Meeting of the French Estates General

Meeting of the Estates General 1789 May 5, 1789- Versailles I, King Louis XVI, have called this meeting to order. This is the first time each estate has met together since the year of our lord, 1614. The purpose of this meeting is to try to create a solution to our great nations growing financial problems. This is a problem we cannot avoid anymore. I wanted all of us to meet today, to discuss the financial deficit. One solution that may have to happen is the raising of taxes. This seems to be the only way of getting our great nation out of debt. I am in need of advice on all sides of the spectrum. What are your views of raising taxes? Who should pay these taxes? I felt bringing us all together may help solve something; do you think this was a good idea? Comment below IN CHARACTER. Be sure to answer every question I have asked! Curtly, King Louis XVI

Iran and Nuclear weapons- What is the role of the United States and should we fear this possible threat?

Iran and Nuclear Weapons- Does Iran pose a threat to the United States Tensions between the United States and Iran have always existed, moreso in the late 1970's during the Iranian Hostage Crisis. Since the end of the crisis in 1980, the United States has continued to keep an eye on Iranian policy. In the past, the United States has condemned actions, held economic embargo/sanctions against Iran, and has continued a policy of negotiations to try and prevent Iran from completing a nuclear program. Whether Iran is racing toward nuclear weapon capabilities is one of the most contentious issues challenging the West, including the United States and Israel. Even with UN Sanctions of the past against the nation, it is suggested that Iran is in the midst of developing a nuclear bomb. What would this mean for "The West"? Israel? The world? Your assignment: Read the attached article from CNN. When you are finished respond to the following two questions: 1. What is the role of the United States in this situation? Should we or shouldn't we take a more aggressive means of action against Iran? Why? 2. Is Iran a threat to the United States? Why or why not? Cite examples from the article that would make you agree or disagree. This is worth up to 6 points. Please write in complete senetences and as detailed as you can for full six point extra credit

American Schools Still Heavily Segregated By Race, Income: Civil Rights Project Report

We have discussed race in society during the past few weeks. Is it still an issue? Depends on where you live in America? How much attention should be paid to it today? Minorities account for nearly half of the student population in America, and will likely become the majority within the next decade or two, but recent studies show that students across the country are still largely learning in segregated environments -- along both racial and economic lines. Assignment: Read the article (click on the link provided). American Schools Still Heavily Segregated By Race, Income: Civil Rights Project Report Answer the following questions: 1. Why is the achievement gap between minorities and whites growing?? Discussed some facts you learned from the article. 2. Where are segregated schools mostly found? Are you surprised by this? 3. Overall, why do YOU think there is a discrepancy/problem in education for minorities vs white Americans? Is it the schools? Not enough resources for learning? Lower income housing? What can be done to help solve this problem?

North Korea: What course of action should the US take?

Read the following article attached about the US and North Korea. As we have discussed, the rise of dictators during World War II alarmed nations of the world, especially Great Britain, France, and the US. The British and French appeased Adolph Hitler, with the Munich Agreement. Giving into Hitler's demands, it was thought to keep the peace. We know that is not what happened. If the world did not take Hitler as serious as they should have, shouldn't the world learn from past mistakes?? North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has threatened the United States in recent days, provoking what could be another war. He has threatened to attack South Korea, cut off all diplomatic relations, and eventually, attack US naval bases in the Pacific, etc. ARTICLE: US PLAYS DOWN NORTH KOREA THREAT Questions to answer after reading the article: 1. Should the United States be worried/scared about the North Korean threats of war? Give examples from the article to back up your opinion. 2. What course of action do you think the United States should take? More aggressive actions? More discussions/compromises with the North Koreans? 5 points extra credit

Meeting of the Estates General 1789

May 5, 1789- Versailles I, King Louis XVI, have called this meeting to order. This is the first time each estate has met together since the year of our lord, 1614. The purpose of this meeting is to try to create a solution to our great nations growing financial problems. This is a problem we cannot avoid anymore. I wanted all of us to meet today, to discuss the financial deficit. One solution that may have to happen is the raising of taxes. This seems to be the only way of getting our great nation out of debt. I am in need of advice on all sides of the spectrum. What are your views of raising taxes? Who should pay these taxes? I felt bringing us all together may help solve something; do you think this was a good idea? Comment below IN CHARACTER. Be sure to answer every question I have asked! Curtly, King Louis XVI

Should the US open up relations with Cuba?

Read the article entitled, Kerry, Hagel On Cuba: Cabinet Nominees Could Help Ease Relations, Lift Trade Embargo. Click on the link, and it will take you to the article. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/26/kerry-hagel-cuba-us-trade-embargo_n_2559023.html After reading, please comment in blog format, on the following questions: 1. According to the article, how does President Obama's Cabinet members feel about lifting the trade embargo with Cuba? 2. What do YOU personally think should be done? Should the US open up limited trade with Cuba? End the embargo? Why or why not? *be specific with an example 5 points extra credit http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/26/kerry-hagel-cuba-us-trade-embargo_n_2559023.html

Meeting of the Estates General- Block 4

May 5, 1789- Versailles I, King Louis XVI, have called this meeting to order. This is the first time each estate has met together since the year of our lord, 1614. The purpose of this meeting is to try to create a solution to our great nations growing financial problems. This is a problem we cannot avoid anymore. I wanted all of us to meet today, to discuss the financial deficit. One solution that may have to happen is the raising of taxes. This seems to be the only way of getting our great nation out of debt. I am in need of advice on all sides of the spectrum. What are your views of raising taxes? Who should pay these taxes? I felt bringing us all together may help solve something; do you think this was a good idea? Comment below IN CHARACTER. Be sure to answer every question I have asked! Curtly, King Louis XVI

Osama bin Laden's death- Cost of Victory?

http://www.newsweek.com/2011/05/05/the-cost-of-victory.html


Please read the article from Newsweek- the link is listed above so please copy and paste into your browser.

The death of Osama bin Laden has created a lot of controversy and conflict lately. Some see his death as a symbol of victory in the war on terror, while other do not, and see this as something that should not be celebrated.

Read the article and answer the following questions:

1. According to the article, what are some reasons why America should NOT be celebrating Osama bin Laden's death? What does it suggest seems odd about the attack?


2. What are your personal views? Should Osama bin Laden have been captured alive? Killed? Do you believe his death will change anything against the war on terror?

Is America an Empire? Extra Credit USII

After learning about the beginnings of American Imperialism, and viewing the video clip on America's Empire "setting" so to speak, read the attached article entitled "Is America an Empire" from Upfront Magazine, 2003.




PLEASE read the article in it's entirety, and answer the following two questions:

http://www.dps109.org/shepard/websites/dkomie/history8/Documents/Imperialism/Resources/Is%20america%20and%20empire.pdf

1. What are some arguments made in the article that SUPPORT America's expansion around the world? Provide three examples.

2. What are some arguments made in the article that try to show America as an IMPERIAL nation with self-motives? Do you agree or disagree??

Remember to check for SPELLING errors, and write in complete sentences. 5 points possible

World History Class- Meeting of the Estates General

May 5, 1789- Versailles

I, King Louis XVI, have called this meeting to order. This is the first time each estate has met together since the year of our lord, 1614. The purpose of this meeting is to try to create a solution to our great nations growing financial problems. This is a problem we cannot avoid anymore. I wanted all of us to meet today, to discuss the financial deficit. One solution that may have to happen is the raising of taxes. This seems to be the only way of getting our great nation out of debt. I am in need of advice on all sides of the spectrum. What are your views of raising taxes? Who should pay these taxes? I felt bringing us all together may help solve something; do you think this was a good idea?

Comment below IN CHARACTER. Be sure to answer every question I have asked!

Curtly,
King Louis XVI

Arizona's Immigration Bill- Controversy continues

Below is a link to an article about the immigration issue in Arizona. Recently, Governor Jan Brewer (AZ) proposed a law that would require people who are suspected of being in the country illegally to show documentation that they are in the country legally. This has sparked a national debate for many reasons. Reasons you will read about in the article LINK BELOW.

What you need to do....
1. Read the article

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7743046/gov_jan_brewer_files_countersuit_in.html?cat=17


2. Comment on the following two questions:
1. What are your personal views on Arizona's SB 170 bill? Is it a form of racial profiling? Racial discrimination? Why or why not?

2. Do you think Governor Brewer will win her case vs the Federal goverment, or do you think the Federal government will be successful at preventing her and Arizona from passing this bill? Explain.

This is worth 10 points. Please use complete sentences and watch for spelling errors thanks!!

Blogging in the Classroom

Why is it important to incorporate blogging into the classroom?

21st century teaching with technology

To Censor or Not? Mark Twain's novels and the "N" word

Recently it was announced that the newest editions of Mark Twain's Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn were to take out certain words, including the "N" word and the word "injun" which was a term used to describe Indians (Native Americans). Read the article below and comment on the following:

1. Is this censorship? Why or why not?
2. Should the words be taken out of the novels? Why does it matter?



http://www.cnn.com/2011/SHOWBIZ/01/04/new.huck.finn.ew/index.html

Time for North Korea to pay? Or continue with appeasement?

Since we have been discussing appeasement of powerful leaders, like Adolf Hitler, I thought it best to discuss a current leader, the world seems to be "appeasing" right now. Kim Jong Il, the North Korean dictator, has been an enemy of the free world since his father, Kim Il Sung, made North Korea a Communist country in the 1950s. Recently, the North Koreans have instigated attacks on South Korea, including sinking a South Korean ship. Read the attached article about South Korea vs North Korea and comment on the following questions:

1. What has North Korea done that is threatening the peace of South Korea and the United Nations?

2. How should this be handled? Is the United Nations doing enough? Should the South Korean government retaliate? How do China and the US fit into this? Is the current policy working? Why or why not?

5 points extra credit! copy and paste the website into your browser

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-11-29/lee-vows-north-korea-will-pay-as-china-calls-for-talks.html

Foreclosures- Should the government let them happen or step in?

Since we are discussing the Great Depression vs the Recession, I thought it best to complete a blog entry on the issue of Foreclosure. Below you will find a link to the article entitled, "Obama's Foreclosure Prevention Efforts Criticized". Read the article in FULL and comment on the following questions:

1. Do you think, based on what you have read, that the Obama Foreclosure plan is working? Why or why not?

2. Do you think that the government should have stepped in to help those who are having a hard problem paying their mortgage, or do you think homes should go into foreclosure? Be sure to think about how this will effect banks, loans, etc.


http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=130840418

14th Amendment debate: Legal citizen or not?

Right now, we are learning about the Progressive Reform Movement in America during the early 1900's. The goal is to reform/change laws to improve the lives of Americans. During this time period, America saw new Constitutional Amendments (16th-18th).
Right now, there is a debate going on in our country over whether or not the 14th Amendment (Rights to citizenship) should be AMENDED. Why you may ask? If this passes, there is a chance children born in AMERICA to immigrant parents (illegal/not citizens) would NOT be considered American citizens.
Due to the heavy influx of illegal immigrants coming into the country, Americans on one side, feel that something needs to be done. Read about the controversy to changing the 14th Amendment from the Article below. Comment on the following questions:

1. Where do YOU stand on the issue? Do you AGREE or disagree with the Birthright Citizenship Act proposal? Why or why not?

2. If this ACT/14th amendment was amended was passed, HOW would this affect America??

Comment in detail for full credit. I look forward to hearing your thoughts!!

Kavy~

ARTICLE BELOW- please copy and paste into your broswer

http://www.ocregister.com/news/citizenship-265554-birthright-states.html

World History Peeps! North and South Korea

Here is the link for the article about the latest conflict between North and South Korea.

Read the article in its entirety. Comment on the following questions below.

http://www.nytimes.com/info/north-korea/

1. Do you believe that North Korea attacked South Korea's ship The Cheonan? Does South Korea have enough evidence? (You may need to take a look at a few articles to help you answer this)

2. Now that North Koreans are starting to get a slight "taste" of technology, do you think they will hold any type of revolt/rebellion against the Communist regime, especially after understanding that their nation is quite backwards compared to other nations?

Please comment as you usually do- and make sure your SPELLING is correct. No FB or text language on here! :)

Arizona's Immigration Bill....protecting Americans or going too far??

Please read the attached article about a new bill signed by the Governor of Arizona. This bill, which is the first bill by a US State to demand immigrants legalization papers/federal documents of legitimacy, has caused an uproar throughout the country.

Read the article thoroughly, and comment on the following two questions:

1. Where do you stand? Do you support the bill? Against it? Why do you feel the way you do?

2. Do you think this bill, regardless of where you stand, will be effective? Do you think illegal immigration will begin to cease? Why or why not?

copy and past the URL link into your browser to read the article

p10 pts extra credit
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/24/us/politics/24immig.html

World History Peeps! Africa - South Africa and problems facing teens

Hey Ya'll!

Hope you enjoyed our unit on Africa! I know we have read and discussed issues that are very troublesome. As we have learned, South Africa is one of the richest countries in Africa, yet it plagued by so much, including a high population of HIV/AIDS.

Read the article from GLOBAL ISSUES- the link is below. The article is about teens- other kids your age, and the problems they face in South Africa today. To me, it is very disturbing.....

http://www.globalissues.org/news/2010/05/05/5490

After reading the article, please comment on the following two questions:

1. What do you feel is the BIGGEST problem facing teens in South Africa (choose only one out of the few you read about)? Why do you feel this way?


2. What are some solutions to solve these problems? What do you see happening that may "wake up" these kids, and get them back on the right path in life? Suggest at least TWO solutions.

The New Jersey Budget and YOU- The Effects of cutting the budget on schools

Recently, Governor Chris Christie announced that his administration will be cutting close to $1 billion dollars in education spending. This is obviously going to have a direct impact on RV and approximately 600 other NJ public schools.

Read the attached link

http://www.examiner.com/x-28973-Essex-County-Conservative-Examiner~y2010m2d12-Christie-cuts-NJ-budget-making-Dems-scream

After reading about the budget cuts for school and other proposed cuts, comment on the following question:

Do you agree or disagree with Governor Christies budget cuts? What part(s) do you agree or disagree with? How will these budget cuts for schools affect YOU? Education? Do you have any other proposals that could be cut instead of education? Please comment!