Drama:
Go over Hamlet (parts 1-3)
Be able to recite BEAUTIFULLY!
Due: Tomorrow, October 1
Language Arts:
Read Old Yeller, Ch.'s 9 & 10
6P: KNOW the following vocab. words
ulterior, impertinent, irrational, mock, reasonable, bawdy
Due: Tomorrow, October 1
Math:
P. 8, problem 1.3 (finish)
Due: Tomorrow, October 1
Science:
STUDY for tomorrow's test!
Social Studies:
NO Homework! : )
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Announcements
Grammar School
Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
After-school, 3:20 -4:05 PM
For anyone who wants to work on grammar practice
*No Grammar school next Wednesday
(Ms. Pitman will be out of town for a conference)
Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
After-school, 3:20 -4:05 PM
For anyone who wants to work on grammar practice
*No Grammar school next Wednesday
(Ms. Pitman will be out of town for a conference)
HOMEWORK, Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Drama:
Memorize 3rd part Hamlet
Make sure you know your Elizabethan insult
Go over stage combat rules/moves
*Girls: wear shorts under your skirt
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
Language Arts:
Read Ch.'s 7 & 8, Old Yeller
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
Math:
Problem 1.2, p. 7
Do A.1, A.2
Cut nine (9) equivalent strips of paper
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
Science:
Ch. 3 Review, p.102-103
(All except 17, 18, 21)
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
Social Studies:
Complete last-minute work on Stone Age Game Boards
Fill out Board Game Self-Evaluation
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
Memorize 3rd part Hamlet
Make sure you know your Elizabethan insult
Go over stage combat rules/moves
*Girls: wear shorts under your skirt
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
Language Arts:
Read Ch.'s 7 & 8, Old Yeller
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
Math:
Problem 1.2, p. 7
Do A.1, A.2
Cut nine (9) equivalent strips of paper
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
Science:
Ch. 3 Review, p.102-103
(All except 17, 18, 21)
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
Social Studies:
Complete last-minute work on Stone Age Game Boards
Fill out Board Game Self-Evaluation
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30
Monday, September 28, 2009
HOMEWORK, Monday, September 28, 2009
Drama:
Mem. 3rd piece of Hamlet by Wednesday
Do Mother T. reflection
Mem. next phrase: "If you are honest..."
Read over Stage Combat rules
*Girls: wear shorts under your skirt tomorrow
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 29
Language Arts:
Read Ch.'s 5 & 6, Old Yeller
Be prepared to discuss Ch.'s 3-6
Finish any incomplete vocab./grammar work
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 29
Math:
Finish "My Special Number Project"
Also fill in the prime time definition on your vocab. sheets
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 29
Science:
Project bibliography & 20 facts
Due: Friday, October 2
Read p. 96-99, define vocab, do section review
Make test corrections
Due: Tomorrow, September 29
Social Studies:
Study Geography: Midwestern States
Get Test signed
Work on Board Game
Mem. 3rd piece of Hamlet by Wednesday
Do Mother T. reflection
Mem. next phrase: "If you are honest..."
Read over Stage Combat rules
*Girls: wear shorts under your skirt tomorrow
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 29
Language Arts:
Read Ch.'s 5 & 6, Old Yeller
Be prepared to discuss Ch.'s 3-6
Finish any incomplete vocab./grammar work
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 29
Math:
Finish "My Special Number Project"
Also fill in the prime time definition on your vocab. sheets
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 29
Science:
Project bibliography & 20 facts
Due: Friday, October 2
Read p. 96-99, define vocab, do section review
Make test corrections
Due: Tomorrow, September 29
Social Studies:
Study Geography: Midwestern States
Get Test signed
Work on Board Game
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Presenting the 6th Grade Class...
Photo of Room 503 & 506
Courtesy of Jill Cohen
Friday's field trip to the Southwest Shakespeare Company was a terrific success!
Big thanks to our parent chaperones Jill Cohen, Cyndy Kniaz, and Linda Nagy for their time and care.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
R & R Weekend (No Homework Given)
Enjoy!
Homecoming Game Tonight!
7:00 pm at Valley Christian
Located at 56th St. and Galveston, (East on I10, South of Ray)
Come on out and support the team and show your school spirit!
Enjoy!
Homecoming Game Tonight!
7:00 pm at Valley Christian
Located at 56th St. and Galveston, (East on I10, South of Ray)
Come on out and support the team and show your school spirit!
Shake-in Things Up!
In preparation for our field trip to the Southwest Shakespeare Company tomorrow, the Sixth Grade Drama classes have been putting all their focus on Shakespeare and the world of the Elizabethans.
As we did with Lewis Carroll's Jabberwocky, we are now taking William Shakespeare's Hamlet speech (ACT III, Sc. II) and memorizing it (and explicating it) piecemeal. This speech allows us to 1) Learn one of Shakespeare's famous monologues (while honing our memorization skills), 2) Gain exposure to Shakespeare's language, 3) Get a good "lesson" about acting from the famous Bard (that holds up well in today's contemporary theatre), and 4) Practice breaking our work down into small pieces, in order to understand it, as well as to pace ourselves so that we don't fall into overwhelm (it is, indeed, a lengthy piece).
After reading some background information on Shakespeare and the Elizabethan theatre last weekend, we delved right into the world of the Elizabethans on Monday, discussing their beliefs about the great Chain of Being as well as their world views on "Big and Little" (macrocosm and microcosm - which are also two of our latest vocabulary words). The students participated in a "Great Chain of Being"/hierarchial activity where they first had to get themselves into an orderly line from tallest to shortest (without speaking), and then in order from oldest to youngest (via oral communication).
Tuesday and Wednesday led to discussion about the Elizabethan's love of language and the sparring of wits. This brought us to the specific discussion of how our modern ideas of language are not all that creative or interesting - especially when it comes to the use of expletives. The student's learned how the people in Shakespeare's time truly enjoyed being able to "top" one another with a wonderfully-worded insult. And so, we spent Tuesday putting together our own Elizabethan insults (using the very language the people who lived in merry old England used).
Tuesday night, each student memorized their insult and on Wednesday came to class prepared to lay some low (but very fun) blows. Following an in-class insult fest, the students "took it outside" where they paired up and worked with a "given" scenario (i.e. "Two friends fight over what is better: chunky or creamy peanut butter."), culminating with their memorized insult.
Each pair had the opportunity to present their scenario for the rest of the class, and we all enjoyed a rousing show of creatively performed pieces. Next week, the students will have the opportunity to learn some basic stage combat and will then pair their insults up with their fight skills to create a new scenario.
After reading a synopsis of The Comedy of Errors for homework last night, the students participated in a "mirror" exercise of the story today. Mrs. Veenstra served as our "guest reader", while I pantomimed the story and the students "mirrored" my movements. Following the Mirror exercise, students broke into small groups and worked together to create (given) "tableau pictures" (still life 3-D pictures) of different scenes from the play. By engaging in both activities, students (hopefully) "got" a deeper understanding of the story in their bodies, as well as their minds.
Tomorrow we will depart for Southwest Shakespeare Company at 9:00 AM for a 10:00 AM performance. I know that the students, Mrs. Stoyanoff and myself are really looking forward to the trip. I have no doubt that you will hear all about it from your students.
Have a wonderful (R & R) weekend!
Cheerio,
Ms. Nicky Pitman
As we did with Lewis Carroll's Jabberwocky, we are now taking William Shakespeare's Hamlet speech (ACT III, Sc. II) and memorizing it (and explicating it) piecemeal. This speech allows us to 1) Learn one of Shakespeare's famous monologues (while honing our memorization skills), 2) Gain exposure to Shakespeare's language, 3) Get a good "lesson" about acting from the famous Bard (that holds up well in today's contemporary theatre), and 4) Practice breaking our work down into small pieces, in order to understand it, as well as to pace ourselves so that we don't fall into overwhelm (it is, indeed, a lengthy piece).
After reading some background information on Shakespeare and the Elizabethan theatre last weekend, we delved right into the world of the Elizabethans on Monday, discussing their beliefs about the great Chain of Being as well as their world views on "Big and Little" (macrocosm and microcosm - which are also two of our latest vocabulary words). The students participated in a "Great Chain of Being"/hierarchial activity where they first had to get themselves into an orderly line from tallest to shortest (without speaking), and then in order from oldest to youngest (via oral communication).
Tuesday and Wednesday led to discussion about the Elizabethan's love of language and the sparring of wits. This brought us to the specific discussion of how our modern ideas of language are not all that creative or interesting - especially when it comes to the use of expletives. The student's learned how the people in Shakespeare's time truly enjoyed being able to "top" one another with a wonderfully-worded insult. And so, we spent Tuesday putting together our own Elizabethan insults (using the very language the people who lived in merry old England used).
Tuesday night, each student memorized their insult and on Wednesday came to class prepared to lay some low (but very fun) blows. Following an in-class insult fest, the students "took it outside" where they paired up and worked with a "given" scenario (i.e. "Two friends fight over what is better: chunky or creamy peanut butter."), culminating with their memorized insult.
Each pair had the opportunity to present their scenario for the rest of the class, and we all enjoyed a rousing show of creatively performed pieces. Next week, the students will have the opportunity to learn some basic stage combat and will then pair their insults up with their fight skills to create a new scenario.
After reading a synopsis of The Comedy of Errors for homework last night, the students participated in a "mirror" exercise of the story today. Mrs. Veenstra served as our "guest reader", while I pantomimed the story and the students "mirrored" my movements. Following the Mirror exercise, students broke into small groups and worked together to create (given) "tableau pictures" (still life 3-D pictures) of different scenes from the play. By engaging in both activities, students (hopefully) "got" a deeper understanding of the story in their bodies, as well as their minds.
Tomorrow we will depart for Southwest Shakespeare Company at 9:00 AM for a 10:00 AM performance. I know that the students, Mrs. Stoyanoff and myself are really looking forward to the trip. I have no doubt that you will hear all about it from your students.
Have a wonderful (R & R) weekend!
Cheerio,
Ms. Nicky Pitman
Tomorrow...
For Spirit Day...
Friday: "TPA Spirit Day" - wear any TPA-related shirt (TPA sport jerseys, TPA shirts, Homecoming shirts, plain blue or gold shirts)
*Uniform bottoms required.
Field Trip to Southwest Shakespeare Company
To see The Comedy of Errors
Leaving TPJA at 9:00 AM
Returning between 12:30-1:00 PM
*Pack an extra snack (we're eating lunch late)
Friday: "TPA Spirit Day" - wear any TPA-related shirt (TPA sport jerseys, TPA shirts, Homecoming shirts, plain blue or gold shirts)
*Uniform bottoms required.
Field Trip to Southwest Shakespeare Company
To see The Comedy of Errors
Leaving TPJA at 9:00 AM
Returning between 12:30-1:00 PM
*Pack an extra snack (we're eating lunch late)
HOMEWORK, Thursday, September 24, 2009
Drama:
Go over first two lines of Hamlet speech
(A Lot!)
Language Arts:
No Homework
Math:
P. 70 "My Special Number Project"
Use Prime Time vocabulary words.
Try to use them all.
Due: Tuesday, September 29
Science:
Science Project research
Due: Tuesday, September 29
Social Studies:
Geography Hand-out on the Mid-Western states
Due: Tuesday, September 29
Stone Age Board Game
Due: Wednesday, September 30
STUDY! (Text Book Ch.'s 1-2)
Test tomorrow
Go over first two lines of Hamlet speech
(A Lot!)
Language Arts:
No Homework
Math:
P. 70 "My Special Number Project"
Use Prime Time vocabulary words.
Try to use them all.
Due: Tuesday, September 29
Science:
Science Project research
Due: Tuesday, September 29
Social Studies:
Geography Hand-out on the Mid-Western states
Due: Tuesday, September 29
Stone Age Board Game
Due: Wednesday, September 30
STUDY! (Text Book Ch.'s 1-2)
Test tomorrow
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Tomorrow for Spirit Week...
Thursday: NERDS
Wear your nerdy attire (buttoned up shirts, suspenders, pocket protectors, glasses, high pants/skirts)
*Uniform tops and bottoms required
Wear your nerdy attire (buttoned up shirts, suspenders, pocket protectors, glasses, high pants/skirts)
*Uniform tops and bottoms required
HOMEWORK, Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Drama:
Read synopsis of The Comedy of Errors
Memorize 2nd part of Hamlet speech
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 24
Language Arts:
Answer questions on "Texas Facts" hand-out
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 24
Math:
Finish & study th eUnit Test hand-out.
Study the vocabulary in the book.
Unit Test tomorrow is based on the hand-out problems.
Science:
Science Project Research due Sept. 29
Read p. 90-95; Define vocab & do section review
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 24
Social Studies:
Study for Friday's Test
Work on Stone Age Board Game (TBC by next Wed., Sept. 30)
Work on Mid-Western States Geography sheets (due next Tue., Sept. 29)
Read synopsis of The Comedy of Errors
Memorize 2nd part of Hamlet speech
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 24
Language Arts:
Answer questions on "Texas Facts" hand-out
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 24
Math:
Finish & study th eUnit Test hand-out.
Study the vocabulary in the book.
Unit Test tomorrow is based on the hand-out problems.
Science:
Science Project Research due Sept. 29
Read p. 90-95; Define vocab & do section review
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 24
Social Studies:
Study for Friday's Test
Work on Stone Age Board Game (TBC by next Wed., Sept. 30)
Work on Mid-Western States Geography sheets (due next Tue., Sept. 29)
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Tomorrow for Spirit Week...
Wednesday: JOLLY RANCHER
Wear your cowboy attire (cowboy hats, boots, bolo ties, bandanas, plaid shirts)
*Uniform bottoms required
Wear your cowboy attire (cowboy hats, boots, bolo ties, bandanas, plaid shirts)
*Uniform bottoms required
HOMEWORK, Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Drama:
Memorize 1st part of Hamlet
Memorize Elizabethan insult
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23
Language Arts:
Read Ch.'s 3-4, Old Yeller
*Complete vocabulary practice (if you didn't in class)
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23
Math:
Do p. 64, prob.'s 5.1 (E, F & G)
Please write a clear reason for the locker problem conjecture
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23
Science:
Read p. 80-89; Define Vocabulary
Do Section Review
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23
Research for Sci. Proj. due September 29
Social Studies:
Study for Friday's Test
Complete Geography work (Mid-Western States) for next Tuesday
Work on Stone Age Board Game
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23
Memorize 1st part of Hamlet
Memorize Elizabethan insult
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23
Language Arts:
Read Ch.'s 3-4, Old Yeller
*Complete vocabulary practice (if you didn't in class)
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23
Math:
Do p. 64, prob.'s 5.1 (E, F & G)
Please write a clear reason for the locker problem conjecture
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23
Science:
Read p. 80-89; Define Vocabulary
Do Section Review
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23
Research for Sci. Proj. due September 29
Social Studies:
Study for Friday's Test
Complete Geography work (Mid-Western States) for next Tuesday
Work on Stone Age Board Game
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23
Monday, September 21, 2009
Tomorrow, for Spirit Week...
Tuesday: BABY RUTH
Wear your sports clothes (any sports jersey, favorite team shirt, baseball hats)
*Uniform bottoms required
Wear your sports clothes (any sports jersey, favorite team shirt, baseball hats)
*Uniform bottoms required
HOMEWORK, Monday, August 17, 2009
Drama:
Memorize the first part of Hamlet's speech
*By Wednesday
Memorize the 3rd phrase from Mother T.
Read "Elizabethan Beliefs" hand-out
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22
***If you have not returned your signed permission form for Friday's field trip, you MUST turn it in by tomorrow, Tuesday!!!***
Language Arts:
Look up definitions for ~
hierarchy, bawdy, macrocosm, microcosm
Write the definitions out in complete sentences, in your own words.
Read Chapter 2, Old Yeller
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22
*If you received a 'C' grade or below on your class list spelling quiz, you may re-take the quiz Wednesday morning at 7:50 AM. Meet Ms. Pitman at the Faculty House. Please do not be late!
Math:
*Unit Test (Thursday, September 24)
Finish hand-out and do p. 59, #'s 34 & 35
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22
Science:
Read p. 80-85:
Define vocabulary & complete section review, p. 85
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22
*Research for Sci. Project due September 29
Social Studies:
Work on Stone Age Board Game
Due: Next Wednesday, September 30
Study for Test, this Friday, September 25
Geography: 13 States/Points of Interest
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22
Memorize the first part of Hamlet's speech
*By Wednesday
Memorize the 3rd phrase from Mother T.
Read "Elizabethan Beliefs" hand-out
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22
***If you have not returned your signed permission form for Friday's field trip, you MUST turn it in by tomorrow, Tuesday!!!***
Language Arts:
Look up definitions for ~
hierarchy, bawdy, macrocosm, microcosm
Write the definitions out in complete sentences, in your own words.
Read Chapter 2, Old Yeller
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22
*If you received a 'C' grade or below on your class list spelling quiz, you may re-take the quiz Wednesday morning at 7:50 AM. Meet Ms. Pitman at the Faculty House. Please do not be late!
Math:
*Unit Test (Thursday, September 24)
Finish hand-out and do p. 59, #'s 34 & 35
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22
Science:
Read p. 80-85:
Define vocabulary & complete section review, p. 85
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22
*Research for Sci. Project due September 29
Social Studies:
Work on Stone Age Board Game
Due: Next Wednesday, September 30
Study for Test, this Friday, September 25
Geography: 13 States/Points of Interest
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22
Friday, September 18, 2009
We Have Our Three Parents for Friday!
Thanks to...
Mrs. Cohen, Mrs. Nagy, and Mrs. Rines for offering to accompany us on our field trip next Friday to Southwest Shakespeare.
If any other parents were thinking of helping, there will be many other opportunities during the year, to be sure (so thank you, in advance).
Cheers,
Ms. Nicky Pitman
Mrs. Cohen, Mrs. Nagy, and Mrs. Rines for offering to accompany us on our field trip next Friday to Southwest Shakespeare.
If any other parents were thinking of helping, there will be many other opportunities during the year, to be sure (so thank you, in advance).
Cheers,
Ms. Nicky Pitman
Announcements
Spirit Week (Next week: Sept. 21-25)
~ Dress up and receive the candy of the day ~
*(No tank tops and no weapons of any kind)
Monday: LIFESAVERS
Wear your beach attire (flip flops, sunglasses, leis, sun hats, no bathing suits)
*Uniform tops & bottoms required
Tuesday: BABY RUTH
Wear your sports clothes (any sports jersey, favorite team shirt, baseball hats)
*Uniform bottoms required
Wednesday: JOLLY RANCHER
Wear your cowboy attire (cowboy hats, boots, bolo ties, bandanas, plaid shirts)
*Uniform bottoms required
Thursday: NERDS
Wear your nerdy attire (buttoned up shirts, suspenders, pocket protectors, glasses, high pants/skirts)
*Uniform tops and bottoms required
Friday: "TPA Spirit Day" - wear any TPA-related shirt (TPA sport jerseys, TPA shirts, Homecoming shirts, plain blue or gold shirts)
*Uniform bottoms required.
Field Trip to Southwest Shakespeare Company
To see The Comedy of Errors
Friday, September 25
*See bright pink note that went home & sign permission slip
SEEKING: 3 Volunteer Parents for Next Friday's field trip
*Please contact Nicky Pitman, if you are able to accompany us (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Still Accepting Donations:
Of paper towels and sani-wipes.
~ Dress up and receive the candy of the day ~
*(No tank tops and no weapons of any kind)
Monday: LIFESAVERS
Wear your beach attire (flip flops, sunglasses, leis, sun hats, no bathing suits)
*Uniform tops & bottoms required
Tuesday: BABY RUTH
Wear your sports clothes (any sports jersey, favorite team shirt, baseball hats)
*Uniform bottoms required
Wednesday: JOLLY RANCHER
Wear your cowboy attire (cowboy hats, boots, bolo ties, bandanas, plaid shirts)
*Uniform bottoms required
Thursday: NERDS
Wear your nerdy attire (buttoned up shirts, suspenders, pocket protectors, glasses, high pants/skirts)
*Uniform tops and bottoms required
Friday: "TPA Spirit Day" - wear any TPA-related shirt (TPA sport jerseys, TPA shirts, Homecoming shirts, plain blue or gold shirts)
*Uniform bottoms required.
Field Trip to Southwest Shakespeare Company
To see The Comedy of Errors
Friday, September 25
*See bright pink note that went home & sign permission slip
SEEKING: 3 Volunteer Parents for Next Friday's field trip
*Please contact Nicky Pitman, if you are able to accompany us (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Still Accepting Donations:
Of paper towels and sani-wipes.
HOMEWORK, Friday, September 18, 2009
Drama:
Give parents "Pink" slip about field trip.
Get permission slips signed for Friday's field trip.
Read Shakespeare packet.
Due: Monday, September 21
Language Arts:
Read Ch. 1, Old Yeller (carefully & with a dictionary)
Look up the definition of the word "farce."
Write down the definition in your own words in a complete sentence.
Due: Monday, September 21
Math:
P. 56 #1-2
P. 57 #23-25
Finish classwork, p. 56 4-11 (if you haven't already)
Due: Monday, September 21
Science:
Study for test!
Monday, September 21
Social Studies:
Study for next Friday's test
(use Ch. reviews on pg.'s 21 & 45 & pract. tests on pg.'s 23 & 47)
Work on your part of the Stone Age Board Game
*Complete Neolithic time line (if need be)
Due: Monday, September 21
*Remember to work on Geography assignment:
13 Western States: Points of Interest
Due: Tuesday, September 22
Give parents "Pink" slip about field trip.
Get permission slips signed for Friday's field trip.
Read Shakespeare packet.
Due: Monday, September 21
Language Arts:
Read Ch. 1, Old Yeller (carefully & with a dictionary)
Look up the definition of the word "farce."
Write down the definition in your own words in a complete sentence.
Due: Monday, September 21
Math:
P. 56 #1-2
P. 57 #23-25
Finish classwork, p. 56 4-11 (if you haven't already)
Due: Monday, September 21
Science:
Study for test!
Monday, September 21
Social Studies:
Study for next Friday's test
(use Ch. reviews on pg.'s 21 & 45 & pract. tests on pg.'s 23 & 47)
Work on your part of the Stone Age Board Game
*Complete Neolithic time line (if need be)
Due: Monday, September 21
*Remember to work on Geography assignment:
13 Western States: Points of Interest
Due: Tuesday, September 22
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Tea & Stones
This week has just flown by and Room 503 has been one busy place!
In drama we have continued to hone our ensemble skills, fusing observation with sound and movement. On Tuesday, the students were given the task of "researching" a machine or a factory in order to observe the many parts that make it function. They were asked to notice each part: its shape, size, movement, sound (if it had one), and how it fit/worked with the other parts, keeping in mind that if a part were broken or missing, that the machine/factory would not be able to function.
This assignment was the basis for creating "human machines" - each person becoming a specific part of a working whole. Through sound and movement, the students have worked together to create machines that demonstrate how each ensemble member is integral to the success of the whole.
We celebrated the end of our first Language Arts book, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, with a tea. The tea was a fun way to wind up the book and enjoy some refreshments (and get out of our typical discussion mode), but more importantly, it was our first forage into learning how to create well-formulated discussion questions. The students are learning what makes for a good discussion question, and how and why a discussion question is different from a creative prompt, a factual inquiry, or a reflective question. Hard stuff.
Many of the students are already beginning to grasp what a good discussion question is, and we are only at the start of a very long process. I was pleased to find many of the students engaged in discussion, digging deeper, and asking even more thoughtful questions as the tea progressed.
In Social Studies we delved into group work in order to explore the Stone Age, fusing history and creativity with problem-solving and team-building skills. The students have spent the past two days brainstorming ideas and coming up with a "game plan" for their group.
Tomorrow we will wind up the week with our "Class List" spelling quiz. Each morning when we take attendance, all of the students and myself, participate in calling off each student's name out loud in order to hold all of us accountable for one another. Besides knowing each others name, my belief is that it is important to spell each others names correctly (it's a horrible feeling when someone you know fairly well misspells your name, isn't it?). Hence, a quiz.
There was obviously a lot more going on this week, but these were the "biggies" in the above academic areas.
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend -
Cheers,
Ms. Nicky Pitman
In drama we have continued to hone our ensemble skills, fusing observation with sound and movement. On Tuesday, the students were given the task of "researching" a machine or a factory in order to observe the many parts that make it function. They were asked to notice each part: its shape, size, movement, sound (if it had one), and how it fit/worked with the other parts, keeping in mind that if a part were broken or missing, that the machine/factory would not be able to function.
This assignment was the basis for creating "human machines" - each person becoming a specific part of a working whole. Through sound and movement, the students have worked together to create machines that demonstrate how each ensemble member is integral to the success of the whole.
We celebrated the end of our first Language Arts book, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, with a tea. The tea was a fun way to wind up the book and enjoy some refreshments (and get out of our typical discussion mode), but more importantly, it was our first forage into learning how to create well-formulated discussion questions. The students are learning what makes for a good discussion question, and how and why a discussion question is different from a creative prompt, a factual inquiry, or a reflective question. Hard stuff.
Many of the students are already beginning to grasp what a good discussion question is, and we are only at the start of a very long process. I was pleased to find many of the students engaged in discussion, digging deeper, and asking even more thoughtful questions as the tea progressed.
In Social Studies we delved into group work in order to explore the Stone Age, fusing history and creativity with problem-solving and team-building skills. The students have spent the past two days brainstorming ideas and coming up with a "game plan" for their group.
Tomorrow we will wind up the week with our "Class List" spelling quiz. Each morning when we take attendance, all of the students and myself, participate in calling off each student's name out loud in order to hold all of us accountable for one another. Besides knowing each others name, my belief is that it is important to spell each others names correctly (it's a horrible feeling when someone you know fairly well misspells your name, isn't it?). Hence, a quiz.
There was obviously a lot more going on this week, but these were the "biggies" in the above academic areas.
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend -
Cheers,
Ms. Nicky Pitman
HOMEWORK, Thursday, September 17, 2009
Drama:
No homework.
Language Arts:
Alice final reflection
Research Fred Gipson (internet)
Write one (1) good paragraph on Gipson's life.
(Type or write neatly)
Study for Class List spelling quiz
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 18
Math:
Review last night's homework problem 4.3
Write the prime factorization of numbers 32-40
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 18
Science:
Study for Monday's test
Social Studies:
Work on Stone Age Board Game
No homework.
Language Arts:
Alice final reflection
Research Fred Gipson (internet)
Write one (1) good paragraph on Gipson's life.
(Type or write neatly)
Study for Class List spelling quiz
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 18
Math:
Review last night's homework problem 4.3
Write the prime factorization of numbers 32-40
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 18
Science:
Study for Monday's test
Social Studies:
Work on Stone Age Board Game
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Announcements
A Big Thank You
To all the parents who helped supply us with delicious refreshments for our tea today!
Special thanks and lots of "ooh's" and "ahh's" to Mrs. Nagy for making special "Alice" cupcakes for us (see photos above). We loved 'em!
Paper Towels & Handi-Wipes
Room 503 sure could use some of these!
If you have an extra roll or container to spare -
please send it our way. Thanks.
To all the parents who helped supply us with delicious refreshments for our tea today!
Special thanks and lots of "ooh's" and "ahh's" to Mrs. Nagy for making special "Alice" cupcakes for us (see photos above). We loved 'em!
Paper Towels & Handi-Wipes
Room 503 sure could use some of these!
If you have an extra roll or container to spare -
please send it our way. Thanks.
HOMEWORK, Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Drama:
No homework.
Language Arts:
Study class list for spelling quiz
Quiz: Friday, September 18
Math:
P. 54, prob. 4.1, A-E
Finish what you can. Try your best to understand what each question is asking.
*We will compare answers tomorrow.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 17
Science:
Complete chapter
Type up article review
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 17
Social Studies:
"Research" board games: look at the board games you have at home. Look at the board, the pieces...whatever is used to play the game (i.e. cards, dice, hour glass, money, etc)...if it's Pictionary or Cranium, what creative aspects are employed? What is needed for those (i.e. pencil, paper, clay, etc.)...Read the Rules/How-to-Play guidelines.
Bring your findings back to your group.
*Also, begin whatever work you have decided to begin as a group.
**If you have not completed your Mesolithic Time Line: You have one extra night to do it! Use your time well...tomorrow is the last day to turn it in (and receive credit).
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 17
No homework.
Language Arts:
Study class list for spelling quiz
Quiz: Friday, September 18
Math:
P. 54, prob. 4.1, A-E
Finish what you can. Try your best to understand what each question is asking.
*We will compare answers tomorrow.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 17
Science:
Complete chapter
Type up article review
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 17
Social Studies:
"Research" board games: look at the board games you have at home. Look at the board, the pieces...whatever is used to play the game (i.e. cards, dice, hour glass, money, etc)...if it's Pictionary or Cranium, what creative aspects are employed? What is needed for those (i.e. pencil, paper, clay, etc.)...Read the Rules/How-to-Play guidelines.
Bring your findings back to your group.
*Also, begin whatever work you have decided to begin as a group.
**If you have not completed your Mesolithic Time Line: You have one extra night to do it! Use your time well...tomorrow is the last day to turn it in (and receive credit).
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 17
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Reminders
TOMORROW:
Alice Tea(s)
Just a reminder of who is bringing what tomorrow ~
Refreshments for 6P will be provided by:
Marisa Putrasahan (cookies)
Billie Nagy (cupcakes)
Dominique Hughes (flavored iced tea)
Anneliese Harriman (lemonade)
Refreshments for 6S will be provided by:
Ariana Cordoso (cookies)
Sarah Casto (Rice Krispy treats)
Jane D'Sousa (punch)
Sophie Kniaz (lemonade)
Grammar School
Tomorrow after school will be our first meeting.
Anyone who would like extra grammar help or practice time is invited to attend.
Grammar School will meet in Room 503, from 3:20-4:05 PM
*(Grammar School will NOT meet next week, due to a faculty meeting)
Alice Tea(s)
Just a reminder of who is bringing what tomorrow ~
Refreshments for 6P will be provided by:
Marisa Putrasahan (cookies)
Billie Nagy (cupcakes)
Dominique Hughes (flavored iced tea)
Anneliese Harriman (lemonade)
Refreshments for 6S will be provided by:
Ariana Cordoso (cookies)
Sarah Casto (Rice Krispy treats)
Jane D'Sousa (punch)
Sophie Kniaz (lemonade)
Grammar School
Tomorrow after school will be our first meeting.
Anyone who would like extra grammar help or practice time is invited to attend.
Grammar School will meet in Room 503, from 3:20-4:05 PM
*(Grammar School will NOT meet next week, due to a faculty meeting)
HOMEWORK, Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Drama:
Research on the internet - a factory or machine.
OBSERVE the different components: their shapes, sizes, movements, and how they connect; Observe the sounds they make (if that's possible, and if they make sounds).
No writing is necessary. Be prepared to "use" your observations.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 16
Language Arts:
Study class list for Friday's spelling quiz
Math:
Write the prime factorizations of all numbers from 2 through 30.
Also study the definitions in your notes from today.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 16
Science:
Read p. 64-67; Do the section review
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 16
Social Studies:
Begin Geography "Points of Interest" homework
Due: Next Tuesday, September 22
Complete Mesolithic time line
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 16
Research on the internet - a factory or machine.
OBSERVE the different components: their shapes, sizes, movements, and how they connect; Observe the sounds they make (if that's possible, and if they make sounds).
No writing is necessary. Be prepared to "use" your observations.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 16
Language Arts:
Study class list for Friday's spelling quiz
Math:
Write the prime factorizations of all numbers from 2 through 30.
Also study the definitions in your notes from today.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 16
Science:
Read p. 64-67; Do the section review
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 16
Social Studies:
Begin Geography "Points of Interest" homework
Due: Next Tuesday, September 22
Complete Mesolithic time line
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 16
Monday, September 14, 2009
HOMEWORK, Monday, September 14, 2009
Drama:
Memorize the second phrase of the Mother T. piece
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15
Language Arts:
Complete vocabulary practice (5 words)
Re-read "Creating Discussion Questions" hand-out
Formulate discussion question
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15
Math:
Answer ques. 4.1 A-E, p. 50
Use the product puzzle on your hand-out
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15
Science:
Read p. 58-63; Define vocabulary
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15
Social Studies:
Read Section 3, Beginnings of Agriculture, p. 40-43
Answer assessment ques. 1 (a & b) & 2 (a & b), p. 43
*Write your answers in clear, complete sentences.
Update your running vocabulary list and be prepared to show it to Ms. Pitman tomorrow.
Study the 13 Western States - QUIZ tomorrow
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15
Memorize the second phrase of the Mother T. piece
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15
Language Arts:
Complete vocabulary practice (5 words)
Re-read "Creating Discussion Questions" hand-out
Formulate discussion question
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15
Math:
Answer ques. 4.1 A-E, p. 50
Use the product puzzle on your hand-out
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15
Science:
Read p. 58-63; Define vocabulary
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15
Social Studies:
Read Section 3, Beginnings of Agriculture, p. 40-43
Answer assessment ques. 1 (a & b) & 2 (a & b), p. 43
*Write your answers in clear, complete sentences.
Update your running vocabulary list and be prepared to show it to Ms. Pitman tomorrow.
Study the 13 Western States - QUIZ tomorrow
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15
Friday, September 11, 2009
Tea Time
Tea Party Next Wednesday, September 16
To celebrate the conclusion of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland,
the Language Arts classes will be having their first tea party-discussion.
There are four students from each class who volunteered to bring treats
and beverages, this time around (all students will have an opportunity to
do this throughout the year).
Refreshments for 6P will be provided by:
Marisa Putrasahan (cookies)
Billie Nagy (cupcakes)
Dominique Hughes (flavored iced tea)
Anneliese Harriman (lemonade)
Refreshments for 6S will be provided by:
Ariana Cordoso (cookies)
Sarah Casto (Rice Krispy treats)
Jane D'Sousa (punch)
Sophie Kniaz (lemonade)
Thank you, in advance, to all the parents of these students for helping out with provisions!
To celebrate the conclusion of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland,
the Language Arts classes will be having their first tea party-discussion.
There are four students from each class who volunteered to bring treats
and beverages, this time around (all students will have an opportunity to
do this throughout the year).
Refreshments for 6P will be provided by:
Marisa Putrasahan (cookies)
Billie Nagy (cupcakes)
Dominique Hughes (flavored iced tea)
Anneliese Harriman (lemonade)
Refreshments for 6S will be provided by:
Ariana Cordoso (cookies)
Sarah Casto (Rice Krispy treats)
Jane D'Sousa (punch)
Sophie Kniaz (lemonade)
Thank you, in advance, to all the parents of these students for helping out with provisions!
HOMEWORK, Friday, September 11, 2009
Drama:
Mother T. Reflection
DIG DEEP!
Due: Monday, September 14
Language Arts:
Read Ch.'s 11 & 12, Alice
Study Class List for spelling
Quiz: Next Friday, September 18
Math:
Finish Question 2 from class notes on the number 210.
Do p. 45-47, #37, 38, 44
Due: Monday, September 14
Science:
Finish diagram and do the 10 sentences in your
Science Fair booklet.
Due: Monday, September 14
Social Studies:
Complete Time Lines (if you haven't already)
Due: Monday, September 14
Update Running Vocabulary List
Due: Monday, September 14
Work on Western States Homework for Geography
Due: Tuesday, September 15
Mother T. Reflection
DIG DEEP!
Due: Monday, September 14
Language Arts:
Read Ch.'s 11 & 12, Alice
Study Class List for spelling
Quiz: Next Friday, September 18
Math:
Finish Question 2 from class notes on the number 210.
Do p. 45-47, #37, 38, 44
Due: Monday, September 14
Science:
Finish diagram and do the 10 sentences in your
Science Fair booklet.
Due: Monday, September 14
Social Studies:
Complete Time Lines (if you haven't already)
Due: Monday, September 14
Update Running Vocabulary List
Due: Monday, September 14
Work on Western States Homework for Geography
Due: Tuesday, September 15
Sleeping on the Blog
Oops - I did it again! I missed Thursday's posting. My apologies: I was at school writing First Quarter progress reports until quite late.
These reports will give parents and students an idea of how each student is doing thus far. There are no grades on this Quarter's reports (unless your student has a 'D' grade or below in a particular subject). Reports should be sent to you next week.
This week students received their first test grade back in Language Arts. Every time a student takes a test, a grade key sheet is given back to the student with their grade, and the sheet and test must be taken home to be signed by a parent. This is to ensure good communication about how your student is doing in a particular area.
Each time a student receives a test back, he or she will be asked to reflect on how he/she did, whether he/she needs to change his/her study habits, ask for help, or keep working along the same line. Students are also encouraged to think about what they will aspire to do differently (or not) for the next test.
Most students did quite well on this first vocabulary/grammar test. However, some did not. Because of this, I am beginning a new "program" next week called Grammar School. Grammar School will be held after school on Wednesdays (excepting when we have Faculty Meetings) from 3:20 - 4:05 PM. This will be a time when any Sixth Grade student who would like to review that week's grammar (or any grammar work we've done prior to that time) can come and get some extra help - or simply extra practice, if they are doing well. Grammar School will be held in Room 503.
Many students (and parents) hae expressed feelings of overwhelm and about how to manage the work load at TPJA. I encourage everyone to keep in mind that each student responds to transition differently and that there has been a great deal of change over the past five weeks: new school, new teachers, new friends, new ways of learning...not to mention all the normal growth spurts and sputters of being a Sixth Grader.
I suggest if your student is feeling overwhelmed that he/she break their work load down into do-able pieces: 15 minute increments with a five minue break. Perhaps one-half hour at a time, if that's possible. And for some students, just five to ten minutes of work, with a five minute break, and then another five to ten minutes (etc.) if that makes focusing easier. Better to get five good minutes of work in at a time, then to sit and feel so overwhelmed that nothing gets done (and yes: I speak from experience).
On a completely different note: Next Wednesday, we will be having our first Tea in Language Arts. We will have completed our first book of the semester, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, and will be celebrating the book with a special discussion. Students will begin working on their discussion questions on Monday, and will be practicing throughout the year what it means to ask a good discussion question.
A tea party isn't a Tea Party without food and drink, so students (and parents) will take turns providing treats and drinks for our teas. I will be asking for volunteer students in class today to bring in something for next Wednesday's tea (a note will go home to alert parents what their child will bring). Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Wishing you all a good weekend.
Cheers,
Ms. Nicky Pitman
These reports will give parents and students an idea of how each student is doing thus far. There are no grades on this Quarter's reports (unless your student has a 'D' grade or below in a particular subject). Reports should be sent to you next week.
This week students received their first test grade back in Language Arts. Every time a student takes a test, a grade key sheet is given back to the student with their grade, and the sheet and test must be taken home to be signed by a parent. This is to ensure good communication about how your student is doing in a particular area.
Each time a student receives a test back, he or she will be asked to reflect on how he/she did, whether he/she needs to change his/her study habits, ask for help, or keep working along the same line. Students are also encouraged to think about what they will aspire to do differently (or not) for the next test.
Most students did quite well on this first vocabulary/grammar test. However, some did not. Because of this, I am beginning a new "program" next week called Grammar School. Grammar School will be held after school on Wednesdays (excepting when we have Faculty Meetings) from 3:20 - 4:05 PM. This will be a time when any Sixth Grade student who would like to review that week's grammar (or any grammar work we've done prior to that time) can come and get some extra help - or simply extra practice, if they are doing well. Grammar School will be held in Room 503.
Many students (and parents) hae expressed feelings of overwhelm and about how to manage the work load at TPJA. I encourage everyone to keep in mind that each student responds to transition differently and that there has been a great deal of change over the past five weeks: new school, new teachers, new friends, new ways of learning...not to mention all the normal growth spurts and sputters of being a Sixth Grader.
I suggest if your student is feeling overwhelmed that he/she break their work load down into do-able pieces: 15 minute increments with a five minue break. Perhaps one-half hour at a time, if that's possible. And for some students, just five to ten minutes of work, with a five minute break, and then another five to ten minutes (etc.) if that makes focusing easier. Better to get five good minutes of work in at a time, then to sit and feel so overwhelmed that nothing gets done (and yes: I speak from experience).
On a completely different note: Next Wednesday, we will be having our first Tea in Language Arts. We will have completed our first book of the semester, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, and will be celebrating the book with a special discussion. Students will begin working on their discussion questions on Monday, and will be practicing throughout the year what it means to ask a good discussion question.
A tea party isn't a Tea Party without food and drink, so students (and parents) will take turns providing treats and drinks for our teas. I will be asking for volunteer students in class today to bring in something for next Wednesday's tea (a note will go home to alert parents what their child will bring). Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Wishing you all a good weekend.
Cheers,
Ms. Nicky Pitman
Thursday, September 10, 2009
HOMEWORK, Thursday, September 10, 2009
Drama:
Work with an object. Get the feel for it. Practice using the object without the object (pantomime). Be prepared to "perform" the pantomime.
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 11
Language Arts:
Read Ch. 10, Alice
Look up the definitions for the following words:
impertinent; rational; irrational; reasonable; unreasonable
Write out the definitions in your own words, and in complete sentences.
Grammar practice: Fragments & run-on sentences - 1.15 & 1.16
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 11
Math:
Study for quiz on LCM & GCF
Do p. 44, #28-30
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 11
Science:
Read p. 52-57; define vocabulary words
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 11
Social Studies:
Work on Time Line
*ONLY if you have time!*
(Put this on the bottom of your priority list this evening)
Work with an object. Get the feel for it. Practice using the object without the object (pantomime). Be prepared to "perform" the pantomime.
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 11
Language Arts:
Read Ch. 10, Alice
Look up the definitions for the following words:
impertinent; rational; irrational; reasonable; unreasonable
Write out the definitions in your own words, and in complete sentences.
Grammar practice: Fragments & run-on sentences - 1.15 & 1.16
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 11
Math:
Study for quiz on LCM & GCF
Do p. 44, #28-30
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 11
Science:
Read p. 52-57; define vocabulary words
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 11
Social Studies:
Work on Time Line
*ONLY if you have time!*
(Put this on the bottom of your priority list this evening)
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
HOMEWORK, Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Drama:
No Homework.
Language Arts:
Read Ch. 9: Alice
Vocabulary Practice Sheets ("procession," "mock")
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 10
Math:
Problems from Ch. 3, p. 43, #9-10, 24-27
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 10
Science:
Re-read Ch. 2, Sec. 2
P. 46-51 Define Vocab.
Read, highlight, take notes on "ocean floor" article
Complete section review #1-13, p. 51
Make test corrections and get signed
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 10
Social Studies:
Read p. 36-39 in text
Answer assess. ques., p. 39
Q. 1-2: Complete sentences.
Q. 3: Sequential diagram.
Q. 4: Illustrated Storyboard.
Work on at least one or two parts of your time line.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 10
No Homework.
Language Arts:
Read Ch. 9: Alice
Vocabulary Practice Sheets ("procession," "mock")
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 10
Math:
Problems from Ch. 3, p. 43, #9-10, 24-27
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 10
Science:
Re-read Ch. 2, Sec. 2
P. 46-51 Define Vocab.
Read, highlight, take notes on "ocean floor" article
Complete section review #1-13, p. 51
Make test corrections and get signed
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 10
Social Studies:
Read p. 36-39 in text
Answer assess. ques., p. 39
Q. 1-2: Complete sentences.
Q. 3: Sequential diagram.
Q. 4: Illustrated Storyboard.
Work on at least one or two parts of your time line.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 10
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
IMPORTANT to NOTE
Vocabulary/Grammar Tests
Were sent home today with your students.
Please sign the grade sheet and read the back (your student wrote you a note).
The grade sheet MUST be returned by tomorrow, Wednesday, September 9 (the students are aware that this is their responsibility). The test itself may be kept at home for study purposes (students may also put it in their binders for future study).
If your student received a "D+" grade or below, I would strongly encourage him/her to attend tomorrow's group tutoring session after school (3:30-4:30 PM) in Room 503. If your student cannot make that time, he/she can come see me to set up an individual time to meet.
Grade sheets are sent home with every test as a means of communication. In this way, parents, students and myself have the opportunity to reflect on what's working for the student, what's not, and how we can help the student to do his/her best - not just on tests, but to make sure that students have a true understanding of the material we are working on.
Were sent home today with your students.
Please sign the grade sheet and read the back (your student wrote you a note).
The grade sheet MUST be returned by tomorrow, Wednesday, September 9 (the students are aware that this is their responsibility). The test itself may be kept at home for study purposes (students may also put it in their binders for future study).
If your student received a "D+" grade or below, I would strongly encourage him/her to attend tomorrow's group tutoring session after school (3:30-4:30 PM) in Room 503. If your student cannot make that time, he/she can come see me to set up an individual time to meet.
Grade sheets are sent home with every test as a means of communication. In this way, parents, students and myself have the opportunity to reflect on what's working for the student, what's not, and how we can help the student to do his/her best - not just on tests, but to make sure that students have a true understanding of the material we are working on.
HOMEWORK, Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Drama:
Memorize 1st line of Mother T.
"People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway."
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 9
Language Arts:
Read Ch. 8, Alice
Look up the definitions of the following words: "procession" and "mock" and write the definitions of each of them in separate, complete sentences in your own words.
If you did not finish your "time" writing in class, complete it this evening.
Get Vocab/Grammar Test signed. Show parent your note on the back.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 9
Math:
If you didn't finish both sides of the worksheet in class, complete it at home this evening.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 9
Science:
Revise science proposal and get it signed.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 9
Social Studies:
13 Western States - learn names, capitals, what year they became a state, and where they are in relation to one another.
Due: NEXT Tuesday, September 15
Memorize 1st line of Mother T.
"People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway."
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 9
Language Arts:
Read Ch. 8, Alice
Look up the definitions of the following words: "procession" and "mock" and write the definitions of each of them in separate, complete sentences in your own words.
If you did not finish your "time" writing in class, complete it this evening.
Get Vocab/Grammar Test signed. Show parent your note on the back.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 9
Math:
If you didn't finish both sides of the worksheet in class, complete it at home this evening.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 9
Science:
Revise science proposal and get it signed.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 9
Social Studies:
13 Western States - learn names, capitals, what year they became a state, and where they are in relation to one another.
Due: NEXT Tuesday, September 15
Friday, September 4, 2009
A Mad, Mad Week!
Literature-ly speaking, that is.
This week the students read through chapters six and seven of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, and - not unlike the rest of the book, but certainly not like the world we live in - discovered the likes of not-so-very-nice lullabys, babies that turn into pigs, grins that belong to cats (sans the cat), teaparties that never end, and riddles that have no answers.
This week the students read through chapters six and seven of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, and - not unlike the rest of the book, but certainly not like the world we live in - discovered the likes of not-so-very-nice lullabys, babies that turn into pigs, grins that belong to cats (sans the cat), teaparties that never end, and riddles that have no answers.
"But I don't want to go among mad people," Alice remarked.
"Oh, you can't help that," said the Cat: "we're all mad here. I'm mad. You're mad."
"How do you know I'm mad?" said Alice.
"You must be," said the Cat, "or you wouldn't have come here."
"Oh, you can't help that," said the Cat: "we're all mad here. I'm mad. You're mad."
"How do you know I'm mad?" said Alice.
"You must be," said the Cat, "or you wouldn't have come here."
Yesterday, several students expressed confusion with Ch. 7: The Mad Tea Party. I remarked that their reaction could be right on, as Alice expressed her frustration with the situation as well:
"At any rate I'll never go there again!" said Alice as she picked her way through the wood. "It's the stupidest tea-party I ever was at in all my life!"
During class, students read scripted portions of the chapter out loud. Each student had the opportunity to "perform" by rotating up to the front of the classroom. Along the way, students had to rise from their desks between script portions and change tables (garnished with two-dimensional paper cups). This was done to provide a possible felt-sense, similar to Alice's experiences. Some students said that moving around was fun, but others felt that it was "tiring" and "annoying." However, many students who had been confused after reading the chapter on their own, said that they seemed to understand it better after hearing it out loud.
Though there is no denying that Carroll's entire story is filled with word play of one kind or another, Chapter 7, plays it to the hilt! If the reader doesn't have a firm grasp of actual word meanings, the word play in The Mad Tea Party can be very confusing.
We will be having a tea party, ourselves, during the week of September 14. A note will be going home next week regarding the event.
Other news this week: Today students had their first Vocabulary/Grammar and Spelling test. Though I haven't yet graded all the tests, students corrected their spelling tests in class today and it looks like most all of them did quite well on the spelling portion (Yay!).
We also began our Stone Age unit in Social Studies, reading about the Paleolithic period and examining tools and their uses (and what they can tell us about the people who used them).
Then, today, students brought together several of the skills we've been working on in drama: ensemble skills, vocal skills, and stage directions/blocking. Overall, the students are really "getting it." In the post below, you will find several different photos of our "final performances."
I was happy to see those of you who came to Curriculum Night last night. For those who were not able to attend, please call or email me and let me know if you have questions, concerns or are excited and happy about your student and/or what we are doing in class.
Wishing you all a safe, happy and relaxing weekend!
Cheers,
Ms. Nicky Pitman
Pictue This...
Room 503 students perform in the courtyard!
Given one class period to memorize lines, create clear characters and relationships, and incorporate stage directions and blocking, students took "content-less" scenes and gave them content.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
REMINDER
Labor Day Weekend
Tomorrow afternoon kicks off Labor Day Weekend for TPA/TPJA students.
Friday, September 4: Early Dismissal at 12:25 PM.
Monday, September 7: NO SCHOOL!
R & R Weekend (No Homework)
Enjoy the long weekend!
Tomorrow afternoon kicks off Labor Day Weekend for TPA/TPJA students.
Friday, September 4: Early Dismissal at 12:25 PM.
Monday, September 7: NO SCHOOL!
R & R Weekend (No Homework)
Enjoy the long weekend!
Post..."Poning"
Hi, All.
Due to Curriculum Night, I will be writing my weekly musings tomorrow.
I will look forward to seeing the parents of both Rooms 503 & 506 's students this evening, beginning at 6:30 PM.
Cheers,
Ms. Nicky Pitman
Due to Curriculum Night, I will be writing my weekly musings tomorrow.
I will look forward to seeing the parents of both Rooms 503 & 506 's students this evening, beginning at 6:30 PM.
Cheers,
Ms. Nicky Pitman
HOMEWORK, Thursday, September 3, 2009
Drama:
Go over "lines"
Gather props and costume pieces, if needed.
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 4
Language Arts:
STUDY!
Test tomorrow, Friday.
Math:
Unit Project: My Special Number
Read the instructions on p. 5, do what it says
Answer questions under "Unit Project," p. 36
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 4
Science:
Read p. 46-51
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 4
Social Studies:
Go over vocabulary from text
Make sure your list is up to date.
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 4
Go over "lines"
Gather props and costume pieces, if needed.
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 4
Language Arts:
STUDY!
Test tomorrow, Friday.
Math:
Unit Project: My Special Number
Read the instructions on p. 5, do what it says
Answer questions under "Unit Project," p. 36
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 4
Science:
Read p. 46-51
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 4
Social Studies:
Go over vocabulary from text
Make sure your list is up to date.
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, September 4
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Announcements
Curriculum Night:
Tomorrow evening, Thursday, September 3
6:30 PM
Labor Day Weekend:
This Friday, September 4: Early Release, 12:25 PM
Labor Day, Monday, September 7: NO SCHOOL!
R & R Weekend
A BIG Thank You to:
Mr. Favaro (Enrique's dad) for coming in early this morning and hanging up some pictures and our new classroom door white board.
Tomorrow evening, Thursday, September 3
6:30 PM
Labor Day Weekend:
This Friday, September 4: Early Release, 12:25 PM
Labor Day, Monday, September 7: NO SCHOOL!
R & R Weekend
A BIG Thank You to:
Mr. Favaro (Enrique's dad) for coming in early this morning and hanging up some pictures and our new classroom door white board.
HOMEWORK, Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Drama:
No Homework!
Language Arts:
Study for Friday's Test!
Read Ch. 7, A Mad Tea Party
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 3
Math:
P. 34-35, #s 37-41
Read p. 37
Also answer the 3 questions from Sieve of Erasothenes
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 3
Science:
Complete last night's homework.
Finish article from class and take notes.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 3
Social Studies:
Read Ch. 2, Section 1, p.28-35
Come to class prepared to participate
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 3
No Homework!
Language Arts:
Study for Friday's Test!
Read Ch. 7, A Mad Tea Party
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 3
Math:
P. 34-35, #s 37-41
Read p. 37
Also answer the 3 questions from Sieve of Erasothenes
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 3
Science:
Complete last night's homework.
Finish article from class and take notes.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 3
Social Studies:
Read Ch. 2, Section 1, p.28-35
Come to class prepared to participate
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, September 3
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
HOMEWORK, Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Drama:
No Homework!
Language Arts:
Study for Vocab/Grammar Test on Friday
Math:
Study for Test (to be completed tomorrow)
Science:
Read p. 38-45; Define vocab; Section review: 2-10
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 2
Social Studies:
Section 2 Assessment Questions (p. 17): 1-5
Be sure to write in clear, complete sentences, ques. 1-3, 5
Use "note-taking chart format for ques. 4
*Be sure to keep up your ever-growing Vocab. list
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 2
No Homework!
Language Arts:
Study for Vocab/Grammar Test on Friday
Math:
Study for Test (to be completed tomorrow)
Science:
Read p. 38-45; Define vocab; Section review: 2-10
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 2
Social Studies:
Section 2 Assessment Questions (p. 17): 1-5
Be sure to write in clear, complete sentences, ques. 1-3, 5
Use "note-taking chart format for ques. 4
*Be sure to keep up your ever-growing Vocab. list
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 2
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