Ryan Allen & Whitney Simmons

MYP Health and Physical Education
ryan.allen@uniondayschool.com & whitney.simmons@uniondayschool.com

Feb 16 - Feb 20

ATHLETICS: SPRING SPORTS BEGIN PRACTICE NEXT WEEK! GAMES START IN MARCH!

HEALTH:

6TH - We will begin our unit on Relationships and Interpersonal Communication, Learning how to interact when faced with dealing in a variety of conflict, bullying, healthy situations and responsible decisions.

7TH - We will begin our unit on Relationships and Interpersonal Communication, Learning how to interact when faced with dealing in a variety of conflict, bullying, healthy situations and responsible decisions.

8TH - We will begin our unit on Relationships and Interpersonal Communication, Learning how to interact when faced with dealing in a variety of conflict, bullying, healthy situations and responsible decisions.

9TH - We will begin our unit on Relationships and Interpersonal Communication, Learning how to interact when faced with dealing in a variety of conflict, bullying, healthy situations and responsible decisions.

PE:

**PE Classes do NOT go outside if the temperature is 35 degrees or below**

6TH - We will start our unit on Team Field Sports (Soccer and Kickball)

7TH - We will start our unit on Team Field Sports (Soccer and Kickball)

8TH - We will start our unit on Team Field Sports (Soccer and Kickball)

9TH - We are continuing the theme of 9th Grade PE by playing large Team Sports within our class.

Obrian Espejo

MYP Spanish 6th, 7th
obrian.espejo@uniondayschool.com

Saludos a todas las familias.

Warm greetings to everyone.

This week we will continue working on the final projects for Quarter 3 (Q3).

6th Grade:
Students will work on their final projects focused on the culture of a country of their choice. They will research 10 important topics about the country.
First, they will create a document or Google Slides presentation with the information they researched. Then, they will create a poster to present in front of the class.
This activity will receive two grades.

If students would like to earn extra credit (optional), they may perform the traditional dance of the country or bring a typical candy or food from that country.

7th Grade:
Students will create a video project in which each group will present their country and share 20 facts about it. It is very important that students practice their pronunciation.
They will receive two grades for this project: A document with the 20 facts and the video created by their group

If students would like to earn extra credit (optional), they may perform the traditional dance of the country or bring a typical candy or food from that country.

With this activity, we will complete our unit on culture and nationalities.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Mr. Espejo

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

I wish you all a great weekend.

Deseo que tengan un excelente fin de semana.

Chante Evans

Science 6th and 7th Grades
chante.evans@uniondayschool.com

Greetings Parents,

Last week 6th and 7th grade Science newsletter contained information that wasn't correct. The students are not moving on to the unit on human body systems just yet.

For the week of March 9-14, 2026 sixth grade students will continue their unit on the solar system. Ask your learner to share his/her trading cards with you. Students have worked really hard to understand the composition of the Solar System while comparing Earth to other planets. Seventh grade students did move on to a new unit. They are working on cells. Students begin researching cell theory and the contributions to science by various theorist. Ask your learner to tell you about his/her cell theory research.

As we move through the new unit (7th) and finish the current unit (6th), please encourage your learner to adhere to deadlines, ask questions when there is confusion, and check Toddle or Infinite Campus for assignments.

Thank you for your continued support.

Best,

Chante Evans

Eddy Mkwambe

MYP Math 7th, Math 8th, Math 1 w Foundations, Math 2
eddy.mkwambe@uniondayschool.com March 2 - 6

7th Grade Math – Unit on Angles and Lines

Students are working on identifying and analyzing angle relationships formed by intersecting lines and parallel lines. They are learning to classify, measure, and solve problems involving complementary, supplementary, vertical, and adjacent angles. Students are also applying algebraic reasoning to find missing angle measures and justify their solutions.

This unit strengthens students’ understanding of geometric relationships and prepares them for more advanced work with equations and geometric reasoning.

NC Math Standards: 7.G.5, 7.EE.3

7th Grade Math Advanced – Unit on Angles and Lines

Students will start working on identifying and analyzing angle relationships formed by intersecting lines and parallel lines. They are learning to classify, measure, and solve problems involving complementary, supplementary, vertical, and adjacent angles. Students are also applying algebraic reasoning to find missing angle measures and justify their solutions.

This unit strengthens students’ understanding of geometric relationships and prepares them for more advanced work with equations and geometric reasoning.

NC Math Standards: 7.G.5, 7.EE.3

8th Grade Math – Unit on Lines and Linear Equations

Section 2: Understanding Slope-Intercept Form
Section 3: Writing Linear Equations

Students are learning how to analyze and write linear equations that represent real-world situations. In Section 2, students focus on understanding slope-intercept form:

They are identifying the slope (rate of change) and the y-intercept (starting value) and interpreting what these values mean in context.

In Section 3, students practice writing linear equations from graphs, tables, and real-world scenarios. They are developing the ability to model relationships between two variables and explain how slope represents change over time..

NC Math Standards: 8.F.3, 8.EE.5, 8.EE.6

Math 1 with Foundations – Unit on Statistics

Students are currently working on statistics topics, including analyzing data, interpreting distributions, and drawing conclusions based on numerical summaries. They are learning to calculate and interpret measures such as mean and standard deviation:

Students will continue practicing statistical computations using technology to strengthen both conceptual understanding and procedural fluency.

Technology plays an important role in this unit. All students are strongly encouraged to have a TI-84 graphing calculator to support computations, data analysis, and classroom activities. Regular use of the calculator helps students build confidence and efficiency when working with larger data sets.

This unit builds foundational skills needed for higher-level mathematics and data-driven coursework.

NC Math Standards: NC.M1.S-ID.1, NC.M1.S-ID.2, NC.M1.S-ID.3

Math 2 Honors – Unit on Rational Exponents and Radical Expressions

Students are continuing work with rational exponents and radical expressions. They are applying exponent properties to simplify expressions and solve problems involving rational and irrational numbers. Students will practice converting between radical and exponential forms and using exponent rules to simplify expressions:

Students are also studying properties of rational and irrational numbers, comparing number types, and justifying classifications using mathematical reasoning. These skills help build a strong foundation for advanced algebra and higher-level mathematics.

NC Math Standards: NC.M2.N-RN.1, NC.M2.N-RN.2, NC.M2.N-RN.3

Traleeya Heyward

MYP Math 6th, 7th
traleeya.heyward@uniondayschool.com

Greetings,

Quarter 3, Week 2: March 2 - March 6, 2026

MYP Math 6th - Unit 6: Equations & Inequalities

The students will be able to solve equations in one variable and real-world problems by writing equations.

MYP Math 7th - Unit 4: Equations & Inequalities

The students will be able to solve algebraic equations with variables on the same side of the equation, solve algebraic equations in factored form, and solve real-world problems algebraically.

Please ensure that all students are prepared for the day with a notebook, a pencil, an agenda, and a math folder for class. Also, use Toddle Class Flow for reference on upcoming assessments, class notes, assignments, and other lesson material.

Feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.

Nigussie Guluma

MYP Computer Science 6th and 7th
nigussie.guluma@uniondayschool.com

Weekly Update – Computer Science
Week of 3/2/2026 --3/7/2026 What is coming...

Middle school : (6 and 7 Grades)

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Next week Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

Explain what the input() function does
Convert user input from a string to int or float
Use variables to store user input
Perform mathematical operations using user-provided data
Build a small interactive Area Calculator
Identify and fix common input-related coding errors

Students are learning how programs interact with users and how to handle real data safely and correctly. This builds strong logical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Upcoming Assessment

Students will have a test next week covering:

User input
Variables
Data type conversion (int, float)
Basic mathematical operations
Introduction to functions

Please encourage your child to:

Review class notes
Practice writing simple Python programs
Practice creating and using basic functions

Regular practice at home (even 10–15 minutes) can significantly improve confidence and mastery.

https://www.w3schools.com/python/python_functions.asp

Thank you for your continued support in your child’s learning journey. Together, we are building strong foundations in computational thinking and programming.

Warm regards,
Computer Science Department

Best regards,
Nigussie Guluma

nigussie.guluma@uniondayschool.com
Computer Science Teacher

Mary Wyant

MYP Music 6th, 7th, 8th
mary.wyant@uniondayschool.com

Class Learning:

6th grade students are working their way through the Primer Level Piano Adventures Book! We have learned the two and three black key groups and are completing exercises on the musical alphabet (white keys).

7th and 8th grade continue to work through their current level piano books! Students range from Level 1 to Level 3A. We have discussed the basics of ukulele in class this week, which includes soprano ukulele standard tuning, how to tune each string, and how to hold the ukulele to strum with a felt pick. Next week, students will start working on piano and ukulele in tandem within small groups.

My maternity leave begins within the next two weeks. Please welcome my long-term sub, Ms. Ungaro! She will keep students on track with the plan for continued work as singers, piano players, and ukulele players (7th/8th).

SAVE THE DATE: MYP Spring Concert Tuesday April 28, 2026

Polly Bratyanski

MYP Design 6th, 7th, 8th
polly.bratyanski@uniondayschool.com

Hello, families! Week of March 8nd-6th

Middle schoolers have a lot to work on this week! We will be improving past work and getting ready for a future paper mache project. Students are making masks inspired by nature.

Year 1 (6th): Students will have this week to work on multiple projects at once. They can improve past work for up to 5 points towards their next project, and are gearing up to begin a paper mache project.

Year 2 (7th): Students will have this week to work on multiple projects at once. They can improve past work for up to 5 points towards their next project, and are gearing up to begin a paper mache project.

Year 3 (8th): Students will have this week to work on multiple projects at once. They can improve past work for up to 5 points towards their next project, and are gearing up to begin a paper mache project.

We need the following for projects in March:

cereal boxes

Jennifer Chapman

MYP Social Studies 6th, 7th
jennifer.chapman@uniondayschool.com

March 2- March 6, 2026

Happy, happy Friday, all! Sixth grade begins studying the Islamic Civilization starting on Monday! We will have several different activities that focus on writing standards and ELA standards that will help us prepare for the EOG's as we learn our new information in Social Studies.

Seventh grade will begin studying the Roaring 20's and World War II on Tuesday. We will begin the planning stages for designing "The Build"... and more to come! The seventh graders are finally getting their chance to expand their minds and decide what model they would like to build for their major project. They are going to love this!

Please enjoy your weekend!

Again, thank you, thank you...We are out of Kleenex, surface cleaner, and paper towels. If anyone could send some in. I really appreciate the parents who have been sending them in throughout the year! You all are amazing! Thank you so much!

Kindly,

Ms. Chapman

Dr. Marilyn Hutchins

MYP English 6th, 7th
marilyn.hutchins@uniondayschool.com

March 2- March 6, 2026

📘Classroom Spotlight: The Power of Play – 6th Grade ELA

This month in ELA, our scholars are diving into the Common Lit lesson “The Power of Play.” Through this engaging text set, students explore how play shapes creativity, problem-solving, and emotional growth — while strengthening essential reading skills aligned to North Carolina Standards.

Using a combination of literary and informational texts, students will:

✨ Analyze Structure (RL.6.5 & RI.6.5) – Students examine how authors organize ideas and how structure contributes to meaning and impact.
✨ Understand Point of View (RL.6.6 & RI.6.6) – Scholars identify perspective and evaluate how an author’s purpose shapes the message.
✨ Cite Evidence & Build Stamina (RL.6.10 & RI.6.10) – Students engage in grade-level complex texts independently and collaboratively, using textual evidence to support their thinking.

Through close reading, annotation, collaborative discussions, and writing tasks, students learn that play is more than recreation — it is powerful preparation for life. This unit strengthens analytical thinking, evidence-based writing, and critical reading skills that support success across all subject areas.

We are excited to see our scholars grow as thoughtful readers and writers while discovering the meaningful impact of play!

Learning Extension: The Power of Play

Grade 6 | NC ELA Standards Focus

🎯 Extension Title:

Parent the learning extension is design for the students to complete this at home. “Design the Case for Play” – Structure, Perspective & Evidence in Action

🔎 Purpose

This learning extension deepens students’ understanding of text structure, author’s purpose, and evidence-based analysis while encouraging independent application of grade-level reading skills.

Students will move beyond comprehension and into analysis, synthesis, and creation.🧠 Learning Extension Activity Options

Students may complete ONE of the following rigorous extension pathways:

🏗️ Option 1: Structure Redesign Challenge

✔️ Extension Writing Component:
Students must cite at least 3 pieces of textual evidence to justify their analysis.

👓 Option 2: Perspective & Purpose Deep Dive

Students will:

Analyze the author’s purpose (information explain).
Identify bias or perspective.
Rewrite one section from a different perspective (example: a parent, teacher, pediatrician, or student who dislikes play).

✔️ Extension Writing Component:
Students explain how the shift in point of view changes tone, message, and credibility.

📊 Option 3: Evidence-Based Advocacy Project

Students independently research one additional article about:

The benefits of play
Brain development
Recess policies
Social-emotional learning

Then students will:

Compare the structure of both texts
Evaluate which author presents a stronger argument
Create a one-page “Case for Play” brief using cited evidence

✔️ Must include:

4+ cited pieces of evidence
Analysis of structure
Discussion of author’s purpose
A concluding claim

🌟 Extension Outcome

By the end of this learning extension, students will:

✔️ Analyze how structure shapes meaning
✔️ Evaluate author’s purpose and point of view
✔️ Read and comprehend grade-level complex texts independently
✔️ Strengthen evidence-based writing
✔️ Transfer skills across literary and informational texts

Our Novel Study: Percy Jackson the Lighting Thief

📘 The Lightning Thief — Chapters 26-29

Students are diving into Percy Jackson & The Lightning Thief, where they are strengthening their understanding of how authors develop plot, characters, and themes through structure and literary techniques (RL 6.5–RL 6.10). As they read, students analyze how Rick Riordan blends mythology with modern storytelling, examining point of view, pacing, and how key events contribute to the overall meaning of the text.

In connection with this novel, students are also engaging with informational texts related to Greek mythology, heroes, and myths to deepen their background knowledge (RI 6.5–RI 6.10). They are learning to determine central ideas, analyze how information is organized, and compare how myths and informational texts present similar ideas in different ways. This integrated approach helps students build strong comprehension skills while making meaningful connections between literature and informational texts.

Through discussion, writing, and evidence-based analysis, students continue to grow as critical readers who can thoughtfully interpret both fictional and nonfiction texts.

Look for upcoming student writing spotlights and ways you can help support literacy at home!

🌟 Unexpected Journeys: An Introduction to Fantasy Literature

(Common Lit Unit – Aligned with NC 7th Grade ELA Standards)

In our new Common Lit unit, Unexpected Journeys: An Introduction to Fantasy Literature, students explore how authors use imagination, world-building, and character development to craft powerful stories that reveal real-world truths.

Throughout this unit, students will analyze literary texts to determine theme and central ideas (RL.7.2), examine how characters develop and interact (RL.7.3), and explore how setting shapes plot and meaning (RL.7.5). Students will also analyze how authors use word choice and figurative language to create mood and tone (RL.7.4) and compare written texts to multimedia or visual adaptations (RL.7.7).

In addition to literary analysis, students will engage with informational texts about the fantasy genre. They will determine central ideas (RI.7.2), analyze how authors structure informational texts (RI.7.5), evaluate author’s purpose and point of view (RI.7.6), and compare how different texts approach similar ideas or themes (RI.7.9).

Through close reading, discussion, writing, and collaborative activities, students will:

Trace how heroes change throughout their journeys
Examine how fantasy reflects real-life struggles and growth
Compare fictional worlds to real-world issues
Support their thinking with strong textual evidence

This unit strengthens critical thinking, analytical reading, and evidence-based writing skills while allowing students to engage with imaginative and meaningful literature.

🧭 Extension Title: “The Hero’s Journey Across Worlds”

🎯 Purpose

Students will synthesize literary and informational analysis by comparing how fantasy authors develop themes, structure journeys, and reflect real-world issues through imaginary worlds.

📚 Part I: Literary Deep Dive (RL Standards)

Students will select a fantasy text from the unit (or an approved independent fantasy text) and complete the following:

Theme & Central Idea Analysis (RL.7.2)
- Identify a major theme about growth, courage, identity, or power.
- Explain how the protagonist’s journey reveals that theme.
Character Development (RL.7.3)
- Trace how the main character changes from beginning to end.
- Analyze how conflicts and interactions shape that change.
Structure & Setting (RL.7.5)
- Examine how the structure of the journey (quest, trials, return, etc.) develops meaning.
- Explain how the setting influences the plot.
Language & Mood (RL.7.4)
- Analyze figurative language, imagery, or symbolism.
- Explain how word choice builds tone or mood.
Multimedia Comparison (RL.7.7)
- Compare a scene from the text to a visual or audio adaptation (clip, illustration, audiobook).
- Evaluate how the adaptation enhances or changes meaning.

📖 Part II: Informational Text Connection (RI Standards)

Students will analyze one informational article about fantasy literature or the hero’s journey.

Central Idea (RI.7.2)
- Determine the article’s central idea about fantasy literature
Text Structure (RI.7.5)
- Identify how the article is organized (cause/effect, problem/solution, chronological, etc.).
- Explain how structure supports understanding.
Author’s Purpose & Point of View (RI.7.6)
- Analyze the author’s purpose for writing about fantasy.
- Evaluate how the author presents ideas about imagination and reality.
Comparative Analysis (RI.7.9)
- Compare how the literary text and informational text treat the idea of “journey.”
- Explain similarities and differences in message and approach.

📝 Culminating Product Options

Students may choose one:

🗺 Option 1: Literary Analysis Essay

Write a multi-paragraph essay explaining how fantasy journeys reflect real-life growth and challenges, using evidence from both literary and informational texts.

🎬 Option 2: Multimedia Presentation

Create a digital presentation comparing the hero’s journey in the literary text with ideas from the informational article. Include quotes, visuals, and analysis.

📚 Option 3: Create Your Own Fantasy Journey

Design an original fantasy character and world.

Outline the journey structure
Develop a central theme
Write an informational-style author’s note explaining how your fantasy reflects real-world issues (connecting to RI standards)

🌍 Higher-Level Extension (Gifted/Advanced)

Students analyze how a well-known fantasy work follows the hero’s journey model.

Example Texts Students Might Explore:

🧙‍♂️ Harry Potter

💍 The Hobbit

Students compare the structure, theme, and character development to the unit text using RL.7.5 and RL.7.9-style analysis skills.

🧠 Essential Question for Extension

How do fantasy journeys reveal real-world truths about identity, courage, and transformation?

ELA Spotlight: Barrio Boy

The Story of Barrio Boy is a powerful memoir by Rudolfo Anaya about his childhood experiences after moving from rural New Mexico to a multicultural neighborhood in Albuquerque. Through personal memories, Anaya explores themes of identity, belonging, and cultural pride as he adjusts to a new language, school, and community. The story shows how compassion from teachers and classmates helps him overcome challenges, grow in confidence, and honor his heritage. It captures both the struggles and celebrations of navigating between cultures while learning to embrace who he is.

Rachelle Hodges

MYP Math 1, Math 2, Math 3
rachelle.hodges@uniondayschool.com

Week of March 16 - March 19

Last week, students were assigned a specific pocket of the calculator holder to place their phone in. There will be a list by the holder. This is beccause admin are doing pop-in phone checks. This system will help readily identify phones.

I am now available every day after school until 4:00 to give additional support and tutoring, Math 2 final exam prep and EOC prep for Math 1 and Math 3. I will welcome any student who would like assistance, however, if students are not working for me during this time, they will be asked to leave for that day and come back when they are ready to work and improve understanding.

I am going to start relying on more physical paper and pencil work, you know, from the stone age, and less online sites. This will come with a directive for students to close their computers, put them away using them only when absolutely necessary.

Week of March 16 - March 19 NO SCHOOL Fri. 3/20

NC Math 1

A and B Days 1st Block

No school Friday due to a teacher workday.

Last week we assessed the last part of quadratics and spent a couple of days on measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode, range) ending with a mini project on Friday.

This week we will be doing a short unit on solving systems of equations ending on Thursday with an assessment.

NC Math 1

A Days 2nd Block

No school Friday due to a teacher workday.

Last week we assessed the last part of quadratics. We will spend this week on a short unit covering measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode, range) ending with a mini project on Thursday.

IB/MYP NC Math 3 Honors

B days 2nd Block

No school Friday due to a teacher workday.

Last week we assessed properties of circles, quadrilaterals and trig functions.

Our next unit is working with rational functions. NOTE: this will be the most challenging unit covered to date. The assessment for this unit will be next Wednesday, March 25.

NC Math 2/Math 2 Honors

A Days 4th Block

No school Friday due to a teacher workday.

We wrapped up the new material on quadratics last week and will spend this week reviewing and assessing quadratics.

Our next unit will be Square Root and Rational Functions.

Maria Ledesma

MYP Spanish 2, Spanish 3 | DP Language B
maria.ledesma@uniondayschool.com

March 9th - March 13

MYP Phase 4 -Spanish 2:

Chapter 17 - Me llamo Daisy

3/ 13 Speaking project:

HW: Duolingo 1000 xp due 3/17

MYP Phase 5 -6 Spanish 3 : El Escape Capítulo 4,5

Grammar: Pretérito Imperfecto ( escribes ongoing, habitual, or descriptive past actions, often translated to English as "was/were -ing" (progressive) or "used to

New novel : El Escape by A.C Quintero

3/4 Quiz Pretérito Imperfecto - 2nd Page of Verbs

HW: Duolingo 1000 xp due 3/17

Spanish 4 honors- Spanish Language and Culture :

La Ciudad de las Bestias - Novel Cap 18

DP Language B: Unit 2: Experiencias

Book- Panorama hispanohablante 2

páginas: 15,16,17

Workbook: 1/5, 1/6 , 1/7, 1/8

Conectores y el pretérito pluscuamperfecto.

3/13 3rd page of verbs ( Conjugación en Presente, Preterito Indefinido, Preterito Imperfecto , Futuro)

HW: Duolingo 1000 xp due 3/17

During Q3 students will be assessed on all their skills with IB released items.

Liliana Sampedro

MYP Spanish, Phy. Science, Latin American Studies
liliana.sampedro@uniondayschool.com

I am very excited to be part of this journey with our Gryphons. I look forward to continuing to be a guide for them and a support for families. Please remember you can always reach out to me whenever you need at liliana.sampedro@uniondayschool.com

Here you will find weekly updates about what we have been working on in each of my classes, as well as a preview of what’s coming next. I also encourage you to check IC and Toddle weekly to stay up to date with assignments. IMPORTANT NOTE FOR MS SAMPEDRO: SPANISH 1 ONLY: Garbanzo grade is an average of all of the Garbanzo practice at home and the grade will change every week according to the student practice and scores.

Week of 3/16 - 20 What is coming...

For clarity, if the school ever announces a remote learning day due to inclement weather or any other reason, the assignments for any of my classes will be posted on Toddle and it's the same every time.

Latin American Societies: Students will start Unit 7: Economics, Development & Inequality, Lesson 1: Colonial Economic Roots → Inequality today

Learning goals for the week: Analyze how colonial economic systems in Latin America created patterns of wealth concentration, labor exploitation, and unequal land distribution that continue to influence inequality today.
Homework: Students will have the Unit 6 test on Tuesday 03.17.2026, they already work on their study guide last Friday in class.

Spanish 1: Our Currently Unit is: Gender and Equality. This week, students will continue practicing numbers, vocabulary, the 9 irregular verbs and the Regular verbs conjugations.

Learning goals for the week: Practice numbers until 100, Conjugate regular verbs, Practice Super 7 + 2 verbs and write simple sentences in simple present tense.
Homework: This week, students will NOT HAVE their daily practice on Garbanzo and Duolingo.

Physical Science: Students are still working on the Unit: Energy: Lesson: Energy in Society & Environmental Impact.

Learning goals for the week: Explain how society depends on energy resources. Compare environmental impacts of different energy sources. Evaluate trade-offs between renewable and nonrenewable energy. Identify ways energy use affects climate, ecosystems, and human health. Propose solutions for reducing energy impact.
Homework: Students will present their Energy Project on Tuesday 03.17.2026.

Thank you for all your support.

Dawn Galanis

MYP English 2 | DP Language A Year 1 & 2
dawn.galanis@uniondayschool.com

We will continue with class activities and assignments. Please remind students to participate, complete daily work, and turn in assignments on time.

Week of 3/16-3/20

10th:

Macbeth: Act 2 & 3 Sc 1-4; Post Reading Questions

HW-anything not finished in class; and CommonLit

CommonLit: Ramadan due 3/20

11th:

Persepolis: Persepolis, Post Reading Questions

HW- anything not finished in class and CommonLit

CommonLit: Testimony Before the Senate due 3/20

12th:

Metamorphosis Chapters 3; Post Read questions

HW-anything not finished in class and CommonLit

CommonLit: Quest for Change due 3/20

*Senior Celebration 3/19

James V. Lambert

Dean of Students | DP Applications and Interpretations SL I & II | MYP Personal Project Coordinator
james.lambert@uniondayschool.com

🧮For exploratory fun: Given three line segments, can one make a perfect square?🧮

______________________________________________________________________________

MYP - Personal Project 25-26 - 10th Graders/Year 5s

Draft Submission for the Report & Bibliography is due by no later than Friday 3.13.26

Final Submission for the Report & Bibliography is due by no later than Friday 3.20.26

Personal Project Exhibition/Showcase posters (via Canva) are due by 4.2.26

The Community/Personal Project & Art Exhibition/Showcase is on Thursday 4.30.26

______________________________________________________________________________

DP Applications & Interpretations SL I (Block 3 - A Day - 1125 to 1252)

Week(s) of March 9 & March , 16 2026

(IA) Internal Assessment (Exploration) Discussed / Topic 2 Functions & Topic 3 Geom/Trig

- Transformations of Functions
- Solving Polynomial Functions/Equations

Assessing collaborative effort/rigor toward success of the topic(s) noted above through guided/collaborative and independent coursework & assessment(s)

Qrt. 3 - 1.23.26 to 3.30.26

ICW issued on Tuesday 3.3.26, due by Friday 3.13.26

Assessment on Friday 3.13.26

ICW issued by Tuesday 3.17.26, due by Friday 3.27.26

Assessment on Friday 3.27.26

Qrt. 4 - 3.31.26 to 6.9.26

IA - Exploration Final Draft due by week(s) of Monday 4.20/27.26

______________________________________________________________________________

Math 4 HN & DP Applications & Interpretations SL II (Block 3 - B Day - 1125 to 1252)

Week(s) of March 2 & March 9, 2026

Math4/DP - Papers (1 & 2) / Teach a Lesson Project / Topic 2 Algebra/Functions & Topic 3 Trig

Law of Sines & Cosines and Trigonometric Graphing
Compositions & Inverses of Functions (Logs/ln & Piecewise)

Assessing collaborative effort/rigor toward success of the topic(s) noted above through guided/collaborative and independent coursework & assessment(s)

Qrt. 3 - 1.23.26 to 3.30.26

Teach a Lesson Projects resume and are facilitated by the learners, the Schedule below:

December 2025

11th SH - (Taught & Facilitated - Complex Numbers)

January 2026 to April 2026

12th AB - 1.12.26 to 1.23.26 - Comp of f(x)s - (Taught & Facilitated - Composing Functions)

12th KSt- 1.26.26 to 2.6.26 - Trig Identities - (Taught & Facilitated - Proving Trig Identities)

12th JBcn - 2.16.26 to 2.27.26 - Graphs of Trig f(x)s (Taught & Facilitated - Graphing Trig F(x)s)

12th JBnd - 2.2.26 to 2.13.26 - Trig (Law of Sines/Cosines) (TBD)

12th KSnd - 3.2.26 to 3.13.26 - Stats Questions

ICW issued on Tuesday 3.10.26, due by Friday 3.20.26

Assessment on Friday 3.20.26 and/or Thursday 3.26.26

Qrt. 4 - 3.31.26 to 6.9.26

12th IK - 3.16.26 to 3.27.26 - Sampling Methods

12th YL/JT - 4.13.26 to 4.24.26 - Organization of Large Data Sets

______________________________________________________________________________

Dear Union Day Parents,

I hope you and your families had a great summer of travel and rest, for this 2025-2026 school year, I look forward to and am grateful for the opportunity to serve with and for your families for this school year in Math 4 & DP Applications & Interpretations SL 1 & 2 and as your Dean.

My experience includes 24 years of teaching, coaching Varsity basketball, and administration; from small public/private to large public schools in Ohio and North Carolina. I am confident that, with your partnership, I can and will bring your student success in their respective math course at UDS.

Teaching/facilitating the higher levels of integrated and differentiated mathematics has been my passion during my career, including providing instruction and facilitation of Calculus and Psychology with Statistics, while leading at the administrative level in recent years. The critical thinking that derives from these higher levels of learning helps ensure the growth and development of learners to improved success.

Always feel free to contact me if you have any questions in regards to how we may work together in bringing the expected success to come. It's an honor and privilege to lead and learn with our students for the 2025-2026 school year.

Mr. James V. Lambert MA EL

james.lambert@uniondayschool.com

Dean of Students

DP Mathematics Teacher

MYP Personal Project Coordinator

Boy's Varsity Basketball Head Coach

Tony MacDonald

MYP English 8th, Social Studies 8th
tony.macdonald@uniondayschool.com

8th Language and Literature

Students made great progress this week on our EOG preparations! On Monday we'll continue with the Lions of Little Rock. Wednesday we'll complete the NC Check-In. And Friday we'll assess our knowledge of the first third of our novel.

8th Individuals and Societies

Students finished WWI and worked diligently on some EOG activities. This week we'll examine the factors that lead to the Great Depression and evaluate the effectiveness of the recovery effort.

Christine Goodson

MYP Science 8th, Physics | DP Coordinator
christine.goodson@uniondayschool.com

Hello, families! Here's what's coming up for the next week:

Week of March 9 🌷:

MYP Science 8th - Unit 5: Biological Evolution

Students will use models to explain the process of natural selection, in which genetic variations in a population affect individuals’ likelihood of surviving and reproducing in its environment.
Unit 5 Test Dates
- B Day --> March 10th
- A Day --> March 11th
Life Science NC Check In Dates
- A Day --> March 24
- B Day --> March 25
Students will start Unit 6: Earth's Systems: Understand the hydrosphere including freshwater, estuarine, ocean systems.

Physics - Unit 6: Electricity

Students will use circuit models to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the relationships among current, voltage, resistance, and power in series, parallel, and compound circuits.
They will also be choosing a topic for their research paper on this unit.

Stephen Hoff

MYP Civics | DP Th. of Knowledge, DP His. of the Americas
stephen.hoff@uniondayschool.com

WEEK of 3/16/2026

CIVIC LITERACY (B Days)

LEARNING GOALS:

Understand federalism - i.e., the division of power between levels of government.

ASSIGNMENTS/ASSESSMENTS:

QUIZ #2- re: Federalism (types of federalism - e.g., Dual / Cooperative / Creative / New) / DUE: Wednesday, 3/18

CIVIC LITERACY (A Days)

LEARNING GOALS:

Understand federalism - i.e., the division of power between levels of government.

ASSIGNMENTS/ASSESSMENTS:

QUIZ #2 - re: Federalism (types of federalism - e.g., Dual / Cooperative / Creative / New) / DUE: Thursday, 3/19

HISTORY OF THE AMERICAS I (A Days)

LEARNING GOALS:

Learn about the USA and the War Against Adolf Hitler (European Theatre of War).
Get an early jump on the basics surrounding the HOTA Internal Assessment (IA).

ASSIGNMENTS/ASSESSMENTS:

BIG QUIZ - The USA and the War Against Hitler / DUE: Thursday, 3/19

HISTORY OF THE AMERICAS II (B Days) / AMERICAN HISTORY

LEARNING GOALS:

Prepare daily for Papers 1, 2 and 3 (i.e., Exams at year's end) - as pertaining to content learned in Year 1 of HOTA.
We've finished and submitted our HOTA Internal Assessment (IA) - CONGRATS!

ASSIGNMENTS/ASSESSMENTS:

COMPREHENSIVE EXAM REVIEW (Papers 1, 2, 3) - re: The Emergence of the Americas in Global Affairs, 1880-1929 / DUE: daily, ongoing (varied methodology)
REVIEW ASSESSMENTS/QUICK QUIZZES (ongoing through early May) / Assessment #1 DUE: Thursday, 3/19

THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE 1 (B Days)

LEARNING GOALS:

Finish up on our discussions surrounding Intuition and Knowledge.
Continue working on our TOK Exhibition - re: needed revisions.

ASSIGNMENTS/ASSESSMENTS:

PROJECT: Technology & Knowledge / DUE: Wednesday, 3/25 **we'll begin working on this in class on Monday, 3/16
ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION - re: Technology & Knowledge / DUE: Wednesday, 3/25

THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE II (A Days)

LEARNING GOALS:

We've FINISHED (& submitted) both our TOK Exhibition and TOK Essay - CONGRATS!

Continue to explore WAYS OF KNOWING - re: Intuition & Knowledge.

ASSESSMENTS:

QUIZ #1 - Intuition & Knowledge (5 Traits / 10 Signs) / Due: Thursday, 3/19
QUIZ #2 - Intuition & Knowledge (focus: How to Cultivate Your Sixth Sense) / DUE: Monday, 3/23

Trionna Lowe

MYP Bio., Earth and Enviro. | DP Env. Sys. and Soc.
trionna.lowe@uniondayschool.com

Happy Friday families (3/13/2026)

Honors Biology: Students are now reviewing Unit 8 (Heredity) and will have their test on Thursday March 19th .

This week's Learning objectives:

Unit 8 Lesson 8

Construct an explanation to summarize how traits result from interactions of genetic factors (multiple genes and/or alleles) and environmental factors.

Unit 8 Review

Use mathematics and computational thinking to predict the variation and distribution of expressed traits based on: Mendelian inheritance, codominance, incomplete dominance, multiple alleles, and sex-linked inheritance.
Analyze and interpret data to explain how polygenic traits result in a wide range of phenotypes.

This Week's Assignments:

Unit 8 Lesson 8

Polygenetic Traits Activity
Unit 8 Lesson 8 Guided Notes

Unit 8 Review

Genetics Review Wayground
Garden Gene Genius
Analyzing Pedigrees worksheet

Earth and Environmental Science: Students have finished Unit 6 and will review the unit next week to prepare for their Unit 6 Test on Monday March 23rd.

This Week's Lesson Objectives:

Unit 6 Lesson 7

To evaluate how species richness (modeled by ball colors) directly impacts an ecosystem’s resilience (the ability to return to equilibrium) following abiotic and biotic disturbances.
To communicate how specialized vs. generalist trophic levels maintain stability during a crisis and analyze the conditions required for an ecosystem to return to equilibrium (the "survival quota").
To distinguish between the impacts of abiotic disturbances (modeled by the climate-driven "Heat Wave") and biotic disturbances (modeled by the "Invasive Predator") on population health.
To explain the process of secondary succession by demonstrating how a surviving biological legacy (the "Breeding Pair") allows a population to re-occupy a disturbed habitat.

Unit 6 Lesson 8

I can explain why a diverse ecosystem is more stable during a wildfire or invasive species event.
I can describe how resiliency depends on having enough genetic variety (males and females) to restart a population.
I can identify the point where a species becomes functionally extinct even if a few individuals are still alive in the graveyard.
I can use data from other groups to show how a whole biome stays healthy even if one part of it is struggling.

This week's assignments:

Unit 6 Lesson 7

Unit 6 Lesson 7 Warm Up
Biodiversity Field Simulation
Unit 6 Lesson 7 Exit Ticket

Unit 6 Lesson 8

Unit 6 Lesson 8 Notes (Wayground)
Biodiversity Human Impact Simulation

Important Reminders:

Almost all if not all assignments can be found in toddle. They are organized by unit and lesson.
If students are absent, they are responsible for getting their missing work and completing it within the 5 school days that are given to make up that work (This policy only pertains to excused absences. If your absence is unexcused, you are responsible for contacting me and getting your work completed that day or it is considered late).
If a student does not turn in an assignment on time, it is minus ten points for every school day it is late.
Work will not be taken for a grade if it has been over ten school days since the assignment was due.

Environmental Systems and Societies: This week we are now reviewing some of the key information from previous topics. This week we focused on Topic 2: Ecology

This Week's Learning Objectives

Model energy flow, calculate species diversity, and evaluate ecosystem resilience against disturbances.

This Week's Assignments

The Hippo Ecosystem Activity

The following are some important dates regarding the student's IA:

IA draft deadline- Adjusted from February 9, 2026 to March 30th, 2026
IA deadline- Adjusted from March 17, 2026 to April 27th, 2026
IB Exam paper 1- April 30, 2027
IB Exam paper 2- May 3, 2027

Most grades are updated weekly, so please check in on Infinite Campus to check on your child's progress throughout this unit.

Gerald Cross

MYP Marketing, Economics, Business Essentials | DP Business Management | DECA Co-Advisor
gerald.cross@uniondayschool.com

Upper School Business Program – Weekly Update

Week of March 2, 2026

What Students Are Learning

Marketing

• Students began studying market segmentation and targeting, examining how businesses identify and reach specific customer groups.
• Class discussion focused on how companies tailor messaging, product design, and pricing strategies to different market segments.

Economics / Personal Finance

• Students explored supply and demand, focusing on how markets communicate scarcity through price signals.
• Lessons examined how shortages and surpluses influence price changes and how markets move toward equilibrium.

Business Essentials

• Students continued studying the business environment, including how ownership structures affect decision-making.
• Classes examined the differences between sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, and nonprofit organizations, and how each structure shapes risk and responsibility.

DP Business Management

• Students continued work on strategic direction, focusing on mission, vision, objectives, and how these guide business decisions.
• Class discussion evaluated whether clearly defined mission statements improve organizational alignment and long-term decision making.

How We Are Learning

Instruction this week included:

• Structured instruction supported by visual learning aids
• Case-based discussion connected to real business examples
• Short written formative checks to confirm comprehension
• Application exercises requiring students to support ideas with evidence

Students are being encouraged to communicate ideas clearly, analyze business decisions, and apply concepts to real-world situations.

IB Learner Profile Habit of the Month: Disciplined

Students are strengthening habits that support consistent academic progress, including:

• Preparing for discussions and assessments
• Staying focused during structured analysis
• Following through on assignments and responsibilities
• Approaching challenging tasks with sustained effort

Discipline is the ability to manage time, attention, and effort in pursuit of meaningful goals.

DECA Program Update

Union Day School DECA students represented the school with professionalism and strong preparation at the North Carolina Career Development Conference.

Conference highlights:

• 20 of 25 participants earned DECA Proficiency Pins
• 6 first-year competitors achieved proficiency in their first state competition
• 4 students earned medals, including:
• 1 student recognized by the American Marketing Association for a Proficient Cluster Exam score
• 3 students earning medals in role-play events
• 1 student was awarded the DECA Glass, qualifying to represent UDS at the International Career Development Conference in Atlanta this April

Thank you to Mrs. Galanis and Mrs. Harris for their support during the trip, and to Mr. Hoff for his leadership preparing students for competition.

Guest Speaker Program

On Monday, March 9 at 9:30 AM, students will have the opportunity to hear from our first guest speaker of the semester.

Andersen
Marketing Specialist, The Gidley Group
Former NC DECA State Officer

Andersen manages marketing and social media operations for a financial services firm and coordinates a statewide charity golf tournament supporting the NC DECA Scholarship Foundation.

She will speak with students about:

• How CTE and DECA experiences translate into real careers
• Her journey from student leader to marketing professional
• The importance of networking, soft skills, and financial preparedness
• How mentorship and opportunity influence career development

The session will be conversational and interactive, including discussion and Q&A with students.

Attendance Information

Time: 9:30 AM (approximately one hour)
Location: School Lunch Room

Students in Marketing, Economics & Personal Finance, Business Essentials, DP Business Management, and DECA members are encouraged to attend.

Students who do not normally have class with me during this block must speak with their second-block teacher in advance and obtain permission before March 9.

Professional courtesy and advance communication with teachers are expected.

Supporting Student Focus and Engagement

Academic performance is closely connected to several daily habits:

• Consistent sleep
• Balanced nutrition
• Limiting late-night gaming and digital distractions. Family support in reinforcing these habits helps students stay focused, energized, and engaged during the school day.

Conversation Starters at Home

How does a company’s mission influence the decisions it makes?
What happens in a market when demand increases but supply remains constant?
Why might a business choose one ownership structure over another?

Short conversations like these help students connect classroom learning to real-world thinking.

Tracey Cothran

MYP Visual Arts | DP Visual Arts | English I
tracey.cothran@uniondayschool.com

HELLO!

Here's what we have coming up the week of March 16th - March 19th:

Teacher Workday - Friday, March 20th

9th grade Art - beginning

We discussed the Art Nouveau and Fauvist movements in class. Students have selected their style for this project (either Art Nouveau or Favism). Work will continue this week though our Gallery Walk. We will also look into the art of Andrew Wyeth.

10th grade Art - intermediate

11th grade Art - DP I

We began work on our 5th studio project last week. HERE is an outline (by week) of our project plan. Week three's overview is Creating the Resolved Work (basically, working on your project/composition). In any down time, students are expected to continue work on their Comparative Study.

12th grade Art - DP II

Last week, students submitted the Comparative Study, an IB submission and the first of 3 for Visual Arts in IB. We will use this week to sort through out projects from the past 2 years, make sure art tags are ready to go and begin work on the Process Portfolio, the second DP submission of the year.

9th grade English I

We will be completing Act IV in Romeo and Juliet this week. We are comparing the play to present day relationships, community and interests. We should having a quiz at the end of each act and a final test after we complete the book. I'll be sending out a permission slip to watch the movie this week. HERE is the permission slip if you want to print and submit. CommonLit: "Eleanor Roosevelt: Not Without Her Consent" is due 3/20.

REQUIRED: a book is required in class EVERY day for independent reading.

Matt Weldon & Carmon Hill

Middle School EC & High School EC
matt.weldon@uniondayschool.com & carmon.hill@uniondayschool.com

Happy March!

With 6 months already complete and 3 months to go in our 25-26 School year, we hope you are healthy, warm, and ready to finish out this year strong. Upper School 6th-12th grades have begun tutoring sessions to help prepare all students for ACT (11th grade), EOGs (Middle School), EOCs (HS and 8th grade), and AP exams (HS). This month we celebrate Women's History, as well as Developmental Disability Awareness (such as Brain Injury; Trisomy, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Endometriosis, and others as listed below)

Some important dates to remember:

March 1st- First day of celebrating Women of our past, present and future

Remembering our family/friends/community members with

Developmental Disabilities.

International Wheelchair Day

March 2nd- Read Across America Day (UDS Book Fair is back and in full swing till 3/6/26)

March 6th- Employee Appreciation Day

March 8th- Daylight Savings Time (Clocks move ahead 1 hour)

March 21st- World Down Syndrome Day

March 26th- World Epilepsy Day

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