AFRICA

Well, I thought the presentation was edifying and I think you can classify "TRI" as an interest group. The children soldier dilemma is not isolated to Uganda. I think you can find these situations all throughout Africa. Besides Obama, did anyone notice which political parties were featured in the video?

I guess I'm a slow reader

Well the reading class was quite educational. It seems to me that reading speed and comprehension are inversely related. The faster I read the less I get. I also realized that I am easily distracted when taking reading tests. If I could I have taken the LSAT at home with a comfortable environment I'd be suing people and making a fortune. Anyway, most of you have done a nice job blogging. My JOSH Penry connection sort of scoffed at me, but I will try to get him to class. I just heard a great line on the radio- "Where in the Constitution does it state that government has the right to make us purchase a good or service like health care?" Something to ponder.

El Coit O

One of our students blogged about the Ft. Hood tragedy and I would have liked to have made a few comments about his/her opinion. Please make sure that you have a comment section at the bottom of each post, so I can give you my take.

Yes, Josh Penry is not running for Governor of Colorado. But just because the old GJHS quarterback is passing on the Gubernatorial race, that doesn't mean he might not run for Congress. You will have an essay and quiz on Thursday. I will be learning how to read.....faster.

EL Coit O

Clinton gets tough

Watch the story and blog a reaction about Clinton's stance with Pakistan.

http://www.cnn.com/studentnews/

2009 Blogging

AP Government will create a blog and use their website to follow current political events throughout the remainder of the school year or at least until May.

Blogging

Well, I enjoy the idea of blogging and think it definitely helps one follow government but am having trouble grading the blogs. I don't mind the one a week idea, with the exception of maybe having assigned blogs for specific assignments. Check out the cabinet quiz on the blog site! Great review of the material. I am also the golf coach now and will be missing several days during fourth quarter. I would like to make sure that you are productive during those class days. Ideas? I have some excellent videos and writing assignments. I thought the commenting California on Hillary's blog was harmless yet encouraging. So I will think about that issue. If you miss class make sure you follow FMHS protocol. The illness needs to be excused. Sleeping in to relieve stress is healthy but rarely excusable. Have a lovely evening.

A little bit of effort

I'm noticing a drop in test scores and work habits.  I think it has been difficult to mesh 2nd period and 3rd period.  Both classes had distinct personalities and attributes.  But the bottom line is I'd like to try to maximize learning coupled with enjoyable activities.   Now the next unit will be President/Executive Branch.  I know some students like the fishbowl and debating, while some kids prefer lecture.  I don't care, however, everyone could do a little better job reading the text.   I also would like to go watch the Nixon movie in the next two weeks.   It is showing at the new theater north of the mall.  

WATCH MR Smith goes to Washington- 1 Hour AP! Class

Today, we went over how a bill becomes a law.  It is rather complicated so make sure you study.  Know your congressman of Colorado.  BTW, Bennett wants to be on the agricultural committee.  Make sure you have watched one hour of "Mr. Smith goes to Washington".  It is an excellent movie.  Read about 'pork' and write a short blog.  Remember blogging is worth 5 points per blog.  I will give you 3 points for one day late blogging.  When you write your bills consider your party and constituency.  How many greenies are elected in place like..... western Colorado.   Make sure you are caught up on the text reading.  Great Cnn student news today.  Should cell phones be banned while driving. (YES!)  I'm off to run-literally.

Happy New Year

Welcome back to second semester.  I think this is a rather exciting time in our history and government.  I would like you guys to follow current events and other government happenings. This quarter we will have several blogging assignment, so keep up and enjoy blogging.  Keep the blogs short and sweet. 

Coit