Friday, December 21, 2012

Friday, December 21- Happy Solstice!

Science: Tests were returned and we did a pre-test to see what we know about Energy and answered some questions about energy to analyze misconceptions. Students may turn in their lab corrections after break if they want.

Geometry: Took the chapter 6 test, work on the kitchen geometry project measurements over break.


Humanities: Students shared current events and concluded a video/discussion on the interpretive nature of the Boston Massacre. No homework. Have a wonderful break!

Spanish I: Study for the vocab quiz on 2.1 (part 2) on Friday, January 4th, Ex 7,8,& 9 on pgs 109-110 due Thursday, January 3rd

ELA - Students went through all the work that they had done thus far in Writer's Workshop and decided on the most relevant evidence to support their claim.  We discussed Organizational Structures of Essays, the students decided which structure they would use for their essay and explained why this was the best way to organize their argument. This was all written down on an exit slip that was turned in at the end of class.  If you were absent print out the directions for Day 8 and be sure you have your "Exit Slip" with you on Thursday when we return, it is an important organizational tool. Homework....the only homework you could have is if you have not kept up on your Writer's Journal entries, you should have a total of 43 entries when we return.


Course 3: Students took a short quiz on lessons 6.1 and 6.2.  No homework.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Thursday, December 20

Science: Labs were returned and students had the opportunity to do lab corrections in class. Tests will be returned tomorrow. No homework, unless students wanted to do more lab corrections, but they must be turned in tomorrow!

Geometry: Checked over the practice test, homework is the chapter 6 review odds. Test is tomorrow!

Spanish I: Study for the vocab quiz on 2.1 (part 2) on Friday, January 4th


Humanities: Students reviewed 6.2 time line and watched a video on the Boston Massacre. No homework.


ELA - Students continued their Writer's Workshop with an hour for writing an Connected Example paragraph (two pieces of evidence from their short story connected to prove their claim).  If this paragraph was not finished in class it is homework. Homework: Finish WW Connected Example Paragraph, READ, Journal entry #42







Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Wednesday, December 19


Course 3: We are still working on multi-step equations.  Homework is worksheet 6.2, #10-12, and 13 - 27 odds. 5th hour-Homework is worksheet 6.2, 1-9.


Pre-Algebra: We have our Chapter 4 test tomorrow.  We reviewed in class.  Homework: Practice test.

Algebra: We worked on finding the equation for a line given two points.  Homework p. 296 (4-44 multiples of 4)


Geometry: Worked on the chapter 6 practice test after going over the 6.7 homework. Chapter 6 test is Friday.

Science: Took the Unit 2 Test, labs will be returned tomorrow and students will have time in class to work on corrections.


Humanities: Students checked 6.1 guided reading, discussed 6.2 and worked on 6.1/6.2 time line in which they chronicle the events leading to the Revolutionary War. Homework is to finish the time line.

ELA - Students reviewed each other's Extended Example Paragraphs from last night (those who did not complete this homework worked on it in the hall and then were requested to come at lunch to see the lesson taught while they were doing their homework).  They marked up each other's paragraphs indicating when they found each of the 5 components and if any were missing they conferenced to help their partner include all important components. We then moved on to Day 8 - Connected Example Paragraphs.  We discussed Transitions and reviewed an example of an Extended Example Paragraph, we will write these tomorrow in class no Writer's Workshop Homework tonight :) Homework: READ! Writer's Journal #40


Spanish I: Study for the vocab quiz on 2.1 (part 2) on Friday, January 4th.


Art 8: 1st hr: Monochromatic Collage Poems have been completed and will be displayed. Students have now moved onto a monochromatic stained glass painting.
Art 7/8: Hrs 5 & 6 Crowded Elevator drawings have been completed. We are now studying the sculptor Louise Nevelson. Students viewed a video about the sculptor. Each student will complete a Louise Nevelson inspired assemblage. Students have painted their base piece and are now picking their assemblage pieces.

Advanced Art 8: Students have now completed 7 still life drawings. We continue to work on our mixed media fruit still life. Pasta still life ebony drawings are displayed in the front hallway showcase!


Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Tuesday, December 18

Science: Went over the review for tomorrow's test. STUDY!!!!!

Geometry: Went over the 6.6 worksheet and took notes on 6.7 (similarity transformations). Homework is the 6.7 worksheet


ELA - Students turned in their Literary Essay Rough Plan and then "graded" another students.  They reviewed the Claim and Reason and made sure the evidence/examples supported each.  They then collaborated with their graders and worked to make sure any deficits were corrected. We then moved on to WW Lit Essay Day 6 - Extended Example Paragraphs.  We reviewed what is involved in writing one, looked at an example written for our mentor text "The Gift of the Magi" and then moved on to write their own, due tomorrow. Homework: Write an Extended Example Paragraph for own story.  Read. Journal Entry # 38

Pre-Algebra: We are preparing for our test on Thursday.  Homework:  Chapter Review (all)

Algebra: We started Chapter 5 today.  Section 5.1 deals with taking information about a line and making an equation in slope-intercept form.  Homework p. 286 (2-38 evens)


Humanities: Students reviewed 5.3, were introduced to chapter 6 and began work on 6.1 guided reading in class. Homework is to complete 6.1 guided reading.



Monday, December 17, 2012

Monday, December 17

Science: Watched Bill Nye Motion and Disney's Imaginarium Newton's 3 Laws of Motion to help review for Wednesday's test. Students who didn't have the review done worked on completing it. Test is Wednesday. Labs will be returned on Thursday and students will have time in class Thursday and Friday to work on corrections. 

Geometry: Went over the 6.5 homework and 6.6 notes (proportionality theorems). Homework is the 6.6 worksheet. We also discussed the Kitchen Geometry Project which we will work on after break, but students have been given some directions to get started over break.


Humanities: Students reviewed chapter five in class today. Homework is to complete the "critical thinking" and "review questions" portions of the chapter five assessment (pp. 136-137) and to answer the following question: How did an American Identity begin to form?  Think about politics (Glorious Revolution and English Constitution), schooling (ability to read/shared understanding), press (similar news and entertainment), philosophy (Enlightenment) and war (French Indian). 

Pre-Algebra: We finished up Scientific Notation today.  Homework:  worksheet 4.7.  We will be reviewing for the next 2 days-focusing on greatest common factors and least common multiples.  Our test for this chapter will be on Thursday.

Algebra: We did some brain teaser work and some review for the midterm (worksheet is homework if not finished in class).  We have one chapter to go before we start our focusing solely on reviewing.  Test scores are on Family Access.



ELA - We began with a journal entry about what we are thankful for, recognizing all the good that is in our lives.  Students were handed back Literary Essay work from Friday with comments, we then began an outline of our claims. Homework: Journal entry #36, Read, finish Lit Essay Day 5 to be graded as a quiz, (a formative Assessment).


Spanish I: Study for the 2.1 vocab quiz (part 2) which will be on Friday, January 4th.

Friday, December 14, 2012

Friday, December 14

Geometry: Went over the 6.4 homework and 6.5 notes (ASA & SSS Similarity). Homework is the 6.5 worksheet. Chapter 6 test will be Friday, December 21.

Science: Labs were collected and we played Jeopardy review for the unit 2 test. The study guide/review is due on Monday (was posted yesterday). The unit 2 test is Wednesday, December 19.

Spanish I: The ar verb conjugations (on the 22 verbs) is due on Monday. The 22 sentences with the ar verbs is also due on Monday. The 8 sentences with the adverbs is also due on Monday. The 2.1 vocabulary quiz on adverbs and verbs is on Monday.


Humanities: Students shared current events in class today. Homework is to read and take notes on 5.3.


Course 3: We have started multi-step equations.  Homework is worksheet 6.1, #2, 5 - 10.


ELA - Students were led through the fourth lesson of our Writer's Workshop on Literary Essays.  We reviewed our claims, reviewed our stories, and thought more about how the claim relates to the character.  They were then allowed collaboration time to work in teams to further dig into their stories. Have a great weekend.  Those that are behind due to absences need to have all lessons caught up by Monday, as we will be moving forward with the rough outline of their essay.  All evidence and reasons need to be with the students on Monday.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Thursday, December 13

Science: Final drafts of "Is the Force With You?" due Friday. Worked on the study guide/review, this will be due on Monday. Unit 2 test is Wednesday, December 19.

Geometry: Went over the 6.3 homework and took notes on 6.4 (AA similarity). Homework is 6.4 worksheet. We have decided to skip a quiz for this unit, the chapter 6 test will be on Friday, December 21.

Course 3: Students took a test on lesson 3.1 - 3.4.  We started multi-step equations.  No homework.

Pre-Algebra: We spent another day on the properties of exponents.  Their homework is to finish worksheet 4.6.

Algebra: We have our Chapter 4 test tomorrow.  Remember the reviews are posted on yesterday's blog.  Happy Studying! Chapter 4 pre-test warm-up.


Spanish I: The ar verb conjugations (on the 22 verbs) is due on Monday. The 22 sentences with the ar verbs is also due on Monday. The 8 sentences with the adverbs is also due on Monday. The 2.1 vocabulary quiz on adverbs and verbs is on Monday.


Humanities: Students received folder and project grades in class today.  We also discussed our chapter 4 test and current events. No homework.

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Wednesday, December 12

Geometry: Went over the 6.2 homework and took notes on 6.3 (similar polygons), homework is the 6.3 worksheet.

Science: Worked on a review of Newton's Laws in class, we will continue reviewing tomorrow and Friday. Is the Force With You? labs are due on Friday, unit 2 test is Wednesday, December 19.


Course 3: We reviewed today for our test on lessons 3.1 - 3.4 tomorrow.


Humanities: Students turned in 5.1, 5.2 and shared current events in class today. No homework.

Spanish I: The ar verb conjugations (on the 22 verbs) is due on Monday. The 22 sentences with the ar verbs is also due on Monday. The 8 sentences with the adverbs is also due on Monday. The 2.1 vocabulary quiz on adverbs and verbs is on Monday.

ELA - Students continued their Writer's Workshop by looking for evidence to prove or disprove their theories written yesterday.  Attached is the worksheet and direction sheet for students. Homework: Finish your WW Day 2 chart on your story, Journal Entry #32


Pre-Algebra: homework: 4.6 (1-13)
 
Algebra: We reviewed today and will continue tomorrow.  I have attached the reviews that we did yesterday and the one that is due tomorrow. (Review Stations & Review)


Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Tuesday, December 11

Science: Students peer reviewed the rough drafts of the "Is the Force With You?" lab. Final drafts are due on Friday, rubrics were posted yesterday.

Geometry: Went over the 6.1 notes and took notes on 6.2 (scale drawings). Homework is the 6.2 worksheet. Chapter 6 quiz on Friday. 


Spanish I: vocab quiz on 2.1 (part 1) on Monday, Dec 17th


ELA - We began our Literary Essay Writer's Workshop by picking out the "Big Idea" from The Gift of the Magi and then working in groups to formulate those big Ideas into Theories.  We discussed the Theories as a class.  Students then looked to their Text Packets and the short story that they chose to use for this paper.  They then wrote out their Big Ideas and Theories as they related to their short story. The final paper for the Literary Essay is due Monday January 7th. Homework: Read - Write Journal Entry #30


Course 3: We worked on writing 2-step equations that are written in words.  Chapter 3 test is on Thursday.  Homework is worksheet 3.4.  Quiz is Friday for 5th hour due to assembly.

Monday, December 10, 2012

Monday, December 10

Science: Last day to work on "Is the Force With You?" in class, rough drafts are due for peer review tomorrow. Final drafts are due on Friday, December 14. Click here for the rubric

Geometry: Completed the 6.1 notes (ratios, proportions and geometric mean) and also discussed simplifying square roots. 6.1 worksheet is homework, the chapter 6 quiz will be on Friday. 


Spanish I: Study all verbs and adverbs on pg 121 for the 2.1 quiz (part 1) on Monday, Dec 17th

ELA - students were given the hour to read their Short Story Text packets. This needs to be complete by tomorrow's class as we will be using these stories for our next Writer's Workshop - Literary Analysis. Homework- READ journal entry.

Physical Education: Click here for December's Question. 


Course 3: We are working on story problems with two-step equations.  Homework is the story problem worksheet, #2,4,5,7, and 9. 1st hour- complete the whole sheet.


Pre-Algebra: Homework:  have parents sign grade sheet and 4.5 (evens only)
 
Algebra: Homework:  worksheet 6.7 all

Friday, December 7, 2012

Friday, December 7

Science: Continued working on "Is the Force With You?" lab, students had the entire class period to work on their rough drafts and will have another work day on Monday. Rough drafts are due Tuesday, December 11 for peer review. Final drafts are due on Friday, December 14.

Geometry: Took the chapter 5 test. Homework is to research the definition of the kitchen work triangle


ELA - Students Voted on their "Mock Elections" or Superlatives for the 8th grade class...fun!  We then started reading our Short Story Text Packets in preparation for our Literary Analysis to begin on Monday. Have a great weekend, remember to vote for the Tech grant!

Spanish I: Use your review sheets to study for the test on Monday. These review sheets will be on my blog today, with the answers. Go to: sraroth.blogspot.com


Humanities: Students worked on presentations in class today. I am going to be attending an IB conference on Monday.  Students will have homework for 5.1 that will be due Tuesday. Presentations will be due Tuesday as well.


Course 3: We are working on 2-step equations. 1st hour-2-step equations.  Writing expressions, 5 problems. 2nd, 3rd, 4th hour-2-step equations worksheet (finish the ones we didn't do)! 5th hour-2-step equations worksheet.

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Thursday, December 6

Science: Students continued working on the "Is The Force With You?" lab. Today we concentrated on making graphs, data analysis and conclusions. We will continue working on rough drafts tomorrow and Monday. Rough drafts are due for peer review on Tuesday, December 11. Final drafts will be due on Friday, December 14.

Geometry: Went over the practice test and completed the review foldable brochure. Homework is to complete the chapter 5 review (odds).


Art 8: 1st hr. Students are working on poem portion of their monochromatic collage.
"Crowded Elevator " drawing and "What's in the fridge?" drawing are still works in progress.

Art 7/8: 5 th and 6th hrs. "Crowded Elevator" drawing will be completed this week. 6th hr.will also be completing "Amazing Playgrounds."

Advanced Art 8 Students are currently on the colored pencil portion of the mixed media fruit still life. Gray value charcoals and chalk pastel portions are soon to follow.

Pre-Algebra: After reviewing, we took our quiz.  We need some more time tomorrow, so no homework!
Algebra: Graphing lines packet is due on Friday.  No other homework today.  We worked on graphing piecewise functions today.

Humanities: Hours 1-3 took the chapter 4 test and were introduced to the colonies "mini" project, and hours 4-7 began work on the colonies "mini" project. Homework is to work on the project and complete a current event. Current events are due Friday and the project is due Monday.

Spanish I: Study the review sheets for the test on Monday.


ELA - We continued to review our Literary Terms, the Power Point is Posted on my webpage on the Berkley Website.  Tomorrow we will start reading our short stories and begin our Literary Essay Writer's Workshop. Homework: Read, Journal Entry #27

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Wednesday, December 5

Science: Continued collecting data, began making graphs and writing the data analysis section of the "Is the Force With You?" lab. We will work on conclusions and critique reflection tomorrow and rough drafts on Friday. Rough drafts for peer review are due on Tuesday, December 11. Final drafts will be due on Friday, December 14. 

Geometry: Discussed indirect proofs and worked on making a fold-able to help us review all of the centers of triangles. Practice test is homework, chapter 5 test is Friday. 


Humanities: Students in hours 1-3 checked 4.4 section assessment and reviewed for chapter 4 test.  Students in hours 4-7 took chapter 4 test. Homework is to study for the test if you have not already taken it, and to complete current events by Friday.


Spanish I: Study for the test on Monday, using the review sheets from yesterday and today.

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Tuesday, December 4

Morning classes did not meet today due to the ACT Explore test.

Science: Began collecting data for "Is The Force With You?", we will continue with data collection tomorrow and will spend the remainder of the week working on the lab. Rough drafts for peer review will be due on Tuesday, December 11 and final drafts are due Friday, December 14. The Unit 2 Test is Tuesday, December 18.


Humanities: afternoon students reviewed for tomorrow's test. Chapter 4 test will be tomorrow for afternoon students, and Thursday for morning students. Homework is to study, current events are due Friday.


Spanish I: Exercises 13, 14, & 15 pg 83. Due Wednesday, Dec 5th. Study for the test on Monday, Dec 10th.

ELA - Students took the ACT EXPLORE during the morning hours.  Afternoon classes presented the remainder of projects and were given quiet reading and AR quizzing time. Homework: Journal Entry number 25.  READ! Turn The Giver book by Thursday.

Course 3: Today we did simple one-step equations.  Homework is worksheet 3.1 all.

Monday, December 3, 2012

Monday, December 3

Geometry: Went over the 5.4 homework, took a quiz and took notes on 5.6 after the class voted to take their test on Friday versus Monday. Homework is front side (#1-10) of 5.6 worksheet. Chapter 5 test will be Friday, December 7.

Science: Went over the momentum homework and quiz corrections were returned. Students then began planning the "Is the Force With You?" IB inquiry lab. We will be collecting data tomorrow and Wednesday and will work on the lab for the remainder of this week. Peer review will be Tuesday, December 11 and the final draft will be due on Friday, December 14. Click here for a copy of the lab planner. 


Pre-Algebra: Because of the ACT Explorer Test that will be given on Tuesday, our quiz has been moved to Wednesday.  Our quiz will cover sections 4.1-4.4, topics such as, greatest common factor and least common multiple and simplifying fractions.  Students have all had this before, but now we are finding all of these when variables are involved.  We received an enormous review packet today that will be due on Wednesday.

Algebra: Our 4th Problem Solving Workshop was handed in today.  We discussed slope-intercept form (y=mx+b) and direct variation (y=kx).  Homework: worksheet 4.5



Course 3: Today we took our chapter 5 test.  No homework.

Humanities: Students worked on the Explore Test with Mrs. Weiss today. Homework is to complete 4.4 section assessment. Current events are due Friday.


ELA - Students turned in their projects, those that didn't print needed to present, so we watched as many presentations that we could and will continue through the week.
 Tomorrow A.M. is the ACT EXPLORE Test - please be sure your student has a good night's sleep, a good breakfast, and a book to read when they are done.
Homework: READ!

Spanish I:: Exercises 13, 14, & 15 pg 83. Due Wednesday, Dec 5th. Study for the test on Monday, Dec 10th.

Friday, November 30, 2012

Friday, November 30

Science: Completed our discussion of Investigation 3-A and went over the momentum homework. Next week we will go begin the next IB Inquiry lab "Is The Force With You?". 

Geometry: Went over the 5.5 homework and notes from yesterday and the 5.4 notes (medians and altitudes). 5.4 worksheet is homework. 

Pre-Algebra: We reviewed equation solving and GCF.  We worked on section 4.4.  Homework:  4.4 (odds).  Our next quiz will be next Tuesday! (sections 4.1-4.4)

Algebra: We finished up section 4.4 on finding slope.  We worked in class on worksheet 4.4 and the Problem Solving Workshop #4.  Any unfinished work is homework!


Spanish I: finish exercises 10 & 11, pgs 80-81 due Monday. Rough draft of family project due Monday.

Humanities: Students shared 4.3 free choice and current events in class today. Homework is to begin to study for our chapter 4 test next Wednesday. We will have a test review on Tuesday.

Choir:  Emily Muench, has a role in Meadow Brook Theater's production of "A Christmas Carol" this year, and everyone is invited to take advantage of a discounted ticket opportunity to see the show. The show is on Friday, December 21st at 8PM and tickets are $31.20/person (regularly over $40). Anyone who is interested should turn in their order form and money to me by Monday (December 3rd).. We're hoping to get a big group from Norup, so please feel free to invite friends, family, anyone who would like to come!


Course 3: Today we reviewed for our chapter 5 test on Monday.

Today Mrs. Weiss visited all 8th grade Science classes to discuss the upcoming EXPLORE test. Her power point can be reviewed here.  All 8th graders will start the EXPLORE on Monday. In their Humanities class, they will complete the Student Interest portion.  On Tuesday, academic testing will occur during 1st, 2nd and 3rd hours. Please do your best to be in school both Monday and Tuesday for testing. 

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Thursday, November 29

Geometry: Went over the 5.3 homework and took notes on 5.5 (we will go back to 5.4 tomorrow). Homework is the 5.5 worksheet, chapter 5 quiz is on Monday.

Science: Students in Mrs. Petersen's class completed the notes on Newton's 3rd Law of Motion and Mrs. Kettner's class worked on the momentum investigation. Homework is the momentum worksheet.

Pre-AlgebraWe are continuing to work on equation solving.  It is so important for students to be proficient with this skill in order for them to be successful in Algebra next year.  We are also working on GCF and LCM.  Our homework is 4.3 (evens).  Our next quiz will be next Tuesday!

Algebra: We worked on our third method for solving linear functions today...slope-intercept form (y=mx+b).  We just got into our discussion, so there is no homework on this section, yet.  I passed out our 4th Problem Solving Workshop (everyone was so excited ;) ).  It will be due on Monday.  Please remember that we are focusing on Perseverance and Precision!  Show your work and explain your answers!

Course 3: Students worked on a review in class.  We will review tomorrow for a test on Monday.
Spanish I: Exs 10 & 11, pgs 80-81. Due Monday. Family project rough draft due Monday.
 
ELA - Students held "Vocabulary Bees" at their tables and then the table winners competed in a "Vocab Off" for class title of Vocabulary Master (and WOW tickets).  This was to help review for the Vocabulary Test tomorrow.  The remained of the hour was dedicated to project work with a few students going to the Tech Lab or working on the classroom computers.  Remember all projects are due Monday, December 3rd - presentations ready to present, music ready to play, and all rubrics turned in with projects.
 
Please remember to vote for a Technology Grant for our school, either via
texting To: 95248 Message: 1023pbf
or logging into a computer at www.PowerABrightFuture.com
 
Homework - STUDY VOCABULARY.  Work on Project.


Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Wednesday, November 28

Geometry: Went over the 5.2 worksheet and took notes on 5.3 (angle bisectors and incenter). Homework is the 5.3 worksheet, quiz on chapter 5 will be Monday, December 3. 

Science: Mrs. Kettner's class took notes on Newton's 3rd Law. Mrs. Petersen's classes started an investigation into the 3rd law and momentum. We also watched a quick cartoon to help us understand mass and weight (click here!). Quiz corrections are due on Friday. We are almost finished with this unit! Next week we will begin the "Is the Force With You?" IB inquiry lab. The test for unit 2 is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, December 18. If students will be leaving early for vacation they should take the test prior to leaving! 


Spanish I: Exercises 10 & 11, pgs 80-81. due Monday, Dec 3rd.


ELA - Students were given instruction on Bibliography requirements (not only for the current ELA project, but for all projects).  They were then given time to work on their The Giver Reader's Journals (final draft due tomorrow with all chapter sections filled in and cover illustrations complete in final draft format) and their projects. Homework: READ! Reader's Journal due Thursday, November 29   Study for Vocabulary Assessment on Friday, November 30.  Work on Project due Monday, December 3rd


Course 3: Today we worked on mean, median, mode, and range. Homework is worksheet 5.8, all.


Humanities: Guest speaker, Kevin Howley, helped Student learn about the social influences of Quakerism in class today. No homework. Current events are due Friday.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Tuesday, November 27

Science: Today we continued examining speed vs. time graphs and quizzes were returned. Quiz corrections are due on Friday (quiz correction sheet is attached). Mrs. Kettner's class needs to finish graphing assignment. 

Geometry: Went over the 5.1 homework and 5.2 notes (perpendicular bisectors). 5.2 worksheet is homework. Chapter 5 quiz will be Monday, December 3. 

Pre-Algebra: We went over our tests from chapter 3.  Grades are posted on Family Access.  We started Chapter 4 today.  We discussed factors and prime factorization.  Homework:4.1B (evens)

Algebra: We finished our discussion of section 4.2.  Homework:  worksheet 4.2



Spanish I: Practice the 20 question and 7 verbs for the test on Mon Dec 10th

ELA - students were given a reminder lesson on how to pick "Just Right Books" and then guidance on picking their next AR book. Project choices are due tomorrow and final projects are due Monday.

Course 3: Today we talked about adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing decimals.  They may use calculators.  Homework is 5.6, #1 - 12,4-26 and 5.7, #4 - 18.

Monday, November 26, 2012

Monday, November 26

Science: Took notes on speed vs. time graphs and accelerated motion. Homework is Mass vs. Weight worksheet, students need to either make problem solving boxes or write great short answers on the back of the worksheet for each answer. #6 is extra credit. Quizzes will be returned tomorrow, all grades are posted.

Geometry: Completed an investigation relating to midsegments and the 5.1 notes. 5.1 worksheet is homework. Quiz on 5.1-5.4 is Friday.

Spanish I: Make flashcards for the 2.1 vocabulary on page 121


Humanities: Students worked on a daily write (name the 13 English colonies), were introduced to chapter 4 and began to work on 4.1 summaries in class. Homework is to complete 4.1 summaries. Current events are due Friday.

Pre-Algebra: We did an in-class activity on problem solving and equation solving.  No homework.

Algebra: We went over sections 4.1/4.7/3.8 homework today.  We started lesson 4.2.  There is no homework.


Language Arts: Today we discussed chapters 20-23 (the final chapters) of The Giver
and looked at some of the "big ideas" and themes in the novel. Students wrote in their writer's journals (journal entry #20) about what they think the author might be trying to teach us about our
society (journal prompt attached). We then discussed this as a class and made a list of our ideas. Reader's Journal for chapters 20-23 was checked for completion. Homework: Journal entry #21, READ!


Course 3: We finished going over lesson 5.5.  Homework is worksheet 5.5, #1-7,24,26.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Tuesday, November 20

Next week is begins the breakfast food drive for Caring & Sharing, please try to bring in some items for this worthy cause!

Science: Took our unit 2 quiz, no homework!

Geometry: Took our chapter 4 test and scored on average 98.3%, no homework!

Pre-Algebra: We finished our Chapter 3 tests and started and activity that we will finish on the Monday we return.  Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Algebra: We discussed Standard Form and Function Form (slope-intercept form).  We spent lots of time re-writing equations/solving for different variables.  This is really useful in future math classes and for science.  No homework.  Happy Thanksgiving!

 Humanities: Students finished round two of the Geography Bee.  Congratulations to all contestants. Finalists will be announced after the Thanksgiving break. No homework. Happy Thanksgiving.

 ELA - Students reviewed their last vocabulary for The Giver and were given their final projects (project and rubric are attached).  The rest of the hour was devoted to AR quizzes, working on cover illustrations for Reader's Journals, and reading.  There will be no vocabulary quiz on this last section, it will be included in the final vocabulary test.Homework - EAT A LOT! Read!

Spanish I: Study for quiz 1.3 (part 2) on Mon, Nov 26

Course 3: We did fraction and decimal work today.  Homework is worksheet 5.5, #8-31, skip 24 and 26.  Students had plenty of time to complete in class.  They should have no homework.


Monday, November 19, 2012

Monday, November 19

Science: Went over Newton's 2nd Law homework and took notes on gravity and free fall, click here for the presentation. Quiz tomorrow! Study notes and homework assignments (acceleration and Newton's 2nd Law).

Geometry: Went over the practice test and worked on the chapter review odds, the review is homework. Chapter 4 test tomorrow.

Pre-Algebra: We took our Chapter 3 test today. No homework!

Algebra: Continued our discussion of Domain and Range of Functions. Homework: Finish whatever you did not finish in class from 4.1 and 4.7 worksheets.

Spanish I: Study for next vocab quiz on 1.3 (part 2) on Monday, Nov 26

Course 3: Students in course 3 took a quarter I math assessment.  No homework.

Humanities: Students will be taking the Geography Bee today and tomorrow. No homework.

 ELA - students were given the hour to work on their final Reader's Journal and illustrate the cover, look up Vocab #10 definitions, read, or take AR quizzes.  As this is a short week and the last chapter section of The Giver we will not have a vocabulary quiz this week, it will be rolled in to the final vocabulary test next week.Homework - READ, Vocabulary Definitions.

PE: Click here for November's PE homework
 


Friday, November 16, 2012

Friday, November 16

Geometry: Went over the 4.8 homework and began working on the practice test. Practice test is homework. Chapter 4 test is Tuesday.

Science: Practiced doing calculations using Newton's 2nd Law of Motion. Homework is the Newton's 2nd Law worksheet. Quiz on Newton's 1st and 2nd Laws is Tuesday. Quizzes are open note/worksheet and there will be corrections.


Humanities: Students finished current event conversations and practiced for next week's Geography Bee. No homework. Have a great weekend.

Spanish I: Study for the 1.3 vocab quiz (part 2) on Monday, November 26th

Pre-Algebra: We spent the day reviewing chapter 3 in preparation for our test on Monday.  Attached is the review that was given for homework.  Have a great weekend.

Algebra: We discussed sections 4.1 and 4.7 which cover plotting points on the coordinate plane and function families.  This is a nice break from the tough absolute value functions we just finished.  Homework:  wkst 4.1.  Have a great weekend! Homework:  Last 2 problems of the notes.  Please remember to graph f(x) on both graphs in order to compare the 2 functions.



Course: I am out today.  Students were given a review of adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions.  It is all due Monday.  They must show their work to get credit.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Thursday, November 15

Dear NIS Families and Staff,
Norup International is being considered for a $50,000 technology grant! To earn this grant, all we need are votes and we need them daily! You can vote by texting or by visiting the grant website. To text, put in the number 95248 (where it's being sent) and, in the message, type in 1023pbf and send. For the website, which takes a bit longer, you will need to go to www.PowerABrightFuture.com . You will then need to search Norup. Once there, vote for Norup than confirm. PLEASE VOTE OFTEN! Voting ends on December 18. You must be 13 or older to vote. Please post this information on blogs, facebook, and twitter to get the word out. Computers are set up in Norup's Media Center, if you need a place to vote. Thank you for supporting Norup!

Science: Mrs. Kettner's class finished investigation 2B, comparing speeds on the flat and incline track and using the data to create and analyze a speed/time graph. Mrs. Petersen's classes took notes on pages 35-38 (Newton's 2nd Law of Motion). No homework. Quiz on Newton's 1st & 2nd Law Tuesday, November 20.

Geometry: Went over the 4.7 homework and took notes on 4.8 (congruence transformations). Homework is the 4.8 worksheet. Test on chapter 4 is Tuesday, November 20.

Course 3: Students took a quiz today on lessons 5.1 - 5.4.  No homework.
Spanish I: Study for the 1.3 quiz (part 2) for tomorrow.


Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Wednesday, November 14

ELA - Attached are the templates for School Journal entries from Monday and Tuesday. Today students were given time to read or take AR quizzes we then worked on Grammar with lessons 3.1 What is a Pronoun?, 3.2 Subject Pronouns, and 3.3 Object Pronouns. Each lesson was presented and then students were given the opportunity to work on the independent practice before the next lesson was presented. Students are always welcome at lunch if they are struggling with any concept. Homework: Finish Grammar packet, Journal entry #13, Vocab Definitions due, Reader's Journal due.

Spanish I: Study for the quiz 1.3 (part 1) on Friday. Final draft of the commercial skit is due by tomorrow.

Science: Continued working on Investigation 2-B, analyzing how speed on the track changes over time. Quiz on Newton's 1st and 2nd laws Tuesday, November 20.

Geometry: Went over the 4.6 homework and showed examples of why SSA (or donkey's) don't work. Completed the 4.7 notes (isosceles and equilateral triangles). 4.7 worksheet is homework. Chapter 4 test is Tuesday, November 20.

Pre-Algebra: We worked on our last section of Chapter 3 - solving 2 step inequalities. The students voted to have their Chapter test on Monday. Homework today: Inequality solving (evens only)

Algebra: We took our Chapter test today. We are flipping the classroom tomorrow. Students received the notes to do at home and we will do the homework in class tomorrow. This intro lesson lends itself to this teaching strategy because of the vocabulary and their prior knowledge that is used in this lesson. Students should be prepared to explain the meaning of the vocab words and explain the examples. Their textbook will be a great resource for the completion of the notes

Humanities: 4.1 section assessment and current events are due tomorrow.

Course 3:  Quiz tomorrow.










Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Tuesday, November 13

Science: Completed investigation 2B, Newton's 2nd Law of Motion. Mrs. Kettner's class took notes on pages 35-38. No homework. Quiz on Newton's Laws of Motion is Tuesday, November 20

Geometry: Took notes on section 4.6 (using corresponding parts of congruent triangles) and had a BLAST with some challenging proofs (at least Mrs. Petersen did!). Homework is the 4.6 worksheet and continuing to perservere and look forward to challenges. Challenges are exciting and rewarding!

Humanities: Students took chapters 1-3 test in class today.  Homework is to complete a current event for tomorrow.

Algebra: Tomorrow is our Chapter 3/6 Part II test (sections 6.4-6.6). Students have 2 review packets (both posted on yesterday's blog). We reviewed in class today. I have attached a link to a YouTube clip covering solving absolute value equations and inequalities. Good luck studying! Email me if you have any questions and come see me at lunch! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxbLXwXXp7Y

Pre-Algebra: We continued working on section 3.5. Homework: 3.5 Practice B (#13-25)

Spanish I Study for the 1.3 quiz (part 1) this Friday.



Monday, November 12, 2012

Monday, November 12

Click here to listen to: Struggle for Smarts? How Easter and Western Cultures Tackle Learning on NPR's morning edition for an interesting perspective on student perseverance.

Science: Went over the acceleration homework and finished our discussion of investigation 2-A (comparing how mass affects speed on a flat track compared to a downhill). We then began collecting data for investigation 2-B (Newton's 2nd Law of motion). We will spend the rest of this week learning about the 2nd law. Quiz on Newton's 1st & 2nd Law on Tuesday, November 20.

Geometry: Went over the 4.5 homework and took the 4.1-4.5 quiz. Chapter 4 test is Tuesday, November 20.

ELA - Students began reading their next chapter section and worked on finding their vocabulary definitions and locating the words within the novel.  We then moved on to analyze the main character Jonas and plot a life map in our Writer's Journals. This entry is the 9th entry for the second marking period.  (We altered the numbering system as students were at different points in their journals and it was getting confusing continuing the numbers from last marking period.) Homework: Vocabulary Definitions.  Journal entry #10, READ!!!!

Course 3: We continued to work on dividing fractions.  Homework is worksheet 5.4, #1-18, 20 - 22, 25. We have a quiz on Wednesday on lessons 5.1 - 5.4.

Humanities: Students discussed Veterans Day and reviewed for tomorrow's test. Homework is to study for the test. Current events are due Wednesday.

Spanish I: study for 1.3 quiz (part 1) on Friday Nov 16

Algebra: We did review stations for our test on Wednesday.  I have attached the questions in case you did not finish in class. Review part 2, review stations
 Pre-Algebra: Homework: 3.5B (1-12)

Friday, November 9, 2012

Friday, November 9

ELA - Students took their Vocab #8 and Giver Chap 11-16 comprehension quiz. They then learned about the forces in our society and compared them to the forces in the community of The Giver. We discussed the attached teaching point by writing in their Writer's Journals (entry #48 or the 8th of the second marking period) and then discussing with their table mates. Have a great weekend.

Course 3: We started to talk about dividing fractions.  No homework.

Geometry: Went over the 4.5 notes (ASA and AAS), 4.5 worksheet is homework.

Science: Completed investigation 2-A by comparing speed of car on a incline track compared to the flat track and went over the acceleration homework from last night.

Humanities: Students checked chapter 3 assessment, reviewed for a quiz and shared current events in class. Homework is to study for our quiz on Tuesday.

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Thursday, November 8

Science: Practiced calculating acceleration. Homework is the acceleration worksheet.

Geometry: Went over the 4.3 worksheet and took notes on 4.4 (proving triangles congruent by SAS and HL). Homework is the 4.4 worksheet.

Humanities: Students worked on chapter 3 assessment (pp. 88-89) in class. Homework is to complete chapter 3 assessment and a current event for tomorrow.

Spanish I: Exercises 8, 9, 10 and 11 pgs 58-60. Due Monday Nov 12th. Study for your vocab quiz on 1.3 (part 1) on Friday, Nov 16th.

Course 3: Today we continued to talk about multiplying fractions and mixed numbers.  All students should have worksheet 5.3, #1-13 odds, 14 - 18, 21 done by tomorrow.

ELA - Students began class by contemplating rules - prompt attached - in their 6th journal entry of the 2nd card marking. They discussed their responses with their table mates while their Reader's Journals and Vocabulary Definitions for Chapters 11-16 were checked for completeness. The class then discussed the vocabulary words and how they are used in the context of the text, which lead to some interesting discussions regarding the "community" and how things are done in Jonas' world. Homework- Study for Chap 11-16 Vocab and Comprehension Quiz. Writer's Journal entry #47 (7th of 2nd marking period) and READ!!!!

Pre-Algebra: Most students finished their assignment in class. If you didn't, it is a 1/2 sheet of solving inequalities and graphing them. Due tomorrow.

Algebra: Worksheet 6.6 all








Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Wednesday, November 7

Science: Today we started taking notes on our 2nd unit, Newton's laws of motion. No homework.

Geometry: Completed an activity to demonstrate triangle congruence, went over the 4.2 worksheet and took notes on 4.3 (SSS congruence postulate). The 4.3 worksheet is homework. 4.1-4.5 quiz is on Monday.

ELA- Students were given the hour to work independently on reading The Giver chapters 11-15, work on their Reader's Journals, find definitions for this week's vocabulary, or take AR quizzes for this marking period. FYI, when we finish The Giver I will be taking the classes to the Media Center for lessons on picking a "just right book", and requiring them to have a "just right" Science Fiction novel to read. They may bring in their own or check one out that day, but all must read another Science Fiction novel. The Lois Lowry series seems to be catching many student's interest :) Homework - Definitions, Reader's Journal, and Writer's Journal Entry #45 (or 5 for this marking period)

Humanities: Students completed daily writing and analyzed the election results. Chapter 3 Assessment and current events are due Friday.

course 3: We started to talk about multiplying fractions.  Homework- worksheet 5.3, # 1 - 6.

Pre-Algebra: Handed in our quizzes. They should be graded in time to go on the report cards. Homework: Graphing inequalities evens only.

Algebra: Homework: last 2 problems of the notes. We are having a test a week from today (11/14) over sections 6.4-6.6





Friday, November 2, 2012

Friday, November 2

Science: Completed investigation 2-A by graphing our mass versus speed data. Students also completed their multiple intelligences posters and presented them to the class.

Geometry: Went over the 4.1 homework and 4.2 notes (congruent triangles). Homework is the 4.2 worksheet. Quiz on 4.1-4.5 will be on Monday, November 12.

Spanish I: Quiz on 1.2 (part 2) on Wednesday, Nov 7th.

Pre-Algebra: We took an in-class group quiz today. They did not finish and voted to take it home to complete as opposed to finishing it in their groups on Wednesday. So their homework is to finish their quiz. They may use their books, notes, friends, and/or parents to complete. Please e-mail me if you have any questions.
Algebra: We finished talking about solving absolute value equations. This is new, and this is tough! Keep working, you can do it! Homework: worksheet 6.5 (2-24 evens only)

ELA - Students took their Vocabulry #7 / The Giver Chapter 6-10 Quiz. They were then given one last chance to get their AR quizzes done for this marking period. FYI - even with the short week next week, students have a chapter section and vocabulary due for the Chapters 11-15 section. Attached is the vocabulary sheet if you would like to get a head start. Have a good weekend!

Course 3: We worked on adding fractions and mixed numbers with different denominators.  Homework-worksheet 5.2, # 1 - 17 odds, 18-21, 25.





Thursday, November 1, 2012

Thursday, November 1

Geometry: Started chapter 4 with notes on (1.4, relationships in triangles). Homework is the 1.4 worksheet.

Science: Began our unit on Newton's laws of motion with an investigation of how mass affects speed of a car on the track while maintaining constant force. If any students did NOT turn in lab corrections yet they must be turned in tomorrow.

Pre-Algebra: We are having a short quiz tomorrow on 2 step equation solving. Homework is Mid Chapter Quiz review (worksheet-copied from textbook)

Algebra: We passed back the tests today and went over them. Scores were great!! We started investigating absolute value equations. The only "assignments" for today are the extra credit assignment and the PSW #3 corrections. Both are optional-but strongly suggested.

Humanities: Students reviewed 3.1 and 3.2 in class. Students also began to work on 3.3 summaries. Homework is to complete 3.3 summaries. Homework folders are due Friday. ]

Spanish I: If you are writing the poem, it must be written neatly on white or colored paper tonight, or you can type it out in the lab tomorrow. Study for the 1.2 (part 20 quiz on Wed Nov 7

ELA - Students wrote to the attached prompt - then discussed the rules they wrote with their table mates. Each table decided on a few rules that they could all agree were important, and then reported out to the class. Chapters 6-10 Reader's Journals were discussed and the class discussed the important concepts in this chapter section.  Homework: Study for Chap 6-10/Vocab Quiz. READ!


Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Tuesday, October 30

Science: Students worked on making posters to represent their learning styles based on the multiple intelligences inventories we did yesterday.

Geometry: Went over the practice test. Homework is to review by practing proofs: Pg. 159 #37 & 41, Pg. 167 #31, 34 & 35. Test is tomorrow!

Spanish I: Think of 7 adjectives in Spanish that describe you (looks and personality), and two adjectives that you aren't (eg I am not tall... No soy alta). You must have these by tomorrow to work on our poem about ourselves.

Course 3: We took our chapter 2 test today.  No homework.

ELA - Students read, took AR quizzes, and received their Writer's Journals back. Definitions for Vocabulary List #7 were checked and reviewed as a class. Students began their Grammar study with Complete Subjects and Predicates (Grammar Chapter 1 Lesson 1 in grade book as GR 1.1) The class completed page 1 together and were to complete pages 2-3.  Homework: Journal Entry #41, READ! finish Grammar 1.1




Monday, October 29, 2012

Monday, October 29

Geometry: Went over the 3.6 homework and started working on the practice test, which is homework. The chapter 3 test is Wednesday.

Science: Students did a learning style inventory. 2nd hour also read about Isaac Newton and learned practiced taking 2 column notes. 3-7th hours got new groups based on their learning styles/multiple intelligences and created posters to represent their groups. Lab corrections are due by Friday!

Pre-Algebra: We discussed our tests that we took on Friday. Students may do test corrections for 1/2 credit-due by Thursday. We started chapter 3 today. It is a very important chapter on equation and inequality solving. Homework: 3.1 Practice B (2-26 evens, 27-31 all)
Algebra: We took the Chapter 3/6 Part I test. There is no homework

Spanish I: Study for vocab quiz 1.2 (part 2) on Wed Nov 7th.

Humanities: Students checked atlas work 8/9 and 10/11 in class. We also introduced section 3.1 in class.  Homework is to complete 3.1 section assessment (p. 73 in text). Current events are due Wednesday

ELA - Students turned in their Writer's journals for checking today this will be the second Summative Assessment for the first marking period (40 entries). They then began looking up their Vocabulary #7 and then read a few pages as a class, modeling how you stop and write down vocabulary words when found and questions as they arose during reading. Homework: Definitions and parts of speech for Vocab #7


Art grade 8 1st hr.: Relief sculptures are completed and proudly displayed in a showcase outside the office. We are currently working on a card design for the PTA playground committee. Student work has to reflect the theme of playing outdoors, playgrounds or recreation. 3 or 4 winners will be chosen to be on the cover of the greeting cards! These drawings will be completed in color pencil.

Art grade 7/8 hrs. 5 and 6: Cityscape paintings are still being completed. Most students have completed the painting portion and are moving onto the gluing and rubric portion which will be demonstrated today.

Advanced Art 8 hr. 7: Students continue to work on daily still life #4 and pasta still life. Both will be completed this week and students will then enjoy a pasta meal made with all the leftovers!




Friday, October 26, 2012

Friday, October 26

Science: Took the unit 1 test and discussed lab corrections. Lab corrections are due on Wednesday, October 31.

Geometry: Took notes on 3.6, homework is the 3.6 worksheet. Test on chapter 3 is Wednesday, October 31.

Humanities: Students completed atlas work, shared current events and played geography trivia in class today. No homework.

Pre-Algebra: Test today. No homework.

Algebra: We reviewed for our test on Monday. Students have 2 review packets, their textbook, and classzone.com to help them prepare for this test. Have a great weekend!

Course 3: Students were given a review today for our test on Tuesday.  It is due on Monday.  We will review on Monday.






Thursday, October 25, 2012

Thursday, October 25

Geometry: Learned how to do constructions of parallel and perpendicular lines.

Science: Morning classes played review Jeopardy. Science test is tomorrow!

Pre-Algebra: We reviewed for our chapter test that will be given on Friday. The test covers the following concepts: area, perimeter, like terms, coefficients, distributive property, and solving equations. Sounds overwhelming, but all of these concepts are related and build upon one another. Homework: Study!!

Algebra: We did not meet today. Friday we will be going over the review and preparing for our test on Monday. The review is attached in case you need another copy.

ELA - Students Read, took AR quizzes and wrote to the following prompt in their Writer's Journal: Would you like a career chosen for you at age 12? Why or why not? AM classes had their journal entries and vocabulary definitions checked for a homework grade. They then reviewed the correct definitions for their vocabulary (in prep for Friday's quiz) and held their first class discussion of a novel. Many interesting comments and questions arose from this discussion. Glad to see students are seeing this novel anew with their more mature 8th grade eyes. Homework: Read, study for vocabulary and The Giver chap 1-5 quiz on Friday. Write journal entry #39 *Remember students should have 40 journal entries ready to turn in for a Summative Assessment on Monday.

Humanities: Hours 1, 2, and 3 worked on atlas worksheets 8/9 and 10/11 in class. They also watched student news and discussed current events.  Hours 4, 5, and 7 will complete the above work tomorrow. No homework.

Spanish I: Only homework is to study for the 1.2 vocab quiz (part 2), on Wed Nov 7th.

Course 3: 1st, 2nd, 3rd hour: We did graphing pictures. If they did not finish in class, it is homework. You must color:)




Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Wednesday, October 24

Science: Went over the Unit 1 test review. Test is Friday.

Geometry: Took the 3.1-3.4 quiz, no homework. Chapter 3 test is Wednesday, October 31.

Course 3: We worked on graphing ordered pairs. Homework- 1st and 2nd hour-worksheet 2.8, # 13-20, 3rd, 4th, and 5th houir-worksheet 2.8, # 1-20

Humanities: Students checked atlas work, shared daily writing and discussed current events in class. No homework.

Spanish I: no homework today   Pre-Algebra: We are reviewing for our Friday Chapter 2 Test. The test will cover simplifying expressions (using the distributive property and collecting like terms), solving equations, and finding area and perimeter. Homework: Practice Chapter Test

Algebra: Reviewing for our Chapter 3/6 Part 1 test this coming Monday. Students are working on solving inequalities and graphing them. We corrected our first review packet today. Our second review packet is due on Friday.

Click here for October PE homework.

ELA - Students Read, took AR quizzes and wrote to the following prompt in their Writer's Journal: Would you like a career chosen for you at age 12? Why or why not? AM classes read and filled in their journals.
PM classes had their journal entries and vocabulary definitions checked for a homework grade. They then reviewed the correct definitions for their vocabulary (in prep for Friday's quiz) and held their first class discussion of a novel. Many interesting comments and questions arose from this discussion. Glad to see students are seeing this novel anew with their more mature 8th grade eyes. Homework: Read, study for vocabulary and The Giver chap 1-5 quiz on Friday. Write journal entry #37 *Remember students should have 40 journal entries ready to turn in for a Summative Assessment on Monday.