Night

by Rosario - written at the half-way point in the book

Night is a story that the narrator is telling. He is telling how his life was as a teenager and it starts as most memoirs do with small stories from childhood. His religion was Jewish and he knew that there were many things that other people were accusing them as but he didn't care after all. But then there was one night that one of his friends Mosh had come back. He came back terrified and he was always telling stories of where he came and how scared he was. His stories were horrible but as bad as they were people didn't believe him so he started to give up and stop warning them of what happened. He would just weep instead.

Then one night came that his father was called and he was told that German soldiers were going to come and get all the Jews so He had to warn all the Jews to get their stuff ready. And in the neighbor hood that they lived in there were allot of Jews and They knew where they lived. Some Jews were Scared but others seemed like they didn't care. None of them knew where they were going or what to take with them. They didn't even know if they were going to come back. The next days there were German solders everywhere taking the Jews.

They were taking the Jews to concentration camps but they didn't know that. People couldn't fathom the horrors that stood in front of them. Once they got there they split the women from the men. They made them men do back-breaking work and they had to take of all their clothes and be like that in the cold. The Germans were so cruel to the Jews and they if they did something wrong they would sometime kill them.

So, at the half-way point, I am wondering who lives and who dies. I wonder if Eli (the narrarator and main character) will be reunited with his family.

Death Sentence Love Thy Neighbor

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Private Peaceful

by Cesar

I am reading the book Private Peaceful for my intervention class. I am not yet finished reading it but it's a great book of a young boy growing up on the country side. It starts out that he is at the war and as every chapter passes he says something about the current moment and remembers his whole life for the rest of the chapter. His childhood just keeps going on and years pass until when he is recruited to the army. He remembers the days he has spent and the horrible battles he had fought. He has gone through many things but might have something big coming up.

Based upon what I've read so far, I have not yet been disappointed or bored. You are always reading and just wondering whats going to go on next. Also for me I had the anticipation for him to finally grow up and go to the war. He starts remembering his life from when he 1st goes to school until where he currently is. So the anticipation builds through his life to where he finally goes to the army.

I would recommend this book to just about anybody. It has a good solid story with all kinds of topics. If you are into the whole war thing like me it is good since it builds up to that moment. It has some somewhat love story kinda going on in this book. It also gets you wondering how it would have been to grow up back in the early 1900's. So I highly recommend this book since I don't necessarily like reading and I loved he book so if you got some time read this book.

Surviving Hitler

by Angela

In the book Surviving Hitler we basically learn the Story of Jack Mandelbaum a boy who starts the age of fourteen is send to a Nazi Work camp where he spends 4 years of his life.As you get more into the book you see how his life progresses in the horrible inserts of the Nazi Camps.I think this book is really down to earth and is something we can all relate to the lost of someone we love only in his case it is everyone he loves.This book is so comprehend-able you will feel as if you were there because of the great word choice the author Andrea Warren uses.While you are reading this book you will experience all sorts of emotions from sadness to happiness and excitement.

The book starts out in Gdynia Poland where Jack along side his father,mother,sister,and brother live in their nice apartment.Then it goes from there to many different caps where he is faced with some of the most harsh living conditions that any human being could go through.This book shows many of the things that the prisoners of these camps had put up with.I think this book is a very inspiring story that shows how nothing is impossible if there is faith,hope and a motive.I mean really if Jack could survive all of the things he survived I think the least he deserves is that his story is heard and is paid attention to because it is in stories like this that we learn what being human is and what is really important in our lives.After all Jack did start out with some of the things we all have a home, a family,and a normal, free life but he ended up with nothing.He didn't have his family, he didn't have his home, he didn't have his freedom, the only thing he had was his faith and his passion for life.

I think there is at least one thing every body can learn from this book wheter it is that all it sometimes takes is will, to how to look at the atrocities in the past and learn from them, because something like the holocaust could happen at any moment at any place all it would take would be someone who really hates a kind of race or religion to get other people to follow.I guess there are really no words to explain how much this book captivated me by the end of the book it was like if I had been there, I mean the imagery, the words, everything about this book makes it feel like if you were there seeing all of this.I feel like I know exactly what the Barracks look like just by reading about them in this book, the wooden sticks lined up in rows all over the wall supposedly set as beds or the nasty stew that was made with all the left over rotten things from the Officers stew.This are just some of the things you will learn about life in a Nazi work camp when you read this book.So if you are looking for a great motivating, exciting story read Surviving Hitler by Andrea Warren!

Could genocide happen in America?

Could this happen in America?

by Mar

Could genocide happen in America? Yes it can happen. One group of people might hate that race so much they just want to get ride of them and kill them. Also, they could be brainwashed by some one else and think those people are bad, and they could be forced against their will and have to kill (or help kill) that specific race.

One reason is they could really hate that race because of the way they are or act. By hating them they would want to get rid of them and try some thing to keep them away. People in the dominant culture would want not only to remove them but also to kill them. For example, Americans might get to a place in scapegoating and blaming immigrants that they eventually try and kill all immigrants. A charismatic leader could work up a frenzy that leads to a genocide.

Furthermore, in World War 2 some one could start blaming them for everything bad that happens. Americans could also repeat this by blaming a race for crime or for stealing jobs or for ruining the economy. The Nazis scapegoated the Jews, so it's possible Americans could scapegoat a particular race as well. In the process, the leaders would make the people start believing they are cruel, and bad for the country.

My last reason is that someone could be forcing them to kill (or help kill) a group or else their families will be the ones to die. They could be holding their families prisoner some where and threaten to kill them if you do not help. This type of choice is a part of why some of the Germans participated in the Holocaust even though they were against it.

These are three reasons that could lead to genocide to America. One people might hate that race so much they just want to get ride of them and kill them. Two they could be brain washed by some one else and think those people are bad. And lastly they could be forced against their will and have to kill (or help kill) that specific race.

American Revolution Presentation

This is a presentation with the basic facts about the American Revolution.

presentation on the Holocaust

by esojsainz

This is a brief presentation on the Holocaust.

Could we have another world war?

Could another world war occur? Yes, because the war in Iraq and how every place wants to rule the world. and how we are fighting for the oil and the gas. Well there's a good chance that it can happen if the right events occur.

One of the main reasons for the first two world wars was the alliance system. Right now we are allies with other countries and if the try to start a war or some thing then since we are allies with them it will lead to a massive world war. One nation is going to ask us for help, because we are their allies. Then another nation will fight for their allies. For example, Iran is making a nuclear bomb then that can start another world war. If they attack Israel and we attack them, then the allies of Iran will attack us and it will snowball into a world war.

Well any thing can happen it all depends on what happens in the future. I hope it won't happen. If it does then it can be scary and sad because of the violence. All the stuff that we would have to go through again would be just like the last war, except more dangerous, because of the nuclear bombs.

scapegoating divides us

by MM

Unfortunately, we are prejudice even when we try not to be. In a country of many backgrounds, and people with strong beliefs, scapegoating happens much too often. Issues like what we are facing right now leads to scapegoating another race that is not ours. We think of it and our past or how we are raise in believing can also lead to why we scapegoat. Who we blame can be a powerful force in shaping how we act.

Immigration is issue that we deal with now a days, and this is the scapegoating of Hispanics. An example that we all see is Joe Arpaio, maybe about more than half of the people he gets in raids are legal citizens. Why he acts that way I don't know. He just is and he probably has his reasons to do what the he is doing ( Although I don't agree with his methods). The Hispanics are looked at as if the are all horrible people and as if each one is an undocumented person. Some people talk behind their backs, or to their faces if they think they don't know the language. They blame all Latinos for ruining the culture and refusing to assimilate.

People blame African-Americans for some things as well. The past might have something to do with it. With the time passing, things changed. Jealous people will just blame them, or everyone for why they are not in a higher place, in jobs, in communities, in life. We also stereotype, which is a very big deal. In our stereotype we view each others race in different views. I know that what we believe is our own and we view everyone in a different way. To blame a whole culture or heritage for what we see on the news or outside our homes is again, back to what we were raised to think of the others around us. So they blame blacks for high crime or for the hip hop culture or for being too angry about past injustices. Yet, it's an unfair example of scapegoating and stereotyping.

Scapegoating and stereotyping go to everyone. When we stereotype, in most cases it the "colored person" is the one that is mostly blamed. Now it's also reversed. No race is able to avoid it. We all scapegoat each other for one thing or the other. The Anglo character blames the Hispanics for taking the jobs, African-Americans are blamed for crimes, and the Anglo people are blamed for racism against the other races. At last scapegoating,prejudiceness,and stereotyping all click together and will go on until something happens that will have a big impact on everyone.

Does this have a solution? I doubt it, but I keep my hope up. A little a time, one step a day, finally we will will have this to deal with everywhere, anywhere, all the time. Hopefully we can change, but that's me, a lone student among billions upon billions of people. Our part right now is to be with the solution, not the problem. It will never end, it will go on. That's not what I want, but its what I see. One day our generation will rule. Then we will see if we can change and break the cycle of scapegoating. Honestly I don't think we will ever be strong enough as a world, as humans to stop. I do however deep inside wish things will change.

Among the Free

By Antonese

How is Among the Free like the Holocaust ? Can it become our future?

Stopped dead in your tracks as you hear the loud banging of the door followed by a horrible sound of scary men who call themselves population police. Once you hear that chills run down your spin as you go into hiding. At the same time you family is trying to erase any evidence that you were there. You crouch down in a small space in the dusty attic. So many thoughts are racing through you mind as you hope you don't get caught, you pray that they don't find you. At a long inspection they finally leave and you are free to come out of hiding.As horrible as that sounds this is a usual procedure for Margret Patterson Haddix's characters in her book Among the free ( from the series shadow children).

The Shadow Children series is a futuristic based book about a society where the government only allows two kids per family due to droughts and famines. In the book Luke Garners is a twelve year old boy has never experienced life outside of his house because he is a third child. Now after getting a fake ID and posing as Lee Grant he is going to risk his life to take down the population police. After reading this series question popped up in my mind. Is Among the free like the Holocaust? Could this eventually become our future?

Like the Holocaust , many people were killed in Among the free. Innocent people died because they were born 3rd. In the book they would hire what they call population police to get rid of (kill) 3rd children. Population police were so big they could have been considered an army. The Population Police were equivalent to the Nazi. They killed and controlled Innocents. That would mean the third children were equivalent to the Jewish back during the holocaust.Among the free is a very powerful book. In my opinion the whole series is addicting, but as good as it is what would it be like if it became reality? With the way things our going in America, I'm honestly afraid of our future. Droughts and famines were the reason for this incredibly insane law for less population. People got this crazy idea that third children were the reason. Although the population is getting bigger I don't see a better reason to destroy a human being.

Even with the crazy accusations of this fictional book, could people (presidents mainly) be inspired by this. Possibly even think is is a great idea?Could this possibly be our future? Could America be taken over in these preposterous thoughts? Could Among the free and another holocaust become our future? Could we those millions and lose our freedom? Just the thought scares me out of my wits. I guess we will just have to see what the future holds for us!

Incantation

by Stephany G

"Some people say, save yourself and save your life. I say, be yourself and save your soul." If one were to read this quote on would think of a wise man that had gone through many difficult situations, but this quote was of the lips of a young teenager, sixteen years of age to be exact. Incantation is one of the most intriguing yet realistic books in the market to date, showing the intensive life of many people during the period of Jewish hatred (1500).This book uses elements in literature that makes the readers seem like one is experiencing this as well with the main character. At the same time it provides history, life lessons, magical twists, which make it not only pleasing to the senses, but you practically can't lay eyes of it. I completely suggest everyone from young to elder to embark upon this expedition that will leave you in awe and open yours eyes to our world's reality.

Incantation purpose was to experience the truth behind the lives of hidden Jews and how a simple fact can change the lives of you and the people in your surroundings, which can reveal the truth about others. In the beginning of this tale Estrella believes she as a person knows who she is a daughter, granddaughter, sister, beloved. Her best friend since young infants had always been the person who cheered her gloomy days and were tighter than ever. After seeing a horrible turns of events in result of hatred, like the burning of sacred books it got her thinking of what her country has come to. Estrella finds that truth about her family and who she is, a hidden Jew. Since the dangerous situation of being a Jew has raised in Spain their family had hidden who they are from friends and her. She is told that her true name is actually Esther and the many things they practice is the Jewish tradition.In addition to that she is passionately in love with Andres (Catalina's cousin) yet she knows that their love is hopeless. As she is a Jew and she is not allowed to speak, eat a meal, let alone marry a Christian. Her best friend has always dreamed of the day when she marries Andres who unlike her father feels he will provide a better future. Once Catalina discovers their love she does the worst thing imaginable betrays her dear friend by turning her family in to the authorities. When her grandfather and Estrella begin to bond more than ever he gets taken away from his family members. Sadly he dies beaten to death and Estrella knows she now needs to escape to Amsterdam.During her journey with her grandmother and Andres she learns that her mother and brother were burned to death. She sees Catalina for the last time and can no longer see the friend she loved, all she saw was a human filled with jealousy and hatred. She is now looking upon the stars that she will never see again in hopes of remembering those of her native land. Being so close to Amsterdam she can now imagine her future life where she can calmly continue her traditions and she will later be the one to pass her knowledge by recalling her past experiences, and pleading to the other generation to remember her past.

This top quality book included character that you as the readers will never forget, the characters in this story were what made this book meaningful. The main character, Estrella (Esther) is very wise for her young age and is exposed to horrible things that help her grow as a human being. Abra, Estrella's mother, was more than a mother, but someone Estrella could always confide to and she was amazing beautiful in the inside and out, not to mention she created art with her hands. Louis, Estrella's brother, was very intelligent and spent most of his lifetime in a seminary studying to become a priest, which would of gained justice for her family and other Jews. Andres, the love of Estrella's life, was kind, humble, handsome, and the one who got Estrella and her mother through the difficult journey. Catalina, was Estrella's friend until her horrid betrayal and jealousy overthrew who she was and became a hard, cruel person. Grandfather, was a wise men cold at first towards Estrella, but later on sees her potential and helps her become educated, which was rare at the time. Grandmother, Estrella fearful towards her, but later on she is the only strand of hope that leaves her Grandmother alive. These character together, for the exception of Catalina, create a bond at the worst of times and although many family members dies there history lived on.

Incantation shows the side of a person who's life was changed for the Jewish hatred surrounding her. For a piece a literature to be meaningful and make complete significance it's preferred to speak of only one side of the subject. This book is bias towards the side of Jewish people who suffered plenty throughout their life time. In order to tell the story of a person who experienced predicaments in life it would be confusing if the author were to tell both sides of a topic such as this because it would seem as it wouldn't be such a large problem in life. In this case the bias used wasn't a the truth hidden from the public, but more of a simple improvement in this book. Bias is used in everyday life to support our opinion, but those biases can either be a lie to blind one from reality or a great element in literature.

This piece of literature in my opinion was like a time travel to the important events of history. Incantation includes the cruel punishments that Jews experienced in Spain. For one the other perspective of something similar to a Holocaust, but in Spain rather than Germany. It also informed the readers of the kind of sacrifices Jews had to make in order to pass their traditions and religion onto the future generation. Incantation compared to other books available shows the beliefs of a Jew and what the limitations to their religion that doesn't allow them much freedom or they are given the horrible penalty of death. Knowledge is life and Incantation particularly expands our knowing of history and common life in general.

book review: incantation

by Stephany G

"Some people say, save yourself and save your life. I say, be yourself and save your soul." If one were to read this quote on would think of a wise man that had gone through many difficult situations, but this quote was of the lips of a young teenager, sixteen years of age to be exact. Incantation is one of the most intriguing yet realistic books in the market to date, showing the intensive life of many people during the period of Jewish hatred (1500).This book uses elements in literature that makes the readers seem like one is experiencing this as well with the main character. At the same time it provides history, life lessons, magical twists, which make it not only pleasing to the senses, but you practically can't lay eyes of it. I completely suggest everyone from young to elder to embark upon this expedition that will leave you in awe and open yours eyes to our world's reality.

Incantation purpose was to experience the truth behind the lives of hidden Jews and how a simple fact can change the lives of you and the people in your surroundings, which can reveal the truth about others. In the beginning of this tale Estrella believes she as a person knows who she is a daughter, granddaughter, sister, beloved. Her best friend since young infants had always been the person who cheered her gloomy days and were tighter than ever. After seeing a horrible turns of events in result of hatred, like the burning of sacred books it got her thinking of what her country has come to. Estrella finds that truth about her family and who she is, a hidden Jew. Since the dangerous situation of being a Jew has raised in Spain their family had hidden who they are from friends and her. She is told that her true name is actually Esther and the many things they practice is the Jewish tradition.

In addition to that she is passionately in love with Andres (Catalina's cousin) yet she knows that their love is hopeless. As she is a Jew and she is not allowed to speak, eat a meal, let alone marry a Christian. Her best friend has always dreamed of the day when she marries Andres who unlike her father feels he will provide a better future. Once Catalina discovers their love she does the worst thing imaginable betrays her dear friend by turning her family in to the authorities. When her grandfather and Estrella begin to bond more than ever he gets taken away from his family members. Sadly he dies beaten to death and Estrella knows she now needs to escape to Amsterdam.

During her journey with her grandmother and Andres she learns that her mother and brother were burned to death. She sees Catalina for the last time and can no longer see the friend she loved, all she saw was a human filled with jealousy and hatred. She is now looking upon the stars that she will never see again in hopes of remembering those of her native land. Being so close to Amsterdam she can now imagine her future life where she can calmly continue her traditions and she will later be the one to pass her knowledge by recalling her past experiences, and pleading to the other generation to remember her past.

This top quality book included character that you as the readers will never forget, the characters in this story were what made this book meaningful. The main character, Estrella (Esther) is very wise for her young age and is exposed to horrible things that help her grow as a human being. Abra, Estrella's mother, was more than a mother, but someone Estrella could always confide to and she was amazing beautiful in the inside and out, not to mention she created art with her hands. Louis, Estrella's brother, was very intelligent and spent most of his lifetime in a seminary studying to become a priest, which would of gained justice for her family and other Jews. Andres, the love of Estrella's life, was kind, humble, handsome, and the one who got Estrella and her mother through the difficult journey. Catalina, was Estrella's friend until her horrid betrayal and jealousy overthrew who she was and became a hard, cruel person. Grandfather, was a wise men cold at first towards Estrella, but later on sees her potential and helps her become educated, which was rare at the time. Grandmother, Estrella fearful towards her, but later on she is the only strand of hope that leaves her Grandmother alive. These character together, for the exception of Catalina, create a bond at the worst of times and although many family members dies there history lived on.

Incantation shows the side of a person who's life was changed for the Jewish hatred surrounding her. For a piece a literature to be meaningful and make complete significance it's preferred to speak of only one side of the subject. This book is bias towards the side of Jewish people who suffered plenty throughout their life time. In order to tell the story of a person who experienced predicaments in life it would be confusing if the author were to tell both sides of a topic such as this because it would seem as it wouldn't be such a large problem in life. In this case the bias used wasn't a the truth hidden from the public, but more of a simple improvement in this book. Bias is used in everyday life to support our opinion, but those biases can either be a lie to blind one from reality or a great element in literature.

This piece of literature in my opinion was like a time travel to the important events of history. Incantation includes the cruel punishments that Jews experienced in Spain. For one the other perspective of something similar to a Holocaust, but in Spain rather than Germany. It also informed the readers of the kind of sacrifices Jews had to make in order to pass their traditions and religion onto the future generation. Incantation compared to other books available shows the beliefs of a Jew and what the limitations to their religion that doesn't allow them much freedom or they are given the horrible penalty of death. Knowledge is life and Incantation particularly expands our knowing of history and common life in general.

sweet sixteen?

by Melissa

Is sixteen the right age to be driving? When you think about it there are a lot of things that aren't really I'm brought up to your attention. When you get the opportunity to get your license you jump at the chance. But if you knew everything that can go wrong you might want to rethink it.

If eighteen is the age of adulthood then shouldn't that be the age you get your drivers license? That is the age you leave your home and start your own life. It would feel more comforting to other drivers if you were a legal adult. If you had a few more years to mature you would understand all of the laws rather than just guess on what they mean. Many sixteen year olds don't take as much initiative to look through the entire handbook. The point is you would be much more prepared at the age of eighteen.

It is a lot of responsibility for such a young age. You need to remember to put gas in the car and change the oil. And those are things you have to do constantly. There is a lot of maintenance to it. Something unexpected could happen like the engine breaking and I'm almost positive most sixteen year olds can't fix that without being hurt. Further more, many teenagers can't handle that.

They aren't the safest drivers out there. A common craze that with teenagers is text messaging. It's an addictive activity. I myself am easily distracted by it and I'm sure I'm not the only one. Many people can't stop and don't think of the consequences, trying to text while driving could be the death of you or somebody else. It isn't illegal to do this while driving, probably because most adults have learned to multitask over the years and don't harm any one by doing this.

Many parents realize the things that can go wrong when their child is on the road. But unfortunately their children don't listen to them and do whatever they want most of the time. It is an age of rebellious phases that cause them to act without thinking. So in conclusion teen drivers aren't actually young adults there are too many things against them. The age is not a valid one and it should be pushed up to a more reasonable age.

Cheto Cholo and the Cold War

Cheto Cholo clears up some of the misconceptions people have about the Cold War. Thanks Cheto, you're always educating us!

movie review: Patrulla 81

by Jackie

Patrullo 81 is about a family and a famous group of singers. The family of three, which was the mom, dad and newborn baby, cross through the desert to get to the United States. They suffer some difficult situations along the way.

When the family was walking through the desert, some immigration officials caught them. So they started running and the officials began to shoot. The people that were in the back go taken away back to where they were coming from while the rest ran away. The family escaped and got to the place where you pass from Mexico to the United States. The only reason is because "Patrullo 81" helped them. The baby needed to go to the hospital, becuase it hurt him from being in the sun so much and having nothing to eat.

So the singers took them there. First the singers didn't want to take the guy to the U.S. because he didn't want to get into trouble. Fame and power can make it hard to take risks to do something right. Eventually the singers took the immigrants in.

The family was scared taht the baby would die or somethinig, but they didn't know that they coyote was looking for them. One night, the dad left the hospital to go look for a place for his wife and baby to live while he went to find a job. However, the coyote found him and tried to commit extortion to get money. The dad said he owed the coyote nothing, because he didn't pass them all the way. This led to an argument and the dad was shot.

The coyote wanted to get the money from them because supposdely he at least got them halfway. The dad was right that he didn't have to pay, becuase he didn't even pass them to the U.S. Still, the dad was shot and injured. It was not fair, becuase the family was put in danger just for some money.

The story connects to social studies, because it's about immigration. It deals with the reality of how hard it is for a family to start a new life. Many of them have to suffer just to make it. It was very hard, but in the end, the family makes it. All the immigrants want is a better life and this movie does a great job showing that.

Was it right?

List 5 pros and 5 cons for using the nuclear bomb in Hirsohima and Nagasaki.

why military action is necessary in Darfur

by Andrea's group

In the genocide many people were involved but the one who were most involved were the Muslim tribes.The Genocide killed about 400,000 people.2.5 million people lost their homes.Lots of things were going on at that time.Poverty and neglect ion.The people responsable for their killings were the Khantoum Gouvernent.It took place in the African union were they lived.Our question is why again its just like the holocaust.

This event relates to the Holocaust because a government was killing lots of innocent people who didn't do anything wrong to die like that. It also is kind of the same because they were getting killed because of their race. America is choosing to nothing because they don't want to go to war with them and they don't care about what is going on in other countries because they have their own problems. It's not different than the way we fought World War II while failing to liberate the death camps.

How could we stop the genocide in Darfur? We should send our troops to tribes and rescue them before they attack them. When the other side is using military force, a stronger military (ours) might be the only way to stop it. Then we could send medicine to the country in favor for them to deal more about the situation. We could send the people that were misplaced and send them back to their tribes. We could give them weapons in the tribes so that they could defend them self when they are under attack. America should try their best to stop the genocide in Darfur and using our military might be the only option we have.

save Darfur without violence

By Angela, Mackenzie, Sahian

The Genocide in Darfur is what has killed more than 400,000 people and has left over 2.5 million people without a home.It all initially began with two rebel groups who decided to launch an uprising against the government who then decided to respond to that with an scorch-earth campaign.The Scorch-earth campaign is when the government armed the bankrolling militias who later attacked the pour innocent civilians.The Genocide is taking place in Darfur which is in the region of Sudan is Africa which is one of the poorest part of Africa and on top of the enormous amount of poverty the people have to face they also have to face the horrible reality of the Genocide. Genocide is something that like the Holocaust many years ago needs to be stopped before it is to late!

This relates to the Holocaust all over again the holocaust is a genocide. Six million Jews died in the Holocaust because they were blamed for everything wrong. It was a clear example of scapegoating, as the Nazis blamed them for being inferior, dressinig wrong, killing Jesus, owning the banks and a host of other issues. Just because they were a different ethnic group, the Nazis attacked them. This going on in Darfur. It's a clear example of genocide repeating itself. They are killing because they look a certain way. I actually have no idea why we (America) are doing nothing.

It is obvious that the Genocide in Darfur needs to be stopped but the question is how. There are many ways that that could be done but all of them have some kind of violence involved and really I don't think that violence stops violence. For one the other nations that are around there that are seeing this going on should put a stop to it but then again wouldn't that just make an even bigger war. Then there's always the thing that the people living there could rebel against the government and help the poor people in the camps but then all that would do would be make the governments anger even bigger and more people would die. The best and easiest way for this to end is by the government liberating those people and forgetting about it but I don't think it will happen anytime soon.

On a more practical level, we can send supplies. We can raise awareness. We can raise money and send volunteers to change things. Perhaps another Gandhi will rise up and prove that there is a non-violent solution.

Darfur Plan #6

-by Alberto and Eydmar

The Darfur genocide has already killed over 400,000 civilians. They have evacuated 2.5 million people from their homes. It all started in February 2003. Two darfurian groups rebelled against the government. So they got mad and started doing all the things that they are doing which is killing all of the innocent civilians.

This thing that is going on in Darfur is similar to the Holocaust because we do not do anything and then they are suffering while we all are here doing nothing to stop what is going on over there.It also relates to the Holocaust in a lot of reason because all of the poverty will start to go up and then people will start to get really skinny and unfortunately will die of hunger.Then when they are really poor and then the waters this day's are poisoned and then they can get infected and also die.I think that we are choosing to do nothing because it is really not our state that we are soppused to help.Also that people do not really care about them because then they are Black and then that is when the racism comes in .

There are many things that should be done to help them.I think that they need a lot of help to stop genocide from happening over there because they are not getting a lot of effort. Nobody else is even trying to do anything to try to help them. And the peace group doesn't stand a chance. But on the other hand i think that the reason that the U.S isn't helping is because they don't want to risk any lives. But don't you think it's worth it?

Darfur Plan #5

-Andrea's Group

In the genocide many people were involved but the one who were most involved were the Muslim tribes.The Genocide killed about 400,000 people.2.5 million people lost their homes.Lots of things were going on at that time.Poverty and neglect ion.The people responsable for their killings were the Khantoum Gouvernent.It took place in the African union were they lived.Our question is why again its just like the holocaust.

This event relates to the Holocaust because a government was killing lots of innocent people who didn't do anything wrong to die like that. It also is kind of the same because they were getting killed because of their race. America is choosing to nothing because they don't want to go to war with them and they don't care about whatis going on in other countries because they have their own problems.

How could we stop the genocide in Darfur? We should send our troops to tribes and rescue them before they attack them. That we could send medicine to the country in favor for them to deal more about the situation. We could send the people that were misplaced and send them back to their tribe. We could give them weapons in the tribes so that they could defend them self when they are under attack. America should try their best to stop the genocide in Darfur.

Darfur Plan #4

The Genocide in Darfur is killing million of people and leaving more than thousands of people homeless.The Darfur government is killing Muslims because their different.They are killing people all over Darfur.They are killing them because they are different to them and they have different beliefs.The Government of Darfur is killing thousands of people.

There killing a a lot of people just like the Holocaust people are dying.They are killing because of their race.They are killing them because their different to them they have different beliefs and opinions.America is not doing anything because we have other problems and its not our business.America has their own problems.

We should shoot all of the people who are killing the Muslims and save the people from Darfur. It might mean a war, but it would be a war worth fighting. They should make the people stop the Genocide is killing the people.The Americans didn't do any thing in the Holocaust and they are not doing anything against the Genocide.Something should be done the people are suffering.

-Manny's group

Darfur Plan #2

he Genocide in Darfur is what has killed more than 400,000 people and has left over 2.5 million people without a home.It all initially began with two rebel groups who decided to launch an uprising against the government who then decided to respond to that with an scorch-earth campaign.The Scorch-earth campaign is when the government armed the bankrolling militias who later attacked the pour innocent civilians.The Genocide is taking place in Darfur which is in the region of Sudan is Africa which is one of the poorest part of Africa and on top of the enormous amount of poverty the people have to face they also have to face the horrible reality of the Genocide.Genocide is something that like the Holocaust many years ago needs to be stopped before it is to late!

This relates to the Holocaust all over again the holocaust is a genocide.The holocaust killed for now apparent reason.Just because They were a different type.This going on in Darfur is a genocide.They are killing because they look a certain way.I actually have no idea why we(America)are doing nothing.Maybe were in on it I don't know.

It is obvious that the Genocide in Darfur needs to be stopped but the question is how.There are many ways that that could be done but all of them have some kind of violence involved and really I don't think that violence stops violence.For one the Other nations that are around there that are seeing this going on should put a stop to it but then again wouldn't that just make an even bigger war.Then there's always the thing that the people living there could rebel against the government and help the poor people in the camps but then all that would do would be make the governments anger even bigger and more people would die.I think the best and easiest way for this to end is by the Government liberating those people and forgetting about it but I don't think it will happen anytime soon.

-Angela, Mackenzie, Sahian

Darfur Plan #2

he Genocide in Darfur is what has killed more than 400,000 people and has left over 2.5 million people without a home.It all initially began with two rebel groups who decided to launch an uprising against the government who then decided to respond to that with an scorch-earth campaign.The Scorch-earth campaign is when the government armed the bankrolling militias who later attacked the pour innocent civilians.The Genocide is taking place in Darfur which is in the region of Sudan is Africa which is one of the poorest part of Africa and on top of the enormous amount of poverty the people have to face they also have to face the horrible reality of the Genocide.Genocide is something that like the Holocaust many years ago needs to be stopped before it is to late!

This relates to the Holocaust all over again the holocaust is a genocide.The holocaust killed for now apparent reason.Just because They were a different type.This going on in Darfur is a genocide.They are killing because they look a certain way.I actually have no idea why we(America)are doing nothing.Maybe were in on it I don't know.

It is obvious that the Genocide in Darfur needs to be stopped but the question is how.There are many ways that that could be done but all of them have some kind of violence involved and really I don't think that violence stops violence.For one the Other nations that are around there that are seeing this going on should put a stop to it but then again wouldn't that just make an even bigger war.Then there's always the thing that the people living there could rebel against the government and help the poor people in the camps but then all that would do would be make the governments anger even bigger and more people would die.I think the best and easiest way for this to end is by the Government liberating those people and forgetting about it but I don't think it will happen anytime soon.

-Angela, Mackenzie, Sahian

Darfur Plan #3

by Monique, Aldo, Denise

The genocide in Darfur started five years ago and continues today.The Khartoum government is killing the innocent civilians of Darfur.This is taking place in the Darfur region of Sudan.The governent of khartoum is killing the innocent people of Darfur because a Darfurion rebel group rebelled against the government so the government took it out on the innocent civilians.This genocide is killing millions of people and ruining many homes.

In Darfur it's just like a new generation of genocide just like in Germany. They are killing them because theere race and it seems like another Holocaust is going happen. Didn't people learn from the last mass murder. We have to do something before this gets worse. I will not stand there and see it happen again. No one should. We have to make sure it doesn't happen again.

To stop Genocide in Darfur people can joint Genocide Intervention Network. We think people should join the G.I.N. because it can save people from genocide is unfair and wrong so people should join the G.I.N. group to help them anyone can join it student as well have been joining it to fight against genocide. By working with an organization that is already established, you can eventually get supplies to people who need it and you can get America to take military action.

Darfur Plan #1

The people who are being killed are the darker civillians, by the Khartoum Government. More than 400,000 civillians have been killed and 2.5 million are separated from their homes .The cause is two Darfurian rebel groups who are against the civillians , all this madness is happening in the Darfur region of Sudan . Sudan is very big , about the size of Texas , so you can imagine just how many people are being brutally killed and how many are left homeless before they too eventually die .

The Genocide that is going on in Darfur is very tremendously big. More than 400,000 civilians have died. It looks like a problem that can't be solved. But is it? People have the theory that by having a new president that may change. Their opinion might be that answer. If they have someone that acctually cares about that place maybe all that can change. Less inocent people will die and they will feel much safer. They will have peace and justice one and for all.

The Darfur genocide is very similar to the Holocaust in Germany during World War II. First of all more than four hundred thousand civilians have been killed and separated them from their homes, which is what occurred when Jews were sent into the concentration camps. The Darfur genocide has discriminated against Muslims and the Holocaust happening was caused by the discrimination of Jews, which are both two religion groups. Africa is ruled by the Khartoum government who were responsible of the Darfur Genocide. While Germany was run by the Nazi government who as well caused the concentration camps. Both the Darfur Genocide and the Holocaust prisoners were given brutal deaths. As well both occasions had people who rebelled against the happening and in result there were punished more so. As much as we've feared another Holocaust it has now occurred and now we have to believe in a way to halt it.

your plan

Here is where I want you to post your ideas of what should be done in Darfur. Make sure to have all three paragraphs. Tomorrow you will compare ideas.

los ninos heroes

Los Niños Héroes
by Denise

Have you ever heard of the day of Los Niños Héroes? Los Niños Héroes translated means boy heros. Los Niños Héroes is a day of rememberance that all Mexicans will never forget. Every year to honor them only the Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec in Spanish) raises the Mexican flag up on September the 13. Behind this day is a very historical story that no one forgets.

Los Niños Héroes were six teenage boys who were serving in the Mexican-American war. On September 8,1847 the Battle of Molino del Rey lead to The Chapultepec castle. Antonio Lopez of Santa Anna , president of Mexico , knew that if the Americans were to attack the castle Mexico would belong to America. But, it was not up to him to decide if America was to attack , it was up to General Winfield Scott, and as fate had it he decided to attack the castle.

The Chapultepec castle was only gaurded with at least 400 men. When dawn came on the Septmeber 12 , the Americans started out the war with an artillery barrage against Chapultepec.The artillery barrage went out through out the whole day and stopped at dark and conitnued on the next morning, Septemeber 13. A couple hours later it was then 8 am on September 13 when, General Scott ordered for the artillery to stop he then gave the order for the American soldiers to charge.America had the Chapultepec castle completely sorrounded when they charged in.

General Bravo who was a general in the Mexican war was the one who gave out the retreat order when he saw that there was no hope. Everyone,all but 6 mexican cadets retreated. The six cadets each fought bravely and died. Each one died fighting then the last one standing was a cadet by the name of Juan Escutia. It is told by first hand accounts that Juan Escutia was about to be captured by American soldiers at the very top of the castle.Befor the soldiers could have gotten hold of Juan, Juan grabbed the Mexican flag preventing it from being taken from the enemy,wrapped it around his body and jumped off the castle and died.

After Juan jumped from the castle the Ameicans had no way of putting up the American flag when someone jumped off a castle with their homeland's flag wrapped around them . General Scott seeing the tragedy and bravery the six cadets, Juan de la Barrera, Juan Escutia, Francisco Márquez, Agustín Melgar, Fernando Montes de Oca and Vicente Suárez, he retreated letting the cadets die in honor .One thing is certain, all these young men died defending their country's honor. The great monument of Los Niños Héroes is a tribute to their memory and sacrifice.

a letter to the president elect

Dear Barack Obama:

First and foremost, I attend Frank Borman Middle School. My name is Stephany Gonzalez and I've become extremely interested in the controversial topic of immigration. I have to admit that I am eager to inform you about self deportation. The "failure" of this event has intrigued opinions all around the country portraying to its happening. The point of view of everyone is is something of importance, but it has become a rare occasion once a teen speaks their mind, and this for one is on the behalf of every young adult interested in this issue. Any any informer I have provided a solution to this subject, in which I hope will become a reality.

Deportation has been present since 1882, a few years after the birth of this country, but now matters are getting more serious in result of the mistreatment of those who don't deserve that consequence or any, in most cases. Many don't realize but, millions of families have been separated in result of deportation, yet many don't feel anything at all when hearing this terrifying statement. What one thinks as a way to improve the daily basis of life, another sees as an absolute living nightmare. What if we were one more immigrant, unappreciated and discriminated against, the pain of losing every loved one would scar us for life in every sort of way? In the process of deportation thousands of undocumented workers are basically treated like wild animals, with no rights to protect them. Operation Scheduled Departure was the only way that many undocumented workers who have suffered throughout their arrival were given the chance to leave voluntarily and with dignity on their side. There are many requirements such as, having a clean criminal file. If our country definitely wishes to "disappear" our fellow undocumented workers the only dignant and efficient way is if the government/ICE would extent the terminated dates to more than a year and to other states.

Many are the arguments stating why it came to this decision of self deportation. The belief that economy is getting "lower" because of the high population in the United States. Citizens claiming,"job positions are stolen" in result of immigration. Last, but not least the high discrimination throughout the country that went to such an extreme point. In reality many of us are blind by what we choose not to gaze upon. Immigrants are supporting the gratefully. Many undocumented workers still follow the responsibility of paying taxes as anyone else and as many of us know those taxes go towards the government. In actuality job positions aren't stolen by immigrants, they're simply obtaining other opportunities granted by others, in which they can make a living out of. Self deportation is an evolved version of deportation. ICE is using this method to enforce immigration ordinances, but avoiding forcing others to migrate back to their native land. Moreover, self deportation has been caused by other smaller issues, which joined to form self deportation. Technically, self deportation has been an improvement because of the positive factors compared to deportation. In result of poor initiative it has unfortunately resulted in failure.

A fair law has been created by thought through plans, which is what this program lacked in several ways. As a result of the mishap there have been several complaints for and against this program. Statistics demonstrate that about six people have come forward as of August 13, 2008. When we see how long the duration of this program has been (August 5 - August 22) there;s no wonder why so few individuals have come forward at a late period. Many undocumented workers have other exceptions that consider much hesitation and the limit of time just isn't enough to think through. Those exceptions or unsure thoughts are caused by the lack of employment in their native country, leaving those who are important behind their lives, and the daily observing by unknown individuals. Such a hard decision should be given enough thought to become one-hundred percent certain of their actions, a year or so would be the precise period of time for a choice of this sort. Five states currently have had this program, but in order to become an efficient act there is a need for more states to withdraw this program. With more than 457,000 eligible undocumented workers for this program chances are every single one is scattered around this immense country. To create the perfect solution for this problem it's just a matter of looking at both sides, at the same time comprehending them, and realizing what makes obvious sense.

Thank you for all your time and consideration. I hope that reflect on my thoughts and try to improve the daily life of an undocumented worker. America is created by immigrants no human being should be deported from a country that also belongs to them. Justice is an element everyone deserves and no matters or any type of exceptions should be made, because of traditions and cultures. I hope that you realize how much of an important impact this will make on our society, you are the only hope the i-generation has for a better future.

Sincerely,

Stephany

Multimedia Me: Nazis vs. Humanity

by Melissa

I created a blog that deals with the Nazis and their legacy within history. Hopefully I was able to capture at least a small part of the horrors of the Holocaust.

scapegoating example #6

The Nazis wanted to have one solid German culture that spoke the German language, ate German food and followed the German values. They called it the Volk myth, meaning the “People.” (In fact, Volkswagon means “People’s Car” and was created in Nazi Germany and named by Adolph Hitler) To them, the Jews were trying to destroy German cultural values when they spoke Hebrew or Yiddish, when they celebrated Jewish holidays and when they dressed in the traditional Hasidic Jewish clothing. Therefore, in order to “purify” the German culture, they believed they had to completely destroy the Jewish culture.

1. How were the Nazis using culture in scapegoating?
2. What did they blame the Jews for?
3. How would you argue against the Nazis if you lived back then?
4. List two other facts that stuck out in your mind.

scapegoating example #3

The Nazis believed that science could prove that the Jews were a lower race of people. When they first began labeling the Jews, they would take out measuring tape and see if people had large “hook” noses that they believed were Jewish noses. They had a color-coded poster to see if eyes or skin were too dark. They encouraged people with curly hair to shave it, because that looked too “Jewish.” Later, they used Jewish twins for scientific experiments. They also later made lamps out of Jewish skin and pillows out of Jewish hair.

1. How were the Nazis using science in scapegoating?
2. What did they blame the Jews for?
3. How would you argue against the Nazis if you lived back then?
4. List two other facts that stuck out in your mind

scapegoating example #4

The Nazis did not permit religious freedom in their country. Although Hitler was an atheist (did not believe in God), he used religion to arouse hatred toward the Jews. For example, in speeches, he would mention that “the Jews killed Jesus,” ignoring the fact that Jesus was Jewish and it was the Romans who had crucified him. He quoted Martin Luther (a famous former pastor) about burning Jewish houses. They wanted a pure “German Christian” nation and Hitler taught that if they did that, God would bless the Germans. German soldiers even wore patches on their uniforms that read, “God’s On Our Side.”
1. How were the Nazis using religion in scapegoating?
2. What did they blame the Jews for?
3. How would you argue against the Nazis if you lived back then?
4. List two other facts that stuck out in your mind

scapegoating example #5

The Nazis wanted to have one solid German culture that spoke the German language, ate German food and followed the German values. They called it the Volk myth, meaning the “People.” (In fact, Volkswagon means “People’s Car” and was created in Nazi Germany and named by Adolph Hitler) To them, the Jews were trying to destroy German cultural values when they spoke Hebrew or Yiddish, when they celebrated Jewish holidays and when they dressed in the traditional Hasidic Jewish clothing. Therefore, in order to “purify” the German culture, they believed they had to completely destroy the Jewish culture.

1. How were the Nazis using culture in scapegoating?
2. What did they blame the Jews for?
3. How would you argue against the Nazis if you lived back then?
4. List two other facts that stuck out in your mind.

scapegoating example #1

The Nazis blamed the Jews for the fact that Germany was so poor after World War I. Many Jews had been successful businessmen and bankers, so the Nazis labeled Jews as greedy, selfish and money-grubbers. They even created cartoons with Jewish people as the bad guys who wanted to steal poor people’s money. Once they were able to blame the Jews and the German people believed it, the German government started closing down Jewish stores and taking over Jewish businesses. They believed that if they did this, the German economy would improve.

1. How were the Nazis using economics (money) in scapegoating?
2. What did they blame the Jews for?
3. How would you argue against the Nazis if you lived back then?
4. List two other facts that stuck out in your mind.

scapegoating example #2

The Nazis believed that the Aryan race was naturally superior. They believed that they had scientific evidence that certain racial traits (blue eyes and blonde hair) made people stronger. To them, humans had evolved from monkeys and, in evolution; the least evolved were the Jews (who they believed looked like monkeys). They believed that by getting rid of the Jews, they could, through science, create the perfect race. Therefore, they blamed the Jews for getting in the way of their goal of creating the perfect race.
1. How were the Nazis using science in scapegoating?
2. What did they blame the Jews for?
3. How would you argue against the Nazis if you lived back then?
4. List two other facts that stuck out in your mind.

a few service reflections

The following are some service reflections students wrote. They wrote cards, painted pots for the nursing home, visited food banks and other activities that helped the community.

Donovon:
It felt good cause I am helping the community. Why wouldn't it feel good because you are helping? When I was volunteering, I was doing touch ups on the mural. Also we were doing Veterans Day cards. We are sending the cards to the veterans in the hospital that are hurt right now. So that is cool you know it feels good to do all that good stuff, even when the things seem small at first.

Isaac:
Well I have to adimit that I thought that this was boring and just another assginment.But apperantly I was wrong. It was actually more than that. The thought alone was prettty much a powerful message. But to know the way how I helped my community, that was reward enough. Who knows maybe later on I will volunteer on my own outside of school.

War Effort: Native Americans

Native Americans
Out of all of the minority groups, Native Americans had the largest percentage of people join the military. One of the most famous was the Navajo Code Talkers, who helped keep a military code using the Navajo language. Without them, the Japanese would have interpreted our codes and figured out when and where we planned to attack.

Questions:
How did they help out?
What are ways they had been mistreated in the past?
Would you have helped out if you had been treated that way in the past?

War Effort: Latinos

Latinos
Most Latino civilians had previously worked on farms. During the Great Depression they lost land, lost jobs and were sent back to places like El Salvador and Mexico. However, with the labor shortage, there was a high demand for Latinos, especially Mexicans. Cartoons that had once made fun of Latinos now had Latino heroes. Jobs that had once refused to hire Mexicans were practically begging for them to come to work. For the first time ever, many Latinos were not just working in the fields, but in factories and in all areas of industry. Latinos who became soldiers were treated as equals to the whites. This helped lead to more Civil Rights. Also, many Latinos were able to get a free education after joining the military as part of the GI Bill.


Questions:
How did they help out?
What are ways they had been mistreated in the past?
Would you have helped out if you had been treated that way in the past?

War Effort: Women

Women
While the men went to war, many of the women began working to fill the vacant jobs left by the men. For many women, it was the first time that they had ever worked at all outside of the home. They worked in various factories, created their own unions, took leadership positions in churches and even created their own sports leagues. The result was that, when men came home from the war, many women demanded their rights. After tasting freedom, they didn’t want to give it up.

Questions:
How did they help out?
What are ways they had been mistreated in the past?
Would you have helped out if you had been treated that way in the past?

War Effort: African-Americans

African-American Soldiers
During World War II, many African-Americans joined the military. For the first time ever, they began to be promoted to higher ranks. This meant that, unlike America at the time, in the war, blacks could be in charge of whites. Blacks and whites could work together in equality. Although the equality didn’t last, many blacks and whites would become more open to Civil Rights, because they had fought together as soldiers. Also, many blacks were able to get a free education after joining the military as part of the GI Bill. Many black civilians began attending traditionally white-only colleges. As they worked more, they realized that they could demand their rights, because they were needed in America.

Questions:
How did they help out?
What are ways they had been mistreated in the past?
Would you have helped out if you had been treated that way in the past?

the homefront

What does it take to win a war? Good soldiers, yes. (This is why they used a draft to get more soldiers into the war and skilled professionals, such as doctors, into the military) Great equipment, sure. However, none of this is possible without the "home front." The home front is the entire contribution of the civilian population toward winning the war.

Soldiers need supplies. Therefore, during World War II, American factories shifted from making consumer products to making tanks, bombs, jets and tires for the troops. People were encouraged to re-use and recycle, so that America could use more scrap metal in creating military supplies. Many women and minorities worked in the factories to produce the supplies needed by troops in battle. Civilians had to ration (forced to use less) gasoline so that Americans could use the gas for their tanks and aircraft.

Soldiers need food. Therefore, Americans were asked to eat less and send more food to the battlefield. Certain towns passed "no meat" days, which would ensure that more meat could go into the canned meat that the soldiers ate. Although this was the case, many people believe this was just a ploy to raise morale. If the morale was high and the Americans believed in the war cause, the soldiers would remain hopeful.

Finally, Americans needed more money to win the war. For this reason, America raised money through treasury war bonds. Basically, they borrowed from the American people at a low interest rate, knowing they would eventually pay it off.

Questions

1. How did American civilians help in World War II?
   
2. In your opinion, which was the most important way that they helped out? Why?
3. Should America do any of these things to help us win in Iraq and Afghanistan? Describe why or why not.
   

heroes: why are we looking to the athletes?

by Angel

Do you know whose your sons heroes? Do you know that probably it is a sports player because 60% or more of the kids in a recent survey think that sports players are better people than their own parents. They like them more then there own parents because people on TV act as if they were superheros. They think that they can do any thing that they want because they have more money and they think that they can buy someone because they are rich. As a result, kids buy into the lies and look to the fake role models instead of their own parents.

Why is a sports player a hero to a little kid in stead of a teacher or there mom or dad? How come people like a sports player more then their family? Maybe it's because more fathers watch sports then their own kids. Why would a kid love a sports player more than his own dad? Maybe it's because the sports players seem more reliable and dependable. They might be far in the distance, but at least we know they'll be there when we get home.

Do you spend more time watching sports then with you family? Many people only watch sports and don't play one or do stuff that dosen't involve watching T.V. What if we could get all the out of shape people to play a sport instead of watching one? And what if that sport they played was with their own kids? We can probably get them in to a sport or something that they might lose some weight, feel better and become the role model a child needs.

So, before we blame athletes for being bad role models, maybe society needs to look inward. Maybe the problem isn't one of bad athletes, but one of bad fathers.

a hidden cost to global warming

by Itzel

Global Warming is one of the world's most serious problems. Global Warming makes the world very tough to live in because it affects everyone. People and animals are affected greatly by Global Warming. Many people are trying to prevent more damages caused by Global Warming. Global Warming is pretty much like a pesky bug that needs to be squished before it squishes us. It's like a small infection that we have ignored and now we are wondering if it will ruin the entire body.

No good comes from Global Warming, because it damages our way of living. Global Warming damages our ecosystem. Ecosystems seem strong, but they are often fragile. When one species dies out, the result is a chain of reactions that can be devastating for all wildlife. Research shows that the warming of the earth makes it very difficult to grow crops, but also difficult for plants to grow in the wild. Global Warming is very important , if we don't take action the world may fall apart .

Animal-lovers find it sad to know that Global Warming is damaging animal environments. Global Warming is doing serious damage to many animals. One of the animals that really needs help because of Global Warming is the polar bear. Polar bears live in the Northern regions such as the Arctic, and rising temperatures are making the world warmer. It then melts many ice caps and prevents polar bears from hunting as much as they should be. Many die a slow, painful death of starvation.

The wildlife of the sea are struggling, too. Marine mammals need a correct temperature in order to make it. A slight rise in temperature can mean the destruction of a population. Fish that depend on corral reefs must now face the brutal reality of the ocean. How many species might have already died without our realizing it?

a family holiday

by Audrey

A holiday that is important in my culture is Christmas. Christmas is celebrated in many cultures but it is really important in mine, partly because it's a bridge between the two places that I consider home. It brings happiness and families closer together. People think that it is just about getting presents but it is way more then that. It is a time to celebrate the birth of Christ with family. Some people even use it as excuse to make special food for the family. Plus you can even stay up all you want so you can open your presents early in the morning and spend the day playing with them.

On Christmas all my family will come over to my house, only because my grandma told them to. We all have respect for her, because she has experienced so much more of life than any of us. Despite my families differences we all get together and have a good time. All the kids will go outside and roast marshmallows and we play some games. It's a time to celebrate! After that the family goes into the living room and we dance until it is time to eat. Then when it is midnight we all open the gifts. Sometimes everyone sleeps over; that way we can be together on Christmas day.

In my family Christmas is passed down because we all love being together. Even when we don't have enough money to buy gifts we will all get together. People just come for the food anyway. The food is what brings the family together. It reminds us that the best things in life don't have to light up and make noise or make life convenient. In fact, a slow, home cooked meal is almost opposite of the toys some kids get. However, it is home cooked that unites us and my grandma makes the best food anyway. Sometimes I wonder it's really not passed down it is just by instinct. Maybe it's in our blood. Maybe we weren't made to live any other way and Christmas is a sort-of reality check.

Tradition is a way for a family to get together. It is to celebrate something that happened that day. It's kind of of like celebrating someone's birthday. It can be going to Denny's after church every Sunday. It can even going to a loved ones grave the day they died. A day you celebrate every year with your family is what a tradition is. So you can just make it up or you can have had it for many years. But it's the chords that wrap us all together and remind us of what it means to be human.