DIV 8-6

Wednesday, Oct 28th: Today we did math in block 1. Mr. Menzies began by reminding us that the Unit 2 test is tomorrow. He then did more review of order of operations and highlighted that for multiplication/division and addition/subtraction we do these in the order they appear, from left to right. We also looked at how an expression is different than an equation and what "simplifying" means in doing operations. We went over an example of how we can write an expression based on a situation to describe it (ie. Working at McDonalds for a certain number of hours and getting a tip).  After this, Mr. Menzies reviewed what will be on the test tomorrow and we had time to work on Part E: Order of Operations, or our study sheet template to review for the test tomorrow. Finally, Mr. Menzies announced that Math extra help will be Thursday morning this week at 8:15am ahead of the test for any students who need some extra, more personalized, help with any of the concepts in Unit 2 unit ahead of the test. Homework and Reminders: Please spend time reviewing/studying tonight for the math test tomorrow. This can include completing your study sheet template (Click Here) or using the video review resources Mr. Menzies put together (Click Here). These are also available, along with all of the materials we have used this unit, in the google classroom (Click Here). Reminders: The Unit 2 math test is tomorrow! Math extra help will be offered tomorrow morning at 8:15AM ahead of the test versus Friday this week. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here).   

Tuesday, Oct 27th: Today we we did math in block 1. Yesterday we started Part D-2: Decimal Division and learned about using long division to divide decimal numbers. Students received Part D-2: Decimal Division and today we had half of the block to work on this topic. Mr. Menzies went over several examples and reminded us how to do decimal division. After working on this for half an hour, we moved on to Part E: Order of Operations. Mr. Menzies reviewed how to do this and reminded us of the process. He modeled a few examples and we learned how to simplify an expression. Students received Part E and we had the rest of the block work on this. For those who were very confident with this skill, they had the option to switch to science and to continue working on Part C: Inside the Atom from yesterday. At the end of the block, Mr. Menzies handed out a study sheet organizer (Click Here) and advised us to begin reviewing Parts A to D-2 tonight to help support our success on Thursday's Unit 2 math test. He also showed us a slideshow for Unit 2 review with video instructions of key operations with whole number and decimals (Click Here). These are also available in the google classroom. Tomorrow we will do our last review topic for this unit Part E: Order of Operations to wrap up Unit 2 before the test. Homework and Reminders: Please spend some time reviewing for the Unit 2 test tonight. This can include doing dome practice questions from Parts A-D or beginning to create a study sheet using the template handed out today. Also, watching some of the Math with Mr. J videos for any topics you still find tricky will be helpful. Reminders: A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Monday, Oct 26th: Today we began the week with a new seating plan and did math in block 1 after reviewing items on the agenda for the week. Mr. Menzies reminded us that the Unit 2 math test is scheduled for Thursday this week. Last week we started Part D: Divison and reviewed the basics for long division of whole numbers. Mr. Menzies reviewed the basics and the steps for this, and we had about 15 minutes to revisit Part D and do some further practice questions as a warm up and to remind ourselves of the process. After this, we moved on to Part D-2: Decimal Division. Mr. Menzies walked us through how to place a decimal in the quotient, using our reasoning skills to check whether our answer seems reasonable, when we have a whole number divisor and decimal dividend. We went over a few examples together. Mr. Menzies then showed us a video on how to move the decimals (similar to multiplication) then divide and we learned that what we do to the divisor's decimal, we need to do also to the dividend's numbers to maintain equivalence. Students received Part D-1: Decimal Division today and we worked on this for the rest of the block. Mr. Menzies went over several examples and showed us an additional Math with Mr. J video reviewing dicimal divison. In block 2 we had LA and block 3 we had SS. Homework and Reminders: The Unit 2 math test is on Thursday this week, Oct 29th. Please spend some time reviewing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole and decimal numbers tonight, even 10 minutes to help prepare for the test. Reminders: As a reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Hope everyone had a great three day weekend!

Thursday, Oct 22nd: Today we did math in block 1. Mr. Menzies announced that the Unit 2 math test is tentatively scheduled for next Thursday, Oct 29th. Today we moved on to Part D: Division. Mr. Menzies first explained what division is and the ways we can represent it in math: fraction, using the division symbol, and with the long division structure. We also learned the terms related to division: divisor, dividend, and quotient. Mr. Menzies then showed us a video introducing the system for long division and then walked us through several examples. We learned that there are 5 key steps to use when dividing numbers and how to identify and represent a remainder if a number does not divide equally. We also learned / reviewed how to do long division when there is a two-digit divisor. Today we received Part D-1: Division - Quotients and practiced division with whole numbers. For the last 15 minutes we switched to science and had time to put finishing touches on Part B: Atomic Theory. In block 3 we did science and moved on to Part C: Inside the Atom. After watching a few video clips describing and explaining the structure of the atom and discussing the "Atomic Age" of the post war 20th Century, Mr. Menzies explained that we now know that subatomic particles, protons and neutrons, are made of elementary particles called quarks and leptons. We then received Part C: Inside the Atom and had the rest of the block to get this assignment started. We will have some more time to work on this in class on Monday. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure Part B from science is finished for Monday as we have now moved on to Part C. Spending 10-15 minutes reviewing Unit 2 math would be helpful as there is a test next Thursday, Oct 29th. This includes Part A: Addition, Part B: Subtraction, and Part C: Multiplication of multi-digit whole and decimal numbers, and the topic we started today: Part D: Division. Reminders: Tomorrow is a Pro-D Day. The Unit 2 math test is scheduled for Thursday next week, Oct 29th. As A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Happy Friday and have a great weekend! 

Wednesday, Oct 21st: Today was the first of two early dismissal days and we had shorter blocks with students being dismissed at 2:08pm. In block 1 we did both math and science. Beginning with math, we worked in pairs to review how to multiply multi-digit whole numbers on the mini whiteboards. Mr. Menzies put questions to solve on the screen and then showed us the answers to confirm out calculations. After this, we revisited multiplying decimal numbers. Mr. Menzies went over an example question and reminded us to use our reasoning and rounding skills to help confirm decimal placement in the answer/product. We also learned about estimating products and how to round before estimating today. For the last 15 minutes of the block, we switched to science. Mr. Menzies handed out an Atomic Theory Timeline template to help us review the key developments in the story of the atom and how we have come to understand the structure of the atom today. Students distilled the main idea or discovery of each scientist and drew of model of what each thought the atom looked like. That is all the time we had for today, but Mr. Menzies asked us to complete Part B and the timeline template for homework if we were not able to do so in class today as we will be moving on to Part C tomorrow. Homework and Reminders: Please finish Part B from science including the Atomic Theory timeline handed out today. The textbook pages and all the materiasl you need are available in the google classroom under Part B: Atomic Theory if you left you textbook at school. Reminders: NOTE: Math & Science Extra Help will begin at 8:00 tomorrow morning as Mr. Menzies has a meeting at 8:30am. Tomorrow is again an early dismissal day and students are dismissed at 2:08 again. The Unit 1 science retest opportunity will be on Thursday at lunchtime. As Friday Oct 23rd is a Pro-D Day, math/science extra help will be offered Thursday morning this week at 8:15AM. Grade 8 Hoodie order are due TOMORROW(Click Here) and no late order forms will be accepted by the office next week. This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Tuesday, Oct 20th: Today we did science in block 1. Yesterday we started Part B: Atomic Theory in science and Mr. Menzies introduced and explained this concept. We learned about the history of the atom and how we have discovered and proved that all matter is made of atoms from the ancient Greeks to modern day. We watched several video clips that explained this and had a chance to start his assignment. Today, we revisited the key discoveries and experiments that helped explain atoms and then had the whole rest of the block to work on Part B. As part of this assignment, we also created a timeline to present and reinforce the key developments. In block 2 we had French, block 3 LA, and block 4 FAAS today. Homework and Reminders: Please spend time finishing off Part B from science today if you were not able to do so in class today as we will be moving on to Part C on Thursday. Reminders: Wednesday and Thursdays this week are early dismissal days and students will be dismissed at 2:08PM as there are Parent/Teacher conferences that day. The Unit 1 science retest opportunity will be on Thursday at lunchtime. As Friday Oct 23rd is a Pro-D Day, math/science extra help will be offered Thursday morning this week at 8:15AM. Grade 8 Hoodie order are due Oct 22nd (Click Here). This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink).  A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here).

Monday, Oct 19th: Today we started block to by getting our Unit 1 science test back. Mr. Menzies also handed out a self-evaluation/reflection for us to complete, staple to our test, and take home to get signed by our parents. He also announced that the Unit 1 science retest will be this Thursday, Oct 22nd at lunch. We then moved on to science and began Part B: Atomic Theory for the second half of the block. Last week we were introduced to Unit 2: Matter and Chemistry and got an overview of what chemistry is, the main branches of chemistry, and a review of key topics including the atom and the Periodic Table of elements. Today we moved on to Part B: Atomic Theory and the story of how we know that all matter is made of atoms. Beginning with the Ancient Greeks, Mr. Menzies explained the key developments throughout history that has led to the development of Atomic Theory and how scientists know what an atom looks like today. We watched a few short video clips on the experiments these scientists conducted to prove their ideas including negatively charged electrons, the nucleus, positively charged protons and neutrally charged neutrons, and the idea that electrons exist in different numbers as shells or clouds around the nucleus depending on the type of element. We learned that the key difference between elements (the types of atoms), scientists have established, is the number of protons in the nucleus. After this, students received Part B: Atomic Theory and worked on some activities and questions to help them explore and understand the story of the atom and how we know all matter is made of atoms. This included doing a timeline on the key developments and understanding the different models proposed along the way. Tomorrow we will have more time to work on this in block 3. Homework and Reminders: Unit 1 science test were handed back today to take home, show our parents, get signed and return to school where we can put them in our test folders. No specific homework assigned for math and science tonight, but reading and organizing is always encouraged. Also, reviewing for the Unit 1 science test if you want to take the retest on Thursday is another option. Reminders: Wednesday and Thursdays this week are early dismissal days and students will be dismissed at 3:08PM as there are Parent/Teacher conferences that day. The Unit 1 science retest opportunity will be on Thursday at lunchtime. As Friday Oct 23rd is a Pro-D Day, math/science extra help will be offered Thursday morning this week at 8:15AM. Grade 8 Hoodie order are due Oct 22nd (Click Here). This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! 

Friday, Oct 16th: Today we did math and science in block 1. However, first we did some organizing and evaluating as we have finished our first units in both math and science. Mr. Menzies asked us to organize all of Unit 1 science in our yellow duotangs and all of our Unit 1 math in out green duotangs. This represents our portfolio of learning for these units and also is a practical way to lighten our binders of work we don't need anymore. After this, Mr. Menzies showed us and handed out a self-evaluation for our science work. We looked over our work from this unit and evaluated completion, quality / dept of learning, and presentation, ending up at an overall score for this body of work and reflecting on how our work can be improved for the next unit. We also got to see a preliminary mark from our Unit 1 science test to help us reflect on the connection between completing our work with quality and how this translates to our competence on the unit test. After this, we completed the self-evaluation, we were instructed to trade science duotangs with a peer and were given a peer evaluation form to provide constructive feedback on someone else's work. When we had completed both evaluations, we handed in our Unit 1 science duotangs and had time to continue working on Part C: Multiplication in math. For the last 25-30 minutes of the block, Mr. Menzies went over how to multiply decimal number and the key steps, understandings, and tips for this process. He did a few examples and also explained how multiplication can be done through the distributive method and applies to calculate the area of a rectangle. We had about 15 minutes to continue working on practicing multiplying numbers. Finally, Mr. Menzies asked us to spend 10-15 minutes doing some questions over the weekend to help support a solid understanding of this topic. In block 2 we had LA, in block 3 we had French, and in block 4 we had FAAS today. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10-15 minutes doing a few multiplication questions from math over the weekend to keep your skills sharp. Reminders: Monday is school photo re-take day for anyone who wants one. Next Wednesday and Thursday are early dismissal days for Parent/Teacher Conferences, and Friday is a Pro-D Day and students have no school. Grade 8 Hoodie order are due Oct 22nd (Click Here). This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Have a great weekend! 

Thursday, Oct 15th: Today we did both math and science in block 1. Beginning with math, we started by revisiting Part B: Subtractions. Mr. Menzies went over the basics again and highlighted the key things to remember: Lining up numbers and the decimals when stacking, borrowing if needed from the digit to the left, and ensuring the decimal is in the right place by reflecting on whether our answer is reasonable. We had about 10 minutes to continue practicing this before switching to science. In science today, Mr. Menzies debuted Unit 2: Matter and Chemistry. First, we learned about the history of chemistry and what it studies. We also learned about where chemistry is used in engineering, environmental science, medicine etc... We also learned about the main branches of chemistry and how they all study the types and behaviour of matter. Finally, we learned that all types of atoms are listed and organized in the Periodic Table of Elements. At 10:00AM we had an earthquake drill to practice procedures and discuss how to prepare. Mr. Menzies asked us to discuss whether our families have an earthquake kit at home and a plan for if we have an earthquake tonight. In block 3, we began with math. Moving on to our next topic, today we reviewed multiplying multi-digit whole numbers. Mr. Menzies walked us through the process and how we to be careful when calculating each step. He showed us some visual examples of the steps and discussed why we do it this way. We also watched a Math Antics video and worked through some examples together. Students received Part C: Multiplication/Products today and we had about 15-20 minutes to work on practicing multiplying multi digit whole numbers. Tomorrow we will learn about multiplying decimal numbers as this is a bit more complicated. For the second half of the block, we switched back to science and finished Part A: Introduction to Chemistry. Today we watched Bill Nye: Atoms and got a good overview of matter and chemistry basics, a preview to some of the topics we will learn about and explore later on in the unit. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10 minutes continuing to practice multiplying numbers (Part C). Reading is always encouraged too. Reminders: Grade 8 Hoodie order are due Oct 22nd (Click Here). Tomorrow is Pizza Day! This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Wednesday, Oct 14th: Today we wrote our Unit 1 science test in block 1. Mr. Menzies went over the instructions and gave us some tips on writing tests, and we had the whole block to complete the test if needed. When finished, Mr. Menzies asked us to continue working on Part B: Subtraction from math, the topic we started yesterday. As per usual, there will be a Unit 1 science r-test opportunity next week once these tests are marked and returned to students (Date TBA). Tomorrow, we will begin our next Science unit: Unit 2: Matter/Chemistry. During advisory today, we played our first grade 8 intramural indoor soccer gave vs 8-5. Homework and Reminders: No specific homework tonight as we will start our next science unit tomorrow. Spending 10 minutes on Parts A or B is an option if you feel shaky on addition or subtraction. Reading is always an option too. Reminders: Grade 8 Hoodie order are due Oct 22nd (Click Here). Tomorrow is the Great Shake-Out Earthquake awareness and drill at 10:00AM. This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here).

Tuesday, Oct 13th: Today we started this short week with a bit of math but mostly science in block 1. Beginning with math, today we moved on to Part B: Subtraction / Differences. Mr. Menzies reviewed the key tips and strategies and did a few examples. Of note was making sure we line the places for all number up when stacking and putting the smaller value(s) below the larger value(s). Also, we reviewed what "borrowing" is when we cannot subtract a column as the top number is too small. We did a few examples and students received the Part B practice package today and did a few questions to get this part started. At 9:30 we switched to science and used the rest of the block to review for tomorrow's Unit 1 test. Mr. Menzies discussed the test and the key things we need to know and handed out tips for reviewing and creating a study sheet (Click Here), and a template to help us begin reviewing (Click Here). Mr. Menzies recommended as an option that we use the template as a draft to jot down main or key subtopic that we should review from Parts A-D. We then had the rest of the block to ensure all of Parts A-D are finished, and to review for the test tomorrow. In block 2 we had French, block 3 LA, and block 4 FAAS today. Homework and Reminders: The Unit 1 science test is tomorrow! Please ensure Parts A-D are complete and spend some time reviewing tonight so you feel confident on the test tomorrow. Reminders: Grade 8 Hoodie order are due soon (Click Here). This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving Long weekend! 

Friday, Oct 9th: Today we had math and science in block 1. Beginning with math, we continued to learn about/review addition of multi-digit whole numbers. Last Friday, we reviewed the key strategies for adding (finding the sum). This included making sure place values and the decimal point are lined up, adding zeros to help square off the stack, and using our reasoning skills to see if our answer makes sense. Mr. Menzies reviewed this with an examples and we also watched a Math with Mr. J video that walked us through several other examples. We then had about 15 minutes to continue practicing and applying addition in Parts A-1 and A-2. After this, we switched to science. On Tuesday we designed an experiment using the scientific method and went to the gym to conduct the experiment by testing two paper airplanes. We collected data by measuring the distance each plane flew on several flights and calculated the average or mean. Today, Mr. Menzies walked us through each step in Part D-2 and we discussed in relation to what we did yesterday in the gym. He explained what a procedure and conclusion are and why we need to communicate each part of our experiment clearly. We also went over the follow up analysis questions where we evaluated the quality of your experiment and thought critically about any flaws that it may have had. We had the rest of the block to work on Part D-1 and D-2. Finally, Mr. Menzies reminded us that we have the Unit 1 science test next Wednesday, Oct 14th on Parts A-D. On Tuesday next week, we will be doing some review and putting finishing touches on this Unit. At lunchtime today, the Unit 1 math test re-test was offered for any students who wanted to try again. Homework and Reminders:  Please spend some time looking over Parts A-D in science as we have a test next Wednesday, Oct 14th. On Tuesday we will have some time for review as well. Reminders: This weekend is the Thanksgiving Long Weekend and there is no school on Monday. This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Have an amazing Thanksgiving Long weekend! 

Thursday, Oct 8th: Today we did both math and science in block 1. Beginning with math, we continued to practice addition of multi-digit whole and decimal numbers. Mr. Menzies reviewed the key systems and strategies for adding, regrouping, and evaluating our answers and we had about 20 minutes to continuing practicing addion in Part A-1. Mr. Menzies also handed out Part A-2: Addition Applications, however, we will not look at this until tomorrow. We then switched to science and continued to work through Part D: The Scientific Method. Today we reviewed our paper airplane experiments and also watched the second part of the Mark Rober shark experiment. We also discussed what new questions emerge as well as the flaws that can impact the results of an experiment. We generally finished most of Part D-1 and tomorrow we will have time to wrap up Part D-2. Homework and Reminders: Please spend soem time reviewing Parts A-D in science. We will have time in class to put finishing touches on this Unit and the Unit 1 test is next Wednesday. Reminders: Math extra help and Unit 1 math retest is tomorrow, Friday Oct 9th. The Unit 1 Science test is Wednesday Oct 14th next week. This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Wednesday, Oct 7th: Today we did both math and science in block 1. Beginning with math, today we started Unit 2: Number Operation Systems. Mr. Menzies walked us through a slideshow, and we learned the history of the operation symbols and why they are used, some terms related to addition "sum," and how we set up and using a system for adding numbers. Of note, is the decimal alignment and regrouping as we add from right to left, and also squaring this off with 0's to keep places aligned. Student received Part A-1: Addition & Sums today and we had about 15 minutes to practice adding multi-digit whole and decimal numbers. Finally, we switch to science for the last 15 minutes of class and revisited our paper airplane experiments from yesterday. Here Mr. Menzies showed us how to calculate the average or all flights for each of our planes. Using addition, we added up all flight distances and divided by the number of flights. This is all we had time for today and we will continue with addition in math and have time to wrap up Part D and Unit 1 science tomorrow and Friday. Homework and Reminders: Please spend some time reviewing Parts A-D tonight (10-15 mins) in science as we have the Unit 1 science test next week (tentatively on Wednesday). Also, if you feel like you could use some more practice for adding multi-digit numbers, this could be an option too. Reminders: Math extra help and Unit 1 math retest on Friday Oct 9th. This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Tuesday, Oct 6th: Today we had an adjusted schedule, so we had science in blocks 1 and 3. In block 1, we continued with Part D: The Scientific Method. Yesterday we learned what this is and why it is important for testing theories and acquiring evidence about the world. We also watched a Mark Rober video that demonstrates the scientific method by testing how attracted sharks are to blood. Today we jumped right into Part D-2. This is the activity where we learn to apply the scientific method. Mr. Menzies walked us through the Part D-1 template that guides us through designing an experiment. Our experiment key question for this assignment s "what specific enhancement will make the standard Dart paper airplane fly further." Together, Mr. Mr. Menzies walked the class through establishing the purpose/problem/or question, and how to establish an "if...  then..." hypothesis." Working in pairs, we had to decide what specific enhancement we thought would help the Dart paper airplane fly further and develop a clear hypothesis. After this, Mr. Menzies explained the types of variables involved in our experiment including the "control," "independent variable," "dependent variable," and "constants." We also learned what these are yesterday when we watched the Mark Rober experiment and discussed. After this, we learned how to fold a "standard Dart" paper airplane and about the launch mechanism we will use to keep the launch constant in our experiment. Students will be using a desk and elastic band mechanism to consistently launch airplanes when testing. We then had the rest of the block to build our prototypes, practice launching and refining them, and clearly setting up our experiments in preparations for testing in the gym in block 3. During advisory, Mr. Menzies took us to the gym to show us how to set up our testing station. He showed us how to secure the launch station and measure the meter increment distances along the gym floor while we ate our lunch. For the last 10 minutes of advisory, we had time to set up our launch stations and map out our measuring with tape, ready for testing in block 3. In block 3, we had the first 10 minutes to ensure we were prepared or testing and that our experiment we clearly designed, including identifying variables and crafting quality test planes. We then had the rest of the block to fly our planes many times to collect data and observations for the controls plane and for our independent variable plane. Finally, we had time to clean up our data and work on establishing a clear procedure for how to conduct this experiment and clean up. Late this week, we will analyze our data and observations, think about some analysis and reflection questions, and write a conclusion to finish Part D. At the end of the week, we will have completed Unit 1 in science. There will be a test next week to officially wrap this first unit up (specific date TBA soon). Finally, we received our Unit 1 math test back today along with a self-evaluation and reflection. Mr. Menzies asked us to take these home to show our parents, get signed, and being back to school ASAP.  Homework and Reminders:  Please ensue Parts A-C are complete in science as this is the final week for Unit 1. There will be a Unit 1 science test next week (TBA). Reminders: Math extra help and Unit 1 math retest on Friday Oct 9th. This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Monday, Oct 5th: Today we started the week with science. In block 1, Mr. Menzies introduced Part D: The Scientific Method. First, he explained what this is and the key steps in conducting an experiment. We watched a few video clips explaining how this is the core methodology in science for answering questions and testing theories. Mr. Menzies walked us through the key parts, and we also looked at an example experiment to identify the key parts of an experiment. We also learned about variables in and experiment including the control, independent variable, dependent variable, and constants. Finally, we watched a Mark Rober video that uses the scientific method to test how attracted sharks are to blood. We will continue to learn more about this tomorrow and move on to the next part of Part C. Mr. Menzies asked us to finish the graphing part from Part B tonight if we have not already furnished it from Friday.  During advisory Mr. Menzies gave us a peak of our marks for the Unit 1 test. He told us that we will receive these tomorrow and have time to complete a self-evaluation and reflection. Homework and Reminders: Please makes sure Part B from science in generally complete from last Friday. Reminders: Today we saw our Unit 1 math test and tomorrow we will get it back to take home. Mr. Menzies reminded us of that math extra help will begin to be offered next Friday morning at 8:15AM, and that there will be a re-test opportunity next Friday at lunchtime for students who want to try again and bump up their mark (Friday Oct 9th). This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Hope everyone had a great weekend! 

Friday, Oct 2nd: Today we did science in block 1. Yesterday, we started Part C: Using Lab Equipment & Collecting and Analysing Data. Mr. Menzies showed us an orientation for using common lab equipment to measure mass, volume, length, and temperature and we reviewed which metric/SI units to use for these measurements, and we did a few preliminary questions in Part C to practice these skills. Today, we used lab equipment to practice measuring int the science lab and collecting accurate and/or precise observations and data. Students worked in pairs to use graduated cylinders, triple beam balances, thermometers, beakers, and meter sticks/rulers to complete several measuring tasks for common and provided items in our classroom. After this, we also learned about the different types of common graphs that are used to represent data, including bar, line, and circle/pie graphs, ones we are familiar with from previous grades. We also had the opportunity to create a survey for our class and collect this data to present on a graph as well and review how to do this. We had the whole block to work on this and reconnect with common measuring techniques to obtain quantitative data, units of measure, and how this can be presented in graphical format. In block 2 we had LA, in block 3 we had French, and in block 4 we had FAAS today. Homework and Reminders: Please make sure Part B from science if fully finished as we have moved on to the next part in science. Next week we will learn about the scientific method and conduct our own experiment in the gym. Reminders: Yesterday, we wrote our Unit 1 math test. Mr. Menzies reminded us that these will be marked and returned early next week, that math extra help will begin to be offered next Friday morning at 8:15AM, and that there will be a re-test opportunity next Friday at lunchtime for students who want to try again and bump up their mark. This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Have a wonderful weekend! 

Thursday, Oct 1st: Today we wrote our math test for Unit 1: Number System, a largely review unit of skills and concepts from previous years. Mr. Menzies gave some tips for writing tests and also reminded us that there will be math extra help and a re-test opportunity offered next week if needed. We had the whole block to write the test if needed and early finishers could continue to work on Part B: Scientific Measurement from science. Thus concludes our first unit for math this year. Next, we will move onto Unit 2: Number Operation Systems. In block 3, we did science. First, we finished Part B and watched a video on common equipment used in the science lab and what each is used for, wrapping up Part B. Today's focus was on Part C: Using Science Lab Equipment and Collecting and Analyzing Data. Mr. Menzies walked us through how to use basic science equipment (graduated cylinder, triple beam balance etc...) and went over the difference between mass and volume. We also received Part C and did some intro questions on reading a meniscus and thermometer to measure. Mr. Menzies showed us the equipment we will be using tomorrow and gave a little preview as we will be using equipment to measure and collect data of various sorts. We will also be doing some review of how to present data in different graphs. Homework and Reminders: No specific homework tonight for math. In science working on Part B: Scientific Measurement for 10 minutes is recommended. Reminders: This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here).   

Tuesday, Sept 29th: Today we did mainly math in block 1 but had the option to work on science towards the end of the block too. Mr. Menzies began with review of exponents and scientific notation, and we went through several examples together. He also discussed the Unit 1 test that will be on Thursday this week and reminded us that it is on Parts A-E from Unit 1. We then had time to continue practicing scientific notation (Part E) or to review previous topics in Unit 1 as we wrap up this unit on Thursday with the test. Mr. Menzies recommended creating a one-page study sheet to help up organize and review the main skills/topics from this mainly review unit including place value, rounding/comparing/ordering, exponents, and scientific notation. Mr. Menzies was also available to help and clarify anything we were not sure of from unit one today. Towards the last 15 minutes of class, we had the option to work on Part B: Scientific Measurement, the latest science assignment we are currently working on. Homework and Reminders: The Unit 1 Math test is on Thursday, Oct 1st. Please spend some time reviewing and practicing the skills outlined in Parts A-E. Mr. Menzies announced that Math extra help will be offered Thursday morning at 8:15AM in his classroom ahead of the test for any students who want some extra review or help. Also, the Part A science safety assignment was due last Monday and is now late. If you have not completed and handed this in, please do so ASAP. Reminders: Tomorrow, Wed Sept 30th, is a STAT holiday and no school. This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Monday, Sept 28th: Today we did math and science in block 1. Beginning with math, we began with review of power and exponents (Part D). Mr. Menzies went over several examples on the board and reviewed the key ideas. He then asked us to do a sampling of 5 questions in Part D to refresh our memories. After this, we began Part E: Scientific Notation. Mr. Menzies explained that in science we sometimes work with very large and very small numbers with lots and lots of zeros. Because of this, we need a way to better package these numbers for comparing, calculating, and communicating these numbers. We walked us through how to convert number into scientific notation and back and we did some examples together. We also watched a short video explaining why and how scientific notation is used and how exponents and place value are involved. After this, we received Part E: Scientific Notation practice package and had time to work on this skill. We will continue with this tomorrow as well as having some time to review as Mr. Menzies announced today that the Unit 1 Math test will be on Thursday this week. After this, we had about 10 more minutes to complete Part B: Scientific Measurement, an assignment we started last Thursday. Homework and Reminders: Science safety assignment were due today. Please make sure it is in ASAP if you were not able to meet the deadline. This Thursday we have our first math test of the year for Unit 1. Spending soe time reviewing Parts A-E would be helpful ahead of the test. Reminders: Orange Shirt Day is tomorrow at school, and Wednesday is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (STAT Holiday - No School). This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! 

Thursday, Sept 24th: Today we did both math and science in block 1. Beginning with math, today we learned about Part D: Powers/Exponents. Mr. Menzies walked us through how to say exponential numbers, how they represent repeated multiplication patterns such as cell division, what exponential, expanded, and standard format is. We received the notes and practice package for this topic and had about half the class to work on developing our understanding of exponents. This topic will serve us well when we do our first grade 8 unit later in term 1. For the second half of block 1, Mr. Menzies asked us to work on our Part A: Science Safety assignment one last time. This assignment is due on Monday next week. In block 3 we did science and moved on to Part B: Scientific Measurement. Today we began by watching part of Bill Nye: Measurement. Students received the handout with several sections to it including questions for the Bill Nye video, and a detailed overview of Imperial (US Customary) and Metric units. Mr. Menzies walked us through an overview of how these units of measure differ and the main units for measuring mass, volume, length, and other measurable characteristics in science. and we watched a few other short video clips that explain units of measure, the history of the metric system, and how it was developed. We also learned that in North America we need to know both as we often use US Customary for certain measurements and in construction. After this, we began Part B and defined the common units of measure: length, area, mass, volume, temperature etc... We just had time to get this lesson started today, but we will finish it on Monday next week. In block 4, we participated in the annual Terry Fox run and fundraiser! Earlier in the day, during advisory Mr. Menzies showed us several videos about Terry's legacy and the foundation he started, and we discussed. Students braved harrowing conditions of 17 degrees Celsius, very light rain, and 0km/hr head winds and walked/ran for almost eternity (40mins) as we honored Terry Fox, the leadership he showed, and the huge impact his has had on battling cancer since 1980. Homework and Reminders: Your science safety brochures/songs are due on Monday, and we have no more time in class to work on this assignment. Please put finishing touches on this weekend if you have not yet finished it. Reminders: Next week is Orange Shirt Day on Tuesday and Wednesday it is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.  A reminder that tomorrow is a Pro-D Day and students have the day off. This year's parent/teacher meeting sign up is now live to book you meeting time (linked above in pink). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Happy Friday tomorrow and have a great weekend! 

Wednesday, Sept 23rd: Today was a short day / early dismissal for the ROMS Open House. In block 1 we did both math and science. Beginning with math, Mr. Menzies asked us to do a sampling of 5 questions from Part C: Rounding, Comparing and Ordering just to refresh our memory of what we did yesterday. When finished, we had the rest of the block to work on our science safety brochures/songs. In block 2 we had LA, in block 3 we had FAAS, and in block 4 we had PHE. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 15 more minutes on your Part A science assignment: science safety brochure or song if you have not already finished it. The due date is Monday, Sept 28th next week. A reminder that it is our Open House/Meet the Teacher Night later this afternoon/evening (5-7pm). Tomorrow (Thursday) is the annual Terry Fox Run and fundraiser so please wear red and white and bring a toonie ($2) for Terry (optional)! Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Tuesday, Sept 22nd: Today we did mainly math in block 1 and moved on to Part C: Rounding, Comparing, and Ordering Numbers. Mr. Menzies walked us through the Part C slideshow and went through tips and strategies for these concepts. We also did several examples together and discussed the difference between accuracy and precision as they pertain to the practicality of rounding. After this, we had the rest of the block to revisit these essential math skills and work on Part C. Mr. Menzies also handed out notes for these topics and reminded us that all slideshows, videos, notes, practice packages and answer keys are available in the Google classroom if needed. Students who reviewed the skills and concepts in the Part C practice package and felt confident and solid on these skills, had the opportunity to switch to science and work on their brochures/songs today as well. At the end of the block, we were called down for school photos before heading off to French for block 2. In block 3 we had LA with Ms. Cottier and in block 4 we had FAAS today. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10-15 minutes working on your Part A science safety assignment tonight if you have not already finished this. We will be moving on to Part B soon! Reminder that tomorrow is an early dismissal day (2:08PM) as it is our Open House/Meet the Teacher Night later in the afternoon/evening (5-7pm). Busses will adjust for this schedule. Thursday is the annual Terry Fox Run and fundraiser so please wear red and white and bring a toonie ($2) for Terry (optional)!  Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Monday, Sept 21st: Today we began this short the week by going over several items of note. Tomorrow, Tuesday, is school photo day. Wednesday is an early dismissal day for our Open House / Meet the Teacher Night (5pm-7pm). On Thursday it is the annual Terry Fox Run and fundraiser. After this, Mr. Menzies walked us through the criteria for our science safety brochure/song assignment that we started last week. Students have the choice to work with a partner and write the lyrics for a song/rap or create a brochure to demonstrate their understanding of the science classroom safety guidelines and chemical safety symbols. Today we had nearly the whole block to work on this assignment. While Mr. Menzies hasn't announced a due date just yet, he asked us to continue to work on this assignment tonight for homework for 10-15 minutes as we will be moving on to Part B soon. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10-15 more minutes continuing to develop your science safety brochure or song tonight. A reminder that tomorrow is school photo day, Wednesday is early dismissal, and Thursday is the annual Terry Fox run. Finally, Friday is a Pro-D Day.  Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Hope everyone had an excellent weekend!  

Friday, Sept 18th: Today we had math and science in block 1. Mr. Menzies reminded us that we had started several items this week in both subjects: Math Parts A & B, and Science Part A. In math, our focus this week was on reviewing whole and decimal place value. In science, yesterday Mr. Menzies introduced our first assignment on science lab and chemical safety with the choice of making a brochure/pamphlet or write the lyrics for a song/rap to demonstrate our understanding of science lab/classroom safety guidelines and chemical safety. Today we had all of block 1 to choose which to focus on. If any topic in math were still shaky students could do more practice and get help if needed, or we could focus on working on Part A science assignment. We had the whole block to work on these things to wrap the week up. Mr. Menzies did ask us to spend 15 minute this weekend continuing to develop either our brochure/pamphlet or song (depending on our choice). We will have a bit more time on Monday, but we need to move this assignment along to stay on schedule. In block 2 we had LA, block 3, French, and block 4 FAAS today. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 15 more minutes on Part A science assignment. All materials you need for this assignment, including Mr. Menzies slideshow are available in the google classroom. Next week, we have school photo day on Tuesday, the ROMS Open House/Meet the Teacher night on Wednesday and the annual Terry Fox run and fundraiser is on Thursday. Friday is a non-instructional day and there is no school for students. Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework and ensure you have all school supplies to support your success at this point. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). Have a wonderful weekend! 

Thursday, Sept 17th: Today we started the day with math. Earlier this week, we began Unit 1 math with Part A: Whole Number Place Value and learned about our base 10 number system. This included how to read number properly, identify place and value, and how to express numbers in standard, expanded, and written formats. Today, we moved on to Part B: Decimal Place Value. Mr. Menzies began by explaining what the decimal represents and went through how to say the first 8-10 decimals places. He also emphasized and demonstrated the relationship of decimals to fractions and how being able to say a decimal number correctly is important in converting it to fraction format. We learned that just as whole numbers can be broken into parts, decimal numbers can also be expressed in expanded format and revisited representing and identifying decimal numbers on a number line. Mr. Menzies walked us through a slideshow, we went over several examples together, and we watched part of a Math Antics video to help explain decimal numbers. Students received both the Part B: Decimal Place Value practice booklet and notes today and we had the rest of block 1 to work on reestablishing our understanding of decimal numbers. Mr. Menzies reminded us to verify/check our answers periodically as we worked, to ask to clarification or help if we weren't sure of a question/concept, and to make sure we have a solid understanding of the topics covered in Part B. Spending 10-15 more minutes on this tonight if we feel shaky at all with these topics. In block 2 we had LA with Ms. Cottier and in block 3, we did science. Today we began our first unit in Science: Unit 1: Science Skills. We learned about safety in the science lab as well as chemical safety at school and at home. Mr. Menzies walked us through Part A slideshow and 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 understanding: 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 1 tomorrow. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10-15 more minutes working on Part B from math to make sure you have a solid understanding. We will have a little more time tomorrow to work on this but will be moving on to Part C on Monday. Last Monday, we received our start of the year school form package to take home, show parents, fill out and sign, and return to school ASAP if you have not done so already. This included a PHE Course Outline that we went over yesterday in our first day of PE: ROMS PHE Course Outline (Click Here). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Wednesday, Sept 16th: Today we did Math in block 1. We began by reviewing the key concepts form Part A: Place Value Wole Numbers. Mr. Menzies had us working in groups and use whiteboards to answer a few key questions related to this topic. After this, we had about 15 more minutes to do further review in our Part A practice booklets to confirm our understanding of this topic. He advised us to spend 10-15 more minutes tonight continuing to practice if we don't feel totally solid on this review topic. After this, we switched to science and continued with our introduction to this course. Today we learned what science is and what is aims to do, how it helps us answer questions using the scientific method. Mr. Menzies then showed us a map of science and how there are many different sub disciplines that are interlaced in various ways. We learned about the main 3 types of science: Physical Science (Phys, Chem), Life Science (Bio etc..), and Social Science (Psych, Sociology tec...). Next science class we will begin our first unit: Unit 1: Science Skills and also our first assignment. Homework and Reminders:  Please spend 10-15 more minutes on Part A from math if you don't feel like you have a clearly solid grasp. On Monday, we received our start of the year school form package to take home, show parents, fill out and sign, and return to school ASAP if you have not done so already. This included a PHE Course Outline that we went over yesterday in our first day of PE: ROMS PHE Course Outline (Click Here). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Tuesday, Sept 15th: Today in block 1 Mr. Menzies debuted science. He began by getting us to think about what the Universe is, what it is made up of, and how it came to be, and 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. 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 continue to get Science up and running later this week. In block 3, we were with Ms. Cottier for LA and in block 4 we had FAAS. Homework and Reminders: Yesterday we received our start of the year school form package to take home, show parents, fill out and sign, and return to school ASAP. This included a PHE Course Outline that we went over yesterday in our first day of PE: ROMS PHE Course Outline (Click Here). Please continue to reestablish home routines such as bedtime and homework. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). 

Monday, Sept 14th: Today we began our first full week of school. In homeroom, Mr. Menzies 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. Dennett 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. Returning from the assembly, we had time to go over the weekly slideshow. This included reminders and a cord of the week of which we explored. Our word of the week this week is "Character" and we went over definitions, anecdotes, and watched a video clip on this. In block 2, we did math and started our first unit: Unit 1: Number System. Mr. Menzies walked us through a slideshow, and we watched few video clips to help us start. Today's focus was on Part A: Whole Number Place Value. Mr. Menzies went through several examples, and we learned about the history of the base 10 number system, how it works, and how we can use it to represent numbers big and small. We also learned about numbers can be represented in 3 formats: standard, expanded, and word formats, and that multiplying by 10 moves a decimal to the right one place and dividing moves a decimal left on a number. When handing out the Part A notes and practice package, Mr. Menzies explained that he does not expect us to do all of the questions on each page. However, he does encourage to do enough questions to reach a solid understanding of these review skills we will be covering if the first 3 units of the year. Students reviewed a notes and practice package today for Part A that reviews the key skills and concepts related to whole number place value and we had time to work on reacquainting ourselves with this topic. We had about 30 minutes to work on this and shake the dust off/ / clarify our understanding of whole number place value. Mr. Menzies encouraged us to continue working for 10 more minutes tonight to ensure we have a solid understanding of these concepts. In block 3 we were with Ms. Cottier. In block 4, we started PHE in our classroom after getting changed. Mr. Menzies handed out our school forms package and had us also staple the PHE course outline to it to take home and deliver to our parents. Mr. Menzies explained the forms and how it is important to get these done as soon as possible. After this, he discussed the PHE course outline and walked us through a slideshow on the key parts including key curricular ideas, skill development focus, and learning behavior expectations. He also outlined how students will be evaluated and how we should bring a parent note if we cannot fully participate in PE due to illness or injury. Finally, we went outside and began out Ultimate unit. Students learned key techniques for throwing a backhand and some introductory rules for play for the last 40 minutes of the block. Homework and Reminders: Please spend 10 more minutes looking at and reviewing Part A from math from today's class to ensure you have a solid understanding. School forms were sent home today to deliver to parents, get signed/filled out, and brought back to school. Please do so ASAP! Make sure you have all your school supplied acquired and organized as we have officially started academics. Also have begun reestablishing home routines such as bedtime and homework. A reminder that all handouts, resources, and materials in math and science can be easily accessed through out Google Classroom (Click Here). I hope everyone had an excellent weekend!  

Friday, Sept 11th: Today, our first Friday of the school year, we had the block to review key information from the week and wrap up some beginning of the year activities we started this week. Mr. Menzies went over our schedule, school supplies, and provided a to-do list for the block of things to work on. We finished our "All About Me" personal survey to help Mr. Menzies get to know us, our intro to math 8 survey, and also finish our personal surfboards. Early finishers worked on a puzzle booklet Mr. Menzies had on offer. Overall, we used block 1 to wrap up the first week and prepare for our first full week of school. Next week, we will officially get our math, science and PE programs going. In block 2 we were with Ms. Cottier, in block 3 we had our first French class with Ms. Leet, and in block 4 we had our first FAAS class. Finally, due to a printing issue in the office, the school form package  will be handed out next week to take home, show parents, fill out and sign, 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. Dennett and Mrs. Warren and also get Math, Science, and PHE up and running! Homework and Reminders:  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 8-6 this week and I look forward to the year ahead! Have an amazing first weekend of the school year!

Thursday, Sept 10th: Today we had our first full day following our weekly schedule (Click Here). In block 1, we were with Mr. Menzies and after reviewing some reminders from the previous days, we focused on strategies for having a successful Grade 8 year, including organization, attitude, kindness, patience, and work ethic. Mr. Menzies walked us through a slideshow on this topic, discussed, and we looked at some inspirational quotes about an effective, growth mindset approach to learning and watched a video clip. In block 2, we were with Ms. Cottier for the first time, learned about her and her classroom, and did some introductory activities. During Advisory / lunch, we looked over the Saanich Schools student code of conduct and discussed, drawing comparisons to the rights and responsibilities of our class we devised together yesterday. Finally, we also made sure we have our locker all set up with a timetable taped on the inside door, organizing and preparing our binders and school supplies, and making sure we have completed a few other housekeeping tasks. 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 his 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 (Click Here) to help Mr. Menzies understand where our skills and confidence is 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. We had the rest of the block work ont he various activities we have started so far. Homework and Reminders: Please bring the school supplies you have collected so far to school and aim to have everything you need by Monday next week. School forms for parents to sign will be handed out tomorrow (Friday) to be taken home, filled out, and returned to school. Tomorrow we continue our regular schedule, transitioning between classrooms (8-6 Schedule - Click Here) and subjects. Tomorrow, we will be with Ms. Leet for the first time and we have our first block of FAAS as well.

Wednesday, September 9th: Today we continued to build our new class community, go over details for the year, and get to know Mr. Menzies. Throughout the morning Mr. Menzies reviewed procedures, routines, and policies, and oriented us in our new classroom. We also did a few ice breaker/get to know each other games and activities, and generally became acquainted and organized to get the year going. We then learned about the expectations of Division 8-6 and had the opportunity to contribute/offer ideas and we devised a list of rights and responsibilities for Div 8-6. Later in the day, we did a team geography challenge and a creative activity to express our interests and identity by creating our own personalized surfboard designs. We also worked on completing an accompanying questionnaire to tell Mr. Menzies and Ms. Cottier about ourselves today. We will have more time to polish these off tomorrow and Friday. Finally, we were assigned our lockers today and could begin using it as the main place to store our backpacks and school materials. Homework and Reminders: Please bring the school supplies you have collected so far to school and aim to have everything you need by Monday next week. School forms for parents to sign will be handed out tomorrow to be taken home, filled out, and returned to school. Tomorrow we will begin our regular schedule, transitioning between classrooms (8-6 Schedule - Click Here). Tomorrow, we will be with Ms. Cottier for the first time and we have our first block of PE as well. Friday we  will have our first FAAS block of the school year. Introductory notice for parents to read (Click Here) as well as a more specific school supplies list (Click Here)

Tuesday, September 8th: The 2026/2027 school year and our final year at ROMS officially began today! Today we found out who our Grade 8 teachers will be this year as well as who is in our Grade 8 homeroom class. Mr. Menzies introduced us to our homeroom classroom and showed us an introductory slideshow so we know the basics for the coming year. We also did some icebreaker / community-building activities to get to know each other. Mr. Menzies also sent home an introductory notice for parents to read (Click Here) as well as a more specific school supplies list (Click Here). We will be continuing to become familiar and comfortable in our new class and do some fun activities throughout a homeroom-based day. Homework and Reminders: Tomorrow is a home room based day and students are asked to bring their lunch, backpack, and any school supplies that they have acquired so far. Students will get assigned their lockers so please bring a school-approved lock (available for purchase in the school office) and the school supplies you have collected. We will continue an orientation tomorrow, get to know each other with some fun activities, and school forms will be handed out and sent home soon. It was great to meet the new Division 8-6 and begin to get to know our class community today!