This morning we shared very entertaining non-fiction book reports. I was very impressed with how well the students write using the 3-point essay style. The reports ranged from parrot intelligence to monkeys to spiders to WWI to WWII to survival tactics to art and so forth. They were well written and show lots of detail.
HOMEWORK FOR READING OVER THE VACATION IS AT LEAST 40 MINUTES A DAY. IT WOULD BE BETTER IF KIDS WENT TO THE PUBLIC LIBRARY AND PICKED OUT A DOZEN OR SO BOOKS TO READ.
The kids are struggling a bit with symbolism in reading. We are beginning a critical analysis (the first one) of Crispin, comparing characters, setting, problem/solution, and plot, with the theme "Change". It is a difficult concept to grasp. As one student put it: "What! Can't I just read a book for fun? Or do I have to think about every book I read from now on?" My answer was that a book that you put time into, and immerse yourself in, should change who you are in some small way or big way. Thinking about it critically enhances your thought process and makes you question the world and yourself, making you stronger. I'm not sure the kids understand, but we will be critically analyzing literature through the rest of the year. It is a rich and rewarding experience. Yes, they will still be able to love books, and I want them to see them in new ways. I would like them to complete their own critical analysis before the year's end.
In math we learned three separate ways to solve measurement problems. Bar models, number bonding, and the "Mrs. Penrod" way. STUDENTS HAVE EXERCISED 2 AND 3 TO COMPLETE OVER SPRING BREAK. If your child has lost his/her math book, please locate it over Spring Break. Problems include:
5 km 3 m - 2 km 48 m = ____ km____m
Use English and Metric systems if you are practicing with your child.
After lunch we had Cultural Roundtable and played the funnest game ever! 1,2,3, Freeze! in French. We played as a school in the gym. Pictures were taken.
At 12:30 we began our Performance Series testing. Most students completed a test. We will be taking one test per week throughout the rest of the school year. These tests map students' progress and drive instruction. They are good indicators for how quickly and consistently children are learning concepts. Please encourage your child to do his/her best.
Mini-courses were exciting, as always. DOES ANYONE HAVE STYROFOAM SHEETS FROM PACKAGING WE COULD USE FOR THE NEXT EARTHQUAKE MINICOURSE?
Have a wonderful Spring Break!
Friday, March 29, 2013
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
March 27th, 2013
Hi! Finally!
The only homework still due is the 3-point essay non-fiction book report, due Friday.
Great fieldtrip to the Clark Planetarium.
Finished Crispin. Very intense.
Goodnight!
The only homework still due is the 3-point essay non-fiction book report, due Friday.
Great fieldtrip to the Clark Planetarium.
Finished Crispin. Very intense.
Goodnight!
Friday, March 22, 2013
March 22nd, 2013
ALL GRADING FOR TERM 3 WILL BE COMPLETED TOMORROW AND "PUSHED" THROUGH TO THE INTERNET FOR PARENTS TO SEE. PLEASE CHECK THE MERI.ACHIEVE WEBSITE FOR GRADES.
MYSTERY BOARDS AND TEACHER ESSAYS ARE DUE MONDAY!!!(SEE BELOW)
Sorry, but this Friday we just didn't have time for the Language Arts Test. We will get to it next week.
This morning we learned about conventions: Punctuation, Grammar, Vocabulary, Spelling, Capitalization, etc. We learned that building each other up in ideas with the strategy, "Yes, and..." helps story ideas grow. It is fun to have different workshops from different teachers during our annual Writing Rally. Our topic this year has been: Inventions Make the World Go Round.
After a very productive recess, where most of the students worked on catch up items or Mystery Boards, we had a lesson from Miss Sherman. We brainstormed ideas for our invention story we will be publishing in May.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE REVIEW #10. Students worked while I pulled them aside individually to review their grades. Please know that they have had the last two weeks to do any catch-up work that was required.
Also, please note that it is extremely difficult to get an A in Math. The cumulative tests are very difficult, requiring students to show proficiency in any past concept. Also, they have 2-4 points per test allotted to using the new concept in a new way, to see if the student is able to apply it across the different math strains. Some are very difficult indeed. It is graded on the British system: 60-70% shows the student has a grasp on the concept. By 80%, mastery is developing.
After lunch students worked more on teacher essays and Mystery Boards. TEACHER ESSAYS ARE DUE MONDAY. THEY SHOULD BE TYPED OUT ACCORDING TO THE SPECIFICATIONS OF THE BLOG YESTERDAY. PLEASE FOLLOW THE BLOG!
Chad Morris, author of the new book, The Inventor's Secret, entertained and inspired us to greater heights today. He urged the kids to 1. Feed your mind 2. Imagine 3. Do 4. Never give up. He had some fun presentations. I was pleased that two of our class were brave enough to go up and participate. The top Jazz readers had some extra time with Mr. Morris after the all-school assembly.
After a music practice, we attended very popular mini-courses. It was a good day.
MYSTERY BOARDS AND TEACHER ESSAYS ARE DUE MONDAY!!!(SEE BELOW)
Sorry, but this Friday we just didn't have time for the Language Arts Test. We will get to it next week.
This morning we learned about conventions: Punctuation, Grammar, Vocabulary, Spelling, Capitalization, etc. We learned that building each other up in ideas with the strategy, "Yes, and..." helps story ideas grow. It is fun to have different workshops from different teachers during our annual Writing Rally. Our topic this year has been: Inventions Make the World Go Round.
After a very productive recess, where most of the students worked on catch up items or Mystery Boards, we had a lesson from Miss Sherman. We brainstormed ideas for our invention story we will be publishing in May.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE REVIEW #10. Students worked while I pulled them aside individually to review their grades. Please know that they have had the last two weeks to do any catch-up work that was required.
Also, please note that it is extremely difficult to get an A in Math. The cumulative tests are very difficult, requiring students to show proficiency in any past concept. Also, they have 2-4 points per test allotted to using the new concept in a new way, to see if the student is able to apply it across the different math strains. Some are very difficult indeed. It is graded on the British system: 60-70% shows the student has a grasp on the concept. By 80%, mastery is developing.
After lunch students worked more on teacher essays and Mystery Boards. TEACHER ESSAYS ARE DUE MONDAY. THEY SHOULD BE TYPED OUT ACCORDING TO THE SPECIFICATIONS OF THE BLOG YESTERDAY. PLEASE FOLLOW THE BLOG!
Chad Morris, author of the new book, The Inventor's Secret, entertained and inspired us to greater heights today. He urged the kids to 1. Feed your mind 2. Imagine 3. Do 4. Never give up. He had some fun presentations. I was pleased that two of our class were brave enough to go up and participate. The top Jazz readers had some extra time with Mr. Morris after the all-school assembly.
After a music practice, we attended very popular mini-courses. It was a good day.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
March 21st, 2013
This morning we all synergyzed to move the gym floor over about 10 feet! It "floats" during the year, and boy, was it heavy!
Next we went to Mrs. Penrod's classroom to learn about organizing writing. After recess, we visited Mr. Glenn for another writing trait. At 10:00 we were treated with a visit from the inventors of the 3-D Printer. It was awesome! Before our eyes a computer told a machine what to create, and a 3-dimensional cube was formed! The kids had so many questions. The part I specifically liked was that the inventor said, "Your imagination is the only limit to what you can achieve."
THERE WAS NO MATH HOMEWORK GIVEN TODAY.
After lunch we had Foreign Language. 5th Graders went to Art. 4th Graders worked on Open House poster projects for Tuesday night.
We organized the teacher interview material. STUDENTS MUST WRITE OUT THE FIRST THREE PARAGRAPHS OF THEIR TEACHER ESSAY TONIGHT. It would be better if they typed it out. A parent can type while the child reads it to them, but it is more effective for the child to type. It should look like this when it is typed:
Indent first paragraph. Teacher's name in first sentence. Two or three interesting points about the teacher to catch our attention. Analytical Thesis Statement (Three things / Four things). List the categories that you are going to highlight about this teacher.
Indent second paragraph. First item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent third paragraph. Second item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent fourth paragraph. Third item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent fifth paragraph. Repeat the three categories. Write some more interesting points about the teacher. Use a "hook" at the end, so the reader wants to really get to know this teacher.
Note: There may be four or five "points" the students wants to make. This is okay. Also, students should use one direct quote from the teacher.
OTHER HOMEWORK INCLUDES TYPING OUT THE MYSTERY. MOST STUDENTS HAVE DONE THIS. IF YOU CHILD HASN'T DONE IT, PLEASE HELP HIM OR HER TYPE IT OUT.
Today was also the school spelling bee.
Next we went to Mrs. Penrod's classroom to learn about organizing writing. After recess, we visited Mr. Glenn for another writing trait. At 10:00 we were treated with a visit from the inventors of the 3-D Printer. It was awesome! Before our eyes a computer told a machine what to create, and a 3-dimensional cube was formed! The kids had so many questions. The part I specifically liked was that the inventor said, "Your imagination is the only limit to what you can achieve."
THERE WAS NO MATH HOMEWORK GIVEN TODAY.
After lunch we had Foreign Language. 5th Graders went to Art. 4th Graders worked on Open House poster projects for Tuesday night.
We organized the teacher interview material. STUDENTS MUST WRITE OUT THE FIRST THREE PARAGRAPHS OF THEIR TEACHER ESSAY TONIGHT. It would be better if they typed it out. A parent can type while the child reads it to them, but it is more effective for the child to type. It should look like this when it is typed:
Teacher Name
Subject Taught
written by Name of Student
Indent first paragraph. Teacher's name in first sentence. Two or three interesting points about the teacher to catch our attention. Analytical Thesis Statement (Three things / Four things). List the categories that you are going to highlight about this teacher.
Indent second paragraph. First item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent third paragraph. Second item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent fourth paragraph. Third item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent fifth paragraph. Repeat the three categories. Write some more interesting points about the teacher. Use a "hook" at the end, so the reader wants to really get to know this teacher.
Note: There may be four or five "points" the students wants to make. This is okay. Also, students should use one direct quote from the teacher.
OTHER HOMEWORK INCLUDES TYPING OUT THE MYSTERY. MOST STUDENTS HAVE DONE THIS. IF YOU CHILD HASN'T DONE IT, PLEASE HELP HIM OR HER TYPE IT OUT.
Today was also the school spelling bee.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
March 20th, 2013
This morning we prepared for Writing Rally and reviewed homework progress.
At 8:30 Mrs. Shallenburger treated us to a Five Senses program centered around writing and inventions. Popcorn was the medium! Students wrote about taste, sound, sight, texture, similes, metaphors, etc.
Mrs. Hagen taught a writing workshop. STUDENTS SHOULD BE THINKING ABOUT A STORY LINE FOR A PUBLISHED BOOK USING THE THEME: "INVENTIONS MAKE THE WORLD GO ROUND". We will be writing these in April.
MATH HOMEWORK IS A COPIED PACKET. We reviewed line graphs and applied algebraic formula to them. For instance, if x=3 and y=12, x=4 and y=16, the formula is y=4x. Hopefully we will work the review tomorrow and take the test on Friday.
At 12:00 six wonderful parents turned up and drove students to the East Bay Post Office in Provo for a tour of the facilities. Thank you so much. We were able to get our boy off to the MTC.
P.E. ensued when students returned. After PE we were treated with a Meridian Talent Show. Students were given copies of their history grades.
TERM 3 ENDS ON FRIDAY. PLEASE CHECK THE MERI.ACHIEVE-TECHNOLOGY.US WEBSITE TO CHECK YOUR CHILD'S GRADES.
At 8:30 Mrs. Shallenburger treated us to a Five Senses program centered around writing and inventions. Popcorn was the medium! Students wrote about taste, sound, sight, texture, similes, metaphors, etc.
Mrs. Hagen taught a writing workshop. STUDENTS SHOULD BE THINKING ABOUT A STORY LINE FOR A PUBLISHED BOOK USING THE THEME: "INVENTIONS MAKE THE WORLD GO ROUND". We will be writing these in April.
MATH HOMEWORK IS A COPIED PACKET. We reviewed line graphs and applied algebraic formula to them. For instance, if x=3 and y=12, x=4 and y=16, the formula is y=4x. Hopefully we will work the review tomorrow and take the test on Friday.
At 12:00 six wonderful parents turned up and drove students to the East Bay Post Office in Provo for a tour of the facilities. Thank you so much. We were able to get our boy off to the MTC.
P.E. ensued when students returned. After PE we were treated with a Meridian Talent Show. Students were given copies of their history grades.
TERM 3 ENDS ON FRIDAY. PLEASE CHECK THE MERI.ACHIEVE-TECHNOLOGY.US WEBSITE TO CHECK YOUR CHILD'S GRADES.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
March 19th, 2013
This morning we simulated a spelling bee. Students have the opportunity to compete in Meridian's Spelling Bee on Thursday. Sign-up sheets are in our room.
After vocabulary and the idiom "Sit on the Fence", we read more of Crispin. Students learned of his relationship to Lord Furnival. We are still working on senses strategies. READING IS JUST NON-FICTION.
MATH HOMEWORK WAS EXERCISE 6 AND A WORKSHEET. Today we learned the purpose of line graphs and reviewed probability terms. Students made line and bar graphs of their own skittles packet! Many students have taken the opportunity to raise their math grades. The deadline for this term is Friday.
Students have finished their teacher interviews. They organized their information to prepare to write an essay on the teacher. We had a lesson about feeding the audience meat, rather than bare bone information.
The art assembly for the Arbor Day posters was this afternoon. Kudos to the winners!
After vocabulary and the idiom "Sit on the Fence", we read more of Crispin. Students learned of his relationship to Lord Furnival. We are still working on senses strategies. READING IS JUST NON-FICTION.
MATH HOMEWORK WAS EXERCISE 6 AND A WORKSHEET. Today we learned the purpose of line graphs and reviewed probability terms. Students made line and bar graphs of their own skittles packet! Many students have taken the opportunity to raise their math grades. The deadline for this term is Friday.
Students have finished their teacher interviews. They organized their information to prepare to write an essay on the teacher. We had a lesson about feeding the audience meat, rather than bare bone information.
The art assembly for the Arbor Day posters was this afternoon. Kudos to the winners!
Monday, March 18, 2013
March 18th, 2013
FIELD TRIP OPPORTUNITY THIS WEDNESDAY TO EAST BAY POST OFFICE. LEAVING SCHOOL AT 12 NOON. RETURNING AROUND 1:40. IF YOU WANT TO DRIVE, PLEASE CONTACT ME AT keriwahl@yahoo.com or call the school and leave a message.
MY APOLOGIES IF YOU HAVEN'T YET CONFERENCED WITH ME. IT IS A CRAZY TIME FOR US. OUR SON LEAVES ON A MISSION ON WEDNESDAY. LIFE SHOULD TONE DOWN A TAD AFTER THAT.
This morning we handed out graded assignments and reviewed the goals of the next two weeks:
-Mystery Boards to be finished this week
-Art awards tomorrow(?)
-Spelling Bee Thursday
-Interviews to be finished by tomorrow. Teacher 3-pt. essays due typed by Friday.
-Non-fiction book report research 3-pt. essays due by Friday, March 29th.
-Writing Rally Wednesday - Friday this week.
-This Wednesday Field trip to East Bay Post Office in Provo.
-Talent Show at 2:30 this Wednesday.
-Grades for Term 3 will be posted this Friday, March 22nd.
-Term 4 begins Monday, March 25th.
-Open House at Meridian, March 26th, at 6:30 p.m.
-Spring Picture Day next Wednesday, March 27th.
- Next Wednesday, March 27th, Field Trip to Clark Planetarium in SLC. Leaving @ 8:45.
Could we be any busier??? And at that, I probably left something out!
New SAT vocabulary words follow:
querulous: habitually complaining
rancorous: showing deep-seated resentment
reclusive: withdrawn from society; seeking solitude
reconciliation: the reestablishing of cordial relations
renovation: the act of improving by renewing and restoring
THERE WILL BE A LANGUAGE ARTS TEST ON FRIDAY!
PLEASE REVIEW PLURAL APOSTROPHE USE WITH YOUR CHILD. Ask: How do you spell "the milk of the cats"? the cats' milk Ask: How do you spell "the jerseys of the teams"? the teams' jerseys, etc. Most students need a review of where the apostrophe comes in possessive case.
Today we wrote on the idiom Eureka! Our reading of Crispin got us to Bear being taken captive to Lord Furnival's house. THERE WAS NO CRISPIN HOMEWORK TONIGHT. READ YOUR NON-FICTION BOOK!
In Math we handed out graded assignments and completed Exercise 5, which is about reading bar graphs. We spent the second half of math in the computer lab, creating graphs on an online website (google "make a graph"). Students were pretty savvy with x- and y- axes! They also understood the terms range and data. It is sinking in! MATH HOMEWORK IS WORKSHEET 10:5:A.
After lunch we read and had math club. There is a section in the Orem Public Library that many of these kids would like. They have a comic book section. Even the girls might get hooked! Take your child to the library often!
Students worked on Writer's Workshop. Most worked on Mystery Boards and interview questions. Tomorrow we will be organizing our essays.
4th Graders went to Art. 5th Graders continued their work and then met to form Open House committees. Assignments will go out tomorrow.
After PE we read about Life on the Manor - Chapter 7. We looked for answers to questions in the readings. All students were on task and handed in their homework early so they could go skating tonight.
MY APOLOGIES IF YOU HAVEN'T YET CONFERENCED WITH ME. IT IS A CRAZY TIME FOR US. OUR SON LEAVES ON A MISSION ON WEDNESDAY. LIFE SHOULD TONE DOWN A TAD AFTER THAT.
This morning we handed out graded assignments and reviewed the goals of the next two weeks:
-Mystery Boards to be finished this week
-Art awards tomorrow(?)
-Spelling Bee Thursday
-Interviews to be finished by tomorrow. Teacher 3-pt. essays due typed by Friday.
-Non-fiction book report research 3-pt. essays due by Friday, March 29th.
-Writing Rally Wednesday - Friday this week.
-This Wednesday Field trip to East Bay Post Office in Provo.
-Talent Show at 2:30 this Wednesday.
-Grades for Term 3 will be posted this Friday, March 22nd.
-Term 4 begins Monday, March 25th.
-Open House at Meridian, March 26th, at 6:30 p.m.
-Spring Picture Day next Wednesday, March 27th.
- Next Wednesday, March 27th, Field Trip to Clark Planetarium in SLC. Leaving @ 8:45.
Could we be any busier??? And at that, I probably left something out!
New SAT vocabulary words follow:
querulous: habitually complaining
rancorous: showing deep-seated resentment
reclusive: withdrawn from society; seeking solitude
reconciliation: the reestablishing of cordial relations
renovation: the act of improving by renewing and restoring
THERE WILL BE A LANGUAGE ARTS TEST ON FRIDAY!
PLEASE REVIEW PLURAL APOSTROPHE USE WITH YOUR CHILD. Ask: How do you spell "the milk of the cats"? the cats' milk Ask: How do you spell "the jerseys of the teams"? the teams' jerseys, etc. Most students need a review of where the apostrophe comes in possessive case.
Today we wrote on the idiom Eureka! Our reading of Crispin got us to Bear being taken captive to Lord Furnival's house. THERE WAS NO CRISPIN HOMEWORK TONIGHT. READ YOUR NON-FICTION BOOK!
In Math we handed out graded assignments and completed Exercise 5, which is about reading bar graphs. We spent the second half of math in the computer lab, creating graphs on an online website (google "make a graph"). Students were pretty savvy with x- and y- axes! They also understood the terms range and data. It is sinking in! MATH HOMEWORK IS WORKSHEET 10:5:A.
After lunch we read and had math club. There is a section in the Orem Public Library that many of these kids would like. They have a comic book section. Even the girls might get hooked! Take your child to the library often!
Students worked on Writer's Workshop. Most worked on Mystery Boards and interview questions. Tomorrow we will be organizing our essays.
4th Graders went to Art. 5th Graders continued their work and then met to form Open House committees. Assignments will go out tomorrow.
After PE we read about Life on the Manor - Chapter 7. We looked for answers to questions in the readings. All students were on task and handed in their homework early so they could go skating tonight.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
March 13th, 2013
FRIDAY IS THE LAST DAY TO RE-ENROLL FOR NEXT YEAR WITH THE 10% TUITION DISCOUNT AND 50% REGISTRATION DISCOUNT.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD IS COMING TO SCHOOL IN PROPER UNIFORM ATTIRE, PARTICULARLY SHOES.
This morning we learned another way to organize essays: Web fashion. Students practiced choosing a topic and dividing it into three subtopics, branching those out to be details. We are working on rough drafts for our March non-fiction book reports.
After an idiom, "Till the cows come home," we worked again on spelling, read Crispin, and then did catch-up work or Mystery Boards. HOMEWORK WAS TO READ CHAPTER 40 THROUGH THE END OF THE PACKET (ABOUT 8 PAGES).
In math, we conducted two probability experiments with dice and pennies. We collected data in the form of line plot graphs and tally mark graphs. Also, we learned what an outcome is. Tomorrow we will do experiments with multiple outcomes. HOMEWORK WAS EXERCISE 3.
After lunch we were favored with a trip to the Orem Library. PLEASE LOOK INTO GETTING YOUR CHILD A LIBRARY CARD AND TAKE THEM REGULARLY! The kids were so excited to be there. The non-fiction section is great! There are very good "reading incentives" in the form of In and Out Burgers, movie tickets, etc. Check it out.
After P.E. we had read aloud and students worked on Writer's Workshop and catch-up till the end of the day.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD IS COMING TO SCHOOL IN PROPER UNIFORM ATTIRE, PARTICULARLY SHOES.
This morning we learned another way to organize essays: Web fashion. Students practiced choosing a topic and dividing it into three subtopics, branching those out to be details. We are working on rough drafts for our March non-fiction book reports.
After an idiom, "Till the cows come home," we worked again on spelling, read Crispin, and then did catch-up work or Mystery Boards. HOMEWORK WAS TO READ CHAPTER 40 THROUGH THE END OF THE PACKET (ABOUT 8 PAGES).
In math, we conducted two probability experiments with dice and pennies. We collected data in the form of line plot graphs and tally mark graphs. Also, we learned what an outcome is. Tomorrow we will do experiments with multiple outcomes. HOMEWORK WAS EXERCISE 3.
After lunch we were favored with a trip to the Orem Library. PLEASE LOOK INTO GETTING YOUR CHILD A LIBRARY CARD AND TAKE THEM REGULARLY! The kids were so excited to be there. The non-fiction section is great! There are very good "reading incentives" in the form of In and Out Burgers, movie tickets, etc. Check it out.
After P.E. we had read aloud and students worked on Writer's Workshop and catch-up till the end of the day.
Vocabulary Lists
querulous: habitually complaining
rancorous: showing deep-seated resentment
reclusive: withdrawn from society; seeking solitude
reconciliation: the reestablishing of cordial relations
renovation: the act of improving by renewing and restoring
March 15th
NO WORDS! CATCH UP WEEK
March 8th Test
procrastinate: postpone doing what one should be doing
prosaic: lacking imagination or wit
prosperity: having good fortune
provocative: tending to provoke, stimulate, excite
prudent: careful and sensible
February 29th Test
parched: dried out by heat or excessive exposure to sunlight
perfidious: tending to betray
pragmatic: concerned with practical matters
precocious: exceptionally early development or maturity (especially in mental aptitude)
pretentious: making claim to or creating an appearance of (often undeserved) importance or distintion
February 22nd Testmundane
found in the ordinary course of events- marked by blithe unconcern
- rich and superior in quality
- a person who delivers a speech or oration
- intended to attract notice and impress others
February 15th Test
-
invulnerable to fear or intimidation - (Not allowing anyone or anything to scare you or put you down)
-
spontaneously derived from or prompted by a natural tendency - (In that very moment)
-
a feeling of extreme joy
-
someone who is employed to persuade legislators to vote for legislation that favors the lobbyist's employer
-
the property of being long-lived
- hypothesis an educated guess; a possible explanation of facts or phenomena facts or phenomena
- undue haste, lack of thought or deliberation
- attribute or credit to
- lacking worth or importance
- incapable of being avoided or prevented
February 1st Test
- foster providing or receiving nurture or parental care though not related by blood or legal ties
- filled with or attended with
- avoiding waste
- repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse
- having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy
January 25th Test
extenuating: partially excusing or justifying
florid: elaborately or excessively ornamented
forbearance: a delay in enforcing rights or claims or privileges;refraining from acting
fortitude: strength of mind that enables one to endure adversity with courage
fortuitous: occurring by happy chance
January 17th Test
emulate: try to equal or match, to copy
enervating: causing debilitation
ephemeral: short-lived, like the life of a butterfly
evanescent: disappear, as in a vapor
exemplary: worthy of imitation
January 10th Test
diligent: quietly and steadily persevering in detail or exactness (Keeping on keeping on)
discredit: being held in low esteem (underestimate effort)
disdain: lack of respect accompanied by a feeling of intense dislike (hate - can't stand)
divergent: tending to move apart in different directions (wandering away)
empathy: understanding and entering into another's feelings (feeling with someone)
Monday, March 11, 2013
March 11th, 2013
10% RE-ENROLLMENT DISCOUNT ON NEXT YEAR'S TUITION EXPIRES ON FRIDAY.
THE BOOK FAIR IS HERE!
FIELD TRIP TO THE OREM LIBRARY ON WEDNESDAY AT NOON. WE WILL BE THERE FROM 12:15-1:30ISH. ANY PARENTS WHO WANT TO COME, PLEASE CONTACT ME, OR BE AT THE SCHOOL BY NOON. PARENTS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND!
This morning we wrote about the idiom: The Grass is Always Greener on the Other Side of the Fence. We also worked on spelling studying and testing. The students are becoming very independent, yet still love to help each other by testing, giving study hints, and practicing together.
SOME STUDENTS HAVE NOT YET HANDED IN THEIR TYPED 3-POINT ESSAYS.
We read another chapter in Crispin, Cross of Lead. We are continuing Friday's review of reading strategies while we read. Today we worked on Inference, Wonderful Words, Questioning, and ended with Predicting.
READING HOMEWORK IS NON-FICTION READING FOR 30-40 MINUTES.
THIS WEEK THERE WILL BE NO LANGUAGE ARTS TEST!!! That's okay. The kids have already thanked me!!! Instead, it is a "catch-up" week. I have posted math tests, language arts tests, and history tests to redo. I am busily grading and inputting grades. Students have until Thursday to pull any tests up.
MATH HOMEWORK WAS TO COMPLETE EXERCISE 1.
Also, students were able to work on Mystery Boards today, brainstorm or continue Writer's Workshop, and plug away at interviewing teachers.
We are brainstorming ideas for committees for the Open House on the 26th. Great ideas!
After P.E. we learned about feudalism, kings, vassals, and the kiss of peace oaths. Oaths are promises made in God's name. Covenants are promises made between god and man. That was one clarification the students decided on. We learned that money, politics, and special skills earned people power in the Middle Ages. Today, we have many more rights than the common person in their time.
THE BOOK FAIR IS HERE!
FIELD TRIP TO THE OREM LIBRARY ON WEDNESDAY AT NOON. WE WILL BE THERE FROM 12:15-1:30ISH. ANY PARENTS WHO WANT TO COME, PLEASE CONTACT ME, OR BE AT THE SCHOOL BY NOON. PARENTS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND!
This morning we wrote about the idiom: The Grass is Always Greener on the Other Side of the Fence. We also worked on spelling studying and testing. The students are becoming very independent, yet still love to help each other by testing, giving study hints, and practicing together.
SOME STUDENTS HAVE NOT YET HANDED IN THEIR TYPED 3-POINT ESSAYS.
We read another chapter in Crispin, Cross of Lead. We are continuing Friday's review of reading strategies while we read. Today we worked on Inference, Wonderful Words, Questioning, and ended with Predicting.
READING HOMEWORK IS NON-FICTION READING FOR 30-40 MINUTES.
THIS WEEK THERE WILL BE NO LANGUAGE ARTS TEST!!! That's okay. The kids have already thanked me!!! Instead, it is a "catch-up" week. I have posted math tests, language arts tests, and history tests to redo. I am busily grading and inputting grades. Students have until Thursday to pull any tests up.
MATH HOMEWORK WAS TO COMPLETE EXERCISE 1.
Also, students were able to work on Mystery Boards today, brainstorm or continue Writer's Workshop, and plug away at interviewing teachers.
We are brainstorming ideas for committees for the Open House on the 26th. Great ideas!
After P.E. we learned about feudalism, kings, vassals, and the kiss of peace oaths. Oaths are promises made in God's name. Covenants are promises made between god and man. That was one clarification the students decided on. We learned that money, politics, and special skills earned people power in the Middle Ages. Today, we have many more rights than the common person in their time.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
History - Middle Ages
Name____________________
Middle Ages – Chapter 1 & 2
Due Wednesday, February 27th, 2013
Instructions:
- Read Chapter One (Things Fall Apart) and Chapter Two (The Not-So-Dark Ages)
- Choose and complete one of the following activities.
- In addition, on a separate lined sheet of paper and in your best cursive, answer the review questions below in complete sentences or paragraphs:
Multiple Intelligence Activies to choose from:
Verbal-linguistic
| Create a wordsearch or crossword puzzle using at least 30 new words from the chapters. |
| Visual-spatial | Make a Rome Visitor's Guide. Include pictures of sites, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Palatine, the Appian Way, the Forum, Hadrian's Villa, Mausoleum to Augustus, Arches of Constantine, Severus, Titus, Roman Aquaducts |
| Kinesthetic-body | Research Hadrian's Wall (122 A.D.) Construct a small model of the wall. Label it and write facts about it. Bring it in to share. |
| Natural-science | Find out how aquaducts worked. Create a small flow-chart or model explaining how they worked. |
| Musical-rhythmic | Write a song about the Middle Ages. |
| Mathematical-logical | Create a poster showing how cities during the Middle Ages and cities during our time are the same and different. |
| Intrapersonal | Write three journal descriptive journal entries, as if you were a Hun. Each entry should be at least 50 words, and include details of your traditions and history. |
| Interpersonal | Create a leadership plan to keep the Roman Empire alive. Who will lead? What qualities will he/she need? What are the first tasks to be done? Why? |
Review Questions to answer:
Chapter One:
- Why is the date A.D. 476 important in the history of Rome? Briefly describe what happened in that year.
- What events helped lead to the fall of Rome?
- Name at least two barbarian tribes that attacked the Western Roman Empire.
Chapter Two:
- How did the lives of people in Europe change in the first few years after the fall of the Roman Empire?
- How did the lives of people in Europe change in the long run after the fall of the Roman Empire?
- Why was the period from about A.D. 500 to about A.D. 800 referred to as the Dark Ages?
- Why is the term Dark Ages rarely used today?
Name____________________
Middle Ages – Chapter 3&4
Due Wednesday, March 6th, 2013
Instructions:
- Read Chapter Three (Two Churches) and Chapter Four (Prayer and Work)
- Choose and complete one of the following activities.
- In addition, on a separate lined sheet of paper and in your best cursive, answer the review questions below in complete sentences or paragraphs.
Multiple Intelligence Activities to choose from:
Verbal-linguistic
| Write, type out, and deliver a speech to the class (3-point essay!) persuading the church to stay together or to separate. You must use valid points from the chapter. |
| Visual-spatial | In uppercase, handwrite a complete page of by copying a few paragraphs from the chapters as a monk would! Make sure you don't separate or punctuate words. Use uppercase. Decorate the borders with small pictures. |
| Kinesthetic-body | Take pictures of your parents or grandparents doing a difficult task. Ask them if they will teach you how to do it. Have them take pictures of you learning the task. Create a small poster showing the experience. Label the steps. |
| Natural-science | Research city gardens or indoor gardens. Find out what plants and herbs grow well indoors. Start your own seeds in small containers. Label them with the type of plant and date planted. Water them. Take pictures of them or bring them in to show the class. |
| Musical-rhythmic | Prayer is a form of singing. Research monastary chants. Record several of them to play to the class. Teach the class the meaning of the chant. |
| Mathematical-logical | Design a weekly schedule for Sain Benedict's monastary or convent, as if you are the abbot. Make sure you include rules, times of activities, and use intricate handwriting. |
| Intrapersonal | Write a business letter to a monk or a nun in Utah. Ask them why they decided on their lifestyle, what they contribute to society, and for any other information. Address an envelope and read the letter to the class before sending it away. |
| Interpersonal | There were many arguments about how things should be done in the Christian Church. Interview at least 3 adults. Ask for ideas of how to resove conflicts. Write their tips on a poster. |
Review questions to answer:
Chapter Three:
- In what city does the pope of the Roman Catholic Church live?
- What were two differences between Christians in the eastern and the western parts of the Roman Empire?
- What happened in 1054?
Chapter Four:
- Why is St. Benedict remembered today?
- How did monks and nuns who lived in monastaries or convents spend their days?
- List three rules from The Rule of St. Benedict.
March 6th, 2013
Busy is an understatement in this class!
We started off by looking at tests and grades. Each child received a progress report of Vocabulary and Grammar this morning. Students may retest throughout the next six school days to bring up their grades. Please help them study for their tests! They may sign up to retake the tests during recess, lunch, and before and after school.
We created rhyming couplets to help with vocabulary memory, worked on plural and singular apostrophe "s" rules, tested and studied spelling, and read more of Crispin. READING HOMEWORK TONIGHT IS CHAPTER 23 AND 24.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE REST OF THE REVIEW. We competed in algebra today, winning candy bars. We plotted and graphed algebraic equations. We made connections with the algebra we know from geometry. It is coming together!
After lunch was Meridian Math Club, study hall, and S.I.R. Writer's Workshop was great! Students received Mystery Boards. Many students worked on those, while others worked on stories and yet others worked on typing 3-point essays. THREE POINT ESSAYS ARE DUE TYPED OUT TOMORROW! PLEASE SEE YESTERDAY'S POST TO FIND THE PARAMETERS OF THE ASSIGNMENT.
After P.E. students shared history presentations. It is fun to see which of the multiple intelligences they choose. They love the freedom of choosing. It is empowering. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THE STUDENTS GET 10 POINTS FOR THE ACTIVITY. 10 POINTS ARE ALSO ASSIGNED TO THE REVIEW QUESTIONS. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE QUESTIONS ARE ANSWERED IN COMPLETE SENTENCES.
Please find attached the Mystery Object Project Guide:
We started off by looking at tests and grades. Each child received a progress report of Vocabulary and Grammar this morning. Students may retest throughout the next six school days to bring up their grades. Please help them study for their tests! They may sign up to retake the tests during recess, lunch, and before and after school.
We created rhyming couplets to help with vocabulary memory, worked on plural and singular apostrophe "s" rules, tested and studied spelling, and read more of Crispin. READING HOMEWORK TONIGHT IS CHAPTER 23 AND 24.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE REST OF THE REVIEW. We competed in algebra today, winning candy bars. We plotted and graphed algebraic equations. We made connections with the algebra we know from geometry. It is coming together!
After lunch was Meridian Math Club, study hall, and S.I.R. Writer's Workshop was great! Students received Mystery Boards. Many students worked on those, while others worked on stories and yet others worked on typing 3-point essays. THREE POINT ESSAYS ARE DUE TYPED OUT TOMORROW! PLEASE SEE YESTERDAY'S POST TO FIND THE PARAMETERS OF THE ASSIGNMENT.
After P.E. students shared history presentations. It is fun to see which of the multiple intelligences they choose. They love the freedom of choosing. It is empowering. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THE STUDENTS GET 10 POINTS FOR THE ACTIVITY. 10 POINTS ARE ALSO ASSIGNED TO THE REVIEW QUESTIONS. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE QUESTIONS ARE ANSWERED IN COMPLETE SENTENCES.
Please find attached the Mystery Object Project Guide:
Name____________
Mystery Board Project Guide
(Due March 21st)
| Components | Attributes |
| Beginning Clue 1 Clue 2 Clue 3 Ending |
|
| Setting |
|
| Border |
|
| Title |
|
| Name |
|
| Other |
|
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
March 5th, 2013
This morning we prepared nametags for "I stand for the (Lorax)..." Day tomorrow.
We played a spinner game in vocabulary, spinning to the definition or picture and racing to tell the vocab word. Next, we reviewed apostrophe rules with possessive case. Our LANGUAGE ARTS TEST ON FRIDAY will have many sentences needing to be corrected in this area. "A penny saved is a penny earned" was our idiom. Some students are writing over 100 words during the allotted time. The new Crispin reading was handed out. HOMEWORK IS READING CHAPTERS 20-22.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE FIRST THREE PAGES OF THE REVIEW. We inserted numbers into x and y values and plotted points for graphs. This is a tricky concept. I will be sending home more algebra practice for the students over the next two days. FRIDAY IS SLATED TO BE THE MATH TEST. Students received progress reports showing grades and assignments missing. They have the opportunity to redo tests and assignments that they feel are unsatisfactory. I am compiling packets to be completed, but students will have to complete them on their own time, at recess, or at home. CATCH UP FOLDERS WERE COMPILED AND SENT HOME WITH STUDENTS. THEY HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO RAISE THEIR GRADES!
Today was our heavy specialist day.
HISTORY PROJECTS ARE DUE TOMORROW. They should not take longer than about 20 minutes. Students received the assignments last week, so it won't be a surprise! We have reviewed the assignment three times as a class. You may read the history material to or with your child, if you like.
STUDENTS IN MY LANGUAGE ARTS CLASS ARE REQUIRED TO TYPE THEIR FREE CHOICE 3-POINT ESSAYS BY THURSDAY. THE PARAGRAPHS ARE FINISHED. MAKE SURE THEY COME HOME WITH THEM TOMORROW. SOME STUDENTS TOOK THEIRS HOME TODAY. THEY MUST FOLLOW THE FOLLOWING FORMAT:
Indented first paragraph. First sentence contains the topic. Second sentence has an original thought. Third sentence names the three reasons or things to be discussed.
Indented second paragraph. First sentence contains the first of three things to be discussed. Five or six more descriptive sentences follow. They should include good adjectives and adverbs, lots of "voice", or personality. Who, what, where, when, why, how...these are all good questions to garner more information. Also, emotions (feelings), touch, sight, smell, sound, speech, movement are good descriptive ways to ellaborate.
Indented third paragraph. First sentence contains the second of three things to be discussed. Five or six more supporting sentences follow. Be sure you vary the beginnings of your sentences. You don't want every sentence to start with the same word!
Indented fourth paragraph. First sentence contains the third of three things to be discussed. Five or six more sentences follow. Keep up the level of energy. Make it just as descriptive as the other paragraphs.
Indented fifth paragraph. First sentence repeats the three reasons or things in a new or different way. Second sentence has an original thought or interesting fact. The last sentence is a "grabber". It attempts to sway the reader to form an opinion or make a decision about the three things. It should be a strong sentence.
Do not type "The End". This is not a story. We will be illustrating these in class, so don't worry about doing illustrations. These will be going on a bulletin board, so make sure they are neat.
We played a spinner game in vocabulary, spinning to the definition or picture and racing to tell the vocab word. Next, we reviewed apostrophe rules with possessive case. Our LANGUAGE ARTS TEST ON FRIDAY will have many sentences needing to be corrected in this area. "A penny saved is a penny earned" was our idiom. Some students are writing over 100 words during the allotted time. The new Crispin reading was handed out. HOMEWORK IS READING CHAPTERS 20-22.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE FIRST THREE PAGES OF THE REVIEW. We inserted numbers into x and y values and plotted points for graphs. This is a tricky concept. I will be sending home more algebra practice for the students over the next two days. FRIDAY IS SLATED TO BE THE MATH TEST. Students received progress reports showing grades and assignments missing. They have the opportunity to redo tests and assignments that they feel are unsatisfactory. I am compiling packets to be completed, but students will have to complete them on their own time, at recess, or at home. CATCH UP FOLDERS WERE COMPILED AND SENT HOME WITH STUDENTS. THEY HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO RAISE THEIR GRADES!
Today was our heavy specialist day.
HISTORY PROJECTS ARE DUE TOMORROW. They should not take longer than about 20 minutes. Students received the assignments last week, so it won't be a surprise! We have reviewed the assignment three times as a class. You may read the history material to or with your child, if you like.
STUDENTS IN MY LANGUAGE ARTS CLASS ARE REQUIRED TO TYPE THEIR FREE CHOICE 3-POINT ESSAYS BY THURSDAY. THE PARAGRAPHS ARE FINISHED. MAKE SURE THEY COME HOME WITH THEM TOMORROW. SOME STUDENTS TOOK THEIRS HOME TODAY. THEY MUST FOLLOW THE FOLLOWING FORMAT:
Title (centered and bolded)
by Name Name (centered and bolded)
Indented first paragraph. First sentence contains the topic. Second sentence has an original thought. Third sentence names the three reasons or things to be discussed.
Indented second paragraph. First sentence contains the first of three things to be discussed. Five or six more descriptive sentences follow. They should include good adjectives and adverbs, lots of "voice", or personality. Who, what, where, when, why, how...these are all good questions to garner more information. Also, emotions (feelings), touch, sight, smell, sound, speech, movement are good descriptive ways to ellaborate.
Indented third paragraph. First sentence contains the second of three things to be discussed. Five or six more supporting sentences follow. Be sure you vary the beginnings of your sentences. You don't want every sentence to start with the same word!
Indented fourth paragraph. First sentence contains the third of three things to be discussed. Five or six more sentences follow. Keep up the level of energy. Make it just as descriptive as the other paragraphs.
Indented fifth paragraph. First sentence repeats the three reasons or things in a new or different way. Second sentence has an original thought or interesting fact. The last sentence is a "grabber". It attempts to sway the reader to form an opinion or make a decision about the three things. It should be a strong sentence.
Do not type "The End". This is not a story. We will be illustrating these in class, so don't worry about doing illustrations. These will be going on a bulletin board, so make sure they are neat.
Monday, March 4, 2013
March 4th, 2013
TOMORROW IS DR. SEUSS HAT DAY!!!
Started with history presentations. PRESENTATIONS AND HISTORY QUESTIONS ARE DUE WEDNESDAY.
The colored words below are for the students in my language arts class.
New SAT words for the week are:
Started with history presentations. PRESENTATIONS AND HISTORY QUESTIONS ARE DUE WEDNESDAY.
The colored words below are for the students in my language arts class.
New SAT words for the week are:
procrastinate: postpone doing what one should be doing
prosaic: lacking imagination or wit
prosperity: having good fortune
provocative: tending to provoke, stimulate, excite
prudent: careful and sensible
THERE WILL BE A TEST ON THESE ON FRIDAY
We worked on adverbs in grammar, wrote about the idiom "What will be, will be", and read another chapter in Crispin. READING HOMEWORK IS 30-40 MINUTES OF READING A BOOK OF YOUR CHOICE. Our book report this month will be a 3-point essay on a non-fiction book. Students have been selecting non-fiction books from the library. Take them to the local library often and let them enjoy the great variety there.
MATH HOMEWORK IS WORKSHEET 9:2:A. We worked through the first page and a half. It is imperative that parents look over these sheets with their child. This is algebra. Students need to learn that unknown numbers are associated with letters, and can be substituted for the letters.
After lunch we had Meridian Math Club and S.I.R. Next we decided together on a product guide for our Mystery Boards. These are interactive, manipulative boards. THEY ARE DUE MARCH 19TH.
The kids earned an extra recess for great behavior and listening skills.
After P.E. we worked on Science and watched a Utah Disaster movie.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)