Education is greatly related to federalism, especially NCLB. No Child Left Behind was signed and put into affect by George W. Bush on Janauary 8,2002. This program allows each state to set their own standards. These schools have to give tests to see each childs ability in math and english. The students are supposed to improve each year. The problem, only a certain amount of money is given to each state from the federal government, and each state is left up to itself to raise the rest of the money for their public schools. Not all states can raise this needed money, which causes problems in the public schools, and then the kids don't get the proper education, and then they don't meet the requirements and goals set by their state.
This issue is really controversial because many people believe that education isn't a federal issue. Some believe it's only a state and local issue, and that the federal government has stepped past their boundaries of power. It's also seen as an “unfunded mandate” between the state and federal government, and sets the teachers and kids up for failure from the start.
Specifically in New Orleans there has been more challenges because of Katrina. First of all, there aren't nearly as many students enrolled in the public or charter schools. Charter schools are more popular now because this was the states way to solve the problem of failing public schools. The federal government cannot just hand over more money to one state, Louisiana, because they need it. If they did, this would cause problems with other states that need the money as well. Now that charter schools are so common, another change was made: schools have school choice. This means that kids don't have to live in a certain area anymore to go to a public/charter school. They can go to whichever school, no matter where they live. This does cause some problems, because the charter schools are a little more selective, so the kids living across the street may not be able to make it in so has to find another school. There are many more problems that the Cowen video goes into as well.
The point in George W. Bushs' presidency that seemed like such a huge accomplishment has quickly gone downhill. The federal government has yet to fix many of the kinks in this system. Obama does have plans as to how to reform this system, but kids suffer every day from the lack of planning in the passing of this law 9 years ago.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
questions for eduaction
When did NCLB start?
Why was this started?
What is the state and federal relationship in this program?
Why is this program controversial?
Is this program actually helping students improve in math and english?
*i've started watching the Cowen Institute video on public schools in New Orleans which talks about before and after Katrina. the video is an hour and ten minutes long, and i've only watched about 11 mins of it. i wasn't exactly sure which report you wanted me read, but this video i think is the same as his report because they're both from Cowen's website
Why was this started?
What is the state and federal relationship in this program?
Why is this program controversial?
Is this program actually helping students improve in math and english?
*i've started watching the Cowen Institute video on public schools in New Orleans which talks about before and after Katrina. the video is an hour and ten minutes long, and i've only watched about 11 mins of it. i wasn't exactly sure which report you wanted me read, but this video i think is the same as his report because they're both from Cowen's website
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Why I chose this topic
My mom has been teaching in schools for awhile now, especially with younger kids for as long as I can remember. She's a speech therapist, so she isn't in front of a white board teaching kids but she still gets to know a lot of the kids with speech problems. When i was younger i used to go with her on a pretty consistent basis with her to her head start building. It wasn't in the best area, but this didn't stop my mom. When i went into my moms office, i sat and watched the younger kids play speech games and such. I caught onto some things in particular: they didn't have much respect for the teacher compared to what I was used to seeing, they didn't speak proper english, which was also how the teachers talked in class. These two points made me think how my school differed from theirs.
My mom now teaches at a differnet school on the westbank, which i haven't been to yet. But, my mom has told me a couple of things about it: her boss, the head of the school, cannot speak english correctly. This may be such a huge deal partly because my mom is a speech therapist, but in general this shouldn't be happening. The head of a school in a private setting would have to first of all be able to speak correctly, have experience, etc...The public school system has lowered their standards for the people they hire, which effects the young people they teach. Therefore kids who go to public schools are put on a lower level from the start, and have to work 10 times harder to be on the same level as a private school kid.
When i drive home from school, or driving to school, i always pass the John F Kennedy school in lakeview. This school was public before Katrina, and is now shut down and has grafitti written all over the building. Seeing this building makes me realize that our public schools in New Orleans aren't considered much at all, compared to the private schools. This wouldn't happen at a private school, and if it did consequences would be given. Just driving by this closed school, you can see the opportunities that could of been there, and the fact that people just don't care. The state obviously hasn't done anything about this school, and I feel that this school will remain like this for years and years.
My mom now teaches at a differnet school on the westbank, which i haven't been to yet. But, my mom has told me a couple of things about it: her boss, the head of the school, cannot speak english correctly. This may be such a huge deal partly because my mom is a speech therapist, but in general this shouldn't be happening. The head of a school in a private setting would have to first of all be able to speak correctly, have experience, etc...The public school system has lowered their standards for the people they hire, which effects the young people they teach. Therefore kids who go to public schools are put on a lower level from the start, and have to work 10 times harder to be on the same level as a private school kid.
When i drive home from school, or driving to school, i always pass the John F Kennedy school in lakeview. This school was public before Katrina, and is now shut down and has grafitti written all over the building. Seeing this building makes me realize that our public schools in New Orleans aren't considered much at all, compared to the private schools. This wouldn't happen at a private school, and if it did consequences would be given. Just driving by this closed school, you can see the opportunities that could of been there, and the fact that people just don't care. The state obviously hasn't done anything about this school, and I feel that this school will remain like this for years and years.
Monday, April 12, 2010
topic for project
Hey Mrs. T! I think that I want to do education in New Orleans, and specifically how public education differs from private. And why the public school systems are so bad here, compared to the public school systems in Texas or other areas of the U.S.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Town Meeting Response, 1968
From the town meeting, I have learned a number of things, and one of them is that Nixon didn't seem to have very good reasons for being in Vietnam, and he seemed to avoid a lot of questions about inequality. I know Leslie doesn't know exactly how Nixon acted in meetings, but she does know his beliefs and they reminded me of George W. Bush. He didnt seem quite sure what he was talking about in the way of why we are doing something, and seemed to avoid the hard facts.
Another thing about Nixon is that he didn't seem to want to acutally help the minorities. He wanted "law and order" but it doesn't sound very appealing. It only supports the upper, white elite class which consists of a few.
Bobby Seale had a good view on racism, and that blacks aren't given the equal chance to succeed, and Nixon didn't have a plan to help them. Nixon may not have been for the violence that errupted because of racism, but he didn't seem to feel that it was wrong that these people had been supresesd for so long, and weren't ever given a level playing field with the others. It was as if Nixon wasn't able to mesh with any of the other people in the town meeting. He believed if you worked hard, then you should have everything in life you deserve. What this failed to cover were the poor, blacks that word hard, low paying jobs, but don't get everything they deserve in life. This is where I believe Bobby Seale and Nixon differed the most.
Kennedy seemed very rational, and was more fair-minded than Nixon. Merrill made it very clear that Kennedy did care about the American people, and their best interest and equality mattered more than anything. He seemed to be able to compromise with more with people, compared to Nixon. And when you have to decide between these two kinds of candidates, you aren't going to want someone who won't listen to the people, including the minorities.
Our nation as a whole at this point in time was a wreck. There are so many minority groups that need equality, it seems impossible to find a starting point. The blacks, gays, women, and college students are all rebelling and protestng to get their country to change for the better. Our government is also a wreck. It seems to be silently crumbeling, and something needs to be done quickly. Whether it's pull out of Veitnam or not, something at home needs to change. All the voices that are screaming for attention need to be put onto paper and into action. Obviously, changes were made as the years passed, but at this point our government was lacking the quality leadership that could handle the mounting problems.
Another thing about Nixon is that he didn't seem to want to acutally help the minorities. He wanted "law and order" but it doesn't sound very appealing. It only supports the upper, white elite class which consists of a few.
Bobby Seale had a good view on racism, and that blacks aren't given the equal chance to succeed, and Nixon didn't have a plan to help them. Nixon may not have been for the violence that errupted because of racism, but he didn't seem to feel that it was wrong that these people had been supresesd for so long, and weren't ever given a level playing field with the others. It was as if Nixon wasn't able to mesh with any of the other people in the town meeting. He believed if you worked hard, then you should have everything in life you deserve. What this failed to cover were the poor, blacks that word hard, low paying jobs, but don't get everything they deserve in life. This is where I believe Bobby Seale and Nixon differed the most.
Kennedy seemed very rational, and was more fair-minded than Nixon. Merrill made it very clear that Kennedy did care about the American people, and their best interest and equality mattered more than anything. He seemed to be able to compromise with more with people, compared to Nixon. And when you have to decide between these two kinds of candidates, you aren't going to want someone who won't listen to the people, including the minorities.
Our nation as a whole at this point in time was a wreck. There are so many minority groups that need equality, it seems impossible to find a starting point. The blacks, gays, women, and college students are all rebelling and protestng to get their country to change for the better. Our government is also a wreck. It seems to be silently crumbeling, and something needs to be done quickly. Whether it's pull out of Veitnam or not, something at home needs to change. All the voices that are screaming for attention need to be put onto paper and into action. Obviously, changes were made as the years passed, but at this point our government was lacking the quality leadership that could handle the mounting problems.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Civil Rights Article
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/344937/gender_equality_in_the_united_states_pg2.html?cat=47
Gender Equality in the U.S.
The Civil Rights Act (1964) and Voting Rights Act (1965) obviously were major accomplishments in our nations history to creating a more equal society. Our country has moved forward, and made progress concerning this topic. But, the question of whether or not true equality has been accomplished yet in our society hangs over the heads of many.
Men and women have always had their differences, but placing one above the other crosses the line. Men have been known for thousands of years as the "head honcho" in the family, brings home the money, and is dominante over the woman. This image has been placed behind many, and women have started to take over some of these positions. Women have made progress in society, and have made a place for themselves. But, men are still favored over women.
More and more women have become educated, and the ratio of men to women eduacted has become more level. But, when applying for a job and recieving income the favoring begins. In 2000, a study between men and women that earned their bachelor's degree had a differnce in pay. Women receieved $35,408 and men recieved $49, 982. This is a huge gap in pay, and it was all based off of the persons gender. This example shows crystal clear that our society hasn't fully reached true equality.
Politics is another field that women lack representation in. A study was done betewen the U.S., Mexico, UK, and Sweden to compare statistics. In each place, women weren't represeted well in government, except for Sweden (45%). U.S. was 14%, UK was 18% and Mexico had 23% representation. In each of these places around the globe, the populations are made up of about 50% women, which shows how poorly we are represented. The U.S. has the lowest representation percentage, which concerns me. After passing the two bills in 1964 and 1965, we still have not reached true equality in our country. There are other factors that play into inequality, but I would think that by the 21st century the U.S. would be a leader in this area.
As a country we still need to work toward true equality if we want to be the best country, and believe through and through that we are the best country.
Gender Equality in the U.S.
The Civil Rights Act (1964) and Voting Rights Act (1965) obviously were major accomplishments in our nations history to creating a more equal society. Our country has moved forward, and made progress concerning this topic. But, the question of whether or not true equality has been accomplished yet in our society hangs over the heads of many.
Men and women have always had their differences, but placing one above the other crosses the line. Men have been known for thousands of years as the "head honcho" in the family, brings home the money, and is dominante over the woman. This image has been placed behind many, and women have started to take over some of these positions. Women have made progress in society, and have made a place for themselves. But, men are still favored over women.
More and more women have become educated, and the ratio of men to women eduacted has become more level. But, when applying for a job and recieving income the favoring begins. In 2000, a study between men and women that earned their bachelor's degree had a differnce in pay. Women receieved $35,408 and men recieved $49, 982. This is a huge gap in pay, and it was all based off of the persons gender. This example shows crystal clear that our society hasn't fully reached true equality.
Politics is another field that women lack representation in. A study was done betewen the U.S., Mexico, UK, and Sweden to compare statistics. In each place, women weren't represeted well in government, except for Sweden (45%). U.S. was 14%, UK was 18% and Mexico had 23% representation. In each of these places around the globe, the populations are made up of about 50% women, which shows how poorly we are represented. The U.S. has the lowest representation percentage, which concerns me. After passing the two bills in 1964 and 1965, we still have not reached true equality in our country. There are other factors that play into inequality, but I would think that by the 21st century the U.S. would be a leader in this area.
As a country we still need to work toward true equality if we want to be the best country, and believe through and through that we are the best country.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
State of the Union blog
Dear President Obama,
After listening to your State of the Union address tonight, you have me truly convinced that the United States has picked an astonishing leader. The stories about young kids writing to you about their parents not being able to work got to core of me, but hearing how many Americans you have given jobs to today turned my sorrow into joy. Most importantly, you touched on the subject of the bipartisanship that has continiously been going on. But, you know that the American, "people deserve a government that embodies their strength." When you stated this it made me realize that every American counts, and as a whole we are known as a country that never backs down, no matter how hard the times may be.
You cut taxes for a total of 8 million Amercans: first time home buyers, small businesses, and Americans paying for college. This left people with more money to pay for gas, clothes, etc...Therefore this helped the whole cycle in general in improving the economy. This plan is very intelligent yet seems so simple, which a majority of Americans can grasp, and realize what a great president you are.
To get to the issue of the banks, and all the horrible things they have done, you turn a new light upon them. You told your plan of how you proposed a fee to the biggest banks, and big businesses will pay back their taxpayers that helped them when they were in a rut. As you said, these big businesses do have the money to pay their taxpayers back since they gave out large bonuses to their own workers. I agree completely with you, and the banks should learn once and for all that they don't control the economy, you do.
One last topic that I thought you spoke very strongly on was not to wait any longer. Washington has told us for years and years to wait for change, but we are not going to stand beside anymore. As you said, China isn't waiting, they are proceeding forward each day: "I don't accept second place for the U.S." I believe in you, I believe in the two parties as a whole, and I believe all Americans will work as one to become the greatest nation possible.
After listening to your State of the Union address tonight, you have me truly convinced that the United States has picked an astonishing leader. The stories about young kids writing to you about their parents not being able to work got to core of me, but hearing how many Americans you have given jobs to today turned my sorrow into joy. Most importantly, you touched on the subject of the bipartisanship that has continiously been going on. But, you know that the American, "people deserve a government that embodies their strength." When you stated this it made me realize that every American counts, and as a whole we are known as a country that never backs down, no matter how hard the times may be.
You cut taxes for a total of 8 million Amercans: first time home buyers, small businesses, and Americans paying for college. This left people with more money to pay for gas, clothes, etc...Therefore this helped the whole cycle in general in improving the economy. This plan is very intelligent yet seems so simple, which a majority of Americans can grasp, and realize what a great president you are.
To get to the issue of the banks, and all the horrible things they have done, you turn a new light upon them. You told your plan of how you proposed a fee to the biggest banks, and big businesses will pay back their taxpayers that helped them when they were in a rut. As you said, these big businesses do have the money to pay their taxpayers back since they gave out large bonuses to their own workers. I agree completely with you, and the banks should learn once and for all that they don't control the economy, you do.
One last topic that I thought you spoke very strongly on was not to wait any longer. Washington has told us for years and years to wait for change, but we are not going to stand beside anymore. As you said, China isn't waiting, they are proceeding forward each day: "I don't accept second place for the U.S." I believe in you, I believe in the two parties as a whole, and I believe all Americans will work as one to become the greatest nation possible.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Eisenhower and Kennedy on national policy
The two speeches do touch on similiar topics, and seem to take a similiar path. Eisnhower's speech didn't seem as inspiring, but did talk about some of the same ideas: "Together we must learn how to compose difference, not with arms, but with intellect and decent purpose." This statement is definently one that Kennedy agreees on, "Let both sides, for the first time, formulate serious and precise proposals for the inspection and control of arms--and bring the absolute power to destroy other nations under the absolute control of all nations." Kennedy seems to lean towards the side of talking out the issues, but towards the end of the quote he seems to veer towards the side of war. He wants each nation to have the complete power to be able to destroy another nation if need be, and as a last resort.
Eisenhower talks about how he believes as a whole, our society needs to find a balance between the uprising industries and scientific findings with the smaller businesses in the world: "Today, the solitary inventor, tinkering in his shop, has been over shadowed by task forces of scientists in laboratories and testing fields." As Eisenhower says this, Kennedy does believe that there should be a balance, but he doesn't seem to have as negative a view: "Let both sides seek to invoke the wonders of science instead of its terrors. Together let us explore the stars, conquer the deserts, eradicate disease, tap the ocean depths and encourage the arts and commerce." This quote compared to Eisenhower's quote seems to look at science in a differnet way. Kennedy seems to look at science as a way to discover the world and educate people, whereas Eisenhower believes it has taken over too much of American society and a balance is needed.
Kennedy really sticks to sorting out problems through disscussion and he seems to have a goal to help others: "If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich." This quote is really strong in the sense that if the U.S. (being the free state) cannot help the thousands of poor people, then it cannot save the couple of people in society that are wealthy. It shows how we must be able to do both, not one or the other because that is not possible. This idea of helping others, and liberty runs through both speeches. In Eisenhower's speech: "our basic purposes have been to keep the peace; to foster progress in human achievement, and to enhance liberty, dignity and integrity among people and among nations." As you can tell, both of these presidents kept the ideas of liberty and helping others as a part of their overall big goal.
Eisenhower talks about how he believes as a whole, our society needs to find a balance between the uprising industries and scientific findings with the smaller businesses in the world: "Today, the solitary inventor, tinkering in his shop, has been over shadowed by task forces of scientists in laboratories and testing fields." As Eisenhower says this, Kennedy does believe that there should be a balance, but he doesn't seem to have as negative a view: "Let both sides seek to invoke the wonders of science instead of its terrors. Together let us explore the stars, conquer the deserts, eradicate disease, tap the ocean depths and encourage the arts and commerce." This quote compared to Eisenhower's quote seems to look at science in a differnet way. Kennedy seems to look at science as a way to discover the world and educate people, whereas Eisenhower believes it has taken over too much of American society and a balance is needed.
Kennedy really sticks to sorting out problems through disscussion and he seems to have a goal to help others: "If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich." This quote is really strong in the sense that if the U.S. (being the free state) cannot help the thousands of poor people, then it cannot save the couple of people in society that are wealthy. It shows how we must be able to do both, not one or the other because that is not possible. This idea of helping others, and liberty runs through both speeches. In Eisenhower's speech: "our basic purposes have been to keep the peace; to foster progress in human achievement, and to enhance liberty, dignity and integrity among people and among nations." As you can tell, both of these presidents kept the ideas of liberty and helping others as a part of their overall big goal.
Monday, January 18, 2010
1950's Ad
Eisenhower vs. Stevenson:
Ike for President: In this add the music was really upbeat and happy, and made it appealing to a number of Americans. In the Ad there's a part where a variety of men and women walk across the screen. They are all holding signs that say "IKE" but the most important part is that the men and women were all differnet. Some were factory workers, fire fighters, stay at home moms, and painters. There's also a shot of just a man on a tractor which shows how agriculture is important in American society. The tractor is also representing industry because it shows how Eisenhower wants it to become a large part of the economy. There's an image of a family with a young child and a dog, and it's the "picture perfect" family. This ad shows how business and family are a large part of the American vision. And just how Uncle Sam motivated people to join the army for WWI, he is used in this ad to show his support for Eisnhower. This tactic can persuade peopele to vote for him if he has Uncle Sam on his "side." The other candidates running in this election are represnted as donkeys which are Democractic, but also they portray them as kind of dumb. They make the donkeys look a little funny, by giving them big ears and large bodies. This portrail makes these other candidates not seem as serious, compared to the picture showed for Eisenhower in the ad. This ad overall shows how our nation during this time is focused on their economy and jobs, which soon ends up booming more than ever.
Let's Not Forget The Farmer: This ad refers to all the farmers in the U.S. and dates it back to the 30's (the Depression). The ad makes sure to get across that the depression will not occur again, they use the line "didn't have bread when the day was done." This line is said while a foreclosure sign is shown and a family is standing there looking homeless. Then the song changes to Stevenson and there are images of a nice farm house, and him smiling in his car. These images show how if you vote for Stevenson and you're a farmer, you will not be forgotten. You won't go through the same hardships that you previously went through. This ad shows how agriculture is once again important in American economy. This is similiar to the ad that I talked about in the paragraph above, where agriculture was important too. Agriculture obviously is going to be a huge focus during the 1950's.
Nixon on Corruption: this ad shows Nixon talking on a stand, and he's talking about how he has served for the federal government before. And how he respects the thousands of people that serve the federal government. He believes that to pay back all the hard working Americans, the corrupt people and thiefs in these positions be kicked out. Previously, too many people were given political offices because they were friends with the president, and the positions were then abused. Nixon makes it clear that he wants only good hearted people in office, and wants people who will work hard for the good of the country. He also doesn't want Washington D.C. to have a bad reputation. It's supposed to be a place of trust, honsety and have reliable people that work hard. Therefore he's showing that him and Eisenhower are a good choice because they aren't crooks, nor are they corrupt. This shows how the nation wants to take a new direction on government, and ensure that people are rightly deserved thier positions. No more big business scandals where the government barely has control over the economy. This is a very big step that was needed sooner or later.
Ike for President: In this add the music was really upbeat and happy, and made it appealing to a number of Americans. In the Ad there's a part where a variety of men and women walk across the screen. They are all holding signs that say "IKE" but the most important part is that the men and women were all differnet. Some were factory workers, fire fighters, stay at home moms, and painters. There's also a shot of just a man on a tractor which shows how agriculture is important in American society. The tractor is also representing industry because it shows how Eisenhower wants it to become a large part of the economy. There's an image of a family with a young child and a dog, and it's the "picture perfect" family. This ad shows how business and family are a large part of the American vision. And just how Uncle Sam motivated people to join the army for WWI, he is used in this ad to show his support for Eisnhower. This tactic can persuade peopele to vote for him if he has Uncle Sam on his "side." The other candidates running in this election are represnted as donkeys which are Democractic, but also they portray them as kind of dumb. They make the donkeys look a little funny, by giving them big ears and large bodies. This portrail makes these other candidates not seem as serious, compared to the picture showed for Eisenhower in the ad. This ad overall shows how our nation during this time is focused on their economy and jobs, which soon ends up booming more than ever.
Let's Not Forget The Farmer: This ad refers to all the farmers in the U.S. and dates it back to the 30's (the Depression). The ad makes sure to get across that the depression will not occur again, they use the line "didn't have bread when the day was done." This line is said while a foreclosure sign is shown and a family is standing there looking homeless. Then the song changes to Stevenson and there are images of a nice farm house, and him smiling in his car. These images show how if you vote for Stevenson and you're a farmer, you will not be forgotten. You won't go through the same hardships that you previously went through. This ad shows how agriculture is once again important in American economy. This is similiar to the ad that I talked about in the paragraph above, where agriculture was important too. Agriculture obviously is going to be a huge focus during the 1950's.
Nixon on Corruption: this ad shows Nixon talking on a stand, and he's talking about how he has served for the federal government before. And how he respects the thousands of people that serve the federal government. He believes that to pay back all the hard working Americans, the corrupt people and thiefs in these positions be kicked out. Previously, too many people were given political offices because they were friends with the president, and the positions were then abused. Nixon makes it clear that he wants only good hearted people in office, and wants people who will work hard for the good of the country. He also doesn't want Washington D.C. to have a bad reputation. It's supposed to be a place of trust, honsety and have reliable people that work hard. Therefore he's showing that him and Eisenhower are a good choice because they aren't crooks, nor are they corrupt. This shows how the nation wants to take a new direction on government, and ensure that people are rightly deserved thier positions. No more big business scandals where the government barely has control over the economy. This is a very big step that was needed sooner or later.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Documents on the cold war
Truman Doctrine: this document shows how the U.S. knows that it needs to help Greece to repair thier country. Greece has been destroyed politically and economically, and has turned to the U.S. in dire need. The U.S. does bloat a little about how much we have, and how we have the right way of life and must help others (manifest destiny), but at least the U.S. has the heart to help Greece get back on its feet. The U.S. also helps Turkey, as Great Britain no longer can support them. Two years before this document (1945) the United Nations was created, so that a situation like WWII wouldn't occur again.
Even though the U.S. is doing a good thing (helping these two nations) it is also tieing us to them. This document shows the U.S. policy for the future war (cold war).
Kennan's Long's Telegram: this document shows how Long's view of capitalism isn't very positive but he believes it is better suited for a country rather than communism. He state the USSR against capitalism, but brings to light that there are indeed internal problems with capitalism. Through all this, he believes that someone must intervene the USSR before they spread their beliefs and government ways to other countries. Long's telegraph continues, and he states that action must be taken but not military action. He believes the USSR should be resisted and will full force, and they will quickly back down. He also beleives the American people should be educated about the nature of their government, and the actions that the U.S. will take. This document shows the U.S. resistance against the USSR and how there are people already strongly agaisnt them. Therefore, this builds up tension between the two nations, and he states in his telegraph that the west (being the U.S.) is more powerful than the USSR which foreshadows the Cold War.
Even though the U.S. is doing a good thing (helping these two nations) it is also tieing us to them. This document shows the U.S. policy for the future war (cold war).
Kennan's Long's Telegram: this document shows how Long's view of capitalism isn't very positive but he believes it is better suited for a country rather than communism. He state the USSR against capitalism, but brings to light that there are indeed internal problems with capitalism. Through all this, he believes that someone must intervene the USSR before they spread their beliefs and government ways to other countries. Long's telegraph continues, and he states that action must be taken but not military action. He believes the USSR should be resisted and will full force, and they will quickly back down. He also beleives the American people should be educated about the nature of their government, and the actions that the U.S. will take. This document shows the U.S. resistance against the USSR and how there are people already strongly agaisnt them. Therefore, this builds up tension between the two nations, and he states in his telegraph that the west (being the U.S.) is more powerful than the USSR which foreshadows the Cold War.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Possible essay questions
Essay Questions:
1. Since the 20th century the U.S. has tackled the issue of becoming a powerful, independent nation. How did the leaders of the U.S. impact this plan in the 20th and 21th century?
2. Starting with the 20th century, how has the role of gender and class changed throughout Americas history? Especially the difference of gender roles between WWI and WWII.
1. Since the 20th century the U.S. has tackled the issue of becoming a powerful, independent nation. How did the leaders of the U.S. impact this plan in the 20th and 21th century?
2. Starting with the 20th century, how has the role of gender and class changed throughout Americas history? Especially the difference of gender roles between WWI and WWII.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Current Events
How toxic are our Surroundings?
After a long day at school and work, do you usually throw something quick into the microwave? With people’s lives as busy as they are today, this has become a common trend. What’s the problem with this? Nicholas D. Kristof informs us in his article. Breast cancer has become a disease that many women, Americans in particular have been fighting more so since 1975. The breast cancer rate has risen from 1% in 1975 to 12% today, as well as asthma and leukemia in children has increased over the years.
Since World War II 80,000 new chemicals have been created, and not all of these have been tested for toxicity. One theory was that ethnicity has something to do with this increase. But, this was proven wrong when a study done by Dr. Goldfarb showed that when the ethnic woman moved to the U.S. she encountered a higher risk of getting breast cancer. This shows that something in our environment is harming us.
Western women have gradually started their menstrual cycle earlier and earlier since the year 1800. The earlier you start your menstrual cycle, the more likely you are to get breast cancer because you have been opened up to pesticides. Other chemicals classified as endocrine disruptors have become a major concern. These chemicals are found in a number of plastics and even the makeup we wear. These endocrine disruptors can trigger hormonal changes. These disruptors are similar to estrogen therefore they trick the body into these hormonal changes.
A representative of the House, Louise Slaughter, wants to put a system into effect that will monitor these endocrine disruptors. Until this becomes a reality, you can try to prevent your chances of breast cancer by not microwaving things in plastic containers, and not putting plastic in the dishwasher. The more heat exposed to plastic containers, the more likely it is that chemicals will seep out, and get into your system.
Hogwarts for College Anyone?
When your parents applied to college, it wasn’t based off of whether the school was “hogwartsesque” enough. Times have definitely changed since then. Schools such as Dartmouth, Cornell, Harvard, and Boston College have quickly caught onto selling the Hogwarts look to their students. Dartmouth has a room that is known for its “Hogwarts feel.” Cornell was ranked in the top five colleges in America that resembles Hogwarts the most. This ranking obviously attracts Harry Potter fans from across the globe. At Harvard, a tour guide told his group that their intramural sports were very similar to the Hogwarts House Cup. All of these colleges sound great, right? Everyone dreams of going to Hogwarts after seeing the movies and reading the books.
The Problem: these schools are placing a fantasy world into reality, which takes the goal off of education. They’re trying too hard to attract students to their schools by making it more “hogwartsesque.” Schools such as Swarthmore and Williams focus on education, not the fantasy world.
When choosing your school, make sure to keep reality in check and your fantasy getaways remain a fantasy.
After a long day at school and work, do you usually throw something quick into the microwave? With people’s lives as busy as they are today, this has become a common trend. What’s the problem with this? Nicholas D. Kristof informs us in his article. Breast cancer has become a disease that many women, Americans in particular have been fighting more so since 1975. The breast cancer rate has risen from 1% in 1975 to 12% today, as well as asthma and leukemia in children has increased over the years.
Since World War II 80,000 new chemicals have been created, and not all of these have been tested for toxicity. One theory was that ethnicity has something to do with this increase. But, this was proven wrong when a study done by Dr. Goldfarb showed that when the ethnic woman moved to the U.S. she encountered a higher risk of getting breast cancer. This shows that something in our environment is harming us.
Western women have gradually started their menstrual cycle earlier and earlier since the year 1800. The earlier you start your menstrual cycle, the more likely you are to get breast cancer because you have been opened up to pesticides. Other chemicals classified as endocrine disruptors have become a major concern. These chemicals are found in a number of plastics and even the makeup we wear. These endocrine disruptors can trigger hormonal changes. These disruptors are similar to estrogen therefore they trick the body into these hormonal changes.
A representative of the House, Louise Slaughter, wants to put a system into effect that will monitor these endocrine disruptors. Until this becomes a reality, you can try to prevent your chances of breast cancer by not microwaving things in plastic containers, and not putting plastic in the dishwasher. The more heat exposed to plastic containers, the more likely it is that chemicals will seep out, and get into your system.
Hogwarts for College Anyone?
When your parents applied to college, it wasn’t based off of whether the school was “hogwartsesque” enough. Times have definitely changed since then. Schools such as Dartmouth, Cornell, Harvard, and Boston College have quickly caught onto selling the Hogwarts look to their students. Dartmouth has a room that is known for its “Hogwarts feel.” Cornell was ranked in the top five colleges in America that resembles Hogwarts the most. This ranking obviously attracts Harry Potter fans from across the globe. At Harvard, a tour guide told his group that their intramural sports were very similar to the Hogwarts House Cup. All of these colleges sound great, right? Everyone dreams of going to Hogwarts after seeing the movies and reading the books.
The Problem: these schools are placing a fantasy world into reality, which takes the goal off of education. They’re trying too hard to attract students to their schools by making it more “hogwartsesque.” Schools such as Swarthmore and Williams focus on education, not the fantasy world.
When choosing your school, make sure to keep reality in check and your fantasy getaways remain a fantasy.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Obamas Speech on Afghanistan
Barack Obama’s speech about our involvement in Afghanistan was very straightforward, and informed the American people by laying out the facts. Our reasons for being involved in Afghanistan are: prevent the Taliban from taking over the government, to break Al-Qaida’s momentum, and to train leaders in Afghanistan to protect the civilians and security of the country. These main points were then followed by Barack Obama’s plan to resolve these issues. The plan is to take military action by sending 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan by early 2010. The reason for doing so is to break the Taliban’s momentum and increase Afghanistan’s way of ruling themselves in a safe environment. The key to America’s success is when our troop’s transition out of Afghanistan, back home, but Afghanis can stand on their own two feet to lead themselves and be secure while doing so. The Afghanistan people can only be safe though when the Taliban and Al-Qaida has been successfully repressed, which is part of Barack Obama’s plan. Once this has been accomplished and the Afghanis are leading themselves, they also need to take full responsibility for their actions, which will hopefully lead to a partnership between the U.S. and Afghanistan.
Another topic that Barack touched on was American values. He states that we must go back and remember the heart of our values, even though we face different challenges in the world today than previous ones. Values such as opportunity and respect for others have been the core of our values, and will remain no matter how different occurring challenges may be today. While our values play a huge role in our decision making as a country, we must remember our legacy. The U.S. has always strayed away from dominating another country or place, and Barack Obama made a strong point about this situation. We aren’t in Afghanistan to dominate them, but to help build them into a stronger nation. We have fought against domination (WWII) before, and we continue this trend today to have a brighter future for the better of our country, and children.
Another topic that Barack touched on was American values. He states that we must go back and remember the heart of our values, even though we face different challenges in the world today than previous ones. Values such as opportunity and respect for others have been the core of our values, and will remain no matter how different occurring challenges may be today. While our values play a huge role in our decision making as a country, we must remember our legacy. The U.S. has always strayed away from dominating another country or place, and Barack Obama made a strong point about this situation. We aren’t in Afghanistan to dominate them, but to help build them into a stronger nation. We have fought against domination (WWII) before, and we continue this trend today to have a brighter future for the better of our country, and children.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Current Events
article: http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/06/13/obama-on-social-security-changes/?scp=2&sq=Social%20Security%20Act%20Today&st=Search
other site that helped: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_Security_Act_of_1965
Summarize: Obama and McCain dispute over the changes in the Social Security Act guidelines: helpful cuts for the elderly is playing a huge role in this debate, and bettering the system in general. Obama wants to make changes in the Social Security Act, mainly focusing on the elderly: if they have an income of $50,000 a year or less, he believes the income tax shouldn't apply to these people, meanwhile he wants to place a limit on the payroll tax. These two changes that Obama wants to make greatly differ from McCain's. McCain did support private accounts for Social Security which is what the American people had under George W. Bush and this isn't a very reliant system. McCain states that the system doesn't need to be changed, and the guidelines for the elderly in place already are enough.
Analyze: When the Social Security Act was first introduced in 1935 it didn't have any coverage that had to do with medical benefits, but it did give the American people benefits such as old - age pensions, unemployment reimbursement, and helped blind children. Since 1935 the Social Security Act has played a huge role in American society, and has attempted to benefit the elderly. To this day, as shown in the article, elders are still being cared for and there are still kinks in the system that need to be worked out. The history of the Social Security Act goes on for eternity, but each administration has tried to improve the act. This goes to show how the New Deal still effects Americans today; if the Social Security Act wasn't created in the New Deal, then we might not have it today, or we may not have critiqued it to such a level. Overall, it's quite obvious how Acts of the New Deal are still in place in society today.
other site that helped: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_Security_Act_of_1965
Summarize: Obama and McCain dispute over the changes in the Social Security Act guidelines: helpful cuts for the elderly is playing a huge role in this debate, and bettering the system in general. Obama wants to make changes in the Social Security Act, mainly focusing on the elderly: if they have an income of $50,000 a year or less, he believes the income tax shouldn't apply to these people, meanwhile he wants to place a limit on the payroll tax. These two changes that Obama wants to make greatly differ from McCain's. McCain did support private accounts for Social Security which is what the American people had under George W. Bush and this isn't a very reliant system. McCain states that the system doesn't need to be changed, and the guidelines for the elderly in place already are enough.
Analyze: When the Social Security Act was first introduced in 1935 it didn't have any coverage that had to do with medical benefits, but it did give the American people benefits such as old - age pensions, unemployment reimbursement, and helped blind children. Since 1935 the Social Security Act has played a huge role in American society, and has attempted to benefit the elderly. To this day, as shown in the article, elders are still being cared for and there are still kinks in the system that need to be worked out. The history of the Social Security Act goes on for eternity, but each administration has tried to improve the act. This goes to show how the New Deal still effects Americans today; if the Social Security Act wasn't created in the New Deal, then we might not have it today, or we may not have critiqued it to such a level. Overall, it's quite obvious how Acts of the New Deal are still in place in society today.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
FDR's innauguration
FDR's main message to the American speech:
He is prepared to use his authority to help the current economic situation. He says multiple times that he will use this "constitutional authority" which shows that he has plans that abide by the constitution, and doesn't want to cross into other levels of power. He wants to take action right away to help the crisis, and if congress fails to help him then he will go the extra mile. He basically is telling the American people he will do whatever he can, and whatever he thinks is best as soon as possible.
He is prepared to use his authority to help the current economic situation. He says multiple times that he will use this "constitutional authority" which shows that he has plans that abide by the constitution, and doesn't want to cross into other levels of power. He wants to take action right away to help the crisis, and if congress fails to help him then he will go the extra mile. He basically is telling the American people he will do whatever he can, and whatever he thinks is best as soon as possible.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Homework on Great Depression
I did the second link on the graph with the different ethnic groups, and how this recession has affected them individually and as whole.
The first graph that is shown is of all races combined, and you can see since January of 2007, the number of unemployed has continued to increase. The most dramatic increase is from January of 2009 and September of 2009. But, what I noticed is that even today different ethnic groups are effected more so than others. This also occurred during the 1930's depression. You would think by now that our society as a whole has changed enough, and on to a new level and mind set, to the point where it doesn't matter what ethnic group you belong you. Obviously, this isn't the case. African American men and women of all ages, and based upon all different education levels have a higher unemployment rate (it's almost 15%). This current problem occurred during the 1930's, when African Americans and Hispanics were hit even harder by the recession. But, this graph does show that the more education the African American person has, helps their unemployment rate decrease. This goes to show how education is a big role in society, yet today a lot of African Americans aren't given the same opportunities (very common in New Orleans public school system).
The Hispanic unemployment rate isn't as high as the African American rate, but it's close enough. The difference though between this ethnic group and the African Americas: Hispanics don't have to be a high school graduate necessarily, and their unemployment rate is 15.1%, compared to 27.2% of African Americans without being a high school graduate. These two percentages shows how ethnic problems are still a huge problem in the U.S. which does relate back to the 1930's Great Depression. Racism is a common theme in American history, that still sadly stands strong today in our society.
The first graph that is shown is of all races combined, and you can see since January of 2007, the number of unemployed has continued to increase. The most dramatic increase is from January of 2009 and September of 2009. But, what I noticed is that even today different ethnic groups are effected more so than others. This also occurred during the 1930's depression. You would think by now that our society as a whole has changed enough, and on to a new level and mind set, to the point where it doesn't matter what ethnic group you belong you. Obviously, this isn't the case. African American men and women of all ages, and based upon all different education levels have a higher unemployment rate (it's almost 15%). This current problem occurred during the 1930's, when African Americans and Hispanics were hit even harder by the recession. But, this graph does show that the more education the African American person has, helps their unemployment rate decrease. This goes to show how education is a big role in society, yet today a lot of African Americans aren't given the same opportunities (very common in New Orleans public school system).
The Hispanic unemployment rate isn't as high as the African American rate, but it's close enough. The difference though between this ethnic group and the African Americas: Hispanics don't have to be a high school graduate necessarily, and their unemployment rate is 15.1%, compared to 27.2% of African Americans without being a high school graduate. These two percentages shows how ethnic problems are still a huge problem in the U.S. which does relate back to the 1930's Great Depression. Racism is a common theme in American history, that still sadly stands strong today in our society.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Ideas for newspaper
I was thinking an interview with Babe Ruth. Maybe after one of his big games, like the 1916 World Series game and using a quote or two i have from him from my research notes.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Questions for 20's project
Babe ruth:
How big was baseball during this time period?
How did he get started in baseball?
What were some of his biggest games?
What teams did he play for?
How big was baseball during this time period?
How did he get started in baseball?
What were some of his biggest games?
What teams did he play for?
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Friday, October 16, 2009
After the Fact -- Leader
Introduction:
The story of Sacco and Venzetti explores society during the 20’s, and the usage of the legal system. After World War I, veterans were re-entering society, and pushing against the immigrants for jobs. Immigrants started to be viewed as a threat to the “American way of life.” On the other hand, we must take into consideration the hardships of the immigrant’s everyday lives. As the tension grows in the nation, a middle ground must be found.
As we go into great depth of the U.S. legal system and its procedures in this case, the actions of the men in power will speak louder than their convictions.
Goals:
Legal structure
*how justice wasn’t served properly
What are some of the core values of the American legal system?
What is the legal system designed to do, what ideals does it uphold?
Did this case follow standard legal procedures?
What role did evidence play in the Sacco and Vanzetti case?
What kind of evidence is allowed and what isn’t allowed in a case? (Mock Trial)
*burden of proof
-have to prove beyond a reasonable that someone is guilty
*people were willing to put individual rights aside when they felt unsafe
Society in the 20’s (context):
Considering this case took place after World War I, what feelings of the American people arose during this time towards immigrants?
How did these opinions influence the outcome of the case? Keep in mind the beliefs of the judges and jurors.
-strikes
-judges and jurors were biased
How did the revolution in Russia influence popular American opinion?
Can you relate the society issues during this post- war time period to present day society?
The nation divided:
This case goes on for a couple of years. What is the difference that society is feeling towards this case from the start of the trial in July 1921 till the end of the trial in October 1924? Use quote on page 284: “On one side were arrayed immigrants…”
Davidson and Lytle said, “Two Nations – that was the reason for all the fuss.” How did the Sacco/Vanzetti case illuminate these two nations and who were they?
An American reporting after the execution of Sacco and Vanzetti: -quote on bottom page of 284, “America our nation…them slimy and foul.” What do you think this quote is trying to get across? want to bring in the last paragraph from page 286.
The story of Sacco and Venzetti explores society during the 20’s, and the usage of the legal system. After World War I, veterans were re-entering society, and pushing against the immigrants for jobs. Immigrants started to be viewed as a threat to the “American way of life.” On the other hand, we must take into consideration the hardships of the immigrant’s everyday lives. As the tension grows in the nation, a middle ground must be found.
As we go into great depth of the U.S. legal system and its procedures in this case, the actions of the men in power will speak louder than their convictions.
Goals:
Legal structure
*how justice wasn’t served properly
What are some of the core values of the American legal system?
What is the legal system designed to do, what ideals does it uphold?
Did this case follow standard legal procedures?
What role did evidence play in the Sacco and Vanzetti case?
What kind of evidence is allowed and what isn’t allowed in a case? (Mock Trial)
*burden of proof
-have to prove beyond a reasonable that someone is guilty
*people were willing to put individual rights aside when they felt unsafe
Society in the 20’s (context):
Considering this case took place after World War I, what feelings of the American people arose during this time towards immigrants?
How did these opinions influence the outcome of the case? Keep in mind the beliefs of the judges and jurors.
-strikes
-judges and jurors were biased
How did the revolution in Russia influence popular American opinion?
Can you relate the society issues during this post- war time period to present day society?
The nation divided:
This case goes on for a couple of years. What is the difference that society is feeling towards this case from the start of the trial in July 1921 till the end of the trial in October 1924? Use quote on page 284: “On one side were arrayed immigrants…”
Davidson and Lytle said, “Two Nations – that was the reason for all the fuss.” How did the Sacco/Vanzetti case illuminate these two nations and who were they?
An American reporting after the execution of Sacco and Vanzetti: -quote on bottom page of 284, “America our nation…them slimy and foul.” What do you think this quote is trying to get across? want to bring in the last paragraph from page 286.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)