Griots of Africa

I would not want to learn history the way the griots of Africa did. First off, it would be far too difficult to remember things via songs or orally. Next, it would be easy to make a mistake after several recitations of a story. If text was written correctly the first time - it would be good for a long period of time because it does not have to be re-told. Additionally, I have gotten used to reading as opposed to listening. Not to mention, reading is faster

Ideal Shape of History

The ideal shape to consider the progression of history until this point in time would probably be the usage of charts (rectangles, squares..). This is because a line would not suffice for all the various regions that have established civilizations that grew independently of each other. Likewise, I do not feel as if something like a graphic organizer (the one with bubbles, etc) would be good enough either. The chart provides a nice template, more space, and makes it easier to see the differences/similarities between regions.

Essays Progress

https://docs.google.com/a/bps121.org/document/d/1jAoqJxm2gFSnH_gcPzfxHL2guTMuCEtb0Axa4G5cEOc/edit

Above is the link to my essay progress spreadsheet (Only accessible to Mr. Whitten's email). Looking at the data, I have noticed that starting off in term one, I was missing the analysis part of the compare essay the most, which lead to me not getting any of the expanded core points. Same issue with the global context for the COT. I was not clear enough on the first one, therefore did not proceed onto the expanded core. For the mid-terms, they were better than the essays I have written in the past - however could have been better if I had managed my time better, since the time limit on the midyear was very constraining. Additionally, I think I will focus more on making sure I get all the normal core points before focusing on trying to get the expanded core.

Trial is over

I think the trial was pretty interesting, I did learn from the other characters about what they did, and a lot for my own character - Mongke. However, I wish I got called up for cross examination because I prepared to answer any kind of question that was thrown at me.

1/13 update

trial went pretty well today...ripped up part of my script because I did not want the persecution obtaining some information that would harm me. Additionally, going to prepare to talk with the cross examiner today.

Weekend update

sorry...should have posted this earlier. Only thing I really did in regards to the trial is prepare for questions that the cross-examiner would have asked me. Additionally, started making a study guide with some friends for the mid-year. 

Trial update 1/10

Made note of some stuff that would hurt the persecution during the trial today.