Happy New Year.

By now you have probably completed your packet on "A Walk to the Jetty" and maybe checked out the notes for "The Giver" as well.

Have a wonderful new year and don't forget to read and write. Have any of you written thank you notes to grandparents or aunts and uncles for Christmas gifts? It's not too late.

Hopefully You Will Read Over the Vacation.

Every student has now received the packet to complete before January 5th. Please read thoughtfully and purposefully and use some of the strategies we've discussed to successfully answer the multiple choice and open response questions.

All students have received a copy of The Giver by Lois Lowry. We'll begin reading together after the break. Look on the side and click on "Give This a Look" for the notes to The Giver.

Final Tomorrow and Second Typed Open Response Due Tomorrow, December 21st.

Today we checked over our "perfect open responses." We soon realized we have much to do in terms of writing a careful response with proof to support our answer. We are improving in our use of quotations and will continue to write answers including clear and rich details. Tonight we will type a great, well-thought out answer to our second open response question to be graded with our final on "A Christmas Carol" tomorrow.

Things to know for the final: sequencing, similes, metaphors, personification, and hyperboles,character id's.

Packets for Periods Two and Three will be distributed tomorrow. The packet is due January 5th.

Finish Open Response for Homework. Should be Perfect.

Today we worked on writing a well-constructed open response for homework. Mrs. Jaggers and Ms. Patenaude read each essay and made suggestions to each student for improving his/her essay. We have a great deal of work to do.

Final on A Christmas Carol on Tuesday, December 21, 2010.

You should be choosing your next open response question to answer before next Wednesday, December 22nd.

Reading/Writing students need a book for next Monday, December 20th. It should be a biography or autobiography.

Great Job, Today

The seventh graders looked beautiful today and were well-behaved at the theater. It was fun to watch the play and notice the similarities and differences between the play and the book. Thanks for dressing up and making us proud!

No Homework Except Study For The Final On Friday, December 17th.

Tomorrow we will venture to the North Shore Music Theatre to see "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens. We finished the book today and look forward to a great day tomorrow.

Don't forget your LUNCH!!!!!

Listen to Stave Four and Finish Traditions.

We went through Stave Three today. We discussed all the places the Ghost of Christmas Present took Scrooge. He realized that "Christmas spirit" does not require wealth or Christmas presents. Those who lacked many basic essentials demonstrated joy and giving on Christmas Eve. Try to remember all the places Scrooge and the Spirit visited.
If you have "A Great Illustrated Classics" version of "A Christmas Carol" please read up to the appearance of the phantom.
If you are still having difficulty, try the Spark Notes. They will help.

If you have not passed in your traditions, please do so on Monday, December 13th.

Test Tomorrow, December 9th.

Don't forget to study for the vocabulary test tomorrow. Your new definitions are due tomorrow, also. The Quiz Time is due on Friday, December 10th. Your traditions sound wonderful. I can't wait to see them on the bulletin board.

Type Your Traditions

We listened to quite a bit of Stave Two today. Questions to ponder might include;

1. How did Charles Dickens describe the first spirit?

2. Who was this ghost?

3. What two scenes did this spirit show to Scrooge?

4. Who was Dick Wilkins?

5. Who was Fezziwig? Describe his character.

How did Fezziwig make you feel and why?

6. Why did Belle ( Scrooge's fiance) break their engagement?

7. How had Scrooge changed?

Type your traditions but do not glue on the hat, yet.

Finish answering the questions on Quiz Time Part Two. (This will not take long).

Study vocabulary words for a test on Thursday, December 9th.

Complete your bookmark.

Tonight You Need to Read to Page 46 and Listen.

We accomplished an incredible amount in class today. We read the rest of Save One of "A Christmas Carol" and reviewed all the vocabulary on the Word List we received in class this week. In addition, we talked about traditions we observe at Christmastime or other holidays in our families and the origins of those traditions. We will be constructing a bulletin board with our traditions next week.

Tonight we need to read up to page 46, study our vocabulary and write three traditions and their origins on the sheet we received yesterday.

Answer Questions to Stave One

Today we read our final copy of our Hero essay in a one foot voice. We also read the ememplar from the state which identified a highly-scored long composition. We are improving slowly but surely!

We discussed "A Christmas Carol" in a little more detail and talked about some of the words which appear and can be very difficult to understand. We have 8 words to define for homework tonight in addition to the questions for Stave One. The questions should be answered in complete sentences.

Don't forget permission slips and money for "A Christmas Carol" before December 6.

Fix Five Paragraph Essay

Today we received a 5 paragraph we completed earlier this month. The feedback on the essay was meant to help make corrections to the essay in order to receive a high score. We will continue to work on long compositions and open responses for the next couple of months while reading novels and working on grammar. Read the corrections and make the necessary changes for a higher grade. You can do it!!!!!!!

Some students have expressed difficulty listening to "A Christmas Carol" at home. Try the new link on this blog. Finish reading up to page 29 for homework. We'll check the bookmarks tomorrow!

Stave One questions due Wednesday, December 1st. Make sure all questions are answered in complete sentences.

Field trip money and permission slips are due!!!!!

Happy Day After Thanksgiving.

Hopefully, you have all digested your turkey and enjoy the weekend with your family and friends. You need only read the first 15 pages of "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens. Complete the bookmark for homework, also. The first simile was easy; "Marley was as dead as a doornail." If you feel extra motivated read and listen via the link I've included on this blog. Scroll down and click on the book "A Christmas Carol." Have a wonderful weekend!!!!!


Don't forget field trip money and permission slip before December 6th.

Read the First Fifteen Pages of Stave One Tonight and Do Bookmark.

We corrected the homework for "Brian's Song" and learned how to use transitions and semi colons. Hopefully, we will improve our writing and effectively put sentences together using transition words.

Read up to page 15 tonight and complete your bookmark.

Wear your t-shirt tomorrow.

Test Tomorrow, November 22nd.

Hey Kids, Don't forget to use the games and the study guides I have provided for you in order to do well on the test tomorrow. Be sure to complete the Brian's Song two-sided sheet I assigned for homework. We will not see the movie on Tuesday but hopefully on Wednesday after team-building.


DON'T FORGET TO WEAR YOUR T-SHIRT ON WEDNESDAY!!!!!!!!!

SMART BOARDS ARE FUN

We had fun today using the Smart Board. Now you know how to access many games and sites on my blog which should help you to learn better!!!!! Tomorrow's test has been postponed until Monday, November 22nd. You will take the test then and finish reading "Brian's Song" when you complete the test.

For the test make sure you know; How to define a preposition

List 10-20 prepositions

Know how to identify them and label them in a sentence.

What does an adjective describe?

What are the 4 questions an adjective can answer?

What does an adverb modify?

What are 4 questions an adverb can answer?

Be able to identify adjectives and adverbs in sentences.

Two- sided sheet due tomorrow and BOOK

Today we continued to read "Brian's Song" in class. We discussed the "Words to Own" and their significance to the play. Tonight we have a two-sided sheet to complete.

PLEASE RETURN BOOK TOMORROW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Vocabulary Homework and Read Part I of "Brian's Song" Tonight.

We read "The Runaway" by Robert Frost and discussed the meaning of the poem. We identified various literary devices within the poem and discussed what might have inspired the poet to write about the Morgan colt. We also discussed what Robert Frost meant when he said that"....poetry begins as a lump in your throat."

Tonight we will read Part I of "Brian's Song" and define the words from the list tonight. The definitions and the parts of speech are already listed in the literature book.

undercurrent,reluctance,impassive,pivots,enigmatic,NFL,pauper,insolent,disheartened,Gideons,

feckless,homicide,saunter,perusal, surly,pantomime,affirmative ad libs,conglomeration,hazing,dour.

Test on Friday, November 19th on Adjectives and Adverbs!!!!!!

BRING BACK YOUR LITERATURE BOOK!!!!!!!!!

AWESOME JOB TODAY, KIDS

I AM SO PROUD OF ALL OF YOU! The trial in each class was wonderful today. Everyone took his/her part very seriously and the outcome was not completely unexpected. Well Done Shooting Stars!

Next week we will begin "Brian's Song" and continue writing.

Don't forget field trip money and permission slips before December 6th.

Trial on Friday, November 12th.

Enjoy your day off tomorrow and be ready for the trial.

Remember what the Veterans told us today. Thank a veteran if you get the opportunity. God Bless America!

Trial on Friday, November 12th.

We reviewed the eight parts of speech today and discussed the impending trial scheduled for this coming Friday, November 12th. Each member of the team has a role to play. It should be interesting but also fun! We have to come up with ten questions tonight to ask the members of the pact. Tomorrow, we'll get into groups and plan our strategies and our testimonies.

The 5 paragraph essays have been passed in. You'll receive your open responses from the final tomorrow. We still have a great deal of work to do!

Finish Long Composition

We learned about Langston Hughes this week and wrote an open response about how he use his writing throughout his lifetime. Yesterday, we began writing a long composition about our hero and the qualities that make this person our hero. We have been using a TORSO as a graphic organizer. We began writing our rough draft in class today. Our homework is to complete the rough draft over the weekend. We will work on word choice next week.

What Would You Do?

We read some interesting situations today and tried to put ourselves in a similar position. What would you do if your friend told a secret you swore him/her not to tell? What about if a friend of yours always gets A's and doesn't have to study? You study hard and receive only B's. How can you overcome a feeling of jealousy?

These are just a few of the scenarios presented in ELA today. Tomorrow we will find out how you would react.

Don't forget to study your "Brain Dump" tonight.

Langston Hughes Packet

Today we learned some strategies to implement when we read excerpts or articles which are followed by multiple choice questions and open response questions. Highlighters are so important!!! We previewed questions and highlighted words in the question which we knew might be important. Tonight we reread the information about Langston Hughes and answer the multiple choice and open response. Don't forget the graphic organizer!!!!!

No Homework Tonight

The final is over, the books have been collected, and we are on the road to long compositions and the trial of the four members of the pact.

We'll correct the "I'm Nobody" poem tomorrow.

Final this Thursday, October 28th. Typed open responses are also due.

We have corrected all our homework and finished the book. We have to answer two open response questions for Thursday, October 28th. We were given four questions to choose from and the FCA's which include;

40% Strong opening and closing sentences.

40% Strong details to support your answer.

20% Conventions (spelling,punctuation,capitalization)

"I'm Nobody" poem and questions on the back due tomorrow.

Rocktober Was a Blast!

We had a great time today. Tomorrow, we will finish reading the book and also complete our Quarter Notes for Chapters 17 and 18. If you have already finished reading the book, you will begin working on an assignment which needs to be completed for homework. Everyone needs to complete the same assignment so make good use of your time!

Common and Proper Nouns are easy!

GEAT JOB TODAY, SHOOTING STARS!!!!! I'M PROUD TO BE PART OF THE TEAM!!!!!!!!

"So Many Nouns, So Little Time" and Chapter 16 Quarter Notes.

We continue to review nouns (common, proper,concrete,abstract, and collective). We have some work to do tonight for homework; "So Many Nouns, So Little Time."

Chapter 16 Quarter Notes due on Thursday, October 21st. We will check them!

FACTS TO CONSIDER***********

We know now that Bud/Collie is one and the same person.

Mrs. James is having a premonition and she has had four premonitions in the past which proved that something was indeed wrong. Is she on to something now???

Helen got "put in her place" by Collie. Will this be a wake-up call for her?

Long composition is on the way!

Are Your Preposition Poems Beautiful?

You expressed a desire to make your poems "better" over the weekend. I can't wait to see them!

Chapter 14 Quarter Notes due tomorrow.

We are almost at the end. Any idea who is sending the momentos?

Nouns, Nouns, Nouns!!!!!

We Got Lots Done Today.

We tied up some loose ends today. We corrected some homework on Subjects/Predicates/Prepositional Phrases and Quarter Notes. We read over the Preposition Poems and shared the picture details as a class. In addition, we reviewed the plot of the book and began reading chapter 14 aloud while we began our quarter notes.

Homework: If your poems need work, please finish them over the weekend. Many chose to improve their poems. Finish up the quarter notes for chapter 14 if you have not already done so.

Test Today, October 13, 2010

Today we are having a test on Subjects/Predicates/Prepositions and Vocabulary. Yesterday we had a work session after school to review subjects/predicates, prepositional phrases and vocabulary.

Quarter Notes for Chapter 13 due today.

Bring glue sticks, scissors and magazines tomorrow for Preposition Poetry. Poems should be copied in Grammar and Mechanics Notebook.

Test on Wednesday, October 13th.

Today we played BINGO and reviewed the new list of vocabulary words. We also reviewed subjects and predicates and identified them in sentences from last night's homework. We discussed the definition of a subject and a predicate and how they function in a sentence. Do you remember what they do? Study subjects and predicates and also prepositions.

The test will include vocabulary words on the front, subjects and predicates and prepositional phrases on the back.

See everyone on Tuesday for another review and a new chapter!!!!

Prepositions Show Position

Today we introduced prepositions and learned what their function is in a sentence. Tonight we have 5 sentences to copy on a sheet and add a prepositional phrase to each. We learned how to label prepositional phrases by identifying the preposition, the object of the preposition and the adjective(s) if they modify the object of the preposition.

We went over all the definitions for the vocabulary words. Tomorrow our "Do Now" will be BINGO so we will have a good handle on the definitions before the weekend. Test on Tuesday, October 12th.

Today we finished reading Chapter 12 in I Know What You Did Last Summer. Quarter Notes for Chapters 11 and 12 due tomorrow.

Great Job, Kids!

You are moving through the book and I am proud of your perseverence. Tomorrow we will correct your Study Guide questions and read Chapter 12. Elsa is so wicked, isn't she? I will check your paragraph about the motivations of the pact to leave the scene of the accident.

Study Guide Questions Due Tomorrow, October 5th.

We completed Chapter 11 in the book today, so the pieces are starting to fit together. We know that Megan Gregg is innocent and could not possibly have shot Barry. Right??? Who is lying about making the phone call that got Barry out onto the football field? Finish the study guide questions 40-45 for homework.

You also have a paragraph to write about the motivation of the four members of the pact to leave the scene of the accident. Make sure to use a graphic organizer before writing your answer. Your answer should be neatly written in your notebook using examples from the book to support your answer.

SRI tomorrow. Report to homeroom. My second period ELA class report to my room. My third period ELA class report to Mr. Bellerose's room. My fifth period ELA class report to Mr. O'Brien's room and Mrs. Baillargeon's ELA class report to Mrs. Downey's room. The test will be given in those rooms so make sure you are in the right place :)

You're Getting It!

We worked on subjects and predicates today, by correcting our homework (p.40 and p.41). Tonight for homework we have "Inverted Order" p.42 to identify the predicate of each sentence. The subject does not always come before the predicate as was the case in last night's homework (p.40 and p.41). Write the predicate on the line and underline the subject once and the predicate twice.

Complete the study guide questions up to #40.

Congratulations to the "Character Contest Winners" for drawing the members of the pact. The winners were Renae Luongo for her drawing of Helen, Julie Xayachack for her picture of Julie, and Shannon Reault for both pictures of Barry and Ray.

GREAT JOB!!!!!

Don't forget Subjects and Predicates 40-41.

Today we reviewed Subjects and Predicates and how to identify them in a sentence. We went over the homework sheets together. Underline the subject once and the predicate twice on both sheets. Then on page 40 write the subject on the line and on page 41 write the predicate on the line.

Quarter Notes for Chapter 10 are due tomorrow.

Study Guide Questions up to Chapter 9 are due tomorrow.

Test postponed until tomorrow, September 28th.

Today we got caught up in the book. Chapter 8 Quarter Notes were due for homework over the weekend. The teachers told the class about this on Friday and I put it on my blog last Thursday while I was waiting in the hospital. Seven students need to complete them tonight in addition to their regular homework. Please keep abreast of what is expected so you do not fall behind. I still have students who owe me a test from two weeks ago. I am available most days. Please see me if this is you.

We will have the vocabulary test tomorrow. Please study the word, the definition and the part of speech.

Homework tonight is to read Chapter 9 and complete Quarter Notes. Have your notebook signed if you owe me an assignment.

Votes have been cast!!!!! Who will be the winners?????

VocabularyTest on Monday, September 27th

Hopefully, after class today you have the definitions for the 30 words on your vocabulary list. Some very helpful suggestions for studying those words:
1. Learn 10 words, and parts of speech tonight!
2. Learn 10 words, and parts of speech tomorrow night.
3. Take Saturday off and get refreshed.
4. Learn your last 10 words Sunday night and review the other 20.
REMEMBER.......... Spend extra time on the words you don't know.... incredulous, haggard, irrevocable, strenuous, jovial, retrospect,culmination are 7 words we went over while reading. Study words which are difficult for you. The test will require you know how to use the word, how to define the word and what part of speech the word is. YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!!

Hopefully, you finished reading Chapter 6 and 7 aloud and have worked on your bookmarks. There's lots of figurative language in Chapters 6 and 7. We'll talk about it on Monday, September 27th.
Do you have a better understanding of "subjects and predicates'? Remember to look for the verb in order to find the predicate and ask yourself "who or what" is doing the action or "who or what" the sentence is about in order to find the subject.

Reading/Writing Have you begun writing your 5-paragraph essays about the person you most respect?

Read Chapter 8 for homework over the weekend and complete Quarter Notes.

Subjects and Predicate Homework

Tonight we have 15 sentences to read and underline the simple subject once and the simple predicate twice. We did some in class so we should not have that many to do. Period Two only has to finish the first 10 because I put that on the homework board for tonight.

We also have 20 words to define and identify the part of speech in our notebook for homework. We already defined; strenuous, incredulous,ludicrous,haggard,retrospect, and a couple others.

We need to vote for the characters.

Reading/Writing class- Can you bring in some lyrics for a favorite song?????

Tests Look Great

The metaphor tests look pretty good. We will be working on more parts of speech next week and kinds of sentences. Have you continued reading even though you did not have homework? I hope so. Chapter Six is the BEST!!!!!!!

We will begin deciding for the t-shirt design for The Shooting Stars...............AND

Let's vote for the pictures of Ray, Barry, Helen and Julie!!!!!!!

Chapter 6 quarter notes are due today.

Chapter 6 quarter notes are due today. We went over the study guide for the previous chapters and are just about done.

Figurative language test today.

Designs for the Shooting Stars t-shirt are due on Monday, September 20th. We have some awesome-looking designs already.

Don't forget the Book Fair next week!

We will vote on Tuesday, September 21st for the pictures on the bulletin board.

Unusual Order

Today we worked on "Kinds of Sentences" in ELA. We learned about Subjects and Predicates and how to identify each in a sentence. We learned about "Unusual Order" and how sentences are constructed. Our homework is to rewrite sentences tonight for homework on the "Unusual Order" sheet.

Other Homework tonight includes:

1. Study metaphors, similes, personification, alliteration, and hyperboles. Test on Friday, September 17th.

2. Keep reading the book IKWYDLS.

3. Pictures for the character contest.

4. Have tests signed.

5. Check out links on the blog.

Chapter 5 is very interesting.

Today we read chapter 4 and discussed the importance of "flashbacks" in the novel. We have been able to put together some pieces of the puzzle regarding exactly what happened on the night of the accident. Who? What? Where? When? How?

Homework tonight:

1. Read chapter 5 and do quarter notes.

2. Finish the questions for the study guide questions 1-5. You had class time to do this yesterday in class.

3. Kinds of Sentences sheet from class. JUST the left side.

4. Have parents sign the Small Steps test you received today or yesterday.

5. We need more pictures for the character contest. They look GREAT!!!!!

Good Morning All You Lucky Kids

Hope you had a great weekend. Quarter notes for chapter 4 are due tomorrow and chapter 5 are due Wednesday, September 15th. Are you doing all your work? Try the games on the figurative langauge link. They just might help you learn what we worked on in class last Friday.

See you soon!!!!!

Homework for the Weekend.

Since we did not have homework last evening, please remember to use the weekend to study for your vocabulary test. Be sure you study the definitions, the spellings and the part of speech. I am tentatively scheduling the test for Monday, September 13th. If we do not complete our chapter 3 quarter notes and figurative language lesson, we might have the test on Tuesday, September 14th. Either way, study is essential.

Please read chapter 4 and complete quarter notes for Tuesday, September 14th.

Please be prepared to answer your study guide questions on the back of the vocabulary list.

Are you artistic? Perhaps you would like to draw a picture of one of the four teenagers; Ray, July, Helen or Barry. More details to follow.

Questions for Chapter 2

In some classes we discussed the questions for chapter 2 of "I Know What You Did Last Summer" while in others we worked in groups and answered them together. We wil construct a set of quarter notes for chapter 2 and you will complete your own set of notes for chapter 3. Are you getting a clear picture of the characters and what they look like? We'll have a contest next week. Anybody artistic?

Test Today, September 7, 2010

Today we passed in our books "Small Steps" and took our test. We talked about the importance of using graphic organizers.

Our Team Name will be announced tomorrow. Stay Tuned!!!!!

Definitions Due Tomorrow

We went over new vocabulary today to define for tomorrow. Chapters 1-3 are due on Tuesday, September 7th. We'll begin I Know What You Did Last Summer by Lois Duncan tomorrow.


Reading/Writing will continue working on the Vietnam War.

It Was a Pleasure to Meet You

We had a great day today. We learned a great deal of information BUT we got acquainted and made a nice transition to the 7th grade. Let's think of some clever names for our team related to the theme of Astronomy. Please remind me to talk about it in homeroom tomorrow. Don't forget Emergency Forms, Questionnaires and Expectation Sheets. Your parents have the homework!

Reading/Writing is learning about the Vietnam War. Maybe your grandparents or great aunts or great uncles served in the Army, Navy, Marines or Air Force. Would theytalk to us about it?

Small Steps by Louis Sachar: Questions and Book Club Reading Group Guide/Discussion Guide

Small Steps by Louis Sachar: Questions and Book Club Reading Group Guide/Discussion Guide

Hey, Kids

If you have read the words to and have listened to the tune of "School Days", can you identify the rhyme scheme or find any examples of metaphors or alliteration?

Enjoy the Rest of the Summer

Don't forget to complete your summer reading. Just a few more weeks!!!!! Click on the school house!!!

Thank You For Being A Wonderful Team, 7-2. Have A Great Summer.

Thank you for all your hard work and wonderful memories. I hope you have a wonderful summer and continue to read!!!!!! Write notes to family members, check local newspapers and/or online for essay contests and poetry contests.

Don't stop learning just because "school is out" for the summer!

Dress appropriately and don't forget your lunch. No glass bottles

Just three more days. YIPPPPPEEEEE!!!!! Don't forget to be on time for school on Monday, June 14th. Check the weather. Layers are the best bet in case of drizzle. When you arrive at school, check your name on the lists outside Mr. Bellerose's room for your chaperone's name and room number. Remember, NO ELECTRONICS. It's safer for everyone. A frisbee or tennis ball or football are okay to bring. Bring your lunch. No glass bottles.

Culture Day on Tuesday. Don't forget to bring in whatever you signed up to share.

The Vocabulary Tests Look Great.

Remember the answers to questions for Chapters 20-22 are due tomorrow and the answers to the questions for Chapters 23-24 are due on Tuesday, June 8th. We are almst finshed the book.

Penny Books are almost done, and I am so proud of the quality time many of you spent making them so beautiful.

Finals will be ready this week!

Questions for Chapters 20-22 Due Monday, June 7, 2010

Today we received some questions for Chapters 20-22 for "Touching Spirit Bear." These questions are to be answered for Monday, June 7, 2010. We finished discussing Chapters 18-19 and went over all the answers to the questions.

Vocabulary Test Today!!!!!

Periods 3 and 6 Will Finish Grammar Final Tomorrow, June 3rd.

Today we took the Grammar Final. We have Chapter 19 questions for "Touching Spirit Bear" to complete tonight for homework. Last night we had Chapter 18. We also have vocabulary to study for a test on Friday, June 4th.

Band students need to take the Grammar Final. See board tomorrow if you owe SRI.

Let's Finish Strong

Vocabulary for Part II of "Touching Spirit Bear" is due tomorrow! I will check Chapters 16-17 quarter notes tomorrow but you did not need to do Chapter 18-22. We will review the vocabulary, answer questions, and study for gramar final. We'll plan on the final Wedesday, June 3.

Chapter 16-17 Quarter Notes Due Tomorrow, May 28, 2010. Also, Don't Forget Questions For Chapter 17.

Today we went over the questions and answers for Chapters 15 and 16 of "Touching Spirit Bear." Please finish answering the questions for Chapter 17 tonight.

Yesterday, you began identifying the next section of vocabulary words. Please finish ALL words for Monday, May 31st. We do not have school on Monday, May 31, therefore you already had tonight and now the rest of the weekend to find the correct word. Don't forget to continue reading and to remember those who have died for our country. Think of members of your family who are no longer alive, also.

No Quarter Notes Over the Weekend. Just be sure to finish ALL the vocabualry while you continue to read!

Questions for Chapter 11-13 due Monday, May 24th.

You should have answered questions for Chapters 11-12 by today. On Monday, May 24th, you should have the answers to the questions for Chapter 13.

You should read all of Part One of the book.

Vocabulary test on Monday, May 24th.

Did you feel better about yourself after English today? I hope so!

Answer Questions For Chapters 9 and 10 for Thursday,May 20th and Questions for Chapters 11-12 Due Friday, May 21st.

Yesterday, we took a brief quiz on Chapters 1-9. How did you do? Today, you were supposed to have the answers completed for Chapters 9-10 on the sheet passed out in class yesterday. Tomorrow, you should have the answers to Chapters 11-12 on the same sheet.

Study the Vocabulary for Chapters 1-12 for the test on Monday, May 24th.

The Penny Books are beautiful!!!!!

Chapters 9-11 Bookmarks Due Tomorrow, May 18th.

Bookmarks are due tomorrow and vocabulary up to page 96 is due on Wednesday, May 19th.


"Time Managemen"t is the key!

Chapter 8 Bookmark due Monday, May 17th.

We completed bookmarks for Chapters 6 and 7. On Monday, our chapter 8 bookmark is due. Many have already done so. On Tuesday, May 18, your bookmarks foe chapter 10-12 should be completed. This is where time management comes into play.

YOU WERE ALL BEAUTIFUL BABIES. THE PENNY BOOKS ARE "OVER THE TOP."

Bookmarks for Chapters 6 and 7 due Friday, March 19th.

Don't forget your bookmarks for Chapters 6 and 7. We worked on them in class today. Also, "What Memorial Day Means To Me" should have been passed in typed today. Please get this done if you have not done so already.

The Penny Books look great!

Early to Bed, Eat a Good Breakfast, Come in Refreshed and Ready to Work Hard.

Tomorrow is Math MCAS and remember the drill: Early to Bed, Eat Breakfast,Come in Refreshed and Ready to do Your BEST!!!!!



CHECK THE LINK..........You Got The Power!!!

Read Chapters 4 and 5 and answer the Quiz 1-5 questions on the back of your vocabulary sheet.

We have finished the first three chapters of "Touching Spirit Bear" and you will read Chapters 4 and 5 over the weekend. The questions on the back of the vocabulary sheet are pretty easy to answer. We will be working on this book now or the remainder of the school year.

Welcome to our new member of Team 7-2. Welcome A.J.!

REST UP FOR MCAS NEXT WEEK!!!!!

Hope you Mom, Nana, Stepmom, or Grandma likes her poem and heart!

Beautiful Work!

Some of you did some beautiful work on your personal and Mother's Day poems. Remeber to give your mother your poem and gift!

Tomorrow you msut pass in the questions for Chapter 2 of "Touching Spirit Bear." Answer the questions in complete sentences on the sheet.
Next complete the Grammar Review for Friday, May 7th.
Finally, complete the vocabulary words up to page 44.

Poems Look Beautiful

Don't forget to bring in ribbons, beads, lace, magnets or whatever you need with pictures tomorrow. I bought a $2.50 frame at WalMart so we can see how the poem will look. Sssssssshhhhhhhhhh! It's a secret.

Vocabulary sheet is due on Wednesday, May 5th. The front and back of the Grammar Review is due tomorrow.

Read Chapter 2 of "Touching Spirit Bear" for Wednesday.

Great Job Team 7-2

The room smells delightful and each corner of the classroom holds valuable treasure I hope your " you-know-who" will love. We will resume our decorating next week.

The Penny Books look great! Boy, am I going to be a busy teacher!!!!!

Two poems due typed on Monday May 3rd. No photos are necessary on this day.

Poems written on template due tomorrow, Penny Book due Friday, April 30th

Today we began our personal poems in class. We also began reading "Touching Spirit Bear" in most classes. Please make sure to have your Penny Book on Friday, April 30th. We have worked on these in class and at home so there is "no excuse" for not having it done.

Project in class on Friday. April 30th. Is your group ready?

Final Tomorrow

We went over many of the terms and questions which will appear on the final tomorrow. We had the netbooks in class today to answer the open response questions and work on captions for the Penny Book which is due on Friday, April 30th.

If You Get The Chance, Check Out The Link For "Touching Spirit Bear."

If you feel extra energetic (or bored) click on the "take a look" and check it out!

Have a Great Vacation!

Have a wonderful vacation. I hope you enjoyed the movie today. The book, of course, is more exciting! Remember important assignments due on the following dates.

April 26th Open Responses Typed
April 27th Final
April 30th The Penny Book Due

Anyone going to The Boston Marathon?

We'll be starting "Touching Spirit Bear" when we return.

Check yesterday's blog for open response questions and FCA's.

Quiz Time Chapters 20-23 Due Tomorrow, April16th

We finished the book today and received a set of three open response questions. We are to select two of the three questions to answer in no less than two paragraphs per question. The questions are;

1. Compare Jonas's qualities to another character from a book or movie you are familiar with. Be sure to include titles and specific examples as evidence that supports your opinion.

2. Describe the two main reasons that motivated Jonas to escape the community. In your description be sure to explain the risk and whether it was worth it or not. Support your answer with specific examples that prove your point.

3. What did you learn about the balance of freedom (choice) and security (safety) through this novel? Use examples from the novel and your own life to express yourself.

Pick any two of the three questions to answer.

These should be answered in a minimum of two paragraphs per answer.

Please type answers on two separate sheets of paper

FCA's are 40 points Strong introduction and restate the question clearly.

40 points Clear details with well-organized examples to support your answer.

20 points Conventions (spelling ,punctuation, capitalization) strong closing sentence.

IMPORTANT DATES!!!!!!!

April 26th Open responses due TYPED.

April 27th Final on The Giver

April 30th Penny Book due

Almost Done "The Giver"

We have about twenty pages left until we finish the book. We will have the final on the Tuesday after we return from April vacation. You will receive an open response question to answer over the vacation. The FCA's are always: 40 points for strong topic sentence and clearly restating the question, 40 points for clear details and examples to support your answer, 20 points for conventions (spelling, punctuation and capitalization).

Quiz Time 16-19 due tomorrow, April 15th.

Quiz Time 20-23 due Friday, April 16th.

We will resume working on The Penny Books after the vacation. You can be putting your pages together next week and putting the finishing touches on your book after the April break. The final project is due April 30, 2010.

Answer Questions for Chapters 11-15

We read a very powerful chapter today which was less than three full pages long. That's pretty powerful writing! Tonight we will answer the ten questions COMPLETELY BY RESTATING THE QUESTION IN EACH ANSWER. Jonas has become disillusioned with his community and everyone within it except for The Giver. How would you feel if your parents responded as did Mother and Father to Jonas's question: Do you love me?

We will return to the Penny Book Project this week.

Workshop Tomorrow on Penny Book

Tomorrow we will work on the penny books. Please have all captions completed soon for correction for accuracy. Bring in any construction paper, scrapbook paper, letters, decorations and at least five printed captions. We will work on these tomorrow in class.

Vocabulary Test on Section 3 on Monday, April 11, 2010. Quarter notes for Chapter 15 are also due on Monday, April 11, 2010. This chapter is one of the most powerful chapters you will ever read and it is less than 3 pages. You will see what I mean!

I am trying to get copies of The Messenger and Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry for those who want a book study.

Come in well- rested for the practice Math MCAS on Monday, April 11, 2010. Don't go to bed late. Eat breakfast and be on time!

Chapter 13 Quarter Notes Due Tomorrow, April 7, 2010

We completed Chapter 13 in " The Giver" today and noticed more figurative language used by Lois Duncan. Jonas is definitely questioning whether or not he should remain in the Community. He cannot share his experiences with Asher, Lily, or his Father. He tried to transmit a memory to each of the three. Quarter Notes on this chapter due tomorrow.

We continue to work on the Penny Books. They are coming along and tell 100 very interesting stories!

Happy Easter. Enjoy the long weekend and bring in some pennies and pictures to begin the penny book.

Hopefully Passover was a happy, holy holiday for all who celebrated this important day. This past week, we have read up to Chapter 12 in "The Giver" and completed Quarter Notes which were checked today. Many students had difficulty on the vocabulary test on Section 2 vocabulary. Most classes got back the test today. For a retake, please have your test signed and plan to stay after school next Thursday, April 8th (Mr. O'Brien's Birthday) for a retake. Continue reading over the weekend.

Some students who have already finished the book are writing a closing chapter. Others have decided to participate in a book study with one or two other students by reading another book written by Lois Lowry. If you are interested in this activity, please see Mrs. Jaggers.

We will be working on constructing our penny books next week. All you need right now are pennies and some pictures from years passed. We'll spend some time working on these in class but some time required at home.

Types of Sentences and Participles and Gerunds are also on the agenda for next week.

Quarter Notes for Chapter 9 and 10 for The Giver Due on Monday, March 29th

Well done on the MCAS tests. Hopefully, you used the many strategies we worked on to improve your score from last year.

We will be hanging up our posters advertising The Ceremony outside Room 206 on Monday, March 29th. Please be sure to check your spelling and outline the letters in black on the poster. Why do we outline in black????

Penny Books are coming!

Finish the Last MCAS Strong Early to Bed, Eat a Good Breakfast, Come to School Refreshed and Ready to Go.

Today you again worked very hard and wrote three open responses. Are you using a highlighter on the questions and the excerpts? Are you using graphic organizers to plan your open response? Have you restated the question when you write the answer? Good Job!

KEEP WORKING AND THINKING AND TAKING YOUR TIME. IT'S ALMOST OVER SO FINISH STRONG!

Go To Bed Early, Eat a Good Breakfast and Come to School Refreshed

Many of you did an awesome job today. Judging from the time you spent on your long composition, you worked very hard. Keep up the great effort for the next two days. Remember the strategies we talked about and use your highlighters on words, names, dates, and important information in the excerpts. Good Luck!!!

YOU GOT THE POWER!!!!!!!

Good Luck Today.... No Homework

Remember everything we learned. Do your best and TAKE YOUR TIME!

Rest Up, Eat a Good Breakfast, and Come to School Refreshed.

MCAS is scheduled for Tuesday, long composition (5 paragraph essay) and Wednesday and Thursday open response and multiple choice. Remeber the strategies, the Brain Dump, and refer to the practice questions and sample answers on this blog by scrolling down to MCAS samples Parents Take a Look. You'll see what some of the questions look like and also see some student answers from previous years. Section Two vocabulary is due on Tuesday, March 23rd.

Make sure you have a book to read on all testing days.

Good Luck Teams 7-1 and 7-2!

Just a Few More Days

Today we had our last writing prompt to get us ready for the long composition next Tuesday, March 23rd. We learned about a Brain Dump or a box containing reminders of what we need to remember before taking the test(s).

Remember To:

Highlight?Underline

Indent

Transitions

Examples/Details

(Scenarios)

Conventions

Grabber/Clincher

Tonight for homework, we are filling in the ALL the examples of figurative language, perhaps you could make a few up.

Make sure TORSO and Spider Map are filled in completely.

Bookmarks for Chapters 6,7 and 8 due Friday, March 19th.

We have been reviewing some strategies for taking the MCAS next week. Every student has been conferenced with about the "Hero" essay. Tomorrow after the assembly we will have our last long composition writing prompt before the actual test. Please type your "Hero" essay if it was handwritten. Thanks so much.

Are you understanding The Community a little better? How would you feel if you were in Jonas's shoes at The Ceremony? What would you do?

Long Compositions Final Copies Due Monday, March 15th

Most students have conferenced with Mrs. Jaggers regarding the "Hero" essay assigned on Wednesday, March 10th. We will resume our conferencing if I could not meet with you because we ran out of time yesterday and today. Some of your essays look great! Remember to type your final copy for Monday. If I have not read your essay, bring it back to class on Monday for correction.

We talked through Chapter 3 of The Giver today. We read Chapter 4 and 5 with partners today after the conferencing. Chapter 4 Quarter Notes were due today, Chapter 5 Quarter Notes are due on Monday, March 15th.

Vocabulary Test on Section One Monday, March 15th. Have you been studying?

Hero essay rough draft on white lined paper due tomorrow

Today we went over all the vocabulary words for Section One of The Giver. The test will be on Monday, March 15th. Chapter 3 Quarter Notes are due tomorrow.

Today we used a Spider Map for a long composition about a Hero. Make sure your 5 paragraph essay is completed by tomorrow.

Quarter Notes for Chapter 2 due tomorrow.

Today we read and improved our essays on similarities and differences between Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry and "Separate but Equal." We learned the importance of indenting each of your paragraphs. We also learned the importance of transition words and conventions (spelling, punctuation, and capitalization).

Quarter notes are due for Chapter 2 tomorrow, March 9, 2010.

Vocabulary words, definitions, and parts of speech for Section One of The Giver are due Wednesday, March 10th.

Five Paragraphs Due on Monday, March 8th.

Don't forget to complete your five paragraph essay in your notebook for Monday, March 8th. Quarter notes for Chapter 2 are due on Tuesday, March 9th. Vocabulary words, definitions and parts of speech are due on Wednesday, March 10th.

Final on Monday, March 1, 2010

Did you enjoy your day off? Monday is the final on Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry so hopefully you have looked over your quarter notes and your literary terms. Remember, simile, metaphor, personification, hyperbole and alliteration.
"David was as mean as an ole jackass."
" Mama gave a ton of homework."
"Mr. Morrison was a human tree in height." (notice quotations after punctuation)
" The sun shone softly through the trees."
"The fire raged ferciously through the cotton field."
Do you know which of these is an example of the literary devices mentioned in boldface? Make sure you think about the Jim Crow Laws we discussed in class on Thursday. What was the significance of them? Can you identify character quotations?

Enjoy the weekend. The open responses look very promising! Still some talking sentences:(

Hey Kids, We Are Almost Through the Book. Final on Friday, February 26th.

We only have to discuss the last two chapters and we will finish with "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" this week. The open response question which is due typed on Thursday, February 25th is:
What is the significance of weather to the plot in the story? Give two examples using details from the novel to support your answer.

Please use the following FCA's
40% strong opening sentence
40% details to support your answer
20% strong closing and conventions (spelling, punctuation, capitalization).

Don't forget to use a graphic organizer before you write your rough draft.

Don't Forget To Finish The Book

Finish reading" Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" and complete a set of quarter notes for each chapter. Today you received a copy of What Do You Know? 10-12. On the back side of the sheet is a Parts of Speech exercise and Subjects and Predicates. Both sides are to be completed by the Monday after vacation. After you finish the book, this sheet should not take you a long time to complete.

Homework:

1. Finish Section 5 vocabulary and Chapter 9 Quarter Notes.

2. Complete the Adverbs/Adjectives and Preposition Sheet I gave out today.

3. Finish the book Chapters 10-12.

4. Complete "What Do You Know? 10-12 and the back side of the paper.

Complete Chapter 11 Tests A and B. Label every word in each sentence.

We began chapter 8 in class today but did not finish. We find out that T.J. Avery is insanely jealous of the Logans. He sees all they have and realizes all he is lacking. When he flunks Mama's class, he shoots his mouth off at the Wallace Store and the rest is pretty obvious. What do you think of the way that the kids treat T.J.? Would it have been worse if he had taken a beating?

HOMEWORK

1. Do 2-sided sheet Chapter 11 A and B. Label every part of speech.

2. Define all the words in Section 4 for Thursday, February 11th.

3. Read Chapter 9 and complete one set of quarter notes for Friday, February 12th.

4. Define all the words in Section 5 for Friday, February 12th.

FINISH THE BOOK OVER VACATION AND ONLY DO ONE SET OF QUARTER NOTES FOR EACH CHAPTER!

"Think of a Word"

Today we took our vocabulary test on the Section 3 vocabulary words and completed an MCAS selection "Complaining" by Maya Angelou. We will complete a sheet tonight as a review of grammar and how to identify in a word is used as noun, a verb, an adjective, adverb, preposition,interjection,conjunction or pronoun.

POETRY CONTEST

Vocabulary Test on Monday, February 8th. Also read chapter 8 .

Most classes have finished listening to Chapter 7 of ROT,HMC. We are discussing the motives of Mr. Granger and the genuine friendship and respect demonstrated by Mr. Jamison. What a difference in two white men and their attitudes toward the Logan Family.

Finish the back of the "Describe It To Me" adjective sheet you had for homework. We'll correct both sides tomorrow.

POETRY CONTEST!!!!!!!

What Do You Know? 6-7 and Unit 7 character traits due tomorrow.

We read through most of Chapter 6 today and did some improvising creating lines of dialogue between Uncle Hammer and Mr. Morrison. We heard some very creative conversations. Well done!

Section 3 vocabulary due on Thursday, February 4th.

Practice MCAS Monday, February 1, 2010, Final draft of "ism" long composition due Tuesday, February 2nd.

We will take the practice MCAS test on Monday and then proceed to a regularly scheduled day. Please make sure to read Chapter 7. Think of what the dialogue might have sounded between Uncle Hammar and Mr. Morrison. Your final drafts of your "ism" essay is due either typed or neatly written or printed on white loose-leaf paper on Tuesday, Febuary 2nd. Do not use your notebook (that was only for the rough draft for peer editing). We will continue peer editing on Monday!

BBBBBRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!! STAY WARM AND READ IN A NICE COZY SPOT!!!!!

ROUGH DRAFTS DUE IN VOCABULARY NOTEBOOK FOR FRIDAY, JANUARY 29TH.

Today we went to the book fair after we worked on our rough drafts and TORSO for our ageism, sexism, or racism long compositions. We went over the information that should be included in each paragraph. Remember: strong "grabbing" opening sentence, transition words, details and examples using scenarios to clearly illustrate your position, strong concluding paragraph with a "clincher" for a closing sentence. Please work on your word choice, also.

BOOK FAIR ON FRIDAY! DON'T FORGET YOUR $$$$$$$$$

TORSO AND SUMMARY OF CHAPTER 6 DUE TOMORROW, JANUARY 26TH

If you have not read Chapter 6 of ROT,HMC, be sure to read it tonight. Yesterday, I assigned the chapter to be read and a summary of the Chapter written in your vocabulary notebook.

We began working on a composition after the test today. We have selected either racism, sexism, or ageism to write about. The questions to be answered were handed out in class today. Please continue your brainstorming on the back of this handout and fill in the TORSO for homework. If you already read Chapter 6 and wrote your summary, the TORSO will be the only homework for me tonight. Please think before you write and do your best.

"What Do You Know 4-5" Due Tuesday, January 26th and Vocabulary Test For Section 2

As I told you, Quarter Notes for Chapter 4 and 5 are not assigned for this week, however, it is expected that you read Chapter 5 of ROT,HMC. On the back of " What Do You Know? 4-5" you are asked to write a summary of Chapters 4 and 5. Please write an insightful explanation of Chapter 5 since we wrote a summary of Chapter 4 in class on Thursday, January 21st. If you were absent please see Mrs. Jaggers.

QUESTION: What does TJ do to get back at Mama? Why does he do it? Does this "break the spirit" of the Logan family? Keep reading to find out the answers to these questions?

Chapter 4 Test 4 and Coat of Arms Due Tomorrow

We are completing our "Coat of Arms" tonight and finishing the back of the Chapter 3 which has ten multiple choice and some vocabulary ffor Chapter 4. Remember: you have had two nights to complete both of these assignments .

Vocabulary Test Tuesday, January 26th on section 2 for ROT,HMC.

Collages Look Pretty Good

We passed in our collages illustrating words, phrases and pictures which depict a character from ROT,HMC. They are extremely creative. During class we also corrected the Chapter 3 Unit # sheet we completed for homework. I'll correct them this evening.

For Thursday, please define the Section 2 vocabulary words for the book and read all of Chapter 4.

YOU DO NOT NEED TO COMPLETE QUARTER NOTES THIS WEEK!! I WILL BE TESTING YOUR COMPREHENSION IN ANOTHER WAY. YOU MAY JOT DOWN YOUR OWN NOTES WHILE READING, HOWEVER.

Family Cot of Arms for your family is due on Friday, January,22nd

Finish Collage and Test: Unit 3, Chapter 3

The finished collages look awesome on the front bulletin board. Everyone has done a wonderful job. Please complete yours over the weekend if you have not already done so. Complete the Test: Unit 3, Chapter 3 True or False and matching on the bottom.

Remember the importance of Martin Luther King Jr. and what he did for African Americans up to his assassination on April 4, 1968.

What Do You Know due tomorrow, Chapters 1-3

Tomorrow we will construct an 8 1/2 x 11 collage depicting a character from "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry." Please bring in descriptive words/phrases and pictures which should help to illustrate your character. Do not put the name of the character anywhere on the collage. We went over an example today for Mr. Morrison. The clues included railroad, "like a jungle cat", a human tree, fired, hired hand, and buff. Pictures that support these clues are helpful. If you cannot find pictures in the magazine you took from my classroom or your own magazine, please be sure to look on the web for some photos. We'll finish listening to Chapter 3 as we work.

"What Do You Know?" due tomorrow, January 15, 2010.

Do the Quarter Notes for the First Half of Chapter 3 Tonight

Today, we reviewed chapter two homework and most classes took their vocabulary test for the section one vocabulary of "ROT,HMC." We have been introduced to Mr. L.T. Morrison who lost his job on the railroad for getting into a fight with two white men. What do you think was the cause of the fight? Mr. Morrison seems like a pretty "chill" guy who does not get easily riled. What do you think?

Tonight we are also typing our Writing Forum response to the question regarding how Papa reveals his love to his wife, his children and his people. Cite proof from the chapter to support your answer. Please type this on googledocs.

Tomorrow night, we will write out the second half of the quarter notes for Chapter 3. "What Do You Know?" Chapters 1-3 is due on Friday, January 15th!

IMPORTANT********* When reading chapter 3, think of the importance of the rain and the figurative language on the first page of the chapter. Why is the weather such an important force and how does it impact the action in the story?

Vocabulary Test on Monday and One Set of Quarter Notes for Chapter 2

We have accomplished quite a bit this week. I am reading the open responses for "A Walk to the Jetty" and many of you are well on your way.

Please actively study your vocabulary words for the test on Monday, January 11th and read Chapter Two of ROT,HMC. Complete just one set of Quarter Notes since this chapter is rather short.

Check out the blog over the weekend!

Reading Assignment Chapter 1

Today we finished reading Chapter One for "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" and discussed the situation of the Blacks in Mississippi in 1933. Tonight for homework we will complete the sheet Reading Assignment Chapter 1 and answer the three Writing Forum questions in our Vocabulary/Notetaking Notebook. Please bring the completed sheet to class tomorrow with your notebooks.

Since Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday is almost here, we watched "The Witness" which recounts the events in Memphis, TN before the assassination of Dr. King. It was narrated by Rev. Billy Kyles who was with Dr. King at the Lorraine Motel on April 4, 1968.

Vocabulary test is on Monday, January 11, 2010

Only one set of quarter notes for Chapter 2 are due on Monday, January 11th, also. It is a great chapter!

Time Line Assignment

We went over the vocabulary words for the first section of "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" in class today. In Periods 2 and 3 we have just about finished reading and discussing chapter 1. In Period 4, we did finish Chapter 1. Hopefully, Period 6 will get close to the end of the chapter as well.

The vocabulary test is scheduled for Monday, January 11th. Please begin studying the definitions, parts of speech and use of the words.

We have a new bulletin board in Room 206. This board includes a timeline from 1619 when Africans were brought to Jamestown, Virginia as slaves. The timeline ends in 1998. The task of Team 7-2 is to complete this timeline naming and illustrating African Americans and their accomplishments and contributions to the United States. Period 2 is responsible for 2006-2009, Period 3 is responsible for 2004-2005, Period 4 is responsible for 1999-2002, and Period 6 is responsible for 2003. Students are required to use Bing or Google to help identify one or more African Americans who made significant contributions during these particular years in history.

Welcome Back

We finished "Song of the Trees" today and began discussing "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry." You should have two sets of quarter notes for the first chapter of the book.

Tomorrow your packet is due for " A Walk to the Jetty" which was assigned before vacation. Don't forget your parent signature!!