Post date: Dec 05, 2016 5:55:40 AM
Hello Room 25.
Recap of the Week
We had a good week and the class environment feels good; most of the kids seem to be learning lots, and more are really stepping into action and taking more personal responsibility.
Science: Most of our homeroom time has been spent winding up the forces/motion unit. Most nights the kids are to read a section in the book (3 to 6 pages) and then during class we do discussions, activities, and/or a comprehension quiz. This seems to be working and kids are asking good questions and keeping up with the pace. To allow all this science time commitment, I have compressed the vocabulary and current events times for a while.
Mid-Year Investigations: I explained this idea on Monday and was very impressed at (but not surprised by) how well it was received. As with many things, there is a wide variation regarding how "into it" the kids are. The essence, though, is clear and ideas are surfacing during each work session. I'll be asking the kids to create a page on their websites that will house their information and make the journey and learnings most visible.
Book Clubs: The four book club parents who meet with groups of kids each week have worked hard to get them to read carefully, understand complexity and nuance, and then engage them in peer-to-peer discussions. It is a challenge I know, but the investment has paid off at times and I've observed some good deep discussions during their sessions so far. Amy will be in class three days this week to get things rolling in the "coming of age" stories.
Writing Coaches: The five writing coaches have been working 1:1 with almost every student and the kids seem to be participating/investing in the process quite well. As I've read kids' essays it is very apparent that they are improving! Since ELA is not my strength I appreciate that these parents have been willing to give their time and talents to the class.
Just a reminder to check the nightly assignments page PowerSchool with your kid once in a while if necessary. Although the new report card will show things more important than grades, it is best if there are no surprises in that area.
December 6: 8th Grade to The Exploratorium
December 16: Early dismissal & break starts
December 16 to January 8: Winter break
January 16 (Monday): No School, MLK day
January 25 (Wednesday): 8th Grade Panoramic Photo
February 3 (Friday): Last day of first semester selectives
February 20-24: No School