This will be our final Civil War related assignment, and I hope you are enjoying learning about this significant event in American history. I am, as usual, very pleased with the quality of this past week's essays, and you deserve kudos for the very excellent work you have done as a class!
That being said, let me address a couple of issues that affect only a few students but need to be restated for everyone to hear. First, a relatively minor issue, is remembering to write gramatically. While you are not likely to lose points for style and quality of prose, plz dnt use IM and txt language - there's a place and time for that...not here, and not now! The other issue is of great importance to me, and one that I will spend some class time emphasizing. That is avoiding plaigerism. You absolutely cannot use someone else's words and claim them as your own! When you use someone's ideas (not a crime) you must cite the reference (give credit where credit is due). Unfortunately I have discovered some copy and paste work, and I will deal privately with the individuals this time, but, word of warning to everyone, bad things happen to students who cut corners!
Now, on to our Civil War topic - Abraham Lincoln. During class I have mentioned some of the numerous setbacks in Lincoln's life: business failures, political disasters, bungled military experiences, and even a complete nervous breakdown. It would be unfair to the man NOT to mention these things, for they are the obstacles he overcame to become what many believe to be the greatest of all American presidents. His words live on, and for nearly one hundred fifty years we Americans have pondered his place in history.
Lincoln was known to be very friendly, loving to tell funny stories and laughing loudly with friends. Even during the Civil War he took time to return letters written from children. (Taking the advice of one small girl, he grew a beard when she suggested it would make his face look better). He was a loving father who loved to spend time with his children, reading to them daily and referring to them by nicknames.
While Lincoln was often disatisfied with his commanding generals (except Grant) he was revered by the soldiers in the Union army and visited them as often as possible. One sergeant shouted at Lincoln, calling him a rather unpleasant name ("fool" being the word that can be repeated) when Lincoln peeped over a wall of defense so he could get a better view of the rebels on the enemy lines. Lincoln recognized his mistake, and the sergeant got away with it!
As you all know by now, Lincoln was born in Kentucky but left as a young boy when his family moved to Indiana. Here are some things you might be interested in: Lincoln was named after his grandfather, a Kentucky pioneer that was killed in an Indian attack. Lincoln's grandparents' marriage certificate is still on file in Springfield, KY. Lincoln's birthplace in Hodgenville was just that - his family moved to a small farm now located on Highway 31E south of Bardstown, where he formed his first memories. As a small child the Lincolns relocated to Indiana, where he grew up before moving to Illinois as a young adult to begin his career.
Lincoln's wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, was from Lexington, and her family home still stands today. Her family was wealthy and prominent and close friends with Henry Clay.
Lincoln was the first Republican president, and his burial place in Springfield, IL, is visited by politicians every year. In fact, for generations, Republican candidates have rubbed the huge nose of the statue of Lincoln there for good luck! In this latest election, then-Senator Barak Obama chose Lincoln's burial place to announce his candidacy for the presidency. That's proof of how Lincoln has become a symbol of the best of America!
I would like you to do some research of your own on the life, speeches, and impact of President Lincoln. Please visit the website http://www.besthistorysites.net/USHistory_CivilWar.shtml#lincoln and scroll down to the references that focus on Lincoln. This is a good starting point, but you may use other references as well (remember to cite!).
Here's your question: Shakespeare wrote in his play Twelfth Night "Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them." Most would agree that Lincoln falls into the category being a "great" leader. In your opinion, what was great about Lincoln? Share your findings in a 200 word essay, and be sure to post at least two replies concerning the essays of your classmates (150 word total).
NOW (drum roll, please) I wish to make an offer so unbelievable that NO ONE will believe it. You've heard of a homework pass? Please, that's kids' stuff. How about a TEST PASS? That's right, I said TEST PASS, as in "keep on trucking, you get the day off." Too good to be true? You can believe it...it's a real offer. What's the catch, you say? So small, it's hardly worth mentioning, but here goes: Kentucky is home to some important Lincoln sites, as mentioned above. Also, near the KY/TN border in Harrogate, TN on the campus of Lincoln Memorial University (alma mater of great KY author, Jesse Stuart!) is a very impressive Lincoln museum. IF, by October 12 (the day we return from fall break) you create an in-person video blog of a visit to one of those three locations (birthplace, childhood home, museum) - and no, old family videos don't count, it must be current - I will exempt you from a 2nd quarter test (semester exam not included) or will DROP YOUR LOWEST SECOND QUATER TEST GRADE IF YOU TAKE ALL TEST! If you plan on vationing near another significant Lincoln site (Gettysburg, Springfield IL, etc) and would like to do the project there, call, email, or text for special permission. The video blog must have educational merit, proving that you've spent some time learning at the site.
Now - give this assignment your best, and God bless!
Friday, September 25, 2009
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Homework 7, Due September 25, 2009
This week we will continue our study of the Civil War, focusing on the events of the war and individuals who participated from the state of Kentucky. Several significant battles were fought in the commonwealth, and soldiers from Kentucky fought on both sides of the war.
Although we typically say that Kentucky was a slave state that did not secede, in truth, there was an attempt (unsuccessful) at secession, that would have made Kentucky a member of the Conferedate States of America. Near Somerset the Battle of Mill Springs was important in securing Union control of the Ohio Valley, and the Battle of Perryville was one of the hardest-fought battles of the war. You already know that both Civil War presidents (Lincoln and Davis) were born in Kentucky, and some families had members to fight on opposite sides (such as the Breckinridges - dad and one son were Union generals, another son was a Confederate general).
General Grant first commanded in Kentucky, as did Gen. William T. Sherman (who had a nervous breakdown while overseeing Louisville, and was sent home to recuperate when he imagined that the Confederates were teaming with Native Americans (none of whom lived anywhere near Kentucky) for a massive attack. He was the laughing-stock of the country when he requested 20,000 soldiers to protect Louisville against Indians!
These are just a few of the amazing Civil War stories and individuals related to Kentucky that played a major role in the war. Your assignment this week is to research a Civil War person or event related to our state and post an essay revealing your findings. Unlike previous weeks I am not giving you a specific web site, so please cite your references. Did your family play a role in Kentucky Civil War history? That would be a great story to share. As before, your essay must be at least 200 words long and you must respond to at least two others (total of 150 words). Keep up the good work, and don't put this off to the last minute!
Although we typically say that Kentucky was a slave state that did not secede, in truth, there was an attempt (unsuccessful) at secession, that would have made Kentucky a member of the Conferedate States of America. Near Somerset the Battle of Mill Springs was important in securing Union control of the Ohio Valley, and the Battle of Perryville was one of the hardest-fought battles of the war. You already know that both Civil War presidents (Lincoln and Davis) were born in Kentucky, and some families had members to fight on opposite sides (such as the Breckinridges - dad and one son were Union generals, another son was a Confederate general).
General Grant first commanded in Kentucky, as did Gen. William T. Sherman (who had a nervous breakdown while overseeing Louisville, and was sent home to recuperate when he imagined that the Confederates were teaming with Native Americans (none of whom lived anywhere near Kentucky) for a massive attack. He was the laughing-stock of the country when he requested 20,000 soldiers to protect Louisville against Indians!
These are just a few of the amazing Civil War stories and individuals related to Kentucky that played a major role in the war. Your assignment this week is to research a Civil War person or event related to our state and post an essay revealing your findings. Unlike previous weeks I am not giving you a specific web site, so please cite your references. Did your family play a role in Kentucky Civil War history? That would be a great story to share. As before, your essay must be at least 200 words long and you must respond to at least two others (total of 150 words). Keep up the good work, and don't put this off to the last minute!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Homework 6, Due September 18, 2009
Over the next couple of weeks we will be studying the Civil War. As we've discussed in class, there were a number of issues that contributed to the sectional conflict between the North and the South, such as the fact that the northern states felt the need for high protective tariffs while the southern states believed that free trade was in their best interests. When causes of the Civil War are discussed nowadays, however, there is one issue that dominates the rest. That is, of course, the issue of slavery.
African slaves came to America with the first white settlers. Slavery was common in each of the colonies, as it was in most west European countries. Over the years, however, many began to question the morality of slavery. In the north, where the amount of agricultural work gradually decreased and was replaced by factory work in the Industrial Revolution, the need for slaves disappeared first. Revivals in Europe led directly to the prohibition of slavery in the early nineteenth century (1800s) and many northeners began to call for an end to slavery in the US.
In the South, however, many believed that raising cash crops was impossible without the cheap labor that slaves provided, and they stubbornly refused to acknowledge the immorality of owning other human beings. Abolitionists in the North believed that the power of the federal government ought to be used to free the slaves, and soon the issue was the most hotly debated topic of the day. Soon the South, feeling that its best interests were no longer being served by remaining a part of the United States, chose to seceed (leave the Union), and a war broke out when the North determined to not allow that to happen.
In history class we often have to focus on "political history" - the big names, big issues, and big events of the past. It's important to remember, though, that history is the story of human beings that were just like people today. They lived their lives just as you do, with your individual dreams and problems and familiar surroundings. This week we will study the lives of slaves in America. Follow the link http://www.socialstudiesforkids.com/subjects/slavery.htm and choose one of the topics then select an essay to read and review.
As usual, your essay must be 200 words long and followed by at least two responses to the essays of your classmates (total 150 words). Thus far your work has been excellent, so I encourage you to keep up the good work. God bless!
African slaves came to America with the first white settlers. Slavery was common in each of the colonies, as it was in most west European countries. Over the years, however, many began to question the morality of slavery. In the north, where the amount of agricultural work gradually decreased and was replaced by factory work in the Industrial Revolution, the need for slaves disappeared first. Revivals in Europe led directly to the prohibition of slavery in the early nineteenth century (1800s) and many northeners began to call for an end to slavery in the US.
In the South, however, many believed that raising cash crops was impossible without the cheap labor that slaves provided, and they stubbornly refused to acknowledge the immorality of owning other human beings. Abolitionists in the North believed that the power of the federal government ought to be used to free the slaves, and soon the issue was the most hotly debated topic of the day. Soon the South, feeling that its best interests were no longer being served by remaining a part of the United States, chose to seceed (leave the Union), and a war broke out when the North determined to not allow that to happen.
In history class we often have to focus on "political history" - the big names, big issues, and big events of the past. It's important to remember, though, that history is the story of human beings that were just like people today. They lived their lives just as you do, with your individual dreams and problems and familiar surroundings. This week we will study the lives of slaves in America. Follow the link http://www.socialstudiesforkids.com/subjects/slavery.htm and choose one of the topics then select an essay to read and review.
As usual, your essay must be 200 words long and followed by at least two responses to the essays of your classmates (total 150 words). Thus far your work has been excellent, so I encourage you to keep up the good work. God bless!
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Homework, Due September 11, 2009
This week your assignment is to spend some time in research and reflection concerning the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. First, what are your personal recollections of the day? How did you find out about the attacks, and how did you and those around you respond?
As you all know, the Bible instucts us to love our enemies. In light of the world-wide terrorism threat, how ought Christians balance the necessity of protecting ourselves and our country with Christ's command that we respond to evil with good? Keep in mind that America represents Christianity in the minds of many people around the world.
The basic guidelines for this assignment are the same as the ones that have come before: 200 word essay and at least two responses to others (totalling 150 words).
Visit the website http://www.history.com/content/9-11 to research the events and response of September 11, 2001. There will be a small and very basic quiz on Friday, September 11, 2009 over information you can find on the history.com webpage.
Here's a bonus opportunity for those that are interested: Visit the website http://www.nationalgeographic.com/lewisandclark/index.html and research one of the Native American tribes that the Lewis and Clark expedition encountered along the way. Write a brief essay (150 words) sharing what you find and turn it in during class this week.
Some of you are waiting to the last minute to do your homework assignments and that has a way of working out in a very negative way sometimes. Let's get right on this assignment - don't procrastinate! Your work so far has been more than exciting - I've truly enjoyed getting to read your opinions and ideas!
As you all know, the Bible instucts us to love our enemies. In light of the world-wide terrorism threat, how ought Christians balance the necessity of protecting ourselves and our country with Christ's command that we respond to evil with good? Keep in mind that America represents Christianity in the minds of many people around the world.
The basic guidelines for this assignment are the same as the ones that have come before: 200 word essay and at least two responses to others (totalling 150 words).
Visit the website http://www.history.com/content/9-11 to research the events and response of September 11, 2001. There will be a small and very basic quiz on Friday, September 11, 2009 over information you can find on the history.com webpage.
Here's a bonus opportunity for those that are interested: Visit the website http://www.nationalgeographic.com/lewisandclark/index.html and research one of the Native American tribes that the Lewis and Clark expedition encountered along the way. Write a brief essay (150 words) sharing what you find and turn it in during class this week.
Some of you are waiting to the last minute to do your homework assignments and that has a way of working out in a very negative way sometimes. Let's get right on this assignment - don't procrastinate! Your work so far has been more than exciting - I've truly enjoyed getting to read your opinions and ideas!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)