Weekly News

Only 5 more days until Mid-Winter Break, but it will be a busy 5 days!

In Math we will continue our study of decimals by using estimation to see if our exact answer is reasonable, as well as starting our study with story problems. Since we worked so hard with story problems for decimals, I think this will be easier for everyone. We'll see!!

In Science we will continue discussing plate tectonics and how the things on the inside of the earth affect the outside. On Monday, we will finish up our discussion on nuclear waste being stored at Yucca Mountain in Nevada. For the rest of the week, we will study volcanoes, which I know everyone is excited about!

In Advisory this is a very important week because students need 13 projects to be turned in, in order to attend the exciting Valentine's Day dance on Friday. I have advised the students not to buy a ticket until they get the "all clear" from me, so they don't miss out by buying a ticket and not being able to go. The following must be turned in by Wednesday (please recall that all of these items have been due in previous weeks, but some students had to redo some of them -- only 2 items (the last two) are new from last week!)

• 4 math graphs
• 3 currency problems
• 3 animals with explanations/fun facts about the animals
• 3 plants/flowers with explanations/fun facts about the plants/flowers
• Paragraph of climate of the country
• 10 words/phrases in the other country's language
• Map (with major cities identified)
• Flag (with meanings of the colors and symbols)
• 2 holidays (indicating what is special about that holiday/traditions of the country)
• 2 historical events (listing why it was important)
• Government (including the leader, type of government, and 3 unique laws the country has)
• Math academics -- 2 fraction problems (one basic problem, one story problem/solve for the unknown)
• Science academics -- Where would you build? (based on seaside cliff, delta marsh, or green hill -- 1 page report as well as a visual aid)

The only thing not required to be done yet are the 3 personal qualities topics that the students have chosen themselves. This will be required to be turned in the Monday we return from Mid-Winter break, so that means at this point, they have 2 weeks to get it done!

Parents, please expect a letter to come home about the exhibition dates and times. Again, it is first come, first serve. You may respond under this post, once you get the form Monday if you would like and I can confirm with you that way.

I'll see everyone tomorrow!!