It's the last week of school!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Monday is a BIG DAY for the 8th grade class! We are going on a lunch/dance cruise aboard The Odyssey in Chicago. Students will dine, dance and cruise tomorrow afternoon for 2 hours, and spend time on Navy Pier. We leave at 9:00 A.M. and return at approximately 5:30.
Here's to a memorable experience!
On Tuesday, it's graduation practice 1st and 2nd hours and classes as normal the rest of the day. Wednesday will include graduation practice and an awards ceremony in the morning, followed by shortened classes and yearbook signing in the afternoon.
Wednesday night, will be Lakeview's class of 2009's graduation!!!!!!!!!!
I hope for nothing but the best for the class of 2009! I have truly enjoyed teaching each and every one of my students this year. They are a wonderful group of talented, bright, nice kids. Have a great summer!!!!!!!!!!!! Good luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Miss Lepley
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Monday, May 25, 2009
What's happening in class?
There are only two weeks left in the school year!!!
In language arts, we will be continuing 2 minute speeches and we will be developing 8th grade school year time lines. Each individual time line will map out the 8 most important events in each student's 8th grade year.
In reading, we will be watching the movie, The Diary of Anne Frank, comparing and contrasting it to the play we read in class. I have corrected the final tests from Friday, and I'm happy to report the overall grades were great!!
Here's to a good week!
In language arts, we will be continuing 2 minute speeches and we will be developing 8th grade school year time lines. Each individual time line will map out the 8 most important events in each student's 8th grade year.
In reading, we will be watching the movie, The Diary of Anne Frank, comparing and contrasting it to the play we read in class. I have corrected the final tests from Friday, and I'm happy to report the overall grades were great!!
Here's to a good week!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
What's happening in class?
During the week of May 18th through May 22nd, we will be doing a number of things in class.
In L.A., students will be writing creative color stories, based on their favorite color. Additionally, students will be giving impromptu persuasive speeches, based on random selected topics.
In reading, we will continue reading and discussing The Diary of Anne Frank. On Monday, we will review the Act one discussion questions assigned over the weekend. Beginning Tuesday, we will be reading and discussing Act two. On Thursday, we will review the entire play, and on Friday, we will take the final test on The Diary of Anne Frank.
AR book report quizzes will be taken in class on Friday, May 29th.
Here's to a good week!
In L.A., students will be writing creative color stories, based on their favorite color. Additionally, students will be giving impromptu persuasive speeches, based on random selected topics.
In reading, we will continue reading and discussing The Diary of Anne Frank. On Monday, we will review the Act one discussion questions assigned over the weekend. Beginning Tuesday, we will be reading and discussing Act two. On Thursday, we will review the entire play, and on Friday, we will take the final test on The Diary of Anne Frank.
AR book report quizzes will be taken in class on Friday, May 29th.
Here's to a good week!
Sunday, May 10, 2009
What's happening in class?
Last week I enjoyed hearing the fantastic adventure stories my students shared with the class. The majority of the students worked in pairs and their stories were creative, interesting and well-written!
The week of May 11th through May 15th will be another busy one!
In L.A., students will be writing letters to themselves about their current 8th grade experiences, their plans for the summer, and their goals for freshmen year. I will be mailing these letters to them next May so they can see how their past year developed and wheter or not they were able to achieve their goals.
In reading, we will be sharing poster board book reports, and choosing a new AR book report book. We will also continue reading and discussing The Diary of Anne Frank.
Here'a to a good week!
The week of May 11th through May 15th will be another busy one!
In L.A., students will be writing letters to themselves about their current 8th grade experiences, their plans for the summer, and their goals for freshmen year. I will be mailing these letters to them next May so they can see how their past year developed and wheter or not they were able to achieve their goals.
In reading, we will be sharing poster board book reports, and choosing a new AR book report book. We will also continue reading and discussing The Diary of Anne Frank.
Here'a to a good week!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
What's happening in class?
We are officially in the month of May! :)
In L.A. this week, students will be working in pairs to develop an adventure story. Students will then be sharing their stories in class.
In reading this week, we will be starting The Dairy of Anne Frank. We will be discussing Hitler and the Holocaust, and then reading the play version of Anne Frank's diary out loud in class together.
Here's to a good week!
In L.A. this week, students will be working in pairs to develop an adventure story. Students will then be sharing their stories in class.
In reading this week, we will be starting The Dairy of Anne Frank. We will be discussing Hitler and the Holocaust, and then reading the play version of Anne Frank's diary out loud in class together.
Here's to a good week!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
What's happening in class?
In language arts this week, we will be doing a combination of things. I'm in the middle of correcting theme portfolios and I'm truly impressed! I will be handing them back to students this week. We will also be doing some creating writing in class.
In reading this week, we will be watching Romeo and Juliet, and comparing and contrasting it to the play.
Don't forget to keep reading book report books! The book report will be explained this week, and it will be due Friday, May 8th!
In reading this week, we will be watching Romeo and Juliet, and comparing and contrasting it to the play.
Don't forget to keep reading book report books! The book report will be explained this week, and it will be due Friday, May 8th!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
What's happening in class?
What a nice weekend!! Hopefully you were able to enjoy it.
The week of April 20th through April 24th will be another busy one!
In language arts, students have been doing a great job on their portfolios. I'm anxious to see their finished products on the 21st!
In reading, we will be reviewing for the Romeo and Juliet test which will be on Thursday of this week. The final test will be worth 100 points, and it will cover both West Side Story and Romeo and Juliet.
Here's to a good week and more great weather!
The week of April 20th through April 24th will be another busy one!
In language arts, students have been doing a great job on their portfolios. I'm anxious to see their finished products on the 21st!
In reading, we will be reviewing for the Romeo and Juliet test which will be on Thursday of this week. The final test will be worth 100 points, and it will cover both West Side Story and Romeo and Juliet.
Here's to a good week and more great weather!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
What's happening in class?
I hope all of you had a very nice Easter!
The week of April 13th-April 17th will be a busy one!
In L.A. we will kick off the second half of our poetry unit. Students will be using their creativity and talent to put together a theme portfolio, consisting of original poetry, a short story excerpt, song lyrics, published poetry, and a quote all focused on a theme of their choice. Students will be analyzing all of their selections, connecting them to their theme and to them personally. Students will be given 5 days in class to work on their portfolios.
***This assignment has always proven to be a favorite of mine and students alike, since it allows students flexibility and allows their unique personalities to shine. The portfolio requirements are listed below:
THEME PORTFOLIO REQUIREMENTS
***Your theme portfolio will be based on a theme which you chose. Everything in your portfolio will be a reflection of that theme and how it relates to you. This is meant to be a personal, reflective project.
****This assignment will be due on Tuesday, April 21st, and will be worth 130 points.
You must include the following in your portfolio:
1. A cover which includes your theme and your name
2. A formal introduction of at least 200 words which explains why you chose your theme, how it relates to you, and what you hope to accomplish through this project.
3. A table of contents which organizes your entries
4. At least two poems you have selected from a published author
5. At least two original poems you have written
6. At least one slogan (original or published)
7. The lyrics from at least one song
8. A literary excerpt (short story or novel)
9. An analysis of each entry explaining why you chose it, how it relates to the theme, and in turn, how it relates to you
10. A formal closing of at least 200 words which explains your feelings about your portfolio, and what you think you accomplished through doing the project
11. A bibliography including each borrowed piece of literature or music
***This project should be FREE OF ERRORS, attractive, professional looking, and must be typed. ( If computers are available, some class time will be designated for this).
In reading, we will continue reading and discussing Romeo and Juliet. The Act III quiz will be on Monday, and we should finish Act IV by the end of the week.
***Poor Romeo and Juliet are in dire straights. Romeo has been banished from Verona for killing Juliet's cousin, Tybalt, and Capulet has promised Paris he can now marry Juliet! Oh no! Stay tuned to see if the Friar can help them survive these circumstances, or if their fate is already sealed................
The week of April 13th-April 17th will be a busy one!
In L.A. we will kick off the second half of our poetry unit. Students will be using their creativity and talent to put together a theme portfolio, consisting of original poetry, a short story excerpt, song lyrics, published poetry, and a quote all focused on a theme of their choice. Students will be analyzing all of their selections, connecting them to their theme and to them personally. Students will be given 5 days in class to work on their portfolios.
***This assignment has always proven to be a favorite of mine and students alike, since it allows students flexibility and allows their unique personalities to shine. The portfolio requirements are listed below:
THEME PORTFOLIO REQUIREMENTS
***Your theme portfolio will be based on a theme which you chose. Everything in your portfolio will be a reflection of that theme and how it relates to you. This is meant to be a personal, reflective project.
****This assignment will be due on Tuesday, April 21st, and will be worth 130 points.
You must include the following in your portfolio:
1. A cover which includes your theme and your name
2. A formal introduction of at least 200 words which explains why you chose your theme, how it relates to you, and what you hope to accomplish through this project.
3. A table of contents which organizes your entries
4. At least two poems you have selected from a published author
5. At least two original poems you have written
6. At least one slogan (original or published)
7. The lyrics from at least one song
8. A literary excerpt (short story or novel)
9. An analysis of each entry explaining why you chose it, how it relates to the theme, and in turn, how it relates to you
10. A formal closing of at least 200 words which explains your feelings about your portfolio, and what you think you accomplished through doing the project
11. A bibliography including each borrowed piece of literature or music
***This project should be FREE OF ERRORS, attractive, professional looking, and must be typed. ( If computers are available, some class time will be designated for this).
In reading, we will continue reading and discussing Romeo and Juliet. The Act III quiz will be on Monday, and we should finish Act IV by the end of the week.
***Poor Romeo and Juliet are in dire straights. Romeo has been banished from Verona for killing Juliet's cousin, Tybalt, and Capulet has promised Paris he can now marry Juliet! Oh no! Stay tuned to see if the Friar can help them survive these circumstances, or if their fate is already sealed................
Sunday, April 5, 2009
What's happening in class?
I hope everyone had a great break! I loved spending the week in the Caribbean! It was very hard to come back to snow!! :(
The week of April 6th will be a short one! Students do not have school on Tuesday, due to teacher inservice, and we all have off on Friday.
In L.A. I will be introducing our next book report, and students will be working on it in class, and presenting the final products this week.
In reading, we will continue reading and discussing Romeo and Juliet, Act III. Romeo and Juliet are now married. Will this fact bring the two families together, or tear them apart? Tune in to find out!
The week of April 6th will be a short one! Students do not have school on Tuesday, due to teacher inservice, and we all have off on Friday.
In L.A. I will be introducing our next book report, and students will be working on it in class, and presenting the final products this week.
In reading, we will continue reading and discussing Romeo and Juliet, Act III. Romeo and Juliet are now married. Will this fact bring the two families together, or tear them apart? Tune in to find out!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
What's happening in class?
One more week before spring break! Yahoo! :)
In L.A, students are presenting their persuasive speeches beginning on Tuesday! On Monday, we will review speech requirements and the speech rubric, and choose numbers to decide the order of speakers. Additionally, we will discuss delivery-voice, eye contact, enthusiasm and poise.
In reading, we will continue to read and discuss Romeo and Juliet. Romeo and Juliet have just found out, after they have fallen madly in love of course, that they are each other's arch enemy. What will become of their relationship? Will love overcome their families' age old hatred for each other, or are they doomed??
The Act II quiz will be on Friday, March 27th.
Here's to a great week!
In L.A, students are presenting their persuasive speeches beginning on Tuesday! On Monday, we will review speech requirements and the speech rubric, and choose numbers to decide the order of speakers. Additionally, we will discuss delivery-voice, eye contact, enthusiasm and poise.
In reading, we will continue to read and discuss Romeo and Juliet. Romeo and Juliet have just found out, after they have fallen madly in love of course, that they are each other's arch enemy. What will become of their relationship? Will love overcome their families' age old hatred for each other, or are they doomed??
The Act II quiz will be on Friday, March 27th.
Here's to a great week!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
What's happening in class?
I hope everyone enjoyed the beautiful weather this weekend!
The week of March 16th through March 20th will focus on preparation for persuasive speeches and finishing the first Act of Romeo and Juliet.
In language arts we will be researching speech topics in the IMC, putting together outlines, and formulating bibliographies. Below you will find the requirements for the persuasive speech:
LANGUAGE ARTS 8
PERSUASIVE SPEECH REQUIREMENTS
1. The speech must be 4-5 minutes long. YOUR GRADE WILL DROP A FULL GRADE IF YOU DO NOT STAY WITHIN THE DESIGNATED TIME FRAME.
2. You must use your OUTLINE, placed on NOTECARDS, to deliver your speech.
3. Eye contact is crucial for persuasion. Do not read from your note cards. Use them as a guide only. Reading your speech will result in a grade NO HIGHER than a D.
4. You must have a catchy introduction and a solid conclusion. DO NOT use the words "My speech is on..." or "I'm going to try to persuade you..." in your introduction, nor "I have just given you..." or "I have just told you..." in your conclusion.
5. Your persuasive purpose or intent must be CLEAR. It should be stated in your thesis statement, which is the last sentence in your introduction. Take a stand on an issue and convince your audience to side with you.
6. Be prepared to go on the day you are assigned. Failure to present your speech at that time will result in a ZERO.
7. You will be graded on delivery, length of speech, and persuasiveness.
8. Give me your final draft outline and bibliography on the day you deliver your speech, right before you begin speaking. You will need 2 copies of your outline. One typed to give to me, and one placed on note cards to use during your speech.
9. You must use at least five sources for your speech. You may not use two of the same source. For example, you may not use two Newsweek magazines.
10. You should use approximately 10 pieces of borrowed information in your speech, citing your source for each borrowed piece of information.
11. You will have approximately 5 class periods to do research. Any additional research must be done on your own time.
12. Speeches will begin on Tuesday, March 24th. Good luck!!!!!!
The week of March 16th through March 20th will focus on preparation for persuasive speeches and finishing the first Act of Romeo and Juliet.
In language arts we will be researching speech topics in the IMC, putting together outlines, and formulating bibliographies. Below you will find the requirements for the persuasive speech:
LANGUAGE ARTS 8
PERSUASIVE SPEECH REQUIREMENTS
1. The speech must be 4-5 minutes long. YOUR GRADE WILL DROP A FULL GRADE IF YOU DO NOT STAY WITHIN THE DESIGNATED TIME FRAME.
2. You must use your OUTLINE, placed on NOTECARDS, to deliver your speech.
3. Eye contact is crucial for persuasion. Do not read from your note cards. Use them as a guide only. Reading your speech will result in a grade NO HIGHER than a D.
4. You must have a catchy introduction and a solid conclusion. DO NOT use the words "My speech is on..." or "I'm going to try to persuade you..." in your introduction, nor "I have just given you..." or "I have just told you..." in your conclusion.
5. Your persuasive purpose or intent must be CLEAR. It should be stated in your thesis statement, which is the last sentence in your introduction. Take a stand on an issue and convince your audience to side with you.
6. Be prepared to go on the day you are assigned. Failure to present your speech at that time will result in a ZERO.
7. You will be graded on delivery, length of speech, and persuasiveness.
8. Give me your final draft outline and bibliography on the day you deliver your speech, right before you begin speaking. You will need 2 copies of your outline. One typed to give to me, and one placed on note cards to use during your speech.
9. You must use at least five sources for your speech. You may not use two of the same source. For example, you may not use two Newsweek magazines.
10. You should use approximately 10 pieces of borrowed information in your speech, citing your source for each borrowed piece of information.
11. You will have approximately 5 class periods to do research. Any additional research must be done on your own time.
12. Speeches will begin on Tuesday, March 24th. Good luck!!!!!!
In reading, we will finish reading Act I in Romeo and Juliet on Monday, and take the Act I quiz on Wednesday.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
What's happening in class?
The week of March 9th through March 12th will be a busy one!
In L.A., we will be beginning our persuasive speech unit.
On Monday we will go through speech requirements and discuss topic ideas.
On Tuesday, we will select speech topics and discuss thesis statements.
On Wednesday, we will determine thesis statements.
On Thursday of this week, Miss. Hagensee will provide a reseach introduction in preparation for next week's individual student research.
In reading, we will be starting my favorite play, Romeo and Juliet!! This Shakespearian play has it all: LOVE! ROMANCE! DECEPTION! INTRIGUE! DESTRUCTION! DEATH! and HOPE!
We will be reading the modern version of the play, but I will be hi-lighting famous quotes in Shakespeare's language, and students will eventually be memorizing and performing these quotes. The Romeo and Juliet unit will include the reading of the entire play out loud, with students choosing new parts each day, and indepth discussion of the play, including plot analysis, and character motivation.
Throughout the play, we will be noting similarities and differences between Romeo and Juliet and West Side Story. The unit will also consist of ACT 1 through ACT 5 quizzes, and a final comprehensive test.
In L.A., we will be beginning our persuasive speech unit.
On Monday we will go through speech requirements and discuss topic ideas.
On Tuesday, we will select speech topics and discuss thesis statements.
On Wednesday, we will determine thesis statements.
On Thursday of this week, Miss. Hagensee will provide a reseach introduction in preparation for next week's individual student research.
In reading, we will be starting my favorite play, Romeo and Juliet!! This Shakespearian play has it all: LOVE! ROMANCE! DECEPTION! INTRIGUE! DESTRUCTION! DEATH! and HOPE!
We will be reading the modern version of the play, but I will be hi-lighting famous quotes in Shakespeare's language, and students will eventually be memorizing and performing these quotes. The Romeo and Juliet unit will include the reading of the entire play out loud, with students choosing new parts each day, and indepth discussion of the play, including plot analysis, and character motivation.
Throughout the play, we will be noting similarities and differences between Romeo and Juliet and West Side Story. The unit will also consist of ACT 1 through ACT 5 quizzes, and a final comprehensive test.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
What's happening in class?
The week of March 3rd through March 6th is all about ISAT testing!
Last week, students did an excellent job of preparing for the reading and writing tests. I'm hoping all their hard work pays off!
During L.A. and reading this week, we will begin a new combination unit, comparing Romeo and Juliet and West Side Story. We will be watching the 1961 Oscar Award winning musical this week, discussing it as we go.
Students will be provided with a detailed study guide for the movie, and on Monday, 9th, they will take the West Side Story quiz. ***See the link below for interesting information on this fantastic musical!
http://www.westsidestory.com/
Last week, students did an excellent job of preparing for the reading and writing tests. I'm hoping all their hard work pays off!
During L.A. and reading this week, we will begin a new combination unit, comparing Romeo and Juliet and West Side Story. We will be watching the 1961 Oscar Award winning musical this week, discussing it as we go.
Students will be provided with a detailed study guide for the movie, and on Monday, 9th, they will take the West Side Story quiz. ***See the link below for interesting information on this fantastic musical!
http://www.westsidestory.com/
Monday, February 23, 2009
What's happening in class?
This week in L.A. and reading we will be doing power ISAT testing preparation! :)
In L.A., students will receive a complete review on how to write detailed, well structured, insightful persuasive and personal narrative essays. They will also have practice runs on writing in a timed environment and will receive credit for their work.
In reading, students will receive a complete review on how to read an excerpt in order to glean as much meaning as possible from the text, how to effectively take multiple choice question tests, and how to write a well thought out, detailed reading extended response. They will also have practice runs on writing in a timed environment and will receive credit for their work.
Let the fun begin!!
In L.A., students will receive a complete review on how to write detailed, well structured, insightful persuasive and personal narrative essays. They will also have practice runs on writing in a timed environment and will receive credit for their work.
In reading, students will receive a complete review on how to read an excerpt in order to glean as much meaning as possible from the text, how to effectively take multiple choice question tests, and how to write a well thought out, detailed reading extended response. They will also have practice runs on writing in a timed environment and will receive credit for their work.
Let the fun begin!!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
What's happening in class?
***I hope everyone enjoyed his or her day off in celebration of Presidents' Day!
In language arts, we will be delving into the exciting world of adjectives and adverbs! Students will be reviewing and practicing using these two modifiers correctly in order to add description and clarity to their writing.
In reading, we will continue and finish the poetry unit we began last week. Students will have a final unit test on Friday which will challenge them to identify poetic terms, match poems with their themes, demonstrate their knowledge of a rhyme scheme, and analyze a given poem.
Below you will find student sample poems based on the poem, "Moco Limping."
"Jonathon" by Ashley M.
When I found out I was
getting a baby brother,
I saw many wonderful
things that could happen.
I’d now have a playmate
wherever I went. We’d be
best friends and share
everything we had. We’d
have secrets that no one
else would know. We’d be
open to each other and say
everything that is on our
minds. But as he grew, my
hopes started to wither away.
We’d start to fight for every
little reason. He’d spill out
every other secret I possessed.
He’d take things without my
knowledge. He’d embarrass me
every chance he got. But at the
end of the day, I always realize
that he’s the only one who
truly makes me happy and smile.
I’m glad that he’s my baby brother.
"Lucky Dog" By: Jessica L.
I always imagined having
a dog that will play fetch
and return the ball right
into my hands.
I wanted him to dive into
the pond with me and swim.
I wanted him to be just like
"Lucky", from 101 Dalmatians.
That dog was brave, cool and
could talk.
But instead my dog plays fetch,
but never returns the ball.
He hates water, and goes into
hysterics when the tip of his
paw steps near a puddle.
He’s clumsy, and gets envious.
He pretends he is human and
shows his feelings, too.
Although he doesn’t talk like
"Lucky" my dog still has the
brave, cool thing I imagined
he would.
He fits me like a pair of shoes.
He is like myself in dog form;
clumsy, funny, loving.
He’s my partner in crime
and I don’t have the slightest
clue on what I would do without
him by my side.
“My Sister” by Nicole L.
I wish I had a perfect sister.
One that would listen to
everything I would say.
One that would do favors
for me when I asked
politely. A sister that
would always be nice
to me and didn’t answer
rudely for everything I asked.
A sister that would never go
through my things and would respect me.
This would be the
ideal sister.
Instead I have an annoying,
computer hogging, back
talking sister. A sister that goes
through my things and never listens.
I have a sister that makes fun of
me for every little thing I do and
never lets me forget. A sister who
always wants to be the center of attention.
She’s annoying, rude and I just can’t
stand her.
Like I said, I have an annoying, computer hogging,
back talking sister, that I love. When she
truly listens to me things change. Sometimes
I feel that we are friends and not sisters.
Without her things just wouldn’t be the same.
“Matthew”by Kristy L.
I could only imagine
how many of my chores
could be done for me.
I wanted the perfect little
brother who never got
me in trouble.
He would be the cute,
understanding, sympathetic
kid who listened to
everything that I would say.
I wanted him to never
throw a fight or take
my stuff. I wanted him to be
nice, cooperate and act like
a mature child. But instead I
got an eight year old brother
who sometimes drives me
insane. He is loud and
obnoxious and runs around
like a mad man. He always
picks a fight, and I constantly
find my things being taken
and misplaced.
He cries or complains
when he doesn’t get his way or
when people don’t listen to him.
Although he drives me crazy
sometimes, he makes me
realize how much I would
dislike my life as an only child.
He looks up to me and asks
me for advice and he is
extremely caring and kind at
times. And then he looks up at me
with those big puppy dog eyes
and his cute face, and I realize
he is my only little
brother, and I can’t help
but hug him.
In language arts, we will be delving into the exciting world of adjectives and adverbs! Students will be reviewing and practicing using these two modifiers correctly in order to add description and clarity to their writing.
In reading, we will continue and finish the poetry unit we began last week. Students will have a final unit test on Friday which will challenge them to identify poetic terms, match poems with their themes, demonstrate their knowledge of a rhyme scheme, and analyze a given poem.
Below you will find student sample poems based on the poem, "Moco Limping."
"Jonathon" by Ashley M.
When I found out I was
getting a baby brother,
I saw many wonderful
things that could happen.
I’d now have a playmate
wherever I went. We’d be
best friends and share
everything we had. We’d
have secrets that no one
else would know. We’d be
open to each other and say
everything that is on our
minds. But as he grew, my
hopes started to wither away.
We’d start to fight for every
little reason. He’d spill out
every other secret I possessed.
He’d take things without my
knowledge. He’d embarrass me
every chance he got. But at the
end of the day, I always realize
that he’s the only one who
truly makes me happy and smile.
I’m glad that he’s my baby brother.
"Lucky Dog" By: Jessica L.
I always imagined having
a dog that will play fetch
and return the ball right
into my hands.
I wanted him to dive into
the pond with me and swim.
I wanted him to be just like
"Lucky", from 101 Dalmatians.
That dog was brave, cool and
could talk.
But instead my dog plays fetch,
but never returns the ball.
He hates water, and goes into
hysterics when the tip of his
paw steps near a puddle.
He’s clumsy, and gets envious.
He pretends he is human and
shows his feelings, too.
Although he doesn’t talk like
"Lucky" my dog still has the
brave, cool thing I imagined
he would.
He fits me like a pair of shoes.
He is like myself in dog form;
clumsy, funny, loving.
He’s my partner in crime
and I don’t have the slightest
clue on what I would do without
him by my side.
“My Sister” by Nicole L.
I wish I had a perfect sister.
One that would listen to
everything I would say.
One that would do favors
for me when I asked
politely. A sister that
would always be nice
to me and didn’t answer
rudely for everything I asked.
A sister that would never go
through my things and would respect me.
This would be the
ideal sister.
Instead I have an annoying,
computer hogging, back
talking sister. A sister that goes
through my things and never listens.
I have a sister that makes fun of
me for every little thing I do and
never lets me forget. A sister who
always wants to be the center of attention.
She’s annoying, rude and I just can’t
stand her.
Like I said, I have an annoying, computer hogging,
back talking sister, that I love. When she
truly listens to me things change. Sometimes
I feel that we are friends and not sisters.
Without her things just wouldn’t be the same.
“Matthew”by Kristy L.
I could only imagine
how many of my chores
could be done for me.
I wanted the perfect little
brother who never got
me in trouble.
He would be the cute,
understanding, sympathetic
kid who listened to
everything that I would say.
I wanted him to never
throw a fight or take
my stuff. I wanted him to be
nice, cooperate and act like
a mature child. But instead I
got an eight year old brother
who sometimes drives me
insane. He is loud and
obnoxious and runs around
like a mad man. He always
picks a fight, and I constantly
find my things being taken
and misplaced.
He cries or complains
when he doesn’t get his way or
when people don’t listen to him.
Although he drives me crazy
sometimes, he makes me
realize how much I would
dislike my life as an only child.
He looks up to me and asks
me for advice and he is
extremely caring and kind at
times. And then he looks up at me
with those big puppy dog eyes
and his cute face, and I realize
he is my only little
brother, and I can’t help
but hug him.
Monday, February 9, 2009
What's happening in class?
I hope high school registration at DGS went smoothly for everyone! :)
In language arts this week we will be focusing on the exciting world of capitalization and punctuation! :) Daily instruction and in class practice will lead to demonstrating mastery through individual practice, and an end of the unit quiz.
In reading, students will receive back their "Flowers for Algernon" quizzes. Students did a very good job on the quiz overall, and their opinion based, reason supported writing was the best I've seen on a test this year! Students were asked whether or not Charlie (the main character) should have had the operation he did to triple his intelligence. Some felt it was the wrong thing for Charlie to do, but the majority of students felt the opportunity for Charlie to experience life as a genius, though tough at times, and only temporary, was worth it!
This week we'll be switching gears and starting a new unit in poetry. Students will be analyzing poetry, as well as trying their hands at writing poetry as well. Do I have any budding poets in class? We'll soon find out the answer to that question............................
In language arts this week we will be focusing on the exciting world of capitalization and punctuation! :) Daily instruction and in class practice will lead to demonstrating mastery through individual practice, and an end of the unit quiz.
In reading, students will receive back their "Flowers for Algernon" quizzes. Students did a very good job on the quiz overall, and their opinion based, reason supported writing was the best I've seen on a test this year! Students were asked whether or not Charlie (the main character) should have had the operation he did to triple his intelligence. Some felt it was the wrong thing for Charlie to do, but the majority of students felt the opportunity for Charlie to experience life as a genius, though tough at times, and only temporary, was worth it!
This week we'll be switching gears and starting a new unit in poetry. Students will be analyzing poetry, as well as trying their hands at writing poetry as well. Do I have any budding poets in class? We'll soon find out the answer to that question............................
Monday, February 2, 2009
What's happening in class?
In L.A. this week, we will be focusing on ISAT preparation. We will be discussing and practicing the differences among fables, fairy tales, myths and legends, as well as fiction and non-fiction. We will also be using our knowledge about The Outsiders to practice writing extended responses for the ISAT reading exam......
In reading this week, we will be reading the play version of "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes. It's a fictional story about a mentally challenged man named Charlie who is given the opportunity to triple his intelligence. He accepts the offer, but are the results, both mentally and emotionally worth it? Tune in later this week to see!
In reading this week, we will be reading the play version of "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes. It's a fictional story about a mentally challenged man named Charlie who is given the opportunity to triple his intelligence. He accepts the offer, but are the results, both mentally and emotionally worth it? Tune in later this week to see!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
What's happening in class?
The week of January 26th is s busy one for the 8th graders!
Monday night and Wednesday nights are open house nights for incoming freshmen at Downers Grove South! I highly recommend attending! It's a night filled with valuable information and a lot of fun!
This week in language arts, students will continue work on their theme plays. Monday through Thursday are practice days, and Friday is performance day. Students have come up with great themes and story lines and I'm anxiously awaiting their presentations!
This week in reading, students will get their The Outsiders final tests back. They did a great job on them! Students will also be able to enjoy watching The Outsiders movie. We will compare and contrast the novel and movie, paying attention to characters, plot, and overall appeal.
Monday night and Wednesday nights are open house nights for incoming freshmen at Downers Grove South! I highly recommend attending! It's a night filled with valuable information and a lot of fun!
This week in language arts, students will continue work on their theme plays. Monday through Thursday are practice days, and Friday is performance day. Students have come up with great themes and story lines and I'm anxiously awaiting their presentations!
This week in reading, students will get their The Outsiders final tests back. They did a great job on them! Students will also be able to enjoy watching The Outsiders movie. We will compare and contrast the novel and movie, paying attention to characters, plot, and overall appeal.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
What's happening in class?
I hope you enjoyed a day off in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday!
In language arts this week, we are beginning a mini drama unit. Groups of 4-5 students will create and perform one act plays developed around a chosen THEME.
All organizing, creating and practicing will be done at school. Memorization of lines and gathering of clothes for costumes will be done at home. NO PRACTICING WITH GROUPS OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL WILL BE REQUIRED.
In reading this week, we will finish The Outsiders. Due to several emotional and physical issues including the deaths of both Johnny and Dally, and suffering from a concussion from an injury he received during the rumble, Ponyboy collapsed. After 4 days of being in and out of consciousness, he is finally coming back physically, but is he ready to handle the emotional stress of reality yet? How will the trial go? Will his brother and he be separated? Tune in to find out...............
The Outsiders final test is scheduled for Friday, January 25th.
Here's to a new week and a new chapter in history! I hope both are good ones!
In language arts this week, we are beginning a mini drama unit. Groups of 4-5 students will create and perform one act plays developed around a chosen THEME.
All organizing, creating and practicing will be done at school. Memorization of lines and gathering of clothes for costumes will be done at home. NO PRACTICING WITH GROUPS OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL WILL BE REQUIRED.
In reading this week, we will finish The Outsiders. Due to several emotional and physical issues including the deaths of both Johnny and Dally, and suffering from a concussion from an injury he received during the rumble, Ponyboy collapsed. After 4 days of being in and out of consciousness, he is finally coming back physically, but is he ready to handle the emotional stress of reality yet? How will the trial go? Will his brother and he be separated? Tune in to find out...............
The Outsiders final test is scheduled for Friday, January 25th.
Here's to a new week and a new chapter in history! I hope both are good ones!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
What's happening in class?
This week is language arts, students will be sharing their favorite essays from the three essays they have written this year. Selection and polishing will happen tomorrow and sharing begins on Tuesday! Also this week, students will continue mastering ISAT study skills. Our goal is to improve all students' comprehension, thinking and reasoning skills.........
This week in reading, book reports are due. We'll be selecting new book report books and we will also finish S.E. Hinton's novel, The Outsiders........Johnny is not in good shape, Dally is seeking revenge, and the rumble to end all rumbles is scheduled for tonight.
Does Johnny live? Does Dally get his revenge? Does Ponyboy make it through the rumble and manage to stay with his family? Stay tuned to find out................
This week in reading, book reports are due. We'll be selecting new book report books and we will also finish S.E. Hinton's novel, The Outsiders........Johnny is not in good shape, Dally is seeking revenge, and the rumble to end all rumbles is scheduled for tonight.
Does Johnny live? Does Dally get his revenge? Does Ponyboy make it through the rumble and manage to stay with his family? Stay tuned to find out................
Sunday, January 4, 2009
What's happening in class?
Welcome back and happy 2009!
I hope everyone had a fun, relaxing vacation!
This week in language arts, we'll be focusing on subject-verb agreement. Understanding correct word usage is the key to good, clear writing.
This week in reading, we will continue reading The Outsiders. We will find out whether or not Johnny and Ponyboy get caught and tried for murder, or if something else happens to add an interesting twist to the story........................................Stay tuned to find out!
I hope everyone had a fun, relaxing vacation!
This week in language arts, we'll be focusing on subject-verb agreement. Understanding correct word usage is the key to good, clear writing.
This week in reading, we will continue reading The Outsiders. We will find out whether or not Johnny and Ponyboy get caught and tried for murder, or if something else happens to add an interesting twist to the story........................................Stay tuned to find out!
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