Geography

Yesterday we started our geography unit. We started by discussing how everyone has maps in their heads, but sometimes we need to get them down on paper for others to use. I asked each of the students to draw a map of the middle school. Some were really good! (Others, not so great.) The whole point was that is isn't always easy to get what we know in our heads down on paper.

We then discussed and took notes about what should be on a map. We used the acronym DOGSTAILS to help us remember: date, orientation, grid, scale, title, author, index, legend (key), source.

Today we practiced determining scale on a map as well as drew some map symbols. Anything not finished in class today is due on Monday.

Enjoy the long weekend!

Homecoming 2009

A couple weeks ago we had homecoming, here's a few pictures for you to enjoy...

Critical Thinking Test

Today is our unit test on critical thinking. The students received a study guide on Friday, so they should be well prepared for it. Our next unit will be geography. We will start by looking at maps and what the requirements are that make a map easy to use.

Propaganda Test

Today the students are taking a test on propaganda. So far they are doing very well on it! We will be wrapping up critical thinking this week, with a final test on Monday. A study guide will be handed out on Friday and the kids will get class time to work on it.

My numbers are dwindling...16 gone yesterday! I will do my best to stay on top of assignments your kids may miss while they are gone. In some cases I may even exempt a student from doing an assignment. I know they have a lot to make up, especially when they are gone for 2-3 days at a time. Stay healthy!

Propaganda Project

The students have been working hard all week on their propaganda project. They are required to find one example of each of the 6 techniques we have discussed in class. They have been finding these examples in old magazines. Once they have all their examples, they place them into a book and explain why they picked that particular add for that technique. These projects are due Monday, October 5th. Many of the students are already finished with their project!

Today I gave each of the students a printout of their grade so far. These need to be signed and returned by Monday.

They students also have a TV assignment due Monday. They are to watch TV and identify which technique the commercials are using. They have a worksheet to fill in for this. (Yes I am requiring your children to watch TV!)

Three things due Monday: Propaganda book, TV worksheet, grade report signed.