As introduced in class, over the next 2 weeks we will be focusing on the Middle Ages and whether they should be categorized as a time of darkness (The Dark Ages) or a time of light (Enlightenment).  This answer is contingent on the idea that the Middle Ages were a time period of intellectualism and discovery rather than simply violence and death.  You will be asked to work in groups of 2-3 people to complete related tasks over the next week.  Your research will be divided into 5 categories:  

                        (1)  Socio-Economics
                        (2)  Technology & Architecture
                        (3)  History & Politics
                        (4)  Religion & Culture
                        (5)  Education, Art, & Literature

In your blog post, please let me know who you would like to work with, and what 2 topics interest your group.  Keep in mind that you will be completing 2 days of research in class, and will be evaluated on (2) typed analyses of selected sub-topics with MLA-documentation, a submitted power-point of your information, and your involvment in the upcoming Socratic discussion focusing on the essential question:  Middle Ages--Light or Dark?  (All of which wll be explained, rubric-ed, etc. while in class)

How often have you used a class website and/or blog in your previous courses?  Have you been an active participant on the blog?  Did you find it useful or difficult to maintain contact with your teacher and/or classmates while using the blog and site?  Let's see how helpful our site can and will be, but remember, the information is only helpful when you take the time to use it.