12/23/16 Happy Holidays!!

Have a wonderful vacation!  See you January 9th!

12/22/16 FINALS - Blocks 2 & 4

*Homework All Classes:
 - read AR - last day to take an AR quiz is January 11th
- all missing/absent work due today!

12/21/16 - FINALS Blocks 1 & 3

*Homework All Classes:
 - read AR - last day to take an AR quiz is January 11th
- all missing/absent work due Thursday, 12/22/16 - no exceptions - check grade book

12/19/16

All Classes:  Students were given finals prep packets (grammar & parts of speech review).  These are due completed tomorrow for grading & discussion.  *Homework:  finals prep packets - read AR

12/16/16 Great Job Galileo Testing!

Homework - All classes:  Read AR & check the grade book for missing and absent work

12/15/16

GALILEO TESTING finished (whew!)
Students finished Galileo ELA and Math in class today.
Homework: Read AR

Popcorn!!

12/14/16

GALILEO TESTING continued!
Students finished Galileo ELA in class today.
Homework: Read AR

12/13/16

GALILEO TESTING!
Students tested today in ELA and will finish this test tomorrow (if not completed).  All of JA will take the math Galileo tomorrow also.


Please make sure students are well rested, have a good breakfast, and arrive on time.
Homework: Read AR

12/12/16

GALILEO TESTING TOMORROW!
Please make sure students are well rested, have a good breakfast, and arrive on time.
Homework: Read AR

12/9/16

English 7: Galileo packets were corrected and collected in class.  Students worked on the A+ program for the remainder of class.  Block 2 was only in class for 15 minutes today, as we had the Spelling Bee.  Homework:  check the grade book for missing/absent work -read AR
English 8:   Galileo packets with reflection were collected in class.  Students worked on the A+ program for the remainder of class.  Homework: check the grade book for missing/absent work - read AR

12/8/16

English 7: We corrected questions 11-15 on the Galileo packet.   The final copy of the narrative essay was due and collected today.  The finished Galileo packet is due tomorrow.  Homework: finish Galileo packet  -read AR
English 8:   Students took the Elements of Nonfiction quiz in class, and worked on their Galileo packets.  The packets were corrected in class.  Students were assigned a 'reflection' for the packet, which is due tomorrow.  Homework: Galileo reflection - read AR

12/7/16

English 7: We corrected questions 6-10 on the Galileo packet.  Students were assigned the next five, questions 11-15.  For the remainder of class, students worked on the final copy of their narrative essay (due at the end of class tomorrow).  Homework: Galileo packet - # 11-15 & annotated passages - final essay (due tomorrow at the end of class) -read AR
English 8:   After DOL/Journal, students were given time to finish the Galileo packet (due tomorrow).  There will be an 'Elements of Nonfiction' quiz tomorrow, and students were able to look at the questions today.  It will be an open-note quiz (worksheet already completed), and students are able to add to their worksheet in order to answer the questions tomorrow.  Homework: Finish Galileo packet - study for quiz - read AR

12/5/16

English 7: Students were given a Galileo practice packet and were assigned 5 questions per day (along with annotating the passages).  We will work on the packet rather than DOL/Journal in the beginning of class, and then continue work on the narrative essay.  The rough draft was due today - we will complete peer editing tomorrow.   Homework: Galileo packet - 5 questions & annotated passages -read AR
English 8:   Students were given a Galileo practice packet and were assigned 10 questions per day (along with annotating the passages).   Homework: Galileo packet (10 questions & annotated passages) - read AR

12/1/16

English 7: Students took a DOL Quiz, and then worked on their narrative rough drafts for the remainder of the class.     Homework: rough draft (due Monday) -read AR
English 8:   Students took a DOL Quiz, and then worked on finishing the nonfiction worksheet with partners.  If time allowed, students were able to work in the A+ program as well.  Homework: check the grade book for missing/absent work - read AR

Kleenex desperately needed!

Kleenex (tissue) donations are needed to keep our sleeves and our neighbor's sleeves clean and sneeze free!

Welcome to December!

11/30/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on their character description and a flow map (sequence of events for the plot of the narrative).    Homework: character description & flow map if not completed in class -read AR
English 8:   After DOL/Journal, students worked with a partner to identify elements of non-fiction using their textbook and a study worksheet.  Assigned: Read through pg. 204-207 and answer questions on worksheet.  Partners were able to share the work load and divided the questions before leaving class. Partners will come together tomorrow to complete their work together.   Homework: worksheet parts assigned with partners - read AR

11/29/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on creating a character (picture - colored) in preparation for a narrative essay.    Homework: character picture (colored) -read AR
English 8:   After DOL/Journal, Unit 2 theme was introduced.  Students were assigned Unit 2 vocabulary from page 191 (#5 - define and use 6 vocab. words in a paragraph).   Homework: pg. 191 #5 (define and use 6 words in a paragraph) - read AR

11/28/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students filled out the assessment chart within their portfolios.  We will start a narrative essay tomorrow. We discussed the upcoming December schedules with Galileo and finals testing.    Homework: check the grade book for missing/absent work -read AR








English 8:   After DOL/Journal, students filled out the assessment chart within their portfolios.  We discussed the upcoming December schedules with Galileo and finals testing.   Homework: check the grade book for missing/absent work - read AR

Have a Great Thanksgiving Break!!!

11/22/16

English 7:  Students watched the Rikki Tikki Tavi cartoon and worked in the A+ program for the remainder of class.  Homework: check the grade book for missing/absent work -read AR
English 8:   Students took the TEST on Flowers for Algernon and had the remainder of class to work on the final essay (due today at the end of class).   Homework: check the grade book for missing/absent work - read AR

11/21/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students took the selection test for Rikki Tikki Tavi.  This was also a small AR quiz, so students were expected to take quiz directly after the test.  Homework: check the grade book for missing/absent work -read AR








English 8:   Students completed a vocabulary & adverb/adjective worksheet in class.  When this was finished, they were allowed to work on the final compare/contrast essay (due tomorrow).  There will also be a selection test for Flowers for Algernon tomorrow.   Homework: final essay - read AR

11/18/16

English 7:  After vocabulary & noun worksheets were collected, students worked on the A+ Language Arts online program. Homework: check the grade book for missing/absent work -read AR








English 8:   Rough drafts were due today for peer editing. We will write the final essay Monday, and it is due finished Tuesday.   Homework: 10 word choice changes on rough draft - start final - read AR

11/17/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students completed their character bubble maps.  Assigned was a vocabulary & noun worksheet - due tomorrow. Homework:  vocab. & noun worksheet  -read AR








English 8:   After DOL/Journal, students worked on their rough draft of the compare & contrast essay - due tomorrow for peer editing.   Homework: rough draft (may be typed or hand-written) - read AR

11/15/16

English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students started creating a character bubble map in small groups.  We'll continue this tomorrow. Objective summaries were collected. Homework:  bubble map portion assigned within group  -read AR




English 7B: After DOL/Journal, students finished the audio version of "Rikki Tikki Tavi."  Assigned was a revised version of their objective summary - due tomorrow.


English 8:   Students finished the film version of "Flowers for Algernon." Assigned was a double-bubble map (compare & contrast) of the text vs. film versions - due tomorrow.  Homework: double-bubble (with frame) - read AR

11/10/16

English 7:  Students took a figurative language test and then worked within A+.   Homework:  check the grade book for missing/absent work  -read AR




English 8:   Students took a figurative language test, worked within A+, and we started the film version of "Flowers for Algernon."   Homework: check the grade book for missing/absent work - read AR

11/9/16

English 7:  Students learned about and used 'metaphors' within their journals today.  After DOL/Journal, students listened to the audio version of "Rikki Tikki Tavi." We will finish this and write an objective summary in class tomorrow.  Homework:  work on the objective summary -read AR




English 8:   Students practiced identifying and using both imagery and oxymoron.  Students continued reading their "Flowers for Algernon" alternate ending for a fluency grade.   Homework: - read AR

11/8/16

English 7:  Students learned about and used 'similes' within their journals today.  After DOL/Journal, students partner read the story "Rikki Tikki Tavi."  Homework: finish reading "Rikki Tikki Tavi" - pg. 26-42 (be prepared for an objective summary tomorrow) -read AR




English 8:   Students practiced identifying and using both simile and metaphor.  We worked on a packet together in class, and just the last page was assigned independently (4-line poem).  Students continued reading their "Flowers for Algernon" alternate ending for a fluency grade.  Permission slips were given for watching the film version of the story - these must be back by Wednesday (tomorrow) to watch the film this week.  Homework: finish metaphor/simile packet (4-line poem) - read AR

Harley

11/7/16

English 7:  Students learned about and used 'alliteration' within their journals today.  After DOL/Journal, students previewed and created a prediction for the story "Rikki Tikki Tavi."  Homework:  -read AR




English 8:   Students learned about and used 'alliteration' within their journals today.  After DOL/Journal, students started reading their "Flowers for Algernon" alternate ending for a fluency grade.  Permission slips were given for watching the film version of the story - due tomorrow.  Homework: permission slips signed - read AR

11/4/16 Students should be at 66% AR!

English 7:  After collecting the final Response to Literature essay, all students worked in the A+ Language Arts program.  Homework:  check the grade book for missing/absent work - read AR
English 8:  After collecting the alternate ending (or alternate POV) for "Flower for Algernon," all students worked in the A+ Language Arts program.  Homework:  check the grade book for missing/absent work - read AR

11/3/16

English 7:  After Journal, students finished peer editing each others' Response to Literature essays.  We discussed the difference between denotation and connotation when choosing synonyms (word choice changes) for the essay.  Students used thesauri to upgrade 5 words in their essay, and then worked on the final (due tomorrow).    Homework:  Final Essay due tomorrow  -read AR




English 8:   After Journal, students were assigned an 'Alternate Ending or Alternate Point of View' for "Flowers for Algernon."  This will be due tomorrow (minimum 3 journal entries - 3-5 paragraphs).   Homework: Alternate Ending or POV - read AR

11/2/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on peer editing each others' Response to Literature essays.  We will continue this tomorrow.  Homework:   -read AR




English 8:   After DOL/Journal, students continued reading "Flowers for Algernon" - pg. 77-86.  Assigned was a short summary of today's reading.  All predictions and summaries for the story are due tomorrow.  Homework: pg.77-86 & summary - read AR

11/1/16 Welcome to November!

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on identifying Bing, Bang, Boom (3 subtopics - also identified in both intro and conclusion) in sample essays.  Assigned was identifying Bing, Bang, Boom in their own rough draft essay (underline in 3 different colors).  Homework:  Identify Bing, Bang, Boom in rough draft  -read AR




English 8:   After DOL/Journal, students continued reading "Flowers for Algernon" - pg. 65-76.  Assigned was a short summary of today's reading along with a prediction for what will come next in the story.  Homework: pg.65-76 & summary & predict - read AR

10/31/16 Happy Halloween!!

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students started writing the rough draft of their "The Treasure of Lemon Brown" essay (due tomorrow).  Homework:  rough draft  -read AR




English 8:   After DOL/Journal, students started reading "Flowers for Algernon" - pg. 53-64.  Students wrote a prediction before reading and will write a short summary of the first 11 pages.  Homework: pg.53-64 & summarize - read AR

10/28/16

English 7:  The essay pre-write was due.  Students worked on the A+ program completing lessons for Language Arts.    Homework:  check the grade book for missing/absent work  -read AR




English 8:   Due today was pg. 48 pronouns practice.  Students took the "Tell-Tale Heart" TEST and were given the opportunity to do an extended response written portion for 10% additional credit.  Homework: check the grade book for missing/absent work - read AR

10/27/16

English 7:  We discussed the meaning of onomatopoeia (figurative language), and students used it in a journal to describe sounds.  After DOL/Journal, we discussed the format of a 5-paragraph essay, and what details would be included in each paragraph.  Students were given a graphic organizer (pre-write) to write ideas for each of the 5 paragraphs.  This is due tomorrow.  Homework:  PRE-WRITE -read AR




English 8:   We discussed the meaning of onomatopoeia (figurative language), and students used it in a journal to describe sounds.  After Journal, students worked on pg. 48, Pronouns (due tomorrow).     Homework: pg. 48 - pronouns - read AR

10/26/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students discussed the 'theme' of "The Treasure of Lemon Brown" within small groups.  After class discussion, students added #7 to their pg. 17 assignment.  It was due at the end of class.  We will start a pre-write activity tomorrow in preparation for a Response to Literature essay.  Homework:   -read AR




English 8:   We discussed the meaning of idiom (a figurative language), and students used two in a journal.   After DOL/Journal, students worked on pg. 46, Language Study (due tomorrow).     Homework: pg. 46 Language Study (#1-5, Part A, Part B #1-2) - read AR

10/25/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students listened to the audio version of "The Treasure of Lemon Brown."  Assigned was pg. 17 #4-6 (from the textbook).  Homework:  pg. 17 #4-6 -read AR




English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students worked in pairs to complete the double bubble Thinking Map and create a 'frame of reference' around it.  These were collected in class.    Homework:- read AR

10/24/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked in pairs to finish a Flow Maps.  If not completed in class, this is homework.    Homework:  Flow Map -read AR




English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students worked in pairs to create a Double-Bubble (compare & contrast) map on the narrator (narrator's view of himself  vs. author's view of narrator).  We will complete this tomorrow in class.    Homework:- read AR

10/21/16

English 7:  Students worked in pairs to create story plot Flow Maps.  We will finish them on Monday.  Annotated packets were collected for grading.    Homework:  check grades online  -read AR




English 8:  Students worked in pairs to create circle maps detailing characteristics of the narrator (Tell-Tale Heart).  These will be used to create a Double Bubble (compare & contrast) Map on Monday.  Annotated packets were collected for grading.   Homework:  check grades online - read AR

10/20/16

English 7:  After journal, students worked on a CLOSE reading passage with a partner.  If not completed in class, it is homework.   Homework:  finish annotating "The Treasure of Lemon Brown" passage  -read AR




English 8:  After DOL/journal, students worked to complete annotating on the "Tell-Tale Heart" passage.  If not completed in class, it is homework.  Homework:  finish annotating "Tell-Tale Heart" - read AR

10/19/16

English 7:  After discussing and practicing lockdown procedures, students wrote summaries within journals. Students were given a CLOSE Reading passage of "The Treasure of Lemon Brown" to read and annotate with a partner.  Assigned was numbering paragraphs and chunking the passage.    Homework:  number paragraphs and chunk passage  -read AR




English 8:  After discussing and practicing lockdown procedures, students wrote summaries within journals. Students were given a CLOSE Reading passage of "The Tell-Tale Heart" to read and annotate with a partner.  Assigned was an objective summary.  Students will continue annotating with partners tomorrow.   Homework:  objective summary - read AR

10/18/16

English 7:  Students finished the A+ pre-test and wrote journal entries.  Assigned was reading "The Treasure of Lemon Brown" (pg. 9-16) and writing an objective summary.   Homework:  read pg. 9-16 and write an objective summary-read AR




English 8: Students finished the A+ pre-test and wrote journal entries.  We listened to the short story "Tell Tale Heart" on audio (pg. 39-46).  Students created a short story plot chart as a reminder to elements of a short story.  Assigned was a Flow Map using elements of a short story plot (exposition, rising action, conflict, climax, falling action, and resolution.  Homework:  Flow Map - read AR

10/17/16

All Classes: After DOL/Journal, students started a pre-test on A+ for ELA.  This program will test students two grade levels above and below their current level and will assign lessons that they need (individualized program).  Many students took AR quizzes today after the fall break - awesome! 
Homework:  read AR

10/7/16 - Have a Great Fall Break!!

ALL Students should be reading AR over the break, especially if they are behind (should be about 50% complete by this time in the semester. Students should also be making up any missing, failed, or absent work for additional credit.


Have a great fall break! 

10/5/16

English 7:  Students finished their Story Elements presentations.  Students were allowed to take notes that they can use on a quiz, and their homework is to complete and fine-tune the notes.    Homework:  complete notes and study for quiz (Story Elements - pg.20-23) - read AR




English 8: After DOL/Journal, students worked on entering references into Microsoft Word and creating a bibliography for their essay.  The final essay will be due tomorrow with edits, word choice changes, and a bibliography.  Homework: final essay (biography on Edgar Allan Poe)  - read AR

10/3/16

English 7:  Students took the MAZE reading for mid-semester assessments.  We started Story Elements presentations today.  Students were allowed to take notes that they can use on a quiz.    Homework:  - read AR




English 8: Students took the MAZE reading for mid-semester assessments. The remainder of class was spent peer editing the biography rough drafts. 
  Homework: 10 word choice changes for final draft  - read AR

9/30/15 Last day of September!

English 7:  Students took the STAR reading for mid-semester assessments.  Several students chose to redo their DOL quizzes for a better grade right after the test. We'll present Story Elements on Monday.   Homework:  Check the grade book for missing/failed assignments (redo failed work) - read AR




English 8: Students took the STAR reading for mid-semester assessments.  The biography rough draft (Edgar Allan Poe) was due today.  We'll do peer editing with these on Monday.  Homework: Check the grade book for missing/failed assignments (redo failed work)  - read AR

9/29/16

English 7:  After a DOL quiz, students worked to finish their group project "Short Story Elements."  I have been quite impressed with the quality of PowerPoint and Prezi presentations I have seen so far.  We will be presenting on Monday.   Homework:  Story Elements project - read AR




English 8: After a DOL quiz, students worked to finish the biography rough draft (Edgar Allan Poe), which will be due tomorrow.  Homework: rough draft with *text evidence  - read AR

9/28/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on their group project "Short Story Elements."  They will be given a bit of time tomorrow after the DOL quiz to finish it.   Homework:  Story Elements project - read AR




English 8: After DOL/Journal, students started work on the biography rough draft (Edgar Allan Poe).  They will have some time to work on the rough draft in class tomorrow after the DOL quiz, and it will be due Friday.  Homework: rough draft with text evidence  - read AR

9/27/16

English 7:  After Journal, students worked were given time to work on their group project "Short Story Elements."  They decided jobs for each group member, the format for presentation (poster, PowerPoint, word document, etc..), and began to put the project together.  Each student should be continuing his or her job for the terms given (define, examples, and visual).  We will have some time in class tomorrow to put it all together in preparation for presenting Thursday.  Homework:  Story Elements project - read AR




English 8: After Journal, students continued research for a biography on Edgar Allan Poe.  We discussed the essay structure of the biography, and students started work on a pre-write graphic organizer   Due tomorrow is the pre-write.  Homework: pre-write - read AR

9/26/16

English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students were given conference time/date sheets to show to parents and get signed.  We started a presentation project on "Short Story Elements."  Students will work in groups to create a presentation describing the element they were given within each group.  We discussed this in class, but will work on it together tomorrow.  It is not homework this evening.  Homework:  - read AR
English 7B:  After DOL/Journal, we briefly discussed a presentation project on "Short Story Elements" we will work on tomorrow in class.  Students will work in small groups to present terms.   Homework:  - read AR


English 8: After DOL/Journal, students began research for a biography on Edgar Allan Poe.  Due tomorrow are notes from 3 resources.  Homework: 3 resources and notes - read AR

9/22/16

English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students went to the gym to take class pictures.  Because class was short today due to pictures, I will collect the objective summary tomorrow.   Homework:  pg. 5-6, annotate, objective summary - read AR
English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on annotating pg. 5-6.  We discussed 'objective summary,' and students were assigned a summary of the story, "A Dinner Party."   Homework:  annotations for pg. 5-6 (either in the book or online text), and objective summary - read AR


English 8: After Journal, students listened to the audio version of  "An Hour with Abuelo."  Assigned was an extended response for the pg. 13 "The Big ?" Can all conflicts be resolved?  Homework: pg. 13 extended response- read AR

9/21/16

English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students were asked to turn in yesterday's homework (pg. 3 question #3).  Assigned today was CLOSE Reading pg. 5-6, annotating, and writing an objective summary.  Homework:  pg. 5-6, annotate, objective summary - read AR
English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students were asked to turn in yesterday's homework (pg. 3 question #3).  Assigned today was completing a first reading of pg. 5-6.  Homework:  read pg. 5-6 - read AR


English 8: After Journal, students worked with several different partners to peer review their objective summary and pg. 13 #1-3 (especially text evidence).  Added to this assignment was pg. 13 #5-7.  The entire assignment (passage with annotations, objective summary, and pg. 13 #1-7 will be collected tomorrow).     Homework: pg. 13 #5-7 - read AR

Harley helping with computer work

9/20/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students continued to explore the online textbook.  Assigned was reading pg. 2-3 and answering the vocabulary question on pg. 3 (question #3 - using 4 of the words in a paragraph).  Homework:  pg. 2-3 & question #3 vocab. (paragraph)- read AR


English 8: After DOL/Journal, students were assigned additional questions for "An Hour with Abuelo" - pg. 13 # 1-3 (answer all parts - use text evidence where appropriate).     Homework: pg. 13 #1-3 - read AR

9/19/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students explored their online Pearson Literature textbook.  Assigned was more exploration, along with an item to share with the class (something discovered on the online text that is useful or interesting).  Homework:  Online text exploration & idea - read AR


English 8: After DOL/Journal, students were assigned the short story "An Hour with Abuelo" (pg. 9-12).  Due tomorrow are full annotations (on photocopy of the story) and an objective summary.     Homework: annotations & objective summary - read AR

9/14/16

English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students worked on the Independent CLOSE read activity (due tomorrow).  The partner read was collected for grading.   Homework:  Independent CLOSE Read - read AR
English 7A:  After DOL/Journal, students continued to work on a CLOSE ready activity with a partner. If it was not completed in class, it is homework (due tomorrow).  Homework:  Partner CLOSE Read - read AR
English 8A: After DOL/Journal, students were given a bit of time to finalize and ask questions about the Vocabulary 3 worksheet assigned through Pearson.  Assigned was reading pg. 5-6 in Pearson Lit. textbook, annotating, creating an objective summary, and answering two "Ask Yourself..." questions on pg. 4.  Homework: Pearson Lit. (annotations, summary, 2 questions) - read AR
English 8B: After DOL/Journal,  students worked on the Big Picture Vocabulary 3 page on the online textbook.  If not completed in class, it is homework.  Homework: Vocab. 3- read AR

9/13/16

English 7A:  After Journal, students worked on a CLOSE ready activity with a partner.  This is due tomorrow.   Homework:  Partner CLOSE Read - read AR
English 7A:  After Journal, students worked on a CLOSE ready activity with a partner.  We will finalize this in class tomorrow.  Homework:  read AR
English 8A: After DOL/Journal, students read textbook pages 2-3 for understanding of the Unit 1 theme (Conflict).  Assigned was the Big Picture Vocabulary 3 page (assigned through the online textbook, or given as a hard copy upon request).     Homework: Vocabulary 3 page - read AR
English 8B: After DOL/Journal,  students read textbook pages 2-3 for understanding of the Unit 1 theme (Conflict).  Assigned was the Big Picture Vocabulary 3 page (assigned through the online textbook, or given as a hard copy upon request).  Students will be able to complete this in class tomorrow (not homework).   Homework: - read AR

Harley

9/9/16 Happy Friday!

English 7:  Students were able to re-take the DOL quiz for an average of the two grades.  For the remainder of class, students worked on the Partner CLOSE Read activity.  We will resume this Monday.  Homework:  - read AR
English 8:  The Independent CLOSE Read activity was due.  In class, students worked on a Diamante Poem about themselves.  If this was not completed in class, it is homework.  Homework:  Diamante Poem - read AR

9/8/16

English 7:  Students took their first DOL Quiz today.  After the quiz, we started a partner CLOSE read that will be continued tomorrow.  Homework:  - read AR
English 8A:  After a DOL Quiz, students finished work on their Independent CLOSE read, which was collected for grading.    Homework: - read AR
English 8B: After a DOL Quiz, students started work on their Independent CLOSE read, which is homework if not completed in class.     Homework: Independent CLOSE read  - read AR

9/7/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, we continued CLOSE Reading.  Students observed the teacher modeling a close read activity and were assigned the questions associated with the activity.    Homework:  CLOSE Read questions (complete sentences) - read AR
English 8A: After DOL/Journal,  worked on the independent CLOSE Read activity.  This is due tomorrow at the beginning of class.      Homework: Independent CLOSE read if not completed in class - read AR
English 8B: After DOL/Journal,  students worked on the partner CLOSE Read activity.  This is due tomorrow at the beginning of class.    Homework: Partner CLOSE Read (annotations & complete sentences) - read AR

9/6/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students began the introduction to CLOSE Reading.  They will watch a CLOSE reading modeled by the teacher tomorrow, and write observations.    Homework:   - read AR
English 8A: After DOL/Journal,  students completed the partner CLOSE read activity.  They will work on an independent activity tomorrow in class.    Homework: finish partner CLOSE read if not completed in class - read AR
English 8B: After DOL/Journal,  students completed the class CLOSE read activity.  They began working on the partner CLOSE read and will continue this tomorrow.   Homework: Annotate Partner CLOSE Read - read AR

Harley

9/2/16 - Have a Great Labor Day Weekend!!

English 7:  After Journal, students worked on a descriptive bubble map (using adjectives) about themselves.  Students have the weekend to finish it (if not completed in class), and decorate it if desired.  It is due Tuesday.   Homework:  Bubble Map - read AR
English 8A: After Journal,  students worked with partners to CLOSE Read a Mark Twain letter.  We will continue this on Tuesday (not homework).  Homework: - read AR
English 8B: After Journal, students observed a "teacher model" of the CLOSE Read activity.  We will have a few minutes to finish it on Tuesday before they start a partner CLOSE Read activity.  Homework:  - read AR

9/1/16 - Happy September!

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, we completed theWPM (words per minute) assessment.  Students then created login (username and password) information for StudentVUE and were given a short tour of the system. ParentVUE loings were sent home to those who needed them.   Homework:  - read AR
English 8A: After DOL/Journal, students who needed login information for StudentVUE were assisted in gaining access to the site.  ParentVUE loings were sent home to those who needed them. We continued CLOSE Reading activities.   Homework: - read AR
English 8B: After DOL/Journal, students who needed login information for StudentVUE were assisted in gaining access to the site.  ParentVUE loings were sent home to those who needed them. We started a "teacher model" of the CLOSE Read activity, and will finish it tomorrow.   Homework:  CLOSE Reading activity "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" (if it was not completed today) - read AR

8/31/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, we continued the WPM (words per minute) assessment.   For the remainder of class we finalized the social contract and discussed hand signals important to keeping the contract functioning.   Homework:  - read AR
English 8A: After DOL/Journal, we completed the WPM (words per minute) assessment.  We continued CLOSE Reading activities.  Students continue the annotations on the reading passage and look up unfamiliar vocabulary for the discussion tomorrow.  Homework: CLOSE Reading activity "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" - read AR
English 8B: After DOL/Journal, we continued the WPM (words per minute) assessment.  We started an introduction/refresher lesson on CLOSE Reading activities.  Students were given a passage to CLOSE Read (read 3 times and annotate). We will work on this further tomorrow.   Homework:  CLOSE Reading activity "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" - read AR

8/30/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, we started the WPM (words per minute) assessment.   For the remainder of class we worked on the social contract.   Homework:  - read AR
English 8A: After DOL/Journal, we started the WPM (words per minute) assessment.   For the remainder of class we discussed CLOSE Reading and started a refresher on this reading process.  Students were assigned a CLOSE Reading (read 3 times and annotate) on passage. We will go over this tomorrow in class.  Homework: CLOSE Reading activity "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" - read AR
English 8B: After DOL/Journal, we started the WPM (words per minute) assessment.   For the remainder of class we completed the social contract.  Homework:  read AR

8/29/16

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students took the MAZE comprehension assessment (literal comprehension).  For the remainder of class we worked on the social contract, which will be completed tomorrow.   Homework:  - read AR
English 8: After DOL/Journal, students took the MAZE comprehension assessment (literal comprehension).  For the remainder of class we worked on the social contract, which will be completed tomorrow.   Homework: read AR

8/26/16

English 7:  Students should be about 12% complete with AR by this time in the semester.  In class, students received a credit/participation grade for having all materials necessary for class.  The parent survey for logging into ParentVUE was collected (please return these if not yet filled out).  We worked on the social contract for the remainder of class.  Homework:  fill out social contract form - read AR
English 8: Students should be about 12% complete with AR by this time in the semester.  In class, students received a credit/participation grade for having all materials necessary for class.  The parent survey for logging into ParentVUE was collected (please return these if not yet filled out).  We worked on the social contract for the remainder of class. Homework: read AR

8/25/16

English 7:  A few students needed to complete the Galileo ELA.  After DOL/Journal, students finished working on the SCOPE assignments.  Students were given a ParentVUE survey to fill out asking about ability to log into ParentVUE successfully.   Homework:  ParentVUE survey filled out by parents - read AR
English 8:  A few students needed to complete the Galileo ELA.  After DOL/Journal, students finished working on the SCOPE assignments.  Students were given a ParentVUE survey to fill out asking about ability to log into ParentVUE successfully.  Students were assignment beginning work on the Social Contract - complete 4 questions tonight in preparation for the contract tomorrow.    Homework:  ParentVUE survey filled out by parents - read AR - Social Contract 4 questions

8/24/16 Substitute Teacher

English 7:  After DOL/Journal, students worked in the SCOPE Scholastic magazine.  Assigned is pg. 30-31 editing items in paragraphs & pg. 32 summarizing informational text (one paragraph).  This is due Thursday, 8/25/16.  Homework:  SCOPE assignments if not completed in class - read AR
English 8:  After DOL/Journal, students worked in the SCOPE Scholastic magazine.  Assigned is pg. 11-17, reading Follow the Water.  Answer 5 out of the 10 questions in the side margins using complete sentences (students answering more than 5 may earn extra credit).    This is due Thursday, 8/25/16. Homework:  SCOPE assignment if not completed in class - read AR

8/23/16

All Classes:  Galileo ELA testing  Homework:  Read AR

8/22/16 Galileo ELA testing tomorrow!

All Classes:  Students started DOL/Journal today, as well as received AR Goals & ZPD.  Look for AR Parent Letters going home with students this week for signature.  Please be aware that Galileo ELA testing will be tomorrow.  Homework:  read AR

8/19/16 Have a great weekend!

All Classes:  Students set up their class journals, and we discussed requirements of daily writing and cursive.  All students participated in the writing pre-test today.  They write a dictated paragraph that shows current ability in conventions, spelling, capital usage, sentence structure, etc...  Homework:  Read AR

8/18/16

All Classes:  Students finished STAR testing (most students finished the math assessment).  We finished going over the student handbook, and students in 8th grade started journal work today.  Homework:  read AR

8/17/16

All Classes:  Students took both STAR Reading and Math assessments in class today.  We will be able to set AR goals by Friday and send AR Parent Sheets home to parents with this information (goals and login).   Homework:  read AR

8/11/16

All Classes:  We continued going over the student handbook and classroom rules/procedures.  Students will STAR test tomorrow, and from that test the AR goals will be set (hopefully by Friday).  Students will receive his or her AR login information tomorrow as well.  Homework:  student information sheet signed if not handed in today - have an AR book!

8/15/16 - First Day!

Welcome to Junior Academy! 


JA English:  In all classes today, students received my brochure (materials list, block schedule, important websites, etc..) and a student information sheet that needs to be signed (green half sheet).  We started discussing the Student Handbook and will finish it tomorrow. 
Homework:  review Student Handbook - get student information sheet signed - start reading AR (or make sure you have an AR book in the next few days

Welcome to the New School Year!

Materials List 2016-2017

JA (7th and 8th grade) English:

· 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

Replacement Item:

· Composition book

*To ensure consistency and to maintain  scheduled learning, I  purchase and supply composition books for English students so they can be used right away in the semester.   I ask in return that this item be donated back to the classroom for use with future students.  

Awards Assembly Tomorrow

• School starts - attendance 1st Block at 7:30AM
• Assembly starts at 8:00AM
• Students are dismissed after the Awards Assembly
• Tomorrow is NOT a free dress day - students must be in uniform

5/27/16

English 8: Students completed end-year assessments (WPM, Writing Post-test, etc..) and added them to the portfolio charts.   *homework:  Have a great weekend!
Teen Leadership:   Students took a final class photo and worked on the final projects.  We will watch the project together next week.   *homework:  Have a great weekend!
English 7:   Students completed end-year assessments (WPM, MAZE, Writing Post-test, etc..) and added them to the portfolio charts.   *homework: Have a great weekend!

5/26/16 Finals for Blocks 3 & 5

English 8: No class due to finals schedule.  Tomorrow is the last day for AR.   *homework:  - read AR
Teen Leadership:   Students took the Teen Leadership final, and were given time to work on their final project in class.  We will continue this tomorrow.   *homework:   - final projects-  read AR
English 7:   No class for 7B today due to finals schedule.
  7A took the English final.   Last day for AR is Friday.  *homework: - read AR

5/25/16 Finals Blocks 1 & 4

English 8: Classroom Finals today - last day for AR is Friday.   *homework:  - read AR
Teen Leadership:    No class due to finals schedule.   *homework:  study for final (not open book) - final projects-  read AR
English 7:   Classroom Final for 7B today.  7A will take theirs tomorrow.  Last day for AR is Friday.  *homework: study for final- read AR

5/24/16 Final Testing Wednesday & Thursday

English 8: Students took their STAR reading & math post-tests today.  The final test is tomorrow.  *homework:   study for final - read AR
Teen Leadership:    Speeches - "What I Want to Say to This Class"  The final for this class will be Thursday.  *homework:  study for final (not open book) - final projects-  read AR
English 7:   Students took their STAR reading & math post-tests today.  The final test for 7B (block 4) is tomorrow.    The final test for 7A (block 5) is Thursday.  *homework: study for final- read AR

5/23/16 STAR Testing tomorrow - math and reading

English 8: Students took their Anne Frank final test, and were able to take an AR quiz on the book if time allowed.   We will be STAR testing tomorrow.   *homework:   - read AR
Teen Leadership:    We discussed the final project.  Students are working in pairs to create PowerPoint slide/videos for their part of the presentation (due Friday).  A speech preparation form was created ("Something I Want to Say to This Class").   *homework:  speech prep -  read AR
English 7:   Monster Exchange!  Students created each others' monsters from instructions only.    *homework: - read AR

5/20/16 Last day for AR May 27

English 8: Class journal digital entries and illustrations were due for the final published version.  Students worked in groups for the remainder of class to finish the Section 5 study guide and work on an additional group study guide (may be short word answer).  Students were given permission slips for the movie Freedom Writers (due by May 27).    *homework:  STUDY FOR THE ANNE FRANK FINAL Monday 5/23/16-  - read AR
Teen Leadership:    Students took a quiz on Ch. 5 & 6.  Due Today:  Friendly letter to someone who has had a positive influence & eulogy worksheet *homework:  -  read AR
English 7:   Students peer edited Monster Exchange instructions to prepare for final instructions (due Monday for Monster Exchange!   *homework:  final instructions - read AR

5/19/16

English 8: Students were given some time to complete the class journal ending.  They read their endings and voted on the one to be in the final published version - congratulations Daisy!   No Vocab. This week.  *homework:  FINISH ANNE FRANK & SECTION 5 REVIEW - DIGITAL ENTRY AND ILLUSTRATION (ALL due Friday) -  ANN FRANK FINAL ON MONDAY 5/23/16 - read AR
Teen Leadership:    We completed Lesson 33 - taking responsibility for choices.   Students were given a Eulogy Worksheet to complete (due Friday). *homework:  -Eulogy Worksheet & addresses for notes (friendly letters) -  read AR
English 7:   We started the MONSTER EXCHANGE!!! Due tomorrow for peer editing:  colored monster picture and instructions (at least 10 steps).   *homework:  monster picture & instructions - read AR

5/18/16

English 8: Students were given the first 30 minutes of class to work on their class journal entry and illustration.  All the 8th grade students met in the cafeteria for the remainder of the class for a Q & A session about Academy and high school requirements & available classes.  No Vocab. This week.  *homework:  study guide Section 5 -  journal entry edited and illustrated (due Friday) -  read AR
Teen Leadership:    We completed Lesson 32 learning consequences for choices - immediate & delayed consequences.  Students watched a video on driving and texting (available on  my blog for absent students).      *homework:  - read AR
English 7:   Students were given a bit of time to review Galileo before submitting final answers.  The groups gave Character Presentations for the remainder of class.  *homework:  - read AR

5/17/16

English 8: Galileo Testing.  No Vocab. This week.  *homework:  study guide Section 5 -  journal entry edited and illustrated-  read AR
Teen Leadership:    We started Lesson 32 learning consequences for choices - immediate & delayed consequences.     *homework:  - read AR
English 7:   Galileo Testing.   No spelling this week.  *homework:  - read AR

5/16/16

English 8: After discussing the Galileo test tomorrow, we read the entire class journal from beginning to end.  Students started writing an ending and may continue tomorrow (after Galileo if time) and Wed. In class.  Students were also given photocopies of their class journal entry. An edited, digital copy as well as illustration are due Friday.  No Vocab. This week.  *homework:  study guide Section 5 -  journal entry edited and illustrated-  read AR
Teen Leadership:    We started Lesson 31 learning about responsibility for actions.     *homework:  - read AR
English 7:   Students were given a bit of time to finalize character presentations.  Some groups presented.  We will continue Wed. as tomorrow is Galileo.   No spelling this week.  *homework:  character presentation  - read AR