Google Reader

Today I opened my google reader account. I find this concept really great because it allows me to read updates quickly and easily without searching for the website. I chose to add websites today from the resources section that I felt would aid me as a teacher. Many of the sites were related to technology and education. By having these sites handy I can quickly look to see what new ideas and technologies will be approaching the educational field in the future. I can be more tech savvy and ready to adapt and learn new skills. I also added a news feed from a local news station so that I can easily update myself on local news happenings without even having to type in the website. As I think about the use of Google Reader in the classroom I could definitely see it as a way to keep up with current events. For example, if there was a hurricane, you could subscribe to one of the weather sites and get automatic updates every few hours. Google Reader is a great way to save time!

Write a Letter

Pretend that you are an agent on the Underground Railroad. Write a letter to a station master using your secret language to plan an upcoming escape. Practice writing a letter at the following link:
http://teacher.scholastic.com/activities/bhistory/underground_railroad/write_letter.htm
After practicing, then post your own letter that you would write to the station master.

Abolitionists on the Underground Railroad

Who were some of the important "conductors" on the Underground Railroad? Why did the Underground Railroad have to remain so secretive? What are some ways that people on the Underground Railroad kept their work - and runaway slaves - hidden?

The Underground Railroad

How did most slaves travel when they escaped? How did they find their way? How did runaways try to avoid getting caught? What happened if they were caught? What was the Underground Railroad? Who were the "passengers" and who were the "conductors"?

Slavery

Why did some enslaved African Americans try to escape from their owners? Why was this such a dangerous act? If you had been born during this time period would you have tried to escape? Why?