I think that many students consider me to be a bit off when I express joy in the approach of the World War I. It is a bit strange, I admit. Yet, the World War I unit is one of the most profound courses of study into which we delve. The themes, the struggle to understand destruction and death on such a large scale, the emergence of the intellectual orphan, as well as the plunge into forgetfulness that gripped the world afterwards become essential points of our content. This is demanding on as many levels as possible. Our students will engage with the content on parallel levels, intellectually and psychologically. It is my hope that much is gained from this exploration.
Students should refer to the syllabus for any extra credit options that exist this week. Extra credit is additional work and this helps to make our students stronger for the challenging terrain that lies ahead. In terms of work for the week of January 6 to January 10, students must address the following:
Monday- HW: Notetaking guides on Chapter 21, sections 1 and 2 must be done. Students have to have the foundation of World War I facts before we move into the themes. Revisions of Zinn Close Reading Tasks are due Monday, 1.13. Students have to make the time to drop off their revisions to me. For handwritten revisions as well as originals, both copies have to be attached.
Tuesday- HW: Notetaking guides on Chapter 21, sections 3 and 4 must be done. Revisions of Zinn Close Reading Tasks are due Monday, 1.13.
Wednesday- Check over Notetaking Guides for completion. Move into Themes of World War I. Exit assessment on themes of World War I. HW: Review themes covered thus far. Revisions of Zinn Close Reading Tasks are due Monday, 1.13.
Thursday- HW: Review themes of World War I covered so far. Revisions of Zinn Close Reading Tasks are due Monday, 1.13.
Friday- Review themes of World War I covered. We start our cinematic analysis of World War I themes next week. Revisions of Zinn Close Reading Tasks are due Monday, 1.13. Students have to make the time to drop off their revisions to me.
The work is increasing, the demands are becoming more. The content is becoming more arduous, and there will be much more in store (To the student in second period who says I cannot laugh or remark about my own poetry, let it be known that I shall always be a poet and not have known it.)
I hope students will activate their own spirit of inquiry, thought, and advocacy in making sure they rise to the challenges placed upon them.
All best.
Mr. Kannan
