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 

Essay test on Thursday/Friday

When writing essays for the AP Govt test make sure you identify, explain, and describe succinctly.  I am giving two questions on Thursday.   You need to make sure you are caught up on your reading and filling out the guided notes.  

We the People- Senoritis FMHS

Not bad for preliminary work on "We the People".  Slow DOWN is my number one suggestion.  I thought Marie spoke at very smooth and polished rate.  Don't ramble.  Answer the question.  Kate and Ben's group- make sure you have organized speaking segments.  

A's on test

There were a few more A's on the test than usual. That is encouraging. The test will be curved so that if you missed 11 you could still get an A. I think Justin Kattnig was the top scorer. I guess this is just good birthday karma. Nice job Justin. Hillary and Katie also did well.

Ok the next unit will not have a major paper, but you will have to write two briefs about Supreme Court cases. I will assign you two cases in class. You will have to write a brief and present a discussion about your case to the class. And yes I will go over what you need to know for the test. This unit will help you with the "We the People" unit. Briefs are the heart of what law students do, so if you are interested in law school, hopefully this be a rather exciting unit. The We the People lady lives in Buena Vista and is trying to judge us by Dec 2. If she cannot make it, then maybe................. dr. Parentice could judge you which means a trip to the state capitol. I hope this works out.

John Salazar at LaBamba

According to one of our esteemed students, John Salazar is going to be at LaBamba at 5:00 on Wednesday. It sounds like a excellent opportunity to meet our US Rep and ask him about the War in Iraq, redistribution of wealth, or any other policy concern. Maybe we can get him to visit our class someday. Thanks Megan.

Great day in the stock market, why might this help McCain?