Herbology
With another eventful year (even by Hogwarts standards) taking place, it was the job of Professor June Flamsteed to impart her knowledge of Herbology to another set of students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. With a tumultuous start to the year and the general cloud that seemed to hang over Hogwarts throughout, one would almost expect the attitudes in most classes to naturally drop due to influences both outside and inside Hogwarts but that did not dampen the attitude of this Herbology professor.
With a bright and welcoming attitude throughout the year, Professor Flamsteed managed to cover a variety of interesting topics, the most notable coming when the children of Hogwarts were introduced to a variety of plants and were asked to use their prior knowledge to figure out what they were. With a couple of budding anthophiles in the class, quite a few managed to name several of the flowers, included Heathcliff Jones who spotted a Hyacinth amongst the variety. Unsurprisingly, this wasn’t a pointless activity with no end goal. Armed with the names of the flowers, the children next had to find a common factor among them! A tricky task even for Hogwarts’ brightest and yet, two did in fact manage to spot the one thing that all of the flowers had in common: Hope. With a year filled with turmoil, pain and suffering, Professor Flamsteed managed to fill her students with a sense of hope when they could well have needed it the most. Something that isn’t easily accomplished when considering the extenuating circumstances.
With the meaning behind the flowers clear for all to see, it was up to the children to next harvest the dry parts of the leaves and roots whilst also leaving the rest so that they could be replanted for future Hogwarts students. With emotions high and even a few tears in the air thanks to those pesky allergies, most if not all of the students managed to collect some of the dried roots and leaves without too much hassle although, it would appear the green fingered trait that Professor Flamsteed exhibited so perfectly throughout the lesson and previous year as Herbology professor had not passed on to of the other Flamsteeds in the lesson. With the use of a perfect levitation charm, Atlas Flamsteed had accidentally plucked one of the cornflowers. R.I.P Cornflower.
The climax of the lesson came when the students were asked to spread hope, and the flowers, around the grounds of Hogwarts by replanting them using the spell Floribus Ordinare. With many of the students successfully using the spell to high standard, Hogwarts was left in a better state before the lesson and hope had indeed been spread across the vast grounds of the castle. With another successful lesson in the bag, I think we can all agree that whatever happens at Hogwarts, the herbology lessons are in the safe if not slightly dirty hands of Professor Flamsteed.
With a bright and welcoming attitude throughout the year, Professor Flamsteed managed to cover a variety of interesting topics, the most notable coming when the children of Hogwarts were introduced to a variety of plants and were asked to use their prior knowledge to figure out what they were. With a couple of budding anthophiles in the class, quite a few managed to name several of the flowers, included Heathcliff Jones who spotted a Hyacinth amongst the variety. Unsurprisingly, this wasn’t a pointless activity with no end goal. Armed with the names of the flowers, the children next had to find a common factor among them! A tricky task even for Hogwarts’ brightest and yet, two did in fact manage to spot the one thing that all of the flowers had in common: Hope. With a year filled with turmoil, pain and suffering, Professor Flamsteed managed to fill her students with a sense of hope when they could well have needed it the most. Something that isn’t easily accomplished when considering the extenuating circumstances.
With the meaning behind the flowers clear for all to see, it was up to the children to next harvest the dry parts of the leaves and roots whilst also leaving the rest so that they could be replanted for future Hogwarts students. With emotions high and even a few tears in the air thanks to those pesky allergies, most if not all of the students managed to collect some of the dried roots and leaves without too much hassle although, it would appear the green fingered trait that Professor Flamsteed exhibited so perfectly throughout the lesson and previous year as Herbology professor had not passed on to of the other Flamsteeds in the lesson. With the use of a perfect levitation charm, Atlas Flamsteed had accidentally plucked one of the cornflowers. R.I.P Cornflower.
The climax of the lesson came when the students were asked to spread hope, and the flowers, around the grounds of Hogwarts by replanting them using the spell Floribus Ordinare. With many of the students successfully using the spell to high standard, Hogwarts was left in a better state before the lesson and hope had indeed been spread across the vast grounds of the castle. With another successful lesson in the bag, I think we can all agree that whatever happens at Hogwarts, the herbology lessons are in the safe if not slightly dirty hands of Professor Flamsteed.
history of magic
The fabulous Gabriela Recard was back for her fourth term as History of Magic professor. And not only did this lovely lady teach us about the past, but she also served as our school healer. How she managed to perform both jobs extraordinarily well is beyond me. I mean, the fact that she made history interesting in the midst of an actual war (while caring for injured victims of the Neo-Alliance) is pretty commendable.
This term, we talked about Greek mythology. Witches and wizards have been around for a loooong time, so naturally, they had a pretty significant impact on ancient societies. Case in point? Greek myths and legends—which as it turns out, have some elements of magical truth. But wizarding folk probably changed some details to protect themselves from being discovered, too. Like Mamie Turov pointed out, Circe was said to be a demigod, but she was just a witch who was really good with Transfiguration. And Medusa wasn’t turned into a monster—she was born as a gorgon, as Claudine Blaze mentioned. Weird, huh?
For the next part of the lesson, we got to write a myth about ourselves. Ashley Fox wrote about herself as a Greek goddess and setting fire to some evil guy (a bit disturbing if you ask me, but if her story was actually just a metaphor for Lucien Rosier, I can probably get behind it). Aboli Song wrote about the ability to feel others’ emotions and heal all the fighting in the world. If you ask me, I think we have some aspiring authors at Hogwarts, because some of those stories were pretty fantastic.
In another lesson, we discussed The Life and Times of Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore (who obviously should always be referred to by his epic full name). Don’t get me wrong—I always knew that Dumbledore played a huge role in wizarding history, but did you know that he was a key figure in not one, not two, but THREE wizarding world wars? What an accomplished guy.
We had a pretty intense debate about whether or not it was justified for Dumbledore to keep The Big Secret (AKA horcrux, has to die to save the wizarding world, etc.) from Harry Potter. A pretty loaded question, if you ask me…and one that resulted in a bit of an argument between Nemesis Upstead and Professor Recard. Thankfully, the tension was diffused when we got to play around with fashion and design our own Dumbledore-inspired hats. Catch me actually making and wearing my creation to celebrate Dumbledore’s birthday this summer.
This term, we talked about Greek mythology. Witches and wizards have been around for a loooong time, so naturally, they had a pretty significant impact on ancient societies. Case in point? Greek myths and legends—which as it turns out, have some elements of magical truth. But wizarding folk probably changed some details to protect themselves from being discovered, too. Like Mamie Turov pointed out, Circe was said to be a demigod, but she was just a witch who was really good with Transfiguration. And Medusa wasn’t turned into a monster—she was born as a gorgon, as Claudine Blaze mentioned. Weird, huh?
For the next part of the lesson, we got to write a myth about ourselves. Ashley Fox wrote about herself as a Greek goddess and setting fire to some evil guy (a bit disturbing if you ask me, but if her story was actually just a metaphor for Lucien Rosier, I can probably get behind it). Aboli Song wrote about the ability to feel others’ emotions and heal all the fighting in the world. If you ask me, I think we have some aspiring authors at Hogwarts, because some of those stories were pretty fantastic.
In another lesson, we discussed The Life and Times of Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore (who obviously should always be referred to by his epic full name). Don’t get me wrong—I always knew that Dumbledore played a huge role in wizarding history, but did you know that he was a key figure in not one, not two, but THREE wizarding world wars? What an accomplished guy.
We had a pretty intense debate about whether or not it was justified for Dumbledore to keep The Big Secret (AKA horcrux, has to die to save the wizarding world, etc.) from Harry Potter. A pretty loaded question, if you ask me…and one that resulted in a bit of an argument between Nemesis Upstead and Professor Recard. Thankfully, the tension was diffused when we got to play around with fashion and design our own Dumbledore-inspired hats. Catch me actually making and wearing my creation to celebrate Dumbledore’s birthday this summer.
muggle studies
Muggle Studies has always been one of the most popular classes at Hogwarts - thanks mostly to the fact that Professor Finneas Schmoe is ALWAYS finding new ways to make the subject fun and exciting! Sadly, anti-muggle rhetoric was running rampant in the castle this past term. The Neo-Alliance had officially taken control of Hogwarts, and it was clear to everyone that the beloved subject would be one of the first targets.
However, Professor Schmoe didn't back down, and continued to do whatever he could to protect his students - muggleborns and purebloods alike. I got to ask him a few questions about what was undoubtably one of the hardest terms of his career!
Thanks for sitting down with me for an interview, Professor Schmoe! Given the beliefs of the Neo-Alliance, and the fact that your subject deals with all things Muggles, what were your initial thoughts when you heard about the Neo-
Alliance taking over the school and their focus on amplifying purebloods?
I was, er, I was very confused, but most of all angry - like most people. What those people stand for is deplorable. Hatred like that should have no place in the world, let alone in a school. My, er, my biggest mistake was thinking I could do anything about it on my own. I learned that the first night, but er. But by the end, it became exceedingly clear that it takes a united front.
What did you do in your classes to keep students safe, and most specifically, let the Muggleborn students know they were appreciated and safe in your classroom?
The Neo-Alliance had their Inquisitorial Squad stationed in my classroom at all times. It, er, it made it near impossible to do anything. But when students met with me one on one, I hope they knew they had a place of safety with me. Muggleborn students deserve to be here just as much as anyone else. What makes up one’s blood has, er, nothing to do with one’s courage, strength, or worth.
What challenges did you face as a Head of House while the Alliance was here?
No one prepares you for these things when you take the job, no one knew something like this would even be possible in today’s age. I was, er, I was just as lost as anyone else. At the time, I, er, I did what I thought was best. Looking back, I don’t think it was. I’m still not sure I know what the alternative would have been.
I'm sure it wasn't easy being in that situation! What was the toughest moment for you during last term?
When four of our students were vanished - Ms. Ashley Fox, Mr. Kale Trent, Mr. Minjae Yoon, and Mr. Moose Stover.
Our apologies will never be enough.
Despite all the bad moments last term - what was your proudest moment last term?
Seeing the way our students stood side-by-side in the Spare Office, taking care of one another and, er, and showing forth empathy. The resilience they showed in the face of adversity, their sense of justice, their kindness - I’m hopeful for the future of our world because I know it will be in good hands. The lessons they’ve taught me are, er, far more important than anything we’ve studied in our classroom.
However, Professor Schmoe didn't back down, and continued to do whatever he could to protect his students - muggleborns and purebloods alike. I got to ask him a few questions about what was undoubtably one of the hardest terms of his career!
Thanks for sitting down with me for an interview, Professor Schmoe! Given the beliefs of the Neo-Alliance, and the fact that your subject deals with all things Muggles, what were your initial thoughts when you heard about the Neo-
Alliance taking over the school and their focus on amplifying purebloods?
I was, er, I was very confused, but most of all angry - like most people. What those people stand for is deplorable. Hatred like that should have no place in the world, let alone in a school. My, er, my biggest mistake was thinking I could do anything about it on my own. I learned that the first night, but er. But by the end, it became exceedingly clear that it takes a united front.
What did you do in your classes to keep students safe, and most specifically, let the Muggleborn students know they were appreciated and safe in your classroom?
The Neo-Alliance had their Inquisitorial Squad stationed in my classroom at all times. It, er, it made it near impossible to do anything. But when students met with me one on one, I hope they knew they had a place of safety with me. Muggleborn students deserve to be here just as much as anyone else. What makes up one’s blood has, er, nothing to do with one’s courage, strength, or worth.
What challenges did you face as a Head of House while the Alliance was here?
No one prepares you for these things when you take the job, no one knew something like this would even be possible in today’s age. I was, er, I was just as lost as anyone else. At the time, I, er, I did what I thought was best. Looking back, I don’t think it was. I’m still not sure I know what the alternative would have been.
I'm sure it wasn't easy being in that situation! What was the toughest moment for you during last term?
When four of our students were vanished - Ms. Ashley Fox, Mr. Kale Trent, Mr. Minjae Yoon, and Mr. Moose Stover.
Our apologies will never be enough.
Despite all the bad moments last term - what was your proudest moment last term?
Seeing the way our students stood side-by-side in the Spare Office, taking care of one another and, er, and showing forth empathy. The resilience they showed in the face of adversity, their sense of justice, their kindness - I’m hopeful for the future of our world because I know it will be in good hands. The lessons they’ve taught me are, er, far more important than anything we’ve studied in our classroom.
potions
Joining the Hogwarts staff as Potions Master was Professor Shreya Varma. Many interesting potions were brewed this year and we had the pleasure of putting some of those potions to use in different situations.
In one class, we got to test our Animal Whisperer Potion on real live creatures. Everyone got a brief visit with their own pet and those of us without pets at school, got to practice with Hogwarts creatures. Being an animal lover myself, I have always wondered what animals were thinking. We all got a chance to find the answer to that question, if just for a brief moment in time. Hearing the animals speaking for themselves was really quite revealing. The animal whisperer potion might be a good thing to have around all the time.
Another Potions class started off on a good note when we got to experience Polyjuice Potion first hand. Everyone discussed who they would be if they could be anyone in the world which was interesting to say the least. Next, we found partners and interviewed them to find out many fun facts about them. It turns out that this information was needed because we would be using the Polyjuice Potion to turn ourselves into our partners.
The Inquisitorial Squad always a looming presence in lessons by this point in term, their hold on Hogwarts was flexed due to a small tussle involving Hufflepuff Minjae Yoon and Slytherin Moose Stover, and newly Inquisitorial Squad recruited Nemesis Upstead. Hexing muggleborns Yoon and Stover in an eye-for-an-eye maneuver as they shoved past Upstead to entered the classroom, they then reprimanded the professor for her lack of compliance to the new order at Hogwarts as enforced by the Neo Alliance. Retaliating with their words, Yoon and Stover, along with Ravenclaw Ashley Fox and Gryffindor Kale Trent, drew the eyes of the Inquisitorial Squad further and soon summoned the head hooded man himself, Lucien Rosier. Things went further downhill after that because the “problem students” were vanished by Rosier into what would later be revealed as mirror prisons, the professor was to be banished to “professor prison” after class and the rest of us had to keep going as if nothing had happened.
Somehow, the remaining students managed to carry out the rather anticlimactic task. What would have been a fun game under normal circumstances followed, as everyone switched partners and tried to figure out who was who. Kudos to Professor Varma for maintaining her composure and continuing to teach class under very difficult circumstances. Her creative lessons were interesting, even though they were somewhat ruined by outside forces.
In one class, we got to test our Animal Whisperer Potion on real live creatures. Everyone got a brief visit with their own pet and those of us without pets at school, got to practice with Hogwarts creatures. Being an animal lover myself, I have always wondered what animals were thinking. We all got a chance to find the answer to that question, if just for a brief moment in time. Hearing the animals speaking for themselves was really quite revealing. The animal whisperer potion might be a good thing to have around all the time.
Another Potions class started off on a good note when we got to experience Polyjuice Potion first hand. Everyone discussed who they would be if they could be anyone in the world which was interesting to say the least. Next, we found partners and interviewed them to find out many fun facts about them. It turns out that this information was needed because we would be using the Polyjuice Potion to turn ourselves into our partners.
The Inquisitorial Squad always a looming presence in lessons by this point in term, their hold on Hogwarts was flexed due to a small tussle involving Hufflepuff Minjae Yoon and Slytherin Moose Stover, and newly Inquisitorial Squad recruited Nemesis Upstead. Hexing muggleborns Yoon and Stover in an eye-for-an-eye maneuver as they shoved past Upstead to entered the classroom, they then reprimanded the professor for her lack of compliance to the new order at Hogwarts as enforced by the Neo Alliance. Retaliating with their words, Yoon and Stover, along with Ravenclaw Ashley Fox and Gryffindor Kale Trent, drew the eyes of the Inquisitorial Squad further and soon summoned the head hooded man himself, Lucien Rosier. Things went further downhill after that because the “problem students” were vanished by Rosier into what would later be revealed as mirror prisons, the professor was to be banished to “professor prison” after class and the rest of us had to keep going as if nothing had happened.
Somehow, the remaining students managed to carry out the rather anticlimactic task. What would have been a fun game under normal circumstances followed, as everyone switched partners and tried to figure out who was who. Kudos to Professor Varma for maintaining her composure and continuing to teach class under very difficult circumstances. Her creative lessons were interesting, even though they were somewhat ruined by outside forces.
transfiguration
The wonderful subject of Transfiguration was led by Professor Norman Carton, a newcomer to Hogwarts this year. Given all that happened at the school, he may have wished he had waited another year to join the staff. Making the best of a bad situation, Professor Carton managed to bring a little excitement and fun to the classroom.
Transfiguration lessons seemed to follow a theme this term since several had something to do with animals. The professor stressed that transfiguration involving animals or any transfiguration really, requires concentration, visualization and decisive wand movements. Those are definitely words to live by.
In one lesson, students learned how to transfigure humans into ferrets, some of us more successfully than others. Clearly Professor Carton is an optimist and very brave for having faith that Hogwarts students could pull off the difficult human to animal transfiguration without disastrous results. We practiced the Migalifors spell and after breaking up into groups of two, everyone took turns practicing the spell on their partners. As you can imagine, the usual Hogwarts madness ensued. Of course we also had to learn a general un-transfiguration spell because no one wants to be stuck as an animal forever. Always one to end things with a bit of fun, Professor Carton allowed us to practice our newly learned human to animal transfiguration skills by playing a game. Two teams were formed and each team earned points for turning their opponents into ferrets. Points were also given for changing teammates back to their human form. Nothing like a little friendly competition to motivate a bunch of stressed out students.
In another lesson, we moved on to conjuration. Sticking with the animal theme, we learned how to conjure birds and then have them attack using the Oppugno spell. I mean who couldn’t use a good attack spell every now and then? Of course we ended that lesson with another fun game. How better to take out our frustrations than by using our conjured birds to attack piñatas? To top it all off, there was candy for the students once the piñatas were broken. Candy doesn’t cure all your ills, but it sure helps. If professor Carton could bring a bit of fun to an otherwise horrible school year, imagine what he could do under more normal circumstances. I’m sure that everyone will be looking forward to next term’s Tranfiguration classes. I know that I will.
Transfiguration lessons seemed to follow a theme this term since several had something to do with animals. The professor stressed that transfiguration involving animals or any transfiguration really, requires concentration, visualization and decisive wand movements. Those are definitely words to live by.
In one lesson, students learned how to transfigure humans into ferrets, some of us more successfully than others. Clearly Professor Carton is an optimist and very brave for having faith that Hogwarts students could pull off the difficult human to animal transfiguration without disastrous results. We practiced the Migalifors spell and after breaking up into groups of two, everyone took turns practicing the spell on their partners. As you can imagine, the usual Hogwarts madness ensued. Of course we also had to learn a general un-transfiguration spell because no one wants to be stuck as an animal forever. Always one to end things with a bit of fun, Professor Carton allowed us to practice our newly learned human to animal transfiguration skills by playing a game. Two teams were formed and each team earned points for turning their opponents into ferrets. Points were also given for changing teammates back to their human form. Nothing like a little friendly competition to motivate a bunch of stressed out students.
In another lesson, we moved on to conjuration. Sticking with the animal theme, we learned how to conjure birds and then have them attack using the Oppugno spell. I mean who couldn’t use a good attack spell every now and then? Of course we ended that lesson with another fun game. How better to take out our frustrations than by using our conjured birds to attack piñatas? To top it all off, there was candy for the students once the piñatas were broken. Candy doesn’t cure all your ills, but it sure helps. If professor Carton could bring a bit of fun to an otherwise horrible school year, imagine what he could do under more normal circumstances. I’m sure that everyone will be looking forward to next term’s Tranfiguration classes. I know that I will.