7th grade social studies 2011-12

Hello All,

We are back in the saddle again after a great theater production and I am told a fantastic educational and fun trip to Quebec City. We have finished our "We the People" studies with our last two chapters being about Citizens Rights and Responsibilities. Today we had some very interesting conversations using scenarios and general discussions about "What are my responsibilities as a citizen?", "What should a citizen do when he or she thinks a particular law is unjust?" and "Does a citizen have a responsibility to work for the common welfare?"

As a follow up to this discussion and these questions I am endeavoring to have one NH and one VT  Legislator here to visit with us in the next week or so.

Also today, as a culmination of our year long study of the Maasai Culture we had a one hour visit with a Kenyan Maasai warrior, which was quite fascinating.

This Thursday is our trip to Ken Burn's studio for some time with Ken, a tour of his studio and talk about his actual film work. We will leave at 8:45am and return by 11:00am in time for academic classes.

Homework for Friday: Read two short or one long article in this weeks Upfront Magazine and be prepared to share and discuss with your classmates and teacher.

My goal for my American Studies students (which I shared with them today), for the next 5 weeks, is to stay focused and on task and use every minute to continue our studies.

Several students indicated a desire to do some geography work to finish out the year. We will identify what part of the world it is they wish to learn more about and make a go of it.

Best,

Steve