1. BELLWORK: What is history? Although history is a study of the past, it is so much more than memorization of names and dates! For bellwork today, I want you to think about the benefits of studying history and why it’s important.  On the “why study history” handout, read the six justifications for studying history. Rank them 1 to 6 for what YOU think is the most/least significant reasons to study history.... Give this serious thought!  Also answer the “thinker” question at the bottom.  Be ready to discuss and share your answers!

2. Intro to World History Pre-Assessments Writing & Geography

3. Writing Assignment: Personal History  Today, you will begin a writing pre- assessment on your personal history.  Think of this as an autobiography…..what might you include?  Get out a blank sheet of paper:  Write any helpful instructions, guidelines, etc.  Due MONDAY  20 points!  This will be used as a pre-assessment of your writing skills and level.

4. A Personal History  Who are you?  In a ¾ page response, tell me about your personal history. Make sure to include the following:  Your parents  Early Childhood  School Years  Hobbies, Interests & favorites  Any fun/interesting facts or stories  An event that has had the MOST impact on your life  Goals and aspirations for the future

5. Geography Pre-Assessment  Geography is an important subject which helps your understanding of history.  Throughout this course, you will study and be tested on several regions of the world.  Today, I want to see what you already know!  You will now take a pre-assessment map quiz that challenges you to identify 30 important countries of study.  This is NOT a grade, but I want to see what you know, so give it your best effort!!! You will get a completion grade.  When you are finished, continue working on your personal history.

6. DISCUSSION  What is history? Come up with a definition!  Why is history important to learn and understand?  How can knowledge of history help in other subjects or content areas?  Why is it important to know geography? How might this help you understand history?  How might geography impact people’s history, culture, and way of life? Example???

7. Intro to World History Pre-Assessments Writing & Geography

8. BELLWORK: What is culture?  For the first few minutes of class, meet with your discussion partner from yesterday and finish the culture questions…..be ready to discuss and participate!!!  What is culture?  In your opinion, what is America’s culture? Arizona?  What makes people’s cultures different from one another? (Why is American culture different from Asia, Europe, etc?)  With regards to education…… do you think Americans value education? Why or why not? Is it part of our culture?  In what ways does geography impact people’s lives and culture?  What is “culture shock?” Why might it be hard to adapt to another culture?

9. Human Planet: Rivers  Throughout the year, we will watch clips from the series Human Planet.  This series focuses on different cultures and how they adapt to their surroundings, geography, climate, etc.  Be ready to discuss!

10. Human Planet: Rivers  How did geography impact the family’s culture?  In what ways did they adapt?  Do you think you, or Americans in general, would experience culture shock in this situation? Explain!