3.17 Maths

8th Grade
Students were returned the Unit Test, and the Math Reflections 3 assessments today. Any student wishing to improve either of these assessments must meet with Mr. C before the end of the week. Login to PowerSchool to see all of your assessments from this quarter.

Students received the textbook for the next unit, "Frogs, Fleas and Painted Cubes." In this unit, students will master the distributive property while exploring quadratic relationships. Check out an overview of this unit here.

7th Grade

Students worked on their model homes today. This project will be wrapping up on Friday. Students building plan write up will be due on Monday, March 22, 2010.

For practice tonight, please begin working on the building plan write up. Directions are on the project handout.

3.16 Humanities

2 Paragraph Constructed Response due Wednesday.

BE SURE to compare and contrast a past group's struggle for equality with a current group's struggle.

Your topic sentence for both paragraphs should identify both the past and current group AS WELL AS the big idea you chose (i.e. Groups mobilize in a variety of ways to enact social change).

Revise your work to be sure all parts of your Super 6 paragraphs relate back to your statement.

3/16 Science

1) Students received back their cells test and should make corrections on it.
2) Read the "tissue debate" worksheet and answer the 5 questions to the best of your ability.

3.16 Maths

8th Grade
Students took the unit test on the Pythagorean Theorem today. Tests will be returned tomorrow.

3/15 Science

1)  Students should make up any missing work!

2) Students received a reading packet in class today.  They should read the packet and underline anything that they think is important.  Students are encouraged to use the annotation skills they worked on in humanities clinic to help highlight key ideas, etc and be prepared to discuss the reading in class tomorrow.

3.15 Maths

8th Grade
The unit test on the Pythagorean Theorem has been moved to Tuesday. Students should continue to review their classwork and complete the previously assigned practice assignments.

7th Grade
Students continued work on their Comparing & Scaling building project. Students received their math reflections back today. Corrections to math reflections are due Wednesday, March 17th.

3.12 Maths

8th Grade
Students are practicing applying the Pythagorean Theorem to problem solving situations in preparation for the unit test on Monday. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - page 65 #1; and 4ACE #6, 8
R3 - page 65 #1, 2; and 4ACE #8, 10, 35
*Remember - there are useful study tools on the 8th Grade Math page of the team wiki!*

7th Grade

Students are applying their proportional reasoning skills to a building project. Students will be building a model for a miniature person. The building process will be done as a group and a written building plan will follow which will be done individually. Have a great weekend!

3.11 Maths

7th Grade

Students worked on math reflection 4 today. These reflections are due tomorrow at the beginning of class. Students were also introduced to the unit project they will be starting tomorrow.

8th Grade
In class, students are mastering applications of Pythagorean Theorem in real world situations in Problem 4.2. Math Reflections 3 are due at the beginning of class on Friday. There will be a unit test on the Pythagorean Theorem on Monday. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 4ACE #3, 5, 9
R3 - 4ACE #5, 9, 12

3/9 Science

Students will be assessed on their understanding of cells and cell processes.  Students should utilize the wiki and the study guide that was handed out to help prepare for the exam.  The test format will be multiple choice, fill in the blank, true or false and constructed responses.

3.9 Maths

7th Grade

Today, students discovered new strategies for finding an unknown value in a proportion. Students began problem 4.3, "Developing Strategies for Solving Proportions" where they used rate tables, scale factors, unit rates, and cross multiplication to solve proportions. We will finish problem 4.3 in class tomorrow.

The following practice is assigned:

R2 - 4ACE #6-9, 14, 24

R3 - 4ACE # 6, 7, 27

8th Grade
Students explored the Wheel of Theodorus in Problem 4.1 For practice, students should complete even questions only on pages 39 and 40 of the Practice Packet.
*There will be a unit test on the Pythagorean Theorem on Friday*

3.8 Maths

8th Grade
Students are formalizing their understanding of the Pythagorean Theorem as right triangles defined by the algorithm a² + b² = c². After completing problem 3.4, students began Math Reflections 3. Math Reflections 3 is due on Wednesday. The following practice is assigned: 3ACE # 15-17.

7th Grade

Students continued setting up and solving proportions. Today, students focused on everyday uses for proportions.

Practice:

R2 4ACE # 3, 5, 18

R3 4ACE # 5, 18, 25

3/8 Science

Students have a test on their understanding of cells. They were given a study guide and can use the wiki to help review the material and prepare for the test

Students should also make up any missing assignments

3/5 Science

1) Students will be tested on their knowledge of cells 3/10. Students can use the wiki (cells page in the science folder) to help review for the test.

2) Students should make up any missing work.

3.5 Maths

7th Grade
Do Over Instructions for Comparing and Scaling Investigation 3 Quiz, DUE - MONDAY MARCH 8
You may re-do problems you got wrong. On a separate piece of paper, please rewrite the original problem and your original answer. Next, you need to re-do each problem. For each, please include the following…

• An explanation of what you did wrong on the quiz in your original answer;
• Show every step of your work as you re-do the problem;
• A brief description of what your mistakes were and how you went about fixing them and finding the correct answer.

In order to show Mastery on your re-do, all of the above must be included and checked off. Please remember to reread the directions on the quiz and label everything! Please include your quiz, completed quiz dissection, and redo stapled together when you turn it in.

3/4 Science

1) Students will be tested on their knowledge of cells on Wednesday 3/10.  Students can use the wiki (Cells page in the science folder) to help review for the test.

2) Students received a progress report that shows any assignments they may owe.  Students should make up any missing work.

3.4 Maths

8th Grade
In class, students applied the Pythagorean Theorem to find the length of line segments drawn on a coordinate grid in problem 3.3. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 3ACE #24, 35
R3 - 3ACE #24, 34

7th Grade
In class, students practiced setting up and solving proportions in Problem 4.1. Tomorrow, we will take a look at everyday uses for proportions.
Practice:
**If you did not finish Problem 4.1, please do so for tomorrow!**
Otherwise…
R2 4ACE # 2, 17, 21
R3 4ACE # 4, 22, 23

3.4 Humanities

FINISH SUPER 6 PARAGRAPH.

Super 6 Paragraph - Statement (that is provable)
Example (related to the statement)
Proof (supports your statement)
In Your Own Words (context - who, what, where, when, how)
Why Important (Why is it important to the point made in your statement)

Super 6 Paragraph should be on ONE of the following topics (from One Woman, One Vote):
*Effectiveness of the protests
*Struggle of each (Early Movement w/ Susan B. Anthony began with move for abolition of
slavery VERSUS Later Movement w/ Alice Paul focused on improving
working conditions but needed right to vote)
*Change takes time (72 years)
*What approaches were necessary to begin a change

Summer Opportunities!

Rosie's Girls
Rosie's Girls Summer Program is an exciting summer day camp that helps girls develop and strengthen their capacities and confidence while exposing them to a range of educational and career opportunities they may have never considered. For girls entering grades 6-8. Explore woodworking, auto repair as well as creative arts and games. At the Essex Tech Center from June 21- July 9.

Partners In Adventure
A summer day camp for young people from the age of 12 to 22 with or without physical, develpmental or emotional challenges. There are four two-week sessions beginning on June 21 in Chittenden county.

Green Mountain Conservation Camp
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department has summer camps that last for a week in which children learn about forests, fishing, canoeing and other outdoor activities. The cost is $200.

Ask your advisory teacher for more information on any of these opportunities.

3.3 Maths

WELCOME BACK!

8th Grade
Students dove right into problem 3.1 to discover one of the most famous and important mathematical concepts: The Pythagorean Theorem! The following practice is assigned:
R2 3ACE #1, 2, 5, 6, 13
- or -
R3 #1, 2, 8, 9, 14

7th Grade
Students took a closer look at their quizzes on Investigation 3 and worked on their quiz dissections. We discussed quiz do overs and students received instructions. These do overs will be due Monday, March 8th.
Today, we also began talking about proportions.

For tomorrow please complete your quiz dissection.

2/18 science

All students are strongly encouraged to retake their quiz tomorrow!  WARNING---- Retaking quiz may increase your score and your knowledge!

2.18 Maths

8th Grade
Students took a quiz on their ability to apply their understanding of the relationship between side length and area of squares. Quizzes will be returned on Friday.

7th Grade
Students took a quiz on unit rates. Quizzes will be returned on Friday.

2.17 Maths

8th Grade
In class today, we reviewed area and side length of squares, as the relationship we call "square root." Students will take a quiz on this material on Thursday.

7th Grade
In class, students started writing reports on the unit rate comparisons they made at Hannaford. We also reviewed unit rates in preparation for the quiz on Thursday.

2/16 Science

1)  Students are to create a colored 5-panel comic strip that shows how energy flows from the sun through an ecosystem.  Due Wednesday 2/17.

2) Quiz retakes due Friday 2/19.

2.16 Maths

8th Grade
Students are using square roots to find the length of line segments on dot paper in Problem 2.3. Students must come to class having completed question A of Problem 2.3.

*There will be a quiz on squares, areas, sides and square root on Thursday.*

7th Grade
Today we went to Hannaford to compare unit rates for groceries. Students are to write complete sentences to summarize each of their three comparisons.

*There will be a quiz on unit rates on Thursday.*

ATTENTION PARENTS - Apollo Open House March 2

Dear Parents/Guardians of Team Apollo

We hope all is with you. We will be hosting a Continental Breakfast Open House on Tuesday, March 2nd from 7:30am-10:30am. During this Open House, we encourage you to come by rooms 106-108 with your student to celebrate and discuss academic achievement and goal-setting, over danish and coffee. We look forward to seeing you. If you are unable to make this date and would like to schedule an alternative, please contact your student's advisory teacher.

Enjoy February break!

Best regards,
Team Apollo

Nathan Caswell ncaswell@mtsd-vt.org / #893-3230 ext. 311
Stacey Endres sendres@mtsd-vt.org / #893-3230 ext. 321
Rob DeCicco rdecicco@mtsd-vt.org / #893-3230 ext. 322
Joe Smith jsmith3@mtsd-vt.org / #893-3230 ext. 115
Amira Bakr abakr@mtsd-vt.org / #893-3230 ext. 378

2/15 Science

This week in Apollo science, students will investigate the role plants play in sustaining life on earth.  We will discuss how energy flows within an ecosystem and look at photosynthesis at the cellular level.  Depending on how far we get this week, students will also investigate the process of cellular respiration.

1)  Tonight, students should find a picture that represents the card they selected in class today.  For example, if they pulled a producer card, they should find a picture of grasses, a tree or shrubs.  Students should briefly discuss how this organism acquires food and bring to class tomorrow.

2) Quiz retakes are due Friday, February 19th.

2.15 Maths

8th Grade
Students developed a geometric understanding of square root in Problem 2.2. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 2ACE #4-6, 10, 14-18
R3 - 2ACE #5, 6, 14-18, 51-53

*There will be a quiz on squares, area, side length and square root on Thursday.*

7th Grade
Students practiced finding and using unit rates in Problem 3.4. Tomorrow we will walk to Hannaford to explore real world unit rates. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 2ACE #12, 29, 30
R3 - 2ACE #12, 32

*There will be a quiz on unit rates on Thursday.*

2/11 Science

Cell narrative final drafts are due tomorrow, Friday 2/12.

2.11 Maths

8th Grade
In class, students explored strategies for finding the area of irregular polygons on a coordinate grid. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 1ACE#21-25
- or -
R3 - 1ACE #31, 33, 34

7th Grade
In class, students used unit rates to write equations and solve problems. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 3ACE #9, 11.A
- or -
R3 - 3ACE #9, 34

2.10 Maths

8th Grade
Students solved puzzles of drawing geometric figures on coordinate planes in Problem 1.2. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 1ACE # 8-10, 14
- or -
R3 - 1ACE #8-10, 29

7th Grade
Quizzes were returned today. Students discovered unit rates in Problem 3.1. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 3ACE #1, 3
- or -
R3 - 3AVE #1, 33

REMEMBER - Students wishing to re-do the most recent quiz on ratio, percent, fraction and difference must meet with Mr. C. on Thursday at 2:40.

2/9 Science

Cell narrative final drafts are due Friday 2/12.

2.9 Maths

8th Grade
Students have begun their search for Pythagoras in Problem 1.1. The following practice is assigned: 1ACE #1-7 (use the Labsheet from class)

*DON"T FORGET - students who wish to re-do the final assessment from the Thinking With Mathematical Models unit must attend a meeting on Wednesday at 2:40*

7th Grade
Students took a quiz today on ratio, fraction, percent and difference. Quizzes will be returned tomorrow.

2.8 Maths

8th Grade
Students were returned their quizzes on linear models and inverse variation. Students who wish to take a do-over on their quiz must meet with Mr. C. on Wednesday at 2:40PM or make other arrangements. We are beginning a new unit: "Looking for Pythagoras." Students are expected to arrive for class on Tuesday with one interesting fact about Pythagoras.

7th Grade
Students are reviewing ratios, fractions, percents and difference in preparation for the quiz on Tuesday. Students should complete the practice packet they received in class.

2/8 Science

Students, parents and guardians,

Be sure to frequently check the science folder (in the navigator bar on the right-hand side of the wiki) for updates on whatever topics students are learning in science.  There are pages for each of the units of study that students will learn this year.  I've provided many useful links and information on these pages and believe it is a wonderful way for both students and parents to interact with the material on a variety of levels.  Big ideas and standard requirements are highlighted in yellow!  Feedback is highly encouraged!

1)  Cell narrative final copies are due Friday 2/12.

2)  Based on what we learned in class today, can you identify which phase of mitosis the onion cell drawings from Friday's lab are in?   Be prepared to discuss in class tomorrow.

2/5 Science

This is a reminder that cell narrative final drafts are due Friday 2/12.

5.5 Maths

8th Grade
Students wrote a quiz today. The quiz was either on linear relationships, or linear and inverse variation - depending on what the student has been working on this week. Quizzes will be returned on Monday.

7th Grade
Students are summarizing their learning about ratios, fractions and percents in Math Reflections 2. Students must come to class on Monday having completed Math Reflections 2. There will be a quiz on ratios, fractions, percents and difference on Tuesday.

2/4 Science

I heard and read many impressive cell narratives today!!!  Students poured a lot of their thought and creativity into them and it really paid off!  In class, students peer-edited each others work and are encouraged to make any needed changes.  FINAL DRAFT is due on Friday 2/12. 

2.4 Maths

8th Grade
On Friday, students will take a quiz on linear models, and/or inverse variation, depending on what they have been working on. The following practice is assigned:
Linear Models - 2ACE #19, 63 (and look here for practice games and tutorials)
Inverse Variation - 3ACE #11, 30-35

7th Grade
Students have explored using ratios, fractions, percents and differences in Investigation 2. On Friday, we will review what we've learned in preparation for a quiz on Monday. The following practice is assigned: 2ACE # 6, 7, 20.

2.3 Maths

8th Grade
Some students continue practicing skills writing and solving linear equations, while others are exploring inverse variation in Investigation 3. Those who are practicing solving equations should spend some time on this online activity here.
*There will be a test on linear models, and/or inverse variation this Friday*

7th Grade
Students are exploring scaling ratios up and down to solve problems, in problem 2.3. No practice is assigned.

2.2 Maths

8th Grade
Students continue to work on algebra skills targeted to their learning needs. Students on worksheets should complete two additional problems for practice before class tomorrow.

7th Grade
We continue to explore using ratio, fractions and percent to make mathematical comparisons in Problem 2.1 and 2.2. Practice assignments vary by class.

2/2 Science

A completed copy of the cell narrative rough-draft is due at the beginning of class tomorrow 2/3.

2.1 Maths

8th Grade
Students were returned their quiz today. Students who demonstrated mastery are moving on to learning about inverse variation in Investigation 3. Students who have not yet mastered linear relationships will continue to learn and practice in preparation for another test on Friday. For practice, students are expected to complete an additional 5 questions on the worksheet from where they left off in class.

7th Grade
Students are learning more about ratio, fraction and percent in Problem 2.1.
7-1 has no practice assigned.
7-2 should complete the following:
R2 - 2ACE #1, 2
- or -
R3 - 2ACE # 2, 12

2.1 Humanities

Clean copy of persuasive essay rough drafts are due Tuesday, Feb. 2nd--TOMORROW (beginning of class)

2/1 Science

The cell narrative rough-draft is due Wednesday 2/3/10.

1.28 Humanities

Clean copy of rough draft for persuasive essay is due Tuesday, Feb. 2nd.

Finish reading books for Wednesday, Feb. 3rd.

1.28 Maths

8th Grade
Today in class, students should complete Investigation 2 and be prepared for the quiz tomorrow. The quiz will assess students' understanding of using graphs, tables and equations to model situations and solve problems. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 2ACE #33
- or -
R3 - 2ACE #34

7th Grade
In Math Reflections 1, students summarize their learning about mathematical comparisons using fractions, ratios, percents and differences. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 1ACE #8, 20
- or -
R3 - 1ACE #9

1/28 Science

Students will be writing a cell narrative in science over the next few days. They were given some time in class today to brainstorm ideas but, due to DRP testing, all classes had unequal amounts of time to work on this writing assignment. Students should brainstorm ideas for homework and write them down in the graphic organizer they were given in class.

Apollo Science

This week in Apollo science, students will design and conduct an experiment that tests how changing the salinity of a solution affects an elodea's osmotic balance. We will use this lab to review how to write a lab report and the structure and function of key plant cell organelles (i.e., cell wall, chloroplasts). Also this week, students will learn about the four chemical compounds found within cells and their role in cell processes. Towards the end of the week, students will brainstorm/outline a narrative story about a journey through a cell. We are off to a great start for Q3!

1.27 Maths

8th Grade
As students complete Investigation 2, they are honing their skills at using graphs, tables and equations to model situations and find solutions. The following practice is assigned: 2ACE #25-28.
*There will be a quiz on using graphs, tables and equations to model situations on Friday.*

7th Grade
We focused today on understanding and using percents to make comparisons. Students have been assigned practice according to their individual needs.

1.26 Maths

8th Grade
Students continue to explore the use of tables, graphs and equations to model and solve problems in Problem 2.3. The following practice is assigned: 2ACE 20-24.

7th Grade
Students are exploring different ways of making mathematical comparisons (fraction, ratio, percent, difference) in Problem 1.2. The following practice is assigned: 1ACE #2, 3, 5, 7

1.25 Maths

8th Grade
Students are summarizing their strategies for writing linear equations in question F of Problem 2.2. This assignment is due at the start of class on Wednesday. There will be no further class time for this assignment.

7th Grade
Students received their graded unit test on the Stretching and Shrinking unit. Quiz Dissections are due at the start of class on Tuesday. We are starting a new unit called Comparing and Scaling, where students will explore ratio, proportion and percent.

1.20 Maths

8th Grade
Students continued practicing solving multi-step equations. We also started Problem 2.2. Students should come to class on Thursday having completed question A from Probelm 2.2, and 2ACE #5.

7th Grade
Students continued to explore practical applications of similar triangles in Problem 5.2. The following practice is assigned:
5ACE #3 or 4, and #22-24.
*There will be a unit test on similarity, scale factor and ratios on Friday.*

1.19 Maths

8th Grade
In class, students reviewed solving multi-step equations. Class 8-1 should complete the first 6 practice problems on the worksheet. Class 8-2 is assigned no practice.

7th Grade
Students explored practical applications of similar triangles in Problem 5.1. The following practice is assigned:
5ACE # 1 or 2, and #7-21 odd numbers only.

1.19 Humanities

Progress Reports were given today with a list of missing assignments. Any missing assignments or improvements to be made prior to the end of 2nd quarter are due Wednesday. No exceptions!

1.15 Maths

8th Grade
In class, students completed problem 2.1. The following practice is due on Tuesday:
R2 - 2ACE #1, 35
- or -
R3 - 2ACE #1, 36

7th Grade
Students reviewed ratio and scale factor by completing 2ACE #35 on page 73. No practice is assigned.
*There will be a unit test on similarity (and scale factor and ratio) at the end of next week.*

1/15/10 Science

1) Students received a printed copy of their progress report in science today.  The progress report should be reviewed AND signed by the parent/guardian.  The student should return the signed progress report back to science class for a homework grade on Tuesday, 1/19.  

2) Make up any missing assignments.

3) Enjoy the long weekend to all students!

1.14 Maths

8th Grade
Students worked on fitting a line and writing an equation to model a linear trend in Problem 2.1. Students must complete the graph (B.1) and 2ACE #2 before class on Friday.

7th Grade
Students practiced finding missing side lengths of polygons using scale factor and ratios. The following practice is due on Friday:
R2 - 4ACE #5-12
- or -
R3 4ACE #5-8, 13-14

1.13 Maths

8th Grade
Students were returned their quiz on describing and comparing linear and non-linear relationships. Students completed Math Reflections 1 on page 23 (questions 2 and 3 only), by using both an example and a counter example for each question. The Math Reflections are due at the beginning of class on Thursday.

7th Grade
Students continued to practice using ratio to identify similar polygons. The following practice is due on Thursday: 2ACE #2, 27.

1.11 Maths

Welcome to Ms. Licari - student intern from the University of Vermont! Ms. Licari will be teaching and learning with us for the next several months.

8th Grade
Students continue describing and comparing different relationships between variables in problem 1.3. The following practice is due on Wednesday: 1ACE #3, 4, 27-29.

7th Grade
Students continue exploring ratio of adjacent side lengths as a method for identifying similar polygons. The following practice is due on Wednesday: 4ACE 1, 3, 4, 15-20

Apollo Science

This week in Apollo Science, students will observe a variety of cells under a microscope and learn the importance of scientific drawing.  On Tuesday, students will take a quiz on the 2 basic cell types and begin a three-day long investigation (osmosis in a cell) showing them how substances move across the cell membrane.  They will learn key terms like diffusion, osmosis and active transport.  From there, students will learn about the structure and function of the cell's organelles.  As always, this week promises to be engaging and meaningful.

1.11 Humanities

Complete 2 Portfolio Reflections due Wednesday.

1.8 Maths

8th Grade
We continue comparing and describing different algebraic relationships in problem 1.3. Be sure to complete all of question A from problem 1.3 before Monday.

7th Grade
We explore how ratios of side lengths help identify similar figures. Be sure to complete all or problem 4.1 before Monday.

1.7 Maths

8th Grade
Students explored the differences between linear and inverse variation. 1ACE #2 is assigned as practice.

7th Grade
Students practiced using scale factor to find side lengths and area of polygons. Students should complete the back side of the practice page.

1.7 Humanities

Core 3 = Finish 3 paragraphs for writing assignment on Evaluation of Protest and the American Revolution.

Core 1 = Finish 1.5 paragraphs for writing assignment on Evaluation of Protest and the American Revolution.

1/7/10 Science

1) Students with completed wiki pages can and should make corrections to improve their quiz grade. Due Friday 1/8.

2) After corrections, students should tag their creature page with the levels of classification and find another creature that is closely related to their own using the tags. Also due Friday 1/8.

1/6/10 Science

1) Students with completed wiki pages can and should make corrections to improve their quiz grade. Due Friday 1/8.
2) After corrections, students should tag their creature page with the levels of classification and find another creature that is closely related to their own using the tags. Also due Friday 1/8.

1.6 Maths

8th Grade
In class, we learned about a fitted lines, and conducted the bridge experiment in problem 1.2. Students must complete the graph of the data from the bridge experiment (problem 1.2 B) before class on Thursday.

7th Grade
In class, we practiced using scale factor to find measures of similar figures. Students started Math Reflections 3 on page 57. MR3 questions 2 and 3 will be collected for a grade at the beginning of class on Thursday.

1/5/10 Science

1) Students with completed wiki pages can and should make corrections to improve their quiz grade. Due Friday 1/8.

2)  After corrections, students should tag their creature page with its levels of classification and find another creature that is closely related to their own using the tags.  Due Friday 1/8.

1.5 Maths

8th Grade
Students conducted paper bridge experiments to look for algebraic patterns in Problem 1.1. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 1ACE #1, 7, 8
R3 - 1ACE #1, 11

7th Grade
Students continued to explore the relationship between scale factor and area in Problem 3.3. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 3ACE #9-18
R3 - 3ACE #9-18 (odd numbers only), 19-21

Humanities 1.5.10

Share permission slips for The Patriot with parents to get approval for movie viewing on Wednesday, January 6th.

1.4 Maths

8th Grade

Students received their new textbook, Thinking With Mathematical Models. In this book, we really get cooking with algebraic functions! Students should come to class having completed the following practice: 1ACE #12-15.

7th Grade

Students explored the relationship between scale factor and area of polygons in Problem 3.1. The following practice is assigned: 3ACE #1-3.

1/4/10 Science

Welcome back!  Q2 ends on Friday, 1/15.  Students should meet with me to discuss their grades and how they can end the marking quarter with a strong finish. 

1)  Unfinished wiki pages will lose 5% of their grade each day it is late!!  Get them in!!

2)  Students with completed wiki pages can make corrections to improve their quiz grade. Due Friday 1/8.

3)  After corrections, students should tag their own creature with its levels of classification and find another creature that is closely related to their own based on how it is classified.  Due Friday 1/8.

12/23/09 Science

Students who did not complete their wiki page on a living thing must complete this assignment over break.  Have a happy and safe holiday break! 

12.22 Maths

8th Grade
Students took a quiz today on Linear Functions, Slope and y-Intercept. The quizzes will be returned on Wednesday and grades will be available on PowerSchool by the end of the day on Wednesday.

7th Grade
Students took a quiz today on Similar Figures and Scale Factor. The quizzes will be returned on Wednesday and grades will be available on PowerSchool by the end of the day on Wednesday.

12/22/09 Science

Students are researching a plant or animal of their choosing and creating a page in their wiki folder to present their research. The completed wiki page with research is due at the end of the day on Wednesday 12/23. This assignment will count as a quiz grade in science.

12.21 Maths

8th Grade
Students are preparing for a quiz tomorrow on Linear Functions, Slope and y-Intercept. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - Skills Practice worksheet, 4ACE #16-23
R3 - Skills Practice worksheet, 4ACE #16, 17, 20-23, 31

7th Grade
Students are preparing for a quiz tomorrow on Similar Figures and Scale Factor. The following practice is assigned: Skills Practice worksheet, 2ACE #7, 8, 11.

Happy Winter Solstice! After today, the days start to get longer.

12/21/09 Science

Students are asked to research a plant or animal and create a page in their wiki folder that presents their research. The completed wiki page with research is due Wednesday 12/23/09. This assignment will count as a quiz grade in science.

12/18/09 Science

• Students should complete the "Identifying Vertibrates Using Classification Keys" packet for Monday 12/21.  
  
• Students should also make up any missing work and meet with me to discuss how they are progressing in science.
  

12.18 Maths

8th Grade
Students have begun to summarize their learning about slope by completing Mathematical Reflections 4 on page 89. Students must come to class on Monday having completed all of MR4.

7th Grade
Students have begun to summarize their learning about similarity and scale factor by completing Mathematical Reflections 2 on page 37. Students must come to class on Monday having completed questions 1 and 2 of MR2.

12.17 Maths

8th Grade
Students continue exploring the slope of linear functions in problem 4.3. Students should come to class having completed problem 4.3, questions A and B.

7th Grade
Students are learning about scale factor in problem 2.3. Come to class having completed problem 2.3 (but skip question E). The following practice is assigned: 2ACE 5, 6, 9, 10

12.15 Maths

8th Grade
Students continue to learn about slope of linear functions. The following practice is assigned:
R2 - 4ACE #2-10
R3 - 4ACE #4-12, 15

7th Grade
Students continue to explore geometric similarity in Problem 2.2.
Class 7-1 - Students must complete question C before the start of class.
Class 7-2 - Students must complete the table of rules for the five hats that we started in class today.

12.15 Humanities

Read handout and answer questions included. Due Thursday!


*Upload class presentation on 13 Colonies to wiki under Humanities-current class links

12.14 Humanities

Read "Cartoons" taking notes in the margin & fill in Cause-Effect Chart (British Action vs. American Colonists' Reaction)

12/14/09 Science

This week, students will learn how living things are classified. They will learn how to write scientific names, how to use dichotomous keys and what makes one species distinct from another. Also, be sure to check out the "classification of life" page in the science folder. Parents can help students review the material by using this page as a study guide.

Tonights homework: 1) Finish the "Writing Scientific Names" worksheet by tomorrow, Tues 12/15
2) Meet with me to discuss grade/progress in science.
3) Groups must now meet outside of class to continue filming for their PSA.

12.14 Maths

8th Grade
Students continue to learn about slope, y-intercept and linear equations (y=mx+b) in Problem 4.2 "Finding the Slope of a Line." The following must be completed before class on Tuesday:
Class 8-1: 4ACE#1, 36.
Class 8-2: Complete Problem 4.2 A (Labsheet 4.2A)

7th Grade
Students continue to explore geometric similarity in Problem 2.2 "Hats Off to the Wumps." Students should arrive for class on Tuesday having completed the table on Labsheet 2.2A (Problem 2.2).

APOLLO SKATING TRIP - WEDNESDAY DEC 16

On Wednesday December 16, Apollo students and teachers will head to Carin's Ice Skating Rink for a skating field trip. All students are expected to attend this team activity. Please return your permission form by Tuesday December 15. If you have any questions, contact your Advisory teacher.

12/10/09 Science

Students should complete the "Classifying Bean" Lab for tomorrow's class, Friday 12/11/09

12/8/09 Science

Students should complete the "it's a bird, it's a plane, it's all of the above" worksheet by Wednesday 12/9/09.

12.7 Maths

8th Grade

Students were returned their graded Unit Test, and began a review of linear relationships in the new textbook "Moving Straight Ahead." Students must complete their "Test Dissection" before class tomorrow.

7th Grade

Students explored similarity in Problem 1.2 - Stretching a Figure. 1ACE #14 is assigned as practice.

12/7/09 Science

Today, students read about the 6 characteristics and 4 needs of living things.  They received a worksheet with questions and a writing prompt based on the reading.  They should complete the worksheet for homework and have it at the beginning of class tomorrow, Tuesday 12/8.

12.4 Maths

8th Grade
In class, students completed the Unit Test on Symmetry and Transformations. No practice is assigned this weekend.

7th Grade
In class, students learned about similarity and completed Problem 1.1 in the new textbook Stretching and Shrinking. 1ACE questions #1 and 2 are assigned as practice.

12.3 Maths

8th Grade
Students should complete the unit review questions #1-5 on page 101-102, and the Practice Packet, to prepare for the Unit Test on Friday.

7th Grade
The graded Unit Test was returned to students today. Students wishing to take a re-do must meet with Mr. C before Tuesday December 8.

12.2 Maths

8th Grade

Students should arrive for class having completed the Unit Review questions #1-5 on pages 101-102.

7th Grade

Students took the Variables and Patterns Unit Test today. No practice is assigned.

12/1/09 Science

1)  Each group needs to complete their P.S.A. story board by Wednesday 12/2.  

2)  Students interested in expanding their scientific horizons should strongly consider attending UVM's Technology Knowledge Fair/Scouts in Engineering on Saturday 12/5.  Students will learn about aviation, architecture, computers, electricity, engineering, energy, geology, hunter safety, metals, radio communications, photography, space exploration and surveying.  Check out www.cems.uvm.edu/scouts/  for more information!!!

12.1 Maths

8th Grade
Students must have completed up to the end of section 5.3 on their learning checklist before arriving for class on Wednesday.

7th Grade
Students should complete the Practice Packet to prepare for the Unit Test on Wednesday.

Humanities 12/1/09

1. Review notes taken in class on 6+1 Writing Traits, or VOWPICS--Voice, organization, word choice, presentation, ideas, conventions, and sentence fluency.

2. Add to notes for each trait to be sure each exercise is complete (ideas, brain map & transitions, letter to 4 audiences, rewording of 4 sentences, and GUMS paper).

3. Study for 6+1 Writing Traits quiz on Thursday, Dec. 3rd.
*Quiz will be on VOWPICS, formal vs. informal voice, G.U.M.S., purpose of a transition,
the reader is also known as the ___________.

11.30 Maths

8th Grade

Students should have completed at least up to the end of 5.2 on the Learning Checklist before class on Tuesday.

*There will be a Unit Test on Friday December 4*

7th Grade

Students should complete question 1 on page 82 before class on Tuesday.

*There will be a Unit Test on Wednesday December 2*

11/30/09 Science

Welcome back!!  

1)  Each group needs to complete their P.S.A. story board by Wednesday 12/2.  

2)  Students interested in expanding their scientific horizons should strongly consider attending UVM's Technology Knowledge Fair/Scouts in Engineering on Saturday 12/5.  Students will learn about aviation, architecture, computers, electricity, engineering, energy, geology, hunter safety, metals, radio communications, photography, space exploration and surveying.  Check out www.cems.uvm.edu/scouts/  for more information!!!

Humanities 11/30/09

Finish writing transitions inbetween boxes for the trait of organization.

11.20 Maths

7th Grade
Students have begun writing the Unit Summary for Variables and Patterns. Students should arrive after the break having completed "Explain Your Reasoning" questions #2-4 on page 82. Be sure to use specific examples from the unit in your answers.

8th Grade
Students have a Learning Checklist for the learning tasks required in Investigation 5. Each student has been assigned an individual task to complete during the break. Use your Learning Checklist to make sure you are on track.

Have a great Thanksgiving holiday!