IN CLASS:
Today we finished up our work from last week. Students answered the worksheet of questions on "The Gift of the Magi" using the QAR technique. To download the QAR information or the worksheet of questions, see the blog post from last Tuesday. After that, we began talking about Point of View--1st Person and 3rd Person.
ASSIGNMENT:
None.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Tuesday 11/24/09
IN CLASS:
Tuesday in class we finished up reading "The Gift of the Magi." We also began talking about QAR-Question Answer Relationship and how using this strategy can help students to not only answer questions, but to figure out HOW to go about finding the correct information for answering questions. We began working on some questions from "The Gift of the Magi." We'll finish this up on Monday in class.
ASSINGMENT:
Nothing due Monday, but vocab lesson 6 is due Wednesday. I recommend getting a head start! Happy Thanksgiving!
Tuesday in class we finished up reading "The Gift of the Magi." We also began talking about QAR-Question Answer Relationship and how using this strategy can help students to not only answer questions, but to figure out HOW to go about finding the correct information for answering questions. We began working on some questions from "The Gift of the Magi." We'll finish this up on Monday in class.
ASSINGMENT:
Nothing due Monday, but vocab lesson 6 is due Wednesday. I recommend getting a head start! Happy Thanksgiving!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Monday 11/23/09
IN CLASS:
On this gray and cloudy day, we read a story about giving gifts. We started off class by talking about the best gifts we've ever received and what made them so special. Many students had beautiful stories about gifts given to them by grandparents, mothers, or best friends. Others seem to have an extreme affection for their cell phones. After that we read the story "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry. In the story, Jim and Della both sell their most prized possessions in order to by the perfect gift of the other. In typical O. Henry style, an ironic twist leaves both feeling foolish at the end.
Tomorrow we will answer some questions about the story and pull out all its ironic secrets.
ASSIGNMENT:
None
On this gray and cloudy day, we read a story about giving gifts. We started off class by talking about the best gifts we've ever received and what made them so special. Many students had beautiful stories about gifts given to them by grandparents, mothers, or best friends. Others seem to have an extreme affection for their cell phones. After that we read the story "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry. In the story, Jim and Della both sell their most prized possessions in order to by the perfect gift of the other. In typical O. Henry style, an ironic twist leaves both feeling foolish at the end.
- To read an online version of "The Gift of the Magi," click here.
- To listen to an audio version of "The First of the Magi," click here.
Tomorrow we will answer some questions about the story and pull out all its ironic secrets.
ASSIGNMENT:
None
Friday, November 20, 2009
Friday 11/20/09
IN CLASS:
Today students took the vocabulary quiz for lesson 5. After that, some students finished the conflict analysis worksheet from yesterday. Most students had time for independent reading during the second half of class. ALL students should be reading outside of class. This is the best way to build reading skills and an appreciation of reading. Please encourage your student to spend time reading in the evenings, on weekends, and especially over long breaks!
ASSIGNMENT:
None. Enjoy the weekend.
Today students took the vocabulary quiz for lesson 5. After that, some students finished the conflict analysis worksheet from yesterday. Most students had time for independent reading during the second half of class. ALL students should be reading outside of class. This is the best way to build reading skills and an appreciation of reading. Please encourage your student to spend time reading in the evenings, on weekends, and especially over long breaks!
ASSIGNMENT:
None. Enjoy the weekend.
BLUE STARS!
Congrats to today's Blue Star Award winners!
L to R: Ellie, Chloe, Josh, Brian, and Abby
Blue Star Awards are given to those who are outstanding leaders and exemplary students on the Blue Team. Keep up the great work!
L to R: Ellie, Chloe, Josh, Brian, and Abby
Blue Star Awards are given to those who are outstanding leaders and exemplary students on the Blue Team. Keep up the great work!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Thursday 11/19/09
IN CLASS:
Today we discussed different kinds of conflict in short stories and different ways of defining it. Students then showed what they learned by identifying and explaining both the internal and external conflict at the end of "The Tell-tale Heart." This was done in class. Students who did not finish can complete the worksheet after the vocab quiz tomorrow.
ASSIGNMENT:
Today we discussed different kinds of conflict in short stories and different ways of defining it. Students then showed what they learned by identifying and explaining both the internal and external conflict at the end of "The Tell-tale Heart." This was done in class. Students who did not finish can complete the worksheet after the vocab quiz tomorrow.
ASSIGNMENT:
- Vocab Quiz 5 tomorrow
- Bring Independent Reading Book tomorrow
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Wednesday 11/18/09
IN CLASS:
Today students learned two and a half new root words (the half is because I actually taught them one of the root words for this week during the last week of first quarter). Here they are:
ASSIGNMENT:
None
Today students learned two and a half new root words (the half is because I actually taught them one of the root words for this week during the last week of first quarter). Here they are:
- Skopeo=To look at or examine
- Video/Visum=To see
- Logos=Word or Study
ASSIGNMENT:
None
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Tuesday 11/17/09
IN CLASS:
Today students started creating comic strips for "The Tell-Tale Heart." We focused on the four basic plot elements of situation, complications, climax, and resolution. For each element, students had to identify the correct place in the story and then represent it visually for the comic strip. Though none of the groups finished the work today, all are in the drawing stage. We will finish up the work tomorrow.
ASSIGNMENT:
Today students started creating comic strips for "The Tell-Tale Heart." We focused on the four basic plot elements of situation, complications, climax, and resolution. For each element, students had to identify the correct place in the story and then represent it visually for the comic strip. Though none of the groups finished the work today, all are in the drawing stage. We will finish up the work tomorrow.
ASSIGNMENT:
- Vocab 5 due tomorrow
- Write a summary of "The Tell-Tale Heart" using the word wheel on the back of the Keyword Predication page from yesterday. Download the sheet here.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Monday 11/16/09
IN CLASS:
Today we did a keyword prediction before we dove into "The Tell-tale Heart." Students seemed to like Edgar Allen Poe's dark story of guilt and madness. Tomorrow we'll tackle the plot of the story to work on our use of the elements of fiction.
ASSIGNMENT:
Vocab 5 due Wednesday
Today we did a keyword prediction before we dove into "The Tell-tale Heart." Students seemed to like Edgar Allen Poe's dark story of guilt and madness. Tomorrow we'll tackle the plot of the story to work on our use of the elements of fiction.
ASSIGNMENT:
Vocab 5 due Wednesday
Friday, November 13, 2009
Friday 11/13/09
IN CLASS:
All classes took a grammar quiz today. Then we returned to the Elements of Fiction. Most classes have finished discussing plot, characters, setting, and conflict. On Monday, we will use these elements to discuss Edgar Allen Poe's classic short story, "The Tell-Tale Heart."
ASSIGNMENT:
None--enjoy the weekend, but remember that vocab 5 is due on Wednesday.
All classes took a grammar quiz today. Then we returned to the Elements of Fiction. Most classes have finished discussing plot, characters, setting, and conflict. On Monday, we will use these elements to discuss Edgar Allen Poe's classic short story, "The Tell-Tale Heart."
ASSIGNMENT:
None--enjoy the weekend, but remember that vocab 5 is due on Wednesday.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Thursday 11/12/09
IN CLASS:
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today we filled in calendars for all of quarter 2 (except in 5th hour). Then we had some more grammar practice in the computers. There are two quizzes to try out. You MUST complete #1 for a grade. You SHOULD do #2 for more practice. Remember to review your notes for the quiz tomorrow.
*If any of those students in hours 2, 5, 6 would like a bigger challenge, you can try out #3 in the higher level section. I won't hold the scores against you:)
Hours 7, 8--We also filled out agendas for the quarter (vocab dates are also posted to the right). Then we had some grammar practice. If you maxed out on Quiz #2, there is now a quiz #3 that will show you the correct answers. Give it a try for some extra practice.
ASSIGNMENT:
Be ready for the quiz tomorrow!
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today we filled in calendars for all of quarter 2 (except in 5th hour). Then we had some more grammar practice in the computers. There are two quizzes to try out. You MUST complete #1 for a grade. You SHOULD do #2 for more practice. Remember to review your notes for the quiz tomorrow.
*If any of those students in hours 2, 5, 6 would like a bigger challenge, you can try out #3 in the higher level section. I won't hold the scores against you:)
Hours 7, 8--We also filled out agendas for the quarter (vocab dates are also posted to the right). Then we had some grammar practice. If you maxed out on Quiz #2, there is now a quiz #3 that will show you the correct answers. Give it a try for some extra practice.
ASSIGNMENT:
Be ready for the quiz tomorrow!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Wednesday 11/11/09
IN CLASS:
All Hours--Today we started working on terms for the Elements of Fiction. This is basically the language we use to discuss fiction. We did a modified scavenger hunt to find out what information we already know. Then we began collecting the correct information. Students should each have a golden (ticket) page to help them keep track of the terms. (If you didn't catch the Willy Wonka reference to the golden ticket, auditions for the junior high musical are this Friday, and I am encouraging students to try out for this great performance opportunity!) After that we went down to the LMC computer lab for some grammar practice on parts of the sentence. Scores are posted in PowerSchool for today's work. Students can opt to retake the quiz one time for a higher grade.
None
All Hours--Today we started working on terms for the Elements of Fiction. This is basically the language we use to discuss fiction. We did a modified scavenger hunt to find out what information we already know. Then we began collecting the correct information. Students should each have a golden (ticket) page to help them keep track of the terms. (If you didn't catch the Willy Wonka reference to the golden ticket, auditions for the junior high musical are this Friday, and I am encouraging students to try out for this great performance opportunity!) After that we went down to the LMC computer lab for some grammar practice on parts of the sentence. Scores are posted in PowerSchool for today's work. Students can opt to retake the quiz one time for a higher grade.
- To retake the grammar quiz, follow this link to my webpage. Then follow the directions.
- To download the golden Elements of Fiction page, click here.
None
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Tuesday 11/10/09
IN CLASS:
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today we spent the day on grammar. Students had time to check their work with a partner and ask any questions that might be floating in their brains. Then we checked grammar packet #2 and turned it in. As a heads up, there will be a grammar quiz on Friday covering the parts of a sentence. We'll so some more practice in class this week. Students who are feeling unprepared should stay after school on Thursday for extra review.
Hours 7, 8--At the beginning of class we went through student questions over the grammar packet. Then we checked it. Yes, it took the whole hour. On Friday, students will have a quiz over the parts of a sentence. We'll have some more practice in class on Wednesday and Thursday. I'll also offer some additional review on Thursday after school.
ASSIGNMENT:
None!
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today we spent the day on grammar. Students had time to check their work with a partner and ask any questions that might be floating in their brains. Then we checked grammar packet #2 and turned it in. As a heads up, there will be a grammar quiz on Friday covering the parts of a sentence. We'll so some more practice in class this week. Students who are feeling unprepared should stay after school on Thursday for extra review.
Hours 7, 8--At the beginning of class we went through student questions over the grammar packet. Then we checked it. Yes, it took the whole hour. On Friday, students will have a quiz over the parts of a sentence. We'll have some more practice in class on Wednesday and Thursday. I'll also offer some additional review on Thursday after school.
ASSIGNMENT:
None!
Monday 11/9/09
IN CLASS:
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today students took some more notes on grammar. We looked at sentences that are a little more complicated than the standard subject-predicate combination. Then they got another packet and a little bit of time to work on it. It is due tomorrow.
Hours 7, 8--Today we started grammar. We whipped through a powerpoint presentation, and then got a packet to work on overnight. I'll take questions tomorrow in class, so students come with questions so we can figure it out together.
ASSIGNMENT:
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today students took some more notes on grammar. We looked at sentences that are a little more complicated than the standard subject-predicate combination. Then they got another packet and a little bit of time to work on it. It is due tomorrow.
Hours 7, 8--Today we started grammar. We whipped through a powerpoint presentation, and then got a packet to work on overnight. I'll take questions tomorrow in class, so students come with questions so we can figure it out together.
ASSIGNMENT:
- Hours 2, 5, 6--Grammar packet #2 due tomorrow
- Hours 7, 8--Grammar packet #1 due tomorrow
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Thursday 11/5/09
IN CLASS:
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today students did completed written reflections on the first quarter of study in language arts. On Monday, I will post a long list of all the things my students learned during the quarter. We also did some more work on the grammar packets which are DUE ON MONDAY. When students finished their work, they had time for independent reading.
Hours 7, 8--Today we reflected on the quarter (list of things learned is forthcoming). Then we finished up the last of the book talks. 7th hour got some notes on grammar. 8th hour did not. Both classes will take/finish notes on Monday and receive a practice packet. There is no homework over the weekend in case there was any confusion.
ASSIGNMENT:
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today students did completed written reflections on the first quarter of study in language arts. On Monday, I will post a long list of all the things my students learned during the quarter. We also did some more work on the grammar packets which are DUE ON MONDAY. When students finished their work, they had time for independent reading.
- Subject/Predicate Notes (in case you are looking for help on the packet)
- Click here to download the packet
Hours 7, 8--Today we reflected on the quarter (list of things learned is forthcoming). Then we finished up the last of the book talks. 7th hour got some notes on grammar. 8th hour did not. Both classes will take/finish notes on Monday and receive a practice packet. There is no homework over the weekend in case there was any confusion.
ASSIGNMENT:
- Hours 2, 5, 6--Finish vocab packet for Monday
- Hours 7, 8--None
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Wednesday 11/4/09
My apologies for the late post today.
IN CLASS:
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today we took some notes on Subject and Predicate. We also talked about HOW to take notes and worked on labeling, spacing, separating, etc. After that, students had some practice worksheets to do identifying the complete and simple subjects and predicates. Tomorrow we'll do a little more practice. We'll also have our last book Friday for the quarter (yes, on a Thursday), so bring an independent reading book for class!
Hours 7, 8--We finished up book talks today in 7th hour. 8th hour has a few more to do tomorrow. Tomorrow we will also start working on some grammar, so be sure to bring a notebook and a pencil.
ASSIGNMENT:
- Hours 2, 5, 6--Bring grammar packet and independent reading book to class tomorrow.
- Hours 7, 8--Bring notebook and pencil to class tomorrow.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Tuesday 11/3/09
IN CLASS:
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today students took two pre-tests over the grammar we will be studying this quarter. We started with parts of speech (they should all know now that there are 8 parts of speech), and then we look at parts of a sentence. We took clicker quizzes on both. The scores will show up on PowerSchool, but the scores will not be factored into final grades for the quarter. I want students to see how they did now, and compared to how they do at the end of the unit. I expect they will see at least some improvement.
Hours 7, 8--Today we had our second round of book talks. The students are doing a very nice job, and I think everyone (especially those how have presented already and are no longer nervous) is enjoying the talks. Students received their Touching Spirit Bear essays back today. If students would like to discuss my feedback or clarify anything with me, I am happy to discuss it with them tomorrow.
ASSIGNMENTS:
None for everyone! Enjoy an evening off. Grammar homework starts tomorrow.
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today students took two pre-tests over the grammar we will be studying this quarter. We started with parts of speech (they should all know now that there are 8 parts of speech), and then we look at parts of a sentence. We took clicker quizzes on both. The scores will show up on PowerSchool, but the scores will not be factored into final grades for the quarter. I want students to see how they did now, and compared to how they do at the end of the unit. I expect they will see at least some improvement.
- Last reminder--essays are now passed due. Students who have not turned them in will have a missing icon on PowerSchool by the end of the evening.
Hours 7, 8--Today we had our second round of book talks. The students are doing a very nice job, and I think everyone (especially those how have presented already and are no longer nervous) is enjoying the talks. Students received their Touching Spirit Bear essays back today. If students would like to discuss my feedback or clarify anything with me, I am happy to discuss it with them tomorrow.
ASSIGNMENTS:
None for everyone! Enjoy an evening off. Grammar homework starts tomorrow.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Monday 11/2/09
IN CLASS:
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today students got one last day of work time for their essays. Now they are REALLY on their own to get finished up. At this point, essays that have not been turned in are considered late. Please check with your student to make sure he or she has turned in the work.
Hours 7, 8--Today about 8 students in each class have presented their book talks. They have been informative, funny, thought-provoking, and entertaining. AND I've added some books to my reading list. Ask you student what books they heard about today and if there are any they'd like to read. They'll need to continue independent reading during the second quarter, so hopefully they hear some titles of interest. Student book pages will start appearing around the school soon.
ASSIGNMENTS:
Hours 2, 5, 6--Today students got one last day of work time for their essays. Now they are REALLY on their own to get finished up. At this point, essays that have not been turned in are considered late. Please check with your student to make sure he or she has turned in the work.
Hours 7, 8--Today about 8 students in each class have presented their book talks. They have been informative, funny, thought-provoking, and entertaining. AND I've added some books to my reading list. Ask you student what books they heard about today and if there are any they'd like to read. They'll need to continue independent reading during the second quarter, so hopefully they hear some titles of interest. Student book pages will start appearing around the school soon.
ASSIGNMENTS:
- Hours 2, 5, 6--Finish essays ASAP
- Hours 7, 8--none
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