Any intelligent fool can make things bigger, more complex, and more violent. It takes a touch of genius - and a lot of courage - to move in the opposite direction.
Albert Einstein

Language Arts: Today we watched a documentary about the Klondike Gold rush, which highlighted the harsh realities of our novel's setting. Students who were behind on key assignments were sent to the the library to get caught up.

HW: Enjoy Spring Break!

Math 8: Today we took a short assessment on finding the distance between two points on a coordinate plane using both the Pythagorean theorem and the distance formula

HW: No HW

Algebra: Today we continued practice solving multi-step inequalities and graphing solutions on a coordinate plane

HW: Practice 6.3 C and Practice 6.7 C

Social Studies: Today we completed the OR Country and TX independence sections of the flip chart. They were turned in.

HW: make sure speech is ready to go!

Science: Period 1 - We learned about seismic waves and updated our Project Boards.

HW: Are you kidding me?! It's Spring Break!

Periods 6-8 - We finished watching the video, "Nature's Inferno," and turned in our worksheets.

HW: HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!! No.

Every man is guilty of all the good he did not do.
Francois Marie Arouet Voltaire

Language Arts: Today we completed Chapter 6 as a class. We focused our discussion and note-taking on character analysis.

HW: Complete chapter 6 notes by finding at least two concrete details for Buck and one for John Thornton. Write commentary for each of these CDs.

Math 8: Today we introduced the Distance Formula and how we use it to find the length between two given points on a coordinate plane

HW: Lesson 20 - Distance Formula

Algebra: Today we worked on solving multi-step inequalities. Students were to complete study guide in class and check answers before moving on to HW assignment.

HW: 6.3 Practice A

Social Studies: Today we started the video National Treasure while the kids worked on their Oregon Country or Texas Independence notes/assignments. Students also could have chosen to work on their president speech outline.

HW: Oregon Country or Texas Independence notes/assignments. Students also could have chosen to work on their president speech outline

Science: Period 1 - Today we talked about the 1960 Chilean Earthquake, and how rock is elastic.

HW: None

Periods 6-8 - Today we watched a National Geographic video on Volcanoes.

HW: None, we will finish watching tomorrow.

Man is fond of counting his troubles, but he does not count his joys. If he counted them up as he ought to, he would see that every lot has enough happiness provided for him.
Fyodor Dostoevsky

Language Arts: Today we began reviewing Chapter 6 as a class, focusing our discussion and note-taking on literary devices.

HW: Write 1-2 sentences of commentary for the example of imagery and of symbolism on your Chapter 6 Notes sheet.

Math 8: Today we discussed how to use coordinate graphs and the Pythagorean Theorem to find the distance of a line segment.

HW: Lesson 20T - Distance Formula

Algebra: Today we reviewed Study Guide 6.7, graphing inequalities and had 25 minutes of class time to start HW. Spoke with individual students about retake opportunities.

HW: 6.7 Practice A (both pages)

Social Studies: Today we took the state abbreviations assessment and went over again the speech coming up. Expectations were reviewed and time was given to ask questions. Students also signed up for the speech date. Then had time to work on Oregon Country and Texas Independence.

HW: Work on speech outline or Oregon Country and Texas Independence questions.

Science: Period 1 - Today we used Fig Newtons to simulate the movement of Earth's plates.

HW: Finish questions on back of worksheet.

Periods 6, 7, 8 - Today we worked on our 9-2 volcano guided reading sheet.

HW: None

We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men; and among those fibers, as sympathetic threads, our actions run as causes, and they come back to us as effects.
Herman Melville

Language Arts: Today we finished working on our Call of the Wild midterm. Some students began reading through Chapter 6.

HW: None

Math 8: Today we took assessment on Pythagorean Theorem.

HW: Lesson 19T - Finding Distance on a Coordinate Plane (graph)

Algebra: Today we took assessment on Scientific Notation. Taking numbers from standard form into scientific notation and vice-versa, as well as, dividing and multiplying in scientific notation.

HW: 6.7 Study Guide - Graphing Linear Inequalities (green)
Lesson 6.7 Practice A (optional)

Social Studies: Today we read about Texas Independence. Students needed to complete a time line in their flip chart and answer question #4 on the section assessment. Also, they took a quick note check assessment on Oregon Country.

HW: Complete time line on Texas Independence and know state abbreviations for test tomorrow.

Science: Today we watched Bill Nye and learned about the Earth's crust.

HW: None

Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.
Mark Twain

Language Arts: Today we began working on the second part of the midterm, which focuses on analyzing literary devices and making a connection to the text.

HW: None; students who have not turned in their persuasive essays must turn them in ASAP.

Math 8: Today we studied for asseshttp://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=6405696139270185096&postID=311644492711297507sment on the Pythagorean Theorem - Multiple Choice & Free Response Practice (can finish at home if not in class). Answers provided in class for in class work.

HW: Practice Quiz 3.4.5 (blue)

Algebra: Today we spent the period reviewing Scientific Notation, worked on practice worksheet 8.4 and metric conversion.

HW: Study for Assessment on Scientific Notation
MDL Ch.8.4, blue metric conversion worksheet, & 8.4 Practice C

Social Studies: Today students completed their Manifest Destiny flip charts. When done they are to take notes (about Migrating West) out of the textbook, pages 358-360, starting at Settling Oregon. They are to answer the two reading check questions on pages 358 and 360. Then they need to answer number 4 on the section assessment, page 360. If they get done, they had time to practice their states abbreviations for the test on Wednesday.

HW: Questions from the book and a few notes. States abbreviations for the test on Wednesday.

Science: Today we analyzed Benny's model of Earth by critiquing it , and then made a model of our own.

HW: None

Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Language Arts: Today we began taking a midterm for Call of the Wild. This portion of the midterm tests students' general understanding of the text thus far and their ability to analyze characters.

HW: None; If you were unsure about or unable to summarize one of the chapters, feel free to revisit that chapter and/or update your notes over the weekend so you are prepared to continue the midterm on Monday (as notes are allowed on the test).

Math 8: Today we worked on analyzing story problems to solve for the missing side length using the Pythagorean Theorem.

HW: Lesson 18 & 18T - Applying the Pythagorean Theorem, if not completed by end of class

Algebra: Today we looked at converting metric units using scientific notation, using conversion chart to work on enrichment activity in class.

HW: Enrichment Activity - Converting Metric Units (if not completed in class)

Social Studies: Today we turned in the Native American paragraph response. We then created our note packet for next week and completed the US map of 1850.

HW: none

Science: Today we learned what scientists know about Earth's surface and interior by using the book to fill out our reading guide.

HW: None

Without a dream to light your way, the world is a very dark place.
Marrion Zimmer Bradley

Language Arts: Today we reviewed Chapter 5 key ideas and had time to refine our notes.

HW: Quiz tomorrow- make sure your notes are up to date!

Math 8: Today we corrected and reviewed assessment taken on Tuesday (Squares and Square Roots). Students were also given 10 minutes in class to complete HW from yesterday (Lesson 16 & 17). Last 10 minutes of the class were given to begin HW.

HW: Lesson 18T - Applying the Pythagorean Theorem

Algebra: Today we corrected and reviewed assessment taken on Tuesday (Properties of Exponents), this took most of the period. Began filling out Unit Conversion Table (green) to be used for classwork tomorrow

HW: Complete "Unit Conversion Table" (green half sheet)

Social Studies: Today we viewed the video, How the West Was Lost. Student have a response questions to answer using their notes they took during the video.

HW: Response paragraph to Native American video.

Science: Today was Art Lit day! We made gargoyles out of clay.

HW: None

Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.
Dale Carnegie

Language Arts: Today we began reading through and taking notes on Chapter 5 of Call of the Wild.

HW: Complete Chapter 5 notes (analyze at least two literary devices and two quotes for Buck).

Math 8: Today we re-introduced the Pythagorean Theorem, reviewing concepts including solving for the missing side length of a right triangle and determining if a set of numbers is true a "Pythagorean triple" (i.e. - 3, 4, 5). Began lesson 16 in class, HW is Lesson 17

HW: worksheet Lesson 16 (if not finished in class)
worksheet Lesson 17 (backside, for HW)

Algebra: Today we introduced the concept of Scientific Notation and using it to display very large or very small numbers in a conformed process. Discussed and reviewed 8.4 Study Guide in class. Students had 20 minutes in class to begin assignment and ask questions.

HW: complete worksheet 8.4 Practice A (all)

Social Studies: Today we discussed the Trail of Tears and the plight of the native Americans during the 1830's. We then went over the requirements for the president's speech. Speeches will be the first week back after break.

HW: practice state abbreviations for March 21 assessment.

Science: Today we made inferences about the Earth's layers.

HW: None

I must take issue with the term "a mere child," for it has been my invariable experience that the company of a mere child is infinitely preferable to that of a mere adult.
Fran Lebowitz

Language Arts: Today we covered discussion questions about significant meaning in Call of the Wild so far. Through this discussion, students identified possible themes that are at work in the text.

HW: Make sure your big notes sheet is updated and that you have concrete details for characters (other than Buck). You will use these notes for a test later this week!

Math 8: Today we took assessment on Squares and Square Roots

HW: Worksheet - Using the Pythagorean Theorem" (#s 1-12)

Algebra: Today we took assessment on Properties of Exponents

HW: Complete study guide 8.4 "Scientific Notation"

Social Studies: Today we looked at primary sources and how they tell us about history.

HW: Read pages 341-345 in the textbook and complete a note chart about the Native American tribes mentioned and what happened to them. Also, answer the 2 reading check questions (one on page 344 and one on page 345) and also number 2 on page 345 at the bottom.

Science: Today we learned about the structure of the Earth and made posters to organize our thoughts.

HW: None

Be on your guard against a silent dog and still water.
Latin Proverb

Language Arts: Today we took a closer look at our chapter 4 notes. We worked on making sure we were gathering meaningful quotes (CDs) and on writing in-depth commentary (CM) that explains our inferences and/or opinions on the quotes.

HW: Finish Chapter 4 notes by analyzing at least two quotes for Buck, analyzing at least two literary devices, and updating the big white sheet with quotes for the other characters. Due tomorrow!

Math 8: Today we reviewed for the assessment tomorrow on Squares and Square Roots

HW: Study worksheets and Practice Quiz

Algebra: Today we reviewed for the assessment tomorrow on Properties of Exponents. Also handed 3rd trimester schedules and introduced new seating chart.

HW: Study review worksheets from class, MDL Ch. 8.1, 8.2, 8.3

Social Studies: Today we received our presidents paper back and were told our trimester 2 grade. Students had time to practice and learn the state abbreviations for the March 21 assessment.

HW: practice state abbreviations.

Science: Today we reviewed our Earth structures and filled out our project boards.

HW: None

Think for yourselves and let others enjoy the privilege to do so too.
Voltaire

Language Arts: Today we worked on our Chapter 4 notes by discussing significant passages. Students can use these quotes as concrete details in their notes in order to analyze the chapter's characters and literary devices.

HW: Chapter 4 notes are due by Tuesday, 3/13.

Math 8: Today we reviewed Estimating Square Roots HW and began a practice quiz on "Squares and Square Roots"

HW: Finish 8.3.6 practice Quiz (on gold paper)

Algebra: Today we had a day to catch up on work for the week due to 8th grade forecasting yesterday.

HW: finish worksheets 8.1C - 8.3C (Answers were provided in class)

Social Studies: Today we finished talking about the need for roads and canals to move goods and people. We also talked about why towns were created the way they were. We then took a short assessment.

HW: none

Science: Today we presented information about our Earth Structure.

HW: None

It is through creating, not possessing, that life is revealed.
Vida D. Scudder

Language Arts: Today we began reading through Chapter 4 of Call of the Wild.

HW: Finish reading Chapter 4 by the start of tomorrow's class.

Math 8: Today we used class time to answer individual questions about HW/classwork from yesterday - Perfect Squares and Estimating Square Roots

HW: Lesson 15 Estimating Square Roots - "Part II"

Algebra: Today we had 20 minutes to work on HW given yesterday. After 20 minutes, students were excused to attend an all 8th grade forecasting activity. Students will have time in class tomorrow to finish work.

HW: DUE on Thursday:
8.1C Exponent properties involving Products
8.1C Exponent properties involving Quotients
8.1C Define and use Zero & Negative exponents

Social Studies: Today we discussed yesterday's handouts and received a map with state abbreviations. Students will be assessed on the 50 state abbreviations March 21. Students also took a note quiz about transportation and section 10.1

HW: 50 state abbreviations March 21 assessment

Science: Today we continued our research on our Earth Structure and prepared for our presentations tomorrow. We created a BIG WORLD MAP!

HW: None

When you can't have what you want, it's time to start wanting what you have.
Kathleen A. Sutton

Language Arts: Today we did an activity based on chapter three to help us better understand the antagonist of the play and to broaden our understanding of the book's themes.

HW: Students' connections to the text are due by tomorrow and will not be accepted late.

Math 8: Today we reviewed and corrected Perfect Squares HW. Began working on "part II" of Perfect Squares today in class. Continued graphing calculator "how to" lessons (graphing linear equations).

HW: Lesson 15T Estimating Square Roots

Algebra: Today we reviewed and answered questions about HW on using zero and negative exponents. Worked in class with groups on mixed review of exponents, including story problems.

HW: DUE on Thursday:
8.1C Exponent properties involving Products
8.1C Exponent properties involving Quotients
8.1C Define and use Zero & Negative exponents

Social Studies: Today we looked ways of transportation in an expanding nation. Students had a work day on this and we will discuss it tomorrow.

HW: 3 WS to be completed by using the textbook

Science: Today we learned about Earth structures and their geologic activities by reading a "letter from a pen pal" with my group/partner. We then filled out a reading guide.

HW: None

Never confuse movement with action.
Ernest Hemingway

Language Arts: Today we had our last class day to work on our persuasive essay writing samples.

HW: Call of the Wild connections to text are due on Wednesday and will not be accepted late.

Math 8: Today we explored creating tables and graphs on graphing calculator. as well as solving for systems of equations.

HW: worksheet Lesson 14T - Perfect Squares

Algebra: Today we reviewed HW on properties of exponents (quotients) and began looking at simplifying and evaluating expressions when negative exponents are involved. Turned in OAKS data results and began working HW.

HW: 8.3, Practice A (reference MDL Ch. 8 or green Study guide handed out in class)

Social Studies: Today we discussed the MO Compromise and rural-urban areas. We took some notes in class. Students should be able to identify slave & non-slave states.

HW: be able to identify slave & non-slave states

Science: Today we learned about energy pyramids, food webs and food chains. We learned some key concept vocabulary: Food Web, Food Chain, Consumer, Producer, Decomposer.

HW: Finish the worksheet if you didn't get it done in class. This should take no more than 10 minutes.

Civility costs nothing and buys everything.
Mary Wortley Montagu

Language Arts: Today we continued working on persuasive essays. Most students completed their first draft and a few began editing and revising.

HW: Chapter 3 reading and notes need to be completed by Monday (3/5). Students who want an extra opportunity in making a connection to the text need to submit it by Wednesday (3/7).

Math 8: Today we continued getting to know graphing calculators, finishing Scavenger Hunt during class.

HW: Be prepared to get back to work on Pythagorean Theorem on Monday!

Algebra: Today we continued to analyze data from OAKS testing and reviewed HW from yesterday

HW: worksheet - 8.2 Practice B (review sheet provided in class, also can refer to MDL Ch. 8)

Social Studies: Today we handed in research paper and poster. Students worked on a map of the U.S., circa 1820, while waiting their turn.

HW: none!

Science: Today we learned about ecological relationships between organisms by reading and discussing key concept vocabulary.
-neutralism -competition
-mutualism -parasitism
-commensalism -predation

HW: Finish the worksheet if not done in class. This should take no more than 10 minutes. Have a great weekend!

Each present joy or sorrow seems the chief.
William Shakespeare

Language Arts: Today we began using our pre-write/outline to write our first draft of our persuasive essays.

HW: No new homework, but remember that Chapter 3 reading and notes need to be completed by Monday (3/5). Students who want an extra opportunity in making a connection to the text need to submit it by Wednesday (3/7).

Math 8: Today we did a formal introduction to graphing calculators, including a Scavenger Hunt that is to be completed in class.

HW: No HW

Algebra: Today we analyzed data from OAKS testing. Found the measures of center (M, M, M, & R) and created both a box and whisker plot and a Scatter Plot. Looked at data for any biases and if we could prove/disprove the thesis statement "The more time spent taking the OAKS test, the higher the score will be."

HW: 8.1 Practice A worksheet (properties of exponents)

Social Studies: Today we started a new unit of study: Manifest Destiny and Innovation. We discussed what we know about expansion and innovation helping us grow globally and locally. We then watched a 15 minute video and discussed the inventions that were mentioned and how it changed us globally.

HW: have ready final draft of your research paper and poster for Friday due date.

Science: Today we talked about ecological factors and environments and did a worksheet.

HW: Finish worksheet if not done in class.