Tuesday

The school board informed the teachers yesterday that classes on Thursday would end at 1 p.m. Please make sure your parents know that you will be coming home early.

6th grade: We covered some new material today. We discussed ionic bonding, covalent bonding and metallic bonding. The reading covers pgs E 30- E 45. A couple of good sites you csn warch to learn more would be: Making Molecules with Atoms http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmgE0w6E6ZI and Ionic, Covalent and Metallic Bonds http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGA8sRwqIFg
We also watched the Acids and Bases song as we hope to be doing the experiment tomorrow.

7th grade: We began the discussion of bacteria today. Students watched two videos, one showing how quickly bacteria reproduce. The other was a short favorite from last year telling about how to be safe from disease causing bacteria.

Monday:

6th grade: students made atoms today from pipe cleaners, beads and fruit loops. I also had the students make sure their cells were completed so we can get them graded.

7th grade: We studied more about viruses today. Students drew the hidden and active cycle of a virus and then began to draw and label the bacteriophage and the flu virus.

Thursday

6th grade:We reviewed parts of the atom and then watched a power-point presentation on atoms.


7th grade: We learned about viruses today. Viruses are not alive, but they have either DNA or RNA. They are an interesting phenomenon. The link below should take you to an interesting site on viruses.


http://www.beyondbooks.com/lif72/2c.asp

Wednesday

6th grade: Students worked on finishing three different assignments, the Osmosis graph, the periodic table key and their biomes.

7th grade: We did a little housekeeping (they left their books and notebooks in a mess yesterday so we cleaned up for five minutes) Then students worked on pg 199 1-10. This is an in class assignment, not homework.

Students watched Fiddler on the Roof, presented by the high school

Tuesday

6th: Students corrected their papers today. Then we learned about the periodic table of elements. Students began to work on the key for their periodic table.

7th: Students reviewed relative and radioactive dating and the meaning of half-life. Then we reviewed a little about genetics and Gregor Mendel. Then each team worked to answer a question and explained their answer to the class about mass extinction, natural selection etc. (The questions came from pg 200)

Tomorrow we will be watching Fiddler on the Roof as performed by the high school.

Monday Argh Internet down - so sorry

6th grade: Homework E15 1-5 We finished the chapter on physical properties. Now we will be talking about atoms and chemical properties

7th grade: Finished the section on fossils and natural selection. We will have a small test on it tomorrow.

Thursday

6th grade: Thursday we learned about all sorts of different mixtures. We learned about suspensions, emulsions, colloids, solutions and alloys. Then we let some transparency ink travel up a coffee filter, showing the different colors the ink was made of. Next we saw that milk is a colloid because it is undissolved particles in a substance. We used the beakers from yesterday's density experiments to show suspension and emulsion and then we stirred salt into water and made herbal tea to show solutions. Lastly we discussed that alloys are a mixture of metals. Finally the students finished their Osmosis Egg Experiment graph.

7th grade: Today we reviewed fossils, relative dating and radioactive dating on Plato. Monday we will cover the different time periods from Pre-Cambrian to the present time.

Wednesday

6th Grade: We covered the notes on matter, mass, weight and density. We then found the density of a piece of clay. Next we did an activity to help students pay attention to physical characteristics of items. Finally we started the graph for our osmosis egg experiment. We will finish that graph tomorrow.

7th grade: We discussed the timeline of the Earth. Students learned, that according to scientists current beliefs, that if the Earth was on a 12 hour clock of the earth;s time, humans didn't show up until 11:59 p.m. That is pretty interesting. We also began learning about fossils.

Tuesday

6th grade: Students finished the osmosis experiment with the eggs today. It was interesting to see that the corn syrup egg that we put into the salt water was larger than any of the other eggs. Then we noticed that the osmosis process increased the volume of the corn syrup nearly 40 ml. Next we began a density experiment wherein we poured different types of liquids into a graduated cylinder. The denser liquids went to the bottom and the less dense liquids went to the top. Students guessed where the liquids would end up. Then we dropped small items in to see which were the most dense.

7th grade: We reviewed natural selection. Then each team took a biome and reported the adaptations organisms in that biome would need to make to survive.

Monday

6th grade: Today we covered some basic vocabulary in physical science. Mass, matter, volume and density were the main words. Then we learned about the states of matter and put different food coloring in water of different temperatures to see what they molecules would do. Finally we played a state of matter game to see if students knew what that would be. Anyone wanting to play that game can go to this blog and look for the Plasma game.

7th grade: We are covering Charles Darwin and natural selections. We played a game to find out what would happen to the white and brown mouse living on white sand.

Thursday

6th grade: We reviewed mitosis and meiosis today and then watched videos on heredity and punnett squares. Students turned in the heredity chart they did with their families. We also popped two of our eggs that we have been experimenting with. That was fun. Then we switched the corn syrup egg into the salt water and the salt water egg we put in the corn syrup. We will see what happens on Monday. We had a TALL assembly today for attendance. This time the 8th graders won the grade prize.

7th grade: We finished our unit on Heredity today. We discussed purebred animals and hybrid animals. We also discussed different genetic diseases and how they are inherited. We will be starting on a new unit on Monday.

Wednesday + 6th grade family homework

6th grade: After we corrected homework and checked our eggs, we began to learn about heredity. Students received a traits worksheet that they filled out. Their homework is to take the trait sheet home and check on family members to see which of the traits they have. We briefly discussed Punnett Squares and will finish that tomorrow.

7th grade: We finished reviewing chromosomes, proteins, heredity and traits.

6th grade Homework

6th: We covered a lot of material today. First we checked on the eggs. The corn syrup egg is losing water, while the other eggs are gaining water. We call the movement of water through a cell membrane osmosis. Osmosis is the diffusion of water molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. Because it takes no energy, osmosis and diffusion use passive transport. Active transport is movement requiring energy. Then we reviewed photosynthesis and its relationship to respiration. We talked about osmosis occurring during dialysis. We covered briefly mitosis and meiosis and then discussed how cancer is caused by cells dividing too rapidly. Students are to read B46-B65. But the homework is on B55 1-5 complete sentences.

7th grade: We drew and identified chromosomes, centromeres, centrioles and chromatids. (It is pretty bad when the spell check only recognizes 1/4 if those words ) Hopefully that will help the students keep all the "c" words straight. Then we corrected the Oompah punnett squares. Finally we started a short video about genes, traits and many other things that we have been studying.

A note from the school board went home with each student. Milk has gone up to 50 cents. A student is only allowed to get behind four days on paying for lunch. After four days the student can buy an alternate lunch of milk and the main dish at a cost of $1.55. This also applies to reduced lunch students. This alternate lunch will continue for four days. If the student has not made arrangements for their lunch bill to be paid they will be required to bring a sack lunch or go without lunch until payment is made.
This policy will begin December 1st.

Monday

6th grade: We began our experiment today with eggs. Students wrote a hypothesis explaining what they thought would happen to a shell-less egg in corn syrup, one in salt water and one in green water. We will weigh the eggs each day to see what is happening. We discussed the words osmosis, diffusion, equilibrium, active transport and passive transport. Students then worked on their biomes.

Some sixth graders have not turned in their animal reports or posters. Those reports and posters are now only able to earn 60%.

7th grade: As we too have been discussing cells the students went to see the 6th grade experiment on eggs. They also finished their Oompah punnett square. We will check it at the start of class tomorrow.

Tuesday and we are starting Thanksgiving Break

6th grade: Students gave their oral reports today. Oddly, even after two due dates, some students still didn't turn in their reports. At this point they can earn 60% The reports and posters were generally good.

7th: We did a fun worksheet today teaching the mechanics of punnett square. The Oompahs had blue dominant faces, orange recessive faces and incomplete dominance in hair with Blue, Red or Purple hair. It was fun and I think students could understand the squares and probability.

Have a grateful Thanksgiving and see you on Monday!

Monday

6th grade: Today we made cells from construction paper. Those few who did not finish came in during TALL. If you are still not done, be at school at 7:30 and I will have the door open.

7th grade: We practiced meiosis and mitosis in a dance today. I think that students got the idea. Then we watched a video that showed the stages of meiosis.

Thursday - end of the trimester

6th grade: Students worked on their plans to make their cells on Monday. Tuesday they will give their oral report. Please be prepared.

7th grade: Students started learning about meiosis and were told the grades to their tests.

I will spend the next day correcting the late papers and getting the last grades in.

Wednesday

6th grade: We corrected the papers we have been working on for two weeks and was last night's homework assignment. About 1/3 of the students did not have them done. This is not acceptable. Thanks so much for those of you that got them done on time. Others turned in their oops cards, others went into the lab and worked on it. Work must be done on time and in on time.

7th grade: We took our ISAT Prep test today. Students generally did well.

Students will be allowed to watch the girls play in their tournament tomorrow. Classes will be about 45 minutes long. That is about how long classes used to be, should be interesting.

Tuesday 7th grade test tomorrow

6th grade: If students finished their red questions and 1-5 B2-B15, then they have no homework, unless, of course, some didn't turn in their poster or report, and that is due. All posters were due today. Reports were due if you were able to type it at home. Those needing to use the school's computers had to take a few extra days. Please get your things turned in. Today we worked on the red questions and on our biomes.

7th grade: Students reviewed for the test tomorrow.

Monday 6th reports and posters due tomorrow

6th Science: Today students worked on drawing their biomes. Tomorrow, all students who have the capability to type their report at home have that report due. All posters are due tomorrow no matter the availability of a computer. Students whose computer runs out of ink can email me the report at cjwinward@blsd.net however, they still need to bring the rubric and rough draft so they can staple them together with the report.

7th Science: We reviewed for the ISAT prep test that will be taken on Wednesday.

Thursday

We had a wonderful Veteran's Day assembly today. The students were well behaved, the choir and band were excellent and the speech and video were motivating.

6th: We learned about populations, communities and ecosystems today. We also learned about food chains. Remember to get your reports done and your posters too. Posters are due the 15th, and so is your report if you can type it at home.

7th: Students practiced with probability. They wrote a hypothesis if they flipped coins twenty times, how many would be heads and how many would be tails. We also finished yesterday's assignment.

Wednesday - problem with report due date

6th grade: Our reports are still due on the 15th, sort of. I promised the students who did not have access to a computer at home time to type their reports in the computer lab during TALL. However, three out of the four days this week TALL has been used for other things and students were unable to get in and type. Therefore, the final paper, for those who cannot type at home, is due the 22nd, which is the following week. Posters are due on the 15th.
In class today we finished filling out the surveys we did for TALL yesterday. Then we took notes and discussed how living things are put together, cells > tissues > organs > organ systems > organisms

7th grade:We worked some more on punnett squares and heredity. We took an inventory of different character traits to see if dominant alleles, recessive alleles or neither one were the most common.

Veterans Assembly tomorrow at 10. If you know of a veteran that should be honored, please have them come.

Tuesday - Voting so the schools can transfer money from buildings to books

6th grade: We learned about different types of cells. Students did a worksheet about cells and then we went around the room and looked through the microscope at water, yeast, onion skin, salt, sugar, sand and tomato skin. Students then drew the substances they saw.

7th grade: We took the punnett square to the F2 generation in an activity using the vocabulary words that we learned yesterday. Then students finished their dog. Then we drew what the F1 generation would look like.

Voting! Today there is an election that will allow the district to move money from the building fund to the book fund. We would appreciate you supporting this so we can purchase books for our schools. Thanks so much.

Monday Homework 6th grade fix test

6th grade: Today we reviewed the test and students were allowed to take them home and fix them according to the instructions sent home after the last test. Then students worked on an in class assignment while I showed them their grades and discussed how they could improve when needed.

7th grade: We are working on heredity. Students made paper dogs and tomorrow we will discuss the different possibilities of characteristics.

Veterans's assembly is on Thursday at 10 A.M.

Thursday Daylight Savings ends on Sunday! 7th grade fix tests

6th graders took their test today. I should have it corrected by Monday and then students who choose to can fix their tests for half of the missed points. We are starting on a new section in the book and students had time to read it today.

7th graders got their tests back today. They can fix them and have them back to me on Monday at the start of class. The fixed test has to be on a different sheet of paper, complete sentences even on the matching questions, and it must be stapled to the first test. In class we started learning about heredity.

Tuesday 6th test Thursday 7th test Wednesday

Picture retakes are on Wednesday - make sure you have the money for them. This will also be the time for team pictures, band pictures and choir pictures. so make sure that you are addressed appropriately.

6th: Today we practiced using the metric and standard systems of measurement while learning about vertebrates. We also studied invertebrates for the test on Thursday.

7th: We finished going over the questions for the test on Wednesday.

Monday late 6th test Thursday 7th test Wednesday

Hi, so sorry this is late, with the Halloween Dance after school yesterday, I did not get back to get this done. However, I have about 10 reports left to grade and so I hope to hand the all back on Wednesday, if all goes well.

6th grade: we finished studying about vertebrates and watched some very interesting videos about birds and mammals.

7th grade: we studied for the test that will be on Wednesday

Wednesday will be picture retakes at about 10:16 - 11:35. If you want a picture redone, please bring the money for your pictures.

Thursday tests for 6th and 7th next week

Picture retakes are on November 2nd. Students who think their parents want them to have a retake took papers home. If you want your student to have a retake and they didn't bring a paper. Send the money with the student.

Halloween Party: Students will be having an assembly to award those who had perfect attendance and the Halloween dance on Monday. Students can wear school appropriate costumes, no masks are allowed. Face painting can only cover 1/4 of the face. This is a safety issue. We will be holding classes until 2:30, so make sure the costumes will work sitting at a desk. Costumes can be put on after classes. 6th graders are to bring candy, 7th graders are to bring 2 liters of pop and 8th graders are to bring cookies.

6th grade: Students finished up their chart on vertebrates and then we played a matching game to see if they knew which vertebrates had which characteristics. We will have a short test on Wednesday on vertebrates and invertebrates.

7th grade: Students worked on the first half of the review for the test in teams. We corrected most of it. We will finish reviewing on Monday and the test will be Tuesday.

Wednesday - please return the computer and title one papers signed

6th grade: after grading a few reports we worked on how to describe an animal, how to discuss the life cycle, habitat and how to do references. Yes, we discussed this before we started the rough draft. However, after seeing students not do as asked, we reviewed this information so they would do better on their final copy. We also watched a few more animal videos. Our youtube has been down and so students are behind on the animal videos and we are working to catch up.

7th grade: We discussed more on active and passive transport. Students will be having a test, likely on November 2nd. We began preparing for that today working in teams. The test will cover the first three chapters, but focus mostly on chapter 3.

Tuesday - Halloween Dance Monday see info below

6th grade: Students turned in their rough drafts today. Those who did not will only get 60% on their rough draft. Most turned them in on time and many turned them in early. Today we learned about the characteristics of vertebrates and watched a few you tube videos about these animals.

7th grade: Students reviewed the experiment we did yesterday. They wrote the conclusion to their hypothesis. Then we watched a couple of youtube videos on Active and Passive transport. We ended doing a puzzle showing how DNA nitrogen bases fit together. To learn more about this students can read 101 and 102.

Also, Monday there will be a halloween dance. Students are allowed to dress up, but no masks. Please make sure that the costume is either wearable during classes, or that the student can change into it in time for the dance. No masks. Each grade is asked, not required, to bring something to the party. 8th graders are asked to bring 1 package of store-bought cookies, 7th graders, a 2 liter bottle of soda pop, 6th graders, a package of wrapped candy or candy bars.

Picture retakes are coming up on November 2nd.

Monday - 6th rough draft due Tuesday (tomorrow) Two papers to read and sign

6th grade: Students were reminded that the rough draft of their animal report is due tomorrow at the start of class. Today we discussed endangered animals. Each team got a short page to read about a specific animal. The teams read the reports and came up with their own ideas on how to help keep the animal from being endangered. Then each team gave a short report explaining how the animal became endangered and what we could do to help. We watched a short youtube video, Extinct is Forever. Then we discussed things we could do to use the resources we have wisely.

7th grade: Students learned a little about balancing scientific equations. We worked on a respiration/photosynthesis cycle. It is not homework and will be finished in class tomorrow.

Students have two papers that need signing and returning. One is a contract for using the new computer lab so students understand what is and is not allowed. The second paper is a Title 1 Student/Parent/School Compact. Please read both these papers with your student and sign and return them ASAP.

Thursday 6th grade rough draft due Tuesday

6th grade: We worked on reports today. The rough draft is due on Tuesday.

7th grade: Today we played with mitosis. Students worked on a really large cell and made mitosis happen. It was interesting.

Wednesday

6th graders worked on their fact sheet for the report that is due October 25th. Tomorrow we will work on the report.

7th graders finished the online quiz to see what they had learned about cellular processes.

I have laryngitis so it was a little tricky today. A special thank-you for the students who made the day easier by working hard and doing what they were asked to do

Tuesday

6th grade: Students might have two different types of homework today. In class we wrote down the vertebrates and two characteristics of each one. Some did not finish that. If it was not done, it is homework. All students have homework to bring in a book, magazine, or information off the of the Internet to help them with their animal report. Students have had two days to get this information together.

In class we went to the lab and played a team game to see how much the students knew about vertebrates. We will do this game again with invertebrates so the students are prepared for the upcoming test on November 2nd. Remember, the rough draft of your animal report is due October 25th, one week from today. We will work on it in class tomorrow, after that, you are on your own.

We also began a discussion on endangered animals.

7th grade: Today we took a hypothesis and the students had to write out an experiment to go with the hypothesis. Then we started the experiment. Next we played a game on Plato to see if they remembered the facts we learned yesterday about cellular processes. We started a quiz and will finish that tomorrow.

Monday

6th Grade: The rubric for the animal report was handed out today. Students drew from a sack to get their animal. The rough draft is due on Tuesday October 25th. I will correct the papers, hand them back and then the student will be able to correct any mistakes. Each student is responsible on Wednesday to bring information; from the internet, a book, or a magazine (use the library) to work on their report on Wednesday. They will then finish it at home and turn it in on Tuesday. This first draft must be handwritten. If they write neatly, all the following reports can be typed. If they still need practice writing neatly, they will practice that. The final report is due November 15th. Posters and an oral report will be due then also. This is a big deal, 125 points. Please follow your rubric and the instructions.

7th grade:We learned about Mitosis and Meiosis today. We watched a presentation that allowed students to better view what happened. Their homework is to find out what the word Mutation means.

Thursday Parent Teacher Conferences

We are having parent-teacher conferences tonight from 4:30 to 7:30.

I have been gone this week to a conference on alcohol and drug abuse. That is why there have been no postings.

Tuesday: 6th and 7th grade worked on measuring using Standard measurements and Metric

Wednesday:
6th grade: Watched a movie on how seeds are dispersed and filled out a worksheet during the movie
7th grade: Was supposed to watch Plato, but it didn't cooperate. So they watched an interesting movie on volcanoes.

Thursday:
6th grade: Students studied different classes of invertebrates and then reported to the class what they learned.
7th grade: We started the Plato session on cell processes.

Tuesday - no school Thursday and Monday

6th grade: We reviewed invertebrates today and then teams worked together to determine if pictures of invertebrates had asymmetrical symmetry, radial symmetry or bilateral symmetry. Finally we worked again on the difference between dicot plants and monocot plants by tracing leaves.

7th grade: We reviewed the vocabulary words for element, molecule and compound and looked at the molecules and compounds we made yesterday to emphasize what we learned. Then students got into teams and filled out the chart from yesterday. We learned what elements went into our foods, how they functioned and what foods were carbogydrates, lipids, proteins and then we covered nucleic acids also.

Part of TALL was spent in an assembly on not bullying. The high school class officers came and presented a short presentation to the middle school students.

Tonight is a meeting at the middle school dealing with how school patrons want the funds used for the school. The meeting begins at 6:30.

Parent teacher conferences will be moved back to October 13th.

Monday

6th grade: Today we completed the overview of invertebrates. We dealt with Annelids, Arthropods and Echinoderms. Students were given their science tests and we reviewed again how to correct it properly if they desire to improve their grades. A student can raise their grade by half of the points they lost. However, the answers must all be in complete sentences so they better learn the material they did not master before the test. Handwriting must be neat, spelling must be correct, and the test must be handed in before their class starts.

7th grade: Students learned about elements and compounds as we used the molecule kit to make different compounds. Then we returned to the classroom and started working on the chart that explains the uses of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids. This includes the material on 76-78. We will finish that in school tomorrow.

Remember, Thursday is a teacher work day and Monday is a holiday so students have five days off.

Thursday - 6th graders bring back your parent signed sheet.

6th grade: We began learning about invertebrates on Plato today. Students had a worksheet to fill in. We also discussed the importance of doing our very best in school, at home and in our lives.

7th grade: We corrected last night's homework. It took quite awhile.

The school had a fire drill today and then we met in the auditorium. The students who had 100% attendance for the last month were involved in a drawing for $25.00. Bryson, Kyler, and Shanelle all won. Then, because the 6th graders had the most 100% attendance, 6 of them were chosen to for a special ride in a limousine next week. We are strongly encouraging students to come to school unless they are contagious.

Wednesday 7th grade homework 6th grade paper

6th grade: We corrected the tests today. Papers have gone home for parents to sign. These papers explain how students can fix their tests and earn back half of the points they missed. Make sure your parent or guardian see, read and sign these papers. If you want to keep the paper, sign the bottom section, cut it off and return it to school - by tomorrow if possible,but by Monday for 10 points.

7th: Students are not taking a test on this section. They will, however have homework tonight to sum up the chapter. Page 69 1-10 Complete sentences page 70 11-15 Complete sentences pt 71 1-5 just the letter, not complete sentences (test practice) and then 6 a complete sentence.

Tuesday - 7th grade worksheet due at the start of class tomorrow

6th grade: The sixth graders took their first test today. We will correct it tomorrow.

7th grade: We discussed how drugs, including alcohol and tobacco can injure the nerve cells in our bodies. Students drew nerve cells and blood cells. Then students worked on the chart of Function, Location and Description of the cells organelles. This is homework if the student did not finish it in class.

Monday

6th grade: Students reviewed for tomorrow's test. We went over every single question on the test. Students were allowed to take notes on the test questions. We discussed the best way to answer the questions in complete sentences. The test will be tomorrow.

7th grade: Students worked on their cell today. Each team was to bring items to make their cell. Students will be graded on participation and supplying the required materials as decided by the teams on Wednesday and Thursday of last week.

Thursday

6th grade: We corrected pages A34-35. Then we reviewed in our book how to study for the test. Some students chose to take their science books home this week-end to study for the test on Tuesday. Monday we will review for the test.

7th grade: We cleaned up our science experiment with the flowers. Then we worked on reading a graph. We discussed a few questions that might be on the ISAT. Then students planned out their cells for our activity on Monday. Remember, your cell drawing is due on Monday.

Wednesday 6th grade homework

6th grade: Today we learned about angiosperms and the differences between dicots and monocots. Then we examined the different plants that represent gymnosperms and angiosperms. We returned to class and reviewed tonight's homework assignment. We talked about how to do it correctly, reviewed the questions. Students worked on it for twenty minutes. They also had thirty minutes in TALL to finish the assignment. The homework is A34-35 1-20 in Complete Sentences C.S. We have a unit test coming up on Tuesday Sept. 27th. It will cover A2-A33.

7th grade: Students worked on finishing their cell pictures. The pictures are due on Monday, September 26th. Then students made team flash cards to practice their cell organelles and learn the functions. We will be making a team cell on Monday. Students need to discuss with their team what they are supposed to bring.

Tuesday 6th grade test next week

6th grade: We reviewed the three types of plants we discussed yesterday. As a class, we went outside and saw examples of the different types of plants. Then we came back in and watched power point presentations of each of the first three groups. Tomorrow we will do the final group, vascular, seed-bearing, flowering plants. This section covers A20-A31.

7th grade: We learned more about cells today. We watched two videos explaining the functions of the cell organelles. Students continued drawing their cells. They also looked through a microscope at a thin slice of potato to see the cells.

Monday

6th grade: Today students brought plant parts to class. We discussed three of the four different types of plants. We learned about xylem and phloem and what vascular meant. Tomorrow we will review today's material and then move onto the last plant group.

7th grade: Students are learning about cells. In class they drew a plant and animal cell. They will spend part of tomorrow learning the function of each cell part. (pg 60-67)

Thursday 6th graders Monday bring a plant part

6th grade: We learned about the Fungus kingdom today. On Monday we start on the Plant Kingdom. All students are to bring a plant part.

7th grade: We corrected the first homework assignment. We also began work on a microscope page.

Wednesday 7th grade homework

The school had pictures today.

6th grade: students practiced taking notes while we studied a power point presentation on protists.

7th grade: Students reviewed the week's vocabulary. Then we took the time to draw the organisms we saw in the microscope. The 7th grade has homework. It is page 49 1-3. Notice however, that each question has three parts. All answers are to be complete sentences and correct spelling.It would also be a good idea to have the answers correct!

Tuesday Pictures tomorrow

Tomorrow the school is doing pictures. All students will have their picture taken for the yearbook and for activity cards. Usually pictures are first thing in the morning.

6th grade: Today in 6th grade we tasted different foods made with fungi and bacteria. We discussed the differences of the 5/6 kingdoms. Students were reminded that fungi and bacteria are not plants or animals, but they have their own kingdom.

7th grade: We reviewed homeostasis, learned about autotrophs and heterotrophs, reviewed prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells. Then we practiced using our eyes, hand lenses, and microscopes to view newspaper pictures. Students recorded the differences.

Monday - Picture Day is Wednesday

Wednesday is picture day. All students will have their picture taken. However, if students wish to purchase the pictures, they must have their money on Wednesday. Papers were sent home today informing parents about cost etc.

In 6th grade we drew food webs. Then we learned about bacteria while learning to outline notes. Tomorrow we will be learning about the foods we get from fungus and bacteria.

7th graders checked their flowers and wrote down the information. Then we attempted to build a graph. First we tried a line graph, but that didn't work. Then we tried a bar graph and that did work. Finally, we learned about the history of microscopes in a power point presentation.

Thursday Back to School Night

Tonight is Back to School night, all parents and guardians are welcome. It starts at 6 p.m.

6th grade: We corrected homework. Those who did not turn it in were required to call their parents and begin work on it while we were correcting. Then we finished the section on classification with a power point presentation on classification and a quick youtube on Bacteria.

7th grade: Students drew the experiments done by Redi and Pasteur to disprove spontaneous generation. Then we checked our flowers and filled out our data charts on our experiment.

Wednesday 6th homework Back to School night Thursday

Thursday, Sept 9th is Back to School Night at 6 p.m. We would appreciate having all parents come and meet your student's teachers. I am instituting a new policy. A few students have decided that if they break rules they can get sent out of the room. This takes away their opportunity to learn, but having them in class takes away other student's opportunity to learn. My new policy is called Choices and Consequences. (C&C) Students will be warned twice to straighten up. The third time they will be given an assignment. This assignment will be graded and is due at the start of the next class period. Only the students who are interfering with learning will be required to do this assignment. I hope this encourages students to do what is expected.

6th: There is homework. Students are to read A4-A19 and do the problems on A19 1-5 using complete sentences (C.S.) Today we discovered the different characteristics of each of the five (or six) kingdoms of organisms. Students worked in teams and filled out a paper so they could see each organism and its characteristics.

7th: We learned about operational definitions. Then we defined what we meant by a dead flower. We filed into the lab and checked out our flowers to see how they were doing. The one in baking soda already had died. We wrote the information into our data chart. Afterwards we came back to the classroom and learned about reading data in different charts. A few students earned C&C. Their assignment is page 29-30 1-26. All answers must be written in complete sentences.

Tuesday after Labor Day

6th grade: We sent home a paper for parents to sign. This paper explains what is expected in class. We learned about metabolism, organisms and then watched a Power Point Presentation on the six characteristics of life.

7th grade: Students that brought their assigned flower used it to create a hypothesis and carry out an experiment to see what substances would keep their flower fresh for the longest period of time. Next we reviewed safety symbols so students would understand what they meant.

Thursday

6th grade: Students turned in their "About Me" paper. It was fun to read what they wrote and see the pictures. Those who forgot them in the locker could get 90% if they turned them in right after class. (this prevents a student from finishing an assignment in another class when they are supposed to be doing the work for that class) Students that forgot to complete these papers can turn them in on Tuesday and still earn 60%. Please make sure that you get your work in on time. Each team made a poster based on the 6 characteristics of life. The supplies for this were to have been brought from home.

7th graders learned the words Quantitative and Qualitative observation today. Quantitative has to do with making observations that have to do with numbers and measurement while Qualitative observations depend more on descriptions. Then we reviewed the 6 characteristics of life by reviewing the charts make by the 6th graders.

Wednesday + 6th grade homework

6th graders checked our plants and found them in a very wilted shriveled condition. We wrote down our information and will add it to our data. Students were given their books and we did a quick tour through them so students know where to find the information. Students were given a paper to fill out about their own growth and development. It is due tomorrow. They also need to bring their supplies for their characteristics of life poster for tomorrow.

7th graders learned about the different skills needed in science; observation, inferring, predicting, classifying and creating models. Then we watched a number of Youtubes. The first showed how Jane Goodall used the skills in science to learn about chimpanzees. Then we watched different people who had careers based on biology. I think students enjoyed the video game producer. They were surprised to learn that it took a good background in science, math, and the ability to communicate.

Tuesday August 30th

6th grade science learned about the 6 characteristics of life which include: All living things grow and develop, have cells, perform complex chemical activity, perform reproduction, have an information system (DNA) and respond to their environment. Students will be working as a team to make a poster to represent the six characteristics of life. We will work on the poster on Thursday. Students have Wednesday and Thursday to bring items, drawings or pictures to represent their assigned part.

We also reviewed the steps of the scientific method of doing and experiment. Then we discussed what happened to the plants we poured hot water on.

7th grade took their pre-test today. It was a little scary for them trying to recall things they learned last year. This is not a graded test, but something to allow the students to prepare of the year and ISATs.

August 29th

Welcome back to school. In 6th grade we wrote a hypothesis and then poured boiling water on a plant. Students are to check their plant before school tomorrow to see how it fared. In 7th grade we started growing a seed and then will conduct experiments on the seed.

Tomorrow both classes will take a pre-test to see how much they know. This is not graded, but for the 7th graders it will be a review. For the 6th graders it will give me direction as to what they need to know. It is a serious thing, just not life or death.

Wednesday

Today we reviewed the year on video. Tomorrow is the field trip. The cost is $6.00. Money is due now.

Tuesday

After finishing our oral reports I showed the students some videos that show how difficult it is for some children to get an education. I encouraged the students to work this summer to make sure that they are prepared for school next year.

Monday

Today students gave their oral report on the scientists. They are doing quite well. However, a number of students have things to make up that must be done today. Thanks to the students who came in and got their finals done early on Thursday when they knew they would be absent from class. Good job. We still have about ten students who are supposed to do their planet mobile.

Thursday

We briefly reviewed for the test each class period. Then students took the final exam. We should have them all corrected in class. Students who are caught up on their assignments turned in their books. We still have a lot to do next week, but those things do not require science books.

Oral reports will be given on Monday. Tuesday we will finish any reports left. We will also have a presentation on appreciating what we have and doing our best. On Wednesday we have a class review. It will be kind of fun for the students that are there.

Thursday is the trip to Riverdale. Students must have have their $6.00 in by the 25th of May. They are to wear modest swim attire, and bring a sack lunch. Finally we are asking for no electronic devices to be brought as we have no way of securing them.

Wednesday - final exam tomorrow

Today we corrected the homework and reviewed for the final exam. We also talked about the color of stars and about their temperature. We learned that comets are made of ice and dust, asteroids are made of rocks and meteorides are made of asteroid particles. Meteors are asteroids that come into the Earth's atmosphere. Most of them burn up. But if they actually make it to the surface of the Earth, they are called meteorites.

The test is tomorrow, books will be turned in on Tuesday. Monday and Tuesday will be the oral reports. After the reports on Tuesday we will have a short lesson on growing up good. On Wednesday, those not on the bike-a-thon will learn about the effects of volcanic eruptions.

Tuesday Homework today and Final is Thursday

Students have reviewed every test question for the final test and have been advised to take them home and study them. Two important things are to be able to spell correctly the planets in order and being able to spell the three types of rocks correctly. Those are two things that can be practiced at home.

Today we talked about clouds and layers of the atmosphere. Students drew the different types of clouds and then the atmosphere layers. Homework is to finish D92-93 1-20. If there is one that you are struggling with, do the best you can and you will get some of the points.

If you have not paid your fees, paid up your lunch money bill, turned in all library books, or turned in your school pictures or the money for them, you will not be able to go on the end of year trip. Those are the rules, pay your bills before you can play.

Monday final will be Thursday

Our final exam will be Thursday. I am reviewing it everyday this week. All students will be able to earn 100% if they study and pay attention this week. On Monday and Tuesday of next week we will be doing the oral reports from our scientist paper.

Today we learned about the phases of the moon. We discovered why we see different amounts of the moon. Students then drew the moon phases. We watched a short video about the moon phases and then one on eclipses.

Wednesday and Thursday Hangers Now

I will be gone tomorrow as my daughter is getting married on Friday and there are still a few things that I need to get done, so I have decided to write both days here.

Wednesday, we began reviewing for the final exam. The three questions today were to complete and describe what was happening in a punnet square. Students had to list the three rocks and spell them correctly. Last they had to list the planets in order and spell them correctly. Then the students shared the information they learned about their planets. Then we watched a short video on video jug called The Planets Explained.

Tomorrow students will be making their own solar system. They have been instructed as to what they are required to do.

Tuesday and Wire Hangers

We will begin our planet project on Thursday. Students must have a wire hanger for this to work. Please find one, or find someone who can lend you one.

Today we started on planets. Each team was given a different planet to research. Tomorrow they will share that information with the rest of the class.

Monday

A very strange thing happened last week. I had meetings after school on Thursday and didn't get this written. But I went straight home and typed it up. I am not sure why Thursday isn't on this blog, but it is not. So, on Thursday we learned about light and the electromagnetic spectrum. It is amazing the gifts we receive from this spectrum, visible light, radio waves, x-rays. We discussed frequency and wavelength, and that visible light is just a very tiny part of the spectrum. In fact we were told that if we took the old movie film and stretched it 2500 miles, from California to Alaska, visible light would only take up one frame! That is just amazing.

On Monday we learned about the sun. We learned how it causes seasons and the aurora borealis. We differentiated between the earth rotating and revolving. We discussed time zones and how we got them. Then we watched an interesting video that showed the sun in comparison with other planets and stars, now that is just fascinating!

Wednesday

Many students were gone today on the band/choir trip. In science we finished watching our movie on the Big Bang. Students who were gone will be able to watch these during two days of remediation.

Please bring your hangers and your pictures or money.

Tuesday

Scientist reports are being handed back today and tomorrow. Students have been shown how to look up the material online and have been given the opportunity to come in during remediation to correct their mistakes for their final paper. They have also been told that they can use the typing lab during remediation to type their reports. It is their responsibility to get that finished. The final date for the scientist report is May 12th. Some students have already handed in their final paper. Remember, with your final copy you must have your rough draft and rubric stapled to it. This way I can grade your report more fairly.

Today we finished the movie, Beyond the Big Bang, and the worksheet.

Monday

We began the movie, Beyond the Big Bang today. This movie talks about the different theories of how the earth was created, gravity and how the universe works. It is quite fascinating, the many different ideas that were considered correct in their time until more information was discovered.

Wednesday and Thursday bring wire hangers.

Wednesday was another testing day, students took ISAT tests in reading. For science we played a rock cycle game. Each team had a ball or yarn and then moved to different stations in the rock cycle depending on the roll of the dice. The object of the game was to help them understand the rock cycle better. Then we returned to class and observed rocks and their different properties.

Today students were to turn in their scientist report rough draft. I am calling the parents of any student who does not have theirs turned in. This report teaches students a lot about different fields of science, about different people, and how to do research. This report can also save their grade. But if it is not turned in, it will crush their grades. They have been reminded everyday for the past two weeks to get it in early.

In class we are beginning to learn about the eras and periods of the Earth. Next week we will learn about the big bang theory and then look to the sky. Students need to get their wire hangers turned in ASAP. If you have extra hangers, please donate them to the cause.

Tuesday Pictures, hangers, sundials, scientist reports

There is a lot going on right now. Student need to get their pictures in, they were due last week. Sundials were due today. If they are not turned in today, they will lose points. Hangers are for a project in May. The scientist report rough draft is due on Thursday. I will keep any student who wants to stay for study hall on Wednesday to help them get it done.

Today was ISATs again. Tomorrow will be the last day for 6th graders except for make-ups.

Monday ISATs

Students took their Language ISAT today. For those who had science today we learned about the rock cycle and handled and described the different types of rocks. We reviewed the properties of rocks and Mohs hardness scale.

Sundials are due tomorrow. They were assigned five weeks ago and we have had plenty of sunny week-ends to get them done. Please, get them in at the start of class. The rough draft on the scientist report is also due this week, on Thursday. Please staple your rubric to your report so I can grade it appropriately. Finally, we need wire hangers. Please bring one for yourself and one for a friend.

Sleep early and eat well to prepare for tomorrow's ISAT.

Thursday

The school had their three screen assembly today. It is used to encourage kids to stay away from drugs and alcohol. It also encourages the students to take care of each other.

Sundials are due on Tuesday, scientist reports are due on Thursday. Please get them in on time or the score will be 60% of your earned grade. Please get them in.

Today we talked about different soil types and how to take care of our water. Students then drew a picture showing the water-table, horizons, and how pollution can damage what we drink.

Wednesday - pictures are late

We learned about how mountains and soil are made. We learned about fold mountains, fault mountains and plateaus. The students took clay and built all three types of mountains. Finally, we had a glacier exhibit so students could identify the names of the debris left by glaciers.

Tuesday - pictures or picture money is now past due

We are learning about rocks. This is an interesting unit as we can look around us and see exactly what we are talking about, no field trip needed. (Although that would be even more interesting) I am encouraging students to look around them and see how soil is being eroded and deposited by our spring runoff. It is easy to see that the faster moving water can carry larger particles.

Today we watched a ppp about erosion and deposition. We learned about four different ways sediments move. We learned about young and old rivers and about glaciers.

Students will be working on their scientist reports as homework. Remember the rough draft is due April 28th. The earlier you get it in, the sooner you get it back. The sooner you get it back the faster you can fix your report and then all the pressure is gone. Please, do not wait until the last minute.

The 6 weeks you have had to do your sundial are nearly up. Get it done, should be sunny on Friday!

Monday

We took the day to work on our scientist reports. Students used the Internet, encyclopedias and books to find their information. Three rough drafts were turned in this morning. Please, get these done as correctly and quickly as possible. Putting them off to the last minute usually brings a lot of frustration.

Quite a few more sundials were turned in. Make sure you mark to the end of the line and write each hour so I can check them. If the shadow goes past your paper, tape another piece on and go to the end of the shadow.

Thursday sundials and scientist reports - parent signature paper

Please get your sundial done this week-end. You have one more week, but that will be all. We have had many turned in, but time is running out.

Today we started on our scientist reports. Students chose their scientist and we went to the library to find information. Those who could not find enough either chose a new scientist or will look online. I did find a few sources for those who could find nothing in the library.

Parent signature papers also went home. These are to help parents understand this paper and what needs to happen. Please make sure your parents read and sign and that you return that paper. I need to know that parents will understand how to help appropriately. The rough draft must be in on Thursday April 28th. The final draft must be in May 12th. As my daughter is getting married that week-end, I doubt they will be graded until the following week. But they must be in the box on the 12th.

Wednesday

We built buildings today to see what types of structures could withstand an earthquake. The buildings were made of three different types of material and then we shook the desks to see which stayed together the best. The shaking started small and then increased.

We discussed P and S waves. We learned why scientists think the earth has different layers, it has to do with P and S waves. We also watched a clip of a Bill Nye video on earthquake waves and also a short youtube video on earthquake waves. Students learned about the Mercalli and Richter scale for measuring earthquakes. The Mercalli scale measures earthquake damage while the Richter scale measures the magnitude of the quake. This is interesting information and the students are really enjoying themselves.

Tuesday - Sundials are due April 26th - Time to get them done

Students started class today with a quiz on last night's reading. It should be in powerschool by tomorrow. Today we learned about the makeup of the earth. First we covered the crust, mantle and core. We talked about how big 5 kilometers are. Then we added the words lithosphere and athenosphere. Last we watched a short youtube on earthquakes which showed the plates and talked about how the mantle, volcanoes and earthquakes affect us for good.

Students received their spring pictures today. We had a discussion about why scanning their pictures and then giving the pictures back to the studio is dishonest. We also discussed that is just like stealing to either copy or keep the pictures without paying for them. We likened it to buying a prom dress, wearing it to the prom, and then returning it. Please make sure that the pictures are returned promptly if you are not going to keep them, or that the money is paid quickly so we can get everything sent back to those who did the work.

Monday -quiz on tonight's reading will be tomorrow

We began studying about volcanoes today. We reviewed the three types of volcanoes and discussed the parts of volcanoes, the vent, crater, magma chamber and lava. Then each team received clay and made all three types of volcanoes. They included the four parts of the volcano and then teams exhibited their volcanoes to the class.

Next, we moved to Youtube and watched a National Geographic film on how volcanoes are made. Then we watched three short youtube films on shield, composite, and cinder cone volcanoes.

Finally, students have homework tonight, they are to ready D28-D38. Instead of having written homework, we will have a quiz on their reading at the start of class.

Wednesday and Thursday

On Wednesday and Thursday I was sent to meetings in Pocatello teaching us the aspects of TIA, Total Instructional Alignment. It has to do with the new common core standards and is an effort to make sure students are learning the appropriate information at the appropriate grade level.


Students had a substitute who took care of things nicely. On Wednesday they watched Plato on Earthquakes. It is a very good instructional site. On Thursday students worked on their posters.

Tuesday after Spring Break

Spring break was lovely and mostly sunny. Many students are turning in their sun dials after our lovely break. Today we saw the ring of fire and how scientist think Pagaea looked. Then we watched all the continents move around into their current places. It is kind of fun. We talked about the reasons that Alfred Wagener came up with the theory of continental drift. We learned the words divergent and convergent boundaries. We also learned that subduction is when a heavier plate goes under a lighter plate often causing volcanic activity. Weed essays need to be in their finished condition, typed and ready by Thursday.

I will be gone to meetings in Pocatello on Wednesday and Thursday. Students have been reminded that good behavior for a substitute is the only acceptable behavior. They have also been reminded that bad behavior will result in their participation grade being dropped dramatically. We are teaching more than science, we are teaching acceptable behavior.

Wednesday and now . . . Spring Break

We finished our movie today and discussed how to be prepared. We discussed the different catastrophes that could happen here and talked about the fact that if we are prepared we do not need to be afraid. Students told of different things they could do so their families would be prepared. It was a good discussion. We also cut out the continents of a world map. We will use those next week when we talk about continental drift and Pangaea.

Spring Break is upon us. We will be out Thursday and Monday. Remember to do your sundial when it is sunny. Anchor a paper to the ground or other stationery object. Anchor a stick or pencil oo the paper. (clay works good - or just stick it in the ground) Every hour draw the line your stick makes. Make sure to draw to the end of the shadow. Label the hours. It must have five markings on it. Remember, this might be the last good weather we have so get it done now.

Have a great break!

Tuesday - fix tests due tomorrow

We watched a movie today that teaches about earthquakes. Students took notes writing down the names of the scientists and what their jobs were. We recorded four different earthquakes and their magnitudes. We discussed how an earthquake in California would affect people in Idaho. We will finish the last few minutes of the movie tomorrow.

The tests from last week were returned today. Students that want to fix their tests will be required to hand them in at the start of class tomorrow. All the sentences must be complete sentences, (even on the a-b-c-d questions) The reason for this is to teach the student the information they did not know. Correct spelling is also required. The test must be stapled to the new answer sheet or I cannot correct it fairly. Students will receive 1/2 points on each incorrect answer. Students will lose 1/2 point for each misspelled word. Remember, the answers need to be correct.

Monday - started Weed Essay

Today, after taking notes on D1-D17, students began working on their Weed Essay. The final essay is due on April 7th at the start of class. The essay must be five paragraphs and discussing what students have experienced with weeds, how to know more about weeds, how to get rid of weeds, and how weeds affect the world we live in. Spelling, punctuations, originality will all be judged. Then, the ten best essays will be sent off to be judged. There is a class grade for the essay. Any essays not in on time will not be eligible for the judging and will be graded at 60% or less.

Reading to be finished this week includes D1-D27. We are studying earthquakes.

I hope to send home the tests tomorrow. It will depend if one student finishes his test today.

Thursday

This morning the people from Bear Lake Soil and Water Conservation came to teach our students about animals and taking care of our planet. They had people from Soda and maybe Preston come too. The students get to make paw prints and learn some important information about nature.

This afternoon we will have a speaker telling students about a weed essay that will be required for them to write. We will take one day in class to work on it, after that, it is homework. They are also to make a poster. The poster will be done only in class. Please be cautious while working on your essay. Plagiarism will earn a zero.

Wednesday

We took our test today. We prepared for it yesterday so if the students took notes and studied the information from yesterday's class, they should do well Tomorrow the students will have a class taught by the Bear Lake Soil and Water Conservation District. They will have a weed paper to write and a poster to draw. They should also have a lot of fun.

Remember to do your sundial - it is due April 26th.

Tuesday - test tomorrow

It was picture day today and we were just fortunate, with all the snow, that the photographers arrived. And even better, we were done with first hour test prep before they called the 6th grade. We did review for the test today. Students were given every test questions, in their teams, they had to decide on the answer, write it down, and get it into the bucket before time ran our. Then I read the correct answers and the teams received points.

The purpose of a test is to determine if a student learned all that is required. Knowing this information is much more important than the grade. The grade just shows if they learned the information completely enough. This information will help them as they progress to the different years of science. The more they learn now, the easier life will be in their future science classes. It just takes time and effort, as do all worthwhile things.

Monday - pictures tomorrow

We reviewed what we have learned about Newton's three laws of motion and the simple machines. Tomorrow we will review the information that will be on the test. Wednesday is the test and on Thursday we have the people from Bear Lake Soil and Conservation coming to teach the students. The only homework we have this week is to study for the test so make sure you bring your books and notes home so that you can study.

Thursday - sundial assigned

Students received their instructions for the sundial. The sundial is not due until April 26 so that we can find a few good sunny week-ends. This Friday is supposed to be good and that is why I assigned it so early.

Basically the instructions are: Put a short stick, pencil or other straight object in the bottom of a paper. Turn the paper so that the straight object makes a shadow on the paper. Mark North South East and West Set a timer and every hour go and mark the shadow - mark from the stick to the end of the shadow and write the time down. Five markings are required. Make sure the paper is in a safe place and anchored so it doesn't blow away or is not attacked by the family pet.

In class we corrected last night's homework. Then we did a review of simple machines on Edhead.

Wednesday - homework due tomorrow - at the start of class

The rain is really making the snow melt fast, but we are learning about Newton's laws and simple machines. Today we finished the last on Newton's laws on Plato. We also began studying about simple machines. We discussed levers, incline planes, screws, wheel and axle, gears, pulleys, and wedges. Tomorrow we will go more into depth on these simple machines.

We watched a short clip on a mechanical engineer who works for NASA. This is an effort to show students different types of work that a good science background can lead to.

Students had about twenty minutes of class time to start their homework. The homework is F 46 1-15 and F 92 1-15. All answers must have complete sentences and the words must be spelled correctly. This is due at the start of class tomorrow. Any student who does not have their homework completed will call home so that parents are a part of this learning process.

Tuesday

Students watched Plato today to review Newton's laws. We only managed to review two of the three laws of motion. We learned how to calculate momentum and more about inertia. I will put this plato page up for students to access.

Spring pictures are coming next week. Students do not have to pay for these before hand. A paper will be sent home today or tomorrow.

Monday

Today we talked about the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Then we began our work on Newton's laws of motion. Each team was to come up with an example of each of the three laws and then act them out in front of the class. The students did quite well. Then students finished their graphing of the motion of the cars.

Wednesday - homework due tomorrow!!

Today we got a lot of checking done. Students checked their test/activity from last week and Monday's homework assignment. We did it this way as the school play is this afternoon and we will be missing some students.

Don't forget the work sheet on Force and Motion that is due tomorrow. You also need to have read from F1-F31.

Spelling does count. The first tri-mester you were warned to spell words correctly. In the second trimester you lost 1/4 point for each misspelled word. This trimester you will lose 1/2 point for each misspelled word. The words are right there in the book, take the time to spell them correctly. You are always thanked when you ask how to spell a word. Take the time and the trouble to do it right.

Tuesday - homework due Thursday -Force and Motion worksheet

We covered a lot of ground today. Students were handed homework that will be due on Thursday. Many students are in the play and will not be in class tomorrow, so I gave them the homework today so they will have time to finish it. We did a tug-o-war and learned about net forces, balanced forces and unbalanced forces. Then we started the first part of a two part assignment. We raced cars down a track. Students took the time of where the cars were at different distances from the start. The information was written on the back of their graph. Tomorrow we will plot this information on a graph. Students that will be gone tomorrow will need to make this up during study hall.

Monday - homework due tomorrow

This week will be a little confusing. Today many students are out working on the play. Wednesday those same students will be gone all day and our classes will be shortened so the students can watch the play. The play does look quite good, in the little bit that I have seen.

Today we watched a "touch table" online. It was created to help students learn geography, but it is also helping in defense, medicine and many other areas. The students were quite impressed with the touch table.

In class we reviewed finding speed, velocity and acceleration. Next we went to the lab and demonstrated the effects of gravity and force on a little toy car. We could see that although the law of inertia tells us that an object in motion will stay in motion unless acted upon by another force, there are many unseen "other forces."

Homework tonight is to read F5-15 and do 1-5. If your student needs help, please guide them, but make sure they are doing the actual work. Check their spelling, check for complete sentences and legible handwriting, but they need to do the work.

Thursday

We finished our activity test today. Monday we will be going ahead on speed, distance, acceleration and velocity. We are also starting to talk about the different jobs people who learn science might want to do. I want students to know that there is a reason to learn, a reason other than grades. Grades just measure what we were supposed to learn, but what we actually learn is what matters.

Wednesday

We are ending one unit and starting a new one today. Students joined with their team to answer 25 questions concerning the areas of physical science that we have covered so far. The questions ranged from pH levels, to electricity, heat and magnets. We are continuing to cover atoms in class with our notes.

While the students were working I took one team at a time into the hallway to teach them about calculating average speed. Students predicted how long it would take them to walk, and then run, 20 meters. Then with two team members at the end of the 20 meters timing them, the students first walked and then ran the 20 meters. In class tomorrow we will determine the average.

Tuesday - end of unit

This is the end of the unit on matter, mass and energy. Today we will review the electricity side of the unit. We will not have a test on this unit, instead, tomorrow we will do a team investigation on electricity and magnetism. We will also start the new unit on motion, work and machines.

Students do have homework tonight. They are to read F6 - F15 and be able to verbally answer the questions at the top of each page. They also are to understand the yellow words, it will come in handy tomorrow as they participate in an activity.

Monday

After notes we corrected 140-141. Then we learned about why it is important to first, stay away from drugs and alcohol and why. We stay off of drugs and alcohol because we have important work to do in our lives. It is harder to do that work if our minds aren't learning what they need to when they are young. Then we saw a story about a little boy, who through no fault of his own, developed leukemia. We watched his progress and talked about those who had gone to school, earned a good education, and were able to help this sweet little boy and his mother fight to overcome the disease. We do not go to school to get good grades. We go to school to get a good education, grades are designed to show if we are doing that. I hope the students took away the idea that they can make a difference in other people's lives if they will just stay with their education and work hard.

Thursday

Today is the last day of the trimester. Grades should be coming out Wednesday or Thursday. You will get the grade that you have worked for. Today is a little unusual. The last basketball game of the year starts at one so the students will have shorter classes today so they can go to the games.

In science we had a homework assignment due today. We will correct it on Monday. It will go on next trimester's grades. Students also were to turn it the paper that tells us when to contact a parent when the student hasn't finished their homework. This is an effort to keep parents notified about what is going on.

Today we are doing a bit of a review about the past year's learning. It was a long time ago that we studied invertebrates and cells, but we want the students to remember the most important aspects of what they have learned.

Wednesday - homework

Today we learned about the magnetic field around the earth. We learned that the aurora borealis or northern lights, come from solar winds hitting the earth's magnetic field. Then we went to Youtube and watched what the aurora borealis can look like. It is beautiful. The students had the choice of finishing their periodic tables and biomes, which they have been working on all trimester, or doing their homework, 140-141 complete sentences (c.s.) and correct spelling (sp) are required. The handwriting needs to be neat enough for me to read it without working hard.

I also sent home a paper that requires signing by a parent or guardian. Parents have voiced concern that they do not know how their child is doing. When a student does not turn in their work I will have them call their parent right then. I hope that this immediate response will encourage them to get their work in and done on time. I am asking for a name and a number to call. If it is a bad time, let me know when a better time would be and I will have the student come in, either during lunch, during study hall or after school. I sincerely hope that this reduces the number of times that work is not turned in. Students in fifth hour did not receive the note, they will tomorrow.

Tuesday after President's Day

We are turning a nail into a magnet by using a battery and a coil of wire. We are also using a battery, a couple of safety pins and two magnets to make a motor. Then students got to experiment at their desks feeling the force of magnets. Finally they filled out a paper to find out how much they have learned about magnets.

It is at this time of year students come asking for extra credit. It is really too late for that. Students had the chance to correct every test they took home. Those test could bring their grades up dramatically. They had in-class work to help their grades and homework assignments with time in study hall to complete the work. The important question students need to ask themselves, have I done the work I needed to do to LEARN the material. The grade matters, but what is more important is did the student learn the material. A few extra points will not help the learning process and that is why they are here in school. I hope they learn that they need to get their work done well and in on time.

Thursday - no school on Monday

Good morning, remember that Monday is President's Day. I hope that you will do something to honor those who have served in that office. Did you know that George Washington didn't even want to be president. After he had run the army for all those years he just wanted to stay home and run his plantation. He said to the men that came to encourage him to run, "Haven't I given enough for my country?" And then he went and did what needed to be done. We could learn quite a lesson from him.

Today we corrected the homework from Wednesday. Then we started to learn about magnets. We talked about some of their properties, which elements are magnetic, and why some items respond to magnets and some do not.

Wednesday

Today we reviewed circuits and then watched the explanation on Plato to check to make sure that everyone understands the concepts. Students then drew a four stage cartoon to show electricity safety.

Homework was handed in by most of the students. However, we will not grade it until everyone hands their paper in. Those that are late will only get 60% credit of their correct answers.

Tuesday homework

We learned about circuits today and turned in the stories. Homework was page E113 1-5. Remember to use complete sentences, start all sentences with capital letters and end with the correct punctuation. Stories will be turned back shortly.

Monday finish your story

Today is the Valentine's Dance. We are using study hall and five minutes off of each class so students can have their dance. Students also will be allowed to participate in an activity if dancing is not something they like.

Students wrote a story today indicating what would happen after one day, one week and then one month without electricity. The three paragraphs are due tomorrow.

Thursday

Today was our last Project Northland. Mrs. Bloxham showed a movie about the effects of tobacco. The movie shows the faster aging process, the dangers of smokeless tobacco, and the effect of emphysema on those who smoke. The goal is to encourage students to choose not to smoke and lead a healthier life by making that choice. There was also a brief discussion about drinking and driving and the effects that can have on many lives. Last week-end a Utah teen was found dead in a field after a night of drinking. Another teen had noticed his wallet was missing and went to the field where he had been drinking with his friends. He discovered the body of one of his friends and another friend was also there suffering from hypothermia. Fortunately the hypothermia victim is recovering. Our goal is to teach these students, while they are young, that they have choices, but those choices do not just affect them.

Wednesday

All the students who fixed their tests turned them in today. It is getting close to the end of the tri-mester and every bit helps.

We learned about static electricity today, how lightning works and how electrons jump across to meet with the protons. Then we played the lightning game where each student had a card positive or negative. Then they played the part of electrons and protons during a lightning storm. It was fun and hopefully the students learned about the law of electric charge.

Project Northland is due tomorrow.

Tuesday -Fixed tests are due tomorrow at the start of class

Today we are learning about how electricity works and how electricity moves through different materials. We practiced finding the difference between insulators and conductors. Then we watched the Plato section on Electricity Circuits and Power. We will finish the electricity section tomorrow. If you want to watch this go to Plato.blsd.net Then for your Plato name put in your last name and first name with no space between them. In the group name put 2017, and in the password, type in your student number.
Remember, Plato only works on Internet Explorer. It will not work on Google Chrome or Firefox
Plato name: smithsamuel (your last name first name all lower case)
Group name: 2017 ( this is the group name for 6th graders)
Password: 217000 (use your regular school password)

If this is not working, please contact me here and I will try and fix it.

Tests were returned today. They must be returned tomorrow at the start of class or they will not be accepted. All questions, that includes multiple choice, matching, completion and short answer. All must have complete sentences. The words also must be spelled correctly. Students only do the questions they got wrong.

Monday

Students corrected their tests today, I will look over them and make sure they are accurate, then they will take the tests home and, for 1/2 credit, fix their mistakes. That should be Tuesday or Wednesday depending on how well they corrected the tests.

We learned about static electricity today by pulling two pieces of tape off of the desk and then holding them close to each other. The tape pieces were repelled by each other indicating that they had the same charge. Then we put one piece of tape on top of the other and pulled those apart. The pieces of tape moved together indicating that the pieces of tape had opposite charges.

If you were absent and have not taken your test it is your responsibility to come in and get it done as quickly as possible. The tests are available and I will remind students, but they must come in.

Project Northland is due on Thursday. It is required and worth 5 points, please get it in early.

Thursday

It is still pretty cold outside, but fortunately we got to come to school today. It was Project Northland and a group of 8th graders taught the students about the dangers of tobacco. They also brought in pig lungs. One was healthy, you could see it move when the air was blown into it. But the tobacco damaged lung did not move. The students had the opportunity to feel both lungs (they wore gloves) and feel for themselves what smoking does to your lungs. Then Mrs. Bloxham went over their Slick Tracy book with them. It is homework and will be due next Thursday. Finally I told them about my dad and the suffering he went through after 50 years of smoking.

We are trying to teach the students to make healthy choices, choices that you will never have to regret. We want them to get a good education, and that includes both mind and body.

Wednesday Brrr -28 was the low!

We aren't having school today because it was too cold. Did you try and start your car? Did it work? Mine wasn't happy about starting. Remember to do your reading and finish Project Northland so it can be turned in on Thursday. Stay warm!

Tuesday

Students took the test today. We will correct it tomorrow and then move on to electricity. Those who finished early could have finished the homework during class. They were to read E94-105 and know the answers to the questions in red at the top of each section and those at the end of the chapter. Students are not required to write the answers at this time. It will depend on how well they know the answers when we discuss it in class tomorrow.

Monday - test tomorrow

On Friday our Project Northland instructor came in and talked to the students about ways to be smart and avoid drugs and alcohol abuse.

Today we did a worksheet and lab to study for the test. Students went to different stations and answered questions that corresponded to the test they will take tomorrow.

Wednesday - homework - test next Tuesday

Students did their notes this morning, the questions made them really stop and think. Then we finished the project from yesterday. The teams circulated and discussed and wrote what they had learned for the last month. Next they started their homework assignment E92-93. They were reminded to answer all of the questions, even 11-15, in complete sentences. Spelling must be accurate. Students will loose 1/4 point for each mis-spelled word. Finally we checked on our hot tub model to discover if putting black paper and a reflective piece on it would make the temperature rise more than just the reflective piece did yesterday.

We had a fire drill second hour today.

Tuesday

After correcting last night's homework and seeing the alternative energy projects, we proceeded to study for Tuesday's test. Different names, words and concepts were scattered throughout the room. Each team went around to write how much they already know about the words. Then we reviewed this as a class.

Make sure you get your Slick Tracy comic book finished, signed and returned in the box by Thursday.

Monday Homework

Students brought in a variety of devises to show models of alternative forms of energy. We had water powered generators and windmills. We had solar power used to heat a hot tub. After making and demonstrating their models the students worked on the their homework which is pg E91 1-5. Students are to have complete sentences and words are to be spelled correctly or they will lose points.

There will be a test on E1-91 on Tuesday, we will review on Monday.

Thursday bring project supplies on Monday

Today students attended Project Northland. They learned how to plan activities that are fun and have healthy refreshments.

Monday is the day our project is due. Students planned it out in class on Wednesday. Make sure you bring your supplies to make this work. Call the people on your team so they remember too.

Wednesday and project for Monday

After reviewing the difference between types of energy; kinetic and potential, heat energy transfers; conduction, convection, and radiation and sources of energy such as biomass, fossil fuels, nuclear, water, and solar, we learned how power gets to our homes.

Then we started our alternative energy project. The teams got together and decided what they would make a model of and who would bring the different parts. The project is to be a model of uses of alternative energies. Students sounded like they had some great ideas and were ready to go.

Students may start bringing supplies for their projects on Thursday so they will remember.

Tuesday

Students were asked to consider the different sources of energy that they use in their homes. We then discussed fossil fuels, biomass fuels, hydroelectric energy, nuclear energy, and solar energy including wind power.

We watched some short videos showing how these different sources of energy work.

Monday

We were half-way over the mountain when we finally were able to get KVSI and listened as Mr. Walters warned everyone to stay home as many of the back-roads were like sheets of ice and that buses were sliding off of the road. Our lessons this week will be about different sources of energy. Look around today and see if you can find what energy type is running your house.

Thursday and Project Northland

Today the students listened and participated in Project Northland, a project designed to encourage the students to stay away from unhealthy addictive substances.

The homework is to take home the Slick Tracy comic book and do the assignments with your family. This will receive a grade.

Wednesday

Students corrected their homework. Then we watched the cold fall from colored ice cubes and discussed pressure and changes in states of matter. We wrote down what the different changes were called and watched as liquid formed from boiling water.

Tomorrow we will be having our anti-drug and alcohol class.

Tuesday

Students have homework tonight and it is the same homework they had last week, E63 1-5. The goal is that students will understand the questions better and improve their grade by demonstrating that they have learned the material. The homework is due at the start of class in the morning.

Today we reviewed heat energy transfer and kinetic and potential energy by watching on Youtube; Eureka 24, 27 and 29 and then a clip of Hoodwinked which shows potential and kinetic energy. We also studied thermal expansion by placing a balloon in cold water. We observed that the balloon shrunk. Then the students came forward and placed the cold balloon in warm water. They could feel the balloon expand as it warmed up. Students were told that this is called thermal expansion.

Monday

After reviewing kinetic and potential energy on a youtube called Eureka 9 and Eureka 10, we went into the lab to learn about how heat energy can be transferred. We learned that electromagnetic radiation is the heat we feel from the sun. We learned the conductive energy transfers due to direct contact. Students felt a spoon placed in boiling water and noticed that the spoon became warmer. We also used a lava lamp to show convection. Students were asked about other types of convection in our homes and some realized that many furnaces uses convection to move heat around in our homes. Students also learned that the water cycle is based on convection. To study more about these three types of energy transfer read pages E 58-E59.

Thursday

Today students took the survey about drugs. We discussed different types of addictions. We also touched on pornography and bullying using cell phones and computers. We warned how important it is not to get involved in either of these issues.

Wednesday

Our new area of study has to do with work, energy and heat. Students are learning the difference between kinetic and potential energy. We discussed what a variable is and students were reminded to use their index and glossary so they can become learners. We learned about the properties of tin, a metal and a conductor of heat and foam, an insulator, which does not conduct heat. We discussed temperature, heat and radiation.

There is no homework tonight.

Tomorrow we will fill out the drug survey. This survey is to find out what students know about drug and alcohol abuse. We will talk briefly about avoiding things that can become addictions.

Tuesday

We learned about measuring volume today. Students were given different objects, a meter stick, a graduated cylinder and water. They were to find the volume of each object. Regularly shaped objects were measured length x height x width. The irregularly shaped objects were placed in a graduated cylinder that had water in it. Students recorded the height of the water before the irregularly shaped were placed in the graduated cylinder. Then they subtracted the first number of the water from the second number. The answers for volume were recorded in cubic centimeters.

There is homework tonight. Students are to read pages E50-E63 and, in complete sentences and correct spelling, answer the questions 1-5. This should prepare the students for our discussion in the next few days.

On Thursday we will begin with our unit on drugs. All students who have handed in the parent permission slip will take a survey to determine how much they know about the effects of drug abuse. They will take the same survey at the end of the unit to discover how much they have learned.

Monday

It is certainly a cold day to come back to classes. But it is nice to get things moving along. We are working on finishing our biomes and periodic tables today. Students are checking to make sure their work passes muster and then turning it in. We will be starting on E50.