Thursday December 16th

8th Grade Math: Today in 8th grade math students finished working on section 3.3 practice.  What they did not finish in class is homework for tonight.  
Homework:

• Finish section 3.3 practice (evens)
• Study for quiz over section 3.1 - 3.3

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students completed a quiz over section 5.1-5.4.  The tests were graded by the end of class and I met with students regarding what areas of the quiz they did not do well on.
Homework: 
none

7th/8th Grade Science: Today there was no science due to the "Olympics" activities that students participated in as part of social studies. 
Homework:
none

Wednesday December 15th

8th Grade Math: Today in 8th grade math students again worked with FlashMasters for their warm up using the Algebra format.  We then reviewed the material from yesterday (solving equations with variables on both sides of the equals sign).  We finished note-taking by giving examples of two special situations that come up where the final answer is either "Any number is a solution to the equation" or "no solution to the equation".  Students practiced these special rules before starting on section 3.3 practice (evens).
Homework:
Finish #2-8 (evens) on section 3.3 practice

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students graded section 5.4 practice (dividing fractions).  We then completed a practice mid chapter quiz and students rotated around the room to check their answers and measure their understanding of the material from sections 5.1-5.4. 
Homework: 
study for mid chapter quiz

7th/8th Grade Science: Today students completed fun activity/team challenge within a group of three peers.  The challenge goal was to design and build an apparatus that could keep a marble in motion for the greatest amount of time before making a noise that signaled the end of the process. 
Homework:
none

Tuesday December 14th

8th Grade Math: Today in 8th grade math students worked on flashmasters for their warm up using the Algebra format.  We then reviewed sections 3.1 and 3.2 before introducing section 3.3 which covers solving equations with variables on both sides of the equal sign.  We will continue this tomorrow and work on section 3.3 practice in class.
Homework:
none

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students turned in section 5.3 practice.  We then introduced section 5.4 which covers dividing fractions.  We completed  a series of problems as examples before students worked on section 5.4 practice. 
Homework: 
Finish section 5.4 practice (all)

7th/8th Grade Science: Today students turned in their cell phone minerals issue letter.  We then watched an "Eyes of Nye" video on population issues, which touched on consumption issues relating to our cell phone studies of the past two weeks. 
Homework:
none

Monday December 13th

8th Grade Math: Today in 8th grade math we completed 5 point quiz over sections 3.1 and 3.2 .  We  then worked with FlashMasters for 10 minutes using the "algebra" format for the multiplication and division flashcards.  Students spent the remainder of the class period working on section 3.2 practice.  
Homework:
finish 3.2 practice  (any student who completes word all word problems correctly receives a bonus homework late pass)

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students completed a short 6 point quiz over sections 5.1-5.3.  We practiced multiplication and division flash cards on "FlashMasters".  They worked on section 5.3 practice for the rest of class.
Homework: 
Finish section 5.3 practice

7th/8th Grade Science: Today students spent the entire hour and fifteen minutes of class working on their letters.  Students who turned in a rough draft received feedback and then worked on their final drafts which are due tomorrow.
Homework:
Finish final draft of Cell Phone issue letter (due tomorrow at the start of class)

Thursday December 9th

8th Grade Math: Today in 8th grade math we started section 3.2 which introduces solving multiple step equations that have parentheses and like terms.  example:   3x + 4(6x - 8) +(-18) = 4 
We will continue working on this section in class tomorrow.  
Homework:
Review #7 is due tomorrow (Friday)

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students worked on section 5.2 practice which is an assignment relating to adding and subtraction mixed numbers.
Homework:   
Review #7 is due tomorrow (Friday)

7th/8th Grade Science: Today students turned in their cell phone math assignment, which was homework last night.  We then started our final project for this minerals unit.  Students are writing a letter to share their ideas for solutions to the issues of cell phone recycling OR Human Rights issues associated with mining in Africa.  We will continue these letters in tomorrow's class.  They will be due Monday at the start of class. 
Homework:
Brainstorm for letter writing assignment...

Wednesday December 8th

8th Grade Math: Today in 8th grade math we went over questions from the front side of section 3.1 practice.  We then spent the rest of class working on the word problems associated with this section.  Tomorrow we will move into section 3.2. 
Homework:
Review #7 is due Friday

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students turned in their review homework and then started section 5.2 which introduces adding and subtracting mixed numbers.
Homework:   
Review #7 is due Friday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today students completed a series of math calculations to investigate the number of cell phones recycled in 2005, the amount of metals thrown away in the 500 million cell phones that were obsolete in 2005, and the value of those metals that were in obsolete cell phones.
Homework:
Finish cell phone math assignment (and extra credit assignment)

Tuesday December 7th

8th Grade Math: Today in 8th grade math, students reviewed how to solve multiple-step equations with addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication.  Students were then given time to work through section 3.1 practice (odds).  The front side of this worksheet should be finished for homework.  We will finished the back side in class tomorrow. 
Homework:

• Review #6 is due tomorrow (Wednesday)
• Finish front side of section 3.1 practice worksheet (odds)

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students reviewed how to add and subtract fractions with like and unlike denominators.  We then worked on section 5.1 Practice (all).  If students did not finish the assignment by the end of class it is homework tonight. 
Homework:   

• Review #6 is due tomorrow (Wednesday)
• Section 5.1 Practice (all)

7th/8th Grade Science: Today students worked on another graphing activity.  In this assignment they graphed the number of cell phones sold worldwide from 1997 to 2006.  We then drew a line of best fit to project the data through the year 2012. 
Homework:
Finish activity (graph and table) for today's activity (# of cell phones sold worldwide from 1997-2012)

Monday December 6th

8th Grade Math: Today in math we gave students a day to finish their "Life Math Quiz".  We then transitioned back to the textbooks where we started chapter 3.  In this chapter students will learn how to solve multi-step Algebraic Equations. 
Homework:
Review #6 is due Wednesday


7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students were given time to finish the Chapter 4 test that was started on Friday.  We then started working on Chapter 5 which covers operations with Fractions.  Today in Section 5.1 students learned how to add and subtract fractions (with like and unlike denominators). 
Homework:  
Review #6 is due Wednesday


7th/8th Grade Science: Today students graphed the average yearly price of various metals from 2002 to 2007.  We then drew a "line of best fit" to extrapolate the data and make forecasts for the price of the minerals in 2012.    Finally students converted the price per "troy ounce" of the metals to price per gram by applying the conversion factor of 1 Troy Ounce = 31.1 grams. 
Homework:
Finish activity (graph and table) that was worked on in class today!

Thursday December 2nd

8th Grade Math: Today in math we gave students a day to finish some of their work from the life math unit that was incomplete or needing corrections.  We postponed the quiz over life math material until tomorrow. 
Homework:

• Review #5 is due tomorrow (Friday)
• Study for "Life Math" Quiz tomorrow

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math our class completed a review assignment on www.classzone.com  to prepare for the chapter test tomorrow. 
Homework: 

• Study for Chapter 4 Test tomorrow (Friday)
• Review #5 is due Friday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today we continued an learning about the mining of minerals around the world.  Today's focus was on the issue of mining of minerals in the Congo and the relationship between this activity and the countries ongoing civil war. 
Homework:
none (unless student did not turn in map project at the start of class today)

Wednesday December 1st

8th Grade Math: Today in math we finished buying the stocks that we chose to invest in for the next several months.  Students who did not finish this should finish the assignment for homework tonight (due tomorrow at the start of class).  We also studied/gave notes for the quiz that we will have tomorrow over all the strands of "Life Math" we have covered so far.  Included will be paychecks, taxes, housing, and investing (savings accounts versus stock market).
Homework:

• Review #5 is due Friday
• Study for "Life Math" Quiz tomorrow

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math our class reviewed equivalent fractions by working "hands on" with a pizza.  We also finished working on section 4.7 practice which covers converting between fractions and decimals. There will be a test over chapter 4 on Friday of this week.
Homework: 

• Study for Chapter 4 Test (Friday)
• Review #5 is due Friday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today we continued an activity where students learned about where the minerals are mined that are used in making the various parts in a cell phone.  Students will turn this project in at the start of class tomorrow.
Homework:
FINISH the cell phone minerals map project (due tomorrow at the beginning of class).

Tuesday November 30th

8th Grade Math: Today in math we continued to research and find companies that students will track fictional investments in the company's stock throughout the year.  Tomorrow we will wrap up this activity and move on to the next phase of the "Life Math" unit.  In this next step we will set up safer/more secure investments in CD's and savings accounts to compare to the gains/losses they will track in their stock investments.
Homework: Review #3 is due tomorrow
7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math we reviewed finding the LCM or two numbers, as well as converting mixed numbers to improper fractions.  We then introduced converting fractions to decimals and decimals back into fractions.  Students then began practicing these skills on 4.7 worksheet in class.
Homework: 
Review #3 is due tomorrow

7th/8th Grade Science: Today we continued an activity where students learned about where the minerals are mined that are used in making the various parts in a cell phone.  Students will finish this assignment in class tomorrow.
Homework:
none

Tuesday November 23rd

8th Grade Math: Today in math we continued to discuss what the stock market is and how individuals can buy shares of a company in the hopes of earning a profit on their investment.  We went over a process that students will research a company to learn the industry/sector is categorized in, the competitors, business summary, and 2 year range of share prices for the company.
Homework: Think of three companies that you believe would be good "investments".

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math we reviewed finding the LCD of two fractions with unlike denominators for the purpose of comparing and ordering them.  In class we completed and graded section 4.5 Practice to review our skills in this subject area.
Homework:     
none

7th/8th Grade Science: Today we continued an activity from last week where students learned about the origin of various items found within the classroom.  The underlying message of this lesson was to emphasize that most of the materials around us are produced by the mining and processing of minerals from within the earth. 
Homework: Students who did not finish the world map enlargement need to have this completed so we can use it for our activities Tuesday and Wednesday.

Monday November 22nd

8th Grade Math: Today in math we reviewed how savings accounts earn money over time due to interest.  We then discussed investing in the stock market.  Students were introduced to the Dow Jones Index, and observed the range of index values throughout the day.  We will continue learning about the stock market tomorrow.
Homework:
Finish rest of "Uncle Mort makes it better" savings accounts worksheet

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math we reviewed finding the LCM of two numbers by using the prime factorization method.  We then transitioned to section 4.5 which covers comparing and ordering fractions by setting them to have a common denominator. 
Homework:     
none

7th/8th Grade Science: Today did not have science due to early release day.  In the afternoon students enjoyed a turkey feed/potluck to celebrate and give thanks for accomplishments so far this school year. 
Homework: Students who did not finish the world map enlargement need to have this completed so we can use it for our activities Tuesday and Wednesday.

Thursday November 18th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students finished their work on the third stage of our "Life Math" unit.  This assignment focused on students researching a home/condo for sale in the Juneau area and then going through the necessary calculations to determine their down payment, monthly mortgage, yearly taxes, and monthly utility bills.  With about thirty minutes left in class we began the next phase of our "Life Math" unit where students learn about investing their money.  Today's discussion focused on savings accounts.  We will continue this assignment tomorrow.
Homework:

• Review Homework #3 is due tomorrow (Friday)
• Finish the table on the front side of the "savings account" worksheet

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math we learned how to write equivalent fractions.  Also, students learned how to use the prime factorization to write fractions in their simplest form. 
Homework:     

• Review Homework #3 is due tomorrow (Friday)
• Finish 4.4 Practice (odds) 

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students continued working on their world map enlargements.  We will use these maps to illustrate how common household items are made up from minerals mined throughout the world.   Homework: finish the world map enlargement assignment

Wednesday November 17th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students continued to work on the third stage of our "Life Math" unit.  Today's assignment focused on students researching a home/condo for sale in the Juneau area and then going through the necessary calculations to determine their down payment, monthly mortgage, yearly taxes, and monthly utility bills.  We will finish this assignment tomorrow and then begin learning about savings accounts. 
Homework:
Review Homework #3 is due Friday

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math we learned how to write equivalent fractions.  Also, students learned how to use the prime factorization to write fractions in their simplest form. 
Homework:    Review Homework #3 is due Friday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students finished their minerals in sports presentations.  We then began making a large version of a world map which will be used for students to illustrate where various minerals are produced for common items used in every day life.
Homework: 
none

Tuesday November 16th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students finished working on the third "Life Math" worksheet.  This assignment focuses on the costs and process for finding and renting a house/apartment.  We then began discussing the process that goes into buying a house.  We will continue this assignment tomorrow when students will research a house for sale in our community and calculate costs for down payment, monthly mortgage payment, taxes, and utility bills.  
Homework:
Review Homework #2 is due Wednesday (tomorrow)

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math we learned how to write equivalent fractions.  Also, students learned how to use the prime factorization to write fractions in their simplest form. 
Homework:   

• Finish 4.3 Practice (evens #2-10)
• Review Homework #2 is due Wednesday (tomorrow)

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students continued learning about how minerals relate to modern day sports and worked on a group presentation to share their information with the class.
Homework: 
none

Monday November 15th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students started working on the third "Life Math" worksheet.  This assignment focuses on the costs and process for finding and renting a house/apartment. 
Homework:
Review Homework #2 is due Wednesday

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math we learned how to find the Greatest Common Factor (GCF) of a series of numbers using the prime factorization method.
Homework:   

• Finish 4.2 Practice (evens)
• Review Homework #2 is due Wednesday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students practiced skills in summarizing important information from a text by identifying key points and putting them into their own words.
Homework: 
none

Wednesday November 10th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students were given instructions to finish their life math packets #1 and #2.  If they did not finish these in class they were assigned the remainder of what is not completed as homework.
Homework:
Finish Life Math Worksheets #1 and #2

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math we finished working on section 4.1 which focuses on finding the factors and prime factorization of composite numbers.
Homework:
none

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students finished the models for the mineral that they chose from a list of common minerals that was posted on the board.
Homework: 
none

Tuesday November 9th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students continued working with their "Life Math" unit.  Packet #1 and worksheet #2 are due tomorrow at the end of class.  Many students have been struggling to make accurate calculations when working with decimals in a real-world context.  They have not been allowed to continue without their numbers being 100% accurate. 
Homework:
Review #1 due tomorrow

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math we divided students between Mr. Jones, Mr. Neussl, Mr. Watts and Mr. Kovach based upon performance on MAPs testing.  We will work with these smaller class groups to focus on the Alaska State GLE strands of Estimation and Computation in Chapters 4 and 5. 
Homework:
Review #1 due tomorrow

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students finished their minerals recipe cards and then began working on their mineral display model.  We will finish the model tomorrow. 
Homework: 
none

Monday November 8th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students continued working with their "Life Math" unit.  Many students have been struggling to make the correct calculations of "net income" (applying percents and computations involving decimals). 
Homework:
Review #1 due Wednesday

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math we joined students from Mr. Watts and Mr. Jones' classroom.  The combined classes worked together on a series of problems to highlight using various operations with fractions. 
Homework:
Review #1 due Wednesday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today there was no science due to early release Monday.  In place of science students worked continued work in their toolbox class with our orientation to technology series.  Today's lesson focused on practicing/developing skills keyboarding.
Homework: 
none

Thursday November 4th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students finished practicing skills using percents and division and then began the second "life math" assignment.  In this assignment students begin working toward making a balanced budget based upon their monthly income.
Homework:
none

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students reviewed various units in the metric system.  They then began a metric measurement lab to practice their measurement skills in challenging scenarios. 
Homework:
none

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students finished working on the minerals identification lab.  They applied their understanding of mineral properties such as hardness, luster, color, streak color, and density to determine the identity of unknown minerals. 
Homework: 
none

Wednesday November 3rd

8th Grade Math: Today in math students continued learning about life math.  The focus of today's lesson was to find the percent of a number as it applies in the situation of taxes being taken out of an individuals yearly salary. 
Homework:
none

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students worked with Tanagrams as a warm-up problem at the start of class. They then transitioned to an assignment that focused on fractions and how to add and subtract fraction shapes. 
Homework:
none

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students continued working on the mineral identification lab that they stated yesterday.  Their task was to assess the attributes of 14 mineral samples (luster, hardness, color, streak color, and density) to help them identify each mineral. 
Homework: 
none

Thursday October 28th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students prepared for their chapter 2 test which is scheduled for tomorrow.  They completed a short reflection that helped them identify specific areas from chapter 2 that they need to study as well as a plan for how they will study/practice that material. 
Homework:
study for chapter 2 test

7th Grade Math: Today in math students prepared for their chapter 2 test which is scheduled for tomorrow.  They completed a short reflection that helped them identify specific areas from chapter 2 that they need to study as well as a plan for how they will study/practice that material. 
Homework:
study for chapter 2 test

7th/8th Grade Science: Today students learned how to identify the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons in an atom based upon the information presented in the periodic table. 
Homework: 
Work on formation of earth cartoon (due Monday)  

Monday October 25th

8th Grade Math: Today students reviewed solving addition, subtraction, multiplication and division problems with decimals.  We then applied these skills to solving equations with addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division with decimals.  Following the lecture and note taking, students started section 2.7 practice.  We will finish this assignment in class tomorrow. 
Homework:
turn in any late assignments (with late pass attached) by Thursday of this week


7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students watched a demonstration illustrating the relationship between milliliters, grams, and cubic centimeters. They then completed one final station in our measurement lab to try and verify the relationship between these units in relation to 3 dimensional objects. 
Homework:
turn in any late assignments (with late pass attached) by Thursday of this week


7th/8th Grade Science: Today in class, students did not have science due to early release day.  In the afternoon students worked in their homeroom on technology use skills.  Today's technology lesson focused on using Google Documents and sending documents over email as an attachment.
Homework: none

Thursday October 21st

8th Grade Math: Today in class students received their graded "make up quizzes".  We then finished learning about solving equations with division and multiplication.  Students spent the duration of class working on section 2.6 practice. 
Homework:
Review #11 due tomorrow

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students started an activity to practice measurement in the metric system.  The outcome of the activity is for students to see the relationships between volume in the units of cubic centimeters and milliliters.  They will then compare these answers to the mass (in grams) of water that fills these containers.
 Homework:
Review #11 is due tomorrow

7th/8th Grade Science: In science students finished working on an activity that illustrates the thicknesses of Earth's various layers (inner core, outer core, mantle and crust).  They made scale models that showed the relative sizes of each layer as they relate to a students height. 
Homework: none

Tuesday October 19th

8th Grade Math: Today in class we reviewed simplifying variable expressions at the beginning of class.  Students were reminded that they will have a make-up quiz over this material tomorrow.  We then finished working on section 2.5 practice which covers solving algebraic equations with addition and subtraction. 
Homework:
Study for make up quiz tomorrow

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students received the corrected quizzes that they completed last week.  The class went over questions that they had from the quiz.  We then finished section 2.5 practice and graded it in class.  In the final few minutes of class students were introduced to the metric system of measurement.  We will continue this topic tomorrow.
 Homework:
none

7th/8th Grade Science: In science students completed a self-assessment of their dry ice projects and then turned them in.  The class then transitioned from our study of phase changes and dry ice to the study of geology.   Today's lesson focused on the layers that make up our planet. 
Homework: none

Thursday October 14th

8th Grade Math: Today in class we went over a few types of problems that students struggled with on yesterday's quiz.  We then discussed having a make up quiz over the material from 2.1-2.3 on Tuesday.  With the final twenty minutes of class we started working on section 2.5 of the textbook, which introduces solving simple algebraic equations with addition and subtraction.
Homework:

• Review #10 is due Friday (odd numbered problems on worksheet)
• Study for make up quiz next week (section 2.3 on http://www.classzone.com) 

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students completed a quiz over sections 2.1-2.4.  Once we were done with the quiz we began working in section 2.5 which introduces scientific notation.
 Homework:
Review Homework #10 is due Friday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today students had time to work on the final drafts of their dry ice lab reports. 
Homework: Final Drafts of Dry Ice Project is due Tuesday at START of class (no school Monday)

Wednesday October 13th

8th Grade Math: Today 8th graders completed a quiz over sections 2.1-2.3.  The initial grading of this quiz indicates students need MUCH more practice with the material.  We will address this over the coming days and have a make-up quiz over these sections early next week. 
Homework:
Review #10 is due Friday (odd numbered problems on worksheet)

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students worked with the Flashmasters on division and multiplication.  We then completed a practice quiz in the textbook to help students identify areas they need to study and practice tonight.  Quiz over sections 2.1-2.4 is scheduled for tomorrow.
Homework:

• Study for Sections 2.1-2.4 quiz tomorrow
• Review Homework #10 is due Friday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today students had time to work on the final drafts of their dry ice lab reports. 
Homework: work on science dry ice lab report

Tuesday October 12th

8th Grade Math: Today 8th graders graded their work for section 2.3 practice.  We then completed a practice quiz for sections 2.1 - 2.3.  Students were encouraged to study tonight using the website for the textbook http://www.classzone.com
Homework:

• Review #9 is due Wednesday
• Study for Mid Chapter Quiz Tomorrow (Sections 2.1-2.3)

7th Grade Math: In math 7th graders turned in their shopping with decimals activity.  They then rotated through 5 stations to practice using decimals.  Most students finished all the the stations but could use more time writing the reflection portions of the assignment. 
Homework:

• Finish reflections for stations lab with decimals
• Review Homework #9 is due Wednesday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today students had time to work on the final drafts of their dry ice lab reports. 
Homework: work on science dry ice lab report

Monday October 11th

8th Grade Math: Today 8th graders  spent the entire class period working on section 2.3 Practice which covers simplifying variable expressions  by combining like-terms.  
Homework: 

• Section 2.3 Practice (EVENS) due tomorrow
• Review #9 is due Wednesday

7th Grade Math: In math students finished working on their shopping to learn decimals activity.  They wrote "checks" to "purchase" items they had researched on the internet.  They then completed  a checkbook balance registry to make sure they had an accurate calculation of their balance.
Homework:

• Finish decimal shopping activity (checks and registry completed)
• Review Homework #9 is due Wednesday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today we did not have science due to early release day.  Instead students worked on a technology activity to practice using features in Microsoft Word.
Homework: finish the rough draft of the results and conclusion sections of the dry ice lab report

Wednesday October 6th

8th Grade Math: Today students turned in their review homework #7 and then they completed a quick pop quiz over the distributive property of multiplication.  We then started section 2.3 in the textbook.  This section covers combining like-terms in variable expressions.  We will continue working through this topic in tomorrow and Friday's classes.
Homework:  Review #8 is due Friday

7th Grade Math: In seventh grade math students completed  a short pop quiz over decimal operations.  They then began working on a internet shopping/research activity where they will have to apply their skills in subtracting and adding decimals.  We will continue this activity tomorrow and Friday.
Homework:Review Homework #8 is due Friday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today we did not have science due to MAPs testing. Students should be working on finishing their results and conclusion sections of their paper on their own.
Homework: finish the rough draft of the results and conclusion sections of the dry ice lab report

Tuesday October 5th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students reviewed how to apply the distributive property of multiplication.  We then completed and graded section 2.2 practice in class.
Homework:  Review #7 due tomorrow

7th Grade Math: In seventh grade math students continued to learn about decimals.  Many students did not finish the homework from last night on time.  They are encouraged to finish this assignment and then use one of their late homework passes.  We then joined up with Mr. Jones' class to do  a computer activity with decimals.  However, due to the power outage that plan was put on hold until tomorrow. 
Homework:Review Homework #7 is due tomorrow

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science we went over what information goes into the conclusion section of their dry ice experiment reports.  We then went to the library and had the rest of the class period to finish the materials/procedures, results and conclusion sections.  
Homework: none

Monday October 4th

8th Grade Math: Today in math turned in their homework from the weekend (section 2.1 practice).  We then introduced the distributive property of multiplication from section 2.2 of the textbook.  Student took notes and we did a few problems as a class to build examples in their math notebooks.
Homework:  Review #7 due Wednesday

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students completed a warm up problem and then began working on section 2.4 practice which covers dividing with decimals. 
Homework:

• Finish Section 2.4 practice (odds 1-19)
• Review Homework #7 is due Wednesday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students got back their introduction sections of the dry ice lab reports.  We then went over how to make a graph in Microsoft Excel.  Students then had time in the library to work on their introduction edits, the materials and procedures, and the results sections to the dry ice lab report.
Homework: none

Tuesday September 28th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students finished the Challenge Activity (Mr. Olsen's Bike Ride).  We then began working in chapter 2 of the textbook.  Section 2.1 introduced commutative and associative properties of multiplication and addition.
Homework:  Review #6 is due Tomorrow

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students graded section 2.2 practice.  We then transitioned to section 2.3, which covers the rules for multiplying with decimals.  Students worked for twenty minutes on section 2.3 practice.
Homework:

• Finish Section 2.3 Practice (odds)
• Review Homework #6 is due Tomorrow (Two problems completed from 9, 13, or #15)

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students turned in their Organize It Projects. We then went over the scoring guide for the dry ice experiment display.  Students spent the remainder of the hour in the library working on the introduction section to their write ups.
Homework: none

Monday September 27th

8th Grade Math: Today in math 8th graders continued working on the Challenge Math Activity that was started on Friday (Mr. Olsen's Bike Ride).
Homework:

•  Finish Set I, Set II, and Set III of Mr. Olsen's Bike Ride Challenge Math Activity
• Review #6 is due Wednesday

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students worked with FlashMasters for the warm up.  We then went into section 2.2, which covers how to add and subtract with decimals.  Students had about twenty minutes of class time to work on section 2.2 practice. 
Homework:

• Finish Section 2.2 Practice (evens)
• Review Homework #6 is due Wednesday (Two problems completed from 9, 13, or #15)

7th/8th Grade Science: Today we did not have science as there was an early release day.  In place of science and social studies students completed a activity to learn and practice formatting features in Microsoft Word.
Homework: Organize It activity for Elements of Design is due tomorrow at the start of class.

Thursday September 23rd

8th Grade Math: Today in math 8th graders completed a warm up problem and then finished the stations activity that we started in yesterday's class.
Homework: Review #5 is due tomorrow


7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students received their graded chapter 1 tests and we went over how to calculate a percent (to find their letter grade on the test).  We then went over the test answering any questions.  The class then reviewed how to write a decimals value in words.  Students completed the odd numbered problems from 2.1 Practice (comparing, ordering, and rounding decimals).
Homework:  Review #5 is due tomorrow


7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students learned about the elements of design that we will focus on when we complete projects that present information to an audience.  The class watched a power point presentation and discussed how Contrast, Repetition, Alignment, and Proximity can be used to make the visual organization and presentation of material more effective. 
Homework: none

Wednesday September 22nd

8th Grade Math: Today in math 8th graders went over their chapter test from yesterday.  We then transitioned to a "stations activity" to review absolute value. 
Homework: Review #5 is due Friday

7th Grade Math: In math 7th graders completed a challenging warm up problem and then organized their math interactive notebooks.  Once they were completed with these activities we began working in Chapter 2. Section 2.1 covers comparing, ordering, and rounding decimals.  We will finish working in this section tomorrow. 
Homework:  Review #5 is due Friday

7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students made an extra copy of their data from the block period dry ice labs earlier this week.  Students then finished the "Organize It" activity where they create a visual to present information about a topic using provided images (football, hockey, flight, music, movies)
Homework: finish "Organize It" display if not completed in class

Tuesday September 21st

8th Grade Math: Today in math 8th graders completed the test over chapter 1.  Test have been graded and scores are updated on PowerSchool. 
Homework: none


7th Grade Math: In math 7th graders completed the test over chapter 1.
Homework:  none

7th/8th Grade Science: In Science Mr. Kovach's homeroom had a two hour block period to complete their culminating dry ice lab.
Homework: none

Monday September 20th

8th Grade Math: Today in math students completed the chapter practice test in the textbook.  We posted the answers around the room so students could check their work and plan which sections they will need to focus on in their studying tonight. 
Homework: Study for Chapter 1 test

7th Grade Math: In math 7th graders finished their note card practice problems.  They then began the chapter one practice test from the textbook.  At the end of class students were shown how to use the online resource for the textbook classzone.com.  A slip of paper was sent home with the web address for the chapter 1 practice test.
Homework:  Study for chapter one test


7th/8th Grade Science: In science Ms Smith's homeroom students had a two hour block period to work on their dry ice labs.  Tomorrow my homeroom students will need to bring any lab materials they are needing for the dry ice lab. 
Homework: KOVACH's homeroom finish "Planning Our Investigation" sheet if not turned in at end of class on Friday

Thursday September 16th

8th Grade Math: Today in math we reviewed integer rules for adding and subtracting.  Students then completed a quick make-up quiz over add and subtracting integers.  Students then finished their 1.7 practice assignment which focuses on multiplying and dividing integers.  Once they were done we graded the work in class and announced that there will be a test over chapter 1 on Tuesday of next week.
Homework: none


7th Grade Math: In math 7th graders worked on a group problem solving activity with Mr. Jones' students.  We then went outside to enjoy the sun and continue problem solving strategies with a packet of puzzlers.
Homework:  none


7th/8th Grade Science: In science students worked with their partners on their dry ice experimental plan.  Students were told that they must get their plan initialed by the instructor before they could move forward into the next phase of the planning process. 
Homework: finish "Planning Our Investigation" if not turned in at end of class

Tuesday September 14th

8th Grade Math: In math students finished the subtracting integers assignment that we began yesterday.  Once we were finished we graded it and completed a short "Pop Quiz" over adding and subtracting integers.  We then transitioned into taking notes on multiplying and dividing integers.
Homework: Review #4 is due tomorrow (Wednesday 9/15)

7th Grade Math: In math 7th graders continued working with Mr. Jones' class practicing problem solving strategies for math word problems. 
Homework:  Review #4 is due Tomorrow (Wednesday 9/15)


7th/8th Grade Science: In science students completed a practice activity for tomorrow's quiz over dry ice and properties of matter.  We then watched a short clip from a Myth Busters episode to see how they use scientific method on their show.  Students started to complete a worksheet to identify the variables and procedures followed by the Myth Busters team. 
Homework: Study for quiz tomorrow!

Monday September 13th

8th Grade Math: In math 8th graders focused on learning and practicing subtracting integers.  Mr. Campbell (school assistant principal) came in to do a guest-lesson on his method for subtracting integers known as "Wick-Wack".  The main point presented in both Mr. Campbell's lesson and the textbook is that when subtracting integers students must re-write the problem so that all subtraction operations are re-written to "add the opposite".  Another way to think of this is to move to the left on the number line when subtracting a positive number and move to the right on the number line when subtracting a negative number (just like adding a positive number).
Homework:

• Review #4 is due Wednesday 9/15
• Section 1.6 Practice 1-9 all 10-18 evens (due tomorrow)

7th Grade Math: In math 7th graders finished the area/perimeter activity that we started on Friday of last week.  We then discussed various strategies and approaches to solving word problems in math.  Today students focused in on the strategies of eliminating non-useful information from the problem and making tables to organize needed information. 
Homework:  Review #4 is due Wednesday 9/15


7th/8th Grade Science: Today students did not have science as we blocked Social Studies/Science to discuss a team building process for Kovac's and Smith's homerooms.  In particular we discussed what kind of community building activity we might want to pursue for this year.   Students discussed and shared their ideas and we developed a brainstorm list on the board. 
Homework: none 

Thursday September 9th

8th Grade Math: Today students had a shortened class due to "school picture day".  With the remaining time in class they worked on a  brain busting integers suduko puzzle made by Mr. Jones. Homework: Review #3 is due tomorrow


7th Grade Math: In math 7th graders graded their homework (section 1.6 practice).  We then joined classes with Mr. Jones to work through a series of measurements & calculations to practice area and perimeter of rectangles.
Homework:  Review #3 is due tomorrow


7th/8th Grade Science: Today in science students were checked off for completing their homework and then we completed a series of demonstrations to learn more about the properties of dry ice.  At the end of class students shared their ideas for experiments with dry ice.  We then continued a classroom discussion on ways to make their study questions better for an experiment completed in a middle school classroom setting.
Homework: none 

Wednesday September 8th

8th Grade Math: In math 8th graders graded their homework from section 1.4 Practice.  The class was then introduced to section 1.5 which reviews rules for adding integers.  Students are to finish assigned problems for homework and will then finish the back side of the assignment in class tomorrow.
Homework:

• Complete Section 1.5 Practice #2, 4, & 10-22 evens
• Review #3 is due Friday

7th Grade Math: Today in 7th grade math students graded section 1.5 practice.  We then reviewed the definitions of area and perimeter and practiced calculating the area and perimeter of rectangles and squares.  Students should have finished most of 1.6 practice in class.
Homework:

• Complete Section 1.6 Practice (all)
• Review #3 is due Friday

7th/8th Grade Science:  In science we spent a good deal of time reviewing the details of yesterday's lab (identifying the independent and dependent variables, how to write a hypothesis statement, collecting quantifiable data, and organizing data in a data table).  We then discussed what information goes into the conclusion section of a scientific report.  Students spent the remainder of class writing the conclusion to yesterday's lab, (while considering the labs relevance to topics we've studied relating to properties of matter).
Homework: Write 1-2 questions relating to dry ice that could be answered by completing a scientific experiment.
EXAMPLE:  Does dry ice in vinegar sublimate faster than dry ice in water? 

Tuesday September 7th

8th Grade Math: Today in class students completed a quiz over sections 1.1 - 1.3.  Once the quiz was completed students were introduced to section 1.4 which covers comparing and ordering integers. 
Homework: Finish 1.4 practice (evens)


7th Grade Math: Today in 7th grade math students completed a quiz over sections 1.1 - 1.4.  The class then worked on notes in their interactive journals for section 1.5 which introduces solving equations with mental math. 
Homework: Complete Section 1.5 Practice (evens)


7th/8th Grade Science:  Today in science we reviewed what a variable is and how they can affect the outcome of an experiment.  We then introduced and defined the terms independent variable and dependent variable. Students learned how to identify these variables and use them in an If/Then format for a hypothesis statement.  We concluded class by completing the same lab as Friday, but with major revisions to make the results more scientifically valid. 
Homework: none

Thursday September 2nd

8th Grade Math: In math students were checked off as to whether they finished their homework last night.  The class then finished section 1.3 Practice.  We then handed out students "Late Homework Passes" for the first quarter.  Grades were posted and students organized their binders.  We concluded class by starting a review activity for order of operations.
Homework:

• Finish 1/2 of the order of operations cards that were split between groups of two
• Review #2 is due Friday

7th Grade Math: Today in 7th grade math finished section 1.3 practice.  The class then received their "late homework passes" for first quarter.  Grades were posted on the wall and students were given time to organize/file returned work and check their grades.  The second half of class students were introduced to order of operations in section 1.4 of the textbook.
Homework: Review Homework #2 is due Friday


7th/8th Grade Science:  Today in science students read content relating to phase changes of matter from the textbooks.  They took notes and were allowed to use the notes during an inter-class competition/game with Mr. Jones' class relating to material we have learned or discussed so far this school year. 
Homework: none

Wednesday September 1st

8th Grade Math: In math 8th graders corrected section 1.2 Practice from yesterday's class.  Students then began work in section 1.3 which reviews order of operations.  We discussed the acronym Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally (Parentheses, exponents, multiplication/division, addition/subtraction) as a tool for remembering order of operations.  We also discussed adding grouping symbols to division problems with a fraction bar. 
Homework:

• Finish section 1.3 Practice (#1-15 odds)
• Review #2 is due Friday

7th Grade Math: Today in 7th grade math students completed a word problem warm up and then transitioned to grading their classwork from yesterday (section 1.2 Practice).  The class was then introduced to section 1.3 which covers Powers and Exponents. 
Homework:

• Finish section 1.3 Practice (#2-20 evens)
• Review Homework #2 is due Friday

7th/8th Grade Science:  Today in science students finished writing the directions for a classmate to re-create a drawing of various geometric shapes.  Once the directions were finished the class exchanged papers and students attempted to follow the written directions (procedures) of one of their peers. 
Homework: none

Tuesday August 31st

8th Grade Math: In math 8th graders corrected section 1.1 Practice from yesterday's class.  Students then began work in section 1.2 which introduces/reviews powers and exponents.  
Homework:

• Finish section 1.2 Practice (odds)
• Review #1 is due tomorrow

7th Grade Math: Today in 7th grade math students completed a word problem warm up and then transitioned to grading their classwork from yesterday.  The class then started the introduction to section 1.2 which covers variables and expressions. 
Homework:

• Finish section 1.2 Practice 2-14 (evens)
• Review Homework #1 is due tomorrow
  

7th/8th Grade Science:  In science the class finished the conclusion section to the lab they completed yesterday.  We then discussed the importance of having detailed and accurate directions (procedures) in a scientific study.  To practice this the class started an assignment where they are asked to write written instructions for another student to draw a series of geometric shapes on a piece of paper. We will continue working on these procedures in class tomorrow before exchanging papers and completing each others drawing directions. 
Homework: none

Monday August 30th

8th Grade Math: Today students began working in chapter one of their Pre Algebra textbooks.  We went over the format for the interactive notebooks that we will use on a daily basis to organize our class work. Students completed section 1.1 which reviews variables and expressions. 
Homework:

• Finish section 1.1 Practice (evens)
• Complete Letter To Math Teacher
• Review #1 is due Wednesday

7th Grade Math: Today in 7th grade math students were introduced to the interactive notebook organization format that we will use to manage all of the work we do in math class this year.  We then transitioned into section 1.1 of the Course 2 book which covers "Patterns". 
Homework:

• Finish front page of section 1.1 Practice
• Review Homework #1 is due Wednesday

7th/8th Grade Science:  In science we discussed matter and introduced students to the properties of phase changes of matter.  Students observed a demonstration with dry ice and then we transitioned into a review of the scientific method.  We finished the last twenty minutes of class by students completing a systematic observation to answer a question they have about dry ice.  We will finish the conclusion/explanation for the lab in tomorrow's class. 
Homework: none

Friday August 27th

8th Grade Math: Today students completed a scavenger hunt through the Pre Algebra textbook.  They then transitioned back to the pre-course test they completed the past two days and reflected on their areas of strength and the areas that they need further practice.  With this information they began working on the "Letter to My Math Teacher" assignment which is due Tuesday of next week. 
Homework: Letter to My Math Teacher reflection is due Tuesday

7th Grade Math: Today in 7th grade math class we went over the pre-course test.  Students were then assigned their classroom math textbook.  Once textbooks were distributed they worked with their table partners on a scavenger hunt to help them become familiar with the layout, resources, and examples that the textbook presents.
Homework: Complete "Letter To My Math Teacher"  (be sure to answer each question using complete sentences) DUE MONDAY (no exceptions)

7th/8th Grade Science:  In science 7th and 8th graders worked in table groups to make observations and investigate two unknown substances (dry ice and water ice).  Students manipulated the substances and used many resources within the classroom to practice making observations that helped them become more familiar with each one. 
Homework: Develop three-five questions you have about dry ice (be prepared to share your questions with the class on Monday).

Thursday August 26th

8th Grade Math: In 8th grade math students finished working on the pre-course assessment for the Pre Algebra book.  The class then began to rotate around the room at various stations to correct their own work and try to identify where their errors were in problems that were incorrect.  Tomorrow we will finish the self-grading process and complete a reflection to help identify areas of strength and weakness in their math background.
Homework: Have parents sign the Course 3 Mathematics syllabus (due Friday)

7th Grade Math: Today in 7th grade math class students finished the pre-course test for the Course Two math book.  Students then rotated around the room to check their work at various stations.  At the end of class we distributed the "Letter to My Math Teacher" assignment and went over the directions for this reflection.
Homework:

• Complete "Letter To My Math Teacher"  (be sure to answer each question using complete sentences)
• Have parents sign the Course 2 Mathematics syllabus (due tomorrrow)

7th/8th Grade Science:  In science class students worked to improve their observation skills by learning and practicing the use of adjectives to describe items that they observed.  They then went outside to find two items that they will make careful observations  of and write a description of the item as if they were an alien from another planet seeing this item for the first time. 
Homework:

• Finish Alien Observation lab activity (due tomorrow)
• Have parents sign the General Science syllabus form (due tomorrow)

Wednesday August 25th

8th Grade Math: In 8th grade math students completed a warm up problem and then continued working on the pre-course test for the Pre Algebra book. 
Homework: Have parents sign the Course 3 Mathematics syllabus (due Friday)

7th Grade Math: Today in 7th grade math class students worked through the front page of the pre-course test.  Tomorrow we will finish the test and do "self-assessments" of the test to identify areas of strengths and weakness.
Homework: Have parents sign the Course 3 Mathematics syllabus (due Friday)

7th/8th Grade Science:  Today in class students learned about the importance of making observations in the field of science.  Students then applied a system to help them make observations of a penny and then draw it in as much detail as possible. 
Homework:

• Finish the penny observation lab activity (due tomorrow)
• Have parents sign the General Science syllabus form (due Friday)

Tuesday August 24th

Welcome Back to School!
 On behalf of all the staff here at Dzantik'i Heeni Middle School I would like to welcome back to school all of our new and returning students.  It was great to see familiar faces in the classroom and I look forward to getting to know all of the new students who have joined us here in Shooting Star House. 

8th Grade Math: Today in math we started class by playing a "get to know you" activity.  We then went over the course syllabus and started orienting students to the classroom.  Near the end of class we distributed classroom math textbooks started a pre-course assessment from the Pre-Algebra book.  We will continue this pre-course test tomorrow and then look over the results as a class.
Homework: Have parents sign the Course 3 Mathematics syllabus (due Friday)

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math students opened class with a short "get to know you" activity.  Students then went over the course syllabus to begin developing an understanding of the procedures and expectations of this class.  We concluded class by distributing a 7th Grade pre-course test and went over the format for solving each problem and showing the corresponding work. 
Homework: Have parents sign the Course 3 Mathematics syllabus (due Friday)

7th/8th Grade Science:  Today in science students completed a scavenger hunt to help begin learning more about their new peers.  We discussed the importance of students respecting one another throughout the year and working hard to maintain positive relationships with their peers.  The class then transitioned into the course syllabus which we discussed in detail.  The instructor emphasized classroom rules and guidelines that will help make this year a successful one for all members of our classroom community. 
Homework: Have parents sign the General Science syllabus form (due Friday)

SECRET CODE:  RWSCC2011   (write down this code on a piece of paper and have your parents initial it to indicate you successfully found your way to the class website.)

Wednesday May 12th

7th & 8th Grade General Science: Today in science students were introduced to the pioneering work of Gregor Mendel in the field of genetics. Students learned important terminology, including heredity, allele, dominant alleles and recessive alleles. The class then started on an assignment where they assigned alleles to various traits of a character from the cartoon Sponge Bob.
Homework: Finish Sponge Bob character genetic profile assignment

7th Grade Math: In 7th grade math we went over the homework from last night to make some clarifying corrections to the directions. Students were then instructed to finish by tomorrow's class (given an extra day to finish). We then transitioned to the cabin building project. Students continued working on their draft blueprints and cost calculations.
Homework: Finish Review #9 (due Thursday)

8th Grade Math: Today 8th graders completed the chapter 7 test.
Homework: Complete optional homework assignment Review #9 (to make up for one assignment that students may have missing)

Tuesday May 11th

7th & 8th Grade General Science: Today, Ms. Smith's Homeroom had science class and continued to learn about genetic engineering. They watched a short video about scientists who genetically engineered a goat to produce the protein used to make "spider silk" (webs). Students then began an assignment where they make a proposal to genetically engineer a new organism that combines the advantageous traits of one organism into another. This assignment is due tomorrow if students did not finish it during class. The second science class finished listening to the 8th grade GPS project presentations. They will move back into a regular science schedule tomorrow.
Homework: 10:00 science class finish "Frankenism" Assignment

7th Grade Math: In math 7th graders continued to work on their cabin projects. Today they focused on finishing previous days work and moving on into their roof design.
Homework: Finish Review #9 (due Wednesday)

8th Grade Math: Today 8th graders worked on the Chapter 7 test review in the book. They completed odd numbered problems so that they could check their answers in the back of the book. They then checked in with their instructor to get credit for this work that they added into their notebook.
Homework: Study for Chapter 7 Test (tomorrow)

Monday May 10th

7th & 8th Grade General Science: Today there was no science class as students were in their homerooms to watch 8th grade GPS practice speeches.
Homework: none

7th Grade Math: In math 7th graders continued to work on their cabin projects. They turned in their blueprints for the walls of their cabins as well as the cost calculations for all four exterior walls.
Homework: Finish Review #9 (due Wednesday)

8th Grade Math: Today 8th graders finished working to learn about interest rates when applied to savings accounts and CD's. Students calculated how much interest they would earn by depositing PFD payments into various local bank's CD's and savings accounts.
Homework: Begin studying for Chapter 7 Test (Wednesday)

Thursday May 6th

7th & 8th Grade General Science: Today there was no science class as students were in their homerooms to watch 8th grade GPS practice speeches.
Homework: none

7th Grade Math: In math 7th graders continued to work on their cabin projects. They turned in their blueprints yesterday and received feedback/corrections to work on today. In addition to the blueprints we went over how to calculate the costs for building the floor of their cabin (# of joists, area of subfloor, and area of floor covering).
Homework: Finish Review #8 (due Friday)

8th Grade Math: Today 8th graders continued to learn about interest rates when applied to savings accounts. Students were also introduced to how a CD (Certificate of Deposit) works and the pros and cons to putting their money into a CD.
Homework:

• Finish Review #8 (Percent Problems)
• Finish "Uncle Mort Makes It Better" Finance Math Worksheet (Interest Rates and Savings)