April 2, 2019 (Substitute in the classroom)

Directions were left to begin class with silent reading and then continue to work on our reflective writing pieces in our writing portfolio. Because class was in room 229 today, students could also work in writing groups.

Homework

"Our Journey" piece should be the second item in your portfolio by TOMORROW

Move. P2 Quiz - Thursday

"Our Impact" piece should be the third item in your portfolio by Friday.

April 3, 2019 (I'm Back! Thank you for your kind questions about my trip.)

Today we started by reviewing 7 key items to keep in my while composing our three rough drafts. We then, spent 10 minutes reviewing for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz on Movement P2. Finally, we caught up on #180DaysToInspireRespect and worked in our portfolios.

HEY, there is also a new Rubber Duck Challenge on the @Farese229 account. Check it out!

Homework

"Our Journey" piece should be the second item in your portfolio by TOMORROW

Move. P2 Quiz - Thursday

"Our Impact" piece should be the third item in your portfolio by Friday.

April 4, 2019

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading for our April/May 1-Pager. We then reviewed all the important assignments as well as the expectations for today's Writer's Workshop. Finally, students took their Movement P2 quiz and worked in their writing portfolios.

HEY, there is also a new Rubber Duck Challenge on the @Farese229 account. Check it out!

Homework

Move. P3 Quiz - Thursday

"Our Impact" piece should be the third item in your portfolio by tomorrow.

April 5, 2019

Today we started by reviewing important dates and hearing a model of our "Our Impact" assignment. We then transitioned into reviewing today's Day of Respect and were able to work in a Writer's Workshop.

HEY, there is also a new Rubber Duck Challenge on the @Farese229 account. Check it out!

Homework

Move. P3 Quiz - Thursday

"Our Impact" piece should be the third item in your portfolio by TODAY

April 8, 2019

Today we started by reviewing important dates for the week and hearing Day 135 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then spent 10 minutes reviewing our vocabulary words through activities in our Vocabulary document. As a class we reviewed the expectations for our Final Draft submission. Finally, students were given the rest of class as a writer's workshop.

HEY, there is also a new Rubber Duck Challenge on the @Farese229 account. Check it out!

Homework

Move. P3 Quiz - Thursday

Reflective Final Draft should be submitted by the end of class tomorrow in Google Classroom.

April 9, 2019

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading and by reviewing important dates for the week and hearing Day 136 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then had writer's workshop to conclude our work on the Reflective Final draft due at the end of class.

The class Instagram account is @Farese229 and has become a great place to see motivational quotes, otters, and tips on how to stay stress free. Check it out!

Homework

Move. P3 Quiz - Thursday

Tomorrow we start our MG unit!

April 10, 2019

Today we started with time to prepare for our vocabulary and we reviewed all important dates and assignments. Next, we watched a video on teaching theme. We practiced identifying the intended audience and set two goals. 1) Define theme 2) Find a process/protocol for identifying a theme in a text. We then discussed these notes to come up with a snackable definition for theme and reviewed the protocol for finding a theme. See both of these goals on the Notes page. :)

We then moved into some independent choice in watching either "Lala" on our phones or Chromebooks or Sarah Kay's TEDtalk about spoken word poetry. Both of these options are connected to our Multi-Genre project that will carry us through the beginning of May.

The class Instagram account is @Farese229 and has become a great place to see motivational quotes, otters, and tips on how to stay stress free. Check it out!

Homework

Move. P3 Quiz - TOMORROW

With or without the inspiration of "Lala" and/or Sarah Kay, please complete your list of 10 Things You Know to Be True in the "Finding Your Theme" assignment on Google Classroom. This is the only part that is required for tomorrow's class.

Multi-Genre Final Draft - May 9th End of Class

April 11, 2019

Today we started with 10 minutes of silent reading and Day 138 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then had a chance to play Truth Bingo with our completed homework. Please see the Google Classroom question if you are interested in sharing more.

Next, I reviewed the Multi-Genre Brainstorm form which could be worked on after our quiz. Students then took their quiz and worked to create their theme for the upcoming project.

The class Instagram account is @Farese229 and has become a great place to see motivational quotes, otters, and tips on how to stay stress free. Check it out!

Homework

Movement Test - May 3

Theme Request Email - Tomorrow 2PM

Multi-Genre Final Draft - May 9th End of Class

April 12, 2019

Today we started with Day 139 o f #180DaysToInspireRespect and a reminder of the expectations for today's request email. We then played Quizlet Live to review common ELA terms and definition for MCAS.

Also, the students won the Student vs. Faculty basketball game! Congrats!

The class Instagram account is @Farese229 and has become a great place to see motivational quotes, otters, and tips on how to stay stress free. Check it out!

Homework

Movement Test - May 3

Multi-Genre Final Draft - May 9th End of Class

April 22, 2019

Today we started with Day 140 of #180DaysToInspireRespect and a review of the Time Management board. We then reviewed the Multi-Genre menu and discussed some context for this very profound writing unit that is going to be worked on both in and out of class over the next three week. Finally, we were given 10-15 minutes to attend to our email revisions.

Homework

ELA MCAS is Wed. and Thurs.

Base Genre RD is due Monday, April 29th

Poem RD is due Wed., May 1st

Movement Test - May 2

Elective RD is due Fri., May 3rd.

Multi-Genre Final Draft - May 9th End of Class

April 23, 2019

Today we started with Day 141 of #180DaysToInspireRespect and reviewed our Time Management board and our calendars. Next, we worked together to use a TPCASTT form and analyze the lyrics to "This is Me" from The Greatest Showman. Finally, we had time to get back to our Multi-Genre project.

Homework

ELA MCAS is tomorrow and Thurs.

Base Genre RD is due Monday, April 29th

Poem RD is due Wed., May 1st

Movement Test - May 2

Elective RD is due Fri., May 3rd.

Multi-Genre Final Draft - May 9th End of Class

April 24, 2019

Today we had our first day of ELA MCAS. We then had A, B, and D Periods. This gave us a short chance to review for next week's Movement test. Nice work!

Homework

ELA MCAS is tomorrow.

Base Genre RD is due Monday, April 29th

Poem RD is due Wed., May 1st

Movement Test - May 2

Elective RD is due Fri., May 3rd.

Multi-Genre Final Draft - May 9th End of Class

April 25, 2019

That's a wrap! ELA MCAS is done!

Today, I only got to see C Period, so we also reviewed for next week's vocabulary test.

Homework

ELA MCAS is tomorrow.

Base Genre RD is due Monday, April 29th

Poem RD is due Wed., May 1st

Movement Test - May 2nd

Elective RD is due Fri., May 3rd.

Multi-Genre Final Draft - May 9th End of Class

April 26, 2019

Today is a great day to have a great day! We started with a review of the #180DaysToInspireRespect plan for the rest of the year. We reviewed the ways to use the provided structure document in our Google Classroom assignment post for the Multi-Genre project. We then wrote. We drafted. We worked!

Homework

Base Genre RD is due Monday!

Poem RD is due Wed., May 1st

Movement Test - May 2nd

Elective RD is due Fri., May 3rd.

Multi-Genre Final Draft - May 9th End of Class

April 29, 2019

Today we worked in small-planned writing groups and continued in our writer's workshop that was independently driven based on the needs of the project.

Project Update

Google Classroom: Multi-Genre 2019 Category

Post made on April 24th: 1 Document included - "MG Structure Doc"

At this point, your Base Genre with structure label should be located in this space.

Homework

Poem RD is due Wed., May 1st (C & D Periods must add poem RD to Google Classroom space by 7AM. A & B Periods must add poem RD before lunch.)

Movement Test - May 2nd

Elective RD is due by 6:30 AM Friday morning.

Multi-Genre Final Draft - May 9th End of Class

April 30, 2019

Today we started with our 146th day of respect in our #180DaysToInspireRespect campaign. We then reviewed all important due dates and class schedules for our project. Finally, we reviewed story structure and worked in our writer's workshop.

Project Update

Google Classroom: Multi-Genre 2019 Category

Post made on April 24th: 1 Document included - "MG Structure Doc"

At this point, your Base Genre with structure label should be located in this space.

Homework

Poem RD is due TOMORROW (C & D Periods must add poem RD to Google Classroom space by 7AM. A & B Periods must add poem RD before lunch.)

Movement Test - May 2nd

Elective RD is now due on MONDAY! Friday will be a Writer's Workshop.

Multi-Genre Final Draft - May 9th End of Class

March 1, 2019

Today we started with a few moments to discuss the documentary and yesterday's guest speaker. We then viewed Adiana's presentation on how she uses social media to grow her photography business. This allowed us to answer the question of, what does all this have to do with English. This question is GREAT! AND must be answered.

In 8th grade, we are expected to learn about and show our ability to use persuasive and argument writing and reasoning. We are going to research the current state of our building environment and work to build a positive community through Instagram. This challenge will help all members of RAMS consider how their interactions can be focused in a positive manner even online.

We then took our vocabulary quiz and heard from a few final open mic. presenters.

Homework

Group Email to Ms. Farese - by the end of class on Monday

First group meeting needs to be scheduled sometime next week.

Good & Bad 2 Quiz - Friday

Read Of Mice and Men by March 18th

March 1, 2019

Today we started with a few moments to discuss the documentary and yesterday's guest speaker. We then viewed Adiana's presentation on how she uses social media to grow her photography business. This allowed us to answer the question of, what does all this have to do with English. This question is GREAT! AND must be answered.

In 8th grade, we are expected to learn about and show our ability to use persuasive and argument writing and reasoning. We are going to research the current state of our building environment and work to build a positive community through Instagram. This challenge will help all members of RAMS consider how their interactions can be focused in a positive manner even online.

We then took our vocabulary quiz and heard from a few final open mic. presenters.

Homework

Group Email to Ms. Farese - by the end of class on Monday

First group meeting needs to be scheduled sometime next week.

Good & Bad 2 Quiz - Friday

Read Of Mice and Men by March 18th

March 4, 2019

Snow Day

Homework

Group Email to Ms. Farese - by the end of class on Tuesday

First group meeting needs to be scheduled sometime this week.

Good & Bad 3 Quiz - Friday

Read Of Mice and Men by March 18th

March 5, 2019

Today we started with Day 111 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Although today is Day 112, we had to play a little catch-up and we planned for the rest of the week. We then talked about why a person might opt to join an online community or follow an Instagram account. This helps us to see what we should consider in answering our driving question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

Finally we worked together to write our group dynamics email, schedule our week 1 meeting, plan our group reading schedule and began drafting our mission statements.

Homework

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

Prepare for Week 1 meeting

Good & Bad 3 Quiz - Friday

Read Of Mice and Men by March 18th

March 6, 2019

Today we started with Days 112 & 113 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then reviewed some big ideas regarding using persuasive strategies as well as talked about some techniques that could be helpful in our presentations on the 20th and 21st. See the presentation on the InstaCommunity page. Finally, groups were allowed to work through their independent agendas and I was able to meet with some teams. If we met today, please see your email for meeting notes. :)

Remember to continue to work towards finding an answer to our driving question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

Homework

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

Prepare for Week 1 meeting

Good & Bad 3 Quiz - Friday

Read Of Mice and Men by March 18th

March 7, 2019

Today we started with Day 114 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Groups were allowed to work through their independent agendas and I was able to meet with some teams.

Remember to continue to work towards finding an answer to our driving question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

Homework

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

Prepare for Week 1 meeting

Good & Bad 3 Quiz - TOMORROW

Read Of Mice and Men by March 18th

March 8, 2019

Today we started with Day 115 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then reviewed some helpful information that was gathered from my 6th grade advisory and reviewed the changes in the big calendar. We then took our vocabulary quizzes and continued our work to find an answer to our driving question.

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

-At this point, most groups have presented and discussed a direction needed with their mission statement. If we have met, you should have meeting notes in your email.

Homework

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

Start thinking about scheduling the Week 2 meeting

Good & Bad Test - Mon., March 18

Read Of Mice and Men by March 18th

March 11, 2019

Today we started with Day 116 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then reviewed some big happenings on the large calendar posted in the classroom. 1) The vocabulary test has been moved to Monday. 2) You must schedule a meeting for this week. - focus is listed under your InstaCommunity calendar in Google Classroom. 3) In working with the driving question, one must assume that there is something in the way of the community being its most positive self at this time. Try approaching the project by finding a solution for that problem. 4) When using persuasive strategies, try to strike a balance between Logos, Ethos, and Pathos.

Driving Question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

-At this point, all groups have presented and discussed a direction needed with their mission statement. If we have met, you should have meeting notes in your email.

Homework

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

Good & Bad Test - Mon., March 18

Read Of Mice and Men by March 18th

C Period Presentations - March 20th

D Period Presentations - March 21st

A and B Period Presentations - March 22nd

March 12, 2019

Today we started with Day 117 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then watched a 20 second video to look at different ways to present data with our own spin. For the rest of class, teams met and worked while some attended their week 2 meeting. This was all in an attempt to work on our PBL Project titled InstaCommunity.

Driving Question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

Homework

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

Good & Bad Test - Mon., March 18

Read Of Mice and Men by March 18th

C Period Presentations - March 20th

D Period Presentations - March 21st

A and B Period Presentations - March 22nd

March 13, 2019

Today we started with Day 118 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Teams met and worked while some attended their week 2 meeting. This was all in an attempt to work on our PBL Project titled InstaCommunity.

Driving Question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

Homework

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

Good & Bad Test - Mon., March 18

Read Of Mice and Men by March 18th

C Period Presentations - March 20th

D Period Presentations - March 21st

A and B Period Presentations - March 22nd

March 14, 2019

Today was practice! We are talking about PRACTICE! We met in the library to run though our presentations. Students were able to give written feedback to their peers while also rehearsing how they would use their given space and interact with an audience. If your Google Classroom calendar was used, please share that feedback with your group. Also, there is a task that needs to be completed by each student in your "2nd Meeting Minutes" email. Please complete this by the end of the day on Monday.

Class Instagram account is @farese229 Let's get some followers so we can take some screen shots of real posts before next week!

Driving Question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

Homework

Complete email task from "2nd Meeting Minutes" email.

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

Good & Bad Test - Mon.

Read Of Mice and Men by Monday

C Period Presentations - March 20th

D Period Presentations - March 21st

A and B Period Presentations - March 22nd

March 18, 2019

Today we started with a review of essential pieces that may or may not be missing from our current presentations. This information has been posted on the InstaCommunity page of this site. We then took our Good & Bad Vocabulary test and could use the last few minutes of class to respond to the "2nd Meeting Minutes" email.

Class Instagram account is @farese229 Let's get some followers so we can take some screen shots of real posts before next week!

Driving Question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

Homework

Complete email task from "2nd Meeting Minutes" email.

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

C Period Presentations - March 20th

D Period Presentations - March 21st

A and B Period Presentations - March 22nd

March 19, 2019

We started with the 120th day of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then reviewed some "Must Dos" regarding our presentations this week. We got several posts on the class Instagram and collaborated on our presentations.

Class Instagram account is @farese229 Let's get some followers!

Driving Question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

Homework

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

C Period Presentations - TOMORROW

D Period Presentations - March 21st

A and B Period Presentations - March 22nd

March 20, 2019

Today we went public! Well, C Period started us off well. We presented our missions to small audiences of attentive 6th graders and their teachers. THANK YOU 6th GRADE FOR YOUR FLEXIBILITY! We will be better going forward. :)

D Period, you are up tomorrow!

D, A, and B Periods worked to finalize their presentations as well as compile their sources for the Works Cited slide.

Class Instagram account is @farese229 Let's get some followers!

Driving Question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

Homework

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

D Period Presentations - March 21st

A and B Period Presentations - March 22nd

March 21, 2019

Today we started with a Day of Respect and we had more students present to our 6th graders. C Period wrote a thank you email to all those involved in making our presentations a success while A and B had their last working session before tomorrow's final presentations.

Class Instagram account is @farese229 Let's get some followers!

Driving Question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

Homework

Follow through with group expectations for in and out of class work

A and B Period Presentations - March 22nd

March 22, 2019

Today we heard two Days of Respect and had our last rounds of presentations. What a wonderful day when a group is so excited about their own mission that they request to stay longer. Thank you 6th grade for welcoming us with open arms. D and C Periods worked on tracking some new and practiced skills as well as making a wish list for the project. Finally, we reviewed many big dates and overall subject matters for the rest of the year! We are now in the home stretch!

Class Instagram account is @farese229 Let's get some followers!

Driving Question:

How can we use Instagram to create a positive community at RAMS?

Answer:

We show up to our mission!

Homework

Consider reviewing the rubrics in Google Classroom

INDY BOOK due - Tuesday

Movement P1 Quiz - THURSDAY!

March 25, 2019

Today was a working day for all sections.

A and B Periods reviewed the important dates and assignments of the week, moved through some vocabulary and then worked together on a group write for our follow up email to the 6th grade teaching team.

C and D Periods reviewed this week's important dates, moved through some vocabulary words and had some time to begin their grading as well as the three reflective rough drafts for our InstaCommunity projects.

Class Instagram account is @farese229 Let's get some followers! Be sure to track your group's account and mission to be able to assess your impact on the community.

Homework

INDY BOOK due - Tomorrow

Movement P1 Quiz - THURSDAY!

InstaCommunity Rubrics Thursday

"My Journey" rough draft should be on page one of your portfolio by the end of the day Friday.

"Our Journey" rough draft should be on the page following "My Journey" RD in writing portfolio by April 3rd.

Movement P2 Quiz - Thursday April 4th

"Our Impact" rough draft should be on the page following "Our Journey" RD in writing portfolio by April 5th.

March 26, 2019

Today was a working day for all sections.

All classes began with silent reading as well as a review of important dates and assignments of the week. Students then worked on finalizing their Works Cited pages, grading their team and teammates, as well as beginning their reflective writing assignments.

Class Instagram account is @farese229 Let's get some followers! Be sure to track your group's account and mission to be able to assess your impact on the community.

Homework

Movement P1 Quiz - THURSDAY!

InstaCommunity Rubrics Thursday

"My Journey" rough draft should be on page one of your portfolio by the end of the day Friday.

"Our Journey" rough draft should be on the page following "My Journey" RD in writing portfolio by April 3rd.

Movement P2 Quiz - Thursday April 4th

"Our Impact" rough draft should be on the page following "Our Journey" RD in writing portfolio by April 5th.

March 27, 2019

Today was a working day for all sections.

All classes began with Vocabulary Pictionary as well as a review of important dates and assignments. Students then worked on finalizing their Works Cited pages, grading their team and teammates, as well as their reflective writing assignments.

Class Instagram account is @farese229 Let's get some followers! Be sure to track your group's account and mission to be able to assess your impact on the community.

Homework

Movement P1 Quiz - Tomorrow!

InstaCommunity Rubrics - Tomorrow!

"My Journey" rough draft should be on page one of your portfolio by the end of the day Friday.

"Our Journey" rough draft should be on the page following "My Journey" RD in writing portfolio by April 3rd.

Movement P2 Quiz - Thursday April 4th

"Our Impact" rough draft should be on the page following "Our Journey" RD in writing portfolio by April 5th.

March 28, 2019

Students were given the first ten minutes to read their May 1-Pager book that was signed in our Tuesday. Today we started with the days of respect from this week as well as reviewing things to revise on our Works Cited pages. We were then reminded that EACH member of the team was responsible for including the link to the slide show in the InstaCommunity calendar and submitting that work in Google Classroom.

Students then took their Movement P1 quiz and were able to work on their Works Cited pages, grading themselves, their teammates and their team as a whole in Google Classroom. This is due by midnight.

Our class Instagram account is @farese229 Let's get some followers! Be sure to track your group's account and mission to be able to assess your impact on the community.

Homework

InstaCommunity Rubrics - TODAY

"My Journey" rough draft should be on page one of your portfolio by the end of the day TOMORROW

"Our Journey" rough draft should be on the page following "My Journey" RD in writing portfolio by April 3rd.

Movement P2 Quiz - Thursday April 4th

"Our Impact" rough draft should be on the page following "Our Journey" RD in writing portfolio by April 5th.

March 2, 2019 (Common areas of school with other classes)

Knowing that I would not be in class, students should have arrived to class with their charged Chromebooks as well as their silent reading book if they wished to read. Students could use the entire class to work in their writing portfolio on their "My Journey" pieces that are due at the end of the day.

Our class Instagram account is @farese229 Let's get some followers! Be sure to track your group's account and mission to be able to assess your impact on the community.

Homework

"My Journey" rough draft should be on page one of your portfolio by the end of the day TODAY

"Our Journey" rough draft should be on the page following "My Journey" RD in writing portfolio by April 3rd.

Movement P2 Quiz - Thursday April 4th

"Our Impact" rough draft should be on the page following "Our Journey" RD in writing portfolio by April 5th.

February 1, 2019 (Substitute in Library)

Students had all of class to work on all independent deadlines today. Today's absence was planned and the student's knew this would be a great assessment of their independent choices during class. Some students had an online group chat.

Homework

Communication Test - Tues.

2/1 Open Mics - Tues.

Open Mics - Friday

Small Group Chat Form - Fill out ASAP

Finish reading Night by 2/13

Night journal - 2/14

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - 2/15

Good and Bad Part 1 Quiz - 2/15

February 4, 2019

Today we heard days 95-97 of #180DaysToInspireRepsect and were reminded that we know ALL in regards to class plans and expectations through Feb. break. We then had some small group chats about chapters 4 and 5 of Night. Finally, students used all of class to proceed through their assignments.

Homework

Communication Test - TOMORROW

2/1 Open Mics - TOMORROW

Open Mics - Friday

Finish reading Night by 2/13

Night journal - 2/14

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - 2/15

Good and Bad Part 1 Quiz - 2/15

February 5, 2019

Today we heard day 98 of #180DaysToInspireRepsect and were told about the "Stronger Than Hate Check-in" that should be in our email today. We then heard from many well-prepared open mic presenters and took our vocabulary test.

Homework

Stronger Than Hate Check-in - Thursday

Open Mics - Friday

Finish reading Night by 2/13

Night journal - 2/14

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - 2/15

Good and Bad Part 1 Quiz - 2/15

February 6, 2019

Today we took a few minutes to review all of the great work that is going on both in and out of school. See the recap below. We then participating in small group chats and continued through our independent plans.

Recap of Strong Than Hate Unit

1) Please complete the "Stronger Than Hate Check-in" by tomorrow. It was emailed to you.

2) In the "Journey Through Night" activity in iWitness, please write with expected English language conventions. If you are writing and referring to a speaker, please use that person's full name. Please also use citations when quoting a text. Finally, this is an activity meant to compliment your reading of Night and not to be done in isolation after you finish the book.

3) Your Night journal is another compliment to your reading. Please make sure you know the expectations and be working on this during the reading of the book.

4) I have posted some extensions in Google Classroom. Please review for further learning.

5) We took the "Communication" vocabulary test yesterday. Our new unit "Good and Bad" will perfectly match the ideas in this book/unit. The first quiz will be on the 15th.

Homework

Stronger Than Hate Check-in - Thursday

Open Mics - Friday

Finish reading Night by 2/13

Night journal - 2/14

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - 2/15

Good and Bad Part 1 Quiz - 2/15

February 7, 2019

Today, thanks to reminders from my students, we heard both days 99 and 100 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then worked on our Stronger Than Hate unit as well as participated in small group chats regarding chapters 7 and 7-9.

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Finish reading Night by 2/13

Night journal - 2/14

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - 2/15

Good and Bad Part 1 Quiz - 2/15

February 7, 2019

Today, thanks to reminders from my students, we heard both days 99 and 100 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then worked on our Stronger Than Hate unit as well as participated in small group chats regarding chapters 7 and 7-9.

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Finish reading Night by 2/13

Night journal - 2/14

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - 2/15

Good and Bad Part 1 Quiz - 2/15

February 8, 2019

Today, we heard Day 101 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then reviewed the importance of handling the material in iWitness with respect and heard from so many tremendous open mic presenters. We then worked on our Stronger Than Hate unit.

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Finish reading Night by 2/13

Night journal - 2/14

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - 2/15

Good and Bad Part 1 Quiz - 2/15

February 11, 2019

Today, we heard Day 102 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then were reminded that this entire unit has been designed to promote independence. We had quick reminders of the due dates this week and used all of class to achieve success in this Stronger Than Hate unit. Some students joined an online chat in a new Google Classroom class; some prepared for their future chat by simply accepting the Google Classroom invitation; and a few discussed the complex relationship between fathers and sons in person.

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Finish reading Night by Wed.

Night journal - Thurs.

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - Friday (Try to save this date to respond to others.)

Good and Bad Part 1 Quiz - 2/15

February 12, 2019 Early Release...snow?

Today, we heard Day 103 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then were reminded that this entire unit has been designed to promote independence. We had quick reminders of the due dates this week and used all of class to achieve success in this Stronger Than Hate unit. Some students joined an online chat in a new Google Classroom class and some prepared for their future chat by simply accepting the Google Classroom invitation.

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Finish reading Night by TOMORROW

Night journal - Thurs.

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - Friday (Try to save this date to respond to others.)

Good and Bad Part 1 Quiz - 2/15

February 13, 2019

Today, we heard Day 104 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We were reminded that we should probably finish out GeoStory in iWitness today so that tomorrow and Friday can be used wisely. Emails regarding small group chats should also be read thoroughly during this unit.

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Night journal - TOMORROW

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - Friday (Try to save this date to respond to others.)

Good and Bad Part 1 Quiz - 2/15

February 14, 2019

Today, a student asked if we could observe a moment of silence for those students and teachers lost one year ago today in Parkland, FL. This "choosing to participate" moment was observed by all members of the class. Thank you.

Today had some small group chats about being stronger than hate, students prepared for tomorrow's quiz and started to wrap up their journals and GeoStories.

Homework

Open Mics - Tomorrow

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - Tomorrow (Try to save this date to respond to others.)

Good and Bad Part 1 Quiz - Tomorrow

February 15, 2019

Today, we started with our Open Mics. Thank you to students that may or may not have worn strainers on their heads. :) All Hail the Pasta :)

We then took our vocabulary quiz and had class time to finish iWitness and possibly some extensions.

Homework

Open Mics - March 1st (If you missed yours today, you will present on Mon. 3/25)

"Journey Through Night" - (iWitness) - Today

Good and Bad Part 2 Quiz - 3/1

February 25, 2019

Today, we started with Day 107 of #180DaysToInspireRespect and reviewed the expectations for notes during the Paper Clips documentary. These notes will kept in Google Classroom. We then began watching the documentary as we tried to answer two big questions:

What qualities are needed to participate in a positive community?

What actions did you observe that created a positive working community?

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Good and Bad Part 2 Quiz - 3/1

Stronger Than Hate Challenge can STILL BE ENTERED!

February 26, 2019

Today, we started with Day 108 of #180DaysToInspireRespect and reviewed the expectations for notes during the Paper Clips documentary. These notes will be kept in Google Classroom. We then continued watching the documentary as we tried to answer two big questions:

What qualities are needed to participate in a positive community?

What actions did you observe that created a positive working community?

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Good and Bad Part 2 Quiz - 3/1

Stronger Than Hate Challenge can STILL BE ENTERED!

February 27, 2019

Today, we reviewed our InstaCommunity project that officially began on Monday and will conclude on Friday, March 22nd. We reviewed calendars, big ideas, and starting working to send an email. Tomorrow we will hear from a guest speaker and possibly start reading Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck.

CLASS WILL BE IN THE LIBRARY TOMORROW!

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Good and Bad Part 2 Quiz - 3/1

Stronger Than Hate Challenge can STILL BE ENTERED!

February 28, 2019

Today, we heard about days 109 & 110 of #180DaysToInspireRespect and met in the library for an incredible guest speaker presentation. Brandale Randolph from 1854 Cycling Company came in to present to all of the students today. He shared his origin story of being an entrepreneur and trying to help solve a problem of poverty through the creation and growth of his bicycle business. He asked students questions like, if you had owned my company, what would be your next product to grow the business over the next ten years and what helped me get back to my passion and reorient my company when our roadblocks became too big? Students came up with incredible answers. In turn, the students were challenged to also ask our visitor questions that might help them solve their problem we are embarking on over these next four weeks. Some sample questions were, what strategies do you have for brainstorming and who should we brainstorm with as well as how formally do you write your emails. Brandale answered honestly and claimed that brainstorming with your target audience, (for us that will be 6th graders) is vital and he let us know that if the formality for any communication is dependent on the audience as well.

Tomorrow we will have a group reflection of what we could take from both the documentary and today's presentation as well as have a chance to finish our group emails.

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Good and Bad Part 2 Quiz - Tomorrow

Stronger Than Hate Challenge can STILL BE ENTERED!

January 2, 2019

Today we started with the Time Management board and possibly some missed Open Mics from way back in 2018. We then heard Day 76 of #180DaysToInspireRespect and planned for the upcoming days on this bulletin board. Next we finished our "Hope vs. Opposite" imagery work from "America and I" as well as added on to our ID Maps. We then started some notes on the elements of fictions and started to do our pre-reading for "The Lady or the Tiger?".

Homework

January Independent Reading book due tomorrow

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Open Mics - Friday

January 3, 2019

Today we started with the Time Management board and 15 minutes of silent reading where we were able to turn in our data for the January Independent Reading assignment. If you did not have your book, please bring it in to homeroom tomorrow.

B Period was reminded about the items hanging on the wall. "Hope vs. its Opposite" should be on the wall along with your ID map and its addition. We then took a gallery walk where we were expected to independently type or write 3 questions and 3 comments in practice for Monday's trip to another 8th grade classroom. Students were then reminded that commenting in Google Classroom carries different expectations than that of texting a friend. Students were given time to delete any comments to the text-self replies from before break. This was time to revise to improve quality and complete the connection from the gallery walk which was posted on the 21st of Dec. Both assignments will be reviewed shortly. Finally, to close out class, students went into the Reader's Handbook and added in a definition for Setting, Characters and Point of View to their "Reading/Writing Notes". This was checked by the teacher before Flex began.

A Period & D Periods made sure to respond to the question posted in Google Classroom from Dec. 21st with strong and proper grammar. They then worked together and with the class to enhance their notes with strong meaningful definitions from the textbook, the board, and the spoken lecture on Setting, Characters and Point of View.

C Period made sure to respond to the question posted in Google Classroom from Dec. 21st with strong and proper grammar. They then worked together and with the class to enhance their notes with strong meaningful definitions from the textbook, the board, and the spoken lecture on Setting, Characters and Point of View. Students also reviewed the prompt for this short story and began reading "The Lady or the Tiger?".

Homework

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Open Mics - Friday

January 4, 2019

Today we started with the Time Management board and discussed the difficulties I was having with inputting grades to PowerSchool. The issues have NOW been resolved and grades are reflective of the start of the term. We then heard about Day 78 of #180DaysToInspireRespect and listened to some tremendous pieces during Open Mic. (All presenters also have graded rubrics in your email.) Next, we made sure that we were focused on the key elements of fiction we have been reviewing (setting, characters and point of view) before starting or continuing "The Lady or the Tiger?". C and A Periods finished the story and have been assigned the Alternative Ending writing assignment in Google Classroom. B and D Periods will finish the short story on Monday. There will be Writer's Workshop on Tuesday and Wednesday to on MOST of this assignment. Some work may be done at home to finish up for the due date.

Homework

Alternative Ending to "The Lady or the Tiger?" - Wed.

Communication Quiz 1 - 1/11

Communication Quiz 2 - 1/17 (Thursday)

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/1

Open Mics - Friday

January 7, 2019

Today we started by picking up our new vocabulary packet titled "Communication" and verifying that it contained pages 50 - 71. We also could start working on this week's words. Next, we reviewed the Time Management board and heard Day 79 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Finally we either finished the short story "The Lady or the Tiger?" and/or worked on our alternative ending in Google Classroom. We then visited the land of Ms.Cliftonville! Her students presented projects on current worldly injustices.

Homework

(Recommended for tonight: 10 mins on planning the alt. ending and 10 minutes on vocabulary review)

Alternative Ending to "The Lady or the Tiger?" - Wed.

Communication Quiz 1 - 1/11

Communication Quiz 2 - 1/17 (Thursday)

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/1

Open Mics - Friday

January 8, 2019

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading and a review of the Time Management board as well as how much time we will have to write both today and tomorrow in class. We then heard Day 80 of #180DaysToInspireRepspect and reviewed some details that will help strengthen our alternative endings to "The Lady or the Tiger?".

Homework

(Recommended for tonight: 10 mins on the alt. ending and 10 minutes on vocabulary review)

Alternative Ending to "The Lady or the Tiger?" - Wed.

Communication Quiz 1 - 1/11

Communication Quiz 2 - 1/17 (Thursday)

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/1

Open Mics - Friday

January 9, 2019

Today we started with 15 minutes of working on Vocabulary and setting goals for outside-of-class vocabulary work. We then reviewed the Time Management board and Day 81 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Finally we were reminded that our alternative ending should be written in third person and in past tense. We then had the rest of class to finish up our assignment. They are due to Google Classroom by midnight. If you spend 15 minutes at home and need more time, rather than turning it in, please email me with your plan to finish.

Homework

(Recommended for tonight: 15 mins on the alt. ending and 10 minutes on vocabulary review)

Alternative Ending to "The Lady or the Tiger?" - Today

Communication Quiz 1 - 1/11

Communication Quiz 2 - 1/17 (Thursday)

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/4

Open Mics - Friday

January 10, 2019

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading and a review of the Time Management board. We then heard Day 82 of #180DaysToInspireRepspect and began reviewing the elements of fiction found in "The Lady, or the Tiger?". This will continue tomorrow.

Homework

Communication Quiz 1 - 1/11

Communication Quiz 2 - 1/17 (Thursday)

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/4

Open Mics - Friday

January 11, 2019

Today we started with the Time Management board and Day 83 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then played Quizlet live to review Elements of Fiction and today's words for the vocabulary quiz on Communication P1. Next we heard from all of our Open Mic presenters, took our quiz and wote in our portfolios. All in all, it was a Great day.

Homework

Communication Quiz 2 - 1/17 (Thursday)

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/4

Open Mics - Friday

January 14, 2019

Today we started with the Time Management board, 15 minutes to work on vocabulary and Day 84 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then worked on identifying the key elements of fiction in "The Lady, or the Tiger?". We collaboratively used our resources (slide show, Quizlet, and text books) to fill in a Google Doc. We then started to review some of the answers. We will finish this work together in class tomorrow.

Homework

Communication Quiz 2 - 1/17 (Thursday)

Open Mics - Thursday

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/4

January 15, 2019

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading, the Time Management board, and Day 85 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then continued our worked on identifying the key elements of fiction in "The Lady, or the Tiger?". We collaboratively used our resources (slide show, Quizlet, and text books) to fill in a Google Doc. We also watched a short video on identifying Tone and Mood.

Homework

Communication Quiz 2 - 1/17 (Thursday)

Open Mics - Thursday

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/5

January 16, 2019

Today we started with 10 minutes of vocabulary work, the Time Management board, and Day 86 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then continued our worked on identifying the key elements of fiction in "The Lady, or the Tiger?". We collaboratively used our resources (slide show, Quizlet, and text books) to fill in a Google Doc.

Homework

Communication Quiz 2 - 1/17 TOMORROW!

Open Mics - Thursday

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/5

January 17, 2019

A & C Period - Today we started with a short video about making our community Stronger than Hate. We then reviewed our Time Management board and heard 4 wonderful open mics. We then completed our work on "The Lady, or the Tiger?". The Elements of Fiction ID document was finished through "Abstract Themes" and turned in to Google Classroom. We then took our vocabulary quiz and could read or write in our portfolios to close out class.

B & D Period - Today we started with a short video about making our community Stronger than Hate. We then reviewed our Time Management board and heard 4 wonderful open mics. We then completed our work on "The Lady, or the Tiger?". The Elements of Fiction ID document was finished through "Irony" and turned in to Google Classroom. We then took our vocabulary quiz and could read or write in our portfolios to close out class.

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/5

January 22, 2019

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading and the Time Management board. We also heard about day 88 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Next we talked about the Scope & Sequence of the year and the next 3-4 weeks with the reading of Night by Elie Wiesel. As small groups we discussed our answers to the question, "What is hate?" and watched a short video on the same topic. Finally, we started to discuss a short quote from

Philosopher José Ortega y Gasset observes that,

“I am myself and my circumstances”.

Homework

Open Mics - Friday

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/5

STRONGER THAN HATE CHALLENGE - 5/6/19 8PM EST

January 23, 2019

Today we started with 10 minutes of collaboratively writing vocabulary sentences in our small groups. We then reviewed the Time Management board and Day 89 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. In our groups we read allowed "Elie Wiesel's Childhood" and discussed the connection questions at the bottom. (Document in Google Classroom). We then opened the discussion out to the larger group. We were given our index cards for our ID map and reviewed the expectations which can be found on slide 8 of the "Days 1 & 2 of Night" slides deck. Finally we began reviewing our photo essay of pre-war Sighet to supplement Wiesel's childhood description. Tomorrow we will use our crop it tools to further our discussion.

Homework

Talk to a parent about the "Home" page of this site.

Open Mics - Friday

Communication Quiz 3- 1/25

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/5

STRONGER THAN HATE CHALLENGE - 5/6/19 8PM EST

January 24, 2019

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading. Today was our 6th day of reading our January book in class. We have one more. We then reviewed the Time Management board and our discussions about reading Night and using IWitness. We then worked in our groups to complete an activity called "Crop It" with pictures from Pre-War Sighet. We then had a full class discussion on how these images expand our thinking about Elie Wiesel's identity. Great questions and connections were shared. Finally we previewed the term allegory in preparation for reading Eve Bunting's "Terrible Things" in class tomorrow.

Homework

Talk to a parent about the "Home" page of this site.

Open Mics - Tomorrow

Communication Quiz 3- Tomorrow

Elie Wiesel's ID Maps - Monday

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/5

STRONGER THAN HATE CHALLENGE - 5/6/19 8PM EST

January 25, 2019

Today we started with the Time Management board and Days 90 & 91 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then heard some INCREDIBLE pieces during our Open Mic sessions. Together we learned about an allegory and read "Terrible Things" by Eve Bunting. We then transitioned into our vocabulary quiz and finished with Writer's Workshop!

Homework

Elie Wiesel's ID Maps - Monday

Open Mics - 2/5

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Communication Test - 2/5

STRONGER THAN HATE CHALLENGE - 5/6/19 8PM EST

January 28, 2019

Today was a very eventful day in English class. Here is a summary:

• Each group presented their ID map for Elie Wiesel. Some are hanging in the room, and some will need to have a final presentation tomorrow.
• We registered for IWitness.
• IWitness
  • In the top right corner there is a red "Register Now" button.
  • Click that button.
  • Please see your email for a class code that was shared if you were absent.
  • Please register and log in to start exploring the "Journey Through Night" assignment.
• We checked Google Classroom to see the "Night Journal" assignment and the "Night Resources" slide show.
• We received our own copies of Night to be brought to class and home each day. Please see your journal for your book number. You may also pick up your book during homeroom if you were absent.
• We reviewed the class protocol and small group chat assignments.
• Each student was given a chance to sign up for a small group chat this week. If you were absent, please see the schedule on this website for ideas of when you would like to join. You will sign up in class tomorrow.
• Finally, we discussed doing something kind for ourselves or another at the end of EACH time we work with this profound story or the testimonies on iWitness.

Homework

Bring your Night book to class as well as your charged Chromebook.

Prepare for your small group chat.

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Open Mics - 2/5

Communication Test - 2/5

Finish reading Night - 2/13

Finish Night journal - 2/14

Journey Through Night (iWitness Activity) - 2/15

STRONGER THAN HATE CHALLENGE - 5/6/19 8PM EST

January 29, 2019

Today we began our independent journey through Night by Elie Wiesel. As students entered the room, I showed a section of my website that contains our schedule for small group chats. I also shared the implementation of The Elie Wiesel Genocide and Atrocities Prevention Act that was signed into law on the 14th of this month. A link to this can be found on this website. Next we reviewed the calendar to help manage our workload that has been shared on Google Classroom. Finally, most students got to work on the assignments that they felt like were most pressing. I watched as some students read their independent books, some read Night while others journaled or studied for next week's vocabulary test. All students worked hard! We also had small group chats that were enlightening and thoughtful Thank you for all who participated. Please read your emails.

Homework

Bring your Night book to class as well as your charged Chromebook.

Prepare for your small group chat.

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Open Mics - 2/5

Communication Test - 2/5

Finish reading Night - 2/13

Finish Night journal - 2/14

Journey Through Night (iWitness Activity) - 2/15

STRONGER THAN HATE CHALLENGE - 5/6/19 8PM EST

January 30, 2019

Today we continued our independent journey through Night by Elie Wiesel. As students arrived I reminded them of their strategies for success that they have employed all year and to asked that they continue to use them. Next we heard day 94 of #180DaysToInspireRepsect. Finally, most students got to work on the assignments that they felt like were most pressing. I watched as some students read their independent books, some read Night while others journaled or studied for next week's vocabulary test. Many also started to delve into the testimonies included in iWitness. All students worked hard! (If you participated in a group chat on chapters 1-2, please read your emails.)

Homework

Bring your Night book to class as well as your charged Chromebook.

Prepare for your small group chat.

January 1-Pager - 1/31

Open Mics - 2/5

Communication Test - 2/5

Finish reading Night - 2/13

Finish Night journal - 2/14

Journey Through Night (iWitness Activity) - 2/15

STRONGER THAN HATE CHALLENGE - 5/6/19 8PM EST

January 31, 2019

Today we worked on and wrote our Jan. 1-Pager in Google Classroom. Students were then able to continue with their independent work with Night. This class was quiet but very productive. If you have not done so already, could you please fill in the Group Chat form on Google Classroom?

Homework

Bring your Night book to class as well as your charged Chromebook.

Prepare for your small group chat.

Open Mics - 2/5

Communication Test - 2/5

Finish reading Night - 2/13

Finish Night journal - 2/14

Journey Through Night (iWitness Activity) - 2/15

STRONGER THAN HATE CHALLENGE - 5/6/19 8PM EST

December 3, 2018

Today we started with 15 minutes to add our new vocabulary definitions into our "Vocabulary" document. We then reviewed the Time Management board and heard about Day 61 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Next, we were reminded to check out the details regarding the Open Mics that start this Friday and we added "Prepositional Phrases at the Start" to our Grammar Brushstrokes heading in our writing notes.

Homework

Society P3 Quiz - Friday

First Mandatory Open Mics - Friday

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

December 4, 2018

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading. We then reviewed the Time Management board. Next, we were reminded to check out the details regarding the Open Mics that start this Friday and we continued, and almost finished The Outsiders film.

Homework

Society P3 Quiz - Friday

First Mandatory Open Mics - Friday

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

December 5, 2018 (Substitute)

Today we started with 15 minutes to work on vocabulary. We added pictures to speak to the meaning of each word into our Vocabulary documents. We then explained the Time Management board to the substitute and shared facts about our vocabulary words. Together we finished watching The Outsiders and were able to use the rest of class to study, read or work on other school work.

Homework

Society P3 Quiz - Friday

First Mandatory Open Mics - Friday

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

December 6, 2018

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading. We then reviewed what happened in class yesterday and heard about Days 62-64 of #180DaysToInspireResect. Finally we practiced a applied out understanding of how syntax affects voice in a 1st ever digital group chat from the perspective of The Outsiders characters. FUN!

Homework

Society P3 Quiz - Tomorrow

First Mandatory Open Mics - Tomorrow

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

December 7, 2018

Today we heard Day 65 of #180DaysToInspireResect. We then reviewed the expectations for today's Writer's Workshop and took our vocabulary quiz. Once the quiz was complete, students worked on both their Compare/Contrast document and within their portfolio. Finally, we concluded with the Open Mic protocol and head from 2-4 presenters in each class.

Homework

Society Test - Thursday

2nd Mandatory Open Mics - Thursday

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

December 10, 2018

Today we started class with 15 minutes to work on preparing for this THURSDAY'S vocabulary test. We then heard the 66th Day of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then reviewed the three steps of Pre-reading while practicing on a new text. Finally, we started to read "The Use of Force" by William Carlos Williams.

Time Management Board

Recommendation - review "About the Author"

Society Test - Thursday

2nd Mandatory Open Mics - Thursday

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

December 11, 2018

Today we started class with 15 minutes to silently read. Next, we heard about sportsmanship in Day 67 of #180DaysToInspireRespect.We then reviewed the structure of this Thursday's test and all the contents of the Time Management board, including the details of Friday's class. We then reviewed the details of "The Use of Force" by William Carlos Williams and finished reading the story. In small groups we collaborated on "what happened", 1-pager expectations, and story specific expectations for the prompt. The story specific details and the grading of the 1-pager will continue and happen tomorrow.

Time Management Board

Society Test - Thursday

2nd Mandatory Open Mics - Thursday

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

Friday's class - bring a silent reading book, a charged Chromebook and a set of headphones.

December 12, 2018

Today we began class with 20 minutes to review for the vocabulary test. We practiced our parts of speech, definitions, sentence-writing, and illustration skills. We then continued our work with "The Use of Force". Today we "gave" some advice and found a "take" away for our first "Give and Take" session. Great job.!

Time Management Board

Society Test - Tomorrow

2nd Mandatory Open Mics - Tomorrow

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Monday

Friday's class - bring a silent reading book, a charged Chromebook and a set of headphones.

December 13, 2018

Today we reviewed our Time Management board and the protocol (see what I did there?) for tomorrow's class. We then heard our #180DaysToInspireRespect and took our vocabulary test. Before leaving class, we turned in our work with "The Use of Force" on Google Classroom and possibly worked in our writing portfolios or read our indy books. We also finished class with some great open mic performances.

Time Management Board

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Monday

Friday's class - bring a silent reading book, a charged Chromebook and a set of headphones.

December 14, 2018 (Substitute held class in either the cafe or library)

Because students were combined with other classes in the library or cafeteria, they were able to independently work on today's protocol. 1) Watch the video in Google Classroom 2) Read 4) Write in personal or shared portfolio.

Time Management Board

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Monday

December 17, 2018

Today we started by reviewing the Time Management board and the successes and struggles of class on Friday. We then reviewed the process for completing pre-reading (three steps) with "America and I" and responding to two Google Classroom questions. Next, we heard both Days 70 and 71 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Finally, students worked on their 1-Pager as well as their pre-reading.

Time Management Board

3rd round of open mics will be on Friday.

January Indy book due 1/3

Jan. 1-Pager - 1/31

December 18, 2018

Today we started by updating agendas and responding to at least one classmate per question in Google Classroom. We then reviewed the tasks that we need to manage our time to complete over the next several weeks. We heard Day 72 of #180DaysToInspireRespect and reviewed the grading protocol for last night's Google Classroom discussions. We will continue to work on the nuances of both in person and online conversations. Finally, we started reading "America and I" while stooping to discuss and answer the questions. See the individual class schedules below.

A Period:

• We read through "Four cold eyes turned on me" (Yezierska 5).
• We discussed and chose answers for Q1-Q5.
• We discussed (small group) experiences when our excitement was met with both mutual excitement as well as the opposite.
• Thank you Ava and Finn for helping me read today.

B Period:

• We read through "American dress and hat!" (Yezierska 4).
• We discussed and chose answers for Q1-Q4.
• Thank you Matt and Alejandro for helping me read today.

C Period:

• We read through "Four cold eyes turned on me" (Yezierska 5).
• We discussed and chose answers for Q1-Q5.
• We discussed (small group) experiences when our excitement was met with both mutual excitement.

D Period:

• We read through "Four cold eyes turned on me" (Yezierska 5).
• We discussed and chose answers for Q1-Q5.
• We discussed (small group) experiences when our excitement was met with both mutual excitement as well as the opposite.

Time Management Board

3rd round of open mics will be on Friday.

January Indy book due 1/3

Jan. 1-Pager - 1/31

Read "About the Author" and "Build Background" paragraphs on page 1 of "America and I"

Talk to your family and get some more information about your origin story? What country builds your self? What aspects of your culture make you who you are and therefore make you a member of our class?

December 19, 2018

Today we started by updating agendas and responding to a new question in Google Classroom. Tomorrow we will work to build the online discussion at the start of class. We then reviewed the Time Management board and heard Day 73 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then worked on "America and I". See individual class notes.

A Period:

• We finished reading the story.
• We discussed and chose answers for Q6-Q14
• We discussed (small group) the shifting connotation of the word America/American, experiences of being unwanted (personal or observed), and body language in verbal conversations.

B Period:

• We read through Q11.
• We discussed and chose answers for Q5 - Q11
• We discussed (small group) experiences of having excitement met by excitement and other emotions, and the shifting connotation of the word America/American.
• Thank you Matt and Josh for helping me read today.

C Period:

• We read through, "spirit of persistence" (Yezierska 12).
• We discussed and chose answers for Q6 - Q13
• We discussed (small group) the shifting connotation of the word America/American, experiences of being unwanted (personal or observed), and body language in verbal conversations.

D Period:

• We read through Q12.
• We discussed and chose answers for Q6- Q12.
• We discussed (small group) the shifting connotation of the word America/American, experiences of being unwanted (personal or observed), and body language in verbal conversations.

Time Management Board

3rd round of open mics will be on Friday.

January Indy book due 1/3

Jan. 1-Pager - 1/31

December 20, 2018

Today we started by updating agendas and reading and responding to replies from yesterday's Google classroom question. We then reviewed the Time Management board and heard Day 74 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Finally we finished our reading of "America and I" and began our concluding activities.

A Period:

• We continued and finished our Hope vs. _________________ pictures and hung them around the room.
• We discussed the answers to questions 1-14.
• We will work to extend our ID maps tomorrow in class.

B Period:

• We finished reading our story.
• We began work on our Hope vs. _______________ pictures to be hung up around the room. These will be finished tomorrow.

C Period:

• We finished reading our story.
• We began work on our Hope vs. _______________ pictures to be hung up around the room. These will be finished tomorrow. Some were hung up and some will need to be finished tomorrow.

D Period:

• We finished reading our story.
• We began work on our Hope vs. _______________ pictures to be hung up around the room. These will be finished tomorrow.

Time Management Board

3rd round of open mics will be on Friday.

January Indy book due 1/3

Jan. 1-Pager - 1/31

December 21, 2018

Today we wrapped up 2018 with vigor and grace. We explored the work of our peers. We added to the awesomeness on the walls. We conversed in person and online and are headed strong into 2019! Thank you all for a great close to our first 75 days of school.

Time Management Board

D Period Open mics will be held on Wed. when we return!

January Indy book due 1/3

Jan. 1-Pager - 1/31

November 1, 2018

Today we started by reviewing the Time Management board and reading an introduction to The Outsiders. Thank you SE Hinton for writing a story the way you wanted it to be told! We can all learn from your ambition. We then heard about Day 43 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Finally we read for about 15 minutes while checking in our Nov./Dec. Independent reading titles and getting our Outsiders books. Next we worked on our 3rd quiz for The Mind packet and wrote in our portfolios. This class was then concluded with some sharing during Open Mic.

Homework

Chapters 1-2 and Guided Reading - Monday

Chapters 3-4 and Guided Reading - Wednesday

Chapter 5 and Guided Reading - Thursday

The Mind Test - Friday

Open Mic (volunteer opportunities through the month of Nov.) - Friday

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

November 2, 2018

Today was Day 44 of #180DaysToInspireRespect, but because we did not have classes, we will hear about this action on Monday.

Homework

Chapters 1-2 and Guided Reading - Monday

Chapters 3-4 and Guided Reading - Wednesday

Chapter 5 and Guided Reading - Thursday

The Mind Test - Friday

Open Mic (volunteer opportunities through the month of Nov.) - Friday

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

November 5, 2018

Today we started class with 15 minutes to review our three vocabulary quizzes for The Mind packet as a way to prepare for Friday's test. Students were encouraged to work together on this preparation. We then heard about Day 44 and 45 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Finally, in our small groups we discussed chapters 1 & 2 as well as completed all 10 boxes on the Guided Reading document. Wed. will work the same way. After the chapters were discussed, students could use the rest of class to read and annotate chapters 3-4. If a student forgot his/her book, he/she could look online for a digital copy of the book.

Homework

Chapters 3-4 and Guided Reading - Wednesday

Chapter 5 and Guided Reading - Thursday

Chapters 1-5 Practice Socratic Seminar - Thursday

The Mind Test - Friday

Open Mic (volunteer opportunities through the month of Nov.) - Friday

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

November 7, 2018

Today we started class with 15 minutes to play New Word/New Situation as preparation for Friday's test. We also reviewed the structure of the test to help students find the right study strategies. We then heard about Day 45 and of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Finally some students worked with others to complete chapters 3 & 4 through discussion and then moved on independently to complete chapter 5. If a student forgot his/her book, he/she could look online for a digital copy of the book.

Homework

Chapter 5 and Guided Reading - Tomorrow

Chapters 1-5 Practice Socratic Seminar - Tomorrow

The Mind Test - Friday

Open Mic (volunteer opportunities through the month of Nov.) - Friday

Chapters 6 & 7 and Guided Reading - Tuesday

Character Journal will be started in Writer's Workshop on Friday.

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

November 8, 2018

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading. Students had the choice to read their independent book or The Outsiders. Following this, we reviewed the Time Management board and the schedule for Socratic Seminar preparation. Students that were not up-to-date in reading The Outsiders according to their Guided Reading assignment in Google Classroom were given time and space to continue their work. All students prepared participated in a practice Socratic Seminar. These grades will be going into PowerSchool as benchmarks for improvement.

Homework

The Mind Test - Friday

Open Mic (volunteer opportunities through the month of Nov.) - Friday

Chapters 6 & 7 and Guided Reading - Tuesday

Character Journal will be started in Writer's Workshop on Friday and should be completed by Tuesday. A minimum of 15 minutes must be spent on this writing assignment.

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

November 9, 2018

Today we started with the Time Management board and reviewed Days 47 & 48 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then took our vocabulary test on The Mind packet and worked on our character journal entry.

Homework

Chapters 6 & 7 & Guided Reading - Tuesday

Character Journal entry - Tuesday

Chapters 8 & Guided Reading - Wednesday

Chapters 9 & Guided Reading - Thursday

Society P1 quiz - Friday

Chapters 10 & 11 & Guided Reading - 11/19

Chapters 12 & Guided Reading - 11/20

Socratic Seminar - 11/20

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 13, 2018

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading a review of all student responsibilities both in and out of class. We also reviewed specifically the Time Management board and Day 49 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then were able to independently work to start catching up on our Guided Reading assignments and prepare for this Friday's vocabulary quiz on Society Part 1.

Homework

Chapters 8 & Guided Reading - Wednesday

Chapters 9 & Guided Reading - Thursday

Society P1 quiz - Friday

Chapters 10 & 11 & Guided Reading - 11/19

Chapters 12 & Guided Reading - 11/20

Socratic Seminar - 11/20

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 14, 2018

Today we started class with a review of the Time Management board and spent whole class time working on speaking, hearing, writing and understanding our vocabulary words for this week. We then worked in small groups to prepare for next week's Socratic seminar on The Outsiders.

Homework

Chapters 9 & Guided Reading - Thursday

Society P1 quiz - Friday

Chapters 10 & 11 & Guided Reading - 11/19

Chapters 12 & Guided Reading - 11/20

Socratic Seminar - 11/20

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 15, 2018

Today we started class with 15 minutes of silent reading. We then reviewed the Time Management board and days 50 & 51 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Next, we reviewed tips and goals for our Socratic seminars. Students were encouraged to add to their Guided Reading document as a resource for next week's graded seminar on The Outsiders. Each student then participate in a practice seminar.

Homework

Society P1 quiz - Friday

Chapters 10 & 11 & Guided Reading - 11/19

Chapters 12 & Guided Reading - 11/20

Socratic Seminar - 11/20

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 16, 2018

Today we started listening to Stevie Wonder's song "Stay Gold". We then reviewed the Time Management board and day 52 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Next, we took our vocabulary quiz and worked in a writer's workshop with a focus on our 2nd character journal.

Homework

Chapters 10 & 11 & Guided Reading - Monday

2nd Character Journal in Writing Portfolio- Monday

Chapters 12 & Guided Reading - Tuesday

Socratic Seminar - Tuesday

Guided Reading Document - Tuesday

Society P2 Quiz - 11/30

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 19, 2018

Today we started with the Time Management board and reviewing of exactly how the seminars will be run tomorrow. We then heard about Day 53 of #180DaysToInspireRespect and used the rest of class to prepare.

Homework

Chapters 12 & Guided Reading - Tuesday

Socratic Seminar - Tuesday

Guided Reading Document - Tuesday

Society P2 Quiz - 11/30

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 20, 2018

What a blessing today was! I was able to witness some of the most profound discussions based on a classic novel, The Outsiders. We started with 10 minutes of silent reading. We reviewed the Time Management board and heard Day 54 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Each student then played the role of a discussion participant and observer. Well played! If you were absent, be aware that there will be a makeup socratic the week after Thanksgiving after school.

Homework

Society P2 Quiz - 11/30

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 21, 2018

Turkey Trot BABY!

Homework

Society P2 Quiz - 11/30

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 26, 2018

Today was jam packed with loads of learning. We started with 10 minutes to work on typing our new vocabulary definitions into our vocabulary documents. We then reviewed the directions for the Writing Portfolio evaluation that is due this Friday at the end of class. First, we moved our "My Name" vignette down to page 2 of our portfolio. We then typed the "Dear Ms. Farese," greeting on page 1. From there we listened to a summary of the directions for the portfolio evaluation and got started on labeling writing techniques of composing the first paragraph. All directions were shared in Google Classroom. We then reviewed the Compare/Contrast worksheet we will use while watching The Outsiders film.

Homework

Greeting and Paragraph 1 in Portfolio - tomorrow

Society definitions in vocabulary document - Wed.

Society P2 Quiz - 11/30

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 27, 2018

Today we started with 10 minutes of silent reading and the Time Management board. We then reviewed the basic elements of a paragraph and connecting syntax to voice. Finally, we worked for about 15 minutes on our portfolio evaluation and watched more of The Outsiders.

Homework

Greeting, Paragraphs 1 & 2 in Portfolio - tomorrow

Society definitions in vocabulary document - tomorrow

Society P2 Quiz - 11/30

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 28, 2018

Today we started by playing Pictionary with our vocabulary words and reviewing the Time Management board. We then reviewed some grammatical tips for formal writing and had about 20 minutes to work on our portfolio evaluation. Each class ended with a little more of The Outsiders movie.

Homework

Greeting, Paragraphs 1, 2, & 3 in Portfolio as well as the 6 required pieces - tomorrow

Portfolio Evaluation - Friday at the end of class

Society P2 Quiz - 11/30

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 29, 2018

Today we started with 10 minutes of silent reading and the reviewing of the Time Management board. We then reviewed some tips to keep in mind while evaluating our writing portfolio. This allowed for about 12-15 minutes of independent work and a finish of watching some of The Outsiders.

Homework

Greeting, Paragraphs 1, 2, 3 & 4 in Portfolio as well as some comments - tomorrow

Portfolio Evaluation - by the end of class tomorrow

Society P2 Quiz - 11/30

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

November 30, 2018 (Happy December Eve!)

Today we started by reviewing the time management board and taking our vocabulary quiz. Students then had the rest of class to revise and edit their portfolios for submission. THEY WERE ALL TURNED IN!!!!!

Homework

Society P3 Quiz - 12/7

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - 12/17

October 1, 2018

We started with 13-15 minutes of vocabulary work. Students were required to make a Part of Speech chart for this unit's 30 words. If this was not completed in class, please complete at home TODAY! We then heard about Day 21 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Next we used "The Delight Song of Tsoai-talee" to practice our reading connection levels as well as our digital annotation skills. Students did two read arounds of the poem and then worked to make connections to themselves, other texts and the world. We will continue this reading work as well as start the writing assignment tomorrow after we silently read.

Homework

One-Pager - 10/31

Oct. Independent Reading Book Check - 10/2 (Tomorrow!)

Behavior Vocabulary Test - 10/5

TOMORROW, YOU CAN WEAR PJS TO SCHOOL!

October 2, 2018 (This is a LATE post. Those that were absent, not to worry, we will work together to make sure I give you PLENTY of time to catch up.)

We started with 20 minutes of silent reading as each student checked in his/her October reading book. This was followed by Day 22 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Next, students split the time left in class to make final annotations on N. Scott Momaday's poem related to self, text, and world, begin the "Our Delight Song" assignment as a writer, and creating Esperanza's ID Map.

Homework

One-Pager - 10/31

Behavior Vocabulary Test - 10/5

October 3, 2018

Today we worked on two study strategies for this week's vocabulary test. We spent some time doing a word share with pictures and had academic conversations about three categories on the vocabulary board. We then reviewed the homework board and what to do if you were unhappy with the final result of your Behavior P3 quiz. (BTW I am after school again tomorrow to work with students that need help.) Next, we reviewed the three levels of reading annotations that were added to the poem in Google Classroom. We also began the writing assignment by actively reading the introduction and even making more annotations. Finally, we worked on adding Esperanza's username, profile picture, bio. details, and # of accounts she follows to our group work. VERY ACTIVE AND FUN CLASS TODAY!

Homework

One-Pager - 10/31

Behavior Vocabulary Test - 10/5

Open Mic volunteer opportunities this Friday at the end of each class.

October 4, 2018

The class started with 15 minutes of silent reading. Students then completed their Silent Reading Google form and review the newly-named "Time Management" board. We then reviewed days 23 & 24 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. This was followed with 10 minutes to independent work on pre-writing and drafting our Delight songs assignment. As if that wasn't enough, we read a vignette or two in The House on Mango Street.

Homework

One-Pager - 10/31

Behavior Vocabulary Test - TOMORROW

Open Mic volunteer opportunities TOMORROW

October 5, 2018

Today we reviewed our Time Management board and heard about the 25th day of the #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then took our "Behavior" vocabulary test and worked in a Writer's Workshop. Finally, some students shared great writing with us during our 1st Open Mic! Thank you Brenna F., Matt D., Ali J., Nick C. and Ava K. for making today SO WONDERFUL!

Time Management

Our Delight Songs - 10/10

One-Pager - 10/31

Open Mic -10/12

October 9, 2018

Today we began class with 15 minutes of silent reading. We then read a few vignettes from The House on Mango Street with two focuses. We worked to gather more information about Esperanza based on her events and attempted to improve our own writing techniques by being mindful of the techniques used in the book.

Time Management

Our Delight Songs - TOMORROW

One-Pager - 10/31

Open Mic -10/12

October 10, 2018

Class started with the Time Management board and Days 26 & 27 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Students then practiced academic discussions in regards to the last four vignettes read and how much we can learn about a person or character based on diction. With this practice under our belts, we read a few more vignettes and annotated based on STEAL (see the notes page for meaning.) We also got some time to work on building Esperanza's Instagram profile in our class slide show. Finally, A period had some time to work on their Delight Song assignment.

Time Management

Our Delight Songs - TOMORROW for B, C, and D periods. TODAY for A Period.

One-Pager - 10/31

Open Mic -10/12

#Vball4aCure18 is tonight in Millis.

October 11, 2018

Class started with silent reading, the Time Management board and Day 28 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then had 10 minutes to work on our Delight Song poems (Period B, C, and D only). During this time, if students completed the assignment, they were expected to check in on the status of their "Hairs" Remix assignment. Next, we practiced having a large group discussion about Esperanza's age and read a few more vignettes. Finally, students either had discussions or added to Esperanza's Instagram profile.

Time Management

Our Delight Songs - TODAY for B, C, and D periods. TODAY for A Period.

One-Pager - 10/31

Open Mic -10/12

Thank you to all for the positive vibes and ATTENDANCE at last night's #Vball4aCure18. The unofficial count puts us at almost $4,000 in funds to be donated to Dana Farber. THANKS!

October 12, 2018

Class started with the Time Management board and Day 29 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then reviewed the expectations for our "Hairs" Final Draft (see below). The last portion of class was separated between Writer's Workshop, group work and Open Mic. Thank you to all students that shared. Curse you Kaitlyn for making me think so abstractly about time at the end of a Friday. ;) Just joshing, that was fantastic!

Time Management

One-Pager - 10/31

Open Mic -10/19

Final Draft of "Hairs" Vignette - 10/19

1) Placed on page 2 of Writing Portfolio

2) 1/2 - 1 page in length

3) Matching Title

4) @ least 2 identified writing techniques

October 15, 2018

Class started with the Time Management board and Day 30 of #180DaysToInspireRespect, as well as 15 minutes to work on our new vocabulary words. Students were instructed to copy the first five words from "The Mind" part 1 and add in two sentences per word. One could be copied from the Word Wisdom dictionary or the packet. The other had to be an orginal sentence written by the student. Next, we worked through a few vignettes in The House on Mango Street.

Time Management

First 10 sentences for 1st 5 vocabulary words - 10/17

Open Mic -10/19

Final Draft of "Hairs" Vignette - 10/19

1) Placed on page 2 of Writing Portfolio

2) 1/2 - 1 page in length

3) Matching Title

4) @ least 2 identified writing techniques

One-Pager - 10/31

October 16, 2018

Class started with 12-14 minutes of silent reading, an email overview, the Time Management board and our Day 31 of #180DaysToInspireRespect was put on hold for an absence. A Period took a moment to review the expectations for the imitation poem from the "Born Bad" vignette. B & C Periods read "First Job" and "Papa Who Wakes Up Tired in the Dark" in The House on Mango Street. D Period also read "Papa Who Wakes Up Tired in the Dark". A, B, and D periods watched a TEDTalk by Sarah Kay to remember that writing is a process that can always be improved. C Period will watch this video tomorrow. Finally, all classes had time to complete their in class-mail about Independent Reading and possibly more work on the "Hairs" Final Draft in a Writer's Workshop.

Time Management

First 10 sentences for 1st 5 vocabulary words - TOMORROW before class

Open Mic -10/19

The Mind Vocabulary Quiz - Friday

Final Draft of "Hairs" Vignette - Friday

1) Placed on page 2 of Writing Portfolio

2) 1/2 - 1 page in length

3) Matching Title

4) @ least 2 identified writing techniques

One-Pager - 10/31

October 17, 2018

Class started with 15 minutes of vocabulary work, an overview of the vocabulary expectations, the Time Management board and our Day 32 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. From there, we practiced having a Dinner Talk about yesterday's video. This was accompanied with two challenges: only 3 mins to talk and trying to incorporate vocabulary words into our conversation. Finally, students worked on reviewing information from The House on Mango Street and working in their Writer's Workshop.

Time Management

Second 10 sentences for 2nd 5 vocabulary words - Friday

Open Mic -10/19

The Mind Vocabulary Quiz - Friday

Final Draft of "Hairs" Vignette - Friday

1) Placed on page 2 of Writing Portfolio

2) 1/2 - 1 page in length

3) Matching Title

4) @ least 2 identified writing techniques

One-Pager - 10/31

October 18, 2018

Class started with 15 minutes of silent reading, the Time Management board and Days 31 & 33 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. From there, we reviewed the expectations for Esperanza's Instagram profile project. All details are on the board. We then read some vignettes and worked in our small groups.

Time Management

Second 10 sentences for 2nd 5 vocabulary words - Tomorrow

Open Mic -tomorrow

The Mind Vocabulary Quiz - tomorrow

Final Draft of "Hairs" Vignette - tomorrow

1) Placed on page 2 of Writing Portfolio

2) 1/2 - 1 page in length

3) Matching Title

4) @ least 2 identified writing techniques

One-Pager - 10/31

October 19, 2018

Class started with the Time Management board and Day 34 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. From there, students took their vocabulary quiz and had most of class to work in a Writer's Workshop on their portfolio. A few students shared in the open mic today. Thank you, Brenna, Lucy, Josh, and Alejandro

Time Management

Open Mic - 10/26

The Mind Part 2 Quiz- 10/26

Final Draft of "Hairs" Vignette - TODAY

1) Placed on page 2 of Writing Portfolio

2) 1/2 - 1 page in length

3) Matching Title

4) @ least 2 identified writing techniques

One-Pager - 10/31

October 22, 2018

Today there was a substitute in class so students had a chance to start their vocabulary homework and work in their Writing Portfolio.

Time Management

Open Mic - 10/26

The Mind Part 2 Quiz- 10/26

One-Pager - 10/31

Vocabulary pages 168-170 due Wed.

October 23, 2018

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading, review of the Time Management board and our Sept. 1-Pagers. If you have further questions regardings your 1-pager, please see me before/after school or during a Flex period. We then heard both Days 35 and 36 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Finally students had 15 minutes to work on their Instagram profile for Esperanza.

Time Management

Open Mic - 10/26

The Mind Part 2 Quiz- 10/26

One-Pager - 10/31

Vocabulary pages 168-170 due tomorrow.

October 24, 2018

Students began by sitting with new students in three groups around the outside of the classroom. We reviewed the Time Management Board and heard Day 37 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Next we reviewed the expectations for today's three centers.

Vocabulary Review - As a small group, students would work together to prepare for this Friday's quiz. The group had access to the answer on page 168-170 in their packets.

Writer's Group - Students were expected to start reviewing feedback in their Writing Portfolio to bring their final drafts to a new level. Page 1: My Name vignette. Page 2: Hairs vignette. Both pages should be Times New Roman, size-12 font and double spaced. The Hairs vignette also needed to labeled writing techniques.

Vignette Read - I read the next few vignettes and we practiced our small group discussion skills. We reviewed comprehension of the plot as well as synthesized information to practice a little bit of perspective taking.

Time Management

Open Mic - 10/26

The Mind Part 2 Quiz- 10/26

One-Pager - 10/31 - Be sure to review your Sept 1-Pager (See me with times that you would like to conference about ways to improve this type of writing.) Be sure to finish your book. :)

"My Name" and "Hairs" vignettes need to be revised and edited by Friday afternoon.

October 25, 2018

Today we began by reading for 10 minutes and then review the Time Management board. We then returned to Center Work.

Center 1 - Work on revising your "My Name" vignette on page 1 of your portfolio.

Center 2 - Work on revising your "Hairs" vignette on page 2 of your portfolio.

Center 3 - I read the next few vignettes and we practiced our small group discussion skills. We reviewed comprehension of the plot as well as synthesized information to practice a little bit of perspective taking.

Time Management

Open Mic - tomorrow

The Mind Part 2 Quiz- tomorrow

One-Pager - 10/31 - Be sure to review your Sept 1-Pager (See me with times that you would like to conference about ways to improve this type of writing.) Be sure to finish your book. :)

"My Name" and "Hairs" vignettes need to be revised and edited by Friday afternoon.

October 26, 2018

Today we began with the Time Management board and Day 39 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then either read one vignette or two before we began our quiz. Following the quiz, students had time to revise their "My Name" and "Hairs" vignettes in their portfolios. The end of class for a couple groups was filled with Open Mic. Thanks for sharing, Nick C., Josie, Alejandro, and Matt. (I am still repeating the rhythm in "Teeth, Teeth, Teeth".)

Time Management

Open Mic - Thursday

The Mind Part 3 Quiz- Thursday

One-Pager - WED. - Be sure to review your Sept 1-Pager (See me with times that you would like to conference about ways to improve this type of writing.) Be sure to finish your book. :)

Nov./Dec. Independent Reading book - Thursday

October 26, 2018

Today we began with the Time Management board and Day 39 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then either read one vignette or two before we began our quiz. Following the quiz, students had time to revise their "My Name" and "Hairs" vignettes in their portfolios. The end of class for a couple groups was filled with Open Mic. Thanks for sharing, Nick C., Josie, Alejandro, and Matt. (I am still repeating the rhythm in "Teeth, Teeth, Teeth".)

Time Management

Open Mic - Thursday

The Mind Part 3 Quiz- Thursday

One-Pager - WED. - Be sure to review your Sept 1-Pager (See me with times that you would like to conference about ways to improve this type of writing.) Be sure to finish your book. :)

Nov./Dec. Independent Reading book - Thursday

October 29, 2018

Today we began with the Time Management board and Day 40 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then worked on vocabulary for The Mind P3. This activity had us doing some close reading of definitions in our Word Wisdom dictionary. We then finished the last couple vignettes from Mango Street and worked to finish our Instagram Profiles.

Time Management

Instagram DinnerTalk - tomorrow

Open Mic - Thursday

The Mind Part 3 Quiz- Thursday

One-Pager - WED. - Be sure to review your Sept 1-Pager (See me with times that you would like to conference about ways to improve this type of writing.) Be sure to finish your book. :)

Nov./Dec. Independent Reading book - Thursday

October 30, 2018

Today we began class with the Time Management board and some DinnerTalk prep. We reviewed some helpful tips in an academic conversation and we explored the room and the slides of other groups to come up with conversation starters for the DinnerTalk. We then discussed The House on Mango Street through the lens of the protagonist's social media choices. Finally, we finished the class with 15 minutes to silently read.

Time Management

Open Mic - Thursday

The Mind Part 3 Quiz- Thursday

One-Pager - WED. - Be sure to review your Sept 1-Pager (See me with times that you would like to conference about ways to improve this type of writing.) Be sure to finish your book. :)

Nov./Dec. Independent Reading book - Thursday

October 31, 2018

Today we began class with the Time Management board and heard Days 41 and 42 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then wrote our 1-Pagers and studied for tomorrow's vocabulary quiz.

Time Management

Open Mic - Thursday

The Mind Part 3 Quiz- Thursday

Nov./Dec. Independent Reading book - Thursday

Nov./Dec. 1-Pager - Dec. 17

Sept. 4, 2018

Today we reviewed the homework board and heard about Day 4 of our #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then finished sharing our "My Name" vignettes and worked on a identity worksheet with sentence starters. Finally, we started our Reading Notes which we will continue tomorrow.

Homework

Summer Reading should be turned in by Sept. 11th.

Syllabus Email will be turned in by 9/7 (directions to be given in class tomorrow.

You will need to bring in your Independent Reading book to start or continue reading on Sept. 6th.

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th.

Sept. 5, 2018

Today we reviewed the homework board and heard about Day 5 of our #180DaysToInspireRespect. Next, we reviewed our directions for the syllabus email and completed our "If I'm..." worksheets. We also continued our reading notes. While using The House on Mango Street we have reviewed how to write and type the title of a novel as well as a vignette, short story, or chapter. We have brainstormed sound devices and started to use the vignettes as example for our learning. We will continue tomorrow.

Homework

Summer Reading should be turned in by Sept. 11th.

Syllabus Email will be turned in by 9/7 (directions to be given in class tomorrow.

You will need to bring in your Independent Reading book to start or continue reading on TOMORROW!

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

Sept. 6, 2018

Today, we started like most Tuesdays and Thursdays by updating our homework agendas and silently reading. I took the Sept. book titles, authors and page numbers from each student. If you did not turn this information in, please see me tomorrow. We then reviewed the homework board and heard about Day 6 of our #180DaysToInspireRespect. Finally we added to our Writing Notes with practice on writing a topic sentence and did a little more work with The House on Mango Street.

Homework

Summer Reading should be turned in by Sept. 11th.

Syllabus Email will be turned in by 9/7 (directions to be given in class tomorrow.

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

Sept. 7, 2018

Today, was a wee bit confusing and stressful for some as our Chromebooks were not aware that we all hoped for good connections and easy use. But no worries, we all worked well. We reviewed the homework board and heard about Day 7 of our 180 Days to Inspire Respect. We then took some time to transfer our reading and writing notes to a Google Doc. This will be worked on in class Tuesday. There is NO NEED TO CONTINUE THIS WORK AT HOME.

Homework

Summer Reading should be turned in by Sept. 11th.

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

Behavior 1 Quiz - 9/14

Sept. 11, 2018

Today we started with 15 minutes of silent reading. We then completed a Google Form posted to Google Classroom that will help inform our future book choices. We then created a new document in our English folder titled Vocabulary. This should now include a heading of "Behavior" as well as a color coded word list from part 1. We will continue our work with these words tomorrow in class. Finally, we continued under a new "Writing" subheading titled "email". This is where we took notes on reminders for proper digital communication. All of these notes can be found on their corresponding page to this website.

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

Behavior 1 Quiz - 9/14

Sept. 12, 2018

Today we started with completing our homework agenda and working with vocabulary for 15 minutes. Students could either compose orginal sentences or copy some from their packet or Word Wisdom dictionary to begin to learn the words. If a student was able to complete 5 sentences, he/she could move to another vocabulary-related activity until the alarm sounded. Next we heard about the 9th day of our #180DaysToInspireRespect. We also reviewed the new pages of this website while updating our notes. Some classes began transferring their "My Name" rough drafts onto their Chromebooks.

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

"My Name" FD - 9/17 (Times New Roman, size 12 font, double-spaced, 1-page vignette)

Behavior 1 Quiz - 9/14

"Hairs" Remix Form/RD - 9/21 This will begin in class tomorrow or Friday.

Sept. 13, 2018

In class we started with 15 minutes of silent reading. We also worked out the math too if everyone was comfortable with the amount of pages left to read this month. If your math calculations are worrisome, please email me tonight or see me during homeroom tomorrow.

We heard about Day 10 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then "played" New Word/New Situation. Finally, students worked on making their "My Name" vignette worthy of final draft status.

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

"My Name" FD - 9/17 (Times New Roman, size 12 font, double-spaced, 1-page vignette)

Behavior 1 Quiz - 9/14

"Hairs" Remix Form/RD - 9/21 This will begin in class tomorrow or Friday.

Sept. 14, 2018

Today was quiz day. We started the class with our homework board review, Day 11 of #180DaysToInspireRespect and a review of the 2nd writing assignment. Students then took their Behavior 1 quiz on their Chromebooks and had about 35-40 minutes to work on their "My Name" final drafts.

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

"My Name" FD - 9/17 (Times New Roman, size 12 font, double-spaced, 1-page vignette)

Behavior 2 Quiz - 9/21

"Hairs" Remix Form/RD - 9/21

Sept. 17, 2018

We started the class with our homework board and 15 minutes to work on vocabulary. The requirements were to copy the 10 words from the bulletin board (color-coded) and to complete page 14 of our Behavior Part 2 paket. (Each line should be filled.)

Day 12 of #180DaysToInspireRespect was shared and then followed by some Reading and analysis of The House on Mango Street. WRITER'S WORKSHOP DID NOT HAPPEN; NOTICE THAT FINAL DRAFT HAS BEEN PUSHED OFF UNTIL TOMORROW.

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

"My Name" FD - 9/18 (Times New Roman, size 12 font, double-spaced, 1-page vignette) - STUDENTS WILL HAVE 20 MINUTES IN CLASS TOMORROW TO FINISH THIS ASSIGNMENT.

Behavior 2 Quiz - 9/21

"Hairs" Remix Form/RD - 9/21

Sept. 18, 2018

Today we began class with 12 minutes of silent reading followed by a review of the homework board and our 13th day of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We reviewed best practices in the world of vocabulary as well as continued our building of Esperanza's Identity in our Reading Notes. This was followed by 20 minutes of Writer's Workshop.

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

"My Name" FD - TODAY! (Times New Roman, size 12 font, double-spaced, 1-page vignette) - STUDENTS WILL HAD 20 MINUTES IN CLASS TODAY TO FINISH THIS ASSIGNMENT.

Behavior 2 Quiz - 9/21 (25 pts.)

"Hairs" Remix Form/RD - 9/21

Sept. 20, 2018

Today we began class with 15 minutes of silent reading followed by a review of the homework board and our 14th day of #180DaysToInspireRespect. We then reviewed the basics of a 1-pager as well as how to write a quality TS (topic sentence) and CT (context) for the responses we will compose next Friday (Sept. 28th). Following this bit of note taking, we played New Word/New Situation and then moved forward with some of our reading of The House on Mango Street.

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

Behavior 2 Quiz - 9/21 (25 pts.)

"Hairs" Remix Form/RD - 9/21

ID Map - 9/25

Sept. 21, 2018

Today we began class by reviewing the homework board as well as the expectations for Writer's Workshop. We heard about the 15th day of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Next, students took their Behavior 2 Quiz and had the rest of class to work as an author. (Options: "Hairs" Remix work in Google Classroom, ID Map <watch the 2017 National Winners' video>, Free Write).

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

Behavior 3 Quiz - 9/28 (24 pts.)

"Hairs" Remix Form/RD - TODAY in Google Classroom

ID Map - 9/25

Oct. Reading Book due in class on 10/2

Book Fair is 9/27

Sept. 24, 2018

Today we with 12 minutes to work on vocabulary (color-coded list and completing page 22 in our packets) as well as reviewing the homework board. We then reviewed some of the great information from the "Start with Hello" assembly and added some details about speaking up when we see or hear something disrespectful. Then we heard about our 16th day of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Finally we reviewed how to write a CD and CM in our 1-pagers. Some new details have been added to the Notes page of this site as an example. Tomorrow we will practice writing our own CD and CM.

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

Behavior 3 Quiz - 9/28 (24 pts.)

ID Map - 9/25

Oct. Indy Reading Book due in class on 10/2

Book Fair is 9/27

Sept. 25, 2018

Today we started with 12-15 minutes of silent reading. We then were updated that Ms. Farese would not be able to attend open house tonight or be in school tomorrow. This allowed us to hear the plan for tomorrow. Then we heard about our 17th day of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Finally we reviewed how to write a CD and CM in our 1-pagers. We even started a group revise of a teacher written 1-pager based on The House on Mango Street.

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on Sept. 28th. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

Behavior 3 Quiz - 9/28 (24 pts.)

Oct. Indy Reading Book due in class on 10/2

Book Fair is 9/27

Sept. 26, 2018 (-The One with the Substitute-)

Today we were given 15 minutes to work on vocabulary. This could/should have been used to prepare for this Friday's quiz. Students should have then heard about Day 18 of #180DaysToInspireRespect. Next, students took a grammar diagnostic on Google Classroom and then could use the remainder of class to work in either a Reader's or Writer's Workshop.

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on FRIDAY. This will be a 1 paragraph response that contains sentence like a topic sentence, context, and concrete details.

Behavior 3 Quiz - 9/28 (24 pts.)

Oct. Indy Reading Book due in class on 10/2

Book Fair is 9/27

Sept. 27, 2018

Today we started with a trip to the book fair. If you need/want to come back tonight, it will be open from 6-8 in the library. Next, we had 10-15 minutes to silently read, which is meant to help us prepare for tomorrow's 1-pager. Finally, we review some of the finer details of the 1-pager.

Homework

One-Pager will happen in class on TOMORROW!

Behavior 3 Quiz - TOMORROW!

Oct. Indy Reading Book due in class on 10/2

Book Fair is 9/27

Sept. 28, 2018

Today we reviewed the homework board and the expectations for the quiz and the 1-pager. We heard about days 19 & 20 of #180DaysToInsprieRespect. Students had the entire class to complete their vocabulary quiz as well as the their 1-pager.

Homework

Behavior Test - 10/5

One-Pager - 10/31

Oct. Indy Reading Book due in class on 10/2

August 21, 2018 Today I worked on a new website and created some fun bulletin boards for my classroom. Super excited to meet my new students next week!

August 28, 2018

Today was a wonderfully hot day to introduce each other to the 8th grade. We heard a little bit about the teacher, learned some landmarks in the room during our tour and began working on our "My Name" writing assignment.

Homework

Please complete your "My Name" packet. YOU BEST IS ENOUGH!!!! The packet and your vignette should be brought to class tomorrow.

Summer Reading should be turned in by Sept. 11th.

Syllabus Email will be turned in by 8/7 (directions to be given in class tomorrow.

You will need to bring in your Independent Reading book to start or continue reading on Sept. 6th.

August 29, 2018

Today was HOT! We started with some classroom reminders and practicing of good habits of writing down homework and bringing our materials to class. We then started to create a recommended book list. This will help students choose books for our 1-Pagers. We also discussed my experiences with the USC Shoah Foundation and IWitness. This led to our first two days of 180 Days to Inspire Respect. Finally we heard some "My Name" vignettes. The presentations will continue and be completed tomorrow.

Homework

Summer Reading should be turned in by Sept. 11th.

Syllabus Email will be turned in by 8/7 (directions to be given in class tomorrow.

You will need to bring in your Independent Reading book to start or continue reading on Sept. 6th.

August 30, 2018

Today we reviewed Day 3 of our 180 Days to Inspire Respect and signed up four people to take over the board next week. :) We then heard from many students with the sharing of our "My Name" vignettes. A Period finished and B, C, and D will finish sharing next week.

Homework

Summer Reading should be turned in by Sept. 11th.

Syllabus Email will be turned in by 8/7 (directions to be given in class tomorrow.

You will need to bring in your Independent Reading book to start or continue reading on Sept. 6th.

Your first One-Pager for Independent Reading is scheduled for Sept. 28th in class.

August 31, 2018 - No School for Students

Homework