Tuesday, December 11

World History - Today in world history, classes did some work out of the text book from chapter fourteen.  This will be the last new material prior to their final exams.  Students will need this information as it will be on their finals.  Students all should have a study guide at this point, and will be given time in class to review and ask questions to prepare them as much as possible for their test.

Government - Sixth period was the only government class that met today.  This class continued our presentations on civil rights and civil liberties.  Both classes will meet tomorrow, and will hopefully finish all presentations, and work through some material from the end of the text book.  Students in these classes also have study guides, FRQs, and sample multiple choice questions to help them prepare for the final exam, and will be given some class time to review.

In other news...
-The freshmen boys' basketball team will travel to Tech to play the Titans in a game starting at 6:00.
-The JV and Varsity boys' basketball teams will be at home tonight taking on Covenant Christian with the JV game also starting at 6:00, and the varsity game following.

Monday, December 3

World History - Today in world history, students presented their short projects on an individual from the Renaissance.  Nearly everyone went today, however there are a handful left for tomorrow.  We will continue moving through chapter thirteen tomorrow.  Also, don't forget that a current events article will be due at the end of the week.

Government - Today in government, students took a test over chapters seven and eight.  Students will begin looking at chapter four tomorrow, which is all about Civil Rights and Liberties.

Friday, November 30

World History - Students in world history classes have begun working there way through chapter thirteen.  This chapter begins our look into the Renaissance.  Students have worked on a worksheet for sections two and three.  They also have a small project in which they need to create a visual display on a given individual.  Each student should know who they are doing their work on.  These projects will be presented on Monday, December 3.

Government - Students in government classes are making their way through chapter eight, which is about the Judicial Branch.  Once we finish that chapter, which should happen today, students will have a test over chapters seven and eight.  Students also have a short quiz over readings from Lanahan today in class.

In other news...
-The first freshmen boys' basketball game is tomorrow at 11.  Come support the Trojans as we take on Heritage Christian here at BCHS!

Monday, November 26

Hope everyone had a restful and enjoyable Thanksgiving!  We are coming down the homestretch for the first semester.  Here is what's on tap.

World History - Students in world history are finishing up some work through chapter twelve.  We have breezed through a couple chapters quickly, in order to get us where we need to be.  We will be starting chapter thirteen which is on the Renaissance tomorrow.

Government - Students in government had just completed chapter seven prior to Thanksgiving break.  We will begin chapter eight which is about the judicial branch today.  Once finished with chapter eight, we will take another test over chapters seven and eight.  From there, we will be pushing to complete units on Civil Rights as well as Public Policy.

In other news...
-Congrats go out to our football team as the captured the 3A state championship on Saturday!
-Good luck to the girls' freshmen team tonight as they play Tech.

Thursday, November 15

World History -  7th period world history has today to review and prep for the next test, which they will take tomorrow.  2nd period world history will take their test over chapter seven and eight this afternoon.

Government - Both classes will be taking their tests today.  The test is over chapter five and six.

Monday, November 12

World History - Today in world history, we began chapter eight section five, which is titled a time of crisis.  The first part of this section is about the Black Death and that is what we covered in class today. Students should know where it came from and should understand the impact it had on day-to-day life.  Students should also know that the midterm for the quarter is this Wednesday.  Students also know that when we finished chapter eight there will be a test over chapter seven and eight. Students should also be looking for a current events article that will be due at the end of the week.

Government - Today in government, students will get a bit of practice on the FRQs that will be on the AP Exam.  Students were given sample answers to an old question, and will grade the question based on the scoring guide.  When finished with all three, students will be given an FRQ to respond to, and will grade their based on the scoring guide provided.  Students here should be aware that the midterm for the quarter is Wednesday.

In other news...
-Congrats to our football team who won Regionals, and will move onto Semi-State this coming Saturday!
-The girls freshmen basketball team is in action tonight at 6:00 at home vs. Fishers.  Good luck!

Friday, November 9

World History - In world history today, classes are finishing up a guided notes worksheet that was worked on yesterday.  We also started chapter eight section four, which is about the expansion of education and culture of the high Middle Ages.  We will finish chapter eight the first part of next week, and once finished will have our next test.  The test will be over chapters seven and eight.

Government - In government today, we will finish some work looking at what makes a great president. We will have a few minutes of notes to continue working through chapter six.  And at the end of class, we will take a look at some sample FRQs again, and look a little closer at how those are graded.  For homework, students need to finish reading through chapter six.  In this class, we will be taking a test as well over chapters five and six, and that will probably happen next week.

In other news...
-Good luck to our football team this evening as they play Greensburg in the Regional and look to move on in the 3A State Tournament.  Go BC!
-Thanks to all who visited last night for our open house, and good work by all those students involved in guiding families through on your tours.

Monday, November 5

World History - We talked a little news to get things started in class today.  Naturally, a fair amount of the attention was focused on tomorrow's election.  After some news, we worked through chapter seven section four, which is the last section of chapter seven.  This is about the economic advancements made during the middle of the Middle Ages.  Students then worked on the chapter assessment, answering questions 9-17.

Government - We talked about the election as well.  We watched a couple of videos from CNN explaining the course of the election as well as the way the electoral college works.  Students were then given a prompt asking them to predict the winner of tomorrow's election, and provide an arguable reason for making that choice.  We then started notes from chapter six, which happens to be about the presidency.  For homework, students need to read pages 222-242 from the textbook.

In other news...
-Congratulations to our volleyball team who defeated Yorktown to win the 3A State Championship!
-Congratulations as well to our football team who won the sectional, and will move on to the regional this Friday!

Get out there and vote tomorrow everyone!

Friday, November 2

World History - We are making our way through chapter seven currently.  Classes will be through section three today, which is about the role of the church during the Middle Ages.  We have covered some introductory info on the Middle Ages as well as gone in depth about Feudalism.  We will finish chapter seven next week, and move into chapter eight.  The next test will come after chapter eight.  Students also had to turn in a current events article today.

Government - Students have presented their sections of either chapter five or chapter six, and now we will go back and highlight a few key pieces of information.  Today, we will focus on chapter five, which is about Congress.  We also will take a look at how an AP Exam Free Response Question is scored to better acquaint the students with that type of question.  Homework for the weekend will be to read the entries in Lanahan on pages 199, 205, and 212.

In other news...
-Good luck this weekend to our volleyball team as they go to Ball State University tomorrow to compete for a State Championship!
-Good luck as well to our football team tonight as they play for a sectional championship!

Tuesday, October 30

World History - First, 7th period had to catch up with the earlier classes about chapter seven section one.  In the afternoon, 2nd and 3rd periods both continued with chapter seven focusing on feudalism.  We discussed what feudalism is and how it worked, then walked through a simulation of feudalism.  To wrap things up, students were provided with a few short answer questions to which they had to respond.  Also, reminder for all classes that you do need a Current Events article to turn in at the end of this week.

Government - Only 6th period met today, and they did what 5th period covered yesterday.  Students gave presentations about their given information from chapter five or chapter six.

Monday, October 29

World History - Today in world history, we started by talking about the news.  After the news, we moved into chapter seven, which is about the rise of Europe during the Middle Ages.  Students should now know how to describe the Middle Ages, as well as who Charlemagne is.  After we finished with the notes, students were given time to move through the text book.  This is an opportunity to allow them to add more detail to their notes.  They had five questions to address, and were encouraged to add more.  The notes were checked.

Government - In government today, students taught the class about the given portion of chapter five or chapter six.  Each group had a fifteen minute block to use to teach the rest of the class.  Each group was graded based on a rubric that was provided last week.

In other news...
-Shout out to our volleyball team who won Semi-State over the weekend, and will play in the State Finals this coming Saturday!  Go Trojans!
-Also, congrats to our football team for advancing to the Sectional Final this coming Friday!

Monday, October 22

World History - Today in 2nd and 3rd period world history, students were given about 10 minutes to finalize their work for their projects.  After that time was up, groups volunteered to present their information about the group they researched.  We will finish these presentations tomorrow for 2nd and 3rd period class.

Government - We started with a warm up questions that the students had to address.  This was following by a short discussion of the question and answers given.  From there students were sent an email with an attached project.  Students were divided up in to groups, and given a particular piece of either chapter five or chapter six, and they will be teaching the class about their part of the chapter.  Each "lesson" will last 15 minutes.  They will teach these beginning the day we come back from fall break, which is next Monday.

In other news...
-Congratulations to our girls' soccer team on a great season!
-Congratulations to our volleyball team for winning the sectional this weekend!  Looking forward to seeing the regional match tomorrow here at Bishop Chatard.
-Good start for the Trojan football team as they won their first sectional game on Friday night!

Tuesday, October 16

World History - Today in world history, 7th period caught up with the other two classes, and took their test today.  2nd and 3rd period world history classes started a project today which will cover chapter six, which is about the ancient civilizations in the Americas.  They are in groups of three, and chose a specific group to research.

Government - 6th period government caught up with 5th period by finishing chapter thirteen.  With chapter thirteen finished, the next item on the agenda is to take a test over chapters 11, 12, and 13.

In other news...
-No regularly scheduled classes tomorrow as students will be taking the PLAN or PSAT tests in the morning.  Students will be released after the tests.

Monday, October 15

World History - In class today, students took a test over chapters four and five.  Students were given the opportunity to ask a few questions prior to the test to get them thinking in the right direction, and then were given the remainder of the class to complete the test.  7th period will do this tomorrow.

Government - In 5th period government class today, we finished with notes from chapter thirteen.  With this completed, students are reminded that we will be taking a test over chapters 11, 12, and 13.  Homework would be to study and prepare for the test.

In other news...
-Grades are finalized as of this past Friday.
-Congrats go out to our girls' soccer team as they won Regionals this weekend!  Go BC!

Thursday, October 11

World History - Today in world history, 7th period caught up with 2nd and 3rd periods in the morning. They worked on some review for chapters four and five as our next test will be coming up the first part of next week.  In 2nd period world history this afternoon, we finalized the last couple sections of chapter five.  Section four deals with the impact of Christianity on the Roman Empire, and then section five deals with the fall of Rome.  With those completed, students had more time to prepare for the upcoming test.

Government - In government classes, we continued our look at presidential campaign ads.  We completed our activity from Monday/Tuesday, by looking at a few specific campaign ads.  Then we moved into chapter 13 notes.  These notes were on the scholarly look at the impact of the media in politics.  For homework, students need to continue reading in chapter 13 in the textbook, pages 569 to 583.

Monday, October 8

World History - In world history classes today (2nd and 3rd) students finished their work from Friday on chapter five section three, which is all about the legacy of Rome.  After students finished, we moved into section four.  That section is about the rise of Christianity and its impact on Rome.  There is also some religious information as well, which hopefully the students are familiar with.  Looking forward, students will have a test over chapters four and five once we have completed chapter five.  The test is tentatively scheduled for Monday.  Also, with the quarter ending this week, students need to check their grades to make sure they are up to date.  All grades will be finalized at the end of this week.

Government - No government classes today.  Students will pick up chapter thirteen tomorrow.  When we finish chapter thirteen, students will have a test over chapters 11, 12, and 13.  That will also tentatively happen early next week.  Grades will also be finalized for the quarter at the end of this week as well.

In other news...
-Shout out to our girls' soccer team who won a sectional championship over the weekend!

Thursday, October 4

World History - In world history classes over the last couple days, students have learned about the beginnings of Rome.  In section one, we talked about their background, how geography affected unifying the Italian peninsula, and how their government was set up.  In section two, students heard about how the empire grew and expanded.  They learned about the Punic Wars, and the rise of Julius Caesar.  We will continue to make our way through chapter five this week and next.  When we finish chapter five, students will have a test over both chapter four (about Greece) and five (about Rome).

Government - No government class today as seniors were dismissed after the Living Rosary this morning.  Students will pick up in chapter twelve to finish talking about interest groups, as well as discussing the Presidential Debate last night.

Tuesday, October 2

World History - In the last two days of world history, students have taken a quiz over chapter four, and began chapter five.  Chapter five is all about the Roman Empire.  To this point, we have gone through section one, which covers its beginnings.  We will continue working through chapter 5 through the course of the week.  Our next test will be over chapter four and five, once we have finished chapter five.  Students (in 2nd and 3rd period) do have homework tonight in an email that was sent to them in class today.

Government - In government, students had taken a quiz over the Lanahan Reader yesterday (or today for 6th period).  We have also started chapter 12, which we will move through hopefully fairly quickly. The next test will be after we finish chapter 13, so we still have a little ways to go before that happens.  Students do need to read from Lanahan tonight.  The entries are on page 411, 413 and 424.

In other news...
Good luck to the girls' soccer team in the Sectional Tournament this evening!
Good luck also to the volleyball team as they play in the City tournament tonight!  Go Trojans!

Friday, September 28

World History - World history students had a work day to finish up a short project on Alexander the Great.  They are creating resumes for Alexander, highlighting important pieces of information about his life.  Students were also told to scan through chapter four to supplement the notes they had taken.  While students were working on either of these two things, I conferenced with individuals about their grades and where they stand in the class.  The resumes will be due on Monday.  Also on Monday (or Tuesday for 7th period), students should expect a quiz over chapter four that will cover the big ideas.

Government - In government today, students were evaluating their own knowledge of the political party they currently side with.  The class was split into two sides (Republican and Democrat) and asked to summarize the core beliefs of the party as they see it.  Then, students will research their selected party's current platform and summarize comparing it with what they had previously spoken on as the party's core beliefs.  For homework this weekend, students should begin the next chapter, reading pages  512-529.  Students here should also be prepared for a quiz over the Lanahan readings from this past week.

In other news...
-Big shout out to our volleyball team, who last night took down #1 ranked Carmel!
-Good luck to all of our athletes competing in events this weekend.  Go Trojans!

Thursday, September 27

World History - 7th period caught up with the earlier classes, and learned about Alexander the Great and Hellenistic Culture.  All classes now have the assignment that involves using the information we covered, and researching for a bit more detail, to create a resume for Alexander.  Students will have our next class period to work on these.

Government - Both periods finished up chapter eleven today, which is about political parties.  After finishing notes, students were sent an assignment that involves using exit polls from the last two elections to examine how both parties are faring amongst the electorate.  This will be due tomorrow.  Also, for homework, students should read the entries from Lanahan on pages 541 and 548.

Tuesday, September 25

World History - Today in world history, students turned in their essay comparing Sparta vs. Athens.  Then students were given a note skeleton, which was completed in class.  This covered chapter four section four, which is all about the great things the ancient Greece created or developed.

Government - 6th period government caught up with 5th period today.  They had the same political survey to complete, and we had a brief discussion.  From there, we began notes out of chapter eleven, which is about political parties.

In other news...
-Hopefully our shadow kids enjoyed their day here at Bishop Chatard.  It was great meeting a few of you in my classes.
-Several sporting events to get out and go see.  Good luck to all Trojan athletes in action tonight!

Monday, September 24

World History - Today in world history, students were given about 15 minutes to peer edit essays that they will now turn in tomorrow.  Students will need to edit and proofread their work and bring a finalized copy tomorrow.  Then we finished chapter four section three, which is about conflict for the Greeks.  We have covered the Persian and Peloponnesian Wars in this section.

Government - In government today, we will begin a new unit on political parties, interest groups, and the media.  We will start in chapter eleven today, which is about political parties.  Students will be given a survey first, to examine where they stand politically.  And then we will make our way through some information about parties, and how they operate.  For homework, students should read page 484-492 in the textbook, and the entry beginning on page 516 in Lanahan.

In other news...
-Good luck to student athletes competing this evening.  We have football, boys' tennis, and boys' and girls' soccer in action tonight.  Go Trojans!
-Looking forward to our school shadow days, the first of which is tomorrow.  Hopefully our visitors enjoy themselves!

Tuesday, September 18

World History - Today in world history, 7th period caught up with the other two classes on material from yesterday.  Then 2nd and 3rd period continued on through chapter four.  Today, we covered how the Greeks explored via the sea, how they set up their city-states, and how their military strategy changed.  Students were then given 10 minutes to read through the text book to add info to their notes.  Finally, students were emailed a couple secondary readings about Sparta and Athens, and will answer questions about each.  If it wasn't finished in class, it is homework.

Government - In 6th period government, they repeated what 5th period covered yesterday.  Students should be reading page 437-451 in the text, and preparing for the next test which will be Thursday over chapter 9 and 10.

Monday, September 17

World History - In 2nd and 3rd period world history, students took a quiz over the world religion projects that were presented last week.  After turning those in, students were introduced to chapter four, which is all about ancient Greece.  Students should know the impact of geography in determining why the Greeks lived the way they did, as well as knowing the groups that lived in the area prior to the ancient Greece that they know of.

Government - Students in government will be finishing up the last part of chapter ten today and tomorrow.  Today, we looked at how voter's decide.  Students should now understand how the issues and partisanship come in to play when voter's go to the polls to make their decision.  Last, students responded to a prompt on campaign reform.  For homework, students need to read page 437-451 in the textbook.  Also, students will be looking at a test this week, most likely on Thursday.

Friday, September 14

World History - Students in world history classes are finishing up presenting their projects over a world religion today.  Overall, groups have done a very nice job.  There will be a short quiz over the main elements of the religion on Monday.  It will involve matching a description with the correct religion.  Students need to focus on the origins and fundamental beliefs.

Government - In government today, students listened to a guest speaker.  Our guest today is discussing voting and will be registering students to vote.  Homework for government students will be to read page 437 to 451 from the text book.  Also, they will be sent an email with sample FRQ's attached that they will need to have written responses to.

In other news...
- Good luck to all athletes participating this weekend in a variety of events.  Looking forward to seeing, hearing, and reading about a very successful weekend.  Go BCHS!

Thursday, September 13

World History - In world history, students have been presenting their information about the religion that they researched.  This will probably run through class tomorrow as well.  When all groups have presented, students will take a short quiz over the origins and fundamental beliefs of those religions.  Reminder to students that they do have a current events article that is due tomorrow.

Government - In government, we talked about some current events to start class.  Then, we went back into chapter ten on elections.  Today's focus was on the process of elections including majority, plurality and proportional votes.  We also talked about the electoral college and redistricting/gerrymandering.  Students saw a brief video explaining the electoral college, and were shown some examples of gerrymandered districts.  For homework, students are to read from page 421 to 437 in the textbook, and complete a short gerrymandering simulation.

In other news...
-Good luck to all of our athletes competing in sports of all sorts this evening.  Go Trojans!

Tuesday, September 11

World History - Today 7th period caught up with the other classes.  They had a work day for their projects.  In 2nd and 3rd, they had a few minutes to finalize presentations to start, followed by our first group presenting their information.  Also, in 2nd and 3rd period, students were given back their tests, which were reviewed.  Students grades should be up to date, aside from the world religion projects, which should boost their grade when they are completed.

Government - 6th period government today had to catch up with 5th period.  They saw the same course of events with some news, a quiz over the Lanahan readings, a quick discussion of the public opinion poll projects, and a discussion over the rationality of voting.  The reading is the same as was posted yesterday.

Monday, September 10

World History - Today in 2nd and 3rd period world history class, students continued to work on their religion projects.  As I made my way around the room, students told me they were nearly finished with their work, so presentations should begin tomorrow in class.  Students will have a few minutes to organize with their groups prior to presenting.

Government - Today in 5th period government, students turned in their polling assignments.  Students also discussed why their results turned out the way they did.  Students then took a short quiz over the Lanahan readings they had been assigned.  Finally, we began chapter ten, which is on elections.  For homework, students will need to read pages 408 to 421 from the textbook, and the entry on page 500 from Lanahan.

In other news...
-Congratulations to the football team on a big win over Cathedral!  Well done.
-Again, all sorts of sports to come watch this evening ranging from golf, tennis, football, volleyball and soccer.  Good luck to all of our Trojan athletes!

Friday, September 7

World History -  All students in world history at this point are working on a project about world religions.  In groups of 3-4, students will cooperatively put together a project on a given religion.  Tentative due dates will be this next Tuesday.  Each group will present to the class, and they will take a short quiz over the religions when all are finished.

Government - In government today, students were given back an assignment that was turned in as well as their test.  The majority of the class period today was spent on finishing up discussion of public opinion and polling.  Students are reminded that they have an assignment due on Monday (or Tuesday for 6th).  Students will also have a quiz on the first day I see them next week over the readings from Lanahan.  Other homework items include three short readings from Lanahan beginning on pages 22, 383, and 401.

In other news...
-Big football game tonight at Lawrence Central!  Looking forward to seeing a big crowd watch the Trojans take down Cathedral!
-Good luck to all of the other athletes in action over the course of the weekend. Go Trojans!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Wednesday, September 5

World History - 7th period World History caught up with the other two classes today.  They finished chapter three and prepped for the test, which they will take tomorrow in class.  2nd and 3rd period world history were scheduled to take the test today in class.  We will be starting a project tomorrow in class.

Government - In government today, students started class with a warm up question about public opinion and how it influences the passage of public policy.  Those writing responses were collected, and will be checked.  After discussing responses, we began working through chapter nine, which is all about public opinion.  For homework, students need to read page 360-385 from the textbook, and page 387-393 from the Lanahan Reader.

In other news...
-Girls Varsity golf is on the road taking on Ben Davis tonight, while the Boys' JV and Varsity tennis team is at home taking on Cardinal Ritter.  Go Trojans!

Tuesday, September 4

I hope that everyone enjoyed the three day weekend, it's back to the grind here at BCHS.

World History - I only had 2nd and 3rd period world history today, and it was mainly a workday for them in class.  They were working through material on China from chapter three sections four and five, and they were emailed a study guide to work on about half way through class.  These classes are taking a test tomorrow afternoon (7th will do this tomorrow morning with the test Thursday).  Study so that you are completely prepared!

Government - No class today.  Will catch up with you and start new material tomorrow.

In other news...
-All sorts of athletics going on this afternoon and evening.  Good luck to the boys' tennis, girls' golf (JV and Varsity), boys' and girls' cross country, boys' and girls' soccer, freshmen football, and volleyball teams tonight!  Go BC!
-The first boys' basketball workouts are after school today.  As a basketball coach, I'm looking forward to seeing how players develop through the fall.
-Model UN call out tomorrow during SRT.  This one is my group too, hope to see a lot of people tomorrow to sign up!

Friday, August 31

World History - Today in my world history classes, 3rd and 7th period are doing the same work that 2nd period did yesterday.  They are reading through information in chapter three section four and five about the ancient civilizations of China.  They have a note skeleton which is intended to guide them through the information.  Students are to get as much done as possible today.  Tuesday of next week will be left for students to finish up, and review material as they are scheduled to take a test on Wednesday over the ancient civilizations we have covered.

Government - Students in government classes today are taking their first test.  The test covers chapters one through three.

In other news...
-Looking forward to hearing our guest speaker today during SRT.
-Good luck to all athletes in action this weekend.  Looking forward to seeing and hearing about a successful weekend for BCHS.  Go Trojans!

-Enjoy the three day weekend, and see you on Tuesday!

Thursday, August 30

World History - Today in world history, 7th period had to again catch up with the previous day's material.  We went through information on ancient civilizations in India.  Students are through chapter three, sections one and three.  Then 2nd period starting material on the ancient civilizations in China.  They were given a note skeleton and worked through it in class.  When we are through chapter three, we will be having a test.  At this point, the test is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday of next week.  Students would be very well served to begin reviewing material from notes, and through the online text if they can access it.

Government - In the past two days of government, students continued through chapter three, covering more information about federalism (yesterday) and separation of powers and checks and balances (today).  Students have completed the first unit, and will be taking a test tomorrow in class.  Students should be prepared for a 60 multiple choice question test.  They will be given 45 minutes to complete the test, as is standard for an AP exam.  Students will need to review their notes, and the text book.

In other news...
-There are a number of teams in action tonight.  Plenty of opportunities to get out and support our Trojan student athletes!  Go BC!

Tuesday, August 28

World History - Today, 7th period caught up with the other classes, and did what was posted yesterday.  Then, this afternoon with 2nd and 3rd period world history, we moved through chapter two section three, which is about the geography and beginning of Egyptian Civilization.  Students created graphic organizers to display information about the Old, Middle and New Kingdoms of Egypt, and for homework will read a piece of the Book of the Dead, and through section four, which covers day-to-day life.  After reading section four, students are to answer questions in the section assessment (#1,3,4,5,6).

Government - 6th period government class also caught up with what was done yesterday.  They worked through information about Federalism from chapter three as well.  They also have readings for homework from the text (pg. 67-87) and the Lanahan Reader (pg. 121-126).  First test is approaching soon, so students should continue to prepare!

In other news...
The girls golf, boys tennis, and boys soccer teams are all in action tonight.  All of these teams are on the road tonight.  Let's go Trojans!

Monday, August 27

World History - We started by taking care of a few administrative details.  Next, we finished the notes from Friday on Sumer.  Students should know the legacy that Sumer left behind as it was replaced.  After completing these notes, students then broke up into groups of four and worked through section two of chapter two.  This section covers the groups who invaded and replaced the Sumerians.  Students each worked on a piece of this whole section, and then shared there work with the other members of their group.  For homework, students have a packet on Hammurabi's Code to read through and questions to answer.  These laws give a quick look into what life was like for the people who lived under Hammurabi's rule.

Government - We need to cover the same administrative details before moving on to other items.  Next, students got their first quiz back, and we reviewed quickly.  Then we went into chapter three, which covers federalism and the separation of powers.  Students should understand the historical basis for federalism, as well as how it has evolved.  For homework, students need to read page 67-87 from the textbook and page 121-126 from the Lanahan Reader.

In other news...
All sorts of sporting action this evening.  Hopefully we can get out and support all of our Trojan athletes!  Go Trojans!

Thursday, August 23

World History - Today, 7th period world history caught up with what the previous classes did yesterday.  They worked through their map exercise and had some time to do their vocab and current events work.  Both of those will be due tomorrow, as well as a short reading assignment.  2nd period world history is saw me for the last time this week and turned in those same assignments.  They then took notes over the first section of chapter two.

Government - We covered a few current events articles to begin class.  These classes both have a current events and vocab assignment due tomorrow.  We talked about the amendment process and the steps involved.  Then in small groups, students were given potential proposed amendments and they had to decide the ideal way for that amendment to makes its way through the amendment process.  We discussed answers after they finished.  For homework, they need to read the rest of chapter two.

In other news...
-It was great to meet so many parents last night at our Back to School night.  Thanks for coming!
-Lots of Trojan sports teams in action tonight.  Volleyball, girls golf, boys tennis, and boys and girls soccer all competing.  Let's go Trojans!

Wednesday, August 22

World History - 7th period world history was catching up on the material the other two classes did yesterday.  So they registered for the text book on line, as well as going through section three of chapter one.  Then my 2nd and 3rd period classes started into chapter two by doing some map work that covers the Middle East and the ancient civilizations there.  This gives them a geographical starting point for chapter two.  For homework, students have a few things to accomplish.  #1 - Students need to have their vocab ready.  #2 - Students need to have a current events article with a 1/2 page report and citation.  #3 - Students were emailed two short readings with a few questions at the end of each one.  Students should read and answer the questions.

Government - In both classes today, students took a quiz over the material we have covered from chapter one and two of the text book as well as the extra readings from the Lanahan reader.  From that point, we went further through chapter two covering some key items from the Constitutional Convention.  For homework, students are to read page 37-57, which will give more detail on the convention.

In other news...
-It's Back to School night at BCHS.  Looking forward to seeing many students parents this evening.  The evening starts at 6:00.

Tuesday, August 21

World History - In class today, students were instructed on how to sign up to view the textbook online. Students should now be able to log in and read the text online.  We then went on to cover section three, which is about the beginnings of civilizations.  We covered the basic features of civilization.  Students had to rank them in order of importance and discussed.  Students should continue working through their vocab list as well as preparing a current events article for either Thursday (period 2) or Friday (period 3 and 7).

Government - Met with 6th period government today, and they presented their utopian societies like 5th period did yesterday.  Both classes had very good and original ideas and thought through their type of government as well as the principle of politics that best suited their society.  Students were told of the information to read and research for homework, which is the same as yesterday's class.

In other news...
-Boys' tennis is on the road at Lebanon tonight.
-Girls' varsity golf takes on Park Tudor this evening.
-Reminder that tomorrow is Back to School night.  Looking forward to meeting with parents tomorrow night!

Monday, August 20

World History - Today in world history, we reviewed a couple of procedural things regarding current event articles and vocab. Students have documents for both and are expected to have those completed by Friday.  We also worked through section two of chapter one, which is about the Neolithic Revolution and the advancements made by modern humans.

Government - Government also was given the current events assignment as well as vocab to take care of by Friday.  They were given a few minutes to finalize their utopian societies and then presented.  All groups did a very nice job, and had created well thought out civilizations considering the short time frame we were working on.  With the time left over, students were to research on the theories of the origin of the state (Evolutionary, Force, Divine Right, and Social Contract), John Locke and Thomas Paine.  Students for homework should read pg. 30-37 from the textbook, as well as two entries from Lanahan, which were emailed.

In other news...
Good luck to all BCHS students in action tonight in a variety of sports including girls' golf, girls' soccer, volleyball, and freshman and JV football.  Go Trojans!

Friday, August 17

World History - In world history classes, we discussed a few current events to kick off class.  After talking about the news, students took notes over section one of chapter one.  The first section deals with introductory information about how individuals study history.  Students should now be familiar and be able to explain the impact of geography, anthropology, and archaeology.  Students were also prompted to read pages from the first section and add information to their notes.  These pages covered discoveries of early hominids and the characteristics of those groups.

AP Government - Students in these classes also started with a brief current events discussion.  Second, we worked our way quickly through the two readings from last night.  We discussed the People of Paradox entry from Lanahan, as well as expanding where necessary on forms of government and the principles of politics listed within chapter one.  In the second half of class, students were given an activity that involves creating a utopian society.  They will connect the information from chapter one when creating their "new society".  On Monday (or Tuesday for 6th period) students will present their information, and we will classify their new governments as well as characterize the principle of politics used to accomplish their goals.

In other news:
-It's a big weekend at Bishop Chatard as there will be a ribbon cutting for the new athletic complex.  Also, good luck to all of our student athletes competing this weekend!  Go Trojans!

Thursday, August 16

I apologize for missing the last couple of days, I am still trying to adjust to a new schedule!  We are off and running here at BCHS.  Here's what is going on in class.

World History I - In World History classes, students have gone through the syllabus and discussed why we should study History.  Students gave thoughtful answers on this very open ended question.  After discussing this, we looked at how know what we know.  In brief, students were asked to give examples of how we learn about what is happening in various places.  Students were then directed to think about how we know about History.  The answer comes from artifacts.  We discussed how different people will have different interpretations.  To illustrate this point, students were given a picture of an artifact and told to decide what is was and what its use was.  After rotating the artifacts, students learned their actual uses, and discussed how historians and others have to use that information to create history.

AP Government - In these two classes, we also covered the syllabus.  To begin government related discussion, students were asked to describe democracy.  They also read two entries, an excerpt from Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville, and Dinner with Democracy by Cynthia Farrar.  In today's class, we discuss what democracy is, and its key components.  We then compared their written responses to those views from the two entries.  Finally, we introduced chapter one of the textbook.  Students are to read chapter one tonight as well as one more entry from the Lanahan reader.  They should be prepared to discuss both of these again tomorrow, along with going over some key pieces from the first chapter.

Tuesday August, 14

Welcome back!  Today is the first official day of school for students at Bishop Chatard High School.  Coincidentally, it is also my first day as a teacher at Bishop Chatard.  I will be teaching World History and AP Government, as well as coaching freshmen basketball.  I am very excited to meet the students and begin what hopefully will be a very successful school year!  Since I am new here, I will give a brief introduction.  My name is Chris Schrank, and I am beginning my sixth year of teaching.  For the past five years, I have taught world history, government, economics, and sociology at Union County High School in Liberty, IN.  I was also the JV boys' basketball coach, and Model Legislature sponsor.  I received my Bachelor's Degree from Miami University in Oxford, OH.  This summer has been an exciting summer for me because not only did I accept a new job, but I also got married!  My wife and I live in Fishers.  I am thrilled to be here, and am looking forward to working with all of my new students.  Hopefully this blog will serve as a resource for students and parents stay up to date with what is happening in either World History or AP Government.  I will do my best to update this daily and will post assignments as often as I can.  Thanks for checking in, and I am looking forward to working with you all.

Chris Schrank
Bishop Chatard Social Studies Teacher

Wednesday, May 23

Today is the last day of the school year!  Finals have been taken and graded.  Grades are finalized and will be turned in tomorrow so that report cards can be mailed out in the next few days.  Best of luck to those sports teams that will continue playing in the coming days.  Thanks everyone for a great school year!!  Enjoy the summer.

Friday, May 18

World History II - We watched CNN Student News for the last time first.  Then students reviewed for the final exam.  While they worked, students were called up to finalize all grades.  Students should be prepared for the final next week which will cover chapters 26, 28, and 29 as well as covering All Quiet on the Western Front.  On Monday, 1st period takes their exam.  Tuesday is 2nd and 5th.  Wednesday is 4th.

Economics - The same general outline above applies here.  We watched CNN Student News.  Students reviewed for their final, which is on Monday.  Grades were also finalized up with just the final exam remaining. 

Wednesday, May 9

World History II - In the last couple of days in world history we have continued to discuss World War II.  Monday, students did review work from the section one and two assessments.  They also completed a map that showed where major actions of WWII took place.  Tuesday, we talked about key ideas for the Allies in winning the war, like total war and women's roles.  We also talked about the Holocaust on Tuesday.  Today, we finished section three.  This section covers the turning points of WWII such as the Battle of Coral Sea and the Battle of Midway.  It also talks about D-Day and the invasion of Normandy and how the Allies begin to force Germany to retreat.  For tomorrow, students need to get a permission slip signed as we will watch the opening scene of Saving Private Ryan as it shows the D-Day scene, and they need to be prepared with the questions for chapter ten from All Quiet on the Western Front.

Economics - In the last couple of days in economics, students have continued to discuss macroeconomics issues.  Monday, students were in the library finishing up research on currency and its value.  Tuesday, students continued to learn about the money supply and how banks operate in keeping reserves.  Today, students were introduced to chapter sixteen and trade.  In our introduction today, we covered issues regarding resource distribution and how that leads to trade.  Tomorrow we will finish section one with more information about absolute and comparative advantage and trade. 

In other news...
-The JV Softball team is in action tonight at home against Lincoln.  Game starts at 5:00.
-The JV Baseball team is also in action taking on Lawrenceburg at home starting at 5:00.
-The Boys' Golf team plays at home tonight as well at 5:00 against Hagerstown.

Wednesday, May 2

World History II - In history classes today, we started by finishing a worksheet that students were given yesterday.  The worksheet covered the first section of chapter twenty nine, which is one World War II.  When completed, student turned in the paper, and watched CNN Student News.  After the news, we went on to section two, which is about the early part of the war and how the Axis Powers made big gains.  We will continue that tomorrow.  Finally, just a reminder that questions over chapters eight and nine of All Quiet on the Western Front will be checked on Friday.

Economics - In Econ today we started with CNN Student News.  In the course of the last few days, we have covered chapter thirteen which is about issues facing the nation's economy as a whole.  We have focused on business cycles, inflation, and today unemployment.  Students should now know that there are five types of unemployment, and should be able to expand on the costs of unemployment to the economy as a whole.

In other news...
There are several sporting events for Union County Athletics this evening.  The list is as follows:
-Softball at home vs. Milan at 6:00.
-JV Baseball on the road at Lawrenceburg at 5:00.
-Track at home for a meet against Northeastern and Tri beginning at 5:00
-Girls' Tennis is at home playing Randolph Southern at 5:00.
-Boys' Golf is at Lincoln at 5:00.

Thursday, April 26

World History II - Today in World History started with CNN Student News.  From there students were reminded about the next check-in on All Quiet on the Western Front, which is Monday, and were asked a few questions about yesterday's materials.  Then we began section five which is about Hitler's rise to power in Germany.  Students learned about the Weimar Republic, its shortcomings in the economy, and the eventual solutions.  Students also be able to explain why a person like Adolf Hitler is able to take power in Germany, even though he has such radical thoughts/ideas. 

Economics - In econ today, students were first given time to complete the work from yesterday on population and poverty, two issues that impact the GDP.  After students had completed their work, we began chapter thirteen section one, which covers business cycles.  Students should be able to show the fluctuations of a business cycle, name the parts, and explain causes for change in a business cycle. 

In other news...
There are plenty of events for Union County Athletics going on this evening.  The list is as follows:
-Baseball at home vs. Hagerstown at 5:00
-Softball at home vs. Talawanda at 5:00
-Boys' Golf at Northeastern at 5:00
-JV Softball at Talawanda at 5:00
-Girls' Tennis at East Central at 5:00

Go Patriots!

Tuesday, April 24

World History II - In world history, students first finished working on the material from yesterday, which covered chapter twenty eight sections one and two.  When they finished, that work was checked along with chapter six from All Quiet on the Western Front.  Then we went through chapter twenty eight section 3.  That section covered Italy and the Fascist Party with Benito Mussolini leading up to WWII.

Economics - In econ, we started with CNN Student News.  After student news, we finished section one of chapter twelve, which was about GDP.  Students learned how to measure GDP, the difference between real GDP and current GDP, and read about other National Income and Product Accounts (NIPA).  Students finished by doing some work from the text book on page 327, #3-7.  Those will be checked tomorrow.

In other news...
-The softball team is on the road this evening playing Lawrenceburg at 5:00.
-The JV baseball team is playing at home tonight against Jac-Cen-Del at 5:00.
-The girls' tennis team is at home tonight taking on Lincoln.  The match starts at 5:00. 

Monday, April 23

World History II - In World History today, we started with CNN Student News.  After watching the news, we started chapter twenty eight by doing some work from sections one and two.  In those two sections, students learned about the life and times of the people living through the years in between WWI and WWII.  Topics covered included the Jazz Age and the Roaring Twenties, advancements in science, and issues facing the world's three largest democracies (USA, France, England).  We will finish this work tomorrow, and move on to the next section.

Economics - In economics, we also started with the news.  After the news, students were given about fifteen minutes to finish their work from Friday.  From that point, we went on to chapter twelve section one, which is about Macroeconomics and GDP.  We defined the term and explained how it was measured, then went on to look at some statistics of GDP's around the world.  We will continue this tomorrow.

In other news...
-The JV softball team will be traveling to South Dearborn tonight for a game starting at 5:30.
-The boys' golf team will play at home tonight against Franklin Co. at 5:00.
- The girls' tennis team is also on the road playing Hagerstown at 5:00.
-Finally, the JV baseball team will take on Centerville at home tonight at 5:00.

Thursday, April 19

World History II - Today we finished up discussing World War I.  The last section of chapter twenty six covers the Russian Revolution, and we finalized that by covering the November Revolution, the Civil War between the "Whites" and the "Reds", and the results for Russia.  After finishing this, students were given the remaining time to review and prep for the test, which will be tomorrow over chapter twenty six.

Economics - In Econ, we started with CNN Student News.  Then we looked at chapter ten section three, which is about the National Budget.  We covered information regarding the federal budget with surpluses and deficits, and then talked at length about the National Debt.  Students should now know what the debt is ($15.6 Trillion and counting) and where it comes from. 

In other news...
-The baseball team takes on Union City at home at 5:00.
-The JV baseball team is also at home playing against Connersville tonight.  Game time is 5:00.
-The tennis team hosts Winchester tonight.  The match starts at 5:00 as well.
Go Patriots!

Wednesday, April 18

World History II - Today in World History started with the news.  After the news, we quickly reviewed who the Big Three were, and the impact of the Treaty of Versailles.  From there, we went through chapter twenty six section five, which covers the Russian Revolution.  Students today got background information on Russia, and why they were struggling/in a position to go through a revolution, explained what happened with Russia during WWI leading them to revolution, and learned about Vladimir Lenin and the Bolsheviks.  Tomorrow, we will finish section five, and review, as the students will be taking a test on Friday over chapter twenty six.

Economics - In econ today, students took a test over chapters eight and nine, covering labor, labor unions, and taxes.  We will pick up with chapter ten tomorrow.

In other news...
-The softball team is playing at home tonight against Northeastern in a big TEC match up.  Game starts at 5:00
-The freshman baseball team also plays at home tonight against East Central.  This game also starts at 5:00.
-The boys' golf team will play at home beginning at 5:00 against Richmond.
-The girls' tennis team travels to Tri tonight for a match that starts at 5:00.
Good Luck to all UCHS teams in action tonight!

Tuesday, April 17

World History II - Today in World History II, we watched CNN Student News.  After the news, we again reviewed with a couple questions from yesterday's material.  From there students worked through section four, which is about the Treaty of Versailles and its outcomes.  Chapter five of All Quiet on the Western Front was checked while they worked.  We have one more section to cover, and then a test to take on Friday.

Economics - We went through the rest of section two, which covered a variety of taxes that allows the government to make money.  Students in small groups presented the information about the differing taxes.  Students also read through section three which discussed tax issues.  This class will be taking a short test over chapter eight and nine tomorrow. 

In other news...
-The baseball team plays a make up game today.  Game starts at 5:00.
- The JV softball team is on the road taking on Milan, with the game starts at 6:00.
-The Boys' Golf team is hosting Union City tonight beginning at 5:00.
Go Pats!

Monday, April 16

World History II - Today we started with a general schedule update for the remainder of the semester.  Students should now know the basic progression of World History II for the rest of the year.  Then we watched CNN Student News.  After the news, we finished chapter twenty six section three.  We briefly reviewed some of the key ideas from Friday, and then went on to discuss the reasons that the United States joined World War I, then added the finishing touches to the war, and finalized it all by discussing Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points.  With the time that remained, papers were passed back, and students read further into All Quiet on the Western Front.  Chapter five from the book will be checked tomorrow.  Also, students will be taking a test over chapter twenty six on Friday.

Economics - Today in economics, we started with CNN Student News.  From there, we caught up those students who missed Friday's class.  Students were then given a situation involving taxes to illustrate trade offs and also illustrating the differences in benefits received for differing tax rates.  Then students were broken up into eight groups of three.  Each group was given two topics that involve ways that they government takes in revenue.  Each group had to describe how the government makes money on their tax, show the percentage of revenue brought in by the tax, and add any additional information such as how the tax is collected.  Students were given roughly 5 minutes to gather information, and then presented it to the class.  This will be finished tomorrow in class.  We will also go through section three tomorrow.  Students then on Wednesday will take a quiz/test over chapter eight and nine on Wednesday.

In other news...
-Home track meet tonight against Hagerstown at 5:00.
-Varsity baseball is on the road tonight at Randolph Southern.  Game starts at 5:00.
-JV baseball is also traveling tonight to Franklin Co.  Game starts at 5:00.
-The girls' tennis team is away as well taking on Union City at 5:00.
Good Luck Patriots!

Wednesday, April 11

World History II - Today in World History, we watched CNN Student News to start.  Then we went to the library to do some research on topics involving World War I.  Students are working in pairs on this research which involves visiting a website, and answering a group of questions about a related topic.  While in the library, the study guide for chapters three and four of All Quiet on the Western Front was checked.  They will have the class period tomorrow to continue working on things in the library.

Economics - In Econ, we watched CNN Student News to begin.  From that point, we went on to finish chapter eight by going through section three.  Section three dealt with issues and trends involving labor and employment.  Students learned about the reasons why union membership has declined, described the reasons that women have historically received lower pay, and examine the effects minimum wage has had on businesses and individuals. 

In other news...
-The varsity baseball team is at home tonight at 5:00 taking on National Trail.
-The boys' golf team is in action tonight at Centerville at 5:00.
-The girls' tennis team is on the road tonight taking on Seton, also at 5:00.

Thursday, April 5

World History II - In world history, we started with CNN Student News.  Then we went forward into chapter twenty six section two, which covers the beginning of the war and the style of fighting.  We illustrated the difficulties of fighting World War I due to trench warfare.  At the end of class, students were given time to read All Quiet on the Western Front, while their work from this week was checked off.  Chapters 3 and 4 from All Quiet will be checked on Wednesday.

Economics - We started with news in Econ today.  Then we covered several topics in the way of review.  Students differentiated between types of economies, ranked economic and social goals of our economy, and describe the business type that they would prefer.  Next week, we will continue to go through chapter eight, as well as reviewing a couple other key ideas.

In other news...
-Happy Opening Day and Go Reds!
-Good Luck to all of the extra-curricular groups that are in action over this long weekend. 
-Enjoy the four day Easter weekend! See you on Tuesday!

Wednesday, April 4

World History II - Today in World History, we watched CNN Student News.  From there, we had a quick, informal review of the information already presented in chapter twenty six section one.  Then we finished that section by discussing Austria's plan following the assassination of Arch Duke Ferdinand, showed how the alliances actually brought on the war rather than prevent it, and then illustrated the Schlieffen Plan.  Most classes had a few minutes left over, which were to be used in reading All Quiet.  The questions for chapter one and two of the book are due tomorrow. 

Economics - In econ today, we also started with CNN Student News.  We then went over the review activity from yesterday's class.  Students then worked independently on chapter eight section two.  This section dealt with categories of labor, wages and how those wages are determined, and it described ways to resolve a labor dispute.  If the students finished their work, they turned it in.  If not, it is homework, and will be collected tomorrow. 

In other news...
- The JV Baseball team plays at home tonight against Rushville.  The game is scheduled to start at 5:00.  Go Pats!

Tuesday, April 3

World History II - Today in World History started with CNN Student News.  Then we breifly reviewed the information that was presented yesterday about the alliances of WWI.  From there, we went on to establish a geographical advantage of one of the alliances, laid out the three causes that built up to WWI, and described the event that sparked WWI.  At the end of class, students were given some time to continue reading All Quiet on the Western Front.

Economics - We watched CNN Student News in Econ as well today.  Then we went on to finish our discussion about labor unions, which included more historical information as well as the types of unions that have been created.  With the last portion of class, we reviewed material that was previously covered. 

In other news...
-Good luck to all of the Union County teams in action tonight. 
-Track is on the road at Lincoln at 4:45.
-Baseball teams are both at home against Batesville.  Games start at 5:00.
-Softball is on the road at North Decatur.  Game starts at 5:00.
-Tennis has a scrimmage at home this evening against Centerville.  Match starts at 5:00.

Go Patriots!

Monday, April 2

World History II - Today is Mrs. Cartwright's last day student teaching.  For the first fifteen minutes, she passed back materials and had the kids fill out a survey.  From there, I resumed the teaching duties for the remainder of class.  We watched CNN Student News to start.  After that, the students received a novel that we will read while we discuss World War I.  Each student should have a copy of All Quiet on the Western Front, as well as a packet of questions that go with the reading.  We will be reading this book for the next couple of weeks.  Their packets will be checked and there will be a test when we finish the book.  Finally, we began chapter twenty six section one, which is about the beginning of the Great War.  Ask your student about the alliances formed prior to World War I.

Economics - Again, Mrs. Cartwright's last day of student teaching is today.  She concluded business with this class, and had them fill out a survey as well.  From there, I took over.  We watched CNN Student News to begin, and had a short discussion on one of the stories that was featured.  Then we began chapter eight section one, which is about the Labor Movement, unions, and their formation. 

In other news...
-Hope that everyone had an enjoyable spring break!
-Tonight @ 6:30 is the Spring season Meet the Team night!  Come into the gym tonight to see what the spring season at UCHS has in store. 

Friday, March 23

World History II - Today in World History, students watched a video titled, "When Worlds Collide".  The video was about the results of Columbus' voyage across the Atlantic and how both the Old and New World were affected.  Today is also the last full day that Mrs. Cartwright will be teaching, so she is working on finalizing grades and taking care of any last minute details so that after spring break, I can take the room back over.

Economics - Today in Econ, students were in the library one last day as the finished working on their Life @ 30 projects.  They turned those projects in as this is again the last assignment from Mrs. Cartwright in Econ.  As mentioned above, I will be teaching the class again after spring break.

In other news...
-Everyone have a great spring break! 

Thursday, March 22

World History II - Today in World History, students are taking a test over chapters twenty four and twenty five.  Mrs. Cartwright is nearing the end of her student teaching assignment, and is finalizing all last minute materials.  These two chapters will be the last that she covers.  After spring break, I will resume teaching and we will pick up with chapter twenty six, which is about World War I.

Economics - For the past couple of days, students have been working in the library on a project called Life @ 30.  In this project, students are projecting what their life might look like a few years down the road.  They were given a job and have to work with that salary to budget for a house, car, taxes and other expenses.  They will be working on this today, and finishing it up tomorrow before leaving on spring break.

In other news...
-Softball season gets started today as the girls travel to take on Connersville in their first game.  Good luck and go Patriots!

Wednesday, March 14

World History II - Today, class was started with CNN Student News.  After the news, students got a brief introduction to the next section, defined a word (partition) that is very important to this section and then watched a short video on the topic.  Finally, students were split up into four groups and were given a specific part of section two to research and answer questions about.  When they finished, they then taught the others groups what they had learned.

Economics - For econ today, we began with CNN Student News as well.  Then the rest of the class period was spent in the library.  In the library, students were working on two tasks.  First they were to finish their stock market workings as they are nearing the end of the competition.  Second, they were to continue working on their material from yesterday where they should be preparing a presentation.

In other news...
-Good luck to the Robotics Team as they go to Purdue University to compete in the Robotics Competition.  They will compete beginning tomorrow with their own handmade robot.  The competition this year requires the robots to participate in a basketball game with robots from other schools. 

Tuesday, March 13

World History II - Today in class, students began with CNN Student News.  Then students started working through chapter twenty four, which deals with imperialism.  The class heard two audio clips to give them an idea about the general thoughts of imperialism at the time, and then proceeded to move through the first section, discussing what imperialism is, and its different types.

Economics - In econ today, students were given a project of Mrs. Cartwright's creation.  The class was broken up into groups of three and given a specific product.  With this product, each group is to examine its impact on different groups and give potential alternatives.  They were also instructed to review important terms and ideas, and are to use at least ten of these in their presentation.  The class was in the library today, and will be there tomorrow as well.  They will present their information beginning Thursday. 

In other news:
-Midterm grades were finalized and turned in to the guidance office today.  Midterm report cards will be mailed home in the next couple days. 

Monday, March 12

World History II - Today in World History, students took a test over chapters twenty two and twenty three.  These chapters focused the events happening in individual European countries leading up to World War I.  Beginning tomorrow, students will go through chapter twenty four, which is deals with imperialism and its effects.

Economics - Today in Econ, students started with CNN Students News.  Then they moved on to finish chapter seven.  Chapter seven dealt with Market Types, such as monopolies, oligarchies and monopolistic competition.  Beginning tomorrow, students will work through chapter eight. 

In other news:

-The boys' basketball season ended Saturday morning in Connersville with a 41-33 loss to Park Tudor in the Regional Semi-finals.  The varsity team finished the season with a 21-3 record, a TEC championship, as well as a Sectional Championship.  It was a great season, and the support from the community was very much appreciated all season long!

-Good luck to the Academic Teams as the compete tonight at Union!

Thursday, March 1

World History II - Today in World History, students started with CNN Student News.  Then students continued to work through chapter twenty two.  They finished section two, which dealt with the creation of Germany led by Otto Von Bismarck.  Then they moved into section three, which dealt with the unification of Italy.

Economics - In Econ today, students watched CNN Students News.  Following the news, the majority class time was spent reviewing chapters four, five and six.  Students will take a test over those chapters tomorrow. 

In other news:

-Congratulations to the boys' basketball team as they won their first round game in the Sectional Tournament at Hagerstown last night.  We now move on to play in the semi-final tomorrow night against Centerville.  Looking forward to seeing a big crowd and a lively atmosphere!  Go Pats!

Monday, February 27

World History II - In World History today, students started by watching CNN Student News.  Then Mrs. Cartwright gave them a few minutes to prepare for a short quiz on chapter twenty one.  Moving into chapter twenty two gave the students an introduction to Germany and its' background as it began to unify.  As they move through chapter twenty two through the rest of this week, students will learn about individual countries situations and the events that will lead us up to World War I.

Economics - In Econ, students also started with CNN Student News.  After Student News, they looked a bit more in depth on chapter six, which is about price and combining supply and demand.  They went through the first section, which details the role of price in our economy, and what would happen if we used other systems.  They also began section two, which covers supply and demand graphs.  The class saw three examples to get them started, and will continue this tomorrow. 

Friday, February 24

World History II - Today in World History, we started with CNN Student News.  Then Mrs. Cartwright guided students through the next section out of chapter twenty one.  The topics involved the influence of the arts and literature and new styles that emerged at the time.  The students are introduced to the idea of Romanticism and Realism, and are given descriptions in art and writing.  To finish up class, students were given a map activity.

Economics - Today in Econ, students will start with CNN Student News as well.  Then they will begin chapter six, which deals with combining supply and demand.  They will cover the first section which covers price and its role.  Then they will introduce supply and demand graphs, which will be covered in greater detail on Monday. 

In other news:

-Tonight is the last home boys' basketball game for the regular season.  It is also senior night.  The JV game will start at 6:30, and seniors will be recognized in between the JV and Varsity games.  We would love to see a packed house for the finale of a great regular season! 

Tuesday, February 21

World History II - In World History classes today, Mrs. Cartwright started with CNN Student News.  Then she began taking the students through chapter twenty one, which is about how life changed due to the Industrial Revolution.  Students were learning about changes in lifestyles, working conditions, and business activity. 

Economics - Students in economics today started with CNN Students News as well.  From there, they continued discussing chapter five about supply.  Students were focusing on changes in supply and elasticity of supply initially.  Then, they moved into section two which focuses more on the affects of the numbers of employees will have on supply and terms like increasing and diminishing marginal returns.  Students will continue this on Thursday, as tomorrow is a day in the library for the Stock Market game.

In other news:

- Thanks to all of the parents who stopped in yesterday for parent teacher conferences.  It was great meeting and chatting with you!

-The boys' basketball team takes on North Decatur tonight in our last regular season road game.  JV game starts at 6:00.  Go Patriots!

Monday, February 13

First, apologies for the lack of updates lately.  Here is what has been happening in my classes:

World History II - Mrs. Cartwright has led them through a couple chapters since I last updated.  They have now covered chapter eighteen on the French Revolution and chapter nineteen on the Industrial Revolution.  They took a test over chapters seventeen and eighteen, and have taken a separate test on chapter nineteen.  At this point, we are just starting chapter twenty, which covers other revolutions in Europe and Latin America. 

Economics - Mrs. Cartwright has led this class on as well.  They have made their way through the introductory chapters and should now know about the main ideas of Economics.  The class took a test on chapters one through three about a week ago.  They also continue to participate in the stock market game.  Each Wednesday the class goes to the library to research and update their stock portfolios.  At present, the class is making its way through supply and demand.  In the last few days, the focus was on demand.  Now our attention will shift to supply, which is chapter five. 

In other news:
-Congratulations to Cody Phillips and Austin Fuller as they moved on to the State Wrestling meet to be held at Banker's Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis this upcoming weekend!

-Remind that parent teacher conferences are next Monday, February 20 from 12:00 to 7:30. 

Thursday, January 19

World History II - Students in world history classes moved through section three at the beginning of this week.  Section three deals with the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution.  The past two days were spent in the library working on an individual project.  Students are creating mock Facebook pages for individuals who were influential during the Enlightenment or the French Revolution.  Students will have tomorrow to finalize their pages.

Economics - Students in econ class have continued working through chapter two.  They are dealing with economic systems and differentiating between the specific types.  On Wednesday, students were in the library checking in on their stock market portfolio and buying or selling any stocks they chose.  They also were introduced to a project by Mrs. Cartwright called Life at 30.  This project will be due near the end of Mrs. Cartwright's time here at UCHS and involves students examining their expenses at age 30. 

Thursday, January 12

World History II - In class the past two days, students have watched CNN Student News to kick things off.  Then, yesterday, students completed a worksheet that covered the first section of chapter eighteen, which was about the beginnings of the French Revolution.  In class today, students reviewed that information, and then went into section two about how the Revolution progressed. 

Economics - In class the past two days, students were introduced to a competitive stock market game.  We were using computers in the Library yesterday, and then today in Mrs. McDaniel's room.  Each Wednesday students will have time to check their virtual portfolios and buy or sell stocks.  In the past two days, students were familiarizing themselves with the site and making their initial stock purchases. 

In other news:
-The freshman boys' basketball team plays at home tonight.  Game starts at 6:30.
-The wrestling team is on the road this evening at Centerville.  Matches begin at 7:30.

Go Pats!

Tuesday, January 10

World History II - Today in World History, we watched CNN Students News to begin class.  From there students finished taking notes on chapter seventeen section three about the American Revolution.  Students learned about how the Revolution and the Enlightenment were connected.  Then to finish class, students worked on a worksheet from chapter eighteen section one, which is about the beginning of the French Revolution.  It will be finished in class tomorrow.

Economics - Today in Economics, students were treated to a guest speaker.  Mr. Curry is a financial advisor who gave the students an overview on topics such as: the stock market, investing, and retirement planning.  Students will use the information given to them tomorrow when we begin our stock market game, where students will be buying and selling stocks. 

In other news:
-The girls' basketball team plays at home tonight against Franklin County.  JV game starts at 6:00.
-The freshman boys' basketball team is on the road taking on Centerville at 6:30.

Let's go Pats!

Monday, January 9

World History II - Today in World History, we started with CNN Student News.  Then students went through chapter seventeen section two, which was about the spread of the Enlightenment and its ideas, and then began chapter seventeen section three, which is about the American Revolution.  At the end of last week, students had started chapter seventeen, which is all about the Enlightenment, and the new ideas that are developed.

Economics - Today in Econ, we also started with CNN Student News.  Then students were informed about upcoming projects.  Today, we went to the library to do some research on entrepreneurs, and the students will be writing a report on their chosen person that is due on Thursday.  Students were also informed about the next couple days activities, which include a guest speaker tomorrow about investing, and then participating in a stock market game on Wednesday. 

Wednesday, January 4

World History II - Today in class, we started with CNN Student News.  After the news, the signed syllabus' were collected and checked.  Students then went on to take a map pre-quiz, which was checked for effort.  Last we reviewed chapters thirteen through sixteen.  Students were broke up into four groups with each group covering one chapter.  Groups will present their summaries tomorrow at the beginning of class.

Economics - Today in third period, we started with CNN Student News as well.  Then students were introduced to the basics of economics.  We took notes over chapter one section one, which covers key topics like scarcity, shortages, needs vs. wants, and the factors of production.  Signed syllabus' were also collected in this class. 

In other news:
-Home freshman boys' basketball game tonight at 6:30 against Richmond.
-Girls basketball teams are on the road tonight at Ross (OH).  JV starts at 6:00.

Go Patriots!

Tuesday, January 3

Welcome back to school! This semester I have four world history classes and one Econ. Students in those classes will have Mrs. Cartwright, who is student teaching the first 12 weeks of this semester from IU East. Students today in all classes were introduced to the course, given a syllabus, and introduced to the rules. They are bringing home a syllabus to sign and bring back.