Happy Holidays!!!! You're not bored yet are you???

Hi everyone! I just want to again say Happy Holidays and I hope the days off that you've had so far have been fun and relaxing.

In case you are bored (I know -- ha ha!), I just want to remind you that you could be using some of this time off to work on your Science portion of your exhibition. You need the following things for Science:

• Animals -- Find 3 animals that live in your country. For each one, you need to have a picture (make it as big as half a page). At the bottom of the page with the picture, give a brief description of the animal -- unique characteristics, what it eats, where they can be found, etc.
• Plants/Flowers -- Find 3 plants or flowers that are native to your country. As with animals, you need to show a picture of the plant or flower and give a brief description of the flower -- where in the country it can be found, any specific things the flower is used for -- anything interesting you find.
• General weather/climate -- You will be expected to have a brief description (about 1/2 page typed) regarding the overall weather (called climate) of your country. Usually if you search for "climate in __________" (insert your country in the blank) you will find it. Remember, everything must be written in your own words.

If you are out and about over break, you might also want to find a binder and more page protectors for your project.

Also, if you have any difficulty finding information regarding the plants and/or animals you found for your country, try searching for the specific name itself. For example, if you know that a common flower in India is a "lotus" but your website didn't give any information on the lotus, then you can go to google and search "information on a lotus flower" and you should get something then. If you have any questions on how to find information for your country, let me know by commenting on this post and I will try to help!

Again, Happy Holidays everyone!

PS -- For those of you with Math homework, don't forget to be working on it!

Weekly News

In Math this week, we will officially begin Bits and Pieces II. In this book, the students will work with solving story problems relating to fractions. This week, we will focus specifically with adding and subtracting fractions.

In Science this week, we will continue looking at Boomtown, a city that we are studying as part of our "Erosion and Deposition" unit. We will look at how construction affects the environment and that land that is formed.

In Advisory on Monday, I will be checking that all students have their 5 math projects done. They should have the following: 1) bar graph of average temperatures for each month, 2) pie graph of ethnicity, 3) pie graph of languages spoken, 4) pie graph of religions, and 5) 3 problems using the country's currency exchange.

** Students that do not have these five projects done WILL NOT be able to go to the skating party on Thursday or attend the dance on Friday.

In class, students will continue to have time to work on the computers getting information regarding their country's animals, plants/flowers, and general weather. These three pieces of information will be due after returning from the holiday break.

FANTASTIC FRACTIONS!!!

The following students have done an outstanding job with their fractions and received over an 80% on today's quiz involving adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions:

• Christina (90%)
• Richard (90%)
• Nate (85%)
• Trinity (100%)
• Bekkah (100%)
• DaShawn (90%)
• Leah (80%)
• Deacon (85%)

Way to go everyone! Keep up the great work!

2nd Trimester Exhibition Information

Parents and Students --
I know it is early still, but I really want to make sure students are ahead of the plan for 2nd trimester exhibitions this time. In class, students have had time to work on 4 of their projects already. By Monday, the following projects MUST be done, in order to go to the dance next Friday, December 18th:

• Bar graph of average high and low temperatures throughout the year
• Pie graph of ethnicities (using percents that should add up to 100%)
• Pie graph of religions (using percents that should add up to 100%)
• Pie graph of languages spoken (using percents that should add up to 100%)

Students will have some extra time on Thursday and Friday to complete these items in class, but printing will be up to them. I did print some graphs off for those students done by Monday of this week, but I am unable to continue doing that, so it is up to the students to get their graphs printed and turned in to me by Monday. Please do not come into class on Monday and say that you have them but they are on a flash drive, in your email, or at home. You MUST have them printed off and ready to physically give to me by Monday.

If you have finished these four graphs, the next things to be completed are:

• Currency -- find the "exchange rate" in your country, using $1 US. In other words, you will look for something that says $1 US = ________ (fill in the blank with the money of your country)
• Plants/flowers -- minimum of 3 -- pictures and a description of each are necessary
• Animals -- minimum of 3 -- pictures and a description of each are necessary
• General weather -- seasons, rainfall, snowfall, does the country get hurricanes/earthquakes/typhoons/monsoons, etc.

Can you believe once we get our four graphs done and the next four topics that were mentioned above, that we'll be almost half way done????

FYI -- Students will need a binder and page protectors for their final "book" they will make with all their information.

Weekly News

This week in Math, it is my hope that all students will master adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions. We will review how to multiply and divide, as those were the most recent concepts I taught. We will then review all four operations and have a quiz over all four operations later in the week! Remember, I do have tutoring from 3:30-4:30 after school on Monday only for those students that want extra practice.

In Science, the students will begin their third unit entitled "Erosion and Deposition". Students will begin to look at the affects of construction on the land and how if affects soil, rocks, and the rest of the environment.

In Advisory, students will continue to have time to work on their math graphs for their country. By the end of the week, it is assumed that all students will have their graphs for ethnicity, religion, language, and temperature. Any students that do not have these projects done will be at risk of not being able to attend the dance that will be taking place next week Friday, right before holiday break!

Parents, please don't forget that we will be having an Honor's Assembly on Tuesday from 9-10am in the school gym to honor those students that did an excellent job last trimester. Students that will be receiving an award were notified last week and given a note to take home, so feel free to ask your child if you are unsure if your child will receive one.

Science Superstars!

I am very pleased to announce the following people for passing the Science Unit Test on Rocks, with an 80% or higher!

• Christina (88%)
• Richard (88%)
• Nate (85%)
• Bekkah (100%)
• DaShawn (96%)
• Leah (85%)
• Khaila (92%)

I appreciate the hard work you all put towards studying for this test. It was a bit harder than past tests and your studying paid off! Congratulations!

Friday's Taste-off

On Friday, we will be having a "taste-off" of healthy foods. On Monday, students got a booklet with the information, but in case you forgot, here it is again. Students are asked to bring in a healthy dish, along with the recipe, to share with their class. Students only need enough for each student in their class to have a small taste. There will be judges to judge the taste and healthiness of their food as well, and small awards will be presented. This will take place from 10:30-11am Friday morning, so I hope to see some students participate. Who has the best-tasting and healthy food?

Weekly News

This week in Math we will begin our unit on operations with fractions. This week, we will spend time working on how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions. It is EXTREMELY important that students use the step-by-step notes on how to complete each operation because each one has different steps and it is easy to confuse them with each other. Students may use their foldable on ALL assignments this week, so please make sure you have yours!

In Science we are going to finish our unit on rocks. We will finish our discussion of the rock cycle from the game we played last Tuesday. We will then talk about manufactured vs. real gems before reviewing for the test later in the week!

In Advisory this week, we are going to continue working on our requirements for our second trimester exhibition work. If students can get all their information on temperature, ethnicity, religion, and languages spoken, they will be given the opportunity to make their graphs using Microsoft Excel, in class. I am hoping (fingers crossed) that the students will do well enough during the week to be able to go to the library on Friday so students can get books on their country. Lets make it a good week so we can do that, okay?

I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving Break -- I will see you all tomorrow!

Upcoming Events

Just a reminder to follow those notes that went home today --

1) There will be an Honors Assembly on Tuesday, December 8, 2009 from 9-10am in the Gym. At this time, students with exceeding expectations academically (95% and above in any subject area), excellent citizenship, academic improvement, and perfect attendance, will receive an award. I hope everyone strives to get an award -- even if it isn't this trimester, how about you start for next trimester?

2) There will be tryouts for the UPA Talent Show on Monday, November 30, from 3:30-5pm. If you have a special talent and would like to be in the talent show, you will be expected to tryout on Monday.

Have a fabulous long, holiday weekend! Stay safe and enjoy time with your family. See you Monday!

Weekly News

Welcome to the shortest week of school EVER!

It's nice to know that after a busy week of exhibitions last week, we have a short, holiday week coming up.

In Math this week, we will be tracking our tests from last week. What this means, is that students are going to get a list of concepts that they are going to be taught this year, in hopes that they will master it. We are going to look at the test, determine what concepts they should have mastered, and track it, so each student is aware of his/her progress. Eventually, these tracking sheets are going to determine what student needs extra tutoring, what student may need summer school, etc. and we will be able to use these sheets to see what skills that student needs to practice.

In Science we are going to continue our unit on rocks. A couple weeks ago, we were discussing the differences between igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary, so we will revisit that, and play a game to enforce all the skills learned between all three types of rock.

Please note that there is NO SCHOOL on Wednesday due to Teacher Professional Development. Have a very safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday and I will see everyone back on Monday, November 30th!

Students, what are you thankful for this holiday season????

T.G.I.W (Thank Goodness Its the Weekend!)

This week has been pretty busy! I want to commend everyone for their hard work during exhibitions and hope that everyone learned some critical aspects of exhibitions. Some things I hope that the students learned are:

• Don't wait until the last minute to do a project -- it is noticeable when you are talking about it!
• Make sure you speak to the audience (eye contact is important).
• Try to let your personality show during your exhibition -- reading directly off of a board or notecards is boring and doesn't let you speak from your knowledge!
• Make sure you have enough information to meet the time necessary (25-30 minutes). If yours was under 20 minutes, you didn't have enough information to prove that you really researched your topic considering you had 2.5 months to work on this!

I would like to congratulate the following students for receiving a grade of "MEETING" expectations (which was an average of 3) on either presentation, academics, or both --

• Cameron (Presentation and Academics)
• Christina (Presentation and Academics)
• Ananda (Presentation and Academics)
• Michael (Presentation)
• Nate (Academics)
• Trinity (Presentation and Academics)
• Bekkah (Academics)
• DaShawn (Presentation and Academics)
• Leah (Academics)
• Khaila (Presentation and Academics)
• Deacon (Presentation and Academics)

End of the week updates

#1 -- Tomorrow is "Wear your Sweats" Day. For $2, you can dress in your comfortable clothes of sweatsuits, tracksuits, "warm up" clothes, etc. NO JEANS -- come in your comfy clothes!

#2 -- Tomorrow is the first collection of money for Meals on Wheels for the senior citizens over the holidays. Any money is greatly appreciated for the 8th grade leadership project -- even $1 is helpful!

See you tomorrow!

Super Duper!

We took our second Math Unit test today on the basic understanding of fractions, decimals, and percents. a HUGE pat on the back is deserved to the following students for receiving over a 90%: Bekkah (100%), Trenton (93%), NiJaia (90%), Christina (100%), DaShawn Sorrell-Williams (100%), Leah (100%), Ananda (97%), Michael (97%), Richard (97%), Trinity (100%), and Khaila (97%). Way to go class. I am very proud of all your hard work this week, despite having exhibitions!

Weekly News

This week is going to be QUITE a busy week!

In Math this week we will finish up our unit with basic fraction, decimal, and percent concepts. We will review for a few days and have our test on Thursday.

We will not be doing Science this week due to Exhibitions -- we will be back to science next week!

In Advisory of course we will be having our exhibitions. Please refer to the letter I sent home regarding the time of your child's exhibition. Arriving about 5 minutes early will really be helpful so we can start on time and keep to the schedule for the afternoon. Your child should have a rubric regarding how they will be graded, but for some quick highlights, please make sure the following is ready:

• 8 projects -- 5 learning plan projects and 3 trimester academic projects.
• A visual aid of some sort is necessary for each project. It should be professional looking (not crinkled up, torn, and big enough for everyone to see) with the ability to explain everything -- not just showing it to us.
• Students will want to practice what they are going to say and prepare note cards if necessary. They should not rely on those notecards because one of the criteria for grading is eye contact and how prepared they are. If they have to rely on their notecards, it shows that they haven't practiced enough.
• All of the information must be in the student's own words and must be thorough. Considering that the student's have had 2.5 months to work on these projects, it is very important that their hard work shows and that they can prove that they really know the content and can explain it to us.

Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have questions -- or leave comments on the blog and I will respond back as soon as I can. I'm looking forward to the students' first exhibition and I hope you are too!

Awesome Adders

Yeah, I know it seems a bit odd to do addition timed tests in 6th grade, but my hope is that by practicing basic addition, the students shouldn't have to use their fingers to count anymore. Congrats to the students that have already received over a 90% (I also encourage students that already do well with this test to push themselves even more and try to go faster, so the second number is the time it took to complete the test): Christina (95% -- 2:35), Richard (100% -- 2:35), Trinity (97% -- 2:10), and Bekkah (100% -- 2:20). As silly as it may sound, please keep practicing your addition!

Woo Hoo!!!!

Even in the midst of all this project work for exhibitions, on today's math quiz, almost everyone got above an 80%. Working with fractions and decimals is never easy, so I really applaud everyone for working so hard that they mastered the work this well. Congratulations to the following students who received over a 90% on this test: Leah (96%), Richard (96%), Trinity (100%), Ananda (100%), DaShawn (96%), Trenton (100%), Deacon (100%), Christina (100%), Bekkah (100%), Michael (92%), and NiJaia (96%). Keep up the phenomenal work!

Weekly News

This week in Math we will use our knowledge with fractions and decimals and now place them on a number line. Since fractions and decimals are part of a whole number, it is critical that students know the proper placement of fractions and decimals on a number line. We are also working on addition timed tests. Some students and parents wonder why we are working on addition timed tests, so to answer this question, it is because so many students are still counting on their fingers. While this method is something that students can do if they have to, it is pretty important that now that they are in 6th grade, they can add common numbers (between 1-20) quickly, without their fingers. They learned to add in first grade, so I would like them to become more proficient in adding quickly.

In Science we will continue looking at properties of rocks. We will test a variety of rocks to see what types of minerals are in them, by looking at the properties those minerals have. We will finish up the week by looking at the difference between metamorphic, sedimentary, and igneous rocks.

Students will have a lot of time in Advisory this week to plan for next week's exhibitions. Please note that not all students have an exhibition time yet. It is critical for everyone to have one scheduled, because EVERYONE must present their projects next week. During advisory, it is expected that students are about 98% done with their projects and are either putting the finishing touches on them, or are preparing their verbal presentation (planning out note cards, practicing what they are going to say, etc.). Please make a conscious effort to be as prepared as possible because your exhibition is the only thing that determines your advisory grade for this trimester!

I have to apologize for being a little bit of a slacker in announcing AWESOME work that the students have been doing. Although it might be a little late, a huge congratulations goes to the following students for receiving over a 95% on their division timed test, which they did the entire month of October: Cameron (95%), Marae (99%), Christina (100%), Ananda (99%), Richard (100%), Trinity (100%), Bekkah (100%), DaShawn (100%), Leah (100%), and Khaila (100%).

The students completed their first Rocks and Minerals Quiz last Monday, so a big round of applause goes to the following students who received over an 80% on that quiz: Cameron (100%), Christina (100%), Ananda (90%), Richard (100%), Trinity (90%), DaShawn (100%), Leah (80%), Khaila (100%), and NiJaia (90%).

I'm looking forward to this week and all it will bring. I hope everyone is ready for tomorrow and the week to come!

Calcite

As we discussed in class, minerals are found in rocks. There was a question regarding calcite that asked if calcite is found in only one rock or if it is found in more than one rock. If you find out the answer, with the name of the rock/rocks that calcite is found in, you will receive credit. Please let me know if you want your points to go for extra credit or for group points.

Weekly News

This week in Math we will continue our studies of fractions and decimals. We will review how to turn fractions into decimals and decimals into fractions, from last week. The students will then learn how to compare fractions and decimals using "less than", "greater than", and "equal to" symbols. Lastly, students will order fractions and decimals from least to greatest.

In Science we will continue our study of minerals and rocks. On Monday, students will have a quiz on all the material they learned so far (review the study guide from Friday if needed). For the rest of the week, we will continue looking at properties of various minerals and identify minerals based on these properties.

In Advisory students should be wrapping up their exhibition projects. As you notice on the last blog posting, exhibition times should be signed up for (please contact me, or respond on that blog for your preferred time) and students will have their last full week to prepare for these projects in class. Next week, we will prepare even more by making note cards and being sure that visual aids are all prepared. Exhibitions start in two weeks, so it is CRITICAL that all students are finishing what they need to, so they are prepared for their upcoming presentation.

A few more notes:

• No school on Tuesday due to Teacher Professional Development
• A field trip to U of M Dearborn is taking place on Friday from 11am-2pm. This trip is free of charge and students will eat before leaving. Students that normally get a hot lunch will receive a bagged lunch to eat.

Let me know if you have any questions -- and Happy November everyone!

It's Exhibition Time!

Parents,

Your child should have brought home a letter today regarding exhibition times. Exhibitions will be during the week of November 16-20, 2009 during the afternoon. The times each day will be 12:45pm, 1:30pm, and 2:15pm. Students are expected to use 25-30 minutes to explain all 5 of their learning plan projects as well as the other 3 academic projects (one for math, one for science, and one for ELA). The other 15 minutes will be used to discuss your child's progress and go over the results of their exhibition. Students were given a rubric yesterday that explains what they'll be graded on, so please feel free to ask them for that if you are curious.

I have suggested that you, the parent, write down the day and time you would like to schedule for the exhibition and return that form to school on Monday to reserve your time. It is on a first-come, first-serve basis, so I am also allowing the students/parents to make a comment on this blog in order to reserve their time before Monday.

Flourite

Yesterday and today in class, we discussed flourite and how it is used to make flouride which is in our toothpaste. I am VERY interested to know how a mineral is turned into something we have in toothpaste. Anyone who can research this and inform us by commenting below will get LOTS of extra credit.

Weekly News

This week, in Math we will be reviewing all the topics we learned last week (equivalent fractions, simplifying fractions, turning mixed numbers into improper fractions, and turning improper fractions into mixed numbers). We will also be learning how to read numbers with decimals using the correct place value. Finally, the students will learn how to turn decimals into fractions and how to turn fractions into decimals. Remember, this week is the last week for the division timed tests, so once you get over 95%, you are done!

In Science we will be discussing more characteristics of rocks. Last week we looked at an "earring material" that could be diamond and this week we will be comparing that information to the information of a real diamond to see if it is in fact a real diamond or a fake! We will also be learning about various other minerals and rocks and students will get a chance to try to find out the names of different rocks. Finally, students will learn about the properties to identify different minerals.

In Advisory students will learn about the other projects they will have to complete for their exhibition in addition to their learning plan. As of Monday this week, students will only have 3 more weeks before their exhibition. It is expected at this time that most students are just about done with a majority of their work. The week before exhibitions, students will be practicing what they are going to say (and write notecards to help them out) so really they only have 2 more weeks of class time to work on their projects. Remember, it is expected that all students are working on parts of their project at home because 30 minutes a day in class is not enough time to complete everything.

WANTED: Thin Dry Erase Markers

We are in need of thin dry erase markers for class. In order to keep using the small dry erase boards to play math games, we need some new dry erase markers since we saw today that the ones I have from last year are drying out. Anyone who would like to donate some markers to the class will receive points for the group.

Thank you -- any donations are greatly appreciated!

Garnets, garnets, garnets

You guys had great questions in class regarding garnets. One of the questions you completed in class was: What else would you like to know to help you determine how valuable something is?

If you do some research on garnets and can comment on what you learned, you will receive credit. The more information you provide (in your own words, of course), the more credit you will get.

Science Superstars!

After today's test, I would like to congratulate the following students for receiving an 80% or higher on the "Studying Soils Scientifically" Unit Test:

Trenton (80%), Christina (80%), Richard (80%), Trinity (100%), Bekkah (100%), DaShawn (100%), Leah (85%), Khaila (80%), and Yanik (80%).

KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK! We will be starting our unit on Rocks beginning Wednesday!

Weekly News

This week in Math we will begin our next unit on fraction, decimal, and percent basics. This week we will first begin discussing equivalent fractions, simplifying fractions, and turning mixed numbers into improper fractions, and turning improper fractions into mixed numbers. We will also continue our division timed tests. Last but not least, do not forget that the Math MEAP will take place on Tuesday.

In Science we will finish our "Studying Soil Scientifically" unit with our test on Monday. For the rest of the week, we will begin studying rocks, including looking at various rock characteristics.

In Advisory I am anticipating that the students are almost done with most of their projects. Although many students appear to have the information they need for their project, most students have not started working on the project, so I would advise them to start doing that at this time. In the coming weeks, students will learn about the extra projects they will have to do in addition to their learning plan, so finishing their learning plan projects would be a good idea at this time.

Prime Time Winners!

You guys are FABULOUS!!! The following students received above an 80% on today's unit test. Trenton (97%), Cameron (86%), Christina (90%), Ananda (90%), Richard (90%), Trinity (97%), Bekkah (93%), Leah (100%), Khaila (90%), and Deacon (83%). Keep up the great work everyone. CONGRATULATIONS!!!

(Please note: 3 students were not in class to take the test, so I will add their names to the list if they receive above an 80% when they take it!)

Weekly News

This week in Math, we will be finishing up our Prime Time unit. Students will be expected to know the following concepts for Wednesday's test:

• recognizing prime and composite numbers,
• listing factors and finding the GCF,
• listing multiples and finding the LCM, and
• finding the prime factorization of numbers.

On Thursday, we will begin our unit on basic fraction understanding, by making fraction strips to identify equivalent fractions.

In Science we will be wrapping up our Soil unit. We will first analyze our organic matter test and come to some conclusions regarding the soil from the school garden in Arizona. We will then look at some possible ways to fix the school garden and analyze other students' suggestions. We are also going to try to watch a video on the Dust Bowl so students get a good idea of the affects of weather and farming on soil in the central part of the U.S in the 1930's. Our unit test will take place next Monday, October 19th.

In Advisory students will continue working on their learning plan projects. I have met with about half of the students regarding the progress they've made so far. It is necessary for students to have whatever it is they are working on, in class, so when I meet with them, they can show me what they have done.

Other little updates -- please take note of the important dates listed to the right. On Tuesday and Thursday, students will be taking the Reading portion of the MEAP. On Friday, there will be no school due to Teacher Professional Development.

Great quiz scores and more!

On Friday, we had a Science quiz over the past few lessons we had -- soils located on the U.S map, the Dust Bowl, and fertilizers. Extra credit was also given to students that could remember what succulents were, as well as give an example, so some students got over 100%! Congrats to the following students who received over 80% on that quiz: Trenton (100%), Cameron (118%), Christina (118%), Richard (118%), Michael (91%), Nate (82%), Trinity (118%), Bekkah (109%), DaShawn (109%), Leah (100%), Khaila (118%), and Deacon (82%).

I also graded the first division timed test of the month and I was overwhelmed by how well the students did after just one week of practicing. I assumed that since the students did well with multiplication that they would do well with division, but I didn't realize that they would do this well so soon! I am so impressed with the following students: Marae (80%), Christina (98%), Richard (99%), Trinity (100%), Bekkah (100%), DaShawn (98%), Leah (100%), and Khaila (100%). Some of you may wonder why you should have to continue taking the test, but remember, if you already have a high grade, continue working on how fast you can do them. If you can complete them in under 1 minute 30 seconds, you can compete against me. If you beat me, I give you $20! And of course if you aren't on this list yet, you still have plenty of time to get there. You still have 3 weeks of practice.

Awesome job class! See you Monday!

Holy Moly!!

We took a math quiz today to show how much we knew about factors, multiples, greatest common factors, and least common multiples. The following students did AWESOME and got above an 80%: Trenton (80%), Cameron (90%), Christina (100%), Ananda (80%), Richard (100%), Nate (90%), Trinity (100%), Bekkah (100%), DaShawn (90%), Leah (100%), Khaila (90%)! Way to go guys! Keep up the great work

Potassium

We talked in class about the nutrients found in soil. Phosphorus is identified as "P" on the periodic table and Nitrogen is identified as "N". Why is Potassium "K"? If you can research this and put it in your own words in the comment section, you will get extra credit!!!

Weekly News

This week in Math we will return to our Prime Time unit. We will again review factors, multiples, greatest common factors, and least common multiples. After this, will begin Investigation 4 and review finding the prime factorization of a number using factor trees. We will wrap up the week by learning how to find the greatest common factor using the prime factorization of two numbers. Since it is a new month, we will also start a new timed test topic. As mentioned last week, we will be completing division timed tests. Students will be given 3 minutes and will be expected to complete 100 problems within this time.

In Science we will continue our study of soil by looking at the various nutrients in soil. Students will learn what each type of nutrient provides to the soil as well as look at various situations investigating what happens when those nutrients are not in the soil. We will finish the week making another concept map reviewing all the topics we've learned regarding soil.

In Advisory students are required to bring material to school to work on their advisory projects. Students that went to the library last Friday are strongly urged to bring the books they borrowed so they can start researching their various topics. I will also be meeting with each of the students to see what they have done so far regarding their 5 projects. PLEASE COME TO ADVISORY PREPARED!!!

I'm looking forward to a great week and I hope it proves to be one!

Succulents

Way to go DaShawn for introducing a new word to the class today in science. He said that the plants that grow in the desert are called succulents. You will get credit for this posting if you can answer any of the following questions:

1) What are succulents?

2) What is an example of a succulent?

Even though we named two succulents in class, you can always search the internet for other types of succulents. If you do, you will get even more credit for doing some extra research.

The best of the best...

The month of September is over and so are multiplication timed tests. After this week, I would like to congratulate the following students for passing their timed test with an 80% or higher Remember, I took the highest grade achieved this week for the final grade -- Cameron (80%), Marae (99%), Sh'kyra (100%), Christina (100%), Darren (88%), Richard (98%), Michael (85%), Nate (90%), Trinity (100%), Bekkah (98%), DaShawn (99%), Leah (100%), Khaila (100%), and Yanik (82%). I am SO proud of you for working so hard. Let's keep this going with the division timed tests that start next week!

End of the week updates

Tomorrow is a special day. Those students that bring their library card to school and have all their homework turned in for math and for reading/writing will be walking to the Detroit Public Library to get books for independent reading and for their exhibition work. Please note though that it is possibly going to rain. If it is raining lightly, we will still go, so be prepared with a hood or an umbrella. If it is raining hard, we won't be able to go and we'll reschedule for next week.

Tomorrow is also dress down day. For $2, students will be able to wear Michigan State (green and white) and University of Michigan (dark blue and yellow) colors/apparel, with jeans and gym shoes. This is in honor of the University of Michigan vs. Michigan State Football game on Saturday. Students that do not have these colors are expected to be in full uniform. The money will be put in a fund for future field trips and other activities that the entire school/grade participates in.

Don't forget, tomorrow is the last chance for this month's multiplication timed tests. STUDY STUDY STUDY if you haven't received above a 95% yet!

COUNT DAY!!!

Tomorrow is Count Day. This is the day that is very important for determining how much funding we get for the school for resources to teach our students. As a reward to the first class with 100% attendance, there will be a pizza and game party on Friday. LETS BE THE WINNERS! Please be early tomorrow...the earlier we are all here, the better our chances of getting the party!

Weekly News

In Math this week, we will be reviewing some topics that students learned (or should have learned) last year in 5th grade to prepare them for the MEAP test that will begin in the middle of October. We will review how to solve multi-step multiplication, long division problems, how to analyze story problems to determine which are multiplication and which are division, and end the week reviewing how to find the area of triangles and quadrilaterals. On Friday, students will have a quiz reviewing all of these skills. This week is also the last week for multiplication timed tests. Students will take a test everyday and once they get over 95% correct, they will no longer have to take the test anymore. If they don't get above 95%, they will take them the entire week and their grade will be the highest score they get during the week. A special prize will be given to the class if the entire class can get over 95%! Good luck!

In Science this week, we will be reviewing soil composition as well as soil layers. A quiz will be on Tuesday regarding this material. Later in the week, students will begin to look at other soil attributes, including what areas of the world have what types of soil. We will again look at the garden problem to try to determine what soil was located in their school garden compared to the garden next door.

In Advisory this week, it is extremely important for the students to bring in materials to work on their learning plan projects. Although 3-6 students get to use the computers each day, it is important for each student to bring something in to work on so they can use their time wisely. Remember that it might be necessary to do some research at home and bring it to school so work can actually be done. Also, some of their advisory work will have to be completed at home as well, so please make sure your child is working on their learning plan goals on the weekend and on weeknights!

Here's to a great week!

Again...so impressive!

You guys just ROCK!  That's all I can say about that.  This week, we had 9 people over 90% for this week's graded multiplication timed test (keep in mind that 2 students were absent!).  I huge round of applause goes to Marae (100%), Sh'kyra (99%), Christina (99%), Richard (100%), Trinity (99%), Bekkah (100%), DaShawn (100%), Leah (91%), and Khaila (99%).  Please keep in mind that the final tests will be taken next week.  I will grade the tests every day and the highest grade during the week will be their final score.  This weekend would be a great time to study to be sure to pass next week!

Soil Composition

To review our lesson today, we discussed soil composition.  We read that soil is made up of sand, silt, clay, and organic matter.  

For credit today, answer any of the following questions:

1)  What is sand?

2)  What is silt?

3)  What is clay?

4)  What is organic matter?

5)  Why is organic matter so important in helping plants grow?

Square numbers

In math on Monday, we discussed what square numbers are.  To get credit, comment on this post, and give me an example of a square number.  If other students have commented before you, please make sure you give a different answer than ones already given.

Weekly Updates

In Math this week, we will continue in our Prime Time book.  This week we will look for patterns within multiples and factors, and also discuss greatest common factors (GCF) and least common multiples (LCM).  We will also continue taking multiplication timed tests in hopes that more students improve their scores.  Since we do not have school on Friday, I will be checking the test taken on Thursday to check their weekly improvement.  Next week is the final week for tests, in which I am expecting students to receive over a 95% on the test.    

In Science this week, we will start looking at soil composition.  Students will complete a lab experiment where they will make soil-water columns, which will separate the soil into the different components of soil.  We will then relate this experiment to some reading regarding the scientific names for the different components of soil, and make a concept map to summarize all of the information learned.

In Advisory, students should have their final learning plan completed (in pen) and signed by a parent.  I will make copies of them (one for my record, one for the student at school, and one for the parents at home).  Students will have 30 minutes every day to work on their advisory goals.  They are expected to have something to work on EVERY DAY towards reaching their goals.  Although they are given 30 minutes every day, it is also necessary that the students are working on their projects at home after school and on the weekends.  Parents, please remind your child on the importance of working on these projects.  

Please take note that there is no school on Friday, September 25, 2009 due to Teacher Professional Development.  Please comment if you have read this, and let me know if you have any questions.  

Simply Amazing

I am so amazed at how fast my students are improving in their multiplication timed tests.  Practice makes perfect, right?  Well, last week, only 6 students had scores above 80%.  This week, 9 students scored above 80% (and that is with 3 students absent, so it could have been more).  Congratulations to Marae (81%), Sh'kyra (96%), Christina (99%), Richard (94%), Trinity (100%), Bekkah (96%), Leah (80%), Khaila (97%), and Deacon (83%). 

I feel so blessed to have such a great class this year and I hope they continue striving to improve.  Keep it up guys.  Remember, the goal is to have the entire class over 95% by the end of the month, and it's half way over!  Keep practicing and lets hope for even more students to be on this list next week.  

Way to go!!!

An awesome round of applause goes to the following students for receiving over an 80% on their first weekly math quiz relating to factors and multiples:  Sh'kyra (82%), Christina (88%), Richard (100%), Michael (88%), Trinity (94%), Bekkah (100%), Leah (94%), Khaila (82%), and Deacon (94%).   I am so proud that you all did so well, and I hope you continue the awesome work!

Factor Game or Product Game, anyone?

If you are sitting at home and don't know what to do, pull out your "Factor Game" game board or your "Product Game" game board and find a family member to play with.  Speaking of products, which also relate to multiples, can you name five multiples of 8?  Comment and receive credit.  If someone has already commented when you comment, make sure your five multiples are not repeats of multiples already given, if you'd like the credit.  

Weekly News

This week, we will officially start our math and science curriculum.  

In Math, we will begin the unit entitled, Prime Time.  This week, we will start with reviewing factors and multiples of numbers, by playing "The Factor Game" and "The Product Game".  We will determine when factors should be used, and when multiples are better to use to solve problems.  We will continue to complete multiplication timed tests as well and another test will be graded on Friday.

In Science, we will begin with an emphasis on observation.  We will discuss the importance of observation for a few lessons, and then start analyzing a scientific problem in a lesson called "The Garden Problem".  

In Advisory, we will begin looking at our academic goals for the trimester.  We will begin to fill out Learning Plans using the theme of "All About Me" for the first trimester.  Students will have to determine a goal for Reading/Writing, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Personal Qualities.  With these goals, the students must determine what they will do to meet this goal, and what they will show at the end of the trimester (at their exhibition) to prove that this goal was met.  We will discuss Learning Plans and Exhibitions more at the Open House after school today.  

If you have any questions regarding this information, please comment (parents and students).  Also, don't forget to comment under this posting to let me know you've read the weekly news to get participation points.  Have a great week!!!

I am so impressed...

I am so impressed that so many of my students are already doing very well on their timed multiplication test.  The students are practicing basic multiplication facts (1x1 to 12x12) and are tested on those facts daily in class.  They get 3 minutes to complete 100 facts.  So far, 6 of my 17 students already scored above 80% on their first graded test!  Congratulations to Sh'kyra, Christina, Richard, Trinity, DaShawn, and Khaila for receiving a great first grade!

If you would like help on those facts, I would suggest buying flash cards at the dollar store, or use Math Fact Cafe where flash cards are built right into the webpage.  The students have until the end of September to get above a 95% on these tests.  

Are you ready???

It's back to school time. Are you ready? Please take the time to comment on this page about two things you look forward to this year and one academic goal you have. Remember, commenting on this page to record your answer gives you a participation points, and is part of your grade.

Open House

Attention Parents!

Since I was not able to meet with every parent before school started, I would like to welcome you to my Open House on Monday, September 14, 2009 at 3:30pm in my room (Room 207). All parents and students are welcome during this time as I will discuss a variety of topics, including:

• Topics of study this trimester
• Learning Plans and Exhibitions
• Class expectations
• Setting goals for the first trimester
• More detailed blog information

I would also like to take the time to go over any other questions you may have as a new UPA Middle School parent. If you are not able to make it during this time, it is very important for us to meet regarding your child's goals this trimester, so please contact me to set up other arrangements to meet.

See you then!

It's back to school time...

Students and Parents,

Welcome to 6th grade at UPA Middle School. I am extremely excited to start working this school year and I anticipate it being the best year yet. At this point, you should have read my letter and expectations for our class this year (if you haven't, make sure to ask your child for it). I would like to take this time just to highlight a few key points:

• Wearing the correct uniform is CRITICAL. Please note the uniform requirements on the back of my personal letter to you. Students out of uniform will have to call home and have their uniform brought to them. Repeated offenders will have other privileges taken away (field trips, free dress days, etc.)
• Being on time to school is necessary. Lessons begin promptly at 8:15am. Regularly being late could affect your child's education in many ways: homework is checked at the beginning of class (being late means your child will miss the homework review), the lecture/explanation of the lesson is done during the first 15-20 minutes of class (being late means your child will miss crucial material that I teach). If your child is late, it will be his/her responsibility to show me their homework and get extra instruction at a later time (lunch, after school, etc.)
• In class today, we discussed the class expectations and procedures. I have developed them in an effort to ensure a smooth learning experience. Please read these over carefully, sign it and return. If you are unclear or do not agree with a specific expectation/procedure, please indicate that on the form and I will contact you regarding it. Also, please look over our grading policy. If you are new to UPA, this may be confusing to you, so read it over and again let me know if you need any clarification. I will be more than happy to explain this policy more in-depth.
• I have also sent home a contact information sheet for you to fill out (if you did not do so at the Back-to-school meetings) so I can contact you when necessary. Please indicate the best method of contacting you (email or phone), including the best time to contact you.

Always feel free to contact me at any time regarding your child's progress. Also, everytime you read a posting, please feel free to write a comment/question regarding the information (even commenting that you read the posting). Your child will receive credit for participation each time!