FieldPost5 Beachwood High School

Today I observed Mr. Velotta’s room for a third time. The observation began normally by eating lunch with the social studies department; they continued to be very kind and welcoming. Beachwood High School actually lost power today; however, they are on a backup generator so some things were working. In Mr. Velotta’s room his lights and some outlets worked; but, his projector would not turn on. Today he had planned to have students present their projects on Imperialism and World War 1. In the beginning of the period, when there was no power to present, he allowed the students to work on their projects. He decided to let the students go another day, since he did not really have an option.

While the students worked on their projects, Mr. Velotta and I spoke about his senior government class (I observe his freshman/sophomore U.S. Studies class). He told me about this mock presidential race he created for his class. It began by him teaching the basics behind government: the different branches, political parties, conservative vs. liberal, etc. After this he had his students take personality-type-test to see where they fell when it came to Republicans or Democrats. For example, the question might be about abortion whether it should be pro-choice or pro-life. The students would answer with a multiple choice response of A.) Liberal B.) Moderate or C.) Conservative. After the test, the students were divided into groups based on their answers. Mr. Velotta expressed that most students were liberal and the other half were moderate with a few conservatives. After the test divides them into groups, they start their campaigns. While doing this with posters, video announcements, etc., Mr. Velotta’s freshman/sophomore U.S. Studies class will vote on which party they favor the most.

I love this project, because it is hands on, involves the students, and is extremely informative. It helps the students understand political parties through their own experiences, in a fun, educational way.