Tonight:
SOME students, not all, have not finished their 7th grade letter. This is a final assessment for writing. They may work at home, but cannot get help from parents. This is due tomorrow.
SOME students have very very low grades on their Latin America Assessment because it was not finished. They should really consider finishing and resubmitting this.
SOME students need to re-work or finish their Canada Assessment.
Ms. Lamb will be crazily grading all weekend, but not after that.
Page 90 18 and 20- 23 getting ready for unit test on Friday
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Monday and Tuesday 6-6 and 6-7
Sorry I forgot to write yesterday.
We had our "last" work period for our social studies Canada assessment project yesterday. Then Ms. Lamb graded them all on the rubric.
They were pretty good, but not complete enough, so Ms. Lamb gave one more class period today. She will regrade them all on Friday, so kids can work at home tonight, Wednesday and Thursday night if they need to.
We also started our last and final assessment for LA which is a reflection on the two years of Team Energy. See the assignment here.
We will work on this end of year letter for at least tomorrow's class. It can also be finished at home if needed.
We will consider grades closed on Friday and do report cards over the weekend. If a student needs more time on something, they must speak with me before Friday afternoon or I won't consider their revisions.
On Monday we will have a camp day with crafts and games planned by us on Thursday. On Tuesday we have a mini-move up day to 7th grade and a field day with the whole school.
We had our "last" work period for our social studies Canada assessment project yesterday. Then Ms. Lamb graded them all on the rubric.
They were pretty good, but not complete enough, so Ms. Lamb gave one more class period today. She will regrade them all on Friday, so kids can work at home tonight, Wednesday and Thursday night if they need to.
We also started our last and final assessment for LA which is a reflection on the two years of Team Energy. See the assignment here.
We will work on this end of year letter for at least tomorrow's class. It can also be finished at home if needed.
We will consider grades closed on Friday and do report cards over the weekend. If a student needs more time on something, they must speak with me before Friday afternoon or I won't consider their revisions.
On Monday we will have a camp day with crafts and games planned by us on Thursday. On Tuesday we have a mini-move up day to 7th grade and a field day with the whole school.
Friday, June 3, 2016
Friday 6-3-16
I just realized I have been not keeping up with my blog this week. Sorry about that.
Homework this week has been only from me. It has been reading the text for social studies and of course, keeping up with your own personal reading.
Next week homework will be a bit light also. The intent is to finish the Canada assessment in class on Monday. I will grade it Monday night, BUT students will be allowed to work on it outside of class and re-submit (or ask me to re-look at it) until Thursday. The caveat is students cannot get help with this - so if I look at it on Monday night and is significantly more sophisticated by Thursday I may get suspicious.
Here is a link to the assessment if you are interested.
Today I showed how I would do this using google slides and U.S. History. Here is the beginning of my model so you get the idea. Ms. Lamb's example Canada final using the USA. Students are allowed to do this on paper or using some other online tool. They may even use my template (with generous support from Ms. Nicolle.)
There are two more big things coming next week.
On Tuesday we start our final writing piece. It is an argument. Students will try to convince me in writing that they are ready to go to seventh grade. They will use evidence from their work this year to prove their case. This will be due on Friday.
We will continue reading The Lightning Queen. We may or may not finish it. I may allow kids who want to to borrow it to finish at home. I only have 20 copies or I would let everyone take it home. It is a DCF book for this year. Maybe we will finish it.
The other thing that I have heard about is a math final next Friday. More on that Monday.
On Monday the 13th we are planning a Camp Energy Day. We will have some summer camp type activities going on.
On Tuesday the 14th we will have a 45 minute move up day experience. Everyone will get to meet their seventh grade teachers!!!!! Then we will have a 5, 6, 7 field day to send everyone off to a happy summer. Grade 8 will be all graduated on Monday night.
Homework this week has been only from me. It has been reading the text for social studies and of course, keeping up with your own personal reading.
Next week homework will be a bit light also. The intent is to finish the Canada assessment in class on Monday. I will grade it Monday night, BUT students will be allowed to work on it outside of class and re-submit (or ask me to re-look at it) until Thursday. The caveat is students cannot get help with this - so if I look at it on Monday night and is significantly more sophisticated by Thursday I may get suspicious.
Here is a link to the assessment if you are interested.
Today I showed how I would do this using google slides and U.S. History. Here is the beginning of my model so you get the idea. Ms. Lamb's example Canada final using the USA. Students are allowed to do this on paper or using some other online tool. They may even use my template (with generous support from Ms. Nicolle.)
There are two more big things coming next week.
On Tuesday we start our final writing piece. It is an argument. Students will try to convince me in writing that they are ready to go to seventh grade. They will use evidence from their work this year to prove their case. This will be due on Friday.
We will continue reading The Lightning Queen. We may or may not finish it. I may allow kids who want to to borrow it to finish at home. I only have 20 copies or I would let everyone take it home. It is a DCF book for this year. Maybe we will finish it.
The other thing that I have heard about is a math final next Friday. More on that Monday.
On Monday the 13th we are planning a Camp Energy Day. We will have some summer camp type activities going on.
On Tuesday the 14th we will have a 45 minute move up day experience. Everyone will get to meet their seventh grade teachers!!!!! Then we will have a 5, 6, 7 field day to send everyone off to a happy summer. Grade 8 will be all graduated on Monday night.
Tuesday, May 31, 2016
A huge thank you
Thank you so much to our wonderful chaperones for our trip to Ottawa. You made the trip easy and safe and so much fun. Pam Billings, Connie Arceneaux, Amy Little, Dave Nicholson, Eric Barker, Matt Watson, Dick Sears, John Borch, Thad Luther, Mark Girourard, Ed RIddel, TJ Holloway, and Todd Wright. You are masters of the craft and I would recommend you to anyone.
Also thank you to Carolyn Dejong who helped us get things notarized. We got over the border with no trouble.
Thank you to all of the parents who showed up promptly (one and half hours later than we planned) and picked up your kids. Also, you packed them wonderful lunches and gave them spending money and raised them right because they were perfectly well behaved and wonderful travel companions.
Hail Ottawa.
Cheers,
Cate Lamb
Also thank you to Carolyn Dejong who helped us get things notarized. We got over the border with no trouble.
Thank you to all of the parents who showed up promptly (one and half hours later than we planned) and picked up your kids. Also, you packed them wonderful lunches and gave them spending money and raised them right because they were perfectly well behaved and wonderful travel companions.
Hail Ottawa.
Cheers,
Cate Lamb
Tuesday May 31, 2016
Reminder - no school for sixth graders on Thursday June 2 due to 4th grade move up day. Thank you to Sabrina, Edie, Troy and Jaymeson who agreed to come to school on their day off to be Move Up Day guides.
Homework tonight is finish quick reading chapter 6 in your O Canada text book. We have another open book quiz tomorrow.
Otherwise, please come to the science fair from 6-7 to see all of our amazing entries.
Also, science fair kids should be here today until 3:25.
More later......
Homework tonight is finish quick reading chapter 6 in your O Canada text book. We have another open book quiz tomorrow.
Otherwise, please come to the science fair from 6-7 to see all of our amazing entries.
Also, science fair kids should be here today until 3:25.
More later......
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Wednesday 5-25-16 Canada tomorrow!
No homework tonight except make sure your climate slide show is ready to present on Tuesday (we didn't get to it today)
We are super excited about the trip tomorrow. We ran through every scenario we could think of. We are ready to be a well mannered eager to learn group of visitors tomorrow.
We reviewed how parliament works in Canada so we are ready to visit. Make sure you take a lot of pictures and keep in mind "events that lead to Canada becoming an independent nation" while we explore and enjoy Ottawa.
REMEMBER:
Arrive at BRMS tomorrow at 6:30 am ready to board the bus with your lunch and snacks for the long bus ride. Bring appropriate dvd's if you have them and want to share them on the bus ride.
Arrive at BRMS tomorrow at 6:30 am ready to board the bus with your lunch and snacks for the long bus ride. Bring appropriate dvd's if you have them and want to share them on the bus ride.
Bring money for dinner etc.
Chaperones - don't forget your passport or enhanced driver's license!
Here is the last piece of information for 2016 Science Fest!
Please make sure your students know schedule:
Tuesday, May 31st
- Present AFTER SCHOOL 2:45 - 3:25
- BRMS teachers act as Round 1 judges
- Ride bus home, get picked up
- COME BACK to BRMS from 6:00 - 7:00 for final round - Top 10
- Final Judging and presentations - 6:00 - 7:00
- Awards at 7:00
Thank you all for your support!
Tuesday, May 24, 2016
Tuesday 5-24-16
ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT MOVE-UP DAY
All sixth graders, except for those who sign up to be guides, will be staying home on June 2nd.
Today we had our Energy Science Fair. It was great. Some kids still have to put some finishing touches before next Tuesday. Anyone can resubmit next Tuesday and 24 of us are GOING TO THE SCIENCE FEST. I think we may have some winners!
Homework:
Finish your science presentation on climate.
Math Page 87 to 89 #4,6,10, and 12
All sixth graders, except for those who sign up to be guides, will be staying home on June 2nd.
Today we had our Energy Science Fair. It was great. Some kids still have to put some finishing touches before next Tuesday. Anyone can resubmit next Tuesday and 24 of us are GOING TO THE SCIENCE FEST. I think we may have some winners!
Homework:
Finish your science presentation on climate.
Math Page 87 to 89 #4,6,10, and 12
Monday, May 23, 2016
Monday 5-24-16
Today we had some science fair preparation time and work on our science climate slide show time. Tomorrow we present science fair and finish and start presenting climate.
In LA today we started looking at our non-fiction text O Canada. We will be reading chapter four and creating an illustration of an event with an explanation of how that event led to Canada's independence on Wednesday.
Tomorrow we have our library reading/writing retreat.
Homework:
Prepare for Energy science fair tomorrow.
No math homework
Read if you can fit it it.
Here is the itinerary for Ottawa
NOTE: We have changed our arrival time back at BRMS on Friday to 9 p.m. We need to stop for dinner on the way. We will make phone calls when we are in Vermont and call all parents with exact arrival time.
In LA today we started looking at our non-fiction text O Canada. We will be reading chapter four and creating an illustration of an event with an explanation of how that event led to Canada's independence on Wednesday.
Tomorrow we have our library reading/writing retreat.
Homework:
Prepare for Energy science fair tomorrow.
No math homework
Read if you can fit it it.
Here is the itinerary for Ottawa
NOTE: We have changed our arrival time back at BRMS on Friday to 9 p.m. We need to stop for dinner on the way. We will make phone calls when we are in Vermont and call all parents with exact arrival time.
Friday, May 20, 2016
Friday 5--20-16
I missed a couple days here. I was out Tuesday and Thursday and Mr. Meadows was out today.
Students should be ready for the science fair Energy Expo this Tuesday May 24th.
Here is pertinent information and the rubric I will use to assess on Tuesday.
Students will be allowed to make the project better and resubmit on Tuesday May 31st, the day of the actual evening science fest at school. Students don't have to go to the evening event, but there will be prizes and ice cream I think.
Students should be ready for the science fair Energy Expo this Tuesday May 24th.
Here is pertinent information and the rubric I will use to assess on Tuesday.
1. Original flier - Flier
2. Information sheet - includes websites and information about presenting - Info Sheet
3. Rubric - how Fest is scored at the fair - Rubric
4. Science Fest Schedule - day of the event - Schedule
Students will be allowed to make the project better and resubmit on Tuesday May 31st, the day of the actual evening science fest at school. Students don't have to go to the evening event, but there will be prizes and ice cream I think.
Don't forget about our trip on Thursday. Students will need to bring a lunch for Thursday and be at school ready to pull out of the parking lot at 7 am.
Tuesday, May 17, 2016
Tuesday 5-17-16
I was out today. Here is what I imagined happened.
In social studies, we met as a large group to create maps. Given an outline of Canada with provinces outlined, students used atlases to create a colorful rendition of provinces, capitals, rivers, lakes, oceans, and bays - correctly spelled and capitalized. This is to be finished for homework if it didn't get done in class.
In l.a. classes, students completed the edutyping test - for a words per minute and accuracy accounting. Students should be at 25 wpm and 90% accuracy - but we are aiming to just improve as much as we can. If we can fit it in, we will do one more accounting in June so keep practicing!
Then students were allowed time to work on science fair. We will do a class check in tomorrow to see if we need another work period on Thursday. Trifolds are due Tuesday May 24th. The evening science fest with PRIZES is Tuesday May 31st.
At the end of the day, students tried to perfect, or at least complete, their science weather report video projects.
Homework:
Math - I don't know what, but I bet there is some - maybe even a skill sheet
LA/SS finish map
make sure word study first sort and sentences are complete
Read your novel
Update reading record
See you tomorrow students.
In social studies, we met as a large group to create maps. Given an outline of Canada with provinces outlined, students used atlases to create a colorful rendition of provinces, capitals, rivers, lakes, oceans, and bays - correctly spelled and capitalized. This is to be finished for homework if it didn't get done in class.
In l.a. classes, students completed the edutyping test - for a words per minute and accuracy accounting. Students should be at 25 wpm and 90% accuracy - but we are aiming to just improve as much as we can. If we can fit it in, we will do one more accounting in June so keep practicing!
Then students were allowed time to work on science fair. We will do a class check in tomorrow to see if we need another work period on Thursday. Trifolds are due Tuesday May 24th. The evening science fest with PRIZES is Tuesday May 31st.
At the end of the day, students tried to perfect, or at least complete, their science weather report video projects.
Homework:
Math - I don't know what, but I bet there is some - maybe even a skill sheet
LA/SS finish map
make sure word study first sort and sentences are complete
Read your novel
Update reading record
See you tomorrow students.
Monday, May 16, 2016
Monday 5-16-16
Welcome back to non SBAC regular old homework week.
Today's homework:
LA edutyping - prepare for test tomorrow
1st sort and 8 sentences for word study Ms. Lamb's groups due Wednesday (vocab try to finish at least one page per day)
Science fair worksheet due Wednesday May 18th
Science fair trifold presentation due Tuesday May 24th
Math: pages 47, 48, 49 #7 to 13 area
Today we got back to the swing. In LA we had our penultimate visit to the library. We watched a bit more of Canada: A People's History outlining the First People of Canada. Their stories are very similar to the First Peoples of what is now the United States.
We all logged into edutyping to make sure we remembered how. Tomorrow we will ALL do the test again to track our progress.
Students can expect to have about 40 minutes to work on science fair planning and trifold making in class tomorrow. REMEMBER: Experiments must be done at home.
This morning we met to discuss Ottawa. Kids put in their roommate and group requests. We will try hard to honor as much as we can.
Here is a link to what to bring: Things to bring list
Science fest info from Mr. Warren
Today's homework:
LA edutyping - prepare for test tomorrow
1st sort and 8 sentences for word study Ms. Lamb's groups due Wednesday (vocab try to finish at least one page per day)
Science fair worksheet due Wednesday May 18th
Science fair trifold presentation due Tuesday May 24th
Math: pages 47, 48, 49 #7 to 13 area
Today we got back to the swing. In LA we had our penultimate visit to the library. We watched a bit more of Canada: A People's History outlining the First People of Canada. Their stories are very similar to the First Peoples of what is now the United States.
We all logged into edutyping to make sure we remembered how. Tomorrow we will ALL do the test again to track our progress.
Students can expect to have about 40 minutes to work on science fair planning and trifold making in class tomorrow. REMEMBER: Experiments must be done at home.
This morning we met to discuss Ottawa. Kids put in their roommate and group requests. We will try hard to honor as much as we can.
Here is a link to what to bring: Things to bring list
Science fest info from Mr. Warren
1. Original flier - Flier
2. Information sheet - includes websites and information about presenting - Info Sheet
3. Rubric - how Fest is scored at the fair - Rubric
4. Science Fest Schedule - day of the event - Schedule
Monday, May 9, 2016
Monday Important Ottawa and SBAC news
BIRTH CERTIFICATES (original) or PASSPORTS need to be handed in to Mr. Meadows. We are traveling to Ottawa two week from Thursday. Please contact him right away if you are having a problem or issue with bringing in your official document right away.
SBACs for math are tomorrow and Thursday. I have been promised that they are blessedly shorter than the ELA tests, but we shall see. Please come with a good night's sleep, a book to read after you finish, a pen or pencil for figuring on paper and your earbuds or head phones.
No homework this week due to SBACs.
SBACs for math are tomorrow and Thursday. I have been promised that they are blessedly shorter than the ELA tests, but we shall see. Please come with a good night's sleep, a book to read after you finish, a pen or pencil for figuring on paper and your earbuds or head phones.
No homework this week due to SBACs.
Wednesday, May 4, 2016
Wednesday 5-4 May the 4th be with you
During SBAC tests it feels like we have to cram a lot in on non-test days.
Today we started our Canada Unit click here to see the unit links. We watched a video from discoveryeducation.com and practiced note taking and creating visual representations. Then we all practice making an illustration for one event.
We will continue on Friday. We will also use the text book O' Canada and the CBC video series Canada: A People's History and of course, our visit to Ottawa and the Canada Museum of History in Ottawa and the War Museum in Ottawa along with their websites.
We also started our poetry unit. We will be writing poems, reading poems and slamming a poem.
Tomorrow we have round to of English Language Arts SBAC tests. In the afternoon we continue and finish (hopefully) our PSA videos for incoming fifth graders for Move Up Day.
Rest up tonight.
Read if you can.
Today we started our Canada Unit click here to see the unit links. We watched a video from discoveryeducation.com and practiced note taking and creating visual representations. Then we all practice making an illustration for one event.
We will continue on Friday. We will also use the text book O' Canada and the CBC video series Canada: A People's History and of course, our visit to Ottawa and the Canada Museum of History in Ottawa and the War Museum in Ottawa along with their websites.
We also started our poetry unit. We will be writing poems, reading poems and slamming a poem.
Tomorrow we have round to of English Language Arts SBAC tests. In the afternoon we continue and finish (hopefully) our PSA videos for incoming fifth graders for Move Up Day.
Rest up tonight.
Read if you can.
Tuesday, May 3, 2016
Tuesday 5-3-15
First day of SBAC tests down!
It was a long one. Some students worked for more than 2.5 hours on it. Such hard workers deserve time off for good behavior.
In LA we are working on creating one minute PSA commercials for incoming fifth graders. Students work in pairs or threes explaining things like - what clubs can you join? what are the rules of recess? where are all the bathrooms?
We will try to finish these up on Thursday.
If you need things to do for homework consider:
reading
free writing
finishing your social studies assessment on Latin America
edutyping
It was a long one. Some students worked for more than 2.5 hours on it. Such hard workers deserve time off for good behavior.
In LA we are working on creating one minute PSA commercials for incoming fifth graders. Students work in pairs or threes explaining things like - what clubs can you join? what are the rules of recess? where are all the bathrooms?
We will try to finish these up on Thursday.
If you need things to do for homework consider:
reading
free writing
finishing your social studies assessment on Latin America
edutyping
Monday, May 2, 2016
Monday 5-2-16
Good news!
SBACs start tomorrow.
That means we have no homework today or for the next two weeks! Technically, we could have homework on Wednesday, but I know Ms. Lamb will not be giving any homework except for reading for the entire time.
This means the social studies assessment is going on hiatus today. We had to do an SBAC pre activity, so had just about 20 minutes to finish up. If it feels completely not done, students may revisit this after we do the CANADA assessment. That sounds weird, but the Canada assessment is very similar to the Latin America Assessment and we are going to work backwards this time. This should give students more of an understanding of how to complete a complex task like this.
Many many of us are very on the ball, so congratulations on that.
Tonight:
Rest
Read
Pack a good snack for tomorrow (no gum please)
Bring your luck pen or pencil for notes and planning.
Bring your earbuds or headphones for the test.
Bring your iphone or ipod for video projects after the tests.
SBACs start tomorrow.
That means we have no homework today or for the next two weeks! Technically, we could have homework on Wednesday, but I know Ms. Lamb will not be giving any homework except for reading for the entire time.
This means the social studies assessment is going on hiatus today. We had to do an SBAC pre activity, so had just about 20 minutes to finish up. If it feels completely not done, students may revisit this after we do the CANADA assessment. That sounds weird, but the Canada assessment is very similar to the Latin America Assessment and we are going to work backwards this time. This should give students more of an understanding of how to complete a complex task like this.
Many many of us are very on the ball, so congratulations on that.
Tonight:
Rest
Read
Pack a good snack for tomorrow (no gum please)
Bring your luck pen or pencil for notes and planning.
Bring your earbuds or headphones for the test.
Bring your iphone or ipod for video projects after the tests.
Thursday, April 28, 2016
Thursday a little late
Sorry for the late posting.
If you did not get an email from the school about signing up for a foreign language next year, please contact kevin.hamilton@cesuvt.org asap. Apparently they are time sensitive.
Today we practiced SBACs by logging in and remembering how the test works in math. We start next Tuesday and have four sessions, Tuesday Thursday May 3 and 5 and Tuesday Thursday May 10 and 12. Try not to be absent or you will need to make them up.
Tomorrow is supposed to be the last day to work on the social studies assessment. We will consider another day at the end of the period if it feels necessary.
We continue to work on our Latin America novels - reading with an eye toward writing - and writing about what we read with thoughtful analysis.
Homework today:
Math - test tomorrow - review those red problems
LA - write one journal entry on your book, 8 sentences for word study or one more page of vocab.
Read read read if you can (read over the weekend if you get over booked with math studying)
If you did not get an email from the school about signing up for a foreign language next year, please contact kevin.hamilton@cesuvt.org asap. Apparently they are time sensitive.
Today we practiced SBACs by logging in and remembering how the test works in math. We start next Tuesday and have four sessions, Tuesday Thursday May 3 and 5 and Tuesday Thursday May 10 and 12. Try not to be absent or you will need to make them up.
Tomorrow is supposed to be the last day to work on the social studies assessment. We will consider another day at the end of the period if it feels necessary.
We continue to work on our Latin America novels - reading with an eye toward writing - and writing about what we read with thoughtful analysis.
Homework today:
Math - test tomorrow - review those red problems
LA - write one journal entry on your book, 8 sentences for word study or one more page of vocab.
Read read read if you can (read over the weekend if you get over booked with math studying)
Wednesday, April 27, 2016
Wednesday 4-27-16
Homework:
LA 1 journal entry for Latin American book. Read as much as you can. 1 full page. Try to use "one example of this is...." or something like that.
Math: Math final is on Friday. Practice test worksheet today. You only must read and decide if it is green light (you got it), yellow light (I have some questions) or red light ( I have no idea how to do this)
We worked hard on our Latin America assessment. Some of us are started that we should be expected to be able to find thing out like how did colonization affect the natives and then how did independence affect them? Did things get better for them? Worse for them?
Yes, it takes some research and a lot of thinking. Then, on top of all of that, can you decide a physical artifact to represent that idea and explain it.
In language arts, we continue to hone our writing about reading skill. We are working on journal writing for our Latin America Partner Read Aloud Project (although we haven't read aloud much lately - we better do that tomorrow.)
Tomorrow we get ready for SBACs by practicing getting on line and doing a bit of one practice test.
LA 1 journal entry for Latin American book. Read as much as you can. 1 full page. Try to use "one example of this is...." or something like that.
Math: Math final is on Friday. Practice test worksheet today. You only must read and decide if it is green light (you got it), yellow light (I have some questions) or red light ( I have no idea how to do this)
We worked hard on our Latin America assessment. Some of us are started that we should be expected to be able to find thing out like how did colonization affect the natives and then how did independence affect them? Did things get better for them? Worse for them?
Yes, it takes some research and a lot of thinking. Then, on top of all of that, can you decide a physical artifact to represent that idea and explain it.
In language arts, we continue to hone our writing about reading skill. We are working on journal writing for our Latin America Partner Read Aloud Project (although we haven't read aloud much lately - we better do that tomorrow.)
Tomorrow we get ready for SBACs by practicing getting on line and doing a bit of one practice test.
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
Tuesday really
Homework tonight:
LA: READ and make at least 2 more sticky notes and write one more whole page journal entry (like we did in class)
Math: ACE page 101-102, 3 and 4
Today we had extensive discussion and instruction in writing about reading. We all practiced writing and will do one journal entry tonight for homework.
We also got a good start on our social studies assessment - reminder - students may not get any help from parents except for nagging encouragement.
Reminder:
We are still collecting paperwork for My Child As a Learner and Foreign Language.
Foreign Language forms are on a time table, so get your request in asap. Bring to the office or Ms. Lamb
LA: READ and make at least 2 more sticky notes and write one more whole page journal entry (like we did in class)
Math: ACE page 101-102, 3 and 4
Today we had extensive discussion and instruction in writing about reading. We all practiced writing and will do one journal entry tonight for homework.
We also got a good start on our social studies assessment - reminder - students may not get any help from parents except for nagging encouragement.
Reminder:
We are still collecting paperwork for My Child As a Learner and Foreign Language.
Foreign Language forms are on a time table, so get your request in asap. Bring to the office or Ms. Lamb
Monday - really Tuesday morning
Sometimes Mondays get out of hand and I forget to post.
On our first day back from vacation, some of us began science fair planning in earnest (some did this on Friday). Mrs. Babbitt introduced us to some great sources in the library. Remember, since this is a language arts science fair project, everyone needs a source (can be book or online). Here is Ms. Lamb's guide and worksheet due Monday or Friday depending on the group.
I finally sent the progress reports home yesterday. They mostly reflect work done at school, homework and general behavior type things. This is just information in case you need to step up a bit. No one got 4's so don't worry about that.
We introduced the social studies assessment. Kids can work at home, but NO ONE can help them because it is an assessment. We have 4 class periods to accomplish this. It can be finished over the weekend if students work completely on their own. (Nagging is allowed.)
We also began to work earnestly on our book groups. This will be reflected in homework all this week and some next. For the next three weeks students should be READING and WRITING ABOUT READING at home for homework. Students are working to read two Latin America related novels in this time.
Homework for Monday
Math ACE 1 and 2 page 100 to 101
LA Find three interesting or writing worthy parts of your first LA novel to write about in class tomorrow. These should be on sticky notes, Consider:
Something you wonder about
a signpost like a memory moment or an aha moment
something that reminds you of a world event or another book
Interesting words that make you think
characters
strange turns of events
On our first day back from vacation, some of us began science fair planning in earnest (some did this on Friday). Mrs. Babbitt introduced us to some great sources in the library. Remember, since this is a language arts science fair project, everyone needs a source (can be book or online). Here is Ms. Lamb's guide and worksheet due Monday or Friday depending on the group.
I finally sent the progress reports home yesterday. They mostly reflect work done at school, homework and general behavior type things. This is just information in case you need to step up a bit. No one got 4's so don't worry about that.
We introduced the social studies assessment. Kids can work at home, but NO ONE can help them because it is an assessment. We have 4 class periods to accomplish this. It can be finished over the weekend if students work completely on their own. (Nagging is allowed.)
We also began to work earnestly on our book groups. This will be reflected in homework all this week and some next. For the next three weeks students should be READING and WRITING ABOUT READING at home for homework. Students are working to read two Latin America related novels in this time.
Homework for Monday
Math ACE 1 and 2 page 100 to 101
LA Find three interesting or writing worthy parts of your first LA novel to write about in class tomorrow. These should be on sticky notes, Consider:
Something you wonder about
a signpost like a memory moment or an aha moment
something that reminds you of a world event or another book
Interesting words that make you think
characters
strange turns of events
Friday, April 15, 2016
Friday 4-15-16 Awesome Fiesta!
We had a slammin' fiesta today. Each team of five brought us a Latin American food to sample, decorated their station to the rafters, hosted a craft and prepared a game.
We didn't get through every game, so we have some to play after vacation. We played a Latin American themed game of capture the flag and amazingly ended in a 2-2 tie.
Thanks to all who helped make it a great success. Kids brought in food - special shout out to Avery's Tres Leche (some kinds of wonderful milky puddingy cake and the Purple Penguin's amazing taco bar. We had maraca making, mask making, head band creating and all kinds of wonderful works of art. Some observer described our room as looking like "happiness threw up in here." It kind of did.
The Lil' Beans got the most point with over 1200 points (900 is what was needed to get to Tierra Del Fuego). They got the crowns. The Aztec Warriors were close at their heals with more than 1100 points. Well done everyone. After vacation we finish up with our in class assessment project tracing the history from native American civilizations to European colonies to independence. Students will be encouraged to focus on Mexico.
Over vacation, students should try to finish their Latin America novels. We will work more with these after vacation and finish up on Friday.
We didn't get through every game, so we have some to play after vacation. We played a Latin American themed game of capture the flag and amazingly ended in a 2-2 tie.
Thanks to all who helped make it a great success. Kids brought in food - special shout out to Avery's Tres Leche (some kinds of wonderful milky puddingy cake and the Purple Penguin's amazing taco bar. We had maraca making, mask making, head band creating and all kinds of wonderful works of art. Some observer described our room as looking like "happiness threw up in here." It kind of did.
The Lil' Beans got the most point with over 1200 points (900 is what was needed to get to Tierra Del Fuego). They got the crowns. The Aztec Warriors were close at their heals with more than 1100 points. Well done everyone. After vacation we finish up with our in class assessment project tracing the history from native American civilizations to European colonies to independence. Students will be encouraged to focus on Mexico.
Over vacation, students should try to finish their Latin America novels. We will work more with these after vacation and finish up on Friday.
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
Thursday
I will likely forget to post tomorrow, so I'm posting now.
Mr. Warren has trifolds for sale for the science fair for $5.
Tomorrow is the fiesta - bring any food to share (just a little bit per person) and any supplies for crafts and decorations.
Thursday homework:
Read your L.A. novel
Finish your report
Dress in red and white
Mr. Warren has trifolds for sale for the science fair for $5.
Tomorrow is the fiesta - bring any food to share (just a little bit per person) and any supplies for crafts and decorations.
Thursday homework:
Read your L.A. novel
Finish your report
Dress in red and white
Wednesday 4-13-16
We had quite the water cycle extravaganza here today. Epic, Vivace and Mrs. Lavalee's 4th grade came to witness an learn.
In LA/SS we all worked to finish our handwritten notes and boxes and bullets outline. This is homework as tomorrow we write our reports only looking at our outlines.
Tomorrow we prepare for Round 3 quiz bowl at the end of the day. We also prepare for the fiesta celebration on Friday.
If you have any Latin America related food around, you are encouraged to have a food choice at your station. We will all create an activity choice (art), an indoor game and an outdoor game. These will be done in stations on Friday.
Don't forget - party this Friday after school. You need a permission slip and $5. See the BRMS website for more information.
ALSO WEAR BROWN TOMORROW!
Homework:
LA/SS finish 20 notes and boxes and bullets
finish all vocab if in that group
finish all except blind sort if in Ms. Lamb's word study groups.
Read your Latin America novel. Try to finish it by end of vacation.
In LA/SS we all worked to finish our handwritten notes and boxes and bullets outline. This is homework as tomorrow we write our reports only looking at our outlines.
Tomorrow we prepare for Round 3 quiz bowl at the end of the day. We also prepare for the fiesta celebration on Friday.
If you have any Latin America related food around, you are encouraged to have a food choice at your station. We will all create an activity choice (art), an indoor game and an outdoor game. These will be done in stations on Friday.
Don't forget - party this Friday after school. You need a permission slip and $5. See the BRMS website for more information.
ALSO WEAR BROWN TOMORROW!
Homework:
LA/SS finish 20 notes and boxes and bullets
finish all vocab if in that group
finish all except blind sort if in Ms. Lamb's word study groups.
Read your Latin America novel. Try to finish it by end of vacation.
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
Tuesday 4-12-16
Mr. Meadows is back.
In library today Mrs. Babbitt taught us to use a very cool green screen app on the ipads. We can now do projects standing in Machu Picchu or on top of Mount McKinley, I mean Denali.
We are also moving forward with our books on Latin America. Kids are now encouraged to read as far as they can. Three kids are finished - although their books were short. Now they are encouraged to choose another Latin America novel.
In social studies we started round three reports with another round of new stipulations from Ms. Lamb
1) you must use World Book Online first
2) you must take 20 handwritten notes (due to article read by Ms. Lamb on brain and handwritten notes.)
Tomorrow we do outlines - also handwritten
Thursday we do reports using only notes and outlines - these can be handwritten or typed
Homework tonight:
LA/SS
Word study: 1st sort, sentences and 2nd sort - 3rd page if vocabulary
Read your LA novel for 30 minutes
Math: 3.3 A-B
In library today Mrs. Babbitt taught us to use a very cool green screen app on the ipads. We can now do projects standing in Machu Picchu or on top of Mount McKinley, I mean Denali.
We are also moving forward with our books on Latin America. Kids are now encouraged to read as far as they can. Three kids are finished - although their books were short. Now they are encouraged to choose another Latin America novel.
In social studies we started round three reports with another round of new stipulations from Ms. Lamb
1) you must use World Book Online first
2) you must take 20 handwritten notes (due to article read by Ms. Lamb on brain and handwritten notes.)
Tomorrow we do outlines - also handwritten
Thursday we do reports using only notes and outlines - these can be handwritten or typed
Homework tonight:
LA/SS
Word study: 1st sort, sentences and 2nd sort - 3rd page if vocabulary
Read your LA novel for 30 minutes
Math: 3.3 A-B
Monday, April 11, 2016
Monday 4-11-16
Mr. Meadows is home sick today, so Mrs. Donahue stepped up to sub for him as we are short of subs today for various reasons.
Kids did not have math today. They had a double science class. Today was the last work day for water cycle projects. Tonight is last working chance and present tomorrow if Mr. Meadows is back.
In LA we worked on our reading group books and packet, got new word study for the week and did Amigos work. Remember Round 3 is self directed. You need to finish AT LEAST:
2 fact sheets
1 report including 20 notes or more, outline, sources cited and a report
1 map
Everything else is extra credit for your group including project.
We are completing progress reports for Friday. Students must have finished 2 reports (one for round 1 and round 2) and 3 novels on their reading logs to be completing expected work in class.
We also started Science Fair planning. Next Monday after vacation all students need to declare their question and be ready to do their experiment.
Science Fair documents
Tonight's homework:
LA/SS word study sentences, vocab 2nd page
Math: none today
Science: Finish your project for water cycle
Kids did not have math today. They had a double science class. Today was the last work day for water cycle projects. Tonight is last working chance and present tomorrow if Mr. Meadows is back.
In LA we worked on our reading group books and packet, got new word study for the week and did Amigos work. Remember Round 3 is self directed. You need to finish AT LEAST:
2 fact sheets
1 report including 20 notes or more, outline, sources cited and a report
1 map
Everything else is extra credit for your group including project.
We are completing progress reports for Friday. Students must have finished 2 reports (one for round 1 and round 2) and 3 novels on their reading logs to be completing expected work in class.
We also started Science Fair planning. Next Monday after vacation all students need to declare their question and be ready to do their experiment.
Science Fair documents
Tonight's homework:
LA/SS word study sentences, vocab 2nd page
Math: none today
Science: Finish your project for water cycle
Thursday, April 7, 2016
Thursday 4--7-16
Math
page 78 6-8 and 3.2 C and D
Skill sheet is due tomorrow
Reading for 30 minutes update reading log
LA/SS finish word study whole packet blind sort included
Fact sheet continue
page 78 6-8 and 3.2 C and D
Skill sheet is due tomorrow
Reading for 30 minutes update reading log
LA/SS finish word study whole packet blind sort included
Fact sheet continue
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
Tuesday 4-5-16
Ms. Lamb is home sick today so here is a guess at the homework.
LA/SS finish your Amigos work. Prioritize - fact sheet and report. Other work includes: map, extra fact sheets, study guide from class today.
Read your own novel - 30 minutes update your reading log
Math: skill sheet is due Friday. Mr. Meadows likely gave another assignment in class today. Check your assignment books.
See you tomorrow kids.
Monday, April 4, 2016
Monday 4-4-16
Homework:
Math: Skill sheet out today due Friday, Page 76 1 and 2 due tomorrow
Read 30 minute own novel, update reading log, progress reports due out April 16
LA/SS Sort 1, 2 and sentences done by Tuesday
AMIGOS DUE - tonight reports done, Wednesday all work due for Round 2.
It's true that we have whizzed through Round 2, but sometimes, when pressed, we actually can complete things quickly. Well, let's see.
Ms. Lamb is out sick tomorrow. Kids will read a magazine on the Caribbean, jammed full of answers to the quiz bowl questions. They will take notes and be able to use the notes at the quiz on Wednesday.
The most important thing to finish by Wednesday is the report and the fact sheet.
We found out our Latin America book group today and will start reading Wednesday. For the first week or so the books will stay at school and be read aloud to our partners in class. This is the Latin America Partner Read Aloud Project.
Math: Skill sheet out today due Friday, Page 76 1 and 2 due tomorrow
Read 30 minute own novel, update reading log, progress reports due out April 16
LA/SS Sort 1, 2 and sentences done by Tuesday
AMIGOS DUE - tonight reports done, Wednesday all work due for Round 2.
It's true that we have whizzed through Round 2, but sometimes, when pressed, we actually can complete things quickly. Well, let's see.
Ms. Lamb is out sick tomorrow. Kids will read a magazine on the Caribbean, jammed full of answers to the quiz bowl questions. They will take notes and be able to use the notes at the quiz on Wednesday.
The most important thing to finish by Wednesday is the report and the fact sheet.
We found out our Latin America book group today and will start reading Wednesday. For the first week or so the books will stay at school and be read aloud to our partners in class. This is the Latin America Partner Read Aloud Project.
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Wednesday 3-30-16
Tonight's homework:
LA/SS continue work on Round Two Fact Sheet
Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Trinidad-Tobego (choose one country - teams chose during class today)
Read novel for 30 minutes and update reading record
Math: Grid Worksheet
Tomorrow we have muffins and cider for CPR breakfast in Mrs. Pless's room. Bring them if you can. Ms. Lamb will by a bunch of mini-muffins and cider to share.
Students also chose report topics for Round 2 today and found sources. For this round students MUST use World Book online and Discovery Education. Remember - source cited, notes, outline, report.
At the end of round one The Lil' Beans are in the lead with 366 points.
LA/SS continue work on Round Two Fact Sheet
Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Trinidad-Tobego (choose one country - teams chose during class today)
Read novel for 30 minutes and update reading record
Math: Grid Worksheet
Tomorrow we have muffins and cider for CPR breakfast in Mrs. Pless's room. Bring them if you can. Ms. Lamb will by a bunch of mini-muffins and cider to share.
Students also chose report topics for Round 2 today and found sources. For this round students MUST use World Book online and Discovery Education. Remember - source cited, notes, outline, report.
At the end of round one The Lil' Beans are in the lead with 366 points.
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Tuesday 3-29-16
We have a breakfast on Thursday for our CPR's. We meet in Mrs. Pless's room for muffins and cider. Anyone that can bring some muffins in - great! Just a dozen would be great. Ms. Lamb will pick up some mini-muffins and cider, then play a game together.
Tonight's homework:
Math: Page 54 8 and 9 ACE
Read for 30 minutes - you should have one book finished and another started for third trimester
LA/SS Ms. Lamb's word study groups finish first sort and sentences. I'm not sure what Ms. Nicole's group is assigned for homework. Vocab try to finish to page 3 or third page single side.
Last chance for Round one points. Bring them tomorrow. All students should have individual points of 60 for each round.
We finished Round One of Amigos and played the quiz game. Many points were handed out. Totals will be out tomorrow.
Tonight's homework:
Math: Page 54 8 and 9 ACE
Read for 30 minutes - you should have one book finished and another started for third trimester
LA/SS Ms. Lamb's word study groups finish first sort and sentences. I'm not sure what Ms. Nicole's group is assigned for homework. Vocab try to finish to page 3 or third page single side.
Last chance for Round one points. Bring them tomorrow. All students should have individual points of 60 for each round.
We finished Round One of Amigos and played the quiz game. Many points were handed out. Totals will be out tomorrow.
Monday, March 28, 2016
Monday 3-28-16
Ms. Lamb had writing professional development so hopefully the day went well downstairs as well.
Mr. Meadows' board says under math homework:
ACE p. 54 8,9 and 2.3 A-D finish - hopefully that is true.
For LA - the intention was finish word study sort one and sentences for Wednesday.
Also,
read for 30 minutes
Tomorrow Ms. Lamb has PD in the morning and will be back at 11.
Morning plan is study guide for the quiz bowl on Mexico and Central America. All possible questions are given. Team divides and conquers. For the quiz all notes are allowed but NO computer and NO text.
Mr. Meadows' board says under math homework:
ACE p. 54 8,9 and 2.3 A-D finish - hopefully that is true.
For LA - the intention was finish word study sort one and sentences for Wednesday.
Also,
read for 30 minutes
Tomorrow Ms. Lamb has PD in the morning and will be back at 11.
Morning plan is study guide for the quiz bowl on Mexico and Central America. All possible questions are given. Team divides and conquers. For the quiz all notes are allowed but NO computer and NO text.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Thursday 3-24-16
We presented today. Three groups will need to present tomorrow as we ran out of time.
Homework:
Finish #6 and #20 from yesterday.
LA SS Report if not done. Do extra reading or find some answers to the other report topics (no need to do another complete report)
Catch up on Edutyping
Read your novel for 30 minutes
See you tomorrow.
Homework:
Finish #6 and #20 from yesterday.
LA SS Report if not done. Do extra reading or find some answers to the other report topics (no need to do another complete report)
Catch up on Edutyping
Read your novel for 30 minutes
See you tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Wednesday 3-23-16
Today we finished our energy presentations. Tomorrow we practice and present. (If not finished, homework)
Here is my overview with the checklist attached. Energy Argument
In LA/SS we printed our notes and outline for 5 points each and worked to finish our report (also homework if not done.)
Here's the homework:
LA/SS finish report and finish Energy presentation
Read for 30 minutes
Math page 53 and 60 #6 and a graph for #20
Skill sheet is due Friday
Here is my overview with the checklist attached. Energy Argument
In LA/SS we printed our notes and outline for 5 points each and worked to finish our report (also homework if not done.)
Here's the homework:
LA/SS finish report and finish Energy presentation
Read for 30 minutes
Math page 53 and 60 #6 and a graph for #20
Skill sheet is due Friday
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Tuesday 3-22-16
Today we reviewed/relearned the steps for report writing and all produced a draft of a report on Malaria proving that we can watch a source, take notes, organize into bullets for an outline then writing a report in our own handwriting and words.
If you must, back up and rewrite your notes and your outline. Put your source into easybib.com for correct MLA formatting.
Then (or first depending on your group) Ms. Lamb taught the LA expectations for our argument presentation on our energy source.
See this document for details. We began by answering the questions we could with our partners, then finding the answers to those that we did not know. We all created an annotated source page with links to online sources and one sentence descriptions of the source.
The hopeful presentation date for energy presentations is Thursday.
The due date for finished Amigos reports is Wednesday end of class. At the beginning is due for points the source, notes and outline.
Homework today:
LA/SS work on report
annotated bibliography for science due Wednesday for Implosion due Thursday for Explosion
Reading - 30 minutes of novel
Math: Skill sheet due Friday
If you must, back up and rewrite your notes and your outline. Put your source into easybib.com for correct MLA formatting.
Then (or first depending on your group) Ms. Lamb taught the LA expectations for our argument presentation on our energy source.
See this document for details. We began by answering the questions we could with our partners, then finding the answers to those that we did not know. We all created an annotated source page with links to online sources and one sentence descriptions of the source.
The hopeful presentation date for energy presentations is Thursday.
The due date for finished Amigos reports is Wednesday end of class. At the beginning is due for points the source, notes and outline.
Homework today:
LA/SS work on report
annotated bibliography for science due Wednesday for Implosion due Thursday for Explosion
Reading - 30 minutes of novel
Math: Skill sheet due Friday
Monday, March 21, 2016
Monday 3-21-16
Homework:
Math - ACE A-F (I forgot what page)
LA/SS - finished (at least) easybib.com MLA format source (for Amigos report) and 20 notes in short form
Outline using boxes and bullets (make a copy of mine and change notes to yours)
Tomorrow - write report (finish for tomorrow homework) due Wednesday
I just realized I forgot to post on Thursday. Report cards and parent conferences consumed me, but not I'll get back on track. I will try hard to post links that I give to kids here. I will also try to update upcoming assignments today.
We got to push our Amigos round one reports through outline. Remember
5 points for notes and MLA format using easybib for source
5 points for outline
10-15 points for report
The plan is finish reports Wednesday. Start and finish project due Thursday. Finish notes and quiz bowl on Friday.
We met with our extended Alternative Energy groups for science. We will hopefully present on Thursday.
Report Directions for Amigos (this year's guide)
and
How to write a report Amigos (two years ago presentation)
Math - ACE A-F (I forgot what page)
LA/SS - finished (at least) easybib.com MLA format source (for Amigos report) and 20 notes in short form
Outline using boxes and bullets (make a copy of mine and change notes to yours)
Tomorrow - write report (finish for tomorrow homework) due Wednesday
I just realized I forgot to post on Thursday. Report cards and parent conferences consumed me, but not I'll get back on track. I will try hard to post links that I give to kids here. I will also try to update upcoming assignments today.
We got to push our Amigos round one reports through outline. Remember
5 points for notes and MLA format using easybib for source
5 points for outline
10-15 points for report
The plan is finish reports Wednesday. Start and finish project due Thursday. Finish notes and quiz bowl on Friday.
We met with our extended Alternative Energy groups for science. We will hopefully present on Thursday.
Report Directions for Amigos (this year's guide)
and
How to write a report Amigos (two years ago presentation)
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
Wednesday 3-16-16
Reminder to all.
Homework for LA/SS
If you are planning to revise and upgrade your LA assessments (Literary Essay, Information Essay, website) you may do that up until tomorrow - Thursday. Please remember you are revising on your own without help (on your honor)
Read your novel for 30 minutes daily
Math skill sheet is due Friday and I bet there was another assignment today also. Check your assignment book.
Optional homework:
edutyping
work on Amigos work - reports, fact sheets, other work...
Homework for LA/SS
If you are planning to revise and upgrade your LA assessments (Literary Essay, Information Essay, website) you may do that up until tomorrow - Thursday. Please remember you are revising on your own without help (on your honor)
Read your novel for 30 minutes daily
Math skill sheet is due Friday and I bet there was another assignment today also. Check your assignment book.
Optional homework:
edutyping
work on Amigos work - reports, fact sheets, other work...
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Tuesday March 15
Tuesday -
Math - Skill Sheet - Due Friday
LA - Upgrade any work on website. Literacy essay, informational essay.
optional: Edutyping, Amigos Work
Read Novel: 20 minutes
Math - Skill Sheet - Due Friday
LA - Upgrade any work on website. Literacy essay, informational essay.
optional: Edutyping, Amigos Work
Read Novel: 20 minutes
Monday, March 14, 2016
Monday 3-14-16
Today we looked closely at our written information essays as they are heavily weighted as our report card grading system. Ms. Lamb gets the feeling that some people don't actually read what they write before submitting it. So, everyone looked carefully at a printed version and made some changes after Ms. Lamb read aloud the checklist we are graded against. Mostly people are doing well, so grades won't look to scary.
Remember please that a 1 in any area on the writing report card means this student is still a beginner at this and may be operating at 4th grade level. That might be a huge increase in writing skill, so please be sure to read comments carefully and don't despair. Everyone is progressing in writing.
To celebrate, we will write some more this week. We will start our short report writing for Amigos Round One, Mexico and Central America tomorrow. We start with source perusal, topic choice, reading, note-taking, outlining and writing. A report will appear before Friday! We will be doing some arguing in writing for science starting on Wednesday, but I don't want to spoil the surprise.
Today we finished or will finish our Fact Sheet and Map.
Tonight's homework:
LA/SS Fact sheet and map due tomorrow
Read your novel for 30 minutes
Math: E 1.1
P.S. Happy Pi Day - 3.1415 that's all I can remember
Remember please that a 1 in any area on the writing report card means this student is still a beginner at this and may be operating at 4th grade level. That might be a huge increase in writing skill, so please be sure to read comments carefully and don't despair. Everyone is progressing in writing.
To celebrate, we will write some more this week. We will start our short report writing for Amigos Round One, Mexico and Central America tomorrow. We start with source perusal, topic choice, reading, note-taking, outlining and writing. A report will appear before Friday! We will be doing some arguing in writing for science starting on Wednesday, but I don't want to spoil the surprise.
Today we finished or will finish our Fact Sheet and Map.
Tonight's homework:
LA/SS Fact sheet and map due tomorrow
Read your novel for 30 minutes
Math: E 1.1
P.S. Happy Pi Day - 3.1415 that's all I can remember
Saturday, March 12, 2016
Parent Conferences
March 21st, Monday, from 12 to 4 has been set aside for spring parent conferences.
We have created 24 spots as that is all that reasonably fits it that time. If you feel you are just looking for a quick check in or conversation about next year, perhaps we could arrange a phone conversation sometime in the next two weeks. We are happy to talk with anyone, but can't really fit in 40 conferences in the time we are given.
You may recall that we meet for 10 minutes with each teacher and then switch - thus the same time for two slots. It's important to show up on time, so please write down your time or keep checking as the names will show up.
Here is the link to sign up for a spot:
http://extremeconferences.bringit.bz/public/887f36
We have created 24 spots as that is all that reasonably fits it that time. If you feel you are just looking for a quick check in or conversation about next year, perhaps we could arrange a phone conversation sometime in the next two weeks. We are happy to talk with anyone, but can't really fit in 40 conferences in the time we are given.
You may recall that we meet for 10 minutes with each teacher and then switch - thus the same time for two slots. It's important to show up on time, so please write down your time or keep checking as the names will show up.
Here is the link to sign up for a spot:
http://extremeconferences.bringit.bz/public/887f36
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Tuesday 3-8-16
Homework:
Math: Come to class ready to hand in Exemplars tomorrow
LA Edutyping 10-20
Reading: 30 minutes
You may continue to improve your website
Try to get those Ottawa forms filled out.
We had a long day of writing assessment and math re dos. We are getting ready for report cards which get mailed home on Friday March 18.
We start Amigos - our trip from Mexico to Tierra Del Fuego on the tip of Argentina - tomorrow!
No more assessments this week, but organizing reading log, fixing up some things, finishing our websites and what not. Starting new units in science and social studies. Yay.
Parent conferences are on Monday March 21 starting at noon. We will have a sign up schedule coming to you soon.
Math: Come to class ready to hand in Exemplars tomorrow
LA Edutyping 10-20
Reading: 30 minutes
You may continue to improve your website
Try to get those Ottawa forms filled out.
We had a long day of writing assessment and math re dos. We are getting ready for report cards which get mailed home on Friday March 18.
We start Amigos - our trip from Mexico to Tierra Del Fuego on the tip of Argentina - tomorrow!
No more assessments this week, but organizing reading log, fixing up some things, finishing our websites and what not. Starting new units in science and social studies. Yay.
Parent conferences are on Monday March 21 starting at noon. We will have a sign up schedule coming to you soon.
Monday, March 7, 2016
Monday 3-7-16
Important information about our trip to Ottawa on May 26 and 27.
There will be a parent information night with Mr. Meadows next Wednesday March 16th. This is only if you have questions about the trip. You can still come with us if you can't make the meeting and you can come to the meeting if you can't come with us.
We still need a few more parents to commit to coming and chaperoning the trip. We need a minimum number of parents to ensure the safety of small groups. Please consider coming. It is fun, informative and not too much work and a pretty inexpensive way to see Ottawa.
Homework tonight:
LA/SS Finish assessment for websites. Hand in on Tuesday. Come with a topic for your assessment research paper. Also bring sources.f
Read novel.
Math: Study for tomorrow's final exam and work on exemplars which is due Wednesday
Packet for Ottawa with signatures and documentation - due asap The Consent letter needs to be notarized. Please correct two mistakes if you can. One time we are called Team Extreme and one time we are called Team Andromeda. These should both say Team Energy. Sorry - recycling old forms on the computer.
There will be a parent information night with Mr. Meadows next Wednesday March 16th. This is only if you have questions about the trip. You can still come with us if you can't make the meeting and you can come to the meeting if you can't come with us.
We still need a few more parents to commit to coming and chaperoning the trip. We need a minimum number of parents to ensure the safety of small groups. Please consider coming. It is fun, informative and not too much work and a pretty inexpensive way to see Ottawa.
Homework tonight:
LA/SS Finish assessment for websites. Hand in on Tuesday. Come with a topic for your assessment research paper. Also bring sources.f
Read novel.
Math: Study for tomorrow's final exam and work on exemplars which is due Wednesday
Packet for Ottawa with signatures and documentation - due asap The Consent letter needs to be notarized. Please correct two mistakes if you can. One time we are called Team Extreme and one time we are called Team Andromeda. These should both say Team Energy. Sorry - recycling old forms on the computer.
Thursday, March 3, 2016
Thursday 3-3-16
Welcome back finally.
Today we tried to jam through our websites. They will be due on Monday rather than Friday to make up for the snow day. This makes for unusual weekend homework.
See yesterday's blog for links to the checklist and my example (still working on mine...)
Tonight's homework:
LA/SS finish website due Monday
Math - correct your final exam - due before you can start the game tomorrow. You may work on this in class tomorrow as well.
Today we tried to jam through our websites. They will be due on Monday rather than Friday to make up for the snow day. This makes for unusual weekend homework.
See yesterday's blog for links to the checklist and my example (still working on mine...)
Tonight's homework:
LA/SS finish website due Monday
Math - correct your final exam - due before you can start the game tomorrow. You may work on this in class tomorrow as well.
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Wednesday 3-2-16
Welcome back to March!
We are going to be a little stretched to meet our goal of finishing our websites by Friday. We may have to extend the showcase day to Monday. Here is the plan for tomorrow and for finishing in case you want to get a head start.
We will review my website together and give me feedback (as practice for yourself and your partner.)
You will use the checklist and the NHD judging form to improve and finish your own site. This is due Friday (or maybe Monday.)
We are going to be a little stretched to meet our goal of finishing our websites by Friday. We may have to extend the showcase day to Monday. Here is the plan for tomorrow and for finishing in case you want to get a head start.
We will review my website together and give me feedback (as practice for yourself and your partner.)
You will use the checklist and the NHD judging form to improve and finish your own site. This is due Friday (or maybe Monday.)
Here is my site http://nhdswing.weebly.com/
Here is the checklist
And the National History Day judging form (just use the first page)
Apply the checklist and judging form to your site. Make specific goals and plans for yourself and get to it. You have to show what you have on Friday. You can make improvements over the weekend.
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Thursday 2-18-16
Homework:
Math: Test tomorrow! and page 74 #23 to 28
LA: Work on your website - improve your chapters with solid bricks of information
Read your novel
We had a very busy day. We started with our electromagnet competition.
Then both classes got to visit the thriving 7th grade economy project Vivision-ville.
Both classes also worked on adding INFORMATION BRICKS to their information chapters. These include factual source based information like
Math: Test tomorrow! and page 74 #23 to 28
LA: Work on your website - improve your chapters with solid bricks of information
Read your novel
We had a very busy day. We started with our electromagnet competition.
Then both classes got to visit the thriving 7th grade economy project Vivision-ville.
Both classes also worked on adding INFORMATION BRICKS to their information chapters. These include factual source based information like
Tomorrow we start the day with the math test! Yay!
Then study hall followed by our reading and writing retreat - our entire wing will read or write whatever they choose, but not on the computer. Ms. Lamb has a sneaking suspicion that some of will be spending too much time on the computer next week, so let's take a day off.
After lunch and recess, students will be allowed to continue with the retreat, or work silently on their web pages or chapters.
We end the day with regular gym class and personal learning projects followed by the faculty and student basketball game in the gym.
Have a great vacation everyone. Don't forget to read and work on your website. The marking period ends on the Friday after vacation. Websites are due that day and reading records are graded.
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Wednesday 2-17-16
I hope you enjoyed your day of rain yesterday. I used my time to complete my chapters and start my website. I still have a lot of improving to do on my chapters, but they are there. You can visit my draft here
typed draft and my website here
Tonight's homework:
LA
Working on chapters - if they are complete, working on website
Math: Fraction worksheet (REMINDER: Unit test on fractions this Friday)
Read your novel. Remember you need at least six novels completed for second trimester (2 per month is the goal) Read daily and even over vacation. Marking period closes on March 4th.
Here are the steps for your NHD project if you need them.
We have several assessments to complete before March 4th (some slightly after March 4th, but before report cards go home in the mail on March 11.
Reading assessment literary text (done today in class)
Star reading (done last week)
Reading assessment non-fiction text next week March 2 or 3
On demand report writing assessment (done in one class period) March 7th
Reading log (six books this marking period due March 4)
typed draft and my website here
Tonight's homework:
LA
Working on chapters - if they are complete, working on website
Math: Fraction worksheet (REMINDER: Unit test on fractions this Friday)
Read your novel. Remember you need at least six novels completed for second trimester (2 per month is the goal) Read daily and even over vacation. Marking period closes on March 4th.
Here are the steps for your NHD project if you need them.
We have several assessments to complete before March 4th (some slightly after March 4th, but before report cards go home in the mail on March 11.
Reading assessment literary text (done today in class)
Star reading (done last week)
Reading assessment non-fiction text next week March 2 or 3
On demand report writing assessment (done in one class period) March 7th
Reading log (six books this marking period due March 4)
Monday, February 15, 2016
Monday, February 15
Homework:
Math Final EXAM on Friday for Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division with Fractions. Practice problems will come home Tuesday.
Math: page 73 #1-4 for Thunder, #1-10 for Lightning
LA: Complete Chapters. Print out by tomorrow.
Math Final EXAM on Friday for Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division with Fractions. Practice problems will come home Tuesday.
Math: page 73 #1-4 for Thunder, #1-10 for Lightning
LA: Complete Chapters. Print out by tomorrow.
Thursday, February 11, 2016
Thursday 2-11-16
Ms. Lamb works upstairs on Professional Development today.
Writing Workshop writes chapters for their chapter book draft of NHD project. See this slide show Writing strong chapters
Ms. Crawford was in for Ms. Lamb.
Tonight's homework:
(This looks familiar as it is the same all week - repeat daily)
Edutyping for those with less than 200 minutes
Make sure your entire word study packet or vocabulary packet is complete and turned in by tomorrow
15 minutes of work on NHD project - research, notes or writing
Read your novel for 20 minutes or more
Math: Pages 56+ 57 problems 11 - 15
Writing Workshop writes chapters for their chapter book draft of NHD project. See this slide show Writing strong chapters
Ms. Crawford was in for Ms. Lamb.
Tonight's homework:
(This looks familiar as it is the same all week - repeat daily)
Edutyping for those with less than 200 minutes
Make sure your entire word study packet or vocabulary packet is complete and turned in by tomorrow
15 minutes of work on NHD project - research, notes or writing
Read your novel for 20 minutes or more
Math: Pages 56+ 57 problems 11 - 15
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Wednesday 2-10-16
Homework:
LA
Edutyping (every day this week)
word hunt for word study or one more page for vocabulary
You can still type and post your 7 minute write on YWP if you want or do another one
Work on your NHD project for 15 minutes more
Math:
LA
Edutyping (every day this week)
word hunt for word study or one more page for vocabulary
You can still type and post your 7 minute write on YWP if you want or do another one
Work on your NHD project for 15 minutes more
Math:
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
Tuesday 2-9-16
Today's Homework:
Math: continue to work all week on dividing fractions page 55
LA: edutyping keep practicing each day this week
word hunt for word study
work 15 minutes on National History Day - your choice - read, notes or write
Math: continue to work all week on dividing fractions page 55
LA: edutyping keep practicing each day this week
word hunt for word study
work 15 minutes on National History Day - your choice - read, notes or write
Monday, February 8, 2016
Monday 2-8-16
Tonight's homework:
LA: Edutyping - you should be close to 200 minutes for this year.
Second sort for word study (can be done tomorrow at the beginning of class)
Read one new chapter or article for your NHD topic and take 5 notes
Read your novel 20-30 minutes.
Mr. Meadows was home sick today. In math kids did their star math assessment. We will do star reading on Wednesday. This is a change from the original plan of February 17 as we need it done in February and some kids might be leaving early for vacation or our sick or whatever. It is not something one needs to study for, but one does need to show their best work. It is reading and answering questions. We will also do a paper reading and writing assessment. That will be next Tuesday.
In LA we had library day and worked on organizing or reorganizing our subjects in our table of contents for NHD research projects.
Please remember that our trimester is coming to a close on March 4. Writers should have their final best draft of teen activism on YWP to be graded by Ms. Lamb. We are working to have a strong draft of our NHD project webpage by Thursday February 18th.
LA: Edutyping - you should be close to 200 minutes for this year.
Second sort for word study (can be done tomorrow at the beginning of class)
Read one new chapter or article for your NHD topic and take 5 notes
Read your novel 20-30 minutes.
Mr. Meadows was home sick today. In math kids did their star math assessment. We will do star reading on Wednesday. This is a change from the original plan of February 17 as we need it done in February and some kids might be leaving early for vacation or our sick or whatever. It is not something one needs to study for, but one does need to show their best work. It is reading and answering questions. We will also do a paper reading and writing assessment. That will be next Tuesday.
In LA we had library day and worked on organizing or reorganizing our subjects in our table of contents for NHD research projects.
Please remember that our trimester is coming to a close on March 4. Writers should have their final best draft of teen activism on YWP to be graded by Ms. Lamb. We are working to have a strong draft of our NHD project webpage by Thursday February 18th.
Thursday, February 4, 2016
Thursday 2-4-16
Tonight's homework:
LA: continue reading and notetaking for NHD project - try to have 15 additional notes to show tomorrow
READ your novel - 20 -30 minutes
MATH: Skill sheet due tomorrow
Plus
Page 56 #4-7
Today we had All Team Meeting where we celebrated Julia our guest student from Belgium. Tomorrow is her last day with us before she heads back to Europe. It has been a pleasure to have her here.
We dove deeply into our personal research topics today. We did some writing about the importance of the subject and tried to start a trail of research (Thunder will do this tomorrow.) This helps us think of big important categories of information. Also refer to these pointers about note taking: Power Learning and Note Taking
LA: continue reading and notetaking for NHD project - try to have 15 additional notes to show tomorrow
READ your novel - 20 -30 minutes
MATH: Skill sheet due tomorrow
Plus
Page 56 #4-7
Today we had All Team Meeting where we celebrated Julia our guest student from Belgium. Tomorrow is her last day with us before she heads back to Europe. It has been a pleasure to have her here.
We dove deeply into our personal research topics today. We did some writing about the importance of the subject and tried to start a trail of research (Thunder will do this tomorrow.) This helps us think of big important categories of information. Also refer to these pointers about note taking: Power Learning and Note Taking
Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Wednesday 2-3-16
Homework in order of importance:
ISILT 20 minutes of writing expected
Questions: How are electricity and magnetism related? Use vocabulary from class. Remember what you have been doing in class.
Make sure your teen activism essay is final draft quality ready to be graded tomorrow
Make sure word study is complete up to not including blind sort (Ms. Lamb's groups only.)
Ms. Nicole's group has regular nightly homework expectations
Skill sheet for math is due Friday
If you have time: National History Day reading and note taking
ISILT 20 minutes of writing expected
Questions: How are electricity and magnetism related? Use vocabulary from class. Remember what you have been doing in class.
Make sure your teen activism essay is final draft quality ready to be graded tomorrow
Make sure word study is complete up to not including blind sort (Ms. Lamb's groups only.)
Ms. Nicole's group has regular nightly homework expectations
Skill sheet for math is due Friday
If you have time: National History Day reading and note taking
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Tuesday 2-2-16
Happy Groundhog Day!
Today's homework:
LA: Serious - work more on your teen activism essay - use the checklist. Refer to today's agenda with all of the links.
This is due at the end of class tomorrow - and tomorrow we are looking at the check list with a partner.
READ NOVEL - 20-30 minutes
Math: Skill sheet multiplying fractions due Friday
Today we learned that Ms. Lamb will always (usually) use today's agenda and have links for writing mini-lessons. We are also writing in social studies, so use all the guides she puts there.
Today's homework:
LA: Serious - work more on your teen activism essay - use the checklist. Refer to today's agenda with all of the links.
This is due at the end of class tomorrow - and tomorrow we are looking at the check list with a partner.
READ NOVEL - 20-30 minutes
Math: Skill sheet multiplying fractions due Friday
Today we learned that Ms. Lamb will always (usually) use today's agenda and have links for writing mini-lessons. We are also writing in social studies, so use all the guides she puts there.
Monday, February 1, 2016
Monday 2-1-16
We enter our second month of 2016.
Today we fine tuned our teen activism essay even more with very specific examples related to specific people.
We also visited the library for our regular Monday library time.
Tonight's homework:
LA continue to add examples and evidence and specifics to your teen activism essay - work at least 15 more minutes on it.
READ your novel for 20 to 30 minutes
Math: P. 40-41 #28-35 for Lightning. Thunder finish division problems then try to do some of 28-35.
I have updated the upcoming assignments to reflect the upcoming National History Day work and end of the trimester work.
This Friday, you should have done reading on your topic and note taking. Be ready to show your notes.
Today we fine tuned our teen activism essay even more with very specific examples related to specific people.
We also visited the library for our regular Monday library time.
Tonight's homework:
LA continue to add examples and evidence and specifics to your teen activism essay - work at least 15 more minutes on it.
READ your novel for 20 to 30 minutes
Math: P. 40-41 #28-35 for Lightning. Thunder finish division problems then try to do some of 28-35.
I have updated the upcoming assignments to reflect the upcoming National History Day work and end of the trimester work.
This Friday, you should have done reading on your topic and note taking. Be ready to show your notes.
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Wednesday 1-27-16
I wasn't at school today, so here is how I imagine that it went.
In Social Studies, kids read an article from Scholastic together about the Syrian refugees. We are reading a novel aloud called Home of the Brave which features a refugee from Sudan as the main character. We will see if we can draw any comparisons.
Later in Language Arts, everyone opened my email and read it carefully and followed all of my directions which was to finish their best next typed draft of their Teen Activism Essay. This continues into homework if not done.
Then, if students feel done, they are moving onto the check list for National History Day. The first due date is this Friday for finding sources and creating and sharing the source page with Ms. Lamb.
Homework:
LA: Finish Essay Teen Activism - if complete, work on source page or any other research for National History Day Project. (Work at least 15 minutes)
READ your novel for 20-30 minutes
I don't know if there was extra math, but I know the skill sheet is due Friday
See you tomorrow students.
In Social Studies, kids read an article from Scholastic together about the Syrian refugees. We are reading a novel aloud called Home of the Brave which features a refugee from Sudan as the main character. We will see if we can draw any comparisons.
Later in Language Arts, everyone opened my email and read it carefully and followed all of my directions which was to finish their best next typed draft of their Teen Activism Essay. This continues into homework if not done.
Then, if students feel done, they are moving onto the check list for National History Day. The first due date is this Friday for finding sources and creating and sharing the source page with Ms. Lamb.
Homework:
LA: Finish Essay Teen Activism - if complete, work on source page or any other research for National History Day Project. (Work at least 15 minutes)
READ your novel for 20-30 minutes
I don't know if there was extra math, but I know the skill sheet is due Friday
See you tomorrow students.
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Tuesday
LA Homework: Continue to work on draft of teen activism essay 15 minutes at least
Read for 20-30 minutes SERIOUSLY I MEAN READ that was just for some people who don't believe me
Math: Skill sheet due Friday this week
We are coming along with our teen activism essays. The expected date of perfection on this draft is next Wednesday. We are however, simultaneously starting our personal research for National History Day.
Rough due dates are
Sources page with links due Friday
Many many notes from very much reading due next Friday (notes check)
Website started by the following Friday
Whole project due March 7
We will work on this daily in class
Read for 20-30 minutes SERIOUSLY I MEAN READ that was just for some people who don't believe me
Math: Skill sheet due Friday this week
We are coming along with our teen activism essays. The expected date of perfection on this draft is next Wednesday. We are however, simultaneously starting our personal research for National History Day.
Rough due dates are
Sources page with links due Friday
Many many notes from very much reading due next Friday (notes check)
Website started by the following Friday
Whole project due March 7
We will work on this daily in class
Monday, January 25, 2016
Monday 1-25-16
A little late, but here it is...
Homework:
LA: Work on your flash draft of informational essay on teen activism. Here is my model. Start with brief outline, then write. Ms.Lamb's Model
Work for 15 minutes.
Then READ FOR 20-30 minutes
Math: Page 40 19-22 then try something...I forgot which number, it was supposed to be fun according to Mr. Meadows
Today we worked to get our flash draft out. We made a claim or overarching idea about teen activism and tried to come up with three illustrations of that point.
We will work more on this tomorrow.
We had library today and learned about the fabulous primary sources in Vermont Life Magazine and National Geographic. National History Day requires a primary source,
See you tomorrow.
Homework:
LA: Work on your flash draft of informational essay on teen activism. Here is my model. Start with brief outline, then write. Ms.Lamb's Model
Work for 15 minutes.
Then READ FOR 20-30 minutes
Math: Page 40 19-22 then try something...I forgot which number, it was supposed to be fun according to Mr. Meadows
Today we worked to get our flash draft out. We made a claim or overarching idea about teen activism and tried to come up with three illustrations of that point.
We will work more on this tomorrow.
We had library today and learned about the fabulous primary sources in Vermont Life Magazine and National Geographic. National History Day requires a primary source,
See you tomorrow.
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Thursday
We started with a game of sproutball in the gym. Thank you Mrs. Pless for getting this organized.
At our team meeting we discussed the importance of grown mindset and positivity. This will help us get happily and productively through our work.
In writing workshop, the focus was coming up with a focus. We talked about several different ways to focus our informational essay on teen activism. Students free wrote and then went to read some, jot some (notes), write some. Tomorrow we will try to flash draft a whole essay in class!
In social studies we worked on finding sources for our National History Day Project. Here are the initial steps (not in order necessarily)
1. ON YWP Post your topic, how it fits the theme of Exploration, Encounter, Exchange in History and make a claim.
2. Find a book source
3. Find web sources
4. Create a source page (like the text set we have for teen activism - more on this later)
5. Start website on Weebly (change your practice site to your NHD site)
6. Read widely
6. Take notes quickly
7. Free write
Tonight's homework:
Math - 2 sheets multiply fractions word problems work for 20 minutes
LA work for 20 more minutes on your NHD project - any of the above steps
Read for 20-30 minutes
At our team meeting we discussed the importance of grown mindset and positivity. This will help us get happily and productively through our work.
In writing workshop, the focus was coming up with a focus. We talked about several different ways to focus our informational essay on teen activism. Students free wrote and then went to read some, jot some (notes), write some. Tomorrow we will try to flash draft a whole essay in class!
In social studies we worked on finding sources for our National History Day Project. Here are the initial steps (not in order necessarily)
1. ON YWP Post your topic, how it fits the theme of Exploration, Encounter, Exchange in History and make a claim.
2. Find a book source
3. Find web sources
4. Create a source page (like the text set we have for teen activism - more on this later)
5. Start website on Weebly (change your practice site to your NHD site)
6. Read widely
6. Take notes quickly
7. Free write
Tonight's homework:
Math - 2 sheets multiply fractions word problems work for 20 minutes
LA work for 20 more minutes on your NHD project - any of the above steps
Read for 20-30 minutes
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Wednesday 1-20-16
Greetings,
Some days it feels like we jam through a lot of things. This was one of those days...thus the three part homework assignment.
Homework for LA:
Continue to read and take notes on ALL of the articles in the text set. Try to come with an idea for a focus for your essay on teen activism like activists all came from a difficult place or teens make great front people for a movement.
Finish your 8 great sentences if you have them (not Ms. Nicole's group)
Finish posting your topic, connection to theme and claim for National History Day project on YWP. Here is my example:
Claim Swing dance developed in America through African and Jazz influences and changed us.
(Remember to post on YWP with tag of NHD topic)
Math: Page (37?) I think? now I totally can't remember - this is why we write it in our planners. Call someone if you forgot the pages and numbers. Sorry. Or email Mr. Meadows.
Some days it feels like we jam through a lot of things. This was one of those days...thus the three part homework assignment.
Homework for LA:
Continue to read and take notes on ALL of the articles in the text set. Try to come with an idea for a focus for your essay on teen activism like activists all came from a difficult place or teens make great front people for a movement.
Finish your 8 great sentences if you have them (not Ms. Nicole's group)
Finish posting your topic, connection to theme and claim for National History Day project on YWP. Here is my example:
Swing Dance - is my topic
It fits the Theme - Exploration, Encounter, and Exchange in History because it is a dance that developed out of Africa and Jazz roots. It is a truly American dance and affected the way people socialized in public and danced together in a socially acceptable way. The area I will focus on is encounter and exchange.
Claim Swing dance developed in America through African and Jazz influences and changed us.
(Remember to post on YWP with tag of NHD topic)
Math: Page (37?) I think? now I totally can't remember - this is why we write it in our planners. Call someone if you forgot the pages and numbers. Sorry. Or email Mr. Meadows.
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
Tuesday 1-19-16
Homework
In journal:
How does your National History Day topic relate to Exploration, Encounter and Exchange in history? Also, what do you already know about this topic?
Write one page or 100 or more words typed.
Read for 20-30 minutes
No math tonight
We had a busy and fast day. We started in the library with our monthly reading/writing retreat. Kids can write or read what they wish for an extended period of time. Many many kids are invested in some great novels. A few solid writers continue to write even when they cannot use the computer!
In social studies, Ms. Barrett, our technology integrationist, came to teach us to use Weebly, a website making tool we will use to present our National History Day projects.
Tomorrow we get back to our teen activism writing and organizing our NHD projects.
Monday, January 18, 2016
Monday - special notice about webiste creation
Tomorrow in social studies we will have a guest workshop presenter, Ms. Barrett our technology integration specialists. She will teach us how to make a website for our informational study project for writing and National History Day.
Tomorrow we will practice with a personal site that we will then delete (as we are only allowed one site per student under my teacher account) and then start our National History Day sites next week. For safety sake and not publishing personal data, we will use pseudonyms or pen names.
This week we continue to hone our topic and make a claim related to Exploration, Encounter and Exchange in history. We start researching next week.
Student website are under my name and will not be published to the world wide web. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns about this.
Tomorrow we will practice with a personal site that we will then delete (as we are only allowed one site per student under my teacher account) and then start our National History Day sites next week. For safety sake and not publishing personal data, we will use pseudonyms or pen names.
This week we continue to hone our topic and make a claim related to Exploration, Encounter and Exchange in history. We start researching next week.
Student website are under my name and will not be published to the world wide web. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns about this.
Thursday, January 14, 2016
Thursday
We started with All Team Meeting and discussed our Ottawa trip at length. Ms. Lamb showed some pictures from two years ago.
It is important that all of us or almost all of us attend the trip. This makes it affordable and able to be used as part of our Canada studies unit. If for some reason, a student cannot attend the trip, we need to hear from a parent as soon as possible. Thanks for your help with this.
The trip is exciting and a wonderful learning experience. I have been twice and can tell you it is safe, easy and character building. I don't know anyone who went that didn't love it. One year we even missed a rain day off from school and we still didn't mind.
We continue our brief study of teen activists to get us ready for our independent research. Students are reading articles from a text set provided by me. Students are to try to read all of the articles on their chosen person and take notes. Tomorrow we begin writing in class.
Tonight's homework:
LA: Continue reading widely on your teen activist and take notes in your journal. Work for at least 20 minutes
Read novel 20-30 minutes
Math: Page 21-22 #33 and #35 do first then do as much as you can 33-44. Quiz tomorrow on adding and subtracting fractions
$40 deposit for Ottawa due tomorrow.
It is important that all of us or almost all of us attend the trip. This makes it affordable and able to be used as part of our Canada studies unit. If for some reason, a student cannot attend the trip, we need to hear from a parent as soon as possible. Thanks for your help with this.
The trip is exciting and a wonderful learning experience. I have been twice and can tell you it is safe, easy and character building. I don't know anyone who went that didn't love it. One year we even missed a rain day off from school and we still didn't mind.
We continue our brief study of teen activists to get us ready for our independent research. Students are reading articles from a text set provided by me. Students are to try to read all of the articles on their chosen person and take notes. Tomorrow we begin writing in class.
Tonight's homework:
LA: Continue reading widely on your teen activist and take notes in your journal. Work for at least 20 minutes
Read novel 20-30 minutes
Math: Page 21-22 #33 and #35 do first then do as much as you can 33-44. Quiz tomorrow on adding and subtracting fractions
$40 deposit for Ottawa due tomorrow.
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
Wednesday
Tonight:
Math Page 16 A-B (I think)
LA: Read more on your chosen teen activist from these articles
Read and take notes in journal (you don't need to write tonight)
NOTE: If you are involved in the concert this evening - you may put off this work until tomorrow
Read your novel
Today was very very busy. After our late start at 10:00 we slam teach in 40 minute blocks all day. In LA we really got into our current choice novels and writing about them. We will be writing about our novels at least one time each week.
In social studies we moved forward with our teen activism informational writing unit.
Tomorrow in ATM we will be discussing the Ottawa trip at length. More on this tomorrow.
Math Page 16 A-B (I think)
LA: Read more on your chosen teen activist from these articles
Read and take notes in journal (you don't need to write tonight)
NOTE: If you are involved in the concert this evening - you may put off this work until tomorrow
Read your novel
Today was very very busy. After our late start at 10:00 we slam teach in 40 minute blocks all day. In LA we really got into our current choice novels and writing about them. We will be writing about our novels at least one time each week.
In social studies we moved forward with our teen activism informational writing unit.
Tomorrow in ATM we will be discussing the Ottawa trip at length. More on this tomorrow.
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
Tuesday
I'm not at school today, so I'm posting blind.
In LA, it was my dream that kids were reading about one teen activist from these sites
Teen activist text set
After taking notes, write a one page informational piece as a google doc or in your journal. Work for 20 more minutes tonight reading and or writing.
Read for 20-30 minutes.
I don't know what the math is...sorry.
I'm asking Mr. Meadows to post the letter we sent home about the trip, so hopefully that will show up here soon.
See you tomorrow.
In LA, it was my dream that kids were reading about one teen activist from these sites
Teen activist text set
After taking notes, write a one page informational piece as a google doc or in your journal. Work for 20 more minutes tonight reading and or writing.
Read for 20-30 minutes.
I don't know what the math is...sorry.
I'm asking Mr. Meadows to post the letter we sent home about the trip, so hopefully that will show up here soon.
See you tomorrow.
Monday, January 11, 2016
Monday 1-11-16
Today we started a new unit for informational writing. We are studying teen activists together. Students have chosen their own topics for National History Day which they will apply the skills from class to to create their own website presentations for. These presentations will be due the week after February break and be final assessments for informational writing. We will also have final sit and write assessments which will be reflected on the report cards.
We will also do a sit and write literary essay close to the end of the marking period, but we are putting aside formal essay writing in reading. We continue to read novels, write about them informally and listen and write about read aloud book (currently Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate.)
Tonight's homework:
Finish one page in journal on Malala - if typing expect 150 words or more. You are writing an informational piece based on your notes.
Read novel 20-30 minutes
Math p. 15 A-E 27-29, 52-53, 67-70, 75-76.
We will also do a sit and write literary essay close to the end of the marking period, but we are putting aside formal essay writing in reading. We continue to read novels, write about them informally and listen and write about read aloud book (currently Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate.)
Tonight's homework:
Finish one page in journal on Malala - if typing expect 150 words or more. You are writing an informational piece based on your notes.
Read novel 20-30 minutes
Math p. 15 A-E 27-29, 52-53, 67-70, 75-76.
Sunday, January 10, 2016
Sunday 1-10-16
I meant to post this Friday, but it's Sunday night at 11 pm. So much for my great plans.
Anyway, mid-term progress reports went home with students on Friday. These are for information, mostly to let you and students know if there are problem areas. Ms. Lamb and Mr. Meadows do not give any "grades" in individual content areas. Rather, all students receive a score in "Personal Development" which includes:
Standards: student consistently completes work that meets the standard
Organization: student is organized and prepared for class
Work Completion: student completes assignments on time.
Responsibility: student shows responsibility for his/her learning through dependability, productivity and initiative
Respect: student shows respect toward students, staff and the learning environment
We were broad and general and did not give 4's as we have not graded assessments yet.
This is mostly a "head's up" if work is missing or students are lacking organization. There is still time to get things together before end of the trimester which is March 4.
Anyway, mid-term progress reports went home with students on Friday. These are for information, mostly to let you and students know if there are problem areas. Ms. Lamb and Mr. Meadows do not give any "grades" in individual content areas. Rather, all students receive a score in "Personal Development" which includes:
Standards: student consistently completes work that meets the standard
Organization: student is organized and prepared for class
Work Completion: student completes assignments on time.
Responsibility: student shows responsibility for his/her learning through dependability, productivity and initiative
Respect: student shows respect toward students, staff and the learning environment
We were broad and general and did not give 4's as we have not graded assessments yet.
This is mostly a "head's up" if work is missing or students are lacking organization. There is still time to get things together before end of the trimester which is March 4.
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Thursday 1-7-15
Homework:
Finish all: Reading record, RAFT, Literary Essay - last chance
Edutyping 20 minutes this week (should be up to 220 minutes)
Finish second sort and word hunt for word study
Read for 20-30 minutes
Math: Page 19 22-26 and 51
Come tomorrow prepared with a topic you already know a lot about to write a pre-assessment informational piece.
We are starting our NHD (National History Day Projects)
We have chosen a topic and decided how it fits the theme of Exploration, Encounter, Exchange in History (Or we have started to....) This has to have "changed" history. Many of us were able to already locate a book source in our BRMS library. Others are learning to look beyond using Deborah Rawson, Fletcher Free or seeing about getting the class to purchase a book.
Remember, $40 deposits for the trip to Ottawa are due soon.
ALSO,
We are not allowing kids to go outside when the temperatures are below freezing if they are wearing shorts. If students must wear shorts, they need to bring pants for going outside.
We go outside every morning before school and at recess unless the temperatures are below zero degrees Fahrenheit.
Finish all: Reading record, RAFT, Literary Essay - last chance
Edutyping 20 minutes this week (should be up to 220 minutes)
Finish second sort and word hunt for word study
Read for 20-30 minutes
Math: Page 19 22-26 and 51
Come tomorrow prepared with a topic you already know a lot about to write a pre-assessment informational piece.
We are starting our NHD (National History Day Projects)
We have chosen a topic and decided how it fits the theme of Exploration, Encounter, Exchange in History (Or we have started to....) This has to have "changed" history. Many of us were able to already locate a book source in our BRMS library. Others are learning to look beyond using Deborah Rawson, Fletcher Free or seeing about getting the class to purchase a book.
Remember, $40 deposits for the trip to Ottawa are due soon.
ALSO,
We are not allowing kids to go outside when the temperatures are below freezing if they are wearing shorts. If students must wear shorts, they need to bring pants for going outside.
We go outside every morning before school and at recess unless the temperatures are below zero degrees Fahrenheit.
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Tuesday/Wednesday 1-5&6
Sorry I missed yesterday.
Mr. Meadows was out today so the homework for math is more of the same. I can't 100% remember the pages but it was something like 18 with a bunch of problems. Check your assignment book.
Remember skill sheet is due tomorrow.
In LA we have been working to complete our RAFT for social studies and our literary essay for writing. Both should be done. If not, that is extra homework.
Tonight:
LA - edutyping 20 minutes
Read 20 minutes
Skill sheet due tomorrow
Finish math from yesterday
We finally got back outside for recess today!
$40 deposits for our trip to Ottawa are coming in. Keep them coming!
Mr. Meadows was out today so the homework for math is more of the same. I can't 100% remember the pages but it was something like 18 with a bunch of problems. Check your assignment book.
Remember skill sheet is due tomorrow.
In LA we have been working to complete our RAFT for social studies and our literary essay for writing. Both should be done. If not, that is extra homework.
Tonight:
LA - edutyping 20 minutes
Read 20 minutes
Skill sheet due tomorrow
Finish math from yesterday
We finally got back outside for recess today!
$40 deposits for our trip to Ottawa are coming in. Keep them coming!
Monday, January 4, 2016
Monday January 4, f2016
Happy New Year!
We were a little wound up today due to reuniting with old friends and freezing for a change. We made it outside and successfully through all classes.
We do have a bit of work to finish up this week in LA and SS. Here it is.
RAFT - should be done by end of class tomorrow. Will be assessed for progress reports (FRIDAY!)
Literary Essay on your book choice - typed draft finished by end of class tomorrow or homework. This will be finished by end of class Wednesday
Reading record - students should have finished two books in December.
It seems ridiculously soon, but we were just told that progress reports will go home this Friday. We will let everyone know if work is complete and up to standard. These will come home with students.
We started to look for our National History Day topics today in the library. Topic choice is due Friday. The theme is Exploration, Encounter and Exchange in History. Mrs. Babbitt helped us out by introducing several books and a list of topics from the NHD website. See the website http://nhd.org/
Here is the sample topic list
Homework:
Math: Skill sheet (due Thursday?)
SS: Finish RAFT - use the check sheet and rubric
start your NHD topic looking/reading if you are done
Read for 20-30 minutes (novel of your choice)
Update your reading record
We were a little wound up today due to reuniting with old friends and freezing for a change. We made it outside and successfully through all classes.
We do have a bit of work to finish up this week in LA and SS. Here it is.
RAFT - should be done by end of class tomorrow. Will be assessed for progress reports (FRIDAY!)
Literary Essay on your book choice - typed draft finished by end of class tomorrow or homework. This will be finished by end of class Wednesday
Reading record - students should have finished two books in December.
It seems ridiculously soon, but we were just told that progress reports will go home this Friday. We will let everyone know if work is complete and up to standard. These will come home with students.
We started to look for our National History Day topics today in the library. Topic choice is due Friday. The theme is Exploration, Encounter and Exchange in History. Mrs. Babbitt helped us out by introducing several books and a list of topics from the NHD website. See the website http://nhd.org/
Here is the sample topic list
Homework:
Math: Skill sheet (due Thursday?)
SS: Finish RAFT - use the check sheet and rubric
start your NHD topic looking/reading if you are done
Read for 20-30 minutes (novel of your choice)
Update your reading record
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