dawn's blog

Skype Interview with Luis Urrea & Into the Beautiful North

2011-02-25T09:54:00.000-08:00

Preguntas por Luis:

1. Your book raises a lot of issues about the border and the human rights violation s that happen at and around the border. Were you hoping to change these conditions with this story? Gicela B.

2. I have been in the foster care system for most of my life and I want to write my own book about my story. What advice do you have for me as a writer? Lidia M.

3. Living in San Diego and growing up "Chicano", many of us speak and understand "Spanglish" and enjoyed the use of it in the book. Do you speak this way in Chicago? Where did you pick up this language? Sonia

4. Zitlally

5. How did you decide to become an author? Did you always know you wanted to be a writer or were you inspired to begin writing at some point during your life?

6. In your book, the poorest people are the kindest and most humble, like Don Porfirio, Dona Araceli and Angel - were you trying to send a message by including these characters? Marlem D.

7. Being the son of a Mexican father and and American mother, which culture or heritage do you identify more with? Which one do you find easier to write about? Nancy R.

8. Which character do you most identify with and why?
Laura

9. Your book gives a voice to the often silenced undocumented people of this country. How can we as students, give a voice to the undocumented people in San Diego because we are not famous authors? Teresa V.

10. Your book is very funny - was it hard to write in a humorous way about such a serious topic?
Liliana

11. Do you have any Raza in your college classes in Chicago? Do you teach from a Chicano perspective?

Goals for the New Academic Term - January 24 to March 25

2011-01-20T09:05:00.000-08:00

1. List at least two specific academic goals you have for the next 10-week academic term. Please make sure to include specific steps describing HOW you're planning to achieve these goals.

2. List at least 1 social/personal goal that you're planning to achieve in the next 10 weeks, also making sure to include steps on the HOW!

3. For those girls who have been attending Lindsay for some time, reflect on the goals you set for yourself last term (on your blog) - did you reach those goals? Why or why not?

Setting Goals for the New Academic Term

2010-11-19T13:57:00.000-08:00

1. List at least two specific academic goals you have for the next 10-week academic term. Please make sure to include specific steps describing HOW you're planning to achieve these goals.

2. List at least 1 social/personal goal that you're planning to achieve in the next 10 weeks, also making sure to include steps on the HOW!

3. For those girls who have been attending Lindsay for some time, reflect on the goals you set for yourself last term (on your blog) - did you reach those goals? Why or why not?

Where in the World?

2010-11-08T12:02:00.000-08:00

If you could take a trip to one country in the world, where would it be?
1. Name of your country?
2. What hemisphere is it in?
3. Is it closer to the equator, the prime meridian or both?
4. What continent is it located on?
5. What is its capital?
6. What countries does it border?
7. Why do you want to visit this country - be specific!
8. Post at least one picture of this country on your blog post.

Hinduism: Reincarnation and the Dewali, The Festival of Lights

2010-09-29T13:35:00.000-07:00

90th Anniversary of Women's Rights to Vote - 19th Amendment

2010-08-31T11:39:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, August 26, America celebrated the 90th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment which prohibits each state and the federal government from denying any citizen the right to vote based on that citizen's sex.
The 19th amendment was ratified August 18th, 1920, when Tennessee became the 36th state to approve a woman's right to vote.

Commemorative Forum on the Historic Moratorium March

2010-08-26T11:12:00.000-07:00

Raza Si! Guerra No!
COMMEMORATION OF THE HISTORIC AUGUST 29TH NATIONAL CHICANO MORATORIUM MARCH
On Thursday, August 26, 2010, Unión del Barrio will be organizing a forum in commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the historic “Chicano Moratorium Anti-War March of August 29th, 1970”.
40 years ago (August 29, 1970) close to 30,000 Raza and supporters, marched through the streets of East Los Angeles protesting the U.S. imperialist war in Viet Nam and the oppression of “Chicanos” (Mexicanos) here at home. Thousands of Los Angeles Sheriffs and other police brutally attacked the marchers; killing three, injuring dozens, and arresting hundreds. Raza defended themselves by throwing rocks and bottles, and burning police cars.
The commemorative forum will include speakers, a film screening, and photo/poster exhibition. It will have as its primary aim to tie the struggles of the past, to present issues and concerns of critical importance to our Raza.

Reflection Questions:
1) What further questions/comments do you have about this historical event?
2) One African American veteran said of his experience in Vietnam, "Why should I come over here when some of the South Vietnamese live better than my own people back in the States". What do you think he meant by this?
3) What issues do you believe should be marched for today (perhaps similar issues that were marched for in 1970)?
4) BONUS: For the girls who attended the forum, please reflect on your experience. What did you think of the speakers and/or film? What further questions do you have? What feelings did you leave with?

Vietnam Moratorium of 1970 - Remembering Ruben Salazar

2010-08-26T11:09:00.000-07:00

Ruben Salazar 1928 - 1970

It was a pleasant warm morning on August 29, 1970 when the third and largest National Chicano Moratorium March started from Belverdere Park for its six mile march to Laguna Park in East Los Angeles to protest the Vietnam War. Chicanos were dying in disproportionate numbers in what was considered a racist war. Many of the protesters felt that the real battle was not in a far away land but in this country; a country which was denying the Mexican-American community the most basic of human rights. At around 3 p.m. when most of the 30,000 marchers had reached Laguna Park, a swat team of more than 500 policemen began to sweep the park with billy clubs upraised and hurling tear gas grenades. Panic and riot ensued. Two hours later many businesses on Whittier Boulevard had been vandalized, nearly 200 marchers had been jailed, hundreds were injured, and three were killed. Among the dead was Ruben Salazar, who had attended the rally to report the story for Spanish-language television station KMEX. The never adequately explained tragic killing of the prominent, controversial, and popular Salazar made him an instant martyr of the Chicano movement and a symbol of police abuse of Mexican Americans.

read the whole story here

Exam Essay Paragraph

2010-08-18T16:36:00.000-07:00

Compose a paragraph describing the ways in which you will institute a healthier lifestyle for yourself and your child. Please be SPECIFIC! You can use the notes from all of the nutrition classes, and make sure to include changed behaviors (ie: specific habits you've changed or modified). The paragraph should be about half a page, including a topic statement, with clear supporting sentences and concluding sentence. As always, use all the academic spelling, grammar and punctuation.

Conozca sus derechos!

2010-08-17T10:56:00.000-07:00

Setting Goals for the New Academic Term: August 16 - October 22

2010-08-17T09:42:00.000-07:00

1. List at least two specific academic goals you have for the next 10-week academic term. Please make sure to include specific steps describing HOW you're planning to achieve these goals.

2. List at least 1 social/personal goal that you're planning to achieve in the next 10 weeks, also making sure to include steps on the HOW!

3. For those girls who have been attending Lindsay for some time, reflect on the goals you set for yourself last term (on your blog) - did you reach those goals? Why or why not?

Don't forget to comment my blog when you're finished and look at fellow bloggers for inspiration!

Cover Letter for a Resume

2010-08-04T12:57:00.000-07:00

The cover letter serves as a letter of introduction, and is submitted with your resume. Your cover letter should be tailored to the specific job for which you are applying and should emphasize your basic qualifications. It should be concise, neat and grammatically correct.

The body of the cover letter should include the following:

the first paragraph includes why you are contacting the employer and how you learned about the job
the second paragraph presents your basic qualifications and what you can contribute to the job
the third paragraph expresses an interest in the company, your desire to interview, and contact information

A cover letter introduces you to an organization even if there are no job openings at the present time. Paper clip the cover letter to the front of your resume!

Parenting - Pelvic Exam / Getting a Pap Smear

2010-08-04T10:51:00.000-07:00

The Pelvic Exam

Proper Tampon Use

2010-08-03T15:00:00.001-07:00

Proper Tampon Use

Drain Safety

2010-08-03T14:59:00.000-07:00

Persuasive Speech Power Point

Sample Resume

2010-07-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

Resume

Characteristics of Your Ultimate Mate

2010-07-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

In Keepin' It Real with Coop, you were asked to list the most important characteristics of your "ultimate mate". Please write your list on your blog and comment me when you are done - we will be using this list in future classes with Marla!

Post MLA-formatted Samoa Essay Using Scribd - see example below

2010-07-26T11:09:00.000-07:00

Samoa Essay

Street of Dreams Poetry Performance

2010-07-06T12:18:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to all the performers!

- Elizabeth C.

- Anastasia P.

- Chelsea G.

- Quaneka D.

- Isabela C.

- Teresa V.

- Cynthia N.

- Lucerito L.

- Tiana B.

- Maura

- Nancy S.

- Nancy R.

- Adeline

- Jahzeel O.

- Erika C.

- Liliana

- Kelsey L.

- Alyssa F.

- Erika G.
- Sonia G.

Please post your performance piece using Scribd!

History of Juneteenth

2010-06-20T22:01:00.000-07:00

Juneteenth originated as a celebration of the ending of slavery in Texas. On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger and 1,800 troops of the Union Army arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that the Civil War had ended and all enslaved persons were free. Even though President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation had gone into effect on January 1, 1863, freeing all enslaved persons in those states in rebellion against the United States, for various reasons the decree had not yet taken effect in Texas.

The proclamation issued by General Granger—General Orders, Number 3—announced:

The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and free laborer. . . .

That evening, thousands of people in Galveston celebrated their freedom with dancing, singing, and feasting. In the years that followed, other Southern cities also began to organize Juneteenth festivities. It was not until January 1, 1980, however, that Juneteenth was designated an official state holiday in Texas. Through the efforts of African American state legislator Al Edwards, Juneteenth became the first emancipation celebration granted official state recognition.

Today Juneteenth is celebrated not only in Texas, but in cities throughout the United States. Typical Juneteenth activities include picnics, parades, barbecues, ball games, and family reunions. It is also a time for people to recount the events of the past. Today Juneteenth has taken on a more national perspective, celebrating African American freedom while encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures.

practice scribd

2010-06-15T13:28:00.000-07:00

October 1966 Black Panther Party

practice using scribd

2010-06-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

Scribd.com

- sign in
- upload & choose document
- double click on document title
- share/embed
- locate HTML code & copy
- go back to your blog (in new tab)
- open new post & paste HTML code
- publish post
- comment dawn

Culture and History of Samoa

2010-06-15T08:27:00.000-07:00

After doing the reading on Samoa, do some of your own research and find something about the culture that you did not know before. Please post on your blog and be prepared to share out with the rest of the class.

Tech Checklist - Day 3

2010-06-11T08:38:00.000-07:00

compose and send an email
add new contact (dawnmiller21@hotmail.com)
send an attachment with an email

Tech Checklist - Day 2

2010-06-10T08:54:00.002-07:00

Blogger

comment on dawn's/connie's blog when done with an assignment
blogger gadeget - picture
customize blogger background (see directions below)
add one more link to link list

Directions to Format/Customize Background:

Dashboard
"blogger in draft"
scroll up to "design"
"Template Designer"
pick template - "picture"
"background"
"background image"

Tech Checklist - Day 1

2010-06-10T08:54:00.001-07:00

Blogger

New post
add gadget - link list
add minimum 5 girls onto link list
add dawn on links: http://dawnsclass.blogspot.com
add connie on links: http://connieclass.blogspot.com

Goals for the Next Academic Term!

2010-06-04T08:48:00.001-07:00

Next term: June 7 - August 13

1. List at least two specific academic goals you have for the next 10-week academic term. Please make sure to include specific steps describing HOW you're planning to achieve these goals.

2. List at least 1 social/personal goal that you're planning to achieve in the next 10 weeks, also making sure to include steps on the HOW!

3. For those girls who have been attending Lindsay for some time, reflect on the goals you set for yourself last term (on your blog) - did you reach those goals? Why or why not?

Questions for Maus I

2010-05-14T10:20:00.000-07:00

1. Why do you think the author decided to depict the various characters as different animals (cats, pigs, mice) ?
2.. Many people have critiqued the author for depicting such a serious topic in a comic book format. What is your opinion on this and why do you think he decided to do this?
3. In chapter four we see some Jews who have been hanged by the Germans. What other "noose" is tightening in this chapter?
4. "Prisoner on the Hell Planet" in chapter 5 uses people as characters rather than animals. Why does the author do this? Why is Art portrayed as a prisoner?
5. Art ends the book by calling his father a murderer. Why does he use such a strong word and what do you think he means by this?

Children of the Holocaust

2010-05-04T08:40:00.000-07:00

Using the link below,
children in the holocaust
read and choose one area of life that describes life for children during the Holocaust and create 1-2 power point slides that you will share with the rest of the students after testing. Include pictures and major information (no paragraphs - no copy/pasting , just bullet points of main points) Be prepared to discuss your slide/s and answer questions.

Protest Arizona Bill - SB 1070

2010-04-27T14:05:00.000-07:00

SAN DIEGO COMMUNITIES EXPRESS SOLIDARITY

WITH THE PEOPLE OF ARIZONA

AND DENOUNCE THE NEW SB 1070 LAW

San Diego, CA - On Monday April 26, 2010, community organizations from throughout San Diego will come together for a vigil in solidarity with the people of Arizona, and unite their voices with those who reject the recently signed Arizona state law SB 1070. This vigil is being convened at the Federal Building in Downtown San Diego with a call by the Raza Rights Coalition and its member collectives in order to reject the approval of a law that has been clearly designed to criminalize and punish the working people of Arizona.

"It is truly sad to witness the lack of political will on the part of the Obama administration in the effort to move on immigration reform, a reality that has motivated the extreme right wing in state of Arizona to promote and legalize the violation of civil and human rights," stated Adriana Jasso, coordinator of the Raza Rights Coalition in San Diego. Communities around the country, and most recently in Arizona, have been witness to how the Obama administration has provided operational funds to policies which have terrible consequences such as family separation. The most recent operation in the state of Arizona was the largest in the history of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - an operation that mobilized over 800 agents in four different locations across the state. This operation is clearly part of the strategy of the Obama administration, which continues to concentrate all of its efforts on raids, arrests and deportations.

"Every community across the country must speak out, mobilize and reject SB 1070 which was just been signed into law by the governor of Arizona. It is time to be a part of history, and in an organized fashion, resist these terrible attacks that our communities face on a daily basis..." concludes Adriana Jasso. The empty promises of change and total lack of political will from politicians at the federal level can not, and must not be the source of our communities sinking further into fear and the marginalization. The initiative for profound and definitive change must originate from our communities that suffer daily the consequences of these repressive policies. Furthermore, it should be noted that these policies have been promoted by both Democrats and Republicans.

Vigil in solidarity with the people of Arizona, Monday, April 26, 2010, 6:00 pm.
San Diego Federal Building, 880 Front Street, San Diego CA 92101

Dorothy Height Dies at 98

2010-04-22T13:48:00.000-07:00

Dorothy Height, Largely Unsung Giant of the Civil Rights Era, Dies at 98

http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2010/04/20/us/AP-US-Obit-Height.html

Sample Business Letter Using Scribd

2010-04-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

Business Letter on Food

Howard Zinn Event @ City College

2010-04-20T13:02:00.000-07:00

B.E.A.T. presents : Voices of A People's History @ City College

A Tribute to Howard Zinn

Performances:
- Steve Goodman "The Ballad of Penny Evans"
- Saul Williams "Telegram"
- Langston Hughes "Let America Be American Again"
- Brother Ali "Uncle Sam Goddamn"
- Gloria Anzaldua "Borderlands"
- Cornel West "Courage"
- Joy Harjo "Fear"
- Andrea Gibson "For Eli"

Writing a Business Letter

2010-04-08T11:18:00.000-07:00

Business Letter Prompt:

You will be writing a letter to the principal of the school, Tracy Thompson, discussing your concerns with the school lunches. Make sure you use the elements of a business letter (below) and correct business format! We will post the final drafts of your letter on your blog using Scribd, and we will submit a copy of the letter to Mr. Thompson.

Elements of a Business Letter:
- CLARITY
- COURTESY
- TONE
- STYLE
- VOCABULARY

Format Elements:
- HEADING
- INSIDE ADDRESS
- SALUTATION
- BODY
- CLOSING
- SIGNATURE

Reminders of elements on page 934 of English Text (Fourth Course)

Feministas

2010-03-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

List of Feministas:

Fannie Lou Hamer
Teresa Urrea
Toypurina
Ida B. Wells
Josefa Loaiza
Sojourner Truth
Mary Ellen Pleasant
Assata Shakur
Madam C.J. Walker
Biddy Mason
indigenous women of Mesoamerica

Choose one of the feministas, or one of your own and blog about what impressed you most about this strong woman. What characteristics did/does she have that you would like to emulate? Does any of her life story relate to your own? If so, in what ways?

Ida B. Wells-Barnett

2010-03-21T23:17:00.001-07:00

Ida B. Wells-Barnett
Suffragist, Anti-Lynching Activist, Women's Rights Advocate

Having read the biography of Ida, what do you think she means by the following quote: "One had better die fighting against injustice than die like a dog or a rat in a trap"? How does this advice apply to your own life, or the way you live your life?

Fannie Lou Hamer

2010-03-19T10:39:00.001-07:00

Choose one of the four quotes from the Hamer reading and talk about what it means to you. Don't forget to include the historical relevance of the quote when you're explaining it!

"I am sick and tired of being sick and tired"

"If the white man gives you anything-just remember when he gets ready he will take it right back. We have to take it for ourselves"

"Nobody's free until everybody's free"

"What was the point of being scared? The only thing they could do to me was kill me and it seemed like they'd been trying to do that a little bit at a time ever since I could remember"

Manifest Destiny

2010-03-18T09:33:00.001-07:00

Take out your notes on Manifest Destiny and review the definition. How does this picture represent this concept/idea? What do you think the different images symbolize? What about the colors used in different parts of the painting? What type of person painted this picture and for what audience? Make sure you explain/give evidence for each of your responses!

The San Patricios!!

2010-03-15T16:06:00.001-07:00

"The San Patricios," a notable arm of the Mexican Army during the Mexican-American War of 1846-1848

Dubious about why they were fighting a Catholic country and fed up with mistreatment by their Anglo-Protestant officers, hundreds of Irish, German and other immigrants deserted Taylor's army and joined forces with Mexico.

Led by Capt. John Riley of Co. Galway, they called themselves the St. Patrick's Battalion (in Spanish, the San Patricios) and fought against their former comrades in all the major campaigns of the war.

The history of the San Patricios is a woeful tale of angry, bewildered, naive, or calculating young men, from varied backgrounds, who deserted for a myriad of reasons and paid a fearful price.

The San Patricios, in the words of one Mexican general, "deserved the highest praise, because they fought with daring bravery." But eventually, Mexico surrendered, ceding almost half its territory to the United States.

Each San Patricio who deserted from the US side was interned after the war in Mexico and subsequently given an individual court-martial trial. Many of the Irish were set free, but some paid the ultimate price. Roughly half of the San Patricio defectors who were executed by the US for desertion were Irish.

There are ceremonies there twice a year, on September 12 which is the anniversary of the executions, and on Saint Patrick's Day.
It also clarifies the reasons for the war, and the active participation of immigrant people (most notably Irish but also Scots and Germans) who joined the Mexican side and paid for that decision with their lives.

Heroes
The Saint Patrick's Battalion in the US-Mexican War, has placed the Irish as a revered race in Mexico; even to this day, an Irish person in Mexico will be told a countless number of times about the famous 'Irish Martyrs' who defected from the US Army and gave their lives trying to save Mexico from US aggression from 1846-1848.

A main reason for their hero status in Mexico is derived from their exemplary performance in the battlefield. The San Patricios ultimately suffered severe casualties at the famous battle at Churubusco, which is considered the Waterloo for the Mexican Army in this war. Mexican President Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, who also commanded the armed forces, stated afterwards that if he had commanded a few hundred more men like the San Patricios, Mexico would have won that ill-famed battle.

The importance of these Irish renegades has not waned in Mexico over the years. In 1959, the Mexican government dedicated a commemorative plaque to the San Patricios across from San Jacinto Plaza in the Mexico City suburb of San Angel; it lists the names of all members of the battalion who lost their lives fighting for Mexico, either in battle or by execution.

A major celebration was held there in 1983, when the Mexican government authorized a special commemorative medallion honouring the San Patricios. First there was a special mass at a nearby parish, then school children placed floral wreaths at the plaque; the Mexico City Symphony played the national anthems of both Mexico and Ireland; Mexican officials eulogized the Irish Martyrs, and a few words were spoken by Irish Ambassador Tadgh O'Sullivan.

Beginning in 1993, the Irish began their own annual ceremony in Clifden, Co. Galway, John Riley's hometown.

While the brave soldiers of Saint Patrick's Battalion are not particularly well-known outside Mexico, it is clear that their god-like status in Mexico is enough to compensate for the attention they failed to receive in other countries. There is still a fond memory of "Los Colorados" the red-headed Irishmen who gave their lives in the struggle for Mexican sovereignty.

Kumeyaay Powerpoint

2010-03-05T11:15:00.001-08:00

Kumeyaay Indians -

Review of The Lesson

2010-02-18T12:24:00.000-08:00

Please post your review of "The Lesson" by Toni Cade Bambara - you may want to consider some of the following questions to help write your review. Also, please include a review of the discussion itself - giving details describing what you liked or disliked about it?

Sample questions:
1) Who was your favorite character in this short story?
2) What do you think "the lesson" was in this story? What was the teacher trying to teach the kids?
3) Would you recommend this short story to other teenagers? Why or why not?
4) Did you like the way the story ended? Would you have written a different ending?
5) What types of conflict to we see in this story (i.e. person VS. person) ?

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month!

2010-02-04T10:11:00.001-08:00

Many schools, organizations, and groups are unaware that dating abuse is a crime and affects each one of our students, faculty, family, and communities on many levels; inside and outside the classroom or group facility.

·62% of tweens who have been in a relationship say they know friends who have been verbally abused (called stupid, worthless, ugly, etc.) by a boyfriend/girlfriend.

One in five 13-14 year olds in relationships (20%) say that they know friends and peers who have been struck in anger (kicked, hit, slapped, or punched) by a boyfriend/girlfriend.

Three times as many tweens as parents surveyed admitted that parents know little or nothing about the tweens’ dating relationships (20% of teen vs. 6% of parents).

Research indicates tween relationship behavior may foreshadow a new wave of disturbing abuse among teens in the near future, unless something is done to prevent it.

Assignment: Each student will take one slide from the power point (below) and present it to the rest of the class! Make sure you understand the information on your slide and feel free to add to it and/or clarify any terms that are found on your slide!

You can also check out some of the websites below for more information:

www.loveisrespect.org

www.mystrength.org

www.dosomething.org

2010-02-04T10:01:00.001-08:00

TDV Awareness Month Power Point

Indigenous Claims Against 2010 Olympics!

2010-02-03T08:50:00.000-08:00

Now that you have read a couple articles and watched the documentary (links below) on why Native Americans/indigenous peoples in Canada are resisting the 2010 Olympics, contemplate the question below and post your response for bonus credit. Choose one of the terms (below) that you previously didn't know much about and write the definition as you understand it. Also, describe the way in which this term might be used to describe events in your own community.

New terms introduced:
- colonialism
- fascism
- indigenous land
- ecological destruction
- displacement / homelessness
- criminalizing the poor
- human trafficking
- police state
- public debt
- corporate invasion
- gentrification

http://no2010.com/

Setting Academic Goals for the New Term!

2010-02-01T10:37:00.000-08:00

Message to the Graduates

2010-01-29T10:15:00.000-08:00

Today is a very special day for our Lindsay graduates and you too will be standing up on the stage someday soon receiving your diploma. This short assignment is two part: 1) write a short message to one or all of the graduates 2) how do you think you will feel when your special day arrives?

Analyzing a Novel: The Kite Runner

2010-01-25T08:56:00.001-08:00

Please choose 4 of the following questions about the novel and answer them on your blog - make sure to give support/evidence for each of your answers:

1. Which characters change as the story proceeds? Do they change for the better or the worse, and how do they change specifically?

2. Who was your favorite character and why? Which character did you dislike most throughout the story and why?

3. List at least two major conflicts in the story and talk about what type of conflicts they are (ex: person vs. person, person vs. society, etc).

4. What is the historic time, place and social background of the novel? How does it affect what happens in the story?

5. Which is your most favorite scene in the book? In the movie?

6. Which did you enjoy better, the novel or the movie? Please give specific reasons why.

7. What is the theme of the novel? What do you think was the message the author was trying to convey by writing this book?

8. Who is the protagonist in this story? Who is the antagonist? Give an example of a scene from the story that would support your label for each character.

Resolutions for the New Year!

2010-01-04T10:33:00.000-08:00

Research shows that broad, non-specific resolutions are often not achieved. People who make specific resolutions with plans to achieve them are 10 times more likely to achieve those goals than those people who just make general statements like, "I'm going to lose weight". When writing your resolutions for the new year, make sure that they are very specific, for example:

1. Improve my math grade

VS.

2. Finish the last three chapters in my Algebra book and get make up work from Connie before report cards are due

The second resolution is much more specific and thus, easier to achieve! Please make sure that for each of your 3 resolutions you also provide 2 steps you will take to achieve each goals set forth. Also, make sure that at least one of your resolutions is academic in nature (like the example provided above).

2009-12-22T10:41:00.001-08:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Holiday Fun!

2009-12-22T10:05:00.000-08:00

To create a holiday movie with html code to embed on your blog, google search: jibjab. You might have to copy pictures to your Lindsay folder so that you can upload them to your e-card. Copy and paste the html code to a new post on your blog, and don't forget to comment me when you are done!

The Impact of Fundamentalism on Human Rights

2009-12-21T09:28:00.000-08:00

As documented in The Kite Runner, fundamentalism, specifically the Taliban's method of enforcing religious law, had a significant impact on the lives of women and children in Afghanistan. From watching Baba, Amir and Rahim Khan's stories, we also learned that fundamentalism created a huge crisis involving refugees and internally displaced people. In addition, scenes with Assef showed us that those individuals that came into contact with the Taliban endured some of the most brutal, inhuman and degrading treatment that the world has ever witnessed. We will be examining the severity of the Taliban's fundamentalist tactics as depicted in The Kite Runner and explore the impact the Taliban had on the human rights of individuals in Afghanistan.

Start by defining the words fundamentalist and fundamentalism.

After you have read The Taliban's Rules both Rules Regarding Females and Rules Regarding All Afghans - choose one law from each list that you think is the most oppressive and write a short paragraph on each.

The Kite Runner

2009-12-17T12:02:00.000-08:00

Write a short review of the first half of the book in a short paragraph. You make talk freely about the book or specifics, for example: who is your favorite character so far, or your most hated, and why? What are some of the larger themes covered in the novel? Additionally, include a review of today's discussion - many of you expressed that it was your favorite discussion thus far - please discuss why this is in specifics, for example: What are a few of the questions you asked of the "characters" today? What did you think about their responses?

Precious / Push Questions

2009-12-10T08:36:00.000-08:00

Choose at least 3 (or more for extra credit) questions and post responses on your blog! You can use evidence from both the movie and/or the novel.

1. What type of person do you believe Precious is? Based on the circumstances in her life, what would you expect from Precious?

2. What about Precious' character leads her to overcome her situation and not be complacent?

3. Is Precious a movie about what we all can overcome or is it merely an examination of one girl's life and circumstances? Why?

4. Can you relate to Precious or her life? In what ways?

5. The book and movie are virtually free of men. What message does this send you about roles of men and women in Precious' life?

6. What are the roles of men and women, fathers and mothers, sisters and brothers, and friends in your life?

7. What is the role you play in other people's lives?

Answer all 3 of the following questions:
1. Did Precious' story make you think about what your role is to those around you, no matter how well you know them? Do you feel a responsibility to assist others?

2. Like the investment of time that BluRain makes in Precious, what investment have you made in someone's life? If you haven't made that investment, what is stopping you?

3. Has someone made the investment in you? Who?

The Kite Runner - Ethnic groups in Afghanistan

2009-12-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

Afghanistan has approximately 8 major ethnic groups residing within 34 provinces or mini-states, each having its own distinct cultural and political identity. The 8 major ethnic groups are the Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras, Uzbeks, Turkmen, Nuristanis, Aimaqs and Balochis. Using the reading from class, please answer the following questions on your blog.

1. What is the population of Afghanistan?
2. How many major ethnic groups are there in Afghanistan? Which groups do Amir and Hassan belong to?
3. What are the two official languages of Afghanistan? How many other languages are spoken in Afghanistan?
4. What is the major religion in Afghanistan?
5. Which two ethnic groups are the largest in Afganistan?
6. What is the main language of the Pashtuns?
7. Why are the Pashtuns so influential in Afghanistan?
8. Approximately how many Tajiks are there in Afghanistan?
9. Where do most Hazaras reside?
10. Which ethnic groups were historically best known for farming?
11. Which ethnic groups are best known as nomads or for camel breeding?
12. Which Muslim sect to do the majority of Muslims in Afghanistan belong to?
13. What are the Tajiks best known for?
14. What sect of Muslims do most Hazaras belong to?

Writing Poetry / Escribir Poemas

2009-11-17T08:38:00.000-08:00

Please submit some of your own poetry in the spirit of our recent anthology: Cool Salsa! Your poems can rhyme or be free form and if you'd like to perform/read them at our book circle, that would be awesome!!!

Also, don't forget our salsa contest on Thursday . . . bring your best!! I'll provide the chips!

God made you brown, mi'ja
to wear as a crown for you are royalty -
a princess, la raza nueva,
the people of the sun.
It is the color of Chicana women -
leader/madres of Chicano warriors
luchando por la paz y la dignidad
de la justicia de la nacion, Aztlan!!

Education not Incarceration

2009-11-10T17:52:00.000-08:00

Education not Incarceration Forum
November 10, 2009
San Diego City College
Room D121

Organized by City College MEChA & Chicano Mexicano Prison Project

Please reflect on the panel speakers you heard - discuss some of the things you learned from the forum and talk about how the topics the speakers discussed are reflected in your own lives.

Rihanna breaks silence about domestic violence

2009-11-08T10:49:00.001-08:00

Rihanna told interviewers she feels ashamed about falling for Chris Brown and says she left him as an example for other young women who might be in abusive relationships - she warns other young women to not be blinded by love - watch video clip below:

Rihanna: Chris Brown 'had no soul in his eyes' -- latimes.com

The Road Less Traveled - Writing Contest

2009-11-04T11:50:00.000-08:00

We often travel the familiar road, the most certain route. However, sometimes we take a road less traveled because our hearts tell us, "You need to step off the safest path. It is time. Don't worry about what others think. Do it because you know it is right for you."

In a short story, essay, memoir, poem, or graphic panels, describe an action you took, not because it was easy and expected, but because your heart told you to take a different direction, and as a result, you arrived at a new destination.

Awards:
If you piece is chosen as a winner, it will be read aloud at a public reading and published in a statewide magazine.

Deadline:
November 15, 2009

School Goals for the New Term

2009-11-03T10:36:00.000-08:00

Now that you've received your report cards, reflect on areas you did well on, as well as those that could use improvement. Pick 3 goals for the next term and talk about how you plan to achieve these goals. Make two of them academic goals and the third a social goal. Don't forget to include what steps you are going to take to achieve these goals!!!

Dia de los Muertos - Persistance of Indigenous Culture

2009-10-26T12:52:00.000-07:00

More than 500 years ago, when the Spanish Conquistadors landed in what is now Mexico, they encountered natives practicing a ritual that seemed to mock death. It was a ritual the indigenous people had been practicing at least 3,000 years. A ritual the Spaniards would try unsuccessfully to eradicate. The ritual known today as Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.

The ritual is celebrated in Mexico and certain parts of the United States.

Celebrations are held each year in various areas and although the ritual has since been merged with Catholic theology, it still maintains the basic principles of the Aztec ritual, such as the use of skulls.

Today, people don wooden skull masks called calacas and dance in honor of their deceased relatives. The wooden skulls are also placed on altars that are dedicated to the dead. Sugar skulls, made with the names of the dead person on the forehead, are eaten by a relative or friend, according to Mary J. Adrade, who has written three books on the ritual.

The Aztecs and other Meso-American civilizations kept skulls as trophies and displayed them during the ritual. The skulls were used to symbolize death and rebirth.

The skulls were used to honor the dead, whom the Aztecs and other Meso-American civilizations believed came back to visit during the month long ritual.

Unlike the Spaniards, who viewed death as the end of life, the natives viewed it as the continuation of life. Instead of fearing death, they embraced it. To them, life was a dream and only in death did they become truly awake.

"The pre-Hispanic people honored duality as being dynamic," said Christina Gonzalez, senior lecturer on Hispanic issues at Arizona State University. "They didn't separate death from pain, wealth from poverty like they did in Western cultures."

However, the Spaniards considered the ritual to be sacrilegious. They perceived the indigenous people to be barbaric and pagan.

In their attempts to convert them to Catholicism, the Spaniards tried to kill the ritual.

But like the old Aztec spirits, the ritual refused to die.

To make the ritual more Christian, the Spaniards moved it so it coincided with All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day (Nov. 1 and 2), which is when it is celebrated today.

Previously it fell on the ninth month of the Aztec Solar Calendar, approximately the beginning of August, and was celebrated for the entire month. Festivities were presided over by the goddess Mictecacihuatl. The goddess, known as "Lady of the Dead," was believed to have died at birth, Andrade said.

Today, Day of the Dead is celebrated in Mexico and in certain parts of the United States and Central America.

"It's celebrated different depending on where you go," Gonzalez said.

Tears of a Tiger

2009-10-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

Please post your shelfari review for our novel and the Words Alive discussion.

Candlelight Vigil at Chicano Park

2009-10-05T10:55:00.000-07:00

15 Years of Operation Gatekeeper!

Candlelight vigil for all those who have fallen victim!

Friday, October 2, 2009

Chicano Park

5:30 - 7 pm

Reflection on the DV Rally

2009-10-05T09:04:00.000-07:00

The organizers of the San Diego Domestic Violence Awareness Rally would like some feedback so as to better improve the rally next year. Please answer the questions below and offer any other advice or suggestions you'd like.

1. List at least one or two things you learned at the rally.

2. What was you favorite event/ booth/ exhibit at the rally and why?

3. What would you include next year? (ex: location, speakers, activities, etc.)

Domestic Violence Rally

2009-09-25T10:17:00.001-07:00

Looking at the Teen Power and Control Wheel, we recognize that there are many ways that young women are involved in violence relationships. Please list (with description) the type of violence you believe most affects young teenage women and why. Have you had any experience with any of these types of violence? How have you handled them? What advice would you give to other girls in similar situations?

To link to wheel: http://www.ncdsv.org/images/Teen%20P&C%20wheel%20NO%20SHADING.pdf

Not To Be Forgotten Rally - Domestic Violence Awareness
Thursday, October 1st
Old Town Plaza
4002 Wallace Street

Everyone together
Victims can be anyone - children, pets, men, women, elders
Enough
Relationships can be safe, calm, tender and loving
You can make a difference
Others play a role - neighbors, friends, family and coworkers
No excuse for abuse
Everyone has the power to heal

The Supremacy Clause - Study Questions

2009-09-23T10:42:00.000-07:00

1. Read the quote from Thomas Jefferson on page 18 of your study guide. Why do you feel this promise was not kept by the U.S. government?

2. Give examples of how the Cherokees became acculturated to European culture, mostly by force.

3. By 1932, how much of their original reservation lands had Indians lost? Describe how the Dawes Act caused much of this loss.

4. Why did Chief Joseph and "Captain Jack" engage in battles with the U.S. Army?

5. Why do you think constitutional rights guaranteed in the "Supremacy Clause" were not granted to the American Indians in their land disputes with white settlers?

6. If you were an American Indian ordered to move immediately to a place that was harsh and cold, and you did not have enough warm clothing or supplies (ex: the Trail of Tears), would you follow this order? What choices would you have?

Music Therapy

2009-09-21T08:47:00.000-07:00

Lindsay Community School has been blessed with a music therapy program for the infants and toddlers and their mothers. In order to ensure the continuation of this program, we will be writing letters of recommendation for the program. Below are some questions to consider when writing your letter.

1. Why do you think this music program exists for mothers and their babies?
2. What have you learned through this program?
3. Do you use music besides during music class? If so, when and how often?
4. Describe how you feel when you and your baby participate during music class.
5. What is your favorite part of the music time? How about for your child?
6. Does your baby do any of the sign language, play instruments, or sing at home? Describe what you observed.
7. Do you think the music experiences affected your relationship with your child? If so, how?
8. Is the music class for mommies and babies a worthwhile experience overall?
9. Did the music class improve your child's development (language, motor, social skills?) How so?
10. Would you recommend this music program to a friend who was pregnant or who had a child?

When you're done with the assignment, please post you letter onto your blog. Also, for extra bonus points, take a picture of your child during music therapy and post it on your blog!! When posting, please use your Scribd account so that it appears as Word document! (see sample above)

Grito de Independencia!!

2009-09-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

Food and Live Music!
Comida y Musica en Vivo!

Tuesday September 15, 2009
Martes 15 de Septiembre del 2009

Chicano Park - En El Parque Chicano

5:30 pm - BE THERE!!

Post your day on your blog for 10 hours credit - plus another 5 for pictures taken at the event!

Obama's Video Contest !!

2009-09-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

Obama has released a "I Am What I Learn" video contest. Students are invited to submit a video no longer than two minutes in length, explaining why education is important and how education will help them achieve their dreams. For more details, visit: www.ed.gov

Obama's Speech: My Education, My Future

2009-09-08T10:58:00.000-07:00

Now that you have watched, taken notes on, and discussed Obama's speech on education, please answer the following questions: (If you missed the video or want to watch again, the link is below. Also, there is a transcript of the speech included for those of you who would like to read it)

1. What resonated with you from President Obama's speech? What lines or phrases do you remember?

2. What were the three most important words in Obama's speech? What do they mean?

3. Is Obama inspiring you to do anything? Is he challenging you to do something? What is it?

4. Obama said, "no one has written your destiny for you, you make your own destiny." What does this quote mean to you and your life?

5. Obama stressed the importance of working hard in school and contributing to your country. He also asked, "What's your contribution going to be? What problems are you going to solve?" How would you answer this question if you were conversing with Mr. Obama?

transcripts: http://www.whitehouse.gov/MediaResources/PreparedSchoolRemarks/

video: http://www.whitehouse.gov/mediaresources/

I Am Poetry

2009-09-04T13:03:00.000-07:00

Please post your I Am Poem on your blog. Don't forget to use our college-level characteristic adjectives to describe yourself! And, as always, please be creative and imaginative! Also, please comment me when finished!!

I am passionate and revolutionary . . .

Report Cards - Setting Goals

2009-08-31T09:18:00.000-07:00

Now that all of you have your report cards, I'd like you to reflect on your academic goals for next grading period which ends October 23. I want you to set at least three goals for this term, two of them academic and 1 social/personal. Please list your three goals and describe the ways in which you will attain/reach these goals. Be specific in your plan and we will revisit these goals at the end of the term.

Words Alive Discussion: Piece of Cake

2009-08-27T13:00:00.000-07:00

go to your blog and write a final review of Piece of Cake and the group discussion. You might want to include: what you enjoyed about the discussion, what you would have changed, what you learned from other girls' comments, other activities you'd like to do during the discussions, etc. On your shelfari, write a review of the book and the discussion

On your Shelfari, copy and paste your book review from your blog onto your Shelfari account.

make sure you are linked to Lindsay's Shelfari account

create a link on your blog to your Shelfari bookshelf

put a Shelfari bookshelf, as a widget, on your blog

Piece of Cake discussion questions

2009-08-26T09:09:00.000-07:00

In preparation for the Words Alive discussion tomorrow, and in support of Yesenia who will be facilitating the discussion, please post a minimum of 3 possible discussion questions that we can use.

For example: Why does Cupcake include so many subordinate characters in the telling of her story? Which subordinate character do you believe most influences Cupcake's life for better or worse?

spelling bee sentences

2009-08-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

Choose five words from the spelling bonus list and use them appropriately in a sentence. Please bold the word used.

Example: Dawn does not condone the use of the words "um" or "like" in her class discussions.

Responding to Cupcake's Memoir

2009-08-24T21:39:00.001-07:00

Choose one of the following questions about Piece of Cake and answer on your blog!

1. Has part of this book inspired you in any way? If so, how and can you give a specific example from the book that exemplifies this inspiration?

2. Did this book change your life in any specific way, or perhaps, cause you to think differently about certain issues? If so, what and how?

3. What do you think Cupcake's motivation was for writing this novel? What do you think she believes her readers will get out of hearing her story? Is she trying to reveal something, or just telling her life story?

Manifest Destiny and Ethnocentrism

2009-08-20T13:15:00.000-07:00

Use class readings and notes to answer the following:
1. Why can we say that there was cultural diversity in the Americas even before whites arrived?
2. Give two examples of how the Native Americans and the Europeans experienced acculturation.
3. Describe how Navtive Americans and Europeans had different ways of looking at how the land should be used and shared.
4. Explain why the idea of Manifest Destiny is an example of ethnocentrism.
5. How do you believe American history would have been different if Phillip/Pometacomet or Tecumseh had been successful in their plans?
6. What purposeful strategies (list at least three) were employed by the English to clear the Wampanoag from their lands?
7. What were the main events of King Phillips War? Why were the whites ultimately successful in winning this war?

Bugs in food...

2009-08-20T10:26:00.001-07:00

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/01/05/bugs-in-your-food/

Using your blog to document events

2009-08-17T09:23:00.000-07:00

Many blogs are used by people to report on events that happen in their neighborhoods and communities, especially events that are not covered by the mainstream news media. This week, you are to report on an event/occurrence that happens in your community that you believe is news-worthy. We often talk about the ICE Raids, gang shootings, etc. - now we're going to publish it as news to the world! Report on your event by this Friday and be prepared to present it to the class! Also, look at Juan's blog for an example of reporting on a community event.

Creating Your Own Political Party Platform

2009-08-14T11:12:00.001-07:00

Now you have examined two political parties: the Libertarians and the FMLN. You will create your own political party and a platform to represent it. Start by organizing you information on the worksheet from class. Make sure to include the following on you blog post:
1. Name of your political party
2. Party slogan
3. Party symbol
4. Three most important party principles/stances on issues, with explanations on why this position was taken

Farabundo Marti - FMLN

2009-08-14T11:05:00.000-07:00

Read both the article on the FMLN titled "La Victoria del FMLN en El Salvador" and the biography on Farabundo Marti and post the answers to the following questions on your blog!
ARTICLE
1. Who was Farabundo Marti and what was he fighting for?
2. What other revolutionaries was Marti compared to in this article and why?
3. What three things is the FMLN, the party named for Marti, struggling for?
4. Who fought each other during the "civil war" in El Salvador?
5. Why was the El Salvadorian government so successful in repressing the guerrila fighters?
6. Where did the U.S. train the Salvadorian army?
7. Why do you think the U.S. spent so much time and money supporting the dictator of El Salvador and repressing the guerrilla fighters?
8. Who is the opposing political party to the FMLN? How did this political party stay in power for so long?
9. In this last election, an FMLN candidate finally won the election. Who is the new president of El Salvador?
10. What are some of the things the FMLN will be fighting for now that they are in power? Or what are some of the changes they want to make?

BIOGRAPHY
1. Where was Marti born and where did he attend school?
2. What did Marti major in and why did he drop out of college?
3. Why was Marti arrested?
4. When he returned to El Salvador after being in exile, he helped found the Socorro Rojo International Party. What did this political party stand for?
5. After returning to El Salvador after his second exile, who did Marti organize to start a revolution?
6. What happened at La Matanza (click on the hot link)
7. What happened to Marti in the end?
8. Do you admire Marti? If so, why? What would you do differently or similarly if you were organizing you own political party/revolution?

The Kumeyaay Tribe

2009-08-11T15:30:00.000-07:00

Do some research on the indigenous peoples of the San Diego area - the Kumeyaay - and answer the questions below by posting your answers on your blog. Please try to answer in complete sentences. I have listed one website below to help you with your search!

1. What did the Spanish rename the Kumeyaay tribe?
2. List at least three of their main food staples (what they ate).
3. What three groups or bands were the Kumeyaay divided into?
4. Did the Kumeyaay convert to Christianity?
5. What happened on November 4 & 5, 1775?
6. How many Kumeyaay currently live in San Diego county?
7. What kinds of tattooing were used by this tribe?
8. What type of clothing did the Kumeyaay wear?
9. The Kumeyaay were experts at making what product? What were the uses for this product?
10. Where can we view Kumeyaay artifacts today?
11. When you educate your child about the Native Americans from this area, what do you believe is the most important part of the information you learned, that you will share with them? Why?

http://www.desertusa.com/mag99/july/papr/kumeyaay.html

blogger scavenger hunt

2009-08-06T09:24:00.000-07:00

On MY blog:
1. What is the word of the day and what does it mean?
2. Go to the link "free rice" on link list and earn 50 grains of rice.
3. Look at the translation station widget - what is the word for 'school' in Italian?
(post your answers on your blog)

On YOUR blog:
1. add me to you links list
2. add one other new student to your blog
3. go to 'blogger widgets' on my links list. Explore different widgets and add one to your sidebar
4. go to 'refdesk' on my links. Scroll down to find out why watching tv is bad for your children, and then write a short post on your blog explaining why.

Characterization in A Piece of Cake

2009-08-05T13:51:00.000-07:00

Why would Dot be considered a subordinate character in this chapter?
Describe an example of a dynamic and a static character from this memoir and why? Please answer in complete sentences and include definitions for academic terms.

Resolution/Denouement (day-noo-ma) = at the end of the story when all the loose ends of the plot/conflicts are tied up

Subordinate Characters = less important characters that usually do not affect the plot, but they often do serve to reveal more information about the main character/protagonist

Dynamic Character = character who changes in an important way during the story

Static Character = character who is the same at the end of the story as at the beginning (usually a subordinate character)

Cupcake's newest conflict

2009-08-04T10:48:00.000-07:00

What is Cupcake's (our protagonist) newest conflict? What type of literary conflict does this represent? What do you believe will result from her current living situation (the resolution)?

Maiko

2009-06-04T13:45:00.000-07:00

Maiko are young women training in arts such as Japanese dance, shamisen (a Japanese instrument), and a traditional way of singing to become geisha, whose profession is to entertain guests at traditional Japanese-style restaurants.

Their hairstyle varies slightly depending on how many years they've been training. However, their unique appearance with the red collar peeking from underneath a long-sleeved kimono and long dangling obi belt is exactly the same as girls who lived in the towns at the end of the Edo period (1603-1867).
Because their dance was performed in dim candle-lit rooms at the time, they colored their skin white to make it look beautiful. Makeup techniques of spreading hair oil on the face and applying special face powder remain the same today.

Japanese Language

2009-05-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

There is only one official language spoken in Japan, which is of course Japanese. However, many Japanese are able to understand English to a certain extent since English is the foreign language that everyone must learn as part of their education.
Following are a few phrases that we can all practice together.

Useful Japanese Phrases:
Japanese to English
Ohayou gozaimasu - Good morning
Kon'nichiwa - Good afternoon
Kon'banwa - Good evening
Oyasumi nasai - Good night
Sayounara - Good-bye
Sumimasen - Excuse me
Gomen nasai - I am sorry
Wakarimasen - I don't understand
Arigatou - Thank you
Hai - Yes
Iie - No

Tequila, Lemon & Salt Review

2009-04-24T10:53:00.000-07:00

my favorite story so far is an undocumented wedding because it exposes the differences between white and Mexican families . . . when one enters a Mexican home, there is often a happy spirit in the air and you are always welcome - there are rarely times of silence during meals also . . . i liked the protagonist because he figures out a way to integrate his family into the wedding, even though they refused to cross the border . . the story also exposes the ridulculousness of the border and how love knows no borders (theme)

polleverywhere

2009-03-19T14:49:00.000-07:00

Make your own poll voting question with Poll Everywhere

scribd practice

2009-03-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

Dia de Los Muertos Project

Publish at Scribd or explore others: literature

Shelfari !

2009-02-18T09:55:00.000-08:00

Shelfari Objectives:
- create Shelfari account
- add at least 5 - 10 books to shelf
- add at least 5 lindsay friends to your account
- edit your profile : personal message
- write a review of Push and one other Words Alive book (ex: Night, Persepolis, A Child Called It)
- upload a picture
_add Shelfari widget to your blog

sex class - STDs

2009-02-04T14:46:00.000-08:00

1. What does it mean if an STD is asymptomatic?
2. List four things that put teens at a higher risk for catching STDs.
3. Why do you think the rate of chlamydial infection in people who are 15 to 19 years old is highter than the rate in people who are 30 to 34 years old?
4. Why do females catch STDs at a higher rate than males?
5. List four things you can do, besides abstinence, to protect yourself from STDs.

2008-11-04T09:49:00.001-08:00

Click Here to take survey

The Culture of Tonga

2008-10-29T09:03:00.001-07:00

Tongan archipelago has been inhabited for more than 3,000 years

Europeans arrived in the late 1600's

Indigenous Tongan culture changed significantly with the arrival of more Europeans (traders and missionaries) in the 1800's

Today, Tongans have spread to many parts of the world, usually to find work: United States, Australia and New Zealand = Tongan diaspora
diaspora = a spreading out of a people from their original homeland
Many Tongans operate in two different contexts: 1) the traditional Tongan way = anga fakatonga and 2) the western/modern Tongan way = anga fakapalangi

Tongans learn both sets of rules and when it is appropriate to switch between them

NO on Proposition 4

2008-10-21T13:14:00.000-07:00

Prop 4 requires that a teenage girl obtain parental consent before obtaining an abortion

I strongly disagree with Prop 4 because I believe that a woman, no matter what her age, has the right to make decisions about her body and her health. Of course, is pro-abortion, but the government should not have the right to control a woman's body and what she does with her body. If we increased the education of birth control in our schools and educated our young women about their bodies and their options, we wouldn't have so many of them faced with this decision in the first place. Also, making it illegal for young women to have abortions will only push them into unsafe and unsanitary situations where they will be putting themselves in grave danger for botched procedures.

Life as an Egyptian - Lost Lives

2008-09-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

Most of what the Egyptians made is lost forever because it was made of wodd, wax, clay, cloth, bone or leather - it has broken, burned or rotted away

Things that did survive were made of stone or metal - like tools, weapons or jewelry

Egypt's dry & hot climate preserved things better than if it had been a damp area

Mummification also preserved things well as people were buried with their possessions

Unfortunately, we know much more about the rich than the poor because the rich owned more possessions and could afford elaborate burials

Life as an Egyptian - 5000 BC to 31 BC

2008-09-16T09:53:00.000-07:00

* Minimum five points of interest from your reading - remember, you're the expert

* Minimum one picture illustrating your specific topic

* How does the life of the Egyptians compare to your own? How does it compare to the lives of ancient Mexicas?

* Present as la profesora to the class

My life as a Taino . . .

2008-08-11T10:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Journal,

What, to the slave, is the fourth of july?

2008-07-03T14:39:00.000-07:00

FREDERICK DOUGLASS was born a slave in Maryland in 1818. As a child, Douglass secretly learned to read and write. After escaping to freedom in 1838, he devoted himself to the cause of abolition. In 1845, he published his autobiography, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave. He founded the abolitionist newspaper, the North Star.

In a speech delivered before the Rochester Ladies' Anti-Slavery Society on July 5, 1852, Douglass powerfully exposes the hypocrisy of asking a slave to celebrate the Fourth of July. As an antidote to flag-waving patriotism of July 4, I've provided a portion of Douglass' speech here.

This Fourth July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn. To drag a man in fetters into the grand illuminated temple of liberty, and call upon him to join you in joyous anthems, were inhuman mockery and sacrilegious irony. Do you mean, citizens, to mock me, by asking me to speak today?

WHAT TO the American slave is your 4th of July? I answer: a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim. To him, your celebration is a sham; your boasted liberty, an unholy license; your national greatness, swelling vanity; your sounds of rejoicing are empty and heartless; your denunciations of tyrants, brass fronted impudence; your shouts of liberty and equality, hollow mockery; your prayers and hymns, your sermons and thanksgivings, with all your religious parade and solemnity, are, to him, mere bombast, fraud, deception, impiety, and hypocrisy--a thin veil to cover up crimes which would disgrace a nation of savages. There is not a nation on the earth guilty of practices more shocking and bloody than are the people of the United States, at this very hour.

Go where you may, search where you will, roam through all the monarchies and despotisms of the Old World, travel through South America, search out every abuse, and when you have found the last, lay your facts by the side of the everyday practices of this nation, and you will say with me that, for revolting barbarity and shameless hypocrisy, America reigns without a rival.

Fellow citizens! The existence of slavery in this country brands your republicanism as a sham, your humanity as a base pretence, and your Christianity as a lie. It destroys your moral power abroad; it corrupts your politicians at home. It saps the foundation of religion; it makes your name a hissing, and a byword to a mocking earth. It is the antagonistic force in your government, the only thing that seriously disturbs and endangers your Union. It fetters your progress; it is the enemy of improvement, the deadly foe of education; it fosters pride; it breeds insolence; it promotes vice; it shelters crime; it is a curse to the earth that supports it; and yet, you cling to it, as if it were the sheet anchor of all your hopes.

Oh be warned! Be warned! A horrible reptile is coiled up in your nation's bosom; the venomous creature is nursing at the tender breast of your youthful republic; for the love of God, tear away, and fling from you the hideous monster, and let the weight of twenty millions crush and destroy it forever!

2008-07-01T16:16:00.000-07:00

congrats

2008-05-30T12:16:00.001-07:00