Humanities 8 - Yoon Ah

Final Exam - What is Power?

2009-05-17T20:44:00.000-07:00

Power has many different meanings. It could be the ability to do or act; capability of doing or accomplishing something. It could also be political or national strength. However, I think that the power is the ability to rule or control countries, company, and people who/which are weak. In order to support my definition of the power, there are three examples from what we have learned throughout the year: literatures, imperialism, and the industrial revolution.

First of all, from the books what we have gone through such as Animal Farm and Julius Caesar, Napoleon and Julius Caesar had the power. Napoleon had the power to control the animals in the farm. All the animals followed what Napoleon commanded. Julius Caesar also had the power like Napoleon did. Julius was the dictator/ruler of the Roman Empire. Everyone followed him; however, because of his power, people were jealous and murdered Julius Caesar. As you can see, these two literatures prove my definition of power.

Second of all, imperialism is one of the examples. Imperialism is policy by a stronger nation to attempt to create an empire by dominating weaker nations economically, politically, culturally, or military. During imperialism time, the rich and powerful countries controlled the weak or smaller countries. For example, European countries were strong and they controlled Africa. Africans soon became their slaves and Europeans "used" them as animals or tools. Therefore, imperialism could prove my definition of power.

Last example is the industrial revolution. The Industrial Revolution had its early beginnings in Great Britain. England first created the factories so people wanted to come into England to work. England had the power so they mostly had the opportunity to what they want to do. For example, the textile industry was centered in New England. However, another country soon followed England: America. Samuel Slater smuggled himself into the factories and sailed the machinery plans to America. America started to have a competition against England. Yet since England was the first country to start the factories, England still has the power.

In conclusion, is the ability to rule or control countries, company, and people who/which are weak yet it has many different meanings. The three examples which were the literatures, imperialism, and the industrial revolution prove my definition. These three examples are related to the most two important words: "control" and "rule."

2009-05-03T23:06:00.000-07:00

What are the three most valuable things you have learned during the Population Project process? How will they help you in the future?

The three most valuable things I have learned during the Population Project process are data analysis, finding the information + data, and use of time. First of all, I didn't know how to write a data analysis until I heard the explanation from my math teacher. Of course, at first, it wasn't easy. However, when I looked the examples and asked many questions , I was able to finish my data analysis on time. Secondly, I thought the finding information and data would be the easiest part, but it was not. It was the hardest part, that I spent three days to find one data. Luckily, I was able to find the data and finish my data analysis on time. Thirdly, use of time! It took a long time to finish my data analysis, research paper, and the portfolio. If I started right before the due dates, I probably would have failed. I think use of time was the best part what I have learned during the Population Project process.

Net Effect of Globalization

2009-04-30T22:37:00.000-07:00

Globalization is the act of making global or worldwise in scope or application. There are some net effects of globalization which divides into positive effects and negative effects. The examples of positive effects would be, firstly, people were able to buy things which were from other countries. Secondly, middle class people is getting richer and richer. Thirdly, there are more foreign jobs such as people in India can get more job opporutnities. Also, lastly, they could upgrade themselves by working with other countries. As you can see, the main point of the positive effects is now, people can work in different countries.
Nevertheless, there are also some negative effects of globalization. Firstly, even though people buy things which are from other countries, they forget or don't know where it comes from. Secondly, middle class people are getting richer and richer; however, low class people are getting poor. Thirdly, since the world became globalize, some countries have different languages, food, etc... It means that there are no more religious countries (except for some countries). Overall, there are positive effects of globalization; however, as usually, when there are positive effects, there are also negative effects.

Image from: http://mrcoyle.edublogs.org/files/2009/04/globalization.gif

Feedback - April 13-17 - Technology and Schools

2009-04-19T21:59:00.000-07:00

What are the main visual elements?
- The main visual element is a family is having a dinner together and chatting. Parents are asking the child about the school life. I could know by looking at the quote: "Well, yes, we could read your blog... or you could just tell us about your school day."

What issue is this cartoon about?
- The issue about this cartoon is that these days, children don't communicate with their parents or with their family because of technology. These days, there are Facebook, MSN, etc... Children do these kinds of things instead of communicating with their family. This tells you that technology is making children dehumanize. Because of the technology, some children spend more time on Facebook or MSN than spending time with their family. The technology takes away the 'family time.'

What is the cartoonist’s opinion on this issue?
- The cartoonist's opinion on this issue is that children should communicate more with their family than spending time on Facebook or MSN.

What evidence in the cartoon supports your opinion on how the cartoonist feels?
The quote supports my opinion and tells me how the cartoonist feels. "Well, yes, we could read your blog... or you could just tell us about your school day." It tells that the child spend times more on blog than communicating with his family. Also, it 'TELL' is underlined which emphasizes the cartoonists opinion.

Why is this cartoon ironic?
- The cartoon is ironic because the child is very young and he knows how to use techonology such as blogs. The child seems his age is about KG, which is very young. These days, normally, children learn the use of techonology when they go elementary school. Also, normally, young children spend time with their family instead of doing blogs posting.

How does this cartoon relate to our study of technology and the future?
- These days, we learned about technology. Like, how technology dehumanizes people. This cartoon also shows that the techonology is dehumanizing the children which is negative to them. In future, these kind of children would increase and most children wouldn't spend time with their family.

What other techniques could the cartoonist have used to make this cartoon more persuasive?
- The cartoonist could have drew by child doing computer - blogs, Facebook, MSN, etc... and family sitting on a sofa saying, "These days, our child is not talking about his/her school life."

PoP Project Work Week

2009-04-12T20:13:00.000-07:00

My work plan for PoP Project:

- Monday:

Finish with my Data Analysis.
Research for my Research Paper (note cards as well).

- Tuesday:

Continue researching for my Research Paper (note cards as well).
Start on my Research Paper (outline).
Finish my outline of Research Paper.

- Wednesday:

Start working on my Research Paper - First draft. (First paragraph).
Go and check my Data Analysis and fix some of the places after conferencing with my math teacher.

- Thursday:

Continue working on my Research Paper- First draft. (Second paragraph).
Work time for Data Analysis.

- Friday:

Continue working on my Research Paper - First draft. (Third paragraph).
Work time for Data Analysis.

Feedback March 16-20 - Technology?

2009-03-22T20:05:00.000-07:00

1. What is technology?
- Application of science, - knowledge to practical purposes. By having technology in this world, people's life got easier.

Helped from: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/techonology

2. What are the 5 most and 5 least important technologies used today?
- 5 most important technologies are:

Computer
TV
Printer
Refrigerator
Washing Machine

- 5 least important technologies are: (in my opinion)

Vacuum
Rice maker
Walkie Talkies
PlayStation
X Box

3. How do you feel about the amount of and use of technology at AES?
- Sometimes I feel that AES use lot of technology. Computer, light, smart board, printer, etc... However, because of these machines, students can take advantages of it. Such as, some students don't have printers in their house. Then they could come to school and print their homework. Another example is that because of smart board, teachers don't need to print and save papers. They could just show the notes from the smart board, and students could take notes by looking at that. AES use lots of technology; however, I don't think AES is wasting the techonology. Everyone is happy with it and takes advantages of it.

Image from: www.frc.ri.cmu.edu

Vonnegut and Technology

2009-03-19T20:07:00.000-07:00

“Do you know what a Luddite is? That’s a person who doesn’t like newfangled contraptions. Contraptions like nuclear submarines armed with Poseidon missiles that have H-bombs in their warheads, and like computers that cheat you out of becoming. Bill Gates says, “Wait till you can see what your computer can become.” But it’s you who should be doing the becoming. What you can become is the miracle you were born to work—not the damn fool computer.”

I agree with all the statements; however, I especially agree with: ""Wait till you can see what your computer can become." But it's you who should be doing the becoming. What you can become is the miracle you were born to work - not the damn fool computer." I agree with this statement because we can live without technology. Computers makes people life easier; means we send emails to people not in letters, research easily, find information easily, essay homework - we could type and print, etc... Also, not only computers; technology involves TV, iPod, mobile phone, mp3, etc... However, if humans depend on technology too much, then the world will become to the end. Humans want easier life; already there are some human-like robots which help people. If these kinds of robots develop and if they are able to think, then they might attack people. It might happen what in the robot movies happen. =D Overall, people should be doing the becoming; not the technology. Therefore, I agree with this statement.

Image from: http://www.osu.edu/features/2006/vonnegut/images/vonnegut.jpg

Feedback March 9-13 - End of Quarter 3 Feedback

2009-03-16T00:18:00.000-07:00

My three goals were:
- Get a higher grade than last quarter.
- Journal Writing (Everyday).
- Do all the assignments and do my best.

My first goal which was getting a higher grade than last quarter, I didn't achieve with this goal. I got a low grade than last quarter. I noticed that I need to improve with this goal. I think it will remain the same. My second goal which was writing a journal everyday, I almost achieved with this goal. It means that except for few days, I wrote it everyday. When I look at my journal, I feel proud of myself. My last goal was to do all the assignments and do my best on it. I think I achieved with this goal, because I did all the assignments and did my best on each one. I didn't miss any assignments even though I was absent. Even though I was absent, I did all the missing assignments through weekends.

Three goals for next quarter are:
- Get a higher grade than last quarter.
- Do all the assignments and do my best.
- Get a good grade on Population Project (UBD).

As you can see, getting a higher grade than last quarter and doing all the assignments and do my best goals remain the same. However, I changed my third goal journal writing to getting a good grade on Population Project. Population Project is a huge project, therefore, in my opinion, Population Project is more important than journal writing. To get a good grade on Population Project, I'm going to come to school every Saturday and work on Population Project. I'm going to give my full effort on it. Plus, I'm going to promise to myself that for 4rd quarter, I'm going to get a higher grade.

Feedback March 2-6

2009-03-08T20:22:00.000-07:00

"Holy War." definition of holy is declared sacred by religious or authority and the definition of war is a conflict carried on by force arms, as between nations or between parties within a nation; warfare as by land, sea, or air. Basically, the word holy has a positive meaning and the word war has a negative meaning. If we combine these two words together, the definition might be a 'good word.' But all wars aren't good. After the war, everything gets destroyed and many people get injured or killed. Therefore, 'Holy War' is an oxymoron, which two words don't belong used together.
There are many wars based upon religions because there are many religions. For example, India has thousands of religions and people think that their religion is the best and every people should believe in that god. However, that won't work easily. Because of people's personality, the wars have to be happened. Some countries fight each other because of their religion. Having a war based upon religions don't make sense. As you can see, there are several reasons about many wars happening based upon religions.

Feedback - World War III

2009-02-22T21:07:00.000-08:00

I do think World War III will happen in my lifetime. Since, America government is not good, some countries will start the war to get stronger. First of all, there might be a war between South Korean and North Korea. North Korea already moved their ships and South Korea got frighten. I'm not sure if North Korea will attack South Korea, but there is a percentage. Since North Korea is not in a good condition, they want to get stronger and live like other countries do. I'm not sure which country will win, but there will be a lot of negative effects in South Korea and North Korea.

Second of all, there might be a war between India and Pakistan. Today, India and Pakistan's relationship is not so good. Because of the terrorists, there might be a war. I heard that Pakistan wanted a war between India and Pakistan. India is keep refusing it; however, when India stops refusing it, a war will begin between Pakistan and India. If a war starts, then India will face a lot of negative effects. In India, there are many foreigners living. When the war starts, all the foreigners will go back to their own country or at least everyone will go out from India. Then, India cannot work with foreigners which means that they can't earn money that much. Overall, I hope World War III does not start; however, since the economic is bad, there might be a percentage of starting World War III.

WWII Letter

2009-02-17T07:16:00.000-08:00

Amberley Stalion, Australia
Jan. 26, 1941

Dear Family,

When you recieve this letter, I'll be already gone on a secret mission. We are leaving tomorrow morning on a secret mission. I hope I could able to bring my ship so I can help in saving the lives of my friends. As you know, the weather is good but we have barely any food here which means that the ration here is low. Don't worry and don't forget that I'm trying to make a success of myself and never give up easily.

You know what? I thought I knew something about airplanes before, but when I came here, I figured out that I didn't know anything about airplanes. My chief has taught me plenty on airplanes and ships. I have my own ship - it's really beautiful. My name is painted on the left side and the color is really nice.

There are things I have seen here that I will never forget as long as I live.I was wounded my right foot, but I'm ok right now. When the Nazi's bomb hit the ground about 20ft away from me, I was scared that I never sweated so much in my life. I was well protected because I was on the boat. I don't want to experience that kind of situation ever again; however, since it is a war, I have to face more similar situations.

Don't worry, I'm perfectly fine and healthy. I will write again soon. I really miss all of you and want to be back at home.

Sincerely,

George L. Chapin

Image from: http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/speicalrpts/shipbuilding/photos/johmbrown_070404.jpg

Anne Frank Reflection

2009-02-17T02:01:00.000-08:00

3. In her diary Anne opined: “…if you’re wondering if it’s harder for the adults here than for the children, the answer is no…Older people have an opinion about everything and are sure of themselves and their actions. It’s twice as hard for us young people to hold on to our opinions at a time when ideals are being shattered…” (July 15, 1944.) Do you agree or disagree with this quote? When was the last time that you experienced the “shattering” of an ideal?

As we discussed, I disagree with this quote. Of course, older people have an opinion about everything and are sure of themselves and their actions. Also it's twice as hard for us young people to hold on to our opinions at a time when ideals are being shattered. However, adults have lived longer than us. They have lived outside for a long time, but the children ARE living in the Holocaust. They don't have a chance to live outside for a long time. Therefore, I disagree with that quote.

Recipe Poem for World War II

2009-02-11T05:18:00.000-08:00

1 cup of a failure of the Treaty of Versailles in a bowl of full of detestation
3 teaspoons of the failure of the League of Nations in a bowl of full of detestation.
Mix them well until it gets smooth.

Add 3 cups of the Rise of Fascism,
1 table spoon of Hitler, Mussolini, and Stalin.
Mix them well until it gets smooth.

Add 3 cups of German Aggression,
4 cups of Japanses Aggression,
and 2 teaspoons of appeasement.
Mix them well until it gets smooth.

Add 3 teaspoons of ignorance
1 cup of anger together.
Mix them well until it gets smooth.

Mix carefully for 10 minutes.
When the color changes like a chocolate color,
bake for 30 minutes.

You will have a delicious World War II cake.

Critique of Animal Farm (The Movie)

2009-02-09T05:28:00.000-08:00

We have read the book and watched the movie. I read the book first, which was really similar to the Russian Revolution. However, the movie was bad. It contains the important ideas, such us the seven commandments and the changes of the seven commandments. The movie cut many scenes from the book. For example, the war of Cowshed immediately happens right after the animals exiled Mr. Jones from the farm. However, in the book, when the animals exiled Mr. Jones from the farm, the war of Cowshed happens little bit later. Also, in the book, Napoleon doesn't die at the end, but in the movie, the animals kill Napoleon and that was the end of the movie. In my opinion, the end of the movie was quit bad. Furthermore, in the movie there were some scenes which were not in the book. For example, when Boxer got hurt, Boxer was being taken to the knackers. The movie characters were kind of cute except Napoleon. By looking at the body structure, I could find which characters are bad and which characters are nice. Overall, I think the book version is better than the movie version.

Which Animal Are You?

2009-02-02T00:55:00.000-08:00

Let me start with introducing about Mollie. Mollie is a character which wants to live the good life and selfish. She likes sweet foods such as chocolate, sugar, candy etc... I think I'm closed to Mollie. There are three specific reasons. First of all, Mollie wants to live the good life. I also want to live the good life. I want freedom. Even my sister graduated and went to America, because of my parents' pressure, I don't have freedom that much. Second of all, Mollie loves sweet foods such as chocolate, sugar, candy etc... I really love to eat chocolate. Therefore, when my dad goes to a business trip, he always buy chocolates for me. Also, when I was young, my mom told me that I used to eat sugar hiding under a bed. =) Third of all, Mollie is selfish. I'm not exactly selfish; however, for example, if I think this is correct and other person says it is wrong, I still say mine is correct. I rarely change my opinion unless there is a good reason. Because of this, sometimes I fought with my sister. My sister is also similar to me except she does not like to eat sweet foods. As you can see, I'm closed to Mollie for three reasons: wants freedom, likes to sweet foods, and selfish.

Tyranny, Injustice and Self-determination

2009-01-26T21:19:00.000-08:00

Tyranny means cruel and unfair government in which a person or small group of people have power over everyone else. In a book called The Animal Farm, it connects with the present situation. The animals can talk and read. They were trying to take over the farm. The animals were under pressure of people, therefore, they wanted to be free.

Injustice means the quality or fact of being unjust ; equity. Shortly, it means 'wrong.' As I said before, animals are under pressure of people. People treat animals differently. Animals and people are not equal. People kill animals or use as a 'thing.' Because of that, in the book, the animals get angry and decide to rebel the people. Especially the men. They make rules and decide to take over the farm.

Self determination means determination by oneself or itself, without outside influence. Or it can be freedom to live as one chooses. In the book, animals choose freedom. No pressure from people, no under control from people. Some of the animals act or decide without consulting another or others. They just want 'freedom' and they act or decide.

BANG!

2009-01-22T05:08:00.000-08:00

The soldiers get ready to fight,
With the fear and their powerful heart.
Waiting for the sign, when to start,
Ready to fight,
Ready to die.

BANG! BANG!
The sound of the machine guns,
The sound of the tanks.
The soldiers start to run,
Shooting at their enemies.

BANG! BANG!
Soldiers get shot and die,
Blood everywhere,
Dead bodies everywhere.
One by one, soldiers fall down dead.

BANG! BANG!
The houses get destroyed
People scream and die.
Some people start to run,
Far, far away.

Finally, the Great War comes to an end,
Everything becomes a disaster.
Blood everywhere,
Dead bodies everywhere,
And silence everywhere…

By: Yoon Ah Shin

Images from:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2234/2061003517_992e676d2a.jpg

http://www.solarnavigator.net/images/explorers_history/world_war_australian_infantry_small_box_respirators_ypres_1917.jpg

http://dailydish.typepad.com/the_daily_dish/images/einsatz1.jpg

http://www.ww1battlefields.co.uk/somme/images/newf/beauhamel_q1523.jpg

http://www.uh.edu/engines/ww1death.jpg

Is the military in your future?

2009-01-18T19:16:00.000-08:00

In Korea, joining military is required. However, only for mens. Men are required to perform about 2-3 years compulsory military service right after high school. Therfore, the age would be between 20 - 30 year old. If they don't go, then they should pay because they didn't follow the rule. Almost every 5 year, when the president changes, then the military changes 1-2 year or 2-3 year. Until last year, the president changed the military to 1-2 year; however, this year, the new president changed to 2-3 year. In my opinion, men should go to military because when there is a war, then they should know how to fight or defend. Plus, men don't get pregnant, (which is true!) which is a major thing to women. Also, since long year ago, when there was a king in Korea, they gave pressure to women and women's power got weak. It seems that men are showing that men are stronger, therefore, they SHOULD go to military. However, if there is some problem in their family or health (means they can't participate), then they are excused. In Korea, there are some women military; however it is not required. If they want to go, then they could go. Women also should go; however, since when women have babies, it would be difficult. After women have babies, their body get weak. And when baby borns , from that time women take care of him/her. These days some men also take care of their babies. Men's body structure and women's body structure are different. Therefore, there is a difference between men's strength and women's strength. As you can see, men should go to military unless they have problems with their family or health. For women, which is a good thing that it is not required, it should be optional.

Political Cartoon Evaluation

2009-01-11T23:55:00.000-08:00

What are the main visual elements?
What issue is this political cartoon about?
What is the cartoonist’s opinion on this issue?
What evidence in the cartoon supports your opinion on how the cartoonist feels?
What other techniques could the cartoonist have used to make this cartoon more persuasive?
How does this cartoon relate to the Great Powers Game?

The main visual elements are that in the picture, people are holding hands from different countries. One word for this cartoon is 'allies.' The political cartoon is about that one country is holding hands with other countries which mean that they are allies. By holding hands, they could help each other during war. They are 'friends.' The cartoonist opinion might be 'peace.' No wars, no fights, just peace. The evidence is in the picture. Holding hands is the evidence; however, the problem is that one person from the other country is not holding hands. She/he is crying. Maybe the cartoonist wants to show that at least, there is one person or one country who disagrees with something. The cartoonist might have used to make this cartoon more persuasive is by all the people who are holding hands, they could stare at the person who is crying. Which shows more clear that this country disagreed with something. This cartoon relate to the Great Powers Game a lot. We each got a country and we tried to hold hands with other countries, not to have wars or fights. 'Allies,' is the word for this situation. However, at the end, all the countries had at least one war.

Great Powers Debrief

2009-01-09T04:12:00.000-08:00

1. Which country were you? How did it feel to build your empire? Which countries had the advantage at the start of the game? Why? How did you empire compare to other empires?
- My country was France and relationship between France and German was not so good. However, me and my partner signed every country (of course they signed on our paper too), to not attack us nor attack them. Two countries had the advantage at the start of the game. Great Britian and U.S.A.

2. In the long run was it more important to buy armies, navies, industries or colonies? Why?
- In the long run, armies were more important than others. The reason is that we don't know which country will attack us. To be save, we should have lot of armies. Industries and colonies are also important; however, it is not good to have lot of industries and colonies and low armies. If some other country attacks us and we lose, then we lose all the industries and colonies at once. Therefore, army is more important than industries, colonies, and navies.

3. What did you do well? What would you have done differently?
- At first, we went well, and then when suddenly Germany attacked us, we lost everything (except one industry). We had lot of industries and colonies because we thought that other countries won't attack us. However, when Germany attacked us and left over with one industry, me and my partner noticed that we should have lot of armies. Therefore, we increased our armies.

4. How successful were your alliances? Did they help or hurt you? Could they be trusted?
- Our alliances weren't very successful. When we lost against Germany and lost everything and tried to recover, U.S.A. suddenly attacked us. However, Italy helped us and we won. Could they be trusted? Definitely not. First, everyone was friendly. And then, some country attack against other countries which were their side.

5. What are three specific things you learned about conflict from this simulation?
- First, I learned that we should not trust anyone. Second, to be save, we should increase our armies. Third, we should talk with other countries to make them not attack us.

Quarter 3 Goals

2009-01-05T19:12:00.000-08:00

For this quarter, my three goals were get a higher grade than this quarter, do all the assignments and do my best, and keep continuing writing a short story everyday. I'm not sure if I achieved on my first goal, because I got the same grade as last quarter. Maybe I should give more effort to improve my grade. In my opinion, I achieved doing all the assignments and did my best. For writing a short story everyday, I missed some days and didn't write a short story. Maybe I should need to give more effort on this goal next time. However, rather than writing a short story everyday, I would change to a journal writing.

For next quarter, my three goals are,
- Get a higher grade than last quarter.
- Journal Writing (Everyday).
- Do all the assignments and do my best.

Scramble for Africa Debrief

2008-12-08T03:59:00.000-08:00

I was absent! >_<

Net Effect of Imperialism

2008-12-01T00:52:00.000-08:00

Positive Effects:

- Found lots of minerals (natural resources).
- Education (For example, school).
- Built railroads, buildings - developed.
- Because of minerals (natural resources), Africa earned lots of money.
- Medication system. (From Current News).

Negative Effects:

- Because of too many minerals (natural resources), many minerals were stolen.
- African Slaves
- British took over Africa.
- Many families were seperated.
- British people treated Africans as an animal or a thing.

Africa Current Event News #3

2008-11-20T07:16:00.000-08:00

In Africa, there are some poor countries and rich countries. Everyone would think that rich countries rank would be high about assessing the treatment of children. However, it is not. Malawi which is in Central Africa, it is not a rich country. However, Malawi did far better than Sudan and Angola. Among the top 10 were Malawi and Namibia. Sir Richard Jolly, formerly of UN children's agency Unicef and now an adviser to ACPF said that government did a great job protecting children and taking care children through better health and education. Not only those two countries' rank was high. Some other poor countries' score was high as well. This article is important because it tells people that poor countries are also developing as well. And tells that poor countries' medication is better than the rich countries. Or maybe the government of poor countries are caring children more than the government of rich countries.

Article from: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7737784.stm

Central Africa Today

2008-11-20T06:55:00.000-08:00

Basically, the countries of Central Africa are mostly poor. After the Civil War (too much damage), the countries are trying to recover. Central Africa is developing, however, it is not that easy. War, disease, and environmental problems have made it difficult. Because of these things, the economic development is growing slowly in Central Africa. Central Africa is developing because of minerals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has lots of minerals that could bring wealth to the country. Since, people of Democratic Republic of the Congo are poor, the minerals could bring wealth to the country and make the country rich. In Central Africa, war and disease killed many people like, malaria, HIV, and the virus that causes AIDS. Malaria isa disease which causes fever and pain. There are many countries in Central Africa and the common thing is that all the countries are poor, but because of the natural resources, the country would get rich. As you can see, Central Africa is developing slowly.

Cartoon Reflection - Africa

2008-11-17T01:51:00.000-08:00

Questions:

1. What are the main visual elements?

2. What issue is this political cartoon about?

3. What is the cartoonist’s opinion on this issue?

4. What evidence in the cartoon supports your opinion?

5. What other techniques could the cartoonist have used to make this cartoon more persuasive?

--------------------------------------------

1. A foot print on a map of Africa. Maybe the foot print means the European colonizers. The European colonizers are stepping on Africa people.
2. The cartoon is about Africans, controlled by the Europeans. The foot print is the European colonizers and controlling the Africa. And the foot print is big and the Africa map is small. This means that Europe was a strong country and Africa was a weak country.
3. Maybe the cartoonist's opinion is that European colonizers should leave the Africa alone. Because the picture shows that Europe took over the Africa so much that Africa needs some freedom.
4. My opinion is European colonizers should leave the Africa alone. The big foot print on the Africa map supports my opinion. As I said before, Europe took over the Africa so much, so that it is time to leave Africa free.

5. Maybe the author should draw some people, for example, African people on the Africa map (black space) having a sad face, and European colonizers on the big foot print having a happy face.

Image from: http://img.photobucket.com

History and Culture of Central Africa

2008-11-17T01:32:00.000-08:00

Many early people lived in Central Africa but about 20,000 years ago, new peoples began to migrate to Central Africa from West Africa. They made some kingdoms and one of the most important kingdoms is the Kongo Kingdom. It was located near the Congo River and founded in the 1300s. The Kongo Kingdom is important because the kingdom grew rich by trading animal skins, shells, slaves, and ivory. Europeans wanted the resources such as ivory. They used ivory for many different kinds of things. Like, furniture, jewelry, statues, and piano keys. By trading with Europeans, some African kingdoms became rich. Great African kingdoms and European colonizers have affected a lot to the history of Central Africa. People who lived in Central Africa, they spoke different kinds of languages. They had hundreds of different languages and spoke different dialects, regional varieties. There are many different languages because of the number of ethnic groups. Each ethnic groups had their own language. And there were lot of ethnic groups. The most major religion of Central Africa is Christianity. Then traditional religions, and then lastly, Islam. Europeans introduced Christianity to the Africans. For the Central Africa arts, it is famous for sculpture, carved wooden masks, and beautiful cotton gowns dyed in bright colors. Also, Central Africa is famous of music. As you can see, European colonizers affected the Central Africa's history and culture (a lot).

Africa News Current Events #2

2008-11-13T07:28:00.000-08:00

In Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Congolese children were forced to join the military. Children were on their way back from school, and they met the rebels. The rebels made children to carry the luggages and told them to go with them. The rebels well-planned attempt to find new recruits. Six children and three teachers were kidnapped. Six children were Jean Vierre's (not his real name) classmates. Two boys were also kidnapped but after two days, they were able to escape. Last few months, there was a fight between Congolese army and the rebels. Therefore, the rebels were kidnapping those young children.
This is very important, because it is like a 'slave.' Children are forced to join the military. It is like those children who were forced to work. Some slaves tried to escape or succed at escaping. Same thing happened in this article. Some students tried to escape or succed at escaping. By reading this article, we could tell that these things (similar to slave) are still happening in Central Africa.

Article from : http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7724088.stm

Physical Geography - Central Africa

2008-11-11T19:44:00.000-08:00

Central Africa's major physical features are Congo Basin and plateaus surrounding the basin. A basin is a flat region surrounded by mountains and plateaus. In Central Africa, there are two kinds of rivers. Congo River and Zambezi River. Congo River is made by hundreds of smaller rivers and Zambezi River flows eastward toward the Indian Ocean. Central Africa climate is humid tropical and has lot of forest vegetation. The Congo Basin and Atlantic Congo lies in the equator and in the low latitudes. That's why the climate is humid tropical. Because of this climate, there are many forests and plants. Therefore, there are many animals too, living in the forest. Also, there are many insects living in Central Africa's forest. The forests are huge so that animals are safe. The Central Africa's resources are forest products and minerals like copper and diamonds. It involves uranium, tin, zinc, gold, and cobalt also. In these minerals, copper is the most important. People find coppers in an area called the copper belt. Putting all this together, The Congo River, the climate (humid tropical), and the mineral resources are important in Central Africa's physical geography.

Can we trust Julius Lester? (TO BE A SLAVE)

2008-11-10T21:19:00.000-08:00

Julius Lester is the author of a book called, TO BE A SLAVE. He wrote about slaves as you can see, and how people treated the slaves. The question is "Can we trust the "truthfulness" of what we read in TO BE SLAVE?" I would say yes, because TO BE SLAVE is a book of a Newbery Honor Book. If it wasn't true, then the book won't be a Newbery Honor Book. Also, these days in Africa, there are slaves and people are treating them very badly as it says in TO BE SLAVE book. Plus, Julius Lester is a famous author which means we could trust his book. I searched about him from the website called, Wikipedia, and it says that "Julius Lester is an award winning American author of books for children and adults.' As you can see, Julius Lester got many awards, and this book TO BE A SLAVE, got an award also. To get an award is not that easy. Therefore, in my opinion, I would trust Julius Lester and his book, TO BE A SLAVE in several reasons. "Truthfulness."

Go to this link to find out more about Julius Lester: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julius_Lester

Africa News Current Events

2008-11-10T03:48:00.000-08:00

In the Democratic Republic of Congo is struggling with the cholera. A cholera is threatening the people and many people died because of this. The MSF says that it has seen more than 45 cases around the city of Goma and other places also. The MSF doctor says that the Democratic Republic of Congo is in "very bad sanitary conditions." This got really serious that became a major problem. The MSF had seen "45 people with suspected cholera since Friday." There are also fears because the disease might spread further. Because of this, some people are running away from their camp.

Why is it news??? It is a major news because of the cholera, many people are dying. The biggest thing is that cholera spreads further, so that all the people would get cholera if one person gets. (Conflict — A major struggle in the news). The population would get low if people are keep on dying. This has to stop immediately before many people get cholera. "A cholera outbreak is threatening tens of thousands of people who have fled fighting in the Democratic Republic of Congo, an aid agency has warned." said fromt the article which I had read. Also, baby gets cholera easily because their body is weak to defend it. Even to adults are difficult to defend. As you can see, cholera is killing people and people are afriad with it. This should STOP immediately! ; o ;

Article Link: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7719030.stm

5 Themes of Geography

2008-11-07T00:05:00.000-08:00

5 themes of geography are movement, region, human environment interaction, location, and place. In this picture, for the movement, people are moving basically, and not all the people live in church. Secondly, for the region, you can see the 'cross' which means the building is a church and people are christian. Thirdly, for the human environment interaction, it is the building (church). Long ago, the building didn't exist (maybe) and it was empty, but now, from the environment they made the building which is a church. Fourthly, location, when I looked at the picture, they are definitely not Koreans, Japanese, or Chinese. However, maybe they are Americans or from other country. Maybe the location would be America or place where people are similar (looking) to Americans. We could see that Christian moved to other country, which is a movement. Lastly, for the place, people are wearing shorts and the building's roof is pointy. Maybe right now, the weather in the picture,
would be summer but it is a cold country. If the roof is pointy, that means it snows and rain. But in the picture, people are wearing shorts and the sun is very shiny. These are the 5 themes of geography.

Image from: http://www.salemjax.org/Portals/Salem/Images/Church/Building%20Photos/Church%20Entrance%20People%20Vert.jpg

“Violence leads to more violence.”

2008-11-02T19:38:00.001-08:00

"Violence leads to more violence." This sentence is true and I certainly agree with it. When you punch someone that person would also punch you back. Then this will change to a fight which can be serious. Same with the Julius Caesar. Cassius and Brutus (also other people), started first - killed Caesar, and then after that they (Antony and Brutus) have a war. However, Antony won that Brutus and Cassius also die. First, it started with a 'fight' and then it ended to 'death.' This is exactly the same with the sentence, "Violence leads to more violence." A small thing can change to a big thing. A small problem can change to a big (serious) problem.

Brutus' Dilemma

2008-10-20T01:48:00.000-07:00

In Julius Caeasr, if I'd been Brutus I would choose Good of Rome. There are several reasons:

First, (very important) if I don't choose good of Rome, then Cassius, Cascar, and other people who hates Caesar, would kill me (Brutus). If I choose Good of Rome, then I could save my life. Second, many people like me (Brutus). Therefore, many people would follow my directions and I (Brutus) could become a leader. Third, sometimes Caesar do some actions which make people angry. For example, he wants to take a risk of Rome (means, he is too bossy). Look at page 15 from a book called Literature Connections, Julius Caear by William Shakespeare and Related Reading. Many people would get angry about this because he wants to control the Rome.

Maybe there are some more good reasons. I'm choosing the Good of Rome because the important reason is, as I told you above, Cassius would kill me and I would die! I don't want to die. =)

Leadership

2008-10-13T02:07:00.000-07:00

Questions:
- What are the qualities of a good leader?
- Who are the student leaders in Grade 8?
- How do they demonstrate the qualities of a good leader?

To be a good leader, leader should be active, have a loud voice, and should know how to control people. Also, leader should be patient and be a good listener means that should listen to people's idea or comments. I think Aysha is the student leader in Grade 8. She is involve in almost everything. For example, during peace assembly (in gym), she went out as a leader of middle school. She is also in SLAMS, and almost every people know Aysha. She demonstrates the qualities of a good leader by listening to other people's idea or comments. Also, she helps planning dance and other events (because she is in SLAMS).

Maybe SLAMS people are the student leaders in Grade 8.

Imperialism Paragraph

2008-10-13T01:56:00.000-07:00

Imperialism means that stronger countries control the weaker countries. At that time, Africa was a weak country. European thought that they were better than Africans. Africa had lots of raw materials, like tins, coppers, diamonds, and golds. Because of these, European's interest increased. Therefore, they took over it by force. Other countries like India, they also had the same situation like Africa did. Britain took over India by force. India also had many natural resources, like cottons. They needed lots of raw materials (natural resources), because they needed for their industrial economies. As you can see, the common thing is that the stronger countries took over the weaker countries, where had many natural resources.

End of Quarter 1 Feedback

2008-10-06T20:23:00.000-07:00

My goals were write a short story everyday to improve my writing skills, do all my best what Mr. Coyle assigns us to do, and get a high score. This quarter, I did my best in humanities. I did all the assignments and followed Mr. Coyle's direction. In my opinion, I think I achieved that goal, and proud of myself. I missed some days to write a short story. When there is a test, I had to study, therefore, I wasn't able to write a short story. With my grades, I'm satisfactory with it and maybe I could do harder and get a higher grade than this quarter.

For this quarter, my three goals are:

- Get a higher grade than this quarter
- Do all the assignments and do my best
- Keep continuing writing a short story every day

I'm going to do my best to achieve these goals.

Political Cartoons

2008-09-21T22:42:00.000-07:00

Questions:
What are the main visual elements?
What issue is this political cartoon about?
What is the cartoonist’s opinion on this issue?
What evidence in the cartoon leads you to believe that the author feels this way?
What other techniques could the cartoonist have used to make this cartoon more persuasive?
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In the picture, there is one big man, small skinny man, and money. When I looked carefully, the big man is holding the skinny man tightly. The skinny man is the labor and when on the big man's chest, it says 'CAPITALISM'. Plus, the big man's foot is on the money. On the money bag, it says 'PROFITS FROM A CHILD LABOR'. I can see that the big man is trying to take the money away from the skinny labor. If you look at the picture closely, the big man is shaking the skinny man so that every money he earned comes out from the skinny man's body. In my opinion, on the money bag it says 'A CHILD LABOR,' so, the skinny man is the child and earned money by working. However, the big man is taking the money away from the child. (That's mean...) The author is trying to show us that the big man is taking money away from the child (the skinny man). Maybe the author can make that small things coming from the skinny man clearly that it is money, so people can see notice right away.

Roller Coaster / Factory Game Day 1 / Factory Game Day 2

2008-09-18T06:43:00.002-07:00

Sorry, Mr. Coyle! I was absent for a week. I published the posts which I missed (because I was absent), but I'm not sure if it is right.

Mother of Necessity

2008-09-18T06:43:00.001-07:00

"Necessity is the mother of invention" I think this phrase means that people can invent things what we need in life. Firstly, it would be difficult to live without computers. For example, we connect (contact) each other through e-mail; however, if there weren't computers we had to write letters which will take a long time. We could live easier because of Charles Garbadge who was the first inventor of computers. Secondly, planes. When we go to other countries, we need planes, invented by the Wright Brothers. Now we could go to other countries easily and safely. Thirdly, Thomas Edison who invented the light bulbs. If there was no light, we could have to use candles. (Oh no!)

How do you learn best?

2008-09-18T06:43:00.000-07:00

In my opinion, I think I learn the best way by playing games, watching videos, and reading. Last time we had a game which was really fun. It was a good experiment. To experience something, I thing the best way is to play games. Watching videos were the best way to learn because I could see how people lived, what happened, etc... (for the Industrial Revolution). I like to watch videos so any main ideas stick in my head and could easily understand because the video shows the scene about what they are talking about. Reading is very important... It is really important because it gives you lot of information. By reading those handouts which Mr.Coyle gave us, I'd learn many things. Maybe we can do these kinds of activities more in the future!

My goals - If they are achieved

2008-09-08T00:20:00.000-07:00

My goals were to improve my writing skills and I would write a short story in my journal when I have time. Also, another goal was do all my best what Mr. Coyle assigns us to do and get a high score. In my opinion, I'm not sure if my writing skill improved. However, I wrote a short story in my journal. I didn't do much, but usually I wrote about what happened on that day. I think I achieved this goal, but I can't guarantee about my writing skills. My another goal, which was to do all my best what Mr. Coyle assigns us to do, I think I achieved this goal. I did my best what Mr. Coyle assigned. Getting a high score, some parts I did, but some parts I didn't. From now on, I should do more hard to get a better grade. My new goals are (from now on), improving my writing skills (stay the same) and study and spend more time on the assignments which Mr. Coyle gives us.

1870’s Stock Market Reflection

2008-09-04T07:16:00.000-07:00

"A fool and his money are soon parted"

As it says above, "A fool and his money are soon parted," I was "fool." I didn't spend much money on buying. In Mr. Coyle's investment tip, it says that you must spend money to make money, but I didn't. I didn't spend much money that I didn't earn much money as others did. Not 'much' money, I should say 'alot' of money. If it was real, I would had died. Starve to death! Good thing that it was not real. But I learned one BIG IMPORTANT thing. I must spend money to make money. Money only comes to me when I spend money. It was just a play, but I think it was a good experience. Hope we could do this kind of game again!

Net Effect

2008-09-01T20:35:00.000-07:00

Net Effect for the Industrial Revolution

Positive things for the Industrial Revolution are, we are not having difficult time as long time ago. Because of the Industrial Revolution, we could make many products by using machines, and people who works in factory don't have to make everything. While a person makes one thing, machines make more than one. Therefore, if they have more productions, they could have a better trade with others. To have better trade, the transportation should be good. Then, the transportation will also get better. They earn more money and more factories. If it goes on and on like this, the world will get develop.

Negative things for the Industrial Revolution are, there are more pollutions because of the machines. When they use power or steam machines, they use power and water. By then, the air would get polluted. Also, the water would get polluted. They also needs more workers and more money. When they earn money, they use the money to make their factory bigger. Then, they need more workers and spend a lot of money.

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/flyingdutchee/1814134221/

Feedback Q1

2008-08-13T07:01:00.000-07:00

Answer the following in your BLOG in complete sentences:

What were two highlights from the first week of school?
- Meet my friends again and some of my friends changed. (For example, haircut).
- When I saw my schedule and I was in Band.

What was your first impression of Humanities?
- I felt that I have to work more hard to get a high score.

What are two goals you have for this quarter in Humanities? (Remember a goal needs to be specific, realistic, and measurable)
- To improve my writing skill, I would write a short story in my journal when I have time. (Already started from last year.)
- Do all my best what Mr. Coyle assigns us to do and get a high score.

My 'Gang'

2008-08-12T00:49:00.000-07:00

When I'm with my Gang, I always have a smile on my face. Also, she/he never shows her/his angry face or a sad face in front of me. She/He always help me when I have a hard time with it. In Korea, to me, it was hard to study Korean. However, she/he helped me with the homework, projects, etc... I still contact with her/him when I'm bored. When I came back to India again when I was in 6th grade, I missed her/him so much. Since I came to India we didn't meet. We planned to meet together during summer vacation, but she/he had to go to school. Normally, in Korea, summer vacation starts in 4th week of July. I told her/him we can meet next year, however, I'm not sure if our family will go to Korea next year. My mom told me we will go to Europe next year and America. When I went to Korea this year, I called her/him and she/he's voice was full of excitement. I was happy also. She/He said let's contact when you go back to India. Means call to her/him very often. I told her/him I'll try to call, but I won't be able to call that often. She/He said she/he will going to come to India, but she/he doesn't know the accurate date. I hope we can meet each other next year. If we can't, then next next year. If still we can't hope we meet each other soon! =)