Greek Epics: Clash of the Titans

We have learned in class that one of the purposes of the Greek epics was to show the heroism of man and how he could perform incredible acts of bravery with little help from the gods. Even when gods provide advice or weapons, the acts must be committed by humans in the end. The epics showed how Greeks valued man, deeds, and his spirit. Although, the Greeks worshipped the gods, we see the emergence of the worship of man as well.

How do you see this reflected in the movie viewed in class, Clash of the Titans (2010)? When forming your answer make sure to address the following:

1. The purpose of epics
2.  How the purpose of epics are reflected in the movie
3.  Two details to support your answer
4.  Convey how Greece, given it is the "Cradle of Western Civilization", can be said to begin the worship of man. ***Clue: cultural diffusion*** Give at least one reason to support your answer.

This is due Wednesday, December 14, 2016. Make sure to have separate paragraphs. Use your writing skills, creative language, and proofread. This needs to be posted by 5:00 p.m. or you will receive an automatic 40% reduction.

The Epic of Gilgamesh

You have read the epic of Gilgamesh. Now it is time to analyze the epic and apply your knowledge to what you know about the Mesopotamian civilization. Answer the questions you received in class in paragraph form. Make sure to include details and examples from the epic to support your analysis. Make sure to use your notes from class. This is due by Monday, October 31, 2016. All responses must be posted by 8:00 am on Monday or it will receive an automatic 40% reduction. Have fun with Gilgamesh and Enkidu!

Shi Huangdi and Chinese Philosophy

We have been learning about the Ancient Chinese Empire. There were several emperors and philosophers who influenced the political, social, and cultural landscape of ancient China. One of these emperors was "The First Emperor", Shi Huangdi. Use the painting below, your foldable, and your notes to complete a written response. ALSO, respond to two of your classmates' comments. Reflect on whether you agree or disagree with their comment and tell why or why not.

In two paragraphs (8-10 compound, complex sentences), analyze the following painting that depicts the Qin dynasty during Shi Huangdi's rule. Describe what is happening in this picture and how it connects to what you know occurred during Shi Huangdi's reign. We know Shi Huangdi was not a fan of Confucianism. How does what is being shown in this picture support that claim? Use details from the picture and your notes to support your statement. Out of the other two Chinese philosophies, Taoism and Legalism, which philosophy would you infer that Shi Huangdi followed? Use details from the painting and your notes to support your answer. Remember to use examples.

REMINDER: Answer each part of the question. Your grade be based on your written paragraphs as well as your written responses to your classmates' paragraphs. This is due April 4, 2016 at 8:00 a.m. Anything posted after this time will not receive full credit.

Analyze the Paintings: Roman vs. Byzantine Empire Emperors

You have seen the bottom picture below when we first began the unit on Rome. Now that we have finished the Byzantine Empire, compare and contrast these two paintings. Both are depictions of emperors.  Based on the paintings, what would you infer about the values of the Roman and Byzantine empires?  What is the role of the emperor?  What is the role of religion?  Use the information you know about the Roman and Byzantine Empires to draw conclusions based on the paintings.  Write your answer down on an index card. 

8C - Basil the Bulgar Slayer

In class we are learning about the Byzantine empire and its glorious history. This includes many men and women and who achieved great feats and held beliefs that made this empire memorable during its day. One such was Basil the II, known as an emperor who ruled over the "Golden Age" of the Byzantine Empire. 

Analyze the following painting. Who are the people being represented in the painting? Why would the artist show them in the painting? What is the message the artist is sending in this piece of art? How does it reflect the culture of the time period?

This is due by Monday, 8:00 a.m. All posts after this time will be considered late and will only receive, at the most, half credit.

Was Alexander the Great REALLY Great?

 

We learned in class about the many aspects of Alexander the Great's personality.  Pretend you are one of his loyal subjects back in Macedonia.  You know that he has led his army over many distances fighting to extend his empire.  However, you also know he has failed to conquer India and has now turned around to come home. 

 

Write a letter to Alexander telling him what kind of king you believe he is. Take into account his accomplishments and even his shortcomings. However, also keep in mind what makes us all human.  How would you feel about him as a leader after hearing about his many triumphs but also some of the actions he has taken while during his war campaign.  Your letter must have the following:

• Must be typed, size 12, Times New Roman
• Must contain this picture above (many of you received it in class)
• You must have this on some type of construction or colored paper so it is visually attractive.
• Must address Alexander
• Must refer to at least three of his actions taken, good or bad
• STAY IN CHARACTER!!! Keep in mind the language and how you would address a king.

This will be due Tuesday, January 5, 2016.  It is worth 125 Project points.

8th Grade: CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE: WHAT IS IT?

"First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Socialist.  Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Trade Unionist.  Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Jew.  Then they came for me - and there was no one left to speak for me."
 ---Martin Niemoller, Christian Pastor and Theologian in Nazi Germany


In the news today we see instances of protest against unjust laws.  Whether we agree with the forms the protests take, these are examples of "civil disobedience".  Take into consideration what you have been learning in Ms. Hall's class, ask yourself the question:  would civil disobedience have made a difference in Nazi Germany?  Using the quote above, address the following questions in a two well-written paragraphs (8-10 compound, complex sentences!):

• What do you think Martin Niemoller meant by this quote?
• Do you think that he regrets that he did not commit "civil disobedience"?  Why or why not?
• Do you believe civil disobedience have changed the outcome of what happened to the Jews in Nazi Germany?  Give two reasons to support your answer.
• Does civil disobedience have a place in society?  Support your answer with two details.

Post your answer to this blog in the "Comments" section.  Make sure to sign in first, or to be on the safe side, "copy" your response first before posting it in case it does not post the first time.

Make sure to support your answers, explain your points, and check for grammar.  This will count as a grade for Mrs. Yancie's and Ms. Hall's class.

Martin Niemoller

7th Grade Extra Credit:  Using and Analyzing Maps

We have discussed and learned about the many different uses and types of maps. We can analyze these maps for that helps us know about certain themes and areas on earth.  For extra credit you are to provide two types of maps and analyze them to determine their purpose and information.  Here are the following instructions:

1.  You are to choose two from the following types of maps:
Physical
Topographic
Thematic
Weather

2.  You must show the map, IN COLOR, on your paper.

3.  Answer the following questions:

     a.  What information does the legend tell you?  Remember, JUST the legend.
     b.  What information does the map give?  How do you know?
     c.  How could this map help you in a "real world" situation?  Describe the situation and how you
          would use this map.
     d.  Justify how researchers could use this map to predict changes ten years from now.  Explain
          thoroughly and in detail. 

This is due Tuesday, March 10, 2015.  NO LATE ASSIGNMENTS WILL BE ACCEPTED!!!

 

 

 8th Grade Extra Credit: 

Terra Cotta Soldier Diary

  

Ancient China: The life of a Terra Cotta Soldier

We have begun learning about Ancient China and its amazing history.  Part of that history is the discovery of the Terra Cotta soldiers.  For this assignment you are to assume the identity of a soldier and tell the about life in Ancient China.

You must give your terra cotta warrior a voice.  Use the diary entry to tell about your soldier's life.  Use the information you have learned to create a story about life in Ancient China from the viewpoint of the terra cotta warrior.  Remember to use factual information and the rest is up to your imagination.

 

1.  Give your warrior a name.

 

2.  Use at least three factual events, people, or places.

 

3.  The story must be relevant and have a historical viewpoint.

4.  Must be typed, size 12, Times New Roman, double spaced,  and no more than one page.

5.  Must include a picture of the Terra Cotta warrior.

 

This due Monday, March 9, 2015.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Extra Credit: Which Action Takes More Courage?

In class we have participated in a Socratic Circle about the recent incidents involving the Michael Brown and Eric Garner cases.  Cases like these cause us to reflect on not only the effectiveness of our justice system, but also how we are to exercise our right to protest.  In recent days we have seen two forms of protest at work:  non-violent and violence.  Which is more effective?  Today in class we discussed and looked at a video about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  You were to take notes in class, answering several questions.  Using your notes, respond to the following:
Is it braver to protest non-violently or with force?  Which takes more courage?

Fulfill the following requirements:

• Post your response to the classroom blog
• Write a fully developed paragraph (at least 8-10 sentences) that fully explores this question
• Give at least three reasons to support your answer.
• Must be posted by midnight, Friday, December 19, 2014 in order to receive extra credit

Introduce the World to Roman Emperors!!!

Introduce the World to Roman Emperors!!!

Rome’s history is full of emperors and rulers who either led Rome down the path to glory or the road to destruction.  This is why Rome was so great!  For this project you are going to teach everyone about a Roman emperor.  You are to complete the following instructions:

·        Choose a Roman emperor – no repeats in one class

·        You must create a brochure with the following headings

o   Biography

o   Details of his reign

o   Significant event that happened during his reign

o   Greatest achievement

o   One topic of your choice

·        Must include at least five (5) pictures

·        Absolutely NO plagiarism!!!

·        Must NOT be a flyer, it needs to be brochure

·        Due Wednesday, January 7, 2015

·        Make sure to have your emperor approved.

 

 

 

Alexander the Great???

We have been studying Alexander the Great in class.  We have learned about his many accomplishments as well as some of his disappointments.  So the question remains:  Was Alexander the Great....well, great?  Using the primary sources you received in class, I want you to assume the persona of one of the historical figures and write a letter to Alexander.  Tell him whether you believe he is "great" but make sure to use textual evidence to explain why or why not.  You will post this letter on the blog under "Comments".  Make sure to complete the following:

• Must be completed in first person
• Allude to at least two historical facts, events, people, etc.
• Your persona must be one of the people from the primary sources
• Use the primary source to create your letter, i.e., YOU are that person, you are just writing another letter.
• Must be at least two paragraphs (6-8 sentences per paragraph)
• Due by Friday, December 5, 2014.

Remember your topic question:  WAS ALEXANDER THE GREAT REALLY "GREAT"?

Blog Assignment: Should Teens Be Tried As Adults?

In class we have been studying the juvenile court system.  Is it fair that teens be tried as adults?  The United States has been criticized and praised across the globe for their treatment of children and teens in the judicial system.  You have read articles in class discussing opinions from both sides of this issue.  Discuss your opinion on the blog.  Do you think teens should be tried as adults?  Use the graphic organizer from class to write your opinion on this issue.  Here are the requirements:

1. Your response must be posted by Monday, December 1, 2014.
2. You must first state your claim.
3. Give at least three details to support your answer.  They must be EXPLAINED, NOT LISTED.  Make sure you do not repeat your reasons.
4. Include your rebuttal statement.  State what the opposing side believes.  Give two reasons why you believe the opposing side's statement is wrong.
5. Give a conclusion.
6. Do not post anything inappropriate; use the same discretion you would if you were submitting a paper for class.
7. This will count as a "mini-project" grade.
8. If you post after the due date, points will be taken off for every day it is late.

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. 

***Copies of the articles can be found on the W.J. Christian website on my teacher page.***

How Television Has Effected Politics

Television has played a vita role in presidential elections since the 1960s.  Watch the televised debate between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon.  After watching the video, write a response answering the following questions:

1.  Which candidate do you think  benefited the most by this televised debate? Give at least two reasons to support your answer.

2.  Why would television work to these candidates advantage better than newspapers at the time? Give at least two reasons to support your answer.

3.  Do you see any bias in this debate?  Give your opinion and support it with two examples.

This must be typed, size 12, Times New Roman, double-spaced. 

7th Grade - Government and Civics

Government and Civics

 

Instructions:

Throughout this course and school year you will study about several types of governments and how they have shaped many countries, economies and cultures.  You are going to research one of these types of government and “teach” the class about its structure and influences. 

Select a type of government to research.  The government must exist now or have existed in the 1900s.  You are going to research this government for the following information (but you are not limited to this):

·         Who is the head of the government?
·         What is the structure?
·         What is the economy?
·         Do people have rights?
·         What are the benefits to this type of government?
·         What are the drawbacks to this type of government?
·         What countries have this government?

Once you have done your research, select pictures that represent the aspects of the government.  The pictures should reflect what you have learned and researched.  Once the pictures have been chosen, you will cover the outside of your notebook with them, creating a visual image that depicts aspects of the government.  You must also do an oral presentation where you will tell about the pictures you have chosen and what they say about the government.  In order to receive full credit you must have the following:

·         You must cover seven out of seven of the items listed above
·         The government must be within the time parameters given above.
·         You must have NO LESS than ten pictures
·         You must be able to explain each picture and how it pertains to the topic
·         Make it neat and creative
·         Little effort means a lower grade
·         Your oral report must be clear; you should know the material.  Points will be taken off it seems   
       you are unprepared or not knowledgeable.

Points will be awarded on the following:

·         Creativity
·         Originality
·         Pictures
·         Relevancy of Pictures
·         Oral Presentation (were you knowledgeable, prepared, etc.)
·         Speaking in a clear, loud voice during oral presentation

This counts as a “Project” grade.  It is worth 125 points. 

This is due Monday, September 1, 2014. 

Submit your selection of government by Friday, August 22, 2014

No excuses or late assignments will be taken.

 

 

8th Grade - Civilizations and Societies Project and Oral Presentation

Civilizations and Societies

 

Instructions:

Throughout this course and school year you will study about several civilizations and societies that have shaped many cultures that exist today.  You are going to research one of these civilizations and “teach” the class about its culture. 

 

Select a civilization or society to research.  The civilization can be from prehistoric times up until the Renaissance.  You are going to research this civilization or society for the following themes:

• Culture
  • Traditions
  • Arts
  • Literature
  • Dress
  • Food
  • Customs
• Religion
• Government
• Military
• Family Structures

 Once you have researched the civilization, select pictures that represent these aspects of the culture.  The picture should reflect what you have learned and researched.  Once the pictures have been chosen, you will cover the outside of your notebook with them, creating a visual image that depicts aspects of the civilization.  You must also do an oral presentation where you will tell about the pictures you have chosen and what they say about the civilization.  In order to receive full credit you must have the following:

• You must cover eight out of ten of the items listed above
• The civilization must be within the time parameters given above.
• You must have NO LESS than ten pictures
• You must be able to explain each picture and how it pertains to the topic
• Make it neat and creative
• Little effort means a lower grade
• Your oral report must be clear; you should know the material.  Points will be taken off it seems you are unprepared or not knowledgeable.

Points will be awarded for the following:

• Creativity
• Originiality
• Pictures
• Relevancy of Pictures
• Oral Presentation (were you knowledgeable, prepared, etc.)
• Speaking in a clear, loud voice during oral presentation

 This counts as a “Project” grade.  It is worth 125 points. 

This is due Thursday, August 28, 2014. 

No excuses or late assignments will be taken.

Russia vs. Ukraine vs. the World

In order to complete your essay, you may want to review the videos we watched in class.

Citizen Handbook

We have been discussing the rights and responsibilities people have as a citizen of this country.  You are going to create your own citizen handbook.  Imagine you are leaving directions to people in the future about what it means to be a good citizen of the U.S.  What would you tell them? 

Write in PARAGRAPH form your directions for the national, state, city, school, and home levels.  Each section should have at least 5 GOOD and complex sentences.  Remember you are giving advice! 

1.    Write in complete sentences.

2.    Make sure to use rights and responsibilities from your pyramid.

3.   On the cover you can draw or insert a picture that represents citizenship (ex: eagle, flag, White House, or even yourself)

4.  On each blank page in your book you must insert at least three pictures for each section (nation, state, city, etc.).  The pictures must reflect what you have written about citizenship.

This will count as a project grade.  Due Monday, December 9, 2013.

 

 

Ancient China: Life of a Terra Cotta Warrior

8th Grade Extra Credit: 

 Terra Cotta Soldier Diary

  

Ancient China: The life of a Terra Cotta Soldier

We have begun learning about Ancient China and its amazing history.  Part of that history is the discovery of the Terra Cotta soldiers.  For this assignment you are to assume the identity of a soldier and tell the about life in Ancient China.

You must give your terra cotta warrior a voice.  Use the diary entry to tell about your soldier's life.  Use the information you have learned to create a story about life in Ancient China from the viewpoint of the terra cotta warrior.  Remember to use factual information and the rest is up to your imagination.

 

1.  Give your warrior a name.

 

2.  Use at least three factual events, people, or places.

 

3.  The story must be relevant and have a historical viewpoint.

 

This due Monday, March 9, 2015.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Geography: The Epic of Gilgamesh

You have received a copy of the several stories from the Epic of Gilgamesh, an epic story from Mesopotamia.  Read the stories and complete the following:

Answer each critical thinking question in COMPLETE SENTENCES and in full detail. The answers to these questions are due Wednesday, November 13-, 2013. They MUST be typed. You must use size 12, Times New Roman Font, and double-space. Type each question out and answer the questions using information from the text as well as your notes. This will count as a Test/Project grade.   WRITE THIS IN ESSAY FORM.  You should have total of at least five paragraphs.

Questions:

1. What do these stories tell you about the role the gods played in the lives of humans?

2. Gilgamesh was a cruel ruler in the beginning. What do his stories say about the ability of humans to change?

3. What are noble qualities in Gilgamesh that the Mesopotamians found admirable? Give at least two and give at least one detail from the story to support each quality. Tell why the detail you chose supports the quality you chose.

4. Do these stories paint the gods in a favorable light? Explain your answer and use at least three details from the stories to support your answer.

5.What aspects of culture can you find in these stories? Do these stories reflect the beliefs, values, religion, etc., of the ancient Mesopotamians? Give at least three reasons to support your answer and be specific.