2025-26
10.14.25
Mapping Earthquakes and Volcanoes activity . We started this activity but did not complete it. Students had time in class to use he map and use colored pencils to indicate locations of Earthquakes and Volcanoes. We will continue this tomorrow.
10.13.25
We went over the analysis questions for our volcano activity last week and talked a bit more in depth on gassy, less-gassy magma, what types of rock they form and internal vs extral cooling of lava.
10.9.25
We wrapped up, "Modeling Volcanic Eruptions" today. Students had time to complete the lab and do analysis questions. Analysis are due for Monday. Below are the video's of the lab if you were absent or needed to review:
10.8.25
We did a, "Modeling Volcanic Activity" today. We started with directions and some background info. We did not finish but will have time tomorrow. No hw
10.7.25
No new work pushed out, we will be doing a lab tomorrow.
10.6.25
No new work pushed out
10.3.25
Students had some time to wrap up the work from yesterday. If it was not complete this should be done at home. No new work pushed out
10.2.25
Today we split up into partners and did a partner read of the section, "Natural Hazards Caused by Earthquakes and Volcanoes". Students filled out SS 4.1 as they read. They then worked on analysis questions. There are only two questions and the second involves updating SS 1.1. Question number one is more involved and should be abut 7-10 sentences. In class we talked about how to organize this:
opening statement on your opinion and incorporating the question into the answer
state the cause of the natural hazard
what are the effects of the natural hazard
how is the natural hazard monitored, is it reliable, how is it monitored and what happens if there is a failure
how can we prepare for the natural hazard, compare this to others
summary/conclusion
This is not hw. There will be about 15 minutes at the start of class to complete this
10.1.25
Students had indendent work time to complete yesterday's analysis after assessment and table of contents were complete. I recommend completing this for tomorrow. We probably won't have time to go over the questions but we will be doing another section with analysis questions tomorrow so don't want to fall behind (note that question3 is just updating your SS 1.1 from earlier where you consider aquifers with where nuclear waste is stored.
9.30.25
Today we did the lab, "Investigating Groundwater". If you are absent you will want to watch the video , take observation, hypothesis and notes on the handout . Complete analysis 1-3
9.29.25
No new work pushed out today, lab tomorrow (as long as I am feeling better...)
9.26.25
We did the "Modeling Landslide" activity. We watch the video in class to help with the analysis and had a lesson landslides and their characteristics. SS 1.1 should be updated with 'landslides' and analysis 1 and 2 completed. This is hw if not complete
.22.25
Heavy math day today, no new work pushed out but we did take a little look at what the fall equinox is.
9.19.25
We ended the day with a science/engineering group activity/competition. No hw have a nice weekend
9.18.25
No new work pushed out, heavy math day. No hw
9.17.25
Analysis hw was checked and we went over examples of what would be considered highly proficient responses. No new work pushed out, no hw, unless today's homework was not complete.
9.16.25
No new work pushed out today. Yesterday's work is due tomorrow, analysis 1-4 and SS 1.1 which should be glued in to lab notebook
9.15.25
We started by collecting student point sheets from last week and handed out new ones for this week. We then went over in detail the expectations for completing analysis questions (analysis expectations should be glued into the last page of student lab notebooks). We also went over and discussed the first two rows of SS 1.1 and how to complete those rows. Students then had time to complete SS 1.1 and analysis 1-4. This is due on Wednesday and there will likely not be time in class tomorrow so this is hw (many completed in class today or got really close).
Note - if missing SS 1.1 you can find in the labaids online textbook
9.12.25
We started our, "Storing Nuclear Waste" section but did not finish. This is not hw. We then watched an episode of Cosmos that looked at space and geological time. Have a nice weekend.
We did personal tracking forms for the week to capture how students did with meeting classroom expectations this week. Students should bring these home and get a parent signature on these and turn them in on Monday. How students were scored is explained on the sheet.
9.11.25
We introduced our first unit of study and the textbook that we will be using. We also went over how to access the online textbook since we only have enough hard copies for the classroom. We then went over our lab notebook expectations and students glued this into their lab notebook on the bottom of the last page in the lab notebook. We then started a conversation about nuclear energy. No hw
9.10.25
Students worked on a "Early Earth Hypothesis" visual representation of what they think Early Earth looked like. This was glued into their lab notebook. No hw
9.9.25
We continued with our historical perspective on some geological time periods and had a lesson around these. No hw.
We also started doing daily feedback forms for the week on how each student is doing regarding classroom expectations. We will do these through the week and students will get a score for the whole week which will go in synergy and students will get a parent signature on this sheet.
9.5.25
No new work pushed out
9.4.25
No new work pushed out, wrapped up MAPS fall math testing
9.3.25
No new work pushed out, MAPS math testing today
9.2.25
No new work pushed out today. MAPS testing tomorrow
8.29.25
No new work pushed out
8.28.25
No new work pushed out for science today.
8.27.25
Today we continued to establish our daily routine and went through in detail how to start organizing our lab notebook. We then did a warm up and shared that out with our table group. No hw
8.26.25
We had a very positive first day here at Winterhaven. We went through classroom exectations, did a couple of activities to help facilitate getting to know students and their names. No hw. Tomorrow we will have a 'normal' schedule and begin more with academics. Thanks everyone for their cooperation!
2024-25
6.11.25
No new work pushed out, all Barbie Bungee today.
6.10.25
Invasive Species projects were collected today. No new work pushed out
6.9.25
Collected lab notebooks today and Invasive Species projects that were complete. If you did not turn in your invasive project it is due tomorrow.
6.6.25
We had our last independent work period for Invasive Species project. They are due on Tuesday, if turned in Monday students get some extra credit.
6.5.25
Students had independent work to make progress on Invasives Species final product. These are due on Tuesday, Monday if you would like some bonus points. 6b will have a work period tomorrow, 6a's last work period was today.
6.4.25
Today's main focus was an intro on our Invasive Species final product. Paper was handed out and students had a long independent work period. It would be a good idea to continue making progress at home, writing content out on lined paper or black paper which can then be glued onto poster. You could also work on your visual (needs to have color or food web/s).
6.3.25
No new work pushed out. All or most of Invasive notes should be complete by tomorrow. Class tomorrow will be independent work to focus on final product for Invasive Species project after a lesson on expectations/organization. All notes not complete will need to be completed outside of class time.
6.2.25
No new work pushed out. HW: Invasive species notes should be complete or close to complete by this Wednesday. Students will have time to begin working on their final product on Wednesday. Projects are due next Tuesday (June 10th). Projects that are complete and turned in on Monday (June 9th) will get extra credit.
5.30.25
Students had about 45 minutes to continue notes on Invasive Species project. By Monday students are ideally 50% or more done with notes.
5.29.25
Once we finished state Testing we did a quick review on note taking for invasive species and then students had 40 min independent work time. HW is at least 20 minutes focused work gathering notes for invasive species project.
Invasive species note taking template (copy and paste into Google doc) - if taking heirarchical style notes electronically
Global Invasive Species Database
5.28.25
Note taking template for Invasive Species project (hierarchical style)
5.27.25
Student Invasive species project topics (your topic is in bold) - if having a hard time finding info, let me know, it is better to change topics sooner rather than later.
No new work pushed out other than collecting invasive species topics and letting students know what their topics is.
5.22.25
We went over our Invasive Species project today . I also handed out the form for students to submit their ranked invasive species topic choices. These are due on Tuesday.
5.19.25
No new work pushed out today.
5.16.25
We went over several of the analysis questions from yesterday. No new work pushed out. No hw
5.15.25
We started "Ups and Downs" in class today along with a lesson on zebra mussels and why they are such an effective invasive species. Students should have analysis number 1-5 completed for tomorrow (6b was not on task so will definitely have hw). Here is the graph paper .
5.14.25
We read through the section, "Data Transects" as a class. We then had a discussion on prairies, biological diversity, why we use Transects and connected this to the Biological Research Station Cedar Creek. No hw.
5.13.25
No new work pushed out today. In a bit of a heavier math sequence to get caught up.
5.12.25
No new work pushed out
5.9.25
No new work pushed out.
5.8.25
No new work pushed out
5.7.25
No new work pushed out. We check parent signatures on the science assessment and then went over solutions. No hw.
5.6.25
No new work pushed out today. Science assessments were handed back. Overall students did very well! Big improvement from the first one. Proficiency was a 57. HW is a signed parent signature for tomorrow.
5.5.25
Provided a bit more context for invasive species and Lake Victoria. Students had time to complete the, "Miracle Fish" reading, SS 1.1 and analysis. If you did not complete it is hw for Wednesday.
5.1.25
No new work pushed out.
4.30.25
No new work pushed out, we are gonna be math heavy for most of this week given Outdoor School and how our time was spend the week before.
4.29.25
No new work pushed out
4.28.25
Welcome back from Outdoor School! We graded the multiple choice from our science assessment. No new work pushed out.
4.18.25
We had our Science Assessment today. Sunday the 20th we leave for Outdoor School.
4.17.25
Students completed their, "Geologists Report" in class today. If not then that needs to be taken care of but I would wait till after the exam. We went over and reviewed what will be on the test tomorrow, took questions and students had independent work time to prep for tomorrow's test. HW - prep for tomorrows test. I will be collecting study guides or where ever you put down prep info.
4.16.25
Students started on "Building in Boomtown" after an intro and students selected a site. Once students complete 15.1 as a group they began working on their Geologist Report (either for Seaside Cllif or Delta Wetlands). Tomorrow students in 6B should have 2 of the 4 parts of their Geologist Report done. The more the better, which will give more time for follow up and test prep. Make sure to use the Green Hill Geologist Report as a template for completing your own. Organization, length and detail should be about the same. Half of class tomorrow will be dedicated to completing this section, the other half will be test prep (I will review, students can ask question and will have i.w. time).
6B should have competed the Geologist Report.
Example of completed 15.1 to use in geologist report
Geologist Report Template if you are typing and printing it (not required). Must follow expectations below:
section is single space below headers
space between each section
"Location" is where you insert your site (Delta Wetlands or Seaside Cliff).
4.14.25
We will be having our end of unit assessment this Friday, April 18th. The study guide was handed out today. The expectation for the study guide is the same as last time. Write out concepts/answers for each prompt. If it is on the study guide it will be on the test. Best to study a bit everyday. We will review key concepts on Wed/Th.
We started by going over our responses for, "Modeling Cliff Erosion". I then gave some background info on the Mississippi River. We then broke up into new groups and students read, "Building on the Mississippi". Students started analysis but did not get far. This is not hw. There will be time tomorrow. Analysis for, "Weathering Erosion Deposition" are due for tomorrow.
4.11.25
Students worked in partner groups to do the reading, "Weathering, Erosion and Deposition". Students verbalized together the, "stop and think". We will go over these analysis on Tuesday.
Monday students two analysis questions and number 7 are due. The two question that were assigned, students should be prepared to teach those to a small group.
4.10.25
Lab sent video for students who were absent for, "Modeling Cliff Erosion".
Students had time to complete the, "Modeling Cliff Erosion". Students were then assigned two analysis questions that they will be teaching to a small group on Monday. There should be extra attention to detail given that they will be teaching these to people who did not do these problems. All students are also doing analysis number 7 (so three analysis total). These are not due till Monday but there will not be time in class tomorrow.
4.9.25
We started working on a modeling activity, "Modeling Cliff Erosion". We will continue tomorrow, no hw.
4.8.25
No new work pushed out today.
4.3.25
We started with a short lesson looking at erosion and how human development can impact erosion as we add more impervious surfaces. Students then had independent work time to comple, "Boomtown Topography". If this did not get completed in class it is due on Tuesday.
4.2.25
Students had some time to complete, "Making Topographical Maps", we then went over the answers. I then did a lesson on maps of Boomtown and how to interprete these. Students then started the procedure of, "Boomtown's Topography". This is not hw, there will be time to complete tomorrow.
4.1.25
We started with a gallery of our Water Cycle visuals. Groups then responded to analysis questions.
We then had a short lesson on topographical maps and students did an activity with this. If you are absent you should watch the "Lab sent" video
3.31.25
We continued with the section, "Human Impacts on Earth's Water". Students worked with a partner on this reading. Analysis questions are not required to be written out but they are going through them verbally with partner. #3 is the exception in that students are creating a visual diagram together. Students that are absent should do their own. HW - if you and your partner did not get to discussing any of the analysis you should do that tonight so you know the answers.
3.21.25
We had a lesson reviewing the water cycle and introduced some components of water quality. Students started the reading but many did not finish. We will continue after spring break. Have a great break
3.20.25
I was out today but students worked through the activity, "Traveling Through the Water Cycle". They completed the activity and analysis in class.
3.18.25
No new work pushed out today, heavy math day.
3.17.25
No new work pushed out, "Bracketology" day.
3.14.25
No new work pushed out.
3.12.25
We did a lab today, "Cutting Canyons and Building Delta's". No hw, students will have time to do the analysis tomorrow. For students that are absent the document and video is below, although there is no engineering component for this video. You will need to get some of that info from your table group.
lab sent video to watch if absent, take observations
3.11.25
No new work pushed out today, heavy math day. We will be doing a lab activity tomorrow.
3.10.25
No new work pushed out, math heavy day.
3.7.25
No new work pushed out, heavy math day!
3.6.25
Students worked in partner pairs to read, "Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone". They then talked through all the analysis and quizzed on another. Analysis #4 was the only one required to record in lab notebooks. No hw.
3.5.25
We had a lesson introducing our next section looking at dead zones, eutrophication, hypoxic regions and the mississippi river delta. No hw
3.4.25
Students had independent work time to complete the analysis section for, "Nutrient's as Contaniments". If this was not completed in class it is hw. Most finished.
2.28.25
We had a big lab today on, "Nutrients as Contaminants". This also served as a lab assessment in how on task students were and following lab protocal. Students that were out should watch the 'labsent' video: part I and part 2 . Students should read the text, create the table and then watch videos. Analysis are not hw, there will be time on Tuesday.
2.27.25
We had a short lesson on macro inverts, food webs, biological diversity, riparian zones and how to approach the analysis questions. Students then had time to complete the four analysis questions. If analysis was not complete this id hw.
2.25.25
We had a lesson and started an activity on Indicator Species. We will continue tomorrow. No hw.
2.24.25
No new work pushed out today, heavy focus on math to get ready for tomorrow's inequality assessment.
2.21.25
No new work pushed out today, we took a break post science fair and watched the movie, "Hidden Figures".
Congrats to all on a great showing at Science Fair last night. Congrats to our two honorable mentions (Estella and Eben) and our three finalists (Alden, Severin and Simone).
2.19.25
We did an activity looking at "Water Quality" and how population can impact. We had a lesson looking at dissolved oxygen, total dissolved solids, turbidity, correlation and causation. Work not completed is NOT homework. Homework is to focus on completing science fair poster board if needed. Poster boards can be brought to room 23 when complete. We will set these up at the end of the day for the Winterhaven Science Fair event tomorrow, Thursday from 5-7. This is an all school event, feel free to show up when convenient and go through the classrooms looking at all the different projects.
2.18.25
Poster boards are due on Thursday, you can drop off early in the room if complete tomorrow. Tomorrow is last day to send something for me to print. NO homework except to get poster boards dialed in.
Congrats to our ten 6th grade finalists who will be interviewed online tomorrow (Estella, Eben, Caleb, Asa, Severin, Leon, Tobias, Simone, Alden and Finn). If I have any updates regarding interviews tomorrow I will post them below.
Update - Science Fair finalist interviews will be taking place during period 2 and 3. About 3 students will be called down at a time. There will generally be 3 interviews going on at a time. You can anticipate to begin by introducing yourself (name/grade), the title of your project and then summarize your project and be prepared for follow up questions. Note that there are several judges so they could mix the format up. Also not that I was told that you CAN have your chromebook out in front of you with your slides and/or your poster board.
2.12.25
Today we did the lab activity, "Does it Dissolve". Students filled out SS 2.1 and went through the activity. We introduced with a short lesson on solubility, solvents and solutes. We also had a lesson on Portlands unique weather prediction scenario in the winter and the roll of the gorge, Pacific ocean, valley and mtns. Analysis are to be completed at home.
2.11.25
No new work pushed out, we reviewed yesterday's poster board info . Judging interviews will happen on Friday and they will be about 5 minutes each. We will do a practice session on Thursday. Students should review what their experiment was on, hypothesis, if hypothesis was accepted or not and results.
2.10.25
No new work pushed out. We did go over how to layout out science fair posterboards. Posterboards are available for students to take home when they are ready. I just ask that they put a check next to their name indicating students have received their poster board. Completed science fair poster boards are due on Thursday, Feb 20th at the latest (night of the Winterhaven Science Fair). Students can bring their posterboards in early if they are completed before the 20th (bring to room 23). I will have some images of how to organize posterboards on the website by tomorrow.
2.7.25
No new work pushed out. Yesterday's, "Where Should we Build" is hw (the online text is active).
2.5.25
We went over the solutions for the geology test we took awhile back. No new work pushed out. We will start our new unit tomorrow.
2.4.25
Science Fair projects are due tonight via the google slides!
2.3.25
No new work today, we are doing MAPS math testing, will continue tomorrow. Science Fair projects (slides) due by end of the day tomorrow. HW is to complete these, check content, edit (grammar and spelling counts!) have a parent/adult read through and give feedback, make sure all axis labeled as well as tables (units),
1.31.25
Below are the instructions of setting up science fair account and establishing a Google slides document for science fair judging. Students should have completed this in class today. HW: student google slides should be edited, complete, and linked by Tuesday evening at the latest. Students should work on this over the weekend so I have a chance to look at their Google slides and provide some feedback.
Also, MAPS testing for math is on Monday and Tuesday, students should have a charged chromebook and something to do when complete.
Directions on updating NWSE online slides and personal info:
enter exhibit number and password which I will give to you
scroll down to "Step 2" and click, "edit info"
check I have read and followed the rules
insert title of your science fair project, you can change it if you want
click 'exit'
Scroll Down to "Step 4"
click "edit"
look at where you will insert the link to your google slides and make sure you have clicked, "anyone with link can view".
Do not start slide process with anything that still needs to be edited
Google Slides Science Fair Template
Slide Deck Template for Engineering (text is still in this one, see prompts for engineering, delete prompts and keep headers)
you are going to make a copy of this document to your drive
Click, "File"
scroll down to, "Make a Copy" and click, then click "entire presentation"
give it a title and put it in your "Science Fair" Folder
Notes on Google Slides
only copy and paste things in when they have been edited and are in final draft format
Many of you will need more than one slide for a section. If so. right click or double tap on chromebook and click, "insert slide"
Then give it a title which will be the section you are on and add 'continued". For instance, "Background continued".
Only one table and graph per slide. Make sure they fit and use the space effectively. If you need to edit that generally is done in google sheets
Make sure the font is readable and an appropriate size. Best way to tell is go to play slide show and check formatting.
slide transitions should be, "mellow"
1.30.25
We had multiple lessons today on writing the absract, formatting tables/graphs, interpreting graphs and data.... The goal for tomorrow is to have the written component of all sections of the science fair complete. Students may not be there but that is the goal. Students filled out a Science Fair Completion document to keep up to date on their completion. Tomorrow we will go over Google slides and more. Tomorrow the last independent work day for science fair.
Science Fair Abstracts:
Abstract
Every exhibit must display a copy of the project abstract. Each judge receives online access to the abstracts for the projects they will be judging; the abstract is the first part of the exhibit that the judges see. The abstract at the display must be an exact copy of the abstract submitted online so as not to confuse judges.
The abstract is a short summary of the project. The maximum length of an abstract is 250 words. The body of the abstract is generally one paragraph. Science projects and engineering projects are different, so there are directions for each.
For a Scientific Inquiry Project
First, begin the abstract with a statement that indicates the purpose, problem or focus of the investigation. The second part of the abstract provides further information needed to understand why the study was conducted. For example, you may describe prior research findings as a context for your question. By the time the reader reaches the end of this part of the abstract, it is essential the question you are investigation is clear. The third essential section is a brief summary of your procedures. Let the reader know the most important aspects of the design of your experiment. Mention any unusual or newly developed methods. Lastly, close the abstract with a direct statement of findings – a conclusion you might wish to see printed in a local newspaper’s science section. Be sure to tell how your question mentioned previously was answered or perhaps not answered.
For an Engineering Design or Programming Project
Begin by explaining very clearly what you are designing. First state your design goal and the constraints on your design. The second part of the abstract provides further information needed to understand why the design is important or interesting. In the third part use a few sentences to describe your design itself. It is good to break your design into subsystems and tell what they do. Include how your design is supposed to meet the goals above. Describe how your design was tested. Lastly, close the abstract with a direct statement of findings – a conclusion you might wish to see printed in a local newspaper’s science section. Be sure to include how well your design met the goals mentioned at the beginning of the abstract. If you must submit the abstract before obtaining reportable results, say so at the end of the abstract, being very careful to have defined the goals you
1.29.25
Today was a science fair heavy day, as will be Th and Friday. This week is our last time for independent work in class on science fair. Slides will need to be updated and complete by next Tuesday. We will have a lesson on this tomorrow or Friday. HW - students should be wrapping up their Analysis/Conclusion, TakeAways and Abstract. Almost all students have work to do, meaning hw for tonight!
Link for how to organize slides
1.23.25
Today was a heavy Science Fair day. Students should have table/s and graph/s pretty much done along with written description of their data and stats work and be beginning Analysis and Conclusion. Tomorrow will be a work/feedback day and by next Wednesday when we return students should have Analysis Conclusion done. We are in the final stages of the written component and on task in class is critical.
1.22.25
List of science fair categories - make sure to scroll down to "Middle School", on the index card put your name in the top left, the potential title of your project and category. If unsure, make an educated guess and describe in one sentence what you are doing with your project. This was collected during class today.
Students should be done or close to done with their table/s
1.21.25
Students had independent work today. Ideally students should be working on their table/s or past that. I have not had a chance to look at everyone's table/s and will continue tomorrow.
1.17.25
We had a long independent work period to focus on science fair. I met with students and provided feedback. Students should have their background complete by Tuesday and be working on their results.
1.16.25
We went over the Results and started looking at the Analysis section of science fair. These notes from the lesson are here . HW - if a student has not started the Background section or does not have data (this needs to be done ASAP) then that is the hw.
1.14.25
No new work pushed out, no lessons, no hw. Math heavy day
1.13.25
We had a lesson how to generate a table with our science fair document. Ways to include statistics with this and some formatting options. Students then had independent work on science fair. Students should be working on/wrapping up their background.
1.10.25
We had about 45 minutes independent work, during this time I gave feedback to students. Students should have hypothesis, prediction, materials and procedure done at this point and be working on Background
1.9.25
Students had about 40 minutes independent work time on science fair while I gave feedback. At this point students should have hypothesis, materials and procedure complete or close to complete. We also had a lesson on ways to make more effective google search, specifically to support their background section. I gave some examples of how to do this on the projector.
We also handed back our geology tests. These are to have a parent signature and be turned in tomorrow. For students that did not demonstrate proficiency (56/57) retakes need to be complete before the end of next week (also need a parent signature and turned in tomorrow).
1.8.25
We had another lesson on writing a hypothesis and discussed the 'background section' and took a look at the resources on the "Resource" page related to these sections. Students then had about 30 minutes independent work and I provided feedback to students during this time. HW is to have your hypothesis, materials and at least half of procedure section complete.
1.6.25
Welcome back, hope everyone had a nice Festivus break. We finished watching the Science Fair documentary.
12.19.24
I have met with just about everyone to dial in their science fair question or engineering topic. You should have a topic dialed in for tomorrow, if I have not met with you bring in your 3 ideas.
We had our Penultimate Feat of Strength today. It was a double points wall sit and brought our some true Festivus spirit in both 6a and 6b. The overall leaderboard is even less clear than it was this morning meaning it will all come down to our final Feat of Strength tomorrow! Congrats and on great Festivus energy and our stage winners Severin and B!!!!!
12.18.24
Science Fair questions are due tomorrow and I will be meeting with students tomorrow. I met with Mr. Dyer today and the decision was made to have all students steer clear of projects involving bacteria/microbes. We will discuss more tomorrow.
We did our 4th FOS today and it was a real battle with great performances by ALL. Congrats to the last ones holding 'crane', Sunny and Andrea!
11.17.24
Science test today. Complete science fair questions so we can meet in the next two days so you have a workable project.
12.16.24
Science Test tomorrow, hw to prep for it. Bring in notes to show how prepared. Test is closed notes
12.13.24
We introduced Science Fair and students had independent work time to start working on their question. We then did a "Legs Up", Feat of Strength. Congrats all and our new FOS stage winners are Naomi and Severin! Students then had IW for our test on Tuesday. Students should spend time over the weekend prepping for the test.
12.12.24
Students had time to complete, "Evaluating Site Risk" analysis and sheets 18.2 and 18.3 (these should be glued in). If students finished they began preparing for our cumulative end of unit test which will be on Tuesday, December 17th. The Study Guide was handed out today. I will collect the study guide and other sheets that students used to prepare on Tuesday. Reading a question and stating, "I know that concept" is not studying, write it down then check. The test will be a mix of multiple choice, short and long answer. I recommend preparing for 30 minutes a day everyday before Tuesday. Important to spread this out, remember Ms. Tran also has a test on Monday.
12.11.24
We started with a bit of independent work time for those that did not finish yesterday's work. We then started the final section in our science unit, "Evaluating Site Risk" . This is not hw, we will continue tomorrow.
12.10.24
I was out today, it sounds like at least 6B didn't get as much time as they needed to complete the graphs and analysis. If that is the case I will give independent work time tomorrow so it is not hw for tonight.
12.9.24
We had a lesson on line graphs and broken scales to help with part B which we will do tomorrow. No hw.
12.6.24
We began "Enough Resources For All", we just got done with part A. No hw.
12.5.24
Students had time to complete, "Rocks as Resources", this is hw if not complete. No new work pushed out. We had a short discussion about the earthquake earlier today and why the tsunami warning was called off.
12.4.24
Students read, "Rocks as Resources" as partners, completed SS 16.1 and began the analysis questions
We started class with a group activity looking at the visual from the Rock Cycle, each group put together a visual and then we did a gallery.
12.3.24
Students had time to complete work from, "The Rock Cycle". If this was not completed then it is hw for tomorrow. No new work pushed out
12.2.24
We started an activity on the "Rock Cycle". For students that are out use this link . Students worked on analysis when they completed. There will be time at the start of class to work on completion. Not hw.
11.22.245
Students filled out their Pre Conference Self Eval . If you were not present today you should fill this out and bring it to your conference.
11.21.24
When students completed their Leaf Lab they transitioned to completing the analysis for, "What Makes the Plates Move?". Question 3 and 4 are the big ones. This is due the Monday after break and there will not be time in class tomorrow to work on it.
11.20.24
No new work pushed out, analysis 1-3 from, "What Makes the Plates Move" should be completed. There will be time to finish the rest tomorrow.
11.19.24
Students completed part B of, "What Makes the Plates Move?". For students that were out here is a link to a video of the activty: Part B
Students should have analysis 1-3 complete. There will be time in class to complete the rest.
11.18.24
We started a lab activity with, "What Makes the Plates Move?". For folks who are out you should read the section, then watch the Lab sent video , record observations in your lab notebook.
11.15.24
We watched a video on plate tectonics and Marie Tharp. No hw
11.14.24
No new work today, another heavy math day.
11.13.24
No new work pushed out today, heavy math day.
11.12.24
We did a gallery activity with one of the analysis questions from, "Theory of Plate Tectonics". No new work pushed out.
11.8.24
We took a deep dive look at Alfred Wegener's life in class today. If students have not completed the analysis questions of "Theory of Plate Tectonics" that should be done over the long weekend. Question 3 is the big one, 3 paragraphs
11.5.24
We discussed and handed back rubrics for our first lab notebook check. Signed rubric (should be glued into lab notebook is due on Friday when I return from a district training). We started the section, "The Theory of Plate Tectonics". Students will work on the analysis tomorrow in class. No hw except for signed parent signature.
10.31.24
No new work pushed out, have a nice weekend!
10.30.24
No new work pushed out.
10.29.24
We started with a warm up and detailed instructions on completing analysis #5 from, "The Continent Puzzle". Lab notebooks were then collected for evaluation. No new work pushed out.
10.28.24
Lab notebooks will be collected tomorrow for Q1 evaluation. Students had time to complete, "The Continent Puzzle" activity along with analysis 1-4 being due tomorrow. We went over in detail the expectations for each problem. Analysis 1-4 are homework for tomorrow and lab notebooks will be collected so make sure table of contents is completed.
10.25.24
We started working on, "The Continent Puzzle" today. We did not get that far and will continue on Monday. No hw
10.24.24
I have been out for a bit with an injured back, sorry for lack of updates. Students updated their table of contents using the google sheet in the "Resources" page and click on Lab notebook Table of Contents. This goes on the first page of the lab notebook, students should copy down the info and then check to see if the work is complete or incomplete and update that column on the table of contents. This should be done for tomorrow.
10.18.24
Link to Plate Motion Simulator
10.17.24
No new work pushed out today.
10.16.24
Students continued to work through their experimental design, the experiment, conclusion and analysis for "Modeling Earthquakes".
Specific directions for the activity were projected and located here. All work for this section is due on Monday, there will not be more class time to work on it.
10.15.24
We started Part B of, "Modeling Earthquakes" where groups came up with their own experimental design. Due for tomorrow is to have your Title, Purpose, Hypothesis, Materials, Procedure and Data (use a ruler) section completed for tomorrow so you are ready to collect data first thing.
10.14.24
We had a lesson/discussion regarding earthquakes and setting up an experimental design (which students took notes on). We started our, "Modeling Earthquakes" activity. We will continue tomorrow, not homework.
10.10.24
Students had an open notebook "quiz" of sorts related to an analysis problem. I will look at these, evaluate on a proficiency basis to see with a bit more detail how our writing is coming along specific to detail and evidence.
This weekend is a good opportunity to get caught up with any analysis questions/work that has not been completed. Have a nice long weekend.
10.9.24
We started by going over the work for "Observing Earth's Moving Surface". This included the 7.1 GPS data interpretation and the analysis questions. Students then had time to complete all work for, "Beneath Earth's Surface". For tomorrow SS 8.2 and analysis should be complete. For students that were sick they have till Monday.
10.8.24
We started the section, "Beneath Earth's Surface". There are two handouts for this . The first one is a bit of a thought experiment that we started with. Students made a hypothesis as to how deep our planet is and what lies beneath our feet by making a visual representation of what they thought. Students were then split up into reading pairs and alternated reading a paragraph and working together to complete the analysis. Analysis number 3 is using SS 8.2 and filling it out (show ratio's on the side as to how you solved for the scaled depth below Earth's surface). Question four is longer, about a paragraph with detail/evidence. This is not hw, there will be some time tomorrow to complete.
Problem #3 for "Observing Earth's Surface" the visual is not coming through with the online textbook. Here it is
10.7.24
We had a review lesson on reading and graphing gps data that was led by a studets in both 6a and 6b. Students then had time to complete analysis 1-6. #3 is the long one with lots of changes in direction and opportunity for quantitative data. This work is due by Wednesday. No new work pushed out
10.4.24
We had an intro lesson and description when starting the section, "Earth's Moving Surface". We went over interpreting GPS sensor graphs and students filled out the handouts . They then began working on the analysis questions 1-6. Students should Have SS 7.1 complete with the Alaska, Iceland and S California data on it as well as analysis number 1 and 2 for Monday. There was a good junk of iw time in class.
10.3.24
No new work pushed out today.
10.2.24
Link for activity, "Mapping Locations of Volcanoes and Earthquakes" You need to click on the top link to get to the page and select "earthquake" or "volcano". You are going to map both of these on the same sheet using different colored pencils.
Analysis should be completed for thursday.
10.1.24
Students had time in class to complete the analysis questions from yesterday, if they did not get complete they are hw (1-4).
Students will need a charged chrome book for an activity tomorrow.
9.30.24
We did a lab today, "Modeling Volcanic Eruptions". We went over the notes and students copied the Observation/Prediction section into lab notebook. Analysis is NOT hw.
For students that were out on Monday, read the section we did, open the link above, read the notes and create the table and predictions section in your lab notebook. Use the three videos of the lab below to gather observations and and work through analysis.
9.27.24
No new work pushed out. We went over a highly proficient written response for analysis 1 on 'Natural Hazards' and responses to SS 4.1.
Natural Hazards Caused by Earthquakes and Volcanoes
HP Analysis 1
The natural hazard that I think presents the least challenge for the safe storage of nuclear waste is volcanic gas. Volcanic gas emissions are caused when gas released from magma deep underground escapes to the surface. The effect of volcanic gas emissions is that they are harmful for nearby organisms if the gas collects and reaches dangerous levels. The gas emitted from under the ground can be monitored constantly, so people would know if the harmful gas was approaching dangerous levels. If the amount of gas changed suddenly or wasn’t being monitored carefully, then the risks of it causing health problems for people near the gas increases. Unlike other natural hazards caused by earthquakes and volcanoes, there isn’t really a way to prepare for a sudden increase in carbon dioxide gas emissions or a way to minimize the risk of harm from gas emissions, so it’s more challenging to prepare for this type of natural hazard. Even so, this natural hazard doesn’t cause widespread damage like other natural hazards caused by volcanoes and earthquakes.
9.26.24
Students had independent work time at the start of class to complete SS 1.1, 4.1 and analysis from "Natural Hazards". If this was not complete it is hw. No new work pushed out
9.25.24
Students had class time to work on, "Natural Hazards Caused by Earthquakes and Volcanoes". SS 4.1 should be completed after the reading and then analysis problems 1 and 2. Number 1 is a healthy paragraph utilizing evidence from the reading, number 2 is updating SS 1.1. Students will have 15-20 minutes to complete this in class tomorrow. If a student is not done with SS 4.1 or has not started number 1 they should do that at home tonight.
9.24.24
We started the section, "Natural Hazards Caused by Earthquakes and Volcanoes" today by doing the reading with a partner. Students started to work on the reading and SS 4.1. This is not hw, we will continue tomorrow. 6A did not get to this today, we will do it tomorrow.
An email went out yesterday with the link to sign up for conferences.
9.23.24
We did the modeling landslide activity today. We started with a lesson, watched the video below (linked) and then students did analysis 1 and 2 as well as updating SS 1.1 with landslide consideration. Number two is the longer analysis question at a paragraph. This is hw if students did not complete in class.
9.20.24
No new work pushed out, math test
9.19.24
No new work pushed out today.
9.18.24
Students had time in class to complete the analysis 1-3 for, "Investigating Groundwater". There are also two extension problems that I put on the board (not the one in the textbook)
Extension 1) Was your hypothesis correct? Why or why not (use observations to support your statement).
Extension 2) What were the sources of error in this activity.
9.17.24
Today we did our first lab activity, "Investigating Groundwater". We had a lesson before the activity on groundwater, aquifers, percolation, permeability and the role aquifers play. Groups that did not complete running the activity and getting observations will continue tomorrow. There will be time in class to complete analysis questions. No hw
Investigating Ground Water table
9.16.24
We started class by checking our analysis questions for completion. We then went over what some Highly Proficient responses would look like. Students then compared their responses to the HP and wrote in the margin in colored pencil what they could do to improve their responses. They then glued the HP responses into their lab notebook as a reference. No hw
9.13.24
No new work pushed out today. Analysis from section 1 is due on Monday and we will go over. We watched a science video that looks at the history of our universe and earth's 'address' in the universe.
9.12.24
We went over in detail how to access the online textbook in class today. Students then had time to complete the analysis from yesterday. If this was not completed in class it is homework and should be done by class on Monday.
Storing Nuclear Waste Analysis Expectations
1) should be a paragraph or more, utilizing evidence and trade-offs. We talked a lot about this in class.
2) about 3 sentences
3) about 3 sentences
4a) 2-3 sentences
4b) 2-3 sentences
9.11.24
We went through in great detail how to complete SS 1.1 and the analysis questions from, "Storing Nuclear Waste". We discussed and had visuals with how to fill out the table as well as organize the lab notebook with analysis questions, in addition to approximately how long each problem should be and what detail to include. Students had a large work period to work on this. If students did not complete this it is not hw for tonight, I will be going over how to access the online text book in class tomorrow so students can complete.
9.10.24
We introduced our first unit in science and read section one, going over some concepts on nuclear energy and how to start filling out table 1.1. We will continue with, "Storing Nuclear Waste" tomorrow, No hw.
9.9.24
We completed our geologic table and notes today. We then did a visual representation of what studetns think early earth looked like. We shared a bit of these and then went over lab book expectations with how to organize analysis questions. These will be glued into lab notebooks tomorrow.
Analysis Questions Expectations:
Title each analysis with the section name
Incorporate the question into the answer
Responses are generally going to be complete sentences
Use visuals to generate or get an answer across
Skip a line in between questions
When asked to provide evidence and trade-offs these responses are going to be longer and should provide evidence and trade-offs in detail.
Use correct conventions
Orient responses on the left hand margin
Use evidence, observations and quantitative data to support your statements
This can come from the reading, class lesson, discussion, activity…
9.6.24
Thanks you students for being flexible and so tolerant with the schedule and heat! Today we introduced our first unit in geology and filled out a table looking at some time frames (should be glues in), with then a more detailed discussion about some of these time frames. No hw, have a nice weekend!
9.5.24
More MAPS math testing, no new work pushed out.
9.4.24
We started our first round of MAPS math testing today! Not all students finished so we will continue tomorrow. Please bring charged chromebook, charger and something to do when done. Thanks for everyone bring their chrombook today!
9.3.24
We started with a warm up that students shared out, we continued with our warm up from the other day and did a wrap up activity with it and concluded with a MMM.
9.1.24
We started with a warm up and shared these out. We continued with last weeks warm up that was on the board, students did a self evaluation of this and then turned in their work. I am more looking at student process and where they are at.
Tomorrow we will be starting our Fall Math MAPS testing. Students should bring a charged chromebook, charger and something to do quietly when they finish (work from another class, book, drawing etc).
8.30.24
We continued with yesterday's practice and then we did a warm up looking at all four operations. We are working on organizing our work so we did all problems on larger celled graph paper. We then set up binders with tabs and talked about how to use them. 6B we got to going over the website but we did not in 6A, we will on Tuesday. Have a nice long weekend.
8.29.24
We continued to work on science lab notebook organization. We then did a warm up and shared our warm up with a peer. ). Make sure to bring in your 3 inch binder tomorrow for setup.
8.28.24
We continued to work on classroom expectations, did a Mad Minute Math (MMM), set up our tracking device for this activity and learned how to set up our science lab notebook. No hw.
8.27.24
We had a great first day of class. We went over classroom expectations, received a message from Principal Sandilands and got familiar with Winterhaven. No hw, congrats on surviving your first day of Middle School!
6.13.24
We completed watching, "Hidden Figures" in class. No new work pushed out.
6.12.24
No new work pushed out
6.11.24
Invasive Species projects were due today, I checked heirarchical style notes as well. No new work pushed out.
6.10.24
Students turned in Invasives Project today for bonus points. Due date is tomorrow. Lab notebooks will also be collected tomorrow for final evaluation.
6.6.24
Today was the final independent work day for Invasive Species project. If you are not completed you need to take it home to complete. Due date is Tuesday, if you turn it in on Monday you receive 5 bonus pts on project
6.5.24
Today was a full work period on Invasive Species project final product. If there are any notes that you still need then that is your homework. No more notes should be needed started tomorrow. We are looking at a final due date of Monday or Tuesday. Will update soon.
6.4.24
Students had just about an hour of independent work time for Invasive Species project. Students will start working on their final product tomorrow, which means notes should be pretty much wrapped up. We are looking at a due day of Monday the 10th or 11th. Will update soon.
6.3.24
Students had about an hour of independent work on their Invasive Species project. We are shooting for notes complete on Wed/Th. Students can starte working on final product on Th.
5.31.24
Invasive Species notes should be halfway or more complete. We are looking at having all notes complete by Thursday. There will be time in class next week, better to be ahead than behind!
5.30.24
We had a large independent work period for students to focus on their invasive species project. Some students were super focused and some not so much. I recommend 30 minutes work tonight. Students should have close to have the criteria covered with notes in heirarchical format. This would be over a page at this point.
5.28.24
My voice became compromised over the weekend so we watched a video called, "Making Waves" that looks at invasive species and the great lakes. No new work pushed out. "Eating for Matter and Energy" should be complete by Thursday if it is not done yet.
5.24.24
I met with each student and discussed their ideas for their invasive species topic. All students should have an organism for their project. Students that completed the warm up started on, "Eating for Matter and Energy". This is NOT hw.
5.23.24
Invasive Species Project handout
Invasive Species selection sheet
We introduced out Invasive Species project today. Students had independent work time to research some options for their topic. I will collect the list of students top topics tomorrow. This is homework
5.22.24
No new work pushed out, we wrapped up testing today.
5.20.24
State testing today, no new work pushed out. We will continue tomorrow. Make sure to have charged chromebook, charger and something to do if complete.
5.16.24
Students continued work on, "Coughing Up Clues". Analysis 1-3 is due for next Wednesday .
5.15.24
HW was checked during Warm up. Started activity with owl pellets
5.14.24
We had a further discussion about invasives and the zebra mussel. "Up's and Downs" analysis 1-6 is due for tomorrow. 3, 4, 5 should have quantitative data incorporated into response, number 4 is a paragraph.
link to number 6 which we looked at in class
5.13.24
We started with a lesson on the zebra mussel and invasive species in general. Students then started the section, "Ups and Downs". Students should have analysis question 1 and 2 done for Tuesday. There will be some independent work time to complete on Tuesday.
5.10.24
Successful School Survey (6a taking Friday, May 10th)
No new work pushed out today.
5.9.24
No new work pushed out
5.8.24
We started by checking homework and then going over each response together. No new work pushed out.
5.7.24
We had a lesson on prairie ecosystems and some of their characteristics. Students collected modeled data from, "Data Transects" and calculated means of native plants, non native plants and grasshoppers within transects 1 and 2. Students should have analysis 1-5 complete for tomorrow (they are all 3-5 sentences with number 4 being a paragraph).
5.6.24
No new work pushed out, if analysis for, "Miracle Fish" was not completed on Friday that should be done tonight. New text should be available now, apologies for the delay.
5.2.24
No new work pushed out.
5.1.24
We continued with the video, Missoula Floods today. We also handed our last science assessment, these should have a parent signature for tomorrow.
4.30.24
No hw, we started watching a documentary on the channeled scablands and missoula floods.
4.29.24
We wrapped up our lesson on J Bretz and the Scablands. No new work pushed out
4.26.24
We continued with our conversation regarding J Bretz and his work. No hw
4.25.24
We started taking a look at J Bretz, the gorge and the Channeled Scablands. No hw
4.24.24
No new work pushed out
4.23.24
No new work pushed out
4.22.23
Welcome back from Outdoor School. Students did a great job!
Today was a bit of a transition day with a series of different activities and some background info on Earth Day. No hw.
4.11.23
End of unit assessment tomorrow. Closed note. Study Guide was handed out yesterday. Students had time to prep and ask questions today. Study guide will be turned in before the test to see how students prepped.
4.9.24
Geologist Report should be completed for tomorrow. Study Guide for Friday's test will be handed out tomorrow and students will have class time to prep
4.8.24
We started, "Building in Boomtown" today. We introduced ss 15.1, took a look at the "Green Hill Geologist's Report and how to use that as a template to create your own geologist report on either Green Hill or Seaside Cliff. SS 15.1 should be complete for tomorrow. Students will have some time to complete the Geologists Report tomorrow.
4.4.24
We had an introduction with some background information on, Building on the Mississippi River activity. Students were then put in groups and read together. Analysis 1-7 are due on Monday (#4 is the longest response, a healthy paragraph and #6 can be a bulleted list.
4.3.24
Students partner read, "Weathering, Erosion and Deposition" and verbally went through the 'talk and think' and analysis. Our end of unit assessment will be on Friday, April 12th. No hw
Outdoor School Packet (includes packing list)
4.2.24
Students completed, "Modeling Cliff Erosion" today. In 6a, if you did not complete this it is homework. No new work pushed out. Lab Notebooks collected in 6b and those that completed work in 6a. If you did not turn in your lab notebook today it is due tomorrow.
4.1.24
Hope everyone had a great spring break. We did the, "Modeling Cliff Erosion" activity today. 6b completed the activity and should have the first two analysis complete for tomorrow.
Lab notebook collection is tomorrow.
3.22.24
Students had time to complete the "Boomtown's Topography". All analysis up to this point should complete when we return. 6b lab notebook collection on April 2nd and 6a on April 1st. Have a great spring break!
3.21.24
Students started, "Boomtown's Topography", We discussed specifically what features to look at and compare on the topographical and street map. This is not hw, there will be time to complete tomorrow (if not then hw).
3.20.24
No new work pushed out
3.19.24
We did an activity looking at generating topographical maps today. Analysis are due for tomorrow, students should have completed or come very close to completing in class (if they were on task). Students that were out should use the labaids to watch the video).
3.18.23
No new work pushed out. If you were out last week make sure you look back in the website to get caught up.
3.14.24
I am out sick today, but students worked through our next activity, "Traveling with the Water Cycle". There are some manipulative's for this activity. Students that are out sick take look at this section on labaids.
3.13.24
Students had time to complete yesterday's, "Cutting Canyon's Building Delta's" lab and complete analysis. What was not complete is hw. If you are out sick you should watch the labsent video available on labaids web resources. SS here
3.12.24
We started, "Cutting Canyon's Building Deltas" lab today. We did not finish, will continue tomorrow. No new hw, if behind in anything use this time to catch up.
3.8.24
We had a lesson on the Mississippi River, its role in the gulf and the dead zone. Students read, "Mississippi Dead Zone" and started analysis in partner pairs. This is not homework. We will continue on Monday.
3.7.24
We had a review of yesterdays lab, discussed contaminents and pt and non point pollution. Students had time in class to complete the analysis from yesterday's lab. Students should have finished if they used their time well or come very close; hw if not finished
3.6.24
We did a big lab today, "Nutrients as Contaminents". Students that were out should watch the labsent video on labaids to get caught up. There will be time tomorrow to do the analysis. No hw. This also served as a Lab Assessment, where students were evaluated on their roles, class and lab expectations.
3.5.24
No new work pushed out
3.4.24
When students completed the math practice they had i.w. to complete Indicator species handout and analysis. Should should be completed for tomorrow.
3.1.24
We did the, "Indicator Species" section. We had another lesson on indicator species and talked bout the macro-inverts we are looking at. Students collected data, we looked at class data and then discussed how this could be interpreted and if their is a potential causal relationship. Students will have some time to work on this on Monday.
2.28.24
We have had several students out sick this week. Here is a link with all the science handouts for the first three sections of our new unit . Today we had a lesson on the, "Water Quality" section. We talked about dissolved oxygen, turbidity, pH, dissolved solids and correlation/causation (with examples/graphs and coefficients). Students should scale put all four graphs on the same page (students are graphing all four which is different than the instructions. Scale graphs as follows: DO by 1, DS by 5, population by 5,000 and turbidity by .5. The x axis is years and go in reverse starting with 100 yrs. Water quality graphs and analysis 1-5 is due for tomorrow.
2.26.24
We did the lab, "Does it Dissolve" today. No hw with this, we will continue tomorrow.
2.23.24
Students should complete student sheet 1.1 and analysis 1-6 from, "Where should we build?" Student sheet 1.1 should be glued into lab notebooks.
2.22.24
We introduced our new unit, "Land, Water and Human Interaction". We started the first section, this is not hw, we will continue tomorrow.
Science Fair tonight: 5 - 6:30
2.21.24
No new work pushed out. Congrats to science fair finalists. Posterboards are due tomorrow if they have not been turned in. Science Fair is tomorrow from 5 -6:30ish.
2.20.24
Science Fair posterboards are due tomorrow. If there is a crunch on time they can be brought in on Thursday in the morning.
Finalists for the Science Fair competition will be announced tomorrow. Students that are finalists will be 'interviewed' on Thursday after school from 3:15 - 5:00. If they are done before that they can leave. There will be pizza for finalists after school. Reminder that Science Fair is from 5 -630/7 on Thursday evening. It is not mandatory but it is well attended at Winterhaven. Students and families can move throughout the school and view the different projects that students in all grades completed. At 6:00 in the auditorium the top 5 projects will be annouced for 6/7/8th grade.
2.19.24
No new work pushed out. Went over a bit on science fair poster board. Students can bring them in and store in the room when complete.
2.16.24
Last day to work on Science Fair in class. Students submitted their google slides for judging in class. Posterboards should be taken home and brought back by Wednesday completed.
2.14.24
Example Science Fair Google Slides
Example of Poster Board Organization, ex2 , ex3 , ex4
Potential Poster Board Organization Strategy
2.13.24
We are in the final days of science fair where there will be time in class to do work. We had another lesson on the discussion, conclusion and future plans sections. Folks that are behind should be doing hw.
6B Outdoor School forms were handed out today. Please share these with your parental units and begin filling out. When complete bring back to school. Reminder, tomorrow from 10:40 to 11:25 staff from Outdoor School will be meeting with 6B. Parents are welcome to attend if you would like.
2.12.24
Students had i.w. for science fair today and I met with students. Students can take their poster-board home anytime this week. We have not gone over the formatting component yet so construction of the boards will have to wait a bit. We will go over that when more students are closer to being complete.
Documents for the online judging will be do on Friday before the end of your respective science class.
2.9.24
We focused on science fair today. Reviewed some pieces and I met with students. Students who are behind should work to get caught up. Data should be collected. Everything through tables and graphs should be done and working on Results on...
2.6.24
We had MAPS math testing today. When students completed they focused on their science fair write up. Continue to work on this, there will be independent time in for the rest of the week.
2.5.24
We had a lesson how to complete the Tables/Figures/Stats, Results, Discussion, Conclusion and Future Plans sections. Document we went over is available here
and in the "Resources" section. If you are intereted in how your project will be evaluated by judges look here. Bring all material you will need to work on science fair to every class from here on out so you can make progress during i.w.
2.2.24
No new work pushed out. I met with any students who wanted to check in regarding science fair. Ideally students who have not run their experiment yet will do so this weekend and come in Monday with data. We finished watching the science fair documentary at the end of class.
2.1.24
No new work pushed out. Students should have science fair data by Monday the 5th at the latest. Continue to work on this and get up to "Background" complete.
1.31.24
I started giving feedback on some students 'formulating science fair' document and met with some students as well today. HW, continue to work on materials, proc, background and hypothesis as well as getting things together to run experiment if you have not already. Goal is to have all data by the end of the weekend.
1.30.24
Science tests were explained and handed back. We went over the straight percent score and the adjusted score which students should have written in marker on the front of the test. Tests should have a parent signature for tomorrow. No new work pushed out, those that have not run their science fair experiments should be planning to do so ASAP
1.25.24
1.24.24
We have been busy working on science fair. Students have shared their question ideas with me and should be settling in on what their science fair question is going to be. Students should also have chatted with their parental units about what they are planning to do and if they need support with materials. Ideally students have collected their data this weekend (3 day weekend). Once students have selected their question they should be working on the materials, procedure and background section.
1.22.24
Our main focus today and will continue for awhile is science fair. We did a demo activity today, looked at how to establish independent and dependent variables and different ways to tailor an experiment based on student interest. Students then had i.w.w to establish three ideas and their questions. This document should be shared with me. If the "32 testbable questions" has not been completed or shared with me you should complete that tonight. This doc is in the resources section. Students should have a folder just for science fair and copy and paste this document into their folder.
1.12.24
Haven't updated due to all day science test on Wed and conferences after school. No hw has been pushed out. Today we introduced science fair. Talked about generating a question, independent and dependent variables, things to consider and things to avoid. Lotta links on Resource page that we will be using. Students generated a folder in google drive titled, "Science Fair" and copied pasted Testable questions into the folder. Over the long weekend students should start coming up with ideas and typing them out in this doc. Have a great long weekend, maybe snowy weekend!
1.9.24
Today was focused on the end of unit geology test that will be tomorrow. We went over what student's can expect on the test, some test taking strategies, more detail with what students need to know and students then had independent work time to prep. I will collect study guides tomorrow before the test.
1.5.24
Students had some iw time to complete any analysis work from our unit. I talked about the test/study guide which I have changed to next Wednesday. Students then had some time to prep for the test. Study Guide's will be collected the day of the test. Students should write out responses to the prompts/key terms/concepts. Visuals are fine as well.
1.4.24
We talked in more detail about, "Enough Resources for All". Students had time to wrap up number 4 in class, if this is not done it is hw and would likely be a reflection of i.w. time use. We also discussed in more detail, "Evaluating Site Risk", how to interpret the maps, what they mean, how to complete 18.2/18.3 and how to go about answering the analysis. Students should ideally be on the analysis questions. There will be some time tomorrow to complete these. If you are not caught up then use hw time to get there.
"Evaluating Site Risk" handouts
1.3.24
We discussed analysis question #4 in detail and students had iw to complete. Some students moved ahead and started our final section, "Evaluating Site Risk". If analysis #4 did not get completed that should be done on your own as hw.
1.2.24
Welcome back! We did our second to last section in this unit, "Enough Resources For All?". Everything up to analysis question 4 should be complete. There will be time for number 4 tomorrow. Most students that were on task got this far or pretty close.
12.22.23
Have a great Festivus Break!!!!
12.21.23
No new work pushed out. "Rocks as Resources analysis and 16.1 should be complete.
12.20.23
We talked further about the analysis questions for, "Rocks as Resources", students then had time to complete the analysis. If these are not complete they are hw. No new work pushed out.
12.19.23
Students had some more time to work on, "Rocks as Resources". Not hw, will wrap up tomorrow.
12.18.23
We began the reading, "Rocks as Resources". Students did not get that far, we will continue tomorrow. No hw
12.15.23
Students had time to complete, "The Rock Cycle". 15.1/15.2 and 15.3 should be completed and glued into lab notebook. Students do not need to write out analysis beyond number 1 but should have talked through as a group. If this was not complete it is homework.
12.14.23
We started with 45 minutes of independent work time. The productivity varied by student during this time; some students on task the entire time, others using very little time effectively. This is still a skill we are working on. We then began the "Rock Cycle" game. There were three handouts with this. We will continue tomorrow.
HW tonight is a catch up night on any work a student may be behind on.
12.13.23
We started science with a lesson on what we should have observed with trial 1 and 2 in Part A of yesterday's modeling activity, "What Makes Plates Move". We then went into a bit more detail on convective currents, how they explain plate tectonics and discussed the differences to conduction. We are shooting for having analysis 1-3 done for tomorrow, there will be an iw period at the start of class to complete before we move on.
12.12.23
We continued with "What Makes the Plates Move", we will have iw to wrap this up tomorrow. No hw.
12.11.23
We started, "What Makes the Plates Move?" lab. Students did this independently within groups. We did not complete, will continue tomorrow.
12.8.23
We watched a video that went into Plate Tectonics, Marie Tharp's contribution to the field of science and some other geological components that we have been looking at in class. No new work pushed out
12.7.23
We started class by taking a look at what the next couple of weeks will look like when students are out of town and when our end of unit science test will be. Rather than rush through the end and have an exam in a week in a half we are going to pace ourselves and it will be the end of the first week back after winter break.
When students are out of town the website will be updated in detail with what students are missing. It is students responsibility to be caught up upon return from break.
We had another Festivus Feats of Stregth today and our competition is really hotting up. Several Festivus Miracle performances. Congrats to Camille and Ava for winning their respective FOS!!!
12.6.23
We discussed further continental drift and plate tectonic characteristics (similarities and differences). Students had independent time to work on anaylsis questions. Focus was a bit of a struggle this morning. Analysis questions 1-5 are due for tomorrow. Signed lab notebook rubrics were looked at as well.
Analysis Guidelines:
around 3 sentences, answer to this discussed in class and in video
make a table about half a lab notebook page. Each column should have 4 bullete points. We went over this in class
Could make a section/ paragraph of each bullet point or organize
examples of 3 types of plate boundaries, what happens at these and how supports plate tectonics
Evidence of plate tectonics
Details that explain sudden and slow geological changes over time
4a and b 2-3 sentences
4c 3-4 sentences
4d 4-6 sentences
12.5.23
We went over in detail all analysis responses from, "The Continent Puzzle". We then read, "The Theory of Plate Tectonics" watched two short videos and had a longer lesson on Alfered Wegener and Continental Drift. Analysis question 1 from "Theory of Plate Tectonics" is due for tomorrow.
Lab Notebook rubrics were handed back. These should be glued into students lab notebook after today's "Grind". Students are to get a parent signature on these for tomorrow.
12.4.23
The work from last Friday is due tomorrow. We will go over these in class
12.1.23
Students had a long work period to complete, "The Continent Puzzle". We talked about super continents, there frequency, types of evidence to support and using ratio's to solve number 5. This is due on Tuesday, Dec 5. There will not be time in class on Monday to work on this.
Key words: Pangea, Gondwonoland, the types of fossils we are looking at, rock layers
Analysis info
about 3 sentences
5-7 sentences use quantitative info (years ago from 12.2)
6-8 sentences
6-10 sent
about 4 sentences. Use ratios (part in numerator, whole in denominator), evaluate and have answer as a percent
11.30.23
6B continued to work on "The Continent Puzzle" for a bit, 6A did not, the fire drill the other day through our timing off a bit. No hw. We will complete tomorrow.
11.29.23
We read, "The Continent Puzzle" intro as a class. We then had a couple of short lessons on the three different types of plate boundaries, what occurs at these boundaries and a bit of a historical perspective of how we explained geological processes through time. Students started this activity but we did not get very far. No hw, we will continue tomorrow.
11.28.23
No new work pushed out today, math heavy day.
11.27.23
No new work pushed out today.
10.31.23
HW for tomorrow: Plate Boundaries complete with 10.1 and 10.2 glued in and analysis 1-5
If no school Wed/Th then students should complete, "Understanding Plate Boundaries" rea 63-71, complete and glue in SS 11.1 and do analysis 1-3
10.28.23
No new work pushed out.
10.27.23
We organized out our table of contents and then had i.w time on "Plate Boundaries". 10.1 and 10.2 are hw if not finished. Most finished.
10.26.23
We continued with our Plate Movement Simulation, section 10 in the text. SS 10.1 and 10.2 and how to organize .Students need to go to lab aids, geological resources, click on "Resources", then "Web Links" and scroll down to 10. SEPUP Plate Motion Simulation and begin the simulation and take notes on 10.1 and 10.2. This is not hw, more for folks that are not at school.
10.25.23
Started looking at several computer simulations of how plates interact. We did not get very far and will continue tomorrow. Not hw.
10.24.23
No new work pushed out, I checked analysis for completion and detail.
10.23.23
Most of class was dedicated to independent work on completing all work with, "Modeling Earthquakes". This is includes the write up (Procedure through Conclusion for part B), Student Sheet 9.1 and analysis 1, 2,3, 5, 6, 7 (5 is the longest and most detailed
10.20.23
Today was heavily focused on Part A of Modeling Earthquakes and developing our experimental design for part B. Students will have time to continue on Monday, groups should be on procedure to through data for Part B. No hw pushed out.
10.19.23
We began an activity on modeling earthquakes with an experimental design component. We went over some background notes and got a chance to work with the manipulatives. We will continue tomorrow. No hw
10.18.23
We ran out of time for our modeling activity, we will do this tomorrow.
10.17.23
No new work pushed out today. We will be doing an activity for most of tomorrow.
10.16.23
We went over the analysis questions for, "Observing Earth's Moving Surface" in detail with lots of opportunities to explain how to interprete the graphs. We also started constructing hw folders. We did not complete this, will continue tomorrow. No new hw.
10.12.23
No new work pushed out. We ran out of time to look at today's hw, we will do that Monday. We discussed the annular eclipse at the end of class.
10.11.23
We went over, in great detail the directions to, "Beneath Earth's Surface" with regards to SS 7,1 and analysis 1-6. Students should have Figure Aid 7.1 glued into lab notebook and use this to answer questions. Some students are falling behind and really need to focus on active listening and using independent work time. There was a lot of iw time today. This work is hw for tomorrow.
We also handed back the open notes quiz from Monday on analysis question 4 from, "Beneath Earths Surface". These were evaluated on a proficiency scale, they are not part of the grade, rather a work sample and feedback for students with what they need to work on and what they are doing well. Students also received an example of a highly proficient response and that should be glued into their lab notebook. We went over this example in detail.
Here is what I would consider a highly proficient (HP) response to analysis question 4 from, “Beneath Earth’s Surface”. Notice the use of detailed evidence and trade-offs in the second section.
Nuclear waste should be stored at a relatively shallow depth in Earth’s crust. My model shows that Earth’s crust is solid, and the temperature is not as hot as Earth’s other layers. I think it should be stored in the upper part of Earth’s crust, near the surface. We see that the temperature of Earth’s layers increases with depth, and the crust can reach up to 700 degrees Celsius. I think this temperature is probably reached at the bottom of the crust, so I don’t think waste should be stored there.
If the waste were to be stored in areas deeper in the Earth, there might be problems for the safe storage of waste. The mantle is the layer of Earth just below the crust. My model shows that it has a lot of differences in the state of the material as well as higher temperatures. It would be hard to drill into this material to build an underground facility, not only because of what it is made of but also because it is very deep into Earth’s interior. The core is not reasonable for the safe storage of nuclear waste because of its extreme temperature, solid and liquid states, and the depth into Earth as shown in my model.
10.10.23
We started, "Observing Earth's Moving Surface" today. This took a bit longer than anticipated, students will have time to wrap up tomorrow. Handouts - figure 7.1 should be glued into lab notebook.
No hw
10.9.23
We started with a hw question assessment. This was open notes and students copied down a problem from a prior analysis question. This was to check on completion and use of evidence/observation within answer. Students will receive feedback on their response and also get a sample highly proficienct response to learn from. No new work pushed out.
10.6.23
We spent a good portion of the class today going over yesterdays work and then answering questions. Sounds like things were a bit confusing with the sub. Students then had independent work to get caught up with what they did not complete yesterday. "Beneath's Earth's Surface, SS 8.2 (colored and glued into lab notebook) and analysis are due for Monday. Students had a lot of independent work time so if a student was on task this should be complete.
10.4.23
We opened with a short discussion on earthquakes and volcanoes. Students then did, "Mapping Earthquakes/Volcanoes" activity. Students need to access the volcano and earthquake map on the lab aids site. Once on labaids go to 'resources' then 'web-links'. Then scroll down to section 6 where there is a link to the maps. Follow the directions in the textbook, the only difference is that students are mapping both earthquakes and volcanoes (use two different colored pencils). Will also need to sort by top 20 magnitude and elevation. Click on the title and highlight, will then show up on the map.
HW for tomorrow: complete map (glued into lab notebook), t-chart and analysis 1-4
10.3.23
Students had independent work time to complete analysis 1-4 on, "Modeling Volcanic Eruptions". If this was not completed this is hw.
10.2.23
We did a lab, "Modeling Volcanic Activity" today. Before we started we went over instructions and had a lesson on some important vocab/concepts. No new work, time in class tomorrow for analysis.
9.29.23
Students had independent work time to complete yesterdays Natural Hazard SS 4.1 and analysis 1 and 2 as well as yesterdays warm up. These should be completed. We then paired up and worked on practice with mult/div fractions and mixed numbers (here ) - this is not hw.
9.28.23
Students did a partner read on the section, "Natural Hazards...". All groups completed the reading and then worked on filling out SS 4.1 which will be glued into lab nb. This is not hw, will have time tomorrow.
9.27.23
We had a lesson on landslides,; wat they are, what causes them, the roll of vegetation and slope. We discussed avalanches in snow conditions on mt st helens. and took a look at a landslide model. 6b did analysis questions 1 and 2, 6a we will start with this tomorrow.
video we watched of modeled landslide
9.26.23
No new work pushed out
9.25.23
No new work pushed out
9.20.23
Students had time to complete the lab and analysis 1-3. We talked through the analysis and some additional concepts with sediments and sedimentary rock as well. Analysis due on Monday.
9.19.23
We started a lab, "Investigating Groundwater" today/ We began with a lesson and then detailed lab procedure instructions. Not all groups got through the lab. We will continue tomorrow with analysis questions. No hw.
9.18.23
No new work pushed out today, lab tomorrow.
9.15.23
No new work pushed out. No hw, have a nice weekend.
9.14.23
Started with MMM, had a review lesson. Quiz tomorrow on all operations with whole numbers and decimals. Then had practice for final prep for quiz. HW - about 20 minutes on practice. Self reflect on what you feel you need to work on to be ready for tomorrow. For some students it may be less, others more time.
9.13.23
No new work pushed out.
Back to School night is tonight starting at 6 in the auditorium with info on elective classes. At 630 parents of students in 6b will start with me and 6a with Ms. Tran, we will then swap after 25 minutes.
9.12.23
We started class by doing a self reflection with specific criterial on the analysis questions from yesterday that were due today. I then shared a highly proficient example and in detail went through how to approach these types of problems. We followed this by doing an, "image of the day", students recorded their thoughts, shared with their group and then the class. No hw unless the analysis for today was not completed.
9.11.23
We started with a warm up, sharing some things about our weekend. We then continued with, "Storing Nuclear Waste". The first two rows of Student Sheet 1.1 should be filled out and glued into lab notebook. We then went over the analysis # 1-4 in detail of what to include and how to approach responding. These are on page 7 and 8. Students had 90 minutes to complete this. Most students finished and moved onto math practice. Those that did not complete the analysis means this is homework (we need to work on using independent work time effectively). We went over how students can access the online text book on their chromebook (go to mypps page, select "LabAids" and click the "Geological Processes" text book.
Notes for completing analysis that were on the board
#1
state decision (between storing nuclear waste underground in one location vs having nuclear waste stored in many locations across the country by reactors).
support decision w multiple forms of factual evidence
discuss trade-offs
this is a paragraph response, 5-8 sentences
#2
use multiple forms of additional info, we discussed several in class, about 3 sentences
#3
discuss multiple forms of advantages and disadvantages, 2-4 sentences
#4
3-5 sentences
Notes from Friday that are helpful for analysis
Evidence - body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true
or valid
Nuclear waste - hazardous waste that contains radioactive material. There is low and high
Grade waste that is treated differently
Trade - offs - balance achieved between two desirable but incompatible features
Giving up one thing in return for another
Analysis Questions Expectations:
Title each analysis with the section name
Incorporate the question into the answer
Responses are generally going to be complete sentences
Use visuals to generate or get an answer across
Skip a line in between questions
When asked to provide evidence and trade-offs these responses are going to be longer and should provide evidence and trade-offs in detail.
Use correct conventions
Orient responses on the left hand margin
9.8.23
We started our first section in our geology unit, "Storing Nuclear Waste". We went over in detail how to organize our lab notebooks and go about doing a section in the text book. Students glued in the lab notebook expectation sheet in and SS 1.1. We will continue on Monday. No hw.
9.7.23
We started with a collaborative warm up, one student from each group shared their groups work and we went over correct answers. We focused on an organizational strategy for solving each problem. We then went over how the class website is organized, students pulled the site up on their chrome book and bookmarked it. No hw.
9.5.23
We started by organizing binders with tabs, students then transitioned to a warm up on rounding. We went over the results and took questions. We then had some review lessons on properties of multiplication with and without decimals. No hw.
I have jury duty for the first time starting tomorrow so there will be a sub. Students will start with math practice related to todays lessons and then watch a video.
9.1.23
Great first week everyone! We completed our lesson on Time Scale and watched a video that took these ideas a bit deeper. No hw, have binders on Tuesday
8.31.23
We started a conversation of looking at time and scale within our universe and on planet earth. We will continue tomorrow. No hw, please bring in 3 inch binder by tomorrow if possible.
8.30.23
No new info pushed out today. 6A received lab notebooks and we talked about tonights Super Blue moon!
Please try to have 3 inch 3 ring binder by Friday if possible! thanks
8.29.23
Great first day 6th graders. We did a math warm up, went over classroom and building expectations, did a writing warm up about what we had for breakfast and did our first "Mad Minute Math (MMM),
6B - please have your field trip form filled out by a parental unit and return. Otherwise no homework......
Except - bring in a 3 inch binder as soon as possible.
6.12.23
We wrapped up tests today and started watching a video on invasive species in the Great Lakes.
No hw, we are pretty wrapped up. Tomorrow morning is the last time to turn anything in for final grades.
School picnic tomorrow, remember to bring sack lunch, snacks, beverage for the picnic unless you ordered a cold school lunch.
6.8.23
Science test and lab notebook collected today. Math test and 4 labs due tomorrow.
6.7.23
We read through, "To many mussels" and discussed key components of this section. Analysis are not to be done. We then talked about what to anticipate on tomorrow's science test and students had independent work to study.
HW: prep for science test and update lab notebooks table of contents from the spreadsheet in the 'resources' on website.
Lab notebooks turned in tomorrow as well
6.6.23
We did, "Abiotic Impacts on Ecosystems" today. 13.1 should be completed and glued in as well as analysis 1-5
One more section tomorrow then test Thursday with lab notebook collections.
Study Guide - was handed out today, we will go over what will be on the test in more detail tomorrow
6.5.23
"Modeling Introduction of New Species" food webs and analysis 1 and 2 should be complete for tomorrow.
Students had a lot of iw work in class after lesson. Those that followed along and used time well should have finished in class or come very close.
6.2.23
We started the, "Modeling Introduction of New Species" activity. Not hw, we will continue monday.
6.1.23
Students had time in class to complete, "Interactions in Ecosystems" graph interpretation and analysis 1 and 3. If this was not complete in class it is hw.
5.31.23
We read, "Eating for Matter and Energy" as a class and discussed the key points.
We then introduced, "Interactions in Ecosystems", this is not hw, there will be time tomorrow.
Handouts for, "Interactions in Ecosystems"
Update for rest of year (tentative)
Th 6.1 - content day
Fr 6.2 content
M 6.5 content
T 6.6 content (science study guide handed out)
W 6.7 content
Th 6.8 Ecology test (lab notebook collection)
F 6.9 Math test (most recent unit, not cumulative)
M 6.12 wrap up, content
T 6.13 school picnic, shortened classes
W 6.14 last day waiting for updates....
5.25.23
No new work pushed out.
5.23.23
No new work pushed out.
5.22.23
We had a great time at Outdoor School and students did a great job. Was really nice to see how positively students interacted with the Outdoor School staff and students from Roseway!
No new work pushed out.
5.10.23
Invasive projects were collected at the start of class. State testing, no hw.
5.9.23
State testing today, continue tomorrow.
Invasive species project due tomorrow.
Students have asked about Outdoor School packing list
5.8.23
Our first warm up today was related to Outdoor School. Students wrote out what they are excited for, things they are apprehensive/nervous about and then any questions they may have. We then took time for students to ask any Outdoor School questions.
Invasive Species project is due Wednesday
5.5.23
Last work session on Invasive Species project. Students can take home if not complete. Due date is next Wednesday.
sent email below out regarding next week:
Wanted to pass along some info for the coming week:
We leave for Outdoor School at Camp Collins on Sunday, May 14th
Students should be at Winterhaven at 2:30, we will depart at 3:00 from the front of the building (we will not be at Winterhaven till 2:30, no need to arrive earlier)
The school will not be open on Sunday so make sure students use the restroom before arriving
Students who have medication should bring it in a plastic bag, all containers need to be prescription bottles and just pack enough for Outdoor School
6a give to Ms. Tran and 6b give to Mr. Lanners
if you need to pick medication up from school please do so next week from the school nurse
We will be loading luggage in the back of the buses, students can take their daypack on the bus
We will be returning to Winterhaven on Friday, May 19th at around 1:15
please arrange for your child to be picked up promptly as we will be ending our day once we return to school
Here is a link to the packing list as well as other info on the Outdoor School website: packing list and more
We could also use some parent support in loading student gear into the back of the buses
We will be doing state math testing on Tuesday/Wednesday (May 9th and 10th). Please make sure students bring their charged chrome books with charger
Please let us know if you have any questions -
Ailien and Eric
5.4.23
Invasive projects are coming along well. Today and tomorrow are last work periods. If students need more time project boards can go home on Friday.
5.3.23
Second half of class focused on iw for invasive species project
5.2.23
Long independent work period on invasive species project. No new work pushed out
5.1.23
Large independent work period on invasive species poster. No hw.
4.28.23
Today was largely an independent work period to complete our "Invasive Species" project notes.
We went over the importance of including the impacts the invasive has on the non-native environment
lack of predators
specific impacts on ecosystem
plants
animals
habitat
trophic levels
monetary costs
boadly think biotic and abiotic
Also make sure to include what has ben doe to remove/control the invasive.
4.27.23
Students had independent work on invasive project. Tomorrow students will start final presentation on 24 x 18 inch paper. Will go over expectations tomorrow.
4.26.23
We started with a more detailed lesson on the zebra mussel, how it got to its invasive environment, why it is such a prolific invasive and how it impacts its non-native environment.
I changed the hw expectation for the invasive species project. There is no hw for it tonight unless you have only about half of the notes.
*Tomorrow and Friday will largely be dedicated to independent work for gathering notes and starting final project. Bring an charged chromebook, your notes, packet and be ready to focus!
4.25.23
After the math test students had independent work to focus on completing, "Ups and Downs", which is due tomorrow and their "Invasive Species" project notes.
4.24.23
¨Ups and Downs¨ from friday is due on wednesday. Remember you are creating both graphs. No new work pushed out.
4.20.23
We wrapped up our, "Thought Experiment" and talked a bit about biosphere II and the role of ecosystem services for humans.
No hw.
4.19.23
Today we started a "Thought Experiement". We did not finish but will tomorrow. No hw
4.18.23
We continued with our conversation on prairie plants and ecosystems. Students did the "Data Transects" activity. Anaylsis questions 2-5 are hw for tomorrow. Number 4 is a longer comparison between the transects (paragraph). Note: transect 2 is the restored prairie, another way of thinking about it is that transect 1 is before, transect 2 after.
4.17.23
Students had some independent work time to focus on their invasive species notes. We then introduced our next activity and had a conversation about prairie ecosystems and some of their characteristics. We did not start the activity but will tomorrow. No hw.
4.14.23
The last 30 minutes or so of class was dedicated to working on Invasive Species project. No hw
4.13.23
Students received their invasive species topic and had about 25 minutes independent research time. Resources for note taking are under the 4.12.23 post. No homework
4.12.23
We went over the invasive species project in detail today. Students had class time to begin researching their topic. Choices of topics is due for submitting tomorrow at the start of class.
heirarchical style notes example
List of resources for looking for invasive species is in the "Resources" page.
4.11.23
No new work pushed out today.
4.6.23
Erosion/Deposition assessments were handed back today and we went over. Students should take home, share with parental units, get a signature and return tomorrow for pts.
4.4.23
6a started Miracle Fish and ss 1.1. No hw pushed out
Lab notebook collection Thursday for quarter III grading
4.3.23
Hope everyone had a nice spring break. We introduced out new unit, "Ecology" and the first section, "The Miracle Fish". We read some together and students finished up independently. Then completing student sheet 1.1 as a group. 1.1 and the reading is due for tomorrow. Analysis are NOT.
NOTE - we got a bit tangential in 6A with math and did not get to the unit so the above does not apply.
3.24.23
We wrapped up our conversation about J Bretz and the Missoula Floods.
3.22.23
We started looking at the geologic history of the Columbia River Gorge, scablands, Missoula and the life of J Bretz.
3.21.23
No new work pushed out.
3.20.23
no new work pushed out
3.17.23
Graded multiple choice of science test and finished watching, "Hidden Figures". No hw
3.15.23
Science test today, no new work pushed out.
3.14.23
We went over some key concepts that will be on tomorrow's test and took questions. Students then had some independent work time to prep for test.
Tomorrow: mens and womens brackets due, study guides due, science assessment
HW: prep for science test and complete brackets
3.13.23
No new work pushed out. Students had some independent time to prep for Wednesday's end of unit assessment.
3.10.23
Today was a heavy review day. After students completed the math work in pairs they focused on science test prep. Using the study guide, pg 106-107 in the text, glossary in text, text sections and lab notebook. HW is to be determined by individual based upon level of prep for next weeks tests.
Math test - Monday
Science Test - Wednesday
3.9.23
We started the day by doing a gallery with students, "Geologists Report". No new work pushed out, tomorrow there will be time to prep for next week's science test and ask questions. Prepping with the study guide tonight is not required hw but wouldn't be a terrible idea.
3.8.23
The science test has been postponed to Tuesday. The study guide was handed out today. Students should start working on writing out notes/responses.
HW: geologist report and part B with analysis should be complete for tomorrow.
3.7.23
Students had independent work time to make progress on "Building in Boomtown"
Geologists report is due tomorrow, Part B is due ASAP. Study guides will be handed out tomorrow. Final test for this unit is Friday.
Student Sheet 15.2 for Part B of, "Building in Boomtown"
3.6.23
Students had a lot of independent work time to focus on the, "Geologists Report". My recommendation is to complete this or have it almost complete tomorrow. Tomorrow we will be introducing part B of this section.
Looking ahead we are planning on having our end of unit assessment on Friday. Study guides would then be handed out on Friday.
Tomorrow, Tuesday we will have a presentation at school from 2:15 - 3:15 in the auditorium by Outdoor School staff sharing a slideshow and information about our week at Outdoor School. Parents are welcome to attend.
Resources for Writing the Geologists Report
3.3.23
We had a lesson on the details of Delta Wetland and Seaside Cliff evidence for the geologists table and how to use this and the sample, "Green Hill Geologists Report" as a template to writing their own geologists report. Students then selected what location they wanted to write their geologists report on. They had independent work to begin. This is not hw, will continue on Monday.
3.2.23
We started, "Building in Boomtown" today. Students should have at least at least 75% of the table completed for tomorrow . Students had time for this in class, most that were on task completed.
3.1.23
Happy March 6th graders! I came down with a nasty cold and am out today. If you are visiting this website then you have completed the analysis and the proportion word problems (showing your work). When you have completed those go to the, "Restoring the Mississippi River Delta" website. Read and look through the different pages. There is a lot of good information here. Have a great day!
2.28.23
We had a lesson on the Mississippi River delta, its history, challenges and looked at a map exploring deposition rates. We then got into groups and students partner read, "Building on the Mississippi". Most students finished the reading and began working on the analysis questions. Students will have time tomorrow to work on completing the analysis.
No hw
2.27.23
We started by going over the unique weather variables we have here in Portland and why snow events like we had last week are so difficult to predict.
Students then got back into their, "Weathering, Erosion and Deposition" groups. Completing the reading and verbally going over and quizzing one another on the analysis questions. We then went over the analysis as a class.
No hw pushed out.
2.22.23
We started reading, "Weathering, Erosion and Deposition" in partner pairs and verbally working through the analysis. We did not complete this, not hw. No other work was pushed out. There was i.w. for students to get caught up on some loose ends.
2.21.23
Students finished the lab portion of, "Modeling Cliff Erosion" and began the analysis. Students will have time tomorrow to complete the analysis. What is not complete then will be hw. Students should completed the first 2 or 3 questions.
2.16.23
Today we had a "Lab Assessment". Students worked in groups to perform a series of lab tasks and were evaluated on; on task behavior, voice level, collaboration, respecting one another and time management. Most groups will need a bit more time. No hw, we will continue on Tuesday. If there is any work you are behind on, use the long weekend to get caught up.
2.15.23
We started with independent work time to complete, "Boomtown Topography". If this is not complete it is hw for tomorrow.
All science fair forms are due tomorrow.
2.14.23
We went over yesterday analysis questions and focused a bit more on interpretting topographical maps. We introduced "Boomtown" maps and went over some key characteristics. Students then worked on, "Boomtowns Topography". Students will have time to complete tomorrow.
2.13.22
topo map link - scroll down and click on "free topo map link", should download map for you in pdf. We used this as an intro to our lesson today. Students completed, "Making topographical maps" as a group and then did analysis 1-6. If you did not finish this is due for tomorrow.
2.10.23
We had a sub yesterday, in both 6a and 6b there were some issues. We needed to spend some class time going over this.
We started today with a warm up Most students completed, if not hw. Once students finished their was iw to finish the following which are due on Monday:
Warm up
Similar figures practice
"Human Impacts on the Water Cycle" analysis 1-5
either the sphere practive, "why are mathematicians..." or the cyclinder work, "what kind of music do...."
Students have had multiple iw sections to complete these.
2.8.23
We had a short lesson on biological and chemical contaminants in water systems. Most students started, "Human Impacts on Earth's Water" reading and some began the analysis. This is not hw, there will be class time tomorrow to work on.
No hw pushed out.
2.7.23
Students had time to complete the water cycle activity as well as analysis 1-5 in class. If this did not get completed it is due by Thursday.
2.6.23
We had a lesson on the water cycle and tied in some concepts related to our region with this. Students started an activity on the water cycle, we did not finish and will continue tomorrow. No hw.
Info on Friday's Dance:
Teachers - please share the following information with your homeroom classes (6th grade 1st period class; 7th & 8th grade 3rd period class) on Tuesday, January 31, 2023:
Winterhaven will be having a middle school dance on Friday, February 10, 2023 from 3:15 pm to 5 pm.
This dance is free for Winterhaven students in grades 6-8.
No student visitors from other schools will be allowed.
The dance will be from 3:15 pm to 5 pm. It is expected that students either are picked up by parents/guardians or leave school grounds by 5:10 pm. The DJ will stop playing music at 5 pm and the dance will be over at that time.
Students are expected to stay at the dance for the entire duration of the dance. If students leave the building during the dance, they will not be allowed back into the building.
Students who exhibit unacceptable behavior during the dance may not be allowed to attend future dances and additional consequences will be assigned.
Here are other details regarding the dance:
School ends at 3:15 pm. Students will place their items in their lockers and move to the front yard of the school. All students should be out of the building by 3:20 pm.
Once all students are out of the building, we will begin to allow them to re-enter by the exterior doors closest to the flagpole. We will be taking attendance of which students are attending the dance as the students re-enter the building.
Upon re-entering the building, students will receive a complementary single slice of pizza and a bottle of water. Students will move to the main hallway to consume their food and drink.
Once all students in attendance at the dance receive their slice of pizza and bottle of water, any extra slices of pizza or bottles of water may be distributed to students who may want more. This will be on a first come, first served basis.
The primary wing and upstairs are off limits to students during the dance. If a student needs to get things out of their locker upstairs to leave early from the dance, they will need permission from a Winterhaven staff member. At the end of the dance, at 5 pm, students will be permitted to go upstairs to retrieve their items from their lockers.
The DJ will be playing music in the auditorium. The gym will have basketballs available for shooting baskets or playing basketball. Mr. Dyer’s room may have a movie playing during the dance.
At the end of the dance, students can exit the building out the front door or the back doors closest to the nurse’s office.
If students have any questions about the dance, they can check with Mr. Sandilands.
2.3.23
No new work pushed out. Yesterday's analysis should be done by Monday.
2.2.23
Students had independent work to complete, "Cutting Canyons forming Delta's" analysis. If students did not finish this needs to be done on own time. We will start next section tomorrow.
2.1.23
Students completed part II of the lab, "Cutting Canyons and Building Delta's". Analysis is NOT due for tomorrow, you will have some time in class.
1.31.23
We started the lab, "Cutting Canyons and Building Delta's. We did part a today and will finish up tomorrow. Students should have procedure #10 complete.
1.30.23
No new work pushed out. Students who want to take their science fair project poster boards home should take care of that this week.
1.26.23
No new work pushed out.
Science fair tonight.
1.25.23
Poster boards for science fair are due in school tomorrow. Make sure to have name on them under the title.
Testing day no new work pushed out.
1.24.22
MAPS math testing today, nothing new pushed out. Posterboards due on Thursday.
1.23.23
No new work pushed out. Science Fair poster boards are due on Thursday.
1.20.23
Science Fair google slides due at end of day. Final revisions for when I grade them should be complete by Tuesday. Nice work 6th graders!
1.19.23
Today's was an independent work time to wrap up science fair. Google slides doc should be shared with me, directions in doc below. Google slides part of the science fair is due tomorrow at the end of class. Students will have independent work time to finish this tomorrow. Set yourself up for being done by doing work tonight if you have much left.
Also, students will be assembling poster boards at home for the science fair and bringing them back, complete next Thursday, 1.26.23. I handed out poster boards to students who were ready for them today. They will be available for students to take home any day between now and science fair.
HW: Science Fair google slides due at end of class tomorrow, will have class time to work on. Should be mostly editing and fine tuning!
1.18.23
We went over some final expectations for science fair today. Students should be wrapping everything up and converting their google doc into a google sheet (this is for judging and is due on Friday, 1.20.23) and a document that they will use for printing and putting info on poster board.
Google Slides Expectations (due this Friday, 1.20.23)
do not put name on
1 section per slide, if you need more than a slide for text then continue on next slide and write cont. Example, Background cont. would be what you would have on the second slide
be consistent with the font and size of your section headers and text
also use the space wisely, not a lot of empty lines under section headers
NO links to table and figures. All tables and figures should be imbedded in the slide
You will share this document with me on Friday. Make sure to to click, "view with link"
Poster Board Expectation (due at school, Thursday, 1.26.23)
Project Title - 200-300 pt
Section Headers - 100 pt
text - 20-30 pt
be consistent with font (recommend times new roman)
generally better to glue than tape on poster board
The Winterhaven Science Fair website has a visual example on the main page and a layout example and the expectations above at the bottom of the dowloads link .
1.17.23
We had a discussion about 1st and 3rd person writing and what is appropriate for the sections of the science fair. We also broke down one of the rubrics with a bit more detail. Students then had about 30 minutes independent work.
1.13.23
We started class today talking about the success story of the Montreal Protocol and the ozone layer . At the end of class students had a bit of independent work time. Progress should continue to be made on science fair.
Winterhaven Science Fair website link is here. If you are interested in being a judge there are links for signing up. No experience required!
Have a great weekend
1.12.23
We started by going over/reviewing some important due dates
Friday, January 20th all Science Fair projects due in google slides for judging by the end of class. We will go over converting your doc into a google slide project on Th/Fri of that week
Sometime between Monday and Wednesday (January 23 - 25) poster board assembly will be happening in class
Science Fair: Thursday, January 26th at Winterhaven from 5-7
Students had some time today to work on project
1.11.23
When students completed the statistics practice they transitioned to working on science fair. Tables/Graphs/Stats should be done by end of day tomorrow. I met with most students today and provided feedback/input
Reminder:
each student needs to have a minimum of 1 table and 1 graph, can have more. Provide a table and label axis
include a 'Statistics' section at end of Tables/Figures section
include, mean, median, mode, max, min, range
can also do MAD, 5 # summary, IQR and find outliers
if you have these in tables that is fine. You will mention these in results section
1.9.23
We started class by class by having a lesson on the following info below. Students did not need to take notes since I said the info would be available on the website. The rest of class was for questions and then independent work while I gave student feedback. We are shooting for students having their table/s, graph/s and statistics complete by the end of class on Thursday so structure hw accordingly.
Todays notes on tables, figures, stats, results etc section
science fair rubric - we went over this in class today
1.6.22
We started the day with a lesson on 5 # Summary, making a box and whisker plot, Inter Quartile Range and determining outliers using the IQR. Today's class notes . This was followed with independent work on science fair as I gave students feedback.
1.5.22
After our lesson on MAD we went over the expectations for the components of the science fair project up to the tables/data section (ideally all of this is complete after independnet work tomorrow). The rubric we went over is the one that judges use for evaluating projects and is in the resources section. HW = progress on science fair project
1.4.22
We started today with a warm up looking at a couple of ways to collect heart rate. Each student got there hr in bpm and we used that class data to find some basic descriptive statistics and make a histogram. Some general class notes and images from class are below:
class notes - these are from 6a and 6b
image 1 , image 2 , image 3 , image 4 , image 5 , image 6
HW - continue making progress on science fair up through background and organizing data in table.
1.3.23
Welcome Back! Hope everyone had a nice Festivus break!
We started with a reflection and math warm up.
We then started a longer discussion on science fair. Students should be working on science fair draft right now in Formulating Science Fair Doc . Students should copy and paste this into their drive, share it with me (elanners@pps.net) with editting access and begin working on it. The components of science fair document is a good resource as you get started. Students were then asked to complete by checking their work the "Science Fair Check in document" , I collected these today so I could see where students are at. Students then had independent work time to start making progress on components of their science fair.
No real hw unless students do not have much complete. Most students are making good progress but there are some that still need to run experiment and document hypothetsis, prediction, materials, procedure and start on background.
12.16.22
Today we did our final Feat of Strength! Congrats to Duncan and Nora on winning the finale. Our podium ended up as follows:
6B - 1st Jasper, 2nd Kenzie, 3rd Leah and 4th Matilda
6A - 1st Nora, 2nd Amalia, 3rd Catching and 4th Karina
Congrats on everyone for participating! Have a great Festivus break
Remember - science fair experiment should be done over break. Make sure to record your Question, Prediction and Hypothesis before you run the experiment. Use the link below to create your science fair document. Take detailed notes on materials, procedure and observations. As we said in class, more is better. You can always leave things out with the write up.
12.15.22
When you are done with the quiz today you should copy and paste the first science fair template document into your google drive under the 'science' folder. Input your science fair question and variables in the indicated box. Then start making a bulleted list of the materials that you will need. Feel free to do some research on this. Use the "Components of a science fair" document to help you with these section. If you complete the materials section move onto generating a procedure and begin doing research on your background section.
HW: for those that have not settled in on a question you should get this done. Feel free to continue with the other sections.
12.14.22
We started class with a longer lesson (45 minutes) on the Mississippi River Dead Zone. The following images, resources were used.
image of mississippi river headwaters
Students should continue to work on their science fair question. At this point I have met with just about everyone at least once except a couple that have been out. If students have any questions make sure they check in with me before break.
12.13.22
We introduced and students worked through the reading and analysis questions for, "The Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone". This is due for tomorrow. While students were doing that I continued to meet with students regarding their science fair question. Students should continue to work on refining this. We will continue tomorrow.
12.12.22
We started today with hw folder organization. These should be coming home today, assembled with tables of contents and items clipped in. Students should be getting neg/combining like quiz #3 signed by a parental unit.
We talked more about science fair and met with students who had their questions complete.
HW: signed parent signature on quiz 3 and 2-3 questions written out with variables identified and ready for turn in.
We had a spirited Feats of Strength today. Jasper and Matilda going the distance with Jasper winning his second FOS!. In 6a Amalia and Nora went the distance with Nora coming out on top for her third FOS win and extending the lead. Nice job everyone!
12.9.22
We started talking at lenght about science fair, the components, generating a question and providing some tips. There are multiple documents on the "References" page including the sheet I handed out today, 3 testable questions . Students should start working on this to narrow down their science fair topic/question. I will start reviewing these on Monday and Tuesday.
HW: Nutrients as Contaminants" should be done by Monday.
Our Feats of Strength Festivus competition is heating up with some changes in the standing the last couple of days. Congrats to yesterday's and today's last person standing of Catching and Nora in 6a and Matilda and Jasper in 6b!!!!
12.7.22
We continued the, "Nutrients as Contaminants" lab today. All groups finished and began working on the Conclusion. See the Lab Write up link from yesterday for instructions. Students will have time tomorrow to complete the Conclusion (about 25 min).
Students that were out today should go to the Lab Aids text and go to online resources and watch the 2 Labsent Videos. You should be able to complete the table based on the videos and get going on the write up.
12.6.22
Today we started, "Nutrients as Contaminants". We are using this lab as a bit of an intro to the science fair write up process. We read through the intro and directions with detail. Then, using information presented today and in the prior days students prepared the Title through Hypothesis section as outlined in the link below. For this lab you will start on a new page in your lab notebook. Each 'header' in the link below is underlined and skip a line in between sections. For students that were out read the online text and work through the sections up through hypothesis so you are ready to start the lab tomorrow.
Lab Write Up Steps - through hypothesis needs to be complete before beginning lab
HW:
Lab write up through Results (have the table created, you will fill out when doing the lab), use the example from page 23.
12.5.22
No new work pushed out. If you did not finish analysis from Friday's, "Indicator Species" then that should be completed for tomorrow.
We did FOS # 2 on week 2 of Festivus! Congrats to all and our respective 6b and 6a winners Ada and Amalia. Scores are updated in resources, need to click sheets to see other class.
11.30.22
I checked each students work for completion. This was based on 9 pts and entered in Synergy. 5 pts for each analysis and a point for each graph. We ran out of time to go over these so will do that first thing tomorrow.
11.29.22
Today we had a longer lesson water quality, indicators and Portland's water system. This was followed up with a lesson and examples of correlation, causation, linear relationship and other mathematical models. Students then began graphing, interpreting graphs and doing analysis for the, "Water Quality" section. Graph paper will be glued in and analysis 1-5. This is due for tomorrow, students had a lot of independent work to get going on this.
11.28.22
No new work pushed out today, see math section for what we did
11.16/17.22
No new work pushed out
11.15.22
Today we did the lab, "Does it Dilute". For folks that are out, you can do the lab by watching the video in the 'labsent' fil on the LabAids website. We have gone through how to find it in class. You will want to read the text before watching the video (pg 9-12). Students in class used the following table for observations. You could print out or just recreate it in your lab notebook. Activity and analysis are due for Thursday.
11.14.22
We have had a lot of students out last Thursday and Monday. Students should prioritize completing "Leaf Lab" ordered pairs and then area/perimeter work.
We also did the science activity, "Where should we build?" The new textbook has been loaded so you can work out of it. You will need student sheet 1.1 *(or just recreate in your lab notebook) and do analysis #1-6. This is hw if you are not done.
We introduced the lab we will be doing tomorrow, "Does it Dissolve?". If you are out you will want to do this as a "Labsent" activity so you are able to keep up.
11.9.22
Started by collecting parent signatures on lab notebook rubric and geology assessment. Congrats 6A, everyone turned this in and everyone gets some bonus pts! We wrapped up by watching a video on Clair Patterson, the scientist who calculated the age of the earth and worked towards one of the larger public health solutions of our time.
No hw pushed out.
11.8.22
Science lab notebook and rubric was handed back. We talked in detail about what the scores mean, area's to focus on. We then projected some student samples of highly proficient work within the lab notebook. The rubric should be glued in the lab notebook.
We then talked the Geology Assessment, how to interpret the scores and went over the short answers.
HW: Parent signature on lab notebook rubric and Geology Assessment for tomorrow.
11.7.22
No new work pushed out.
11.3.22
We started by correcting the multiple choice questions on the science test. We ended by watching a Cosmos video on geologic history, plate tectonics and Marie Tharp. No hw. Have a nice long weekend!
11.2.22
Lab notebooks were collected and students took the Geology Assessment. No hw.
11.1.22
Started by talking in some detail on what can be expected and area's to focus on with tomorrow's Geological Assessment. We talked and went through a visual on the rock cycle and gps data on plate movement. Students then had some independent work time to prepare tomorrow's test and work on the study guide. We then took a bit of a deeper dive into Alfred Wegeners life and listened to everyone's favorite new song!
Due/happening tomorrow:
Geology final assessment (recommend an hour of prep from yesterday when study guide was handed out)
Study guides collected to show preparations
Lab notebooks collected, all material due (might be good to update table of contents tonight and check on completion)
10.31.22
Students did our last section for our geology unit today, "Evaluating Site Risk". Handouts that are needed for the activity are here . Most students finished in class, at the latest, this should be completed by lab notebook turn in on Wednesday.
The study guide for our geology test on Wednesday was handed out and gone over. Students should take notes and record answers to the prompts on the sheet. I will be collecting this before the test on Wednesday to see how students prepared. I recommend an hour of prep by Wednesday depending upon comfort level with material.
Reminder, all analysis questions are due on Wednesday when I collect lab notebooks before the test.
10.28.22
Today we started with some background info on aquifers, groundwater, renewable and non-renewable resources. Students then worked in groups to do, "Enough Resources for All?". Two graphs were made and glued in lab notebook, step 11 was recorded as well as analysis number 4. The other analysis questions were done verbally. Most students finished this in class and then transitioned to Leaf Lab
10.27.22
We started with a independent work period for students to complete, "What makes the plates move" and "Rocks as Resources". If a student did not finish it is homework, many finished or came very close. Students were evaluated on their on task behavior and scored
10.26.22
Today we did the activity, "What Makes the Plates Move". Students took observations of convective currents in their labnotebook and did analysis 1-6 (due Friday), the reading and analysis for, "Rocks as Resources" is also due on Friday. There will be some i.w. time on Thursday, there was a good amount today. Students that were gone will want to check the lab-sent video's on the Lab Aids website.
We watched this video and talked about it with a good amount of detail addressing the connections between today's modeling activity and what moves plates.
10.25.22
No new work pushed out
10.24.22
We went over in detail analysis question #3 in, "Theory of Plate Tectonics" Students had about 45 minutes in class to work on this. If it is not done it is homework. Below is the template we talked through as a way to organize:
“Theory of Plate Tectonics” #3
One way to approach this is to break it into 3 sections (paragraphs)
Explain the theory of plate tectonics (this is the longest section)
Name and explain all plate boundaries
What find at these boundaries
earthquake/volcano/mtn building
How scientists know
fossils/mtn layers/way continents fit together/GPS
Changes that are sudden or gradual
Plate motion and impact on small and large regions/area’s
10.21.22
Students worked with a partner on, "The Theory of Plate Tectonics". Students verbally answered analysis 1,4 and 6; did one table per group with question 2 and very few got to analysis #3 which each students will be doing in their lab notebook. This is NOT hw, there will be time on Monday to complete.
Students that were out, watch the two video's on the Lab Aids (weblinks) and under resources do 15: remote learning activity.
10.20.22
I was out today, but students complete, "The Rock Cycle" activity and analysis. For students who were out you will want to use the online lab aid resources, go to 'resources' then 'weblinks' scroll down and find 15: remote learning activity.
10.19.22
Most of class period was dedicated to the geometric assessment. We did start, "The Theory of Plate Tectonics" but did not get very far. No new work pushed out.
If, "Continent Puzzle" is not complete that should be done. Completion date is the 21st and updated on table of contents.
10.18.22
Students had time to complete, "The Continent Puzzle". Students should indicate next to each problem with a marker if their work is highly proficient (HP), Proficient (P), Close to Proficient (CP) and Developing Proficiency (DP). If not P or HP they should revise so it is. Again, using my HP example , see the link under 10.17.22.
10.17.22
When students complete, "The Continent Puzzle" activity and analysis they should compare their responses to mine . Where there are stark differences changes can be made, my responses would be considered highly proficient.
10.12.22
We started, "The Continent Puzzle" today, we will continue tomorrow. No hw pushed out.
10.11.22
We started today with a short open lab notebook closed text quiz.
No new work pushed out.
10.10.22
We started today with a lesson on providing reasoning and evidence within analysis questions, "Plate Boundaries" 1-5 specifically.. For instance, questions 2 where we are looking at the geological processes at convergent plate boundaries. Students need to watch all three simulations for these and specifically address why they vary and give examples.
Analysis are due for tomorrow and I will be collecting one where students will be graded on the content, not just completion.
10.7.22
We started looking at the, "Plate Boundaries" activity. Students use a computer simulation available via Lab Aids and go through the directions on page 60. Students complete the two tables as they view the simulations. The tables were glued into the lab notebook.
Direction on accessing Computer Simulation
My PPS
Click Lab Aids
Click "Resources"
Click "Web Links"
Click: "10: SEPUP Plate Motion Simulation"
No hw, students will have time to complete Monday morning with a due date of Tuesday.
10.6.22
Checked, "Beneath Earth's Surface" for completion. We went over some of the problems and talked in more detail about the lithospheric plates and plate boundaries. We ended by introducing our "Plate Boundary" activity that we will do tomorrow.
No new work pushed out.
10.5.22
Scaled work and analysis 1-4 for, "Beneath Earth's Surface" should be complete for tomorrow. Today was independent work and wrapping up MAPS math testing.
10.4.22
Class notes on, "Scaled Drawing of Earth's Interior". Can use a calculator but show calculation on sheet, provide header with the earth layer underlined.
You will make a ratio of distance of layer over total distance, then you need to multiply that value by 8cm to find the scaled depth. Scaling sheet should be glued into lab notebook.
10.3.22
Students started, "Beneath's Earth's Surface" today. The reading was first, then doing the math to complete the scaled drawing. This is not hw for today as students will have time to work on when done with MAPS. Link to, "Scaled Drawing of Earth's Interior"
Tomorrow we will be doing MAPS testing so make sure to bring charged chromebook, power chord and something to do when complete.
9.30.22
We went over analysis question 2 and 3 in detail. Showed a very highly proficient response, went over it. Student then got a copy and glued it in their notebook and did a self eval. We did a hypothesis on earth's interior.
No new HW. Analysis 1-6 for, "Observing Earth's Moving Surface" are due monday.
9.29.22
Students had time in class today to work on the analysis questions for, Observing Earth's Moving Surface". Ideally students finish 1-3 for tomorrow. We talked in detail as to how to respond to 2 and 3. We are looking for quantitative data within the response (breaking down was hit happening by year and describing movement of sensor during that time). 1-6 should be done by Monday and there will not be more time in class to work on these. So finish tonight if you don't want work over the weekend.
9.28.22
Today we introduced how to measure movement and interprete gps data. We had a specific lesson with notes, an example and then work. HW is to graph Hayfork, Ca/Alaska and Idaho from "Observing Earth's Moving Surface". This should be done for tomorrow. Notes, class example and student sheets are here
9.27.22
HW: Students who did not finish the science component of the quiz today should do so. Remember, this is open notes, you are just copying from your lab notebook. You cannot use the text. If you didn't do it or cannot find it you need to leave blank. Due tomorrow. Most students completed.
9.26.22
We did the, "Mapping Locations of Earthquakes/volcanoes" today. Student used a map to look for trends and glued into lab notebook and analysis questions 1-4 are also due tomorrow. Students will need to access the online data bases/maps to complete this (mypps, labaids geological process, weblinks, 6: earthquak/volcanoe map.
9.22.22
No new work pushed out.
9.21.22
We finished up the video from yesterday and began an activity of mapping locations of earthquakes and volcanoes globally. We did not finish this but will circle back.
No new hw
9.19/20.11
I got a nasty cold over the weekend so was out Monday and today (Tuesday). Here is what students have been doing:
complete "Volcano" lab analysis
the factor/multiple/prime factorization sheet was completed yesterday
today students are reading, "Understanding Plate Boundaries" (pg 63-71) and completing analysis 1-3. analysis 3 requires a good deal of evidence and should be a well developed paragraph - if this was NOT completed in class it is NOT hw
Watch, "Making North America"
9.16.22
Today we did a lab that modeled less and more gassy volcanic lava. We did not entirely finish the activity so we will resume on Monday. No hw unless there is an analysis work that has not been completed.
9.15.22
We started with a warm up looking at factors and multiples. We went over and then collected the long division hw.
No new work pushed out today.
9.14.22
We started with a continuation of a presentation on landslides, where they happen and characteristics that make an area more or less prone to sliding. Students then did the, "Modeling Landslide" section reading and analysis 1 and 2. Students should also update SS 1.1 which is already in glued into their labnotebook. They are updating the 4th row with "Landslides".
HW: complete the above work. Students should be done with this since they had ample time.
Reminder that Parent Info Night is tonight starting at 6:00 in the auditorium moving to classrooms at 6:30.
9.13.22
We went over the concepts from concepts from 'storing nuclear waste' and 'investigating groundwater'.
We introduced some concepts with landslides and watched a short video. We will continue tomorrow. No new work pushed out.
9.12.22
We started with a lengthy warm up and went over it in class. We have transitioned to long division and dividing with decimals which often takes a bit of time to refresh students on the process. We went over some specifics to address the analysis questions from, "Investigating Groundwater". Students then had independent work to complete unfinished work. Finally we went over how to access the online website via the mypps page with all the icons on it (Lab Aids, Geological Processes, Content and click the section we are on.
HW if did not complete today:
"Investigating Groundwater" analysis 1-3
"Storing Nuclear Waste" analysis 1-4
Decimal Practice (which is also available via link from last week in math section)
many students finished this in class as we have had several iw periods to make progress.
9.9.22
We did our first lab of the year, "Investigating Groundwater", looking at percolation rates of sand and clay. Things went pretty well, there is a lot of logistical/following direction pieces to lab work that is a process. We have several pieces of unfinished work that we will circle back to and take care of on Monday.
No HW, have a nice weekend!
9.8.22
No new work pushed out today.
9.7.22
We started with a warm up today. If students did not finish both sides of it they need to spend 30 minutes of focused, uninterrupted work. Students than transitioned to working on the science section on 'storing nuclear waste'. When completed with that students did some work with decimals.
6b put together there binder system. 6A had a sub this afternoon so we will do it tomorrow.
9.6.22
We started today with a warm up. We then introduced some of the textbooks we will be using, gave some background on nuclear reactors and storing it's waste. We then went into detail on how to organize our lab notebooks when responding to analysis questions. The notes from that are below. There is no hw, students did not finish the activity but will have time tomorrow to complete.
Analysis Questions Expectations:
Incorporate the question into the answer
Responses are generally going to be complete sentences
Use visuals to generate or get an answer across
Skip a line in between problems
When asks to provide evidence and trade-offs these responses are going to be longer
Title analysis with the section name
Storing Nuclear Waste Analysis (example)
Example from today’s lesson
I think that it is more effective to store nuclear waste in more than one location because……
Use evidence to support your statement (generally come from the text
Trade-offs: consequences - ideally we are selecting a decision that will minimize negative consequences
Other information I would like before making a decision on where to store nuclear waste
9.3.22
We introduced our first unit in science, Geology. We provided some background info regarding the field of geology, our planet and our universe. We then watched a video to hopefully provide a bit of 'scale'. No HW. Have a great long weekend and very nice job on our first week of middle school!
9.1.22
No new work pushed out today, focused on science
8.31.22
Today we took care of some organizational pieces that help facilitate getting to know students and making table 'name tags'. We then did a math warm up looking at place value, rounding and multiply two plus digit numbers. We showed solutions on the board.
HW: bring in a 2 - 3 in three ring binder by next Wednesday. Let me know if you are having issues getting one and I will have one for you.
8.30.22
Welcome back everyone! We had a very positive first day orienting 6th graders the math, science and middle school! Students received their science lab notebook, math notebook, planner and Field Trip permission form (which should be filled out and returned to their first period teacher.
No HW.
2021/2022
6.8.22
Assessment day, no new work pushed out. Those that didn't finish will tomorrow
6.7.22
We went over specifics as to what students should focus on for the test tomorrow. Lab notebook self eval rubrics were handed out.
Homework:
update table of contents
complete lab notebook self eval (directions on document)
prepare for test and complete study guide (will be turned in first thing tomorrow)
Test tomorrow and lab notebook collection!
6.6.22
No new work was pushed out today. The study guide was handed out, it is available on the website under 6.2.22. I recommend at least 45 minutes focused prep today and tomorrow. Make sure all analysis are complete as well, lab notebook collection will be Wednesday.
6.2.22
We started our final section in science today, "Building in Boomtown". Documents that are needed are below. The written geologists report should be organized and equivalent in length the same as "Green Hill Geologist Report" on page 97. Students that are out you can select if you want to do Delta Wetland or Seaside Cliff for part a.
Documents for Geologist Report
Completed Evidence for the Geologist's Report
Both parts A and B are due for Tuesday. Analysis #1 is a much longer response pulling together all that we have been looking at with this section.
Study Guide for next weeks test
Email that went home regarding tomorrow:
Hi all,
A few things for Friday’s (tomorrow’s) bike ride...
Have kids (with helmets) and bikes in the FIELD behind the school by 8:45. We'll take attendance, inflate a few tires and get students into their groups. We should be on the road by 9:15.
Kids that did not order a sack lunch from the school should make sure to pack a lunch.
All students should have a small backpack with:
lunch/snack
Water bottle for the day
Some layers to stay warm/dry
Dress for the weather. If that means sun, bring sunscreen (best case). As of now the forecast says it will be a little wet during the day. Don't worry.
Thanks! Eric
6.1.22
We read, "Building on the Mississippi" in groups today and students worked on analysis 1-7 (number 4 is a well developed paragraph and 7 can be a bulleted list).
I highly encourage students to get this done by tomorrow if they did not finish in class. We will be starting the last section tomorrow and it is a bit longer.
I was out yesterday and students read and did analysis (skip #3) for, "Weathering, Erosion and Deposition".
5.27.22
Short day with field day in the afternoon. Students had independent work time. Due tuesday:
Building Bridges
Boomtown Topography
Modeling Cliff Erosion
5.26.22
We did a longer lab today, "Modeling Cliff Erosion" which served as our 'lab assessment' which has been entered in synergy. Tomorrow we have short classes with Field Day in the afternoon so class will be independent work time to complete: Building Bridges, Boomtowns Topography and Modeling Cliff Erosion. All will be due on Tuesday so structure time accordingly based on where you are at.
5.25.22
We started with a lesson on how to read topo maps with a bit more detailed, focusing on ridges, valleys, canyons and saddles. We used some examples from Mt Hood. Students then had i.w. time to complete, "Boomtowns Topography". This, including analysis 1-6 is due for Friday. Maps are under yesterdays post.
5.24.22
We started by going over the analysis that was due today. We then had a lesson focusing on a couple of the analysis questions going into a bit more detail with erosion/percolation rates. We introduced, "Boomtown's Topography' section and students worked on that. We did not finish,, we will continue tomorrow. No hw.
5.23.22
Some background info was given on the analysis questions for, "Cutting Canyons and Building Delta". Students then had independent work time. HW is to complete analysis 1-6 for tomorrow.
5.20.22
Today we did a longer lab looking at erosion and deposition. Not many students got to the analysis so there will be time to do it on Monday. For students who were out you can do the labsent video and activity by accessing the video and material on activity 7 of the online textbook.
No hw.
5.19.22
Wrapped up testing today, no new work pushed out.
5.18.22
State math testing today. No new work pushed out. We will continue and probably wrap up tomorrow. Make sure your stats project gets turned in by Friday.
5.16.22
No new work pushed out
5.13.22
No new work pushed out. Students are working on or completed, 'making topo maps" analysis 1-5. Due Tuesday
5.12.22
We had a bit of a strange day today with shortened classes to adjust for attending the 8th grade play in the afternoon. We had a warm up and went over that, students turned in histogram, worked on stem and leaf and analysis from 'making topo's'. I will take a look at all complete graphs tomorrow. Would be ideal to get through all of those by tomorrow.
Statistics project due date: Complete projects can be turned in on Monday. If you turn it in Monday you will get 4 bonus pts. Otherwise due by the end of next week.
5.11.22
Today we introduced topographical maps and created a topo map using a model. Students started the analysis but most did not finish. No hw, will be time in class to complete tomorrow.
5.10.22
No new work pushed out today
5.9.22
No new work pushed out today
5.6.22
Today we did an activity looking at the water cycle. Students should have the visual and table glued into lab notebook. No hw.
5.5.22
HW: Quizzes from Tuesday were handed back after students had some group time to collaborate on best possible responses. Students then had the chance to make revisions to the quiz (open notes this time and the first time). Revisions were done in blue ink and I put a highlighter through them. For me to evaluate revisions students should be bringing this home, explaining the process to Parental Units and getting a signature on the quiz revisions. Parental Unit signature is needed for revisions to count towards a grade. All quizzes must come back tomorrow.
No new science material pushed out.
5.4.22
No new work pushed out.
5.3.22
We started by switching our groups up and then taking a open notes quiz that was directly from the homework that was due today. We then went into a lesson on the water cycle focusing on evaporation, transpiration, albedo effect and the role of gravity. . HW is any hw from yesterday that was not complete.
5.2.22
HW for tomorrow is to have, "Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone" analysis 1-4 and "Human Impacts on the Earth's Water" analysis 1-5 complete for Tuesday.
4.21.22
We went over the science quiz, watched a talk on the Mississippi River Dead Zone and then took a look at Portland's water and the Bull Run Watershed.
HW: signed science test, must be turned in tomorrow for credit
4.20.22
Today we started with the quiz on the Mississippi River Dead Zone and Probability questions. We then collected some data that we will be using. No new hw pushed out.
4.19.22
Student's partner read, "The Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone". There will be a quiz tomorrow based directly on at least on of the analysis (1-4 and extension) from today's reading and analysis questions from, "Nutrients as Contaminants", "Living Indicators" and "Water Quality" could also be included. It will be 3-4 questions and open lab notebook.
Note that analysis questions for today's analysis were optional, knowing that there is a quiz tomorrow directly on this material.
Homework: make sure ready for quiz, no new work pushed out
4.18.22
Students had independent work time to complete analysis 1-5 on, "Nutrients as Contaminants". If a student did not finish there is a good chance independent work time was not used well. Note that students that completed the lab today have till Thursday to finish
4.15.22
We did the, "Nutrients as Contaminants" lab today. This took the entire class period. Analysis will be done on Monday. If you were out go to the labaids section under weblinks and look for the video on activity 5 and "Resources" use the handouts available for this section.
4.14.22
While students were doing the warm up I checked for hw completion and entered in synergy. 5 pts represented complete with good detail.
4.13.22
For students that were out today, use this link to watch the video. To get the info on what to fill out go to the labaids text we are on then go to: Resources and 4: Labsent packet and 4 student sheet 4.1
Analysis 1-4 are due tomorrow.
4.7.22
We reviewed the expectations for the section, "Water Quality" and went over the land use and pollution impacts as a population increases. The two procedure B questions and analysis should be done by Monday as homework.
Remember to bring in Outdoor School Forms on Monday if you have not already!
4.6.22
We started today by having students turn in their signed science test. We then had a longer lesson on water quality, Portland's water source, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, human caused pollutants (pt and non pt) and students began graphing some water quality data. No hw, we will continue tomorrow.
Please turn in Outdoor School forms if you have not already.
4.5.22
Students updated their table of contents as well comp/incomplete columns. They then filled out a lab notebook self evaluation. I collected and graded lab notebooks from 6b today, I will do the same for 6a tomorrow (make sure you bring in lab notebooks). No new hw pushed out with our new unit.
We ended class by going over the end of unit Geology Assessment. Students are to get a parent signature tonight and bring in for a grade tomorrow.
Outdoor School info and forms did go out today. I handed out 6b's Outdoor School forms. I am asking for them back on Monday, April 11th. They can be turned in before!
4.4.22
Today we did a lab, "Dissolving Salts". Students worked in small group conducting the lab and gathering observations. The observation table should be cut out and glued into lab notebook. All analysis questions are due for hw if not completed in class.
Geological Processes end of unit assessments are entered in synergy. 57 pts was the proficiency level. They will be handed back tomorrow (ran out of time with lab).
6b lab notebook collection will be tomorrow.
6a lab notebook collection will be wed and th.
See "table of contents" on the resources page to make sure everything is good to go.
Students that were absent: You will be using the: labsent video and corresponding directions and questions . Here is a draft of the table, you do not need to recreate your won
You can print out the document and glue into lab notebook or put directly in your lab notebook
4.1.22
No new work pushed out
3.30.22
I was out today. The work from class, if you did not complete the table and analysis needs to be done as hw. There was a lot of independent work time in class.
3.28.22
No new work pushed out today.
3.18.22
We had our end of unit Geology assessment today. No new work pushed out. Have a great spring break!!!
3.17.22
End of unit assessment tomorrow. Min of 30 minutes prep and study guides will be collected.
3.16.22
Students had time to complete the analysis questions for, "Evaluating Site Risks". If one did not finish it is hw. Lab notebooks will be collected the week after spring break.
End of unit assessment on Friday, 3.18.22, study guide is a resource to help students prep for assessment. I recommend 30 minutes tonight and tomorrow night. More if engagement has been low.
3.15.22
Handouts for our last section, "Evaluating Site Risk".
Students had time to work in their group and individually on this last section. For tomorrow students should have sheet 18.2 and 18.3 complete. Most do. There will be time to complete analysis tomorrow in class.
3.14.22
Resource to guide responses for analysis on, "What Makes the Plates Move"
Students had time in class to complete analysis questions 1-6. If not complete student's need to complete on their own time.
We will be having an end of unit assessment on, "Geological Processes" on Friday. Study guide will be handed out on Wednesday.
3.11.22
Today we did a lab and activity, "What Makes the Plates Move?". We completed the hands on portion of the activity and students started the analysis but did not finish. There will be time on Monday.
Students that are out go to Lab Aids, Resources and Labsent activity 14 to watch a video of the activity.
Link to reading we did yesterday (the copy didn't come out great...)
3.10.22
For students who did not complete, "Rocks as a Resource" reading and analysis 1-4 they had the first part of class to complete. If not done it is hw. Almost all students completed this
Rocks as a Resource document table to glue into lab nb - this is also available in lab aids documents activity 16
3.9.22
I was out yesterday, students worked on, "Rocks as a Resource". Not hw
3.8.22
Students continued with collecting data from their own investigation and worked on analysis 1-7 (can skip number 4). This is due for Thursday. Many students finished in class.
3.7.22
We started, "Modeling Earthquakes" today. Students did not finish and we will continue tomorrow.
If any work from 3.3.22 is not complete for tomorrow that is hw.
For students that are out today use online text book and go to, "Modeling Earthquakes" pg 53-57:
Go To:
Lab-Aids through mypps
click, "Resources"
click, "weblinks and go to
9:Labsent video
Lab-Aids through mypps
click: "Documents"
click, 9:Labsent
student packet
3.3.22
Today we had a long independent work period to work on, "The Theory of Plate Tectonics" analysis questions 1-5 and the remaining questions from volume II. We had a specific structure to measure on task behavior at random moments.
HW for Tuesday (note the change 6C)
analysis 1-5 from, "The Theory of Plate Tectonics"
math volume II
read page 303
pg 310 # 6-120 and 6-122 to 6-128
Notes on how to structure analysis #3:
Explain theory of Plate Tectonics
how earthquakes/volcanoes/mtns related to plate tectonics
address each individually
Explain 3 types of plate boundaries and what happens at each
How earth's surfaces changed by plate motions
evidence of fossils/continents fit together - provide detail
How this continues - evidence
Surface of earth is constantly changing
events that are sudden/slow
explain events that are spatially large/small
3.2.22
We continued, "'The Theory of Plate Tectonics". We broke down the analysis questions in detail and provided some additional resources to help with responses.
3.1.22
We started looking at the, "Theory of Plate Tectonics", we will continue tomorrow, no hw
2.28.22
Students had time to work with their partner pair on, "Understanding Plate Boundaries". These are two be cut out and glued into lab notebook (students can do this part at the start of class). There were a couple of groups that did not finish analysis 1-3, if this was not completed then it is hw for tomorrow.
2.25.22
For folks that are out today, we will be continuing and completing, "Understanding Plate Boundaries" today. Including sheet 11.1 and analysis 1-3. No hw
2.24.22
We started working in partner pairs on, "Understanding Plate Boundaries". We did not finish this and students will have time tomorrow. No hw
2.23.22
Analysis revisions were returned today. Generally students did a very nice job with these! No new work pushed out. If any science is not completed that could be hw.
2.22.22
Students had a long long work period to complete the work that we started last Wednesday. If this was not completed in class you need to complete on your own time. Does not need to be done by Wed (2.23.22, but by the end of the week)
"The Continental Puzzle"
12.1 (glued in)
12.2 (glued in)
Analysis 1-5
"Plate Boundaries"
Run Simulation A (10.1)
Run Simulation 10.2 (B)
Analysis 1-5
2.17.22
Not sure what the sub communicated but if you have science hw you do not need to spend more than 20 minutes on it. If you don't finish that is ok and we will circle back and finish later.
2.16.22
Today we started, "Plate Boundaries" but did not finish. We will continue tomorrow. No hw
Primarily for folks that are out. We will be doing the sections "The Continent Puzzle Piece" and "Plate Boundaries" over the next three days. The printouts below are for both sections.
science handouts for wed - fri (2.16.22 - 2.18.22)
2.14.22
MAPS Math testing today. We will wrap up tomorrow. For students who are done bring a book or other classwork to do. I will have some math practice for those that want.
2.11.22
For the first half of class we did a structured peer feedback and self reflection form on the 3 analysis questions students had the chance to do revisions of. Overall students were very focused and provided detailed feedback to a classmate. These were collected along with the form and original graded analysis questions.
We ended the week with watching a, ¨Cosmos"episode on light.
Remember - monday we will be taking the MAPS math test. Students need to bring a charged chrome book, their charger and something to do if they finish early. I will have some math practice if students want.
2.10.22
Below is The Grind for today, this is also a list of everything that is due for tomorrow (keep in mind students started these on Wednesday and today was an independent work period for students to get caught up. So really just two new pieces for tomorrow. The analysis revisions is optional. We will be going over analysis revisions tomorrow, so if you did not complete you get an extra day!
Also note that we will be doing MAPS math testing next Monday and probably Tuesday (2.14.22 and 2.15.22). Students should bring a charged chromebook with charger.
link to all handouts and practice from Wednesday 2.9.22
The Grind 2.10.22
Glue this into your lab notebook, look through your work and check off what has been completed. The expectation was that all was completed for today except, ´Beneath earthś surface' analysis and ´what is heavy forward but not backwards´
_____ “observing earth’s moving surface graphs and analysis 1-6 (with specific detail on 4)
_____ Student Sheet 8.1
_____ Student Sheet 8.2
_____ “Beneath earth’s surface” Analysis 1-4 complete (with written detail on number 4)
_____ “why was the pail pale”
_____ “what is heavy forward but not backwards”
_____ 3 analysis revisions done with detail
_____ incorporated question into response (first sentence)
_____ minimum of four sentences
_____ multiple pieces of evidence
_____ At least two strengths and 2 weaknesses for ‘modeling volcanic eruptions”
2.9.22
I was out today so there was a sub. All documents and hw expectations is under 2.10.22
2.8.22
We reviewed the gps tracking info and how to graph again at the start of class. When students finished the quiz they transitioned to working on, "Observing Earth's Moving Surface" section. This involves some graphing, interpreting and analysis 1-6. This is due on Thursday (6B I believe I said it is due on Wednesday but I changed this).
I handed back the 3 analysis questions that students submitted on 2.3.22. We are really working on slowing down, providing evidence, reasoning and trade-offs in our responses. We went over this in detail today in class with lots of examples including a highly proficient response for each of these analysis. Students have the opportunity to redo this and have them graded again. If a student does this (and I recommend this for most) they are due this Thursday and the original must be turned in as well.
2.7.22
We started an activity looking at gps measurements and how the earth's surface moves as well as techniques with how to read these types of graphs. We will continue with this tomorrow. No hw.
2.4.22
Students had independent work time to complete the analysis for Mapping Locations of Earthquakes and Volcanoes".
We then watched the video: Making North America
2.3.22
We started science today by having students record 3 specific analysis questions. This is viewable in todays Grind
HW: working in section, "Mapping locations of earthquakes and volcano's" students should complete the map, t-chart and procedure. The analysis are not due for tomorrow.
2.2.22
-Students read, "Natural Hazards Caused by Earthquakes and Volcanoes" pg 17-23, completed handout 4.1, cut this out and glued into lab notebook and did analysis numbers 1 and 2. If you did not finish it is hw. Most students finished.
handouts from today (science 4.2, math and science 1.1)
2.1.22
Today we did a lab with some notes and a table for the lab
If you missed class today or need a refresher for your analysis use the videos below:
HW: complete analysis 1-4 for, "Modeling Volcanic Activity".
1.27.22
We reviewed some concepts from yesterday's activity , walked through the analysis and students had independent work time to complete analysis #1-3 for 'Investigating Groundwater'. This is hw for Tuesday but most if not all students finished in class. Have a nice weekend!
1.26.22
We started science with a lesson on ground water, water percolation, aquifers and how human behavior has impacted water quality specific to aquifers. We then did lab, "Investigating Groundwater". Students will have time in class tomorrow to do the analysis.
If you were not at school today you can view the labsent video . If you are having issues with the link you may need to go to the 'Geological Processes' book, click on 'Web Links' and then "2. Labsent video".
1.25.22
No new work pushed out. Lab tomorrow
11.24.22
Today we continued with our discussion on landslides. We did the "Modeling Landslides" activity. Homework is to complete this (analysis 1 and 2)
Video link to answer analysis on landslide
1.21.22
We started talking about and looking at examples of landslides. Why they happen, human and natural role. We will continue Monday. No hw
1.20.22
Focused on math today
1.19.22
We started by introducing out new unit and going over todays activity. Students had independent work time in class, what was not finished is homework.
HW - Storing Nuclear Waste - complete table, cut out and glue in lab notebook and analysis #1-4. Make sure to use evidence and detail within responses.
Documents from todays class (math hw, Nuclear Waste table and hw solutions)
11.18.22
We started by taking a closer look at the eruption of Hunga Tonga and then transitioned to math.
Nice job everyone getting science fair project in and complete! Students demonstrated a lot of persistence and focus with this process.!
Quick note that everyone should have deleted their name from the first slide so it is just the title. We did this in school and I emailed individuals who were not in school but wanted to post here as well.
1.13.22
Final big day with a focus on science fair. Students have worked really hard, showed a lot of persistence and progress in the write up! There will be a short period of time tomorrow based upon student feedback. HW: Students should have their content in the google slides by tomorrow.
Students that have been out. Please send me the link to your science fair google slides document. Make it view only. If you could do that by tomorrow that would be great!
1.12.22
HW is to make sure students are on track to complete by Friday, Tuesday at the latest. There will be independent work time in class tomorrow. Depending upon where foks are at it may be our last independent work day.
Today in class we went over how to format your Science Fair Project in google slides and how to submit. These documents are available in references and below:
How to format and submit your Science Fair project in Google Slides
1.11.21
Big science fair work day. Tomorrow how to put into google slides and format.
HW - be through tables and figures, starting on results. If not then you have hw,
1.10.22
Focus continues to be on science fair project. Student have independent work and I meet with students giving feedback. Students should be through figures and tables by tomorrow ideally. HW: 20-30 min focused work unless complete with figures/tables, then no hw.
1.7.22
Today was mostly an independent work period for students to work on science fair. We started by going over info on what to do when tables/graphs are complete. This document is on the web site. Science Fair projects are due a week from today (1.14.22), if necessary students could use that weekend and turn in 1.18.22, Tuesday but we are shooting for Friday. If a student feels that they are behind then they should do work over the weekend. Next week's focus will be completion and me supporting students with this process by looking at work.
1.6.22
We started today by going over the hw and collecting yesterday's hw. I then showed some of the graphing and analysis features on google sheets and how to make a table in google docs. The rest of class was independent work time to work on science fair. While students were doing this I gave feedback to students on their work. We will continue this process tomorrow. HW: minimum of 20 minutes on science fair project. There are a couple of students who do not have to do this as a result of how far they have come.
1.3.22
No new homework was pushed out. Tonight, make sure you are all caught up with science fair and take time to continue/complete any work that is not done.
12.17.21
Students had an extended period of independent work time to focus science fair. I provided feedback to each student at least once over the past two days.
HW expectation is to carry out the science fair experiment, collect data and observations.
Have a great break!
12.16.21
Went over hypothesis and prediction again today as well as data collection. Students then had a junk of independent work on science fair. We will continue tomorrow. I will be making comments on each student's document at least one more time between today and tomorrow. Goal is to have question, materials, procedure, background, hypothesis, prediction and data recording tool set up by end of tomorrow. At least in some form of draft format. Can be revised over break.
12.14.21
Started with a longer lesson on the components of the science fair project focusing on the background section. This was followed by a long independent work period to make progress. HW: 20 minutes focused work on science fair components.
12.13.21
Student's who finished the warm up early worked on science fair. I updated the science fair resources, specifically background section
12.10.21
For science students had independent work to focus on their question, material and procedure for science fair. I also was available for students to ask me questions. Students should continue to make progress science fair projects.
12.9.21
The big focus of today was for me to check in with each student regarding their science fair topic ideas. I am trying to avoid saying this will work and this won't, rather directing students in the direction of a testable question that has a clear and measurable independent and dependent variable along with establishing control variables. I have asked students for part of their homework to share their ideas thus far on the, "3 testable questions" form. Please have a conversation with your child about the project and materials that may need to be used. Are they realistic materials to get, can this be done in the time frame over winter break etc. We will be working dialing in the background, question, hypothesis, materials and procedure section in the next week.
12.8.21
Students turned in their 3 science fair proposals. We had further conversation about variables and how the project needs to be measure-able. Tomorrow I will be meeting with students individually to give them feedback on their ideas.
We started watching a documentary on the science fair.
No specific hw, continuing to think about science fair topics and starting to collect background info is a good idea.
12.7.21
sub today
12.6.21
The second half of class we focused on the science fair project. Students should have a file in their google drive titled, "Science Fair 20221/22". We went over, in more detail the independent, dependent and control variable. There are more documents on the Resources page related to the science fair and we went over those.
HW for Wednesday 12.8.21 - complete with detail the, "3 testable questions" form that was handed out and is available on the website. Clearly identify your independent, dependent and control variables. Start the background info and use the 'formulating' form on the website.
12.3.21
We continued to talk about science fair, focusing on independent and dependent variables. We tied this to the demo lab we did yesterday. We then went through the testable question handout and students had some independent work time begin. We will continue this process on Monday. No hw
12.2.21
Today w e did a lab demo and discussed what variables could be manipulated with the lab and what we could consider constants. We related this back to our discussion on the components of a science fair project.
No hw other than to continue to think about your science fair project question.
Interesting article: new exo planet
12.1.21
Students read some info on the science fair (I have created a science fair section on the website under, "Resources" that I will be updating. We then started breaking down the components of a science fair with examples. We will continue this tomorrow.
HW: if parent signature was not completed for today you have one more day to earn partial credit, due tomorrow at the latest.
11.30.21
We went over the Solar System assessment today. Students who did not earn proficiency (44 out of 62) need to decide and tell me tomorrow if are going to retake. Retakes should be done before winter break.
HW: parent signature on top right hand corner of test. Students should have a bit of a conversation with parents about the assessment and how they did.
11.29.21
No new work pushed out. We will be going over the assessment tomorrow.
11.19.21
No new work was pushed out today. Tests will be graded and entered before the start of conferences on Monday.
Have a great break and see everyone at conferences!
11.18.21
End of unit test today, no new work pushed out
11.17.21Solar System assessment tomorrow. I did a short lesson on a couple of concepts, students had time to work on study guide in groups and then a chance to ask questions. Study guide will be collected before test tomorrow.
HW: complete study guide and prep for assessment. Study guide will be turned in before tomorrows test
11.16.21
We will be having a end of unit test on our "Solar System and Beyond" unit on Thursday. There will be multiple choice, short answer and long answer style questions. I handed out the study guide today in class. Students are to write out responses/visuals to the prompts/questions on the study guide. I will be collecting these before the test. Note, the test is closed notes.
HW: spend a focused 20 minutes prepping for Thursday's test.
11.15.21
Students read page 91 and 92. They then recorded each term on page 93 in their lab notebook and recorded the definition in the lab notebook. If this was not completed it is not hw. So no science hw for today.
11.10.21
Students watched a video on Parallel Universes today. No new hw. I was out again but plan on returning on Monday. Have a great long weekend!
11.9.21
I was out today trying to recover from getting hit by a car on my ride in on Monday. Students had time to with the procedure and analysis for, "Choosing a Mission". Analysis 1-4 should be complete as hw if not done in class. Remember that #3 requires a lot of evidence and identifying trade-offs for the other missions.
11.8.21
We began the last section in our space unit. We will continue tomorrow.
11.4.21
Students shared within their group analysis question responses (several students were not complete with hw and fell behind because this needed to be done first). I then shared my, "Modeling Galactic Gravity" drawing as well as my responses to analysis question #3 that I would consider highly proficient. Students received a printed copy of these responses, glued them into lab nb and self evaluated their own responses. If they felt they were not proficient then they rewrote theirs. If a student did not complete this it is all hw.
No new sections pushed out.
HP Analysis question 3
Modeling Gravity (HP Example)
3a) Gravity causes each star to orbit the center of the galaxy because of all the mass and dark matter in the galaxy. Each planet in the solar system around Star A orbits star A because it is the closest star to them, and it is more massive than any other of the other objects in that solar system. The moon in my model orbits the second planet because it is really close to that planet, so gravity causes it to orbit that planet
3b) Yes, all the planets in the solar system with Star A orbit in the same direction. This is because when solar systems form, a lot of gas and dust gets pulled together from gravity and starts spinning. The planets orbit in the direction the early solar system was spinning.
11.3.21
Work through activity, "Modeling Gravity' in the textbook. Independently work through the Procedure. If you are absent, select your planet of choice. You will use the Planet Information sheet as well
HW: Analysis 1-4 from activity in lab notebook. The "Modeling Galactic Gravity " sheet is also to be completed, cut out and pasted into lab notebook. Hint: the mass of the sun is 1,988,500 x 10^24, divide that by the Jupiters' mass which is 1,898 x 10^24. Since they are both to the power of 24 you can just divide the coefficients.
Rubrics and feedback for quarter 1 lab notebook collection were handed back today as well. Those are to be cut out and pasted into the lab notebook as well.
11.2.21
No new work pushed out. Continued with 'Hidden Figures'
11.1.21
We wen over several things regarding lab notebook turn in. Lab notebooks were turned in and I am going over them. We are watching the movie, "Hidden Figures". No new hw if lab notebook was turned in.
10.29.21
Today we started with a quick lesson on graphing and expectations. Table of contents is up to date and students had time to update in class. The following new work is due on Monday 11.1.21 along with Lab Notebook collection:
ID Planets (analysis 1-2)
Gravitational Force
2 graphs glued into lab notebook
procedure number 6
analysis 1-5
The Effects of Gravity
stop and think recorded in lab notebook
analysis 1-4
Parent Signature indicating student walked you through completion and work done this far. Signature goes right in the table of contents.
10.28.21
6B note the change in hw, I made an announcement at the end of the day in Ms. Trans class but the hw that was to be due tomorrow (ID Planets and Gravitational Force with graphs/proc/analysis) is going to be due on Monday. Tomorrow will be primarily an independent work period to complete those items and then a reading. Come in ready to focus! Lab notebooks will be collected on Monday which is also a change.
No hw
10.27.21
Due for tomorrow: "Identification of Planets" Procedure and Analysis 1 and 2 (just 6b, 6a will have about 35 minutes to work on this)
Friday: : Lab notebooks will be collected and evaluated for quarter 1 grades
10.26.21
We were participating in Outdoor School today during class. No new work. Make sure to dress for the weather tomorrow, 2 hrs Outdoor School again.
10.25.21
No new work pushed out today
10.22.21
No new work pushed out today. Have a nice weekend!
10.21.21
We had some lessons on new concepts related to the Equatorial Diameters work. HW for tomorrow is to have the first four columns complete as well as the 6th.
10.20.21
Today we took a look at scale, the powers of ten and discussed scale a bit in our solar system and beyond. We started by watching this video
We then embarked on a process of patience by creating tables with equally sized cells on a 11x17 piece of paper. When ok'd by me students started working on equatorial diameters . There is no hw with this, we will continue tomorrow.
10.19.21
No new work tomorrow. We will be looking at scaled objects tomorrow.
10.18.21
No new work pushed out today
10.15.21
Today we started and completed the section, "Observing Objects in Space" along with analysis 1-6.
If you were absent you can use the lab aids 'labsent' to get a word document that will make it easier to work through
the lab. To access LABsent:
click on "Contents" once into the online text book
click "LABsent"
you will then see a table of contents
click on the orange icon by activity ten, a word document will open that will walk through directions
10.14.21
Today was dedicated to MAPS testing, no new material.
10.13.21
Outdoor School forms were handed out during the afternoon class. Outdoor School will be coming to Winterhaven to do programming October 25-27th. Please return the ODS form signed asap!
We watched a video on Michael Farraday and electromagnetic waves. No new hw.
10.12.21
HW: all students to complete, "Earth on the move" analysis 1-3 for tomorrow
10.11.21
No hw today for science. Focused on math and leaf lab today.
10.7.21
Collected yesterdays hw. No hw have a nice weekend!
10.6.21
Students had time in class to work through Procedure B of, "A Year Viewed From Space" using the interactive model on chromebooks. They accessed it through my.pps
click the textbook
Resources
web links
7:seasons interactive
Analysis 1-6 are due tomorrow if not completed in class.
10.5.21
Today was focused on completing the math assmt.
HW: for tomorrow (Wed) bring in a leaf that will fill up most of an 8.5 x 11 inch sheet of paper. Oak and maple leaves work really good. Small leaves with jagged edges not so well. Best if intact and not falling apart. Good to dry it out over night.
10.4.21
We started the computer simulation of "A Year Viewed From Space". We did not complete.
No HW
9.30.21
Students had time to complete, 'changing sunlight'. Graph cut out, pasted in lab notebook and analysis 1-6 is due for tomorrow
9.29.21
Students continued with making their graphs for, "changing sunlight". They will have more time tomorrow and what is not completed in class will be hw.
I have included all documents from today https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GjyjNLAKFvYfj1rlH9na9ktV9JNCbcSK/view?usp=sharing
9.28.21
I introduced the section, "Changing Sunlight". Students read the procedure and had some time to get started. We will continue with this tomorrow.
No HW but there will likely be some tomorrow!
9.27.21
No new work was pushed out today. We finished the video on starts
9.24.21
Started watching a video on stars today. No HW
9.23.21
Today was an organizational day. Students created a table of contents on the first page of their lab notebook. If this was not completed students should complete Table of Contents with the following parameters
use a ruler
column 1 - width of ruler
column 2 - 5.5 cm
c 3 - 2.75 cm
c4 - 2.5 cm
c5 - already done, vertical line there
c6 - 2 cm
c7 - complete
go through lab notebook and determine if each section is complete or incomplete
HW: complete table of contents (most finished in class). Complete any incomplete analysis questions
9.22.21
Happy Fall! We started today giving students a chance to finish #3 analysis of 'Moons Orbit". When students completed that they did the Warm Up . We went over the warm up as a class. We then went over all the math hw from yesterday with a strong emphasis on physical organization of our page and how to show our work.
We then did a MMM and went over results.
No new hw, today is a catch up day for anything unfinished work, especially science analysis. To view what has been assigned and when due view the Table of Contents
9.21.21
Today groups worked pretty independently through a modeling activity, "The Moon's Orbit". Each group member had a specific role to carryout and their was time for analysis in class.
HW (if didn't finish in class)
analysis on pg 26 #1 and 2
9.20.21
We did a "moon simulation" activity as a class today, visuals were projected. Students had independent work time to complete the analysis question (the majority did). If you did not:
HW
Moon Simulation Analysis questions #1-5 on page 21
*Also, totally forgot to mention the full moon tonight in class. The skies will be clear so check it out rising in the east sky!
9.17.21
Math and science were integrated today, see math page
9.16.21
Today we continued our discussion about the moon. We worked on creating a model that demonstrated the phases of the moon. Students then worked on completing, "Observations of the Moon Model" Sheet and analysis questions.
HW:
observations of moon model (students should have finished in class if on task)
Analysis questions #1-6 on page 17. Utilize online text
9.15.21
Today we watched a video on the moon. We will start (6a) and complete (6b) a modeling activity tomorrow.
No hw
9.14.21
No science hw today (as long as you are done with 'Exploring Space' and "Predictable Moon" analysis questions, if not complete then finish those tonight) , we will be starting a new activity tomorrow.
9.13.21
We started class today with the, "Image of the Day". Students did observations and predictions using evidence. We shared as a class and then went over (image of the day )
We then spent some time talking about the importance of utilizing independent work effectively and having a process for organizing our lab notebook. We are really working on this! For homework I am asking students to go their 'myappspps page', same place they go to access their email. Once there:
Click on the "Lab-Aids" Icon
This should show the "Solar System and Beyond" text book - click
then go to the 'Contents' in the upper left hand corner and click on the section that you have not completed the analysis questions.
Analysis questions should be completed for:
'Exploring Space'
'Predictable Moon'
If a student is having a hard time accessing the online text book don't worry, we will figure it out!!!
9.10.21
We started today with a presentation looking at some background information regarding the moon (moon notes ). This facilitated some good questions and comments. We then started an activity looking at the phases of the moon. Students started analysis questions but did not complete. No hw, will continue on Monday.
9.9.21
Students had time to complete the analysis questions from 'Exploring Space' #1-4. HW is for students (who know how to) to check their pps email, book mark the website and explore the link.
9.8.21
We started class going over in detail the order of independent work students would be doing with 'Exploring Space". Students had independent work to complete the handout 1.1/1.2 and start the analysis. There will be time tomorrow to finish the analysis questions. No hw.
Analysis questions expectations:
Title the analysis with the name of the section we are working on (example from today, 'Space Explorations'
incorporate the question into the answer
use complete sentences most of the time
other examples of ways of showing understanding when applicable
bulleted list
images/drawing
use evidence from text and class to support your statements
skip a line in between each question
9.7.21
We discussed evidence and trade-offs today. We then talked about summarizing information and practiced giving a 'elevator speach'. We then started our first section on space exploration. No hw.
9.2.21
We started by continuing with a lesson on how to organize lab notebooks. We had a couple of warm ups that were shared out to groups and then started a discussion on time related to our universe and earth.
9.1.21
Welcome to your first day of middle school! We had great first day. Students received their science lab notebooks. We spent most of class going over expectations and the environment. No homework.