Here at FMS, we are tech savy. Yes, we are! Earlier in the week we used the county iPod Touches to review our 50 states. We used several applications to practice our states and several of our major cities. The kids had a great time, and we can’t wait to use them again.

Next week, on Wednesday, November 9, we are having a test on Notebook Part IV. Please review the following flash cards to help you study for the upcoming test. You can also download a set of these flashcards by going to quizlet.com and searching “Mrs. Sprinkle.” From there you just follow the download instructions. Students and parents with iPhones, iPods, and iPads may want to install the application called “Flashcards Deluxe.” You can make your own flashcards and download the ones I make for history class—straight to your iPod device.

Choose a Study Mode Scatter Learn Flashcards

Study these flash cards | Study revolution flash cards

Today in class we had an exciting time traveling as an immigrant from Europe to American. It was a long journey, and we did not finish. Here is the link for you to continue your journey from the comfort of your home: http://www.tenement.org/immigrate/

Several years ago, I co-wrote a song with a good buddy of mine. Out on the Great Plains came about because I wanted a creative way to teach students what they needed to know about Westward Expansion After the Civil War. Tomorrow in class, we will learn this song, and each student will receive their own official copy. Sung to “On Top of Old Smokey,” sixth graders usually get a big KICK out of sinin’ this song. Yes, I did create a podcast of the song. And, yes, it is none other than your teacher, Mrs. Sprinkle, singing. If there was one thing I wish I could do better, it would be singing. So, please overlook the fact that I can’t carry a tune.
Click on the next line to access the song!
Out on the Great Plains

Out on the Great Plains
Written by:
Melinda Sprinkle and Debbie Manuel

Out on the Great Plains
All covered with sod
Men moved their whole families
With a blink and a nod.

Free land was a callin’
Adventure galore
A new beginning for many
For slavery no more.

Gold and silver
Left many a bust
Many a misfortunes
Were buried in dust.

Flat lands and dust storms
Little rain and few trees
Made life a challenge
For all those in need.

Technological advances
Helped people get there
Including the Trans. Railroad
For a reasonable fare.

Barbed wire and steel plows
Made farmin’ a breeze
While beef cattle raisin’
Provided there needs.

Dry farming
Produced the wheat
Loaves of bread
All loved to eat.

Without the windmill
No water was drawn
With these inventions
Lives were prolonged.

Each year, I try to post this video for students to watch. I found it on teachertube.com. It was created as part of a centennial project for the state of Oklahoma. As you view the video, pay attention to the images and review of the Homestead Act and the Great Plains. It was interesting to see a sod house or “soddie” close up. I would not have enjoyed living in a sod house!
What do you think would have been the best part of being a homesteader? What would have been the worst part?

I just thought I would take a moment and introduce everyone to my family. In the photo collage, you will find my six year old son, Ean and my four month old son, Eric. I love spending time with both of them. They are my “most prized possessions!” I love taking photographs and really enjoyed putting this collage together. I hope you enjoy looking at it as much as me. By the way, I do have a husband, but he did not make it into the collage. Sorry Dewayne!

Several summers ago, a friend of mine and I went to Booker T. Washington’s National Monument and Park in Franklin County, VA. That’s right kids! Booker T. was born a slave in a neighboring county to Bedford. Miss Manuel and I took video and narrated information about his life. It was a fun day. I left knowing a great deal more about Mr. Washington, and I also learned I was not cut out for acting. I hope you enjoy watching this video. Ean, my now six year old, was with us on this trip. Perhaps you will hear or see him during the video. Enjoy, and let me know what you think!

This week we have been learning about the Reconstruction amendments. This video is cleverly put together and really helps explain these three amendments in a neat way. After watching the video, please share your thoughts about the video. Which of these amendments do you think was most important? Why?

Students-I am participating in a blogging challenge for teachers. This week I need to post 7 random facts about myself. So, read on, and see what you can find out about me!

1. Who was it that said, “Anyone can cook?” Well, I love a good meal, but my husband can cook better than me. I could scald water!
2. I learned to drive on a tractor. My family raised cattle, and during the winter, I would drive the tractor while my mom and/or dad would feed the cattle hay. The tractor was a straight-shift, too!
3. My mother’s name is Mildred, my sister’s name is Melissa, and she has a daughter named Madison. My first name is Melinda, and if I ever have a baby girl, her first name will definitely begin with the letter M. But, we all know that will not happen because I am expecting another boy in May.
4. I grew up on Blue Grass music. My father owned and operated a Fiddler’s Convention, and there’s still a special place in my heart for a good ‘hoe down.’
5. My eighth grade basketball team was undefeated. And, yes, I was a starting player. I also love to play tennis. In high school, I didn’t try out for the team until my senior year. I was one of 6 starting tennis players. Not bad if I do say so myself.
6. When I was nine years old, I traveled on a cross-country family trip–literally from one side of the country to the other via car. Boy, was that a great trip! I still talk about some of the places we visited with my students. I have vowed to make the same trip again before I die.
7. I took piano lesson when I was young. I am ashamed to say this, but I would set the timer on top of the piano for fear I would practice too long. I guess that’s why my sister now players for her local chuch, and I can’t play a full song. I also own a banjo and have taken lessons. I regret not continuing to learn after I moved to this area. This is definitely one thing I need to check into. Does anyone know of a good banjo player that can teach me?

Now, it’s your turn! What do you think about my random facts? What are some random facts about yourself. Remember: Don’t reveal information about yourself that would be considered too personal!

Original image: Dice
http://www.flickr.com/photos/doug88888/2825008179/
by: Doug Wheller

This year, students in room 302 have participated in several interactive map activities. They are wonderful map activities that keep these middle school kids engaged while learning geography and U.S. History. Our latest interactive map activity covered President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal Agencies. Students viewed several maps their atlas and mark states with the most bank collapses, locations of New Deal projects, and even made a map key. These lessons help me realize just how important it is to allow students to “see” where in the world the events they are learning about actually happened.
Students: I am curious what you think about these map lessons?
New Deal Interactive Map Activity on PhotoPeach