Isearch research is in progress - student have taken about 20 notes so far from a wide variety of sources. Students are working on position papers on topics ranging from steroids in sports, animal testing for cosmetics, to reproductive rights. Currently we have written leads, problem and thesis paragraphs, and have just finished developing three paragraphs that examine the best first argument in depth. Student will start workshopping their writing so far. In order to back up major ideas, most students will continue to do more research as we continue to write the paper's supporting and counter arguments.
We have been studying Islamic Civilization and Current Events and issues since the return of Winter Break. We have examined modern issues across the Islamic world - women's rights, the rise of ISIS, the differences between Shi'ite and Sunni Muslims today. We have examined the early beginning of Islam.
Starting with an examination of Hinduism and Buddhism in 6th grade, in 7th we have continued with a conversation of the rise of the Catholic Church, and currently the rise of Islamic principles. This examination helps students understand the thinking and beliefs of Islam not just as a religion, but more importantly as it relates to culture and politics with the goal of a better understanding of our relationship with peoples that live in the Islamic nations of the world.
