Storytellers, historians, and poets. They all have one thing in common. No, they’re not all boring. Each one of them tells a story, some more factual than others. In Grendel, the storyteller/historian is called the Shaper. Much like modern writers, such as Shakespeare, Austen, and Dickens, he took inspiration from the world around him to entertain others with wondrous tales. He carried a position of high honor and prestige for his skill. The tales he told often influenced the future decisions of those around him.
When writing, the earliest factor one needs is to be inspired with an idea or concept. Every book, poem, song, show, etc. ever told came into being because something in the world around their creator struck a chord with them. Battles, heroic deeds, personal struggles, and issues in society were just a few of the topics covered. Authors take these ideas and write them down, or verbally share them, with others. Facts and feelings are interwoven throughout every story. Writing can be used as a statement, a form of therapy, a way of teaching a lesson, or simply to make someone feel something.
Once their tales circulate and gain approval, these people often gain status and respect. Revered by many for their wisdom, whit, and way with words, they become revolutionaries, teachers, friends, and scribes in disguise. Narratives about life around them turn writers into historians by describing history as they saw or lived it. Grand stories of success in battle or power made them wonderful allies to kings and noblemen so as to sing their praises to their enemies as the Shaper did for King Hrothgar.
Due to their amazing power over people, they often helped to shape the world they were writing about into something even more wondrous. Ideas from their writing cause people to think differently and inspire them to begin a needed change. Common Sense by Sir Thomas Paine gave the American army the boost that it needed to continue its fight for a better country. After reading The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck, my mom was enraged and awakened to the struggles and lifestyle of a woman in pre-Great Depression China.
Books and other writings have greater power than people give the writers credit for. These gifted artists helped to create the world we live in as it is. Drawing ideas from around them to give us fantastic stories of times long past, which we can now travel to for an hour or so. Video games and other electronics have taking control of society, but nothing beats the simple pleasure of reading a great book. Now, pull up a chair, grab a drink, and give it a try yourself.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
Grendel Exam Between the Line Questions
1) Why did Grendel laugh when the bull attacked him?
Grendel was laughing out of pain and the ram’s inferiority. First, when people are in pain so severe as Grendel’s, they start to lose touch with reality because of endorphins. He had a gaping, horrible wound on his leg, so he must have been in a great deal of pain. Also, he feels that animals are simple minded, idiotic creatures. The ram’s continuous battering of the tree must have verified his opinion. Simply put, Grendel laughed because he was hurt and he bull was acting stupidity.
2) Why does his mother reply, “Don’t ask!” when he wants to know why they live underground?
His mother is terrified of the answer. It’s possible that she and her family were driven to live there by humans. She may have remembered the horrible events that led to her imprisonment and became frightened once again. Mama could also have wanted to keep her son unaware of the outside world for fear he would leave her. Grendel is constantly saying that when she hugs him it’s as if she wants to make him “one with her flesh once again”. This is why she doesn’t answer him: she is afraid.
3) Why does Grendel continue to watch men?
These creatures that were like him amused Grendel. Though they were not his equals, they were superior to animals. Logic ruled their minds instead of sensation or basic instinct. However, though they were smarter, they often made the same mistakes repeatedly, which amused Grendel. Finally he had found a creature that could think; yet they were very slow to realize their errors and correct them, such as with the broken carts on the dirt roads before they were covered with stone. In conclusion, he found them smart and funny.
Grendel was laughing out of pain and the ram’s inferiority. First, when people are in pain so severe as Grendel’s, they start to lose touch with reality because of endorphins. He had a gaping, horrible wound on his leg, so he must have been in a great deal of pain. Also, he feels that animals are simple minded, idiotic creatures. The ram’s continuous battering of the tree must have verified his opinion. Simply put, Grendel laughed because he was hurt and he bull was acting stupidity.
2) Why does his mother reply, “Don’t ask!” when he wants to know why they live underground?
His mother is terrified of the answer. It’s possible that she and her family were driven to live there by humans. She may have remembered the horrible events that led to her imprisonment and became frightened once again. Mama could also have wanted to keep her son unaware of the outside world for fear he would leave her. Grendel is constantly saying that when she hugs him it’s as if she wants to make him “one with her flesh once again”. This is why she doesn’t answer him: she is afraid.
3) Why does Grendel continue to watch men?
These creatures that were like him amused Grendel. Though they were not his equals, they were superior to animals. Logic ruled their minds instead of sensation or basic instinct. However, though they were smarter, they often made the same mistakes repeatedly, which amused Grendel. Finally he had found a creature that could think; yet they were very slow to realize their errors and correct them, such as with the broken carts on the dirt roads before they were covered with stone. In conclusion, he found them smart and funny.
Monday, March 16, 2009
It's a Hard Job, But I've Got to Do It: Students have mixed feelings about school competitions

Fingers aching, vision blurring, sweat pouring down your face, you look at the finished project. Weeks have been spent collecting the necessary information and then arranging it just the way you want and they specified. You feel proud as you look upon the finished work and think, “It’s over”. But is it really?
With the economy the way it is, money is hard to find. Adults are puling extra hours and cutting back on extravagances. Government officials are scrambling to find relief and students are doing whatever it takes to get college money. The most obvious option is getting a job or applying for scholarships. When that doesn’t work, there’s always the option of competing in competitions.
In our school, that last option isn’t optional. For NHD (National History Day), every student has mandatory participation, and teachers usually find several others as well. With all the rewards they offer (money, fame, valuable skills, etc.), one would think students would be jumping at the chance to compete. But that’s not always the case.
Students such as Ian McShea, sophomore, and David Tillman, junior, feel the competitions are a good thing. They teach students valuable skills through fun and interesting projects. David was introduced to the world of filmmaking and has become a mini-celebrity in Constitution high School for his talent.
However, there’s another side to this coin. A vast majority of students feel these mandatory competitions are too hard and boring. Most feel that though so much time is put into creating these projects, it’s never enough to finish anything. Alexandria Haynes, sophomore, said “We work on them too long. I can see if we devoted some time, but not all our time”. It has also been noticed that some categories get more attention than others, such as documentary over paper.
Teachers and students agree that these competitions take away from the rest of the school experience. Days are divided between class and project workshops. Often, these crazy schedules cause students so much stress the rest of their work suffers due to the focus on their projects. “In ‘American History’ we don’t even learn ‘history’. We learn ‘NHD’. What?!” said Ian. With the growth of the school, the amount of available supplies and teacher attention has drastically fallen. Complaints have been heard about the students who are selected to compete at the city level. Samantha Silberstein, sophomore and two year city participant, commented, “Masterman [High School] doesn’t limit their number of entrants. Why should we?”
Quite a few ideas have been floating around about how to improve this obviously flawed system. Students say they should have the right to compete in the competitions of their choice. Mrs. Deborah Klose, Art teacher, suggested, “Have an elective class devoted to NHD for students to get credit. They can devote a whole marking period to their project. If willing, students do a far better job.” More supplies, research and preparation time, as well as more advisors, would give students the aid they need to create superior, award-winning projects.
Well, it certainly seems Constitution High School has its work cut out for it.
Friday, February 20, 2009
The Journey to Me
Clothes shrink, voices change, and one can finally reach the elusive cookie jar on the top shelf. Hundreds of changes happen between growing from a kid to a teen. Right now, I feel like I’m falling into the best part of my life. Greater responsibilities that leave me drained pile up on me without end. Personal strength has been discovered and helped me face some of the hardest times in my life. Willingly setting oneself in a leader’s position terrifies most people, but I look forward to the challenges it presents.
Responsibility provides the earliest sign of maturity. Dedicating oneself to something whole-heartedly, such as with Miss Lottie and her garden from the story "Marigolds" by Eugenia Collier, demonstrates a hard work ethic and reliability. The more one demonstrate one’s level of responsibility, the more jobs one will be entrusted with. My first job at fourteen, I became a summer camp counselor. Caring for about thirty kids from nine in the morning until two in the afternoon takes loads of energy and focus. Working my way from breakfast to swimming, through playtime and lunch, until the end of second playtime, I ad to watch them every minute. Everyday, my daily duties included stopping fights, serving prepackaged food, passing out art supplies, and taking care of any and all injuries. Parents left their kids in my hands, believing I would keep them safe. A stone parrot seemed to be permanently on my shoulders as I watched over all the children like a stressed out fairy godmother.
Inner strength came as the next epiphany of my development. Just as Lizabeth from “Marigolds” changed when she heard her father cry, I faced a similar situation. One day, my mother came home upset, blared some music, and broke down sobbing. Truth struck me like a slap in the face at the idea that anything could break her down. From that moment, I realized moms are human too and need people to support them just as much as their kids. Mom wasn’t the only one to need a shoulder to lean on. I fell into a deep depression. No matter how hard I tried, only a fake smile could grace my face, never a true one. Beaten and broken, I was an empty shell. Getting up and shedding my mask was the hardest thing I ever had to do, but now I can finally show my true self.
Leading is the highest point one can reach in maturity. People who lead have a level of confidence and security that others envy. ‘Leader’ has always been the title of choice when others described me. My sister was born when I was just over a year old. Setting the right example for her to follow became priority numero uno. Visualizing her achieving her dreams and living happily became the greatest hope in my heart. Wanting to help my friends and classmates reach their potential captured another part of my heart. Establishing the tutoring committee in my school forced me to change. Never before have I created something from the ground up that could greatly affect others. Reaching a position of power holds a huge chance for failure, but it also gives one the tools needed to make an impact for the better.
To sum it up, I’ve grown up, maybe a bit more than others. I can handle almost anything that comes my way with grace and skill. Fear doesn’t stop me from doing what I want and what I must. Getting to this point has cost me dearly, but I would do it all again in a heart beat. Someday, I know I’ll be able to look back and feel proud of myself. Can you say the same?
Responsibility provides the earliest sign of maturity. Dedicating oneself to something whole-heartedly, such as with Miss Lottie and her garden from the story "Marigolds" by Eugenia Collier, demonstrates a hard work ethic and reliability. The more one demonstrate one’s level of responsibility, the more jobs one will be entrusted with. My first job at fourteen, I became a summer camp counselor. Caring for about thirty kids from nine in the morning until two in the afternoon takes loads of energy and focus. Working my way from breakfast to swimming, through playtime and lunch, until the end of second playtime, I ad to watch them every minute. Everyday, my daily duties included stopping fights, serving prepackaged food, passing out art supplies, and taking care of any and all injuries. Parents left their kids in my hands, believing I would keep them safe. A stone parrot seemed to be permanently on my shoulders as I watched over all the children like a stressed out fairy godmother.
Inner strength came as the next epiphany of my development. Just as Lizabeth from “Marigolds” changed when she heard her father cry, I faced a similar situation. One day, my mother came home upset, blared some music, and broke down sobbing. Truth struck me like a slap in the face at the idea that anything could break her down. From that moment, I realized moms are human too and need people to support them just as much as their kids. Mom wasn’t the only one to need a shoulder to lean on. I fell into a deep depression. No matter how hard I tried, only a fake smile could grace my face, never a true one. Beaten and broken, I was an empty shell. Getting up and shedding my mask was the hardest thing I ever had to do, but now I can finally show my true self.
Leading is the highest point one can reach in maturity. People who lead have a level of confidence and security that others envy. ‘Leader’ has always been the title of choice when others described me. My sister was born when I was just over a year old. Setting the right example for her to follow became priority numero uno. Visualizing her achieving her dreams and living happily became the greatest hope in my heart. Wanting to help my friends and classmates reach their potential captured another part of my heart. Establishing the tutoring committee in my school forced me to change. Never before have I created something from the ground up that could greatly affect others. Reaching a position of power holds a huge chance for failure, but it also gives one the tools needed to make an impact for the better.
To sum it up, I’ve grown up, maybe a bit more than others. I can handle almost anything that comes my way with grace and skill. Fear doesn’t stop me from doing what I want and what I must. Getting to this point has cost me dearly, but I would do it all again in a heart beat. Someday, I know I’ll be able to look back and feel proud of myself. Can you say the same?
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
The Good, The Bad, and The Kris
You ask me “what can you do?”
I reply “I make people cry
I make friends laugh, neighbors smile, and my mom pull her hair out
I’ll walk up to you, to answer a question
And leave you more confused than you were before
You never know what I will say
But you know you won’t wan to hear it
I can lift you up, tear you down, spin you around,
And flip you upside down with just a word or two
Smiles cover my face
And sarcasm fills my space
I’m at the bottom of the pit
On the top of the world
First to finish last and last to be the first
Following me will get you nowhere
But I’ll be happy to travel with you
I’ve got a sharp tongue and a rough hand
But I’ll help you, no matter the issue”
When you ask me “what can you do?”
I reply “I make it count”
I reply “I make people cry
I make friends laugh, neighbors smile, and my mom pull her hair out
I’ll walk up to you, to answer a question
And leave you more confused than you were before
You never know what I will say
But you know you won’t wan to hear it
I can lift you up, tear you down, spin you around,
And flip you upside down with just a word or two
Smiles cover my face
And sarcasm fills my space
I’m at the bottom of the pit
On the top of the world
First to finish last and last to be the first
Following me will get you nowhere
But I’ll be happy to travel with you
I’ve got a sharp tongue and a rough hand
But I’ll help you, no matter the issue”
When you ask me “what can you do?”
I reply “I make it count”
"Beware: Do Not Read This Poem" By: Ishmael Reed
Walking down a dark, empty hallway in the middle of the night, a noise sounds and you jump. You spin around, looking for the sound, all the while backing down the hall toward your destination. Out of nowhere, your feet fall from under you and you plung into a dark, bottomless pit. Passages such as this mirror the suspense felt while reading the poem “Beware: Do Not Read This Poem”. Vivid imagery fills every line, causing the reader to feel as though they are watching a movie. It’s full of open-ended ideas thst will keep you guessing its true meaning for weeks.
First of all, suspense plays a huge part in this poem. From the title onward, a creeping sense of dread begins to grow. Readers are sucked into the drama by such lines as “the hunger of this poem is legendary; it has taken my victims”. “Beware” tells a sad story about families who lose loved ones to this power. Mysterious disappearances, which have occurred since the publishing of this poem, appear in the final line. So far, over 100,000 people have disappeared in the past ten years.
Also, astonishing imagery capture us from the first line. One line reads “an ol woman…surrounded herself w/ many mirrors”. Lines such as this allow readers to easily visualize what’s happening. Line after line, the we can see ourselves becoming a part of the tale as we read “this poem has your eyes…your fingertips…this poem has you up to here”. Piece by piece, one can see oneself being dragged in until the reader is the poem. Ultimately, “Beware” does say “the poem is the reader and the reader this poem”.
Various meanings, based on the perspective of the one reading it, constitute as the greatest aspect of Ishmael Reed’s work. Symbolism of the mirrors and the disappearances capture the mind and force one to think. When reading the line “she disappeared into a mirror”, it makes the reader stop to read between the lines. What does Reed mean she disappeared? Another line reading “ each tenant who bought the house after that, lost a loved on to…the mirror” give the same sort of questions. Does the writer mean it literally of figuratively? Physically or mentally? Have they died or lost themselves? Too many questions are asked with no definite answer in sight.
In conclusion, superior poetry such as this comes along only once in a while. Building a sense of fear, combined with crystal clear pictures and multiple meanings, leave this poem high above the rest. Never could there have been a more perfect read for any horror/sci-fi lover. Dare to take a look?
First of all, suspense plays a huge part in this poem. From the title onward, a creeping sense of dread begins to grow. Readers are sucked into the drama by such lines as “the hunger of this poem is legendary; it has taken my victims”. “Beware” tells a sad story about families who lose loved ones to this power. Mysterious disappearances, which have occurred since the publishing of this poem, appear in the final line. So far, over 100,000 people have disappeared in the past ten years.
Also, astonishing imagery capture us from the first line. One line reads “an ol woman…surrounded herself w/ many mirrors”. Lines such as this allow readers to easily visualize what’s happening. Line after line, the we can see ourselves becoming a part of the tale as we read “this poem has your eyes…your fingertips…this poem has you up to here”. Piece by piece, one can see oneself being dragged in until the reader is the poem. Ultimately, “Beware” does say “the poem is the reader and the reader this poem”.
Various meanings, based on the perspective of the one reading it, constitute as the greatest aspect of Ishmael Reed’s work. Symbolism of the mirrors and the disappearances capture the mind and force one to think. When reading the line “she disappeared into a mirror”, it makes the reader stop to read between the lines. What does Reed mean she disappeared? Another line reading “ each tenant who bought the house after that, lost a loved on to…the mirror” give the same sort of questions. Does the writer mean it literally of figuratively? Physically or mentally? Have they died or lost themselves? Too many questions are asked with no definite answer in sight.
In conclusion, superior poetry such as this comes along only once in a while. Building a sense of fear, combined with crystal clear pictures and multiple meanings, leave this poem high above the rest. Never could there have been a more perfect read for any horror/sci-fi lover. Dare to take a look?
Friday, January 30, 2009
My NHD Reflection
We have just finished another hard, grueling year for NHD. Though we are all alive and most of us have done well, many things could have been made much simpler. Plenty of people had problems and were extremely confused. There was tons of disorganization and wasted time.
My project was, again, a paper. I wrote about Mrs. Anne Marbury Hutchinson. I spent hours working to perfect it, not because I have any REAL desire to continue in the NHD competition, but because I was angry when no one from our school went to States in the paper category. If I don't get there again, I hope someone else does. Masterman needs an attitude adjustment.
However, many of our students faced huge problems. Time was the biggest issue. We need to start our projects almost as soon as the year begins in order to make the best possible projects. Also, we need some way to better research topics. Students continually get complaints because they don't have enough book sources. Finally, it would be a good idea to announce next years' Topic at the end of the year and during summer orientations to incoming and returning students in order to get them prepared.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Sixth Annotation for NHD 2008
Rogers, Jay. "Models for Reformation: John Winthrop, Massachusetts (1588-1649)." The Forerunner. Mar. 2008. 14 Dec. 2008 http://www.forerunner.com/forerunner/x0526_bios-_john_winthrop.html.
This site explained to me the mindset and personality of John Winthrop, the governor who banished Anne Hutchinson. He was a man who was willing to allow personal freedom, but also advocated the strict following of the laws of society. I can use this to better understand the opposition to her.
William Elson, Henry. History of the United States of America. New York: The MacMillan Company, 1904.
This gave me an overview of the events leading up to the incident with Mrs. Hutchinson in Salem colony. It discussed the reasons behind the Puritan settlement in Massachusetts and their fierce belief in the power of God.
This site explained to me the mindset and personality of John Winthrop, the governor who banished Anne Hutchinson. He was a man who was willing to allow personal freedom, but also advocated the strict following of the laws of society. I can use this to better understand the opposition to her.
William Elson, Henry. History of the United States of America. New York: The MacMillan Company, 1904.
This gave me an overview of the events leading up to the incident with Mrs. Hutchinson in Salem colony. It discussed the reasons behind the Puritan settlement in Massachusetts and their fierce belief in the power of God.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Fifth Annotation for NHD 2009
"Anne Marbury Hutchinson Courageous Exponent of Civil Liberty and Religious Toleration." Women of Influence. Nov 2006. U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Information Programs. 5 Nov 2008 http://usinfo.state.gov/products/pubs/womeninfln/hutchinson.htm.
This site gave me an example of how Mrs. Hutchinson's efforts shapes America. Also, a way to tie in the theme for NHD 'Individuals Throughout History'.
I will use this information to depict howb her views and struggles helped to design the America we live in today. I can identify how her work influenced our founders to create the First Amendment, specifically freedom of speech and religion.
This site gave me an example of how Mrs. Hutchinson's efforts shapes America. Also, a way to tie in the theme for NHD 'Individuals Throughout History'.
I will use this information to depict howb her views and struggles helped to design the America we live in today. I can identify how her work influenced our founders to create the First Amendment, specifically freedom of speech and religion.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Revised Thesis and Introduction
If you look at the word 'History', you will find two words that will define most of what you will learn about this subject. Those words are 'his' and 'story'. History is a male dominated topic with very few and incomplete references to the contributions of women to society. One of the most influential and often forgotten women in Anne Hutchinson.
In a time of simple farmers and loyal church goers, Anne Hutchinson dared to defy society. She started a major revolution in the practice of religion and in life during the 17th century that still continues to this day. Anne Hutchinson was America's first female minister, a feminist who was willing to fight for her cause against a society that was seething with fear, and a martyr who dedicated her life to change and freedom who is all too often forgotten in a male dominated history.
In a time of simple farmers and loyal church goers, Anne Hutchinson dared to defy society. She started a major revolution in the practice of religion and in life during the 17th century that still continues to this day. Anne Hutchinson was America's first female minister, a feminist who was willing to fight for her cause against a society that was seething with fear, and a martyr who dedicated her life to change and freedom who is all too often forgotten in a male dominated history.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Fourth Annotation for NHD 2009
"The Trial of Anne Hutchinson." Stand Up For Your Rights. 2004. WGBH Educational Foundation . 28 Oct 2008 http://pbskids.org/wayback/civilrights/features_hutchison.html.
I found this site and it explained, in fair details, the importance of Mrs. Hutchinson's efforts. It explained the tons of obstacles she faced during her trial and edven before she was accused. Though she had many on her side, the more powerful were against her and she had no chance in that day, age, and colony.
I can use this to express the great trials she faced for the simple, insignificant reason of disagreeing with someone. She, along with her brother-in-law and followers, were driven out of their homes. They were persecuted and mutilated for the simple act of thinking for themselves and acting as they saw fit throught the teachings of the same Bible the government followed.
I found this site and it explained, in fair details, the importance of Mrs. Hutchinson's efforts. It explained the tons of obstacles she faced during her trial and edven before she was accused. Though she had many on her side, the more powerful were against her and she had no chance in that day, age, and colony.
I can use this to express the great trials she faced for the simple, insignificant reason of disagreeing with someone. She, along with her brother-in-law and followers, were driven out of their homes. They were persecuted and mutilated for the simple act of thinking for themselves and acting as they saw fit throught the teachings of the same Bible the government followed.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Third Annotation and Thesis Statement
In a time of simple farmers and loyal church goers, Anne Hutchinson dared to defy society. She started a major change in the 17th century that still continues to this day. Anne Hutchinson was America's first female minister, a feminist who was willing to fight for her cause against a society that was seething with fear, and a martyr who dedicated her life to change and freedom who is all too often forgotten in a male dominated history.
Kion, Mary Trotter. "Anne Hutchinson." Suite101.com. 1 July 2006. 24 Oct 2008.
I found this site that explained reason for the opposition against Anne Hutchinson. It gave an overview as to the real reason why she lost her trial. I also found that she was not only banished from the colony, but she was excommunicated from the church as well.
I will use this to show that the judges of the colony wrongly judged her. She was treated wrongly because they believed she was making a mockery of them. I can explain the prejudice she faced due to their hated and indignation over a false wrong.
Kion, Mary Trotter. "Anne Hutchinson." Suite101.com. 1 July 2006. 24 Oct 2008
I found this site that explained reason for the opposition against Anne Hutchinson. It gave an overview as to the real reason why she lost her trial. I also found that she was not only banished from the colony, but she was excommunicated from the church as well.
I will use this to show that the judges of the colony wrongly judged her. She was treated wrongly because they believed she was making a mockery of them. I can explain the prejudice she faced due to their hated and indignation over a false wrong.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Second Annotation for NHD 2009
"Anne Marbury Hutchinson." The Library of Congress: American Memory. 16 July 2007. The Library of Congress. 21 Oct 2008 http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/jul20.html#page_content.
I found this site and it gave me really great details about her in historical context, allowingme to understand her impact better. I learned that she was a midwife and a skilled, reveared herbalist in the ealry colonies. She was called the Jezebel of colonial America for her efforts to 'thwart the traditional way of life'.
I have not been able to find many sources like this to help with my research, so I plan to use this as a base of my paper. I can use it to experess my main piont in my paper. She was a woman who defied almost everything that was normal and accepted in her world and, instead, created her own way and decided her own future as well as inspiring many other to follow in her example.
*though I love the idea of this topic, I can't find many sources at all. I am considering switching to Mary Edwards Walker. What do you think?
I found this site and it gave me really great details about her in historical context, allowingme to understand her impact better. I learned that she was a midwife and a skilled, reveared herbalist in the ealry colonies. She was called the Jezebel of colonial America for her efforts to 'thwart the traditional way of life'.
I have not been able to find many sources like this to help with my research, so I plan to use this as a base of my paper. I can use it to experess my main piont in my paper. She was a woman who defied almost everything that was normal and accepted in her world and, instead, created her own way and decided her own future as well as inspiring many other to follow in her example.
*though I love the idea of this topic, I can't find many sources at all. I am considering switching to Mary Edwards Walker. What do you think?
Thursday, October 16, 2008
First Annotation of NHD 2009
1) Choice One Communications. "Women of the Hall: Anne Hutchinson." National women' Hall of Fame. Choice One Communications. 16 Oct 2008 .
This article gave me a brief over view of the Anne's early days in the colonies and of her banishment. It told me of her legacy, travel, family, and of her untimely and tragic death.
I plan to use this article as the basis of my research. I will use each of the topics listed above and do deeper research into them. I will find out where exactly she went after she was banished and what she did. I will discover what she did during her travels and the people she helped. The first feminist, female minister, and martyr in American, she is a prominent figure who is all too often forgotten.
2) "Anne Hutchinson Creed." Anne Hutchinson. 05 Dec 2002. annehutchinson.com. 18 Oct 2008 http://www.annehutchinson.com/creed.htm.
This site gave me a look at Mrs. Hutchinson's creed. It also gave me a look at her trial and helpful sources to look onto.
I will use this to get a better understanding of Mrs. Hutchinson. I can use parts of it to show why she was banished from Salem. Also, I can get a look at her actual trial.
3)Cline, Austin. "Agnosticism / Atheism: Anne Hutchinson." About.com. 2008. The New York Times Company. 18 Oct 2008 http://atheism.about.com/library/glossary/western/bldef_hutchinsonanne.htm.
This site a look at how Mrs. Hutchinson's belief would be defined now. It gave great comparisons between her belief system and those of other religions.
I can use this in order to connect her system of belief to our present day lives. This can give us an idea as to why she was thought a witch and, compared to today, why she wasn't welcome in Salem.
4) Rogers , Jay. "America's Christian Leaders: Anne Hutchinson." The Forerunner. Apr 2008. Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 18 Oct 2008 http://wwhttp//www.forerunner.com/forerunner/X0193_Anne_Hutchinson.htmlw.pearsoncustom.com/link/socialscience/history/ushistory/annehutchinson.html.
This site gave me a deeper look at Mrs. Hutchinson's teaching style. How it influenced the way people thought and practiced their beliefs.
I can use this to further understand her beliefs and how she changed the practicing of religion. It also helped me to realize that she was a well educated woman who was only persecuted for hewr wya of thinking. It shows that she was a pioneer of her time and gender.
5) Marshall, H.E.. "Chapter 25: Anne Hutchinson and the Founding of Rhode Island."This Country of Ours: The Story of the United States. 1917.
This chapter gave me a look at Mrs. Hutchinson's part in the founding of modern-day Rhode Island. It detailed her arrival and her part as the minister in the town.
I can use this to clariy how her efforts shaped our country today. How she helped to clear the way for other educated women to make a diference in their own lives.
6) Anderson, Lynn. "Mrs. Anne Hutchinson - Trial at the Court at Newton. 1637." pearsoncustom.com. 19 Apr 2007. Pearson Custom Publishing. 18 Oct 2008 http://www.pearsoncustom.com/link/socialscience/history/ushistory/annehutchinson.html.
This site gave me a look at the actual case of Anne Hutchinson. I could read about the actual opinions and ideas of the judges. I could also learn about the evidence they brought against her.
I can use this as a way to explain how she practiced her religion and how she stood firm in her ways, even in the face of such opposition. It can be seen as an example of why she was known as America's first revolutionary.
7) Morris, Charles. "Massachusetts Colony." Colonialancestors.com. 2007. 18 Oct 2008 http://colonialancestors.com/ma/colony.htm.
This site provided information on the Massachusetts colony in the 17th century. It gave examples of the colony's life style, the pilgrims' founding, and the religious persecution in the colony through the years.
I can use this to better understand lie in the colony. By knowing the way of life at the time, we can see how Mrs. Hutchinson made a change and why she and others like her were rejected.
8) Fuhrer, Mary Babson; Nelson, Liz. "Anne Hutchinson Banished March 22 1638." Mass Moments. 2008. Massachusetts Foundation for the Humanities. 18 Oct 2008 http://www.massmoments.org/moment.cfm?mid=88.
This site provided information as to Mrs. Hutchinson's belief's. The view of those in the colony then and how her belief was actually quite ordinary despite being thought of as unorthodox.
I can use this to explain how her views were thought of by fellow pilgrims. These can show how she came to have such 'radical' ideas on faith and the human fate.
9) Behling, Sam, Garman, James. "Anne Marbury Hutchinson." Notable Women Ancestors. 2007. Rootsweb. 18 Oct 2008 http://homepages.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~sam/marbury/anne.html.
This site provided evience on her early life and her many accomplishments in the founding of Rhode Island
I will use this to explain how she caused a new way of living for people of the 17th century. It gives great explanation as to how she is one of this country's forgotten heroes.
10) Library of Congress, "America as a Religious Refuge:." Religion of the Founding of the American Republic. 27 Oct 2003. Library of Congress. 18 Oct 2008 http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/religion/rel01-2.html.
This site gave me an indepth view and understanding of the lives of early settlers. It showed the hardships faced by them in their natives lands and the problems in the new colonies.
I will use this to better understand the thoughts of those who persecuted Mrs. Hutchinson. With the tragedies surrounding them, they were forced to the conclusions they reached. It explains the constant fear they lived in every day.
This article gave me a brief over view of the Anne's early days in the colonies and of her banishment. It told me of her legacy, travel, family, and of her untimely and tragic death.
I plan to use this article as the basis of my research. I will use each of the topics listed above and do deeper research into them. I will find out where exactly she went after she was banished and what she did. I will discover what she did during her travels and the people she helped. The first feminist, female minister, and martyr in American, she is a prominent figure who is all too often forgotten.
2) "Anne Hutchinson Creed." Anne Hutchinson. 05 Dec 2002. annehutchinson.com. 18 Oct 2008 http://www.annehutchinson.com/creed.htm.
This site gave me a look at Mrs. Hutchinson's creed. It also gave me a look at her trial and helpful sources to look onto.
I will use this to get a better understanding of Mrs. Hutchinson. I can use parts of it to show why she was banished from Salem. Also, I can get a look at her actual trial.
3)Cline, Austin. "Agnosticism / Atheism: Anne Hutchinson." About.com. 2008. The New York Times Company. 18 Oct 2008 http://atheism.about.com/library/glossary/western/bldef_hutchinsonanne.htm.
This site a look at how Mrs. Hutchinson's belief would be defined now. It gave great comparisons between her belief system and those of other religions.
I can use this in order to connect her system of belief to our present day lives. This can give us an idea as to why she was thought a witch and, compared to today, why she wasn't welcome in Salem.
4) Rogers , Jay. "America's Christian Leaders: Anne Hutchinson." The Forerunner. Apr 2008. Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 18 Oct 2008 http://wwhttp//www.forerunner.com/forerunner/X0193_Anne_Hutchinson.htmlw.pearsoncustom.com/link/socialscience/history/ushistory/annehutchinson.html.
This site gave me a deeper look at Mrs. Hutchinson's teaching style. How it influenced the way people thought and practiced their beliefs.
I can use this to further understand her beliefs and how she changed the practicing of religion. It also helped me to realize that she was a well educated woman who was only persecuted for hewr wya of thinking. It shows that she was a pioneer of her time and gender.
5) Marshall, H.E.. "Chapter 25: Anne Hutchinson and the Founding of Rhode Island."This Country of Ours: The Story of the United States. 1917.
This chapter gave me a look at Mrs. Hutchinson's part in the founding of modern-day Rhode Island. It detailed her arrival and her part as the minister in the town.
I can use this to clariy how her efforts shaped our country today. How she helped to clear the way for other educated women to make a diference in their own lives.
6) Anderson, Lynn. "Mrs. Anne Hutchinson - Trial at the Court at Newton. 1637." pearsoncustom.com. 19 Apr 2007. Pearson Custom Publishing. 18 Oct 2008 http://www.pearsoncustom.com/link/socialscience/history/ushistory/annehutchinson.html.
This site gave me a look at the actual case of Anne Hutchinson. I could read about the actual opinions and ideas of the judges. I could also learn about the evidence they brought against her.
I can use this as a way to explain how she practiced her religion and how she stood firm in her ways, even in the face of such opposition. It can be seen as an example of why she was known as America's first revolutionary.
7) Morris, Charles. "Massachusetts Colony." Colonialancestors.com. 2007. 18 Oct 2008 http://colonialancestors.com/ma/colony.htm.
This site provided information on the Massachusetts colony in the 17th century. It gave examples of the colony's life style, the pilgrims' founding, and the religious persecution in the colony through the years.
I can use this to better understand lie in the colony. By knowing the way of life at the time, we can see how Mrs. Hutchinson made a change and why she and others like her were rejected.
8) Fuhrer, Mary Babson; Nelson, Liz. "Anne Hutchinson Banished March 22 1638." Mass Moments. 2008. Massachusetts Foundation for the Humanities. 18 Oct 2008 http://www.massmoments.org/moment.cfm?mid=88.
This site provided information as to Mrs. Hutchinson's belief's. The view of those in the colony then and how her belief was actually quite ordinary despite being thought of as unorthodox.
I can use this to explain how her views were thought of by fellow pilgrims. These can show how she came to have such 'radical' ideas on faith and the human fate.
9) Behling, Sam, Garman, James. "Anne Marbury Hutchinson." Notable Women Ancestors. 2007. Rootsweb. 18 Oct 2008 http://homepages.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~sam/marbury/anne.html.
This site provided evience on her early life and her many accomplishments in the founding of Rhode Island
I will use this to explain how she caused a new way of living for people of the 17th century. It gives great explanation as to how she is one of this country's forgotten heroes.
10) Library of Congress, "America as a Religious Refuge:." Religion of the Founding of the American Republic. 27 Oct 2003. Library of Congress. 18 Oct 2008 http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/religion/rel01-2.html.
This site gave me an indepth view and understanding of the lives of early settlers. It showed the hardships faced by them in their natives lands and the problems in the new colonies.
I will use this to better understand the thoughts of those who persecuted Mrs. Hutchinson. With the tragedies surrounding them, they were forced to the conclusions they reached. It explains the constant fear they lived in every day.
2009 NHD Topic Selection paragraph
I choose Anne Hutchinson for my NHD project because I am interested in the the role women played in the 17th Century in the colonies. Especially, during the time of the Salem With Trials.
This person is important to history because without their efforts, we may not have broken away from the strict, overwhelming control of the Puritan way of life. She was banished from Salem for fighting against their rule and left to start her own colony in what is now Rhode Island, where she became he leader of her new religious community.
For this weeks research, I found an article at http://www.gratwomen.org/women.php?acion=viewone&id=84. I will read and summarize it for next week.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Service Learning Reflection 5/28
• What have I learned about myself through this experience?
I have learned that I am not an affective leader. I have tried week after week to keep these kids focused and do what needs to be done. They just do whatever they want. Also, I have no idea how to create a program like this. It's only been by the help of Mrs. McMillan that we have gotten this far and did as much as we have.
• What more needs to be done?
We still need to find tutors for next year. we have to find a place to hold these sessions and create a schedule for them. we have to get the tutors to agree and find ways of keeping tabs on the teachers' lesson plans next year, so we know what to focus on.
• How is the issue/agency you're serving impacted by what is going on in the larger political/social sphere?
Our tutoring may not get off the ground if we can not find tuors or tutees. No ne will want to be a tutor because they will be labeled a nerd or something and no one wants tutoring beceause "people who need tuoring ust be really dumb." If these ideas still hold true, our system is going to crash and burn before we ever had the chance to make it work.
I have learned that I am not an affective leader. I have tried week after week to keep these kids focused and do what needs to be done. They just do whatever they want. Also, I have no idea how to create a program like this. It's only been by the help of Mrs. McMillan that we have gotten this far and did as much as we have.
• What more needs to be done?
We still need to find tutors for next year. we have to find a place to hold these sessions and create a schedule for them. we have to get the tutors to agree and find ways of keeping tabs on the teachers' lesson plans next year, so we know what to focus on.
• How is the issue/agency you're serving impacted by what is going on in the larger political/social sphere?
Our tutoring may not get off the ground if we can not find tuors or tutees. No ne will want to be a tutor because they will be labeled a nerd or something and no one wants tutoring beceause "people who need tuoring ust be really dumb." If these ideas still hold true, our system is going to crash and burn before we ever had the chance to make it work.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Service Learning May 15
We had quite a few problems this week.
1) The group wanted to have a fundraiser for supplies and we had to come up with something to sell and a slogan. We picked the top three and instead of choosing one, they chose three. We are going to sell something new each week for the next three weeks.
2) When creating names, almost half of or group was missing because or the dance and we had a lot of people we had to bring up to speed.
3) During all this, as the leader, I tried to take control of the group an keep us focused. However, all they wanted to do was clown around and Kaliah decided she was the boss, shoting down all my ideas, telling me what to do, and making decissions without the consent of the group.
4) We came up with the schedule for sellers and what they would be selling. We also decided who would be bringing in what.
5) A list was made of the supplies we will need. Though we don't really need the supplies, the students should provide them, they insited on buying a bulk set of pencils, erasers, and other little things.
6) We may have gotten some work done, but it was not done the way it should have been and I am begining to feel as though this system is never going to come to be. All we do is handle insignificant details or don't do any work or do it incorrectly. We need someone to give us a hand.
7) For next week, we need to work on finding possible tutors, coming up with a tutoring schedule, and finding a place to hold these sessions. We also need to create a plan for keeping tabs on the teachers' school schedules so we know what to tutor them in.
1) The group wanted to have a fundraiser for supplies and we had to come up with something to sell and a slogan. We picked the top three and instead of choosing one, they chose three. We are going to sell something new each week for the next three weeks.
2) When creating names, almost half of or group was missing because or the dance and we had a lot of people we had to bring up to speed.
3) During all this, as the leader, I tried to take control of the group an keep us focused. However, all they wanted to do was clown around and Kaliah decided she was the boss, shoting down all my ideas, telling me what to do, and making decissions without the consent of the group.
4) We came up with the schedule for sellers and what they would be selling. We also decided who would be bringing in what.
5) A list was made of the supplies we will need. Though we don't really need the supplies, the students should provide them, they insited on buying a bulk set of pencils, erasers, and other little things.
6) We may have gotten some work done, but it was not done the way it should have been and I am begining to feel as though this system is never going to come to be. All we do is handle insignificant details or don't do any work or do it incorrectly. We need someone to give us a hand.
7) For next week, we need to work on finding possible tutors, coming up with a tutoring schedule, and finding a place to hold these sessions. We also need to create a plan for keeping tabs on the teachers' school schedules so we know what to tutor them in.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Service Learning May 9
We got some work done! We recieved our surveys and talied the results. The ninth grade is done and we are finishing the tenth grade today. We are going to see which subjects need the most help and how many tutors we may need. we are then going to see who we can get to be a tutor and possibly assign a tutoring schedule/list.
As the leader of this group, I think we could have done better than this, but we're not doing too bad. I'm not sure how much hope we have for this project, though. Whenever wee have to come up with an idea or make a decision, it seems like we're always butting heads. When the majority agree, Kalima is always saying that she doesn't agree and it won't work and we spend the entire period arguing. Dom, Brandon, and Malik never do any work and only cause a distraction.
I would love to see this come into play, but I don't know if it can if our group doesn't come together and do something.
I heard that Bridgett's group had a little trouble with their raffle, but otherwise, the fair went fine. They raise some money and are now in the process of coming up with a new idea. They are searching for a nurse or other healthcare professional to come in and speak to them. I volunteered to talk t my aunt and see if she knows anyone who would be willing. Also, Mr. Romero's group is going well. He said they were making a to of progress, though I can't remember what they were doing.
As the leader of this group, I think we could have done better than this, but we're not doing too bad. I'm not sure how much hope we have for this project, though. Whenever wee have to come up with an idea or make a decision, it seems like we're always butting heads. When the majority agree, Kalima is always saying that she doesn't agree and it won't work and we spend the entire period arguing. Dom, Brandon, and Malik never do any work and only cause a distraction.
I would love to see this come into play, but I don't know if it can if our group doesn't come together and do something.
I heard that Bridgett's group had a little trouble with their raffle, but otherwise, the fair went fine. They raise some money and are now in the process of coming up with a new idea. They are searching for a nurse or other healthcare professional to come in and speak to them. I volunteered to talk t my aunt and see if she knows anyone who would be willing. Also, Mr. Romero's group is going well. He said they were making a to of progress, though I can't remember what they were doing.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Service Learning May 1
We had a small/major disaster. The results to our survey, which we had passed out to the whole school,hadn't been properly filled out. We decided to just take what we could get and tally those votes. However, the result from the tenth grade and ninth grade had gotten mixed together and we ended up creating a new, improved survey and made everyone take it again.
Our last meeting was not very successful and turned into a poetry reading. This week, we are going to tally the votes and make arrangements to contact those who we believe would make suitable tutors for our program. After seeing which subjects need the most attention, I think we will start working on creating a tutor schedule and finding a place to hold these tutoring sessions.
We still have a lot of work ahead of us, but I think we're off to a good start. As long as we stay focused, we'll do just fine and have this thing in place for next year, no problem.
Our last meeting was not very successful and turned into a poetry reading. This week, we are going to tally the votes and make arrangements to contact those who we believe would make suitable tutors for our program. After seeing which subjects need the most attention, I think we will start working on creating a tutor schedule and finding a place to hold these tutoring sessions.
We still have a lot of work ahead of us, but I think we're off to a good start. As long as we stay focused, we'll do just fine and have this thing in place for next year, no problem.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Service Learning: The Nightmare!
This past week in our service learning group, we were able to decide on a final questionnaire to send to teachers and students. They were to be sent out to classrooms on Monday and Tuesday, 4/28 and 4/29. We are to tally them on Wednesday and look over the results at our next meeting on Thursday.
We also assigned roles. By a unanimous vote, I was chosen as leader of our group. Dorian became our official reporter. Anya is our run-around girl. Portia is in charge of scheduling and Felicia is our researcher. We will change and update these jobs as needed so everyone will have something to do.
I believe that after the initial confusing, we have made a steady progress with our work. We have ideas and lots of questions, but we're getting somewhere.
We also assigned roles. By a unanimous vote, I was chosen as leader of our group. Dorian became our official reporter. Anya is our run-around girl. Portia is in charge of scheduling and Felicia is our researcher. We will change and update these jobs as needed so everyone will have something to do.
I believe that after the initial confusing, we have made a steady progress with our work. We have ideas and lots of questions, but we're getting somewhere.
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