Students corrected last night’s homework on DIRECT OBJECTS.  We will continue to work on them throughout the majority of this week.  Time was also set aside for students to type the final drafts of their Light Verse poems.

SPECIAL NOTICE-  The Lang. Arts quiz has been pushed back to Friday

HOMEWORK- use the study guide and all homework skill sheets to study for Friday’s quiz.  Finish up the skill sheet started in class today.  (back side of last night’s homework)

All Classes: PS #6 was handed out today, and is due back next Wed. 3/24. Signed math portfolios are due tomorrow.
Periods 1, 7: We worked on percent of change (including mark-ups and sales). Homework: Worksheet “P 5-7.”
Periods 3, 4, 6: We worked with customary measurements again and had a practice “min-quiz” to see how many measurement equivalents we’ve memorized!

Students finished listening to Black Ships before Troy!!!!!! The story of the Iliad is long, confusing, has many characters and they have done a great job with it!
Students also received back their tests from yesterday. They are in their portfolios and portfolios went home today and are due back with a parent signature on Friday.

Students went to the library for day 2 of encyclopedia, print-source research.  We will be taking stock of our research progress tomorrow and setting our first Friday project goal.  Each student will have a different progress goal based on their research difficulties.  Students will strive to have 3 different sources documented by Friday and notes with pages numbers associated with each source.  Some students may be further along and others may be having more difficulty finding information on their particular species.

The students continued taking notes on early civilations in the Indus Valley (pages 206-209). The permission form to visit the Museum of Fine Arts is due March 23rd.

Students corrected last night’s homework on DIRECT OBJECTS.  We will continue to work on them throughout the majority of this week.  Time was also set aside for students to type the final drafts of their Light Verse poems.

SPECIAL NOTICE-  The Lang. Arts quiz has been pushed back to Friday

HOMEWORK- use the study guide and all homework skill sheets to study for Friday’s quiz.  Finish up the skill sheet started in class today.  (back side of last night’s homework)

All Classes: Please share and return signed portfolios by Thursday. Pi Day winners were announced in each class. Congratulations to Ben Podis, Sammy Knapp, Audrey Gaboriault, Aditya Shah, and Claire Murray. The reigning Princess of Pi is Claire Murray with 190 correct digits of pi memorized!!!
Periods 1, 7: We discussed and practiced percent of change (text section 5-7). Homework: text p. 239 #12-22 even
Periods 3, 4, 6: We continued working on converting customary measurements. Homework: worksheet “WP 6-7.”

Students took a quiz on the Greek gods and goddesses today and then updated their portfolios which will hopefully go home tomorrow.

Students went to the library today to find encyclopedia source articles and/or print sources for the NH species project.  Students took notes from their sources with special care given to recording page numbers.  Students also completed a work cited entry for their source(s).

The students continued taking notes on the geography of India (textbook pages 201-203) and began taking notes about early civilations in the Indus Valley (pages 204-205). The permission form to visit the Museum of Fine Arts is due March 23rd.

Students played a verb review game using the Quiz Wizard board.  We also practiced recognizing whether a verb has a direct object.
Homework- complete one side (specified in class) of the Direct Object skill sheet.
                 get the study guide signed- quiz on Thursday

All Classes: Share portfolios at home and return with a parent signature by Thursday.
Periods 1, 7: Continuing with percents. Homework: text p. 247-248 #36 – 54 even.
Periods 3, 4, 6: Today we discussed customary measures. A chart was created in our notebooks, and these measurements need to be memorized. Homework: Worksheet “SG 6-7.”

Students listened to “Poisoned Arrow” from Black Ships before Troy. If you missed class you can find it on my website. Students reviews for the quiz tomorrow on the Greek gods and goddesses. The reading log this week will focus on finding examples of cause and effect in whatever the student is reading.
QUIZ tomorrow on Greek gods and goddesses
READING LOGS are due Friday.

Students worked in class on the laptops.  Research and works cited information was compiled for the NH species project.  Students should now have:
1)      Chosen their species

2)      Found a minimum of one high quality website for research

3)      Bookmarked/Added to Favorites their website

4)      Completed a works cited entry for their website

5)      Created a science project folder inside their student science folder

6)      Saved a works cited rough draft document in their project folder

7)      Hand written a works cited entry

8)      Taken written notes from their website

The student began taking notes on the geography of India (textbook pages 199-200). Students were given a copy of the permission form to visit the Museum of Fine Arts. The permission form is due March 23rd.

Students used their DOL notes to help them  with today’s DOL Challenge.  When finished, we corrected last night’s homework.  Signed portfolios were due today.

All Classes: Happy Pi Day (officially on Sunday, 3/14)!Today we celebrated the occasion by measuring circular and spherical objects and trying to calculate pi. We had a friendly competition to see who could correctly memorize the greatest number of pi digits. Lots of tasty circular treats were also enjoyed. Please remember to share math portfolios at home and return with a parent signature.

Students listened to “The Death of Achilles” from Black Ships today. If you missed class it is on my website and you can listen to it at home. Reading logs were turned in today. There is a test on the Greek gods and goddesses on Tuesday. Please use the various study guides you have, Go Fish (Olympian style), or the game on my website.

Science students needed to find one quality website about their NH species today. Students had to bookmark/add to favorites their site and work on completing their first works cited entry using the website. Students needed to save a works cited Word doc and their first source entry BEFORE they could take any notes from the source.

The student continued labeling a map of India. They viewed a sample podcast "news broadcast" created using Garage Band. Each student will be making a podcast about ancient India near the end of this current unit.

Students corrected last night’s homework- Principal Parts of a Verb.
Time was spent discussing irregular verbs and their tenses.

Homework-  get portfolio signed
                   verb skill sheet- both sides

All Classes: Our Pi Day celebration will be held tomorrow! Study your pi sheet. Portfolios were passed out today. They need to be shared at home and returned with a parent signature.
Periods 1, 7: Today we discussed the parts of a circle and calculated circumference and area. Homework: finish worksheet 6-9 (use a calculator!!)
Periods 3, 4, 6: We used compasses and rulers to draw circles and then calculate the circumference and area. No new homework.

Students listened to “The Luck of Troy” from Black Ships. This and all the other chapters we have listened to are on my website, if you missed class or want to listen again. Students then read pages 28-32 in the D’Aulaire’s and played Go Fish (Olympian style).
READING LOGS DUE TOMORROW.
QUIZ ON GREEK GODS AND GODDESSES ON TUESDAY.

 Students brainstormed a list of research questions for their NH species project.  Students should have a final species choice ready for class tomorrow.

The student continued to work on the "open wiki" test on ancient China. They began labeling a map of India.

We corrected the Verb Tense worksheet.  Students were given notes on the Simple Tenses, Perfect Tenses, and the Progressive Tenses.  Although the students will not be expected to learn the progressive tense, it was important to introduce them to it.

Homework- complete the back side of last night’s skill sheet.  Principal Parts of a Verb

All Classes: Study Pi for our Pi Day celebration on Friday! Quizzes were passed back and need to be shared at home (and returned with a signature for your portfolio).
Periods 1, 7: We worked with percent proportions and percent equations again today.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We started correcting 20Q #5, with students sharing their work on the white boards.

Students worked on a worksheet that helps them to learn the Greek names of the gods and goddesses, their realms, and their symbols.
Reading logs are due Friday.
Quiz on Greek gods and goddesses, their realms, and symbols is Tuesday (3/16).

Students created projects folders on the computer and began preliminary research on their NH species project.
 

The student continued to work on the "open wiki" test on ancient China.

Students handed in the final draft of their research papers.  We spent time discussing and editing sentences 1,2, and 3 of the DOL.
Home work-  skills sheet  (side 22 only) TENSES OF VERBS

All Classes: 20Q #5 is due tomorrow. Study your Pi sheet for Friday’s Pi Day celebration.
Periods 1, 7: We continued to work on estimating with percents and then moved on to calculating the actual percent of a number. We discussed and compared the percent proportion (text section 5-3) and the percent equation (text section 5-6).
Periods 3, 4, 6: We continued to practice calculating the circumference of a circle (given either the diameter or the radius).

1. Students listened to “Ransom for Hector” from Black Ships and also looked at some pictures from Paul Fleischmann’s book, Dateline Troy that gives a brief synopsis of the Iliad on the left hand side of the book and then on the right has some pictures or news articles of current war events. We talked about the pictures and what Homer’s and Fleischmann’s themes were.
2. We went over the Hera/Io outline.
3. Began to prepare for a quiz that will be next Tuesday on the Greek gods and goddesses, their realms, and their symbols. Students have been given 2 study guides (one is a photo copy of pages 22-23 in the D’aulaire’s book on which we took lots of notes. (last week) Today they received a 3 column worksheet asking them to identify the realms and symbols of the gods and goddesses.
4. There is a quiz on my website for the Greek gods and their realms and symbols that students can also use to help prepare for the quiz.
5. Reading logs (citing conflict) are due on Friday.

Students corrected their Ch. 6 tests.  We then started our research into the NH species project.  Students were asked to make a list of 10 species they would consider becoming experts about.

 

Students finished viewing the movie - China, Dynasties of Power (Time/Life). They began an "open wiki" test on ancient China.

Today students worked on the principal parts of a verb.
Homework- Edit DOL 20  and finish the final draft of the research paper

All Classes: 20Q #5 is due on Wednesday. Pi Day will be celebrated on Friday — study your Pi sheet for a friendly competition!
Periods 1, 7: We discussed finding benchmark percents of numbers today, and also estimated using these same benchmarks. Homework: Worksheet “SG 5-4 and 5-5.”
Periods 3, 4, 6: We labeled the parts of a circle and then used calculators to determine the circumference (given the radius or diameter). Homework: finish WS “SG 6-9” (front only).

Students learned about Hera by reading pages 24-27 from the D'Aulaire's Book of Greek Myths. They completed an ouline based on this story.

 Students completed the Ch 6 test.

Students viewed a movie - China, Dynasties of Power (Time/Life). There is an "open wiki" test on ancient China is scheduled for tomorrow.

Students took the unit 8 spelling quiz today.  The rest of the class time was spent finishing up rough drafts of a light verse poem.

Today was quiz day. Please see me on Monday if you were absent so that you can make up the quiz.
Please remember that 20Q #5 is due on Wednesday.

Reading logs were collected today. Student listened to “Funeral Games” from Black Ships. If you missed class today you can listen to this chapter by going to my website and looking for the link to Black Ships before Troy. The 12 chapters we have listened to are all recorded on the website. Student played “Go Fish” Olympian style until the end of class to help learn the Greek gods, their realms, and symbols. Mythology club students are also working on learning the Roman names.

Students completed the practice test on pages 172 and 173 of their text...in class.  We corrected in class.  Students have their Ch 6, test on Monday.  Students may use their own notes on the test.

Students continued reviewing and evaluating sections of the China 2010 wiki. An "open wiki" test on ancient China is scheduled for Tuesday, March 9th. Some classes began viewing a movie - China, Dynasties of Power (Time/Life).

Students corrected page 2 of the spelling packet.  The rest of class was spent writing Light Verse poems.

Home work- study the unit 8 spelling words- quiz on Friday

 Continue working on the final draft of the research paper- Due March 9

All Classes: 20Q #5 is due on Wednesday.
Periods 1, 7: Reviewed for tomorrow’s proportions quiz.
Periods 3, 4, 6: Reviewed for tomorrow’s fractions quiz (multiplying and dividing).

Students listened to “Vengeance for Patroclus” from Black Ships. They played Olympian “Go Fish” to help learn the gods and goddesses names, realms, and symbols. Mythology Club students also have to learn the Roman names.
Reading logs are due tomorrow.

Students took part in a video/Mindjogger review of Ch 6. Students were assigned a two-class period assignment: p. 172  Q’s 1-12, 14 & 15,  p. 173  Q’s 15-18, and 20.  Students will correct this work at the end of class on Friday and hand it in after that. Reminder- test on Ch. 6 is Monday.

Students continued reviewing and evaluating sections of the China 2010 wiki. An "open wiki" test on ancient China is scheduled for Tuesday, March 9th.

Students spent class reviewing the spelling skill sheet and
spelling words.  Unit 8 words can be found on the sixth grade website.

We also read and discussed  a Light Verse poem.  Students will be writing a
Light Verse poem in class throughout the week.

Homework-  Page 2 of the spelling packet (front and back)
                  Study spelling words- quiz is Friday

Continue to work on the final draft of the Research Paper (Research Paper Rubric).  Final Draft is due March 9th.

Attached are two links to help students with the final draft. (Research Paper Due Dates)

All classes: 20Q #5 was passed on today and is due back next Wednesday, 3/10.
Periods 1, 7: We reviewed proportions and similar polygons today for Friday’s quiz. Homework: text p. 199 #16-23.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We created a study guide together for a quiz on Friday (covering multiplying and dividing fractions & mixed numbers). These study guides are written in the “notes” section of the math notebook. We spent class time learning about and practicing the division of fractions. Homework: worksheet “SG 6-6.”

Students listened to “The Armor of Achilles” today from Black Ships before Troy. They made 2 predictions as they listened and identified 2 man vs. fate conflicts. We also corrected the outline “Zeus and His Family” and then took notes on a copied page of Zeus and his family portrait on pages 22-23 of the D’Aulaire’s Book of Greek Myths. Students highlighted the symbols for each god or goddess and then labeled them by name.
Reading Logs are due on Friday.

Students finished their simulation and data gathering using the food web game.  Students must graph their energy point data tonight for homework.  Remember that: graphs must be neat, have a title, have axis labels, units, and a proper header.  Graphs can be made better by using color but it is not required.

Reminder- Ch 6 test on Monday, 3-08-10.

Students continued reviewing and evaluating sections of the China 2010 wiki. An "open wiki" test on ancient China is scheduled for Tuesday, March 9th.

All class periods received the rough draft of their research paper. The due date of the final draft is March 9th. Students should begin working on their final draft each night.

Class time was spent reviewing the spelling words for unit 8. The practice exercise and the back side of the spelling skill sheet is due tomorrow.

Class time was also spent reviewing alliteration.

Periods 1, 7:  We continued working with proportions today. We used strategies for solving proportions to help determine whether or not two polygons are similar.  We will have a quiz on text sections 4-4 and 4-5 on Friday. Homework: worksheet “P 4-5.”
Periods 3, 4, 6: We continued multiplying fractions and mixed numbers. However, today we learned the “trick” of simplifying before we multiply in order to make the work much easier! Homework: worksheet “P 6-4.”

Students watched a video about the Hoplite Warrior narrated by Walter Cronkite. They looked for 5 facts as they viewed this video. It is an excellent video that gives a good view of ancient warfare.
Reading logs are due on Friday.

Students continued reviewing and evaluating sections of the China 2010 wiki. An "open wiki" test on ancient China is scheduled for Tuesday, March 9th.

Students took a pretest for spelling unit 8.  Tonight’s homework is to correctly spell each word marked wrong five times each.

Periods 1, 7: Today we discussed the meaning of a proportion, and then developed several ways to solve or check proportions. Homework: text p. 172 #16-32 even.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We continued multiplying fractions and mixed numbers (introduced Friday before vacation). Homework: worksheet “SG 6-4.”

Students received their grades for the Works Cited and Title Page grades and put them in their reading portfolios so that they will have them when they finish writing their research paper. If you want to know you child’s score please email me and I can let you know.
We learned about Conflict in Fiction. Students are to use their reading log each night and identify one type of conflict each day and write about it on the reading log. The reading log is due FRIDAY-March 5.
Finally students finished an outline entitled “Zeus and His Family” and then received “Go Fish” cards that they need to cut out by tomorrow. This game will help students learn the Greek gods and goddesses’ names, their role, and their symbols.
ATTACHMENTS FOR TODAY INCLUDE:
Conflict in Fiction
Go Fish

The Egyptian research project presentations continued today. Some classes began reviewing and evaluating sections of the China 2010 wiki.

Students (per.3 and per. 4) took the verb quiz today.  When finished, we reviewed personification and shared examples of personification.  We also discussed Longfellow’s The Tide Rises, the Tide Falls.

Group 2 (allegory)  typed final drafts of their allegory poem.

Happy vacation!

Period 3, 4: We worked on drawing fraction problems, and then found short cuts to make the work easier. Converting mixed numbers to improper fractions and multiplying fractions were covered.
(No periods 1, 6, or 7 today).

Students finished the outline “In Olden Times”, updated their dictionaries, and if necessary turned in missing title pages and works cited pages for the research paper. No reading logs!

Mythology Club will met today and our first real meeting will be on Tuesday, March 2. Anyone still interested in joining just sign up!!! I can prepare folders for newcomers for after vacation. Students who had already signed up received folders, a CD game, and a Go Fish game.

The Egyptian research project presentations continued today.

Students took the verb quiz today.  When finished, we reviewed personification and shared examples of personification.  We also discussed Longfellow’s The Tide Rises, the Tide Falls.

Group 2 (allegory)  typed final drafts of their allegory poem.

All Classes: All late work is due tomorrow and will not be accepted after vacation unless there are extenuating circumstances and you have spoken with me in advance. All signed quizzes with or without corrections are due tomorrow (even if you don’t have class).
Periods 1, 7: Today we graphed linear equations. Using function tables and slope-intercept, students worked in table groups to graph lines, and also to determine the equation of given lines.
Period 6: We worked on drawing fraction problems, and then found short cuts to make the work easier. Converting mixed numbers to improper fractions and multiplying fractions were covered.
(No periods 3 or 4 today).

Students finished the outline “In Olden Times”, updated their dictionaries, and if necessary turned in missing title pages and works cited pages for the research paper. No reading logs!

Mythology Club will meet briefly tomorrow and our first real meeting will be on Tuesday, March 2.

The Egyptian research project presentations continued today.

Students continued reviewing for the verb quiz.  Some periods will have the quiz Thursday, while others will take it Friday.  It all depends on the schedule for the next two days.

Students not taking the quiz are busy writing allegories.  We also spent some time today learning about assonance.

Homework-  Students taking the quiz should study tonight .  Each student was given a guide to help prepare for the quiz.  

All Classes: Today we reviewed Monday’s CML and reviewed and corrected last week’s PS #5. All late work along with signed quizzes/ corrections are due by Friday. No late work will be accepted after vacation unless there are extenuating circumstances, and/or the student has cleared the extension with me.

Students listened to “The High King’s Embassy” from Black Ships and looked at the art (p. 19) that goes along with it. Students also completed the “Somebody Wanted But So” paper (p. 20) for Achilles and the men in the embassy. If you missed class today you can hear this chapter on Ms. Perkins’ website (www.bownet.org/eperkins) Please look for the Black Ships before Troy link.

Students worked on the outline that accompanies pages 8-23 from D’Aulaire’s Book of Greek Myths. If you missed this class, or one previously, you can listen to these pages on my website. Please look for the D’Aulaires Book of Greek Myths link.

NO READING LOGS THIS WEEK.

MYTHOLOGY CLUB: Due to the snow day yesterday, Mythology Club will meet briefly tomorrow (Thursday) during study hall in Room C. You will receive a folder and some games to help learn the Roman names for the Greek gods and goddesses. If you cannot meet tomorrow I can work around that. We will meet Tuesday after vacation. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A RIDE AT 4:00.

The Egyptian research project presentations began today.

Many students were given time to review with their table group and with Mrs. D. the difference between a linking verb and a helping verb.  Many are still struggling with this and will have this week to really focus on these two particular skills.

Homework for the review group-  Write or type  10 sentences.................and then break each one between subject and predicate.  
                                        Put mountain caps under the verb/verb phrase

The group that does not need the review did a THINK ALOUD on the song BLACKBIRD.    We discussed what an allegory is and determined the meaning/message behind the lyrics of the song.  Students will spend time this week writing their own allegory.

All Classes: Today was CML #4. Last week’s quizzes were handed back. Quiz corrections are worth half credit (to be added to the original quiz score) and must be returned with a signed quiz no later than Friday 2/19.

Reading logs were collected today-no reading log until March. (Online reading logs are no longer available until further notice.) Students worked on an outline of the D’Aulaire’s book. We will finish it tomorrow and discuss in class.

Please turn in your Works Cited and Title Pages if you haven’t done so.

IMPORTANT:  MYTHOLOGY CLUB STARTS TOMORROW!!!! PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A RIDE AT 4:00, OR DO NOT STAY!!!!

The Egyptian research project presentations began today.

Students worked on the closing paragraph of the research paper.  Many finished and are now completely done with the rough draft of their essays.  Those who need it for their social studies presentation may have it back, but they must remember to return it to Mrs. DeAngelis when finished.

Students will begin the final draft the week after vacation.

All Classes: Today was quiz day. No new homework, but please remember that CML is on Monday!

Students listened to “The Women of Troy” from Black Ships before Troy. If you missed class you can hear this chapter by going to my website and finding the link to Black Ships before Troy.
We corrected the “Get to Know the Mythology Book” and talked about how it is organized. After that I read the first few chapters to students from D’Aulaire’s Book of Greek Myths.
Reading logs are due on Monday. !

Guest speaker, Jan Zhen, talked with the students about China. She taught the students several characters used by the Shang Dynasty (referring to oracle bones and ritual vessels) and showed the current symbols used today. She answered a great many questions!

Many students handed in the body of the research essay.  The closing paragraph was discussed.  Students will begin working on the closing paragraphs tomorrow.

Periods 1, 7: We did a quick review for tomorrow’s quiz (covering rates & ratios, rates of change and slope).
Periods 3, 4, 6: We reviewed for tomorrow’s fraction quiz (adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers).

We started using the D’Aulaire’s Book of Greek Myths by doing a scavenger hunt of sorts through the book so students could learn how the book is organized. This book is a classic and is recommended by the American Classical League for grades 3-9! It is very well organized and has wonderful illustrations that enhance reading comprehension!!!
Reading logs are due Monday!

Students began evaluating the wiki about Ancient China. They can access the BMS China 2010 wiki using the following: http://quicktime.bownet.org/

Students worked on the body of the research paper. Homework tonight-  finish the paragraphs of the body.  Please remember to check the due dates frequently.

All Classes: PS #5 was due today. You will not have another weekly assignment until after vacation.
Periods 1, 7: We practiced for Friday’s quiz using practice problems on text page 624. Any problems that were not completed in class should be completed for homework. Classwork/Homework: text p. 624: Section 4-1 #1-19 column, Section 4-2 #2-6 even, and Section 4-3: all.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We continued our work with adding & subtracting fractions — and we’re now including mixed numbers. Keep practicing for the quiz on Friday. Homework: text p. 250 #16-26 even.

Greek Mythology began today in Reading class. Ms. Perkins was out and Ms. Medusa took her place. We started learning the names of the Greek gods and goddesses.
Reading logs are due Monday.

Students finished adding information to the wiki about Ancient China. They can access the BMS China 2010 wiki using the following: http://quicktime.bownet.org/

The body of the research paper was modeled and started.
Homework:  work on the body of the research paper – due Thursday

All Classes: PS #5 is due tomorrow. Don’t forget your EYT! Our next CML will be given on Monday.
Periods 1, 7: We worked on slope problems again. We will be having a quiz on Friday covering rates & ratios, rates of change, and slope (text sections 4-1 through 4-3). Homework: text p. 168 #6-14.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We worked on adding and subtracting fractions with a “twist” (negative numbers thrown in!). We will be having a quiz on Friday covering the first part of chapter 6 (adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers). Homework: text p. 246 #3-14.

Students worked on Works Cited and Title pages. This is the last class day to work on them and they are due tomorrow.

Reading logs are due Monday.

Students continued researching information for the wiki about Ancient China. They can access the BMS China 2010 wiki using the following: http://quicktime.bownet.org/

Students are finishing up the introductory paragraph of the research paper.  We will work on the Body of the paper tomorrow.  Students also reviewed personification and were given a poem to look at.  The poem will be discussed tomorrow as well.


Homework-  Students need to get a signature on a parent letter and finish the introductory paragraph if they did not finish it in class.

Help Session Tomorrow-  Helping Verbs and Linking Verbs

All Classes: PS #5 due Wednesday
Periods 1, 7: We picked up where we left off on Friday with slope. We practiced both counting and calculating the “rise over run” and then also graphed the lines. Homework: Worksheet “Practice 4-3.”
Periods 3, 4, 6: Today the students completed a fraction “review/preview” to see where their skills and needs are with regard to fraction concepts. We practiced adding and subtracting like and unlike fractions. Homework: Worksheet “SG 6-2.”

Reading classes listened to “Single Combat” and took notes on man vs. fate examples in this chapter from Black Ships before Troy. Absent students can hear this chapter on my website (www.bownet.org/eperkins). The link is Black Ships before Troy. We will be completing a “somebody wanted but so” summary paper tomorrow in class.

Students worked on their works cited and title pages. If they are completed students are to add the 6 new roots that were introduced last week and if they earned less than a 90% on the dictionary, they are to edit it and clean it up. I will be checking those electronically next Wednesday (2/17) in class. They should not print them out again-too much paper. We will print them out sometime in May when they are completed.

Reading logs were collected today. Next week’s reading logs are due on Monday (2/15). Please see my website (www.bownet.org/eperkins) for reading logs if your child has forgotten it at school. Both types of reading logs are available there as well as the “February Reading Choices”.

Students continued researching information for the wiki about Ancient China. They can access the BMS China 2010 wiki using the following: http://quicktime.bownet.org/

Students took the unit 13 spelling quiz today.  Mrs. DeAngelis handed out a packet that contained the due dates for the research paper, as well as a rubric for self-editing/grading purposes.  Students are being asked NOT to go ahead of the class and write their rough drafts at home.  It is important that they wait for the guided instructions that will take place in class.

Final drafts, however, will be written at home.  Anyone who wishes to type the rough draft should bring a flash drive to school every day, starting on Monday.

All Classes: PS #5 is due on Wednesday.
Periods 1, 7: Today we discussed rates of change and began to identify slopes as positive, negative, or zero. We also interpreted different graphs. No new homework.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We corrected homework dealing with LCD and comparing fractions. We then extended the process to practice adding fractions with unlike denominators. No new homework.

In Reading class today, students learned how to create a title page for the Egypt research paper. The research for the paper is almost all done, but some students still need to find a bit more information. Yesterday we did the works cited page. These two pages will be due sometime next week-I’m waiting to see how long this takes students to do in a reasonable period of time. This type of work is very stressful for many students because it is so detail-oriented, hence I am not setting any hard and fast deadlines right now. Have a good weekend!

Reading logs are due Monday and remember that weekend reading is extra credit!!!!

Students continued researching information for the wiki about Ancient China. They can access the BMS China 2010 wiki using the following: http://quicktime.bownet.org/

Time was spent correcting the spelling packets as well as reviewing the spelling words.  The spelling quiz is Friday.
       Students also spent time writing the opening paragraph of their research paper.

Homework- study the spelling words.

All Classes: PS #5 was passed out today and is due back next Wednesday. Remember your EYT — see me if you need help or want me to check your explanation.
Periods 1, 7: We reviewed rates and ratios, and then moved on to rate of change (text section 4-2). Homework: text p. 163 #3-10.
Periods 3, 4, 6: Quizzes were handed back. We reviewed LCM problems and then moved on to using our LCM methods to find common  denominators. We also discussed three different ways to compare fractions. Homework: text p. 230 #14-26 even & get chapter 5 quiz signed.

Students created their Works Cited page in class today. We are handwriting these final drafts, but if students choose to type their Egypt paper in Language Arts class, they may certainly type the Works Cited page as well. Just remember that when a paper is handwritten you single space, but if you type it, EVERYTHING IS double-spaced.

Reading logs are due Monday.

Students continued researching information for the wiki about Ancient China. They can access the BMS China 2010 wiki using the following: http://quicktime.bownet.org/

Students took a quiz on linking verbs and helping verbs.  The rest of class time was spent working on our research outlines.

Spelling quiz is Friday.

We will begin writing the rough draft of the research paper tomorrow.

Periods 1, 7: We worked on strengthening our understanding of rates and ratios. Students should read over the information in text section 4-1 if they are still feeling unsure. Homework: text p. 158 #11-23 odd.
Periods 3, 4, 6: Today we worked on LCM. We discussed and took notes on the similarities and differences of GCF and LCM. Homework: text p. 226 #8-18 even.

Students were introduced to 6 new Greek roots:
hydr/hrdro-water
metr-measure
pon-sound
photo-light
scope-see or watch
tele-far away

We did an in class activity with these roots and then students added them (if they didn’t have them already) to their dictionaries. The 6 new roots need to be in their dictionaries by Tuesday.

In addition, students who scored 89 points or lower on the dictionary project were asked to go back into them and clean up the editing, particularly in the sentence section. They have until 2/17 to clean them up. They do NOT need to reprint them!!!! We will reprint in May when they are done. I will be asking to see them electronically on 2/17 however.

Reading logs are due Monday.

Students began researching information for the wiki about Ancient China. They were assigned one of the attached questions.

Students corrected their homework and handed it in. Students used a Mindjogger video quiz to review major concepts of Chapter 18. Students then worked on a cause and effect worksheet regarding the concept of climate and climate change.  It was handed in at the end of class.

All Classes: Please get those late portfolios back in with a parent signature!
Periods 1, 7: Today we started working on Rates and Ratios (chapter 4). Homework: text p. 158 #10-24 even & return signed quizzes.
Periods 3, 4, 6: Today was our Chapter 5 fraction/decimal/percent quiz. No new homework.

Students worked on the research for their Egypt paper again today. Today is the last reading class day that will be devoted to the research.
We also listened to the beginning of Chapter 3 from Black Ships before Troy. This is recorded on my website and can be listened to at home!!!!

Students learned about the process of creating a wiki. They will be working on a wiki about Ancient China during the next several classes.

Students were given a study guide on helping verbs and linking verbs.  The guide gives a brief explanation as well as exercises to use as practice.  The helping/linking verb quiz will be Wednesday.

Class time was also spent working with this week’s spelling words.  To get a list of the words, please go to the LA website- Unit 13.
Students also spent class time putting their research information into an outline. (See attached outline.) We are getting ready to write our research papers.


Homework:  Spelling-  complete the Practice exercise on the spelling paper  (due Tuesday)
                  Rewrite each word spelled incorrectly on the pretest 10 times each (Students with over 8 misspelled words can write them five times each)  Due Wednesday

                  Using the study guide, practice identifying linking verbs and helping verbs.

Periods 1, 7: Quizzes from last week were passed back and discussed. Please share the quiz at home and return it with a parent signature for your portfolio. We reviewed graphing and solving inequalities.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We reviewed fractions/decimals/percents for tomorrow’s quiz. Use your study guide from Friday to practice more at home.

Students continued to work on their research for the Egypt project. Tomorrow will the last day we will work on research in reading class.

Homework: Reading logs were turned in today and a new one handed out today. February Reading Choices are also available. We talked in class about the importance of reading a little bit every day and how students who read just a little each day (or a lot) improve vocabulary, reading comprehension skills, and their overall knowledge base. If you are sick of the “regular  reading log” please take advantage of the February Choices.

Students completed the debate entitled "Only the Strong Survives" based on a comparison between the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Nubia.

Students decided when they will present the researched information on Egypt to the social studies class. They were given a grading rubric for the written report and the visual representation.

All Classes: Signed math portfolios are due back by Monday.
Periods 1, 7: Students worked on solving and graphing inequalities today. No new homework.
Periods 3, 4, 6: There will be a quiz next Tuesday covering the first few topics in chapter 5. They will be converting, comparing and ordering fractions, decimals and percents. Students were given a study guide and spent class time filling in the correct answers.

Students worked in the library today to continue the research for their Egypt paper. We also listened to “Ship Gathering” from Black Ships before Troy. As students listened they wrote questions, connections, and predictions to the story (using their Black Ships packet and the page for this chapter). You can listen to this by following the link on my website.

Reading logs due Monday.
Research will end on Tuesday.

Mythology Club will begin on February 16. The flyer is attached! Briefly, we will meet on Tuesday afternoons from 3:15-4:00 and learn more about Greek mythology than what is covered in the regular reading classes. This club is also preparing for a national competition called the National Mythology Exam. We are in our 12th year of Mythology Club! I’m also looking for a parent(s) volunteer who would organize snacks for Mythology Club. There is also a pizza party following the National Mythology Exam.

Students participated in a debate entitled "Only the Strong Survives" based on a comparison between the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Nubia.

We spent class time working on a skill sheet that combined linking verbs and helping verbs.  Students were required to find the verb/verb phrase and determine if the verb is a main verb (linking or action) or a helping verb.  If it was a linking verb, students were then required to determine the predicate word (PA/PN)

Homework- Skill sheet on verbs.

All Classes: If you haven’t already done so, please share your portfolio at home and return with a parent signature (due back by Monday).
Periods 1, 7: Today was quiz day. No new work.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We continued to work with fractions, decimals and percents. Homework: text p. 218 #24 –36 even.

Reading students continued research in the library on their Egypt research paper. Students need to have three sources and two different types of sources (internet, books, encyclopedia, or magazines). We will finish research on Tuesday, February 2. (See grading rubric)

Students also listened to the end of chapter one in  Black Ships before Troy. This is a book that I am recording for the students and the first three chapters can be found on my website, if you want to listen at home.

Mythology Club will begin on February 16. The flyer is attached! Briefly, we will meet on Tuesday afternoons from 3:15-4:00 and learn more about Greek mythology than what is covered in the regular reading classes. This club is also preparing for a national competition called the National Mythology Exam. We are in our 12th year of Mythology Club! I’m also looking for a parent(s) volunteer who would organize snacks for Mythology Club. There is also a pizza party following the National Mythology Exam.

Students worked with team members (Egypt or Nubia) preparing opening statements, questions, rebuttals, and closing statements for the upcoming debate entitled "Only the Strong Survives" scheduled for tomorrow.

We spent class time going over the homework from Monday (Verb Phrases)  The rest of class was spent finishing up final drafts of poems.

All Classes: Please share your math portfolios at home and return them with a parent signature.
Periods 1, 7: We reviewed for tomorrow’s quiz. Practice at home too!
Periods 3, 4, 6: We corrected PS #4 and late night’s fraction/decimal/percent chart. We also practiced some additional conversions.

Students listened to Black Ships before Troy and worked on their research for the Egypt paper. Reading logs are due Monday.

Students finished reading and gathering information about Nubia to compare with Egypt (using Venn diagrams) for an upcoming debate entitled "Only the Strong Survives" scheduled for Friday.

Many students spent class time revisiting a Linking Verb paper with me.  Students were given the opportunity to redo the activity for a better grade.  Students who did not need to revisit the paper worked on the final draft of their poems.

All Classes: PS #4 is due tomorrow. Portfolios were handed out today. They should be shared at home and returned asap with a parent signature.
Periods 1,7: We reviewed with some equation practice. Homework: continue to practice for Thursday’s quiz; text p. 505-506 #7-26.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We discussed and took notes on percents and how to convert them to fractions and decimals. Homework: finish the fraction/decimal/percent chart.

Students began their research in earnest today. Please know that how to cite sources, how to take notes, etc., can all be found on my website (www.bownet.org/eperkins). The link is called “Research Writing”.  
We also started Black Ships before Troy and heard the first part of “The Golden Apple.”
Reading logs are due Monday.

Students continued reading and gathering information about Nubia to compare with Egypt (using Venn diagrams) for an upcoming debate entitled "Only the Strong Survives" scheduled for Friday.

Today we worked on identifying a verb phrase in a sentence.  We did a compare and contrast of linking verbs and helping verbs.  Class time was also spent refining our working thesis for the Egyptian research project.

Homework-  Verb Phrase skill sheet.  The directions were changed.  Students are to break each sentence, underline the subject, and place mountain caps under the verb phrase.
***Period 4 does not have the homework assignment.

All Classes: PS #4 due Wednesday.
Periods 1, 7: We briefly revisited the skill of writing equations (section 10-3) and then focused on Solving Equations with Variables on Each side (section 10-4). Our quiz on Thursday will focus on equations (text sections 10-1 through 10-4). Homework: text p. 486 #10-19 All, and prepare for quiz.
Periods 3, 4, 6: Today we discussed and took notes on converting fractions and decimals. Homework: text p. 212 #2-13 All.

Reading students started their research today for their Egyptian Research Paper. Each student was given (or will be given) a new folder in which to keep all their papers since this paper is going to be involved with 3 classes-reading, language arts, and social studies.)
Students were also given a new “book” called Black Ships before Troy, by Rosemary Sutcliff which will become a read-aloud in each class. This book is a photocopied packet of art and reading comprehension activities that we will use as we read this book. Students need to put their name on the cover and color the front page so that their book is identifiable from all the other books that have the same cover. We actually start this read aloud tomorrow in class.
Reading logs are due next Monday.

Students began reading and gathering information about Nubia to compare with Egypt (using Venn diagrams) for an upcoming debate entitled "Only the Strong Survives" scheduled for Friday.

Students began drafting a thesis statement for the research project about Egypt.

All Classes: PS #4 is due next Wednesday. Quarter 2 grades close on Monday, and math portfolios will be coming home for review and a signature early next week.
Periods 1, 7: Another day with 2-step equations. I handed back test corrections and 20Q #4 for the students to see scores and recollected for the math portfolios. We will have an equations quiz next Thursday (text sections 10-1 through 10-4).
Periods 3, 4, 6: We finished and corrected our multiplication timings. We also spent some time on PS #4, discussing acceptable ways to write our “EYT" responses.

Today was a very relaxing day in Reading class. We updated portfolios, handed back all kinds of papers, updated reading lists, and ended with silent reading. Thus, we cleaned up my messy table!!!! All the papers are back to the students and in their portfolios and off my table!! We start Egyptian research on Monday in the library and will be having class in the library all next week. We are also starting a read aloud next week called, Black Ships before Troy: The Story of the Iliad, by Rosemary Sutcliff!!!

Students completed the Egypt Evaluation during class today.

In class we finished correcting the last three DOL sentences.  We also spent time discussing the research paper that will be coming in the near future.  Students learned about the function of a thesis statement and how to create a solid thesis statement to guide their research.

Homework- rewrite DOL sentences 4-6. See the attached link.

All Classes:  PS #4 is due on Wednesday. We will discuss “EYT” writing tomorrow in class, so remember to bring the PS with you!
Periods 1, 7: We continued to work on solving more difficult 2-step equations. Our next quiz will be on Thursday 1/27 and will cover text sections 10-1 through 10-4. Homework: text p. 477 #13-42 column.
Periods 3, 4, 6: Today was quiz day. No new homework.

Students worked on the Works Cited page for their poster project. Reading logs are due Monday-no new homework.

Students played a game called "Race to the Top" to review for the upcoming Egypt test tomorrow. See Study Guide.

We corrected sentences 1-3 of the DOL assignment.  See the attached link.
       We also spent time studying the Helping Verb Chart.  See the attached link

All Classes: PS #4 was handed out, and is due back next Wednesday 1/27.
Periods 1, 7: We had our fact timing today. We also reviewed simplifying expressions and solving 2-step equations. Homework: text p. 476 #4-12 even.
Periods 3, 4, 6: Period 4 had a fact timing, but periods 3 and 6 will have theirs either tomorrow or Friday (depending on time). We spent our time today practicing for tomorrow’s quiz. Quiz tomorrow on divisibility rules, prime factorization, and GCF (use study guide from yesterday and review sheet from today to help you prepare).

Students learned how to create a Works Cited page using the updated MLA format requirements. Students will create a group Works Cited page tomorrow that will be attached to the poster they have created.

Students reviewed the information for the upcoming Egypt test this Friday, 1/22. See Study Guide. They also began reading a play entitled Egypt, 2500BC (J. Weston Walch, Publisher).

Students received a DOL assignment today.  Time was spent reviewing pronoun-antecedent agreement (found in sentences 4,5, and 6 of the DOL)
        We also went over the function of a helping verb and identifying helping verbs.  Students created a Helping Verb chart from a story entitled OLD MR. DO.

Homework- edit (not rewrite) the six DOL sentences-due tomorrow
                 study the helping verb chart- “pop quiz” later in the week. :)

All Classes: Fact packet is due tomorrow, and we’ll be having another fact timing tomorrow.
Periods 1, 7: Today we reviewed 2-step equations and practiced simplifying expressions (text section 10-1). Homework: text p. 472 #16-46 column. Get quiz signed (handed out on Friday),
Periods 3, 4, 6: Today we created a study guide for Thursday’s Ch. 5 Quiz. The quiz will cover divisibility, prime factorization, and GCF. Homework: complete GCF practice problems (in notebook).

Students worked on their non-fiction poster projects in class today. This is the last in-class day students had to work on them. They are due on Thursday by the end of the day.
Dictionaries: This project will be considered late starting on Thursday. .

Students completed notes on Lesson 4, "Later Egyptian Rule" (pages 150 - 155). They selected which of the note taking methods they found most useful.

There will be a test on Egypt this Friday, 1/22. See Study Guide.

Students went over last night’s home work.  They printed final drafts of their metaphor poems.

All Classes: Fact packet is due on Wednesday, and we will be having another multiplication timing then too.
Periods 1, 7: We reviewed yesterday’s quiz (which is coming home for a signature) and practiced solving 1- and 2-step equations.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We worked a bit more with prime factorization and then used this skill to help us find GCF.

Students continue to work on their paragraph for their non-fiction topic and to create their poster. The posters will be due next Thursday.

Students are to show their dictionary to their parents and to ask for a signature on the dictionary.

Students began taking notes on Lesson 4, "Later Egyptian Rule" (pages 150 - 155). They selected which of the note taking methods they found most useful.

Students began typing the final draft of their poems.  The second half of class was spent reviewing linking verbs.  Homework -  complete a linking verb skill sheet

All Classes: Fact packet due on Wednesday and timing on Wednesday, too.
Periods 1, 7: Today was quiz day. No new homework.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We practiced factoring numbers and finding the prime factorization (aka “making factor trees”). Homework: prime factorization worksheet.

Students continue to work on their paragraph for their non-fiction topic and to create their poster. The posters will be due next Wednesday although this Friday will be the last class day to work on them.

Online dictionaries went home today in the reading portfolio. Students are to show their dictionary to their parents and to ask for a signature on the dictionary.

Students finished notes on Lesson 3, "Early Egyptian Rule" (pages 146 - 147), using bubble maps.

Class started with students volunteering to read their metaphor poems.  We had the opportunity to hear many wonderful poems.
                 Today’s lesson focused on linking verbs.

                Homework- finish writing a metaphor poem.  The first draft is due tomorrow.  

Reminder-  grade level bee is tomorrow during study hall.  School wide bee is January 20th.

All Classes: 20Q #4 was due today. Multiplication packets were handed out and are due back next Wednesday. We will have another multiplication timing on Wed. 1/20.
Periods 1, 7: We reviewed the three topics that will be covered on tomorrow’s quiz with practice problems from pages 621 (sections 2-8 and 2-9) and 642 (section 11-1). Continue to practice at home as needed for the quiz.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We practiced our divisibility rules and started to discuss prime and composite numbers. No new homework.

Students continue to work on their paragraph for their non-fiction topic and to create their poster. The posters will be due next Wednesday although this Friday will be the last class day to work on them.

Online dictionaries went home today in the reading portfolio. Students are to show their dictionary to their parents and to ask for a signature on the dictionary.

Students continued notes on Lesson 3, "Early Egyptian Rule" (pages 144 - 145), using bubble maps.

Today’s morning help session covered prepositional phrases, parenthetical expressions, and appositives.
       NO help session next Tuesday 1/19/10.

  In class-  We reviewed how to write a metaphor.  We again discussed the Langston Hughes poem.  The rest of class was spent distinguishing between a
                state-of-being verb and an action verb.

Homework-  Tuesday- Finish poetry organizer    Begin drafting (see Writing Template) poem
                   Wednesday-  Finish poem- first draft is due Thursday

All Classes: 20Q #4 is due tomorrow. Please remember that if there is work to be done to complete an answer, you MUST show the work to get credit.
Periods 1, 7: We discussed and took notes on Sequences (text section 11-1). We practiced identifying sequences and then finding and continuing patterns. Homework: text p. 514 #10-24 even. Use study guide (from class yesterday) to help you prepare for tomorrow’s quiz.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We discussed divisibility and practiced using divisibility rules. Homework: complete divisibility worksheet.

Students continue to work on their paragraph for their non-fiction topic and to create their poster. The posters will be due next Wednesday although this Friday will be the last class day to work on them.

Students continued notes on Lesson 3, "Early Egyptian Rule" (pages 141 - 143), using bubble maps.

Students participated in the classroom spelling bee.  The school wide spelling bee is January 20, 2010.

All Classes: 20Q #4 due on Wednesday. Today’s date is a palindrome (reads the same forwards and backwards): 01/11/10!
Periods 1,7: Today we covered and took notes on scientific notation (using both positive and negative exponents). We will be taking a quiz on Thursday, covering A. exponents & powers, B. scientific notation, and C. sequences. Homework: text p. 106 #14-36 even.
Periods 3, 4, 6: Today we discussed “rate of change” problems. Using the story of a boy walking... we discussed 4 different graphs and the ways to determine the speed at which the boy was walking. No new homework.

Students continued to research their topic and began drafting their paragraph. This will continue through tomorrow. Once students have completed the final draft of their paragraph they will begin to work on the poster. I have the poster paper in the room-PLEASE do not go get those 3-sided things!!! This is NOT a huge project. The purpose is to prep the students for the upcoming research paper on Egypt in a few weeks.

Students began notes on Lesson 3, "Early Egyptian Rule" (pages 141 - 143), using two-column notes.

Students corrected last night’s homework on prepositional phrases.  Most classes (periods 7,1, and 3) started graphic organizers for a metaphor poem.
Classroom spelling bee will be Monday 1/11.

All Classes: 20 Q#4 is due Wednesday.
Today in class we went over the correct answers and useful strategies for yesterday’s CML competition.

Students continued to research their topic and some began drafting their paragraph. This will continue through Monday and Tuesday . Once students have completed the final draft of their paragraph they will begin to work on the poster. I have the poster paper in the room-PLEASE do not go get those 3-sided things!!! This is NOT a huge project. The purpose is to prep the students for the upcoming research paper on Egypt in a few weeks.

Students continued taking notes on Lesson 2, "Importance of the Nile River" (pages 135 - 138) using an informal outline.

Students took the unit 7 spelling quiz today.  We also spent time reviewing the function of a prepositional phrase and how to identify a phrase in a sentence.  Homework-  prepositional phrase skill sheet.

All Classes: Today was CML day. No new homework. 20Q #4 is due next Wednesday.
Periods 1,7: Please remember Test Corrections are due (or just a signed test if you’re not correcting) tomorrow. I will not be accepting late corrections unless you’ve been absent and have talked to me about an extension.

Students worked on taking notes for their research paragraph. We will begin drafting the paragraphs tomorrow but students will still have time to continue with research if they need the time. Reading logs are due Monday.
DICTIONARY UPDATE: I am almost done grading the dictionaries. Some students have not turned them in yet. I will NOT count them late until I finish grading the ones I have now. That could be as early as tomorrow. If your student has not turned it in yet please ask them to get it to me so that they are not marked off for being late. If you are not sure if your child turned in the dictionary, just email me and I can help.

Students began the process of taking notes on Lesson 2, "Importance of the Nile River" (pages 135 - 138) using note cards.

Students corrected their spelling packets today.  The rest of class was spent reviewing the words and finding fun ways to remember how to distinguish between the homophones.  

Spelling quiz is tomorrow.

All Classes: 20 Q #4 due Wednesday 1/13. Also, tomorrow is CML day!
Periods 1,7: We continued our work with Powers & Exponents, and focused on why any base with a zero exponent is equal to 1. No new homework but continue to work on Test Corrections if necessary (and get Test signed). Test corrections are due on Friday.
Periods 3, 4,6: One more day of solving equations before we move on. Today we practiced solving both one-step and two-step equations. No new homework.

Students worked in the library to day gathering information about their topic. Four different types of note-taking opportunities were introduced and students were able to select which one best suited their subject and the text structure they have chosen. Students also used the INternet to research and were introduced to the Library's online encyclopedia's, Netrekker and World Book Online. Except with some unusual topics of study we are asking that students use these resources instead of Google.

Students completed the process of taking notes on Lesson 1, "Geography of Northern Africa" (pages 131 - 134) by analyzing the text structures used in the lesson.

Class presentation- discussed the poem Mother To Son (L.H)

Homework- page 2 of spelling packet-both sides

SPELLING TEST will be this Thursday.

Periods 1,7: We reviewed powers and exponents today (a review from very early in the year), and expanded our work to include negative exponents. Homework: text p. 100 #28-40 even. Test Corrections due Friday.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We reviewed Solving One-Step Equations (using correct methods!) and used this skill to begin Solving Two-Step Equations. Homework: 2-Step Equation Sheet (using correct methods!)

We went to the library today to start finding information about our topics for our Literature Circles. Tomorrow we will work on how to take notes. Please see the "Research Writing" unit on www.bownet.org/eperkins as well as the Non-fiction Literature Circle link on the same site.

Students continued labeling a map of Egypt. They began taking notes on Lesson 1, "Geography of Northern Africa" (pages 131 - 134) by analyzing the text structures used in the lesson.

LA-  In class-  spelling pretest on unit 7 and students received their noun test
       homework-  complete front and back of spelling paper and get a parent signature on the test.


SPELLING TEST will be this Thursday.

Periods 1, 7: The Chapter 2 tests came back today. These need to be shared at home and returned for portfolios. If you would like to make test corrections (for half credit), please carefully follow the directions on the test correction sheet and get them in by Friday. See me if you need help! We also shared our “Cool Math Stuff” from before vacation.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We took notes today to review Solving Equations. Homework: complete Equations Review sheet.

Students selected a new reading log today. This log will be due on Monday 1/11. Started a new unit on non-fiction. Students selected a topic and will work in a non-fiction literature circle. We will be going to the library tomorrow. This unit will be on my website once it is “fine-tuned”-probably sometime tomorrow or the next day.

Students reviewed answers to questions about the movie entitled Ancient Egypt (Schlessinger). They started a map of Egypt.

Students spent class time creating the covers to their poetry books.

Periods 1 & 7 completed their Chapter 2 tests that were begun yesterday.
Periods 3, 4, & 6 shared their “Cool Math Stuff” -- very entertaining and informative:)

Students completed their dictionaries today or had free silent reading time.

Students viewed and answered questions about the movie entitled Ancient Egypt (Schlessinger).

The students worked on writing and identifying prepositional phrases today.

All Classes: Find “Cool Math Stuff” to share with your class tomorrow. This will be a very fun, informative way to kick off our winter vacation. Bring something good!
Periods 1,7: Today we took the Chapter 2 Test (covering sections 2-1 through 2-6).
Periods 3, 4, 6: We spent the class period reviewing the basics of writing and solving equations. Solving equations using the correct method may be more complicated than solving them in your head — but practicing good habits now will pay off in a huge way later on!

Students are finishing up their dictionaries or having some free silent reading time.

Students reviewed information about the Israelites, Lydians, and Phoenicians using a game format.

The focus of today’s class was identifying prepositional phrases in a piece of writing AND  being able to explain their function within a sentence.

All Classes: Find “Cool Math Stuff” to share on Wednesday.
Periods 1, 7: We used text pages 619-620 (we completed the problems that are numbered multiples of 5) to review for tomorrow’s chapter 2 test. Keep practicing and reviewing.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We reviewed writing expressions & equations and solving equations (text sections 4-1 through 4-3). Class time was spent working on a worksheet packet. Homework: complete the even-numbered problems that are left in your packet.

Students continued to finish up dictionaries. Those who were done began learning how to set up a summary using a graphic organizer called “somebody wanted but so”. We will be furthering summary writing beginning in January.

Students reviewed information about the Israelites, Lydians, and Phoenicians using the Quiz Wizard.

 Students were given portfolios to share at home.  The signed portfolio is due back Tuesday 12/22.  Only the folder is due back, the papers can stay at home.

We also played a prepositional phrase game today.

All Classes: Return signed portfolio by Tuesday.
Periods 1,7: Today we reviewed all operations with Rational Numbers (taking us through a brief overview of text sections 2-5 and 2-6). We had a friendly but very motivated competition — to be continued on Monday! Tuesday is test day for Chapter 2 (sections 2-1 through 2-6).
Periods 3, 4, 6: We discussed Solving One-Step Equations, using the “balance scale” as our model. Whatever you do to one side has to also be done to the other side to keep them in balance!

Due to technical difficulties, a snow day,  and some schedule changes, the dictionaries will not be marked late unless they come in after the holiday vacation. It would be nice if they could be done by the end of this week, but students are working madly and have come up against some roadblocks that have kept them from finishing them. So let’s all relax and get them done by Wednesday (12/23) at the latest. Also, the Literature Circle for 12/22 has been cancelled due to this other issue.

Students reported information about the Israelites, Lydians, and Phoenicians to their small group members.

 Students took a test on nouns.

All Classes: Return signed portfolio.
Periods 1, 7: We spent class time practicing division with rational numbers. No new homework. We will be having the Chapter 2 test on Tuesday, 12/22. The test will cover sections 2-1 through 2-6.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We spent class time practicing writing expressions and equations (very competitive contest between table groups!). No new homework.

Due to technical difficulties, a snow day,  and some schedule changes, the dictionaries will not be marked late unless they come in after the holiday vacation. It would be nice if they could be done by the end of this week, but students are working madly and have come up against some roadblocks that have kept them from finishing them. So let’s all relax and get them done by Wednesday (12/23) at the latest. Also, the Literature Circle for 12/22 has been cancelled due to this other issue.

Students met in small groups to share information about the Israelites, Lydians, and Phoenicians.

All Classes: Share math portfolios at home and return signed folders (with all work inside!) as soon as possible.
Periods 1, 7: We continued our work with Dividing Rational Numbers. Homework: text p. 79 #20-34 even.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We focused again on  Writing Expressions and Equations. No new homework.

Students worked on their online dictionaries. They are due tomorrow however students will have the entire period tomorrow to finish them. Students experiencing technical difficulties need to see me individually so I can help. Well, I will help anyone, but if there is some glitch in the technology please see me asap.

Students filled in additional information about the Israelites, Lydians, and Phoenicians.

 Students reviewed for Thursday’s test.

Periods 1, 7: Today we moved on to the Division of Rationals (text section 2-4). Homework: text p. 79 #12-34 even.
Periods 3, 4,6: We started working on Chapter 4 today — here comes the algebra! We discussed and took notes on Writing Expressions & Equations (text section 4-1). Homework: text p. 152 #10-24 even.

Students had a quiz today and worked on their dictionaries.

Students completed additional rounds of the Geo Bee preliminary competition.

 Students continued to practice turning singular and plural nouns possessive.  Test is this Thursday.

Periods 1/7: Using notes from Friday, the students worked in table groups to complete problems dealing with multiplication of rationals. Homework: text p. 74 #10-26 even.
Periods 3/4/6: To conclude our study of integers, the students worked on the chapter 3 review  on text p. 145 (#1-25). Homework: complete chapter review if not finished in class

Reading logs were due today. NO MORE READING LOGS until January.
Plot quiz tomorrow.
Dictionaries due Thursday. We will be working on the dictionaries all week.

Students completed two or three rounds of the Geo Bee preliminary competition.

 Students took unit 4 spelling quiz.  After the quiz, students worked on making nouns possessive.

Periods 1,7: We discussed and took notes on multiplying rationals (text section 2-3). We also had some terrific presentations by students who accepted the challenge of proving the fraction equivalent of 0.1666.... Excellent work!
Periods 3, 4, 6: Today was the Integer Test. No new work.
All Classes: Grades for progress reports officially closed today. Get any late work (including 20Q #3!) in to me be Monday!

In Reading class today we reviewed for the vocabulary quiz on Tuesday. Students were given a passage to read and were asked to identify the major elements of plot: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution, antagonist, protagonist, and the setting.
Reading logs due Monday
Vocabulary quiz Tuesday
Dictionaries due Thursday.

Students began researching information about the Israilites, Lydians or Phoenicians.

Students corrected the spelling packet and reviewed spelling words for the quiz tomorrow.   Students received a s study guide for next week’s test on nouns.  Test on nouns will be Thursday 12/17/09.

Periods 1,7: We discussed and took notes on Comparing & Ordering Rational Numbers (text section 2-2). Homework: text p. 69 #18-30 even.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We spent our time reviewing (once more!) integer computation. The Integer Test will be tomorrow — delayed one day by yesterday’s snow day.

Students either held their Literature Circles today or worked on the dictionaries. The vocabulary quiz originally scheduled for tomorrow has been moved to Tuesday, Dec. 15.

Students in periods 3, 4, and 6 took the Mesopotamia Test. Periods 1 and 7 read the cunieform tablets.

The focus today was on possessive nouns. Students worked on making singular and plural nouns possessive. Spelling quiz is Friday. Unit 4 spelling words.

All classes: 20Q Review #3 due tomorrow.

Periods 1, 7: We discussed and "proved" our method for converting repeating decimals to fractions. Homework: text p.65 #33-40 (all) and p.66 #47.

Periods 3,4,6: We reviewed our rules and practiced integer computation for the Integer Test on Thursday. Homework: text p. 144 #38-58 even.

MAJOR DATE CHANGE!!!!

PLOT QUIZ WILL BE ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 (changed from 12/11)

Periods 7 and 1 had Literature Circles today. Periods 3, 4, 6 (some of six) will have Literature Circles tomorrow.
Reading logs due on Monday, December 14
Online Dictionary due on Thursday, December 17
Please remember that the Online Dictionary Project, reading logs, December reading choices, and Literature Circle roles sheets are all on Ms. Perkins' website and can be downloaded as PDF files. (www.bownet.org/eperkins)

Students in periods 1 and 7 took the Mesopotamia Test. Periods 3, 4, and 6 read the cunieform tablets and reviewed for the test (tomorrow). See attached study guide.

Students took a spelling pretest for spelling unit 4.  A list of the words can be found on the sixth grade website.  Homework tonight is to work on the front and back of page one of the spelling packet.   The spelling quiz is Friday.

All Classes: 20 Q #3 due Wednesday
Periods 1,7: We took notes on and discussed rational numbers and converting fractions into equivalent decimals (and vice versa). Homework: text p. 65 #14-32 even.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We practiced subtracting integers (follow-up to last Thurs/Fri). We then moved on to multiplying and dividing integers. Homework: text p. 136 #14-18 and p. 140 #11-15. Remember to study for Thursday’s Integer Test (on sections 3-4 through 3-7)!

Students worked to prepare for Literature Circles.
Change in Literature Circles:  
Periods 6, 7, and 1 will have their Literature Circles tomorrow as scheduled.
Periods 3 and 4 will have them on Wednesday.
Other due dates:
Elements of plot quiz on Friday, Dec. 11
Reading logs due on Monday, December 14
Online Dictionary due on Thursday, December 17
Please remember that the Online Dictionary Project, reading logs, December reading choices, and Literature Circle roles sheets are all on Ms. Perkins' website and can be downloaded as PDF files. (www.bownet.org/eperkins)

Students reviewed for the Mesopotamia Test by playing Jeopardy and a form of Tic-Tac-Toe. See attached study guide.

Students took a DOL test. They completed a free-writing activity while incorporating the "word of the day".

All Classes: We reviewed yesterday's CML problems. 20Q #3 is due next Wed.

Periods 1, 7: For those who like to plan ahead :) -- our Chapter 2 test will be on 12/22 and will cover text sections 2-1 through 2-6.

Periods 3, 4, 6: Our Integer Test will be next Thursday and will cover text sections 3-4 through 3-7.

QUIZ ON PLOT WORDS NEXT FRIDAY. These words can be found on my website (www.bownet.org/eperkins) complete with definitions. (exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution, antagonist, protagonist, setting)

Students worked either on their dictionaries or on their literature circle for Tuesday.
Due Dates: Reading Logs: 12/7-Monday
                    Literature Circle: 12/8-Tuesday
                   Dictionary: 12/17 (2 weeks from yesterday)
Please remember that the Online Dictionary Project, reading logs, December reading choices, and Literature Circle roles sheets are all on Ms. Perkins' website and can be downloaded as PDF files. (www.bownet.org/eperkins)

Students completed a simulation involving different city-states and negotiations to ensure the success of each city-state. The discussions were VERY intense! Great job!

Students began a simulation involving different city-states and negotiations to ensure the success of each city-state.

Corrected the homework sheet on appositives.  Reviewed parenthetical expressions. DOL quiz on Friday.

Students viewed an interactive computer site based on the Code of Hammuribi. They then participated in a play entitled Hammurabi and His Law Code (published by J. Weston Walch).

We continue to differentiate in Lang. Arts with the noun unit.  All students are working on the plural forms of nouns (count and non count nouns)
               (compound nouns)
              Homework-   Appositive skill sheet should be finished tonight.  The DOL quiz is tentatively scheduled for Friday, but may change.  

Periods 1,7: We continued our divisibility work and reviewed factors, multiples, GCF, LCM, etc. Homework: complete factors/multiples worksheet.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We continued to practice adding integers. Homework: complete integer worksheet (Practice 3-4/Word Problems 3-4).

We had Literature Circles today with everyone being the Discussion Director and used the Bloom’s Cubes as well. The reading log is the only homework tonight.
Reading log due dates for December: December 7, December 14, December 21.

December Reading Choices and Project for the Online Dictionary

Students reviewed the study guide to prepare for the Mesopotamia Evaluation next week. (12/8 periods 1 and 7, 12/9 periods 3, 4, and 6). See attached study guide.

Students have a DOL assignment to work on tonight.  The focus is on appositives.  Students are to rewrite sentences 1-4.  There will be a DOL quiz on Friday. Students are encouraged to use their notes for this quiz.  The focus will be appositives, parenthetical expressions, and direct address.  

Periods 1,7: We reviewed and discussed divisibility rules (for divisibility by 1 through 12) along with a quick review of the “short division” method. Homework: complete divisibility worksheet.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We discussed and took notes on adding integers. Homework: text p. 123 #11-26.

Students read about Sargon the Conqueror, Hammurabi the Lawgiver, and the Assyrians in Mesopotamia (textbook pages 96-101). There will be a Mesopotamia Evaluation next week. (12/8 periods 1 and 7, 12/9 periods 3, 4, and 6). See attached study guide.

Students used the laptops to play interactive noun games.

Periods 1, 7: We took the Expressions & Equations Quiz in class. No new work.
Periods 3, 4, 6: We completed an in-class graded review of the first half of chapter 3. No new work.

Students wrote brief messages on clay tablets using cuneiform. A special thank you to the parents who helped make clay dough!

This week’s word is Superfluous.  Class time was spent discussing the meaning and how it is used.  Students then went on to the computers to practice identifying abstract nouns.

Periods 1, 7: We used practice problems from text page 618 to review. Homework: Prepare for tomorrow’s quiz (Chapter 1 Expressions & Equations, sections 1-7 through 1-9).
Periods 3, 4, 6: We used white boards to answer review questions. We also played a modified game of Battleship to practice working with coordinate grids. Homework: Read over notes and text sections 3-1 through 3-3 for tomorrow’s graded review assignment.

Students learned about pictographs and the earlier form of cuneiform writing used by the Sumerians. This lesson included an exciting game of a version of Pictionary.

Students took a spelling quiz on Unit 3 words.

Students learned additional information about Sumer.

Students who attended the morning help sessions were able to retake the sentence test today during class.  Students who did not retake the test corrected their spelling packets with Mrs. De Angelis.  Spelling quiz is tomorrow.

Students viewed and answered questions based on the movie entitled Ancient Mesopotamia (Schlessinger Media). The movie was followed by a discussion.

Students wrote in their notebooks.  We did a very brief assessment on nouns and then reviewed for the spelling quiz this Friday.

Reminder- There is an early morning help session tomorrow morning for anyone who is planning on retaking the sentence test. The packet that was handed out Tuesday morning needs to be completed for tomorrow’s session.

Students finished taking notes on civilization in Mesopotamia (textbook pages 89-95).

This morning’s helps session was wonderful ( 29 students attended).  Reminder that any student who received fewer than 30 points on the sentence test can retake the test during class time on Thursday, but he/she must attend two morning help sessions (Tuesday and Thursday).

We have a very challenging spelling list this week.  We spent class time practicing the words.  The spelling quiz is this Friday.
Homework- work on page 17 of spelling packet.  Anyone who does not have a spelling packet should see Mrs. De Angelis first thing in the morning.

The students took notes on Mesopotamia including information about the geography of the area, invention of irrigation, crops raised, etc.

Students started spelling unit 3 today.  Homework is to complete the first page of the spelling packet (front and back).
                  Students must also get a parent signature on the test taken a week (or so) ago on sentences.

The students finished sharing their prehistoric villages with their classmates. They took notes on Mesopotamia.

Students did a free write in their writers’ notebooks.  DOL was collected.  The class finished analyzing “Nothing Gold Can Stay”.

The students shared their prehistoric villages with their classmates.

 

We started class by writing in our writer’s notebooks.  Mrs. De Angelis started meeting with students individually to discuss their writing.  Students finished discussing the poem “Nothing Gold Can Stay” by Robert Frost. The class reviewed the number of errors found in the DOL homework.

The students worked on their prehistoric villages. The completed projects will be due tomorrow. See project description for details.

Project includes Prehistoric Artifacts, Prehistoric Villagers,and Questions About Survival.

 Students read and analyzed Robert Frost's poem "Nothing Gold Can Stay."

The students worked on their prehistoric villages. The completed projects will be due Friday, November 13, 2009. See project description for details.

Project includes Prehistoric Artifacts, Prehistoric Villagers,and Questions About Survival.

 
Students took a pretest for a unit on nouns.  A graded DOL assignment was handed out.  Students edited the sentences in class and will rewrite the first five sentences tonight.  

In Reading class we reviewed the elements of plot and how fiction work is organized. There are 5 parts to a plot: the exposition where the author tells the reader when and where the story takes place, who some of the characters are, and what may have happened before the story begins. The second part of a plot line is the rising action that are actually called steps in the rising action. These are the events in the story that have action in them and often pose problems. The rising action leads to the climax which is the scariest, or most important, or most dangerous part of the book. After the climax is the falling action where the author explains what happens after the climax. And finally the resolution (or solution) of the book. All books end. The ending can be sad, funny, and everything in between. Sometimes a book leaves you hanging!

These are also our vocabulary words for this week. A week off from Greek roots!

The students worked on their prehistoric villages. The completed projects will be due Friday, November 13, 2009. See project description for details.

Project includes Prehistoric Artifacts, Prehistoric Villagers,and Questions About Survival.

 
All papers were passed back to the students.  We stapled them into a packet to be taken home.

We worked in Literature Circles and also worked on our Greek Roots (astro, bio, and biblio). Reading log is due Monday-remember that all weekend reading is extra credit! Go for it!!!

Today students completed the Early Man Evaluation.

The students will be creating a prehistoric village. The project will be due Friday, November 13, 2009. See project description for details.

Project includes Prehistoric Artifacts, Prehistoric Villagers,and Questions About Survival.

 Students took the unit test on sentences.  Homework-  Narratives need to be signed by a parent and returned to Mrs. De Angelis tomorrow.

We had Literature Circles in class today. Some groups finished and others will carry over to tomorrow. We will also be working on Greek Roots tomorrow.

Students reviewed for the upcoming evaluation scheduled for tomorrow using the Quiz Wizard. Early Man Evalutation Study Guide

The students will be creating a prehistoric village. See project description for details.

 The class reviewed the skill sheet found within the study guide.  Test is tomorrow.

                         Use your study guide packet to help you study.

We worked on Literature Circles and our roles today. Literature Circles will be on Thursday. Reading logs are due Monday.

Noted Change - Greek Roots paper is due Friday.

The students finished reading textbook pages 72-79 "Skara Brae - The Story of a Prehistoric Village". Reminder - There is an Early Man Evaluation scheduled for this Friday. Early Man Evalutation Study Guide

The students will be creating a prehistoric village. See project description for details.

 Today we reviewed Monday’s DOL on parenthetical expressions and appositives.

                        Reminder- there is a test on Thursday.  Use your study guide packet to help you study.

We worked on Literature Circles and our roles today. Literature Circles will be on Thursday.

Noted Change - Greek Roots paper is due Friday.

 Students reviewed the use of commas with parenthetical expressions, appositives, and series. Time was available for free writing and review of the study guide for the test this Thursday.

We started studying Greek roots and divided into “tree teams”. Each team is trying to find as many and unique words (and their definitions) for the following Greek roots: astro, biblio, and bio. Worksheet is attached!

There are new reading logs this week also with November reading choices. They are also attached. Please note the difference in the grading. All weekend reading is EXTRA CREDIT!!! Go for it!!1

Reading log is due next Monday (11/9)
Literature Circles are on Thursday (11/5)
Greek Root paper/competition-Wednesday

 Students took the spelling quiz for Unit 2.  A study guide packet was handed out for next Thursday’s test.

Students completed a prefix quiz today, updated their online dictionaries to make sure they had all 20 prefixes in them, and finalized the checklists from the test prep unit. No homework. Reading logs will start backup next week. Have a good weekend!

 Continued to review spelling words.  The quiz is tomorrow.  Periods 4 and 6- final draft of narrative is due on Friday.
                        We are also finishing up our unit on sentences.  A study guide will go home Friday and the test will be next Thursday, 11/5/09.

We studied for a prefix quiz that will be tomorrow. Study up.

Prefix Quiz Study Guide

  Reviewed the spelling words for Friday’s quiz.  We also went over the first page of the spelling packet.

There will be a prefix quiz Friday. Please read the study guide for complete information.

Literature Circles will hopefully take place either Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.

Prefix Quiz Study Guide

Today we reviewed breaking interrogative and imperative sentences.  Students also spent time reviewing DOL.
Periods 4 and 6- Final draft of the narrative is due Friday.  

Students continued finishing up all the work for their portfolios. They also worked on their prefix paper and added prefixes to their online dictionary. There will be a prefix quiz next Friday. Please read the study guide for complete information.

Literature Circles will hopefully take place either Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.

Prefix Quiz Study Guide

  Reviewed Unit 2 spelling packet.  The words for unit 2 can be found on the sixth grade Language Arts site.  We also had whole-class instruction on breaking sentences between complete subject and complete predicate as well as identifying the simple subject.  

Periods 4 and 6 received their teacher-edited rough drafts.  Final drafts are due Friday.

Students continued finishing up all the work for their portfolios. They also worked on their prefix paper and added prefixes to their online dictionary. There will be a prefix quiz next Friday. Please read the study guide for complete information.

Literature Circles will hopefully take place either Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.

Prefix Quiz Study Guide

Students continued finishing up all the work for their portfolios. They also worked on their prefix paper and added prefixes to their online dictionary. There will be a prefix quiz next Friday. Please read the study guide for complete information.

Prefix Quiz Study Guide

Students continued finishing up all the work for their portfolios. They also worked on their prefix paper and added prefixes to their online dictionary. There will be a prefix quiz next Friday. Please read the study guide for complete information.

Prefix Quiz Study Guide