Post date: Feb 12, 2011 5:43:16 AM
Well, that week sure went by fast, but we got a good amount of work done and participated in some exciting events. First, and most importantly, I want to thank the students for respecting and responding to the concerns I raised (and took action upon) last week regarding responsibility, productivity, and accountability. Most of you are working harder, with greater focus, and an increased level of autonomy -- even as the work is getting slightly more demanding and abundant.
Recap of English:
The speeches so far have been, as assigned, evocative. You have chosen topics and orators that hit a responsive chord when originally delivered, and you are doing them justice with your audience. Next week I'll transfer them from FlipCam to CD and give you a copy to review and assess. I'm very impressed so far and hope that next week's presenters will raise the bar even higher.
This week I went over the structure of a formula-style response to a comprehension question (statement, fact, commentary) and, although it is not the most invigorating style of writing in which to engage, it has its value. Consider it just another tool in your ever-growing literary toolbox. This week, during book clubs, the students were able to start on their choice of SteinBook projects (one vocabulary assignment and one essay assignment). Those will be due before vacation for full credit or after vacation for reduced credit.
The grammar grind continues, as we do Daily Edits and more grammar/mechanics exercises. The parents and I have been correcting the "CAPS packet" during the week and it looks like most of you are doing very well. You will get them back from me on Monday.
The best part of the week, for me at least, was watching "The 39 Steps" play with you. The pace, complexity, and hilarity of the play was impressive, but I was also very impressed by your level of engagement, mature behavior, and appreciation of the acting itself. Way to go y'all.
Recap of Science:
Two great science events punctuated the week. First, the Energy Fair done by PG&E, and second, the "Plants in Space" presentation done by DCS graduates. The CEO of PG&E and his entourage were very impressed by the atmosphere at our school, more specifically, the positive demeanor of the students in general as well as the breadth and depth of their knowledge. The "Bright Ideas" grant that they awarded to us will yield a great return on their investment as we continue to learn more about energy use, energy conservation, and the various forms of alternative energy. Just as the youth of this country lead the anti-smoking and pro-recycling revolutions of previous generations, I believe that that some of you will likely lead the power-production-and-distribution revolution of the next few decades.
Back in class the students completed test corrections (if necessary) in order to regain a perfect score on the chapter 11 test. Then we started our investigation into the purpose, structure, and details of the Periodic Table by building a large-scale table that covered about 1/3 of the room and took quite a bit of class cooperation to organize. The students also began picking the element of their choice and sketching the design of a T-shirt or poster. The annual element fashion show, hosted by Mrs. Stuart in early March, will surely be an entertaining and informative event. Although we will spend only a few more days on individual element exploration, the knowledge gained will be utilized throughout the chemistry topics for the rest of the year (and hopefully many to come).
Coupla Other Things:
The Eighth Grade Team has decided to use the Friday core sessions in March for "Interest-Based Mini Courses" around three possible overarching themes: Current Events and Controversy, Media and Entertainment, and Health and Nutrition. Students learned about each today and then (some) entered their choices on an online form.
Middle School Alley Improvement Projects: I'd like to organize some landscaping projects in the alley during the next few months. I've created a page on my site describing two. Please check it out and let me know if you would like to participate, donate, and/or celebrate. :)
Until next time,
Chris