Welcome to Government!

Welcome to American Government at Harrison School of the Arts Summer Academy!

I call this blog a crash course in American Government because it really is. The students at Harrison spend seven hours a day for nine days in my government class earning credits so they can clear their schedules for more art/music/dance classes during the school year. Their dedication is so impressive! 

The long days require lots of movement, activities, and humor. I tend to take a democratic approach to this course and allow the students to choose from a variety of activities to prove that they've learned material. Rather than a formal test, we might do team trivia. Rather than reading or outlining a chapter, the students might perform charades or play pictionary, acting out and drawing the main concepts of the chapter. Because these are students at an art school, many have special talents. I try to allow them to put those talents to work. If they are theater students, they are welcome to act out a skit. If they are visual art students, they may create a poster instead. 

Because we are together for so many hours in the day, the lessons can change based on the mood of the class. If I've had something planned that requires students to work independently, but I see that the energy level is down, I might change the activity to bring the engagement level back up. It is a fluid process everyday, as the students and I navigate our seven hours together. 

Unlike my other blog, "The Best of Boone," this blog is not necessarily for the students or parents. As I've recorded myself teaching, I've noticed various things I need to improve on and many things I am proud of. As a result, this is a professional record for me--activities I like and even those I dislike. 

If you're viewing this blog, I hope you enjoy my summer school journey!