12/16/15 Have a Wonderful Holiday Break!!

English 8:  Students created an acrostic poem, and then made them into ornaments using tooling foil.  I encouraged all students to check the grade book and make sure they had all materials to get makeup/absent/redo work completed in all classes (or an extra AR book).   *homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership:  Students gave phenomenal speeches and took hope affirmation boxes today.     *homework:  - read AR
English 7: Students completed peer editing on their narrative essays. I encouraged all students to check the grade book and make sure they had all materials to get makeup/absent/redo work completed in all classes (or an extra AR book).   *homework: rough draft - read AR

12/15/15

English 8:  About half of the class was gone for Galileo make-up testing, so we will correct and discuss the poetry reading assignment tomorrow.  The students in the classroom completed DOL and Journal, and were given additional time for the poetry and reading AR.     *homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership:  We discussed free-enterprise economy and social/financial "entitlement" in our society.  Students were given the speech topic choice of:  Make or Take a Living - or - The Measure of a Person's Wealth. We will give 1-minutes speeches tomorrow.   *homework:  speech preparation - read AR
English 7: After DOL/Journal, students started work on the rough draft of their narrative story.  We discussed plot development, dialogue, and point of view.  *homework: rough draft - read AR

12/14/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, we discussed poetry elements.  Assigned was a poetry reading assigmnent identifying elements and figurative language.   *homework: poetry assignment - read AR
Teen Leadership:  We discussed the importance of speech preparation as well as the importance of responsible financial decisions for leaders.  *homework:  read AR
English 7: After DOL/Journal, students started work on a bubble map and flow map to plan a narrative essay.  The picture or the main character was due today.   *homework: bubble map and flow map- read AR

12/10/15 Wear an Ugly Sweater and/or Holiday Hat for $1 Tomorrow!

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, we started work on the social contract for the lunchroom.  We'll complete it tomorrow.   *homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership:  We discussed 'purpose' and where it comes from.  Assigned was a letter to "someone who has had a positive influence on your life."  Students will get some time to finalize it tomorrow in class.  *homework:  write letter - read AR
English 7: Galileo ELA Test   *homework: - read AR

12/9/15

English 8:  Galileo ELA Test  - most students finished, but a few will continue tomorrow.    *homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership: Assigned was a letter to "someone who has had a positive influence on your life."  Students will get some time to finalize it tomorrow in class.  *homework:  write letter - read AR
English 7: Galileo ELA Test  - some students finished, and some will continue tomorrow.       *homework: - read AR

12/8/15 GALILEO TESTING TOMORROW

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students we corrected the DOL Quiz as well as graded and discussed the informational text passage.    *homework: get good rest for testing tomorrow  - read AR
Teen Leadership: We discussed choices & consequences of actions, as well as taking responsibility for them.  We'll continue with responsibility tomorrow.  *homework:   - read AR
English 7: After DOL/Journal, students were given time to work on the Reading Packet - due tomorrow after testing.     *homework: Reading Packet (due Dec. 8) - read AR

12/7/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students were given Informational Reading passages to CLOSE Read, annotate, and answer questions (5 multiple choice questions in all).  This is due tomorrow.    *homework: Informational text passages & questions - read AR
Teen Leadership: Students continued giving speeches ("Something I Want to Say to the Class").  *homework:   - read AR
English 7: After DOL/Journal, students were given time to work on the Reading Packet - due tomorrow at the end of class.     *homework: Reading Packet (due Dec. 8) - read AR

12/4/15 Have a great weekend!

English 8:  Students read more personal narrative essays today.  Reading packets were due and collected.   *homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership: Students continued giving speeches ("Something I Want to Say to the Class") - we'll have a few to complete Monday.  *homework:   - read AR
English 7B: Students were given the class period to work on A+ (3 lessons plus notes were due today).     *homework: Reading Packet (due Dec. 8) - read AR
English 7A: Students took a DOL quiz today, and were given the remainder of the class to work on A+ (2 lessons plus notes were due today). *homework - Reading Packet (due Dec. 8) - read AR

12/3/14

English 8:  After a DOL quiz, students worked on the reading comprehension packet (due Friday).  We'll continue reading essays tomorrow during class.   *homework:  reading packet (due tomorrow) - read AR
Teen Leadership: Students started giving speeches ("Something I Want to Say to the Class") and will continue them tomorrow.  *homework:  prepare speech if not yet completed - read AR
English 7B: After a DOL quiz, students worked on A+ (language usage) - 3 lessons will be due by Friday (with notes).     *homework: 3 lessons on A+ - Reading Packet (due Dec. 8) - read AR
English 7A: We discussed the reading packet (which will be due Dec. 8) before going to NOVA (drug awareness with a Havasu Police Officer).  This presentation was both yesterday and today, so this group is a big behind the other 7th grade group.   I'm hoping we will have time for the DOL quiz and A+ tomorrow.  *homework: 2 lessons on A+ - Reading Packet (due Dec. 8) - read AR

11/30/15

Mrs. Nash will have a sub Tues. & Wed. for on-campus training.  She will be available both before and after school.  

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students read their personal narratives for a fluency grade.  We will continue this Thursday when I return.    *homework:  - read AR
Teen Leadership: Students learned about being responsible for their actions.  We discussed assignments for the next few days, as there will be a sub in the classroom.   *homework:  - read AR
English 7: After DOL/Journal, students worked on A+ (language usage) - 3 lessons will be due by Friday (with notes).     *homework: 3 lessons on A+ - read AR

11/24/15 - Happy Thanksgiving!!

English 8:  After journal, students were given time to complete both the final essay and Thanksgiving packet (both due today).   *homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership: Students watched the video from our speaking performance at Kiwanis a few weeks ago.  We also created holiday affirmation boxes - they look great!   *homework:   read AR
English 7: Students were given class time to work on A+ and then watched the Rikki Tikki Tavi movie.    *homework: read AR

11/23/15

English 8:  After journal, students worked with partners on a Thanksgiving informational text passage.  Students were also given time to work on the final draft of their personal essay. The packet and essay will both be due tomorrow at the end of class.  *homework: final essay & Thanksgiving packet - read AR
Teen Leadership: Students learned about being responsible for their attitudes as well as "thought replacement."  Assigned was filling out a 3x5 card with a "negative thought" and then writing a reframed "positive thought" as a thought replacement.    *homework:  -  thought replacement card - read AR
English 7: After DOL/Journal, students finished the "extended response" essay portion of the Rikki Tikki Tavi test and then worked on A+.  Two lessons in A+ will be due tomorrow at the end of class.    *homework: 2 lessons on A+ - read AR

11/20/15

English 8:  Students worked on peer editing narrative essays for the entire class period.  The final essay will be due Tuesday, Nov. 24.    *homework: 10 word choice changes & start final essay - read AR
Teen Leadership: We continued discussion on thoughts and responsibility for thoughts.    *homework:  -  read AR
English 7: Students took a Selection Test on the passage, "Rikki Tikki Tavi."  Some students did not finish the written portion of the test and will get some time Monday to finish.   *homework: - read AR

11/19/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on the pre-write and rough draft of their narrative essay.  The rough draft is due for peer editing tomorrow.  *homework: rough draft- read AR
Teen Leadership: We continued discussion on thoughts and responsibility for thoughts.    *homework:  -  read AR
English 7: After Journal, students identified common, proper, and possessive nouns.  We discussed the plot chart contents and how it relates to Rikki Tikki Tavi.  Assigned was pg. 43 # 5-6 (complete sentences with text evidence).  *homework: pg. 43 # 5-6 - read AR

11/18/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students started a pre-write activity for a narrative essay.  *homework: finish pre-write if not completed in class - read AR
Teen Leadership: We started discussion on thoughts and responsibility for thoughts.  The final personal mission statement was due today.   *homework:  -  read AR
English 7: After Journal, students practiced identifying complete and incomplete sentences.  They completed the circle map (a frame of reference) for the theme of "Rikki Tikki Tavi."  If not completed in class, the side B of the Sentence/Fragment worksheet is homework.   *homework: Sentence/Fragment worksheet Side B - read AR

11/17/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students took a Selection Test on the two passages we have been reading.  We will start a writing assignment, personal narrative, tomorrow.  *homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership: Speeches given - final "personal mission statement" is due tomorrow.  *homework: final personal mission statement -  read AR
English 7: After DOL/Journal, students added to  the "theme" section of their tree map in small groups.  After a class discussion on theme, students created a circle map detailing text evidence that supports their theme across the story (through many characters).  This is due tomorrow.  *homework: circle map (theme) - read AR

11/16/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, we discussed questions for the two passages we have been reading.  Students were then assigned pg. 118 #5 and pg. 119 #2 (due tomorrow).  There will be a test for these passages tomorrow.   *homework: pg. 118 #5 & -g. 119 #2 - study for TEST - read AR
Teen Leadership: Students had a pop quiz on values, standards, and principles.  We spent time on the mission statement and introduced the new speech topic for tomorrow.    *homework: write speech -  work on final personal mission statement -  read AR
English 7: After DOL/Journal, students continued listening to the audio short story "Rikki Tikki Tavi" and finish their tree maps.  This is due tomorrow and is homework if not finished in class. *homework: finish listening to audio story - finish tree map - read AR

11/13/15 Friday the 13th!

Trivia: 
triskaidekaphobia (fear of the number 13)
paraskevidekatriaphobia  (fear of Friday the 13th)
hippopotomonstrosequipedaliophobia  (fear of big words!)


English 8:  Students took a Figurative Language Quiz today and finished the worksheet associated with the double-bubble thinking map.   *homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership: Today we started writing personal mission statements.  Students received packets to start the thinking process and create a rough draft.  The rough draft is due Monday.  *homework: rough draft of personal mission statement -  read AR
English 7: Students took a Figurative Language Quiz today and continued listening to the audio version of Rikki Tikki Tavi (and creating a tree map with setting, characters, and theme).  We will continue working on this next week.*homework: - read AR

11/12/15

English 8:  After DOL, students learned the figurative language term oxymoron and practiced writing with them in their journals.  In small groups, students created double-bubble thinking maps to compare and contrast the two stories we have recently read. There will be a figurative language quiz tomorrow.    *homework: finish double-bubble if not completed in class - read AR
Teen Leadership: Today we started on lesson 27, principles.  Students will start creating their personal mission statement tomorrow.   *homework: - read AR
English 7: After completing DOL, students wrote objective summaries on the story Rikki Tikki Tavi.  Students were able to use their flow maps (assigned Wednesday) to help write the summary. There will be a figurative language quiz tomorrow.     *homework: - read AR

11/10/15

Reminder:  No school Wednesday, November 11th (Veteran's Day)


English 8:  After practicing writing metaphors within journals, students listened to the audio version of "Drummer Boy of Shiloh" and continued the flow map.  The flow map and objective summary is due Thursday.   *homework: finish flow map & write objective summary for "Drummer Boy of Shiloh" - read AR
Teen Leadership: Today we continued discussing standards and 'moral relativism.'  *homework: - read AR
English 7: After practicing writing metaphors within journals, students continued reading "Rikki Tikki Tavi" and completing the flow map (includes plot elements).  Students should finish the first read of the story and complete the flow map (due Thursday).    *homework: read all of Rikki Tikki Tavi (starts on pg. 26) & create a flow map with plot chart elements (exposition, conflict, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution - read AR

11/9/15

Reminder:  No school Wednesday, November 11th (Veteran's Day)


English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students started the first read of "Drummer Boy of Shiloh, " pg. 112.  They started working on a flow map with predictions, which is due tomorrow.  *homework: read "Drummer Boy of Shiloh" and complete flow map with predictions - read AR
Teen Leadership: Today we discussed standards and 'moral relativism.'  We will continue this tomorrow.    *homework: - read AR
English 7: After DOL/Journal, students started the first read of "Rikki Tikki Tavi," and a flow map with predictions.  Students were assigned the first 4 pages of the story, pg. 26-30, with the flow map including exposition and conflict.   *homework: read pg. 26-30 & create a flow map with predictions, exposition, and conflict  - read AR

11/6/15

English 8:  Students worked in journals and then finished A+ with notes (3 lessons and notes due today).  *homework: read AR
Teen Leadership: Students worked on the movie response essay - due today (notes, pre-write, and 5-paragraph essay).  The essay could be hand-written or typed.  *homework:  essay if not turned in today - read AR
English 7: Students worked in journals and then finished A+ with notes (4 lessons and notes due today).  *homework: read AR

11/4/15 - 11/5/15 - Substitute Teacher

Mrs. Nash will be away to Thinking Maps training Wednesday & Thursday.

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students will work within A+  "Adaptive Vocabulary."  Due Friday will be 3 completed lessons (apples) with notes.  *homework: read AR (3 completed lessons on A+ with notes - due by Friday)
Teen Leadership:  Students will be watching a movie, The Pregnancy Project, and responding with a 5-paragraph essay - due Friday.  *homework: 5-paragraph movie response essay - read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students will work within A+ for "Adaptive Language Arts." Due Friday will be 4 completed lessons (apples) with notes.  *homework: read AR (4 completed lessons on A+ with notes - due by Friday)

11/3/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students completed a pre-test on A+ for "Adaptive Vocabulary."  Students will be working within the program this week as we will have a sub Wed. & Thurs. *homework: read AR (3 completed lessons on A+ with notes - due by Friday) 
Teen Leadership:  We continued with Ch. 5 (lesson 25), Values.  Students were given a pre-write graphic organizer in preparation for a 5-paragraph essay due Friday.  It will be in response to a video watched with the sub on Wed. & Thurs.   *homework:  read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on A+ for "Adaptive Language Arts."  Students will be working within the program this week as we will have a sub Wed. & Thurs. *homework: read AR (4 completed lessons on A+ with notes - due by Friday)

11/2/15

All English Classes:  After DOL/Journal, we entered assessment information onto charts within portfolios and discussed the meaning of the results.  Students were able to view charts/graphs on Galileo online for class progress.  *homework:  read AR
Teen Leadership:  We discussed the meaning of values, as well as the ways in which we show them.  This will be continued tomorrow.  *homework: read AR

10/30/15

English 8: After Journal, students continued working on the Thinking Maps for "The Finish of Patsy Barnes." The maps are almost complete, with a few changes needing to be done Monday.   *Homework:  read AR
Teen Leadership:  After writing in journals, students shared good things and the Kiwanis speaking experience.  Affirmations were given out today (great day!).  *Homework:  -read AR


English 7A:  After Journal, students worked in the A+ program to identify gaps in Language Arts learning.  They finished the pre-test today and some worked on lessons assigned in the program.  *Homework: - read AR

10/29/15

English 8: After  Journal, students began working in small groups creating a story elements thinking map for "The Finish of Patsy Barnes." We'll finish them tomorrow. *Homework: piece of thinking map project that was assigned by the group - read AR
Teen Leadership:  We continued  presentations of public figures via PowerPoint.  A group of student speaking to Kiwanis did a practice presentation for the class, as well as a Young Marines Drug Awareness presentation.  Students that volunteered to speak to Kiwanis today did AWESOME!!!   *Homework:  -read AR


English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students started working on the A+ program to identify gaps in Language Arts learning.  They started the pre-test today and will work in lessons assigned in the program.  *Homework: - read AR

10/28/15

English 8: After  DOL/Journal, students began working in small groups creating a story elements thinking map for "The Finish of Patsy Barnes."  *Homework: piece of thinking map project that was assigned by the group - read AR
Teen Leadership:  We continued  presentations of public figures via PowerPoint.  We'll finish these tomorrow.   *Homework:  -read AR


English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students finished giving Glogster presentations for Story Elements.  They took an open notes Story Elements quiz on QuizStar, and online quizzing website.  *Homework: - read AR

10/27/15

English 8: After  DOL/Journal, students worked on annotating pg. 104-111 ("The Finish of Patsy Barnes").  We had many students out of the room completing Galileo makeup exams, so we did not continue into an assignment - just annotations (they could be completed in the book with sticky notes or online).   *Homework: pg. 104 - 111 annotations - read AR
Teen Leadership:  We continued  presentations of public figures via PowerPoint.  We'll finish these tomorrow.   *Homework:  -read AR


English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students continued giving Glogster presentations for Story Elements.  We will continue these tomorrow, which will culminate in a Story Elements Quiz (quiz is open note).  *Homework: study for quiz and take additional notes - read AR

10/26/15

English 8: After  DOL/Journal, students were assigned pg. 104-111 ("The Finish of Patsy Barnes").  An objective summary is due tomorrow.  They can complete it by hand or in the online textbook (digital workbook where students can complete and turn in work).  *Homework: pg. 104 - 111 & objective summary - read AR
Teen Leadership:  We started presentations of public figures via PowerPoint.  We'll continue these tomorrow.   *Homework:  -read AR


English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students started giving Glogster presentations for Story Elements.  We will continue these tomorrow, which will culminate in a Story Elements Quiz.  *Homework:  - read AR

10/22/15

English 8: After a DOL quiz, students were assigned pg. 47 #1-7 (Literary Analysis for Tell-Tale Heart).  They can complete it in the online textbook (digital workbook where students can complete and turn in work). There will be a test on this passage tomorrow as well.  *Homework: pg. 47 #1-7 & study for test - read AR
Teen Leadership:  Speeches given today - awesome job!!   *Homework: Research for PowerPoint  -read AR
English 7B:  After a DOL quiz, students were given time to complete the Story Elements Glogster project.  This is homework if not done in class as we will present tomorrow.   *Homework: Story Elements Glogster - read AR
English 7A:  After a DOL quiz, students were given some time to work on the Story Elements Glogster project.  Some students finished their Galileo ELA tests as they were not finished in class.  There have been so many absences in this class, we are going to work on the Glogster projects in class tomorrow.  It will be due for presentation Monday. *Homework: Story Elements Glogster (due Monday) - read AR

10/21/15

English 8:  GALILEO TESTING - ELA     *Homework:  - read AR
Teen Leadership:  Students were given the class period to work on both their PowerPoint presentation (public figure) - due at the END of class Friday.  They were also given the next speech assignment, "Something that's Important to Me and Why" or "A Lesson I have Learned" - the speech will be given tomorrow.   *Homework:   speech and research for PowerPoint  -read AR
English 7:  GALILEO TESTING - ELA     *Homework:  - read AR

10/20/15 Galileo ELA testing tomorrow!

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on CLOSE reading and annotating a reading packet with multiple passages.  This is due tomorrow.     *Homework: read & annotate packet (due tomorrow) - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journal, we discussed public vs. private self.  Students worked in small groups to identify groups they represent as individuals.  Each student chose a public figure to research and create a PowerPoint presentation about.  This is due Friday.   *Homework:   research & work on presentation for public figure  -read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on CLOSE reading and annotating a reading packet with multiple passages.  This is due tomorrow.     *Homework: read & annotate packet (due tomorrow) - read AR

10/9/15 Have a Fantastic Fall Break!!

English 8:  After Journal, students worked on AR360 completing one article of choice with associated questions & quiz.    *Homework: complete missing/absent/makeup work - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journal, we continued to discuss personal brand.  Due today was the self-concept vs. image collage.  Students were able to take home their affirmations for break (I love how excited they get to read them!).    *Homework:   complete missing/absent/makeup work -read AR
English 7:  After Journal, students worked in small group on the story elements project (Glogster).  We will resume this after break. *homework:  complete missing/absent/makeup work - read AR

10/8/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students worked in AR360 (informational text articles on the Renaissance website - they will continue tomorrow).  We read Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe, and students were assigned an objective summary.  *Homework: objective summary - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journal, we continued to discuss personal brand.  Due tomorrow is the project  =>  a poster/collage to show self-concept (how you view yourself) and  image (how you would like to be viewed by others or how you believe you are viewed differently than your self-concept). Students were given the option of a poster/collage or digital media presentation (PowerPoint or Glogster).   *Homework:   self-concept vs. image collage/poster -read AR
English 7:  After Journal, students were assigned small group projects presenting story elements to the class using a multi-media postering website called Glogster.  We will continue these tomorrow (not yet due).  *homework:  read AR

10/7/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on the final draft of their biographical essay with bibliography.  *Homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journal, we discussed personal brand briefly.  Students were given some time to work on their project due Friday ->  a poster/collage to show self-concept (how you view yourself) and  image (how you would like to be viewed by others or how you believe you are viewed differently than your self-concept). Students were given the option of a poster/collage or digital media presentation (PowerPoint or Glogster).  This will be due Friday.  *Homework:   self-concept vs. image collage/poster -read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, the final response to literature essay was collected.  Students logged in and learned how to use the Glogster program.  They will be working on this program over the next few days to present Story Elements.  *homework:  read AR

10/6/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on 10 word choice changes.  Students were given a demonstration on using the "reference" tool within Microsoft Word to create a bibliography (Works Cited/Reference) using MLA format.  They were given some time to work on the final draft in class, but will be given more time tomorrow.  The final bibliography draft will be due at the end of class tomorrow.    *Homework: work on final - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journal, we discussed self-concept vs. image further.  Assigned was a poster/collage to show self-concept (how you view yourself) and  image (how you would like to be viewed by others or how you believe you are viewed differently than your self-concept). Students were given the option of a poster/collage or digital media presentation (PowerPoint or Glogster).  This will be due Friday.  *Homework:   start collage/poster -read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on the final draft of their Response to Literature essay.  If not completed in class, it is homework (due tomorrow at the beginning of class).  *homework: final draft -due tomorrow - read AR

10/5/15 Parent-Teacher Conference Week

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students finished peer editing that was started Friday.  They were assigned 10 word choice changes (vocabulary upgrades or modifiers).  We'll work on the final tomorrow in class. It will be due Wednesday.   *Homework: 10 word choice changes - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journal, students learned about image (how we are viewed by others) vs. self-concept (how we view ourselves).  Assigned was a poster/collage to show self-concept (how you view yourself) and  image (how you would like to be viewed by others or how you believe you are viewed differently than your self-concept). Students were given the option of a poster/collage or digital media presentation (PowerPoint or Glogster).  This will be due Friday.  *Homework:   start collage/poster -read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students completed their 5 word choice changes (vocabulary upgrades) to their essays.  Students were given a demonstration of the Word program, the "digital locker" located on StudentVUE, as well as "Drop it to Me."  The final essay will be due (typed or hand-written) by Wednesday.  *homework: start final draft - read AR

10/1/15 Happy October!!

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, worked on the rough draft of the Edgar Allan Poe biography. It is due tomorrow for peer editing.   *Homework: rough draft - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journal, students gave speeches about "An Important Relationship."    *Homework: affirmations if bot completed in class - read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students started the peer editing process of their essay. We will continue this tomorrow.   *homework: - read AR

9/30/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students continued researching Edgar Allan Poe for a biography.  Assigned was the pre-write activity (graphic organizer) when notes were completed.  *Homework: pre-write- read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journal, students completed the IPOSSESS exam. We discussed the speech for tomorrow "A Relationship That is Important to Me and Why."   *Homework:   prepare for speech  -read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on an example essay to identify (bing, bang, boom) or the 3 subtopics and underline them in color.  Then, they identified these items within both the intro and conclusion.  Assigned was identifying these items (and underlining in color) the subtopics on their own essay (in body paragraphs as well as intro & conclusion).   *homework: identify bing, bang, boom on essay rough draft - read AR

9/29/15

English 8:  Students took the STAR Reading assessment (mid-semester) to continue tracking progress in reading ability.  After the STAR test, students used Pearson Literature Research Center to research Edgar Allan Poe for a biography essay.   *Homework: biography notes - read AR
Teen Leadership:  We discussed self-motivation as the culminating activity in Ch. 4 IPOSSESS lessons.  Students were able to view the exam they will be given tomorrow.  In addition, they were given several Emotional Intelligence scales (3 sheets).  Students are to give these to 3 people outside of class for scoring (others will rate them, the student, on EI).    *Homework:   study for test & give EI scales to 3 people for assessment -read AR
English 7:  Students took the STAR Reading assessment (mid-semester) to continue tracking progress in reading ability.  After the STAR test, students worked on the rough draft of their Response to Literature essay.  *homework: rough draft Response to Literature (due tomorrow for peer editing) - read AR

9/28/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students completed the flow map (plot chart) of "Raymond's Run" and answered pg. 33 #6.  We will start a pre-write for a biographical essay tomorrow.       *Homework: flow map & pg. 33 #6 if not completed in class - read AR
Teen Leadership:  We further discussed empathy, and to that added "social skills."  Students created circle maps within small groups, and then chose the 3 most important social skills to practice.  Assigned was choosing the 3 most important and explaining when & how they will practice them.  *Homework:   3 social skills (when & how will practice) -read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, we continued working on the pre-write activity for a Response to Literature essay.  We'll work on the rough draft tomorrow.    *homework: pre-write for Response to Literature - read AR

9/25/15 Have a great weekend!

English 8:  After Journal, students worked on a plot chart flow map (thinking map) for the story "Raymond's Run."  We had a pep assembly toward the end of class, so this will be worked on further in class Monday (not homework).      *Homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership:  Most of class was missed today as we had a pep assembly.  We discussed AR going into the grade book this week for the few minutes we had of class.  Students should be at 36% as of today.  *Homework:   -read AR
English 7:  After Journal, we students learned about 5-paragraph essay format, and stared a pre-write activity for a Response to Literature essay about "The Treasure of Lemon Brown."  We'll continue with this Monday - it is not homework.  *homework: - read AR

9/24/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students we discussed pg. 33 #1-4, and it was collected.      *Homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership:  We continued the lesson on self-control and empathy.   Students completed the role-played scenarios for self-control and no self-control with a substitute teacher.  Toward the end of class they completed an empathy quiz, gauging their Empathy Quotient (E.Q.).    *Homework:   -read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, we discussed the text evidence and questions for pg. 17 #1-6.  Students completed #7 in class (theme).  This will culminate in a Response to Literature essay, which will be started tomorrow.  *homework: complete pg. 17 #1-6 if not yet completed - read AR

9/23/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students were assigned pg. 33 #1-4 (key ideas and details) from "Raymond's Run."    *Homework: pg.33 #1-4 (text evidence format) - read AR
Teen Leadership:  Students learned what it means to have self-control and empathy.   Students role-played scenarios for self-control and no self-control with a substitute teacher.  We will continue this lesson tomorrow, as we got caught up in great discussion.  *Homework:   -read AR
English 7B:  After DOL/Journal, we discussed  pg. 17 # 1&2 and text evidence format. .  *Homework:  pg. 17 #4-6 - read AR
English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, we discussed  pg. 17 # 1&2 and text evidence format. .  *Homework:  pg. 17 - fix #1-2 (making sure to use text evidence format) and complete #4 - read AR

9/22/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students were assigned the first read of "Raymond's Run" (pg. 23-32) and pg. 32 Language and Word Study questions.  *Homework: read pg. 23-32 & pg. 32 lang./word study questions - read AR
Teen Leadership:  Students learned what it means to be self-aware.  Assigned was a personal homework assignment - to ask someone with whom they have "relational capacity" a question about improving the relationship.   *Homework:  relational capacity question -read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, we discussed the academic vocabulary associated with the questions on pg. 17.  Students learned different text evidence format (quotes vs. paraphrasing).  They were given a reference sheet that will stay in their English folder for the semester. 
Students were assigned pg. 17 # 1&2.  *Homework:  pg. 17 # 1& 2 (text evidence) - read AR

9/21/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students took the story elements quiz (open note).  *Homework: - read AR
Teen Leadership:  We finished Soul Surfer (Emotional Intelligence traits of persistence and optimism).     *Homework:  Soul Surfer packet (due tomorrow) -read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students listened to the audio version of "The Treasure of Lemon Brown" (available on the online book).  Assigned were definitions for the words in bold on pg. 17.   *Homework:  definitions pg. 17 (words in bold) - read AR

9/18/15

English 8:  After Journal, students presented their Glogster or PowerPoint about short story elements for the class.  As these were presented, students took notes in preparation for an upcoming quiz.  They were able to preview the 10-question quiz and will be able to use notes on Monday. (refer to pg's 16-18 in the Pearson Literature textbook)  *Homework: study/take notes for quiz Monday- read AR
Teen Leadership:  We continued Soul Surfer (Emotional Intelligence traits of persistence and optimism).  Students were able to take their affirmations home today.    *Homework:  read AR
English 7:  After Journal, students turned in both the full annotated "Lemon Brown" passage as well as their Flow Map.  We navigated through the online grade book.  Still available is extra credit for students showing me they can log into their StudentVUE grade book.  *Homework:  - read AR

9/17/15

English 8:  After Journal, students presented their Glogster or PowerPoint about short story elements for the class.  As these were presented, students took notes in preparation for an upcoming quiz.   *Homework: Short Story Elements (presentation) - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, persistence and optimism. Students started watching Soul Surfer in response to these Emotional Intelligence traits.  We will continue tomorrow.  A large portion of the class was spent taking school photos.  *Homework:  one affirmation- read AR
English 7:  After Journal, students continued with the 2nd read & annotations.  When this was completed, they created a Flow Map (thinking map) to sequence the events of the story with relevant details. The flow map is due tomorrow.  *Homework:  Flow Map - read AR

9/16/15

English 8:  After the DOL Journal, students worked in small groups to create presentations (Glogster or PowerPoint) on short story elements for the class.  Each group was assigned specific elements.  We will present these tomorrow.  *Homework: Short Story Elements (presentation) - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, we discussed the difference between I.Q. (intelligence quotient) and E.I. (emotional intelligence).  Students created role-play scenarios to demonstrate emotional intelligence traits. *Homework:  Emotional Intelligence Self-Assessment sheet - read AR
English 7:  After the DOL /Journal, were assigned the 2nd read & annotations for "The Treasure of Lemon Brown."  This passage was given to them in photocopy form so they can mark up the text and annotate right on the passage.    *Homework:  2nd read and annotations - read AR

9/15/15

English 8:  After the DOL Journal, logged on to their online textbook to pg. 16-18 (short story elements).  In small groups, students will create presentations (Glogster or PowerPoint) on short story elements for the class.  Each group was assigned specific elements.  We will present these Thursday.  *Homework: Short Story Elements (presentation) - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, students gave their 4th speech on "A Memorable Moment."  Each student was given a rubric in which to self-evaluate.  Some students video taped their speech in order to self-evaluate more specifically (this was extra credit, not mandatory).  *Homework:  two affirmations & self-review rubric (review video if possible)- read AR
English 7:  After the DOL /Journal, students logged into their Pearson Literature textbook online.  Assigned was reading pg. 9-16, "The Treasure of Lemon Brown" (read one time) and create an objective summary.  This is due tomorrow.   *Homework:   Read pg. 9-16 (either hard copy book or online textbook) & write objective summary - read AR

9/14/15

English 8:  After the DOL Journal, students logged into both the Glogster website and the Pearson Lit. textbook website.  We will be working in Glogster over the next few days (story elements presentations), so students became familiar with the program today.  *Homework: read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, we discussed the short speech videos watched last Friday, and I collected the double-bubble thinking maps.  Assigned was a speech to prepare for tomorrow.  It will be a 1 minute speech with the topic: memorable moment.    *Homework:  prepare speech - read AR
English 7:  After the DOL /Journal, students logged into their Pearson Literature textbook online.  We were able to get logged in and set up in the program.  We'll be using these programs tomorrow for the next assignment.   *Homework:   read AR

9/11/15 Patriot Day (in memory)

English 8:  After Journal, students completed their username/password sheets including their Pearson login information.  Pg. 13 #1-7 was due and collected (with annotated passage).   *Homework:  read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, we discussed qualities of a good speaker.  Students watched two very different speakers (videos), and then created double-bubble thinking maps to compare and contrast their methods.  *Homework: Finish double-bubble & respond to the question:  Why do good leaders need to be good speakers?  - read AR
English 7:  After Journal, we discussed the qualities of a good objective summary.  Students revised the summary from yesterday to make sure it is clear, concise, and meets criteria.  *Homework:   read AR

9/10/15

English 8:  After the DOL Quiz, we discussed pg. 13 #1-4.  Assigned was read 2 with annotations (and added to #1-4) was pg. 13 #5-7.   *Homework: Read 2, annotate,pg. 13 #5-7-  read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, students gave their 3rd speech, "Out of Comfort Zone."    *Homework:  - read AR
English 7:  After the DOL Quiz, students wrote in their journals.  Assigned was reading pg. 5-6 in the Literature textook, and writing an objective summary on the passage.  *Homework:   objective summary - read AR

9/9/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, I collected the revised objective summary. Assigned was reading pg. 9-12 in the Literature book (An Hour with Abuelo), and answer questions #1-4 on pg. 13.     *Homework: Read 1 time pg. 9-12 - pg. 13 #1-4-  read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, students learned how to respond in a professional environment.  They role-played specific scenarios in small groups.  We discussed further the speech preparation sheet and grading rubric.  Students will give their speech tomorrow ("Out of Comfort Zone").  *Homework:  prepare speech - read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students were given a bit of time to finalize (or check over) the independent CLOSE Read activity.  After these were collected, students received their Literature textbook.  We will start working in these tomorrow.   *Homework:   - read AR

9/8/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, we discussed the passage on pg. 5-6 of the Lit. textbook and further detailed "objective summary."  Students were given their summaries from last week and asked to check for the details discussed - then rewrite them to fine-tune or fix what wasn't already present.    *Homework: objective summary (revised) -  read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, we discussed further "first impressions" and the 8 cues.  Students worked in small groups to discuss personality traits (after a personality identifying activity - True Colors).  The speech preparation sheet was given along with grading rubric.  Students will give their speech Thursday ("Out of Comfort Zone").  *Homework:  prepare speech - read AR
English 7:  After Journal, students were given their graded "Partner" CLOSE Read activity to identify areas of improvement.  Assigned was the "Independent" CLOSE Read passage with accompanying questions.  This is due tomorrow.   *Homework:   Independent CLOSE Read & questions - read AR

9/4/15 - Have a great 3-day weekend!!

English 8:  After Journal, students CLOSE read a passage on pg. 5-6 in the Literature textbook and completed an objective summary.   *Homework:  read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, we discussed "first impressions."  Students identified 8 aspects to creating first impressions, and conversely what we notice in others when evaluating them for a first impressions. Students took home their affirmations from the mail bags.   *Homework:  Affirm someone outside of class - read AR
English 7:  After Journal, we further discussed the Social Contracts and put them into place in this classroom.  *Homework:   read AR

9/3/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, we discussed answers on the CLOSE reading activity.  Students received their Literature books, covered them,  and will start work in them tomorrow.    *Homework:  - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, we discussed "reframing."  Students shared times that a negative comment or event shaped their confidence & self-concept.  They worked in groups to resolve and look at these issues more positively.  They also completed a course leader evaluation form, and I'm impressed with the honest and valuable feedback.   *Homework:  -  read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, I collected the partner CLOSE Read activity.  We discussed the Social Contract created in homeroom class and how it would look and be implemented in this class.   *Homework:  Number, Chunk, and perform the first read on the reading passage given - read AR

9/2/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students worked in pairs to CLOSE Read a complex text passage and annotate. They were given a passage to read & annotate independently, along with a worksheet to complete.  *Homework:  Independent CLOSE Read & w/s - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, we discussed "self-confidence."  Students turned in activity ideas with date of completion, as well as took a student manual accountability quiz.   *Homework:  -  read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked in pairs to CLOSE Read a complex text passage and annotate.  *Homework:  if not completed in class, finish partner CLOSE Read & worksheet - read AR

9/1/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students worked in pairs to CLOSE Read a complex text passage and annotate.  We will continue working on this tomorrow.  *Homework:  - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, we discussed "self-concept" more in depth.  Students were presented with an activity that will culminate into a speech.  Students need to decide on the activity and when this will be conducted (they will take notes on social reactions for the speech that will be given after Labor Day)  *Homework: identify type of activity and date of action for speech preparation -  read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked in pairs to CLOSE Read a complex text passage and annotate.  We will continue working on this tomorrow. *Homework:  - read AR

8/31/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, we discussed (refresher for some - new for others) CLOSE Reading.  *Homework:  CLOSE Read 1 & 2 on the given passage & annotate - read AR
Teen Leadership:  After journals, we discussed "self-concept" and different ways this can be formed.  This will continue tomorrow.  *Homework: read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students were introduced to CLOSE Reading practices.  They were given an introductory passage for the first read through.  After reading the first time, they have questions 2 & 3 to complete on the worksheet.  We will annotate together tomorrow. *Homework:  Read Prince and the Pauper one time - answer questions 2 & 3 - read AR

8/28/15

English 8:  We entered scores onto the chart within student portfolios.  From these numbers, students will be able to see growth when assessments are completed again.  Assigned was a diamante poem, due Monday (topic is: all about me - the student).  *homework: Diamante Poem - read AR
Teen Leadership: Students gave 1-minute speeches about their goals before graduation and realistic ways to achieve them.  *homework: read AR
English 7:  We entered scores onto the chart within student portfolios.  From these numbers, students will be able to see growth when assessments are completed again.  *homework: read AR

8/27/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, we were able to complete our social contract!  It is signed and hanging on the wall.  *homework:  read AR
Teen Leadership:  We discussed striving for personal mastery, the importance of notes, and the "hamburger bun" method when speaking.  Students will prep for a 1-minute speech to be given in class tomorrow, completing the speech form given (due tomorrow).  *homework: prep for speech - complete speech form - read AR
English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students were able to share and read journal entries today.  We discussed AR requirements further, and practiced classroom routine (it's nice to be done testing).  *homework: read AR

First Impressions (Teen Leadership) on Facebook!

https://www.facebook.com/TelesisPrep

8/26/15

English 8:  After DOL/Journal, we continued creating the Social Contract.  This will be completed, signed, and in place tomorrow.  *homework: read AR
Teen Leadership:  We discussed building relationships and components for building them successfully - first impressions, affirmations,  and using/learning names.  *homework: designing/decorating a mail bag using your class name (with adjective) - read AR
English 7:  Students finished Galileo testing, and then completed DOL/Journal.  Students then created a bubble map about themselves using a thesaurus to upgrade/improve adjectives.  If this was not completed in class, it is homework.  *homework: complete bubble map - read AR

8/25/15

English 8:  Galileo Testing for ELA - We will continue the Social Contract tomorrow.  *homework: social contract sheet completed - read AR
Teen Leadership:  Students gave a 1 1/2 minutes speech about themselves today.  Every student volunteered and completed this activity, which was fantastic (and brave!).  Bravo.  *homework:  read AR
English 7: Galileo Testing for ELA *homework: read AR

8/24/15 GALILEO TESTING TOMORROW (ELA)

English 8:  Students were given their AR grading information, goal points, and ZPD.  The bottom of this paper must be signed and returned to show parents have viewed this sheet.  After DOL/Journal, we started work on our classroom Social Contract.  *homework: AR parent sheet signed - read AR
Teen Leadership:  Today we further discussed attitude and did a fun trust exercise with the group.  We discussed our first speeches, which will take place tomorrow (1 1/2 minutes speeches about themselves).  Pages 4-7 should be completed in the student handbook.  *homework: prep for speech - read AR
English 7: Students were given the MAZE reading comprehension assessment, and we corrected the writing pretest from Friday.  DOL/Journal was practiced in preparation for our daily routine.  *homework: read AR

Galileo ELA testing Tuesday, August 25th

8/21/15

English 8A:  After DOL/Journal, students completed the MAZE comprehension assessment.  We started WPM (words per minute).  I checked mandatory materials for a participation grade (folder, colored pen or pencil, pencils, highlighter, and a book cover).  If an item was missing today, students can bring it Monday for full credit.  *homework:  Read AR (points have been set and are in the system - a notice on paper will go home to parents next week)
Teen Leadership: We discussed the term "Attitude" today and watched several short videos about success, giving an extra 5%, and motivation.  We will start our first speech next week.  Videos will also be placed on my blog.  *homework: read AR
English 7B & 7A:  Students were given a writing pre-test, part of the first assessments given in English class to identify areas of need.  We will continue these assessments next week.  I checked mandatory materials for a participation grade (folder, colored pen or pencil, pencils, highlighter, and a book cover).  If an item was missing today, students can bring it Monday for full credit.   *homework:  Read AR (points have been set and are in the system - a notice on paper will go home to parents next week)

Thank You!

Thank you students and parents for all the wonderful classroom supplies donated.  I have been amazed by your generosity and appreciate your contribution to classroom resources! 

8/18/15

All English:  We discussed the student handbook in depth.  Students will be taking the STAR Reading and Math assessments tomorrow.  If not already turned in, students should return the student information sheets (purple half sheets) to Mrs. Nash.  The free lunch paperwork should be returned to the homeroom teacher or the front office.  Homeroom classes returning 100% of the paperwork will earn free dress for an entire week!  Homework: Read AR


Teen Leadership:  Students started work in their student manual.  Journals were written about leadership skills and growth.  We discussed the word respect in depth.  Tomorrow we will work on creating a social contract for the classroom.  Homework: Read AR

First Day of School!! Monday, August 17, 2015 - See You Soon!

Classroom Supply List:

· *copy paper*

· *Kleenex*

· Lined paper

· Colored copy paper (any color)

· Hand sanitizer

· Anti-bacterial  cleaning wipes

· Colored pencils

Student Supply List 2015-2016:

· Book cover - cloth or paper

· Colored correcting pen or pencil (not black)

· Pocket folder

· Highlighter

· Pencils (assignments may not be completed in pen)

· Hand-held pencil sharpener

· Strongly recommended students have their own USB Flashdrive

· Composition book