Thursday, March 25, 2010

JFK Field Trip


Previous to attending the JFK Library and Museum, I did not know much about JFK's involvement in the military. I was amazed that he was a member of the NAVY. It was very interesting to know this, because I knew about his fascination with boats and his love for Cape Cod. I also did not know about his involvement in the treatment and rights of children diagnosed with mental retardation. I learned that he had a family member who had mental retardation as well which is what sparked his families interest in helping such people. Finally, I was unaware of JFK's argument with Alabama's govenor about the rights of African American's. The tone that the govenor used towards the president suprised me. Personally, I enjoyed the video of JFK when we went into the theater. It gave me a strong insight about his childhood, and social life. It was interesting because we learned a lot about his political views, but we didnt learn much about his social life. The only suggestion I would of had to improve the field trip would have been to have smaller groups when we were in the museum. By having 25+ people per group, it was tough to learn a lot. I also wish the tour guide explained more when we were in the museum part. There were many exhibits that I did not completely understand what the were. In my own opinion, I believe JFK would have to be recognized as one of the top 5 presidents of all time. Although he did not serve his full office, he gave plenty of hope to the citizens of the United States. He also did so much to improve the lives of many African Americans. John F. Kennedy was a great president who was perfect for the situation the United States was in.

Monday, February 1, 2010

The Butter Battle Book


When the yook saw the zook with the Bitsy Big Boy Bomeroo he didnt know what to do


They threatened to blow up their town into a smitheroo but a deal was made which made each side chant yahoo!


A elder zook tried his bread with the butter side up


He said that it made him feel like a pup


The yooks and the zooks got rid of their bomb


They both threw it in the water right from their palm


From the day on the two sides didnt fight


They never used force and they realize that both sides were bright


The Yooks and the Zooks quickly became best friends


After both sides decides to stop arguing and make amends


Although their weapons made them tough


Each sides called the other ones bluff


By building up bigger and stronger machines


They both caused dramatic scenes


However on that day in 1991


They put their troubles aside and a friendship begun




Thursday, December 3, 2009

Depression 2009: What Would it Look Like?


From reading the article "Depression 2009" by Drake Bennett, it made me question what a depression really is like. In history, we hear stories through books, and we hear other people talk, but we never imagine ourselves in the situation. By reading this article, I did. In my own opinion, I believe that our economy could go through some depressions in the future, however I feel as though there will never be one as drastic as there was in the 1930's. I feel this way, because our country has made strides, and learned from past experiences. We now have departments, and regulations in place that help protect our money and belongings. This was not in existence during the "Great Depression". I have thought about whether our country would ever go into a major depression. Especially last year, when we were in a mild depression. If we were to go into a depression, there would be many major sacrifices that everyday individuals would have to go through. If my parents lost their job as a result of the depression, We would possibly have to give up our house, like many people during the depression did. Where would we go? It would be a hassle to get food on the table. We might not get three meals a day. We could possibly get one. Many students had to drop out of school. Therefore, I would not have an education, and after the depression, it would be tough getting a real job. According to the author, the world would look much different in a 21st century depression. There would be less people driving, very little shopping, and less dining out. Parents would not send their kids to daycare, which would cause more job losses. If the depression hit us, marriages would be less common. I completely agree with the authors statements. If we got struck by a depression, many of our regular day rituals would change. It would be chaotic, and we would not be ready to deal with the repercussions.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

The Simpsons "Prohibition"


I believe that the Simpsons "Prohibition" episode was a great tool to help us understand what really went on during he 1920's. Although reading books and writing notes gives us accurate information, we cannot visualize it as we could from seeing a movie. Prior to watching The Simpsons, I believed that it would give us a few small details that involved prohibition, but I never expected to be able to use it as a learning tool! It was very helpful and it was very easy to comprehend what was going on in that time period. The accuracies clearly outweighed the fictional comedy, and most of the fictional comedy in one way or another still somewhat related to the 1920's. I enjoyed the Simpsons episod, because it was not only fun to watch, but it was a learning experience as well. I believe that the "Speakeasies" were portrayed well through the shops, the "bootleggers" were portrayed well as well, through the mafia paying off the cops. Overall, the simpsons episode was a great learning experience

In one part of the episode, I remember the FBI entering one of the bars wondering why so many people were there at the time. I believe that instead of the people hiding their beers behind their back (and making it obvious that they were drinking), they should have made it seem as though they were having tonic or moxie instead. I also believe that they should have eliminated the scene where the owner of the "speakeasy" pulls the lever and hides the bar. Even though it was for comical purposes, it is not accurate what so ever. Besides this small scene, I really enjoyed the simpsons activity.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Giving up Freedoms


I personally believe that americans should have to give up many of their freedoms during a time of war. If not entering the war in the military, one should have to contribute in some way. Whether it is donating food, having gas stamps (for limited use of gas per week), or helping to create machinary used in war. With the work of our citizens, much more could be accomplished, and our country could grow greatly.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

yellow journalism


SPAIN CAUGHT BURNING U.S.S MAINE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


On the night of February 15, 1898, a cruel and insane Spain man was spotted shooting ammunition at the U.S.S Maine. The Maine was doing very little and it was docked off the island of Cuba, when this man started shooting, which led to the beloved Maine catching on fire and exploding. If we are not to go to war over this, then what is a war worth going over. This cruel Spainiards have stepped over their boundries, and it has gone too far. Due to their disturbing actions, they have killed over 250 innocent U.S men. We must stand up for ouselves and put a stop to this once and for all!