Vocabulary
Week 9
1. quaint – having an old fashion attractiveness or charm; oddly pleasing
2. rigorous – severe, harsh or difficult
3. stupendous – causing amazement, astounding, marvelous
4. refine – to make pure, remove impurities, improve
5. bodacious – remarkable; outstanding; bold
6. acumen – keen insight, understanding or shrewdness
7. barbaric – uncivilized or primitive
8. antiquated – no longer used; linked to the past
9. squalid – foul and repulsive, as from lack of care or cleanliness; neglected and filthy
10. profuse – made or done freely and abundantly; in great amounts
11. exemplary – worthy of imitation; commendable; serving as a model
12. maul – to handle or injure by rough handling or beating
13. vow – a solemn promise, pledge or personal commitment
14. ravage – devastating or destructive action
15. tyrant – an absolute ruler who uses power unjustly or oppressively
16. oppress – to burden or weigh down with unjust/unfair restraints or rules
17. envy – a feeling of discontent with regard to another advantages, success or possessions
18. plagued – any widespread affliction, problem or evil
19. exude – to make apparent by mood or behavior, to be released through pores or incision
20. fatuous – foolish, silly or unbelievable
21. feckless – having no sense of responsibility, incompetent or ineffective
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
Monday, December 6th 2010
Vocabulary
Week 9
NOTE: Please make sure to write all the words in your notebook so that you do not lose or forget them. Any words you fail to define in class are homework. I will be checking words tomorrow and there will be a quiz on these words at the end of the week.
quaint
antiquated tyrant
rigorous squalid oppress
stupendous profuse envy
refine exemplary plagued
bodacious
maul
exude
acumen
vow fatuous
barbaric
ravage feckless
Week 9
NOTE: Please make sure to write all the words in your notebook so that you do not lose or forget them. Any words you fail to define in class are homework. I will be checking words tomorrow and there will be a quiz on these words at the end of the week.
quaint
antiquated tyrant
rigorous squalid oppress
stupendous profuse envy
refine exemplary plagued
bodacious
maul
exude
acumen
vow fatuous
barbaric
ravage feckless
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Language Arts Quick Hits
* Stomach Flu - Parents, please be aware that there is a very bad stomach flu virus going around the school - as many of you may already know. This particular virus is known to survive on hard surfaces for up to 15 hours. Please remind and encourage your child to wash their hands and be alert of students who are not feeling well. Students who have experienced this virus are typically effected between 24-48 hours.
* Report Cards - Grades have been finalized for first trimester report cards - all grades going forward will be for the second trimester.
* DLP - we began class with our DLPs - ask them about the Far Side!
* Vocabulary - I checked to make sure sure students completed yesterdays vocabulary in their notebooks. We then reviewed the definitions and used the words in everyday or common use examples. Vocabulary words and definitions are listed below. Remember: Vocabulary Quiz on Friday 12/3!
* Homework: Sleep Tight Worksheet - students read for details using reading material as well as tables and graphs. Students were given in time in class and allowed to work with a partner to complete a majority, if not the entire, assignment. Students read a short paragraph on the health benefits of sleep and then charted their own sleep patterns. We will review this as a group tomorrow. I'm sorry, but I do not have a PDF of this assignment.
* Homework: "My Most Memorable Holiday Moment" - students were given most of the second period to do this in class journal assignment. The assignment was a minimum of three (3) paragraphs and asked students to describe in detail their most memorable holiday moment. This could be from any recognized holiday of their choice or could simply be about a moment that occurred because of the vacation time allowed from that holiday. Since we have been reading for details recently, this paper is focusing on descriptive details - specifically using details that involve our senses: touch, taste, smell, see and feel. Students will be reading their 'moments' aloud in class tomorrow and receive extra credit if their moment is typed. I have attached the 'overhead instructions' in this email - however, it is my hope that most were able to complete the writing in class. If you have time, please have them read their paper aloud as a proofing technique. Have them rewrite any sentences that begin with 'Then' 'So' or 'Next.'
* Homework: Reading Response entry
Vocabulary
Week 8
1. reflection – an image; representation; counterpart. OR a thought occurring in consideration or meditation.
2. regal – befitting or resembling a king; stately, splendid
3. bellow – to emit a hollow, loud, roar or animal like cry
4. incident – an individual occurrence or event, a distinct piece of action
5. abrupt – sudden or unexpected, changing suddenly
6. distress – a state of misfortune, necessity, anxiety or sorrow; physical or mental suffering, trouble
7. fester – to petrify or rot, to form pus
8. deduce – to come to a conclusion from something known or assumed
9. perspective – a point of view, the state of existing in space before the eye
10. striking – noticeable, attractive or impressive
11. incessant – perpetual, unending, constant
12. consequently – as a result of, effect or outcome
13. impatient – not accepting delay, restless
14. peculiar – distinctively strange or odd
15. churlish – rude, mean; difficult to work or deal with
16. extraordinary – beyond what is usual, exceptional in some way or form
17. billiards – a game played on a cloth covered table with a cue and hard or ivory balls
18. facetious – amusing, characterized by a love of joking
19. gait – a manner or walking, stepping or running
20. sympathetic – to feel compassionate or have special understanding of another’s situation
21. hubris – excessive pride or self-confidence, arrogance
* Stomach Flu - Parents, please be aware that there is a very bad stomach flu virus going around the school - as many of you may already know. This particular virus is known to survive on hard surfaces for up to 15 hours. Please remind and encourage your child to wash their hands and be alert of students who are not feeling well. Students who have experienced this virus are typically effected between 24-48 hours.
* Report Cards - Grades have been finalized for first trimester report cards - all grades going forward will be for the second trimester.
* DLP - we began class with our DLPs - ask them about the Far Side!
* Vocabulary - I checked to make sure sure students completed yesterdays vocabulary in their notebooks. We then reviewed the definitions and used the words in everyday or common use examples. Vocabulary words and definitions are listed below. Remember: Vocabulary Quiz on Friday 12/3!
* Homework: Sleep Tight Worksheet - students read for details using reading material as well as tables and graphs. Students were given in time in class and allowed to work with a partner to complete a majority, if not the entire, assignment. Students read a short paragraph on the health benefits of sleep and then charted their own sleep patterns. We will review this as a group tomorrow. I'm sorry, but I do not have a PDF of this assignment.
* Homework: "My Most Memorable Holiday Moment" - students were given most of the second period to do this in class journal assignment. The assignment was a minimum of three (3) paragraphs and asked students to describe in detail their most memorable holiday moment. This could be from any recognized holiday of their choice or could simply be about a moment that occurred because of the vacation time allowed from that holiday. Since we have been reading for details recently, this paper is focusing on descriptive details - specifically using details that involve our senses: touch, taste, smell, see and feel. Students will be reading their 'moments' aloud in class tomorrow and receive extra credit if their moment is typed. I have attached the 'overhead instructions' in this email - however, it is my hope that most were able to complete the writing in class. If you have time, please have them read their paper aloud as a proofing technique. Have them rewrite any sentences that begin with 'Then' 'So' or 'Next.'
* Homework: Reading Response entry
Vocabulary
Week 8
1. reflection – an image; representation; counterpart. OR a thought occurring in consideration or meditation.
2. regal – befitting or resembling a king; stately, splendid
3. bellow – to emit a hollow, loud, roar or animal like cry
4. incident – an individual occurrence or event, a distinct piece of action
5. abrupt – sudden or unexpected, changing suddenly
6. distress – a state of misfortune, necessity, anxiety or sorrow; physical or mental suffering, trouble
7. fester – to petrify or rot, to form pus
8. deduce – to come to a conclusion from something known or assumed
9. perspective – a point of view, the state of existing in space before the eye
10. striking – noticeable, attractive or impressive
11. incessant – perpetual, unending, constant
12. consequently – as a result of, effect or outcome
13. impatient – not accepting delay, restless
14. peculiar – distinctively strange or odd
15. churlish – rude, mean; difficult to work or deal with
16. extraordinary – beyond what is usual, exceptional in some way or form
17. billiards – a game played on a cloth covered table with a cue and hard or ivory balls
18. facetious – amusing, characterized by a love of joking
19. gait – a manner or walking, stepping or running
20. sympathetic – to feel compassionate or have special understanding of another’s situation
21. hubris – excessive pride or self-confidence, arrogance
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
HOMEWORK - Manatees worksheet, started in class to be completed at home.
Read Hoot in class - I am putting together reading packets for students to take home in order to get through the book more quickly. There is simply too much to cover in class and not enough time to devote to reading - particularly with slower readers. I hope to have these packs done by the end of the week and have told students that they can read the Hoot packets and use that reading for their Reading Responses.
Here are week 7's vocabulary words and definitions:
Vocabulary
Week 7
1. timid – in a way that shows fear or shyness
2. trudge – walk as if tired or with great effort
3. grudgingly – in an unwilling or resentful way
4. tote – to carry or transport
5. omit – to leave out
6. rote – routine, fixed, habitual; as if by memory
7. escort – going with, as a companion; to accompany
8. distract – to draw away or disturb, to interrupt concentration
9. murmur – a low continuous sound, to speak softly
10. fascinate – to arose interest or curiosity, to attract attention
11. recognize – to know and remember
12. prelude – introduction to a main event
13. ratio – the relation between two similar magnitudes with respect to the number of times the first contains the second
14. evident – easy to see or understand; very clear
15. devour – to eat hungrily, greedily or quickly
16. trot – run in a graceful or light way
17. anxious – full of mental distress or uneasiness because of fear of danger or misfortune
18. custody – keeping or in charge of, guardianship, care
19. bewilder – to confuse or puzzle completely, perplex
20. deranged – to throw into disorder, to make insane
21. pompous – acting overly important or dignified, stuck up
Read Hoot in class - I am putting together reading packets for students to take home in order to get through the book more quickly. There is simply too much to cover in class and not enough time to devote to reading - particularly with slower readers. I hope to have these packs done by the end of the week and have told students that they can read the Hoot packets and use that reading for their Reading Responses.
Here are week 7's vocabulary words and definitions:
Vocabulary
Week 7
1. timid – in a way that shows fear or shyness
2. trudge – walk as if tired or with great effort
3. grudgingly – in an unwilling or resentful way
4. tote – to carry or transport
5. omit – to leave out
6. rote – routine, fixed, habitual; as if by memory
7. escort – going with, as a companion; to accompany
8. distract – to draw away or disturb, to interrupt concentration
9. murmur – a low continuous sound, to speak softly
10. fascinate – to arose interest or curiosity, to attract attention
11. recognize – to know and remember
12. prelude – introduction to a main event
13. ratio – the relation between two similar magnitudes with respect to the number of times the first contains the second
14. evident – easy to see or understand; very clear
15. devour – to eat hungrily, greedily or quickly
16. trot – run in a graceful or light way
17. anxious – full of mental distress or uneasiness because of fear of danger or misfortune
18. custody – keeping or in charge of, guardianship, care
19. bewilder – to confuse or puzzle completely, perplex
20. deranged – to throw into disorder, to make insane
21. pompous – acting overly important or dignified, stuck up
Monday, November 16, 2010
LANGUAGE ARTS QUICK HITS
· REPORT CARDS - Be aware that it is almost time for report cards – please take a moment to review your student’s grades online and talk to them about low or missing grades. There is still time (depending on the teacher) for students to make up missing work or perhaps some sort of extra credit to bring up grades.
· SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR – Starts Tuesday, November 16th in the Commons – students will have the opportunity to buy many of their favorite book titles as well as other interesting publications. Direct any questions to Nancy Gonzalez nanloggon@sbcglobal.net
· Started class with Daily Language Practice (DLPs)
· Administered last week’s vocabulary quiz to students who were absent or at Young Americans.
· Reviewed quiz with remaining students and went over proper use of vocabulary words.
· HOMEWORK – we started this week’s vocabulary in class while I checked notebooks and Reading Responses. This week’s vocabulary words can be found below. Whatever definitions were not completed in class are to be completed tonight for homework. I will be checking definitions tomorrow for a homework grade – this is to encourage students to take advantage of class time and complete work in advance.
· HOMEWORK – Reading Responses (click here to down load a Reading Response) – new Reading Responses were passed out and are to be completed on a nightly basis after reading for approximately 30 min every night. Many students’ grades continue to suffer because they are failing to turn in Reading Responses on time or at all. This daily assignment should not take very long to complete, but I am sensing that many students are trying to fill out the entire booklet on Sunday night – which makes it much more of a burden. These missing assignments add up and have a noticeable negative impact on their grades. NOTE: I am understanding of students busy schedules and simply ask that a parent or guardian provide a note for any missing days in Reading Responses. Students are aware of my policy. Reading Response lose a point for every day late, for each missing day or for lacking a parent/guardian signature.
Vocabulary
Week 7
timid
distract
devour
trudge
murmur
trot
grudgingly
fascinate
anxious
tote
recognize
custody
omit
prelude
bewilder
starvation
ratio
deranged
escort
evident
pompous
·
· REPORT CARDS - Be aware that it is almost time for report cards – please take a moment to review your student’s grades online and talk to them about low or missing grades. There is still time (depending on the teacher) for students to make up missing work or perhaps some sort of extra credit to bring up grades.
· SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR – Starts Tuesday, November 16th in the Commons – students will have the opportunity to buy many of their favorite book titles as well as other interesting publications. Direct any questions to Nancy Gonzalez nanloggon@sbcglobal.net
· Started class with Daily Language Practice (DLPs)
· Administered last week’s vocabulary quiz to students who were absent or at Young Americans.
· Reviewed quiz with remaining students and went over proper use of vocabulary words.
· HOMEWORK – we started this week’s vocabulary in class while I checked notebooks and Reading Responses. This week’s vocabulary words can be found below. Whatever definitions were not completed in class are to be completed tonight for homework. I will be checking definitions tomorrow for a homework grade – this is to encourage students to take advantage of class time and complete work in advance.
· HOMEWORK – Reading Responses (click here to down load a Reading Response) – new Reading Responses were passed out and are to be completed on a nightly basis after reading for approximately 30 min every night. Many students’ grades continue to suffer because they are failing to turn in Reading Responses on time or at all. This daily assignment should not take very long to complete, but I am sensing that many students are trying to fill out the entire booklet on Sunday night – which makes it much more of a burden. These missing assignments add up and have a noticeable negative impact on their grades. NOTE: I am understanding of students busy schedules and simply ask that a parent or guardian provide a note for any missing days in Reading Responses. Students are aware of my policy. Reading Response lose a point for every day late, for each missing day or for lacking a parent/guardian signature.
Vocabulary
Week 7
timid
distract
devour
trudge
murmur
trot
grudgingly
fascinate
anxious
tote
recognize
custody
omit
prelude
bewilder
starvation
ratio
deranged
escort
evident
pompous
·
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
LANGUAGE ARTS QUICK HITS
· Mr. Madel out sick yesterday - Monday (read below for more information)
· Began class with DLPs
· Reviewed this week’s vocabulary words (listed below)
· Passed back last weeks vocabulary quiz and reviewed. (very pleased with results)
· HOMEWORK: Go Bones! Worksheet that continues to review reading for details. (due tomorrow 11/10/2010)
· HOMEWORK: Reading Responses click here to download one (Students do not have to do Monday – if they have already done Monday they are allowed to skip one day this week)
· Vocabulary Quiz this Friday (11/19/2010) – students who will be out of class for Young Americans will have to make up the quiz on Monday (11/22/2010)
· Young American Assembly this Thursday
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Please forgive the absence of a Homework Alert yesterday – I was out sick. However, it was business as usual in class. The substitute collected Reading Responses, but did forget to hand out this week’s Reading Response – as a result I gave students reprieve from Monday’s journal entry. However, the rest of the week is to be completed as usual.
Also, this week’s vocabulary words were passed out in class and placed on the overhead as usual. Students were given class time to complete the definitions in class. However, because I was absent and was unable to send a Homework Alert or update my blog I did not give a grade for completed definitions. That said, we will still be having our vocabulary quiz on Friday – those students who will be out of class for the Young American opportunity will have to make up the quiz on Monday.
This week’s vocabulary words and definitions are listed below:
Hoot Vocabulary
Week 6
1. veracity – truthfulness, habitual observance of truth in speech or statement
2. duress - compulsion by threat or force
3. voracious – having a large appetite for something
4. incredulous – not believing, doubting; skeptical
5. feisty - full of animation, energy, or courage; spirited
6. gracious - pleasantly kind, benevolent, and courteous.
7. visceral – crude, characterized by or dealing with coarse or base emotions
8. tenacious – persistent, stubborn; holding fast
9. sensation - a state of feeling excited; feeling or interest caused among a number of persons or throughout a community, as by some rumor or occurrence.
10. gumption - initiative; aggressiveness; resourcefulness
11. maneuver - an adroit move, skillful proceeding
12. tactile - of, pertaining to, endowed with, or affecting the sense of touch.
13. residual - pertaining to the remainder; what remains; leftover.
14. scheme - a plan, design, or program of action to be followed; to plot.
15. scandal – a disgraceful action or circumstance; an offense caused by a fault or misdeed.
16. masquerade – a disguise or false outwards showing
17. listless - having or showing little or no interest in anything; spiritless, indifferent
18. loquacious – characterized by excessive talking; talking or tending to talk much or freely; talkative; chattering;
19. vortex – a whirling mass of water; something regarded as drawing into its powerful current everything that surrounds it
20. morbid - unwholesomely gloomy; gruesome or grisly
· Mr. Madel out sick yesterday - Monday (read below for more information)
· Began class with DLPs
· Reviewed this week’s vocabulary words (listed below)
· Passed back last weeks vocabulary quiz and reviewed. (very pleased with results)
· HOMEWORK: Go Bones! Worksheet that continues to review reading for details. (due tomorrow 11/10/2010)
· HOMEWORK: Reading Responses click here to download one (Students do not have to do Monday – if they have already done Monday they are allowed to skip one day this week)
· Vocabulary Quiz this Friday (11/19/2010) – students who will be out of class for Young Americans will have to make up the quiz on Monday (11/22/2010)
· Young American Assembly this Thursday
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Please forgive the absence of a Homework Alert yesterday – I was out sick. However, it was business as usual in class. The substitute collected Reading Responses, but did forget to hand out this week’s Reading Response – as a result I gave students reprieve from Monday’s journal entry. However, the rest of the week is to be completed as usual.
Also, this week’s vocabulary words were passed out in class and placed on the overhead as usual. Students were given class time to complete the definitions in class. However, because I was absent and was unable to send a Homework Alert or update my blog I did not give a grade for completed definitions. That said, we will still be having our vocabulary quiz on Friday – those students who will be out of class for the Young American opportunity will have to make up the quiz on Monday.
This week’s vocabulary words and definitions are listed below:
Hoot Vocabulary
Week 6
1. veracity – truthfulness, habitual observance of truth in speech or statement
2. duress - compulsion by threat or force
3. voracious – having a large appetite for something
4. incredulous – not believing, doubting; skeptical
5. feisty - full of animation, energy, or courage; spirited
6. gracious - pleasantly kind, benevolent, and courteous.
7. visceral – crude, characterized by or dealing with coarse or base emotions
8. tenacious – persistent, stubborn; holding fast
9. sensation - a state of feeling excited; feeling or interest caused among a number of persons or throughout a community, as by some rumor or occurrence.
10. gumption - initiative; aggressiveness; resourcefulness
11. maneuver - an adroit move, skillful proceeding
12. tactile - of, pertaining to, endowed with, or affecting the sense of touch.
13. residual - pertaining to the remainder; what remains; leftover.
14. scheme - a plan, design, or program of action to be followed; to plot.
15. scandal – a disgraceful action or circumstance; an offense caused by a fault or misdeed.
16. masquerade – a disguise or false outwards showing
17. listless - having or showing little or no interest in anything; spiritless, indifferent
18. loquacious – characterized by excessive talking; talking or tending to talk much or freely; talkative; chattering;
19. vortex – a whirling mass of water; something regarded as drawing into its powerful current everything that surrounds it
20. morbid - unwholesomely gloomy; gruesome or grisly
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
LANGUAGE ARTS - QUICK HITS
· Started class with our DLP (Daily Language Practice)
· Collected late work and Reading Responses
· Reviewed yesterdays homework – (Rocks in the Head & Infectious Diseases) – both of these exercises focused on identifying topics, main ideas and supporting details.
· HOMEWORK – Today we continued to work on identifying main ideas vs. supporting ideas. We did two worksheets in class. The first worksheet (Vertebrates) we read aloud and did as a group. It tasked students to identify the main idea, major supporting details and finally minor details that support each of the major details.
· The second worksheet (Turn Up the Power) was distributed and students worked independently to identify these same ideas/details on their own. Students were given 15 minutes of class time to complete both of these sheets – whatever was not finished in class is homework and will be reviewed and collected tomorrow.
· VOCAB QUIZ TOMORROW – there is NO SCHOOL FRIDAY - as a result we will be having our vocabulary quiz on Thursday so please help your child prepare a little each night. WORDS and DEFINITIONS can be found below in the body of this email.
· We finished the day with 15 minutes of pleasure reading.
· HOMEWORK – Reading Response entries. Time permitting students are to pleasure read for 20-30 mins a night and record a response of their choice in their Reading Response booklet.
Hoot Vocabulary
Week 5
Chapters 18-21
involuntary - not subject to control of the will
frenzied - feeling or showing great or abnormal excitement or emotional disturbance
extravaganza - a lavish or spectacular show or event
jurisdiction - the power, right, or authority to interpret and apply the law, an area where the law applies
lustrous - reflecting light evenly and efficiently without glitter or sparkle
allegation - a statement or accusation a against another person or party
improbable - unlikely to be true or to occur; unlikely but real or true
crackerjack - a person or thing of marked excellence
charitable - full of love for and goodwill toward others
dignitaries - one who possesses exalted rank or holds a position of honor
slanderous - the utterance of false charges or misrepresentations which defame and damage another's reputation
impertinent - given to or characterized by insolent rudeness
withering - acting or serving to cut down or destroy
mutilate(d) - to cut up or alter radically so as to make imperfect
flamboyant - marked by or given to strikingly elaborate or colorful display or behavior
toupee - a wig or section of hair worn to cover a bald spot
melodramatic - appealing to the emotions
tarpon - a large silvery elongate bony fish found in warm waters surrounding North America
rambunctious - marked by uncontrollable exuberance and energy
flagrant - shockingly evident or obvious
fortitude - strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage
· Started class with our DLP (Daily Language Practice)
· Collected late work and Reading Responses
· Reviewed yesterdays homework – (Rocks in the Head & Infectious Diseases) – both of these exercises focused on identifying topics, main ideas and supporting details.
· HOMEWORK – Today we continued to work on identifying main ideas vs. supporting ideas. We did two worksheets in class. The first worksheet (Vertebrates) we read aloud and did as a group. It tasked students to identify the main idea, major supporting details and finally minor details that support each of the major details.
· The second worksheet (Turn Up the Power) was distributed and students worked independently to identify these same ideas/details on their own. Students were given 15 minutes of class time to complete both of these sheets – whatever was not finished in class is homework and will be reviewed and collected tomorrow.
· VOCAB QUIZ TOMORROW – there is NO SCHOOL FRIDAY - as a result we will be having our vocabulary quiz on Thursday so please help your child prepare a little each night. WORDS and DEFINITIONS can be found below in the body of this email.
· We finished the day with 15 minutes of pleasure reading.
· HOMEWORK – Reading Response entries. Time permitting students are to pleasure read for 20-30 mins a night and record a response of their choice in their Reading Response booklet.
Hoot Vocabulary
Week 5
Chapters 18-21
involuntary - not subject to control of the will
frenzied - feeling or showing great or abnormal excitement or emotional disturbance
extravaganza - a lavish or spectacular show or event
jurisdiction - the power, right, or authority to interpret and apply the law, an area where the law applies
lustrous - reflecting light evenly and efficiently without glitter or sparkle
allegation - a statement or accusation a against another person or party
improbable - unlikely to be true or to occur; unlikely but real or true
crackerjack - a person or thing of marked excellence
charitable - full of love for and goodwill toward others
dignitaries - one who possesses exalted rank or holds a position of honor
slanderous - the utterance of false charges or misrepresentations which defame and damage another's reputation
impertinent - given to or characterized by insolent rudeness
withering - acting or serving to cut down or destroy
mutilate(d) - to cut up or alter radically so as to make imperfect
flamboyant - marked by or given to strikingly elaborate or colorful display or behavior
toupee - a wig or section of hair worn to cover a bald spot
melodramatic - appealing to the emotions
tarpon - a large silvery elongate bony fish found in warm waters surrounding North America
rambunctious - marked by uncontrollable exuberance and energy
flagrant - shockingly evident or obvious
fortitude - strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
LANGUAGE ARTS - QUICK HITS
· Started class with our DLP (Daily Language Practice)
· Collected late work and Reading Responses
· Reviewed Week Five Vocabulary – this included verbal descriptions, uses and examples in everyday language.
· VOCAB QUIZ THIS THURSDAY – there is NO SCHOOL FRIDAY - as a result we will be having our vocabulary quiz on Thursday so please help your child prepare a little each night. WORDS and DEFINITIONS can be found below in the body of this email.
· HOMEWORK – We started a worksheet (Rocks in the Head & Infectious Diseases) in class that asks students to identify topic sentences, main ideas and supporting ideas. Students were given class time to complete the assignment. Anything not finished in class is to be completed at home for homework. We will correct this assignment as a group tomorrow.
· We finished the day reading Hoot – most students are roughly halfway through the book. Students who have completed the book were allowed to pleasure read or visit the media center.
· HOMEWORK – Reading Response entries. Time permitting students are to pleasure read for 20-30 mins a night and record a response of their choice in their Reading Response booklet.
Hoot Vocabulary
Week 5
Chapters 18-21
involuntary - not subject to control of the will
frenzied - feeling or showing great or abnormal excitement or emotional disturbance
extravaganza - a lavish or spectacular show or event
jurisdiction - the power, right, or authority to interpret and apply the law, an area where the law applies
lustrous - reflecting light evenly and efficiently without glitter or sparkle
allegation - a statement or accusation a against another person or party
improbable - unlikely to be true or to occur; unlikely but real or true
crackerjack - a person or thing of marked excellence
charitable - full of love for and goodwill toward others
dignitaries - one who possesses exalted rank or holds a position of honor
slanderous - the utterance of false charges or misrepresentations which defame and damage another's reputation
impertinent - given to or characterized by insolent rudeness
withering - acting or serving to cut down or destroy
mutilate(d) - to cut up or alter radically so as to make imperfect
flamboyant - marked by or given to strikingly elaborate or colorful display or behavior
toupee - a wig or section of hair worn to cover a bald spot
melodramatic - appealing to the emotions
tarpon - a large silvery elongate bony fish found in warm waters surrounding North America
rambunctious - marked by uncontrollable exuberance and energy
fortitude - strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage
· Started class with our DLP (Daily Language Practice)
· Collected late work and Reading Responses
· Reviewed Week Five Vocabulary – this included verbal descriptions, uses and examples in everyday language.
· VOCAB QUIZ THIS THURSDAY – there is NO SCHOOL FRIDAY - as a result we will be having our vocabulary quiz on Thursday so please help your child prepare a little each night. WORDS and DEFINITIONS can be found below in the body of this email.
· HOMEWORK – We started a worksheet (Rocks in the Head & Infectious Diseases) in class that asks students to identify topic sentences, main ideas and supporting ideas. Students were given class time to complete the assignment. Anything not finished in class is to be completed at home for homework. We will correct this assignment as a group tomorrow.
· We finished the day reading Hoot – most students are roughly halfway through the book. Students who have completed the book were allowed to pleasure read or visit the media center.
· HOMEWORK – Reading Response entries. Time permitting students are to pleasure read for 20-30 mins a night and record a response of their choice in their Reading Response booklet.
Hoot Vocabulary
Week 5
Chapters 18-21
involuntary - not subject to control of the will
frenzied - feeling or showing great or abnormal excitement or emotional disturbance
extravaganza - a lavish or spectacular show or event
jurisdiction - the power, right, or authority to interpret and apply the law, an area where the law applies
lustrous - reflecting light evenly and efficiently without glitter or sparkle
allegation - a statement or accusation a against another person or party
improbable - unlikely to be true or to occur; unlikely but real or true
crackerjack - a person or thing of marked excellence
charitable - full of love for and goodwill toward others
dignitaries - one who possesses exalted rank or holds a position of honor
slanderous - the utterance of false charges or misrepresentations which defame and damage another's reputation
impertinent - given to or characterized by insolent rudeness
withering - acting or serving to cut down or destroy
mutilate(d) - to cut up or alter radically so as to make imperfect
flamboyant - marked by or given to strikingly elaborate or colorful display or behavior
toupee - a wig or section of hair worn to cover a bald spot
melodramatic - appealing to the emotions
tarpon - a large silvery elongate bony fish found in warm waters surrounding North America
rambunctious - marked by uncontrollable exuberance and energy
fortitude - strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage
Monday, November 1, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
QUICK HITS
* Began class with DLP
*
* Passed back vocabulary quizzes & Hoot quizzes (grades are posted in Gradebook)
*
* Reviewed quizzes and answered questions in class regarding both assessments (extra credit was available)
*
* HOMEWORK - started Week Five Vocabulary in class - anything not finished in class is homework (words are listed below)
*
* Collected Reading Responses individually with students reviewing grades - (click here to download a Reading Response) passed out new Reading Responses (NOTE: Some students are chronically not turning in Reading Responses which is absolutely killing their overall grade.)
*
* NOTE - REPORT CARDS GO HOME IN A COUPLE WEEKS!!! Students wishing to improve their grades (in any class) should act now! Talk to teachers!
Week Five Hoot Vocabulary
involuntary
frenzied
extravaganza
jurisdiction
lustrous
allegation
improbable
crackerjack
charitable
dignitaries
slanderous
impertinent
withering
mutilate(d)
flamboyant
toupee
melodramatic
tarpon
rambunctious
fortitude
* Began class with DLP
*
* Passed back vocabulary quizzes & Hoot quizzes (grades are posted in Gradebook)
*
* Reviewed quizzes and answered questions in class regarding both assessments (extra credit was available)
*
* HOMEWORK - started Week Five Vocabulary in class - anything not finished in class is homework (words are listed below)
*
* Collected Reading Responses individually with students reviewing grades - (click here to download a Reading Response) passed out new Reading Responses (NOTE: Some students are chronically not turning in Reading Responses which is absolutely killing their overall grade.)
*
* NOTE - REPORT CARDS GO HOME IN A COUPLE WEEKS!!! Students wishing to improve their grades (in any class) should act now! Talk to teachers!
Week Five Hoot Vocabulary
involuntary
frenzied
extravaganza
jurisdiction
lustrous
allegation
improbable
crackerjack
charitable
dignitaries
slanderous
impertinent
withering
mutilate(d)
flamboyant
toupee
melodramatic
tarpon
rambunctious
fortitude
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
October 26, 2010
QUICK HIT OVERVIEW - (short on time? - this quickly covers what we did in class as well as homework and other news)
* DLPs (completed in class)
* Reviewed this weeks vocabulary (completed in class)
* Ghost Stories (started in class, should be reviewed at home, will work on more in class tomorrow)
* HOMEWORK - Study for vocabulary quiz
* HOMEWORK - Complete entry for Reading Response - click here: to download a Reading Response
* Media Permission Slip - needs to be returned by Thursday 10/28 for media to be played in class
OUR DAY IN REVIEW - (provides a little more detail for you)
1.) We began class today with a couple DLPs (Daily Language Practice) these are typically sentences that I place in the overhead for students to correct while I take attendance and get the class organized. We often begins class with a DLP or a short writing assignment. They typical DLPs provided in the Pearson curriculum are pretty dry (to say the least) so I have been using Far Side comics that I have retyped with errors in the verbiage. Students correct these in their Language Arts notebooks and then we correct them as a group on the overhead. Afterward we discuss why they are funny - as the humor can often be sophisticated or tricky for them to understand at first.
Be sure to ask your child about DLPs as they are a lot of fun.....when they are Far Sides. :)
2.) After DLP we reviewed the weeks vocabulary which I have attached in this email. We review each word's correct definition, explain the meaning and how the word might be used in everyday language or where we might see it. This is done so students all have the same definitions in preparation for the quiz and next weeks reading.
Click here to link to: Hoot Vocabulary Week Four
3.) We started a new writing assignment in class - My Ghost's Story or The Scariest Thing I Ever Saw. This assignment has also been attached to this email for your review or in case your child has lost or misplaced it. The assignment is not considered a major writing assignment and will be completed mostly in class - provided students take advantage of class time.
Students can choose to write a fictional ghost story of their own creation OR can recount a non-fiction experience that was frightening to them. The non-fiction option does not have to be a spooky story, but can be any experience that was frightening to them. Directions and expectations for the writing assignment can be found in the attachment included in this email. I hope to have these completed in class tomorrow so that we can share them in class on Thursday.
Click here to link to: My Ghost's Story or The Scariest Thing I Ever Saw
4.) Permission Slips - I am asking for parent and guardian permission to show a Halloween Simpsons episode in class on Friday and also for permission to show segments of the movie Hoot in class once we finish the novel. Please review the following information and have your child return a signed permission slip - attached in this email. Thanks for your assistance and understanding. Please contact me with any questions or concerns you might have regarding either media presentation.
Click here to link to: Media Permission Slip
* DLPs (completed in class)
* Reviewed this weeks vocabulary (completed in class)
* Ghost Stories (started in class, should be reviewed at home, will work on more in class tomorrow)
* HOMEWORK - Study for vocabulary quiz
* HOMEWORK - Complete entry for Reading Response - click here: to download a Reading Response
* Media Permission Slip - needs to be returned by Thursday 10/28 for media to be played in class
OUR DAY IN REVIEW - (provides a little more detail for you)
1.) We began class today with a couple DLPs (Daily Language Practice) these are typically sentences that I place in the overhead for students to correct while I take attendance and get the class organized. We often begins class with a DLP or a short writing assignment. They typical DLPs provided in the Pearson curriculum are pretty dry (to say the least) so I have been using Far Side comics that I have retyped with errors in the verbiage. Students correct these in their Language Arts notebooks and then we correct them as a group on the overhead. Afterward we discuss why they are funny - as the humor can often be sophisticated or tricky for them to understand at first.
Be sure to ask your child about DLPs as they are a lot of fun.....when they are Far Sides. :)
2.) After DLP we reviewed the weeks vocabulary which I have attached in this email. We review each word's correct definition, explain the meaning and how the word might be used in everyday language or where we might see it. This is done so students all have the same definitions in preparation for the quiz and next weeks reading.
Click here to link to: Hoot Vocabulary Week Four
3.) We started a new writing assignment in class - My Ghost's Story or The Scariest Thing I Ever Saw. This assignment has also been attached to this email for your review or in case your child has lost or misplaced it. The assignment is not considered a major writing assignment and will be completed mostly in class - provided students take advantage of class time.
Students can choose to write a fictional ghost story of their own creation OR can recount a non-fiction experience that was frightening to them. The non-fiction option does not have to be a spooky story, but can be any experience that was frightening to them. Directions and expectations for the writing assignment can be found in the attachment included in this email. I hope to have these completed in class tomorrow so that we can share them in class on Thursday.
Click here to link to: My Ghost's Story or The Scariest Thing I Ever Saw
4.) Permission Slips - I am asking for parent and guardian permission to show a Halloween Simpsons episode in class on Friday and also for permission to show segments of the movie Hoot in class once we finish the novel. Please review the following information and have your child return a signed permission slip - attached in this email. Thanks for your assistance and understanding. Please contact me with any questions or concerns you might have regarding either media presentation.
Click here to link to: Media Permission Slip
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
October 19, 2010
REMEMBER: Conferences begin this week. Be sure to ask your child about conference confirmation letters and check to see what time you are scheduled to conference. If your currently scheduled time is a problem, please contact the conferencing teacher so that they may reschedule with you.
Most teacher are available to meet before and after school on the days leading up to conferences this Thursday.
REMEMBER: There are half days of school on Thursday and Friday of this week - please plan accordingly.
We began class today with a Daily Language Practice followed by a verbal review of the vocabulary words. I verbally modeled the words in sentences and addressed questions about meaning and usage. Students were encouraged to change definitions in their notebooks as we reviewed the words.
However, I am providing a full list of the correct definitions here on my blog. REMEMBER - there is a vocabulary quiz at the end of the week. Encourage your child to review the words each night leading up to the quiz.
Hoot Vocabulary
Week 3
Chapters 10-14
Truss(ed) – to tie, bind, or fasten.
Beaker – a large drinking cup or glass with a wide mouth.
Recurring – occurring or appearing again.
Ballistic – to become overwrought or irrational, to have motion determined by ballistics
Exasperate (d) –to irritate or provoke to a high degree; annoy extremely
Cowling – a streamlined metal housing or removable covering for an engine, esp. an aircraft engine, often part of or forming a continuous line with the fuselage or wing.
Gravitate – to have a natural tendency or be strongly attracted toward
Fugitive – a person who is fleeing, from prosecution, intolerable circumstances, etc.; a runaway
Subterranean –existing, situated, or operating below the surface of the earth; underground.
Commode – a low cabinet or similar piece of furniture, often highly ornamental, containing drawers or shelves, or a portable toilet, esp. one on a chair like frame with wheels, as for an invalid.
Terse (ly) –abruptly concise; rudely brief
Interrogate –to ask questions of (a person), sometimes to seek answers or information that the person questioned considers personal or secret.
Turbulence – violent disorder or commotion.
Inquire – to seek information by questioning; ask
Rebuke – to express sharp, stern disapproval of; reprove; reprimand.
Emblem –a sign, design, or figure that identifies or represents something.
Reconnaissance –a search made for useful information in the field, esp. by examining the ground and surrounding areas.
Salvage – property that is saved from danger.
Dilapidated –reduced to or fallen into partial ruin or decay, as from age, wear, or neglect.
Derelict – left behind or abandoned by its owner, a person without a permanent home.
Anticipate – to realize beforehand; foretaste or foresee.
After reviewing vocabulary we talked of the 'setting' and what the various settings for Hoot were. We followed this up by working on a setting worksheet. Students were given 10 mins to work on the sheet in class - whatever was not finished in class is homework tonight and will be reviewed tomorrow in class.
We finished class by reading Hoot. Students were given the option of reading aloud in a reading circle or silent reading.
Most teacher are available to meet before and after school on the days leading up to conferences this Thursday.
REMEMBER: There are half days of school on Thursday and Friday of this week - please plan accordingly.
We began class today with a Daily Language Practice followed by a verbal review of the vocabulary words. I verbally modeled the words in sentences and addressed questions about meaning and usage. Students were encouraged to change definitions in their notebooks as we reviewed the words.
However, I am providing a full list of the correct definitions here on my blog. REMEMBER - there is a vocabulary quiz at the end of the week. Encourage your child to review the words each night leading up to the quiz.
Hoot Vocabulary
Week 3
Chapters 10-14
Truss(ed) – to tie, bind, or fasten.
Beaker – a large drinking cup or glass with a wide mouth.
Recurring – occurring or appearing again.
Ballistic – to become overwrought or irrational, to have motion determined by ballistics
Exasperate (d) –to irritate or provoke to a high degree; annoy extremely
Cowling – a streamlined metal housing or removable covering for an engine, esp. an aircraft engine, often part of or forming a continuous line with the fuselage or wing.
Gravitate – to have a natural tendency or be strongly attracted toward
Fugitive – a person who is fleeing, from prosecution, intolerable circumstances, etc.; a runaway
Subterranean –existing, situated, or operating below the surface of the earth; underground.
Commode – a low cabinet or similar piece of furniture, often highly ornamental, containing drawers or shelves, or a portable toilet, esp. one on a chair like frame with wheels, as for an invalid.
Terse (ly) –abruptly concise; rudely brief
Interrogate –to ask questions of (a person), sometimes to seek answers or information that the person questioned considers personal or secret.
Turbulence – violent disorder or commotion.
Inquire – to seek information by questioning; ask
Rebuke – to express sharp, stern disapproval of; reprove; reprimand.
Emblem –a sign, design, or figure that identifies or represents something.
Reconnaissance –a search made for useful information in the field, esp. by examining the ground and surrounding areas.
Salvage – property that is saved from danger.
Dilapidated –reduced to or fallen into partial ruin or decay, as from age, wear, or neglect.
Derelict – left behind or abandoned by its owner, a person without a permanent home.
Anticipate – to realize beforehand; foretaste or foresee.
After reviewing vocabulary we talked of the 'setting' and what the various settings for Hoot were. We followed this up by working on a setting worksheet. Students were given 10 mins to work on the sheet in class - whatever was not finished in class is homework tonight and will be reviewed tomorrow in class.
We finished class by reading Hoot. Students were given the option of reading aloud in a reading circle or silent reading.
Monday, October 18, 2010
October 18, 2010
REMEMBER: Portfolio Conferences begin this week - Thursday, October 21, 2010. However, some teachers (myself included) are available to meet on the days leading up to Thursday.
THURSDAY and FRIDAY this week are HALF DAYS - please plan accordingly.
If you are not aware of your conferencing time, please ask your child if they have received a conference confirmation sheet (which they may have forgotten they have) or contact your child's advisory teacher to determine when and with whom you are meeting with.
Today in class I returned vocabulary quizzes from last week which we reviewed as a group. These quizzes will be part of students conference portfolios as well as this weeks Reading Response. Students continue to struggle with completing and returning these on a consistent basis, which is bringing down grades.
On Monday's I review student notebooks and Reading Responses and continue to show students who have been repeat offenders for missing Reading Responses how it is impacting their grades.
After reviewing the quiz we spent the remainder of our first period together organizing and stuff portfolios and then got started on our vocabulary for this week.
HOMEWORK
Students were given class time to look up and define the following words. Any words not defined in class our homework and must be completed by class tomorrow. We will be having a quiz on these words on Thursday (for 1/2nd periods) and on Friday for (6/7th and 8/9th).
Truss(ed) –
Beaker –
Recurring –
Ballistic –
Exasperate (d) –
Cowling –
Gravitate –
Fugitive –
Subterranean –
Commode –
Terse (ly) –
Interrogate –
Turbulence –
Inquire –
Rebuke –
Emblem –
Reconnaissance –
Salvage –
Dilapidated –
Derelict –
Anticipate –
We ended our day by reading Hoot. We will be trying to complete chapters 6-10 in class this week so that we can have a Hoot quiz at the end of the week as well.
THURSDAY and FRIDAY this week are HALF DAYS - please plan accordingly.
If you are not aware of your conferencing time, please ask your child if they have received a conference confirmation sheet (which they may have forgotten they have) or contact your child's advisory teacher to determine when and with whom you are meeting with.
Today in class I returned vocabulary quizzes from last week which we reviewed as a group. These quizzes will be part of students conference portfolios as well as this weeks Reading Response. Students continue to struggle with completing and returning these on a consistent basis, which is bringing down grades.
On Monday's I review student notebooks and Reading Responses and continue to show students who have been repeat offenders for missing Reading Responses how it is impacting their grades.
After reviewing the quiz we spent the remainder of our first period together organizing and stuff portfolios and then got started on our vocabulary for this week.
HOMEWORK
Students were given class time to look up and define the following words. Any words not defined in class our homework and must be completed by class tomorrow. We will be having a quiz on these words on Thursday (for 1/2nd periods) and on Friday for (6/7th and 8/9th).
Truss(ed) –
Beaker –
Recurring –
Ballistic –
Exasperate (d) –
Cowling –
Gravitate –
Fugitive –
Subterranean –
Commode –
Terse (ly) –
Interrogate –
Turbulence –
Inquire –
Rebuke –
Emblem –
Reconnaissance –
Salvage –
Dilapidated –
Derelict –
Anticipate –
We ended our day by reading Hoot. We will be trying to complete chapters 6-10 in class this week so that we can have a Hoot quiz at the end of the week as well.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
October 14, 2010
Today we organized our work for portfolio conferences next week.
Afterward, we discussed the literary elements: Main Idea, Theme and Detail. We read a passage that talked about Kids Making A Difference by starting or joining charitable organizations.
After reading we identified what the main idea was and distinguishing it from themes and details that support the main idea.
IMPORTANT: Vocabulary Quiz tomorrow (10/15)!!! The words and definitions are on my blog in the last posting.
Have a great evening!
Afterward, we discussed the literary elements: Main Idea, Theme and Detail. We read a passage that talked about Kids Making A Difference by starting or joining charitable organizations.
After reading we identified what the main idea was and distinguishing it from themes and details that support the main idea.
IMPORTANT: Vocabulary Quiz tomorrow (10/15)!!! The words and definitions are on my blog in the last posting.
Have a great evening!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
October 13, 2010
Today we reviewed Week Two Vocabulary for Hoot which was homework last night. Listed below are the correct definitions that should be used to study for our end of the week vocabulary quiz on Friday.
I have encouraged students to review these words briefly every night leading up to Thursday. Then, on Thursday, students should have a family member quiz them on the words to determine which words need additional attention or practice for the quiz.
assertive - confidently aggressive or self-assured, aggressive
altercation - a heated or angry dispute; noisy argument or controversy
homicide - the killing of one human being by another
queasy - inclined to feeling sick in the stomach, squeamish
travesty - to imitate grotesquely or absurdly
surveillance - to keep watch over a person, group or thing
ominous(ly) - suggestive of evil or harm; foreboding; threatening
fervent(ly) - having or showing great warmth or intensity of spirit, feeling, enthusiasm,
incentive - something that incites or tends to incite to action or greater effort, as a reward offered for increased productivity.
dispatch - to send off or away with speed, as a messenger, telegram, body of troops, etc.
perpetrator(s) - one who commits a crime
sodden - soaked with liquid or moisture; saturated.
informant - a person who informs or gives information
scabrous - scaly, scabby or having a rough surface because of minute points or projections.
sprockets - a toothed wheel engaging with a conveyor or power chain
jeopardy - to put in harm or risk of or exposure to loss, harm, death, or injury
caustic(ly) - capable of burning, corroding, or destroying living tissue
noncommittal - not committing oneself, or not involving committal, to a particular view, course, or the like
nonchalant(ly) - coolly unconcerned, indifferent, or unexcited; casual
osprey - a large hawk that feeds on fish.
After reviewing vocabulary we discussed some of the themes involved with Hoot. In particular we discussed the theme of bullying and roles that bullies play in the novel. Students were then given a writing assignment that investigated why bullies behave the way they do and what students, teachers and parents can do to prevent bullying.
We finished the class by reading chapter six of Hoot.
There is no homework for tonight - other than students Reading Responses and studying for the vocabualry quiz this Friday (10/15).
I have encouraged students to review these words briefly every night leading up to Thursday. Then, on Thursday, students should have a family member quiz them on the words to determine which words need additional attention or practice for the quiz.
assertive - confidently aggressive or self-assured, aggressive
altercation - a heated or angry dispute; noisy argument or controversy
homicide - the killing of one human being by another
queasy - inclined to feeling sick in the stomach, squeamish
travesty - to imitate grotesquely or absurdly
surveillance - to keep watch over a person, group or thing
ominous(ly) - suggestive of evil or harm; foreboding; threatening
fervent(ly) - having or showing great warmth or intensity of spirit, feeling, enthusiasm,
incentive - something that incites or tends to incite to action or greater effort, as a reward offered for increased productivity.
dispatch - to send off or away with speed, as a messenger, telegram, body of troops, etc.
perpetrator(s) - one who commits a crime
sodden - soaked with liquid or moisture; saturated.
informant - a person who informs or gives information
scabrous - scaly, scabby or having a rough surface because of minute points or projections.
sprockets - a toothed wheel engaging with a conveyor or power chain
jeopardy - to put in harm or risk of or exposure to loss, harm, death, or injury
caustic(ly) - capable of burning, corroding, or destroying living tissue
noncommittal - not committing oneself, or not involving committal, to a particular view, course, or the like
nonchalant(ly) - coolly unconcerned, indifferent, or unexcited; casual
osprey - a large hawk that feeds on fish.
After reviewing vocabulary we discussed some of the themes involved with Hoot. In particular we discussed the theme of bullying and roles that bullies play in the novel. Students were then given a writing assignment that investigated why bullies behave the way they do and what students, teachers and parents can do to prevent bullying.
We finished the class by reading chapter six of Hoot.
There is no homework for tonight - other than students Reading Responses and studying for the vocabualry quiz this Friday (10/15).
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
October 5, 2010
Today we took a surprise practice-quiz on pronouns which we then corrected as a group.
After, we reviewed Week One vocabulary which I checked in class. REMEMBER - we will be having a vocabulary quiz on these words on FRIDAY 10/8. Please have your student review the words every night this week leading up to the quiz.
Wrapping up our time together we read the second and third chapters of Hoot in class.
After, we reviewed Week One vocabulary which I checked in class. REMEMBER - we will be having a vocabulary quiz on these words on FRIDAY 10/8. Please have your student review the words every night this week leading up to the quiz.
Wrapping up our time together we read the second and third chapters of Hoot in class.
Monday, October 4, 2010
October 4, 2010
Last week we started reading our first in class novel - Hoot - by Carl Hiaasen. We examined the book, read about the author, made some predictions and had a class discussion involving some of the students who have already read the book before I read the first chapter aloud to them.
Going forward - Monday's will be devoted to new vocabulary that can be found in our weekly readings. We will then have a quiz on these vocabulary words at the end of the week on Friday. Students are given the words at the start of class and then use the in class dictionaries to define the words - assuring that students are using the same definitions. However, if the students fail to complete the definitions in class - any remaining words are homework.
During class I will call up each student individually to collect Reading Responses, review notebooks and conference with students about their work and expectations.
This weeks vocabulary is included below.
Hoot - Week 1 - Vocabulary
ambush, skeptical, consternation, sinew(y), forthright(ly), vandalism, dogged(ly), snide(ly), gore(d), civilized, monetary, sarcasm, baleful(ly), disgruntled, wince, humidity, menace, provoke, dispatcher, vigorously
Going forward - Monday's will be devoted to new vocabulary that can be found in our weekly readings. We will then have a quiz on these vocabulary words at the end of the week on Friday. Students are given the words at the start of class and then use the in class dictionaries to define the words - assuring that students are using the same definitions. However, if the students fail to complete the definitions in class - any remaining words are homework.
During class I will call up each student individually to collect Reading Responses, review notebooks and conference with students about their work and expectations.
This weeks vocabulary is included below.
Hoot - Week 1 - Vocabulary
ambush, skeptical, consternation, sinew(y), forthright(ly), vandalism, dogged(ly), snide(ly), gore(d), civilized, monetary, sarcasm, baleful(ly), disgruntled, wince, humidity, menace, provoke, dispatcher, vigorously
Thursday, September 30, 2010
September 30th, 2010
PICTURE DAY TODAY - as a result classes were frequently interrupted while advisories were called down to take pictures.
Today in class we reviewed yesterdays homework on interrogative and possessive pronouns. For the second part of class we continued to review pronouns with students completing a work sheet that had them locate pronouns and then identify the word the pronoun is referring to.
Students were allotted enough time to complete this worksheet in class - whatever was not finished in class was to be completed for homework.
We will be starting our first novel study next week.
Today in class we reviewed yesterdays homework on interrogative and possessive pronouns. For the second part of class we continued to review pronouns with students completing a work sheet that had them locate pronouns and then identify the word the pronoun is referring to.
Students were allotted enough time to complete this worksheet in class - whatever was not finished in class was to be completed for homework.
We will be starting our first novel study next week.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
September 29, 2010
My apologies to parents and students attempting to access my blog. There have been some technical issues which have only recently been resolved. As a result my past postings were lost and I am starting - once again - from scratch.
A quick update:
1.) Yesterday (9/28) our first writing assignment was due: My Dream or Nightmare Vacation.
Reading Responses can be typed instead of written in the journal. Reading Response entries can be written about anything the student is reading for pleasure (not coursework reading) - books, magazine/newspaper articles, graphic novels are all acceptable. Additionally, the suggestions on the front of the Reading Response journal are only suggestions for students to get them started. If a student has their own prompt or question that they would like to address, that is fine as long as it is appropriate and challenges the student.
Finally, Reading Response journals can now be found and printed off my blog from the sidebar under 'Assignments.' Lost, incomplete or unsigned journals lose points - please remind students that this is a very easy way to maintain their grade in Language Arts. Additionally, if students encounter one of the above mentioned problems or are unable to complete an entry they most provide a signed note from a parent or guardian explaining the situation to avoid being penalized.
TODAY in class (9/28) we did a review of Possessive and Interrogative Pronouns. Students worked on a worksheet that reviewed both types of pronoun - this assignment should have been completed in class if students used time wisely and stayed on task. However, whatever was not finished in class is homework.
For the second part of class we read the story The Drive-In Movies by Gary Soto - and reviewed the vocabulary for this story which they will be quizzed on at the end of the week.
A quick update:
1.) Yesterday (9/28) our first writing assignment was due: My Dream or Nightmare Vacation.
- Students were tasked to write about a real or imaginary vacation they took. The directions for this assignment, which were handed out and reviewed in class, can be found on my blogs sidebar under 'Assignments.' The purpose of the assignment was three fold - 1.) to get a better understanding of students writing styles/ability 2.) act as a review for nouns 3.) tests students ability to follow directions, stay on task and meet deadlines.
- Students were given over two hours of 'class time' to complete a rough draft with my assistance. Please note that this assignment was only four paragraphs (eight sentences per paragraph), expectations were that students would complete their rough drafts in class and perhaps the entire assignment so that it only needed to be typed.
Reading Responses can be typed instead of written in the journal. Reading Response entries can be written about anything the student is reading for pleasure (not coursework reading) - books, magazine/newspaper articles, graphic novels are all acceptable. Additionally, the suggestions on the front of the Reading Response journal are only suggestions for students to get them started. If a student has their own prompt or question that they would like to address, that is fine as long as it is appropriate and challenges the student.
Finally, Reading Response journals can now be found and printed off my blog from the sidebar under 'Assignments.' Lost, incomplete or unsigned journals lose points - please remind students that this is a very easy way to maintain their grade in Language Arts. Additionally, if students encounter one of the above mentioned problems or are unable to complete an entry they most provide a signed note from a parent or guardian explaining the situation to avoid being penalized.
TODAY in class (9/28) we did a review of Possessive and Interrogative Pronouns. Students worked on a worksheet that reviewed both types of pronoun - this assignment should have been completed in class if students used time wisely and stayed on task. However, whatever was not finished in class is homework.
For the second part of class we read the story The Drive-In Movies by Gary Soto - and reviewed the vocabulary for this story which they will be quizzed on at the end of the week.
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