Wednesday, December 19th

Lesson Objectives - Students will identify and practice writing various sentence styles.  They will then continue writing their test essay rough draft.

Homework - Students will finish writing their rough draft about the following topic:Compare and contrast the settings, characters, and plots of O. Henry's two short stories "After 20 Years" and "A Retrieved Reformation." Students are encouraged to use one of the formats provided below.

OPTION A
Introduction: a)Mention the author/titles of the short stories with BRIEF descriptions. b) provide a thesis Statement - Explain the purpose of your essay.

Body one: Explain the similarities/differences in settings, characters, and plots in "After 20 Years"

Body two: Explain the similarities/differences in settings, characters, and plots in "A Retrieved Reformation"

Conclusion: Remind the reader the purpose of the essay

or

OPTION B
Introduction: a)Mention the author/titles of the short stories with BRIEF descriptions. b) provide a thesis Statement - Explain the purpose of your essay.

Body one: Explain the similarities/differences in settings

Body two: Explain the similarities/differences in characters

Body three: Explain the similarities/differences in plots

Conclusion: Remind the reader the purpose of the essay

Tuesday, December 18th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to apply elements of O. Henry's biography to his short story, "A Retrieved Reformation."  They will then construct examples of the compare/contrast essay outlines based on personal knowledge and interest.  Students will adapt these outlines to explain the similarities/differences found in two of O. Henry's short stories.

Homework - Students will begin writing their test essay rough draft: Compare/contrast O. Henry's stories "After Twenty Years" and "A Retrieved Reformation."  The completed rough draft is due at the beginning of class on Thursday.

Monday, December 17th

Lesson Objectives - Students will take their Vocabulary Unit VII quiz today.  They will then complete Thursday's objective: apply the story elements (exposition, rising action, climax, and falling action) to other media sources.  Students will present their findings to the class.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph with an introduction: Both of O. Henry's stories we have read deal with police officers who had to make difficult decisions.  Do you agree with these decisions?  Explain why or why not using details from the story.

Thursday, December 13th

Lesson Objectives - Students will finish the exercises in Vocabulary Unit VII.  They will then start the next story, "A Retrieved Reformation," where they will analyze its structure (exposition, rising action, climax, and falling action.)  Students will then apply these story elements to other media sources.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph response: "Would you forgive your significant other if their entire personal history was a lie?  Explain."

Wednesday, December 12th

Lesson Objectives - Students will practice using their vocabulary words in a few exercises.  They will then start the next story, "A Retrieved Reformation," where they will analyze its structure (exposition, rising action, climax, and falling action.)  Students will then apply these story elements to other media sources.

Homework - Interview Question: Should people who have been convicted of multiple past crimes be given another chance if they served their punishments?  Explain.

Monday, December 10th

Lesson Objectives -Students will start Vocabulary Unit VII.  They will then do a final evaluation of the "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi" test essay before they finish their packet on sentence construction techniques.  We will also review for tomorrow's test.

Homework - The test on "After 20 Years" is tomorrow

Friday, December 7th

Lesson Objectives - Students will examine and practice writing samples of sentences where the subjects are in an unusual order.  They will then continue with yesterday's presentations.

Homework - These are the first two homework assignments of the last half of the second marking period: Students are to get yesterday's vocabulary quiz and their SDR signed by a parent or guardian.

Thursday, December 6th

Lesson Objectives - Students will take their quiz for Vocabulary Unit VI.  They will then continue yesterday's project where they were listing examples of foreshadowing in media sources such as movies, books, and TV shows.  They will present their findings to the class.

Homework - This is the last homework for the first half of the second marking period!  Answer the following in a paragraph: "What would you do if you faced the same decision that Jimmy had to make?  Use details from the story in your response."

Wednesday, December 5th

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue looking at the elements of foreshadowing that reveal the surprise ending of O. Henry's "After 20 Years."  Students will then examine the story elements such as exposition, rising action, climax, and resolution.  They will then apply these ideas to other media sources.

Homework - There is a quiz on Vocabulary Unit VI tomorrow.  Interview Question: "Over the past 20 years, what are some things which you have done that make you the most proud?  Explain with examples."

Tuesday, December 4th

Lesson Objectives - Students will finish the exercises in Vocabulary Unit IV.  They will then practice monitoring their reading as they listen to O. Henry's "After 20 Years."

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: "Where do you see yourself in 20 years?  What do you need to do to get there?"

Friday, November 30th

Lesson Objectives - Students will examine the author's purpose in his use of the third-person omniscient point of view in "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi."  They will then have come to continue writing and editing their test essay rough drafts.

Homework - Students will finish writing their essay rough drafts of the following writing prompt: "From the story 'Rikki-Tikki-Tavi,' explain Rudyard Kipling's use of personification in three different animal characters." The completed rough draft is due before they start their test on Monday.  (See Wednesday's post for the outline!)

Thursday, November 29th

Lesson Objectives - Students will examine ways to combine ideas to create well developed sentences.  They will use these ideas in writing their essay rough drafts.

Homework - Students will continue writing their essay rough drafts of the following writing prompt: "From the story 'Rikki-Tikki-Tavi,' explain Rudyard Kipling's use of personification in three different animal characters." The completed rough draft is due before they start their test on Monday.  (See yesterday's post for the outline!)

Wednesday, November 28th

Lesson Objectives - After some more practice in Vocabulary Unit 6, students will continue examining the use of personification in various media sources.  Students will also begin brainstorming about the information they will include in their test essay rough draft.

Homework - Students will start writing their test essay rough drafts.  The writing prompt is as follows:  "From the story Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, explain the author’s use of personification in three different animal characters."

RTT Essay Checklist: Use the outline below to help organize your information

1.      Rough Draft                         (10 points) - _____

2.      Final Draft

a.      Introduction

               Author/Title (1 point) - _____

               Personification Definition (1 point) - _____

               Thesis Statement (2 points) - _____

b.      Body Paragraph 1

               Character Introduction (1 point) - _____

               Human traits (2 points) - _____

               Examples (2 points) - _____

c.       Body Paragraph 2

               Character Introduction (1 point) - _____

               Human traits (2 points) - _____

               Examples (2 points) - _____

d.      Body Paragraph 3

               Character Introduction (1 point) - _____

               Human traits (2 points) - _____

               Examples (2 points) - _____

e.       Conclusion                       (1 point) - _____

TOTAL SCORE - __/30_=_______

Tuesday, November 27th

Lesson Objectives - After starting Vocabulary Unit 6, students will explore Rudyard Kipling's use of personification in his story "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi."  They will then apply this concept to animal characters found in various sources of media.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: "If you could have an unusual pet, what would it be?  How would you take care of it?"

Monday, November 26th

Lesson Objectives - Students will make predictions about the new story, "Rikki Tikki Tavi," based on the characters' traits and motives.

Homework - Students will complete test corrections for "The War of the Wall" test for additional credit.

Monday, November 19th

Lesson Objectives - After making Vocabulary Unit V quiz corrections, students will then read a non-fiction article and find examples of facts and opinions.

Homework - Students are to get their vocabulary quizzes signed by a parent or guardian for an additional 6 points.

Friday, November 16th

Lesson Objectives - Students will first take their Vocabulary Unit 5 quiz.  They will then read a non-fiction article and find examples of facts and opinions.

Homework - Interview Question: "Do you think that animals can show examples of human-like personality traits?  Explain why or why not."

Thursday, November 15th

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their test on "The War of the Wall."  This is the first test of the second marking period.

Homework - Students will have their Vocabulary Unit V quiz tomorrow at the beginning of class.

Wednesday, November 14th

Lesson Objectives - Students will identify and practice the effective use of pronouns and their antecedents.   They will then finish presenting their narratives or scripts of the story told from a different perspective than the original narrator.

Homework - Students are to prepare for tomorrow's test on "The War of the Wall." 

Tuesday, November 13th

Lesson Objectives - After finishing Vocabulary Unit V, students will define examples of cause/effect relationships found in the story "The War of the Wall."  They will then finish presenting their narratives or scripts of the story told from a different perspective than the original narrator.

Homework - Students can complete the corrections for the "Eleanor Roosevelt" test for homework credit.

Thursday, November 8th

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue working with Vocabulary Unit V.  They will then continue to prepare and present their narrative or script of the current story told from different perspective than the original.

Homework - Interview Question: "Explain a situation where a someone left a poor first impression on you.  Did the impression eventually change?"

Monday, November 5th

Lesson Objectives - Students will take their Vocabulary Unit 4 quiz.  Then, they will start the next story, "The War of the Wall."  Students will examine the various forms of conflict found in the story.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: If you could have a mural painted in your neighborhood, which local heroes could it celebrate?  Explain with examples.

November 1st, 2012

Lesson Objectives - Because of the days off, we are postponing last Monday's scheduled test until tomorrow.  In the meantime, we will review our information to make sure everyone is ready for the final test of the marking period.

Homework - "Eleanor Roosevelt" test is tomorrow and pages 14-16 are due.

Friday, October 26th

Lesson Objectives - After finishing Vocabulary Unit 4, students will improve their sentence construction with the use of predicate adjectives.  They will then finish presenting their Autobiographical Timelines.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph:  " If Eleanor Roosevelt was alive today, which issues do you think she might try to remedy?  Support your response with details."

Thursday, October 25th

Lesson Objectives - After some practice in Vocabulary Unit 4, students will find examples of supporting datils that help prove a main idea about Eleanor Roosevelt and her influence on American history.  Students will also have time to continue presenting their Autobiographical Timelines.

Homework - Answer the following on loose leaf paper: If you had 5 million dollars to donate to a charity, which one would it be and why?

Wednesday, October 24th

Lesson Objectives - Students will examine various sources to determine the validity of the biography of Eleanor Roosevelt.  They will then have time to finish and present their individual biographical timelines.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: Eleanor Roosevelt did many things to help those who were less fortunate.  With examples, describe someone who continues her mission.

Tuesday, October 23rd

Lesson Objectives - After starting their 4th Vocabulary Unit, students will analyze the structure of the "Eleanor Roosevelt" biography.  They will then begin construction of their own personal time lines for presentation purposes.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: "What would you want your biographer to write about you?  Explain at least 3 personal accomplishments."

Monday, October 22nd

Lesson Objectives - After going over the test corrections for the 'Names Nombres" test, students will begin their next story, "Eleanor Roosevelt."  They will chart her personal experiences with the help of a time line.

Homework - 

1. Interview Question: Do you think that the spouse of the President of the United States has a responsibility to help the American people?  Explain with examples.
2.  Complete test corrections for "Names Nombres" test.

Friday, October 19th

Lesson Objectives - Students will complete a brief pretest in the form of a writing prompt.  After this, they will begin the next story, "Eleanor Roosevelt."

Homework - Interview Question: Do you think that the spouse of the President of the United States has a responsibility to help the American people?  Explain with examples.

Thursday, October 18th

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their test on "Zebra" today.

Homework - Class work pages 7-13 are due tomorrow.  Students should also continue reading their October RRS books.

Tuesday, October 16

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue presenting their traits/motives of characters from various media sources.  They will then identify and correct examples of fragment and run-on sentences. 

Homework - Students are to continue reading their October RRS book.  Also, tomorrow's test on "Zebra" has been moved to Thursday.

Monday, October 15th

Lesson Objectives - After their vocabulary quiz for Unit III, students will continue presenting their traits/motives of characters from various media sources.  They will then identify and correct examples of fragment and run-on sentences.

Homework - Persuasive Paragraph:  If you could recommend starting an after school club or activity, what would it be?  Why?  How might it benefit members of the school community?

Thursday, October 11th

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue to examine the motives and traits of both primary and secondary characters found in the story "Zebra."  They will then apply these ideas to other characters from various media sources.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: In the story, John Wilson visits the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. as a way of healing.  What are some other ways in which a person might attempt to heal emotional wounds?

Wednesday, October 10th

Lesson Objectives - Students will finish "Zebra," the story that we started yesterday.  Afterward, they will examine the motives and traits of both primary and secondary characters.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: In the story, John Wilson visits the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. as a way of healing.  What are some other ways in which a person might attempt to heal emotional wounds?

Tuesday, October 9th

Lesson Objectives - After finishing the Vocabulary Unit III exercises, student will continue with the next story, "Zebra."  Here, they will practice their inferential thinking by forming conclusions based on the actions and behaviors of the characters.

Homework - Interview Question: "How might negative experiences impact one's behavior?  What about positive experiences?"

Monday, October 8th

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their test on "Names Nombres."  They will also submit their rough and final drafts of their Personal Essay.

Homework - Please make sure that class work pages 7-9 are fully completed.  Continue working on October's Reader Response Sheet.

Thursday, October 4th

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue working in Vocabulary Unit III.  They will then have time to continue working on their Personal Essay rough drafts.

Homework - Students are to get their SDR signed as well as finish their Personal Essay rough drafts for Monday's test.

Wednesday, October 3rd

Lesson Objectives - Students will practice combining simple sentences into compound sentences.  They will then continue organizing and writing their Personal Essay rough drafts.

Homework - Students will continue writing their Personal Essay rough draft for the test on Monday. 

Tuesday, October 2nd

Lesson Objectives - Students will start Vocabulary Unit 3.  They will then analyze the structure of "Names Nombres" and break it down into an outline form.  Students will begin planning their own personal essays based on this outline and the topics they have chosen.

Homework - Students can make Vocabulary Unit 2 quiz corrections for homework credit.  They will also begin organizing and writing their personal essay rough drafts.  The completed rough draft should be between 1 and 1/2 to 2 sides of a page total.

Monday, October 1st

Lesson Objectives - Students will take their Vocabulary Unit II quiz at the beginning of class.  They will then determine the main idea of the personal essay, "Names Nombres," by looking at the author's observations, attitudes, and purposes.  Students will use this model to begin crafting their own personal essays that will be due at the beginning of next week.

Homework - Please answer the following on a piece of loose leaf paper in a paragraph.  Interview Question: Describe a situation where you faced a challenge and you overcame it.

Friday, September 28th

Lesson Objectives - Students will finish the exercises for Vocabulary Unit II.  They will then examine the author's use of sensory details in "Names Nombres."  Students can use the rest of the time to work on test corrections for the "Thank You, M'am" test and essay.

Homework - Here's a list:

• Students are to get the Student Detail Report signed.  This IS NOT their interim score since there are a few more things I need to grade.  
• Students can also complete their test corrections for "Thank You, M'am."  If it is turned in on Monday, I can add it to the official interim grade.  
• There is a Vocabulary Unit II quiz on Monday.

Thursday, September 27th

Lesson Objectives - Students are starting their next story, "Names Nombres," by Julia Alvarez.  Here, they will examine the structure of a personal essay and identify the author's purpose.

Homework - September's RRS is due tomorrow.  Also, answer the following question on looseleaf paper: "Think of the writing style Julia Alvarez uses in "Names/Nombres."  Why do you think she uses humor to get her point across?"

Tuesday, September 25th

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their Fall DCAS testing today.  Good luck!

Homework - There are two important due dates coming up.  On Thursday, classwork pages 1-6 are due while the September RRS is due on Friday.

Friday, September 21st

Lesson Objectives - Students will examine and identify uses of compound subjects and verbs in various sentences.  Doing so will help enable them to refine their writing.  Students will then have time to  peer edit their essay assignment that is due at the beginning of class on Monday.

Homework - Students are to FINISH writing their essay rough draft.  Essay topic: Explain Langston Hughes' use of internal and external conflict in his story "Thank You, M'am."  Please see Wednesday's blog entry for more details.

Thursday, September 20th

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue their work in Vocabulary Unit 2.  They will then explain examples of internal and external conflicts found in various media sources.

Homework - Students are to continue writing their essay rough draft.  Essay topic: Explain Langston Hughes' use of internal and external conflict in his story "Thank You, M'am."

Wesdnesday, September 19th

Lesson Objectives - Students will define and apply the concepts of internal and external conflict to the story "Thank You, M'am."  They will then brainstorm and explain examples of these conflicts found in various media sources.

Homework - Students are to begin writing their essay rough draft.  Essay topic: Explain Langston Hughes' use of internal and external conflict in his story "Thank You, M'am."

Tuesday, September 18th

Lesson Objectives - Students will start Vocabulary Unit II.  They will then present last week's project regarding the two models of cause/effect relationships

Homework - Interview Question: "Describe a situation where you provided guidance or help to a young person not related to you."

FRIDAY!!!!! September 14th (Oh, yeah! Friday!)

Lesson Objectives - Students will take their first vocabulary quiz.  After that, they will continue yesterday's project regarding the two models of cause/effect relationships.  Time permitting, they will start presenting in class.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: Describe a situation where someone did not make a favorable impression on you the first time you met. Then, explain how the person was able to change this impression over time.

Thursday, September 13th

Lesson Objectives - Students will finish giving their group presentations about the types of themes found in various media sources.  They will start the next story and discuss examples of cause/effect relationships.

Homework - Students are to study for tomorrow's Vocabulary Unit 1 quiz.  Also, the final summer reading project is also due.

Tuesday, September 11th

Lesson Objectives - Students will examine the major components of sentence structure: the subject and the predicate.  They will then continue giving yesterday's group presentations about the types of themes found in various media sources.

Homework - Students will take their first test tomorrow.  They are encouraged to take home any materials they need from their classwork folder so that they can study.  Of course, these materials must be promptly returned.

Monday, September 10th

Lesson Objectives - After some practice with the words in the first vocabulary unit, students will continue brainstorming a list of themes from various media sources.  Once finished, they will share their findings with the rest of the class.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: "How do you think the story would have been different if it were told from Teresa's point of view?  Explain with specific details."

Friday, September 7th

Lesson Objectives - Students will finish presenting their summer reading projects.  They will then discuss the author's use of theme in the story "Seventh Grade."

Homework - Students will continue reading their books for September's Reader Response Sheet.

Thursday, September 6th

Lesson Objectives - After some practice with the words in the first vocabulary unit, students will then examine the author's use of sensory details from the story "Seventh Grade."  They will then complete their presentations from the first summer reading project.

Homework - The second summer reading assignment is due tomorrow.

Wednesday, September 5th

Lesson Objectives - Students will receive their vocabulary books today and will begin working on the first chapter.  They will then finish giving their summer reading presentations from last Friday.

Homework - Ask a parent/guardian this interview question: "As an adult, does peer pressure still play a role in how you live your life?  Why or why not?  Explain with examples."   Remember, the student is responsible for writing a summary of the response, not the parent/guardian.  Submit on loose leaf paper.

Tuesday, September 4th

Lesson Objectives - Students will start their first story, "Seventh Grade."  They will compare/contrast their lives to that of the main character.  They will then continue giving their summer reading presentations from last Thursday.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph with a topic sentence: "Why do people feel the need to create false impressions of themselves?"  Explain a situation when someone tried to impress you by saying or doing something dishonest.

Thursday, August 30th

Parents and Guardians - Students are bringing home their payment information for their new vocabulary book. If your child wishes to write in the book and keep it at the end of the year, he or she may purchase it for $9.00.  Students may bring cash or check made payable to Conrad Schools of Science.  If the book is not purchased, students will need to write their assignments on paper and return the book in good condition at the end of the year. 

Lesson Objectives - Students will present their first summer reading project to the class.  Students will provide appropriate constructive criticism and positive feedback.

Homework -  Please complete and return the vocabulary book order form to me by Friday, September 14th.  This counts as a regular homework assignment as well.  Also, please continue looking for a book for September's RRS.

Wednesday, August 29th

Lesson Objectives - Today, we will continue to discuss the various policies and procedures that will enable them to have a successful year.  We will also talk about the monthly reading assignment (Reader Response Sheet).

Homework - Students are to bring in their favorite summer reading assignment to present to the class.  They will also start looking for their book in order to get started on September's Reader Response Sheet.

Monday, August 27th

Welcome back!  Don't worry, this week will be pretty easy as we cover the basics: course outline, behavior policies, etc.  We'll get into the real curriculum stuff next week.

Lesson Objectives - After completing a brief survey, students will see how they will be graded this year via the course outline.

Homework - If everything is working, I'll be able to copy out the course outline for students to bring home.  Parents and guardians are to sign the bottom and return it.  Please keep the top portion at home!

Monday, August 20th

The Conrad teachers are getting ready for next week.  See you soon!

Have a Great Summer!

Looking for something to do?  There's always SUMMER READING!

Everything you need can be found at the following website: www.conradsummerreadingweebly.com

Friday, June 1st

Lesson Objectives - Students will wrap up their analysis of "One Ordinary Day, with Peanuts."  They will continue to prepare and present their narratives/scripts that continue the story.

Homework - This is the final homework assignment for the year!  Answer the following in a paragraph: What are you looking forward to when you become an 8th grade student?  What are you unsure of?  Explain.

Also, please keep in mind that Class Work Pages 24-27 are due the next time we meet.

Thursday, May 31st

Lesson Objectives - Students will practice their inferential skills with the help of the short story, One Ordinary Day, With Peanuts."  They will then extend the story with an original narrative or script.

Homework - This is the second to last homework assignment for the year!  If your homework number is low, please catch up.  Answer the following in a paragraph:  Describe a situation where you did something nice for someone for no reason at all.

Tuesday, May 29th

Lesson Objectives - After a few exercises related to point of view and it's impact on "An Hour With Abuelo," students will have time to work on their Reflection Journal Entry/Entries.  The finished product must be at least 2 total pages.

Possible journal topics include the following:

• Did you reach your academic goals?  Explain.
• How did you grow as a student?  Explain.
• What advice would you give to next year's 7th graders?  Explain.
• Create one of your own topics that explains something that relates to your year here at Conrad.

Homework - Students are to complete their journal entries and prepare for tomorrow's last test of the year.

Thursday, May 24th

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their final vocabulary quiz of the year.  They will then focus on proper pronoun agreement when writing paragraphs.

Homework - Over the next few days, students are to complete their Reflection Journal Entries.  These entries will allow the students to describe their experiences during the 2011-2012 school year.  Each entry should be at least a half page in length.  Combined, these single-spaced entries should fill two sides of a page.  These are due on Wednesday, May 30th. 

The possible journal topics include the following:

• Did you reach your academic goals?  Explain.
• How did you grow as a student?  Explain.
• What advice would you give to next year's 7th graders?  Explain.
• Create one of your own topics that explains something that relates to your year here at Conrad.

Wednesday, May 23rd

Lesson Objectives - Students are starting their next story, "An Hour With Abuelo."  They will make predictions based on the text as well as their own personal experiences.

Homework - Students are to prepare for tomorrow's Vocabulary Lesson 10 quiz.  They are also to make corrections on the test from "The White Umbrella."

Tuesday, May 22nd

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their test on "A Defenseless Creature" today.

Homework - Class work pages 15-23 are due tomorrow.

Monday, May 21st

Parents, Guardians, and Students - We have made it to the final FULL week of classes.  Please be sure to consult the list on the right so that you know when assignments are due.  Be sure to finish the year to the best of your ability!

Lesson Objectives - Students will determine when to appropriately use a adjective or an adverb when providing details to their sentence responses.

Homework - Students are to prepare for tomorrow's test on "A Defenseless Creature."

Friday, May 18th

Lesson Objectives - After finishing lesson 10 in the vocabulary series, students will examine the elements that make up a farce.  They will use the play "A Defenseless Creature" as an example.

Homework - Interview Question: "How do you deal with difficult coworkers/customers?  Explain a situation." 

Thursday, May 17th

Lesson Objectives - After some practice in lesson 10 in the vocabulary series, students will examine the elements that make up a farce.  They will use the play "A Defenseless Creature" as an example.

Homework - Students are to complete test corrections for "Dark They Were, and Golden Eyed." 

Wednesday, May 16th

Lesson Objectives - Students are starting their next story, "A Defenseless Creature."  Since it is a play, the students will examine the author's use of stage directions and dialogue in order to define the traits of one of the main characters.

Homework - Get Student Detail Report signed.

Monday, May 14th

Lesson Objectives -  After some work with Vocabulary Lesson 10, students will be able to identify and practice writing sentences with examples of prepositional phrases.

Homework - Students are to prepare for tomorrow's test on "The White Umbrella."

Thursday, May 10th

Lesson Objectives - Students are starting their final vocabulary lesson of the year.  After that, they will examine the author's use of mood and tone in her story, "The White Umbrella."

Homework - Students will finish writing their essay letter rough drafts tonight.  They are due tomorrow for homework credit.

Wednesday, May 9th

Lesson Objectives - Students will begin their next story, "The White Umbrella."  Here, they will make predictions based on their experiences in conjunction with the thoughts and feelings of the main character.

Homework - Students are to begin writing their letter essay rough draft.  The final draft is due by this weekend.

Tuesday, May 8th

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their test on "Dark They Were, and Golden Eyed" today.  This score of this test will be factored into the second half grade of the 4th marking period.

Homework - Students are to begin working on May's RRS assignment.

Monday, May 7th

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue working on creating compound/complex sentences.  They will also practice their use of transitions when moving from one idea to the next.

Homework - Students are to prepare themselves for tomorrow's test on "Dark They Were, and Golden Eyed."  Periods 1 and 2 received an SDR to get signed tonight.  Period 4 will receive theirs tomorrow.

Thursday, May 3rd

Lesson Objectives - Students will go over two recent assessments: the "Exploring the Titanic" test and the Vocabulary Lesson 9 quiz.  They will then examine the author's use of the circular plot structure found in "Dark They Were, and Golden Eyed".  Just like the explorers of the planet in the story, students will then design and name the features of their own planet.

Homework -

1. Students are to complete and submit test corrections by Tuesday, May 8th.
2. Answer in a paragraph:  "Do you think that humans will ever permanently live in a non-Earth environment?  Explain with details.

Wednesday, May 2nd

Lesson Objectives - Students are starting their next story, "Dark They Were, and Golden Eyed."  Today, they will identify Ray Bradbury's use of vivid sensory details in his descriptions of setting, character, and plot.

Homework - Interview Question: Why are many people resistant to change?  Explain a situation that supports your idea.

Friday, April 27th

Lesson Objectives - Students are practicing important test skills for the upcoming DCAS assessment.  These skills include using context clues to determine word meaning as well as identifying word relationships through analogies.

Homework - Students need to bring a book or a magazine to occupy their time after they finish testing.  They are also supposed to get their SDR signed by a parent or guardian.

Thursday, April 26th

Lesson Objectives - Students will finish yesterday's exercise in paraphrasing.  Then, they will practice test-taking skills that they will need to demonstrate on the DCAS testing on Monday and Tuesday of next week.

Homework - Students will have their quiz on Lesson 9 from the vocabulary series.  All exercises for that chapter must be completed.

Wednesday, April 25th

Lesson Objectives - Students will finish their presentations/analysis of the trial projects.  They will then examine a few poetry selections to practice paraphrasing.  In addition, students will identify examples of the author's use of imagery.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph:  Do you think that animals should still be used in the workplace if their work can be completed by machines?  Explain examples to support your response.

Tuesday, April 24th

Lesson Objectives - The students are taking their test on "Exploring the Titanic" today.  This counts as the second test score of the 4th marking period.

Homework - April's RRS is due at the beginning of next week.

Thursday, April 19th

Lesson Objectives - After a few grammar exercises related to sentence construction, students will begin planning their next class presentation.  In it, students will simulate a court case that will determine if the company that built the Titanic should be held liable for the tragedy.  Students will present arguments for their side of the issue.

Homework - Students will pick a major company (Apple, McDonald's, etc.) and create a list of 5 statements that explain the company's legal obligations to the consumer.  For example:  Ford Motor Company...  (1) has the responsibility to provide vehicles that would safely protect its drivers in a normal-speed collisions.

Wednesday, April 18th

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue working in lesson 9 in the vocabulary book.  They will then examine the historical context that makes the story of the Titanic such a popular one.

Homework - Student are to continue working on April's RRS.

Tuesday, April 17th

Lesson Objectives - Students will start lesson 9 in the vocabulary book.  They will then continue yesterday's lesson regarding the author's use of fact and opinion from "Exploring the Titanic."

Homework - Interview Question: How has travel security changed over the last 10 years?  Do you think that this has had an impact on the travel industry?  Explain.

Monday, April 16th

Lesson Objectives - Students will begin their next story "Exploring the Titanic."  They will examine the facts and opinions used to support the author's main arguments.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: What was your opinion of the passengers and crew while the lifeboats were being loaded?  What might this say about human nature?  Could more lives have been saved if evacuation efforts had been designed/conducted differently?  Explain with examples.

Thursday, April 5th

Lesson Objectives - Students will complete their final drafts of the essay assignment.  This will count as their first test grade for the 4th marking period.  Also, their class work packet (pages 1-7) are due as well.

Homework - Enjoy your spring break.  Come back rested and ready to tackle the final 8 weeks of the school year!

Tuesday, April 3rd

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue their analysis of poetry samples.  Today, they will examine a narrative poem, "The Highwayman."  Students will identify the author's use of mood, tone, and metaphor.  They will then have time to continue their rough drafts for their persuasive essay.

Homework - Students are to complete their rough drafts for their persuasive essay tonight.  They will have time in class to complete their final draft tomorrow.  Both rough and final drafts are due on Thursday along with pages 1-7.

Friday, March 30th

Lesson Objectives - Students will evaluate writing samples in order to determine the effectiveness of content and structure.  They will propose ideas that the writers could use to improve these samples.  Students will then continue to work on their own rough drafts of their personal persuasive essays.  The final draft is due at the end of next week.

Thursday, March 29th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to identify and implement the effective use of adverbs in their writing.  They will then finish their group presentations and begin creating a graphic organizer that details the main ideas they will use in their own personal essay.

Homework - Students are to begin writing the introduction paragraph for their persuasive essay.  The final draft is due in a week.  Also, the RRS for March is due tomorrow.

Wednesday, March 28th

Lesson Objectives - Students will evaluate the effectiveness of the arguments used by Louis L'Amour in his persuasive essay, "The Eternal Frontier."  They will then apply these evaluative principles to their group presentations and eventually their own persuasive essays.

Homework - Interview Question:  Describe some of the pros and cons of downsizing our current space program.

Tuersday, March 27th

Lesson Objectives - After their quiz on "The Eternal Frontier," students will compose a list of possible persuasive essay topics.  Students will choose their essay topic and begin brainstorming arguments and organizing their information in order to create a rough draft.  The final draft will count as a test grade.  More details will follow.

Homework - Students can complete quiz corrections for additional homework credit.  This is the final homework assignment for the 3rd marking period.

Thursday, March 22nd

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their final test of the third marking period today.

Homework - Class work pages 15-22 are due at the beginning of class tomorrow.  Please be sure to get these in on time for full credit.

Wednesday, March 21st

Lesson Objectives - Students will identify and create examples of prepositional phrases.  They will then continue presenting their projects from last Friday.

Homework - Students are to prepare for their test on "Boy: Tales of Childhood."  This is the final test of the 3rd marking period.  As a reminder, pages 15-22 are still due on Friday.

Tuesday, March 20th

Lesson Objectives - After a vocabulary quiz and test corrections, students will present their projects from last Friday.  They will also evaluate the projects from other students.

Homework - Students are to complete test corrections for "The Monsters are Due on Maple Street."

Wednesday, March 14th

Lesson Objectives - Students will finish lesson 8 in the vocabulary book.  They will then start the next story, "Boy: Tales of Childhood."  As they read the story, they will make notes that show their personal connections with the ideas/experiences found in the story.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph:  When does a practical joke go too far?  Explain with details.  Students can also complete test corrections for "An American Childhood" for extra test credit.

Monday, March 12th

Today is the first round of Spring DCAS testing.  We will continue testing tomorrow.  Please do your best and show the Conrad community what hard workers you are this year!

Friday, March 9th

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their test on "The Noble Experiment" today.

Homework - Monday is the first round of spring DCAS testing.  Although we are all moving our clocks ahead an hour this weekend, please do your best to come to school rested and ready to go.

Thursday, March 8th

Lesson Objectives - Students will read a non-fiction article that demonstrates the use of fact, opinion, and generalizations.  They will identify examples of each which will help them in the upcoming DCAS assessments.  They will then continue the presentations that they started yesterday.

Homework - Students should prepare for tomorrow's test on "The Noble Experiment."  For additional homework credit, answer the following on a one-page essay with a introductory paragraph:  "Who is your hero?  Why?"

Wednesday, March 7th

Lesson Objectives - After a few exercises in the vocabulary book, students will continue yesterday's analysis of the narrative poem, "Casey at the Bat."  They will focus on the poet's use of rhyme and meter.  They will then present their Jackie Robinson speeches to the rest of the class.

Homework - Interview Question: Failure is part of the learning process.  Explain a situation where you learned from failure.

Tuesday, March 6th

Lesson Objectives - Students will examine "Casey at the Bat" as an example of narrative poetry.  They will practice questioning techniques as well as document the poet's use of rhyme and repetition.  After this, they will continue with yesterday's extension activity involving a speech Jackie Robinson could have given to an audience.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph:  "Think of a real-life situation in which success or failure depended on the performance of a single person.  What goes through a person's mind at a moment like that?"

Monday, March 5th

Lesson Objectives - After some exercises with Vocabulary Lesson 8, students will be able to identify and edit examples of passive voice to make it active.

Homework - Class work pages 9-14 are due tomorrow.  Get your SDR signed as well.

Thursday, March 1st

Thank You!! - The month of February had the most visits in the history of this blog!  Not bad for the shortest month of the year.  Thank you for making this site such a success.   -   Mr. Swain

Lesson Objectives - After every group presents their extension activity from "The Monsters are Due on Maple Street," we will start our next story, "The Noble Experiment."  Students will practice summarizing the key points of Jackie Robinson's autobiography

Homework - Interview Question: Many people saw Jackie Robinson as a role model for young people.  Should we expect professional athletes to be role models, or should we judge them only on their athletic performance?

Tuesday, February 28th

Lesson Objectives - After finishing yesterday's lesson concerning author's purpose, students will create and present an extension activity based on the story.  We will also review the main objectives in order to review for tomorrow's test.

Homework - February's RRS is due tomorrow.   Also, study for the test on "The Monsters are Due on Maple Street."

Monday, February 27th

Lesson Objectives - Students will take their quiz on Vocabulary Lesson 7.  After this, they will examine the elements of the story that explain the authors purpose in the teleplay, "The Monsters are Due on Maple Street."

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph:  Do you think that the aliens are correct in their assessment of human behavior?  Explain your answer with details from the story.

Tuesday, February 21st

Lesson Objectives - Students will start their next story, "The Monsters are Due on Maple Street."  They will examine the authors use of stage directions in order to ultimately decide the author's purpose.

Homework - Interview Question: Does the news media utilize fear to get their messages across?  Explain your answer with specific details.

Wednesday, February 15th

Lesson Objectives - After a few more exercises in the vocabulary book, students will prepare and present their interview scripts for the rest of the class.  The responses should contain examples of coordinate adjectives.

Homework - Students should prepare for tomorrow's test on "Amigo Brothers."

Monday, February 13th

Lesson Objectives - After some work with Lesson 7 in the vocabulary book, students will compose a chart that lists moments of suspense from media sources such as books and movies.  They will present some of their findings to the rest of the class.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: Why do you think the author chose to end the story the way his did?  Explain with details from the story.

Wednesday, February 8th

Lesson Objectives - After a brief writing prompt, students will start their next story, "The Amigo Brothers." They will make predictions based on the action in the text.

Homework - Periods 1, 2:  Make quiz corrections on the Vocabulary Lesson 6 Quiz.  Period 4: Answer the following in a half-page response.  "Suppose that you have to compete against a good friend in order to win something you really want.  What would it be like to be your friend's rival? Explain with details."

Tuesday, February 7th

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their test on "An American Childhood" today.

Homework - Class Work Pages 1-8 are due tomorrow.  Make sure these pages are fully completed.  Students will also receive their first Student Detail Report of the 3rd marking period.

Monday, February 6th

Lesson Objectives - After a sample exercise, students will peer edit their narrative non-fiction stories.  They will write their final drafts during tomorrow's test.

Homework - Students will take their test on "An American Childhood" tomorrow. 

Friday, February 3rd

Lesson Objectives - Students will take their quiz on Vocabulary Lesson 6.  They will then begin writing their rough drafts for their non-fiction narrative character sketches.

Homework - Students are to find their book for February's RRS.  If they have not finished their rough draft, they are to do so by Monday for the peer editing exercise.

Wednesday, February 1st

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to identify and create cause/effect chains.  These are useful in helping students summarize complex information.  They will also begin to brainstorm information that will help them with their character sketches.

Homework - Using last night's homework, students will create an outline that explains the personality traits of their target character.  In time, they will then craft a non-fiction story that helps explain these traits.

Tuesday, January 31st

Lesson Objectives - Students will read their next story, "An American Childhood."  With this story, they will analyze the steps the author took to create a character study.  Eventually, they will choose a person in their lives and apply the same writing principles.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph:  Pick a person in your life who you find interesting.  What makes this person interesting to you?  What have you learned from this person?  Explain using specific details.

Monday, January 30th

Lesson Objectives - Students are taking their first test of the third marking period today.  They will have them back by the end of the week in order to make corrections.

Homework - January's RRS is due tomorrow!

Thursday, January 26th

Lesson Objectives - After organizing their 2nd marking period folders for storage, students will prepare and present their traditional/modern fable projects.  Audience members will determine the moral/theme of the presented works and provide positive feedback/constructive criticism.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: Describe your work ethic.  Are you an ant? A grasshopper?  A Bess or Lottie?  Explain using your personal experiences. 

Wednesday, January 25th

Lesson Objectives - After working in Lesson 6 in the vocabulary book, students will prepare their presentations that they will start sharing tomorrow.  They can either create an original traditional fable or they can make a modern fable based on an already established traditional fable.  Student will not only be assessed by the content and delivery of their presentation, but also by critically analyzing the works of other students.

Homework - Students are to continue working on January's RRS.  It is due on Tuesday of next week.

Tuesday, January 24th

Lesson Objectives - Students will start lesson 6 in the vocabulary book by acting out the word meanings in front of the class.  They will then continue yesterday's lesson finding similarities and differences between "The Richer, the Poorer" and "Ant and Grasshopper."

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph:  "Think of a family member.  In what ways are you similar to that person?  How are you different?  How can family members use their differences to help one another grow?"

Monday, January 23rd

Lesson Objectives - Students are starting "The Richer, the Poorer" in class today.  They will compare this to last week's fable, "Ant and Grasshopper."  They will eventually create their own example of the modern fable.

Homework - Interview Question: Answer the following with supporting details.  Which has a greater impact on human behavior?  A) The genetic material inherited from one's parents.  B) The environment in which one is raised.

Tuesday, January 17th

Lesson Objectives - Students will start their next unit regarding the modern fable.  In order to do so, we'll look back at the traditional fable, "Ant and Grasshopper."  Students will compare/contrast various versions of this fable.

Homework - Tomorrow is the last day for students to submit late/missing assignments for partial credit.

Tuesday, January 10th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to identify and explain the various life lesson and human nature themes found in the story "The Scholarship Jacket."

Homework - Students are to begin writing their test essay rough draft for the following prompt: Explain and provide examples of the types of theme the author uses in "The Scholarship Jacket."  The finished rough draft is due on Friday.  It is worth 3 homework credits!!!

Monday, January 9th

Lesson Objectives - Students will be able to identify and explain the various life lesson and human nature themes found in the story "The Scholarship Jacket."  Eventually these ideas will be used in their essay on a test this Friday.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: Do you think that the author's representation of Martha was a realistic depiction of a teenager?  Explain why or why not using details from the story.

Friday, January 6th

Lesson Objectives - Students are starting their final story of the marking period, "The Scholarship Jacket."  Here, were will discuss the importance of connecting with the main character in order to discover the theme of the story.

Homework - Interview Question: Explain a situation where you believe you were treated unfairly in the workplace.  Was the issue resolved?  If so, how?

Thursday, January 5th

All students are taking their winter DCAS testing today. 

Wednesday, January 4th

Lesson Objectives - Students will continue with yesterday's lesson and its focus on text organizers found in non-fiction articles.  They will then review certain elements of poetry that we discussed before the break.  Both will help students in tomorrow test.

Homework - Students will take their Winter DCAS test on Thursday.  Get plenty of rest, eat breakfast,  and bring your brains tomorrow!

Tuesday, January 3rd

Parents, Guardians, and Students - Welcome back!  I hope everyone is rested and ready to pick up where we left off.  There are only a few days left in the second marking period, so please make sure everything is completed and turned in on time.

Lesson Objectives - Students will start their Lesson 5 in the Vocabulary book.  They will then examine and analyze the use of text organizers (such as headlines, subheadings, pull quotes, photographs, and captions) in the context of a non-fiction news article.

Homework - Answer the following in a paragraph: What are some ways in which teens in our area can volunteer their services?  How would you help out in the community?  Explain with details.