This week we will be continuing our study of Federalism. Students will take notes and become familar with the duties and powers of national, state, and local governments. Last week we simulated the events of 9-11 and Hurricane Katrina and analyzed how each level of government needs/should respond in a catastrophe. Now we will be analyzing the U.S. Constitution to specifically list the powers of the executive, judicial, and legislative branches. Later in the week we will begin learning about the concept of checks and balances. The Constitution created a system of government in which one branch cannot become more powerful than the other, this week we will learn how the three branches of government keep each other in check.

On Tuesday, September 8th President Obama will issue an historic speech directed to all the students of America. In our class we will be watching this speech as well as discussing it in class.

Later on this week we will be paying tribute to those who lost their lives in the 9-11 terrorist attacks. Students will share where they were when they heard the news and how they felt at that moment.

Labor Day, No School! Enjoy your weekend!