4.12 Maths

8th Grade

Students used their prior knowledge of circles to design a new pool given the area. Students worked with their groups to complete problem 1.3 "The Community Pool". As a class, we will summarize our findings tomorrow. The following practice is assigned: 1ACE # 5 & 6

Students were also given the following information today...

Re-do Directions for Frogs, Fleas and Painted Cubes Unit Test

1. You must make corrections to your unit test and bring them to the study session

2. You must attend a study session after school Wednesday April 14, 2010

3. The RE-DO will be Thursday April 15, 2010 during SSR and practice time.

You must attend the study session in order to take the redo.

7th Grade

Students received their Accentuate the Negative unit test. Do-over directions as follows:

Re-do Directions for Accentuate the Negative Unit Test

1. You must make corrections to your unit test and bring them to the study session

2. You must attend a study session after school Wednesday April 14, 2010

3. The RE-DO will be Thursday April 15, 2010 during SSR and practice time.

You must attend the study session in order to take the redo.

We will be looking at linear relationships in our new book "Moving Straight Ahead". Today, students discovered their walking rates. Students calculated the unit rates of meters per second and seconds per meter. We will use this information to discover a linear relationship tomorrow. The following practice is assigned : 1ACE # 1 & 2

4.8 Maths

8th Grade

Students completed their work with problem 1.1, "Writing Equivalent Expressions". The following practice is assigned: 1ACE 1 or 2 & 19, 20

7th Grade

Students took a unit test on integers and rational numbers. No practice is assigned.

4/7 Science

Students should have a completed human body project by now. If not, complete it for homework. We will be evaluating them in class tomorrow.

4.7 Maths

8th Grade
Students received a new book today, "Say it With Symbols". As a class, we took a look at equivalent expressions for the perimeter of a rectangle. Students began problem 1.1 Writing Equivalent Expressions. No practice is assigned.

7th Grade
Students finished up their integer unit. Students reviewd and summarized thier learning for each investigation. Tomorrow, each group will have a unit test. Practice is as follows:
Group A - Review for test
Group B - 3ACE #4abc & 8abc
Group C - 4ACE #4abc & 7abc

4/6 Science

Students should complete the lab they did in class today for homework. It is due at the beginning of class tomorrow, Wednesday 4/7.

Students should also complete their human body project on the wiki for class on Thursday 4/8. We will be self-evaluating them in class and conferencing with students to discuss their work.

4.6 Maths

8th Grade

Students took a unit test today. There is no practice assigned.

7th Grade

Students worked in their integer groups. Students practiced their skill work today and went over their work in their groups. No practice is assigned.

4.5 Maths

8th Grade

Today, students worked on math reflection 2. Students continued reviewing for their unit test. The test will be tomorrow Tuesday, April 6th.

The following practice is assigned - finish math reflection 2 - Due tomorrow in class.

7th Grade

Today, students worked in their integer groups. Students worked on the following...
Group A - Students worked on Problem 2.2 - Adding integers - No practice is assigned.
Group B - Students worked on Problem 3.3 or 3.4 - Dividing integers - The following practice is assigned: (7-1)finish problem 3.3, we will go over this in class on Wednesday.
Group C - Students worked on Problem 4.3 - The following practice is assigned: finish 4.3 C & D

4.2 Maths

8th Grade

Today, students went over practice and finished problem 2.4. Students began reviewing for their unit test on Tuesday, April 6th and began Math Reflection 2. There is no practice assigned.

7th Grade

Today, students worked in their integer groups. Students worked on the following...
Group A - Students worked on Problem 2.2 - Adding integers
Group B - Students worked on Problem 3.2 or 3.3 - Multiplying and Dividing integers.
Group C - Students continued their work on Problem 4.2

No practice is assigned.

8th Grade

Today, students continued working on problem 2.4. Students looked at factoring expressions in expanded form. The following practice is assigned: Finish problem 2.4 E.

7th Grade

Today, students worked in their integer groups. Students worked on the following...
Group A - Students began Problem 2.2 - Adding integers
Group B - Student's took a quiz and began Problem 3.1
Group C - Students finished up problem 4.1 and summarized their findings. We launched problem 4.2 as a group.

No practice is assigned.

3/31 Science

With only 2 days left to the 3rd Quarter, students should be:
1) Making up missing work
2) Performing cells test corrections
3) Finishing up the Human Body Project

3.31 Maths

8th Grade

Students explored problem 2.4, "Factoring Quadratic Expressions." This problem develops further understanding of the distributive property. There is no practice assigned.

7th Grade

Students worked in their integer groups again today.

Group A - worked on Problem 2.1 - No practice
Group B - worked on Problem 2.5 - Practice - Review packet - QUIZ TOMORROW!
Group C - Took a quiz and moved on to problem 4.1 "Order of Operations" - Practice - Complete MR 3 - MR 3 is due tomorrow!

3.30 Maths

8th Grade -

Students explored the distributive property today as they worked through problem 2.3. We will finish and summarize problem 2.3 tomorrow. The following practice is assigned: Problem 2.3 D.

7th Grade -

Students worked in their integer groups again today.

Group A - worked on Problem 2.1 - Practice - 2ACE # 2, 3
Group B - worked on Problem 2.3 - Practice - 2ACE # 10, 11, 12
Group C - worked on additional practice and Math Reflection 3 to review for the quiz tomorrow. Practice - Work on additional practice packet and MR3. We will finish MR3 tomorrow in class.

(For those students who did Problem 2.2 - practice - 2ACE #6, 7, 32 )

Group C will have a quiz tomorrow!

URGENT: 50/50 Raffle

Team I-Leap is in the final stages of our 50/50 raffle fundraiser for the 8th Grade Trip to Boston. We will be drawing the winning ticket this Thursday evening at the Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser at the Middle/High School (Dinner begins at 5:00 PM). Tickets are $20 each and the jackpot is already over $1000 with tickets sales increasing rapidly each day. We will only sell 500 tickets guaranteeing the odds of winning to be 1 in 500 or better with a jackpot of up to $5000. Please either purchase your tickets by contacting your favorite Middle School student or you can contact the I-Leap team teachers directly at the email addresses at the bottom of the page. We will sell any remaining tickets at the Spaghetti Dinner, but cannot guarantee their availability.

Thank you,

Tom Keblin
tkeblin@mtsd-vt.org

Pete Wyndorf
pwyndorf@mtsd-vt.org

3.29 Maths

8th Grade -

Students finished up problem 2.2. Some began problem 2.3, "The Distributive Property". The following practice is assigned: 2ACE # 2-4, 16

7th Grade -

Students worked in their integer groups again today.

Group A - worked on Problem 1.4 - Practice - 1ACE # 6, 8, 48
Group B - worked on Problem 2.2/2.3 - Practice - 2ACE # 6, 7, 32
Group C - worked on Problem 3.4 - Practice - 3ACE # 12-17, 19

Group B & C will have a quiz on Wednesday, March 31, 2010

3/29 Science

This is the last week of Q3. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their teachers to find out how they are doing. Along those lines, students were given a progress report in science today. The progress report should be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to science class.

Other homework includes:
1) Make up missing work
2) Cells test corrections
3) Wiki Project day 6: Tags and comments on other people's systems.

3/26 Science

Students should be finished with wiki parts I & II by friday (day 3 & 4 on the project.) If not, please complete it for homework or during our midday block. If anyone has any questions or feels like they are unable to meet this deadline, please speak with me.

3.26 Math

8th Grade

Students explored equivalent quadratic expressions. We looked closely at representing quadratic relationships in both expanded and factored forms. No practice is assigned.

7th Grade

Students worked in their integer groups again today. Comparing and Scaling Unit Project was handed back today. Students who have not handed it in must do so by Monday. Students may revise their write ups, these are due on Monday as well. There is no practice assigned.

3.25 Maths

8th Grade

Students began investigation 2 today. In this investigations students will be exploring quadratic expressions. We began with problem 2.1 which focused on equivalent expressions to represent areas of rectangles. Students should complete problem 2.1 before class on Friday.

7th Grade

Students continued in their integer groups. Students worked on the problems listed below and the following practice is assigned.

Group A - worked on Problem 1.2 - Practice - 1ACE # 9-19
Group B - worked on Problem 2.1 - Practice - 2ACE # 1-3
Group C - worked on Problem 3.2 - Practice - 3ACE # 4-6

3.24 Maths

8th Grade
Students took a check-up quiz on writing quadratic equations to model the relationship between side length and area of rectangles with fixed perimeter. The grade for this quiz is entered in PowerSchool under the two separate skills assessed - 1. writing equations; and 2. interpreting models of quadratic relationships.

7th Grade
We had a good collaborative discussion about classroom norms today. Students will resume their study of integers on Thursday.

3/24 Science

Depending on where students are at with their research, students may or may not have homework tonight. If students have NOT finished day 3's research and write up (see project overview), then they should complete it as homework (either at home or at school during our midday block.)

3/23 Science

Students should complete their body system's background research and drawing, if they did not finish it during class.  Tomorrow, we will use the information from their research to start building a wiki page for others to view.

Students should also:

1)  Complete "Feel The Beat" assessment.

2)  Make cells test corrections.

3)  Make up any missing work. 

3.23 Maths

8th Grade

Students finished problem 1.3 in class. The following practice is assigned:

R2 1ACE #6-8

R3 1ACE #8, 13

If you did not finish problem 1.3, please do so for practice.

7th Grade

Students began work in "Accentuate the Negative". Students were grouped based on a pre-assessment given last week. The following practice was assigned...

Group A - worked on Problem 1.1 - Practice - 1ACE #6-8, 48

Group B - worked on Problem 3.1 - Practice - 3ACE # 2, 3, 30

Group C - worked on Problem 1.4 - Practice - 1ACE #35, 36, 37

Personal Research Essay

We are about to being a personal response paper that demonstrates a point of view based on the struggle you chose. On the wiki you will find a writing guide for the personal response, which is the same outline received in class. Also, you will find general questions to consider that should help you determine what needs to be in each paragraph. If you have not yet met with Mrs. Endres or Mrs. Bakr to outline your essay please make sure that you do. In this meeting you will assisted in designing the flow of the essay.

Remember:

• Make sure every pararaph has your reaction or personal connection to the topic of the paragraph.
• You must also make sure that every paragraph supports your point of view.
• Most impotrantly, leave your reader with something to think about.

3/22 Science

Students began a research project where they are expected to become "experts" on a particular body system.  This week, students will study a body system, create a wiki page that displays their research for others to view and create 'tags' on their wiki page that connects their body system to the other body systems.  For an overview of the project, check out number 8 on the human body page in the science folder.  Students are expected to connect their research to the larger idea of homeostasis (how the body maintains a healthy balance among these systems) and offer suggestions to others on how to keep this system healthy.

students can also:

1) Make up missing work.

2) Make cell test corrections.

3) Complete the "Feel The Beat" Inquiry Assessment.

3.22 Maths

8th Grade
In class, students reviewed their learning from Problem 1.2, and began Problem 1.3 where they are introduced to equations for quadratic relationships. No practice is assigned.

7th Grade
Today, students cleaned out their binders and got their new books, "Accentuate the Negative". As a class, we explored our new book. There is no practice tonight.

3.19 Maths

7th Grade

Today, students shared their scale building projects with each other and had class time to work on their building plan write up. The building plan write up is due on Monday March 22, 2010.

8th Grade
Students continued to explore quadratic relationships and their patterns in tables and graphs in Problem 1.2. Students must complete practice questions 1ACE # 1, 14, 15 before class on Monday.

3/18 Science

1) Students should meet with me to review how they should study/prepare for test corrections and then make those corrections.
2) Feel the Beat Assessment/write is due Friday 3/19.

3.18 Maths

8th Grade
Students explored their first quadratic relationship in Problem 1.1. The following practice is assigned:
1ACE # 1, 14, 15

7th Grade

Today, students finished up their model building. Groups will share their projects and tie up any loose ends tomorrow.

Practice: Have numbers 1 -3 completed on write up checklist.

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.