Thursday, October 31, 2013

Dobb 10/31

Today in ELA...

Students learned a handful of ideas for effective sentence starters when paragraph writing.  The used a previous writing (a movie review) to enhance their writing.

HW:  none



Today in Math...

We reviewed factoring and started using that knowledge to find the LCM and GCF for two factored numbers.

HW:  none



Today in Guided Studies...

We did each step of the Productivity Checklist.
We also reviewed all/any learning this year to find connections from one area to another.  We then sorted our ideas into learning categories to strengthen our learning vocabulary.

HW:  Productivity Checklist

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we shopped for a large meal and a few kids presented their shopping list.  We also did some division with decimals.  The homework is the division worksheet problems 20-22, 26, 27, 35, and 40-43.  There is also a review sheet for homework.

Social Studies

Today in class we:
-Looked at how Halloween boosts our economy
-Brainstormed US Government
-Worked on a Branches of Government activity
-Went over Bill of Rights Poster - working on in class tomorrow!

No homework

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we:
*went to library for checkout
*finished discussing document #5
*worked on document #6
HW~ Think about what side you might pick and what documents support that thinking.

English- Hickok

Today we discussed document 4 and 5 and read document 6.  Document 6 is our last evidence document to help support our big question.

HW- Students are to fill out the parent "What's happening in English" letter with their top evidence to support their official claim.  A parent signature is required for this assignment.  We want your child to communicate what we are doing in class, and this will be a great way to do so.  :)

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- We completed a "Thinking like a Scientist" activity
- We worked on our Brain Mind Maps
- Bring in $1 for a science notebook

Science- Lillmars 10/31

Today in Science, the students watched a brain video and took notes.

HW: Mind maps are DUE Monday-- students will have some time to work on them tomorrow in class.

*Note: If you haven't turned in your $1 yet and are still able to, please do so by tomorrow!

Have a safe Halloween!

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

English-Hickok

Today we discussed document 3 and read over document 4 and 5.  Unfortunately, 8 students did not have their questions answered with evidence after reading document 3.  Please make sure you are taking care of this responsibility for documents 4 and 5 also.  :)

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- Several people owe me a progress report if parents did not come to conferences
- Handed in Genie questions
- Watched "Brain on Drugs" video and took some notes on what we learned

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we:
*wrapped up document #3
*read and responded to documents #4 & 5
*discussed with a partner
No HW!!

Social Studies

Today in class we:
-Shared our Imports Scavenger Hunt
-Mapped the "Flow of Imports"
-Discussed NAFTA and free trade zones
-School supply economy simulation

No Homework

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we discussed grocery shopping and it's connection to decimals.  The kids 'shopped' around the room to buy food for a large family gathering.  We will finish this tomorrow.

The homework is a small review sheet. (Chpt 1 & Delta 2 top)

Science- Lillmars 10/30

Today in Science, the students...

1) did a "thinking like a scientist" opener

2) began working on a brain mind map

No homework-- but the mind maps will be DUE Monday.

 *PS: We are asking students who are able to bring in $1 this week for a "Science notebook" that we will use starting next week! We thought we would save parents the hassle and go buy them all at once ourselves! :)

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we continued on working with decimals.  In our class discussion we focused on estimating a reasonable answer before starting the problem and then looking back to see if our answer makes sense. (one of the 11 statements) 
The homework for Mr. Luhmann's class is to finish the adding/subtracting and multiplying decimals worksheets and complete the review sheet.
The homework for Mrs. Chambers class is to finish the multiplying decimals worksheet and complete the review sheet.

BONUS (on the multiplying worksheet)

#27   30.060 pounds
#58   150.183

Social Studies

Today in class we:

-Continued our economy simulation activity-ask your child if his/her life would be easy or hard based on the wage earned.
-Filled in tax notes (Fed./State/Local)
-Went over imports scavenger hunt.

HW: Do the Imports scavenger hunt!!



Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we:
*looked over returned vocab quizzes (ask your student about his/her score!)
*read & discussed document #3: the HMS student handbook
*noted how the document support both sides of the BIG question
~No HW!~

Dobb 10/29

Today in ELA we...

-Journaled about our experiences with bullying
-read "I was Cyberbullied" but first read around the text - reading the captions, looking at the structure, pictures, and subtitles as comprehension strategies.

HW:  Read!


Today in Math we...

-Stations (exponents, graphing, time, multiplication option)
-working through steps for prime factorization, lcm and gcf

HW:  Practice sheet A


Today in Guided Studies we...

-tackled "Text Taking Tuesday" what strategies are you using...poster creation next Tuesday
-worked through the Productivity Checklist

HW:  Productivity Checklist...completed by student and parent

Have a terrific night!

English-Hickok

Today we discussed student evidence for document 2 and we read document 3 in small groups.

HW- Please finish reading and identifying evidence that supports the yes and no side to our big question.

Science - Spotts

Science on Tuesday...
- We discussed the Maze expo - why we did it
- We jotted down some notes about neurons and how they change when we learn
- Genie Questions were posted yesterday, but we didn't get that far - sorry! They will be due on Wednesday.

Science- Lillmars 10/29

Today in Science, the students...

1) discussed the purpose of the maze experiment. What happens in our brains when we learn something?

2) took notes on neurons (brain cells).

3) began answering questions about Genie from last week's story (oops, we never got to this yesterday)! Questions are DUE tomorrow

HW: Genie Questions

Monday, October 28, 2013

Math-Chambers & Luhmann

Today in math we reviewed the four operations (adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing) with decimals. We took notes using a foldable with the steps typed up along with example problems.
Chambers class: We went through the adding and subtracting practice page. This should be finished up for tomorrow if possible. We are moving on to multiplication tomorrow =).  Homework: Do the 8 problem math skills review sheet
Luhmann: Got back the multiplying and dividing fractions quiz from last week. Homework: Do the 9 problem math skills review sheet.

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we:
*shared good news from our long weekend
*recapped where we were with our DBQ
*worked on Document #2
~No HW!!  However, like we discussed in class today, you should ALWAYS read at home each night.... remember, 40 book challenge!! :)~

Dobb 10/28

Today in ELA...

-Students in ELA read "Rachel's Story"  to identify types of bullying and ways of preventing.

HW:  Read!


Today in Guided Studies...

-Students finished quizzes and tests
-Made their binders "Magnificent"
-Processed through the Productivity Checklist

HW:  Productivity Checklist


Today in Math...

-Students progressed through number sense stations
-Practiced GCF and LCM problem solving using Halloween scenarios

HW:  Finish Halloween GCF and LCM


Social Studies

Today in class we:
-Went over Economy Vocab Tests
-Did a "Math in SS" handout figuring out taxes.
-Some classes started an tax activity -ask your child how much money he/she earns an hour in our simulation.

No homework (Unless you were not able to come to conferences, please sign the progress report send home Wednesday)

English- Hickok

Today we pumped up our vocabulary by playing freerice.com in addition to reading document #2 for our DBQ.

HW- Have evidence responses finished in addition to reading document 2.

Science- Lillmars 10/28

Today in Science, the students...

1) tested out their mazes in the maze experiment

2) answered questions about the "Genie story" we talked about last week

HW: No homework

*PS: We are asking students who are able to bring in $1 this week for a "Science notebook" that we will use starting next week! We thought we would save parents the hassle and go buy them all at once ourselves! :)

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- Design a learning expo
- Genie Questions due Tuesday!

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we:
*went to the library for our weekly checkout
*took a content vocabulary quiz
No HW!  Please do read over the long weekend though!!
** If you were able to attend conferences.... great to meet you!!  If you were not, I have sent home some information with your child today.  Please look it over & sign/return the sheet attached.  Let me know if you have any questions! :)

Dobb 10/23

Today in ELA-

We finished watching Chrissa Stands Strong and identified different types of bullying. After watching the movie, we wrote movie reviews and sketched our favorite scenes.

Homework: Read for 20 minutes and enjoy your four-day weekend!


Today in Guided Studies-

We checked powerschool for missing assignments and tests/quizzes that need to be improved. We also worked on completing various test re-takes.

Homework: Don't forget to complete your productivity checklist!


Today in Math-

We worked in our math stations. We finished our Order of Operations worksheet and reviewed factorization trees.

Homework: Enjoy your four-day weekend!

English- Hickok

Today we took our content vocab test and we went to the library.

No homework

Social Studies

Wednesday

Today in class we:
-Took a 10 questions economy vocab. test
-Watched CNN Student News
-Finished and tested out airplanes

No homework - enjoy the long weekend!!

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- worked on our reading habit
- read the Genie story to learn about brain development
- made mazes for a lab next week

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today was the QUIZ!!!  Ask your child how he/she felt they did and then check Powerschool to see the score.  No homework.

We will start adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing decimals next week.  Look around in stores, TV, magazines, and other places to find how often decimals are used.

Enjoy the weekend!

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Science- Lillmars 10/22

Today in Science, the students pulled interesting facts out of a "Brain" magazine. They also identified brain builders and brain busters. Class ended with students sharing brainstormed questions about the brain.

No homework.

*Reminder for parents: I will be coaching until about 6:30 tonight and will be at conferences as soon as I am able to be.

Social Studies

Tuesday

Today we:
-Worked on economy "Flow" notes
-Watched CNN student news
-Started our paper airplane business
-Played review BBall for the Economy vocab test tomorrow.

HW: STUDY review for test tomorrow

Parents, thank you so much for coming to conferences.  Your support of our children and our school is so amazing and appreciated!  Thank you for being patient and waiting in line:)  Looking forward to seeing more parents tonight.

Reminder: No school for students Thursday or Friday this week - have a relaxing and safe long weekend!

 

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we:
*had a short review for our vocabulary quiz
*read Document #1 in our DBQ packet
HW~Please review over your vocabulary notes on types of bullying and HA HA SO strategies.

English- Hickok

Today we had a short test review and we read document #1 in our DBQ packet.

Homework- Don't forget to look at your notes for Wednesday's test. :)

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we played Bingo review.  Tomorrow is a quiz on multiplying and dividing fractions and mixed numbers.  Study up!

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- What do we wonder about brains?
- Mind Map/brain sketch
- Make a Maze

Monday, October 21, 2013

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we did a 4 problem check in to see how dividing fractions was going.  Begin the review now for the quiz on Wednesday.  The quiz will cover multiplying and dividing fractions and mixed numbers.

Luhmann's class -  your homework is to have 4 multiplying and 4 dividing problems done for tomorrow in class.

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we:
*shared good news
*did a journal about consequences & fairness
*discussed our thoughts
*received our new mini DBQ(Document Based Question) documents with the BIG question.
(This will be the backbone of our next couple week so please don't lose them.)


HW~  Please review over bully notes on types of bullies, HA HA SO, and examples.  We will have a vocabulary quiz on Wednesday!!

*Reminder:  We hope to see you at Parent/Teacher Conferences tonight or tomorrow night.  I look forward to meeting those who can come.  If you cannot make it, please feel free to call or email.  I will also send home a progress report and student reflection sheet on Wednesday if you can't make it.  :)




Dobb 10/21

Happy Parent Teacher Conference Day!

Today in ELA-

-we viewed examples of the 5 different types of bullying watching "Chrissa Stands Strong"

HW:  Read!


Today in Math-

-we warmed up with multiplication stations and counting money for number fluency

-we worked on factoring numbers for prime factorization and using a multiplication chart.  We used this skill to calculate Greatest Common Factor (GCF) and Least Common Multiple (LCM).


Today in Guided Studies-

-we're switching up "Make your binder magnificent Monday" and "Test Taking Tuesday" to prepare for tomorrow's Economy Test in Social Studies test.


HW:  Productivity Checklist

Social Studies

Monday

Today in class we...
1. Went over progress reports before conferences tonight.
2. Made a review for the economy term test WEDNESDAY
3. Started some economy notes

Homework: STUDY review for the test WEDS.

*Parent/Teacher Conferences are tonight and tomorrow night 3:30-8:00.  If you can't make it, you are more than welcome to call or email.  I will also send home a progress report for you.


Science- Lillmars 10/21

Today in Science, the students started the brain unit by...

1) taking a pretest

2) creating a sketch of the brain parts

3) writing facts about each brain part

No homework

Note: Parents, hopefully your student shared this with you, but just in case, I thought I would include a reminder that I will not be at conferences from about 3:45-6:30 tomorrow as I will be coaching my freshman volleyball team at the high school. I will have a contact list on my table for you to leave me your information if you would like me to contact you regarding your student.

Thanks!

English- Hickok

Today we shared good news, received the new mini DBQ documents with the Big Question.  This will be the backbone of our next couple week so please don't lose them.

HW- There will be a content vocab test on Wednesday.  Please take a look at you bully notes.  We will have a short review on Tuesday.

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- We need to finish cell project presentations (wow - they have been interesting!)
- Brain Pretest
- Brain Kids Discover take 5
- Questions we have

Friday, October 18, 2013

Dobb 10/18

Today in ELA we:

-learned strategies to deal with bullying
-did a self reflection sheet to share at parent-teacher conferences next week

No HW


Today in Math we:  

-did a self reflection sheet to share at parent-teacher conferences next week
-learned factoring tricks using a multiplication chart
-factored a variety of numbers to learn about prime and composite numbers

No HW


Today in Guided Studies we:  

-did a self reflection sheet to share at parent-teacher conferences next week
-worked through the productivity checklist

HW:  go through the productivity checklist AGAIN over the weekend, sign and return.  Just a heads up that "Make you Binder Magnificent Monday" and "Test Taking Tuesday" are flip-flopping next week to prep for the Social Studies Econ Test on Tuesday and Math quiz on Wednesday.



-

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we:
*reflected on our own paragraph
*gave peer feedback on someone else's paragraph
*filled out a reflection sheet to prepare for conferences
No HW ,... although please do read this weekend!! :)
P/T Conferences  Monday & Tuesday from 3:30 - 8!  We hope to see you there!!

MATH - Chambers/ Luhmann

Students need to  use their notes to help with the homework.  They should estimate the answer so they will have an idea if their actual answer is reasonable.

Chambers - Students discussed fractions and mixed numbers and what they really mean.  The homework is to finish up 2.3A and 2.2B and do 4 division story problems.

 Luhmann - We did another example of dividing fractions and then had work time.  The homework is 2.2B.  Students were given a progress report today to take home.  Please make sure you see this before conferences.

Dividing Fractions Song

BONUS - 2.2B
# 12      31  1/2

#18      1/75

# 19      10  7/9

#20       11/32

#22a     900 pictures
#22b     225 pictures

Social Studies

Friday:

Today we watched CNN Student News, ask your child about modern day slavery.

We then worked in the library writing or typing a power paragraph see writing prompt below:

After researching data from the US and other countries write a power paragraph about which country is economically stronger and use data to back up your opinion.  Data should be included in detail sentences.

Power Paragraph:
Topic Sentence
3 Supporting Detail Sentences
Closing Sentence 

We also started working on a vocab review crossword for the test next Weds. 

Homework: Paragraph due Monday and start studying for the Economy Vocab Test next WEDS.

Thursday, October 17, 2013

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we discussed division story problems took notes on dividing fractions.  The homework is to complete worksheet 2.3 A, and show all the work.

Parent Letter

Ask you child to explain what KCF stands for and how to use it.

Ask your child to sing or dance to the dividing fractions song!  SONG

BONUS!
2.3 A

#7      4/57

#10        5/7

#12     14/15

#20     14 plots

Social Studies

Thursday

We are researching economy data for countries on the CIA Factbook site.  Ask your child what he/she found out about literacy rate, infant mortality rate and GDP?  Was it a surprise?  How are these connected to how wealthy and developed a country is?

If anyone finished early he/she had the option of starting the writing assignment we are working on tomorrow and/or watching CNN Student News.

NO HW

English- Hickok

Today we went to the library to build up our book inventory.  The kids also filled out a conference reflection sheet.

No homework

Science- Lillmars 10/17

Today in Science, the students took their cells final test.

HW: Cell models are DUE tomorrow!

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Math-Chambers

Today I am posting separately from Mr. Luhmann because we have different homework due to the fact that I am at a conference tomorrow. Today in class we learned the steps to divide fraction and mixed numbers. We practiced a few problems in class. Tomorrow we will have the hour to practice independently or with a partner. 

Homework: None =)

Social Studies

Wednesday

Last MEAP testing day!!  All classes were a half hour.

Watched a video about how Culture and Economy are connected.

HW: Economy Vocabulary Test Next Week TUESDAY - study your mini-book and crossword puzzle.


Science - Spotts

Science today...
- short classes because of MEAP
- Cells or Not opener
- Time to work on Test Ticket (kids have had it since Monday)
- Cells Test tomorrow!!!
- Cell Model is due on Friday (fill out the half sheet planner with it)

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we continued estimating division problems and took notes about dividing fractions.  The homework is to write and estimate 4 mixed number division problems and make a sketch for each one.

CHALLENGE:  Students, explain what division is to your parents.

English- Hickok

Today the kids took the Social Studies MEAP.  The kids did a great job during these four days of testing.

During English we worked on our listening skills and while playing a game called, Direction Cards.

No homework

Science- Lillmars 10/16

Today in Science, the students reviewed for the cells final test, which will be tomorrow!

Test tickets can be turned in tomorrow (complete and with a parent signature) for a small prize.

Cell models are DUE Friday.

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

English- Hickok

Great job on the MEAP today!  With our shorter classes, we were able to only get in a new seating chart, play a short game, and discuss any PowerSchool questions the kids had from yesterday's discussion.

No homework

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- MEAP day so short classes
- We worked on cell models for the entire class period
- cell models due on Friday!
- Test Ticket Review handed out yesterday
- Cells Test Thursday!

Social Studies

Today classes are shortened due to Math MEAP.

In class we are taking some notes about different economies.

I am also handing out progress reports in all classes today. 
-Many students have turned in all their work and are doing great in class -THANK YOU!! 

-A few students have missing assignments, I have waited until I talked to everyone missing work, now that I have those missing assignments have become 0%.  If your child has one, please remind them to get it turned in and I will grade it and enter the new grade.  Remember retakes can still be done.  On the one assessment we have had, I have a few students that still have not taken me up on the offer and it would really help their grade out if they studied and retook the assessment.

HW: Show parents your progress report and turn in any work that is missing!!

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we had MEAP Math in the morning, with shortened hours in the afternoon.  In English, we finished up the Chrissa movie and discussed examples of bullying, empathy, & HA HA SO strategies they identified.
No HW aside from practice reading!! :)
Get a good night's sleep & fire up for the last MEAP - Social Studies tomorrow!!

MATH - Luhmann

Today in math we continued our discussion about division.  The students estimated problems and presented them to the class.  The homework is for the students to estimate 4 division problems and draw a scene for each problem.

Parents - Here's something for you.
A quote from an article titled "Important Facts to Know Bout Learning Math" by Tina Barseghian
"... yet studies show that “number talk” at home is a key predictor of young children’s achievement in math once they get to school."


So, what is "number talk"?  Talking about numbers in sports (stats), grocery shopping (bugetting money), asking them to explain their math homework to you.

Science- Lillmars 10/15

Today in Science, the students had time to work on their cell model and the test ticket.

HW: Test ticket is due (for a small prize) on Thursday-- which is also the day of the test. Cell models are due Friday.

Monday, October 14, 2013

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we:
*shared good news from the weekend
*continued to watch the movie, Chrissa, while making note of examples of our vocabulary
No HW, aside from reading from our DEAR book! :)

Social Studies

Monday

Today we:
-Did a few Columbus Day activities, including following directions, reading a political comic, and a journal entry.
-Turned in Pizza Power Paragraph

All grades will be updated by tonight in Powerschool.  Students will receive a print out of their grade reports tomorrow.

No homework (unless you have missing work)

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we took snapshot of how well the students are doing with multiplying mixed numbers.  Then we started our discussion of division with mixed numbers.  No homework for today.


Students can do practice problems at ixl.com.  Just scroll down to the fractions section.

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- Finished up the Eggsperiment
- Handed out a test ticket for the Cells Test on Thursday!
- Read the Stem Cells article and completed the outline

Science- Lillmars 10/14

Today in Science, the students...

1) completed the "eggsperiment"

2) finished their stem cells outline

3) watched a video about cells

4) received their test ticket

HW: Bring in cell parts for class tomorrow! Cell models are DUE Friday. Cells test is Thursday!

Friday, October 11, 2013

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we:
*discussed the similarities and differences we found yesterday in our Venn Diagrams.
*started a movie called, "Chrissa" that gives many examples of our vocabulary we have been discussing.
No HW!!  Please read over the weekend! Have a great one!!

Social Studies

Happy Friday

Today we watched CNN Student News and went over how to write a quality "power paragraph".  Students wrote a paragraph using pizza data from yesterday.

HW: Paragraph due Monday

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math the students presented some of the problems from the homework.  After that we discussed how students might gage how well they are doing in a subject and ways that students might study when preparing for a quiz.

Here is a link to a good article about learning.

English- Hickok

Today the kids worked on a compare and contrast activity with two bully articles.

After a week of grading assessments, grades will be entered very soon. :)

No homework, but please keep reading and playing outside.

Science-Lillmars 10/11

Today in Science, the students...

1) saw a couple "all-star" presentations from their hour

2) discussed specialized cells

3) began outlining an article on stem cells

HW: Start thinking about and looking for materials at home you can bring in to build your own cell model. You can scrounge around in junk drawers at home (with permission from your parents, of course) to bring in odds and ends like buttons, pipe cleaners, paper plate, bouncy ball, etc. You will have time on Tuesday in class to work on your model! Models will be due Friday.


Thursday, October 10, 2013

10/10 Dobb

Today in ELA:

-we visited the library
-students took an assessment on characterization and writing a story summary

HW:  Read outside for 20 minutes


Today in Math we:

-studied flashcards
-updated our weather report
-challenged each other using an exponent game

HW:  Study flashcards


Today in Guided Studies we:

-progressed through studying for all subjects, reviewed the blog, organized binders and worked on science and math homework/projects

HW:  productivity checklist

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we:
*took a trip to the library for checkout
*worked on a Venn Diagram to compare and contrast "I Was Cyberbullied" and "Rachel's Story"
*we will start with a discussion over our ideas tomorrow
~No HW! ~ Enjoy the beautiful weather & read from your book tonight!!~

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- Open Note Quiz
- Mitosis Presentation due Friday
- Cells Alive

Social Studies

Thursday:
Don't be surprised if your child comes home and want to order pizza for dinner!  We researched pizza prices today in class, analyzed the data, and decided which pizza place had the best prices. 

We also went over how to write a quality "POWER PARAGRAPH"

No homework

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we learned how to estimate and multiply mixed numbers.  The homework is page 60 problems 26 to 58 even.

Remember the steps for multiplying mixed numbers are:

1. Turn any mixed numbers into improper fractions.
2. Look to simplify/reduce in the problem.
3. Multiply across top and bottom.
4. simplify/reduce answer.

Here is the link to our book online.  MATH

Here are some of the answers:

#38 -   7  7/8

#40 -   17   6/7

#48 -   2   1/12

#52 -   121/144

Science- Lillmars 10/10

Today in Science, the students...

1) took an OPEN NOTE quiz on cell organelles

2) finished their Mitosis presentations

No homework-- but, the cells final test will be next week Thursday!

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Dobb 10/9

Today in ELA-

-we discussed the zigism on how one becomes wise
-we finished reading "The Loser" and discussed examples of direct and indirect characterization

HW:  Read 20 minutes or 2 pages

Today in Math-

-we practiced multiplication facts
-we did the weather report
-we played an exponent game to further knowledge of bases and powers

HW:  think about ways to make the game more competitive

Today in Guided Studies-

-we finished up quizzes and tests needing further problem solving

HW:  productivity checklist

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we had Reading Part 2 of MEAP in the morning!!  Due to MEAP, we had shortened hours again today.  In English, students read a true story about a girl who suffered from some tough relational bullying, which sparked some great conversation. 
No HW!!  Enjoy the beautiful weather tonight!!

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- It was a short day so we just worked on the Mitosis Presentations (due Friday)

Social Studies

Wednesday:
Due to MEAP testing we had 1/2 hour classes. 
Today in class we continued working with teams designing products - ask your child about it!

NO Homework

I have all country projects (that were turned in) graded and only a few verbal tests to go, I will start entering them in Powerschool today:)

 

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we multiplied fractions and focused on reducing fractions.  The homework for tonight is pg 59 problems 5-19 odd, 2 constructed response questions, and measuring with fraction strips.   

The quiz from last Friday was handed back today as well.

Science- Lillmars 10/9

Today in Science, the students finished their mitosis google presentations and shared them with me to turn them in.

No homework!

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Dobb 10/8

Today in ELA-

-students continued reading "The Loser" and looking for examples of direct and indirect characterization

HW:  Read 2+ pages and get a good night of sleep


Today in Math-

-we checked and recorded the weather
-we continued on our order of operations learning

HW:  finish expressions 6,7,8 due tomorrow and get a good night of sleep


Today in Guided Studies:

-we studied parts of the cell
-we progressed through the productivity checklist

HW:  productivity checklist and get a good night of sleep



Social Studies

Tuesday

Because of MEAP testing we had 30 minute classes.  Today students started a group design project for economy.  Ask your child about it!

No homework

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Yesterday students read about some strategies to help diffuse bullying & tried to draw a few examples to go with the strategies.
Today we started our day with MEAP & then had shortened hours the rest of the day.
Today, in English, we continue with discussion of the HA HA SO strategies and read an article called, "I Was Cyberbullied".
No HW!!  Get some rest.... be ready for MEAP Day #2!! :)

English-Hickok

Today we continued identifying types of bullies and prevention strategies from our movie.

No homework

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we discussed how fractions relate to each other.   The students folded strips of paper to make many of the common fractions and to see how the relate to on another.  There is no homework today.

Science- Lillmars 10/8

Today in Science, the students...

1) noted the differences in the "eggsperiment" cup

2) began creating their mitosis google presentation (very similar to PowerPoint)

No homework! Students were given first notice about our final cells test yesterday, which will be next week Thursday!

Monday, October 7, 2013

Social Studies

Monday
-Watched part of CNN and discussed military action and government shut down.
-Worked on illustrations for Economy Notes

(I finally finished grading the country projects over the weekend!  I will enter grades into Powerschool in the next few days.  Thanks to the many students that read the directions, listened in class, looked at examples, and created an amazing country!!  If your child is not happy with the grade he/she earned, ask them why and what he/she can do about it)

HW: If you did not turn in your country project please do so this week!!


English-Hickok

Today we watched a movie and practiced identifying the types of bullying and strategies used to prevent them.

No homework, but please get enough sleep and eat a good breakfast for Tuesday's M.E.A.P. test.

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we discussed what a fraction is and what it means.  We also played Battleship Number Line.  No homework.

Battleship Number Line

Lillmars- Science 10/7

Today in Science, the students made a yarn model of mitosis.

No homework!

Friday, October 4, 2013

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Today we worked on a website to read about cyberbullying. 
No HW!!
Have a great weekend & Go Hawkeyes!!

Science - Spotts

Happy Homecoming!!!
Today in Science we...
- Did a daily opener "why cells stay small"
- Acted out the King Zulu Story - cell size
- Tried out DOodle Buddy
I will grade the cell is like essays on Sunday. Please make sure yours is ready by then and sent to me.


10/4 Dobb

Happy Homecoming All!

Today in ELA-

-we are sharing our Camp Manitoulin summaries and making a nature print folder to place those memories in.

HW:  READ!



Today in Math-

-we are correcting "Soda's Sweet Secrets"
-problem solving through the "Texting" activity

HW:  Study multiplication facts



Today in Guided Studies-

It's "Think about your Future Friday"!
-we will do our productivity routine in addition to brainstorming possible careers in the future.  Students will reflect on how those ideas fit with their interests, skills and skills that might need to develop between now and adulthood.

HW:  the productivity checklist stapled into the planner.  Thank you all for supporting your student and completing the tasks each night!  

Social Studies

Friday

-CNN Student News
-Economy terms notes and group activity

Have a safe and restful weekend!

No homework

English- Hickok

Today we took the assessment on characterization.

No homework

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today we took our quiz on factors, GCF, and LCM.
The homework for tonight is to finish the fractions questions.  To this to the best of your ability.

Thursday, October 3, 2013

10/3 Dobb

Today in ELA...

- students reviewed their "Smelly Feat" summaries and gave "I like how you _______" and "I wonder if ______ would improved you summary" feedback.
- students developed their Camp Flipbooks, wrote complete sentences and turned their ideas into a summary paragraph.

HW:  read 2 pages and finish Camp Summary


Today in Math...

-students worked on multiplication and division flashcards
-worked through order of operation word problems related to that amount of sugar in various drinks

HW:  Complete questions on "Soda's Sweet Secret"


Today in Guided Studies...

- students worked through the productivity checklist.  The new checklist is attached to each students' planner.  It requires them to do and sign off on a series of tasks, in addition to having parents do the same each day.  Thank you for your support!  

HW:  all tasks related to the daily productivity checklist

Social Studies

Today in class we worked on Culture worksheets out of the atlas and informational country books while some students did their verbal test with me.  We also discussed the government shut down.

No homework

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- We basically worked on "A cell is like..." essay. It is due tomorrow. Most did this on a google doc and are sharing with me by tomorrow. Hand written is OK as well. Your choice.

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today in math we reviewed for our quiz tomorrow.  There are 4 kinds of problems on the quiz; Find factor pairs, find prime factorization, GCF, and LCM.

The homework for tonight is to study the notes we have taken on these topics.

English- Hickok

Today the kids took their assessment on summarization and we went to the library.  Tomorrow the kids will be assessed on direct and indirect characterization using the story, Loser.


Science- Lillmars

Today in Science, the students typed their "A Cell is Like..." essay. These are DUE tomorrow (to turn in,  they can just be shared via google docs with me).

HW: Essays are due tomorrow!

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Math Chambers


In math today we discussed the similarities and differences between factors and multiples in preparation for our quiz on Friday.
The homework for tonight is a GCF/LCM word problem worksheet.  The students need to have labeled each problem as a GCF or an LCM problem and circled/underlined the words that gave them a clue. Then solve each problem. Come tomorrow with any questions!

Science - Spotts

Science today...
- Daily Opener was Jello Memories
- We checked our Eggsperiment
- Started "A Cell is Like..." Will be due on Friday!

Enjoy the camo day picture!


Social Studies

(Sorry I forgot to post yesterday)

Wednesday:
Hope our art students had a great time at Art Prize, thanks Mrs. Eden!!

In class we continued verbal tests (almost done with all students), watched CNN Student News and discussed Government shut down, and continued learning about culture with brainstorm notes and atlas activity.

TEST UPDATE:  Yesterday students took a test that included 2 writing prompts.  Students wrote a paragraph describing one of the answers and are verbally telling me the other answer.  These questions were meant to show deeper knowledge than the usual multiple choice or fill in tests.  There were several different answers that students concluded after reading about issues in class, watching video clips, and in class activities and discussions.  Some of the answers show surface learning, but I have really seen some great thoughtful answers by many students - thank you!!  I will grade these as soon as possible, I will finish over the weekend and enter the grades into Powerschool Monday (I hope).

No homework

MATH - Luhmann

In math today we discussed the similarities and differences between factors and multiples in preparation for our quiz on Friday.
The homework for tonight is a GCF/LCM word problem worksheet.  The students need to have labeled each problem as a GCF or an LCM problem and circled the words that gave them a clue.  Then they need to solve 2 GCF and 2 LCM problems.


English- Hickok

Yesterday I was ill, but while I was gone the kids researched cyber bullying and took notes on their google drive.


Today we will be reviewing those notes and we will be reading an article on the topic of bullying.

HW- Don't forget that there will be a test on summarization on Thursday.  Do you remember the 3 things that should be in a summary and the 2 that shouldn't?

Science- Lillmars 10/2

Today in Science, the students...

1) checked their class egg for our "eggsperiment"

2) began writing a similie of how a cell is like... (something of their choice)

No homework


Tuesday, October 1, 2013

10/1 Dobb

Today in ELA...

-we identified textual evidence of indirect characterization and direct characterization while rereading "Smelly Feat"

HW:  Read 2 pages of free reading


Today in Math...

-we reviewed the concepts of estimating, division, adding with decimals, subtracting with decimals adding fractions, comparing values, graphing, area, volume, multiplication, reading graphs and pre algebra.

HW:  attempt and show work for problems:  1, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 23, 26, 30, 32, 35, 38, 41.


Today in Guided Studies...

-we created a plan for productivity both at school and at home:
     ____ study
     ____ check planner/blog for responsibilities
     ____ organize binder into subject to find any unfinished/not turned in learning
     ____ complete homework with quality
     ____ read

HW:  do the above steps and get planners signed

MATH - Chambers/Luhmann

Today we mover over to LCMs.  The homework for tonight is to finish the Puzzle Time paper and the LCM worksheet. (page 40-41 problems 3-17 odd)

*****We will have a quiz on Friday over factor pairs, prime factorization, GCF, and LCM.*****


Mr. Luhmann's students: teach your parents the GCF/LCM song.

Mrs. Schuiteman - English

Yesterday we:
*finished up reading "The Loser"
*worked on notes about the types of bullying
No HW

Today we:
*wrote a summary over "The Loser"
*characterized 3 characters from "The Loser"
These two things will be the first graded items for English!  :)  We have been practicing quite a bit, so we hope to see great things using these skills!
No HW!

Science- Lillmars 10/01

Today in Science, the students made jello cells to review the cell organelles!

No homework!