Tuesday, December 21st

Parents, Guardians, and Students:  Please be sure to check Home Access Center since grades have been updated.  The Reader Response Sheet has is due on the first day back on Monday, January 3rd.

Have a happy and safe winter break!   Come back rested and ready to finish the 2nd marking period.

Thursday, December 16th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue to identify and interpret the flashback as a literary device.  Students will generate their own examples of the flashback based on any previous story we have covered over the course of the year.
Homework - Students are to prepare for their Unit 7 Vocabulary Quiz tomorrow.  Make sure all book exercises are completed.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives -Students will identify and compose various styles of declarative, imperative, exclamatory, and interrogative sentences.  They will continue to work on their essay rough drafts.
Homework - Students are to prepare for their Unit 7 Vocabulary Quiz tomorrow.  Make sure all book exercises are completed.  Continue working on the essay rough draft as well.

Wednesday, December 15th

Parents and Guardians 

Today I am sending home a Student Detail Report that shows the interim grades for the second marking period.  Please reinforce the importance of ending the calendar year on a strong note.

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will read their next story, "The Bet."  They will then identify and interpret the flashback as a literary device.
Homework -In a paragraph, answer the following: What do you think the outcome of the bet proves?  Explain your answer.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be comparing and contrasting O. Henry's two stories, "After Twenty Years" and "A Retrieved Reformation." 
Homework -Students are to begin writing their rough drafts for the test essay based on the above objective.  These drafts are due at the beginning of class on Monday before they take their test.

Thursday, December 9th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives -Students will continue to analyze the structure of the script format and its use of stage directions.  They will also explain examples of the cause/effect relationships found in the play "The Million-Pound Bank Note."
Homework - In a paragraph, answer the following:  Do you think that the bet between the brothers in the play was an ethical one?  Explain.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives -Students will analyze sentences with their subjects in an unusual order.  This will enable them to broaden their sentence variety when writing.
Homework - Interview Question: What is it like to see someone you have not talked to in many years?  What are some of the things you talk about?  Explain with examples.

Wednesday, December 8th

Parents & Guardians: I apologize for the delay in creating new posts over the last couple of days. Since there were some technical difficulties that arose from the posting of the coded state standards, I will have to continue with my previous format.

In other news, please keep checking the grades on HAC!  This is the time of year where students are distracted from their deadlines.  I will send home a Student Detail Report every time I enter a major grade into the system.  Let's finish the calendar year on a positive note!

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will start their new story, "The Million-Pound Bank Note." They will analyze the structure of the script format and its use of stage directions.
Homework - Interview Question: Why do you think that many major lottery winners are in debt after only a few years? Explain with details.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue their study of O. Henry's "After Twenty Years."  They will then examine foreshadowing as a literary device.  Students will then provide examples of foreshadowing from previous stories we have analyzed over the year.
Homework - Students are to complete quiz and test corrections for additional credit.

Tuesday, November 30th

Parents and Guardians: Today, I have added a new feature to the daily website.  In bold print, I will provide the grade level standards as they pertain to the daily lesson.  If you even have any questions about these standards, please email me with the address listed above or leave a comment below the blog post. 

8th Grade:

Lesson Objectives -Students will be able to continue their interview project where they are to discuss their accomplishments.  Doing so will enable them to understand the difference between genres (8.4.2b) as well as identify the effect of point of view (8.2.4f).

Homework - Interview Question:  What is success?  Is success always defined by the amount of money one makes?  Explain with examples.

7th Grade:

Lesson Objectives -Students will be able to identify and use the meanings of frequently used Greek and Latin derived roots and affixes to determine the meaning of unknown words (7.2.2a). They will then examine the author's use of personification as a literary device in the story Rikki-Tikki-Tavi (7.2.4c.1.1)

Homework -Answer in a paragraph: Think about your pet or an animal you have come into contact with on a regular basis.  In what ways does this animal show human behavior traits?  Explain with details.

Monday, November 29th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Aside from starting the next vocabulary unit, students will also start their next story, "Mr. Misenheimer's Garden."  Students will then use observations from the actions and thoughts of the main character to create a generalization, or a broad statement about a person.
Homework - The November RRS is due on Wednesday!

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Aside from starting the next vocabulary unit, students will also start their next story, "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi"  Students will make predictions based on the action in the story.
Homework - The November RRS is due on Wednesday!

Monday, November 22nd

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Today, students are taking their test on "Flowers for Algernon."
Homework - Classwork pages 1-5 and the sub packet are due tomorrow in the beginning of class.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives- Students take their quiz on Vocabulary Chapter 5.  They will then read an news article to find the difference between statements of fact and fiction.
Homework -  Classwork pages 1-4 and the sub packet are due tomorrow in the beginning of class.

Friday, November 19th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After students complete their Unit 5 Vocabulary quiz, they will finish their debate concerning the ethical use of medical experimentation.
Homework - Students are to prepare for their test.  Their essay question is the following: Describe the ethical ramifications of experimenting with intelligence levels as seen in “Flowers for Algernon.”  What are the pros and cons?

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their test on "The War of the Wall" today.
Homework - Students are to prepare for their Chapter 5 Vocabulary quiz. Classwork pages 1-4 and the sub packet will be collected on Tuesday of next week.

Thursday, November 18th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to identify and correct mistakes related to subject/verb agreement.  They will then present their arguments that discuss the ethical ramifications of performing  an experiment such as the one in "Flowers for Algernon".
Homework - Prepare for tomorrow's quiz on Vocabulary Unit #5.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to work in small groups in order to complete their choice of assignment that reflects their understanding of "The War of the Wall."
Homework - Prepare for tomorrow's test on the story.

Wednesday, November 17th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to use characterization techniques to document the changes the main character undergoes over the course of "Flowers for Algernon".  Students will then organize their arguments and eventually debate the ethical ramifications of performing such an experiment as the one in the story.
Homework - November's RRS is due the week after the Thanksgiving break.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to identify and fix common mistakes with pronouns and their antecedents.  They will then work in small groups in order to complete their choice of assignment that reflects their understanding of "The War of the Wall."
Homework - November's RRS is due the week after the Thanksgiving break.

Tuesday, November 16th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue with "Flowers for Algernon."  They will then make inferences based on the information provided by the author.  Students will also use characterization techniques to document the changes the main character undergoes over the course of the story.
Homework - In a paragraph, answer the following: Do you think that the think that the procedure that Charlie underwent is an ethical one?

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will present their interpretations of "The War of the Wall" if it was narrated by the Painter Lady.  Students will examine how the story's theme changes with a shift in perspective.  They will then practice the effective use of pronouns and their antecedents.
Homework - Interview Question: Why do some people treat outsiders differently?

Monday, November 15th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will start their next story, "Flowers for Algernon."  They will then make inferences based on the information provided by the author.  Students will also use characterization techniques to document the changes the main character undergoes over the course of the story.
Homework - In a paragraph, answer the following question: If there was one mental ability you wish you could develop, what would it be? How would you use it?  Explain with details.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will present their interpretations of "The War of the Wall" if it was narrated by the Painter Lady.  Students will examine how the story's theme changes with a shift in perspective.    
Homework - In a paragraph, answer the following question: If an artist painted a mural in your neighborhood, what heroes do you think your neighbors would want represented?  Explain

Monday, November 8th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After an introduction to Vocabulary Unit 5, students will continue to develop their metaphor examples.  These ideas will be turned into an original poem which they will share with the class.
Homework - This is the last call for missing/late assignments and test corrections!

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After an introduction to Vocabulary Chapter 5, students will continue to share their examples of cause/effect relationships from previous stories.  They will then explore the author's use of internal and external conflict in the story.
Homework - This is the last call for missing/late assignments and test corrections!

Friday, November 5th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will take their first official round of DCAS testing today. 
Homework - Classwork pages 15-17 are due on Monday.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After their vocabulary quiz, students will be able to describe examples of cause/effect relationships found in the short story "War of the Wall."
Homework - In a paragraph, answer the following question: What do you think painter lady accomplishes by creating her mural?

Thursday, November 4th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to compare/contrast ideas between two examples of poetry.
Homework - Students will have their first official round of DCAS testing tomorrow morning.

7th Grade

Important Note -  Today's fourth period section will take their first official round of DCAS testing today. 
Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to describe examples of cause/effect relationships found in the short story "War of the Wall."
Homework - Students are to prepare for their final vocabulary quiz of the marking period.  They are also to make sure sure that classwork pages 14-16 are ready to be turned in tomorrow.

Wednesday, November 3rd

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to compare/contrast ideas between two examples of poetry.
Homework - Students are to prepare for their final vocabulary quiz of the marking period.  They are also to make sure sure that classwork pages 15-17 are ready to be turned in tomorrow.

7th Grade

Important Note - Today's second period section will take their first official round of DCAS testing today. 
Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to describe examples of cause/effect relationships found in the short story "War of the Wall."
Homework - Students are to prepare for their final vocabulary quiz of the marking period.  They are also to make sure sure that classwork pages 14-16 are ready to be turned in tomorrow or Friday, depending on the DCAS testing schedule.

Monday, November 1st

 Parents & Guardians:

• Students will also take their first official round of DCAS testing sometime this week.  Please be sure to stress the importance of this test to your child.
•  The end of the first marking period is on this Friday, November 5th.  Please be sure to remind your child that any missing/late assignments must be turned by this time.
• There is NO SCHOOL tomorrow because it is election day.

 7th and 8th Grades:  Both classes are taking their 5th and final test of the first marking period today.  After this, they can work on any missing/late assignments.

Thursday, October 28th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After some more practice with the unit 4 vocabulary words, students will be able to identify parts of a sentence.  They will then compare/contrast "Flying" with "The Great Rat Hunt."
Homework - Students are to continue working on their anecdote rough drafts which are due on Monday.  The October RRS is due tomorrow.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After some more practice with the chapter 4 vocabulary words, students will be able to identify the author's purpose in a writing sample.  They will then continue with their presentations from yesterday.
Homework - Students may do corrections from their vocabulary chapter 3 quiz.  The October RRS is due tomorrow.

Wednesday, October 27th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After the introduction to the new vocabulary unit, students will brainstorm information that will help them with their writing assignment.  For this, students will provide an anecdotal description of someone they know.  It can be a friend, family member, pet, or anyone who has played an important part in the lives of the students  
Homework - Students are to continue with their writing assignment.  The finished product is to be between 1-2 pages.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will create their personal autobiographical time-lines and present them to the class.  They will also examine the various criteria that make up a biographical work and compare/contrast various sources regarding the same subject matter in order to gauge their value.
Homework - Students are to complete their corrections for the vocabulary chapter 3 quiz.

Monday. October 25th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to determine Reeve Lindbergh's purpose when she wrote her anecdote "Flying."
Homework - Students will study for tomorrow's vocabulary unit three quiz.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives -Students will examine the structure and characteristics of an autobiography.  They will apply these principles to Eleanor Roosevelt's own autobiography and create a time-line of the events in her life.
Homework - Students will study for tomorrow's vocabulary chapter three quiz.

Wednesday, October 20th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to identify the necessary parts of a sentence.  They will then continue to work on their memoir assignment that is due on Friday.
Homework - Aside from working on their memoir assignment, students are to continue working on their October RRS which is due at the end of next week.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue with their presentations after we complete some review work concerning their use of fragment and run-on sentences.
Homework - Students are to continue working on their October RRS which is due at the end of next week.

Tuesday, October 19th

Parents & Guardians: Starting this week, our ELA classes will take part in a practice DCAS assessment.  During this time, students will become familiar with the process of starting a test as well as using the tools and  features in the program that will assist them.  Even though this is a practice run, please encourage your child to do his or her best anyway.  The first official assessment will take place in the first week of November.

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue with yesterday's assignment.  They will present their projects to the class today.
Homework - Aside from working on their memoir assignment, students are to continue working on their October RRS which is due at the end of next week.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue with their presentations after we complete some review work concerning their use of fragment and run-on sentences.
Homework - Students are to continue working on their October RRS which is due at the end of next week.

Monday, October 18th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will examine the story "The Great Rat Hunt" from a different perspective.  With this shift in point of view, students are to construct a new author's purpose.  They will present their works to the rest of the class.

Homework - Aside from working on their memoir assignment, students are to have a parent sign the Student Detail Report.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to determine whether certain actions in the story help to advance the plot.  They will then be able to choose one of two writing assignments which require the student to apply new ideas to the material that we have read together.
Homework - Students are to have a parent sign the Student Detail Report.

October 15th, 2010

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will start their next unit in the vocabulary book.  They will then study another example of a memoir in order to understand its structure, sensory details, etc.  Students begin brainstorming their memoir which will count as part of their next test.
Homework - Compose a brief one-paragraph treatment, or summary of their memoir to be turned in on Monday.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will start their next unit in the vocabulary book. They will then examine the personality traits and motives of both primary and secondary characters from the story "Zebra."
Homework - Watch an episode of a television show that you usually don't watch.  Describe 3 personality traits as well as the 3 motives that define the main character.

Wednesday, October 13th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After students take their quiz for vocabulary unit 2, they will continue with their analysis of "The Great Rat Hunt" in determining the main idea of the memoir.  Students will begin to brainstorm their own ideas about constructing a personal memoir as well.
Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph response: What are some of the things that we as Americans take for granted? Explain.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After students take their quiz for vocabulary unit 2, they will continue with the next story titled "Zebra."  They will make inferences about character traits based on the limited information provided by the author. 
Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph response: What are some of the things that we as Americans take for granted? Explain.

Tuesday, October 12th

Lesson Objective - Both 7th and 8th grade students will meet our guest speaker, Sergeant Peterson.  He will present a slide show about his time in Iraq and will tactfully answer questions about his experiences.  Students will be able to compare/contrast their living conditions with those of the people he has encountered during his service..

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph response: What are some of the things that we as Americans take for granted? Explain.

Monday, October 11th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After students finish the exercises for vocabulary unit 2, they will start the next story titled "The Great Rat Hunt."  They will then determine the main idea of the memoir.
Homework - Paragraph Response: Explain a situation where you felt like an outsider.  What did you do to solve this issue?  Explain.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After students finish the exercises for vocabulary unit 2, they will start the next story titled "Zebra."  They will make inferences about character traits based on the limited information provided by the author. 
Homework - Paragraph Response: If you have problems that you can't solve on your own, who can you turn to? Explain with details.

Tuesday, October 5th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to clarify their writing with the proper use of pronoun/antecedent agreement. They will then continue yesterday's lesson where they were to compare/contrast the character traits from "Red Chief" to a another character in the short story "Charles."
Homework - Students are to continue working on their essay assignment: Explain the difference between the attitudes toward discipline seen in Red Chief's father and Laurie's mother.  Which attitude do you think is more realistic?  Why?   The rough draft is due before they take tomorrow's test.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to construct compound sentences by combining related ideas.  They will then examine "Names/Nombres" and its examples of vivid sensory details.  By combining these two concepts, students will continue writing their personal essay rough drafts.
Homework - Students are to work on their essay assignment: Explain something that you learned during your life experiences.  The minimum length is two sides of a page.  Each student has a list of specific topics to choose from, and the rough draft is due before they take tomorrow's test..

Monday, October 4th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue their study of situational as well as verbal irony.  They will also be able to compare/contrast the character traits to a another character in the short story "Charles."
Homework - Students are to begin working on their essay assignment: Explain the difference between the attitudes toward discipline seen in Red Chief's father and Laurie's mother.  Which attitude do you think is more realistic?  Why? 

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to choose their topic for their personal essay.  They will then be able to brainstorm the examples they will will need to explain their idea.  Students will examine "Names/Nombres" as an example of the vivid sensory details used by Julia Alvarez.
Homework - Students are to begin working on their essay assignment: Explain something that you learned during your life experiences.  The minimum length is two sides of a page.  Each student has a list of specific topics to choose from, and the rough draft is due on Wednesday.

Thursday, September 30th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After more vocabulary studies, students will continue their exploration of reader predictions and the author's use of irony.
Homework - In a paragraph, explain how the dynamic characters change over the course of the story.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After more vocabulary studies, students will continue to define the author's purpose in "Names/Nombres."  Students will begin to brainstorm their own personal essay topics for use on their next test.
Homework -In a paragraph, explain a situation where someone made a negative first impression on you, but later changed it.

Wednesday, September 29th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After the introduction to the unit 2 vocabulary unit, students will determine the relationship between reader predictions and examples of situational irony.
Homework - September's RRS is due tomorrow.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After the introduction to the unit 2 vocabulary unit, students will then define the author's purpose in "Names/Nombres."  Students will begin to brainstorm their own personal essay topics for use on their next test.
Homework - September's RRS is due tomorrow.

Tuesday, September 28th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After students take their first vocabulary quiz, they will read their next story, "The Ransom of Red Chief," by O. Henry.  They will make predictions during this process and check their accuracy after the process.
Homework - In a paragraph, answer the following: Judging how Red Chief behaves in the story, what sort of person do you think he will be when he grows up?

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After students take their first vocabulary quiz, they will read their next story, "Names/Nombres," by Julia Alvarez.  They will then define the author's purpose and begin to brainstorm their own personal essay topics.
Homework - Shakespeare said, "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet."  How does this quote apply to the ideas in this essay?  Explain in a paragraph.

Friday, September 24th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will compare/contrast ideas between similar works related to the story, "Stop the Sun."  We will then review for the test on Monday.
Homework - Using the rough outline provided in class, students are to continue writing their rough draft for the following essay question: Describe the author's use of theme in the story, "Stop the Sun."  The rough draft is due on Monday before the test.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will practice combining ideas into more developed sentences.  They will also present their examples of internal/external conflicts that they culled from various media sources.
Homework - Using the rough outline provided in class, students are to continue writing their rough draft for the following essay question: Describe the author's use of conflict in the story, "Thank You, M'am."  The rough draft is due on Monday before the test.

Thursday, September 23rd

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue to improve their writing with the aid of predicate adjectives, predicate nouns, and adverbs. 
Homework - Using the rough outline provided in class, students are to begin writing their rough draft for the following essay question: Describe the author's use of theme in the story, "Stop the Sun."  The rough draft is due on Monday before the test.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to define and apply the concept of internal & external conflict to the characters in our current story.  They will then apply this concept to other forms of media and present it to the class.
Homework -  Using the rough outline provided in class, students are to begin writing their rough draft for the following essay question: Describe the author's use of conflict in the story, "Thank You, M'am."  The rough draft is due on Monday before the test.

Wednesday, September 22nd

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to improve their writing with the aid of predicate adjectives and adverbs
Homework - Students are to continue working on their September RRS which is due next week.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to define and apply the concept of internal & external conflict to the characters in the story, "Thank You, M'am."
Homework - Students are to continue working on their September RRS which is due next week.

Tuesday, September 21st

Parents and Guardians: Yesterday, the students received their vocabulary books for the school year.  It is highly recommended that they purchase these books so they can write in them.  The cost is $9 and you can pay with cash or a check made out to Conrad Schools of Science.  All students who purchase a book will receive a receipt.  Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After some vocabulary practice and discussion, students will be able to determine the theme of the story, "Stop the Sun."
Homework - In a paragraph, answer the following: Because the war took place before Terry's parents were married, Terry's father thinks that the war has "nothing to do with his family."  Why do you think he feels this way?  Do you agree with his feeling about this?  Why or why not?

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - After some vocabulary practice and discussion, students will continue working on their cause/effect projects .  They will then present them to the rest of the class.
Homework - In a paragraph, answer the following:Why do you think that Mrs. Jones treats Roger the way she does?

Friday, September 17th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will read the story, "Stop the Sun" by Gary Paulson.  They will then describe how they can connect with the main character's handling of a difficult experience.
Homework - Interview Question: How is it possible to help someone that doesn't want any help?  Explain with an example.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will read their next story, "Thank You, M'am," from Langston Hughes.  They will then examine the author's use of cause/effect relationships.  Students will then compose and illustrate examples of these relationships and present them to the rest of the class.. 
Homework - Students are to watch one TV show episode and give 3 examples of cause/effect relationships found in the plot.

Thursday, September 16th

8th & 7th Grades

Both sections are taking their first test of the school year.  When they finish, they are to complete any make-up work then continue reading the next story which we will officially start tomorrow.

Wednesday, September 15th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to use context clues in figuring out vocabulary words.  They will then examine the various forms on conflict in the story as well as how they were eventually resolved.
Homework -Study for tomorrow's test on "Raymond's Run."

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to use context clues in figuring out vocabulary words.  They will then consider how the themes of the story might have been different if it was told from an alternative perspective.
Homework - Study for tomorrow's test on "Seventh Grade."

Tuesday, September 14th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to identify and compose samples of sentences that demonstrate an unusual word order. They will then continue giving their presentations from yesterday.
Homework - Students will continue reading their book for the September RRS.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to identify the subjects and predicates in a variety of sentences.  This skill is important in avoiding run-on and fragment sentences in their writing.  They will then continue giving their presentations from yesterday.   
Homework - Students will continue reading their book for the September RRS.

Monday, September 13th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to compose and present an acceptance speech based on the main character's achievements in the story "Raymond's Run."  Another option is to compose similar product based on one of their own personal achievements.
Homework - Interview Question : Describe a skill that you have practiced in order to be good at it. 

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to examine the author's use of theme in the story "Seventh Grade."  Students will then rewrite the story from another character's perspective in order to see how the theme might change.
Homework - In a paragraph, explain a situation where somebody lied to you.  Did this affect your relationship with that person?  Explain why or why not.

Thursday, September 9th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to examine the story elements based on "Raymond's Run".  They will then create their own diagram of the story elements found in one of their summer reading books and present it to the class.

Homework - In a paragraph, describe the main character's personality traits using examples from the story.  Is she someone that you would be friends with?  Why or why not?

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to analyze the importance of the setting found in "Seventh Grade." They will particularly observe the sensory details utilized by the author.

Homework -   Interview Question: What is the difference between a white lie and a regular lie?  Are there any situations where lying is acceptable?  Why or why not?

Wednesday, September 8th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to determine cause and effect relationships found in their first story, "Raymond's Run."  They will then apply this skill to any of the three books they were to read over the summer break and present it to the class.

Homework - Continue working on the monthly RRS, due September 30th.  Those who need to continue working on their summer reading assignments may do so as well.

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will describe connections they  have with the main character of "Seventh Grade" in terms of personality traits, thoughts, feelings, etc.  They will then apply this skill to any of the three books they were to read over the summer break and present it to the class.

Homework - Continue working on the monthly RRS, due September 30th.  Those who need to continue working on their summer reading assignments may do so as well.

Tuesday, September 7th

8th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to determine cause and effect relationships found in their first story, "Raymond's Run."

Homework - Interview Question: Why do people make fun of others who have disabilities?

7th Grade

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to read the story "Seventh Grade" and describe connections they  have with the main character in terms of personality traits, thoughts, feelings, etc.

Homework -  In a paragraph, answer the following: Why do people feel the need to create false impressions of themselves in front of others? Explain with an example.

Thursday, September 2nd

Parents & Guardians - Today, students will receive a copy of the Reader Response Sheet (RRS) that is due on the last day of every calendar month.  Over the course of each month, students are to read an approved book and answer questions based on it.  For each marking period, students are to submit between 2-3 Reader Response Sheets.  Late submissions will only receive partial credit.  These assignments account for 10% of the final grade per marking period.

Lesson Objectives - Students will...

• gain an awareness of my behavior expectations as well as the consequences for not meeting them.
• receive their fist two Reader Response Sheets (September and October) as well as an explanation of my expectations in completing them.
• be able to identify the three types of questioning that we will see over the course of the year:
• Determining meaning
• Interpreting meaning
• Extending meaning 

 Homework - Students are to find a book for their September RRS assignment over the holiday weekend.

We start the real work on Tuesday, so be prepared! 

Wednesday, September 1st

Day Three

Lesson Objectives - Today, both ELA sections will spend time discussing the appropriate behaviors necessary when interacting with their peers over the course of the year.  Groups will analyze realistic scenarios and determine the "wrong way" and "right way" in handling these situations.

Homework - Students are to get the bottom portion of the classroom behavior letter signed and returned to me tomorrow.  Those who need to continue working on their summer reading assignments may do so as well.

Tuesday, August 31st

Day Two

Lesson Objectives - We are still getting into the swing of things here at school.  Today, both ELA sections will spend time discussing the appropriate behaviors necessary for the various educational settings we will utilize over the course of the year.

Homework - Students are to return the syllabus slip if they have not done so already.  Those who need to continue working on their summer reading assignments may do so as well.

Monday, August 30th

Welcome Back!

On this site, you will usually find the daily objectives and the nightly homework assignment.  Since this is our first week, we need to get some "housekeeping" done first.

Homeroom students will receive their schedules, locker assignments, and their Code of Conduct handbooks.  We will go over some of the information in this handbook and students will take a short quiz.

In the English classes, I will distribute the course outline that explains my grading policy.  Students are to take this home and return the bottom half tomorrow with a parent/guardian signature.

 If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me with the email address listed above.

Tuesday, August 24th

While students are enjoying their final week of summer break, all CSS teachers are diligently preparing to be ready to greet them on Monday.

Once school starts, I will update this site daily so that students and parents know what is going in on in my classroom.  Please bookmark this site and visit it on a regular basis!

I look forward to working with you during the 2010-2011 school year.
-Michael Swain

Friday, June 11th

Today is the last day of the 2009-2010 school year!  Have a safe and relaxing summer and I look forward to seeing you in late August.

As a reminder, the students have already recieved the official summer reading list. They are to read THREE books from the list and complete an assignment for each. If your child loses this list and the assignment, you will find it online here. All three assignments are due on the first day of school in August.

If you need to contact me over the summer, please use the email address listed above.  Thank you for helping me make this school year such a successful one! 

-Mr. Swain

Tuesday, June 8th

Parents & Guardians -   The students will recieve the official summer reading list during class today.  They are to read THREE books from the list and complete an assignment for each.  If your child loses this list and the assignment, you will find it online here .  All three assignments are due on the first day of school in August.

Lesson Objectives - Student will take their final Vocabulary Quiz and will submit their Class Work Packet pages 13-17 as well.  Tomorrow is the final day that I can collect late and missing assignments!

Monday, June 7th

Parents & Guardians - Even though this is the last week of school, there are a few important assignments that need to be collected.  Please make sure that your child doesn't not "forget" about any of these.  It would be a shame to see a grade drop a whole letter because of "Summer Fever."

Lesson Objectives and Homework - Students will prepare and review for tomorrow's final vocabulary quiz.  They will also make sure that their class work packets (pages 13-17) will be ready for collection tomorrow.

June 2nd, 2010

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Gain exposure to the words in Vocabulary Unit 11.
• Analyze Bradbury's use of the circular plot structure in "Dark They Were, and Golden Eyed."

Homework - Students are to either write or print out their flash cards for Vocabulary Unit 11.  The quiz for this unit is on Tuesday, June 8th.

Tuesday, June 1st

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Make corrections for their Unit 10 Vocabulary quiz.  This is the final chance students can make corrections on this type of quiz.
• Analyze Ray Bradbury's "Dark They Were, and Golden Eyed" and his descriptive writing style.

Homework - Get corrections and SDR signed and complete any missing/incomplete assignments.  (May RRS!!)

Friday, May 28th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Complete their Vocabulary Unit 10 quiz after a brief review session. 
• Analyze Ray Bradbury's "Dark They Were, and Golden Eyed" and his descriptive writing style.

Homework - Make sure class work pages 13-14 are completed.  Please submit any missing or incomplete assignments to get partial credit. 

Thursday, May 27th

Parents & Guardians - If you look to the right, you will see that I have updated the list that contains the upcoming assignments.  Please make sure that your child is aware that the marking period is far from over! 

There are still students who have not yet paid for their vocabulary books.  I will send a letter home at the beginning of next week so that your child can make the payment and recieve his/her report card without undue delay.

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Complete the sentence section of their vocabulary unit.
• Analyze Ray Bradbury's "Dark They Were, and Golden Eyed" and his descriptive writing style.

Homework - Students are to study for their quiz on Vocabulary Unit 10.  I will check their flashcards for additional homework credit.  May's RRS is due tomorrow as well.

Monday, May 24th

Parents and Guardians - There are only 3 more weeks of school!  Please stress the importance of finishing the year on a positive note.   Be sure to check grades on Home Access Center and ask your child for the Student Detail Reports that I will send home after grading each major assignment.

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to identify examples of the author's use of dialect.  They will then begin to prepare their presentations that will explain the story from the prespective of the antagonist.

Homework - The May RRS is due this Friday!  It is the last one of the school year.

Friday, May 21st

Lesson Objectives - Students will...

• Begin vocabulary unit 10 after they are introduced to the words.
• Explain examples of the author's use of sensory details and use of dialect in "Boy: Tales of Childhood."

Homework - Students are to either print out vocabulary word flash cards from the book's website or write out their own on index cards. 

Thursday, May 20th

Lesson Objectives - Students will identify examples of the authors use of sensory details found in the story "Boy: Tales of Childhood."

Homework - Get Student Detail Report signed.

Wednesday, May 19th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Write out corrections for yesterday's vocabulary quiz.
• Make connections with the main protagonist from "Boy: Tales of Childhood" in terms of experiences, background, actions, and attitudes.

Homework - Students are to get their vocabulary unit 9 quiz corrections signed by a parent/guardian.  When they return it to me, I will give additional credit to their quiz score.

Tuesday, May 18th

Lesson Objectives - Students will...

• Submit class work pages 7-12.
• Take their unit 9 vocabulary quiz after a brief review session.
• Listen to the next story, "Boy: Tales of Childhood," and make connections with the main protagonist in terms of experiences, background, actions, and attitudes.

Homework - Interview Question:  When does a prank go too far?  Explain with examples.

Monday, May 17th

Lesson Objective - Students will take their test on "The White Umbrella" today.  They will also complete any extra credit or make-up work when they are finished.

Homework - Students will take their test essay letters home to get signed and returned.  They should also study for tomorrow's vocabulary unit 9 quiz and make sure their pages 7-12 will be ready to be collected in the beginning of class.

Friday, May 14th

Lesson Objective - Students will be able to...

•  Identify and compose examples of prepositional phrases.  These will help the students provide more descriptive examples in their writing.  (12a, 12b)
• They will also finish giving their presentations on the use of mood and tone in the stories we have read together over the course of the school year.

Homework -  Students are to continue composing their test essay letter: In a letter to a parent or guardian, briefly summarize the story, “The White Umbrella.” After that, explain how you made a connection with the narrator. Be sure to thank him or her for what he or she does for you. This will be collected on Monday as part of their test.

Wednesday, May 12th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to apply the elements of mood and tone to the present story as well as ones we have covered over the school year.  Students will explain their findings in front of the class for credit.

Homework - Students are to begin composing their test essay letter:  In a letter to a parent or guardian, briefly summarize the story, “The White Umbrella.” After that, explain how you made a connection with the narrator. Be sure to thank him or her for what he or she does for you. This will be collected on Monday as part of their test.

Tuesday, May 11th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Introduce themselves with the vocabulary words in unit 9.  They will then work on the synonyms/antonyms section with a partner.
• Brainstorm ideas that describe the narrator's personality from the story, "The White Umbrella." (page 10b)
• Analyze the author's use of mood and tone in the telling of her story. (Page 11a)

Homework - Print out the flash cards from the vocabulary unit 9 words using the following website: http://www.sadlier-oxford.com/vocabulary/index.cfm .  If students do not have internet access, they may write them out on their own index cards.

Monday, May 10th

Parents & Guardians: There are only FIVE more calendar weeks to the student school year.  Please stress the importance of finishing the year on a positive note.  I have submitted the interim grades and many students are working below potential.  Please check grades on Home Access Center and ask your child for the Student Detail Reports that I plan on sending home after each major assignment.

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Discuss the importance of being accepted by a group.
• Use author clues such as mood and tone in order to predict the outcome of "The White Umbrella."

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph with a topic sentence: Do you think that people should have to change in order to be accepted by a group?  Explain both sides of the issue with specific examples.

Tuesday, April 27th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Identify and follow the stage directions when reading a teleplay.
• Analyze the screenwriter's use of theme in a "Twilight Zone" episode.
• What statement is Rod Serling trying to make about how people respond to fear?

Homework - The April RRS is due on Friday.  Please turn in any quiz or test corrections for additional credit.

Wednesday, April 21st

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• look over yesterday's Vacabulary Unit 7 quiz and make corrections.
• finish their presentations of their individual cause/effect chains.
• analyze the story elements of rising action, climax, falling action, and conflict with the story, "An American Childhood."

Homework - Students will get their Vocabulary Quiz corrections signed and returned for credit.

Tuesday, April 13th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to tell the difference between active and passive voice in their writing.  (Pages 3a-3d)  They will also be able to change examples of passive voice so that the response is now in active voice. 

Homework - Students can start writing their essay rough draft for Friday's test on "The Noble Experiment." The response is to be no less than two sides of a page.  I will be looking for an introduction and body paragraphs.  The essay topic is as follows: Describe a personal challenge and how you overcame it. 

Monday, March 29th

Today is the last day of the 3rd marking period.  Any work for that marking period that is turned in after today will not recieve full credit.  It is the  of student's responsibility to submit assignments in a timely manner.

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Take their unit 6 vocabulary quiz after a few review exercises.
• Present their original fable assignments to the rest of the class.
• Summarize a story with the use of important details.

Homework - For the following homework assignment, it is the responsibility of the students to write all information, not the parent!  Interview Question: Why are professional athletes used as role models?  What benefits can a person gain from having a professional athlete as a role model?

Friday, March 26th

Lesson Objectives - Students will take their test on "Ant and Grasshopper" and "The Richer, the Poorer."

Homework - Class work pages 8-14 will be collected on Monday. The Vocabulary quiz and book work are due on Monday as well.

Thursday, March 25th

Lesson Objectives - Students will present their original versions of the traditional or modern fable.  Students will also evaluate the presentaions of others.

Homework - Students are to prepare for tomorrow's test on "Ant and Grasshopper" and "The Richer, the Poorer."  They my take any study materials they may need from their class work folders.  Pages 8-14 will be collected on Monday.  The Vocabulary quiz and book work are due on Monday as well.

Wednesday, March 24th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Complete the exercises for unit 6 in the vocabulary book.  The quiz for this unit will be on Monday.
• Create an original traditional or modern fable.  Students will present their projects tomorow during class for class work credit.

Homework - Students are to make sure that class work pages 8-15 will be ready to be turned in on Monday.  They must do so promptly since the marking period is over shortly thereafter.

Tuesday, March 23rd

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Compare and contrast the qualities and traits of the two main story characters in "The Richer, the Poorer."
• Determine how Lottie is an example of a dynamic character.

Homework - Think about it: What is happening in the news today that could be worked into a modern fable?

Monday, March 22nd

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Identify "The Richer, the Poorer" as a modern fable.
• Compare/contrast this story with "Ant & Grasshopper."
• Begin to compose their own modern or traditional fable in a group setting.  Students will present their original works on Thursday.

Homework - In a paragraph, answer the following:  Think of a family member.  In what ways are your personalities similar/different.  Explain with details.

Thursday, March 18th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Examine the traits and motives of story characters. (12a)
• Determine examples of personification with supporting evidence. (12b)

Homework - In a paragraph, answer the following:  Why do you think that Ant refused to help Grasshopper?  Would you have done the same thing?  Explain.

Wednesday, March 17th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Identify examples of morals found in common Fable stories.
• Compare/contrast character traits and story details using a Venn diagram.

Homework - Students are to interview a family member by asking the following question: Are most Americans "Ants" or "Grasshoppers?"  Parents/guardians are not supposed to write their responses!

Tuesday, March 16th

Today is the final day of regularly scheduled DSTP testing.  Congratulations to all those students who diligently worked to show what they have learned over the year!

Students who were absent on 3/10-11 or 3/15-16 will most likely make up their testing by the end of the week.  Students can also use next week for make-up time if they need it.

We will resume our regularly scheduled educational programming tomorrow.  As a reminder, there are less than two weeks until the end of the 3rd marking period.

Monday, March 15th

Today is the first day of Reading DSTP testing. Good luck!

Wednesday, March 10th

Today is the first day of Math DSTP testing.  Good luck!

Tuesday, March 9th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Identify and describe examples of imagery from poetry samples (10b).
• Assess DSTP practice responses from their peers in order to prepare for the testing.

Homework - For the duration of the testing schedule, there is no homework for this class.  Students should keep in mind that the March RRS is due on 3/31/10. 

Math DSTP testing begins tomorrow!

Monday, March 8th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Identify the main ideas and supporting details found in a poerty sample (10a).
• Use this information to paraphrase the meaning of the poem.

Homework - Students should be working on their March RRS.

There are only 3 more school days left until the start of DSTP testing.

Friday, March 5th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to continue their preparation for the the DSTP with another exercise.  Students will continue to evaluate the written responses of other students so that they do not make the same mistakes on the test.

Homework - Students can complete their test corrections for "The Scholarship Jacket" test.  Since the interim grades for the third marking period are now in the system, students are to have their SDR signed by a parent or guardian.

There are only 4 more school days until the start of DSTP testing!

Wednesday, March 3rd

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Examine an article to find examples of the author's use of overgeneralization. (9b)
• Continue assessing student samples of DSTP example responses.
• Read another passage and complete a new DSTP practice exercise.  Students should demonstrate improvement over the previous one.

Homework - Students are to start reading their book for the March RRS.

There are only 6 school days until the start of DSTP testing! 

Monday, March 1st

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Determine the primary claim found in a writing sample. (page 8b)
• Evaluate the evidence used to support the primary claim:
• Is the evidence adequate?
• Is the evidence appropriate?
• Is the evidence accurate?
• Assess writing samples of their peers to see if their responses meet the above criteria.

Homework - Students will complete their quiz corections for Vocabulary Unit 5.

There are only 8 more school days until the DSTP!

Wednesday, February 24th

Lesson Objectives - Students will...

• Take their Vocabulary Unit 5 quiz after a brief review session.
• Continue their preparation for the DSTP with a few exercises concerning fact/opinion as well as finding supporting evidence to support a claim. (Pages 8a, 8b)

Homework - Students are to complete the sub packet work in order to bring up their homework average.  February's Reader Response Sheet is due on Friday.

There are only 11 school days left until DSTP testing!

Tuesday, February 23rd

Lesson Objective - Students will take their "Scholarship Jacket" test today.  When they finish, they can complete their Vocabulary Unit 5 exercises, get their class work pages 1-7 stapled, and work on the RRS which is due on Friday.

Homework - Study for Vocabulary Unit 5 quiz.  Pages 1-7 and all vocabulary exercises are due tomorrow.

There are only 12 school days left until DSTP testing!

Monday, February 22nd

Parents & Guardians - I will calculate the scores for the 3rd marking period interim by Monday, March 1st.  Please remind your child to turn in all assignments this week or he or she might recieve a "danger of failing" or "failing" interim report.  Please consult the list of assignments and their due dates on the right. 

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to use consistent verb tense in their writing.

Homework - Students will continue writing their rough draft for the test essay. Completed rough drafts are due in the beginning of tomorrow's class. The writing prompt is as follows: Explain and provide examples of theme that the author uses in the story "The Scholarship Jacket."

There are only 13 school days left until DSTP Testing!

Thursday, February 18th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to apply the different types of theme to movies/books that they have read, and place the information in a graphic organizer. Groups will then present their findings to the rest of the class.

Homework - Students will start their rough draft for the test essay.  Completed rough drafts are due in the beginning of class on Tuesday, February 23rd.  The writing prompt is as follows: Explain and provide examples of theme that the author uses in the story "The Scholarship Jacket." 

There are only 15 school days left until DSTP Testing!

Tuesday, February 17th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Compare and contrast their lives to that of the main character from, "The Scholarship Jacket." (Page 5b)
• Analyze and apply the concept of theme in relation to the story (Page 6a).
• Apply the different types of theme to movies/books that they have read, and place the information in a graphic organizer.  Groups will then present their findings to the rest of the class.

Homework - After watching a half-hour episode of a narrative television show, students will explain two themes found in the story in a paragraph.

There are only 16 school days left until DSTP Testing!

Friday, February 5th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Practice writing a DSTP-style response for others to evaluate.
• Take a brief Comprehension quiz after reading "The Scholarship Jacket." (Page 5a)
• Describe how their lives are similiar to that of the main character in the story.  (Page 5b) 

Homework - Interview Question: Has the presence of racism changed in the last 50 years?  Explain with details.  (Reminder: it is the job of the STUDENT to do the writing!)

There are only 22 school days left until DSTP testing!

Thursday, Feburary 4th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• After a review session, they will take their Vocabulary Test for the unit 4 words.
• Analyze the mental imagery and use of metaphors in a poetry sample.  This brief exercise will help prepare the students for the DSTP.

Homework - Students will answer the following question in paragraph form:  Which animal best embodies your personality?   Explain with details.

There are only 23 school days left until DSTP testing!

Tuesday, February 2nd

Lesson Objectives - Students will take their first test of the 3rd marking period.  When they finish, they may study for tomorrow's Vocabulary Quiz, read the upcoming story, "The Scholarship Jacket," or begin their February RRS.

Homework - Students are to study for tomorrow's Unit 4 Vocabulary Quiz

There are only 25 school days left until DSTP testing!

Friday, January 29th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Apply their unit 4 vocabulary words in a sentence exercise.
• Tell the difference between abstract and concrete nouns. 

Homework - Students will prepare for their "Immigrant Kids" Test on Tuesday as well as Wednesday's vocabulary quiz.

There are only 26 school days left until DSTP testing!

Thursday, January 28th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to determine the effectiveness of the primary sources used in the story "Immigrant Kids" (Page 2b).  They will then continue working on vocabulary unit 4.

Homework - Students will get their SDR (which has the final 2nd marking period grade) signed by a parent/guardian. The January RRS is due this Friday.

There are only 27 school days left until DSTP testing!

Wednesday, January 27th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to organize the author's information in an outline format (page 2a).  Students will then create their own outlines based on their personal interests.  These will be presented to the rest of the class.

Homework - Students should work on January's RRS that is due this Friday.

There are only 28 school days left until DSTP testing!

Monday, January 25th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Practice their written response skills so that they are prepared for the DSTP.
• Identify the difference between primary and secondary sources in a non-fiction writing sample. (Page 1b)

Homework - Interview Question: Do you think there will be a point where the United States might close it's borders to prevent new immigrants from coming in?  Using details, explain why you think that the US government should or should not do this. 

There are only 30 school days left until DSTP testing!

Friday, January 22nd

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Analyze the components of a news article in order to understand its structure and purpose. This is a brief DSTP review exercise.
• Make corrections to their recent quiz on Vocabulary unit 3

Homework - Students can complete their quiz corrections for additional credit. Any make-up work is due by the end of the week!
 

There are only 31 school days left until DSTP testing!

Thursday, January 21st

Lesson Objectives - Students will be taking their Unit 3 Vocabulary quiz after a brief review. They may work on an extra credit assignment or January's RRS after the quiz. We will also work on test corrections for a past test.


Homework - Students can make test corrections on the "A Retrieved Reformation" test. Please make sure that they are submitted before this Friday.

There are only 32 school days left until DSTP testing!

Wednesday, January 20th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Analyze the components of a news article in order to understand its structure and purpose.  This is a brief DSTP review exercise. 
• Make corrections to their recent quiz on Vocabulary unit 3

Homework - Students can complete their quiz corrections for additional credit.  Any make-up work is due by the end of the week!

There are only 33 school days left until DSTP testing!

Tuesday, January 19th

Parents & Guardians - We have half-days all of this week due to mid-terms.  Today and tomorrow, I will meet with my first two classes.  I will not meet with my last period class until Thursday and Friday.   Even though I may not meet with your child in class on certain days, he or she is still welcome to submit any missing or late assignments.  The marking period officially closes this Friday!

Lesson Objectives - Students will be taking their Unit 3 Vocabulary quiz after a brief review.  They may work on an extra credit assignment after the quiz.  We will also work on test corrections for a past test. 

Homework - Students can make test corrections on the "A Retrieved Reformation" test.  Please make sure that they are submitted before this Friday.

There are only 34 school days left until DSTP testing!

Wednesday, January 13th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Apply their understanding of characterization to stories that we have previously read. They will present their findings to the rest of the class.
• Earn more credit by making corrections to the Unit 2 Vocabulary quiz.

Homework - Students will continue writing their rough draft for the essay that is part of Friday's test. This is the last test of the second marking period. Essay question: Explain the author's use of static and dynamic characters in the story, "What do Fish Have to do with Anything?"

There are only 37 school days left until DSTP testing!

Tuesday, January 12th

Parents & Guardians - Please be aware that the second marking period is rapidly coming to a close!  Please check HAC so that you know if any missed assignments need to be completed and turned in.  If you are interested in a conference on Thursday, January 28th between 2:30-6:20, please contact the main office at 992-5545.  I will contact you for a conference if your child is in danger of failing for the year.

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to...

• Use context clues in order apply the Unit 3 vocabulary words in sentence form.
• Apply their understanding of characterization to stories that we have previously read.  They will present their findings to the rest of the class.

Homework - Students will start writing their rough draft for the essay that is part of Friday's test.  This is the last test of the second marking period.  Essay question:  Explain the author's use of static and dynamic characters in the story, "What do Fish Have to do with Anything?"

There are only 38 school days left until DSTP testing!