Another great week! We had or first simulation in class on Thursday--the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Most of the scholars really got into their roles, and there was some pretty good debate happening! A few scholars were a little reluctant to speak up, but Teacher Amber and I hope to encourage all of you to become more confident in your abilities to express yourselves. You all have interesting thoughts and ideas--don't be afraid to share them! Even some of the founders (as we learned in the simulation) weren't always right, but debating and discussing ideas is how we learn to see beyond ourselves. It gives us new perspective.
Your opinion paper this week is to write a debrief about the simulation we did in class by answering these questions:
What did you learn about the founders?
What did you learn about yourself?
How are you going to change because of the simulation?
Remember, to earn your key, you have to participate in the simulation and write the debrief. We hope to see everyone bring back a paper this Thursday so we can hand out all the keys! Please don't hesitate to email me, Teacher Amber, or talk to your parents if you need a little guidance in writing your papers. We ALL want to see you succeed in your scholar journey!
For this week, we have Zane presenting on Life as a Puritan and the Salem Witch Trials, and Zachary presenting on the French and Indian War. We'll also be reading and discussing the Mayflower Compact, so it may be wise to read through it before class so you can come prepared with any questions or comments you may have.
Hello Students and Family,
What a rewarding start of our year. Thank you all for your participation. This year is looking to be a great one, where we all will get to learn and grow together.
One large item we addressed this week was the presentation schedule. Below it is listed per student.
Zachary -
Week 3: French & Indian War
Week 13: Role of spies in the Revolution
Eliana -
Week 6: Lexington & Concord
Week 11: Minutemen & the Militia
Tillie -
Week 5: Boston Tea Party & Sons of Liberty
Week 13: Fashion of Colonial Days
Ethan -
Week 7: Life as a Soldier in the Continental Army
Week 10: Role of the Navy in the Revolutionary War
Micah -
Week 8: Life as a Prisoner & Prisons
Week 10: Weaponry of the Revolutionary War & Battle Tactics of the Time
Hannah -
Week 4: Boston Massacre
Week 9: Educational Background of the Founders
Gabe -
Week 7: Hospitals & Doctors in the war
Week 8: Francis Marion, the Swamp Fox
Emma -
Week 9: Betsy Ross & the first flag
Week 12: Famous Women of the war
Zane -
Week 3: Life as a Puritan/Salem witch trials
Week 4: King George III
Isaac-
Week 5: Acts of Parliament and the King
Week 11: Roles of Tories, Loyalists, Hessians and Red Coats in the war
YOU are HIGHLY encouraged to not PROCRASTINATE on the creation of your presentations. Remember you are able to use all means for your presentation. If you would like to just make a poster, by all means. If you are inspired to bring a related treat for the class, again by all means. You hold the key to present your topics by the means you feel necessary. Get creative! Have Fun! And DO NOT PROCRASTINATE!
This week you have your first opinion paper this week. The topic is: What is your responsibility to America and Freedom?
Remember to write this opinion paper based on your skill set. If your family has an academic standard for you personally, you are highly encourage to reach that as well. We want to hear your own personal thoughts and ideas in your opinion papers and we are also here to encourage your growth in writing.
Mrs. Hellyer did a wonderful job giving us some helpful tips for taking notes while we have our lectures happening. Do not forget to look over the sheet when taking notes to help you in your note taking journey. She also jumped us off to a great start with our class lectures, this week she focused on: America Being Our Land. This led to a great discussion within the class. I did find one piece to hold the most value in my heart personally and that was of her discussing John Adams and his sacrifices. Below is the video (from the HBO's John Adams) of one of my favorite quotes from him. Thank you Mrs. Hellyer for the awesome Lecture Kick off.
This week PLEASE arrive on time and prepared for class. We have a simulation! This simulation requires your participation but the reward is your KEY! I am looking forward to this week, it should be much fun and so informational.
If anyone has any questions or concerns, remember you can always reach us.
The count down is on, this week is our week! Class is Thursday! Are you excited? I know Teacher Carrie and I both are.
You should have received your binder, if you haven't already take a glance at it. Explore what is to come this year in Key of Liberty. If you find you have any questions be sure to write them down so you can ask during class.
Remember this week we have the following happening so be prepared:
-Signing up for Presentations
-Book Discussion for Red Scarf Girl by Ji-li Jiang
We will also hopefully have some time towards the end of class to start passing off anyone who is ready to start working on those Award Requirements!
Looking forward to class on Thursday. Please be on time and do your best to be as prepared as possible for class!
