Post date: Oct 13, 2014 1:47:4 AM
Hello Parents of Room 29.
As I am sure you already know, the 8th grade students rotate between the three teachers for six week "intensives" during the first 100 minutes of each morning. Right now, your awesome kids are in the middle of their social studies intensive with me, and so I thought that I would give you an overview of the content and share some of my thoughts and goals.
First off, let me say that the kids of room 29 are very engaged, curious, and verbal. I know most of them very well and am very impressed by their cohesion and the class climate that they and Mr. Dowling have created. They like debate, they don't resist complexity, and they are good at learning in a fun and yet productive atmosphere.
Since this is my first time teaching US history, I don't have the breadth of knowledge necessary to know exactly how to structure the ultimate curriculum, but I have worked to educate myself by reading a bunch, talking to veteran history teachers at other schools, and bouncing many ideas off of current students as well as alumni. The result is this general curriculum map that is guiding much of the in-class lessons and activities as well as the occasional homework assignment.
So far the kids have learned a bit about the physical and political geography of the US and had a quick overview of early colonial life and the climate and events that led up to war for independence. We spent about a week learning about the Articles of Confederation which served as our first constitution during and after the war, but had great weaknesses for the time and longevity of the nation. Next, we got into the Constitution itself. The kids had to learn the Preamble and, after research and discussion, translate it into their own words. (the scores for that assignment as well as the geography ones are in PowerSchool). Starting on Friday the kids began to brainstorm ideas for a "DCS Constitution" including a preamble (why the school exists), articles (how the school is structured), a bill of rights (for students, staff, admin, parents), and amendments (in-process details).
I'll keep you updated over the next four weeks, but from here I intend to have the kids next delve into the first few articles that define the three branches of government, and then into a deeper exploration of each of the amendments. We will, no doubt, explore some deeper questions about the nature of and need for government and even the nature of mankind -- like I said, this class appreciated complexity and lively debate. When this intensive ends (11/7), I do hope that the kids understand more about our history and system of government. Most important, though, is that they have an increased desire to learn more and participate from a knowledgeable and passionate perspective.
Please let me know what you've heard about the intensive so far, and any thoughts you might have for improvement.
Thanks,
Chris