Homework 3, Due September 2, 2011

As we study the founding of our nation, consider what it must have been like to be a delegate to the Constitutional Convention during the hot summer months of 1787. This week's assignment requires you to follow the link http://teachingamericanhistory.org/convention/themes/ and research the major themes addressed by the delegates. Give a report (200 word minimum) that addresses two of the issues - one of which you agree with the decision reached by the delegates, and one of which you disagree. Explain why you agree or disagree. For example, on July 26 the convention voted that a president should serve a seven year term of office, but then would be ineligible for reelection. Later this decision was changed, of course, but do you agree with the original plan? How would it affect politics in the U.S. today?

I am very impressed with your posts from the previous two weeks! Great job guys - keep it up!

Bonus Opportunity!

The first student to post a correct response to this question will receive two extra-credit points added to the upcoming test: What member of the Constitutional Convention called for "prayers imploring the assistance of heaven"? Answer who, when (exact date), and why – and provide a reference citation.

Homework 2, Due August 26, 2011

Great job on assignment #1 guys! You put your best foot forward to start the new year, and I'm proud of you! No doubt this will take some getting used to, but you are off to a fantastic start. This week's assignment includes a research requirement. Go to the website www.kidinfo.com/American_History/Colonization_Colonial_Life.html and view the available links. Choose a topic to read about and then report back with your findings. Your topic should focus on a fairly narrow aspect of colonial life and your essay should answer the "W" questions: who, what, when, where, and (especially) why. Example topics include: the story of a particular settler or family; the life of blacks in the colonies; common professions in the colonies, etc. Be creative and choose a topic that interests you. Your essay must be at least 200 words and is due by midnight, August 26. As you did last week, respond to the posts of at least two others with valuable reactions, questions, or (respectfully stated) disagreements with the conclusions drawn.

Remember that the point of the lesson is to practice research, writing, and communication with others while learning more about our American ancestors. You all are fantastic students and I'm excited to see what you come up with! God bless!

Homework 1, Due August 19, 2011

Hello everyone! This is your first assignment. In order to sign in you must have a Google account (it's free and you can sign up directly from this page by clicking on "Comments" and then choosing Google ID). You'll create an account and then be able to leave your feedback. Answer the following question then check in to respond to two other comments left by others. Your initial response is due by midnight, August 19. Your responses are due by midnight, August 21 (Sunday night). Here's the question:

What does it mean to be an American? Without relying on cliches or shallow self-congratulating nonsense, what makes America unique in the world? For those of you who call another country home, what perceptions did you form of America before you came here to study? How did you develop those perceptions?

Your essay should be at least 200 words long and you must respond to AT LEAST two other students' essays (minimum 150 total responses).

Ok, good luck, guys! I can't wait to hear what you have to say!