responsibilities:

TA's will help teachers by:

• entering information into the school computer system
• grading papers
• organizing classes; filing papers, etc.
• managing classroom technology; laptops, computers, video equipment, etc.

How do I apply?

• Pick up an application in room 351 (Mr. Saltz's classroom)
• Complete the application, and return it to Mr. Saltz NO LATER THAN Monday Feb. 5th!

Multiple Choice Question Links GOOD STUFF!

Here's a link to Multiple Choice Questions for USH. Mr. Tesler goes here to get your questions for your tests!

http://regentsprep.org/Regents/core/questions/topics.cfm?Course=USHG

START STUDYING NOW! Don't Wait till June!

The Next Social Studies Unit - US Foreign Policy

Hello, Everyone:

In the interest of getting everyone ready for the next unit, here's what we're going to be doing next. Hopefully, over the next few days, if you've finished the take-home, you can start working on this .

We're going to be looking at America's Foreign Policy. In other words, the way that our country relates with other nations. We'll be looking specifically at the period from 1850, until about 1945. There's a lot of information there, so it's really important that we're all focused on what we have to do. Here's a link below that will give you information on what we'll be studying.

http://regentsprep.org/Regents/ushisgov/themes/foreignpolicy/index.htm

Hopefully, we'll finish the unit by the end of the month. Some of the ways we'll be checking how well you've learned include, but are not limited to:

• A DBQ Essay Assignment: This one will come from the June 2001 Regents Exam.
• Multiple Choice "Regents Style" Test
• In Class Assignments

We're about 4 months away from the Regents. Keep working hard, and we'll all get there. Good Luck!

School Cancellation - January 30 and 31

In accordance with the DOE policy for Regents Exam week, high school classes will not be in session on Tuesday January 30, and Wednesday January 31st.

As a result, WJPS 9th grade students will not be in attendance on Tuesday and Wednesday. However, all WJPS 9th graders, and all NYC HS students will return to classes on Thursday February 1st.

REMINDER! All work that was due, is still due on the required due dates!

The Small School Experience

Hello, Everyone:

QHST Seniors thanks so much for participating in these discussions with our freshman class. This is a very valuable communication between us, and your comments and insights are very much appreciated.

Like you, our freshman class at World Journalism is the first class in a new small high school. To that end, it would be great if you could share some of your reflections about your experiences in a small high school.

When posting, I'd like you to think of these questions

1. How has this experience helped you as a student, and as a person?
2. How have you contributed to the growth of your school's community?

Your ideas are greatly appreciated. Whatever other information you could or would share would be great as well. Thanks for your help!

An Inconvenient Truth

This is an extra credit assignment, worth up to 20 points.

1) Click on the title of this blog. This will take you to the Queens High School of Teaching blog, for Mr. Brown's Senior Gov't Class.

2) Read the blog carefully. It has to do with the movie "An Inconvenient Truth."

3) After you read the post, post a reply. Anonymous posts will not be given credit. Credit will also not be given for posts that use inappropriate language, or resort to calling people names. Stating that someone is "stupid" will not get you any credit. Reply using your knowledge, and facts.

4) Before you post, make sure you check your spelling. Spelling counts!

Good Luck!

BTW - If you need the link, here it is!

http://qhst-seniors.blogspot.com/2007/01/truth.html

What's Going to be on the Regents Exam, Mr. T?

If you click the title of this post, there's a link to a list of a whole bunch of terms, people, places, etc. that will help you study for the Regents. The link is also listed below.

http://regentsprep.org/Regents/ushisgov/studymaterials/US11Rchecklist/index.htm

While you may not need to know every single one of these things in order to pass, the more of this information you can commit to memory will make it much easier for you to understand the questions, and will increase your scores!

Blog Assignment #3:

For more than 20 years, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's birthday has been celebrated as a national holiday in the United States.

In 1963, King made one of his most famous speeches; the "I have a Dream Speech," delivered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. During that speech, Dr. King spoke of his dream that people would be judged on the content of their character, and that people of all races, religions, etc., would be able to exist peacefully.

It's been nearly 45 years since Dr. King made that speech. However, there are still parts of his dream that remained unfulfilled.

Your assignment: Discuss the parts of Dr. King's dream that remain unfulfilled (hasn't happened yet). Explain why you think those things haven't happened, and what we can do to acheive them.

If you need to review Dr. King's speech, here's a link, which also provides audio as well.

http://www.americanrhetoric.com/speeches/mlkihaveadream.htm

Due Date is Thursday for WJPS students. QHST, you're more than welcome to post here as well.

Thanks!

Blog Assignment #3:

For more than 20 years, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's birthday has been celebrated as a national holiday in the United States.

In 1963, King made one of his most famous speeches; the "I have a Dream Speech," delivered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. During that speech, Dr. King spoke of his dream that people would be judged on the content of their character, and that people of all races, religions, etc., would be able to exist peacefully.

It's been nearly 45 years since Dr. King made that speech. However, there are still parts of his dream that remained unfulfilled.

Your assignment: Discuss the parts of Dr. King's dream that remain unfulfilled (hasn't happened yet). Explain why you think those things haven't happened, and what we can do to acheive them.

If you need to review Dr. King's speech, here's a link, which also provides audio as well.

http://www.americanrhetoric.com/speeches/mlkihaveadream.htm

Due Date is Thursday for WJPS students. QHST, you're more than welcome to post here as well.

Thanks!

Target Based Instruction Class

CLICK HERE for links to websites you can use to research your project.

Inter-School Blog Assignment: The War in Iraq

You've had a chance to view President Bush's speech. Thursday, we discussed the issue in class.
You're going to be linking to a post of 12th Grade government class at Queens High School of Teaching. Click on the link below. Read the blog, and based on what we've discussed, please leave your comments.

Please note that people from another school will see what you've wrote. You are representing WJPS when you comment. Make sure that you identify yourself. Anonymous comments will not be given credit.

http://qhst-seniors.blogspot.com/2007/01/to-surge-or-not-to-surge.html

Copy and paste, or click on the link.

Posts must be made BY WEDNESDAY!

HW Assignments For the Week of January 8th-January 15th

Hello, Everyone:

As we previously discussed, we're going to try going with a weekly list of assignments, to give you a better chance to plan out your time for this subject, and your other classes.

Assignment #1: Due Next Monday (1/15/07):

1. By next Monday, you will be expected to have read pages 182-205 in your

textbook.

2. Answer "Terms and Names" and "Main Ideas" on page 208 of your textbook.

It is expected that you will be reading in your textbook each night, in order to prepare for the next day's class. It will make things go a lot smoother if everyone does their part and is prepared for class.

Here's the reading assigments for the week.

MONDAY: Read pages 182 to 187 in your textbook.

TUESDAY: Read pages 190-196 in your textbook. FINISH VOTING RIGHTS ESSAY!

WEDNESDAY: Read pages 197-201 in your textbook.

THURSDAY: Read pp. 202-205

In 1971, the 26th Amendment was added to the Constitution. This amendment
lowered the voting age from 21, to 18.

Today, some people are considering lowering the voting age past the age of 18,
to 16, and possibly 14. What do you think? Should the voting age be lowered?

Using the websites listed, research articles related to this topic. Then, based
on your research, create a FIVE PARAGRAPH PERSUASIVE ESSAY that discusses
whether or not you thnk the voting age should be lowered. You must make sure
that your essay has a:

1. Strong Introduction that explains your position clearly

2. Strong Conclusion that accurately summarizes your position

3. A minimum of THREE body paragraphs that help support your position

Assignment Due Date: This assignment is due NO LATER THAN WEDNESDAY JANUARY 10, 2007

GRADING: This assignment will be graded as a test, and count towards
your second trimester mark. Students failing to hand in the assignment on, or
before January 10, 2007 will receive a grade of ZERO.

LINKS:

http://www.connectforkids.org/node/3140?&tn=hp/lf/3
http://www.youthrights.org/votingage.php
http://www.freechild.org/SNAYR/suffrage.htm
http://www.voteat16.com/

Good Luck! See you Wednesday!

Make-Up Assignment

Hello, Everyone:

In reviewing the results of the multiple choice section of the exam we took before the vacation, many of us scored less than positive results.

A passing score was 65. To earn a 65, you needed to get at least 32 questions correct. Some of you were not successful in scoring at least a 65.

In order to help everyone improve their performance, I've posted the exam online. http://teslersregentsreview.blogspot.com/

If you wish to improve your score, you will need to the following:

1. Identify the questions you didn't answer correctly.

2. Go back to those questions, and try to find the correct answer. If you get the correct answer, you'll get 1 point.

3. In addition, you can earn another 2 points per question by explaining why the other three choices were not correct. You must EXPLAIN why the answer was wrong in order to get the points.

You will have until MONDAY to complete the make-up work. Good luck!

Vacation Assignment:

Hello WJPS:

I know you've all been waiting desperately for me to post the vacation assignment, so here goes.

The assignment must be HANDED in. That means you need to print it out and give it to me when we get back to school on the 2nd. It must be AT LEAST 350 words (about 1 page). Here's what you have to do:

As a student in a brand new, small Hgh School, besides "doing my work," and "not talking in class" what can YOU do to positively contribute to building your school's culture, and community?

See you on the 2nd! Enjoy the vacation.

CHANGE TO THE SS EXAM 12/21/06-12/22/06

Hello, Everyone:

Because of our lengthy discussions the last couple of days, I have made an adjustment to our SS exam calendar.

The DBQ/Essay section will take place on THURSDAY 12/21/06. You will only need to bring a pen for that section. You will be allowed to bring one (1) post-it with information that you think will help you do well on that section.

The MULTIPLE CHOICE section will take place on FRIDAY 12/22/06. A study sheet will be posted below for the MC section. Additionally, a handout will be given in class for this part of the exam. Therefore, on FRIDAY, you will need to bring your PENCILS! You will also be allowed to bring one (1) post-it with the information that you think will help you do well on that section.

MULTIPLE CHOICE STUDY GUIDE

What are the parts of the Unwritten Constitution? GIVE EXAMPLES!
What were the problems under the AOC?
Why was the BOR was added to the Cons.?
What are: delegated powers, reserved powers, concurrent powers (KNOW THAT THEY ARE PART OF FEDERALISM!)?
Checks and Balances: Know examples
Results of the 14th and 15th Amendments
State that benefited most from the three-fifth’s compromise (VA)
What is Federalism?
Why was a Federal form of government created?
What was the result of Marbury v. Madison (Supreme Court Case)?
How are the DOI and BOR similar?
Why was Checks and Balances included in the Constitution?
Why is the Amendment process included in the Constitution?
Why was the Great Compromise adopted?
How can a Supreme Court decision be over-ruled?
What is the Elastic Clause?
What idea about gov’t is included in the DOI?
What were the Federalist Papers, and why were they important?
What was John Locke’s influence on the US gov’t?
What were the major problems at the Const. Convention?
How did the Supreme Court get the power of Judicial Review?
Why is the US Gov’t Considered a Federal System?
What can the President do, as Commander in Chief of the armed forces?
What is the Elastic Clause?
What do LOBBYISTS do?

Student Survey!

What do you think?

In an effort to help us both out with homework, I have a suggestion. I'd like your feedback on it. I will base my decision on your responses to the survey.

Would you rather:

1. Have a list of assignments at the beginning of the week (Monday). Those assignments would be turned in that Friday (similar to Mr. Saltz's class).

2. Keep the current system of homework, where you get a different assignment each day, or every other day.

Let me know what you think. What you say will determine where we go with this. Thanks!

SHHH! Don't tell anyone about this website!

http://regentsprep.org/Regents/core/questions/question.cfm?Course=USHG&TopicCode=2b&QNum=1&Wrong=0

Multiple choice questions for the exam. Mr. T's going to pick from questions like these. Know 'em. Learn 'em. Live 'em. WORD!

DBQ Essay Topic -

Hello!

Here's the topic of your DBQ essay.

1. Describe how the system of checks and balances works.
2. Show how the system of checks and balances has been applied in specific circumstances in US History.

Good Luck!

REGENTS-STYLE EXAM: Thursday and Friday (Dec. 21st and 22nd)

Topic: Constitutional Principles

We will be taking a regents style exam on Thursday and Friday of this week. Review will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The test will consist of:

1. Fifty (50) multiple choice questions (Thu.)

2. 7 Document Based Questions (Friday)

3. 1 Essay. The essay will be based on the Document Based Questions (DBQ'S). (Friday)

Make sure you are on time. You will be required to bring a SHARPENED #2 Pencil with you on Thursday, as we'll be using Scantrons to take the test.

The Exam will include (but is not limited to)

Constitutional Convention

Bill of Rights

Checks and Balances

Amendments to the Constitution

3 Branches

Use the info on the blog, as well as the sites I've listed in previous posts. DON'T WAIT TILL WEDNESDAY NIGHT TO STUDY!

Here's a good place to look http://regentsprep.org/Regents/ushisgov/studymaterials/US11Rchecklist/index.htm

If you can identify ALL of the information in box #2 and #3 (Early Gov't and The Constitution) you're going to ACE this exam!

Blog Assignment #4: Due Wednesday

What do you think?

Of the 10 amendments to the Bill of Rights, half of them (4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th) all deal with the rights of criminals, or people accused of committing a crime.

In a brief composition of 98 words or more...Discuss the following question.

Does the Bill of Rights provide too many privileges and freedoms for people accused, or convicted of crimes?

HW Assignment Blog Essay #3:
Point Value: 30 Points
Due Date: Monday 12:00 AM

Think about the rights you are guaranteed as an American citizen under the Bill of Rights. In a composition of at least 147 words, discuss:

• 1. In what ways the Bill of Rights affects your own life.
• 2. In what ways your lives would be different.

Separation of Power/Checks and Balances: A Review

What do you think?

http://articles.news.aol.com/news/_a/georgia-school-board-says-harry-potter/20061214163109990003

Extra Credit Blog Post

Hello, Everyone:

Interested in picking up a few extra points for the 2nd Trimester? Answer the question below in a minimum of 77 words, but no more than 119, and you can earn up to 20 free points toward your 2nd Trimester mark (total points, not points on your report card).

Background: The 18th Amendment to the Constitution banned the sale and use of Alcoholic Beverages in the US.

The Question

Do you think the government should have passed an amendment dealing with the consumption of Alcohol?

2nd Trimester Assignment #2:

Think of an amendment you would like to have added to the Constitution. In your post, describe the amendment and the reasons why you believe it should be made a part of the Constitution. Your post must be at least 74, but no more 117 words.

HW Assignment: 2nd Trimester Assignment #1

Reflect on the recent changes to our program, and classes. How do you think these changes will affect the 9th grade students. What's good about them? What are some things you are worried about?

Post your answers here. Write at least 65 words. Remember that posts are moderated, so you won't see your post right away.

Thanks for checking in. See you tomorrow!

A word about posts

Hello, Everyone:

Please be advised that your posts are moderated. This means that I have to approve them before they are published.

Additionally, if you would like clarification of an assignment, please email me at MTessler@schools.nyc.gov. It's the only way you can make sure I will respond. If you post on the blog "I don't understand," it will not really be helpful to me or you, because by the time I see it, it will probably be too late for me to explain it.

HW Blog 12/6/06

Question: Do you think the balance of power is fair to the states and to the Federal Government? Explain your answer.

Publishing Comments:

Hello!

Just an FYI...The comments that are posted to the blog are MODERATED. This means that before you post, they have to be approved for posting (by me). We have to make sure that no one is posting anything inappropriate, and we also have to keep people from posting that shouldn't be here. Therefore, if you don't see your post right away, don't worry about it.

HW Post:

I apologize again for the late post.

Anyway, for the night-owls...

The Constitution was written over 200 years ago...What, if anything would you do to change the balance of power between the state and federal gov't?

Federalism Notes:

Federalism:

• Explains how power is shared between state/federal govt's
• Foundation of US Gov't
• Divides Power

How is power divided?

• "DR. CID"
• Delegated: Specifically given to the FG
• Reserved: Anything not delegated to the FG, goes to the STATES
• Concurrent: Shared by BOTH
• Implied: Not delegated, but allowed b/c they're necessary
• Denied: Neither state, nor fed can do it

Click http://regentsprep.org/Regents/ushisgov/themes/government/federalism.htm for more info.

Preamble Post

Hello, Everyone!

Sorry for the late post. Howver, if you are still up...

Based on what we learned in class today, please rewrite the preamble to the Constitution IN YOUR OWN WORDS!

See you tomorrow!

Notes on the Ratification of the Constitution:

Hope this helps!
(Taken from regentsprep.org)

Thematic Essay Self-Check

Carefully read the questions below. Before you hand in your final drafts, make sure that you can answer these questions with a definite "YES!"

Does your Essay...

1. Identify TWO issues that arose at the Constitutional Convention? If so, which ones?
2. State THE REASONS for the disagreement over the issue. In other words, does the essay tell us how the disagreement happened?
3. EXPLAIN how each issue was resolved through Compromise?
4. CORRECTLY match the compromise with the issue (example: Representation/Great Compromise)
5. Use Correct facts, details and examples from the Constitutional Convention (example: Virginia Plan favored larger states, NJ Plan favored small states, Roger Sherman/Great Comp.)?
6. Create or add new information (example: the slavery question would eventually lead to Civil War)
7. Have a clear and logical plan of organization? In other words, an introduction, a conclusion, and body paragraphs?
8. Have an introduction and/or conclusion that did more than just restate the theme? Do you have an introduction that DOES NOT start with "this essay will talk about," or "in my essay, I I'm going to talk about," etc.
9. Contain at least 350 words?

Constitution Convention Notes - Very Helpful!

The Setting of the Philadelphia Convention

A) Early decision to re-write, rather than tinker (fix) with the Articles of Confederation
B) Open agreement secretly arrived at--Washington's plea
C) Intent of the Convention

1) Economic --Charles Beard--protect property rights and make America safe from democracy.
2) Idealistic--make a perfect Union
3) Pragmatic--dealing with the question of sovereignty. Placing common interests over regional or personal concerns.

II. The Participants
A. 55 delegates from 12 states
1) Young (average age 42), professional (over half were lawyers), men of economic substance
2) Many were Revolutionary War veterans
3) Absent: Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, other Revolutionary War heroes.B. Key

Participants
1) Washington--president of the convention
2) Madison--researched every previous republic
a) Large republic is not only possible, it's preferred
b) Popularly elected officials with sovereignty in the hands of the people, not the states3) Franklin--81 years old. The steadying influence

III. The Compromises

A. Great Compromise (bicameral legislature representing both people and states)

Why?
1. Virginia Plan or Large States Plan (Edmund Randolph)
a) 2 house legislature with representation based on population for both
b) President and courts chosen by legislature

2. New Jersey Plan (William Patterson)
a) Congress with each state having l vote
b) separate executive and judicial branches
c) increased powers of Congress

3. Great Compromise
a) Lower house membership dependent on population
b) Upper house with two members from each state
c) All revenue bills must begin in lower house

B. Three-Fifths Compromise

WHAT: 60% of slaves counted for representation and taxation; no Congressional interference with slavery for 20 years

Why?
1. Non-slavery states wanted slaves counted for taxation, but not representation and wanted an end to importation of slaves
2. Slave states wanted slaves counted for representation, but not taxation and no interference with slave trade by the federal government

C. Commerce Compromise
WHAT: no tax on exports, simple majority needed to pass commerce bills

WHY
1. Cotton and tobacco producing states wanted restriction of taxes on exports and all commerce bills to be passed by a two-thirds vote of Congress
2. Northern industrial states wanted federal tariffs to keep up out cheaper European products and raise revenues for the government.

Thanksgiving Break Assignment:

Hello, Everyone:

This assignment is due on TUESDAY NOVEMBER 28th (the day after we get back). We will begin work on the assignment Tuesday.

Mr. Saltz will also be lending a hand to help us do an excellent job.

It is an essay assignment that will count as a 100 point test. This is a THEMATIC ESSAY, very similar to the ones you will be asked to complete on the Regents Exam.

1. Here's the topic:

The Constitutional Convention of 1787 adopted several compromises to resolve disagreements over major issues facing the new nation.

2. The Task:

From your study of US History, identify TWO issues from the Constitutional Convention of 1787

For EACH ISSUE you identify:

• DESCRIBE the disagreement that arose over the issue at the convention
• EXPLAIN HOW that issue was resolved through the use of compromise

3. Here are some websites to help you complete this assignment.

http://www.usconstitution.net/consttop_ccon.html

http://www.polytechnic.org/faculty/gfeldmeth/lec.conconv.html

http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h368.html

http://regentsprep.org/regents/ushisgov/examoverview/thematic.htm

4. Requirements

• Typed, or neatly handwritten
• You can print the assignment, or if you choose, email it to me at MTessler@schools.nyc.gov

5. How will I be graded?

http://rubistar.4teachers.org/index.phpscreen=ShowRubric&rubric_id=1344309

Click here to see the requirements.

HW ASSIGNMENT 11/17/06

Posting Due Date: Sunday 11/19 - 11:59 PM

Based on what you've learned in class about the compromises made regarding slavery at the Constitutional Convention...

- Do you think that the Constitution gave approval to slavery?

Write a response of at least 83, but no more 117 words to this post. For extra credit points, you will respond to at least ONE person's post, explaining why you agree, or disagree with their post.

Consitutional Convention Assignment 11/16/06

In order to get some Southern states to agree to the Constitution, slavery was allowed to continue in the U.S. Do you think that the framers (people who constructed) the Constitution were justified (right) in making this compromise? Explain your answer in a written composition of at least 93, but no more than 127 words.

Blog Assignment

Consider what you learned today about the nation of Merrimac. The authors identified the following as the goals of the convention:

• Strengthen the Nation
• Preserve State Power
• Secure Individual Liberty
• Stabilize the economy

Imagine you were an American living under the Articles of Confederation. In your opinion, which of the following should have been the most important goal for the men who attended the Constitutional Convention in 1787? Write a statement of at least 84, but no more than 97 words. Thanks!

Homework Assignment:

Posts must be received NO LATER than 11:59 PM tonight 11/14/06.

Think about the four goals for Merrimac, which you read about today in class. They were:

• Strengthen the Nation
• Preserve the powers of the States
• Secure individual liberty
• Stabilize the economy

Imagine you were alive at the time of the Constitutional Convention (1787). Which of these do you think was most important for America at that time? Explain why in a brief statement of at least 84, but no more than 97 words.

See you in school!