December

Health and PE 2nd quarter.  In PE we have been playing some kick games(two base and kickball).  We also have played swamp ball and handball.  There has also been an array of other games sprinkled throughout(9 square, Speedball,  Soccer).

In health we learned about communicable and non-communicable diseases.  The students made a powerpoint on their specific disease and presented it with their partner to the whole class.

In 8th Grade Reading, we just finished Gris Grimley's graphic novel adaptation of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. The last four weeks, we dedicated our time to interpreting 19th century language, analyzing images, and making sense of how character actions affect the movement of plot in stories. Students were also connecting with the story by answering questions that required evidence to make claims. Everyone will be completing their final exam over the novel the week before winter break. 

In 8th Grade Writing, our students are working hard on their Informational Research Essay. All students selected a famous landmark from around the world to research. We spent one week learning how to use library databases for research with our fantastic Library Media Specialist, Mrs. Louder. In that time, the students looked at the credibility of online research. We are also working on crafting body paragraphs that incorporate our research. Finally, the students are learning the ins and outs of MLA formatting as it will become  a big part of their high school writing. This research paper will count as their final exam for the first semester. 

In 8th grade US History, students are exploring the Causes of the Revolutionary War by examining the impact of key historical events that led to America’s fight for independence. 

We’re also diving into the Salem Witch Trials, analyzing how fear and society shaped this historical moment. 

By sourcing primary documents and investigating perspectives from King Philip’s War, students are learning how to critically evaluate historical events and understand diverse viewpoints. 

We will take a quarter-semester final before winter break.

All 8th grade Math students had a fun STEM experience the day before Thanksgiving break when we used rubber bands to explode pumpkins.  It was so much fun!  Pre-Algebra just wrapped up a unit on Algebraic Expressions, while Algebra I began working on linear equations.  

I hope everyone has an enjoyable break!