DIV 8-5

Wednesday, Dec 3rd: Today we did math in block 2 and began our next unit - Unit 5: Fractions. Our goal for today was to review/ reacquaint ourselves with foundational understandings and skills related to fractions. The grade 8 curricular focus is on operation with fractions and we will be covering this in January next year. In the meantime, we are reviewing the fundamental concepts, skills, and processed learned in previous grades. Today we did Part A: Review of Fractions Basics Click Here. First we went over a slideshow and reviewed identifying fractions in various formats, representing fractions, simplifying fractions, and equivalent fractions. We went over several examples and also reviewed how fractions can be represented on a number line and in imperial measurement as fractions of an inch. Students received a practice package that included notes and presents a wide range of skills and understandings that they would have encountered previously in grades 5-7 math. After going over several examples and discussing as a class, we had the rest of the block to review, practice, and clarify our understanding of fractions basics. Students who felt had a very solid understanding of the concepts presented in Part A were offered a more challenging problem solving extension to work on. In the last few weeks of December, we will continue review more underlying concepts and skills to help prepare us for January when we learn about operations with fractions. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10 minutes continuing to review the math handout from today to ensure you have a very clear understanding of these topics. Doing some further practice is recommended. Reminders: Math Extra Help is Friday morning at 8:15am. The Unit 4 Math testest is this Friday at lunchtime. All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. IMPORTANT Mr. Menzies handed out an additional field trip form for the UVIC trip. UVIC now requires parents to sign an additional permission form for students participating event. Mr. Menzies handed these out today in class. This is also linked on the third page: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on Wednesday December 17th (Click Here). A reminder that we are now back outside for PE so please bring comfortable PE strip to be outside in the rain and cold. 

Tuesday, Dec 2nd: In block 1 we had French and in block 2 we had LA today. In block 3 we did science. In science we continued to learn about density today. Mr. Menzies reviewed the basics and reminded us how to calculate density and what factors determine density. We returned to Part H-2 from Monday's class and reviewed what we learned in the density tower activity we did Click Here. We learned that density is a combination of mass and volume and that temperature impacts density of substances. We looked at the unique property of water and how it unusually becomes less dense in its solid form - this is why ice floats in liquid water. We also learned about buoyancy and why ships, made of dense steel, can float. We had time to practice calculating density in our handout from yesterday and complete the follow up questions. We then moved on to our next density activity - Part H-3 The Great Egg Density Challenge Click Here. Mr. Menzies explained that when solutions are created (homogeneous mixtures) this alters the density of a liquid as one substance fills the gaps of the other substance. He demonstrated this by pouring sugar into a beaker full of ping pong balls, the balls being water molecules and sugar filling the gaps. Mr. Menzies then went over our activity today where we had to answer the following question and attempt to achieve the following outcome: How much sugar needs to be added to water to cause an egg to achieve neutral buoyancy? Students worked in groups with an egg in pure water and had to measure and add sugar to the water to change its density and eventually cause the egg to float. However, they wanted to have the egg become neutrally buoyant, floating suspended part way from the bottom of the beaker and the surface of the solution. Students made observations along the way and recorded measurements and diagrams. We will revisit thies activity to follow up on what we learned and have time to finish this assignment on Thursday. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure you have finished Parts H-1, H-2 from science. Reminders: All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. IMPORTANT Mr. Menzies handed out an additional field trip form for the UVIC trip. UVIC now requires parents to sign an additional permission form for students participating event. Mr. Menzies handed these out today in class. This is also linked on the third page: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). A reminder that we are now back outside for PE so please bring comfortable PE strip to be outside in the rain and cold. 

Monday, Dec 1st: In block 2 today, we began the day by getting our Unit 4 math tests back. Mr. Menzies had us review and fill out the accompanying self evaluation, staple this to our tests, and take our tests home to show parents (getting signed and bringing back to school). Mr. Menzies introduced Part H: Density. First we watched a video that explained what density is and how it is related to mass and volume. Mr. Menzies went through a slideshow explaining and showing what density looks like at the molecular level and showed this is a few examples. He then did some density demonstrations with a fish tank full of water and showed that samples of matter can have the same volume but can have more mass causing their densities can be quite different. We also learned that the density of liquid water is 1g/ml and things that have a density greater than this will sink and things that have a density less than this will float. We also learned that temperature affects density and Mr. Menzies modelled this with a demonstration. Today we received Part H-1: Density Click Here and we used the rest of the block to work on this assignment, learned how to calculate density, and practiced doing do. In block 3, we had 20 more minutes to complete Part H-1 Click Here. After this, Mr. Menzies introduced Part H-2 where we we had to apply our understanding of density to create a density tower. First we assessed our liquids, making qualitative observation about all 6. We also had to calculate the density for all 6 liquids as well with the provided data. Students then worked in groups of 2 or 3 to use the provided liquids (ranging from honey to white vinegar) to create a density tower in a beaker, from most dense to least dense. While this was little rushed today, we will follow up with this activity and assignments tomorrow. Homework and Reminders: Please show your Unit 4 math test to your parents, get signed, and bring back to school ASAP. Please make sure you have finished Part H-1: Density for tomorrow Click Here. Reminders: All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. IMPORTANT Mr. Menzies handed out an additional field trip form for the UVIC trip. UVIC now requires parents to sign an additional permission form for students participating event. Mr. Menzies handed these out today in class. This is also linked on the third page: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). Hope you had a great weekend!

Friday, Nov 28th: Today Math Extra Help was offered at 8:15AM as per usual. In block 1 we wrote our Unit 4 math test. We had the whole block to complete our test and extra time into block 2 if needed. Thus concludes Unit 4, our first  grade 8 topic of the year. Mr. Menzies announced that he will mark them as soon as possible and hand them back to students early next week. He also announced that there will be a retest opportunity for this Unit 4 math test next Friday, Dec 5th, at lunchtime. Homework and Reminders: No specific homework assigned this weekend for math and science. Reading and or organizing is recommended. Reminders: All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test, get signed, and bring back to school if you have not already done this. UPDATE: Mr. Menzies handed out an additional field trip form for the UVIC trip. UVIC now requires parents to sign an additional permission form for students participating event. Mr. Menzies handed these out today in class. This is also linked on the third page: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). Have a great weekend!

Thursday, Nov 27th: Today we did Math in block 2. Mr. Menzies reviewed Pythagoras basics and we practiced a question together. We also went over how to do the various applications of Pythagoras we have covered earlier this week. Mr. Menzies then showed us some practical examples of using the Pythagorean Theorem to square a corner in construction. We watched a few video clips and discussed why it is important to have square corners in design and construction. We also learned what "proof of Pythagoras" is and how over the ages people have found different ways to test this theorem (This is an extension concept). Students received Part F-3: Review and Applying Pythagoras today Click Here and we had time to continue practicing applying Pythagoras. For the Unit 4 test tomorrow. Mr. Menzies recommended that we make a one page study sheet to review Parts A-F from this math unit. He also handed out an optional study sheet organizer where we could make notes and write down examples for each of the key concepts form this unit. Homework and Reminders: Please spend some time reviewing Pythagoras (F-1, F-2, F-3) tonight. Also reviewing Parts A-E from Unit 4 would also be helpful in preparing for the Unit 4 test tomorrow Specifically, practicing using Pythagoras tonight is recommended. This can also include extra practice or beginning to create a study sheet (Parts A-F) to review the key ideas. Reminders: Math extra help is tomorrow morning at 8:15AM. All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test, get signed, and bring back to school if you have not already done this. UPDATE: Mr. Menzies handed out an additional field trip form for the UVIC trip. UVIC now requires parents to sign an additional permission form for students participating event. Mr. Menzies handed these out today in class. This is also linked on the third page: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). 

Wednesday, Nov 26th: Today we did Math in block 2. Continuing with our learning about the Pythagorean Theorem, we began with a review of what we did yesterday. Mr. Menzies went over how the Pythagorean Theorem related to a right triangle and how we can use it to determine an unknown side of the triangle when we know the two other sides. We went over a few examples and had some time to practice using the theorem to fins a, b, or c. After this, Mr. Menzies showed us how the theorem is used practically and how it can be more versatile to be used in contraction, navigation, and other application problems. Students received Part F-2: Applying Pythagoras today Click Here and we went through some examples of applying the theorem in various contexts. This includes using Pythagorean triples to confirm a square corner or wall in construction. Mr. Menzies reminded us to spend some time reviewing and practicing this concept tonight in preparation for our Unit 4 Math test on Friday this week Click Here. Tomorrow we will have the block to continue practicing and expanding our understanding of Pythagoras and also do some review of the underlying skills and concepts we have covered in Unit 4 in preparation for the test on Friday. Homework and Reminders: Please spend some time reviewing Pythagoras (F-1 & F-2) tonight. Also reviewing Parts A-E from Unit 4 would also be helpful in preparing for the Unit 4 test on Friday. Specifically, practicing using Pythagoras tonight is recommended. This can also include extra practice or beginning to create a study sheet to review the key ideas.  Reminders:  All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test, get signed, and bring back to school if you have not already done this. Field trip forms - please get signed and return ASAP: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). 

Tuesday, Nov 25th: Today we had French in block 1 and LA in block 2. In block 3, we did Math. We began by reviewing wheat we did yesterday: Part D: Approximating Square Roots, and Part E: Equations and Formulas. Mr. Menzies went over how to solve two step equations and we practice a few examples together. He also explained formulas and we learned hot to use them to calculate perimeter and area. We had about 20 minutes to practice this skill. After this, Mr. Menzies introduced the Pythagorean Theorem. First he showed us a slideshow with a Math Antics video clips and we went over the basics how how Pythagoras relates to right triangles Click Here. We became familiar with the sides of a right triangle (a & b the legs, and c the hypotenuse) and learned how this relates to the Pythagorean Theorem. Mr. Menzies walked us through how to input the side lengths we know into the theorem, and then solve for the unknown side. We went through several examples including solving for c and for a/b and started some practice with the theorem. Students received the following handout today: Part F-1: Intro to Pythagorean Theorem Click Here. Mr. Menzies advised us to spend 15 minutes continuing to practice Pythagorean Theorem for 15 minutes tonight and reminded us that we have a Unit 4 Math test on Friday this week. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 15 minutes reviewing Parts A to F-1 from Unit 4 math tonight as the Unit 4 Math Test is this Friday. Specifically, practicing using Pythagoras tonight is recommended. This can also include extra practice or beginning to create a study sheet to review the key ideas.  Reminders:  All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test, get signed, and bring back to school if you have not already done this. Field trip forms - please get signed and return ASAP: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). 

Monday, Nov 24th: Today in block 2 we started the week with Math after going over what the week will look like. Mr. Menzies announced that we will be mainly focused on Math this week and wrap up Unit 4 on Friday with a test. We began the class by doing a short skill check. Mr. Menzies put a few question on the whiteboard that covers the core skills that we have covered so far this unit (squares, squaring, square roots, perfect and imperfect squares) and then went over the answers, discussing with the class. After this, we moved on to Part D: Approximating/Estimating Square Roots Click Here.  Mr. Menzies walked us through how to do this. First we reviewed the perfect squares up to 144, representing these as roots, squares, and square numbers, as we will use these as benchmarks to determine our estimate. Next, we learned to identify the perfect square below (49) a given number (ie. 53 imperfect square) and also the perfect square above (64) this given number. We then drew the square of these and used the roots of the perfect squares on either side of 53 to estimate its root. We largely worked on this together, Mr. Menzies leading us through this handout. For the second half of the block, we moved on to solving 1 and 2 step equation review as we will need this for Pythagoras later this week. Mr. Menzies went over the key parts of an equation and showed us the steps to solve simple equations and by isolating the variable, then check or answers. Students received Part D: Equations and Formulas today Click Here. We also learned what a formula is and practiced using our equation solving technique to use the formula for the perimeter of a square. We just had time to touch upon this today, and we will continue with this tomorrow. Finally, Mr. Menzies advised us to spend some time each school night this week reviewing Parts A-E in preparation for the Unit 4 math test on Friday this week. In block 3, we continued with Part G: Physical Properties of Matter Mr. Menzies reminded us of what we did on Tuesday when we learned about the qualitative physical properties that we can use to describe matter using our senses (sight, smell, colour, odor, texture etc...). Today we moved on to the quantitative or measurable physical properties of matter. We began by learning what a "state" of matter is (solid, liquid, gas) and what "melting point" freezing point" and "boiling point" mean. We also reviewed some key units of measure for mass, volume, length, and temperature. Mr. Menzies reminded us that we have already learned a bit about this in Unit 1: Science Skills where we practiced using tools in the science lab. We then had then had about 30-40 minutes to practice measuring the physical properties of matter and collecting qualitative data. Next week we will delve further into density and work on Part H: Density as December will be mainly science focused. Students will be doing some hands on labs related to density next week in class. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 15 minutes reviewing Parts A-E from Unit 4 math tonight as the Unit 4 Math Test is this Friday. This can include extra practice or beginning to create a study sheet to review the key ideas. Reminders:  All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test, get signed, and bring back to school if you have not already done this. Field trip forms - please get signed and return ASAP: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). Hope you had a great weekend!

Thursday, Nov 20th: Today we did both math and science in block 2. Beginning with Math, we reviewed some of the central concepts and skills covered this week: squares and square roots and cubes and cube roots. Mr. Menzies went over what the root is for a square (side length) and the root for a cube (edge length). We also went over some examples and were given a math notes template to define some key terms: cube, cubing, cube root, perfect cube, and imperfect cube. We then had about 15-20 more minutes to continue working on Part C: Cubes & Cube Roots and developing our understanding of what this means in number formant and visually. After this, we switched to science for the last 20 minutes of class. Continuing with Part G: Physical Properties of Matter Click Here, Mr. Menzies reminded us of what we did on Monday when we learned about the qualitative physical properties that we can use to describe matter using our senses (sight, smell, colour, odor, texture etc...). Today we moved on to the quantitative or measurable physical properties of matter. We began by learning what a "state" of matter is (solid, liquid, gas) and what "melting point" freezing point" and "boiling point" mean. We also reviewed some key units of measure for mass, volume, length, and temperature. Mr. Menzies reminded us that we have already learned a bit about this in Unit 1: Science Skills where we practiced using tools in the science lab. On Monday we will have some time to again practice measuring the mass and volume of solid and liquids and this will lead us into our next topic: Part H: Density. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10-15 minutes reviewing Parts A-C from Unit 4 math over this three day weekend. Reminders:  All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. Tomorrow, Friday, Nov 21st is a Pro-D day and there is no school for students. Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test, get signed, and bring back to school if you have not already done this. Field trip forms - please get signed and return ASAP: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). Have a great weekend!

Wednesday, Nov 19th: Today we did Math in block 2. Moving in on Unit 4, today we learned about cubing and cube roots. Similar to squaring and square roots, we expanded this skill and our understanding of what a cube is and what this looks like numerically and visually with models. We also learned how to "cube a root"  and also do the inverse operation finding the cube's root. Students also learned about "perfect cubes" and "imperfect cubes" and how to test larger numbers using prime factorization to determine whether said number is a perfect cube or not. We viewed the Part C slideshow and went over several examples for these skills and concepts and then students received the following notes and practice package today Part C: Cubes & Cube Roots Click Here. We worked on the first several questions together discussing how to do each skill. We also received another Math notes template today to record new terms and establish steps and notes on each process and concept. All of these resources and handouts can be found in the 8-6 Google Classroom Click Here. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10-15 minutes reviewing Parts A-C from Unit 4 math tonight. Reminders:  All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. Math extra help will be offered tomorrow morning (Thursday) this week as Friday, Nov 21st is a Pro-D day. Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test, get signed, and bring back to school if you have not already done this. Field trip forms - please get signed and return ASAP: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). 

Tuesday, Nov 18th: Today in block 2 we did Math. Picking up with what we learned yesterday, be began with a review of squaring and square rooting. Mr. Menzies modeled what it means to square a number and also what it means to find the square root. We went over key terms such as root = side length of a square, square number = area of a square, perfect square, and imperfect square. Mr. Menzies also walked us through some of the questions and we reviewed how to use the square root button on our calculators to calculate the square root of a square number. Students had about 25 minutes to continue working on Part B: Squares & Square Roots Click Here. For the last 10 minutes of the block, Mr. Menzies did an short preview/intro for Part C: Cubes and Cube Roots. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10-15 minutes reviewing what we have done in math so far in Unit 4. This is Parts A and B Click Here. Reminders:  All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. Math extra help will be offered on Thursday morning this week as Friday, Nov 21st is a Pro-D day. Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test, get signed, and bring back to school if you have not already done this. Field trip forms - please get signed and return ASAP: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). 

Monday, Nov 17th: Today we did mostly Math in block 2. Mr. Menzies began with another review of Part A: Squares, Roots, and Squaring. We worked practicing and reviewing the key skills and ideas from this introductory lesson. After this, we moved on to Part B: Squares and Square Roots Click Here. First we watched a Math Antics video and Mr. Menzies went over the relationship of squaring a root to finding a square's root. He explained that "squaring a root" is going from a length line segment and turning this into a square by making it 2 dimensional (What we learned in Part A). We then learned to do the opposite: when given an area of a square (a square number) how to determine the side length of this square (its root). We also learned about "perfect squares" and a "imperfect squares" and how perfect squares are square numbers (area) that had a whole number root/side length (ie. 9 is a perfect square because its root is 3, a whole number. Whereas 5 is an imperfect square because no whole number multiplied by itself = 5). Students received the Part B notes and practice package today and we worked through the first several pages together, Mr. Menzies leading us through and explaining under the document camera. We also added new terms to our Math notes template today: Square number, square root, perfect square, and imperfect square. We then had the rest of the block to practice determining a "square's root" when given an area (squarer number). We will continue to learn about square rooting tomorrow, and then move on to cubes and cube roots on Wednesday. In block 3, we did science. Today we focused in on making qualitative and quantitative observations of the physical properties of matter. Mr. Menzies first showed us some short video clips reviewing the difference between physical and chemical properties and also what qualitative and quantitative observations and data are. We then received Part G: Physical Properties of Matter assignment Click Here and Mr. Menzies walked us through the instructions for the first part of this activity. Today we received a cup containing various edible samples of matter (various samples of food items), and also were served several samples of mystery drinks and had to describe the qualitative properties of these samples of matter. While we typical don't eat or taste anything in the science lab, today we use our senses to, including taste and smell, to describe the qualitative characteristics of these samples of matter and record them in our handouts. We also did this with inedible samples of matter and worked to identify as many qualitative physical properties as we could to effectively describe each item. While we only had time to complete the first part of Part G, we will continue with this assignment later this week as we move onto the measurable/quantitative physical properties of matter. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 15 minutes reviewing Parts A and B from Math tonight. Reminders:  All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. The Unit 2 science re-test will be offered tomorrow, Nov 18th at lunchtime. Math extra help will be offered on Thursday morning this week as Friday, Nov 21st is a Pro-D day. Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test and the Unit 2 Science test, get signed, and bring back to school if you have not already done this. Field trip forms - please get signed and return ASAP: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). I hope everyone ha da great weekend!

Friday, Nov 14th: Today in block 1 we began by doing a peer and self evaluation of our Unit 2 science duotang portfolios and reflection on our learning and work habits in this unit so far. We also received our science test back along with a self-evaluation and reflection on our learning in Unit 2 so far. Mr. Menzies asked us to take our science test with attached self evaluation home to show our parents, get signed, and bring back to school as per usual. He also announced that there will be a Unit 2 science re-test opportunity next Tuesday at lunchtime, Nov 18th, for those who want to review Parts A-E, solidify their learning, and aim to bump up their mark. Mr. Menzies went over the test, question by question, and we discussed the answers after this. He also mentioned a few things he noted / trends throughout marking the 52 tests. When finished, were directed to work on finishing Part F: Defining and Classifying the Properties of Matter form Monday or review Part A: Squares, Roots, and Squaring from math for the rest of the block. Both parts along with their corresponding slideshows can be found in the google classroom Click Here. Mr. Menzies asked us to please have Part F from science finished for Monday as we will be moving on to Part G: Physical Properties of Matter. At lunchtime today, the re-test for Unit 3 math was offered for any student who wanted to give it another try. Homework and Reminders: Unit 2 Science tests were handed back today with an attached self-evaluation. Please show parents, get signed, and bring back to school ASAP.  Please finish Part F: Defining and Classifying the Properties of Matter from last Monday's class for next Monday. Reminders:  All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. Next Friday, Nov 21st is a Pro-D day. Math extra help will be offered Thursday morning next week at 8:15AM. Field trip forms - please get signed and return ASAP: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). Have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday, Nov 13th: Today in block 2 Mr. Menzies officially announced the two field trip we will be going on in December and handed out both field trip forms and discussed: UVIC Chemistry Department on December 9th (Click Here) and Silver City Zootopia Grade 8 on December 17th (Click Here). After this, did Math. Continuing with the lesson we did yesterday, our focus was on understanding the basics of squares, roots, and squaring as we learn some terms and concepts related to The Pythagorean Theorem. Mr. Menzies reviewed key terms, modelled how to "square a root," and also how this is connected the the three sides of a right triangle. We also reviewed how to represent squaring a number (a number to the power of 2) and this is related to describing the side lengths and area of a square. Students had about 25 minutes to continue working on Part A: Squares, Roots, and Squaring Click Here. For the last 15 minutes of the block, Mr. Menzies handed out a math notes organizer (Click Here) and walked us through how to use it. He emphasized that his is a suggested strategy for identifying new vocabulary and also the key skills and topics from each section as we move into the Grade 8 Math curriculum. He provided the key terms he wanted us to describe and also listed the key skills and concepts from Part A. We had about 10-15 minutes to identify they key skills from this section and also organize the main terms from this part. We will continue with this notes taking strategy as an option throughout he rest of the year, however as some students prefer a notebook this will also be a format for notes that can be used. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure you have finished your notes for Part A in math. Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test, get signed, and bring back to school if you have not already done this. Reminders:  All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. Math extra help will be offered at 8:15 on Friday, tomorrow, this week and the re-test for the Unit 3 math test is at lunchtime also on Friday this week. Next Friday, Nov 21st is a Pro-D day. 

Wednesday, Nov 12th: Today in block 2 we began out 4th unit in Math and our first unit that is specifically grade 8 content. First, we discussed as a class what defines a perfect square and what are the traits, qualities, and characteristics of perfect squares. Also, how we know if a shape is not a square and how this woudl be determined. After this, we learned where squares fit into the family of quadrilateral 2D shapes and also learned that the side length of a square is called its "root." Students received Par A: Squares, Roots, and Squaring today Click Here. Mr. Menzies walked us through the first several pages and we learned how to "square a root," what that means, and what that looks like visually. We also had to refresh out memory of area, perimeter, and how to use exponents to calculate and describe these qualities. We just managed to make it through the first half of this introductory lesson and we will pick this up again tomorrow in block 2. In PE we began our gym/basketball unit and we will be in the gym for three weeks. For the last 15 minutes we joined the other grade 8 classes and listened to a short presentation from Claremont Sports Institute Rowing program and learning about this option for next year. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 5-10 minutes revisiting what we learned in math today so you are more competent with squaring a root tomorrow. Unit 2 science tests will be handed back tomorrow so please expect them to be brought home to review, sign, and return to school. Reminders:  All links to assignments, handouts, slideshows, textbooks, and other resources are available in the google classroom for both math and science Click Here. Math extra help will be offered at 8:15 on Friday this week and the re-test for the Unit 3 math test is at lunchtime also on Friday this week. Next Friday, Nov 21st is a Pro-D day. Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test, get signed, and bring back to school if you have not already done this.

Monday, Nov 10th: Today we did both math and science in block 2 and also started the second half of our chemistry unit in science. As we have wrapped up two units in both subjects, writing tests last week, today we took the opportunity to utilize two digital platforms we have available to us this year. For the first part of block 2, we logged into our Mathletics accounts and worked on several math topics we have covered so far, and some additional topics from grade 7. We had half the block to explore this gamified math platform and practice some math skills. For the second half of the block, we could switch over to Minecraft education and work on one of the chemistry challenges available. Students had a few options to choose from, but all Minecraft challenges were related to science, the scientific method, or topics connected to chemistry and matter. On Wednesday, we will begin our next Math unit - Unit 4: Squares, Roots, and the Pythagorean Theorem. In block 3, we moved into the second half of Unit 2 in science. Today's focus was on classifying the two main categories of classifying properties of matter: Part F: Defining and Classifying the Properties of Matter. First we viewed the Part F, going over and discussing key points and watching a few short video clips on this topic. After this, we received the Part F handout Click Here and had the rest of the block to work on this assignment and develop our understanding of the physical and chemical properties of matter. Early finishers could return to the chemistry Minecraft challenges we worked on earlier in the day. Over the next 3-4 weeks we will be applying our understanding of matter to more hands on activities, labs, and experiments as we continue to learn about the properties of matter. On December 9th, Mr. Menzies had organized a field trip to UVIC's Chemistry Department to do a chemistry activity/experiment in one of their labs supervised and guided by grad students and Dr. Dave Barry. Homework and Reminders: Unit 3 math tests have been marked and sent home with students o show their parents. Please get them signed and bring back to school ASAP. A reminder that the re-test opportunity for this unit will be on Friday at lunchtime and math extra help will be offered, as per usual, Friday morning at 8:15am. Part F from science today is due on Friday this week as we will be moving on to Part G. Also, spending some time organizing binders, going on Mathletics to do some practice questions, and doing some reading are also options for the routine 30 mins of homework. Reminders: All assignments, slideshows, textbooks, resources, and answer keys for math and science are available to access from home via the google classroom Click Here. Tomorrow is the Remembrance Day stat holiday and there is no school. Friday Nov 21st is the next Pro-D day. I hope everyone had a great weekend!

Friday, Nov 7th: Today we had LA in block 1. In block 2, we went to the gym for the annual ROMS Remembrance Day assembly. We watched performances, a slideshow, and listened to the school band. In block 3 we did our Unit 2 science test. We had the whole block to work on the test and most took about 40 mins to do this. When finished we organized our work from this unit and put it into a duotang portfolio to hand in. We then could grab a computer and go on Mathletics if there was time. Also, we received our Unit 3 Math tests back including the usual self evaluation that was stapled to it. Mr. Menzies asked us to take our test home to show our parents, get signed, and bring back to school Mr. Menzies also announced that there will be an opportunity for a re-test for this unit next Friday, Nov 14th at lunchtime. Homework and Reminders: Please complete your self evaluations for the Unit 3 math test, get signed, and bring back to school. Other than that, no homework assigned for Math and Science this weekend!

Thursday, Nov 6th: Today we did did science in block 1. We continued to work on Part E: Classifying Matter Click Here. Mr. Menzies walked us though a slideshow and reviewed what we learned on Wednesday and how all matter is made of atoms and molecules and this can be classified. We then learned that matter can be classified in to pure substances and mixtures, and that molecules can be made of one type of atom (element/homogeneous molecule) or different types (compound/heterogeneous molecule). Students use the additional textbook resource handed out (Click Here) to complete the Part E workbook and then completed the two additional graphic organizer posters to map out the classification of matter as well and to become familiar with common molecules around us (ie. Water, carbon dioxide, sodium chloride etc...). All of these resources/handout are accessible in the google classroom Click Here. We had the rest of block 1 today to work on Part E and wrap up this first half of Unit 2: Chemistry. In addition, Mr. Menzies went over what will be on the test and advised us to review Parts A-E tonight, creating a study sheet to review main ideas and concepts, ahead of out science test tomorrow in block 3. He also explained that students are welcome to come to school early for help with any science during Math extra help tomorrow morning at 8:15. Homework and Reminders: Please spend some time reviewing/studying science tonight (Parts A-E) to help prepare for the test tomorrow morning Click Here. Also, make sure that all of your science assignments are completed as you will be expected to hand them in in a duotang tomorrow when we do the test. Reminders: Unit 2 Science test tomorrow! Math/ science extra help tomorrow morning at 8:15AM. The annual Remembrance Day assembly will be in block 2 tomorrow and students are encouraged to bring a small donation for the Royal Canadian Legion and to receive a poppy. A New FAAS starts on Monday Nov 10th.

Wednesday, Nov 5th: Today we did science in block 2. Moving on to Part E: Classifying Matter. First we viewed a slideshow about elements and compounds and learned some terminology that describes different molecules. We learned how matter is classified as elements and compounds, but also as pure substances and mixtures. After the slideshow, we received the following handout Part E: Classifying Matter Click Here. We also received the following additional textbook resources to complete this assignment (Click Here). Today we had the whole rest of the block to work on this assignment and to discover and understand how molecules and matter is classified. Tomorrow we will have another block to work on this assignment and do some review ahead of the science test on Friday. Homework and Reminders: Please spend some time reviewing your science ahead of the test on Friday and ensure that all assignments are fully finished with quality. The Unit 2 test in on parts A-E. All of these assignments and the textbook resources can be found in the google classroom Click Here. These assignments will be handed in on Friday as we complete/finish this first half of Unit 2. Reminders: The Unit 2 Science Test is on Friday this week! A New FAAS starts the week of Nov 10th. Remembrance Day assembly is this Friday block 2. 

Tuesday, Nov 4th: Today we had French in block 1 and LA . In block 2, we had the whole block to write our Unit 3 Math test. When finished, Mr. Menzies had science Part E: Classifying Matter ready to hand out and we could get started on this assignment if we had time after the math test, however we will work on this assignment tomorrow in block 1 officially. If we needed extra time, we were allowed to work on our math test into advisory as we ate our lunches. Thus concludes Unit 3: Number Theory in math. Next week, we will be starting Unit 4: Squares Square Roots, and the Pythagorean Theorem, our fist grade 8 math topic. Homework and Reminders: Please ensure that Part D form science is fully complete as we will be moving on to Part E tomorrow Click Here. NOTE: The Unit 2 Science test has been confirmed for Friday, Nov 7th, this week as we will need more time to complete the final assignment this week and do some review Wednesday and Thursday. Reminders: The Unit 2 Science Test is on Friday this week! A New FAAS starts the week of Nov 10th. Remembrance Day assembly is this Friday block 2. 

Monday, Nov 3rd: Today we had both block 2 and block 3 as working blocks to focus on review for our Unit 3 Math test tomorrow, and to complete Part D: The Elements of the Periodic Table. In block 2, we had the block to review materials from Unit 3 Math, create a study sheet, and do some practice questions in preparation for the math test tomorrow (Tuesday). While Mr. Menzies was in meetings all morning, Mrs. Alder was there to help answer questions and get help if needed. A reminder that the test is on Parts A-D from Unit 3: Number Theory Click Here. In block 3, we ended up having the whole block to work on Part D: The Elements of the Periodic Table, and assignment we just started last week. Click Here. Mr. Menzies reviewed the main criteria and we had the whole block to work this assignment and get familiar with the Periodic Table and how it is organized, and we had access to computers to use Google's interactive periodic table and to do some basic research if needed. Mr. Menzies announced that this assignment should be fully finished for Wednesday this week and students are expected to work finish it for homework if they were not able to do so in class. Homework and Reminders: Please spend some time reviewing Parts A-D from math for tomorrow's Unit 3 Math test. All Math resources can be found in the google classroom Click Here. Part D: The Elements is due on Wednesday this week as we will be moving on to Part E on Wednesday. NOTE: The Unit 2 Science test has been moved to Friday, Nov 7th, this week as we will need more time to complete the final assignment this week and do some review. Reminders: A New FAAS starts the week of Nov 10th. I hope everyone had a fun Halloween weekend!

Friday, Oct 31st: On this Halloween Friday we switched our schedule up today to accommodate some of the Halloween activities planned this afternoon. So, we did not have Mr. Menzies for any blocks today and were with Ms. Cottier for blocs 1-3, On Monday, we will do some Math review for the test on Tuesday, finish Part D in science, and begin Part E in science. Homework and Reminders: Please makes sure you have fully completed Part C from science, including your poster of the atomic model of your chosen element's atom Click Here. Also, please spend some time reviewing topics from Unit 3 for the math test on Tuesday next week Click Here. Reminders: Unit 3 Math test on Tuesday next week! Unit 2 Science test on Thursday or Friday next week (TBC Monday)! We are beginning November next week and the back portion of term 1. A New FAAS starts the week of Nov 10th. Have a safe, fun, and exciting Halloween, and a wonderful weekend!! GO BLUE JAYS!

Thursday, Oct 30th: Today we did both math and science in block 2. We started with some math and had time to revisit the topic we covered yesterday - Part D: Prime Factorization Click Here. Yesterday, we walked through several examples of how to use factor trees to find the prime factors of larger composite numbers. Mr. Menzies had us watch a video example, recording this process as notes, then we tried a few questions ourselves to determine the LCM and GCF using this method. We were urged to ensure we know how to find the LCM and GCF of larger composite numbers by using prime factorization as had about 30 minutes today to practice this skill and or/ begin a study sheet for next week's Unit 3 math test on Tuesday. For the second half of the block, we had time to either polish off Part C: Inside the Atom continue working on Part D: The Elements of the Periodic Table, the assignment we started yesterday Click Here. Students received this on Wednesday, and today they received a large size Periodic Table poster to complete some of the assignment with. At this point, students are expected to have completed Part C: Inside the Atom, including the element poster that is part of this assignment, as we have moved on to Part D: The Elements Click Here. Homework and Reminders: I'm sure everyone will be busy making Halloween costumes tonight, but ensuring that Part C from science in fully finished for Monday will be important as we move into November. Also, there is a Unit 3 Math test next Tuesday, Parts A-D Click Here. Reminders: A reminder to follow the Halloween costume guidelines we went over today for tomorrow at school. There will be some fun activities as well: Costume contest in the gym at lunch, and a school wide assembly in the gym in block 4! All handouts, answer keys, and slideshows can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. Finally, a reminder that there is Math extra help tomorrow morning at 8:15AM as per usual!

Wednesday, Oct 29th: Today we did mostly math in block 2 and some science at the end. Our main focus was on using prime factorization (factor trees). Mr. Menzies walked us through a review of what prime factorization is and why it is a helpful way to calculate the GCF and LCM of larger numbers. We learned that prime factors are the basic building blocks of composite numbers and we can use these to determine the lowest common denominator and the greatest common factor for larger numbers. We watched a video that walked students through how to use factor trees to break composite numbers down into their basic prime factors. In other words, prime factorizing a number. We then learned how to use the prime factors of larger composite numbers to determine the LCM and GCF. Students followed along and had to write down this example. They then had to do a question themselves and apply this process to determining the LCM and GCF of two numbers. Today, we received the following notes and practice package Part D: Prime Factorization Click Here and had the rest of the block to work on developing our understanding of this process. Finally, Mr. Menzies reminded and confirmed that there will be a Unit 3 math test on Tuesday, Nov 4th, next week. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10-15 minutes reviewing the math from today and earlier in this unit. Reminders: Halloween activities happening this Friday, Oct 31st. Please follow costume guidelines for wearing costumes at school that day. All handouts, answer keys, and slideshows can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. This week: We are back on the fields in PE. It's supposed to by rainy so please prepare for this in your PE strip. 

Tuesday, Oct 28th: Today we had French in block 1 and LA in block 2. In block 3, we did Math and continued with Unit 3: Number Theory. Last week we focused on Part B: Multiples and finding the Least Common Multiple (LCM) of a set of numbers. Today our focus was on reviewing Factor and Factoring (Part C). Mr. Menzies reviewed the basics and we watched a Math Antics video explaining this concept. He also reviewed what a Prime vs Composite number is and After going over a few examples, we received Part C: Factors today Click Here and had the rest of the block to practice identifying the factors of a number and also prime and composite numbers. Mr. Menzies also announced that we have one more review topic to cover (Part D: Prime Factorization) before our Unit 3 test that will likely be next Tuesday, Nov 4th (TBC by Friday of this week). Homework and Reminders: Please spend some time reviewing and practicing the topics we have covered in Math so far in Unit 3: Divisibility, Multiples, Factors, and Prime and Composite Numbers (Test next week!) Click Here. Also, see if you can spend 10 minutes working on Part C: Inside the Atom, the assignment we started yesterday. Tomorrow we will have more time to work on this in class, but on Thursday we will be starting Part D: The Elements. Reminders: All handouts, answer keys, and slideshows can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. This week: We are back on the fields in PE. It's supposed to by rainy so please prepare for this in your PE strip. NEEDS2 Suicided Awareness and Prevention presentation/workshop is tomorrow in block 1.

Monday, Oct 27th: Today in block 2 and 3 we did Science. In block 2, Mr. Menzies discussed the atomic age and we had a class discussion about the discovery of nuclear energy as it pertains to to our understanding of the atom. Mr. Menzies showed us a slideshow and we learned about how our understanding of the atom continued to expand throughout the 20th century and continues today as well. We then learned what modern models of the atom look like today and how our understanding of this model had become much more complicated, but the key components remain: Protons & Neutrons (subatomic particles). We also learned about Quarks and Leptons (elementary particles) today and how the make up protons and neutrons. Students received Part C: Inside the Atoms today Click Here. This assignment goes over the basics for the structure and components of atoms and begins to explore how different atoms from different elements are similar in some ways but also have a different number of protons, and can also have a different number of neutrons and electrons. We had about 15-10 minutes to get Part C started today for the remainder of block 2. In block 3, we had the whole block to complete Part C, both the questions and notes, as well as the the poster. For the second part of Part C, we had to choose an element to focus in on and create a poster for. Mr. Menzies showed us how to access an interactive periodic tables to choose an element and handed out poster templates. In the poster, we had to draw the atomic model of our chose element, do some quick research (history, properties etc...), list the number of subatomic and elementary particles, and also provide some additional interesting fun facts about this element. We had access to computer today and Mr. Menzies assigned this for homework (10-15 minutes) if we were not able to finish this in class today. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10-15 more minutes working on Part C from today's science class. Reminders: Part B for science was due today (Part B-1 - Atomic Theory and Part B-2 timeline). Please finish this if you didn't do your homework on the weekend last weekend. All handouts, answer keys, and slideshows can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. This week: We are back on the fields in PE. It's supposed to by rainy so please prepare for this in your PE strip. NEEDS2 Suicided Awareness and Prevention presentations are this Wednesday. Hope you had a great weekend!

Thursday, Oct 23rd: Today was again an early dismissal day (2:08pm) and we did math and science in block 2. Yesterday, we started Part B: Multiples as we continued with Unit 3: Number Theory - Properties, Patterns, and Relationships of numbers, and reviewed what these are and ways to find the Lowest Common Multiple of two or more numbers Click Here. Mr. Menzies reviewed the key ideas and strategies for finding the LCM in the Part B slideshow, and we had the rest of the block to work on polishing our understanding of multiples and LCM Click Here. Halfway through the block, we switched to science and continued working on Part B-1: Atomic Theory and Part B-2: Atomic Theory Timeline Click Here. Mr. Menzies reviewed they key developments in the story of the atom and we watched demonstrations of some of the experiments used to discover and confirm the existence of atoms, electrons, and a nucleus in the Part B slideshow Click Here. Finally, Mr. Menzies walked us through how to set up our timelines and how we can communicate the story of the atom throughout history in this format, including key names, dates, models, and key facts for each significant step along the way in the development of atomic theory. We had the rest of the block to work on this assignment and Mr. Menzies asked us to finish it for homework over the weekend if we didn't manage to do this in class today. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure you have finished Parts B-1 and B-2 from science for Monday Click Here. Also please spend 15 minutes reviewing Part B: Multiples and LCM from math as we will be moving on to Factors on Monday next week. Reminders: All handouts, answer keys, and slideshows can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. This week: We are back on the fields in PE. It's supposed to by rainy so please prepare for this in your PE strip. Friday Oct 24th, tomorrow, is a Pro-D Day so no school for students. Have a great weekend!

Wednesday, Oct 22nd: Today was an early dismissal day at school. In block 1 we did math and continued with Unit 2: Number Theory - Properties, Patterns, and Relationships. We began by watching a video on the golden ration and the Fibonacci sequence and how this is found in the world around us. Students learned what PHI is and how it appears in patterns found in nature but also human creations as well. After this we moved on to Part B: Multiples Click Here. Mr. Menzies reviewed the basics of what multiples are and how they are related to factors. We received the Part B handout today Click Here and just had time to do the first few pages due to the shortened block today. We will continue to review multiples and specifically Least Common Multiple tomorrow. Homework and Reminders: Reminders: Unit 2 Math Retest: Tomorrow @ Lunch, Math Extra Help: Tomorrow 8:15AM. All handouts, answer keys, and slideshows can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. This week: We are back on the fields in PE. It's supposed to by rainy so please prepare for this in your PE strip. Early dismissal Tomorrow (Thursday 2:08PM), and Friday Oct 24th is a Pro-D Day so no school for students. 

Tuesday, Oct 21st: Today we had French in block 1. In block 2 we did both Math and Science. Today we began Unit 3 in Math: Number Theory - Properties, Patterns, and Connections, and this will be our last review unit of term 1. Our first topic was Part A: Divisibility. Mr. Menzies went over the following slideshow and we reviewed divisibility rules/tests for numbers 1-10. We also went through some examples together. Students received the following practice and notes package today Unit 3 - Part A: Divisibility Click Here and we had about 15-20 minutes to reacquaint ourselves with this topic in Math. For the second half of the block, we switched to science. Continuing with what we had started on Friday and yesterday, we again learned about the history of Atomic Theory and how scientists proved matter is made of atoms and also learned that atoms have parts such as a nucleus and electrons. Mr. Menzies also showed us how to make a timeline (Part B-2) and what this looks like to communicate key events over time. We had about 25 more minutes to continue to work on Parts B-1 and B-2. At lunchtime today, a retest opportunity was offered for our Unit 1 science test. Homework and Reminders: Please finish Part B1 and B-2 from science for Thursday this week. Reminders: Unit 2 Math Retest: Thursday @ Lunch, Math Extra Help: Thursday 8:15AM. All handouts, answer keys, and slideshows can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. This week: We are back on the fields in PE. It's supposed to by rainy so please prepare for this in your PE strip. Photo re-take day is tomorrow Wed Oct 22nd, early dismissal days are on Wed and Thurs (2:08PM), and Friday Oct 24th is a Pro-D Day so no school for students. 

Monday, Oct 20th: This morning Mr. Menzies started block 2 by announcing a few key events occurring throughout this week. Tomorrow, there will be a Unit 1 science retest opportunity offered at lunchtime. On Thursday, Mr. Menzies will be offering Math extra help before school at 8:15AM (Friday is a Pro-D day), and there will also be a retest opportunity at lunchtime also on Thursday. We then received our marked Unit 2 math tests back. As per usual, we received the Unit 2 self evaluation (Click Here) to reflect on our understanding of the topics in this unit and had time to fill this out. Mr. Menzies also asked us to put any returned Unit 1 science tests in our folder at the back of the classroom that our parents had reviewed and signed. After this, we picked up where we left of in science last Friday. On Friday, we began our next science unit: Unit 2: Chemistry. We learned what chemistry is and it's long history throughout the past several thousand years. Today, we began by learning about the branches of Chemistry including organic chemistry, biochemistry, theoretical chemistry and so on. After this, we watched Bill Nye: Atoms and Molecules and completed the rest of the Part A: Intro to Chemistry handout Click Here. In block 3, we moved on to the next topic in our chemistry unit: Part B-1: Atomic Theory How do we know that matter is made of atoms? Click Here. Mr. Menzies began by showing us and overview video of the history of Atomic Theory and we took some basic notes about the topic in the Part B handout. We learned that ideas about atoms go all the way back to the ancient Greeks. We also learned that Democritus and Aristotle argued about what all physical things are made of, but could not prove their theories to do lack of technology to do so. We then jumped forward 200 years to John Dalton who provided the first proof that all matter is made of atoms in the 1800s. Students then continued to investigate the history of how we know that all matter is made of atoms, the development of Atomic Theory, and the key scientific breakthroughs / developments along the way. This includes how the model of the atom evolved as we discovered more and more about this. Students had the rest of the block to work on Part B and learn about the history of the atom and how it continues to develop Click Here. We will have some more time to work on this on Monday next week. Homework and Reminders:  Please finish Part B-1 from science for Wednesday this week. All required materials are available in the google classroom including slideshows, digital textbook pages, handouts, and videos. Reminders: Unit 1 Science Retest: Tues @ Lunch, Unit 2 Math Retest: Thursday @ Lunch, Math Extra Help: Thursday 8:15AM. All handouts, answer keys, and slideshows can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. This week: We are back on the fields in PE. It's supposed to by rainy so please prepare for this in your PE strip. Photo re-take day is Wed Oct 22nd, early dismissal days are on Wed and Thurs (2:08PM), and Friday Oct 24th is a Pro-D Day so no school for students. Hope you had a fantastic weekend! 

Friday, Oct 17th: Today we did science in block 1. We began the block by reflecting on Unit 1. Students traded their black science duotang portfolios with a peer and then did a peer evaluation of their body of work. This included evaluating completeness of assignments A-D, the quality of completeness/evidence of learning, organization, and presentation. Feedback and suggested areas for improvement we also provided as part of their peer evaluation. We then received our duotangs back and we completed a self evaluation based on the same parameters, and we reflected on how our assignment work/engagement with these types of learning opportunities could be improved for our next unit. Students then received their Unit 1 tests back and we did a self evaluation on how learning as demonstrated on the test, as per usual. Mr. Menzies asked us to staple our self evaluations to our tests, take this home to show parents, get signed, and return to school next week so we can add it to our tests and assessment folders in the classroom. After this, we began Unit 2 in science by learning about Chemistry. We learned about the history of this type of science and how it had developed into specific branches today (ie. Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry etc...). We also reviewed the Periodic Table and how it represent all of the different types of atoms we have discovered as part of this introductory slideshow. We will continue with this lesson on Monday as we are introduced to Chemistry and we get Unit 2 rolling. The slideshow and handout for this lesson (Unit 2 - Part A) can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. Homework and Reminders: Please show Unit 1 science tests + attached self evaluations to parents, get signed, and bring back to school. No specific homework assigned this weekend for math or science. However, spending some time organizing materials or reviewing Math if any of the skills/concepts in the past two units were challenging would be a good idea. Unit 2 math tests will be marked and returned early next week, and we will also begin Unit 3 in Math as well. There will also be re-test opportunities for booth Unit 1 science and Unit 2 math, time and date to be announced on Monday. Reminders: All handouts, answer keys, and slideshows can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. Next week: We are back on the fields in PE. It's supposed to by rainy so please prepare for this in your PE strip. Photo re-take day is Wed oct 22nd, early dismissal days are on Wed and Thurs (2:08PM), and Friday Oct 24th is a Pro-D Day so no school for students. Have a great weekend! 

Thursday, Oct 16th: Today we had LA in block 1. In block 2, we did Math and had the whole block to write our Unit 2 test. If extra time was needed, we could work on our test in Advisory and lunchtime. Homework and Reminders: No specific homework for math and science tonight. Spending some time organizing your binder and school supplies is recommended. Reminders: All handouts, answer keys, and slideshows can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. Next week: Photo re-take day is Wed Oct 22nd, early dismissal days are on Wed and Thurs, and Friday Oct 24th is a Pro-D Day. 

Wednesday, Oct 15th: Today we had LA in block 1. In block 2 we did Math and began with reviewing what we started yesterday: Dividing decimal numbers (Party D-2). Mr. Menzies walked us through a slideshow and some examples and noted the key steps for this process. He also urged us to use our reasoning skills to assess our answer to gage whether it seemed reasonable or not. Students then had time to work on Part D-2 and continue to develop their understanding Click Here. Mr. Menzies also went over the specific topics that will be on the test: Adding and Subtracting whole numbers and decimals, multiplying and dividing whole numbers and decimals. After about half an hour, we covered our final topic: Part E: Order of Operations. Mr. Menzies went over the basics and strategies for applying BEDMAS to expressions in a slideshow and we received the handout for Part E: Order of Operations Click Here. We then had some time to revisit this skill and practice applying BEDMAS to expressions. Finally, he announced that Math extra help will be offered tomorrow morning (Thursday 8:15AM) ahead of our Unit 2 Math test tomorrow. While this is typically offered on Friday mornings, he changed it to Thursday this week ahead of the test. Tomorrow we will write our Unit 2 Math test during block 2. Homework and Reminders: Please spend some time working on a study sheet and reviewing for the math test tomorrow. This can include doing some practice questions, watching some of the videos in the slideshows, of finishing your study sheet. Reminders: The Unit 2 Math test if tomorrow! All handouts, answer keys, and slideshows can be found in the Google Classroom to help you review Click Here.  Photo re-teak day is Wed oct 22nd. Grade 8 Hoodie Order Form (Click Here), Due to the office by Oct 16th. 

Tuesday, Oct 14th: Today we had French in block 1 and LA in block 2. In block 3, we did both Math and Science. However, we started with a discussion around honoring the rights and responsibilities of division 8-5. We then did science and did a self and peer evaluation of our black science portfolios for Unit 1. After this, we did Math and focused on long division of decimal numbers. Mr. Menzies walked use through the steps and we viewed a slideshow with notes, examples, and video explanations Click Here. He noted the key difference between long division with whole numbers and decimals numbers, placing the decimal correctly in the quotient. We then had the rest of the block to practice this skills and also begin a study sheet for our Unit 2 test on Thursday this week. Homework and Reminders: Please spend some time reviewing Parts A - D for math as we have a math test on Thursday this week Click Here. Working on a study sheet (one page with notes and examples for each skill) is recommended to help you review and prepare for the test. Doing some additional practice will also help you prepare for the test. Reminders: Unit 2 Math test this coming Thursday, Oct 16th. Photo re-teak day is Wed Grade 8 Hoodie Order Form (Click Here), Due to the office by Oct 16th. Hope you had a great Thanksgiving long weekend!

Friday, Oct 10th: Today we wrote our Unit 1 science test in block 3. Mr. Menzies went over the test details and we had the whole block to do the test. Students who needed a bit of extra time worked with Ms. Jessica (EA) in block 2 to have a few more minutes. When finished, Mr. Menzies asked us to put all of our assignments in our black science duotangs, including our study sheet, and hand this in. If there was time, we could also practice some math as we have a Unit 2 math test next Thursday. Thus concludes Unit 1 in science. Mr. Menzies will have these tests marked ASAP, we will review and complete a self evaluation when students received their tests back, this will be sent home as per usual to show parents, and there will be a re-test opportunity at lunchtime next Friday. Next week, we will begin Unit 2: Chemistry. Homework and Reminders: Enjoy your Thanksgiving long weekend! No specific homework assigned this weakened, however, we have our Unit 2 math test next Thursday on number operation systems. Spending some time practicing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division is advisable in preparation for the test. All of the practice packages, answer keys, and slideshows are accessible in the Google classroom Click Here from home. Reminders: Unit 2 Math test next Thursday. Grade 8 Hoodie Order Form (Click Here), Due to the office by Oct 17th. Don't eat too much turkey this weekend!

Thursday, Oct 9th: Today we did science in block 3. During advisory, Mr. Menzies handed out a study sheet organizer to help us review and explained what do to. He advised us that we review for the Unit 1 Science test tonight as the test is tomorrow (Parts A-D Click Here). We then went over the criteria and instructions for conducting our paper airplane experiments again and we went to the gym to begin setting up our these experiments. In block 3, we had the whole block to test our paper airplanes and conduct our experiments in the gym. Students worked in their teams to launch each plane 5-10 times, collect data, and then calculated the average distance flown. When finished, we had time to begin developing our conclusions and this assignment will be due in full on Friday this week - Each student needs to hand in their own Part: D-1 in this yellow duotang along with Parts A-D. Mr. Menzies also reminded us that that the Unit 1 science test (Parts A-D) is tomorrow Friday, Oct 10th. He asked students to ensure they review these assignments, creating a study sheet, in preparation for the test tonight. He also reminded us that there is a Unit 2 Math test on Thursday next week. Homework and Reminders: The Unit 1 Science test is tomorrow! Please make sure Your science assignments are fully complete (Parts A-D) * NOTE: Part D-2 can be handed in next week as we just finished collecting our data today. The example Mr. Menzies provided is available in the Google classroom to help you. Also, spending 10-15 minutes practicing the topic from Unit 2 math is advisable as we will be having a Unit 2 test next week (Thursday) once we finish division and order of operations. Reminders: Please make sure all of your science assignments are fully finished to the best of your ability as you will need to hand them in tomorrow before the test (The only exception being Part D-2). Next Monday is Thanksgiving Monday and there is no school that day. Math Extra Help is tomorrow morning, Friday, at 8:15am. There will be a Unit 2 Math test on Thursday, Oct 16th, next week. Grade 8 Hoodie Order Form (Click Here), Due to the office by Oct 17th! Reminder that all assignments and learning resources are available in the Google classroom Click Here.

Wednesday, Oct 8th: Today we had LA in block 1 and in block 2 we did Science. On Thursday, we will be testing of our paper airplanes in the gym, and today we had time to do final preparations to set up our experiments. Mr. Menzies provided an example experiment write up again for us to use as a model, and he highlighted that we need to have a table ready to record our results/data when testing our planes. After this, we had the to do any preparations needed so that our experiments are ready to conduct including ensuring our paper airplanes are fully ready Click Here. Tomorrow, we will go to the gym for advisory to begin setting up our testing sight (mapping out or measurement system, doing a few preliminary test flights) and during block 3 we will have the whole block to test our planes and collect data and observations. On Friday students will be expected to hand in Parts A-D from Unit 1 before we write our Unit 1 Science test Click Here. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure Part D-1 and D-2 are fully complete by Friday. The example Mr. Menzies provided is available in the Google classroom to help you. Also, spending 10-15 minutes practicing the topic from Unit 2 math is advisable as we will be having a Unit 2 test next week (Thursday) once we finish division and order of operations. Reminders: There will be a Unit 1 Science Test on Friday Oct 10th this week! This will be on Parts A-D. Please make sure all of your assignments are fully finished to the best of your ability as you will need to hand them in on Friday before the test. Next Monday is Thanksgiving Monday and there is no school that day. There will be a Unit 2 Math test on Thursday, Oct 16th, next week. Grade 8 Hoodie Order Form (Click Here), Due to the office by Oct 17th! Reminder that all assignments and learning resources are available in the Google classroom Click Here.

Tuesday, Oct 7th: Today in block 2 we did a small amount of science to begin and then math for the last 3/4 of the block. Mr. Menzies first reviewed what we learned yesterday about the scientific method (Part D-1 and Part D-2 Click Here). He went over the types of variables and presented once again an example of Part D-2 experiment to model what our experiments could look like. He reminded us that we are expected to have this completed for Thursday block 3 and ready to conduct our experiments in the gym then. We then had about 10 minutes to touch base with our partners, delegate tasks, make sure all of us are on the same page, and make sure we will be ready for Thursday when we go to the gym for testing. After this, we switched to Math. Continuing with Unit 2: Number Operation Systems, today's focus was on division (Part D). Today we reviewed what division is, what a quotient is, and how to do multi-digit whole number long division. Students received Part D: Division - Quotients and Mr. Menzies walked us through this topic with the accompanying slideshow Click Here. We went over the steps for long division of whole numbers. Students then had the rest of the block to practice this skill. The Part D: Division - Quotients along with the slideshow and answer key is available in the Google classroom Click Here. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure your paper airplane science experiment is ready for testing for Thursday block 3. This includes completing Purpose/problem to your observations table where you will record your data on Thursday (Part D-2).  The example Mr. Menzies provided is available in the Google classroom. Also, spending 10-15 minutes practicing the topics from Unit 2 math is advisable as we will be having a Unit 2 Math test next week (Wed Sept 15th or Thurs Sept 16th TBD soon) once we finish division and order of operations. Reminders: There will be a Unit 1 Science Test on Friday, Sept 10th, this week! This will be on Parts A-D. Please make sure all of your assignments are fully finished to the best of your ability as you will need to hand them in on Friday before the test. Next Monday is Thanksgiving Monday and there is no school that day. Grade 8 Hoodie Order Form (Click Here), Due to the office by Oct 17th!

Monday, Oct 6th: Today we did science in both blocks 1 and 2. Continuing with what we started on Friday, we again learned about the scientific method today: Part D-1 Click Here. We began by watching a BrainPOP video explaining the scientific method. After this, Mr. Menzies again explained what variables are in an experiment, including the control, independent, and dependent variable and we had a bit of time to finish the first section of Part D-1. After this, we watched two Mark Rober videos on the scientific method: Experiment #1: Testing if Sharks Can Smell a Drop of Blood, Experiment # 2: Shark Attack Test- Human Blood vs. Fish Blood where Mark goes to the Bahamas to conduct an experiment using the scientific method. Students completed the rest of Part D as they watched and we reviewed and discussed the answers when finished. In block 3, we did science and started Part D-2: The Scientific Method Click Here. Mr. Menzies went over what our assignment is and explained that we will be creating an experiment related to paper airplanes. First he walked us through the scientific method again and explained each part. He also reviewed variables and provided examples of this in relation to the paper airplane experiment, and showed us an example experiment write up where the Purpose, Hypothesis, Variables, and Observations/ Data table is set up (This is available in the Google classroom Click Here). Second, we learned how to fold "The Dart" standard paper airplane model to use as our "control". In this assignment students will be modifying "The Dart" and testing this modification to see how it impacts the distance the paper airplane flies. They will be creating two other paper airplanes that will be modifies versions of The Dart (the control). Modifications can be increasing or reducing wingspan, changing the weight of the control, etc... to test a hypothesis. Today we had time to familiarize ourselves with the assignment and begin crafting our experiment. We also had time to play around with a prototype and practice the launch system for our planes. Later this week, we will have more time to develop this and on Thursday we will be going to the gym to do our testing and collect our data to analyze. Students were asked to think about this assignment tonight and about how they will modify the dart paper airplane to create an independent variable. This modification should be specific and not too drastic as it will be difficult to conclude a correlation between the change and results. Homework and Reminders: Please continue to develop and refine your paper airplane experiment as we need to be ready for Thursday. Also, spending 10-15 mins on Math will be helpful. We have one more topic to cover in Unit 2 (Division) and the test will be next week. Reminders: A reminder that the parent/teacher interview sign up document is live for you to schedule a meeting with Mr. Menzies and Ms. Cottier (Click Here). I hope everyone enjoyed the beautiful weather over the weekend!

Friday, Oct 3rd: Today we did both math and science in block 1. We began with a quick review of multiplying multi-digit whole and decimal numbers and did some further practice of Part C. Mr. Menzies introduced Part D: The Scientific Method and walked us through a slideshow, including a few video clips that explains this topic Click Here. Students received Part D: The Scientific Method today and we were just able to complete the first part of this assignment. We had about 15-20 minutes to define the key parts of the Scientific Method, and begin to understand what a control, independent variable, and dependent variable is in an experiment. Mr. Menzies asked us to complete the first part of this package over the weekend up until the Mark Rober part. We will continue with this on Monday and next week we will be in the gym to conduct an experiment of our own using the scientific method. Homework and Reminders: Please finish the first part of Part D from science up until the Mark Rober part Click Here. Also please spend some time reviewing Part C: Multiplication from math as we will be moving on to Part D: Division next week Click Here. Reminders: Parent/Teacher interviews begin next week (Click Here). Have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday, Oct 2nd: Today in block 2, we moved on to our next topic in Unit 2 - Part C: Multiplication of Whole and Decimal Numbers Click Here. Mr. Menzies walked us through the Part C slideshow and we watched few videos and went over several examples of how to multiply multi-digit whole and decimal numbers. Students received both notes and a practice package today and we had the rest of the block to review, practice, and develop our understanding of multiplying multi-digit whole and decimal numbers. Mr. Menzies asked us to spend 15 more minutes tonight continuing to review this skill and understanding, and reminded us that the video examples are accessible as always from home in the google classroom Click Here. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 15 more minutes practicing multiplication of whole and decimal numbers tonight. Reminders: Math extra help begins tomorrow at 8:15AM. All students are welcome to attend for more one-on-one review/support, or just to use this time to practice skills or complete science work. At lunchtime tomorrow, there will be a Unit 1 Math re-test opportunity for students who want to try to improve their understanding and bump up their mark. 

Wednesday, Oct 1st: Today we had LA in block 1. In block 2, we began with Math. Mr. Menzies had us form groups of two and we used the whiteboards to review the topics we have covered so far in unit 2 so far: Addition and Subtraction of whole and Decimal Numbers. Students took turns teaching their partner how to do a variety of questions involving additional nd subtraction of whole and decimal numbers, and Mr. Menzies confirmed the answers as we went. After this, we switched to Science. Today we had time to finish Part C-1 Click Here. Mr. Menzies walked us though collecting data and organizing it in a table, setting up and presenting this data in a line graph, how to create a bar graph, and how to create a pie graph. This took the whole block as students had to devise a survey, collect data for this survey, and present their data in a bar graph. Tomorrow, we will again be doing science in block 2 as we move onto Part D: The Scientific Method. Homework and Reminders: Unit 1 math tests have been marked and sent home. Please show parents, get signed, and bring back to school ASAP. This Friday, the first "math extra help" is offered at 8:15AM for any students who would like some one-on-one help, or who just want to do some review. On Friday at lunch, there will be a re-test opportunity for unit 1, available to any student who wants to take advantage of this to help bump up their mark. Please make sure Parts A to C-1 in science are fully completed Click Here. Also, please spend some time reviewing they math review we have covered so far in unit 2 Click Here. Reminders: Please make sure all of your school supplies are organized.

Monday, Sept 29th: Today was Orange Shirt Day at school. We began the day by participating in an Orange Shirt Day reflective walk. We joined all the classes at Royal Oak and walked around the block. For the rest of block 1 we did LA with Ms. Cottier. In block 2, we did Math today. Students received their marked Unit 1 Tests back and Mr. Menzies went over the test. We also received a Unit 1 Self Evaluation and Reflection where we had to review our tests, identify areas of strength, and areas that remain shaky, and also reflect on our learning behaviors / approach to learning in Math through this unit. Mr. Menzies asked us to staple this self evaluation to our tests, take home tonight to show our parents/get signed, and bring back to school where we can keep them in a folder for when we do review at the end of the year. After this, we continued with Unit 2 and today we just had time to begin review of subtraction of whole numbers and decimals (Part B - Click Here). We will continue with this topic later in the week. In block 3, we did Science. Last week we just started Part C-1: Using Science Equipment and Collecting & Analyzing Data Click Here. We had the whole block to practice measuring the core properties of matter (temperature, mass, volume, and length). At this point students are expected to have completed the measurement part of Part C-1. The last part of this assignment is about collecting data, organizing it, and presenting it in graphical form. On Wednesday Mr. Menzies showed us a video about collecting data and presenting it in graphic format. The video also reviewed what type of graph is appropriate for different types of data. We then had the rest of the block to complete Part C-1 Click Here. Home work and Reminders: Please make sure you have finished the measurement section of Part C-1 from science for Wednesday Click Here. Also, now is a good time to do some organizing: Do you have all of your school supplies and are they organized, and is your binder organized into clear sections for MA, SCI, LA, and SS with handouts in chronological order? Reminders: Math tests for Unit 1 have been marked an handed back. Students reviewed their test today and filled out a self-evaluation that should be staples to their test to show parents, get signed, and bring back to school on Wednesday. Tomorrow there is no school as it is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

Friday, Sept 26th: Today we did science in block 1. Mr. Menzies introduced Part C: Using Lab Equipment and Collecting and Analyzing Data - Click Here. This is when we get to use science equipment to measure various samples of matter and work on accuracy, precision, and recording numerical/quantitative observations. Mr. Menzies discussed accuracy and precision and we watched a video and went over a few examples. He then showed us how to use a triple beam balance to measure mass, and how to use beakers, graduated cylinders to measure volume, and how to read a thermometer. We also learned the displacement method to measure the volume of irregular solids and how to read the meniscus when viewing a volume of liquid. We then has the rest of the class to begin forking on Par C-1: Using Lab Equipment and Collecting and Analyzing Data Click Here. On Monday we will have some more time to work on this assignment and we will learn how to represent data in different ways including tables and graphs. This will lead us in to an experiment assignment later on next week. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 15 minutes reviewing Parts A-1 and A-2 in math over the weekend Click Here. Also make sure Parts A to C-1 are fully complete for Monday as we will be moving on to Part D next week Click Here. Reminders: Please be advised that the rain moved in next week so think about PE trip for rainy colder weather as we move further into fall. A reminder that the parent/teacher interview sign up document is live for you to schedule a meeting with Mr. Menzies and Ms. Cottier (Click Here). On Monday September 29th it is Orange Shirt Day, and on Tuesday Sept 30th there is no school for the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation holiday. Have an excellent weekend!

Thursday, Sept 25th: Today we started the day with some reminders: Tomorrow is the first pizza day of the year. Pizza slices continue to be $2.50 a slice and will be every Friday until the end of the year. Also, next Monday September 29th is Orange Shirt Day at school, and on Tuesday it is the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation holiday and there is no school. In block 2, we began our next unit in Math: Unit 2: Number Operation Systems. Today we began by watching a video on the history of math symbols and why they were developed, including the addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division symbols. We also learned some key terminology: Addends and Sums. Mr. Menzies walked us through the basics of adding multi-digit whole numbers and used visual models to represent re-grouping. He also gave us a strategy for estimating sums by adding the most significant values first. After viewing the slideshow for Part A: Addition - Sums, we received the accompanying practice package Click Here. We just had time to get this started today, but we will continue with this unit tomorrow. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 15 minutes continuing to practice the addition skills from our new math unit: Part A: Addition & Sums Click Here. Please make sure you have finished Part B from Science as we will be moving on to Part C tomorrow. Reminders: A reminder that the parent/teacher interview sign up document is live for you to schedule a meeting with Mr. Menzies and Ms. Cottier (Click Here). A reminder that this Friday is the first Pizza Day of the year ($2.50 per slice, milk is $2). On Monday September 29th it is Orange Shirt Day, and on Tuesday Sept 30th there is no school for the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation holiday. 

Wednesday, Sept 24th: Today we wrote our first math test of the school year. In block 2, Mr. Menzies went over tips and tricks for writing tests, including reading the question carefully, clearly communicating thinking by showing our work/calculations/methods, and also doing the question we are confident with first. We handed out blue duotangs in today with our practice booklets from unit 1 enclosed. We then had the whole block (and additional time if needed) to write the Unit 1 test: Number System. Mr. Menzies encouraged us to reflect on our learning in unit 1 as we wrote the test and consider how confident we became with the skills and concepts. Also, to reflect on our learning behaviors/work habits and whether we used our time in class effectively, advocated for our learning if we didn't understand, and did adequate practice of skills to obtain "solid" understanding an competence. Finally, Mr. Menzies announced that their will be a re-test opportunity next week for students who want to review Unit 1 topics and try to improve their mark. Students will get their marked test back early next week and we will fill out a self evaluation to attach to the test, take home to show parents/get signed, and bring back to school. The time and date of this re-test will be announced next week and it will take place at lunch recess. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure you have finished Part B from Science as we will be moving on to Part C tomorrow. Reminders: A reminder that the parent/teacher interview sign up document is live for you to schedule a meeting with Mr. Menzies and Ms. Cottier (Click Here). A reminder that this Friday is the first Pizza Day of the year ($2.50 per slice, milk is $2). On Monday September 29th it is Orange Shirt Day, and on Tuesday Sept 30th there is no school for the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation holiday.

Tuesday, Sept 23rd: Today we began this short week with French in block 1 and LA in block 2. In block 3, we spent 15 minutes going over reminders and some housekeeping items, including the beginning of grade 8 intramural soccer, pizza day, and the calendar ahead. Mr. Menzies reminded us that is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation next Tuesday Sept 30th and there is no school that day and that it is Orange Shirt Day on Monday next week. After this, Mr. Menzies reminded us what we have done so far in Math and that we have our Unit 1 math test tomorrow on Parts A-E. He showed us an example of a study sheet and urged us to use the rest of the block to work on either creating a study sheet to review key concepts, or doing some extra practice of skills in our booklets to prepare for the test. He also went over how to organize and submit our Math work at the end of each unit and showed us how to do this in our blue duotangs. Mr. Menzies advised us to take our duotangs home to do some further review tonight in preparation for the test and he will expect us to hand it in tomorrow when we write the test. We then had the rest of the block to review Unit 1 topics for tomorrow's test. Homework and Reminders: Please spend some time reviewing for tomorrow's Unit 1 math test. This can be completing your study sheet of main topics and skills or doing some extra practice questions in our green duotangs. Reminders: A reminder that the parent/teacher interview sign up document is live for you to schedule a meeting with Mr. Menzies and Ms. Cottier (Click Here). A reminder that this Friday is the first Pizza Day of the year ($2.50 per slice, milk is $2). On Monday September 29th it is Orange Shirt Day, and on Tuesday Sept 30th there is not school for the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation holiday. I hope everyone had a great weekend!

Friday, Sept 19th: Today in block 1, we did Math and learned about Part E: Scientific Notation Click Here. First we learned why it is used and how it is related to our base 10 number system and exponents, the topic we learned about last math class, to represent very large or very small numbers. First we viewed the Part E slideshow Click Here, and watched a video explanation and went over several examples of converting numbers from standard notation to scientific notation and vice versa. Students learned that we can represent movement of the decimal with x 10 to the power of a positive or negative exponent. A positive exponent in scientific notation indicates a large number whereas a negative exponent indicates a small number. Students received the Part E: Scientific Notation practice package and some notes for todays lesson Click Here. We then had the rest of the block to work on developing our understanding of scientific notation. Later in the block, earlier finishers who felt competent with this skill, could switch to working on Part B: Scientific Measurement Click Here, or an extension activity booklet with some more complex/challenging problems related to scientific notation Click Here. In block 2 we had LA and in block 3 we had SS today.  Homework and Reminders: Spending some time reviewing any math concepts we have covered and doing 10 more minutes of practice and review is advised if you feel shaky on any of the concepts or skills covered. Also, completing Par B: Scientific Measurement from science is also recommended for Tuesday next week as we will be moving on to Part C.  Reminders: All assignments/handouts/slideshow for Math and Science lessons can be found in the Google Classroom (Click Here). Monday, September 22nd, is a Pro-D day and students do not have school that day.  Next Wednesday, Sept 24th, is the Unit 1 Math test (Parts A-E). Have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday, Sept 18th: Today we had French in block 1. In block 2 we started with math and then moved on to science. In Math, Mr. Menzies let us know that we have one more topic to cover (Part E: Scientific Notation) to finish Unit 1, and there will be a Unit 1 Math test next Wednesday, Sept 24th to wrap up this unit.  Today we learned how to begin creating a study sheet to help us review the concepts and skills we have covered so far in Unit 1. Mr. Menzies went over how to do this, and we had time to begin a study sheet for Unit 1. This includes parts A-D, our most recent topic form yesterday being Powers & Exponents. We also could do some more practice questions to better establish our competence with topic covered so far. Half way through the block, we switched back to science. Continuing with what we started yesterday (Part B) Mr. Menzies walked us through the rest of the Part B slideshow and discussed units of measure, both US Customary/Imperial and Metric / SI units. He also went over the equipment we use to measure various properties of matter to collect data when we observe and describe our world or conduct experiments. Students then had more time to work on Part B: Scientific Measurement - Click Here. Later in block 4 today, we participated in the annual Terry Fox run during FAAS. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure your Part A: science safety assignment (brochure or song) is handed in as it we due on Tuesday and is now considered late. Spending some time reviewing any math concepts we have covered and doing 10 more minutes of practice and review is advised if you feel shaky on any of the concepts or skills covered. Also, completing Par B from science is also recommended for Tuesday next week as we will be moving on to Part C.  Reminders: All assignments/handouts/slideshow for Math and Science lessons can be found in the Google Classroom (Click Here). Monday is a Pro-D day and students do not have school that day.  Next Wednesday, Sept 24th, is the Unit 1 Math test. 

Wednesday, Sept 17th: Today was an early dismissal day and we did Math in block 2. Continuing with unit 1: Number System, our focus was on learning about powers & exponents today (Part D in Math). We began by watching a Brainpop video explaining what exponents represent and how they are used to represent repeated multiplication patterns. Mr. Menzies went through several examples, and we learned how to say exponential numbers, how to convert them to expanded form, and how to simplify them into standard form. Students received both notes and a practice package today (Click Here) and Mr. Menzies led us through the first few pages as we had the rest of the block to develop our understanding of powers & exponents. This will lead us into our next topic later in the week: Scientific Notation. Finally, Mr. Menzies asked us to spend 10 more minutes at home tonight reviewing and practicing the concepts and skills we covered today. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure your Part A: science safety assignment (brochure or song) is handed in as it we due on Tuesday and is now considered late. Spending some time reviewing any math concepts we have covered and doing 10 more minutes of practice and review is advised if you feel shaky on any of the concepts or skills covered. Reminders: All assignments/handouts/slideshow for Math and Science lessons can be found in the Google Classroom (Click Here). Tonight it is the annual ROMS Open House / Meet the Teacher Night from 5-7. Finally, tomorrow (Thursday) we have the annual Terry Fox Run here at ROMS: Wear red and white, bring your running shoes, and bring a "toonie for Terry" to donate to the Terry Fox Foundation. 

Tuesday, Sept 16th: Today we started the day with French in block 1 and had LA in block 2. In block 3, we did both math and science. Beginning with math, we continued with Part C: Rounding, Comparing, & Ordering Numbers Click Here. Yesterday we focused on reviewing rounding, and today Mr. Menzies reviewed the key steps and strategies for rounding and explained how it is connected to estimation. He also discussed how rounding is based on how precise we need to be in a given situation and this depends on context. Next, we reviewed how to compare numbers and he led us through how to do this. Importantly, identifying the most significant values of each number and comparing these first, then working right and comparing the smaller place values, can help us determine the larger/smaller number. We went over several examples and became reacquainted with the comparison symbols in math (< > =) and how to use them. Students had an addition 10-15 minutes to practice rounding, comparing, and ordering in Part C Click Here. For the second half of the block, we switched to science. Mr. Menzies reminded us that our science safety brochures/songs we due today and we handed them in. After this, we began Part B: Scientific Measurement Click Here. Today we learned about the many types of measurement used in science, and were introduced to the Metric and Imperial systems of measurement. We learned that the metric system is universally used in science (SI units) but that we also use Imperial often in our day to day lives as our neighbor and largest trading partner (The USA) still uses this system. We watched Billy Nye: Measurement and just had time to begin Part B today. Tomorrow we will continue with this topic. Part way through the day, we had our annual school photos takes. Students were given a card with a special QR code to that will allow access to view and order photos online. Please ask you son/daughter about this. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure your Part A: science safety assignment (brochure or song) is handed in as it we due yesterday and is not considered late. Spending some time reviewing any math concepts we have covered and doing 10 more minutes of practice and review is advised if you feel shaky on any of the concepts or skills covered. Reminders: All assignments/handouts/slideshow for Math and Science lessons can be found in the Google Classroom Click Here. Tomorrow night it is the annual ROMS Open House / Meet the Teacher Night from 5-7. Finally, on Thursday we have the annual Terry Fox Run here at ROMS: Wear red and white, bring your running shoes, and bring a "toonie for Terry" to donate to the Terry Fox Foundation. 

Monday, Sept 15th: Today we began the day by going over some notable events happening this week. School photo day is tomorrow (Tuesday), the ROMS Open House/Meet the Teacher night is Wednesday 5-7pm, and the Terry Fox Run is on Thursday this week during PE or FAAS. After this, we did Math and began with some review of the topics we covered last week: whole and decimal number place value. Students worked with a partner and a whiteboard to take turns answering some review question for the main concepts we covered last week. After this, we started our next math topic: Part C - Rounding, Comparing, and Ordering Whole and Decimal Numbers (Click Here). Mr. Menzies went through the Part C slideshow and we watched a few video clips and went through some examples for rounding. Students then received a practice package and notes on rounding, comparing and ordering numbers and we had the rest of the block to review rounding skills. Early finishers could work on some extension math problems available. Tomorrow we will spend part of block 3 going over comparing and ordering numbers. In block 3, we did Science today and had nearly the whole block to work on our science safety assignments, introduced earlier this week.  Mr. Menzies reviewed what we had learned and went through the safety in the science lab guidelines, the information we were to use to create a brochure or song/rap (Click Here). Today we had nearly the whole block to work on this assignment and Mr. Menzies reminded us that our science safety assignments are due tomorrow, Tuesday Sept 16th (brochure or song)(Click Here). Homework and Reminders: A reminder to get your science safety assignments (Part A... brochure or song) completed as it is due tomorrow (Click Here). Please spend some time (10-15 mins) on the math we have covered so far. Reminders: All assignments/handouts/slideshow for Math and Science lessons can be found in the Google Classroom (Click Here). It is school photo day tomorrow, Tuesday Sept 16th! On Wednesday night it is the annual ROMS Open House / Meet the Teacher Night from 5-7. Finally, on Thursday we have the annual Terry Fox Run here at ROMS: Wear red and white, bring your running shoes, and bring a "toonie for Terry" to donate to the Terry Fox Foundation. I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

Friday, Sept 12th: Today we had Science in block 1 and we began our first unit: Unit 1: Science Skills. Mr. Menzies walked us through a slideshow, we watched a few short videos and we discussed safety symbols on consumer chemical products at home and the WHIMIS symbol found in the workplace. Mr. Menzies then introduced our first science assignment and we received: Unit 1 - Part A: Safety in the Science Classroom. Today we learned about safety in the science lab as well as chemical safety at school, at home, and in the workplace. We learned safety guidelines for working in the science lab, chemical safety symbols (including WHMIS), and were assigned two options to engage with these ideas and show our learning: Create a safety in the science lab brochure, or work with a partner to write a rap/song that communicates safety guidelines and safety symbols. Students had the rest of the block to begin these assignments and we will continue to work on this in block 3 on Monday and this assignment will be due on Tuesday next week. In block 3, we had Language Arts with Ms. Cottier. Finally, in block 4 we had PE and continued with our Ultimate unit. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure you finish your Science lab safety assignment for Tuesday as we will be moving on to our next topic. Also, please spend 10-15 minutes doing a few Math questions from topics covered this week. Reminders: All assignments/handouts/slideshow for Math and Science lessons can be found in the Google Classroom (Click Here). The ROMS Open House / Meet the Teacher Night is on Wednesday, September 17th from 5-7pm. Cross Country, Ultimate, Soccer, Grade 8 Rowing, and Basketball will be starting soon so please check the ROMS Athletic website for details (Click Here). Lastly, a reminder that Pizza Day will begin next Friday, Sept 19th. Have an excellent weekend!

Thursday, Sept 11th: Today we began the day with Math. Yesterday we learned about place value and whole numbers and students received notes and a practice package for Part A: Whole Numbers (Click Here). Today we extended out lesson on the place value, base 10, number system, by learning about decimal numbers. Mr. Menzies introduced this topic and we worked through a slideshow, watching a video explanation and discussing, and going through some examples. Of note, was the relationship of decimal numbers to fractions. Today we received Part B: Decimal Numbers - Notes & the accompanying practice package (Click Here). Mr. Menzies reviewed the notes and led us through the beginning to the practice package. We then had the rest of the block to review the related skills and concepts and reacquaint / strengthen our understanding of how our number system works and how to comprehend, represent, and communicate numbers. Mr. Menzies advised us to spend 15 minutes tonight reviewing Parts A and B to make sure we have a solid understanding of the skills and concepts we have covered this week in Math.  Homework and Reminders: Please spend 15 minutes tonight reviewing what we did in Math this week: Part A: Whole Number Place Value and Part B: Decimal Number Place Value. Please deliver the school forms package to your parents to review, sign, and return to Mr. Menzies ASAP if you have not done so already. A reminder to please ensure you have all of your school supplies ready to go as we have officially started academics this week. Lastly, Cross Country, Ultimate, Soccer, Grade 8 Rowing, and Basketball will be starting soon so please check the ROMS Athletic website for details (Click Here). Lastly, a reminder that there is NO Pizza Day tomorrow so to bring a lunch. The first Pizza Day will begin next Friday, Sept 19th.

Wednesday, Sept 10th: In block 2, Mr. Menzies began by going over some reminders: school forms, PE strip, school materials organized, and reminded us of our word of the week: Character. After this, we began our first unit in Math: Number System. Mr. Menzies explained that we will be doing some review of foundational skills before we get into truly new Grade 8 Math topics this term. Mr. Menzies introduced our first unit in Math: Number System. Today our focus was on Part A: Whole Numbers (Click Here) and he walked us through a slideshow that explained the origins of our number system and how it is designed to work as a "base 10" system (Click Here). We watched a few short videos explaining this, and went over some examples and details. We then received a Part A notes page (Click Here) and Unit 1 - Part A: Whole Numbers (Click Here) practice package. In this package we reviewed several concepts related to whole numbers and how our number system works, including what exactly "place value" means, identifying it, and communicating whole numbers. While we do these review units, and Mr. Menzies get better acquainted individual's knowledge, confidence, and skill, he advised us to do at least 5 question per page, but to ensure we have have very solid grasp of all skills and concepts included in Part A. He also offered extension math problem solving resource if we happened to finish, or if we found the practice package not challenging enough once we had reviewed the skills included. We then had the rest of the class to reacquaint ourselves with this topic and the key concepts and skills of whole number place value, and also get help or clarification from Mr. Menzies. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10-15 more minutes reviewing the math from today's class. Please deliver the school forms package to your parents to review, sign, and return to Mr. Menzies ASAP if you have not done so already. A reminder to please ensure you have all of your school supplies ready to go as we have officially started academics this week. Lastly, Cross Country, Ultimate, Soccer, Grade 8 Rowing, and Basketball will be starting soon so please check the ROMS Athletic website for details (Click Here).

Tuesday, Sept 9th: Today we had Mme. Espedido for French in block 1 and LA in block 2 with Ms. Cottier. In block 3, Mr. Menzies introduced Science 8. He began be getting us to think about what the Universe is, what it is made up of, and how it came to be, and also about Earth and what we call life that inhabits it. We listened to Carl Sagan describe the Earth and its place in the Universe as we know it. We also discussed the main units/topics we will be exploring this year in Science 8. After discussing this, Mr. Menzies explained a STEM task where we had to put our brain to use to solve a problem related to landing a lunar module on the moon. Students used the materials provided to troubleshoot this challenge and refine their designs and then work together to complete other more difficult challenges. We will officially begin our first unit in Science later this week. Homework and Reminders: Please deliver the school forms package to your parents to review, sign, and return to Ms. Cottier ASAP if you have not done so already. A reminder to please ensure you have all of your school supplies ready to go as we have officially started academics this week. Lastly, Cross Country, Ultimate, Soccer, Grade 8 Rowing, and Basketball will be starting soon so please check the ROMS Athletic website for details (Click Here). 

Monday, Sept 8th: Today we began our first full week of school. In homeroom Ms. Cottier went over some reminders for the week and we listened to the daily announcements. In block 1, we went to the gym for a grade 8 assembly hosted by Mrs. McEwan and Mrs. Warren. In the assembly we reviewed school wide expectations, as well as more specific expectations and opportunities for Grade 8's in the year ahead. In block 2 we were with Ms. Cottier for LA and went to the Learning Commons for an orientation and to sign out a book for reading. In block 3, we were back with Mr. Menzies and he introduced Math for this year. He showed us an introductory slideshow, and we discussed what math is, how it is like a language to describe the world around us, and why it matters. Mr. Menzies also handed out a Grade 8 Math course outline (Click Here) and went over the topics/units we will cover in the coming months. He emphasized that we will begin with some review topics to help us reestablish our foundational skills and understandings as he gets to know us and our relationship to Math at this point. Finally, we received a Beginning of Math 8 survey: "Math and Me" (Click Here) to help Mr. Menzies understand where are skills and confidence is at with key grade 6 and 7 math concepts, and we also did a few math exercises and puzzles to help us shake the dust off. Homework and Reminders: Please deliver the school forms package to your parents to review, sign, and return to Ms. Cottier ASAP if you have not done so already. A reminder to please ensure you have all of your school supplies ready to go as we have officially started academics this week. Lastly, Cross Country, Ultimate, Soccer, Grade 8 Rowing, and Basketball will be starting soon so please check the ROMS Athletic website for details (Click Here).

Friday, Sept 5th: Today we were with Mr. Menzies in block 1. Continuing with introductions, orientations, and begging of the year activities, today we reviewed some details for the year and then did some collaborative activities. Students worked in groups to brainstorm and develop a list of Rights and Responsibilities that will help guide and support our class community and help it thrive this year.  Mr. Menzies discussed what "rights" and "Responsibilities" are and how they apply to our classroom setting and the individuals in it. He also explained how society does the same thing with laws and guidelines to support, honor, and protect people in a community.  After each group worked together to create what they thought were rights and responsibility for students in the classroom, we shared out ideas and handed them in. Mr. Menzies will look other these and consolidate them into a poster we can review, edit, or add to next week. We will use this to help establish and maintain a respectful and nurturing classroom environment through the year. After this, we worked with a friend on a mapping challenge Mr. Menzies gave us. We had to draw a map of Vancouver Island with as much detailed as possible, blindly with only about 15 minutes to do so. We worked with our partner to decide what the shape, towns/cities, and other key features of Vancouver Island look like and draw this on a blank piece of paper. After this, Mr. Menzies showed us an actual map of the island to compare and hopefully acquire a better awareness and understanding of the geography of where we live. Ms. Cottier will have a look at these maps and judge the best map in a friendly competition to be decided next week. Later in the day, we had our first block of PE and we combined with three other PE classes to get the year started. Mr. Menzies and the other PE teachers went over the ROMS PHE Course Outline (Click Here) and discussed expectations, routines, competencies, and strategies and behaviors for success in PE this year. After this, we played a big group game of capture the rugby ball. Finally, we met with just Mr. Menzies and he handed out a copy of the PHE Course Outline and asked us to take it home to show our parents, get signed, and return to school ASAP. Thus concludes the first week of Grade 8! We are up and running and next week we will begin with a grade wide start up assembly with Mrs. McEwan and also get Math and Science up and running! Homework and Reminders:  School forms were sent home today to be reviewed, signed and returned to school ASAP. This includes the PHE course outline. As we begin academics next week, please make sure you have all of your school supplies collected and ready to go, and also have begun reestablishing home routines such as bedtime and homework. It was great to meet and begin to get to know Division 8-5 this week and I look forward to the year ahead! Have an amazing first weekend of the school year!

Thursday, Sept 4th: Today we had our first French block with Mme. Espedido. In block 2, we had our first block with Mr. Menzies and were introduced to his classroom and learned about him and the year ahead. He showed us an orientation slideshow so we know his classroom, some details for the coming year, and some advice he has for our journey through grade 8. We also did some icebreaker/ community-building activities to get to know each other. We then got to learn more about Mr. Menzies, his interests, hobbies etc... and then we did a creative activity to express our interests and identity by creating our own personalized surfboard designs. Tomorrow, we will have another block in Mr. Menzies' class and we will begin some team-building challenges and intro activities, and continue getting familiarized and settled as we wrap up the first week of school. Next week we will officially get the ball rolling with Math and Science. Finally, Mr. Menzies handed out an introductory notice to parents: Welcome to 8-5 Introductory Notice (Click Here). Homework and Reminders: A reminder to continue collecting school supplies and bringing them to school as we will begin academics next week. Please get school forms completed and returned to Ms. Cottier ASAP (to be handed out Friday).  Also, it will be the first day of PE tomorrow so please wear/bring athletic shoes.

Tuesday, September 2nd: Welcome back to school!