IMPORTANT REMINDERS/EVENTS:
The end of the grading period is April 11; please encourage your children to pay close attention to individual teacher deadlines. Report Cards will be sent home April 23rd.
8th Grade End-of-Year activities are approaching in the coming months, most notably our 8th Grade trip to Schlitterbahn-Galveston and our 8th grade Promotion Ceremony. Information packets were sent home this week. Please read over the material and be aware of money/form deadlines to ensure your child can attend/participate in everything we have planned. It is a memorable time for our students.
Friday, May 23—Schlitterbahn and Activity Fest
Wednesday, May 28—Academic Celebration
Thursday, May 29—Promotion Ceremony at Butler Field House
Chaperones for the Schlitterbahn trip and volunteers to help set up/decorate/chaperone other events are needed. If you are an HISD approved volunteer and are interested in chaperoning, please let any of us know and we will pass on your offer to the appropriate people. If you are not an HISD approved volunteer but want to become one, please email Ms. Deitra Kendrick a dkendric@houstonisd.org or call her at 713-295-6500 x 326 for detail.
From PTO:
Tuesday, April 8, 6:30 pm
Pin Oak PTO General Meeting: Preparing for College
The Pin Oak MS PTO invites all parents to a General Meeting on April 8, 2008. The meeting starts at 6:30 pm with presentations by Pin Oak PTO President, Ann Nichols, and Pin Oak Principal, Michael McDonough. They will speak about school and PTO accomplishments this year.
At 7 pm, we welcome speaker Paula Fendley, HISD College and Career Readiness Coordinator. Ms. Fendley will speak to parents about preparing for college. This program is appropriate for 6th through 8th grade parents. We hope to see you there!
PIN OAK IDOL:
We are having our third & final meeting for "Pin Oak Idol". I would like to get everyone together for this final planning secession. We need your help & guidance with this event. I'm hopeful that some of you have worked this event in the past & have ideas, knowledge or suggestions that we can use to make this a successful project. The event is currently scheduled for Friday May 16th. Auditions will be held on April 9th & 10th at 4:00 - 5:15 at the school.
English:
We will be working on “Laying the Foundations” activities. The Laying the Foundations assessment is in May; exact date, TBA. Soon, we will begin reading The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros in class. No purchase of the book will be necessary.
EXTRA CREDIT—I have an extra credit assignment that has been posted in my room. If your child would like to take advantage of it, please note the deadline of April 4. In addition to this opportunity, I will be giving some extra credit points for any student who decides to participate in our 8th Grade Class Project, “The Kindness Quilt.” A handout was sent home before Spring Break. The personal narrative that accompanies this optional activity is mandatory and is worth a grade. The due date for the 1-page (1 page only), typed paper is Monday/Tuesday, April 7-8. That Tuesday is the TAKS Math Test, so students can drop by any time to turn in their paper after testing, even if they do not have my class that day.
All work for Cycle 5 is due for my class by Wed. 4/9.
Important Dates for Independent Reading Unit 4: FREE CHOICE
Book Checks-M/T 3/31-4/1 (Parent Approval forms due)
Literature Circle # 1 (over the first half of the book)-Friday, April 18
Literature Circle #2 (over the second half of the book)-Friday, May 9
Projects Due MAY 12-13
History:
This week probably has been a week of excitement and possibly disappointment with the notification from the various high schools to which your student applied. If you have any question about high schools, programs or courses, please ask or have your student inquire of us.
On Tuesday night, April 8, at 7:00 P.M., there will be a PTO Meeting at which one of the HISD counselors will speak about high school credits and college. We certainly encourage you to attend.
If your student is in PreAP classes this year, I certainly will encourage you to be sure he/she is enrolled in PreAP classes next year. It is difficult to go from regular classes to PreAP, but the student can move to regular classes from the PreAP.
History: We now are on the Civil War. With the film Glory the students have had a good introduction to horrors of this war. We have been studying the causes leading to the war and the resources of both the North and the South. We have started class discussion on Chapter 15 and will continue with Chapter 16 next week. The map of the Civil War was due this past week.
During all this time, we are reviewing for TAKS and will have an intensive review for a few days prior to the exam. Much of the TAKS exam for history is content so reading their books and reviewing the tests they have taken during the year will help them. I am encouraging the students to keep all the review materials for high school because 50% of the test they take in 10th grade is from this eighth grade course and 35% of the exit exam for high school is from this course.
Science:
All Classes
I have started preparations for the end of course exams, including the IPC Final, the Laying the Foundations Pre-AP exam and the TAKS.Our children have been given study guides that cover every thing they should have learned since 6th grade. This guide is very comprehensive and I have put a great deal of effort to assure that what is in the packet meets all of the state and national standards our kids will be tested over. I have built into my curriculum opportunities for us to work with these guides during the course of the next month, and my goal is to have our kids process the material in the packet at least 7 times.
One opportunity is to simply go over the packet, and then another is to have the students create a lesson plan to teach the class, so on like that. What I will be asking from you is to let your child teach you two lessons a week; these will be 5 minute explanations of the lesson covered in class. I will also ask you to sign a log verifying that your child taught you the weekly lesson and I will take this for a weekly grade.
DUE DATES FOR WORK
This week you should be taught the first two lessons in the series;
Lesson # 1 Continental Drift and Plate Tectonics. Lesson #2 Maps, Rock cycle and minerals.
Please be sure to sign the log stating that you have been taught the lessons.
I have also given the students a home work packet that is separated by objectives and each Friday another objective is due.
Next Friday the sheets from the homework packet relating to objective #1 are due for a major grade.
I am also here every Tuesday after school for tutorials, so if your child is struggling through a lesson please have them stay for help. I can also stay other days if given advance notice.
Math:
All Classes:
Students will take the Math TAKS on Tuesday, April 8th. Please ensure your child gets a good night’s rest on Monday.
Algebra 1:
Students will return to studying algebra with Chapter 8, “Exponents and Exponential Functions”. We will do a final review of TAKS topics on Monday. Tuesday brings the TAKS, and beginning Wednesday, we will cover Chapter 8 material, beginning with where we left off (8.5-8.6). This will complete the chapter. The Chapter 8 test will be next week (the week of April 14th).
Pre-Algebra:
Students will continue working in Chapter 7, “Measuring Area and Volume”. Students have covered this topic in preparation for TAKS, so the plan is to cover the chapter faster than average speed. Students are familiar with area and volume, surface area, both lateral and total, as well as and scale factor changes as the affect area and volume. We will cover sections 7-1 to 7-2 this week.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Weekly Update 3/31-4/4
IMPORTANT REMINDERS/EVENTS:
The end of the grading period is April 11; please encourage your children to pay close attention to individual teacher deadlines.
8th Grade End-of-Year activities are approaching in the coming months, most notably our 8th Grade trip to Schlitterbahn-Galveston and our 8th grade Promotion Ceremony. Information packets were sent home this week. Please read over the material and be aware of money/form deadlines to ensure your child can attend/participate in everything we have planned. It is a memorable time for our students.
Friday, May 23—Schlitterbahn and Activity Fest
Wednesday, May 28—Academic Celebration
Thursday, May 29—Promotion Ceremony at Butler Field House
Chaperones for the Schlitterbahn trip and volunteers to help set up/decorate/chaperone other events are needed. If you are an HISD approved volunteer and are interested in chaperoning, please let any of us know and we will pass on your offer to the appropriate people. If you are not an HISD approved volunteer but want to become one, please email Ms. Deitra Kendrick a dkendric@houstonisd.org or call her at 713-295-6500 x 326 for detail.
English:
Students received their TAKS and Stanford testing scores Friday, March 28. Pin Oak set new records this year with 8th Grade Reading, and I am so very proud. School-wide, our 8th grade class had a 98% passing rate and 71% commended. WOW!
We have been presenting Independent Book Projects for Biographies/Memoirs, so we will finish that up this week. Book checks for our next unit (Free Choice) are Monday/Tuesday, March 31-April 1. Students must have their book in class and a parent approval form filled out and signed by you. These forms were sent home Thursday/Friday, March 27-28. We will also be working on “Laying the Foundations” activities. The Laying the Foundations assessment is in May; exact date, TBA. Soon, we will begin reading The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros in class. No purchase of the book will be necessary.
EXTRA CREDIT—I have an extra credit assignment that has been posted in my room. If your child would like to take advantage of it, please note the deadline of April 4. In addition to this opportunity, I will be giving some extra credit points for any student who decides to participate in our 8th Grade Class Project, “The Kindness Quilt.” A handout was sent home before Spring Break. Money and fabric for this activity were due Friday, March 28, no exceptions. The personal narrative that accompanies this optional activity is mandatory and is worth a grade. The due date for the 1-page (1 page only), typed paper is Monday/Tuesday, April 7-8. That Tuesday is the TAKS Math Test, so students can drop by any time to turn in their paper after testing, even if they do not have my class that day. It will be the final assignment graded for the Cycle 5 grading period.
Important Dates for Independent Reading Unit 4: FREE CHOICE
Book Checks-M/T 3/31-4/1 (Parent Approval forms due)
Literature Circle # 1 (over the first half of the book)-Friday, April 18
Literature Circle #2 (over the second half of the book)-Friday, May 9
Projects Due MAY 12-13
Important Note to Students and Parents:
For this last independent reading unit, I had some students who did not have their projects on time because of an incorrectly published date on the blog (one of the days was a Saturday, which is obviously wrong). While I apologize for the incorrect date on the blog, students were given the correct date in class from day 1—verbally, on a hand out, on the board, and were reminded of the due date several times the week before Spring Break. I always encourage students to not only keep the hand outs I give them that contain due dates, but to also record due dates in their planners. Students should always, always refer to what they are told IN CLASS by me when it comes to assignments and due dates. Because of the error on the blog, I will accept the projects late without penalty by ONE day, but in the future, please advise your children to pay attention in class and write things down.
History:
A number of the students did not submit their Reform Charts from Chapter 14. This is a major grade. Any other past-due work must be in by Monday/Tuesday of next week. All students previously received a grade report with their missing work. I have posted on the board all the assignments for this six weeks grading period.
There will be a test over Chapters 12, 13, 14 on Wednesday/Thursday next week. Also, a map on the Civil War is due on those same days.
It is a critical time for your students; they have a lot of activities with the end of school approaching. Sometimes, however, the students forget that school work needs to come first. Transfers to magnet programs can be revoked if the students do not finish the year with satisfactory grades and conduct and placement in advanced classes can be jeopardized. Please help to keep your student focused.
Science:
All classes:
We will be starting a new unit covering Waves, Sound, and the Electromagnetic spectrum.
This next week we will be focusing on The Nature of Waves. The students will be conducting a large number of very simple labs and demonstrations to firm up conceptual ideas and correct any misconceptions, and then through calculations and a mastery check using reflection cards we will complete the unit.
TLW:
1.recognize that waves carry energy.
2. Compare and contrast transverse and compressional waves
3. Explain the relationships between frequency, wavelength
4. Calculate various data relating to waves including speed, wavelength, and frequency
5. Explain how waves can combine in constructive or destructive interference
Starting In April we will be starting preparations for the end of course exams, including the IPC Final, the Laying the Foundations Pre-AP exam and the TAKS.
Our children have been given study guides that cover every thing they should have learned since 6th grade. This guide is very comprehensive and I have put a great deal of effort to assure that what is in the packet meets all of the state and national standards our kids will be tested over.
I have built into my curriculum opportunities for us to work with these guides during the course of the next month, and my goal is to have our kids process the material in the packet at least 7 times. One opportunity is to simply go over the packet, and then another is to have the students create a lesson plan to teach the class, so on like that.
What I will be asking from you is to let your child teach you two lessons a week; these will be 5 minute explanations of the lesson covered in class.
I will also ask you to sign a log verifying that your child taught you the weekly lesson and I will take this for a weekly grade.
This teaching opportunity is only one of the seven planned interventions but I know from past experience it can be very rewarding for both the student and parent, so for the rest of the year when you ask what did you learn today I hope you wont hear ..nothin
I am also here every Tuesday after school for tutorials so if your child is struggling through a lesson please be sure to have them stay for help. I can also stay other days if given advance notice
Math:
All Classes:We are preparing for TAKS. Students are working in and out of class to get ready for TAKS. Students who failed last year’s math TAKS have received letters detailing problem areas, along with packets to assist in helping them prepare for the TAKS test. All students are working on packets for TAKS. Please ask your student how they are preparing in class. Please email Ms. Qureshi for math information
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
The end of the grading period is April 11; please encourage your children to pay close attention to individual teacher deadlines.
8th Grade End-of-Year activities are approaching in the coming months, most notably our 8th Grade trip to Schlitterbahn-Galveston and our 8th grade Promotion Ceremony. Information packets were sent home this week. Please read over the material and be aware of money/form deadlines to ensure your child can attend/participate in everything we have planned. It is a memorable time for our students.
Friday, May 23—Schlitterbahn and Activity Fest
Wednesday, May 28—Academic Celebration
Thursday, May 29—Promotion Ceremony at Butler Field House
Chaperones for the Schlitterbahn trip and volunteers to help set up/decorate/chaperone other events are needed. If you are an HISD approved volunteer and are interested in chaperoning, please let any of us know and we will pass on your offer to the appropriate people. If you are not an HISD approved volunteer but want to become one, please email Ms. Deitra Kendrick a dkendric@houstonisd.org or call her at 713-295-6500 x 326 for detail.
English:
Students received their TAKS and Stanford testing scores Friday, March 28. Pin Oak set new records this year with 8th Grade Reading, and I am so very proud. School-wide, our 8th grade class had a 98% passing rate and 71% commended. WOW!
We have been presenting Independent Book Projects for Biographies/Memoirs, so we will finish that up this week. Book checks for our next unit (Free Choice) are Monday/Tuesday, March 31-April 1. Students must have their book in class and a parent approval form filled out and signed by you. These forms were sent home Thursday/Friday, March 27-28. We will also be working on “Laying the Foundations” activities. The Laying the Foundations assessment is in May; exact date, TBA. Soon, we will begin reading The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros in class. No purchase of the book will be necessary.
EXTRA CREDIT—I have an extra credit assignment that has been posted in my room. If your child would like to take advantage of it, please note the deadline of April 4. In addition to this opportunity, I will be giving some extra credit points for any student who decides to participate in our 8th Grade Class Project, “The Kindness Quilt.” A handout was sent home before Spring Break. Money and fabric for this activity were due Friday, March 28, no exceptions. The personal narrative that accompanies this optional activity is mandatory and is worth a grade. The due date for the 1-page (1 page only), typed paper is Monday/Tuesday, April 7-8. That Tuesday is the TAKS Math Test, so students can drop by any time to turn in their paper after testing, even if they do not have my class that day. It will be the final assignment graded for the Cycle 5 grading period.
Important Dates for Independent Reading Unit 4: FREE CHOICE
Book Checks-M/T 3/31-4/1 (Parent Approval forms due)
Literature Circle # 1 (over the first half of the book)-Friday, April 18
Literature Circle #2 (over the second half of the book)-Friday, May 9
Projects Due MAY 12-13
Important Note to Students and Parents:
For this last independent reading unit, I had some students who did not have their projects on time because of an incorrectly published date on the blog (one of the days was a Saturday, which is obviously wrong). While I apologize for the incorrect date on the blog, students were given the correct date in class from day 1—verbally, on a hand out, on the board, and were reminded of the due date several times the week before Spring Break. I always encourage students to not only keep the hand outs I give them that contain due dates, but to also record due dates in their planners. Students should always, always refer to what they are told IN CLASS by me when it comes to assignments and due dates. Because of the error on the blog, I will accept the projects late without penalty by ONE day, but in the future, please advise your children to pay attention in class and write things down.
History:
A number of the students did not submit their Reform Charts from Chapter 14. This is a major grade. Any other past-due work must be in by Monday/Tuesday of next week. All students previously received a grade report with their missing work. I have posted on the board all the assignments for this six weeks grading period.
There will be a test over Chapters 12, 13, 14 on Wednesday/Thursday next week. Also, a map on the Civil War is due on those same days.
It is a critical time for your students; they have a lot of activities with the end of school approaching. Sometimes, however, the students forget that school work needs to come first. Transfers to magnet programs can be revoked if the students do not finish the year with satisfactory grades and conduct and placement in advanced classes can be jeopardized. Please help to keep your student focused.
Science:
All classes:
We will be starting a new unit covering Waves, Sound, and the Electromagnetic spectrum.
This next week we will be focusing on The Nature of Waves. The students will be conducting a large number of very simple labs and demonstrations to firm up conceptual ideas and correct any misconceptions, and then through calculations and a mastery check using reflection cards we will complete the unit.
TLW:
1.recognize that waves carry energy.
2. Compare and contrast transverse and compressional waves
3. Explain the relationships between frequency, wavelength
4. Calculate various data relating to waves including speed, wavelength, and frequency
5. Explain how waves can combine in constructive or destructive interference
Starting In April we will be starting preparations for the end of course exams, including the IPC Final, the Laying the Foundations Pre-AP exam and the TAKS.
Our children have been given study guides that cover every thing they should have learned since 6th grade. This guide is very comprehensive and I have put a great deal of effort to assure that what is in the packet meets all of the state and national standards our kids will be tested over.
I have built into my curriculum opportunities for us to work with these guides during the course of the next month, and my goal is to have our kids process the material in the packet at least 7 times. One opportunity is to simply go over the packet, and then another is to have the students create a lesson plan to teach the class, so on like that.
What I will be asking from you is to let your child teach you two lessons a week; these will be 5 minute explanations of the lesson covered in class.
I will also ask you to sign a log verifying that your child taught you the weekly lesson and I will take this for a weekly grade.
This teaching opportunity is only one of the seven planned interventions but I know from past experience it can be very rewarding for both the student and parent, so for the rest of the year when you ask what did you learn today I hope you wont hear ..nothin
I am also here every Tuesday after school for tutorials so if your child is struggling through a lesson please be sure to have them stay for help. I can also stay other days if given advance notice
Math:
All Classes:We are preparing for TAKS. Students are working in and out of class to get ready for TAKS. Students who failed last year’s math TAKS have received letters detailing problem areas, along with packets to assist in helping them prepare for the TAKS test. All students are working on packets for TAKS. Please ask your student how they are preparing in class. Please email Ms. Qureshi for math information
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Weekly Update--SPRING BREAK
IMPORTANT REMINDERS/EVENTS:
Progress Reports went home today, March 13, 2008. Please ask your child to see it.
English:
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class. Wednesday 3/26 is a GREEN DAY. Thursday 3/27 is a BLUE DAY!
Kindness Quilt fabric and $5.00 due Friday, March 28. Ask your child to see the information sheet about this 8th Grade Class Project.
History:
The student received progress reports today. If the student has low grades, most likely that student has not submitted the required work. That will be due when the vacation ends. Also, the Reform Chart from Chapter 14 assigned two weeks ago is due the first day I see them in class. That means periods 3 and 7 will be due on Tuesday and the rest on Wednesday. These must be in on time.
I have given the students a number of extra credit assignments they may do this class. If they take a trip any place, they may keep a journal, a map of their routes and places visited, pictures, brochures, and what they learned. I encourage them to visit a museum or special park and describe what they learned there. In addition to a trip, the students may still visit the Lucy Exhibit at the Museum of Natural Science, the Pompeii Exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts, or use OPTIC to analyze historical paintings. They also may tour Houston riding the train and visiting various areas in the city. On this Sunday, March 16, there is a free family day at Bayou Bend at the Ima Hogg Mansion. This is at Westcott and Memorial from 1:00 until 5:00. There are activities for all, gardeners will be speaking and explaining the gardens, there will be music and dance, and the opportunity to make some craft item. For credit for this, the student should write what he/she learned, saw, and did, take some pictures and describe the activity and place.
Please refer to past Blogs about the extra credit work.
The students have received assignments through Chapter 15, the beginning of the Civil War which we will be studying until TAKS.
Have a nice break.
Science:
Please email Mr. Scott for Science/IPC information
Math:
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com
Progress Reports went home today, March 13, 2008. Please ask your child to see it.
English:
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class. Wednesday 3/26 is a GREEN DAY. Thursday 3/27 is a BLUE DAY!
Kindness Quilt fabric and $5.00 due Friday, March 28. Ask your child to see the information sheet about this 8th Grade Class Project.
History:
The student received progress reports today. If the student has low grades, most likely that student has not submitted the required work. That will be due when the vacation ends. Also, the Reform Chart from Chapter 14 assigned two weeks ago is due the first day I see them in class. That means periods 3 and 7 will be due on Tuesday and the rest on Wednesday. These must be in on time.
I have given the students a number of extra credit assignments they may do this class. If they take a trip any place, they may keep a journal, a map of their routes and places visited, pictures, brochures, and what they learned. I encourage them to visit a museum or special park and describe what they learned there. In addition to a trip, the students may still visit the Lucy Exhibit at the Museum of Natural Science, the Pompeii Exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts, or use OPTIC to analyze historical paintings. They also may tour Houston riding the train and visiting various areas in the city. On this Sunday, March 16, there is a free family day at Bayou Bend at the Ima Hogg Mansion. This is at Westcott and Memorial from 1:00 until 5:00. There are activities for all, gardeners will be speaking and explaining the gardens, there will be music and dance, and the opportunity to make some craft item. For credit for this, the student should write what he/she learned, saw, and did, take some pictures and describe the activity and place.
Please refer to past Blogs about the extra credit work.
The students have received assignments through Chapter 15, the beginning of the Civil War which we will be studying until TAKS.
Have a nice break.
Science:
Please email Mr. Scott for Science/IPC information
Math:
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Weekly Update 3/10-3/13
IMPORTANT REMINDERS/EVENTS:
Progress Reports go home Thursday, March 13th.
We will be out for the Spring Break holiday from Friday, March 14th (no school on Friday) though Monday, March 24th (no school Monday). Enjoy!
English:
We will finish up with 12 Angry Men. We will begin to work on content related to Laying the Foundation, a Pre-AP test that will be given in May. We will also begin talking about an 8th grade (all POMS 8th graders, not just 8C) project called “The Kindness Quilt.” More details to follow. We are excited for our 2007-2008 8th grade class to participate, as it will be a lasting artifact to leave behind at POMS.
Students received an assignment about the motifs in the play 12 Angry Men on Thursday/Friday, March 6-7. This is due Wednesday/Thursday, March 12-13.
Spring Break is around the corner. I encourage all students to set themselves up to relax and enjoy the time off; however, Independent Book Projects are due the week following Spring Break, so they need to be aware and plan accordingly. They should be done with their books, so encourage them to start now—and get it done early. With all the extra time given on this particular unit, I am expecting spectacular projects.
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
PROJECTS are due March 26-27 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
The last unit for Independent Reading is approaching. It will be free choice, as along as it follows previous guidelines for length and age-appropriateness. A parent approval form will be required. Book Checks are March 31-April 1.
History:
We felt our film festival last week to introduce the Civil War was quite successful. The work the students are doing relating to the day includes a writing assignment, a map, and an image. We are looking forward to seeing the finished product this Friday. Originally, we were going to have the work submitted by Monday, but it was more involved than we anticipated and since Wednesday was TAKS, we elected to change the due date to this Friday, March 7.
Some of the timelines the students submitted this week were just excellent. I am anxious to have some laminated and displayed in the hallway. However, some still are not following the requirements for a scaled timeline. This is a social studies skill the students are expected to have. All timelines for me must be horizontal and done to scale. Please refer to the instructions given in past updates or contact me if you still have questions.
Another skill the students are expected to have is constructing a chart. I have given the students specific instructions on what I expect. They may use the computer to do their charts, but the charts must be in “box form” with all entries in a horizontal row the same height.
Following is the assignment for the Reform Chart which is due the first day I see the students for class after Spring Break.
Chapter 14:
Chart on the Reform Movement. You should do this on plain paper or a small poster board. The chart must be done in chart form, complete, and neatly done. The reforms to be included are in Chapter 14 in the summary at the end of the chapter. You may use additional outside sources to help complete this chart.
Chart Form:
There must be rectangles for each section, the rectangles on a line must be all the same size, and the chart should be horizontal on the paper.
Following are the format and areas that must be answered.
Chart: The Age of Reform, 1820-1860
Reform:
Reason:
Leaders:
Results:
Problems Encountered:
The students will test on Monday/Tuesday over chapters ten and eleven. Those who have not completed their study guides should do so by then because these will be collected at that time for a grade.
Progress reports will be distributed on March 13, but they probably will not include this test.
With Spring Break coming, I know some of the students will be going to interesting locations. Again, they may complete an extra-credit project relating to their trip. This should be a booklet with pictures, brochures, maps, and a description of what they observed and learned. I would request that they visit a museum or some other area that includes learning. If a student is remaining here, the same type of project may be developed by touring Houston and going to some of the museums. Otherwise, the student is being a tourist in this city as if it were another location. The museum exhibits still can be used for extra credit. These assignments must be thorough, well written, and documented with tickets, pictures, and brochures. A new exhibit Pompeii is coming to the Museum of Fine Arts shortly.
Science:
Please email Mr. Scott for Science/IPC information
Math:
Algebra 1:
Last week, students completed Chapter 7 in their text. This week, students will begin the study of exponents and exponential functions. Students will cover sections 8.1 through 8.4 in their textbooks. Students are expected to complete six additional Carnegie Units during this six week period. Please ask your student to show you what unit s/he is currently in. The six units each six weeks will count as a test grade. Next week, after spring break, students will complete Chapter 8 and will review for TAKS. A test on Chapter 8 will follow the completion of the chapter.
Pre-Algebra:Students have completed Chapter 6 in their text. Students will have a test on Wednesday, covering Chapter 6 material. The exam will be open notes, but not open book. Students will need to bring their own notes. I encourage them to revise and clarify their notes prior to the exam. Students will begin Chapter 7 on Monday.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Progress Reports go home Thursday, March 13th.
We will be out for the Spring Break holiday from Friday, March 14th (no school on Friday) though Monday, March 24th (no school Monday). Enjoy!
English:
We will finish up with 12 Angry Men. We will begin to work on content related to Laying the Foundation, a Pre-AP test that will be given in May. We will also begin talking about an 8th grade (all POMS 8th graders, not just 8C) project called “The Kindness Quilt.” More details to follow. We are excited for our 2007-2008 8th grade class to participate, as it will be a lasting artifact to leave behind at POMS.
Students received an assignment about the motifs in the play 12 Angry Men on Thursday/Friday, March 6-7. This is due Wednesday/Thursday, March 12-13.
Spring Break is around the corner. I encourage all students to set themselves up to relax and enjoy the time off; however, Independent Book Projects are due the week following Spring Break, so they need to be aware and plan accordingly. They should be done with their books, so encourage them to start now—and get it done early. With all the extra time given on this particular unit, I am expecting spectacular projects.
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
PROJECTS are due March 26-27 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
The last unit for Independent Reading is approaching. It will be free choice, as along as it follows previous guidelines for length and age-appropriateness. A parent approval form will be required. Book Checks are March 31-April 1.
History:
We felt our film festival last week to introduce the Civil War was quite successful. The work the students are doing relating to the day includes a writing assignment, a map, and an image. We are looking forward to seeing the finished product this Friday. Originally, we were going to have the work submitted by Monday, but it was more involved than we anticipated and since Wednesday was TAKS, we elected to change the due date to this Friday, March 7.
Some of the timelines the students submitted this week were just excellent. I am anxious to have some laminated and displayed in the hallway. However, some still are not following the requirements for a scaled timeline. This is a social studies skill the students are expected to have. All timelines for me must be horizontal and done to scale. Please refer to the instructions given in past updates or contact me if you still have questions.
Another skill the students are expected to have is constructing a chart. I have given the students specific instructions on what I expect. They may use the computer to do their charts, but the charts must be in “box form” with all entries in a horizontal row the same height.
Following is the assignment for the Reform Chart which is due the first day I see the students for class after Spring Break.
Chapter 14:
Chart on the Reform Movement. You should do this on plain paper or a small poster board. The chart must be done in chart form, complete, and neatly done. The reforms to be included are in Chapter 14 in the summary at the end of the chapter. You may use additional outside sources to help complete this chart.
Chart Form:
There must be rectangles for each section, the rectangles on a line must be all the same size, and the chart should be horizontal on the paper.
Following are the format and areas that must be answered.
Chart: The Age of Reform, 1820-1860
Reform:
Reason:
Leaders:
Results:
Problems Encountered:
The students will test on Monday/Tuesday over chapters ten and eleven. Those who have not completed their study guides should do so by then because these will be collected at that time for a grade.
Progress reports will be distributed on March 13, but they probably will not include this test.
With Spring Break coming, I know some of the students will be going to interesting locations. Again, they may complete an extra-credit project relating to their trip. This should be a booklet with pictures, brochures, maps, and a description of what they observed and learned. I would request that they visit a museum or some other area that includes learning. If a student is remaining here, the same type of project may be developed by touring Houston and going to some of the museums. Otherwise, the student is being a tourist in this city as if it were another location. The museum exhibits still can be used for extra credit. These assignments must be thorough, well written, and documented with tickets, pictures, and brochures. A new exhibit Pompeii is coming to the Museum of Fine Arts shortly.
Science:
Please email Mr. Scott for Science/IPC information
Math:
Algebra 1:
Last week, students completed Chapter 7 in their text. This week, students will begin the study of exponents and exponential functions. Students will cover sections 8.1 through 8.4 in their textbooks. Students are expected to complete six additional Carnegie Units during this six week period. Please ask your student to show you what unit s/he is currently in. The six units each six weeks will count as a test grade. Next week, after spring break, students will complete Chapter 8 and will review for TAKS. A test on Chapter 8 will follow the completion of the chapter.
Pre-Algebra:Students have completed Chapter 6 in their text. Students will have a test on Wednesday, covering Chapter 6 material. The exam will be open notes, but not open book. Students will need to bring their own notes. I encourage them to revise and clarify their notes prior to the exam. Students will begin Chapter 7 on Monday.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Weekly Update 3/3-3/7
IMPORTANT REMINDERS/EVENTS:
Report Cards went home Wednesday, Feb. 27th. If you have not seen it already, please ask your child to show you their report. IMPORTANT DATE: The TAKS Reading Test is Wednesday, March 5.
The teachers seized a teaching moment for this Friday, February 29. We are having a film festival using films relating to the Civil War and the Buffalo Soldiers. By the time you read this message, you should have signed a permission slip for your student to see the film Glory and one from the Buffalo Soldiers Museum. No student will be permitted to see the film if they do not produce a permission slip Friday morning. They will be another related activity with Ms. Hennagir in the library and getting much of the same Civil War content. The students have the following assignment relating to this “teaching moment”. They will receive grades from the four of us in the 8 C Cluster.
House C, Grade 8 Film Festival
Lessons: February 29, 2008
Map:
1. Write all the locations mentioned in both films.
2. Label each location mentioned on the map.
3. Label neatly all the states.
4. Color according to Union and Confederate States, Union Territories
Writing Assignment:
1. Assume the persona of a soldier fighting in the Civil War by creating your own name and personal life details. Write in a brief paragraph.
2. Write a letter home in the voice of your persona. Include your experiences, hopes, dreams based on actual events from the movie such as battles, travels, and locations. Some creative information may be added and is encouraged, but the following is required:
Include:
The date and location
Five to six factual statements about the events that took place in the movie.
(It must make sense in the context of your letter and should be woven in where appropriate.)
3. The letter must have paragraphs and be indented properly with correct spelling and grammar.
4. The letter must look old and authentic and be put into a similar envelope. This can be done creatively; it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to go out and buy special materials.
5. The assignment is due on Monday.
English:
Next week is a big week—The Reading TAKS Test is Wednesday, March 5th. We have been preparing all year, so I know they are ready (and ready for it to be over!). Please encourage your child to dress in layers, eat a good breakfast, and get restful sleep the night before.
We will continue doing some TAKS prep/practice on Monday/Tuesday. Thursday and Friday will be spent continuing our reading of the play, 12 Angry Men. Students will be receiving a project-ish assignment next week relating to 12 Angry Men.
Spring Break is around the corner. I encourage all students to set themselves up to relax and enjoy the time off; however, Independent Book Projects are due the week following Spring Break, so they need to be aware and plan accordingly. They should be done with their books, so encourage them to start now—and get it done early. With all the extra time given on this particular unit, I am expecting spectacular projects.
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
PROJECTS are due March 26-27(this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
(American History)
The students have received their assignment for Chapter 13 which relates to the increased differences between the North and the South. This will be due, at the earliest, March 5/6 and it probably will be the following week before we actually start discussing it. Some of your students need to learn that they must do their homework. Those who had it the other day were able to use it on their test. It is a grade for everyone and I will not take it after we have the test over the material.
Time lines over Chapter 12 are due on Monday/Tuesday.
Science:
Please email Mr. Scott for information about Science.
Math:
Email Mrs. Qureshi for information about Math.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Report Cards went home Wednesday, Feb. 27th. If you have not seen it already, please ask your child to show you their report. IMPORTANT DATE: The TAKS Reading Test is Wednesday, March 5.
The teachers seized a teaching moment for this Friday, February 29. We are having a film festival using films relating to the Civil War and the Buffalo Soldiers. By the time you read this message, you should have signed a permission slip for your student to see the film Glory and one from the Buffalo Soldiers Museum. No student will be permitted to see the film if they do not produce a permission slip Friday morning. They will be another related activity with Ms. Hennagir in the library and getting much of the same Civil War content. The students have the following assignment relating to this “teaching moment”. They will receive grades from the four of us in the 8 C Cluster.
House C, Grade 8 Film Festival
Lessons: February 29, 2008
Map:
1. Write all the locations mentioned in both films.
2. Label each location mentioned on the map.
3. Label neatly all the states.
4. Color according to Union and Confederate States, Union Territories
Writing Assignment:
1. Assume the persona of a soldier fighting in the Civil War by creating your own name and personal life details. Write in a brief paragraph.
2. Write a letter home in the voice of your persona. Include your experiences, hopes, dreams based on actual events from the movie such as battles, travels, and locations. Some creative information may be added and is encouraged, but the following is required:
Include:
The date and location
Five to six factual statements about the events that took place in the movie.
(It must make sense in the context of your letter and should be woven in where appropriate.)
3. The letter must have paragraphs and be indented properly with correct spelling and grammar.
4. The letter must look old and authentic and be put into a similar envelope. This can be done creatively; it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to go out and buy special materials.
5. The assignment is due on Monday.
English:
Next week is a big week—The Reading TAKS Test is Wednesday, March 5th. We have been preparing all year, so I know they are ready (and ready for it to be over!). Please encourage your child to dress in layers, eat a good breakfast, and get restful sleep the night before.
We will continue doing some TAKS prep/practice on Monday/Tuesday. Thursday and Friday will be spent continuing our reading of the play, 12 Angry Men. Students will be receiving a project-ish assignment next week relating to 12 Angry Men.
Spring Break is around the corner. I encourage all students to set themselves up to relax and enjoy the time off; however, Independent Book Projects are due the week following Spring Break, so they need to be aware and plan accordingly. They should be done with their books, so encourage them to start now—and get it done early. With all the extra time given on this particular unit, I am expecting spectacular projects.
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
PROJECTS are due March 26-27(this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
(American History)
The students have received their assignment for Chapter 13 which relates to the increased differences between the North and the South. This will be due, at the earliest, March 5/6 and it probably will be the following week before we actually start discussing it. Some of your students need to learn that they must do their homework. Those who had it the other day were able to use it on their test. It is a grade for everyone and I will not take it after we have the test over the material.
Time lines over Chapter 12 are due on Monday/Tuesday.
Science:
Please email Mr. Scott for information about Science.
Math:
Email Mrs. Qureshi for information about Math.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Weekly Update 2/25-2/29
IMPORTANT REMINDERS/EVENTS:
A new six weeks is underway. Report Cards for CYCLE 4 will be sent home with your children on Wednesday, Feb. 27th.
English:
We are continuing our TAKS practice in class. For additional help, targeted students have been placed in TAKS Reading tutorials held during advocacy daily. TAKS Court was “in session” Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 20-21 and will continue Monday/Tuesday of this week. We are having a good time! Students are working hard, and I feel confident they will feel prepared for the 8th Grade Reading TAKS on Wednesday, March 5!
We didn’t quite finish 12 Angry Men yet, so we will continue to work towards that. Students will receive a project-like assignment over motifs and 12 Angry Men. All work will be done at home and will require a variety of media formats. Students will receive an assignment sheet with all the details. Due date: T.B.A.
Our second literature circle discussion group was held on Friday, Feb. 22. At this point, they should be completely done with their book, and beginning to think about their projects. Due date for project is below. They have some time to do it, so I am expecting some very nice, well put together projects and presentations!
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
PROJECTS are due March 26-27(this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
The students have received their assignments on Chapters 11 and 12. Chapter 12 includes a timeline which is due on March 3. I have told the students that all writing drawing, etc. must be horizontal. The only vertical lines on the entire timeline are the lines representing the years.
In addition, each student is to select a term or name from the Chapter 11 assignment and write a question relating to that. For instance, one of the terms is mudslinging. A type of question could be, “Give an example of mudslinging in the current political campaigns.”
Many of the students are not reading their text material. It is critical that they read the material so they can participate in class discussion. Some obviously are just looking for answers and sometimes not in their books. Please tell them that Wikipedia is an unacceptable source of accurate knowledge.
The students have an opportunity to do extra credit work in this class. This is a social studies class and I feel very strongly that students need to get out and experience the world. Some of these assignments already have been offered. However, each assignment must be accompanied by tickets showing admission, brochures, and a lengthy explanation of what the student learned and a description of what he/she saw. It would be nice to have a picture of the student with the exhibit if permitted.
The teacher interview previously given may also continue for the rest of February and the Law Day announcement previously posted follows.
Also, as a part of Black History Month, the students may attend a concert at the Hobby Center on February 28. This A Black History Musical. There is announcement posted in my room. It is “A dramatic musical performance that will take you form Africa across the Merciless Atlantic Ocean, the slave trade of the Americas and the rise to prominence again. This one-in-a-kind production is filled with dramatic singing of musical selections in Opera, Jazz, Broadway, Folk Songs, Gospel, Chants, Spirituals and Much More! ! !”
There is an admission fee of $10 to $20. The student will have to include a program, the ticket, and a detailed review with impressions of the music. I do not know anything about his, but it is at the Hobby Center and was on brochure that came from a school office. The sponsors are the Ambassadors of Houston/Prairie View A&M.
I am including again the OPTIC assignment for analyzing historical paintings at one of the art museums.
OPTIC:
Mnemonic for a variety of activities in studying historical paintings and photos.
Each letter should have a thorough answer. Pay attention to details. Three different paintings must be in the assignment and you must hand in a copy of the painting with the assignment. The period of time that the paintings may cover is 1760 through 1876. However, you may include the Remington paintings at the Museum of Fine Arts.
O: Conduct a brief overview of the picture. What is happening? Describe it in detail.
P: Key in on parts of the painting. Note any elements or details that seem important. Look at all the people, what they are wearing, what items do they have in their hands, what they are doing.
T: Read the title so that you know what the subject is. You probably should do some research on this unless there is something next to the painting describing the reason for the painting.
I: Use the title as the foundation and the parts of the painting to detect and specify the interrelationships between the people portrayed in the painting and the environment.
C: Draw a conclusion about the painting as a whole. What is the overall feeling of the painting? Was this an everyday event or an event filled with drama? Do the people seem happy and proud or anxious and desperate?
From: Linking Early U. S. History to World Geography
Law Day Poster Contest:
The Houston Bar Association is sponsoring the following poster contest for students in elementary and middle school. The theme is “How Rules Promote Fairness and Opportunity.”
Instructions:
1. “All posters should represent the students’ interpretations of this theme.”
2. All posters should be on standard size poster board.
3. All entries become the property of the Houston Bar Association
Due Date: Monday, March 3.
Prizes:
$50 to $200 for winning plus an invitation to an awards luncheon and the display of the entries at the Family and Civil Courthouses.
Pin Oak had eight entries which advanced to the Regional History Fair at Houston ISD. Of those, five, all from House C, won awards. They are:
Individual Exhibit: Drew McMillian
Individual Performance: Scott Shelton
Individual Documentary: Darius Altman
These students all won second place in their respective categories and all advance to the State History Fair.
In addition, Chris and Joaquin Buitrago won Honorable Mention.
A sixth grade group exhibit placed third.
This is an excellent showing for Pin Oak and, particularly, for the House C Eighth Grade. Congratulations to all and good luck to those at State.
Science:
All Classes; The next week we will be completing a different rotation of lab activities using Cambridge Physics equipment. We will be doing experiments using inclined planes, Lever systems, pulleys and wheel and axle systems to investigate the role of work and power as it applies to mechanical advantage of systems.
The students will complete investigations relating to force and mechanical advantage using levers, gears, and pulley systems.Students will be expected to apply the correct mathematical formulas under experimental conditions. Many of the objectives covered will inter-relate and be repeated throughout the next week.
TLW:
1. Define force mathematically and describe its relationship to motion
2. Compare and contrast the three types of friction
3. Predict the results of balanced and unbalanced forces in experiments
4. Describe and apply Newton’s three laws to examples of motion
5. Relate the force of gravity to free fall, projectile motion and orbital motion
6. Explain the relationships between gravitational force, mass, and distance and mass to weight
7. Define and apply work in terms of force and distance
8. Describe power as work over time
9. Demonstrate mastery of all the mathematical formulas and units of measurement for work, force, Mechanical advantage of inclined planes and levers.
Math:
Algebra 1:
Students will continue in Chapter 7. Tuesday, the focus will be on mastery of Section 7.6, “Systems of Inequalities”. Students will also enhance their study of algebra with the Carnegie Software during class time on Tuesday and Friday. Thursday brings a review of Chapter 7 with the Chapter 7 Review in class. Students will also take a quiz over Objective 5 material on Thursday. Their Objective 6 Packets are due on Thursday as well. The following Tuesday, March 4th, brings the Chapter 7 Exam.
Pre-Algebra:
Students will continue in Chapter 6. They will learn about congruent polygons and symmetry. The sections to be covered are 6-4 & 6-5. Students will have the Objective 5 Packet quiz on Friday, February 29th. Objective 6 Packets are also due on the 29th.
Knitting:
Students are working on knitting samples, demonstrating understanding of two important stitch combinations: knit and purl. Students should be working on their stockinette stitch swatches with garter stitch edges. They are due next week (Thursday).
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
A new six weeks is underway. Report Cards for CYCLE 4 will be sent home with your children on Wednesday, Feb. 27th.
English:
We are continuing our TAKS practice in class. For additional help, targeted students have been placed in TAKS Reading tutorials held during advocacy daily. TAKS Court was “in session” Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 20-21 and will continue Monday/Tuesday of this week. We are having a good time! Students are working hard, and I feel confident they will feel prepared for the 8th Grade Reading TAKS on Wednesday, March 5!
We didn’t quite finish 12 Angry Men yet, so we will continue to work towards that. Students will receive a project-like assignment over motifs and 12 Angry Men. All work will be done at home and will require a variety of media formats. Students will receive an assignment sheet with all the details. Due date: T.B.A.
Our second literature circle discussion group was held on Friday, Feb. 22. At this point, they should be completely done with their book, and beginning to think about their projects. Due date for project is below. They have some time to do it, so I am expecting some very nice, well put together projects and presentations!
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
PROJECTS are due March 26-27(this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
The students have received their assignments on Chapters 11 and 12. Chapter 12 includes a timeline which is due on March 3. I have told the students that all writing drawing, etc. must be horizontal. The only vertical lines on the entire timeline are the lines representing the years.
In addition, each student is to select a term or name from the Chapter 11 assignment and write a question relating to that. For instance, one of the terms is mudslinging. A type of question could be, “Give an example of mudslinging in the current political campaigns.”
Many of the students are not reading their text material. It is critical that they read the material so they can participate in class discussion. Some obviously are just looking for answers and sometimes not in their books. Please tell them that Wikipedia is an unacceptable source of accurate knowledge.
The students have an opportunity to do extra credit work in this class. This is a social studies class and I feel very strongly that students need to get out and experience the world. Some of these assignments already have been offered. However, each assignment must be accompanied by tickets showing admission, brochures, and a lengthy explanation of what the student learned and a description of what he/she saw. It would be nice to have a picture of the student with the exhibit if permitted.
The teacher interview previously given may also continue for the rest of February and the Law Day announcement previously posted follows.
Also, as a part of Black History Month, the students may attend a concert at the Hobby Center on February 28. This A Black History Musical. There is announcement posted in my room. It is “A dramatic musical performance that will take you form Africa across the Merciless Atlantic Ocean, the slave trade of the Americas and the rise to prominence again. This one-in-a-kind production is filled with dramatic singing of musical selections in Opera, Jazz, Broadway, Folk Songs, Gospel, Chants, Spirituals and Much More! ! !”
There is an admission fee of $10 to $20. The student will have to include a program, the ticket, and a detailed review with impressions of the music. I do not know anything about his, but it is at the Hobby Center and was on brochure that came from a school office. The sponsors are the Ambassadors of Houston/Prairie View A&M.
I am including again the OPTIC assignment for analyzing historical paintings at one of the art museums.
OPTIC:
Mnemonic for a variety of activities in studying historical paintings and photos.
Each letter should have a thorough answer. Pay attention to details. Three different paintings must be in the assignment and you must hand in a copy of the painting with the assignment. The period of time that the paintings may cover is 1760 through 1876. However, you may include the Remington paintings at the Museum of Fine Arts.
O: Conduct a brief overview of the picture. What is happening? Describe it in detail.
P: Key in on parts of the painting. Note any elements or details that seem important. Look at all the people, what they are wearing, what items do they have in their hands, what they are doing.
T: Read the title so that you know what the subject is. You probably should do some research on this unless there is something next to the painting describing the reason for the painting.
I: Use the title as the foundation and the parts of the painting to detect and specify the interrelationships between the people portrayed in the painting and the environment.
C: Draw a conclusion about the painting as a whole. What is the overall feeling of the painting? Was this an everyday event or an event filled with drama? Do the people seem happy and proud or anxious and desperate?
From: Linking Early U. S. History to World Geography
Law Day Poster Contest:
The Houston Bar Association is sponsoring the following poster contest for students in elementary and middle school. The theme is “How Rules Promote Fairness and Opportunity.”
Instructions:
1. “All posters should represent the students’ interpretations of this theme.”
2. All posters should be on standard size poster board.
3. All entries become the property of the Houston Bar Association
Due Date: Monday, March 3.
Prizes:
$50 to $200 for winning plus an invitation to an awards luncheon and the display of the entries at the Family and Civil Courthouses.
Pin Oak had eight entries which advanced to the Regional History Fair at Houston ISD. Of those, five, all from House C, won awards. They are:
Individual Exhibit: Drew McMillian
Individual Performance: Scott Shelton
Individual Documentary: Darius Altman
These students all won second place in their respective categories and all advance to the State History Fair.
In addition, Chris and Joaquin Buitrago won Honorable Mention.
A sixth grade group exhibit placed third.
This is an excellent showing for Pin Oak and, particularly, for the House C Eighth Grade. Congratulations to all and good luck to those at State.
Science:
All Classes; The next week we will be completing a different rotation of lab activities using Cambridge Physics equipment. We will be doing experiments using inclined planes, Lever systems, pulleys and wheel and axle systems to investigate the role of work and power as it applies to mechanical advantage of systems.
The students will complete investigations relating to force and mechanical advantage using levers, gears, and pulley systems.Students will be expected to apply the correct mathematical formulas under experimental conditions. Many of the objectives covered will inter-relate and be repeated throughout the next week.
TLW:
1. Define force mathematically and describe its relationship to motion
2. Compare and contrast the three types of friction
3. Predict the results of balanced and unbalanced forces in experiments
4. Describe and apply Newton’s three laws to examples of motion
5. Relate the force of gravity to free fall, projectile motion and orbital motion
6. Explain the relationships between gravitational force, mass, and distance and mass to weight
7. Define and apply work in terms of force and distance
8. Describe power as work over time
9. Demonstrate mastery of all the mathematical formulas and units of measurement for work, force, Mechanical advantage of inclined planes and levers.
Math:
Algebra 1:
Students will continue in Chapter 7. Tuesday, the focus will be on mastery of Section 7.6, “Systems of Inequalities”. Students will also enhance their study of algebra with the Carnegie Software during class time on Tuesday and Friday. Thursday brings a review of Chapter 7 with the Chapter 7 Review in class. Students will also take a quiz over Objective 5 material on Thursday. Their Objective 6 Packets are due on Thursday as well. The following Tuesday, March 4th, brings the Chapter 7 Exam.
Pre-Algebra:
Students will continue in Chapter 6. They will learn about congruent polygons and symmetry. The sections to be covered are 6-4 & 6-5. Students will have the Objective 5 Packet quiz on Friday, February 29th. Objective 6 Packets are also due on the 29th.
Knitting:
Students are working on knitting samples, demonstrating understanding of two important stitch combinations: knit and purl. Students should be working on their stockinette stitch swatches with garter stitch edges. They are due next week (Thursday).
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Weekly Update 2/18-22
IMPORTANT REMINDERS/EVENTS:
A new six weeks is underway. Report Cards for CYCLE 4 will be sent home with your children on Wednesday, Feb. 27th.
English:
With TAKS less than 3 weeks away, it is time to start with some intense review and preparation. While we have been preparing all year, I like to have students practice for TAKS by actually doing TAKS practice tests. To make it as fun as possible, we will be doing an activity in class called “TAKS Court,” complete with costumes, roles, and music (think People’s Court)! Students will PROVE their answers are correct by referring to the text, and DISPROVE other answers to ensure they choose the best answer choice available. Along the way, they will get to take charge as a lawyer, a bailiff, a jury member, a judge, a witness, etc.
We will also be finishing reading the play 12 Angry Men in class. There will be related questions over the play.
Persuasive papers over “The Lady or the Tiger?” were due Friday, Feb. 15th. They will be counted for two grades over their content. One separate grade will be given for following format requirements. A hand out was distributed about a week and a half ago that listed the formatting requirements.
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
2nd Literature Circle Discussion groups will be on Friday, Feb. 22. Questions are due and groups will meet. PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
We are beginning some intensive TAKS review within our cluster during Advisory. In addition, warm-ups will relate to TAKS review, and as we cover material in class, I will comment that this may be covered in TAKS. Mrs. Anne Powell will be offering TAKS review after school. If your student is having difficulty in history or did not do well on the Stanford last year, you may want to consider having your student take Mrs. Powell’s review in addition to what we are covering in our class and Advisory.
The students should be working on Chapter 11 study guide. As soon as we test on Chapters 8, 9, 10 at the end of the week of February 18, we will move directly into this material over the Jacksonian Democracy.
Many of the students are working on the extra credit opportunities. These were on the update last week. Since this is the last week of the six weeks grading period, any of these coming in after February 15 will be on the next six weeks grading period. Following is another extra-credit assignment that also is an opportunity for the students to enter an interesting contest.
Law Day Poster Contest:
The Houston Bar Association is sponsoring the following poster contest for students in elementary and middle school. The theme is “How Rules Promote Fairness and Opportunity.”
Instructions:
1. “All posters should represent the students’ interpretations of this theme.”
2. All posters should be on standard size poster board.
3. All entries become the property of the Houston Bar Association
Prizes:
$50 to $200 for winning plus an invitation to an awards luncheon and the display of the entries at the Family and Civil Courthouses.
Science:
To Start off I want to thank you all for being so supportive of the mouse trap car project , I saw some of the most creative and original designs I have ever seen. The cars were great and we collected valuable data, I would like to stay on this and complete more activities but I simply must move on, but again thanks again I had a great time watching your children struggle at times to make their car work and then find the solution and make it happen.
All Classes; The next week we will be completing a rotation of lab activities using Cambridge Physics equipment.We will be doing experiments using roller coasters to measure speed and acceleration, and cars and ramps to investigate the role of mass on an accelerating body. The students will also complete investigations relating to force and mechanical advantage using levers, gears, and pulley systems.
Students will be expected to apply the correct mathematical formulas under experimental conditions.Many of the objectives covered will inter-relate and be repeated throughout the next week.TLW:1. Distinguish and calculate between speed and velocity2. Calculate acceleration and apply under experimental conditions3. Define force mathematically and describe its relationship to motion4. Compare and contrast the three types of friction5. Predict the results of balanced and unbalanced forces in experiments6. Describe and apply Newton’s three laws to examples of motion7. Relate the force of gravity to free fall, projectile motion and orbital motion8. Explain the relationships between gravitational force, mass, and distance and mass to weight9. Define and apply work in terms of force and distance10. Describe power as work over time11. Demonstrate mastery of all the mathematical formulas and units of measurement relating to speed, acceleration, force, work and power
Math:
Algebra 1:Algebra 1 students should have completed at least Unit 3 of Carnegie. Students can work not only during class, but also after school on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays in my classroom. Students are currently working on Objective Packet 6, which is due Thursday, February 21st in class. Students will cover sections 7.3 through 7.6 in the textbook. This will complete the chapter. Homework will be assigned in each section. Tuesday, homework sections 7.1 & 7.2 are due.
Pre-Algebra:Pre-algebra students have begun their study of geometry. Students completed a mini-lab on Friday and will continue moving forward through Section 6.5. Objective 6 will be due on Monday, February 25th. Please ask to see the Objective 6 packet. Students should work on it a little each day, rather than during a marathon session.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
A new six weeks is underway. Report Cards for CYCLE 4 will be sent home with your children on Wednesday, Feb. 27th.
English:
With TAKS less than 3 weeks away, it is time to start with some intense review and preparation. While we have been preparing all year, I like to have students practice for TAKS by actually doing TAKS practice tests. To make it as fun as possible, we will be doing an activity in class called “TAKS Court,” complete with costumes, roles, and music (think People’s Court)! Students will PROVE their answers are correct by referring to the text, and DISPROVE other answers to ensure they choose the best answer choice available. Along the way, they will get to take charge as a lawyer, a bailiff, a jury member, a judge, a witness, etc.
We will also be finishing reading the play 12 Angry Men in class. There will be related questions over the play.
Persuasive papers over “The Lady or the Tiger?” were due Friday, Feb. 15th. They will be counted for two grades over their content. One separate grade will be given for following format requirements. A hand out was distributed about a week and a half ago that listed the formatting requirements.
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
2nd Literature Circle Discussion groups will be on Friday, Feb. 22. Questions are due and groups will meet. PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
We are beginning some intensive TAKS review within our cluster during Advisory. In addition, warm-ups will relate to TAKS review, and as we cover material in class, I will comment that this may be covered in TAKS. Mrs. Anne Powell will be offering TAKS review after school. If your student is having difficulty in history or did not do well on the Stanford last year, you may want to consider having your student take Mrs. Powell’s review in addition to what we are covering in our class and Advisory.
The students should be working on Chapter 11 study guide. As soon as we test on Chapters 8, 9, 10 at the end of the week of February 18, we will move directly into this material over the Jacksonian Democracy.
Many of the students are working on the extra credit opportunities. These were on the update last week. Since this is the last week of the six weeks grading period, any of these coming in after February 15 will be on the next six weeks grading period. Following is another extra-credit assignment that also is an opportunity for the students to enter an interesting contest.
Law Day Poster Contest:
The Houston Bar Association is sponsoring the following poster contest for students in elementary and middle school. The theme is “How Rules Promote Fairness and Opportunity.”
Instructions:
1. “All posters should represent the students’ interpretations of this theme.”
2. All posters should be on standard size poster board.
3. All entries become the property of the Houston Bar Association
Prizes:
$50 to $200 for winning plus an invitation to an awards luncheon and the display of the entries at the Family and Civil Courthouses.
Science:
To Start off I want to thank you all for being so supportive of the mouse trap car project , I saw some of the most creative and original designs I have ever seen. The cars were great and we collected valuable data, I would like to stay on this and complete more activities but I simply must move on, but again thanks again I had a great time watching your children struggle at times to make their car work and then find the solution and make it happen.
All Classes; The next week we will be completing a rotation of lab activities using Cambridge Physics equipment.We will be doing experiments using roller coasters to measure speed and acceleration, and cars and ramps to investigate the role of mass on an accelerating body. The students will also complete investigations relating to force and mechanical advantage using levers, gears, and pulley systems.
Students will be expected to apply the correct mathematical formulas under experimental conditions.Many of the objectives covered will inter-relate and be repeated throughout the next week.TLW:1. Distinguish and calculate between speed and velocity2. Calculate acceleration and apply under experimental conditions3. Define force mathematically and describe its relationship to motion4. Compare and contrast the three types of friction5. Predict the results of balanced and unbalanced forces in experiments6. Describe and apply Newton’s three laws to examples of motion7. Relate the force of gravity to free fall, projectile motion and orbital motion8. Explain the relationships between gravitational force, mass, and distance and mass to weight9. Define and apply work in terms of force and distance10. Describe power as work over time11. Demonstrate mastery of all the mathematical formulas and units of measurement relating to speed, acceleration, force, work and power
Math:
Algebra 1:Algebra 1 students should have completed at least Unit 3 of Carnegie. Students can work not only during class, but also after school on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays in my classroom. Students are currently working on Objective Packet 6, which is due Thursday, February 21st in class. Students will cover sections 7.3 through 7.6 in the textbook. This will complete the chapter. Homework will be assigned in each section. Tuesday, homework sections 7.1 & 7.2 are due.
Pre-Algebra:Pre-algebra students have begun their study of geometry. Students completed a mini-lab on Friday and will continue moving forward through Section 6.5. Objective 6 will be due on Monday, February 25th. Please ask to see the Objective 6 packet. Students should work on it a little each day, rather than during a marathon session.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
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