Week of November 7, 2016

Purple Curriculum Updates

Pre-Algebra I with MaryAnn:
We completed Unit 5 on Thursday and had a unit test on Friday. I will return these tests on Monday. Your student's notebook assessment was returned to her/him on Friday. Monday we will begin Unit 6 which consists of multiply and dividing fractions and unit conversions.

Pre-Algebra II with Jared:

In Pre-Algebra II we began the week with a review of how to divide mixed numbers (and a reminder that we only can multiply fractions, so we need to adjust/convert problems beforehand). We then returned to solving 2-step equations, this time putting fractions into the mix. We added "try/check/revise" and "working backwards" into our problem-solving toolkit, which we use when approaching various word problems. We then spent the remainder of the week with the customary system of measurements. We looked at the history of these units, and then measured a lot of items around the classroom.

Pre-Algebra III with Andrew:

In Pre-Algebra III this week, we continued working on rational numbers--numbers that can be written as fractions.  We practiced comparing fractions by finding common denominators, and we worked on adding and subtracting fractions after finding their common denominators.  Lastly, we used multiplication and division of fractions to begin solving some algebraic equations.  We wrapped the week up with a quiz, and will continue our unit next week.

Algebra I with Molly:

We began this week with a review of calculating percents. Then we learned to calculate percent of change, increase or decrease. We also found the greatest possible error in measurement and likely ranges for errors in measuring to a given unit. We finished the week with a focus on probability.

Geometry with Clare:

We finished Chapter 4 this week, learning about congruent triangles and doing rather too many proofs for comfort! On the lighter side, we played the games the students created to help with learning proofs about parallel lines, transversals, and their congruent angles. The games were fun to try and play! Also completed this week, were the research projects on parallel lines in various optical devices. Monday, there will be a quiz, then review for the chapter test at the end of the week.

Language Arts with Jared:

We spent a lot of this week working on typing up the rough drafts of our compare-contrast essays. We began by discussing the requirements of this essay format, and then looked at how revisions can improve the various sections of the essay. We ended the week with a focus on thesis statements, and looked at how we can make our own thesis statements stronger. Students also worked on their new vocabulary unit, and on recognizing direct objects in our grammar unit.

World Studies & Civics with Andrew:

This week was spent on a couple different activities.  First of all, we worked on our NHD research throughout the week, and presented our first research findings on Thursday and Friday.  Next, we spent some time finishing up our campaign posters for our fictional character election project.  We were able to present our posters and hold a primary election to determine our final candidates for the election.  Finally, throughout the week, we held several discussions about the national election in the U.S., covering topics like the electoral college, "red and blue" states, important election issues for this year, and what surprises took place during the actual election.  We have been wondering what would happen for a long time, and now we know!

Physical Science with Molly:

This week the final class took their test on matter. We have continued our study of the properties of water. Students tested surface tension and cohesion with a lab dropping water onto a penny. They then completed a lab showing the difference in surface tension when temperature is changed and a surfactant is added to water. We will continue our focus on the properties of liquids and gases in the coming week. For Science Fair, all students turned in their first progress report. They should be working on making progress on their science fair project!

Spanish with Corinne:

Morning Spanish

Sunshine A

This week we reviewed for and took a test on Chapter 1A. The tests will be graded and put in student portfolios next week.

Sunshine B

This week we began Chapter 6A, talking about furniture and things in a bedroom. Students described their rooms, including the colors of furniture. We will continue working with the new vocabulary next week.

Spanish B

This week we finished Chapter 6A, describing your bedroom. We will have a test on Thursday November 17. We will continue to practice and review making comparisons and using the superlative. Students should be studying 10 minutes every day in preparation for the test.

Spanish C

This week we began Chapter 2A, describing your daily routines. We worked with the vocabulary and watched the videohistoria. Some students have started making flashcards to learn the new vocabulary, and everyone is encouraged to study 10 minutes every day.

Spanish D

This week we finished Chapter 7A, describing how to prepare food. We practiced using the impersonal se with negative tú commands, and also reviewed direct object pronouns. We will have a test on Thursday November 17.

Art with Patti:

This week we talked about how artists can use expressive and contour lines in their artwork, and then students explored ways to apply them in their warm up. Students continued working on individual projects or reflecting on their work. They also watched a wheel demonstration in preparation for beginning to work in clay.

Life Skills / Sex Ed with Molly:

All students have completed a mid-year questionnaire giving them a chance to let teachers know how things are going. 6^th grade students were split into gender groups and discussed puberty, listed the top-ten changes they’re likely to experience during puberty and watched a short video introducing them to the top-ten changes during puberty for their respective gender. Next time, they will focus on brain changes they will experience during puberty, then discuss the puberty growth spurt.

7^th grade students split into gender groups and read about the growth spurt that occurs during puberty. Next time, they will focus more on the growth spurt and specifically weight gain. We will then learn about anorexia and bulimia as well as focus on over-exercise and steroid use.

8^th grade students split into gender groups. Boys learned more about difference in penis size and shape, as well as learning about circumcision. Next time, boys will learn about how sperm are produced in the body. Girls learned more about breast changes. Next time, girls will learn about how to choose a bra size, before moving on to learn about the female reproductive system and menstruation.

Thank you from, 
The Purple Team