Monday, March 30, 2015

Ancient World/Modern World History MP 4 Research Paper Project

Marking Period 4 Ancient and Modern World Research Paper Directions
Mr. Layne


What is the project?
Your project for this marking period is to develop a research paper using conventions of the discipline of history about a topic related to your respective history class.

What is the purpose of this project?
To introduce you/enable you to further develop your abilities to do historical research and writing:  choosing a topic, conducting research, developing a thesis, supporting your thesis with evidence, and presenting it in the form of a well written paper.

When is this project due?
You actually have several due dates:
  • Wednesday, April 8:  topic due
  • Wednesday, April 22:  thesis, outline and bibliography due (will count as a separate quiz grade)
  • Wednesday, April 29:  optional draft due (it need not be complete)
  • Friday, May 8: final paper due

What Topics can I choose?
That depends on what class you are in:
  • Ancient World:  Any topic  from 500 C.E-1500 C.E. relating to World History
  • Modern World:  Any topic between 1850-Present  relating to World History

How much of my grade is this project worth?
This project will be worth 35% of your marking period grade

How will this project be graded?
You will be graded on the following criteria:
  • Meeting the due date
  • Correct spelling, grammar, and formatting
  • Use of primary and secondary sources; strength of overall evidence
  • Strength of the thesis and overall substance of the paper
  • Strength of conclusions

What do you mean by “conventions of the discipline of history?”
That means that I expect you to cite your sources using footnotes or endnotes and a works cited page using the “Chicago Style” format.  Don’t worry if you have forgotten how to do this—I’ll review it with you in class well before the final paper is due.

How many sources do I need to use (College Prep)?
You must have minimum of 5 sources—2 of which must be primary.  You may not use Internet secondary sources (like Wikipedia).  You may not use your textbook as a source.  You may not use general encyclopedias (World Book, Britannica, etc.).  Primary sources found on the Internet from reputable sites are acceptable.

How long does this paper need to be (College Prep)?
It must be a minimum of 1,000-1,250 words (approximately 4-5 pages).  Any attempt to make your paper appear longer than it actually is (large font, weird spacing, etc.) will result in your grade being penalized.  The paper should have standard margins and be typed in 12 point Times New Roman font.

What if I am taking this course for Honors Credit?
If you are taking this course for Honor’s Credit, then you need to meet a few additional requirements:
  • To allow you to conduct both broader and more in-depth research, you must have a minimum of 7 sources—3 of which must be primary.  You may not use Internet secondary sources (like Wikipedia).  You may not use your textbook as a source.  You may not use general encyclopedias (World Book, Britannica, etc.).  Primary sources found on the Internet from reputable sites are acceptable.
  • To allow you to write a paper of greater substance, the paper must be a minimum of 1,250-1,750 words (approximately 5-7 pages).  Any attempt to make your paper appear longer than it actually is (large font, weird spacing, etc.) will result in your grade being penalized.  The paper should have 1-inch margins all around and should have a font no larger than 12 pt. (my preferred font is Times New Roman).
  • To allow you the opportunity for greater communication, you will prepare a 5-7 minute presentation on your topic, which you will present for the class.
    • This presentation must include the following:
      • The topic of your paper and your thesis
      • A brief overview of your research methods and the sources you used—both primary and secondary
      • A brief overview of the main points of your paper
      • What your paper concludes
      • Question/Answer period





  • You may prepare a power point to accompany your presentation.  The power point must enhance the presentation and not serve to replace it.
  • You may use notes for your presentation; you should not simply stand up and read your paper.



      • What if I have more questions?
        Ask me—at the beginning or end of class, in the halls, via email, whatever—just ask.

        Also, be sure to review the rubrics below (I will use these exact rubrics to evaluate your paper):

        Rubrics:

        Research Paper Grading Rubric, College Prep
        Mr. Layne


        Student Name:  ______________________________________


        Formatting—20 pts.
          • Spelling and grammar—10 pts.
          • Spacing, formatting, and citations—10 pts.

        _______pts



        Overall Substance of the paper—80 points
        o   Includes a clear and well-thought out thesis—15 pts.
        o   Source requirements met—10 pts.
        o   Thesis is supported by evidence/sources used in a balanced way—20 pts.
        o   Ideas are presented in a logical and organized manner—15 pts.
        o   Paper demonstrate original critical and historical thought—10 pts.
        o   Overall quality of the paper—10 pts.

        _______pts


        Total Points/Final Grade:  _____________





        Research Paper Grading Rubric, Honors
        Mr. Layne


        Student Name:  ______________________________________


        Formatting—20 pts.
          • Spelling and grammar—10 pts.
          • Spacing, formatting, and citations—10 pts.

        _______ pts.


        Overall Substance of the paper—60 points
        o   Includes a clear and well-thought out thesis—10 pts.
        o   Source requirements met—10 pts.
        o   Thesis is supported by evidence/sources used in a balanced way—20 pts.
        o   Ideas are presented in a logical and organized manner—10 pts.
        o   Paper demonstrate original critical and historical thought—10 pts.
        _______ pts.


        Paper Presentation—20 points: 
          • Paper topic/thesis—2 pts.
          • Brief overview of research methods and the sources—2 pts.
          • Brief overview of paper’s main points—2pts.
          • Paper’s conclusion—2pts.
          • Question/answer period—2pts.
          • Overall quality of the presentation—10 pts.
        ______ pts.



        Total Points/Final Grade:  _____________









        Wednesday, February 11, 2015

        PEEPS!!!

        Marking Period 3 Project
        “History According to PEEPS”



        The First Punic War by Olivia Marra, 2010


        Your project this marking period is to make a diorama portraying a specific event or time period related to the subject of your particular history course.  The subject of your diorama must be related to a topic relevant to either:

        • Ancient World History (if you're in Ancient World History)
        • Modern World History (if you're in Modern World History)
        Also, your diorama must include at least one PEEP (that’s right, one of those weird marshmallow chicks or bunnies that are in stores now in anticipation of Easter). 

        In addition to making your diorama, you are to write a brief (1/2 page-3/4 page description of the event/time period your diorama represents. 

        ***You MUST have your topic approved by me by February 20th***

        Project Due Dates (due to limited display space projects will be due depending on your class):

        • Ancient World History:  Monday, March 16th
        • Modern World History:  Monday, March 23rd
          Your grade will be based on the following:
        ·       Due Date met, 10 pts.
        ·       Originality of topic, 10 pts.
        ·       Composition/design, 25 pts.
        ·       Portrayal of event/time period through the diorama, 30 pts.
        ·       Humor/use of PEEPS, 10 pts.
        ·       Written Description:  15 pts.



        Have fun with this one J

        Wednesday, November 12, 2014

        Modern World History Chapter 18 Test Review: The Scientific, American, and French Revolutions; 18th Century Europe

        Test Date:  Thursday, November 20th

        Format:
        • 15 multiple choice questions, each worth 3 points (45 points)
        • Two essay questions (choose ONE), 55 points
         Material you are responsible for:
        • The major characteristics and developments of the Scientific Revolution, including:
          • Major scientists, their fields of study, and their discoveries/contributions
            • Copernicus, Brahe, Kepler, Galileo, Boyle, Vesalius, Des Cartes, Francis Bacon, Sir Isaac Newton
        • The major characteristics of the Enlightenment, including
          • The connection to the Scientific Revolution
          • The individual philosophes and their ideas
            • John Locke
            • Voltaire
            • Rousseau
            • Montesquieu
            • Adam Smith
          • The different forms the Enlightenment took (for example, the Enlightenment in Russia, Austria, and Prussia)
        • The causes and consequences of the American Revolution and its relationship to the Enlightenment
          • The 7 Years/French and Indian War
          • Salutory Neglect
          • British taxation policies and colonial response
          • The Boston Massacre and Boston Tea Party
          • The Battles of Lexington and Concord and the Declaration of Indpendence
          • American strategy against the British
          • The Constitutional Convention of 1787 and the importance of the new Constitution
        • The causes, characteristics, and consequences of the French Revolution and Napoleonic era including
          • The influence of the Enlightenment and the Philosophes
          • The social dynamics of Paris vs. the countryside of France
          • The polices of King Louis XVI and the conflict between the nobility and the monarchy over taxation
          • Chronology of events beginning with the calling of the Estates General in May of 1789 through the end of the Directory in 1799
          • Reasons for increasing radicalism and changes of government during the French Revolution (including the different forms of government that France went through from the Monarchy to Napoleon)
          • The significance of the Jacobins, Robespierre, and the Reign of Terror
          • The relationship between Napoleon and the French Revolution
          • A comparison of the French Revolution and the American Revolution and an understanding of the “Revolutionary Paradigm” (the pendulum metaphor)






        Ancient World History Persia, Greece, and Persian War Test Review

        Test Date:  Wednesday, November 19th

        Format:
        • 15 multiple choice questions, each worth 3 points (45 points total)
        • 2 response questions, you choose 1, each worth 55 points

        Textbook Material:
        Chapters 1 (the section on Persia) and 4 in your textbook.

        What do I need to know?

        • The major aspects of the Persian Empire
          • Geographic features
          • Important people
            • Cyrus
            • Cambyses
            • Darius
            • Xerxes
          • Chronology of the growth of the Persian Empire
          • Aspects of Persian government and administration--the satrap system
        • The major political, social, and cultural developments in Greece, including
          • Geographic features
          • The early Greeks (Cycladic, Minoan, and Mycenaean)
          • The Dark Age and the significance of The Iliad and The Odyessy
          • The development and significance of the polis
          • Greek systems of government:  monarchy, oligarchy, tyranny, democracy
              • The Assembly and Council of 500
            • Sparta
              • The Gerousia, Appela, Ephors, Krypteia, Agoge, Helots, and Equals
          • Important people
            • The Alcmaeonids
            • Draco
            • Solon
            • Pesistratus
            • Hippias
            • Cleisthenes
            • Lycurgus
          • Chronology of events
        • The Persian War
          • Greek and Persian military practices
            • The phalanx and hoplite
            • The trireme and naval warfare
          • Causes of the wars
          • Chronology of events
          • Major battles and their significance
            • Marathon
            • Thermopylae
            • Salamis
            • Plataea
          • Important people
            • Herodotus
            • Miltiades
            • Leonidas
            • Ephialtes
            • Themistocles
            • Sicinnus
            • Artemesia
            • Pausanias 
            • Mardonias


        Sunday, November 9, 2014

        Military History Military Revolution-18th Century Warfare

        Format:
         15 multiple choice (3 points each), 45 points
        1 essay (choice of two questions), 55 point


        What you need to know:

        16th and 17th Century Warfare:

        The Military Revolution Thesis:  the four aspects of the Military Revolution thesis, as put forth by Michael Roberts and Geoffrey Parker, including Parker’s “adjustments” to Roberts’ original thesis:  new technology, larger armies, more complex tactics and strategies, higher cost of war

           The relationship between military developments and other developments of the early modern period (exploration, religion, science, etc.)

         The characteristics of naval warfare from the battle of Lepanto through the Spanish Armada, including

        • Ship design and weaponry
        • The use of private vessels vs. state controlled navies
        • Details and significance of Lepanto and the Armada Campaign 

        •  The causes and major events of the 30 Years War/significance of the 30 Years War
        •  The Spanish/continental military system at the start of the 30 Years War
        •  The tercio and caracole
        •   The military system of Gustavus Adolphus and its application during the 30 Years War
          •  Details of the Battle of Breitenfeld
          •  Details of the Battle of Lutzen
        • The overall significance of the 30 Years War

        18th Century Warfare:
        • Louis XIV's Ministerial system
        • Vauban and the trace itallienne
        • The influence of the Enlightenment
        • 18th century linear tactics
        • 18th century military technology:  significance of the fusil/flintlock; artillery
        •  The rise of Prussian Power and the 2nd half of the 18th century
          • The Prussian state
          • The Prussian army under Frederick the Great
            • Details on the battles of Prague, Rossbach, and Leuthen
        • Major events and significance of the 7 Years/French and Indian War

        Wednesday, November 5, 2014

        Military History MP 3 Project: Developing Military Technology--Modern War

        Project Description:

        One of the major themes this marking period (and the class as a whole) is identifying and assessing the impact of new technologies on warfare.  Therefore, your project this marking period is to devise, design, and produce a functional piece of "military technology" that can be incorporated into our Nerf simulations.

        This project is a follow-up project from the 2nd marking period.  For this project you are to devise a piece of military technology specifically associated with warfare from 1914-present.

        Project Purpose:

        The purpose of this project is to:

        • make you think about the reasons behind changes to military technology in the modern era (you can base this upon what you've learned from the simulations we've run already and will continue to run).
        • figure out how to solve a problem or create a new capability through the use of technology.
        • provide the class with new technologies to work with, analyze, and potentially improve upon.

        The Project Itself:

        • As stated above, your project is to devise, design, and produce a functional piece of technology that we can incorporate into our simulations of modern warfare.  In order to do this effectively you should think about the following:

          • What sort of problem to you want to solve or capability do you want to create?
          • Will this technology be primarily offensive, defensive, or some combination of the two in nature?
          • Will this technology have a very limited/specialized use or will it be applicable to a wide variety of situations?
          • How simple/complex will this technology need to be in order to achieve its function?
          • How many people will need to be equipped with it?  One "specialist" or the entire group?
          • What are possible liabilities for this technology (size, weight, fragility, cost, etc.)?
        With respect to designing and producing your piece, you may use certain finished goods (for example, if your design includes a flashlight, you can incorporate a finished flashlight, but if your project is a communication system, you may not just bring in a set of walkie-talkies).  Ultimately this is to be something ORIGINAL and designed and built BY YOU.  That said, you can be guided and inspired by historical technological developments.

        In addition to developing your piece of technology, you are to prepare a presentation for the class (using Power Point or a comparable program) about your design process (including materials used and any research you did), the purpose of the technology and the need for it, your vision for it's use, and the finished piece.  This presentation should be approximately 5-7 minutes in length and is due with the finished project.

        In addition to presenting the technology, it will also be subjected to use during Nerf scenarios intended to test its design and effectiveness.

        Due Date:

        • A proposal for your project, including a preliminary description of the technology itself and how you intend to make it, is due on Friday, March 6th
        • The final project is due on Monday, March 23rd

        Caveats:

        • Your project is subject to my approval.
        • Your project must be safe and be able to be safely deployed in class.
        • Your project may not violate any stated school rules or policies (no open flames, for example)
        • If your project is meant for gym use be sure it will not damage the floor.

        Rubric:

        Proposal complete and turned in on time:  10 points

        Final Due Date met:  10 points

        Presentation:  20 points

        Final Project:  60 points (based on):
        • Creativity, ingenuity, and quality of the design:  10 points
        • Problem solved/capability enabled/value provided:  20 points (to be determined in part by the class as a whole)
        • Functionality (does it work):  30 points (to be determined in part by the class as a whole)

        Honors Students:

        It is expected that your projects will reflect your status as honor's students.

        Extra Credit:

        In addition to this project, you may significantly improve your 2nd marking period project for extra credit points.  This must also be completed by March 23rd ad will be worth an additional quiz grade.


        Friday, October 24, 2014

        Ancient and Modern World History Marking Period 2 Research Paper Project

        Ancient and Modern World History
        Mr. Layne
        Project Directions, Marking Period 2

        What is the project?
        Your project for this marking period is to develop a research paper using conventions of the discipline of history about a topic related to your respective history class.

        What is the purpose of this project?
        To introduce you to historical research and writing:  choosing a topic, conducting research, developing a thesis, supporting your thesis with evidence, and presenting it in the form of a well written paper.

        When is this project due?
        You actually have several due dates:
        • Monday, November 3:  topic due
        • Monday, November 10::  thesis, outline and bibliography due (will count as a separate quiz grade)
        • Monday, November 17:  optional draft due (it need not be complete)
        • Friday, December 5: final paper due
        What topics can I choose?
        That depends on what class you are in:
        • Ancient World:  Any topic up to 500 C.E. relating to World History
        • Modern World:  Any topic between 1500-1850 relating to World History
        How much of my grade is this project worth?
        This project will be worth 35% of your marking period grade

        How will this project be graded?
        You will be graded on the following criteria:
        • Meeting the due date
        • Correct spelling, grammar, and formatting
        • Use of primary and secondary sources; strength of overall evidence
        • Strength of the thesis and overall substance of the paper
        • Strength of conclusions
        What do you mean by “conventions of the discipline of history?”
        That means that I expect you to cite your sources using footnotes and a works cited page using the “Chicago Style” format.  Don’t worry if you have no idea what this means—I’ll be going over it with you in class well before the final paper is due.

        How many sources do I need to use (College Prep)?
        You must have minimum of 5 sources—2 of which must be primary.  You may not use Internet secondary sources (like Wikipedia).  You may not use your textbook as a source.  You may not use general encyclopedias (World Book, Britannica, etc.).  Primary sources found on the Internet from reputable sites are acceptable.

        How long does this paper need to be (College Prep)?
        It must be a minimum of 1,000-1,250 words (approximately 4-5 pages).  Any attempt to make your paper appear longer than it actually is (large font, weird spacing, etc.) will result in your grade being penalized.  The paper should be double-spaced, have standard margins and be typed in 12 point Times New Roman font.

        What if I am taking this course for Honors Credit?
        If you are taking this course for Honor’s Credit, then you need to meet a few additional requirements:
        • To allow you to conduct both broader and more in-depth research, you must have a minimum of 7 sources—3 of which must be primary.  You may not use Internet secondary sources (like Wikipedia).  You may not use your textbook as a source.  You may not use general encyclopedias (World Book, Britannica, etc.).  Primary sources found on the Internet from reputable sites are acceptable.
        • To allow you to write a paper of greater substance, the paper must be a minimum of 1,250-1,750 words (approximately 5-7 pages).  Any attempt to make your paper appear longer than it actually is (large font, weird spacing, etc.) will result in your grade being penalized.  The paper should have 1-inch margins all around and should have a font no larger than 12 pt. (use  Times New Roman).
        • To allow you the opportunity for greater communication, you will prepare a 6-8 minute presentation on your topic, which you will present for the class.
          • This presentation must include the following:
            • The topic of your paper and your thesis
            • A brief overview of your research methods and the sources you used—both primary and secondary
            • A brief overview of the main points of your paper
            • What your paper concludes
            • Question/Answer period
            • You should prepare a power point (or something similar) to accompany your presentation.  The power point must enhance the presentation and not serve to replace it.
            • You may use notes for your presentation; you should not simply stand up and read your paper

        College Prep and Honors Rubrics

        Research Paper Grading Rubric--College Prep
        Mr. Layne


        Student Name:  ______________________________________


        Formatting—20 pts.
          • Spelling and grammar—10 pts.
          • Spacing, formatting, and citations—10 pts.

        _______pts



        Overall Substance of the paper—80 points
        o   Includes a clear and well-thought out thesis—15 pts.
        o   Source requirements met—10 pts.
        o   Thesis is supported by evidence/sources used in a balanced way—20 pts.
        o   Ideas are presented in a logical and organized manner—15 pts.
        o   Paper demonstrate original critical and historical thought—10 pts.
        o   Overall quality of the paper—10 pts.

        _______pts


        Total Points/Final Grade:  _____________



        Research Paper Grading Rubric--Honors
        Mr. Layne


        Student Name:  ______________________________________


        Formatting—20 pts.
          • Spelling and grammar—10 pts.
          • Spacing, formatting, and citations—10 pts.

        _______ pts.


        Overall Substance of the paper—60 points
        o   Includes a clear and well-thought out thesis—10 pts.
        o   Source requirements met—10 pts.
        o   Thesis is supported by evidence/sources used in a balanced way—20 pts.
        o   Ideas are presented in a logical and organized manner—10 pts.
        o   Paper demonstrate original critical and historical thought—10 pts.
        _______ pts.


        Paper Presentation—20 points: 
          • Paper topic/thesis—2 pts.
          • Brief overview of research methods and the sources—2 pts.
          • Brief overview of paper’s main points—2pts.
          • Paper’s conclusion—2pts.
          • Question/answer period—2pts.
          • Overall quality of the presentation—10 pts.
        ______ pts.



        Total Points/Final Grade:  _____________




        What if I have more questions?
        Ask me—at the beginning or end of class, in the halls, via email, whatever—just ask.