Welcome to my virtual classroom!
Hi Huskies!
8th Graders I am so excited to be your tour guide on our adventure through U.S. history this year! This website will be an invaluable tool for you so be sure to save it to your favorites. I recommend spending at least 30 minutes a week exploring the links to games, information, pictures, videos and interactive websites related to the social studies standards we will cover in order to deepen your knowledge and understanding of our country's history.
Sixth Graders Click on the "More" button on the menu at the top of the page and you can find the links to all of the super fun units you'll cover in Social Studies this year. Feel free to let me know if you find a great new site I should add :).
Global Issues Elective Click on the "More" button on the menu at the top of the page to find the webpage for our class.
Mrs. Valerie Redd
Social Studies Teacher
Thinking Maps Trainer
Hillview Middle School
10931 Stamy Rd, Whittier, CA 90604
562.789.2000
[email protected]
NEWS FLASH!
Here's what's happening in Social Studies this week...
June 4 - 7, 2018
MONDAY Today we'll have our first Promotion practice in the morning and continue learning about WWI in the afternoon.
TUESDAY Today we'll have Promotion practice in the morning and the Yearbook Staff will present their year-end video and the yearbook in the afternoon.
WEDNESDAY Today we'll have Promotion practice in the morning and then head off to Knott's Berry Farm!
THURSDAY Please arrive in the gym no later than 7:45am for our final practice before Promotion, which begins at 9am. You will go home with your families after the ceremony.
Have a wonderful summer and come back to visit next year!!! Once a husky, always a husky :).
MONDAY Today we'll have our first Promotion practice in the morning and continue learning about WWI in the afternoon.
TUESDAY Today we'll have Promotion practice in the morning and the Yearbook Staff will present their year-end video and the yearbook in the afternoon.
WEDNESDAY Today we'll have Promotion practice in the morning and then head off to Knott's Berry Farm!
THURSDAY Please arrive in the gym no later than 7:45am for our final practice before Promotion, which begins at 9am. You will go home with your families after the ceremony.
Have a wonderful summer and come back to visit next year!!! Once a husky, always a husky :).
May 28- June 1, 2018
MONDAY Sleep in!
TUESDAY Today we'll pass back all of your work from 2nd semester. You will also receive your FINAL PROGRESS REPORT. Please double-check everything to make sure that there are no boo boos on your progress report. Let me know about any issues by the end of the day WEDNESDAY.
WEDNESDAY Today we will finish watching Far and Away and we'll get to see the Oklahoma Land Grab! Good times, people!
THURSDAY & FRIDAY We will learn about World War I, which is a fascinating war with devastating casualties and consequences.
THURSDAY NIGHT If you received an invitation to Awards Night, please bring a picnic and your family. The Awards Ceremony starts at 6pm.
FRIDAY NIGHT We're gonna dance the night away at the 8th grade dance! Woo hoo! The dande will be held from 6-9pm at the Ritz Gardens: 11201 First Ave, Whittier.
MONDAY Sleep in!
TUESDAY Today we'll pass back all of your work from 2nd semester. You will also receive your FINAL PROGRESS REPORT. Please double-check everything to make sure that there are no boo boos on your progress report. Let me know about any issues by the end of the day WEDNESDAY.
WEDNESDAY Today we will finish watching Far and Away and we'll get to see the Oklahoma Land Grab! Good times, people!
THURSDAY & FRIDAY We will learn about World War I, which is a fascinating war with devastating casualties and consequences.
THURSDAY NIGHT If you received an invitation to Awards Night, please bring a picnic and your family. The Awards Ceremony starts at 6pm.
FRIDAY NIGHT We're gonna dance the night away at the 8th grade dance! Woo hoo! The dande will be held from 6-9pm at the Ritz Gardens: 11201 First Ave, Whittier.
May 22 - May 25, 2018
MONDAY Today we will discuss your end-of-the-year Reflection Paper and you'll get started on it. This will be due on WEDNESDAY. Research shows that the more we reflect on what we’ve done in the past, the more likely we are to achieve great things in the future. And, as our famous Greek philosopher Socrates said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.Write at least 1 ½ pages (or type 1 FULL page using 12 point font and double-spacing) to tell me your thoughts about this year in social studies. You can reflect on anything related to our year together, but the goal is to dig deep and think about what you have experienced, how you have grown as a scholar and a person, how your understanding of our country has changed, and what you will take with you into the future. Choose a few to answer in a well-developed LETTER to me or to next year’s 8th graders. I look forward to reading your thoughts!
TUESDAY I will be out again at a Title 1 planning meeting. You'll watch America Story of Us: Heartland which covers topics such as the Transcontinental Railroad, buffalo and the Great Plains, cowboys and Native Americans. You'll turn in your movie notes at the end of the period.
MONDAY Today we will discuss your end-of-the-year Reflection Paper and you'll get started on it. This will be due on WEDNESDAY. Research shows that the more we reflect on what we’ve done in the past, the more likely we are to achieve great things in the future. And, as our famous Greek philosopher Socrates said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.Write at least 1 ½ pages (or type 1 FULL page using 12 point font and double-spacing) to tell me your thoughts about this year in social studies. You can reflect on anything related to our year together, but the goal is to dig deep and think about what you have experienced, how you have grown as a scholar and a person, how your understanding of our country has changed, and what you will take with you into the future. Choose a few to answer in a well-developed LETTER to me or to next year’s 8th graders. I look forward to reading your thoughts!
TUESDAY I will be out again at a Title 1 planning meeting. You'll watch America Story of Us: Heartland which covers topics such as the Transcontinental Railroad, buffalo and the Great Plains, cowboys and Native Americans. You'll turn in your movie notes at the end of the period.
WEDNESDAY Today we will discuss the history of immigration in our country. We'll examine political cartoons from the late 1800s and early 1900s to determine public perception of immigration during that era. Then we evaluate current political cartoons to determine how American society views immigration today. You have the opportunity to complete your Family Immigration Map and Paragraph for extra credit. They are due tomorrow.
THURSDAY & FRIDAY We will watch an edited version of Far and Away, which will give us an understanding of immigration in the late 1800s from the Irish perspective. We will also get to see the Oklahoma Land Grab at the end of the movie. You'll love it!
THURSDAY & FRIDAY We will watch an edited version of Far and Away, which will give us an understanding of immigration in the late 1800s from the Irish perspective. We will also get to see the Oklahoma Land Grab at the end of the movie. You'll love it!
May 14-18, 2018
MONDAY Today we will finish Reconstruction.
TUESDAY Our focus for today will be evaluating current events to determine how racism is still impacting American society today.
WEDNESDAY It's time for the Industrial Revolution! Today we will go through our Industrial Revolution PowerPoint and learn about how the world was completely revolutionized during the 1800s by technological developments. We will also take a look at the men who made it happen by monopolizing industries.
THURSDAY I will be in a Title 1 planning meeting today and tomorrow. Please treat Mrs. Alonso to two wonderful days! Today you will watch America Story of Us: Cities which will give you a great overview of how the world changed during the age of industrialism. You'll see how the Statue of Liberty was built, learn about Ellis Island and the immigrants who passed through there, how skyscrapers were built, the crime and poverty of the cities, etc. You'll turn in your movie notes at the end of the period.
FRIDAY Today you'll continue learning about how industrialism shaped our country by watching America Story of Us Boom. This episode covers how the oil industry go launched, Henry Ford, the Great Migration, Prohibition and Al Capone. You'll turn in your movie notes at the end of the period. If you are absent, you'll need to come in my room and watch it on the student computers because this episode is not available online.
MONDAY Today we will finish Reconstruction.
TUESDAY Our focus for today will be evaluating current events to determine how racism is still impacting American society today.
WEDNESDAY It's time for the Industrial Revolution! Today we will go through our Industrial Revolution PowerPoint and learn about how the world was completely revolutionized during the 1800s by technological developments. We will also take a look at the men who made it happen by monopolizing industries.
THURSDAY I will be in a Title 1 planning meeting today and tomorrow. Please treat Mrs. Alonso to two wonderful days! Today you will watch America Story of Us: Cities which will give you a great overview of how the world changed during the age of industrialism. You'll see how the Statue of Liberty was built, learn about Ellis Island and the immigrants who passed through there, how skyscrapers were built, the crime and poverty of the cities, etc. You'll turn in your movie notes at the end of the period.
FRIDAY Today you'll continue learning about how industrialism shaped our country by watching America Story of Us Boom. This episode covers how the oil industry go launched, Henry Ford, the Great Migration, Prohibition and Al Capone. You'll turn in your movie notes at the end of the period. If you are absent, you'll need to come in my room and watch it on the student computers because this episode is not available online.
May 7 -11, 2018
MONDAY Period 5 will spend the period reviewing for our Civil War Benchmark by completing a flow map for the Civil War and exploring several resources online. Remember to study the assignments listed on your Civil War Benchmark Review in order to prepare for Thursday's Benchmark.
TUESDAY We will be on regular schedule and will play the Review Game for our Civil War Benchmark.
WEDNESDAY Periods 2, 4, 6 will spend the period reviewing for our Civil War Benchmark by completing a flow map for the Civil War and exploring several resources online. Remember to study the assignments listed on your Civil War Benchmark Review in order to prepare for Friday's Benchmark.
THURSDAY Period 5 will take the Civil War Benchmark and turn in their Civil War Notebooks. Then they will complete the Vocabulary for our Reconstruction unit.
FRIDAY Periods 2, 4, 6 will take the Civil War Benchmark and turn in their Civil War Notebooks. Then they will complete the Vocabulary for our Reconstruction unit.
MONDAY Period 5 will spend the period reviewing for our Civil War Benchmark by completing a flow map for the Civil War and exploring several resources online. Remember to study the assignments listed on your Civil War Benchmark Review in order to prepare for Thursday's Benchmark.
TUESDAY We will be on regular schedule and will play the Review Game for our Civil War Benchmark.
WEDNESDAY Periods 2, 4, 6 will spend the period reviewing for our Civil War Benchmark by completing a flow map for the Civil War and exploring several resources online. Remember to study the assignments listed on your Civil War Benchmark Review in order to prepare for Friday's Benchmark.
THURSDAY Period 5 will take the Civil War Benchmark and turn in their Civil War Notebooks. Then they will complete the Vocabulary for our Reconstruction unit.
FRIDAY Periods 2, 4, 6 will take the Civil War Benchmark and turn in their Civil War Notebooks. Then they will complete the Vocabulary for our Reconstruction unit.
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April 30 - May 4, 2018
We will be on block schedule this week and next week for SBAC testing. SS Content Standard 8.10.5 Study the views and lives of leaders (e.g., Ulysses S. Grant, Jefferson Davis, Robert E. Lee) and soldiers on both sides of the war, including those of black soldiers and regiments. CC Writing Standard 2 Write informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes. |
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MONDAY/TUESDAY We will finish our Civil War Basics PowerPoint and start watching the movie Glory. You will take notes during the movie that will help you write a well-developed historical narrative as one of the main characters.
WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY We will finish Glory and you will begin your 1 1/2 page narrative as one of the soldiers in the Massachusetts 54th regiment. Remember to write in such a way that your reader will be able to see, hear, smell and taste what your character experienced during the Civil War.
FRIDAY We have a Teacher Training Day so you get to sleep in! Feel free to study for next week's Civil War Benchmark :).
April 23-27, 2018
MONDAY Today we will examine Abraham Lincoln's speeches and writings in order to determine if he was a racist.
TUESDAY Today we will analyze the primary sources we evaluated yesterday and determine which of the sources to use as evidence to use in our argument entitled, "Was Lincoln a Racist?"
WEDNESDAY Today we will watch America: The Story of Us Civil War and take notes on the various topics.You will turn your notes in at the end of the period.
THURSDAY We will explore aspects of the Civil War by going through our Civil War PowerPoint.
FRIDAY Today we will explore Pearsons lesson on Emancipation.
APRIL 16-20, 2018
MONDAY Today you will use the online SAS Curriculum Pathways lesson on Causes of the Civil War to answer the questions given to you in class. By the end of the period, you should clearly understand the key events that led up to the Civil War.
TUESDAY Today you will label of the of the states that were part of the Union when the Civil War began. Then you will color the Union states dark blue, border states light blue, and Confederate states gray. This map will be on your benchmark at the end of the unit. Below is a sample.
FRIDAY Today we will explore Pearsons lesson on Emancipation.
APRIL 16-20, 2018
MONDAY Today you will use the online SAS Curriculum Pathways lesson on Causes of the Civil War to answer the questions given to you in class. By the end of the period, you should clearly understand the key events that led up to the Civil War.
TUESDAY Today you will label of the of the states that were part of the Union when the Civil War began. Then you will color the Union states dark blue, border states light blue, and Confederate states gray. This map will be on your benchmark at the end of the unit. Below is a sample.
WEDNESDAY We will dive into our new Pearson textbooks and the online assignments and learn about the events leading up to the Civil War.
THURSDAY Today we will watch Modern Marvels Civil War Tech and learn about the incredible inventions that impacted the course of the Civil War. You'll take notes on the inventions as you watch the movie.
THURSDAY Today we will watch Modern Marvels Civil War Tech and learn about the incredible inventions that impacted the course of the Civil War. You'll take notes on the inventions as you watch the movie.
FRIDAY We'll dive back into the Pearson online text and start learning about the course of the War.
APRIL 9-13, 2018
SLAVERY The content we will cover this week is the most difficult for me to teach, but possibly the most important. In order to understand why our country divided and went to war, we must fully explore the issue of slavery. In my opinion, the best way to do that is through primary sources. It will be difficult to see and read about the violence and dehumanization done to the slaves, and if at any time you feel uncomfortable, you are welcome to slip out and go to Mrs. Pearson's room.
MONDAY We'll begin watching an EDITED version of the movie 12 Years A Slave. You will take notes for the explanatory paragraph that you'll write tomorrow night. Tonight you'll write the bottom paragraph on the Slavery Response Paragraphs where you'll reflect on what you have learned about American slavery.
TUESDAY We'll continue watching 12 Years A Slave. For homework, you will write an EXPLANATORY paragraph describing how the movie portrayed the treatment of slaves in the South.
WEDNESDAY Today we'll finish watching 12 Years a Slave and pass out your new textbooks :).
APRIL 9-13, 2018
SLAVERY The content we will cover this week is the most difficult for me to teach, but possibly the most important. In order to understand why our country divided and went to war, we must fully explore the issue of slavery. In my opinion, the best way to do that is through primary sources. It will be difficult to see and read about the violence and dehumanization done to the slaves, and if at any time you feel uncomfortable, you are welcome to slip out and go to Mrs. Pearson's room.
MONDAY We'll begin watching an EDITED version of the movie 12 Years A Slave. You will take notes for the explanatory paragraph that you'll write tomorrow night. Tonight you'll write the bottom paragraph on the Slavery Response Paragraphs where you'll reflect on what you have learned about American slavery.
TUESDAY We'll continue watching 12 Years A Slave. For homework, you will write an EXPLANATORY paragraph describing how the movie portrayed the treatment of slaves in the South.
WEDNESDAY Today we'll finish watching 12 Years a Slave and pass out your new textbooks :).
THURSDAY Today we will go through the Ch 19 Vocab PowerPoint Worlds of North & South and you will complete your Ch 19 Vocab.
FRIDAY Today we will go through the Ch 21 Vocab PowerPoint Dividing Nation and you will complete your Ch 21 Vocab.
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Ch 19 Vocab Worlds of North & South Picture Samples
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Ch 21 Vocab Dividing Nation Picture Samples
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APRIL 2-6, 2018
SLAVERY The content we will cover this week and next week is the most difficult for me to teach, but possibly the most important. In order to understand why our country divided and went to war, we must fully explore the issue of slavery. In my opinion, the best way to do that is through primary sources. It will be difficult to see and read about the violence and dehumanization done to the slaves, and if at any time you feel uncomfortable, you are welcome to slip out and go to Mrs. Pearson's room.
MONDAY Enjoy your day off :).
TUESDAY North and South Notes: We'll learn about the VAST differences in the economies, populations, as well as how people lived in the North and South prior to the Civil War. These are all things that contributed to the war and helped determine the outcome. For homework, you'll answer questions 1 & 2.
WEDNESDAY Today we'll explore the definitions of racism, discrimination, segregation and oppression. Then you'll work on your Textbook Notes 20.2-20.7 African Americans at Mid-Century. This chapter focuses on slavery and the ways slaves were kept under control.
THURSDAY AND FRIDAY We will spend these two days focusing on primary sources related to slavery. One of the most important of these sources is the video produced by HBO presenting the Slave Narratives. We will watch an edited version of these stories told by the last living slaves and read by African American actors. We will also read several of the laws passed in southern states that required violence to slaves. Then we'll read some first-hand accounts of the brutality of slavery from Theodore Weld's book, American Slavery as It Is. Tonight you will write a short argument using evidence from your primary sources. These will be two difficult, but important days that will set the stage for us as we learn about the Civil War and Reconstruction.
SLAVERY The content we will cover this week and next week is the most difficult for me to teach, but possibly the most important. In order to understand why our country divided and went to war, we must fully explore the issue of slavery. In my opinion, the best way to do that is through primary sources. It will be difficult to see and read about the violence and dehumanization done to the slaves, and if at any time you feel uncomfortable, you are welcome to slip out and go to Mrs. Pearson's room.
MONDAY Enjoy your day off :).
TUESDAY North and South Notes: We'll learn about the VAST differences in the economies, populations, as well as how people lived in the North and South prior to the Civil War. These are all things that contributed to the war and helped determine the outcome. For homework, you'll answer questions 1 & 2.
WEDNESDAY Today we'll explore the definitions of racism, discrimination, segregation and oppression. Then you'll work on your Textbook Notes 20.2-20.7 African Americans at Mid-Century. This chapter focuses on slavery and the ways slaves were kept under control.
THURSDAY AND FRIDAY We will spend these two days focusing on primary sources related to slavery. One of the most important of these sources is the video produced by HBO presenting the Slave Narratives. We will watch an edited version of these stories told by the last living slaves and read by African American actors. We will also read several of the laws passed in southern states that required violence to slaves. Then we'll read some first-hand accounts of the brutality of slavery from Theodore Weld's book, American Slavery as It Is. Tonight you will write a short argument using evidence from your primary sources. These will be two difficult, but important days that will set the stage for us as we learn about the Civil War and Reconstruction.
MARCH 19-23, 2018
It's 4th Quarter!! Only 10.5 weeks of school left! Time to kick it into high gear :).
MONDAY Today you'll receive your final progress report for 3rd Quarter. If there are any boo boos, let me know by the end of the day tomorrow. These assignments may no longer be turned in.
In class we will go through our Ch 18 Era of Reform Vocab PowerPoint, which will give you a good overview to the reform movements that took place in the mid-1800s. You'll complete your Ch 18 Vocab for homework.
TUESDAY Today we will learn about the U.S. Presidents who ran the show just prior to and during the Civil War. They include Zachary Taylor, Millard Fillmore, Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan and Abraham Lincoln. You will take notes on the Disney Presidents video for each of these leaders.
WEDNESDAY Today we will go through our Ch 18 Era of Reform PowerPoint and learn about the various reform movements of the 1800s in more depth and some of the amazing people who stood up and made the world a better place.
THURSDAY We'll finish up our Ch 18 Era of Reform PowerPoint and dive into America Story of Us: Division. Tonight, plan to attend Future Frosh Night at your future high school. Be sure to bring your parents and your registration packet.
FRIDAY Today we'll finish up America Story of Us: Division and choose two topics for which we'll plan out arguments (claim, three pieces of evidence and snap).
Westward Movement Unit Writing Focus: Common Core Writing Standard 3
Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
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March 12 - 16, 2018
MONDAY We'll read information and answer questions about the challenges faced by the pioneers who headed west in wagon trains. You'll use those notes to write an extra credit narrative poem as someone who traveled west. Include LOTS of details from your notes and TONS of descriptive words and phrases. Below is an example of a poem that a student wrote a few years ago. It happens to rhyme, but rhyming is optional. The West by Erik H. As a mother calls to her child, So the West has called to me. The poorer challenge the mountains, The richer travel the sea. I packed my bags and headed west, To follow yonder trail. Sickness and death shall assault me And plague me ‘till I fail. Rattlers and Indians bar the way, They’ll try to stop me too. I love this country sea to sea, The red, the white, and the blue. TUESDAY Come prepared for the Review Game! WEDNESDAY You'll take the Westward Movement Test and turn in your notebook. Be sure to have all of the assignments completed and in order with the correct page numbers. THURSDAY & FRIDAY We'll learn all about the contributions of Los Mexicanos to American culture. This is one of my favorite lessons! |
March 5-9, 2018
MONDAY It's time for the Gold Rush! We'll watch part of a PBS documentary and then write a short narrative as someone who came out west in search of gold!
Gold Rush Narrative Hook Samples
EARLY ARRIVALS: Most found gold
MONDAY It's time for the Gold Rush! We'll watch part of a PBS documentary and then write a short narrative as someone who came out west in search of gold!
Gold Rush Narrative Hook Samples
EARLY ARRIVALS: Most found gold
- Eureka! I struck the mother-lode this morning!
- “Gold! Gold!” I heard someone yelling downstream.
- I can remember July 1, 1849 as if it were yesterday.
- “Gold Strike!” It was a freezing cold day in Massachusetts when I read in the Boston Gazette that gold had been discovered in California.
- Why did I leave my comfortable life and wonderful farm in Kentucky for this miserable place?
- Though the journey to California was exhausting and treacherous, nothing could have prepared me for the trials I faced once I arrived in Gold Country.
TUESDAY We'll learn about the development of the Mormon Church by answering questions using an interactive map on PBS' website.
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WEDNESDAY Today we'll learn about he Mexican American War by completing our Textbook Notes 15.6 War with Mexico.
THURSDAY Today we'll use our Textbook Notes 15.6 War with Mexico to write a narrative about the Mexican American War from the perspective of General Santa Anna, James K. Polk, an American soldier or a Mexican soldier. FRIDAY We'll begin reviewing for next Wednesday's benchmark by working on Flow Maps for the Texas Revolution and Mexican American War. |
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February 26 - March 2, 2018 Today I'll be out, but Sacagawea will come to class to be my substitute ;). She'll share about her adventures with Lewis and Clark and answer any questions you might have about their great journey west to the Pacific Ocean. MONDAY Today we'll start taking notes on National Geographic's Lewis & Clark docudrama. You will use these notes to write a narrative tomorrow night. |
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TUESDAY We'll finish the Lewis and Clark docudrama in class today. Choose 2-3 sections of your notes to compose journal entries about. You'll write from the perspective of Meriwether Lewis, William Clark, Sacajawea or York (Clark's slave). Be sure to include LOTS of factual information from the movie and the Lewis & Clark Notes as well as TONS of description.
WEDNESDAY Today I'll be at the textbook adoption extravaganza. You'll watch The Texas Revolution video and then work on your Textbook Notes 15.4 Be sure to write down key information that will help you write a believable narrative tomorrow.
WEDNESDAY Today I'll be at the textbook adoption extravaganza. You'll watch The Texas Revolution video and then work on your Textbook Notes 15.4 Be sure to write down key information that will help you write a believable narrative tomorrow.
THURSDAY We'll learn about the geography of Texas by watching the Texas Tourism video below. We'll compare and contrast east and west Texas with a Double Bubble Map. In teams, you'll make a Bubble Map in teams to start brainstorming adjectives to describe Texas that you can use in your narrative. Using your textbook notes, you'll write the Texas Revolution Narrative #1 as one of the Old 300.
FRIDAY You'll write Texas Revolution Narratives #2 & #3 using your Textbook Notes. Be sure to include lots of detail and description!
February 19-23, 2018
MONDAY Sleep in and watch a documentary about a president :).
TUESDAY Today we'll zip through the vocabulary PowerPoints for this units. Ch 14, 15, & 16 Vocab will all be due on FRIDAY.
WEDNESDAY Today we'll learn about the Great Depression in preparation for our field trip tomorrow. We'll go through a PowerPoint that has lots of information, photos and videos about the time period, as well as highlight specific aspects that were included in the book, Bud, Not Buddy.
THURSDAY It's field trip day! Go to your 2nd period class at 8am. We'll hop on the bus and head over to the La Mirada Performing Arts to see a play based on Bud, Not Buddy.
FRIDAY Today we'll discuss the play, review what we learned about the Great Depression, and write our Field Trip Reflection.
February 12-16, 2018
WESTWARD MOVEMENT UNIT That's right, cowboys, we're starting our unit on the Wild Wild West! Hold onto your hats as we cross the continent in covered wagons, dig for gold, and go to war with Mexico.
We will use what we learn about the Texas Revolution, Mexican-American War, pioneers, Gold Rush, mountain men, Lewis and Clark, etc. to write historical narratives. Our goal is to become rock star narrative writers by including key historical details from what we learn to make it sound believable as well as vivid descriptions that will make our readers think we were there!
Social Studies Standard for this week: 8.8.2 Describe the purpose, challenges, and economic incentives associated with westward expansion, including the concept of Manifest Destiny (e.g., the Lewis and Clark expedition, accounts of the removal of Indians, the Cherokees' "Trail of Tears," settlement of the Great Plains) and the territorial acquisitions that spanned numerous decades.
MONDAY Sleep in and celebrate Abraham Lincoln's birthday!!
TUESDAY Today you will turn in your New Nation Notebook & we will get a great overview of the time period for this unit by watching and taking notes on the Disney Presidents for presidents 5-11. If you were absent today, you'll need to pop in my room before school, field time, or after school to watch and take notes on the 30 minute video that has been loaded on the student computers.
WEDNESDAY We'll learn about how each portion of our country was added and who we got the land from by completing our Map of the Expanding U.S.
THURSDAY Today we'll start watching America Story of Us: Westward. History Channel did us a HUGE favor by focusing on the challenges and incentives of those who headed out west, which is exactly what HSS Standard 8.8.2 says we're supposed to learn about! Bonus! Be sure to take detailed notes because you will use them to write two short narratives. If you were absent today, watch from the beginning up through the 23 minute mark. Be sure to take lots of notes on each section so that you'll have plenty of information to use in your narrative.
FRIDAY We'll finish watching and taking notes on America Story of Us: Westward in preparation for writing our second narrative.
FRIDAY We'll finish watching and taking notes on America Story of Us: Westward in preparation for writing our second narrative.
A New Nation Unit Writing Focus: Common Core Writing Standard 1
Argument: Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
February 5-9, 2018
MONDAY Today we'll start our third argument by reading sources related to Andrew Jackson's Indian Removal Policy. You'll complete your Evidence Chart for homework.
TUESDAY It's time to decide which side has the strongest evidence and work on your Cherokee Removal Argument Template. Remember, the more time you put into having a great template, the easier your essay will be to write!
WEDNESDAY You'll write paragraphs 1-4 of your essay. Be sure to use your highest level vocab, transition words and follow your template!
THURSDAY Your job is to finish up paragraphs 5 & 6 in class.
FRIDAY Today you will highlight the essential elements of both your War of 1812 and Cherokee Removal Argument. Then you will work with a partner to evaluate your Cherokee Removal Essay. Get your notebook ready to turn in on Tuesday and have a happy three-day weekend!
January 29-February 2, 2018
MONDAY & TUESDAY We'll watch a History Channel video about the War of 1812 and try to figure out if the U.S. Government should have declared war on Great Britain in 1812 or not. You will write down evidence on your War of 1812 Evidence Chart for both sides and then determine which side has the strongest evidence. If you are absent, there are 10 sections on the YouTube version. You can skip sections 5 & 8, but watch the rest and write down notes on your Evidence Chart.
MONDAY Today we'll start our third argument by reading sources related to Andrew Jackson's Indian Removal Policy. You'll complete your Evidence Chart for homework.
TUESDAY It's time to decide which side has the strongest evidence and work on your Cherokee Removal Argument Template. Remember, the more time you put into having a great template, the easier your essay will be to write!
WEDNESDAY You'll write paragraphs 1-4 of your essay. Be sure to use your highest level vocab, transition words and follow your template!
THURSDAY Your job is to finish up paragraphs 5 & 6 in class.
FRIDAY Today you will highlight the essential elements of both your War of 1812 and Cherokee Removal Argument. Then you will work with a partner to evaluate your Cherokee Removal Essay. Get your notebook ready to turn in on Tuesday and have a happy three-day weekend!
January 29-February 2, 2018
MONDAY & TUESDAY We'll watch a History Channel video about the War of 1812 and try to figure out if the U.S. Government should have declared war on Great Britain in 1812 or not. You will write down evidence on your War of 1812 Evidence Chart for both sides and then determine which side has the strongest evidence. If you are absent, there are 10 sections on the YouTube version. You can skip sections 5 & 8, but watch the rest and write down notes on your Evidence Chart.
WEDNESDAY Today you'll start working on your War of 1812 Argument Template in class and finish it for homework.
THURSDAY It's time to start writing your War of 1812 Argument Essay! Your goal is to get paragraphs 1-3 done in class so that you just need to write paragraph 4 for homework.
FRIDAY You'll have time to work on paragraphs 5 & 6, which you will hopefully finish in class.
THURSDAY It's time to start writing your War of 1812 Argument Essay! Your goal is to get paragraphs 1-3 done in class so that you just need to write paragraph 4 for homework.
FRIDAY You'll have time to work on paragraphs 5 & 6, which you will hopefully finish in class.
January 22-26, 2018
MONDAY We'll take our Hamilton & Jefferson Quiz right at the beginning of class. Then we'll begin our deep dive into argument writing! Over the course of the next three weeks I will walk you through the entire process of evaluating evidence, choosing the strongest side, choosing the strongest evidence, creating an argument essay template and writing an argument. We will complete one full argument essay each week, covering the three most controversial issues of this time period.
This week, for our first argument, we'll dissect primary and secondary sources related to the Sedition Acts of 1789, passed by John Adams and the Federalist Congress, to determine whether or not they were Constitutional, choose the side with the strongest evidence and make our arguments! Today, we will read through the sources and highlight the evidence that supports the argument that the Sedition Acts were CONSTITUTIONAL in yellow and evidence to support that they were UNCONSTITUTIONAL in blue.
MONDAY We'll take our Hamilton & Jefferson Quiz right at the beginning of class. Then we'll begin our deep dive into argument writing! Over the course of the next three weeks I will walk you through the entire process of evaluating evidence, choosing the strongest side, choosing the strongest evidence, creating an argument essay template and writing an argument. We will complete one full argument essay each week, covering the three most controversial issues of this time period.
This week, for our first argument, we'll dissect primary and secondary sources related to the Sedition Acts of 1789, passed by John Adams and the Federalist Congress, to determine whether or not they were Constitutional, choose the side with the strongest evidence and make our arguments! Today, we will read through the sources and highlight the evidence that supports the argument that the Sedition Acts were CONSTITUTIONAL in yellow and evidence to support that they were UNCONSTITUTIONAL in blue.
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TUESDAY Today we will take the evidence we highlighted from our Sedition Acts sources and put it on the appropriate side of our Evidence Charts.Be sure to write your source down and then bullet-points for all the evidence from that source.
WEDNESDAY We'll figure out which side has the strongest evidence and determine the three STRONGEST pieces of evidence. Then we'll work on our Sedition Acts Argument Template together in class. This is your plan of action and will ensure that you have a solid argument essay with all the essential elements. You'll finish it up for homework.
THURSDAY Our goal will be to finish paragraphs 1-3 together in class using our Template. Be sure to have your Reading and Writing Resources on hand so that you can refer to the section on argument writing.
FRIDAY Our goal will be to finish paragraphs 4-6 in class so that you will have an entire essay start to finish to refer to as you do the next two argument essays on your own.
January 15-19, 2018
MONDAY Sleep in and watch a documentary about Dr. Martin Luther King and his leadership during the Civil Rights movement.
TUESDAY We'll zip through Ch 11 Vocabulary and then evaluate the evidence presented in several articles to determine which side has the strongest argument.
WEDNESDAY Today we will discuss George Washington's first cabinet and learn about Alexander Hamilton's journey from orphan to cabinet member. We'll also explore the type of government he envisioned for the U.S. and his influence on our current financial system as we complete our textbook notes for Alexander Hamilton.
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THURSDAY Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson did NOT get along and had very different ideas about how our country should be set up. Today we will focus on Thomas Jefferson, his vision for how our country should be developed as we complete our textbook notes. We'll also write down as many adjectives as we can come up with to use on our double-bubble comparison of Hamilton and Jefferson.
FRIDAY We'll make our Alexander Hamilton Bubble Map and Thomas Jefferson Bubble Map using all those adjectives we wrote down in our notes. Then we'll make a Double Bubble to compare and contrast these two important Founding Fathers. Be sure to study your Double Bubble and Textbook Notes for our quiz on TUESDAY.
FRIDAY We'll make our Alexander Hamilton Bubble Map and Thomas Jefferson Bubble Map using all those adjectives we wrote down in our notes. Then we'll make a Double Bubble to compare and contrast these two important Founding Fathers. Be sure to study your Double Bubble and Textbook Notes for our quiz on TUESDAY.
JANUARY 8-12, 2018
Happy New Year!I hope you had a wonderful and relaxing vacation :). I had fun hanging out with our puppy, Daisy. She is too cute! Here's our plan for this week...
COMMON CORE WRITING STANDARD For our unit on A New Nation we will focus on Common Core Writing Standard 3: Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence. We will do several argument essays for this unit and talk through all of the ins-and-outs of choosing strong evidence and writing a rock solid argument. Be sure to refer to the Argument section in your Reading & Writing Resources packet OFTEN. It will be a great help to you.
A NEW NATION Our unit for the next few weeks is The New Nation. We'll learn all about the first six presidents, the issues they faced and how their decisions helped form the United States as we know it today. Be sure to check out A New Nation Websites, there are lots of helpful videos that will expand your understanding of what we are learning.
GRADES Be sure to turn in assignments on time this semester. You can download all of the assignments for this unit from the A New Nation Assignments page. Your participation in end of the year activities such as Knott's Berry Farm, the 8th Grade Dance, Yearbook Signing Day, and Graduation depend on your grades. If you haven't signed up for the Parent Portal, please stop by the office and get the information you need to do so. I update grades on Friday afternoons and send Remind messages letting you know that your grades are updated online. You are welcome to come and work in my room during field time each day.
MONDAY We'll welcome the New Year by reviewing the Bill of Rights Mnemonic and watching the Disney Presidents video about George Washington. You'll complete a circle map with all the important information about him and tomorrow you'll write a short argument using that information.
Happy New Year!I hope you had a wonderful and relaxing vacation :). I had fun hanging out with our puppy, Daisy. She is too cute! Here's our plan for this week...
COMMON CORE WRITING STANDARD For our unit on A New Nation we will focus on Common Core Writing Standard 3: Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence. We will do several argument essays for this unit and talk through all of the ins-and-outs of choosing strong evidence and writing a rock solid argument. Be sure to refer to the Argument section in your Reading & Writing Resources packet OFTEN. It will be a great help to you.
A NEW NATION Our unit for the next few weeks is The New Nation. We'll learn all about the first six presidents, the issues they faced and how their decisions helped form the United States as we know it today. Be sure to check out A New Nation Websites, there are lots of helpful videos that will expand your understanding of what we are learning.
GRADES Be sure to turn in assignments on time this semester. You can download all of the assignments for this unit from the A New Nation Assignments page. Your participation in end of the year activities such as Knott's Berry Farm, the 8th Grade Dance, Yearbook Signing Day, and Graduation depend on your grades. If you haven't signed up for the Parent Portal, please stop by the office and get the information you need to do so. I update grades on Friday afternoons and send Remind messages letting you know that your grades are updated online. You are welcome to come and work in my room during field time each day.
MONDAY We'll welcome the New Year by reviewing the Bill of Rights Mnemonic and watching the Disney Presidents video about George Washington. You'll complete a circle map with all the important information about him and tomorrow you'll write a short argument using that information.
TUESDAY We'll review the key elements of writing a strong argument, complete the frame of reference on our George Washington Circle Maps and write our arguments.
WEDNESDAY We'll dive into Chapter 11 to learn about the problems that faced our nation when it was in its infancy. We'll also get to read part of George Washington's Farewell Address! You will work on a circle map that includes those challenges and complete the frame of reference.
WEDNESDAY We'll dive into Chapter 11 to learn about the problems that faced our nation when it was in its infancy. We'll also get to read part of George Washington's Farewell Address! You will work on a circle map that includes those challenges and complete the frame of reference.
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THURSDAY & FRIDAY We'll use the Chrome Books to complete the Curriculum Pathways lesson on "Early Foreign Policy." I love the lessons on this website because they are similar to what you have to do on SBAC so it's good practice. Not to mention that there's a ton of great information presented in an interactive format :). It's a win-win!
Username: reddss
PW: hillview8
Ciao for now!
Mrs. Redd
Username: reddss
PW: hillview8
Ciao for now!
Mrs. Redd
Constitution Writing Focus: Common Core Writing Standard 2
Explanatory: Write informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes.
Explanatory: Write informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2017
MONDAY Today we will go over our Constitution Benchmarks and those who earned 100% will get ROCK STAR STICKERS :). Today is the last day to turn in missing work and your Constitution Notebook. Once all of your work has been turned in we'll dive into the Bill of Rights and find out which of our rights are protected by the Constitution.
MONDAY Today we will go over our Constitution Benchmarks and those who earned 100% will get ROCK STAR STICKERS :). Today is the last day to turn in missing work and your Constitution Notebook. Once all of your work has been turned in we'll dive into the Bill of Rights and find out which of our rights are protected by the Constitution.
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TUESDAY Today we'll continue learning about the Bill of Rights by going through the Bill of Rights Mnemonic.
WEDNESDAY This is the most interesting day in our Bill of Rights exploration! We'll look at what it is like to live in other countries where people's rights are not protected. We are so fortunate that our Founding Fathers made sure that our rights could not be taken away. Have a wonderful Christmas vacation!!!!
MONDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2017
MONDAY Today we will do a law-making simulation where you will write bills to change things at Hillview and try to get them passed into laws. Super fun! Tonight you'll write your Constitution Summaries: Making Laws paragraph for homework.
TUESDAY We'll learn about the Judicial Branch by going through Article 3 of the Constitution and answering our Constitution Questions. Tonight you'll write your Constitution Summaries: Judicial Branch paragraph for homework.
WEDNESDAY We'll learn about the Constitutional Ammendments by answering our Constitution Questions. Tonight you'll write your Constitution Summaries: Ammendments paragraph for homework.
THURSDAY We'll play the Review Game to make sure you're ready for the Constitution Benchmark tomorrow.
FRIDAY You'll take the Constitution Benchmark and turn in your Constitution Notebook. Whew!
MONDAY Today we will do a law-making simulation where you will write bills to change things at Hillview and try to get them passed into laws. Super fun! Tonight you'll write your Constitution Summaries: Making Laws paragraph for homework.
TUESDAY We'll learn about the Judicial Branch by going through Article 3 of the Constitution and answering our Constitution Questions. Tonight you'll write your Constitution Summaries: Judicial Branch paragraph for homework.
WEDNESDAY We'll learn about the Constitutional Ammendments by answering our Constitution Questions. Tonight you'll write your Constitution Summaries: Ammendments paragraph for homework.
THURSDAY We'll play the Review Game to make sure you're ready for the Constitution Benchmark tomorrow.
FRIDAY You'll take the Constitution Benchmark and turn in your Constitution Notebook. Whew!
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2017
MONDAY We'll learn about the Legislative Branch by going through Article 1 of the Constitution and answering our Constitution Questions 1-17. Once we understand the roles and responsibilities of the House of Representatives and Senate, we'll write summaries for both to cement the key elements in our brains. TUESDAY Today we will dissect the Preamble to the Constitution to make sure we understand the purpose of the Constitution. Then you will re-write the Preamble in your own words. WEDNESDAY I'll be at the District Office helping to choose our new Social Studies textbooks! Yay! You will complete Ch 9 Vocab with Mrs. Alonso. Treat her to a wonderful day! THURSDAY Today you'll take your Preamble Quiz where you will write the Preamble from memory. Then we'll learn about the process Congress goes through to pass a law (just like they're doing RIGHT NOW with the tax reform bill!). You'll answer questions 18-24 on your Constitution Questions: Legislative Branch and write a paragraph summarizing the law making process. FRIDAY Today we'll learn about the ExecutIve Branch by reading Article 2 of the Constitution and answering our Constitution Questions. After you've gone through the Executive Branch portion of the Constitution, you'll write your summaries about the powers and responsibilities held by the President & Vice President. |
Chapter 9 Vocab Picture Samples 
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27
MONDAY We'll continue watching The Patriot and take notes on important aspects of the American Revolution as well as daily life and warfare during that time period. You'll receive a progress report that shows your current grade. All missing work is due by Monday, December 18.
TUESDAY Today we'll learn about the first U.S. government, the Articles of Confederation. You'll read sections 8.1-8.3 and answer questions about the rocky road to the Constitution we have today.
MONDAY We'll continue watching The Patriot and take notes on important aspects of the American Revolution as well as daily life and warfare during that time period. You'll receive a progress report that shows your current grade. All missing work is due by Monday, December 18.
TUESDAY Today we'll learn about the first U.S. government, the Articles of Confederation. You'll read sections 8.1-8.3 and answer questions about the rocky road to the Constitution we have today.
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WEDNESDAY Today we'll learn about James Madison, the Father of the Constitution, as well as the important compromises made during the Constitutional Convention. You'll complete Ch 8 Vocab for homework. |
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THURSDAY Today you will take a Constitution Pre-Test to see what you already know about the highest law in the United States. Then we'll learn about the responsibilities of the three branches of government. We'll also start memorizing the Preamble to the Constitution for our quiz next Thursday.
FRIDAY It's Play Time! We'll act out a play about the Constitutional Convention so that you'll have a clear idea of who the men were that wrote our Constitution, as well as the major discussions held during the convention. |
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2017 Hillview Huskies
Charity Water Fundraiser
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Our 2017 Charity: Water Fundraiser is LIVE!
Make a tax-deductible donation online today and help us raise
$3,500 and give 117 people access to a source of clean water!
CLICK HERE to donate to the 2017 Hillview Huskies' Charity: Water Campaign
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American Revolution Writing Focus: Common Core Writing Standard 7
Research: Conduct short research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question), drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions that allow for multiple avenues of exploration.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2017
MONDAY We'll dissect the Declaration of Independence & figure out the meaning of the most important sections. Then we'll re-write those sections so that a third grader can understand what Thomas Jefferson was trying to communicate.
MONDAY We'll dissect the Declaration of Independence & figure out the meaning of the most important sections. Then we'll re-write those sections so that a third grader can understand what Thomas Jefferson was trying to communicate.
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TUESDAY Today we'll play the Review Game to make sure you are well prepared for tomorrow's benchmark. Use your American Revolution Benchmark Review and study like a rock star! Your notebook is due on Thursday.
WEDNESDAY BENCHMARK TIME! You'll show what you know on our unit benchmark. When you're finished you'll make sure your notebook is in ship-shape and all missing assignments are completed.
THURSDAY Today we'll go over your graded benchmarks, turn in notebooks and dive into an edited version of the Patriot! You are going to love it :). At the end you will have a great visual picture of how people lived and how wars were fought during this time period.
FRIDAY We'll continue to watch The Patriot and take notes on important aspects of the American Revolution and daily life during that time period.
WEDNESDAY BENCHMARK TIME! You'll show what you know on our unit benchmark. When you're finished you'll make sure your notebook is in ship-shape and all missing assignments are completed.
THURSDAY Today we'll go over your graded benchmarks, turn in notebooks and dive into an edited version of the Patriot! You are going to love it :). At the end you will have a great visual picture of how people lived and how wars were fought during this time period.
FRIDAY We'll continue to watch The Patriot and take notes on important aspects of the American Revolution and daily life during that time period.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017
MONDAY We're going to experience the Battle of Bunker Hill on our animated website and record what we learn! Then you'll use the Road to Revolution Quizlet to prepare for tomorrow's quiz.
TUESDAY Today we'll take our Road to Revolution Quiz and work on 7.2 & 7.3 Questions to learn about the strengths & weaknesses of the British and Patriots during the American Revolution.
WEDNESDAY We'll learn about the war as it moved to the Southern Colonies and finally ended at Yorktown by completing the Textbook Questions 7.7 & 7.8. You'll also receive your American Revolution Benchmark Review so you can start preparing for next Wednesday's benchmark! You can do this!
THURSDAY We'll watch America The Story of Us Revolution and take notes on the key information that will help us understand how the American Revolution unfolded.
FRIDAY Sleep in and thank a Veteran for his or her service!
MONDAY We're going to experience the Battle of Bunker Hill on our animated website and record what we learn! Then you'll use the Road to Revolution Quizlet to prepare for tomorrow's quiz.
TUESDAY Today we'll take our Road to Revolution Quiz and work on 7.2 & 7.3 Questions to learn about the strengths & weaknesses of the British and Patriots during the American Revolution.
WEDNESDAY We'll learn about the war as it moved to the Southern Colonies and finally ended at Yorktown by completing the Textbook Questions 7.7 & 7.8. You'll also receive your American Revolution Benchmark Review so you can start preparing for next Wednesday's benchmark! You can do this!
THURSDAY We'll watch America The Story of Us Revolution and take notes on the key information that will help us understand how the American Revolution unfolded.
FRIDAY Sleep in and thank a Veteran for his or her service!
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2017
MONDAY Today you'll find your own to complete your research and locate a reliable source for the Townshend Acts. Find at least 10 important facts to write down in your own words, and then write a substantial paragraph explaining the Townshend Acts, colonial reaction and the Acts eventual repeal.
TUESDAY Today you'll work on Textbook Notes 5.3-5.7 in class and finish them up for homework.
WEDNESDAY No school for you! We teachers will be learning up a storm while you chillax :). Please finish up any missing assignments today!
THURSDAY It's play time! We'll act out a play on the Boston Massacre and determine whether or not it really was a "massacre." Watch out for those murderous Red Coats!
FRIDAY We're going to hear the shot heard 'round the world, watch it happen on our animated website and record what we learn!
MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2017
RESEARCH This week we'll find out what got the English colonists all riled up and ready for revolution! We will do research on several of the issues that led to the American Revolution...the difference between British and colonial views on taxes, the Stamp Act, and the Townshend Acts.
MONDAY We'll continue watching Last of the Mohicans. Tonight you'll write your paragraph explaining the conflicting priorities and attitudes that the colonists and British had in the mid-1700s.
TUESDAY Today we'll finish Last of the Mohicans and our French & Indian War Double Bubble that will help us understand the French & Indian War in more depth.
MONDAY Today you'll find your own to complete your research and locate a reliable source for the Townshend Acts. Find at least 10 important facts to write down in your own words, and then write a substantial paragraph explaining the Townshend Acts, colonial reaction and the Acts eventual repeal.
TUESDAY Today you'll work on Textbook Notes 5.3-5.7 in class and finish them up for homework.
WEDNESDAY No school for you! We teachers will be learning up a storm while you chillax :). Please finish up any missing assignments today!
THURSDAY It's play time! We'll act out a play on the Boston Massacre and determine whether or not it really was a "massacre." Watch out for those murderous Red Coats!
FRIDAY We're going to hear the shot heard 'round the world, watch it happen on our animated website and record what we learn!
MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2017
RESEARCH This week we'll find out what got the English colonists all riled up and ready for revolution! We will do research on several of the issues that led to the American Revolution...the difference between British and colonial views on taxes, the Stamp Act, and the Townshend Acts.
MONDAY We'll continue watching Last of the Mohicans. Tonight you'll write your paragraph explaining the conflicting priorities and attitudes that the colonists and British had in the mid-1700s.
TUESDAY Today we'll finish Last of the Mohicans and our French & Indian War Double Bubble that will help us understand the French & Indian War in more depth.
WEDNESDAY We'll research the British views and the Colonists' views on the taxes passed on the colonies after the French and Indian War. Our job is to record our sources accurate, take notes IN OUR OWN WORDS on the most important information, and write a summary answering the Essential Questions. We'll do most of these two assignments together to make sure you understand the process, and then you'll finish them up for homework.
THURSDAY We'll complete research on the Stamp Act, write notes in our own words, write a summary and then fill in the speech bubbles.
FRIDAY We'll finish watching America: Story of Us REBELS, take notes on the important topics and start working on our Road to Revolution Flow Map. Be sure to come to Spookacular from 5-9pm!!!!!
THURSDAY We'll complete research on the Stamp Act, write notes in our own words, write a summary and then fill in the speech bubbles.
FRIDAY We'll finish watching America: Story of Us REBELS, take notes on the important topics and start working on our Road to Revolution Flow Map. Be sure to come to Spookacular from 5-9pm!!!!!
MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2017
MONDAY Sleep in :)
TUESDAY We'll launch our Charity: Water fundraiser in Social Studies by watching The Spring video and going through the fundraiser PowerPoint. Tonight you'll finish Textbook Notes 5.1-5.3.
WEDNESDAY We'll go through the Ch 5 Vocab PowerPoint to give you a good visual understanding of our vocabulary words. Then you'll work on mastering them by completing your Ch 5 Vocab sheet. Here are some sample pictures for you. Remember, your picture needs to help you remember the definition of the word.
THURSDAY AND FRIDAY Today we get to start watching an edited version of Last of the Mohicans! Oh man, it's so good! By the end of it, you'll have a clear picture of what life was like in Colonial America. This movie does a great job of depicting the deteriorating relationship between the colonists and the British during the French and Indian War. You'll take notes during the movie on the priorities and attitudes of the colonists and British, which you will use to help you complete a writing assignment on Monday.
Colonization Writing Focus: Common Core Writing Standard 3
Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2017
MONDAY Today we'll learn all about the first two English colonies, Roanoke and Jamestown. We'll finish reading Ch 2 of A Young People's History of the United States and watch the first eight minutes of America Story of Us, which covers the settling of Jamestown. Then you'll read passages about Jamestown and answer a few Essential Questions. Remember to study Ch 3 & 4 Vocab as well as your Thirteen Colonies Map for our test on Thursday and get your Colonization Notebook ready to turn in on Friday.
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TUESDAY You'll spend time investigating our website to make sure you can navigate it easily and find what you need by completing Mrs. Redd's Website Treasure Hunt :). Once you're done answering the questions, you'll use our website to help you prepare for your test on Thursday.
WEDNESDAY We'll review the key aspects of the New England, Middle & Southern colonies and play some games to get ready for tomorrow's test on Ch 3 & 4 Vocab and the Thirteen Colonies Map.
THURSDAY You'll take your test, get your notebook ready to turn in tomorrow and we'll explore the Salem Witch Trials.
Here's your notebook checklist...
FRIDAY Today you'll turn in your Colonization Notebook and we'll dive into the French & Indian War. This war turns out to be one of the major causes of the American Revolution. Ger ready, peeps! Rebellion is brewing in the colonies!
WEDNESDAY We'll review the key aspects of the New England, Middle & Southern colonies and play some games to get ready for tomorrow's test on Ch 3 & 4 Vocab and the Thirteen Colonies Map.
THURSDAY You'll take your test, get your notebook ready to turn in tomorrow and we'll explore the Salem Witch Trials.
Here's your notebook checklist...
- Table of Contents is complete and accurate
- All assignments listed on the Table of Contents are completed
- All assignments are in your notebook
- All assignments are in order according to the Table of Contents
- All assignments have the correct page numbers at the bottom-center of each page
FRIDAY Today you'll turn in your Colonization Notebook and we'll dive into the French & Indian War. This war turns out to be one of the major causes of the American Revolution. Ger ready, peeps! Rebellion is brewing in the colonies!
MONDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2017
MONDAY Today we begin our year-long quest to understand slavery in American history. For each unit we cover this year, slavery will play a critical role in how events developed and eventually played out. In order to begin our journey, we'll learn about the African slave trade by reading a primary source. From this source you will get ideas for how to plan out your Slave Trade Narrative. Your homework for tonight will be to fill in the first three boxes on your Slave Trade Narrative Flow Map with details and ideas that you want to include in the first three paragraphs of your narrative.
TUESDAY We'll watch a clip from Amistad (a movie based on a true story) that shows slaves being captured, transported to the coast, as well as the Middle Passage across the Atlantic. Then we'll watch another short video that depicts an auction. You'll finish up boxes 4 & 5 on your flow map in class and write paragraphs 1 and 2 for homework. Be sure to refer to pages 71-73 in your Reading & Writing Resources so that you will have vivid descriptions.
MONDAY Today we begin our year-long quest to understand slavery in American history. For each unit we cover this year, slavery will play a critical role in how events developed and eventually played out. In order to begin our journey, we'll learn about the African slave trade by reading a primary source. From this source you will get ideas for how to plan out your Slave Trade Narrative. Your homework for tonight will be to fill in the first three boxes on your Slave Trade Narrative Flow Map with details and ideas that you want to include in the first three paragraphs of your narrative.
TUESDAY We'll watch a clip from Amistad (a movie based on a true story) that shows slaves being captured, transported to the coast, as well as the Middle Passage across the Atlantic. Then we'll watch another short video that depicts an auction. You'll finish up boxes 4 & 5 on your flow map in class and write paragraphs 1 and 2 for homework. Be sure to refer to pages 71-73 in your Reading & Writing Resources so that you will have vivid descriptions.
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WEDNESDAY You'll have most of the period to write paragraphs 3-5 in class. What you don't finish in class you'll complete for homework.
THURSDAY You'll highlight your narrative and read it to your team to get feedback. We'll take what we've learned about the racism faced by Native Americans and Africans and what we know about the Jews and write an analogy together as a class. Then we'll complete our 13 Colonies Map and go over what you'll need to study for your Colonization Test next Thursday.
THURSDAY You'll highlight your narrative and read it to your team to get feedback. We'll take what we've learned about the racism faced by Native Americans and Africans and what we know about the Jews and write an analogy together as a class. Then we'll complete our 13 Colonies Map and go over what you'll need to study for your Colonization Test next Thursday.
FRIDAY We'll complete our Ch 4 Vocabulary Life in the English Colonies. Draw and COLOR a picture that will help you remember the definition of the word. Remember to HIGHLIGHT the vocab word in the sentence from the textbook. Remember, rock star education researcher, Robert Marzano, says that improving your vocabulary is the key to your academic success!
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2017
We have PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES all week from 1:45-3pm. Please try to come with your parents!
MONDAY We'll zip through our Ch 4 Life in the Colonies PowerPoint to give you an overview of how the colonists lived. Then you'll choose TWO of the topics on the Life in the Colonies Ch 4 Summaries to read and write narrative summaries about. Remember, the keys to a strong historical narrative are historical details and lots of description (adjectives & adverbs). Make it sound like you were there!
TUESDAY We will get our brains ready to learn about our geography by watching Beauty of the U.S. This short video provides an AMAZING visual of the geography of each state. Then you will complete a map of the Physical Features of the U.S., which you have a quiz on this FRIDAY. Our goal is that by the end of this week you’ll have imprinted a map of the U.S. in your brain so that you'll have a visual image as we learn about U.S. History this year.
We have PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES all week from 1:45-3pm. Please try to come with your parents!
MONDAY We'll zip through our Ch 4 Life in the Colonies PowerPoint to give you an overview of how the colonists lived. Then you'll choose TWO of the topics on the Life in the Colonies Ch 4 Summaries to read and write narrative summaries about. Remember, the keys to a strong historical narrative are historical details and lots of description (adjectives & adverbs). Make it sound like you were there!
TUESDAY We will get our brains ready to learn about our geography by watching Beauty of the U.S. This short video provides an AMAZING visual of the geography of each state. Then you will complete a map of the Physical Features of the U.S., which you have a quiz on this FRIDAY. Our goal is that by the end of this week you’ll have imprinted a map of the U.S. in your brain so that you'll have a visual image as we learn about U.S. History this year.
WEDNESDAY We'll complete our Ch 3 Vocabulary English Colonies. Draw and COLOR a picture that will help you remember the definition of the word. Remember to HIGHLIGHT the vocab word in the sentence from the textbook.
THURSDAY We'll watch a video called Tour the States, which will give you a great visual on where the states are in relation to each other. Then you’ll label a political map of the U.S. and label all of the states and capitals. This will prove very helpful to you as we learn about each state being added to the Union.
FRIDAY You'll take the U.S. Physical Map Quiz and then you will color your political maps.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2017
This week we being our Colonization unit with a trip on the Mayflower! Our writing standard for this unit is Common Core Writing Standard 3: Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences. MONDAY We're riding the Mayflower today, but only half of us will survive the first winter! You'll learn about the treacherous journey by taking notes on Deconstructing History: Mayflower and the beginning of America Story of Us: Rebels. Then you'll start your Mayflower Planning Guide using information from the movie and your Mayflower Information to provide historical details and structure for your narrative. |
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PLYMOUTH, ENGLAND Check it out! I spent the summer of 2005 in Plymouth, England! No joke! I was there taking classes for my master's program through Michigan State University. We lived in Pilgrim Hall at Plymouth University, how funny is that? It was crazy to think that we were at the very spot where the Mayflower and Speedwell set sail from. Below are some of my pictures. The statue is of Sir Francis Drake, who set sail from Plymouth to meet the Spanish Armada in 1588.
PLYMOUTH, ENGLAND Check it out! I spent the summer of 2005 in Plymouth, England! No joke! I was there taking classes for my master's program through Michigan State University. We lived in Pilgrim Hall at Plymouth University, how funny is that? It was crazy to think that we were at the very spot where the Mayflower and Speedwell set sail from. Below are some of my pictures. The statue is of Sir Francis Drake, who set sail from Plymouth to meet the Spanish Armada in 1588.
TUESDAY You'll plan out the flow of your narrative by creating a Flow Map and then begin the writing process. Be sure to use the Narrative section in your Reading and Writing Resources. Include LOTS of description and concrete details to make your reader feel like you were there!
WEDNESDAY You'll continue writing your Mayflower Narrative, which needs to be 2 pages if it's hand-written and 1 1/2 pages (12 point font) if it's typed.
THURSDAY You will look critically at your Mayflower Narrative and highlight the hook & takeaway in YELLOW, the facts from your sources in ORANGE, and the descriptions in PINK. Then you will read your narrative to your team and you will complete the Narrative Checklist together.
FRIDAY Parent-Teacher Conferences all day! You can sleep in, but come to conferences and finish up your missing assignments. The last day to turn in late assignments for 1st Quarter is Friday, October 13.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2017 PATRIOT DAY Today is Patriot Day and we'll have an assembly during 2nd period. History Channel has a great video & article that goes over the 9/11 timeline at this link http://www.history.com/topics/9-11-timeline Today we'll finish reading the explorers' Biographical Sketches. You'll choose your explorer, write notes on your Flow Map, and start in on your paragraph. Your explorer cartoon (picture and paragraph) are due on WEDNESDAY. See the samples below. |
Mrs. Redd's Flow Map for Christopher Columbus (sample)
EXPLORER CARTOON SAMPLES
TUESDAY Today we get to play the European Exploration game on the iPads! It's so much fun, but we'll also learn a ton about the ships, explorers and what they discovered in the "New World." Your goal is to explore the whole planet without running out of supplies!
WEDNESDAY Today we'll complete Chapter 2 Vocabulary. Robert Marzano, one of the top education researchers, says that increasing your vocabulary is the key to academic success. Your academic success is my #1 priority so vocab development will be a focus for us this year!
THURSDAY We'll read some primary sources about Christopher Columbus and other early explorers and compare and contrast those accounts with what you learned about them in elementary school.
FRIDAY We'll finish reading our primary sources and turn in our Exploration Notebooks.
Here's your notebook checklist...
THURSDAY We'll read some primary sources about Christopher Columbus and other early explorers and compare and contrast those accounts with what you learned about them in elementary school.
FRIDAY We'll finish reading our primary sources and turn in our Exploration Notebooks.
Here's your notebook checklist...
- Table of Contents is complete and accurate
- All assignments listed on the Table of Contents are completed
- All assignments are in your notebook
- All assignments are in order according to the Table of Contents
- All assignments have the correct page numbers at the bottom-center of each page
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2017
TUESDAY I hope you had a wonderful three-day weekend! Today we'll work on our Exploration Begins Pictorial and learn about how the great Age of Exploration came about in the first place. Be sure to review this tonight so that you can complete the flow map and paragraph tomorrow.
WEDNESDAY Today we'll review what we learned yesterday and you'll create a flow map to organize your information for your explanatory paragraph.
THURSDAY You'll read your Exploration Begins Paragraph to your team and get feedback. Then, as a team, you will evaluate former students' paragraphs and decide what they did well and what they still need to work on.
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FRIDAY We'll complete our Spanish Exploration Pictorial, begin reading about the explorers, and get our notebooks organized so that they're ready to turn in next week. Here's your notebook checklist...
- Table of Contents is complete and accurate
- All assignments listed on the Table of Contents are completed
- All assignments are in your notebook
- All assignments are in order according to the Table of Contents
- All assignments have the correct page numbers at the bottom-center of each page
MONDAY, AUGUST 28, 2017
EXPLANATORY TEXT On Friday we learned the Expository Text Chant. We'll practice it this week and take a quiz on it this Friday. Our goal by the end of our Exploration Unit is to make sure that we can write rock solid explanatory paragraphs based on information we've read or seen in film. Remember, as UCLA basketball coach John Wooden said, "When you improve a little each day, eventually big things occur...Don't look for the quick, big improvement. Seek the small improvement one day at a time. That's the only way it happens--and when it happens, it lasts."
HISTORY OF THE WORLD IN 2 HOURS This week we will watch 40 minutes of the documentary "History of the World in 2 Hours." This film provides a great overview of ancient history, which you learned in 6th grade, medieval history, which you learned in 7th grade, and modern history, which we will focus on this year. Each day we will have an essential question, take notes on the movie that will help us answer that question, and answer the question by writing an explanatory text paragraph for homework using our notes. If you miss one day of class, be sure to watch the portion you missed online.
ASSIGNMENTS & WEBSITES Keep in mind that you can download all the handouts given in class on the current unit's Assignments page. For instance, right now all of our assignments and the Table of Contents are located on the Exploration Assignments page, which you can get to by clicking on the 8th Grade Units tab on the menu. You can also check out the cool websites, games, information and videos on the Exploration Websites page.
PARENT PORTAL If you haven't had a chance to set up an account on the Parent Portal at http://ewcsd.org/parents/, please do so as soon as possible. When I update student grades each week I send a Remind text messages notifying you that it's time to check those grades online. If you need help, you can stop by the office to get your code and parents can stop in room 1 to get help on setting up your account.
Mrs. Redd’s Classes: Remind
Remind is a simple way for you to stay informed and up-to-date with what’s happening in Social Studies. By joining your Mrs. Redd’s class on Remind, you’re choosing to receive class messages via push notifications, SMS, or email. Don’t worry, your phone number will not be shared with me or anyone else. There are only a few people left who haven't signed up for Remind. If you are one of those, please do so as soon as possible because it will help you tremendously this year :).
IMPORTANT LOGIN INFORMATION
Students: Be sure to enter your first and last name.
Parents: Create your login using your CHILD’S first name and last name + MOM or DAD
Example: John Doe's MOM
This will allow me to send you individual messages about your child.
Option 1: SMS Enter this number: 81010 with this message
Social Studies: @reddss
Homeroom: @reddhr
Global Issues: @reddgr
OPTION 2: App
1. Download the Remind app. It’s free!
2. Enter the code for your class
Social Studies: @reddss
Homeroom: @reddhr
Global Issues: @reddgr
Option 3: Online
Social Studies: www.remind.com/join/reddss
Homeroom: www.remind.com/join/reddhr
Global Issues: www.remind.com/join/reddgr
PARENT PORTAL If you haven't had a chance to set up an account on the Parent Portal at http://ewcsd.org/parents/, please do so as soon as possible. When I update student grades each week I send a Remind text messages notifying you that it's time to check those grades online. If you need help, you can stop by the office to get your code and parents can stop in room 1 to get help on setting up your account.
Mrs. Redd’s Classes: Remind
Remind is a simple way for you to stay informed and up-to-date with what’s happening in Social Studies. By joining your Mrs. Redd’s class on Remind, you’re choosing to receive class messages via push notifications, SMS, or email. Don’t worry, your phone number will not be shared with me or anyone else. There are only a few people left who haven't signed up for Remind. If you are one of those, please do so as soon as possible because it will help you tremendously this year :).
IMPORTANT LOGIN INFORMATION
Students: Be sure to enter your first and last name.
Parents: Create your login using your CHILD’S first name and last name + MOM or DAD
Example: John Doe's MOM
This will allow me to send you individual messages about your child.
Option 1: SMS Enter this number: 81010 with this message
Social Studies: @reddss
Homeroom: @reddhr
Global Issues: @reddgr
OPTION 2: App
1. Download the Remind app. It’s free!
2. Enter the code for your class
Social Studies: @reddss
Homeroom: @reddhr
Global Issues: @reddgr
Option 3: Online
Social Studies: www.remind.com/join/reddss
Homeroom: www.remind.com/join/reddhr
Global Issues: www.remind.com/join/reddgr
MONDAY, AUGUST 21, 2017
MONDAY Today we'll review for tomorrow's Freehand Map of the World Post-Test. You can do this! Remember to always have a GROWTH MINDSET :).
TUESDAY We'll take our Freehand Map Post Test and you'll work on your Title page for your Social Studies Notebooks. Choose a picture about U.S. History that will inspire you every time you open your notebook! Here are some samples...
WEDNESDAY I won't be at school because I have to have a procedure done up in Pasadena. Please treat Mrs. Alonso to a wonderful day!!! You'll work on your "Important Info for Mrs. Redd." Please give me as much information about yourself as possible. Research shows that the better a teacher knows his/her students, the higher those students achieve! You'll also have some time to finish up your tile pages.
THURSDAY Today you'll get your Freehand Map Post Test back and we will celebrate the incredible improvement you made since the Pre-Test! Yay for a GROWTH MINDSET! You can get better at anything if you work on it :). Research shows that when we reflect and evaluate we are able to reach higher levels of achievement. Today you will write about how you tackled the Freehand Map of the World and figure out what you did well and areas in which you could have done things differently in order to have earned an A+ on the Post-Test. The goal is to lock this information away to remember for the future and create the habit of reflection.
FRIDAY We are starting our year off with Common Core Standard 2: Write informative/explanatory texts. Today we'll review the key elements of writing an explanatory paragraph or essay using our Reading and Writing Resources. In addition, we'll start memorizing the Explanatory Text Chant to help you remember the key components whenever you are reading or writing explanatory text.
THURSDAY Today you'll get your Freehand Map Post Test back and we will celebrate the incredible improvement you made since the Pre-Test! Yay for a GROWTH MINDSET! You can get better at anything if you work on it :). Research shows that when we reflect and evaluate we are able to reach higher levels of achievement. Today you will write about how you tackled the Freehand Map of the World and figure out what you did well and areas in which you could have done things differently in order to have earned an A+ on the Post-Test. The goal is to lock this information away to remember for the future and create the habit of reflection.
FRIDAY We are starting our year off with Common Core Standard 2: Write informative/explanatory texts. Today we'll review the key elements of writing an explanatory paragraph or essay using our Reading and Writing Resources. In addition, we'll start memorizing the Explanatory Text Chant to help you remember the key components whenever you are reading or writing explanatory text.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 15, 2017
Yay! We made it through the first day! So fun to meet all of you! Here's our plan for this week...
TUESDAY Today we'll go over what you can expect to experience on our adventure together through U.S. History!
WEDNESDAY We'll play Kahoot and get to know each other a bit and you'll receive your textbooks. Take your textbook home and leave it there, we have books in my room that we'll use when you're at school.
THURSDAY You'll take the Freehand Map of the World Pretest and then I'll walk you through the tricks of remembering how to draw a freehand map of the world from memory.
FRIDAY You'll work on your Freehand Map of the World Using a Source. Here's a sample from last year to give you an idea of what you're shooting for! Our goal is to have a map of the world permanently lodged in our memory for future reference.
THURSDAY You'll take the Freehand Map of the World Pretest and then I'll walk you through the tricks of remembering how to draw a freehand map of the world from memory.
FRIDAY You'll work on your Freehand Map of the World Using a Source. Here's a sample from last year to give you an idea of what you're shooting for! Our goal is to have a map of the world permanently lodged in our memory for future reference.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 5, 2017
Only one week to go until school starts, can you believe it? Our first day of school is Tuesday, August 15.
This year we will continue to master Common Core State Standards, which focus on reading and writing expository text, along with our State History/Social Science Content Standards. The State Content Standards focus on United States history from the Revolutionary War to World War I.
If you want to get a jump start on supplies, here are the items that you need to have by Monday, August 21. If there is something you can't get on your own, just come see me and I'll happily supply it for you :).
Planner
Binder (You can use it for other classes as well.)
Dividers
Pencils
Hand Sharpener
Black or Blue Pens
Highlighters (two colors: yellow and pink)
Colored Pencils
Markers
I'm excited to get to know all of you and am confident that we're going to have a great year together!
Mrs. Redd
