Monday

Today we started a new section in our reading, it will be about business. The last section was about risks and consequences. I guess learning about business could still fit in that area of thought. Students were given new spelling words and were asked to do the multiplication tables again. We did have a math assignment today, pg 282 7-17. Most finished it in class. Those who did not were asked to take it home as homework and get it done. There will be no school on Wednesday as teachers have meetings. Have a good week.

Friday

I was watching the clock to make sure I could get to the preshow at the football game, and suddenly, it was 7:30! Rats! Today we took our spelling and reading test. We didn't take a math test today, just worked on arrays. That is a new math word. It is just a table (or one and ten block manipulatives) that help students understand how multiplication really works. For example, a problem of 12 x 6. We separate the 12 into 1 ten and 2 ones. Then it is easy, in your head to think, well 10 x 6 is 60 (then you color in 6 rows of ten) and then you think 2 x 6, that is easy, 12 and you put dots in the 12 squares. Then you realize, hey, that is 7 tens now and 2 ones. Then you have the answer of 72. It is an interesting way to teach. Mrs. Aston came in again and taught us spanish. We really appreciate that. Thanks also to the other parents that come and help us during the week. It is very appreciated.

Thursday

We practiced story writing today. The children seemed to really enjoy it. Tomorrow the children will practice their performance at the pregame show for the football game. Remember, they need to be at the high school by about 6:40 and line up at 6:50. They need to wear maroon or white. We are working hard on math to make it easier and the students are hard workers. Spelling test is tomorrow - study hard and remember, reading must be done at least five nights a week.

Wednesday

We did something new in math today that caused a few tears, but I think they are starting to understand. The process is to teach them how to do multiplication in their heads. An example would be 74 x 3. Instead of trying to work out the problem on paper, students are asked how to separate 74 into easier numbers, like 70 and 4. Then multiply the 70 x 3 and then the 4 x 3 and then add the answers together. So you would have 210 + 12 =222. Students need to know how to do the regular problem, but this is a different way that allows them to do it in their heads. We did a our spelling test today, and we'll do the final test on Friday. Students are practicing for the pre-game show where they will sing their Flag song. Students need to be at the Westside Football game at 6:45. They need to meet at 6:50 on the north end of the stadium on the west side of the bleachers. Students will be admitted free and should wear a maroon or white shirt and dark jeans. If you have a senior, remember that senior night begins at 6:40, so it might be kind of crazy, and a good idea to come early.

Tuesday

We did the mile run today, everyone did it and everyone finished. On our way back to the school, we walked slowly through the sprinklers, it felt really great! In reading today we used the dictionary and the thesaurus. The students really enjoyed playing with the words. In math we finished our estimating product page and then the students began to work on posters showing a math concept. During Social Studies students were on teams that are working on different Native American tribes. They need to find information on culture, religious ceremonies, responsibility of men and women, traditional clothing and foods, and traditional housing. They also need to be able to identify where the different groups lived. We will be working on this for a couple of weeks.

Monday - help with mile run 1:20 tomorrow

Tomorrow at 1:30 4B is running their mile run. Mrs. Buttars is looking for parents to help her. If you are available, please call the school office 747-3764 and tell Amy. If you just want to help 4B, tell Amy that and then just come on over to our classroom and we will show you where to go. Today was a bit of a catch up. Students got their homework pages. I bet you are just sick of the multiplication tables, but, the students are starting to recognize them. Only a few students have them all down. We also sent spelling words home and reviewed them in class. We read the myth Daedelus and Icarus. We also watched a short movie about it too. Remember, students must have their reading signed by their parent, and for the Pizza for reading, students must read five days every week for a month.

Thursday - Remember tomorrow Spirit Day & Show and Tell

Students finished their fluency tests today. We will do that every couple of weeks so we can see how they are progressing. We worked on drawing conclusions, I think the students were upset when I told them it had nothing to do with art. In math we finished up chapter three with a review and test. They will be able to finish that tomorrow with the substitute. Students went to music today. Remember to wear white or maroon tomorrow. The shirt needs to mostly white or mostly maroon. Have a good week-end.

Wednesday (and Tuesday)

Yesterday we headed out from the class and went to the high school to watch the students run the track to earn money for the school. What great troopers they were - around and around that track until one would think they would drop and they kept going! Today we had our pre-spelling test. 1/3 of the students got 100%. We had our fluency tests and then we read our story about two slaves escaping. We are still working on multiplication, and we will until everyone is very good. We also finished up the chapter on how to solve problems. Then we began working on nouns and pronouns. In Social Studies the students reviewed the symbols of the State of Idaho. I will be gone on Friday this week and in a couple of weeks to attend a math class required for all of the teachers.

Monday

Students are making their own spelling glossary to help them remember how to spell their problem words. I read the story, "Two Tickets to Freedom" to the students today. They will read it on their own this week too. We graded the math tests. Students are struggling on subtraction so we will be working on that with our multiplication facts. We started estimating products, which basically means rounding the number to be multiplied to the largest place and putting in zero and then multiply. It is useful when you don't need to know the exact number, or even better, to check and see if your answer in multiplication, makes sense. In Social Studies we are learning about geology while reviewing the symbols and song of Idaho. Please practice multiplication facts. It is vital that students not only understand why 7x9=63, but the actual fact matters too.

Friday

I have to tell you about something that happened today. Mrs. Sears, one of the students' music teachers, lost her husband on Monday. We explained to the children what had happened, and today they made cards for her. These children sat quietly for 30 minutes and created works of art for Mrs. Sears. The boys and girls all made some of the most touching cards I have ever seen. I know Mrs. Sears will truly be cheered and touched by the effort of these caring children. We had a spelling test, a reading test, and a math test today. The children are doing better on sentence writing. We still need more progress, but I saw some good changes today. Please remember to do the pledges for the Walk-a-thon on the 25th of September.

Thursday

Book orders went home yesterday. Please look through those and see if they can be ordered by Sept. 24th. We are working on our writing skills. Students tend to write, "bare bones," and we are working to put the meat back into the story. We are also working on our multiplication tables and making sure the students know their basic addition and subtraction facts. Until we have those down, higher math is nearly impossible. Please work on these at home, or when you are traveling. One example would be to do the fact family for 8 + 7 If the students will learn these fact families they will feel less frustrated. Also, we have the opportunity to allow students who might be struggling with a specific math concept to go to a class the day before which will help them be prepared for the next day's work. We need your written permission, so if you want to email me here at the school, we will know what you want. Also, it is time to start bug collections for Ms Lu's class. Lastly,the walk-a-thon paper also went home yesterday. Thanks for all you do!

Wednesday - Book Orders

The book orders went out today. If you want to order online, the number is L8J7V. We are really working hard on multiplication while staying on top of the other things we need to be learning. Today was a review day in math. We are reviewing all of the information we covered from the beginning of the year. Please review the multiplication tables with your students so they are fast. In Language Arts we took our spelling test. We had quite a number that got 20/20 and more that just missed it by one or two points. Now we must encourage the students to write the words correctly when they are not on a test. In reading, we re-read the selection about Mae Jamison. We read these aloud together in teams to encourage all students to participate. At first it is quite noisy, but after a short time, you just hear the voices in your group. In Miss Lu's class students are getting ready for their bug collection. A letter went home about that and a walk-a-thon.

Tuesday

We are working to learn all of our multiplication tables. There was much forgotten over the summer. If you have flash cards at home, please use them and know what the products of all the factors are as fast as you can. Tomorrow is our pre-spelling test. You can go to spell city and practice the words. You might also go there to do your multiplication fact families also. There are games there too that you can play. Enjoy!

Monday - Constitution Day

We started out the day with a new song, America the Beautiful, and new desk places. We learned about the Constitution of the United States, about the three branches of government and how a bill becomes a law. In math we started working on discovering rules when I discovered that a lot of our students have forgotten their multiplication tables. We will be working on a massive review. Those students that remember them will be working to understand the concepts behind them and then they will be given other learning opportunities. Homework went home today. You might notice that it had a lot of multiplication. These need to be turned in everyday. We are working on learning to read in teams, some of the teams mastered it, others need more time to practice. We are reading a story about Mae Jemison, an astronaut.

Saturday

I just added a new link, Mars Rover Landing. The landing part is computer generated, but the reaction in the lab and what actually happened is real. I hope you enjoy this.

Friday tests, tests, tests!

We took a spelling test, reading test and math test this morning. We were grateful for Mrs. Aston who came in and helped us learn a little Spanish. Then we went to an assembly to encourage our students to read more and study hard. We have a new school song and sang that today. Just a word about the math test. This test was to give us a starting point, something to let us know what the students know and don't know. Although I continued to emphasize this, some students were really upset. Please assure your child that this test is not a test to add to their grade, it is a test to find out what they need to learn in 4th grade.

Thursday Spelling test tomorrow!

We had an exciting math class today. Students were asked to write numerical expressions. This will take some time to help them understand, we will go over it regularly until everyone is more comfortable. School pictures were taken today, we read an excerpt from Charlotte's Web and are getting ready for our test on that tomorrow. Tomorrow, Mrs. Aston is coming in the afternoon to help teach the children a little Spanish. We will have fun doing that. Once a month, on Friday, I am looking for different parents who can come in and teach them what skills they needed to learn in school to prepare them for their jobs. Does anyone know a mechanic, engineer (train), or beautician that could come? That will take care of the first few months. Thanks for all you do.

Wednesday - Pictures tomorrow

Today students learned how to make tables to solve math problems. We also worked through our multiplication facts. Julie Nash came and taught the students how to do, "Step Up to Writing." This is a writing system that uses colors to help students learn how to write better. We also took the spelling pre-test. Students should have them at home with them and should study the words they missed, as well as review those they got right. In science our students learned about what vinegar would do to an egg. It is really interesting. Then students went to P.E. It is picture day tomorrow, please dress appropriately.

Tuesday

It is September 11th, so we took the students outside and had a flag ceremony today. Then 4B watched a short video called Brain Pop 911. It, in a child's way, teaches about the tragedy on 9-11. We talked about some stories, and then stressed the heroes, that we can all be heroes by helping others. In math we practiced subtraction and multiplication. In reading we practiced cursive writing of our spelling words, then the students did a couple of worksheets on how to spell the words. We are studying the sound long e. Please make sure you are studying your spelling words at home and do the rest of your homework. Mrs. Aston is coming on Friday to teach us a little bit of Spanish. That will be fun for all of us. Picture day is Thursday.

Thursday

Tomorrow is our spelling test. Students took a pretest today and we studied the words again. In math we are working on our 10, 11, and 12 multiplication tables and tomorrow we will review subtraction. In reading we are continuing to talk about risks and consequences. We watched a video on Idaho geography today. The students are cutting and putting together a map of Idaho.

Wednesday

Today students received a green paper for those who would like to be in the After School Program. It will be held Monday - Thursday from 3-5 p.m. Make sure we get the papers back signed. Also, we need the rest of the student information sheets back. Today is the last day I will send in book orders. If you want to send one from home, you need the code L8J7V. We talked more today about settings, character, plot, conflict and resolution. We just read a story about Toto an elephant and we discussed how we would fit the story into those literary devices. We studied spelling and did more with rounding numbers. The students are starting to get that. Picture day is the 13th of September. There will be no spring pictures this year, so this is it.

Tuesday

I hope you all had a good Labor Day. Our little grand-daughter was born early Friday morning and all is well. Today we read a new story about an elephant and a little boy. Students got their new spelling words, all use the long "a" sound. In math we talked about when to use calculators, mental math, or use a pen and pencil Most finished their assignment in class. In Idaho History we learned about primary and secondary sources to tell us about a specific time period. Picture day is coming up on the 13th of September. Also, because I was gone for Friday, I have extended the book orders until tomorrow. The class code is L8J7V.

Thursday

Hi, sorry this is so late in coming but when school got out, I received a phone call from our very pregnant daughter saying, "Hurry to Logan!" So I am writing this from the hospital where we are awaiting the birth of our grand-daughter. For Friday, students will be going on a field trip in the morning to the Preston library. Also, homework packets need to be turned in tomorrow. Also the bookclub orders are due tomorrow. Students will have a spelling test first thing in the morning. Today we worked on spelling and continued practicing rounding numbers. Mrs. Lindsey's class invited us to watch an experiment about mentos and pop. That was fun. The students went to music and we learned about the state seal of Idaho. I will very likely have a substitute tomorrow. Remember, it is Labor Day week-end, no school on Monday.

Wednesday

You may have noticed that the links that came home yesterday didn't work. There is a glitch in the system and we will get new information out to you as soon as possible. Today we took our spelling test. Lettuce and principle were two words that were missed a lot. Study and be ready for 100% on Friday. We learned about rounding numbers today. The basic rule is if you are rounding to the 100s place, look to the number in the tens place. If the number in the tens place is less than five then the number in the hundreds place doesn't change and all the numbers following the hundreds place change to zero. However, if the number in the tens place is five or more, the number in the 100s place increases by one and all the numbers following it still change to zero. I know, if you don't do it often it can make you crazy trying to remember. Students had PE today and will have music tomorrow. Make sure you are reading twenty minutes a night and finishing all the other requirements on your homework sheet. Have a good day! Remember, no school on Monday, it is Labor Day.

Tuesday

Hello! Two things should have gone home today. First, a book club order went home. It needs to be back on Friday. Second, the school sent home information on how to access power school and a student information sheet which we, as teachers, need so we can contact you at home or work. In class today we studied adding suffixes to words ending in a short vowel followed by a consonant. In math we worked on place value up to one hundred million. In Social Studies students learned about the symbols of Idaho. They were supposed to write down the information. Some chose not to do that and their grade on that page will reflect it. I spelled the words and kept urging them to follow the instructions. But, they will learn. Students had P.E. today and we also had some time to practice typing on the computers. Our spelling pre-test is tomorrow! Have a good day!

Monday

Welcome back! Students had a homework page sent home. They should read for twenty minutes each night, five nights a week. The pre-test in spelling will be Wednesday so practice the words. We read in class today and worked on place value in math. We also learned some fingerspelling to help us practice our spelling words. Students went to the library today.

Friday

We had a busy day today. We let our praying mantis go and then someone else found another. We will keep him for a little while and observe his habits. We did Language Arts and Math pre-assessments today. We also did a science experiment, what would happen to a plant if you poured boiling water on it. The students wrote a hypothesis and we will write our conclusion on Monday when we check the plant. Finally we did computers, made book-marks and did show and tell.

Thursday Wear Maroon and White on Friday!

Today we read our stories about what makes us unique. The students did a good job on them. Some were a little afraid to stand up and read, but all did a great job. In math we reviewed division. Right now I am trying to find where they all are and what they need to work on. We watched an interesting video on the Aurora Borealis, a couple on measuring with metrics, and a silly one on the elements. Then the students went to music. We ended the day cleaning the room and then I read to the students until the end of the day. Homework: There is none today except for students who want to be in Honor Choir. They should have a bright pink paper for parents to sign. Honor choir practice is held on Thursday during lunch recess.

Wednesday

Hi! Today in school students wrote two paragraphs telling what is unique about them. Then, they had 150 math problems! Really, but these are just to find out what they know. They are not timed and will not be due for a few more days. We also did a fluency test for all of the children. These assignments will allow me to know where everyone is at the start of the year so I have a benchmark of what to expect in reading, writing and math. We also created our own name tags for the hallway wall and are learning a couple of songs, America (My Country Tis of Thee, and our month's theme song, the first verse of We are different. We are tired and warm, but the day has gone well. Homework: Students have a homework folder that has three papers for parents to sign. Please help your student remember to get them back tomorrow.

Welcome to 4th Grade

Hi, I am so glad to have you as part of the 4th grade class at Harold B. Lee Elementary school. This is the place you can come to see what is going on. Feel free to get in touch with me either through this blog or at the school. Have a great day!

Thursday and Class Trips

6th and 7th grades: These last few days we will learn about rocks and the geologic timeline. Incentive/Reward End of year trip. 6th grade trip: Downata - We will be leaving the middle school at 8 a.m. (good day to show up on time. $6.50 needs to be paid to Mrs. Winward, preferably by Tuesday morning. Students can bring their own food or bring additional money to buy snacks or lunch at Downata. We will be back to school by the time buses leave in the afternoon. 7th grade trip: Lava Hot Springs - leaving at 8:00 a.m. cost $5.50 for admission $3.00 for grilled hamburgers paid to Mrs. Braun by May 29th. Students will be back in time to take the bus home. Students can bring snacks or bring money for the snack bar as they will likely be pretty hungry before lunch at 1:30.

Wednesday

6th and 7th graders took their tests Wednesday. I got them corrected and most students did quite well. The grades are posted.

Tuesday

6th & 7th grade: We finished our review for the final. Students were allowed to write down any information that they needed to study for the test. The test will be worth 100 points. Students have been given the test concepts as notes for the entire year. These should be concepts that they know and understand.

Monday

6th grade students: We reviewed for Wednesday's test. 7th grade students: We reviewed for Wednesday's test.

Thursday

6th grade: We started looking at the rocks today. Students learned about the properties of rocks. Wednesday is the final exam. We will prepare for it Monday and Tuesday. 7th grade: Students learned about vertebrates today by doing ten minute reports. Each team read about a different vertebrate, created a report and gave it during class.

Wednesday

6th grade: We are learning about different types of rock, igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic. After the students reviewed yesterday's information, and did a short review for the final. We watched a video on how each type of rock is created. Tomorrow we will discuss the Mohs scale of hardness and determine which type of rock we are working with. 7th grade; Students learned about echinoderms today. We talked about sea cucumbers, sea urchins, sea stars (star fish) and sand dollars. After determining their characteristics, type of body, movement and how they eat, we watched two short clips showing how they eat and move. Late work must be in tomorrow or it will revert to a zero. All students have been reminded regularly for two weeks about any missing assignments.

Tuesday

6th grade: We have been studying about the land and soil. Today we learned about glaciers and the different land-forms they cause. We learned about the words till, moraine and drumlin. We made our own little glacier and were able to easily see how glaciers affect the landscape. 7th grade; Reports were turned in today by nearly every student. We saw some very interesting arthropods today. Students saw four videos of bees and ants. Most of the videos showed how they live. But one showed a group of researchers that were able to see a real ant colony. They found a deserted colony and poured cement down in the hole. It took a lot of cement. Then, they let it dry for one month. Finally, when all the cement was dry, they dug around the cement and found a huge system of tunnels and rooms that the ants had lived in. It was 8 meters deep and about 50 x 50 meters square. It was something. Please remember, all late papers must by in by the 17th or there will be no credit given.

Wednesday

6th grade: We took the test today, most students did quite well, at least better than the last one. We began studying about the different layers of soil. 7th grade; We corrected an in-class worksheet and watched a couple of videos with the animals we were studying.

Monday

6th Grade: It has been determined that we should retake the planets and moons tests. It did not go well. We will retake it on Wednesday - study, this is the last chance on this test. Today we studied the three types of mountains and used clay to make them. 7th Grade: We began reviewing for the final exam. Students were given a problem and asked to think of creative ways to solve it. We also are finishing invertebrates. It is the jump-rope assembly tomorrow. If you want to attend a workshop about jump-roping, bring $7 to the office tomorrow.

Thursday

6th grade: We took our planets and moon test today. We also, in most of the classes, graded last night's homework. 7th Grade: Students went to the computer lab to find information for their reports. The reports will be due on May 15th. The main idea of the report is: Scientific Ideas That Changed the World. We are having a jump rope assembly next week. Anyone who wants to take a class from these very talented people needs to sign up and pay $7

Wednesday 6th test and homework

6th grade: We studied for our moon and planet test for tomorrow and then students did D40-41. 7th grade: We had 6 students today. We are studying animals, so we watched videos on porifera, cnidarians, platyhelmintheses, nematoda, segmented worms, and mollusks. It was kind of fun.

Tuesday 6th test Thursday

6th grade: Students finished their posters today. They also demonstrated their knowledge about volcanoes. Many students will be gone on the music festival trip tomorrow. The homework due on Thursday is D40-41 1-20. Those in school tomorrow will work on it then. 7th grade: Students read and filled in a chart dealing with invertebrates. We hope to finish it on Friday.

Monday 6th test Thursday - 7th paper May 15

6th Grade: We are learning a little more about volcanoes. We covered the types of volcanoes and then watched some short clips about them Students will have a test on planets and moon phases on Thursday. They must spell correctly. 7th Grade: Students fixed their body systems packet. They also were given a rubric on their last science project. They will be writing a paper on scientific discoveries that changed the world. It is due May 15th and should be 2-3 pages long double spaced.

Thursday ISATs are done!

6th grade: We finished our movie on the volcano Krakatoa. It is a good movie, showing the effects of volcanic eruptions, but it also shows the bravery and kindnesses of the people that were involved. This is a true and heart-wrenching story. 7th grade: The Science ISATs were given today. During class we discussed the questions we could remember and why they had the answers they did. This gave the students the opportunity to learn from the test. Monday is the start of spirit week. It is Mis-mathch day. Tuesday is Blast from the past - dressing in a style from the past. Wednesday is PJs and sweats and Thursday is spirit day, dressed in school colors of blue, white and black.

Tuesday & Wednesday ISATs

I will have a substitute tomorrow so I thought I would put up two days at a time Tuesday 6th grade: We are finishing, or starting, depending on the ISAT the movie Krakatoa. We are learning about the different causes of tsunamis. 7th grade: They were at ISAT testing today and did not have Science. Wednesday 6th grade: Students that are not in ISATs will finish working on earthquakes and volcanos. They will be drawing the different types of faults and boundaries and finishing their locating of earthquakes and volcanoes. 7th grade: We found some jeopardy type quizzes to help students study for their Science ISAT on Thursday. Student, please remember to take care of my substitute. She does have choice and consequences assignments if there are any issues.

Monday ISATS

6th grade: We began a movie about the volcano, Krakatoa, its eruption and the damage it caused. This movie will take about two days to finish. 7th grade: We raced through a science book asking questions, looking at pictures etc. to help students prepare for their Science ISAT. Tomorrow they will have a math ISAT during science class. Wednesday we will have a jeopardy game to help them with their final preparation.

Thursday - ISAT tests next week

All pictures and money must be in by Monday
ISAT tests are next week. It would be a good idea to study things you feel shaky on. There are a lot of good internet sites. Just look up what you need ie "find the main idea" + practice and see what comes up. There are a lot of good math games too. Just brush up on what you need.

6th grade: We studied about original horizontality - how the bottom layers of sentiment are usually the oldest, unless they have been uplifted. We also started finding where many earthquakes are occurring.

7th grade: We studied Physical Science today. We reviewed atoms, compounds, elements and mixtures. Then we moved on to Newton's laws with force and balanced and unbalanced forces. The science ISAT will be on Thursday so we have a couple more days to prepare.

Wednesday

6th grade: We learned about earthquakes and tsunamis today. We will continue learning about them tomorrow.

7th grade: We reviewed the elements, S.I. measuring, and the nature of science. We will do a little more on this tomorrow and then get into physical science

Dr.Heeder spoke to the students about the importance of doing well on their ISAT tests. Students need to be prepared Monday morning so they can do their best. Scores on Reading, Language usage, and Science should advance about seven points over their last year scores. Math scores should advance about 10 points. It might be a good idea to review math facts that you are shaky on. There are lots of internet sites that have games you can play.

Tuesday

6th grade: We discussed the theory of plate tectonics today. Students cut out a map of the world to see if Wagener's theory had possibilities. We watched a short video showing how scientists believe plate tectonics, or continental drift occurred. Students had about ten minutes to work on their homework - C92-93 1-15 in complete sentences.

7th grade: We reviewed how science and technology are different. Next we began on the scientific process. We will finish that tomorrow and move onto Physical Science.

Monday - weed essay and sun dial are due tomorrow

6th grade: Students started their Soil to Spoon posters today. The poster is to express the idea of all we have to eat comes from the soil. The weed essay and sun dial are due tomorrow at the start of each class. If your printer is not working, and that happens, please email your paper to me at cjwinward@blsd.net

7th grade: We reviewed the Earth and Space Study Guide and also covered Personal and Social Perspectives. Tomorrow we will move to the Nature of Science and Wednesday we will work on Physical Science ISAT preparation.

Remember that ISAT tests are next week. Students need to be prepared by getting enough sleep and eating properly. Reviewing the basics of what they learned this year will also help remind them what they know.

Thursday 6th grade last week-end for sun dial and essay

Remember, spring pictures or the money must be in on Monday

6th grade: Soil and conservation people came today and taught the students about the importance of the soil and taking care of animals. Paw prints will go home on Monday.

7th grade: We started on the Earth ISAT study guide. We covered Earth layers and the atmosphere. We reviewed the clouds. Students turned in their body systems booklet.

Wednesday

6th grade: Learned about the planet Earth. Corrected movie worksheets

7th grade: Took a quiz on yesterday's review. Handed out a Biology Study Guide for the ISAT test.

Tuesday 6th grade weed essay and sundials are due in next Tuesday

It is the time of year when some students are starting to forget why they are here. It is like a football game, if you quit playing in the last quarter, you are likely to lose. Don't start breaking rules. Do get your assignments in on time. Do show your maturity by doing what is expected.

6th grade: We still aren't finished with the Big Bang Origin of the Universe movie. We should finish it tomorrow.

7th grade: Students began to pull together there Body Systems packet. It is worth 100 points. Then we worked in teams in studying for the Biology part of the ISAT. We will do a little more Biology tomorrow and then move on to Earth Science.

Monday - 6th grade Weed Essays and sundials are due in one week.

6th grade: We are studying about the Universe. Today and tomorrow we will be watching a movie on the Big Bang Theory: Origin of the Universe. The movie covers many different theories that scientists have had throughout the ages about the universe. It shows how more information has allowed them to change their ideas. Students had a worksheet to fill out.
Students have had over a month to finish their weed essays and sundial. They are due next Tuesday, without exception.

7th grade: We will be reviewing for the ISAT tests so students feel a little more familiar with the information.

Pictures and/or money are due today

Thursday - pictures and/or money need to be back Monday

6th grade: Here are the instructions for the sundial that is due April 17th. The five paragraph weed essay is also due. Get them done now.

Make your own sundial - Due April 17, 2012 or earlier if possible
Supplies:
1. Large piece of paper, cardboard, paper plate or other flat object that can be drawn on
2. A stick, pencil or other straight tall object to use to mark the time
3. Something like clay to anchor the straight stick
4. A marker or pencil
Instructions:
1. Find a good place where the sun will shine for at least five hours
2. Place your flat paper or other object in the sun, anchor it down
3. Determine the directions, North, South, East, West
4. Put the stick or pencil in the bottom center of the paper - mark the entire shadow - write the time.
5. On the next hour, mark the shadow of the straight object – make sure you draw to the end of the shadow
6. Set a timer and then mark the shadow every hour – draw the new line including width and full length
7. Five hour markings are required
Cautions:
1. Put the paper in a place that will not be bothered by animals or wind and anchor it down
2. If you are forced to move the paper, use a compass or marker so you can reset it exactly
3. Set a timer – you think you will remember but it is really frustrating when you miss it by a few minutes

7th grade: We finished our section on body systems. We reviewed and enjoyed jello shaped like the brain, stomach, heart and eye. We will start preparing for the science ISATS next week.

Wednesday pictures or money needs to be turned in

6th grade: Today we used hangers and construction paper and string and we made solar systems. Most finished and did well. Some will have to fix theirs until the directions are followed. Part of the requirements of 6th grade is for the student to learn to follow directions. Most of the students are learning this.

7th grade: We learned about the endocrine system today. Students made cards so we can play the endocrine game tomorrow.

Tuesday - Weed Essay - Sun Dial - hangers - Spring pics or money

6th grade: We finished our planet worksheet today. We also discussed the importance of not plagiarizing. We discussed the Hungarian President who just resigned when it was discovered that he plagiarized his thesis.

7th grade: We discussed the ear and the eye today. Tomorrow we should start the endocrine system.

Money for the spring pictures or the pictures need to be turned in by Monday.

Monday - Spring pictures went home today - Due 4-9

6th grade: Today we started studying the inner planets. Teams found some of the planets characteristics and then we watched a short section on Plato so they could finish the planet sheets. Students should be working on their five paragraph weed essay. This is due on April 17th. They also need to finish the sun dial which is also due on the 17th of April. We have had plenty of sunny days to get it done. All 6th grade students need to bring a wire hanger by Wednesday when we will do our solar system.

7th grade: Students learned more about the brain and discussed how the ear works. We watched two short videos on the ear, then students looked at an audiogram that shows what sounds can hear a be heard at different frequencies and decibels.

Spring pictures went home today. Students must have either the money or pictures back by April 9th. The end of the year field trip will be in jeopardy if students do not get their pictures back.

Thursday 6th grade vaccination papers and wire clothes hanger

6th grade: Students were to turn in their corrected test today. The school handed out vaccination papers to all 6th graders. They are required to have these shots before they start 7th grade. The health department is doing shots April 6th and 9th. You can call for an appointment. Also we will be doing our solar systems next week and each student needs a WIRE hanger, not the kind with cardboard. Please find one. Today we corrected C42-43. We started our section about planets.

7th grade: We learned more about the nervous system. The central nervous system includes the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system includes the outer nerves. We watched a cute video on the parts of the brain and discussed brain injuries. Students are preparing for ISATs by learning to read charts and graphs. We also went outside to inspect stratus clouds.

Wednesday 6th graders fix tests

6th grade: Today students received their tests back. They can fix them by doing the following things: 1. Get a separate piece of paper. 2. Neatly type or write the correct answers in complete sentences only. 3. Staple the test to the new answer sheet, include the bubble sheet. Turn it in at the start of class Thursday - it will only be accepted at the start of class. In class today students worked on C42-43 - it is not homework.

7th grade: We enjoyed learning about our nervous system today. We did a few experiments to help them see how fast they could react.

Tuesday

6th grade: We covered a lot of information today. We reviewed that the seasons are caued by the tilt of the earth. Then we learned that tides are caused by the moon and that spring tides occur when there is a full moon or a new moon. We learned that solar eclipses occur when the moon blocks the sun and lunar eclipses occur when the Earth blocks the moon. Then we started on phases of the moon.

7th grade: We covered the causes of infectious diseases. We talked about pathogens and phagocytes. We also talked about cancer, and diseases that are non-transferable.

Monday

6th grade: We learned about seasons and why we have day and night. Then we discussed what you would need to live on Mars. Work on your essay.

7th grade: We learned about the respiratory system today.

The school had the three screen assembly today encouraging students to take care of themselves and be a leader for good.

Thursday Spring Break until March 26th

6th grade: We finished our unit on Forces and Motion. Students were given the instructions for their sundials. Then we watched Messy Mondays - a number of videos on YouTube that encourage boys and girls to respect each other. This goes along with the Enough is Enough program students saw yesterday.

7th grade: We finished the circulatory system and then watched the Messy Mondays videos which encourage respect between boys and girls in a very amusing way.

School will be out until Monday March 26th - Enjoy!

Wednesday

We watched the Enough is Enough assembly during Tall today - there will be a program for students and adults tonight at 6:30 at the Middle School auditorium. Please come and bring your students, there will be prizes.

6th grade: Students took a test based on the study guide from yesterday.

7th grade: Today we reviewed skeletal, muscular and digestive systems. Then we sang Pump Your Blood which explains how the blood moves through the heart and the body. Lastly we worked on a handout to match up the different functions of our blood with their names.

Tuesday

6th grad: We studied for the test - study guides went home as homework. They will need to be turned in before the test.

7th grade: Studied the heart and the circulatory system, drew and labeled the parts of the heart

Wednesday will be the Enough is Enough assembly where students learn the dangers of drug use.

6th graders were given the opportunity to make ads for the the newspaper. The three winning ads will earn cash.

Monday Homework and test coming Wednesday 6th grade

6th grade: Today we learned about waves, the electromagnetic spectrum. Students have homework- a worksheet pags 119-120 that go with C9 and 10 in the book. On Wednesday we will have a test covering Force and Motion, Newton's Laws, Simple Machines and waves.

7th grade: We studied the digestive system today. Students did an experiment to see how bile breaks up fats. We filled in digestive tract chart and learned what happens to the things we eat.

The school is taking up a collection for a student who is receiving chemo-therapy. I encouraged the students to do without pop this week and drink water instead and then to donate the money. That should help both our sick student and the healthy ones.

Thursday - Daylight Savings Time is Sunday!

6th grade: We learned about simple machines today which encompasses pages F66-F77.

7th grade: We talked about nutrition today. We learned about the importance of the right amount of fat and salt in our diet, and that sugar isn't one of the big necessities of life. We learned that stomach fat can be caused by too much sugar and that drinking two cans of pop a day could lead to the gain of one pound per week. We also learned that diet pop is not healthy either. So, drink water. We live in a place where water is safe and plentiful, oh yes, it isn't very expensive either. Students were given a number of papers to help them make good eating decisions.

Wednesday

It was blowing and snowing like crazy this morning so school was cancelled. It is sunny now, but still blowing. See you tomorrow!

Tuesday

We had many students missing today with the honor music, but we pressed forward and got a lot done.

6th grade: We learned about Newton's three laws of motion. Then we watched examples of each on Plato.

7th grade: Students drew the bone, muscles and skin. We watched an interesting clip on the structure of the skeleton.

Please remember, tonight is the Republican caucus. Be at either the Middle School gym or Paris Elementary gym if you are or plan to register republican.

The Democrats have not said if they plan to caucus as their nominee is already chosen. However, if they do, I will find out and let you know also.

The important part is to get involved and make sure that our country is strong.

Monday

6th grade: We will have many students missing this week with the play, quiz bowl, and music festivals. But all students who will be gone will have worksheets to complete so they can stay with the class. Today we discussed forces and friction. Three of the classes were able to do a tug-of-war to show balanced and unbalanced forces. WE also used a foam ball and a golf ball to show how gravity pulls on different masses.

7th grade: We used graphic organizers to learn about skin and muscles today. Tomorrow we will be drawing bone, muscles and skin.

Thursday

6th grade: Today we worked on the data we acquired yesterday to find average speed, velocity and acceleration. Homework was graded.

7th grade: We started our study of bones today. Students went into the lab and were able to break apart some bones so they could see the material inside. Then we returned to the class and had worksheets to help us learn more about the bones and joints.

There was an attendance assembly today where student's names were drawn for prizes for perfect attendance for February.

Wednesday Homework

Some students came in to get their work because they will be out of town. Students need to let teachers know a few days in advance. Asking a teacher for the next day's work takes extra time as we can't give them what we are doing. Many times the things they learn are in activities that the absent student is missing. Thus we need to copy worksheets for them. It takes time. So please give us a day or two, or at let us know before school starts so we can use our preparation time to get things ready. Thanks for those who have let me know early.

6th grade: Today we raced cars to get numbers ready to figure out average speed, velocity and acceleration. Students that were at their desks while others were racing started their homework which is F15 1-5 - complete sentences are required.

7th grade: Students learned about homeostasis today and then they worked to finish their flower reproduction page. The flower page and the questions are due on Monday at the start of class.

Tuesday

Spring pictures are tomorrow. All students will have their pictures taken.

6th grade: We finished the section on Speed and Distance F1-15. Students were expected to find the average speed from their walk and run yesterday. We also worked on deciphering information in two charts. Wednesday and Thursday we will cover pg F16 - F32 Forces in Motion

7th grade: We are finishing the section on plants. Students worked on a plant diagram and questions that came with it. We will them move forward into body systems. This will catapult us ahead to page 468. We will return to the animal section in May.

Monday - spring pictures on Wednesday

6th grade: We corrected Thursday's lab. Then students took turns checking their average speed of running and walking while others read F1-F15 which is about motion, velocity and average speed. If your student's class had a C&C assignment, but your student has an EX on it. That means the assignment is not for your student.

7th grade: We learned about gymnosperms, dicots and monocots today.

Thursday - end of 2nd trimester

6th grade: We finished up our unit on Electricity and Magnetism today with a team activity answering questions around the room.

7th grade: We began our study of gymnosperms and angiosperms by watching videos on both subjects.

Students will be having Spring pictures on Wednesday. No money needs to be sent until you have seen the pictures and decided if you want them.

Wednesday and Reports - Shirt money is due tomorrow

Shirt money is due tomorrow. Students were sent home a packet to buy school pride shirts. They are under $10.00 for the shirts. There is also a backpack and hoodie available.

6th grade: We did reports today on what we would do without electricity. Students covered some very important topics, including taking care of neighbors, conserving energy and how to stay healthy. There were some funny topics too, like how would they ever survive without their cell phones.

7th grade: We also did reports today on the plant to people reports.

Tuesday - End of the trimester will be on Thursday

Hope you all had a nice President's Day.

6th grade: We learned which metals are magnets. We also learned about the magnetic field around the Earth and saw pictures of the Aurora Borealis. Students were to write, in class, what they would do if they had no electricity for one day, one week and one year. We will discuss and share the stories tomorrow.

7th grade: We finished the drawings of the microscopic parts of plants. Students showed their drawings to me and they will be entered in the gradebook for next trimester.

Thursday - Last of work due today except for absences this week

All late work had to be in today. I need to have time to correct it and waiting till next week just doesn't work. Any students that were absent last week have as many days as they were gone to finish the work. The end of the trimester is the 23rd.

6th: Today we reviewed electric current with a short video. Then we started on magnets. Each team was given a magnet and materials to see which were magnetic and which were not.

7th: Students learned about roots and stems. We went upstairs to look at the huge tree slice we have. Students could see the rings. Then we ended using the microscope and drawing parks of the root, plant embryo, stem and leaf.

There is no school on Monday, please remember to celebrate President's Day.

Wednesday - any late work is due tomorrow

6th grade: Our class today was a review of electrical circuits and then a safety discussion. Students were to draw pictures showing the need for safety around electricity.

7th: Today we discussed seeds and seed dispersal. Students discussed the different ways seeds could move. We also began a discussion on the root. This covers pages 262-267.

Tuesday - all late work must be in 2-16 7th grade Plant to People due Wednesday

Last Thursday all students were told what their late assignments are. If they are in by Thursday they can still earn 60% of their score. I will not accept any work for this trimester after Thursday.

6th grade: We learned about circuits and how parallel circuits are different from series circuits. Then we went into the lab and worked with parallel and series circuits.

7th grade: We discussed the differences between vascular and non-vascular plants. Next we learned about pollination and seeds. Students watched a video of a bee pollinating a flower. Then they each got two seeds and broke them open to see the baby plant inside. Finally we began drawing and labeling three types of seeds. We will finish this in class tomorrow.

Plant to people assignment is due on Wednesday at the start of class. Students should write approximately one page about how their plant gets from the ground to people. It requires at least four steps and a drawing showing what is happening.

Monday tomorrow is the dance

Tomorrow is the Valentine Dance. Students who plan to attend the dance must dress in their best clothes. Boys must have shirts with collars and ties. Dr. Heeder has ties to loan if none are available at home. There will also me open gym and a movie for those disinclined to dance.

6th grade: We finished our experiment on the sand and water and wrote up the graph today. Students made many choices on how to do the graph so that it would show the information correctly. We also discussed circuits. A student brought in a circuit board and we were able to see it work correctly. Students learned that a closed circuit allows electricity to flow while an open circuit disrupts the flow of electricity.

7th grade: Students reviewed non-vascular plants today. They were given a worksheet to fill out all they remembered. Then we watched a ppp on non-vascular, seedless, non-flowering plants and vascular, seed-less, non-flowering plants. Their plant to people project is due on Wednesday. Students are to write a page and draw the process of a specific plant as it moves from the growing to a use for people.

Thursday Valentine's Dance Tuesday

Tuesday is the Valentine's Dance. It will be held in the cafeteria. The gym will be open for basketball and the auditorium will have a movie. There are rules for the dance, it is best dress, a collar shirt and tie for the boys, best dress for the girls. Students are expected to act respectful to everyone.

6th grade: Today students were told their grades. Students that had zeros were given a yellow sticky note with their missing assignments on it. They must be done by February 16th. Students also worked on SI measurements and drew how lightning works.

7th grade: Students were told grades and given any work they need to make up. Please be aware that C&C assignments are only for students who are misbehaving. If your student has no grade there, they are fine. If there is a zero or a grade, then they were the misbehaving student. Students were to read 250-255 and do 1-4. This should have been completed in class, if not, it was homework.

Wednesday

6th grade: Today we played with magnets and discussed how magnetic fields and forces are similar to electric fields and forces. Then we watched more of Plato and learned about static electricity.

7th grade: We discussed the structure of plants today. Students were also given a rubric on a project we are doing called from plant to people. Students are supposed to choose a plant and explain at least four steps of how we get that plant from the field to something people can use it for.

Tuesday

6th grade: We are studying about electricity. Yesterday we did experiments that showed how static electricity caused balloons to stick to the wall and we played with tape as it exhibited an attracting charge and a repelling charge. Today we played with water and showed how static electricity could cause the water to move. Then we watched and took outline notes on Plato so students could see the electrons.

7th grade: Yesterday we graded the tests. Students were given them back today and will be able to fix them for half credit. The correct answers must be written on a separate sheet of paper. Each answer must be a complete sentence. Just writing the letter of the answer is not acceptable. The corrected test must be stapled to the original test. These are due at the start of class, no late papers will be accepted.

Then we started the study of plants. Students watched a short video on plants that are partly heterotrophs, meaning they have to find their own food. We watched a venus fly trap and a trumpet pitcher as they ate their food. Then students were given two leaves, one that is from a regular plant, one that was from a Christmas Cactus. We tore the leaves apart and talked about vascular plants and what they require to live.

Thursday

6th grade: We worked on, and then graded, E92-93. Students were supposed to be nearly finished, some were. Then students showed their alternative energy projects. I will keep them up in the lab until Monday after school when students will be asked to take them home.

7th grade: Students took the chapter test today. We will start on the plant unit on Monday.

Wednesday

6th grade: We built the projects using alternative energy. Students had homework E92-93 1-20. They will have some time in class today and tomorrow to work on this.

7th grade: We reviewed for the test today. We played a game that should have let the students understand what is expected. Students also took home a worksheet that will be due in the morning.

Tuesday

6th grade: Students planned an alternative energy model in class today. They will need to bring the supplies assigned in class. I did check planners, as usual, and all should have their assignments written down. We watched videos on different types of energy and how it is used. We also discussed how useful different energy sources are.

7th grade: We are beginning a review for the test on Thursday. This test will cover Bacteria, Virus, Protist and Fungi. Students need to be here tomorrow for the review.

Monday

6th grade: We began learning about alternative energy sources today. We will continue this tomorrow. All but 6th hour discussed the experiment yesterday and why it would need to be redone.

7th grade: We worked on a fungus experiment today. We filled bottles with warm water and yeast and then one other ingredient to see what would happen. We also used magnifying classes to look at mold.

Thursday

So sorry I missed yesterday's update. I got home and my Internet isn't working again. But, for today:

6th grade: We learned about pressure, that heat increases pressure and cold reduces pressure. We put a balloon, first in cold water and then in hot water so students could feel the increase in pressure. We talked about the state of matter changing due to heat and cold. We saw, using a beaker, warm water, an ice cube and a digital thermometer, that hot water rises and cold water falls. We discussed why when you put hot water on a metal jar lid that it comes off quickly. We also discussed that ice cubes, even though colder don't contract because of the crystalline formation of water molecules.

7th grade: We learned about fungi today. Students drew a mushroom so they could see the different parts. Then we watched a ppp on fungi. We then observed what it would be like seeing a fungi spore explode by filling a balloon with cotton and then popping it. That was fun.

Tuesday

6th grade: We learned about Kinetic and Potential energy. Then we discussed three methods of heat energy transfer: Radiation, Conduction and Convection. Students are to have biomes, periodic table and anti-drug posters in by Thursday. read E 54-58

7th: We spent the day drawing and learning about protists. This is covered on pages 226-235.

Monday

A scoliosis permission page has gone home with all students. It is for parent's permission to test their child for scoliosis, a problem with the backbone, tomorrow. Students will not be tested without a signed parent permission slip.

6th grade: Students who took their tests were given the tests to take home and fix. To fix a test students must write a complete sentence as an answer. If they just list 1. C I will not grade it. The point of correcting tests is to allow students to learn what they missed. By writing a complete sentence students better learn the material. They also learn how to change questions to facts. This must be on a separate piece of paper that is stapled to the test. These rules have been explained again to the students. Those who did not take the test will be taking it Wednesday during TALL. Please make sure you study E-1/E49 - make sure that you turn in E48-E49 1-15 if you were absent.

7th grade: Today we started learning about Protists. We learned about protozoans which are animal like protists.

Thursday

6th graders: We spent the day finishing our biomes, periodic tables and the anti-drug poster. From now on it is homework that is due January 26th.

7th graders: We finished our drug unit by watching a very interesting movie on the affect of drugs on your brain, on your life and on your family. We sincerely hope that our students will make good decisions concerning these things.

Wednesday

6th grade: Today we took a test covering E1-E49

7th grade: Students worked on the anti-bad stuff commercial art work. We discussed how there can be road-blocks in getting to our goals and drugs and alcohol can really slow you down from where you want to be.

Monday 6th grade homework tonight - test on Wednesday

6th grade: We started our review for the test on Wednesday Students do have homework unless they finished it in class. Read E 1-45 and do 1-15 in complete sentences on E48-49

7th grade: Students turned in their homework and we discussed how advertisements try to trick you. We watched some old cigarette commercials and discussed the music, and the mood that was set. Then we watched a funny old beer commercial, through the man's eyes as he got more and more drunk. We listened to the kids on the tapes whose lives we have been following the last few days.

Thursday

6th grade: We finished our study on avoiding drug and alcohol. Students ended the day making posters and preparing for the test next week. The test will cover pages E1-E45

7th grade: Today students practiced ways to say no to alcohol, then we listened to a tape hearing how other kids do that. We still have four more classes to finish this program, I think we may combine a few.

Wednesday

6th grade: We watched a movie on the effects of smoking. Students discussed why it is so hard to quit and how smoking can affect others. Students were to find out how much a pack of cigarettes costs. We will review pages E4 - E45 on Monday and test on it on Tuesday or Wednesday depending on how the review goes.

7th grade: We watched a movie on how smoking cigarettes affects people. Students took notes and wrote down questions which we discussed at the end of the movie.

Tuesday

6th grade: Today we did the last Slick Tracy book. The homework tonight is page 7 and 10. It needs to be done with adults. As mid-term reports go out on Thursday, please make sure that these are completed, and any late ones are turned in so students can at least get 60% on the late ones.

7th grade: There is no homework in 7th grade. Students discussed today the different circumstances that might entice a student to use alcohol.

Monday

We covered more information on alcohol abuse today. Students were to turn in their homework at the start of class. There is homework today in both classes.

6th grade: We talked about different types of pressure to get students to make wrong choices. Students acted out a short skit on how to make good choices. The students are to do pages 7 and 10 of their workbook at home.

7th grade: Students discussed their interviews with their parents. Then they were assigned to write a half page (if double spaced a whole page) on alternatives to drinking. This can include things they would say, activities they could participate in and things they could drink that are safe.

Thursday - homework 6th and 7th grade

6th grade: Today we discussed how advertisements can trick us into thinking alcohol consumption will make you beautiful, stronger, etc. Homework is for the students to watch tv commercials and programs and identify the alcohol use and how it is being made to look beautiful and good.

7th grade: Students reviewed the facts about alcohol abuse. Their homework is to interview an adult about the adult's ideas on how to avoid alcohol abuse.

Wednesday + homework for parents and students

My classes are doing Project Northland for the next 6-8 days. Basically it is a program designed for students to help them practice avoiding alcohol abuse. The 6th grade has booklets for four days that the students will be taking home. Parent participation is a big part of this. Please make sure that parents take the time to review these with the students. In the past we did these once a week, but we are trying, this year, to do it everyday in hopes that the parents will be able to participate more fully. The 7th graders will have a few assignments to do with their families too. But not as many as the 6th graders.

6th Grade: Slick Tracy Comic Book: parents and students fill out a short quiz and write each other a letter.

7th Grade: Students will review the "All Important Facts" for their homework.