Very Impressed!

Thank you for all of your hard work creating your newsreels and research papers for our Pearl Harbor Project. Although I received many great newsreels, I posted one of my favorites down below.

We are now moving into our last unit, Africa. I don't know about you, but I feel as though this year went by so fast.

The Bombing of Pearl Harbor

On April 27th we will take a virtual field trip to the National World War II Museum.  Museum expert Chrissy Gregg will talk to us about Pearl Harbor.  This surprise attack led to American involvement in WWII.  Below is Roosevelt's famous "Day of Infamy" speech in which the United States formally declared war on Japan.  Watch this in preparation for our "Day of Infamy" experience.


 

Zen Ties

While studying Japan, we will also discuss Zen Buddhism.  Although Zen was born in China, many Japanese are practitioners.  Zen Buddhist believe that direct experience is the only way to receive the truth.  Although Zen does not emphasize scripture, it has a rich body of literature that points the way to understanding.

Together we are going to read Zen Shorts, and figure out the following:

• The value of generosity
• Perceptions of luck
• The weight of anger

Do you have a story similar to one shared in the book?  What did you learn?  How can you share your experience with others?

Communists, Nationalists, and Chinese Revolutions

Modern Chinese history is plentiful and at times confusing (especially with all the foreign names that you have to learn). Watch this Crash Course if you need a review.


 

France and Spain 2016

It's my extreme pleasure to announce that students of West will once again head to Europe. July of 2016 I will be taking a group of West students to France and Spain.  This Thursday night, January 29th there will be a parent meeting at 6 p.m. in room 203.  This is an informational meeting for both parents and students. Expect to learn the following:

• Receive a detailed itinerary of the trip.
• Learn how travel will benefit your student.
• Discuss cost, enrollment, and payment plans.
• Receive help with enrollment.
• Answer any other questions or concerns you might have.

I love taking kids on these adventures.  It is truly an eye opening and life changing experience.  If you have any questions please contact me at paige.somoza@boiseschools.org.  

What Made Gandhi's Non-Violent Movement Work?

This week we are going to write our EOC Essay answering the question, "What Made Gandhi's Nonviolent Movement work."  As we progress note the strategies Gandhi used, and try to think about how one could use these strategies in other situations.  Hopefully by the end of the week we will begin our semester review to prepare you for your final next week.

Hinduism, Buddhism, and Asoka (Ashoka)

Just a quick review of what we learned last week.  And of course, let us not forget Asoka (Pronounced Ashoka).