IMPORTANT REMINDERS/EVENTS:
The six weeks is ending this week. Some of us have specific dates for work to be turned in, which have been made known to your children.
English:
We are continuing to work on our persuasive papers in class, but some writing should be done at home. Final papers, typed, are due on Friday, Feb. 15, and will be counted twice. A hand-out was given to students that gives very specific formatting instructions on it. I am available after school to help with papers in addition to the class time I set aside to work one on one, but I have had very few students attend. Learning to effectively write a persuasive and/or analytical paper is very important. This type of writing will be seen again and again in English and other subjects throughout high school and college.
ALL WORK is due by Thursday, Feb. 14. EXTRA CREDIT is also due by Thursday, Feb. 14.
Literature Circles were on Thursday/Friday, Feb. 7-8. Questions were due and groups met to discuss their books. Participation grades were also awarded.
We have finished the film version of 12 Angry Men, and students took 2 quizzes: one for each half of the movie. It was an open-note quiz, which many students did not take advantage of. I have recorded the higher grade of the two quizzes. We will begin reading the play in class this week. Roles in the play were given to volunteers.
With TAKS on the horizon (March 5!), we will also begin doing some TAKS practice in class. One activity will be “TAKS Court” where students will have to prove their answers and defend them against others; the verdict will be left to a “jury” to decide. Because of TAKS, the students will have more time than usual to complete their IRP’s—see date below.
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:
Extra Credit Assignment:
Following are several opportunities for the students for extra credit. This is a social studies class. It is my feeling that, as a part of their study, the students need to have an opportunity to explore the world. These activities will provide that opportunity.
This is Black History Month. Three of the following relate to Black History so they do need to be done this month. These are the assignments to the students.
1. Select a black teacher you had between pre-school and grade seven who had a positive influence upon your life. Try to contact the teacher, interview that teacher asking questions such as why he/she went into teaching, comment upon some interesting experiences, where did he/she go to college, did he/she have any famous students. The student should have a picture taken with the teacher. The write-up should include the reaction of the teacher when told about being selected. This all should be typed and presented in a booklet of some type.
2. Visit the Buffalo Soldiers Museum; prepare a report on the various exhibits and why they are significant. Select your favorites. Take some pictures; include those and the ticket for admission in your journal. Again, this should be quality work, typed, neatly presented.
3. Visit the Lucy exhibit at the Museum of Natural Science. This is from Ethiopia. The students can learn a lot about Ethiopia as well as about the Lucy exhibit itself. Include your admission ticket in your presentation.
4. Ongoing project: Use OPTIC to analyze three different paintings in an art gallery. These must be from 1607 to 1876 and/or the Remington paintings which depict the Old West. They are painted later, but the subject matter is quite appropriate. We covered OPTIC earlier this year. It is on one of the earlier blogs.
Continuing work: We are continuing the work on Chapters 9/10 with a number of people, events, and vocabulary for the students to identify.
The students took another test over the Constitution on Monday. The students must learn this material. They also will have daily quizzes relating to TAKS review and material we have covered. Some on the Constitution, in particular, will be repeated until all the students show comprehension of the material.
Science:
Please email Mr. Scott for questions concerning Science/IPC.
Math:
Algebra 1:Students will begin learning about systems of equations (Chapter 7 McDougal Littell Textbook). This week’s focus will be on solving systems by graphing, substitution, and the addition/subtraction methods.
TAKS is right around the corner (April 8th for Math)! Students are currently working on Objective 5, in preparation for the TAKS test. The Objective 5 Packets are due on Tuesday, February 11th.
Students can expect an open notes quiz on Friday, February 15th, covering early sections in Chapter 7. Students have been learning how to take notes in math to support learning and to facilitate review. Please ask to see their notes to make sure they are writing study questions. Open note quizzes will be given, so good note taking skills will mean better performance on these quizzes.
Students in Algebra 1 are working on the online Carnegie Software. The requirements regarding completion of units as homework & class work have been detailed in each Algebra class. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. The Carnegie assignments are a significant part of your student’s grade and are required for successful completion of the course.
Pre-Algebra:
Students will begin learning about geometry and spatial reasoning. In particular, angles and polygons will be the focus this week, followed by symmetry and translations the following week. This is a short chapter,(Chapter 7 Glencoe Textbook), with the completion of the chapter occurring early next week.
Students will take a quiz on the Objective 4 Packet material on Monday February 11th. The Objective 5 Packets are due on Monday as well.
Students can expect an open notes quiz on Friday, February 8th covering early sections in Chapter 6. Students have been learning how to take notes in math to support learning and to facilitate review. Please ask to see their notes to make sure they are writing study questions. Open note quizzes will be given, so good note taking skills will mean better performance on these quizzes.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Friday, February 8, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Weekly Update 2/4-2/8
IMPORTANT REMINDERS/EVENTS:
Progress Reports went home Wednesday, Jan. 30th.
The blog format and colors have been changed--enjoy!
English:
We are continuing to work on our persuasive papers in class, but some writing should be done at home. Final papers, typed, are due on Friday, Feb. 15 and will be worth 2 grades. This is in addition to the other grades that have been/will be taken for "effort" along the way. Students have received a handout that includes all formatting requirements, in addition to some helpful examples.
We will continue our study of 12 Angry Men. We are finishing up the movie, and will begin reading the play next week. We will do play/movie related activities along the way. Students will have a quiz over each half of the movie. Notes may be used, if students decide to take notes during the viewing, and bring them on quiz days.
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
Book Checks (students bring their books to school to receive a grade) were January 23-24. This time, we will have 2 literature circle discussion groups: 1st (half the book should be read at this point) on Feb. 7/8 (the school day schedule has changed since this date was assigned, therefore, BLUE day students will have literature circles on Thursday, 2/7, and Green Day students will have literature circles on the orginal date, Friday, 2/8. Because of this, no student may attend the faculty/student basketball game being held during 7th period Thursday. If a student attends, they will be counted absent, as teacher permission is required to attend. Literature Circles #2 2nd (book should be completely read) on Feb. 22. PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
All the students received grade reports and progress reports this week. Please ask your student for them if they have not shared them with you. The Constitution project was 25% of the grade so if a student did not do this as instructed, it is possible the grade was low. There were 170 points total and many had perfect project grades. I have told the students to look at their projects and check over the rubric.
The major Constitution test was this week; even though we had spent some time on this material and reviewed thoroughly for the test, some of the students did not do well on the test. Their grades reflected that. Questions from this test will be included on the next test late next week.
We now are covering the Jefferson Era, the War of 1812, and Indian warfare during this period, and going into the Reform Movement shortly. Work due this week and on Monday/Tuesday covers Chapters 8 and 9. The students have the assignments with these chapters on handouts.
Science:
All Classes
This week 1/28-2/1 we will be using the mouse trap cars (see project requirements bellow) to apply the mathematical formulas under experimental conditions.Many of the objectives covered will inter-relate and be repeated throughout the next two weeks.(See specific objectives from previous blog)
MOUSE TRAP CAR PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
1. Car must travel a minimum of three meters
2. Car must be powered by mouse trap(s)
3. Original designs preferred and rewarded but not required, students may use kits
4. Cars are due 1/28 and 1/29 ready to be tested.
No Class Time for Construction, No late work
GRADING REQUIRMENTSDAY ONE: 1/28 or 1/29.
Aesthetics, students should decorate, paint or generally make their car their own (1 grade)
2. Car rolls under mouse trap power for at least 3 meters (1 grade)
3. Car is complete and ready to conduct experiments on the day it is due (1 grade)DAY TWO AND BEYOND
4. Student will complete experiments with their car about speed, acceleration, force, work, and power (5 grades)
5. Each experiment must have a complete data table, graph of results and conclusion demonstrating understanding of problem.
6. Extra credit for original designs and constructions (1 grade) I would encourage students to attempt to design and construct an original car, see the internet, but will allow students to construct kits (a good place to find kits are Hobby Lobby or any model store), but there is no reason for students to not have a completed car.
Math:
Pre-Algebra:
This week, students will complete Chapter 5 and will take an assessment on the content of Chapter 5. The exam will be Friday, February 8th. Students will complete the chapter on Monday and will review on Wednesday. Time each class period is being devoted to discussion about the six objective packets. The Objective 4 Packet is due Monday, February 4th. The Objective 4 Quiz will be the following Monday, at which time the Objective 5 Packet will be due. Regular homework will be due as posted in class. To recap:
Monday: Objective 4 Packet due;
Wednesday: Review for the Chapter 5 Exam/Discussion on Objective 5;
Friday: Chapter 5 Assessment;
Following Monday: Objective 4 Quiz/Objective 5 Packet due;
Algebra:
Students will complete Chapter 6 this week and will take an assessment covering the Chapter. The test will be on Friday. Students have the Objective 4 Quiz on Thursday, February 7th. On the same day, the Objective 5 Packet is due. Regular homework will be due as posted in class. To recap, the following assignments are due this week:
Thursday: Objective 5 Packet is due and the Objective 4 Quiz will be taken;Friday: Chapter 6 Assessment;
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Progress Reports went home Wednesday, Jan. 30th.
The blog format and colors have been changed--enjoy!
English:
We are continuing to work on our persuasive papers in class, but some writing should be done at home. Final papers, typed, are due on Friday, Feb. 15 and will be worth 2 grades. This is in addition to the other grades that have been/will be taken for "effort" along the way. Students have received a handout that includes all formatting requirements, in addition to some helpful examples.
We will continue our study of 12 Angry Men. We are finishing up the movie, and will begin reading the play next week. We will do play/movie related activities along the way. Students will have a quiz over each half of the movie. Notes may be used, if students decide to take notes during the viewing, and bring them on quiz days.
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
Book Checks (students bring their books to school to receive a grade) were January 23-24. This time, we will have 2 literature circle discussion groups: 1st (half the book should be read at this point) on Feb. 7/8 (the school day schedule has changed since this date was assigned, therefore, BLUE day students will have literature circles on Thursday, 2/7, and Green Day students will have literature circles on the orginal date, Friday, 2/8. Because of this, no student may attend the faculty/student basketball game being held during 7th period Thursday. If a student attends, they will be counted absent, as teacher permission is required to attend. Literature Circles #2 2nd (book should be completely read) on Feb. 22. PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
All the students received grade reports and progress reports this week. Please ask your student for them if they have not shared them with you. The Constitution project was 25% of the grade so if a student did not do this as instructed, it is possible the grade was low. There were 170 points total and many had perfect project grades. I have told the students to look at their projects and check over the rubric.
The major Constitution test was this week; even though we had spent some time on this material and reviewed thoroughly for the test, some of the students did not do well on the test. Their grades reflected that. Questions from this test will be included on the next test late next week.
We now are covering the Jefferson Era, the War of 1812, and Indian warfare during this period, and going into the Reform Movement shortly. Work due this week and on Monday/Tuesday covers Chapters 8 and 9. The students have the assignments with these chapters on handouts.
Science:
All Classes
This week 1/28-2/1 we will be using the mouse trap cars (see project requirements bellow) to apply the mathematical formulas under experimental conditions.Many of the objectives covered will inter-relate and be repeated throughout the next two weeks.(See specific objectives from previous blog)
MOUSE TRAP CAR PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
1. Car must travel a minimum of three meters
2. Car must be powered by mouse trap(s)
3. Original designs preferred and rewarded but not required, students may use kits
4. Cars are due 1/28 and 1/29 ready to be tested.
No Class Time for Construction, No late work
GRADING REQUIRMENTSDAY ONE: 1/28 or 1/29.
Aesthetics, students should decorate, paint or generally make their car their own (1 grade)
2. Car rolls under mouse trap power for at least 3 meters (1 grade)
3. Car is complete and ready to conduct experiments on the day it is due (1 grade)DAY TWO AND BEYOND
4. Student will complete experiments with their car about speed, acceleration, force, work, and power (5 grades)
5. Each experiment must have a complete data table, graph of results and conclusion demonstrating understanding of problem.
6. Extra credit for original designs and constructions (1 grade) I would encourage students to attempt to design and construct an original car, see the internet, but will allow students to construct kits (a good place to find kits are Hobby Lobby or any model store), but there is no reason for students to not have a completed car.
Math:
Pre-Algebra:
This week, students will complete Chapter 5 and will take an assessment on the content of Chapter 5. The exam will be Friday, February 8th. Students will complete the chapter on Monday and will review on Wednesday. Time each class period is being devoted to discussion about the six objective packets. The Objective 4 Packet is due Monday, February 4th. The Objective 4 Quiz will be the following Monday, at which time the Objective 5 Packet will be due. Regular homework will be due as posted in class. To recap:
Monday: Objective 4 Packet due;
Wednesday: Review for the Chapter 5 Exam/Discussion on Objective 5;
Friday: Chapter 5 Assessment;
Following Monday: Objective 4 Quiz/Objective 5 Packet due;
Algebra:
Students will complete Chapter 6 this week and will take an assessment covering the Chapter. The test will be on Friday. Students have the Objective 4 Quiz on Thursday, February 7th. On the same day, the Objective 5 Packet is due. Regular homework will be due as posted in class. To recap, the following assignments are due this week:
Thursday: Objective 5 Packet is due and the Objective 4 Quiz will be taken;Friday: Chapter 6 Assessment;
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Friday, January 25, 2008
Weekly Update 1/28-2/1
IMPORTANT REMINDERS/EVENTS:
Progress Reports go home Wednesday, Jan. 30th.
The Pin Oak PTO is asking for help in putting together gift baskets for Family Game Night beginning in February. Each cluster is responsible for one basket. These will be made possible by donations from students and parents. Our cluster’s theme is MUSIC. We think it might be easiest to collect one dollar from each student and purchase items for the basket at one time.
In all core classes, late policies for each teacher have become more stringent in effort to encourage students to be on time regarding work, as high school teachers will expect.
A message from Bellaire High School:
High School is almost here! We can’t wait to meet you and your parents! Please come to our information night for zoned 8th graders:
Bellaire High School
Tuesday, February 5, 2008 7 p.m.
Bellaire H.S. Auditorium - Entrance on South Rice
English:
We are continuing our work on persuasive essays about the story we read in class, “The Lady or the Tiger?” Grades are being taken along the way for completion, and the amount of grades taken for the final result (the typed paper, due date TBA) hasn’t been decided quite yet. It will either be 2 grades or 3. Learning this writing style and format is so important, as it will be seen again and again in English and beyond. Quite a bit of time is being given in class to work on papers so I can be available to consult with, but some writing/editing should be done at home. If you do not see your child working on their paper at home, something is wrong. Ask them to see it. Any/all assistance you can offer at home is greatly appreciated.
This week, we will begin reading 12 Angry Men, the play. First, we will watch the Henry Fonda movie version, as I believe that seeing it performed—as it was written to be—will be helpful before reading the play in class. We will be doing related activities for this unit.
Please bear in mind that extra credit opportunities this semester will be very limited. Students need to focus on turning work in that is QUALITY work and handed in ON TIME. This, combined with the new, more stringent late policy will lead to much lower grades for students if they do not keep up. Encourage your child to utilize their planner EVERY day, do homework first thing when they arrive home, and to ASK questions if they need help.
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
Book Checks (students bring their books to school to receive a grade) were January 23-24. This time, we will have 2 literature circle discussion groups: 1st (half the book should be read at this point) on Feb. 8 and the 2nd (book should be completely read) on Feb. 22. PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
Many of the Constitution projects were excellent; there were a possible 170 points and many received all 170. Some received extra credit for submitting the project early or doing outstanding work. Then, there were those, that in spite of having six weeks to complete this project, turned in very poor quality work or none at all. Please ask your student to see the project and the grade sheet accompanying it. This is 25% of the grade for the six weeks so if the student did not do the project or if he/she received a low grade, that student needs to do some extra credit work immediately.
The students had their major test over the Constitution/Bill of Rights this week. The grade on that will be reflected in the progress report out this next week, January 30.
Your students received their advance assignment on Chapter 8 due on Monday/Tuesday, January 28/29. It is imperative they all complete their work on time from now on because we shall be moving rapidly through the rest of the material.
TAKS review has started; TAKS review questions will be the warm up at the beginning of the period. By now, all students should have a spiral notebook to use for this class. The TAKS questions and review belong in this notebook. TAKS review for history will be during my tutorials on Monday. Also, Mrs. Powell will be running TAKS tutorials after school. In addition, students from Episcopal High School are here to work with any student on any subject after school in the library.
Congratulations to Jacob Stewart! He is our all school winner for the GeoBee. He will take a written test to determine if he advances to the State GeoBee. Runners up are Darius Altman and Drew McMillian.
Science:
All Classes
This week 1/28-2/1 we will be using the mouse trap cars (see project requirements bellow) to apply the mathematical formulas under experimental conditions.Many of the objectives covered will inter-relate and be repeated throughout the next two weeks.
(See specific objectives from previous blog)
MOUSE TRAP CAR PROJECT REQUIREMENTS1. Car must travel a minimum of three meters2. Car must be powered by mouse trap(s)3. Original designs preferred and rewarded but not required, students may use kits4. Cars are due 1/28 and 1/29 ready to be tested. No Class Time for Construction, No late work GRADING REQUIRMENTS
DAY ONE: 1/28 or 1/29
1. Aesthetics, students should decorate, paint or generally make their car their own (1 grade)2. Car rolls under mouse trap power for at least 3 meters (1 grade)3. Car is complete and ready to conduct experiments on the day it is due (1 grade)
DAY TWO AND BEYOND4. Student will complete experiments with their car about speed, acceleration, force, work, and power (5 grades)5. Each experiment must have a complete data table, graph of results and conclusion demonstrating understanding of problem.6. Extra credit for original designs and constructions (1 grade)I would encourage students to attempt to design and construct an original car, see the internet, but will allow students to construct kits (a good place to find kits are Hobby Lobby or any model store), but there is no reason for students to not have a completed car.
Thanks and drive safely
Math:
Algebra 1: We will continue to work on inequalities, extending our study to inequalities in two variables. We will continue to work in Chapter 6. Tuesday, students will have a quiz covering objective 2. Some classes have taken the quiz and will not be repeating it. This will be for the classes that have not taken it. The objective 3 quiz will be Friday for the classes that have not taken it. The Objective 4 Packets will be due on Friday. Students can come for additional help on Thursday. They should complete as many questions as they can and seek assistance earlier than Thursday. Thursday is good for last minute questions and for assistance with Objective 3 concepts. I will be glad to help students throughout the week, even during advisory.
Pre-Algebra: Students are diligently working through Chapter 5 of the text. We will soon finish the chapter and will have a Chapter test next week. Students need to make sure they have done the vocabulary for the chapter. Students have a quiz on the Objective 2 material on Monday.
Students in all classes have received back both their objective 2 & 3 packets with grades on them. They should correct errors and study the packets to prepare for the two short quizzes (10 questions each) that will draw from the packets. The quizzes are the first meeting of the week (Monday or Tuesday, depending on the class), and the last meeting of the week: Friday for all students. Friday, students have due Objective 4. We will spend time in class each meeting discussing questions students have on these packets.
All students have been asked to keep all their objective materials (Objectives 1-6, both packets and returned quizzes). We will review for the TAKs over the course of the semester. Students need to have them available in class. Please make sure your student has graph paper, highlighters, and colored pencils to use in class. We are practicing taking good notes and writing study questions from those notes. Please ask your student to show you their returned Objective Quizzes and packets. All incorrect answers should be corrected.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Progress Reports go home Wednesday, Jan. 30th.
The Pin Oak PTO is asking for help in putting together gift baskets for Family Game Night beginning in February. Each cluster is responsible for one basket. These will be made possible by donations from students and parents. Our cluster’s theme is MUSIC. We think it might be easiest to collect one dollar from each student and purchase items for the basket at one time.
In all core classes, late policies for each teacher have become more stringent in effort to encourage students to be on time regarding work, as high school teachers will expect.
A message from Bellaire High School:
High School is almost here! We can’t wait to meet you and your parents! Please come to our information night for zoned 8th graders:
Bellaire High School
Tuesday, February 5, 2008 7 p.m.
Bellaire H.S. Auditorium - Entrance on South Rice
English:
We are continuing our work on persuasive essays about the story we read in class, “The Lady or the Tiger?” Grades are being taken along the way for completion, and the amount of grades taken for the final result (the typed paper, due date TBA) hasn’t been decided quite yet. It will either be 2 grades or 3. Learning this writing style and format is so important, as it will be seen again and again in English and beyond. Quite a bit of time is being given in class to work on papers so I can be available to consult with, but some writing/editing should be done at home. If you do not see your child working on their paper at home, something is wrong. Ask them to see it. Any/all assistance you can offer at home is greatly appreciated.
This week, we will begin reading 12 Angry Men, the play. First, we will watch the Henry Fonda movie version, as I believe that seeing it performed—as it was written to be—will be helpful before reading the play in class. We will be doing related activities for this unit.
Please bear in mind that extra credit opportunities this semester will be very limited. Students need to focus on turning work in that is QUALITY work and handed in ON TIME. This, combined with the new, more stringent late policy will lead to much lower grades for students if they do not keep up. Encourage your child to utilize their planner EVERY day, do homework first thing when they arrive home, and to ASK questions if they need help.
INDEPENDENT BOOK UNIT: Biography, Autobiography, and Memoirs
Book Checks (students bring their books to school to receive a grade) were January 23-24. This time, we will have 2 literature circle discussion groups: 1st (half the book should be read at this point) on Feb. 8 and the 2nd (book should be completely read) on Feb. 22. PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
Many of the Constitution projects were excellent; there were a possible 170 points and many received all 170. Some received extra credit for submitting the project early or doing outstanding work. Then, there were those, that in spite of having six weeks to complete this project, turned in very poor quality work or none at all. Please ask your student to see the project and the grade sheet accompanying it. This is 25% of the grade for the six weeks so if the student did not do the project or if he/she received a low grade, that student needs to do some extra credit work immediately.
The students had their major test over the Constitution/Bill of Rights this week. The grade on that will be reflected in the progress report out this next week, January 30.
Your students received their advance assignment on Chapter 8 due on Monday/Tuesday, January 28/29. It is imperative they all complete their work on time from now on because we shall be moving rapidly through the rest of the material.
TAKS review has started; TAKS review questions will be the warm up at the beginning of the period. By now, all students should have a spiral notebook to use for this class. The TAKS questions and review belong in this notebook. TAKS review for history will be during my tutorials on Monday. Also, Mrs. Powell will be running TAKS tutorials after school. In addition, students from Episcopal High School are here to work with any student on any subject after school in the library.
Congratulations to Jacob Stewart! He is our all school winner for the GeoBee. He will take a written test to determine if he advances to the State GeoBee. Runners up are Darius Altman and Drew McMillian.
Science:
All Classes
This week 1/28-2/1 we will be using the mouse trap cars (see project requirements bellow) to apply the mathematical formulas under experimental conditions.Many of the objectives covered will inter-relate and be repeated throughout the next two weeks.
(See specific objectives from previous blog)
MOUSE TRAP CAR PROJECT REQUIREMENTS1. Car must travel a minimum of three meters2. Car must be powered by mouse trap(s)3. Original designs preferred and rewarded but not required, students may use kits4. Cars are due 1/28 and 1/29 ready to be tested. No Class Time for Construction, No late work GRADING REQUIRMENTS
DAY ONE: 1/28 or 1/29
1. Aesthetics, students should decorate, paint or generally make their car their own (1 grade)2. Car rolls under mouse trap power for at least 3 meters (1 grade)3. Car is complete and ready to conduct experiments on the day it is due (1 grade)
DAY TWO AND BEYOND4. Student will complete experiments with their car about speed, acceleration, force, work, and power (5 grades)5. Each experiment must have a complete data table, graph of results and conclusion demonstrating understanding of problem.6. Extra credit for original designs and constructions (1 grade)I would encourage students to attempt to design and construct an original car, see the internet, but will allow students to construct kits (a good place to find kits are Hobby Lobby or any model store), but there is no reason for students to not have a completed car.
Thanks and drive safely
Math:
Algebra 1: We will continue to work on inequalities, extending our study to inequalities in two variables. We will continue to work in Chapter 6. Tuesday, students will have a quiz covering objective 2. Some classes have taken the quiz and will not be repeating it. This will be for the classes that have not taken it. The objective 3 quiz will be Friday for the classes that have not taken it. The Objective 4 Packets will be due on Friday. Students can come for additional help on Thursday. They should complete as many questions as they can and seek assistance earlier than Thursday. Thursday is good for last minute questions and for assistance with Objective 3 concepts. I will be glad to help students throughout the week, even during advisory.
Pre-Algebra: Students are diligently working through Chapter 5 of the text. We will soon finish the chapter and will have a Chapter test next week. Students need to make sure they have done the vocabulary for the chapter. Students have a quiz on the Objective 2 material on Monday.
Students in all classes have received back both their objective 2 & 3 packets with grades on them. They should correct errors and study the packets to prepare for the two short quizzes (10 questions each) that will draw from the packets. The quizzes are the first meeting of the week (Monday or Tuesday, depending on the class), and the last meeting of the week: Friday for all students. Friday, students have due Objective 4. We will spend time in class each meeting discussing questions students have on these packets.
All students have been asked to keep all their objective materials (Objectives 1-6, both packets and returned quizzes). We will review for the TAKs over the course of the semester. Students need to have them available in class. Please make sure your student has graph paper, highlighters, and colored pencils to use in class. We are practicing taking good notes and writing study questions from those notes. Please ask your student to show you their returned Objective Quizzes and packets. All incorrect answers should be corrected.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Weekly Update 1/22-26
IMPORTANT REMIDNERS/EVENTS:
Upcoming school holiday is Monday, January 21, 2008—Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. No school.
The Pin Oak PTO is asking for help in putting together gift baskets for Family Game Night beginning in February. Each cluster is responsible for one basket. These will be made possible by donations from students and parents. Our cluster’s theme is MUSIC. We think it might be easiest to collect one dollar from each student and purchase items for the basket at one time.
Stanford Testing is complete. The testing ran smoothly, and we are proud of our students’ efforts.
Events around the district that may be of interest to parents and students:
Partnership for Kids Invites…
Parents + Houston lndependent School District + West Region + Bellaire Feeder Pattern + Community
Pershing Middle School Library
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
January 24, 2008
We have things planned for you!
The West Region Parent Education Program Manager will discuss plans for a Parent University and what that means for you and your family. In addition, visit our health booth to get information about health care and low-cost insurance.
6:30 – 7:00 Welcome & General Session
7:00 – 7:30 Break-Out Session I
7:30 – 8:00 Break-Out Session II
Lamar High School Freshmen Round-Up:
All 8th graders attending Lamar High School Fall 2008 are invited to attend Lamar High School’s annual Freshman Round Up Part II: Spotlighting Campus Life, Athletics, Fine Arts,
Clubs & Organizations Tuesday, January 29, 20086:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. @ Lamar Auditorium
English:
During testing, the students read a story from our literature book called, “The Lady or the Tiger?” After the reading students were to argue both sides of the central question: Did she send her lover to the tiger or the lady? Their conclusion should be based on textual evidence. They were given a discussion web worksheet to organize their findings. Students should find 3 reasons to support each side, and 2-3 pieces of textual evidence to support each reason. This graphic organizer is a pre-writing activity for an essay assigned at the end of the week. After gathering all the evidence for both sides, students should make individual decisions about which side to support. I want the students to write more than one draft and really produce a quality paper. Some of this will be done at home, some at school. Due date is TBA. This activity is a great introduction into our next in-class reading, the play, 12 Angry Men.
FYI: (a repeat from last week, but please be aware of dates)
Independent Books/Projects: Our new unit is over biographies/autobiographies/memoirs. Students received a list of books on the first day back and have already given me their choices (and should have already had you sign their parent approval form as well, so this information shouldn’t be new). Parent approval forms are due Thursday/Friday 1/10-11. Book Checks (students bring their books to school to receive a grade) are January 23-24. This time, we will have 2 literature circle discussion groups: 1st (half the book should be read at this point) on Feb. 9 and the 2nd (book should be completely read) on Feb. 23. PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
With shortened classes this week and testing every morning, the history students have been working on the GeoBee questions. They are labeling maps relating to the questions so this is helping them not only for U. S. History, but also for geography next year. We will finish the preliminary rounds this week and, possibly, the finals. The winner of the school GeoBee will take a written test to determine if he/she advances to the State GeoBee.
Several students submitted their Constitution projects early for extra credit. The rest are due this Friday, January 18. I hope to have these graded and returned next week. Please encourage your students to keep the project for use in high school history and government classes as well as for review for their standardized tests in high school.
Next week, the students all will be taking their test over the Constitution and Bill of Rights and continuing with the next unit on the new republic which covers the period of 1789 to 1825. In addition, we will be using some TAKS review for “warmup”.
All students should have a spiral notebook to use for this class. Please obtain this for them over the weekend if they do not have one. All class notes must be in this spiral and returned work should be taped in it in the order we covered the material. The students all have a folder in file cases for returned work, but some are not checking their folders.
Extra Credit: I have an on-going extra credit assignment for any of the students who wish to avail themselves of it. If a student goes on a trip any place out of town, he/she may keep a journal of the trip with a map showing where traveled, visit something educational such as a special park or museum, write about what the student learned, take some pictures, and make it all into a booklet. Include the distance traveled, what was different about that location from here, and anything interesting that the student experienced or observed. A student may also do this for Houston by visiting museums or special events at the museums. For instance, the Lucy exhibit is still here. Several have attended that, make a little booklet with the ticket and brochure as well as a write up of what they learned. I have suggested they play tourist here and visit some of the unique museums and sites we have here. If you have any questions about this assignment, please send me an e-mail. Again, it is not required; it is extra credit.
Science:
All ClassesThe next two weeks will be a powerhouse of introductory physics.
We will be doing experiments that range from rolling marbles across a table to measure speed and acceleration, and running the stairs to calculate work and power, to mouse trap car racing where all the previous mathematical and conceptual ideas come together in a culminating event.
This is a very important unit for all students, for the Pre/AP and Science 8 students it may be the most detailed exposure they will get in physics until 11th grade and for the IPC students it will be the foundation for the rest of this semester.
This coming week 1/21-1/25 will focus mathematical applications of conceptual physics and the following week 1/28-2/1 will be using the mouse trap cars (see project requirements bellow) to apply the mathematical formulas under experimental conditions.
Many of the objectives covered will inter-relate and be repeated throughout the next two weeks.
TLW:
1. Distinguish and calculate between speed and velocity
2. Calculate acceleration and apply under experimental conditions
3. Define force mathematically and describe its relationship to motion
4. Compare and contrast the three types of friction
5. predict the results of balanced and unbalanced forces in experiments
6. Describe and apply Newton’s three laws to examples of motion
7. Relate the force of gravity to free fall, projectile motion and orbital motion
8. explain the relationships between gravitational force, mass, and distance and mass to weight
9. Define and apply work in terms of force and distance
10. Describe power as work over time
11. Demonstrate mastery of all the mathematical formulas and units of measurement relating to speed, acceleration, force, work and power
MOUSE TRAP CAR PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
1. Car must travel a minimum of three meters
2. Car must be powered by mouse trap(s)
3. Original designs preferred and rewarded but not required, students may use kits
4. Cars are due 1/28 and 1/29 ready to be tested. No Class Time for Construction
GRADING REQUIRMENTS
1. Aesthetics, students should decorate, paint or generally make their car their own (1 grade)
2. Car rolls under mouse trap power for at least 3 meters (1 grade)
3. Car is complete and ready to conduct experiments on the day it is due (1 grade)
4. Student will complete experiments with their car about speed, acceleration, force, work, and power (5 grades)
5. Each experiment must have a complete data table, graph of results and conclusion demonstrating understanding of problem.
6. Extra credit for original designs and constructions (1 grade)
I would encourage students to attempt to design and construct an original car but will allow students to construct kits (a good place to find kits are Hobby Lobby or any model store)
Math:
Algebra 1: We will steadily work through Chapter 6 of the main textbook. Students will learn how to solve and graph inequalities.
Pre-Algebra: Students are learning about percents and percent word problems. Students will learn how to estimate percents and will apply the percent equation. Students will learn to find and use the percent of increase and the percent of decrease in real world situations.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com
Upcoming school holiday is Monday, January 21, 2008—Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. No school.
The Pin Oak PTO is asking for help in putting together gift baskets for Family Game Night beginning in February. Each cluster is responsible for one basket. These will be made possible by donations from students and parents. Our cluster’s theme is MUSIC. We think it might be easiest to collect one dollar from each student and purchase items for the basket at one time.
Stanford Testing is complete. The testing ran smoothly, and we are proud of our students’ efforts.
Events around the district that may be of interest to parents and students:
Partnership for Kids Invites…
Parents + Houston lndependent School District + West Region + Bellaire Feeder Pattern + Community
Pershing Middle School Library
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
January 24, 2008
We have things planned for you!
The West Region Parent Education Program Manager will discuss plans for a Parent University and what that means for you and your family. In addition, visit our health booth to get information about health care and low-cost insurance.
6:30 – 7:00 Welcome & General Session
7:00 – 7:30 Break-Out Session I
7:30 – 8:00 Break-Out Session II
Lamar High School Freshmen Round-Up:
All 8th graders attending Lamar High School Fall 2008 are invited to attend Lamar High School’s annual Freshman Round Up Part II: Spotlighting Campus Life, Athletics, Fine Arts,
Clubs & Organizations Tuesday, January 29, 20086:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. @ Lamar Auditorium
English:
During testing, the students read a story from our literature book called, “The Lady or the Tiger?” After the reading students were to argue both sides of the central question: Did she send her lover to the tiger or the lady? Their conclusion should be based on textual evidence. They were given a discussion web worksheet to organize their findings. Students should find 3 reasons to support each side, and 2-3 pieces of textual evidence to support each reason. This graphic organizer is a pre-writing activity for an essay assigned at the end of the week. After gathering all the evidence for both sides, students should make individual decisions about which side to support. I want the students to write more than one draft and really produce a quality paper. Some of this will be done at home, some at school. Due date is TBA. This activity is a great introduction into our next in-class reading, the play, 12 Angry Men.
FYI: (a repeat from last week, but please be aware of dates)
Independent Books/Projects: Our new unit is over biographies/autobiographies/memoirs. Students received a list of books on the first day back and have already given me their choices (and should have already had you sign their parent approval form as well, so this information shouldn’t be new). Parent approval forms are due Thursday/Friday 1/10-11. Book Checks (students bring their books to school to receive a grade) are January 23-24. This time, we will have 2 literature circle discussion groups: 1st (half the book should be read at this point) on Feb. 9 and the 2nd (book should be completely read) on Feb. 23. PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
History:
With shortened classes this week and testing every morning, the history students have been working on the GeoBee questions. They are labeling maps relating to the questions so this is helping them not only for U. S. History, but also for geography next year. We will finish the preliminary rounds this week and, possibly, the finals. The winner of the school GeoBee will take a written test to determine if he/she advances to the State GeoBee.
Several students submitted their Constitution projects early for extra credit. The rest are due this Friday, January 18. I hope to have these graded and returned next week. Please encourage your students to keep the project for use in high school history and government classes as well as for review for their standardized tests in high school.
Next week, the students all will be taking their test over the Constitution and Bill of Rights and continuing with the next unit on the new republic which covers the period of 1789 to 1825. In addition, we will be using some TAKS review for “warmup”.
All students should have a spiral notebook to use for this class. Please obtain this for them over the weekend if they do not have one. All class notes must be in this spiral and returned work should be taped in it in the order we covered the material. The students all have a folder in file cases for returned work, but some are not checking their folders.
Extra Credit: I have an on-going extra credit assignment for any of the students who wish to avail themselves of it. If a student goes on a trip any place out of town, he/she may keep a journal of the trip with a map showing where traveled, visit something educational such as a special park or museum, write about what the student learned, take some pictures, and make it all into a booklet. Include the distance traveled, what was different about that location from here, and anything interesting that the student experienced or observed. A student may also do this for Houston by visiting museums or special events at the museums. For instance, the Lucy exhibit is still here. Several have attended that, make a little booklet with the ticket and brochure as well as a write up of what they learned. I have suggested they play tourist here and visit some of the unique museums and sites we have here. If you have any questions about this assignment, please send me an e-mail. Again, it is not required; it is extra credit.
Science:
All ClassesThe next two weeks will be a powerhouse of introductory physics.
We will be doing experiments that range from rolling marbles across a table to measure speed and acceleration, and running the stairs to calculate work and power, to mouse trap car racing where all the previous mathematical and conceptual ideas come together in a culminating event.
This is a very important unit for all students, for the Pre/AP and Science 8 students it may be the most detailed exposure they will get in physics until 11th grade and for the IPC students it will be the foundation for the rest of this semester.
This coming week 1/21-1/25 will focus mathematical applications of conceptual physics and the following week 1/28-2/1 will be using the mouse trap cars (see project requirements bellow) to apply the mathematical formulas under experimental conditions.
Many of the objectives covered will inter-relate and be repeated throughout the next two weeks.
TLW:
1. Distinguish and calculate between speed and velocity
2. Calculate acceleration and apply under experimental conditions
3. Define force mathematically and describe its relationship to motion
4. Compare and contrast the three types of friction
5. predict the results of balanced and unbalanced forces in experiments
6. Describe and apply Newton’s three laws to examples of motion
7. Relate the force of gravity to free fall, projectile motion and orbital motion
8. explain the relationships between gravitational force, mass, and distance and mass to weight
9. Define and apply work in terms of force and distance
10. Describe power as work over time
11. Demonstrate mastery of all the mathematical formulas and units of measurement relating to speed, acceleration, force, work and power
MOUSE TRAP CAR PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
1. Car must travel a minimum of three meters
2. Car must be powered by mouse trap(s)
3. Original designs preferred and rewarded but not required, students may use kits
4. Cars are due 1/28 and 1/29 ready to be tested. No Class Time for Construction
GRADING REQUIRMENTS
1. Aesthetics, students should decorate, paint or generally make their car their own (1 grade)
2. Car rolls under mouse trap power for at least 3 meters (1 grade)
3. Car is complete and ready to conduct experiments on the day it is due (1 grade)
4. Student will complete experiments with their car about speed, acceleration, force, work, and power (5 grades)
5. Each experiment must have a complete data table, graph of results and conclusion demonstrating understanding of problem.
6. Extra credit for original designs and constructions (1 grade)
I would encourage students to attempt to design and construct an original car but will allow students to construct kits (a good place to find kits are Hobby Lobby or any model store)
Math:
Algebra 1: We will steadily work through Chapter 6 of the main textbook. Students will learn how to solve and graph inequalities.
Pre-Algebra: Students are learning about percents and percent word problems. Students will learn how to estimate percents and will apply the percent equation. Students will learn to find and use the percent of increase and the percent of decrease in real world situations.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com
Thursday, January 10, 2008
WEEKLY UPDATE 1/14-18
IMPORTANT REMIDNERS/EVENTS:
Report Cards go home this Friday, January 11, 2008.
Upcoming school holiday is Monday, January 21, 2008—Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
The Pin Oak PTO is asking for help in putting together gift baskets for Family Game Night beginning in February. Each cluster is responsible for one basket. These will be made possible by donations from students and parents. We will collect donations at school and any/all help is greatly appreciated!! Our cluster’s theme is MUSIC. Possible donation ideas: iTunes gift cards, MP3 players, CD’s, Best Buy gift cards, ear buds/head phones, concert tickets, music lessons, Brook May’s gift cards, sheet music, guitar picks, etc.—anything you can think of that goes along with the MUSIC theme. We will begin collecting your donations immediately. Thank you so much for your support!!
Stanford Testing is next week Tuesday-Friday. Stanford is a national assessment that tests our students in 10 areas and gives us scores in comparison to other students on a national basis. It is considered a snapshot test, so besides our already rigorous curriculum, there is no “preparation.” Students should do their best to get restful sleep, layer clothing, and eat a good breakfast during testing to aid in their success. Here is the schedule next week:
STANFORD TESTING SCHEDULE:
Monday-Charger Day
Tuesday & Thursday – Funky Blue
8:30 – 11:30 Testing
11:35-1:45 5th period (kids eat at their normal lunch times)
1:50 – 2:25 1st period
2:30 – 3:05 3rd period
3:10 – 3:45 7th period
Wednesday & Friday – Funky Green
8:30 – 11:30 Testing
11:35-1:45 6th period (kids eat at their normal lunch times)
1:50 – 2:25 2nd period
2:30 – 3:05 4th period
3:10 – 3:45 8th period
TESTING SUBJECTS/DAYS:
Tuesday – Science & Social Science
Wednesday – Reading Vocab & Reading Comprehension
Thursday – Math Problem Solving & Math Procedures
Friday – Language, Spelling, & Listening
English:
Next week, we will continue studying verbs and doing related activities. Students should expect a QUIZ at some point after Stanford testing next week. On the horizon: we will be reading 12 Angry Men in class. We will begin with the movie (as it is originally a play and meant to be seen) and then assign roles and read it in class. We will do related activities including vocabulary, quizzes, character analysis, etc. When students miss class, they will miss the reading. If this happens, it is vital that they stay after school the day they return so they can catch up and/or purchase their own copy to keep up at home.
Independent Books/Projects: Our new unit is over biographies/autobiographies/memoirs. Students received a list of books on the first day back and have already given me their choices (and should have already had you sign their parent approval form as well, so this information shouldn’t be new). Parent approval forms are due Thursday/Friday 1/10-11. Book Checks (students bring their books to school to receive a grade) are January 23-24. I highly encourage getting books sooner than that to get a head start on the reading, especially for students involved in many extra-curricular activities or who take more time reading. This time, we will have 2 literature circle discussion groups: 1st (half the book should be read at this point) on Feb. 9 and the 2nd (book should be completely read) on Feb. 23. PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
NEW POLICY: With our 8th graders entering high school in the near future, I like to transition them into str
icter policies in the spring semester to hopefully acclimate them to their future high school environments. That said, I have implemented a new late policy. In the past, there were three strikes (1st day=20 point off, 2nd day=40 points off, 3rd day=50 points off). Now, students who turn in work late (late being anytime after I pick up the assignment in class) will receive a 50, or a 0 if they never turn the assignment in. I am hoping this will deter procrastination and the frequency of late work I receive. The only exception to this policy is if they did the work, but left it in their locker. It is still late, but I will give them a 70 instead, if they get the work right after class and bring it to me before the next period begins. In addition, the extra credit opportunities offered this semester will be limited. The emphasis should be on regularly assigned work, and no extra credit may be done until the student has cleared all zeroes in my class first. Please speak with your child about this policy and encourage them to do all work on time.
History:
Next week, the students will have the Stanford tests so we will have a different schedule. However, their Constitution Projects are due on January 18 regardless if they have history class that day. This project must be bound, not in a notebook. The students may bind them themselves or take them to a center. I expect complete, scholarly, and quality work.
We are completing our study of the Constitution and Bill of Rights this week and will have a test over this material next week. The textbook assignment and packet previously given are due the day the students have their test.
All students should have a spiral notebook this semester for the history work. Many are not taking notes nor keeping their returned work. Hopefully, using the spiral will help the students in their study of history. I will be grading these notebooks each six weeks for a major grade. The spiral notebooks are available in the school store.
Science:
Please email Mr. Scott for Science Info
Math:
Algebra 1 (meeting Monday, Wednesday, and Friday):
Last week, students worked to finish a few sections in Chapter 5. The main topics were fitting a line to data and parallel/perpendicular lines. This week, due to testing, there will not be homework until the last class period of the week (for the weekend). Students will begin Chapter 6, “Solving and Graphing Linear Inequalities”, starting on page 354 of the text. Students will begin to solve inequalities using the four operations. Sections 6.1-6.3 are on the agenda for next week.
Pre-Algebra (meeting Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday):
Students have begun working in Chapter 5, “Percents”. We will continue in Chapter 5 during the week. Due to Stanford Testing, students will have no homework until the last class period of the week. Students have a quiz on Monday covering TAKS Objective 2. The TAKS Objective 3 Packet is due on Monday as well. Students are well aware of these dates and class time has been given to answer any questions they may have on these two topics.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com
Report Cards go home this Friday, January 11, 2008.
Upcoming school holiday is Monday, January 21, 2008—Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
The Pin Oak PTO is asking for help in putting together gift baskets for Family Game Night beginning in February. Each cluster is responsible for one basket. These will be made possible by donations from students and parents. We will collect donations at school and any/all help is greatly appreciated!! Our cluster’s theme is MUSIC. Possible donation ideas: iTunes gift cards, MP3 players, CD’s, Best Buy gift cards, ear buds/head phones, concert tickets, music lessons, Brook May’s gift cards, sheet music, guitar picks, etc.—anything you can think of that goes along with the MUSIC theme. We will begin collecting your donations immediately. Thank you so much for your support!!
Stanford Testing is next week Tuesday-Friday. Stanford is a national assessment that tests our students in 10 areas and gives us scores in comparison to other students on a national basis. It is considered a snapshot test, so besides our already rigorous curriculum, there is no “preparation.” Students should do their best to get restful sleep, layer clothing, and eat a good breakfast during testing to aid in their success. Here is the schedule next week:
STANFORD TESTING SCHEDULE:
Monday-Charger Day
Tuesday & Thursday – Funky Blue
8:30 – 11:30 Testing
11:35-1:45 5th period (kids eat at their normal lunch times)
1:50 – 2:25 1st period
2:30 – 3:05 3rd period
3:10 – 3:45 7th period
Wednesday & Friday – Funky Green
8:30 – 11:30 Testing
11:35-1:45 6th period (kids eat at their normal lunch times)
1:50 – 2:25 2nd period
2:30 – 3:05 4th period
3:10 – 3:45 8th period
TESTING SUBJECTS/DAYS:
Tuesday – Science & Social Science
Wednesday – Reading Vocab & Reading Comprehension
Thursday – Math Problem Solving & Math Procedures
Friday – Language, Spelling, & Listening
English:
Next week, we will continue studying verbs and doing related activities. Students should expect a QUIZ at some point after Stanford testing next week. On the horizon: we will be reading 12 Angry Men in class. We will begin with the movie (as it is originally a play and meant to be seen) and then assign roles and read it in class. We will do related activities including vocabulary, quizzes, character analysis, etc. When students miss class, they will miss the reading. If this happens, it is vital that they stay after school the day they return so they can catch up and/or purchase their own copy to keep up at home.
Independent Books/Projects: Our new unit is over biographies/autobiographies/memoirs. Students received a list of books on the first day back and have already given me their choices (and should have already had you sign their parent approval form as well, so this information shouldn’t be new). Parent approval forms are due Thursday/Friday 1/10-11. Book Checks (students bring their books to school to receive a grade) are January 23-24. I highly encourage getting books sooner than that to get a head start on the reading, especially for students involved in many extra-curricular activities or who take more time reading. This time, we will have 2 literature circle discussion groups: 1st (half the book should be read at this point) on Feb. 9 and the 2nd (book should be completely read) on Feb. 23. PROJECTS are due March 28-29 (this is AFTER TAKS and SPRING BREAK) and will be presented in class.
NEW POLICY: With our 8th graders entering high school in the near future, I like to transition them into str
icter policies in the spring semester to hopefully acclimate them to their future high school environments. That said, I have implemented a new late policy. In the past, there were three strikes (1st day=20 point off, 2nd day=40 points off, 3rd day=50 points off). Now, students who turn in work late (late being anytime after I pick up the assignment in class) will receive a 50, or a 0 if they never turn the assignment in. I am hoping this will deter procrastination and the frequency of late work I receive. The only exception to this policy is if they did the work, but left it in their locker. It is still late, but I will give them a 70 instead, if they get the work right after class and bring it to me before the next period begins. In addition, the extra credit opportunities offered this semester will be limited. The emphasis should be on regularly assigned work, and no extra credit may be done until the student has cleared all zeroes in my class first. Please speak with your child about this policy and encourage them to do all work on time.History:
Next week, the students will have the Stanford tests so we will have a different schedule. However, their Constitution Projects are due on January 18 regardless if they have history class that day. This project must be bound, not in a notebook. The students may bind them themselves or take them to a center. I expect complete, scholarly, and quality work.
We are completing our study of the Constitution and Bill of Rights this week and will have a test over this material next week. The textbook assignment and packet previously given are due the day the students have their test.
All students should have a spiral notebook this semester for the history work. Many are not taking notes nor keeping their returned work. Hopefully, using the spiral will help the students in their study of history. I will be grading these notebooks each six weeks for a major grade. The spiral notebooks are available in the school store.
Science:
Please email Mr. Scott for Science Info
Math:
Algebra 1 (meeting Monday, Wednesday, and Friday):
Last week, students worked to finish a few sections in Chapter 5. The main topics were fitting a line to data and parallel/perpendicular lines. This week, due to testing, there will not be homework until the last class period of the week (for the weekend). Students will begin Chapter 6, “Solving and Graphing Linear Inequalities”, starting on page 354 of the text. Students will begin to solve inequalities using the four operations. Sections 6.1-6.3 are on the agenda for next week.
Pre-Algebra (meeting Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday):
Students have begun working in Chapter 5, “Percents”. We will continue in Chapter 5 during the week. Due to Stanford Testing, students will have no homework until the last class period of the week. Students have a quiz on Monday covering TAKS Objective 2. The TAKS Objective 3 Packet is due on Monday as well. Students are well aware of these dates and class time has been given to answer any questions they may have on these two topics.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Weekly Update 12/17-20
IMPORTANT REMIDNERS/EVENTS:
The holidays are almost here!! This week, school will be in session Monday through Thursday with Thursday being an Early Release Day at 1 pm. Please arrange for appropriate transportations for your child at 1pm. There is no school on Friday. Enjoy the break!
Our team wishes you and yours the happiest of holidays and a relaxing break from work and school. School resumes on Monday, January 7. See you in 2008!
English:
This week, we are wrapping up our Holocaust unit by watching Freedom Writers in class. Only students who have produced a signed permission slip from a parent are permitted to watch the film. The film features Miep Gies, The Frank family’s helper, and has an overall powerful message about learning despite individual circumstances.
ALL WORK IS DUE BY WED. DEC. 19 FOR MY CLASS, No exceptions. ALL EXTRA CREDIT is due by DEC. 17.
History:
Last Thursday, many of the students had a unique opportunity. For the first time in the history of school, the students participated in a distance learning activity from Antarctica. Ann Linsley and Dr. Andrew Klein reported on the research on the human impact on the environment in and around McMurdo in Antarctica. This is one of the main scientific bases on the continent and has been in operation for many years. In years past, people were not as concerned about environmental impact as they are now so this research is helping the scientists determine what types of contaminants are there and how these are affecting the environment. This was a live broadcast and the students were able to ask questions of the two researchers. There were a number of pictures showing the environment and the research. This broadcast was picked up by a number of schools and individuals around the country. It also was unique in that it focused on the Bellaire feeder pattern with Horn Academy, Pin Oak, and Bellaire High School all participating in the same project. There should be an article in the education section of the newspaper this week or next.
I am going to be participating in some of the debriefing of this project in Auckland and Christ Church and will be gone next week.
The assignments for next week and after the holiday are as follows:
Read and study, pp. 217-230, answer questions 5-14, p. 231. These should be answered in complete sentences. Define the terms a-f. Read and study the Constitution, pp. 233-253. Study the sidebars and answer all questions in the sidebars. Also, keep a separate list of the vocabulary terms and their definitions as instructed. Work on the three sheets relating to the Constitution given to you on Tuesday and Wednesday. All of these will go into the back of the Constitution booklet due January 18. We will be discussing the questions in class.
Websites for the Constitution booklet:
http://www.house.gov/htbin/wrep_findrep
http://www.usa.gov/Agencies/federal.shtml
These websites will help on the Constitution project.
All of the students have received the assignment on the Constitution project.
Most of the students did a wonderful job on the storyboard. I am counting this as a test grade because the requirements for this assignment and the learning resulting were more challenging than reviewing for a test.
Students always have the opportunity for extra-credit over holidays. If they leave town, they may keep a journal, mark the route on a map, visit something educational, take pictures, and generally have a good record of their trip. This should be presented as a booklet with pictures and neatly written.
I wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday, and Great New Year! I will see the students again on January 7.
Science:
Please email Mr. Scott for Science Info
Math:
Algebra: Testing 123…Students in Algebra 1 will take the semester final on Tuesday, December 18th from 9:00-11:00. Students from across the school will take the exam together in the multipurpose room. Reviews were sent home, along with specific questions sections students should review for the exam. Please ask your algebra student to show you how he/she did on the review and require that they review in their texts to get ready for the exam. I will be available after school and during advisory on Monday for any last minute student questions. Vocabulary for Chapter 4 is due on Wednesday.
Pre-Algebra 3rd Period:
We will cover textbook sections 4-6 and 4-7 during class on Monday. Students will complete sections 4-8 in class on Wednesday. Sections 4-9 and 4-10 will be covered the first day we meet after the holidays. All assignments for this week have been assigned and students have been instructed to fill out their agendas with the relevant information.
Pre-Algebra 5th Period:
Monday, December 17th, Students will take a test covering chapter 4. Sections 4-9 and 4-10 are due on Monday, along with the vocabulary for chapter 4.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
The holidays are almost here!! This week, school will be in session Monday through Thursday with Thursday being an Early Release Day at 1 pm. Please arrange for appropriate transportations for your child at 1pm. There is no school on Friday. Enjoy the break!
Our team wishes you and yours the happiest of holidays and a relaxing break from work and school. School resumes on Monday, January 7. See you in 2008!
English:
This week, we are wrapping up our Holocaust unit by watching Freedom Writers in class. Only students who have produced a signed permission slip from a parent are permitted to watch the film. The film features Miep Gies, The Frank family’s helper, and has an overall powerful message about learning despite individual circumstances.
ALL WORK IS DUE BY WED. DEC. 19 FOR MY CLASS, No exceptions. ALL EXTRA CREDIT is due by DEC. 17.
History:
Last Thursday, many of the students had a unique opportunity. For the first time in the history of school, the students participated in a distance learning activity from Antarctica. Ann Linsley and Dr. Andrew Klein reported on the research on the human impact on the environment in and around McMurdo in Antarctica. This is one of the main scientific bases on the continent and has been in operation for many years. In years past, people were not as concerned about environmental impact as they are now so this research is helping the scientists determine what types of contaminants are there and how these are affecting the environment. This was a live broadcast and the students were able to ask questions of the two researchers. There were a number of pictures showing the environment and the research. This broadcast was picked up by a number of schools and individuals around the country. It also was unique in that it focused on the Bellaire feeder pattern with Horn Academy, Pin Oak, and Bellaire High School all participating in the same project. There should be an article in the education section of the newspaper this week or next.
I am going to be participating in some of the debriefing of this project in Auckland and Christ Church and will be gone next week.
The assignments for next week and after the holiday are as follows:
Read and study, pp. 217-230, answer questions 5-14, p. 231. These should be answered in complete sentences. Define the terms a-f. Read and study the Constitution, pp. 233-253. Study the sidebars and answer all questions in the sidebars. Also, keep a separate list of the vocabulary terms and their definitions as instructed. Work on the three sheets relating to the Constitution given to you on Tuesday and Wednesday. All of these will go into the back of the Constitution booklet due January 18. We will be discussing the questions in class.
Websites for the Constitution booklet:
http://www.house.gov/htbin/wrep_findrep
http://www.usa.gov/Agencies/federal.shtml
These websites will help on the Constitution project.
All of the students have received the assignment on the Constitution project.
Most of the students did a wonderful job on the storyboard. I am counting this as a test grade because the requirements for this assignment and the learning resulting were more challenging than reviewing for a test.
Students always have the opportunity for extra-credit over holidays. If they leave town, they may keep a journal, mark the route on a map, visit something educational, take pictures, and generally have a good record of their trip. This should be presented as a booklet with pictures and neatly written.
I wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday, and Great New Year! I will see the students again on January 7.
Science:
Please email Mr. Scott for Science Info
Math:
Algebra: Testing 123…Students in Algebra 1 will take the semester final on Tuesday, December 18th from 9:00-11:00. Students from across the school will take the exam together in the multipurpose room. Reviews were sent home, along with specific questions sections students should review for the exam. Please ask your algebra student to show you how he/she did on the review and require that they review in their texts to get ready for the exam. I will be available after school and during advisory on Monday for any last minute student questions. Vocabulary for Chapter 4 is due on Wednesday.
Pre-Algebra 3rd Period:
We will cover textbook sections 4-6 and 4-7 during class on Monday. Students will complete sections 4-8 in class on Wednesday. Sections 4-9 and 4-10 will be covered the first day we meet after the holidays. All assignments for this week have been assigned and students have been instructed to fill out their agendas with the relevant information.
Pre-Algebra 5th Period:
Monday, December 17th, Students will take a test covering chapter 4. Sections 4-9 and 4-10 are due on Monday, along with the vocabulary for chapter 4.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com/
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Weekly Update 12/10-14
IMPORTANT REMIDNERS/EVENTS:
-Progress reports go home Friday, Dec. 7.
-If your child is applying to magnet high schools and the application requires teacher recommendation letters or forms to be completed, please allow ample time for the teacher. Please speak with your child about how to ask someone for a recommendation--not to just hand it in and assume we will handle it. This is an important life lesson. Be sure to include all necessary documents, including an addressed, stamped envelope where appropriate. Thank you!
English:
Our schedule didn’t work out quite as planned, so this week we will finish up with our in-class novel, Daniel’s Story. A short quiz over Part 3-4 will be Friday, Dec. 14. Monday/Tuesday, Literature Circle Discussions will be happening in class and questions are due. One grade will be based on participation, the other is a grade for the questions. Wednesday/Thursday is IRP Presentations in class. Per my email sent out on Tuesday, I have decided to split up the grade for this assignment between this six weeks and next. This is only because the students have already had several heavily weighted grades on this grading period. Because this grade is at the end of this grading period, students who perform poorly could find themselves with poor or failing grades with little time to do anything about it. Therefore, of the 3 grades this project is worth, 1 grade will be applied to the current grading period, and 2 will be applied to the next.
Parent approval forms are due on or before the day the projects are due, which is Dec. 12-13. Parent approval forms that were turned in on the day of book checks (Nov. 12-13) were awarded extra credit points. Please monitor your child regarding their reading and completing these assignments—time management is key to completing this work, and some students still need guidance with self-pacing.
I have several extra credit opportunities available to students, but time is of the essence. Please remember that extra credit should be completed only after all missing assignments have been turned in.
History:
A major assignment is due on Monday/Tuesday. This is the storyboard relating to three periods in early American History. The students have received the assignment and they have seen examples from a previous year. This must be in on the day due; late work is unacceptable for this assignment.
I assigned the major project on the Constitution and Bill of Rights this week. This assignment is due January 18. It is work the students must know for work in school until they graduate from college and the knowledge of this material will help them to become good citizens. Each student has a copy of the assignment.
Too many students did not complete the assignments on story maps and analyzing a founding father as a hero or villain. These were due over two weeks ago and I have given all the opportunity to turn this work late. Your child’s grade will reflect this on the progress report. Please encourage your student complete the storyboard by Monday/Tuesday and the Constitution project.
Knowing how to use the social studies skills of the story map, analyzing people in history, and the story board will help the students in future social studies classes. These were all new skills for most of the students and, overall, they did an excellent job.
Science:
All Classes
TLW:
1) Complete study guides for Mid-Term exams.
2) Use study guides to create practice tests and complete practice study activities through out the week
The Final exams will count for 25% of the third six weeks average in Science 8/ Pre AP.
The Final exam for IPC will not affect the six weeks average because it counts as 25% of the semester average.
EXAM DATES:
Science 8/PreAP
December 18, 2007
IPC
December 19, 2007
These exams are very important and I am asking you to please help prepare your child to do well:
1) ask to see the study guide
2) quiz them from the study guide
3) make them tell you what’s on the study guide until it becomes second nature.
I will be here on Tuesday and Thursday to help IPC and Monday and Wednesday for science 8/PreAP from 3:50-4:30 for tutorials.
Math:
Algebra 1-all classes:
Students are preparing for the midterm exam. It will be held, Tuesday, December 18th. Students will receive review materials that review the topics that will be on the exam. It is important that students be present during this time, as students will do much of the preparation during class. We are currently working in Chapter 4 of the textbook. Students need not bring their texts to class, as we have a class set at our disposal. Students are also working on the Big Picture, a diagram that brings the first semester concepts together to add clarity. Please ask to see them.
Pre-Algebra:
Students are diligently working through the chapter on proportional and non-proportional relationships. We are discussing scale factor, dilations, and proportionality. Students have learned about using scale factor in the real world. Enlargements on a copier, and the dilation of the pupil of the eye are a few real-world examples. Please discuss with your kids and ask them to define scale factor and it’s uses.
All Math Classes:
We have begun our review as we get ready for TAKS. Each week or two, we will have an objective lesson pack that will help students review concepts in the form they are likely to see them on the TAKS test. This should help students feel more at ease during the test, as the questions are TAKS style questions. Students take quizzes that pull 10 identical questions from the packets. Dates for each class are given in the classroom. They are written on the agenda at the front of the classroom, discussed in class, and are written in the, “week at a glance” chart located on the far board. Agendas are used to record information about class and homework. I ask students each class period to take out and fill out their agendas. Please help me help your student by checking the agenda daily.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com
-Progress reports go home Friday, Dec. 7.
-If your child is applying to magnet high schools and the application requires teacher recommendation letters or forms to be completed, please allow ample time for the teacher. Please speak with your child about how to ask someone for a recommendation--not to just hand it in and assume we will handle it. This is an important life lesson. Be sure to include all necessary documents, including an addressed, stamped envelope where appropriate. Thank you!
English:
Our schedule didn’t work out quite as planned, so this week we will finish up with our in-class novel, Daniel’s Story. A short quiz over Part 3-4 will be Friday, Dec. 14. Monday/Tuesday, Literature Circle Discussions will be happening in class and questions are due. One grade will be based on participation, the other is a grade for the questions. Wednesday/Thursday is IRP Presentations in class. Per my email sent out on Tuesday, I have decided to split up the grade for this assignment between this six weeks and next. This is only because the students have already had several heavily weighted grades on this grading period. Because this grade is at the end of this grading period, students who perform poorly could find themselves with poor or failing grades with little time to do anything about it. Therefore, of the 3 grades this project is worth, 1 grade will be applied to the current grading period, and 2 will be applied to the next.
Parent approval forms are due on or before the day the projects are due, which is Dec. 12-13. Parent approval forms that were turned in on the day of book checks (Nov. 12-13) were awarded extra credit points. Please monitor your child regarding their reading and completing these assignments—time management is key to completing this work, and some students still need guidance with self-pacing.
I have several extra credit opportunities available to students, but time is of the essence. Please remember that extra credit should be completed only after all missing assignments have been turned in.
History:
A major assignment is due on Monday/Tuesday. This is the storyboard relating to three periods in early American History. The students have received the assignment and they have seen examples from a previous year. This must be in on the day due; late work is unacceptable for this assignment.
I assigned the major project on the Constitution and Bill of Rights this week. This assignment is due January 18. It is work the students must know for work in school until they graduate from college and the knowledge of this material will help them to become good citizens. Each student has a copy of the assignment.
Too many students did not complete the assignments on story maps and analyzing a founding father as a hero or villain. These were due over two weeks ago and I have given all the opportunity to turn this work late. Your child’s grade will reflect this on the progress report. Please encourage your student complete the storyboard by Monday/Tuesday and the Constitution project.
Knowing how to use the social studies skills of the story map, analyzing people in history, and the story board will help the students in future social studies classes. These were all new skills for most of the students and, overall, they did an excellent job.
Science:
All Classes
TLW:
1) Complete study guides for Mid-Term exams.
2) Use study guides to create practice tests and complete practice study activities through out the week
The Final exams will count for 25% of the third six weeks average in Science 8/ Pre AP.
The Final exam for IPC will not affect the six weeks average because it counts as 25% of the semester average.
EXAM DATES:
Science 8/PreAP
December 18, 2007
IPC
December 19, 2007
These exams are very important and I am asking you to please help prepare your child to do well:
1) ask to see the study guide
2) quiz them from the study guide
3) make them tell you what’s on the study guide until it becomes second nature.
I will be here on Tuesday and Thursday to help IPC and Monday and Wednesday for science 8/PreAP from 3:50-4:30 for tutorials.
Math:
Algebra 1-all classes:
Students are preparing for the midterm exam. It will be held, Tuesday, December 18th. Students will receive review materials that review the topics that will be on the exam. It is important that students be present during this time, as students will do much of the preparation during class. We are currently working in Chapter 4 of the textbook. Students need not bring their texts to class, as we have a class set at our disposal. Students are also working on the Big Picture, a diagram that brings the first semester concepts together to add clarity. Please ask to see them.
Pre-Algebra:
Students are diligently working through the chapter on proportional and non-proportional relationships. We are discussing scale factor, dilations, and proportionality. Students have learned about using scale factor in the real world. Enlargements on a copier, and the dilation of the pupil of the eye are a few real-world examples. Please discuss with your kids and ask them to define scale factor and it’s uses.
All Math Classes:
We have begun our review as we get ready for TAKS. Each week or two, we will have an objective lesson pack that will help students review concepts in the form they are likely to see them on the TAKS test. This should help students feel more at ease during the test, as the questions are TAKS style questions. Students take quizzes that pull 10 identical questions from the packets. Dates for each class are given in the classroom. They are written on the agenda at the front of the classroom, discussed in class, and are written in the, “week at a glance” chart located on the far board. Agendas are used to record information about class and homework. I ask students each class period to take out and fill out their agendas. Please help me help your student by checking the agenda daily.
Foreign Language Department BLOG: See link below
http://pomsfl.wordpress.com
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