Assignment #17: Starbucks with Obama

During her interview, Janell is asked what she would say if you she could talk to the president at the time. If you could sit down with President Obama and tell him one thing you think he needs to know about in order to change--what would it be? What is an issue you care deeply about that you would want to bring to his attention.

Assignment #15:

What is the most important/interesting comment made during discussion. What did you talk about that was worth-while? Be sure to be specific.

Assignment #15: Unspeakable.

The expression unspeakable literally means "not to be spoken." In the second half of Our America, the boys examine a crime that is labeled by many within their community and within the nation as truly heinous (horrible, awful). What do you think the most unspeakable crime is? What is the worst thing a person can do?

Assignment #13: Initial Thoughts

Our America is a book about strong truths and the experiences of children living in the city. After reading Chapters 1-3, what stood out to you. Choose a quote and explain why you think this quote is important. What does it say? What does that mean? Why does it matter?

Ex.
LeAlan describes Lloyd by saying, "He's got a head like a martian." He means by this that Lloyd has an awkwardly shaped body. I think this quote matters because it helps the reader to see their relationship. LeAlan and Lloyd are clearly best friends who have a loving and playful relationship. They have shared some very difficult experiences, like frequent violence, but they know that they can depend on one another and still joke with eachother.

Assignment #12: Field Trip Reflection

Good Morning! Think very far back to last Thursday and our field trip! Imagine that this morning an announcement has been made that the Chicago History Museum will be closed until further notice because of budget cuts. IN COMPLETE sentences and no less than 4 sentences--explain what the importance of this museum is. Is it worth the money to keep it open? Why or why not?

Assignment #11

One crucially important part of learning is reflection. Before we head out on our field trip--let's take a moment to reflect.

1. What is the most interesting thing you have learned this week?
2. What is something you are enjoying about class?
3. How would you rate yourself and your academic performance this week? (1 is ugh! Im not demonstrating scholarly behavior and 10 is I am a rockstar scholar who is soaking in all this new knowledge!)
4. What are you going to change about YOUR performance for next week?
5. What would you like to see Ms. Hughes change for next week? (more time to respond, more videos/pictures of what we are studying, more/less group time?)

Assignment #10: Inventions!

Below are a list of inventions from the World's Fair. Choose one invention and using the internet and your fantastic research skills (remember to use strong sources!) answer the questions on your handout.

Respond to this post with what you will be researching. Only one student may do each. So...be quick!

Hershey's Chocolate Bar
Wrigley's Gum
Cracker Jack's
Aunt Jemima Instant Pancake Mix
The Automatic Dishwasher
The Zipper
The Ferris Wheel
Shredded Wheat
The First Skyscraper (built in preparation for the fair)