Much Ado About Nothing?

What is your reaction to President Obama's speech to students? Was it political? Should the President be addressing students in this manner? How does it compare to President Reagan's speech to students in 1988. Below are links to the speech and text, as well as a letter from Florida Republican Party Chairperson Jim Greer that launched a national debate, news stories, and Greer's response just prior to the speech.

Local Debate:
Rep. Jim Himes, D-Greenwich
Reporting about Obama speech, Jim Himes' reaction was one-sided
New Canaaan BOE

Due Monday 9/14 (pm).

Afghan War

One of the current events/political issues we will be following is the war in Afghanistan. Read the stories below and some of the history of the conflict. How much do you know about the war? Do you have any opinions on what course we should pursue?

Updates from Afghanistan
Taliban Surprising US Forces....
Time to Get Out...
Video Reports...
Airstrike Kills 90..

Links to my website and the history of the conflict HERE.

DUE FRIDAY 9/11

Test Sign-In

Your first submitted assignment is to create a google account (username and password) if you do not have one, and respond to this blog by clicking on "# comments" below and submitting a comment of "Test Submission."

The Forgotten War?

Respond to the following prompts:
If you were President Obama, what would your objectives be for the war in Afghanistan? What steps would you take to meet those objectives and why?

Be sure you review the links on my webpage to provide evidence.

Due Friday 5/22

Debates - Extra Credit Optional Response

Since the debate sides were chosen at random, this is your chance to voice your view on either of the two topics. What is your opinion and why?

Due Friday 5/22

Mock Congress Blog #2

Complete the two modules at the Center for Congress website (How a Member Decides to Vote, The Many Roles...). Respond to the following:

1. What elements of the mock Congress exercise were similar to the actual process?
2. In what ways is the actual process far more complex?

You must provide specific examples to get full credit. Due Monday 5/4 (pm).

Mock Congress

PERIOD 5
Respond to the following questions about our mock congress:

• How did you deal with differing views within your party? The committees? Were you willing to compromise your values or views in order to pass bills?
  
• How do you think members of Congress approach this process?
• What could you do to be more effective debaters during the floor session?
  

Due Friday 5/1