Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays from Mr. Ippolito and his family to all my Team Yukon families!

Benchmark Re-Take

For students who earned below an 80% on the benchmark exam, there will be a re-take on Tuesday, 12/16, at lunch in my classroom, Room B-7. There is no risk in taking the exam, as I will take whichever score is higher. Students may eat their lunch while they take the exam, but no additional time will be given once the bell rings.

For students unable to attend the Tuesday re-take, there will also be a Thursday re-take, by appointment only. Please contact Mr. Ippolito if you wish to re-take the exam Thursday. Questions? Contact Mr. Ippolito at rvi@hartdistrict.org.

RVI

INB Grade Sheet

We are grading INBs tomorrow (A-day) and Wednesday (B-day). It's worth 50 points and is the final grade of the quarter, so you want to make sure to get your INB ready! Need another grade sheet? Download it here:

http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/inbgrade.pdf

RVI

Twas the night before the benchmark . . .

OK, so here are three things that might help you:

• The Benchmark Standards Guide - DOWNLOAD PDF HERE
• The Podcast - DOWNLOAD MP3 HERE
  (see below for instructions for getting it onto your iPod)
  
• The Jeopardy Review Game - DOWNLOAD PPT HERE

Good luck, and if you have any questions, as always e-mail me at rvi@hartdistrict.org.

RVI

Instructions for transferring the podcast to your iPod

Step 1: Right-mouse click (or CTRL-click on a Mac) on the blog where it says DOWNLOAD PODCAST HERE.
Step 2: Select "Save file as" or "Save target as"
Step 3: Save the podcast file (q2.mp3) to your Desktop.
Step 4: Open iTunes, and then select File > Add file to library. Go to your Desktop and add the file q2.mp3 to your iTunes library.
Step 5: Now that the Podcast file is part of your iTunes library, add it to any one of your existing Playlists that you already have programmed to transfer to your iPod. You don't need to do this if you have it set to automatically load your entire song Library to your iPod.

If you have any questions, e-mail Mr. Ippolito at rvi@hartdistrict.org. Enjoy!!

RVI

Why is this year getting even longer?!?

The earth's rotation is slowing down, and as a result an international consortium of timekeepers has agreed to add one additional second onto 2008. We have had other "leap seconds" added on before, though. Want to learn more? You can check out the news article here:

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5izD8PRiWobWj6M2E0xDOW1TbSuMQD94UOUE00

Thanks to Gage DeMasters for picking up on the story!

RVI

Podcast ready!

The Quarter Two standards review podcast is now ready for download! Before you start listening, you should first have your Quarter Two Standards Guide out in front of you. Don't have it? Download a copy HERE.

You can play it using the embedded QuickTime player to the right, or download it directly with a right-mouse click on the link below:

DOWNLOAD PODCAST HERE (runtime 33:58)

Once you have downloaded the file to your computer, you can transfer it to your iPod by importing it into your iTunes library, or transfer it to any other MP3 player. Enjoy, and happy studying!

RVI

Just starting to record my podcast

Hey students!

My family and I just finished dinner with my former high school US history teacher and his wife (see, when you get older and have a family you can invite YOUR favorite history teacher to dinner too . . . hint, hint).

I already finished writing the podcast script this afternoon, and I'm just starting to record now. I should have the podcast posted by about 9:00 p.m. this evening. Enjoy!

RVI

Mr. Ippolito's back online!

It's been about six weeks, and I'm still trying to figure out exactly what I want to do with my blog/website. I'll be spending some time over winter break figuring out what the future of yukonhistoryblog.com will be.

In the meantime, the Quarter Two Benchmark Review Podcast is coming soon! Check back later this evening.

RVI

Mr. Ippolito's blog under construction

Mr. Ippolito's yukonhistoryblog.com is currently under construction. I am transitioning from my current website (Blogger, a public blogging site that is blocked at school) to an educational blogging system that will allow full access both at school and at home.

During this transition, should you have any questions or need access to electronic copies of any assignments, please free to e-mail Mr. Ippolito at rvi@hartdistrict.org. Thank you for your patience!

RVI

Rio Rocks the Vote - October 17-20, 2008

The Presidential Election is only 18 days away, and we are participating with history classes all over the campus by participating in Rio Rocks the Vote!

Students all over our school are researching the issues that are important to Americans this election, learning the positions of the candidates, and then forming their own opinions on each of these important issues. Students are then writing an essay outline and an essay articulating their positions on what they think are their three most important issues. All work on "Rio Rocks the Vote!" is due to Mr. Ippolito on or before October 31, 2008.

The activity will culminate on November 4, Election Day, when Rio Norte students will have the chance to participate in our own mock election online!

If parents have any questions about the assignment, please feel free to e-mail Mr. Ippolito at rvi@hartdistrict.org.

RVI

The Federal System - October 15-16, 2008

Agenda:
1. Go over benchmark exam
2. Benchmark Replacement Exam - Friday, lunch, Room B-7 (see rules in previous blog post)
3. The Preamble Extra Credit
4. The Federal System (pg 41)
Download the handout here: http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/federalism.pdf
5. National Powers, State Powers, Shared Powers Game
HW: "The Three Branches of the United States Government" (pg 42)
Download the handout here: http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/3branches.pdf and use textbook pages 102-111 and 130-131 to help you with the homework.

Today we spent about half our time going finishing up Quarter One business: reviewing the Q1 benchmark exam and giving an opportunity for extra credit for those students who memorized the Preamble to the Constitution.

The second half of our class, we took more time to examine the separation of powers between the national and the state governments. This separation is called THE FEDERAL SYSTEM or simply FEDERALISM. Some government powers are reserved exclusively for the national government, some are reserved for the states, and some are shared between the state and national governments.

RVI

Benchmark replacement exam

Are you unhappy with the score you earned on the Benchmark Exam? Do you believe you learned more this quarter than your benchmark score indicates? If so, then you may wish to take the Benchmark Replacement Exam on Friday, October 17, at lunch in Room B-7.

If you earned below 80% (27 or lower), then you can take this new exam AT NO RISK. If your new grade is lower than the first, you keep the first grade.

If you earned 80% (a score of 28) or higher on the original benchmark, and you choose to take the new exam, then your old score will be dropped and you must take the new score.

RVI

Q1 Benchmark Exam - October 13-14, 2008

Agenda:
1. Any last questions before the exam?
2. Q1 Benchmark Exam
HW: A Federal System of Government (pg 38) - download HERE

We took the Quarter One Benchmark Exam today. The quarter ends this Friday, so if you have any absent work to turn in, make sure you do so by this Friday.

RVI

Q1 Benchmark Review Podcast

The podcast is done!! You can download it HERE.
If you right-mouse click on the link, the podcast will play from your browser.
If you LEFT-mouse click on the link, you can select Save Link As, and then save it to your computer so you can import it into iTunes to place on your iPod, or to put onto any other MP3 player.

Enjoy!!

RVI

INB Grading and Benchmark Exam Review - October 9-10, 2008

Today we graded our Interactive Notebook and spent the remaining time reviewing for the benchmark. It's hard to cram a whole quarter's worth of learning into less than half a class period, though. Therefore, I HIGHLY encourage you to take some time over the next few days to review the Quarter One Benchmark Standards Guide. Look at the number of questions that will address each standard, and try to predict (based on what we learned this quarter) what questions might be on the benchmark. Need another copy? Download it here:
http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/q1bsg.pdf

Sometime after 7:00 p.m. this evening, I will upload the Q1 Benchmark Review Podcast. In this podcast, I will go over the Standards Guide with you, one at a time, to remind you of all the great things we learned this quarter. Once the podcast is up, you'll be able to listen to it right on your computer, or download it to put onto your iPod or other MP3 player. Enjoy!

RVI

Table of Contents

The Founding Fathers at Work

Agenda:

1. Analyzing the Constitution - Review (pg 30)
2. Journal - "The Social Contract" (pg 32)
3. The Founding Fathers at Work (pg 33) - download the packet HERE
HW: Rio Rocks the Vote (not in INB)

Today we began our discussion of the Constitutional Convention. If you didn't finish "The Founding Fathers at Work," you will have an opportunity to complete the assignment in class. We're approaching the end of the quarter. Start getting your Interactive Notebook together, as we will be grading the INB in class on October 9 (A-day) and October 10 (B-Day).

RVI

The Constitutional Convention

Details to come. For now, here is today's agenda.

The Roots of American Government - October 1-2, 2008

Agenda:
1. Check HW
2. Analyzing the Constitution (pg 30) - download here: http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/analyze.pdf
3. Go over National Treasure and Growing Problems/Shays Rebellion
4. Roots of American Government PPT (pg 29)
HW: Constitution Quick Guide (pg 31) - download here: http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/cqg.pdf

We are now digging deeper into the Constitution, and finding out what the origins of our government are? Where did we get the idea of democracy, a representative government, habeas corpus, trial by jury? All these ideas had to come from somewhere, and we learned about those places today.

If you missed today's lecture, you can download the PowerPoint here:
http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/roots.ppt

And the notes sheet to take down the notes here:
http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/rootsnotes.doc

RVI

The Electoral College - September 26, 2008

The 2008 Presidential Election is just over a month away, and so today we learned about the exciting (but often confusing) Electoral College.

We started off with this handout:
http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/electoral.pdf

And we then simulated Election Night using an interactive map from the New York Times website here:
http://elections.nytimes.com/2008/president/whos-ahead/key-states/map.html

Who do you think will win on Election Day? Use the simulator to predict your picks. Take a screenshot of your picks and e-mail it to Mr. Ippolito no later than Monday, November 3. The student who gets closest to the real results on Election Day will get lunch from your choice of Jersey Mike's, Red Brick Pizza, or Pick-Up Stix!

Finally, don't miss the first debate between Senator McCain and Senator Obama TONIGHT. Coverage starts at 6:00 p.m. on most major networks (CBS, NBC, ABC, Fox, CNN, etc.).

RVI

National Treasure - Part II

We're finishing the film National Treasure today in class. Make sure that you have the Study Guide completed (on pages 26 and 27) by our next class session. Hope you enjoyed the movie, and that you learned a little more about the motivation and theory behind the Declaration of Independence!

RVI

Quiz Re-Take

Every one of my students will have the opportunity to re-take the unit quiz. Here are the details:

1. You must take the quiz re-take on Wednesday, 9/24, at lunch.
2. Once I put the quiz re-take in your hand, your old score is erased. You must take the new score from the re-take.
3. This re-take score will NOT affect your progress report grade, but it will affect your final quarter grade (the grade that matters).

RVI

National Treasure - Part I

Agenda:
1. Check homework ("Growing Problems and Shays' Rebellion")
2. Go over Unit Quiz questions and answers
3. New unit! - we now create a new cover page and new table of contents
4. Cover page - "The Constitution" (pg 23)
5. Table of Contents (pg 24)
--leave pg 25 blank for right now--
HW: National Treasure Study Guide (pgs 26-27) - this is not due until after we finish the movie

We transitioned from one unit to the next today. Make sure you begin a brand new Table of Contents on page 22, and remember those five symbols (in color) on the cover page.

We also began our viewing of National Treasure today. We watched the first 35 minutes in class today, and we will finish the rest of the film in our next class session. Once we finish the movie, be prepared to dive into our next unit: the Constitution!

RVI

Quiz corrections

The average quiz scores for all my classes was right around 70%. It was a tough quiz! Kudos to all who survived, and because the average score is lower than I would like, I have decided to offer quiz corrections. The quiz corrections score will NOT count toward the progress report, but it will make a difference in your final quarter grade (that's the one that counts).

You will get more details on how you can improve your quiz grade in our next class.

RVI

Grades are done!

Progress report grades have been updated as of 9/20/08 (even though it says 9/12; I have to fix that from home). If you have a dispute, you can see me before school Monday. Otherwise, those are the grades that will be including in the 1st Quarter Progress Report.

RVI

Growing Problems and Shays' Rebellion

This was the homework that I assigned for the quiz/INB grading day.
Didn't get it? Not to worry! Thanks for checking the blog for the
assignment! You rock! Here is the assignment:

Growing Problems and Shays' Rebellion

DIRECTIONS: Cut and paste these questions on the top of page _____ in
your INB. Then, answer these questions on the bottom of the page. Use
pages 82-83 in the textbook to help you answer the questions. You
don't need to use complete sentences, but you must answer the
question in a way that Mr. Ippolito knows that you understand the
answer.

1. What two main factors made trade between the states difficult
under the A of C?
2. In what ways did foreign nations show a lack of respect to the
U.S.?
3. What group was hit hardest by the economic depression of the
mid-1780's?
4. What did state governments do to collect taxes during the
depression?
5. Who was Daniel Shays and what did he do in 1786?
6. How did Shays' actions alter Americans feelings toward the A
of C?

Are you ready???

The end of the grading period is quickly approaching. Here's what you need to do between now and then:

1. Prepare your INB. Your Interactive Notebook should be complete, pages 1-21. Need another copy of the INB grade sheet? Download it HERE.

Need another copy of something? Get it from my classroom, or simply e-mail me at rvi@hartdistrict.org and I'll either e-mail it to you, or post it to the blog so everyone can get it. Your INB must be ready to go by the time the next class period begins.

2. Get ready for the quiz. What's the best way to study? Use your INB. Don't bother with the textbook. You need to know what's in your notebook. Pay particularly close attention to everything we learned about the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation. This will be most of the quiz.

Good luck, and of course contact me if you have any questions.

RVI

Table of Contents

Help with the ARTICLES acrostic poem assignment

I had a student e-mail me who needed a little help and inspiration for the acrostic. Here's my response. Perhaps it will help you as well!

So you are going to write the letters in the word "Articles" down the page in your INB, like this:

A
R
T
I
C
L
E
S

Then you think of a sentence or two that describes the Articles of Confederation. For example, if I were doing an acrostic poem for ice cream, it might look something like this:

In my mouth, all those flavors are yummy!
Cold is the temperature of ice cream.
Every flavor is great, but my favorite is strawberry

Chocolate is also a great flavor of ice cream
Rocky Road is great because it has almonds and marshmallows in it
Everyone loves a cold ice cream treat on a hot day
Actually, I'm thinking about getting some ice cream right now
Mmmmmmmm! Ice cream!

Hope that helps, and good luck with your homework!

RVI

The Articles of Confederation Simulation - September 12-15, 2008

Agenda:
1. Articles of Confederation Game (pg 19)
2. Features of the Articles of Confederation (pg 20-21)
HW: Finish the Articles acrostic (pg 18)

Today we played the Articles of Confederation Game. You have to play it to truly experience it! If you've already played the game, don't spoil it for everyone else! It's a great way to help students get a feel for the frustration and anger that the Americans felt in the 1780s while they were struggling to form their new nation.

Hey, Period 2, that was quite a simulation, eh? We get so wrapped up that we didn't get to finish "Features of the Articles," so you can download the packet HERE.

RVI

The Articles of Confederation - September 10-11, 2008

Agenda:
1. Operation US - students who would like to participate must submit their application by 9/15
2. What does our National Anthem mean to you?
3. Declaration Marketing Campaign presentations (pg 15)
4. The End and the Legacy of the Revolution (pg 16)
5. Problems with the Articles of Confederation (pg 17)
HW: Articles Acrostic (pg 18)

Today we began by presenting our Declaration of Independence Marketing Campaign presentations. We then examined the legacy of the American Revolution, and finished by looking at the Articles of Confederation. We will continue our study of the Articles in our next class.

RVI

Scooter's Jungle - September 8, 2008

We are headed to Scooter's Jungle tomorrow on our first Team Yukon field trip! Because of this, your next homework ("The End and the Legacy of the Revolution") will not be due until Wednesday (A-day) or Thursday (B-day).

We look forward to a great day at the Jungle!

RVI

Declaration of Independence Marketing Campaign

Agenda:
1. Review of the Great Awakening and the Enlightenment
2. Work on Declaration of Independence Marketing Campaign
HW: The End and the Legacy of the Revolution (pg 16)

Today we took our 2008 knowledge and went back in time to 1776 to help
the Founders of our nation market the Declaration of Independence.
Working in groups of five or six, we developed a slogan, a jingle, and a
print ad to "sell" the idea of the Declaration to other Americans, the
British, and the French (whose help we need to win the Revolution).

You may not have gotten the homework sheet, so if not, the assignment
is here:

The End and the Legacy of the Revolution

DIRECTIONS: Cut and paste these questions on the top of page _____ in
your INB. Then, answer these questions on the bottom of the page. Use
pages 61-63 in the textbook to help you answer the questions. You
don't need to use complete sentences, but you must answer the
question in a way that Mr. Ippolito knows that you understand the
answer.

1. How did the Battle of Saratoga mark a turning point in the
Revolution?
2. What country entered into a formal alliance with the United
States?
3. Which OTHER country was also helpful in fighting against Britain
during the Revolution?
4. How did the Americans win final victory at Yorktown?
5. Under the terms of the Treaty of Paris, what were the new
boundaries of the United States?
6. How did the American Revolution affect France?
7. What effect did the American Revolution have in Latin America?

RVI

What's the opposite of mustard?

Because of the special assembly schedule today, we used today to catch-up on work. Tomorrow we start work on our Declaration of Independence project!!

RVI

The Declaration of Independence - 8/29/08 and 9/2/08

Agenda:
1. Vocabulary Quiz
2. The Declaration of Independence Graphic Organizer (pg 13)
3. Hand out Year-Long Movie Permission Slip
4. Hand out Declaration of Independence Marketing Campaign sheet (pg 14)
HW: Get that movie permission slip signed and read the Marketing Campaign sheet

Today we took our very first vocab quiz of the year. We then examined the most important document in American history: The Declaration of Independence. The Declaration is divided into four parts:

I. Preamble
II. Explanation of Natural Rights
III. Grievances against King George III
IV. Formal announcement of independence

Section II, in the humble opinion of Mr. Ippolito, is the most important section of the Declaration. In it, Thomas Jefferson explains why we must break away: "We hold these truths to be self-evident; that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." No government has the right to take these away, Jefferson argues, and in fact it is the government's job to protect these rights. When government fails to do this, the people have the right and responsibility to rise up against their government and create a new one.

Powerful stuff!

Next class we'll prepare a Marketing Campaign in groups to "sell" the Declaration.

RVI

School Portrait Day - Thursday, August 28, 2008

Today was school portrait day and Spirit Drive Assembly day, so there wasn't much time for work (25 min periods). Mr. Ippolito was busy in the MPR coordinating school portraits, so Mr. Schranz was our sub today. However, here's what we did:

1. Finish vocab and ask for help when needed
2. Prepare for INB check
HW: Study for vocab quiz

Be ready to present your vocabulary and take a vocab quiz in our next class!!!

Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader? - August 26-27, 2008

Agenda:
1. Journal #2 - Break Away (pg 11)
2. Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader? - Review and PPT
3. "No More Kings" Schoolhouse Rock
4. Review Great Awakening and Enlightenment HW
HW: Vocabulary (pg 12)

Today we spent much of our class period reviewing all the material we should have learned back in fifth grade. Fifth grade was a LONG time ago in the life of a junior-higher, so we reviewed everything from the Crusades, to King Henry VIII, to Columbus, the Mayflower, Pocahontas, and so much more. There's a lot of great American history learning and background knowledge that goes on in fifth grade, but we have to jump right into our eighth grade standards which begin with the Declaration of Independence.

We finished the day by looking at the connection between the Great Awakening, the Enlightenment, and the American Revolution. How did these three things connect? This will be important knowledge to have as we dive deeper into our study of American independence.

RVI

Finishing Primary Source Presentations - August 22-25, 2008

Agenda:
1. Go over Textbook Scavenger Hunt
2. Finish Primary Source Presentations
HW: The Great Awakening and the Enlightenment (pg 10)

We really used this day mostly as a "catch-up" day, as our schedule was shortened a bit by the assemblies and Ms. Sternberg's visit to talk about school rules.

We finished student presentations on their artifacts/primary sources, and then followed up with tonight's homework, which is the first textbook reading assignment. In case you lost the assignment sheet, here are the instructions, below. Enjoy!

HOMEWORK INSTRUCTIONS:
The Great Awakening and The Enlightenment

DIRECTIONS: Read pages 39-40 (the section called “The Great Awakening”) and pages 44-48 (the sections on “The Enlightenment”) and answer the following questions on page 10 of your INB.

1. What was the Great Awakening?
2. Who were the two greatest leaders of the Great Awakening, and how did they spread their message?
3. In what ways did the spread of religious enthusiasm during the Great Awakening reinforce democratic ideas?
4. What was the Enlightenment?
5. What idea was at the center of Enlightenment thinking?
6. What rights did people have under an absolute monarch?
7. Where did the monarch get his power to rule?
8. How did John Locke challenge the idea of “divine right”?
9. How did the Enlightenment affect people’s ideas about government? How will the colonists eventually put Locke’s ideas into action?

RVI

Primary Sources - August 18-19, 2008

Agenda:
1. Go over "Class Procedures"
2. Cover Page (pg 1)
3. Textbook Scavenger Hunt (pg 4)
5. What is a primary source?
HW: Life in America Time Capsule Project

Today in history we set up our very first INB cover page for the year. The cover page will always be the first page of each new unit. Each cover page should contain the unit's title in large print, surrounded by five symbols that represent the topics we will learn in that unit. Each symbol should be in four colors. I want students to take pride in their INB's appearance, as it will serve as their learning portfolio for the school year.

We continued class by getting to know our textbook with the textbook scavenger hunt, and finished up class by discussing primary sources. Speaking of primary sources, your homework tonight is to find a primary source artifact from your own life that represents life in America for your generation. You could choose a birth certificate (preferably a copy and not the original), a stuffed animal, a trophy, anything that says something about your life. You may NOT use your Rio Norte ID card (that's too easy). I'm looking forward to seeing what you choose as your primary source!

RVI

Guideline for the Cover Page

History in Room B-7 - August 15, 2008

Agenda:
1. Attendance
2. Course Syllabus
3. The INB
4. Class Procedures in Mr. Ippolito's Room (pg. 3)
HW: Electronic Tear-Off

Today in history, we went over our class syllabus and discussed what some of our learning goals for the year would be. We then started up our history INBs for the first semester. Please make sure you take some time this weekend to write your name and "Team Yukon" or "Mr. Ippolito" with permanent marker somewhere on the front cover of your INB in case it gets lost.

Finally, we tested our knowledge by tackling "Class Procedures"? How well were you listening yesterday? We'll go over the answers to all that next week.

The homework for this weekend is the "Electronic Tear-Off." Have a parent read through the syllabus, and then follow the instructions at the end. If you have any questions this weekend, feel free to leave a comment on this blog or e-mail me at rvi@hartdistrict.org.

Have a great weekend!

RVI

The First Day of School - August 14, 2008

Agenda:
1. Attendance - Who are you?
2. Welcome to Eighth Grade History
3. The First Day of School PPT
4. Being on Team Yukon
HW: Bring a spiral notebook to class (due tomorrow)
AND Team Yukon Contact Info Sheet (due next Wed/Thu)

Today was a great first day in Team Yukon history! Students learned about the five Yukon Values, and how to be successful in Mr. Ippolito's class.

I'm so excited to have you as part of our history experience this year! I hope you will use this blog to help you succeed in your history class this year.

Have a great eighth grade year. YU-KON!

RVI

Welcome to Mr. Ippolito's history class

Welcome to Team Yukon history and Mr. Ippolito's class! We're going to have a great school year! Check back here to see the agenda for our first day, as well as the homework (always homework in Ippolito's class!). I look forward to a great year with you.

Cheers,
Mr. Ippolito

The Accent Game

Test your knowledge of world culture and play "Can You Guess Where My Accent Is From?" It's a cool game. Enjoy!

Team Yukon Pizza Party

It was great to see all of you at today's pizza party! Please feel free to come back and visit in the fall. Just remember . . . come back after 2:00 p.m. and come in Rio Norte Dress Code (not VHS dress code!). :-) And just remember, what team are you a part of for life?

YU-KON!

Scooter's Jungle Field Trip - Friday, May 2

Just a reminder that this Friday is our Team Yukon trip to Scooter's Jungle! The weather may be pretty hot and sticky today, but the temperature for Friday will be in the mid-70s. Perfect weather for a walking trip!

Permission slips and money are due to Miss Schranz by TOMORROW (Tuesday, 4/29). If you need another copy of the school permission slip, or the Scooter's Jungle waiver, please get them by clicking below:

SCHOOL PERMISSION SLIP FOR TEAM YUKON SCOOTER'S JUNGLE TRIP
SCOOTER'S JUNGLE WAIVER

Talent Show Audition Results

Thank you to everyone who auditioned for this year's show. Congratulations to the following acts who made it into this year's Rio Rising Stars Talent Show:

1. Kraidman, Uhrig, Silgero
2. Drum Line
3. Ho, Farzadpour, Cassetari
4. Malachi, Sneed, Rivera
5. Grace Kimball
6. Michael Fernicola
7. Maddie Spivek
8. Erynn Young
9. D.I.P.H.
10. Craig Manalo
11. Antariksa and Yi
12. Kimiya Gilani
13. Kara Hayes
14. Vincent Yannicelli
15. Kelsea Knight
16. Rachel Null
17. Kristie Dolan

Please keep in mind that you must be present for our two rehearsals in order to be included in the show.

Thursday, May 1 – First rehearsal After School MPR

Friday, May 2 – Dress Rehearsal – After School MPR

Tuesday, May 6 – Talent Show – 7:00 PM MPR

If you have any questions, please e-mail Mrs. Painter at gpainte@hartdistrict.org or Mr. Ippolito at rvi@hartdistrict.org.

STAR Review Podcast is HERE!

Oh my gosh! It's finally finished!! While listening to the podcast, please open up this file:

http://www.cde.ca.gov/re/pn/fd/documents/hist-social-sci-frame.pdf

Skip ahead and be prepared to start on page 91 of the California History-Social Sciences Framework. We're starting on 6th grade history and through the podcast going all the way to the end of 8th grade!

Click PLAY in the box on the right, or download the entire 1 hr, 40 minute podcast HERE.

Enjoy!
RVI

Still working on STAR review podcast

It's 11:16 pm on Saturday evening, and I'm still working on the podcast. I'm tired and I'm going to bed. After I return from my UCLA Alumni Association event tomorrow, I will finish the podcast and post it to the blog. Thanks for your patience, Team Yukon!!!

RVI

STAR Test Review

Agenda:

1. Check homework
2. Go over "The Home Stretch"

I'm back to blogging!! We are preparing for the STAR test over the next couple weeks. Let's kick some STAR Test butt, Team Yukon!

The Civil War: A Nation Divided - March 20, 2008

Agenda:
1. Abraham Lincoln VIDEO notes (pg 57)
2. Quiz
3. Go over last night's homework
4. Eighth grade promotion
HW: The Civil War: A Nation Divided (pg 58)

We're wrapping up third quarter grades and getting geared up for our next unit: The Civil War and Reconstruction. Today we watched a biography on Abraham Lincoln and discussed the coming of the Civil War.

For homework, use your textbook to identify the free states of the North, the new states of the Confederacy, and the border states--slave states that remained loyal to the Union.

RVI

Wrapping up the quarter - March 18, 2008

Agenda:
1. INB grading
2. Go over the Benchmark Exam
3. Q4 Standards Guide (pg 54)
4. Cover Page - "Civil War and Reconstruction" (pg 53)
HW: Chapter 10, Section 4 TEXTBOOK NOTES (pg 56)

Today we wrapped up the third quarter. We graded the Interactive Notebook in class and reviewed the 3rd Quarter Benchmark Exam.

We're now jumping into our next unit: The Civil War and Reconstruction. The Civil War is a "watershed" in American history, and everything we have been learning thus far has led us to this point. In the "story" of US history, the Civil War is the climax of the story. Stay tuned for the amazing stories and fascinating people that will be a part of this critical time in our nation's history.

RVI

INB Grade Sheet anyone?

Starting tomorrow, we're grading the INB. Do you need a grade sheet? If so, download it HERE.

Quarter Three Benchmark - March 14, 2008

Agenda:
1. Any more questions before we take the test?
2. Q3 Benchmark Exam
HW: Fill out the INB grade sheet

Today is a celebration of learning: the Benchmark Exam! Hope you all did well. We'll go over the exam in our next class, and you will know your final 3rd Quarter grade by the end of our next class together.

RVI

Treasury unveils new $5 bills--starring Abraham Lincoln!

Cool! Check out the article HERE!

Play the Antebellum America Jeopardy Review Game!

Play with family or friends to help you prepare for the benchmark! Download the Jeopardy PowerPoint HERE. Good luck!

RVI

3rd Quarter Benchmark Review Podcast

The 3rd Quarter Benchmark Review podcast is now online! You can:

- Click the play button on the Quicktime player to the right.
- Click HERE to access the file directly (or right click and "Save as" to save it to your computer). --Enjoy!

Preparing for the 3rd Quarter Benchmark - March 12, 2008

Agenda:
1. Journal - "Find That!" - questions are in the image above (pg 51)
2. Review HW - "On the Edge of Civil War"
3. Benchmark Review Guide
4. Jeopardy! - You can download the whole Jeopardy review game to play at home on Thursday afternoon
HW: Review for Benchmark Exam

Your benchmark exam is quickly approaching! Study the Standards Guide, listen to the podcast, and post a comment or e-mail Mr. Ippolito at rvi@hartdistrict.org if you have any questions. Happy studying!

RVI

Need the Table of Contents?

On the Edge of Civil War - March 10, 2008

Agenda:
1. Go over HW: "The Crisis Turns Violent"
2. Ken Burns' "The Civil War" (pg 48-49)
HW: On the Edge of Civil War (pg 50)

First, if you're just here to download the Benchmark Standards Review, you can get it here:
http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/q3review.pdf.

The podcast will be up later this evening.

We are teetering on the edge of the American Civil War, which means our quarter is quickly coming to an end. Today we reviewed critical events that pushed our nation closer to disunion: the Dred Scott Supreme Court decision, the Kansas-Nebraska Act, Bleeding Kansas, Uncle Tom's Cabin, and the Brooks-Sumner incident in the Senate.

Following our review of "The Crisis Turns Violent," we focused our attention on a small video clip from Ken Burns' PBS series, "The Civil War." In it, we reviewed slavery in the South, the abolitionist movement, and ended with John Brown's raid on the federal arsenal at Harper's Ferry, VA, in 1859.

Your homework for tonight is to read pages 370-377 in the textbook, and learn about our nation "On the Edge of Civil War."

RVI

Ron Ippolito
Team Yukon History/Yearbook Adviser
Rio Norte Junior High School

Slavery Compromises - March 6, 2008

Agenda:
1. Journal - "Find This!" (pg 44)
2. Check HW - Sensory Figure
3. 6-8 Quiz: The North and the South
4. Slavery Compromises (pg 46)
5. Slavery Compromises Map (pg 47) - use the map below or the map on pg 365 in your book
HW: The Crisis Turns Violent (pg 45)

We are getting closer and closer to the start of the Civil War, and sectional tensions are increasing between North and South. While both sides struggle to maintain equality (or an advantage) in the Senate, the issue of slavery looms large over both sides.

Tonight's homework focuses on some key events leading up to the Civil War, when heated words become heated actions, and the sectional crisis turns violent.

You can check out the map of the Missouri Compromise here:
http://wps.ablongman.com/wps/media/objects/1483/1518969/DIVI181.jpg

and the Compromise of 1850 here (this may help with the map activity):
http://wps.ablongman.com/wps/media/objects/1483/1518969/DIVI267.jpg

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The Horrors of Enslavement - March 4, 2008

Agenda:
1. Nat Turner and Denmark Vesey (pg 41)
2. Imagining the Horrors of Enslavement (pg 42)
HW: African-American Sensory Figure (pg 43) - DOWNLOAD HERE

Today we began by briefly learning about two slave rebellion leaders, Nat Turner and Denmark Vesey. Both these slaves, and many of their followers, were executed for their attempt to conduct a slave revolt that would sweep across the South. Both (particularly Nat Turner's rebellion in 1831) struck fear into the hearts of Southerners, as many Southern whites envisioned their own slaves murdering them in their beds as they slept.

We next went back in time to examine the horrors of enslavement. We read from, and saw brief video clips from, Alex Haley's "Roots." We learned the story of Kunta Kinte, how he was captured in Africa, put aboard a slave ship, and sold into slavery here in America.

Your homework tonight is to fill in the thoughts and words of the sensory figure. Imagine you are an African slave being brought over to America. What do you see? What do you smell? What are you thinking, feeling, and hearing? The theme of this homework is QUALITY more than quantity, so make sure you carefully consider each response.

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Resisting and Adapting to Slavery - February 29, 2008

Agenda:
1. Drawing the Color Line (pg 37)
2. The Southern Class System (pg 38)
3. Africans Resist and Adapt to Slavery (pg 39)
HW: ENSLAVEMENT Acrostic (pg 40) - DOWNLOAD HERE

Today in class we began by taking a look at the roots of slavery in Virginia with a one-page reading from Howard Zinn's "People's History of the United States." We learned that slavery began largely because Englishmen settling Virginia were either not equipped to, or not willing to, do the work needed to establish the colony of Virginia. Because they couldn't enslave the Native Americans, they had to resort to enslaving Africans, thus beginning black slavery in America.

We then focused on the Southern Class Pyramid, and learned that actually very few Southern whites owned slaves. Often times, the slave system was upheld by non-slaveowning whites simply because it was a social system that kept even the poorest whites above blacks in the South.

We finished by learning the different ways African-Americans resisted, and adapted to, slavery. Slavery was a horrible system that ripped families apart and denied an entire race of people their freedom. In spite of this, African-Americans tried hard to keep their families together and to preserve their culture for themselves and their children.

Next time, we examine the violent slave rebellions of Nat Turner and Denmark Vesey, the horrible middle passage, and--on a lighter note--the Brer Rabbit stories of Joel Chandler Harris.

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The South - February 27, 2008

Today's agenda:
1. The South PPT (pg 34)
2. The North/South T-Chart (pg 35)
3. Textbook Reading Notes - Pages 270-274 (pg 36)

HW: Finish whatever you didn't finish in class, plus the vocab

Today, to contrast last week's study of the North, we begin our study of the economy, culture, technology, transportation, and geography of the South. We began with the South PowerPoint, then created a North/South comparison t-chart. Be prepared for a North/South Quiz when Mr. Ippolito returns from his conference!!

Finally, we read in the textbook (pages 270-274) and took reading notes. Your homework for tonight is to finish the textbook assignment (if you didn't in class), plus finish your vocab for next week.

RVI

Sample Abolitionist Scrapbook pages

Here are a couple samples of the Abolitionist Scrapbook Page. Of course it goes without saying that you may use these as samples as a guide, but you certainly wouldn't be silly enough to just copy these as your own, as that would be plagiarism--a form of cheating. Good luck with your homework this evening!

The Abolitionists - February 25, 2008

Today's agenda:
1. Warm-Up: Vocabulary Snapshots
2. Talkers, Writers, and Do-ers of Abolitionism (pg 32-33)

DOWNLOAD THE POWERPOINT NOTES HERE

3. The Abolitionist Scrapbook Page (pg 31)

Today in history we began by having some fun with vocabulary words by getting into groups and acting them out.

We then moved back to the topic of Northern reform movements, and the people in the United States working to end slavery in America. These reformers were called "abolitionists," since they fought to abolish slavery. There were "talkers," those who gave stirring speeches against slavery; there were "writers," those who used the printed word; and finally there were "do-ers," those who felt the best way to end slavery was through action.

Who was most effective at working to end slavery? The talkers? The writers? The do-ers? That is the topic of your homework tonight. Create an Abolitionist Scrapbook Page to demonstrate whom you believe to be the most influential in the fight against slavery. The assignment description is right at the bottom of the second page of your notes from today's slide lecture.

"I need to see an example, Mr. Ippolito!" OK, fair enough, I did mention that I will post an example, and I will do that tomorrow when I'm back at school.

RVI

Mr. Ippolito just got elected President!

OK, it was only an online simulation, but what a fun game! You can get on the campaign trail yourself, and use some of the knowledge you gained from our elections mini-unit to see if YOU can get elected the next PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES! Click HERE to play!

Reform Movements of the North - February 21, 2008

Today's agenda:
1. Reform Movements in the North (pg 27)
2. Women's Rights Convention (pg 28)
HW: Reform Poster(pg 29)
HW: Vocab (pg 30) - due March 4/5

Absent today? Read pages 288-304 in your textbook (for "Reform Movements"), and then you can download all the handouts HERE.

Today in history we studied the many reform movements begun in the North between 1800 and 1850. These movements were inspired by the religious revival of the Second Great Awakening. American Christians in the North were inspired to improve themselves, and the world around them.

Reformers sought change in the areas of:
- Treatment of prisoners
- Treatment of the mentally ill
- Education
- Abolition of slavery
- Temperance (ban on alcohol)
- Women's rights

One of the most interesting figures in the temperance movement was Carrie Nation. She actually appeared a little bit later in the 19th century, but she was quite a character. With her trademark axe, she went from tavern to tavern smashing containers of alcohol. Want to find out more about this fascinating individual? Check out these sites:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carrie_Nation
http://www.kshs.org/exhibits/carry/carry1.htm

They even have a Carry (it can be spelled either way) Nation festival in Michigan! I doubt they serve wine or beer there! :-) Check it out here:
http://www.carrynation.org/

Next class, we'll begin our study of the South.

RVI

The North - February 19, 2008

Agenda:
1. INB Grading
2. The North PPT Interactive Slide Lecture (pg 24) - download the PPT HERE
HW: Roads, Canals, and Turnpikes (pg 25)

We begin our next unit, "Antebellum America," by studying the North. We learned about the geography, economy, population, technology, and transportation of the North in the early 1800s.

These next four weeks are full of very valuable information that will help you understand the time leading up to the Civil War. Additionally, it will be valuable knowledge for the benchmark test! Stay healthy and show up to school every day to get all this great stuff!

RVI

Are you ready for INB grading?

Fixing up your INB this weekend? This might be helpful . . .

Yukon student appears in music video!

See if you recognize the Yukon student in this video. Click here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9SbUG93ALQc

Acck! I need to make up my test! - February 14, 2008

For those of you who missed the Manifest Destiny Unit Exam because of illness, first of all, I hope you feel better. I got hit with the flu last weekend, and it's NO fun!

However, I need to turn my grades in by 8:00 a.m. Tuesday morning, whether you have your exam done or not. So, here are your options:

1. Take the zero FOR NOW on the exam. Your progress report grade won't look so good, but you'll then have a week to make up the exam, and then your grade will go back up.

2. Make up the exam BEFORE grades are due. There are two times for this:
- Friday, 2/15, at 1:00 p.m. in my classroom
- Tuesday, 2/19, at 6:45 a.m. in my classroom
To take the exam during one of these two times, please e-mail me at rvi@hartdistrict.org to tell me you will be there, and I'll have a test ready for you.

Questions? Contact me!

RVI

Podcast problems?

I've heard from a couple different students telling me of podcast download problems. Yikes! If you're up late on a Wednesday evening, and you're having problems, you can download the recordings directly from here:

MANIFEST DESTINY REVIEW PODCAST - PART I
MANIFEST DESTINY REVIEW PODCAST - PART II

Good luck!

RVI

Manifest Destiny Review Podcast - Parts I and II

Hey team!

Here are Parts I and II of the Manifest Destiny Review HERE.

I would love your feedback if you thought this new way of sharing the podcast was easier or more difficult. Good luck studying for the exam!

Oh, and if you need to download a copy of the review, check the post just below this one.

RVI

Recovering from illness just in time for . . .

your exam review!!!

Hey Team Yukon, I was pretty miserable the past few days, but my fever broke last night, and I'm ready to start thinking "history" again!

OK, to get you started, you can download your Manifest Destiny EXAM REVIEW. You'll get a hard copy in the next class, but for those of you go-getters who want to get an early start, here you go.

Your Manifest Destiny Unit Exam will be this Wednesday (A-day) and Thursday (B-day).

By the end of the day today, I will post my exam review podcast. Stay tuned!

RVI

The Mexican War - February 7, 2008

Agenda:
1. The Mexican-American War (pg 18)
2. Texas War compared to Mexican War (pg 19)
HW: Manifest Destiny Perspectives (pg 20)

Today we transitioned from one war and right into the next. The Texians won their war for independence against Mexico in 1836, but the US government wasn't quite ready to invite Texas into the Union. Northern Congressman were concerned that bringing a new slave state into the Union would upset the balance between slave and free states in the Senate.

President James K. Polk made a campaign promise to bring both Oregon and Texas into the Union. President John Tyler beat Polk to it as he signed an agreement to peacefully settle the Oregon dividing line with Britain at the 49th parallel.

Polk set his eyes on Texas, and the US annexed the Lone Star State in 1845. The Texas matter wasn't settled with Santa Anna, and the new American maps claiming the Rio Grande as Texas' southern border infuriated the Mexican leader. Mexico insisted that Texas' southern border was the Nueces River.

Polk sent General Zachary Taylor across the Nueces River to show Santa Anna that we intended to protect our territory and our boundaries, and the Mexican-American War began.

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The Alamo - your thoughts

Sir Walter Scott said, "One crowded hour of glorious life is worth an age without a name." In the movie, "The Alamo," William Travis says this to his young son before he leaves him.

What do you think this quote means, and do you agree or disagree? Give your thoughts, and read others' comments by clicking on the heading to this blog entry, or by clicking on "Comments" below.

RVI

Continuing Manifest Destiny and The Alamo - February 1, 2008

Agenda:
1. Finish "Presidential Candidate Analysis" sheet (pg 14)
2. Manifest Destiny Key Terms (pg 15)
3. Remember the Alamo (pg 16) - THIS IS YOUR HOMEWORK DUE NEXT CLASS
4. While You Watch . . . The Alamo (pg 17)
MOVIE: "The Alamo"

Today was a day of variety. Students finished up whatever work they had remaining from our mini-unit on the California Presidential Primary. We then got to back to work on our Manifest Destiny unit.

Students have been working hard in Team Yukon history for the past three weeks, so as a reward for our hard work, we began watching the 2004 Disney movie "The Alamo" starring Dennis Quaid, Billy Bob Thornton, and Jason Patric. We watched the first 45 minutes today, and we will finish the movie in our next class. If you want a quick and easy viewing guide for the movie, you can download it HERE.

Finally, please remind your parents and other family members age 18 or older to VOTE on Election Day, Tuesday, February 5. Plus make sure that YOU VOTE for your favorite Republican and Democratic Presidential candidate at www.RioNorteVote.com. The polls open Monday morning at 7:00 a.m. and close on Tuesday at 8:00 p.m.

Have a great weekend!

RVI

Which candidate is right for you? - January 30, 2008

CHECK OUT THE BOTTOM OF THE BLOG FOR A COOL GEOGRAPHY GAME! ENJOY!
Agenda:
1. Mrs. Burns - Preparing for high school
2. Presidential Candidate Analysis (turn in FIRST, then pg 14)
HW: "The Alamo" permission slip - download here:
http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/alamo.pdf

The California Primary (on "Super Tuesday") is just days away! Today in class, students logged onto http://www.selectsmart.com to express their views on important national issues, and then see how closely their views matched the major party candidates' views. Invite your parents, siblings, and other family and friends to check out the site to see how they match up, too.

Make sure to vote next Monday or Tuesday, February 4-5, at http://www.RioNorteVote.com to cast your ballot in Rio Norte's first ever Mock Primary! Then hear the results Wednesday morning during homeroom. Rock the Vote, Team Yukon!!!

RVI

Two PowerPoints that may help you

Need to make up a PowerPoint presentation you may have missed in class? Here are "Pioneers' Experience on the Oregon Trail" and "The War for Texan Independence."

http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/oregontrail.ppt
http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/texas.ppt

Enjoy!
Mr. Ippolito

Help with your national issues "Presidential Candidate Forum"

Having trouble figuring out all the issues? Mr. Ippolito prepared a PowerPoint with Team Yukon students' most commonly asked questions. You can check it out HERE.

E-mail Mr. Ippolito at rvi@hartdistrict.org, ask your teammates, ask your parents, or post a question to this post if I can help you further (if you post a question to this blog, then your question could help others, too)! Good luck!

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The Alamo permission slip

Need an extra copy of The Alamo permission slip? You can download it HERE.

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Does anyone have . . . ?

Does anyone on Team Yukon have the postcard we sent you over the holidays? If you're not using it, and you don't wish to keep it, Mr. Ippolito would love to get it from you (I have no extra copies). Thanks!!

RVI

Creating Your Ideal Presidential Candidate - January 28, 2008

Agenda:
1. Journal - My Ideal President (pg 13)
"What would your ideal President of the United States be like? If you could "custom build" our nation's leader, what qualities would he or she possess?"
2. Presidential Candidate Forum (not in INB)
HW: Presidential Candidate Survey (not in INB)

The California primary election is next Tuesday, and the Republican and Democratic parties are deciding which candidate each would like to send to the General Election in November. Think of this process like the football playoffs. The NFC and AFC both had their divisional playoffs to decide which team to send to the "big game." That's what the parties are doing now.

Once we reach the party conventions this summer, both the Democrats and Republicans (and of course the "third parties" as well) will each choose their "finalist" to send to the political Super Bowl: the November general election. After all Americans have voted, on the night of November 4, 2008, we will know who the next President of the United States will be. This kind of thing only happens once every four years, so for a history teacher, this is a very exciting time!

RVI

Important People of Manifest Destiny - January 25, 2008

Lost your homework sheet? Download it HERE.

Also, you may not find Davy Crockett in your textbook, but you can definitely find LOTS of information about him. Here's a good, easy-to-read biography HERE.

Have fun with your homework!

RVI

Texas War for Independence - January 24, 2008

Agenda:
1. Texan War for Independence PPT (pg 11)
HW: Important People in Manifest Destiny (pg 12)

Today we took a step closer toward the Civil War in our study of the Texan War for Independence. It may not seem clear now, but this important conflict between the Texians and Mexico will set the stage for further sectional conflict.

Were the Texians law-defying illegal immigrants or freedom-fighting pioneers? Think about this as you enter the weekend. Next week, after our mini-election unit, we'll watch the Disney film, "The Alamo," and talk more about whether the Texans were justified in breaking Mexican law and ultimately forming their own nation.

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Oregon Trail PPT - January 23, 2008

Were you absent when we did the Oregon Trail PowerPoint presentation? Did you miss something? Don't worry! You can download the PowerPoint HERE. Good luck!

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Team Yukon Operation US - January 23, 2008

Just a reminder to all Operation US students that we are heading to Bridgeport Elementary tomorrow (Thursday, 1/24) to present our program to seven classes of 3rd graders.

If you need a copy of the script, you can download one here:
http://staff.hartdistrict.org/rvi/OpUSscript.pdf

Finally, please remember your Operation US shirt, and make arrangements to get picked up at 3:30 p.m. here at Rio Norte.

RVI

Pioneers' Experience on the Oregon Trail - January 22, 2008

Agenda:
1. Lewis and Clark video/journal (pg 7)
2. Pioneers' Experience on the Oregon Trail (pgs 8-9)
3. Share your Appleton family stories
HW: Pioneer Do's and Don'ts flyer (pg 10)

Today we started with a video and discussion on Lewis and Clark and their Corps of Discovery as they trekked across North America in search of the Pacific Ocean. Their 28 month journey was amazing, and they were hailed as heroes when they returned to St. Louis. What happened to these brave men and the rest of their group? Which one of them was the "original American working mom?" Which of them went on to become Governor of Missouri Territory? Which one shot himself and is buried next to a tavern in Tennessee? You can read biographies of all these amazing individuals on the PBS website here:
http://www.pbs.org/lewisandclark/inside/idx_corp.html

We also learned more about the pioneers as they traveled west to Oregon. We learned of eight different parts of the dangerous journey to the West. Your homework for tonight is to prepare a list of "Do's" and "Don'ts" for those traveling west. What advice would you give to a family getting ready to make this 2,400 mile journey?

Do you have suggestions to make this blog more useful for you? E-mail Mr. Ippolito at rvi@hartdistrict.org, or just leave a comment here on the blog!

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One Family's Journey The Final Chapter - January 18, 2008

Need help on "One Family's Journey - The Final Chapter" homework? You can check out the original script we read in class by downloading it HERE.

Good luck, and enjoy your three-day weekend!

RVI

Heading West to Oregon - January 17, 2008

Agenda
1. Read textbook pages 322-325
2. Journal - Oregon (page 5 in INB)
"Why did the Mountain Men go to Oregon? Why did families go to Oregon along the Oregon Trail?"
3. "One Family's Journey" play reading
HW: The Appleton Family - the next chapter (page 6 in INB)

Today in Yukon history, we began by reading about the two main reasons why Americans moved west to Oregon: gold and God. We learned that families headed west to seek their fortune, that mountain men went out to sell beaver furs back to the East Coast, and that missionaries went west looking to convert the local natives to Christianity.

We then read "One Family's Journey," the story of the Appleton family (Ma, Pa, Jem, Caddie, and Baby Sarah) as they trek west on the Oregon Trail from Independence, Missouri, to Oregon City, Oregon. The family must leave Grammy behind in Missouri and set out with their wagon train led by trail guide, Justin Lester. Along the way, they meet many challenges, hardships, and disease. They are helped by a group of Sioux, led by Tall Grass Waving. Finally, they make it up and over the Cascade Mountains into the Willamette River valley.

What will happen in the "next chapter" of the Appleton family's story? Your homework for tonight is to continue the story in 1/2 to 3/4 of a page. We'll share the best stories the next time we meet!

RVI

Homework help on Territorial Expansion Map - January 16, 2008

Want to see the map I put up on the screen today to help with your homework? You can find it here:Good luck and have fun!

RVI

Mapping Manifest Destiny - January 15, 2008

Agenda:
1. Push/Pull Factors (pg 4)
2. animatedatlas.com presentation
3. Territorial Expansion Map (pg 3)
HW: Finish map

Today in Team Yukon history, we began by discussing where we had come from as a nation. We began with just the land of the 13 original colonies, but by 1783 had quickly expanded west to the Mississippi River. Later, with the Louisiana Purchase, the Texas annexation, the Mexican War, and a few other treaties and purchases, by 1853, the continental United States was complete.

We looked at the mean center of population for the US, and saw how that center point has shifted west and south since our nation's first census in 1790.

Today's in-class assignment was the Territorial Expansion Map. The homework was to finish the map. Make sure to follow all instructions, especially when drawing and labeling the rivers. To help you with the rivers, check out these sites:
http://graphicmaps.com/webimage/countrys/namerica/usstates/artwork/rivers/uslayout.htm
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/usa/rivers/

A really cool downloadable, printable map of Westward Expansion is available here:
http://nationalatlas.gov/printable/images/pdf/territory/pagetacq3.pdf

If you want to show your parents some of what we did in class today, you can check out the Animated Atlas at:
http://animatedatlas.com/movie2.html

Happy Learning!
RVI

Welcome Back from Winter Break! - January 14, 2008

Welcome to an exciting Quarter Three in Yukon history! During this quarter we will study all about westward expansion (or Manifest Destiny, as it is also called), the Texan War for Independence, the Mexican-American War, reform movements of the mid-nineteenth century, California missions, slavery, the Northern and Southern ways of life in the 1800s, and the path leading up to the Civil War. There's a lot happening this quarter!

Our day began with a presentation called "Rachel's Challenge." This program, inspired by Columbine High School shooting victim Rachel Scott, is a challenge to all members of our school's community to be kind to others, to combat prejudice, and to start a chain reaction of good deeds that can be passed on.

The five parts of Rachel's Challenge are:
1. Eliminate prejudice
2. Dare to dream
3. Choose positive influences
4. Use kind words
5. Start a chain reaction

Parents, if you would like to find out more about Rachel's Challenge, there will be a special presentation this evening at 7:00 p.m. here at Rio Norte. Also, you can find out more by logging onto http://www.rachelschallenge.com.

We had really shortened periods today because of the special assembly schedule, but the homework for tonight is to create a unit cover page. The title of the unit is "Manifest Destiny," and just like every other cover page, you need the title, five symbols, and four colors. This goes on PAGE ONE of your brand new INB, and is due the next time we meet. Have a great quarter!

Some websites you can check out now to begin our new Manifest Destiny unit are listed below. Enjoy!

http://edtech.kennesaw.edu/web/westward.html
http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/lewisandclark/lewisandclark.html
http://www.kidinfo.com/American_History/Pioneers.html

RVI

Ippolito Family Visits Boston - January 8-10, 2008

Mr. Ippolito and his family are now in Boston--birthplace of the American Revolution. We walked a short portion of the Freedom Trail and saw lots of cool stuff, including the site where the Boston Massacre took place. Check out this Paul Revere engraving of the massacre:
Notice the building in the background, center. That's the old state house. Now, take a look at this photo with my daughter and my wife:

Although now it's surrounded by modern high-rise buildings, it's still the same building it was over 200 years ago. That circle on the ground below the stroller marks the spot where the Boston Massacre took place in 1770.

Mr. Ippolito and his family visit New York City - January 5-6, 2008

Well I had to wait until I was 30 years old to see New York City (back in 2005), but my 11-month old daughter got to see it before her first birthday! New York was very fun. We arrived in the late afternoon on Sunday, but we still had the chance to see Rockefeller Center, Times Square, Bryant Park, 5th Avenue, and Broadway.

The next day, my family and I went to Chelsea Market and got a personal behind-the-scenes tour of the Food Network. We got to see the Food Network kitchens, the studios, and post-production rooms. We also got to meet the Executive Chef for Food Network, Robert Bleifer. It was a ton of fun!

Samantha, I hope that helps answer your question! I wish we had more time to spend in the Big Apple, but our next stop is Boston. Mr. Ippolito will be visiting with his family in the Boston area, and then we're hitting the Freedom Trail to see the sights.

RVI

Ippolito Family in Philadelphia - January 4, 2008

Hey Team Yukon,

The Ippolito family is in Philadelphia! This is the city where American history began (well, maybe Boston will fight for that title, too--we'll be there on Monday). The Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution were all signed here in this city.

This was my daughter's first trip to Philly, and you can see her and daddy in the photo above visiting the Liberty Bell.


We had lunch today at Reading Terminal Market. You may remember the market from the chase scene in the first National Treasure movie (the fish market where Abigail was hiding from the bad guys). It was just as busy and crowded today as it was in the film.

Tomorrow we're spending the day with my wife's family, and then on Sunday we're off to New York City! You'll hear from me again in the Big Apple!

RVI

Ippolito Family Prepares for the East Coast - January 2, 2008

Hey Yukon students,

Mr. Ippolito and his family are preparing to depart on a 7-day adventure to Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston. Our flight departs tomorrow morning at 8:40 a.m., and it's our baby's first time on a airplane.

Check this blog in the coming days for stories and photos of the Ippolito family's travels!

RVI