November

In sociology, we are currently looking at how sociologists ask questions about, and study race, racism, and discrimination. Students are working on reading a book of their choice and will be preparing an online blog of their work and views concerning the reading. We will have another project before the end of the semester.

Government classes have begin working on proposals to present to the class on topics they have chosen for a project. Projects are expected to be very high quality. Topic vary from why people choose not to vote to student involvement in volunteer organizations.

US History is focused on the Civil War currently, and we are looking at causes and effects. Students study Causes, Practices, and Effects of War as one of their IB Topic areas, and this proves to be a valuable practice for that. An essay will also be included in the Civil War topic.

History of the Americas is moving through the US time period of 1800-1865 quite quickly since the next syllabus area for HOA study is the US Civil War. We will then be moving to Latin America and reading on the countries of specialization that they have chosen.

Invitation

Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled for November 2, from 4-7:30 pm. The social studies dept. will be in the East Gym for conferences. If possible, in most cases, it is beneficial if students also attend, and are certainly welcome.

October 6

Sociology: Currently in sociology we are studying bureaucratic organizations. Both classes have also just completed surveys designed around studying norms at Smoky Hill. We are beginning data entry and to learn how to use statistics and computer programs (www.surveymonkey.com) to help interpret the data gathered. Next up will be looking at Culture.

Government: Just finished up Article II of the Constitution and will be applying what we learned to current events and issues. Also, have discussed local elections, including several of the ballot initiatives and referenda. Will look at the state of the Union and polling data.

PIB US History: Reading at home is the most important assignment. Currently in class, working on understanding the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution as it was originally constructed. The roots of the two party system, the presidential executive as compared to Prime Ministers and leading into a biographical study of Thomas Jefferson and the election of 1800. First full essay writing to begin.

IB History of the Americas: Currently looking at revolutions in the US, Haiti, and Latin America, including the exceptional case of Brazilian independence. First full essay writing. Expanded Syllabus which details the year's study in more depth will be handed out next week and is available online. Will begin first project by Fall break.

First Post

This is the class newsletter and notice board for Dr. Holmes' classes, Sociology, IB History of the Americas, PIB US History, and Government, at Smoky Hill High School. Postings will be infrequent, but should give a bit of flavor of what is going on in classes, interesting topics, or upcoming events. There will also be links to relevant aspects of this and other sites that relate to our class learning. You can feel free to e-mail me at cholmes5@cherrycreekschools.org with suggestions or comments.