Videos Leading to the Declaration of Independence

As we approach the Declaration of Independence, there are some short videos available that highlight some of debate leading up to the Declaration. Here is one the highlights John Adams speech in the 2nd Continental Congress, supporting Independence.
(I can't get the link to work, but you can search John Adams Speeches to see them)
Also listed below, in a previous post is a video of the Declaration of Independence in its entirety.

AP US History-Colonial Regions Sept. 3-5, 2008

Comparing Colonial Regions

• Read complete guided chapter questions for chapter 2.
  

• Be sure to review French Colonization attempts (Chapter 2) and know how they compare with the English and Spanish in their relationship with Native Americans. Did the French practice a "frontier of inclusion"? How did the French Colonize? What were their motives? What geographical region did they go to? Why?

• Read and take notes on Chapter 3, using colonial regions graphic organizer, assigned in class September 3. Make special note of the political, social, and economic motives of each colony, as well culture and geography. Be able to discuss,compare and contrast their similarities and differences.
  

• Review John Winthrop's "A Modell of Christian Charity" that was discussed in class on September 3, 2008. Be able to answer questions and discuss the concept of the "Puritan Way"
  

Thank you,
Mr. Wyder

American History-IB Colonial Regions-Sept. 3-5, 2008

American History IB-Comparing Colonial Regions.

• Read Chapter 2 and 3 American Pagent.
• Complete the graphic organizer assigned in class as you read the chapters. Be able to discuss origins, motives, political theory, and differences among the colonies. Be sure to consider social, political, and economic motives of each colony, as well as their similarities and differences. Consider the movement toward sectionalism or regional beliefs.
  
• Read the John Winthrop "A Modell of Christian Charity"-be able to answer discussion questions on the back and discuss.
  

Thank you,
Mr. Wyder

Declaration of Independence and US Constitution

Every American History student should take the time and effort to understand the two fundamental documents of our Republic.
The Declaration of Independence creates the origin of the "American Creed" or the American Identity.
The U.S. Constitution provides the structure that our government allegedly uses to support this idea.
Our course will investigate the question of the American Identity. And investigate through analysis and interpretation of primary source documents fundamental questions such as:
Have we lived up to the ideals of the Declaration of Independence?
Do we have too?
How do balance the individual liberties with social order, economic stability, and equality before the law? Why do different people, groups, and leaders value one ideal over another, sacrificing rights in some cases.
Do we have the opportunity to pursue and does our society allow each citizen, their "life, liberty and pursuit of happiness"? (so eloquently stated in the Declaration.)
Several sites have versions available for download, probably the most accessible one is the National Archives site listed here:
http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/
I urge you to print copies of each document for your reference throughout the year. Read them, analyze and interpret them, make notes, and comments. Also it wouldn't hurt to read aloud or listen to the Declaration of Independence. Several sites have video readings of the Declaration, including this version, which is excellent.
Watch closely, Winona Ryder tries to swipe a copy.* (*That's a joke)

Welcome

Welcome the home page of Mr. Wyder's AP US History Courses, and American History IB Course for the 2008-09 School Year. Here you will find some discussion topics, reading assignments, homework assignments, and links to documents and other websites related to the course content.