Extra Credit Opportunities

To my students: Reminder---as with all previous extra credit opportunities, the work you do MUST be original, written in your own words. Please do not simply cut and paste information. If I suspect and/or confirm you have done this, it will result in no credit for the assignment. Additionally, please cite your sources (books, internet site/address, etc...). The amount of points you earn on the assignments will be based on your effort.

1. Kaiser Shipyards of California during World War II. Research where all of the Kaiser Shipyards were located in California during World War II. Find out what types of ships were built at each site, how many workers were employed, and any other information you can find about this employer during the war.

2. California-built ships used during World War II. Find out which ships were built at any of the shipyards in California, then write a report about any or all of the ships. Include: ship name, purpose, how many built, how and when was it used, what theatre of war was it used in, was it effective, how important was it to winning the war.

3. Japanese internment in California---write a research report about the other internment camp in California, Tule Lake. Include all of the basic information: when was it open, how many internees did it accomodate, recreation, security, work, and any other information you could find about Tule Lake Internment Camp, California.

4. Japanese Internment---Norman H. Mineta, Secretary of Transportation, and San Jose native. Mr. Mineta is a San Jose native and was also interned with his family in Wyoming. Write a research report about Mr. Mineta, finding out all you can about his life, especially his and his family's experience in a Japanese internment camp. You may also include recent information about him, including all of the political positions he has held, education, etc...

5. Japanese-Americans in World War II----the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, which was made up entirely of Japanese-American soldiers. Research and write a report about the 442nd, finding all you can about them, their accomplishments and their legacy, and their importance to World War II and for Japanese-Americans.

6. California-built aircraft of World War II---You have all learned that several aircraft companies in California built many different aircraft that was used in the war. Refer to your notes taken from the presentation that included the aircraft companies of California and some of the planes that each company built that was used in the war. Write a report about as many planes as you wish. Include all of the basics--name of the plane, who built it, how many were built, how was it used in the war, how important was it's use in the war, it's effectiveness, and anything else you can find about the planes. Remember, the planes must be built by a company in California.

***The following opportunities require travel; therefore, I will accept the following until the last day of school. See me if you need help or have questions for any of the following.

7. Visit the liberty ship SS Jeremiah O'Brien, which is docked at Pier 45 at Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco. Write a brief report about what you learned about the ship. This requires proof of attendance. Visit the website
www.ssjeremiahobrien.org/

8. Visit the USS Pampinito, a World War II submarine that is docked at Pier 45 at Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco. Write a brief report about what you learned about the submarine. This requires proof of attendance. Visit the website
www.maritime.org/pamphome/htm

9. Visit the Alameda Naval Air Museum in Alameda, CA. Check the website www.alamedanavalairmuseum.org
This will require proof of attendance. Write a report about what you learned at the museum.


10. Visit the Moffett Field Naval Air Base in Mountain View between Wednesday, May 31 and Monday, June 5. There will be 3 vintage World War II bombers on display for you to look at and even climb aboard. The planes include the B-25 Mitchell Bomber, the B-24 Liberator Bomber, and the legendary B-17 Flying Fortress. While here you can write a brief report on each plane, detailing what you have learned about each. There will also be WWII veterans to speak with and others who are familiar with the planes and their use during the war. This is an incredible experience that I have personally done for the past 3 years. It is rare that one can see and board a WWII plane. There is a small entry fee (about $5 per person----I think it may be cheaper for students). Moffett Naval Air Station is located just off highway 101 in Mountain View. The planes will be parked at the main gate near the control tower. Just ask at the gate; the people will direct you if you get lost. They always sell souvenirs as well. Please see me if you have any questions. Visit the website www.collingsfoundation.org. Click on the Wings of Freedom tour. Also, you can see pictures of the planes and view information about them as well.