Language Arts:
Read Ch. 7, B.O.T.
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, February 20
Math:
P. 17 (1-5)
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, February 20
Social Studies:
STUDY! *(Study Guides given out in class today)
Test on Monday, February 23
Science:
Continue working on Science Projects
Due: March 3 (That's 2 1/2 weeks)!
Vocal Warm-Ups:
Next line of Hamlet (up through "thus by use all gently.")
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, February 20
Extra Milers:
Lunch/Certificates for those who accrued enough tickets
Monday, Feb. 23
*(No need to bring lunch)
~ Next Extra Mile Club beginning Monday, March 2
Thursday, February 19, 2009
No Postino
...a new Italian film about a teacher who did not post on her blog for a day because she had to dash out from school for an appointment.
A well-written, thoughtful post is owed you for tomorrow.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
A well-written, thoughtful post is owed you for tomorrow.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
HOMEWORK, Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Vocal Warm-Ups:
Memorize first two lines of Hamlet speech
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Language Arts:
Read Ch, 6 B.O.T.
Create a clear and thoughtful discussion question.
Write it out on the same sheet of paper as you wrote your
Ch. 5 question.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Look up three new vocabulary words. Write the
definitions out in clear, complete sentences, using
your own words.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Math:
Vocabulary words
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Social Studies:
Read Ch. 9, Section 4: History Text ("Greek Achievements")
P. 277-282; Answer Assessment questions 1-3, p. 282
Also Read p. 283 (Philosophers).
Be able to discuss each philosopher and their similarities and
differences.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Science:
Write a 1 paragraph write up of where you are
in your project - & what's working and what's not.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Memorize first two lines of Hamlet speech
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Language Arts:
Read Ch, 6 B.O.T.
Create a clear and thoughtful discussion question.
Write it out on the same sheet of paper as you wrote your
Ch. 5 question.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Look up three new vocabulary words. Write the
definitions out in clear, complete sentences, using
your own words.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Math:
Vocabulary words
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Social Studies:
Read Ch. 9, Section 4: History Text ("Greek Achievements")
P. 277-282; Answer Assessment questions 1-3, p. 282
Also Read p. 283 (Philosophers).
Be able to discuss each philosopher and their similarities and
differences.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Science:
Write a 1 paragraph write up of where you are
in your project - & what's working and what's not.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 19
Weeding through Wednesday
After being one-track-minded yesterday with regards to the ancient Greek mythology project presentations, today feels like we feasted on a shmorgasboard of subject matter - everything from vocabulary words, to book discussion questions, to a mini-lecture on responsibility...Wow, wow, wow! A lot can be accomplished in a short period of time (and that was just in the morning).
The afternoon brought us back to ancient Greece: finishing a documentary we began watching last week on Alexander the Great, reading a chapter in our History text on Alexander, and going over what will be on Monday's all-encompassing Social Studies test on ancient Greek civilization.
Back-tracking to the "mini-lecture" on responsibility: that was about making sure to complete assignments and getting all required materials turned in, in a timely manner. A check list went home with every student last Friday with reagrds to their ancient Greek mythology project. Students were to go over the checklist, sign it, and then share their project and the check list with at least one parent. The check list was then to be signed by the parent and returned (yesterday) with the student's project.
Some students neglected to return their check list sheet/signature. Others, lost their check list and wrote a "mock up" sheet for their parents to sign. The original check list with a parent signature MUST be turned in to me by Friday in order for me to even take the time to look at thoroughly - and grade - the student's project. If the sheet is not returned by Friday, I will not look at the project and the student will receive an "F."
I understand that this may sound quite harsh. However, I believe that holding students responsible for their work is one of our top priorites at TPJA. This is not a difficult assignment. It is about "suiting up and showing up." If you have any questions, please feel free to email me: npitman@tempeprep.org.
Thanks & Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
The afternoon brought us back to ancient Greece: finishing a documentary we began watching last week on Alexander the Great, reading a chapter in our History text on Alexander, and going over what will be on Monday's all-encompassing Social Studies test on ancient Greek civilization.
Back-tracking to the "mini-lecture" on responsibility: that was about making sure to complete assignments and getting all required materials turned in, in a timely manner. A check list went home with every student last Friday with reagrds to their ancient Greek mythology project. Students were to go over the checklist, sign it, and then share their project and the check list with at least one parent. The check list was then to be signed by the parent and returned (yesterday) with the student's project.
Some students neglected to return their check list sheet/signature. Others, lost their check list and wrote a "mock up" sheet for their parents to sign. The original check list with a parent signature MUST be turned in to me by Friday in order for me to even take the time to look at thoroughly - and grade - the student's project. If the sheet is not returned by Friday, I will not look at the project and the student will receive an "F."
I understand that this may sound quite harsh. However, I believe that holding students responsible for their work is one of our top priorites at TPJA. This is not a difficult assignment. It is about "suiting up and showing up." If you have any questions, please feel free to email me: npitman@tempeprep.org.
Thanks & Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
HOMEWORK, Tuesday, February 17 , 2009
Language Arts:
Read Ch. 5, The Book of Three (B.O.T.)
Due: Tomorrow, February 18
Look up three new vocabulary word definitions.
Write the definitions down in complete sentences
and in your own words.
Due: Tomorrow, February 18
Social Studies:
Fill out - completely & thoroughly - the self-critique
of the work you did on the Greek mythology project.
Take time, dig deep in your reflection.
Due: Tomorrow, February 18
Read Ch. 5, The Book of Three (B.O.T.)
Due: Tomorrow, February 18
Look up three new vocabulary word definitions.
Write the definitions down in complete sentences
and in your own words.
Due: Tomorrow, February 18
Social Studies:
Fill out - completely & thoroughly - the self-critique
of the work you did on the Greek mythology project.
Take time, dig deep in your reflection.
Due: Tomorrow, February 18
The Mything Link
No, that's not me spelling incorrectly - it's simply another play on words!
Today was a mythical day from morning through the afternoon (with a break in between for the second half of the sixth grade math test).
Each student presented his/her prepared Greek mythological story, beginning with the introduction of their character and a reading of their project dedication page.
While one student presented, the rest of the class gave their focus to listening, watching and writing a constructive critique of the presentation. By doing so, each student was responsible for lending their support to every other student.
At the end of the school day, students were given the opportunity to check out each other's "scrapbooks" and see all the different and creative ways each student chose to put their project together.
I am very proud of the students in Room 503. This project was a big undertaking and most all of the students stepped up to the plate to meet the challenge.
Opa!
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Today was a mythical day from morning through the afternoon (with a break in between for the second half of the sixth grade math test).
Each student presented his/her prepared Greek mythological story, beginning with the introduction of their character and a reading of their project dedication page.
While one student presented, the rest of the class gave their focus to listening, watching and writing a constructive critique of the presentation. By doing so, each student was responsible for lending their support to every other student.
At the end of the school day, students were given the opportunity to check out each other's "scrapbooks" and see all the different and creative ways each student chose to put their project together.
I am very proud of the students in Room 503. This project was a big undertaking and most all of the students stepped up to the plate to meet the challenge.
Opa!
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Friday, February 13, 2009
HOMEWORK, Friday, February 13, 2009
It's an R & R weekend!
However, Greek mythology projects are due on Tuesday. For the students who have not yet completed their projects, they need to do so over the weekend.
Also, every student received a check list for their project. It is their responsibility to go through their project and check off each item that they have completed to make sure their project is rarin' and ready to go on Tuesday. They must show their project and check list to at least one parent who must sign off on it, and return the signed check list, together with their project to school, on Tuesday.
However, Greek mythology projects are due on Tuesday. For the students who have not yet completed their projects, they need to do so over the weekend.
Also, every student received a check list for their project. It is their responsibility to go through their project and check off each item that they have completed to make sure their project is rarin' and ready to go on Tuesday. They must show their project and check list to at least one parent who must sign off on it, and return the signed check list, together with their project to school, on Tuesday.
It's Olympic!
And it's Finally it's Friday too!
After a morning of sugar, Alexander the Great, and a gargantuan math test the students had the opportunity to partake in something completely different:
A smorgasboard of academic, dramatic, and physical activities that would make Zeus throw a lighning bolt up to the heavens with glee and enthusiasm (well, maybe not that exciting - but pretty challenging, fun and creative, all the same).
Starting with an ancient Greek Quiz Bowl of facts, the students (in their Finally it's Friday teams) vied to answer the most answers correctly. Then, onto a tricky game of ancient Greek Password, followed by 3-Actor charades, and finally some major physical exertion:
The first updated TPJA Greek Olympics, featuring a torch relay, a three-legged race, an M & M Toss, a Ball Pass, and, a race to move water from one bucket to another. Whew!
Fun, challenging, definitely different...but it was all Greek to the students in Room 503!
Have a wonderful three-day weekend.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
After a morning of sugar, Alexander the Great, and a gargantuan math test the students had the opportunity to partake in something completely different:
A smorgasboard of academic, dramatic, and physical activities that would make Zeus throw a lighning bolt up to the heavens with glee and enthusiasm (well, maybe not that exciting - but pretty challenging, fun and creative, all the same).
Starting with an ancient Greek Quiz Bowl of facts, the students (in their Finally it's Friday teams) vied to answer the most answers correctly. Then, onto a tricky game of ancient Greek Password, followed by 3-Actor charades, and finally some major physical exertion:
The first updated TPJA Greek Olympics, featuring a torch relay, a three-legged race, an M & M Toss, a Ball Pass, and, a race to move water from one bucket to another. Whew!
Fun, challenging, definitely different...but it was all Greek to the students in Room 503!
Have a wonderful three-day weekend.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Thursday, February 12, 2009
HOMEWORK, Thursday, February 12, 2009
Math:
Study for test tomorrow!
Social Studies
Continue working on Greek mythology project
Due: Tuesday, February 17 (that's next week!)
Science:
Continue working on Science Project
Due: March 3
**EXTRA SPECIAL**
BRING a pair of shorts (or sweat pants), t-shirt (appropriate),
long-sleeved shirt or sweat jacket (in case of cool weather), & gym/athletic shoes TOMORROW, FRIDAY (to change into in the afternoon)
Extra Milers:
Complete refelction (ques. 1-4)
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, February 13
*If you didn't completely memorize the first two sections of
Hamlet speech, DO SO by tomorrow A.M.
REMINDER:
This is a three-day weekend (Sa. -Mo., Feb. 14-16)
Also: R & R weekend - unless Mythology projects still need to be completed.
Study for test tomorrow!
Social Studies
Continue working on Greek mythology project
Due: Tuesday, February 17 (that's next week!)
Science:
Continue working on Science Project
Due: March 3
**EXTRA SPECIAL**
BRING a pair of shorts (or sweat pants), t-shirt (appropriate),
long-sleeved shirt or sweat jacket (in case of cool weather), & gym/athletic shoes TOMORROW, FRIDAY (to change into in the afternoon)
Extra Milers:
Complete refelction (ques. 1-4)
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, February 13
*If you didn't completely memorize the first two sections of
Hamlet speech, DO SO by tomorrow A.M.
REMINDER:
This is a three-day weekend (Sa. -Mo., Feb. 14-16)
Also: R & R weekend - unless Mythology projects still need to be completed.
Say Cheese...Cake.
And definitely eat cheese...cake! Delicious cheese cake. Two different kinds of cheese cake - both incredibly delectable and decadent and...hey - no calories or fat if you eat them the day after your birthday, or in honor of Lincoln's birthday ( a little trade secret in education, don'tcha know).
Big thanks and compliments to Jenelle Bush for making such wonderful deserts for an on-going classroom celebration. Room 503 sends you oodles of gratitude and appreciation!
We did get work done today, but I am so stuffed from cheese cake I can't think about writing much else. I am going to go prepare for tomorrow and fall into a lovely sugar coma.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Big thanks and compliments to Jenelle Bush for making such wonderful deserts for an on-going classroom celebration. Room 503 sends you oodles of gratitude and appreciation!
We did get work done today, but I am so stuffed from cheese cake I can't think about writing much else. I am going to go prepare for tomorrow and fall into a lovely sugar coma.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
HOMEWORK, Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Langauge Arts:
Read Ch. 4, B.O.T.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 12
Math:
STUDY! Test on Friday.
Science:
Continue working on Science Project
Due: March 3
Social Studies:
Continue working on Greek mythology project
*Remember: it's an R & R weekend coming up -
Get as much done as you can prior, so you can enjoy a
real three-day break!
Due: Tuesday, February 17
Read Ch. 4, B.O.T.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 12
Math:
STUDY! Test on Friday.
Science:
Continue working on Science Project
Due: March 3
Social Studies:
Continue working on Greek mythology project
*Remember: it's an R & R weekend coming up -
Get as much done as you can prior, so you can enjoy a
real three-day break!
Due: Tuesday, February 17
Mnemonically Yours
Sometimes having a teacher birthday can come in handy - especially when it comes to creative activities and brain trainer games!
This morning, I asked the students to write out mnemonics using my last name. Here's a sampling:
Pitman
Is
The
Most
Awesome person in the world who
Never gets mad
Yeah, well...it was a nice dream. ; )
And now for something completely different...
Pensively beastish
Inside
The
Mall or classroom
At
Noon
And I had no idea I had a second job:
Ms. Pitman
Punches
Ignorant
Tamales
Mating
Anteaters at
Noontime
We also used my name in a category game, where the students had to come up with a vegetable, animal and snack food for each of the letters of my name. For some of the letters we - the Sixth Graders and myself -had to use some real brain muscles!
I hear that's important when you get older...oh, wait a minute - I am!
Thanks to the students for celebrating my special day with me and thank you for the cards, and special gifts and to Maya Putrasahan for such a lovely spread in the faculty house this morning.
A big shout out to Kyle's mom, who I am told is also celebrating a birthday today!
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
This morning, I asked the students to write out mnemonics using my last name. Here's a sampling:
Pitman
Is
The
Most
Awesome person in the world who
Never gets mad
Yeah, well...it was a nice dream. ; )
And now for something completely different...
Pensively beastish
Inside
The
Mall or classroom
At
Noon
And I had no idea I had a second job:
Ms. Pitman
Punches
Ignorant
Tamales
Mating
Anteaters at
Noontime
We also used my name in a category game, where the students had to come up with a vegetable, animal and snack food for each of the letters of my name. For some of the letters we - the Sixth Graders and myself -had to use some real brain muscles!
I hear that's important when you get older...oh, wait a minute - I am!
Thanks to the students for celebrating my special day with me and thank you for the cards, and special gifts and to Maya Putrasahan for such a lovely spread in the faculty house this morning.
A big shout out to Kyle's mom, who I am told is also celebrating a birthday today!
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
HOMEWORK, Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Language Arts:
Read Ch. 3, B.O.T.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 11
Math:
Review for Test on Friday (packet given today)
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 11
Science:
Continue to work on Science Project
Due: March 3
Social Studies:
Read Ch. 9, Section 2 (Sparta & Athens), p. 266-271;
Answer assessment questions 1-5, p. 271
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 11
Bring in pieces of Greek mythology project to work on in class tomorrow!
Continue working on Greek mythology project
Due: Tuesday, February 17
Read Ch. 3, B.O.T.
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 11
Math:
Review for Test on Friday (packet given today)
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 11
Science:
Continue to work on Science Project
Due: March 3
Social Studies:
Read Ch. 9, Section 2 (Sparta & Athens), p. 266-271;
Answer assessment questions 1-5, p. 271
Due: Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 11
Bring in pieces of Greek mythology project to work on in class tomorrow!
Continue working on Greek mythology project
Due: Tuesday, February 17
For Fun and for Three!
We just began reading Lloyd Alexander's, The Book of Three over this past weekend. An in-class "survey" this morning shows much higher ratings than our last Language Arts read, The Secret Garden. Comments such as, "It's full of adventure," and "I like the imagery," and "It's full of cliffhangers," make me think that this will be a fun book for the students to sink their teeth (and eyes and critical thinking skills) into.
We had a really good discussion this morning and I am very pleased by the students' progress to dig deeper and answer (as well as ask) thoughtful questions, such as:
"I am not anything, not even at Caer Dallben." Said Coll, "I shall make you something, Taran, Assistant Pig Keeper, etc." Is Coll just teasing him, telling him he is ridiculous? Or is there advice here?
“In some cases,” [Dallben] said, “we learn more by looking for the answer to a question and not finding it than we do from learning the answer itself.” What do you think this means? And how do you think this relates to our classroom discussions regarding questions/inquiry?
(p. 21) “Taran, hunched against a tree root, pulled his cloak closer about his shoulders.. . . ‘I don't even know who I am.’ ‘In a way,’ answered Gwydion, ‘that is something we all must discover for ourselves’.” Read this passage carefully and consider the words the author uses. Why are we given this vignette?
To the straight forward, reading comprehension question, "What does Coll tell Taran 'the three foundations of learning' are?" the answer was, "See much, study much, suffer much." To which one student in class today observed, "that's wisdom."
And so it is.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
We had a really good discussion this morning and I am very pleased by the students' progress to dig deeper and answer (as well as ask) thoughtful questions, such as:
"I am not anything, not even at Caer Dallben." Said Coll, "I shall make you something, Taran, Assistant Pig Keeper, etc." Is Coll just teasing him, telling him he is ridiculous? Or is there advice here?
“In some cases,” [Dallben] said, “we learn more by looking for the answer to a question and not finding it than we do from learning the answer itself.” What do you think this means? And how do you think this relates to our classroom discussions regarding questions/inquiry?
(p. 21) “Taran, hunched against a tree root, pulled his cloak closer about his shoulders.. . . ‘I don't even know who I am.’ ‘In a way,’ answered Gwydion, ‘that is something we all must discover for ourselves’.” Read this passage carefully and consider the words the author uses. Why are we given this vignette?
To the straight forward, reading comprehension question, "What does Coll tell Taran 'the three foundations of learning' are?" the answer was, "See much, study much, suffer much." To which one student in class today observed, "that's wisdom."
And so it is.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Monday, February 9, 2009
HOMEWORK, Monday, February 9, 2009
Language Arts:
If you didn't already finish it in class, read Ch. 2, B.O.T.
and create 3 thoughtful discussion questions re: the chapter
on a separate shee of notebook paper.
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
Math:
P. 50 (A & B)
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
Science:
Whatever you did not finish in your text (Cells):
take the STANDARDIZED TEST PREPARATION (p. 28-29).
Write out your answers on a separate sheet of notebook paper
(can be OPEN BOOK).
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
Write a one-paragraph write-up of where you are at in your Science Project.
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
Continue working on Science Project
Due: March 3
Social Studies:
In your history text book: (whatever you did not finish in class today) -
Ch. 9 (p. 256-259): Answer questions on p. 259 on a piece of notebook paper (title your paper Social Studies, YOU TRY IT, p. 259).
Read Section 1, p. 260-265. Answer the Assessment Questions on p. 265 1-5 (on a separate piece of Notebook paper; Title the page Ch. 9/Section 1 Assessment Questions…Remember: write in COMPLETE SENTENCES).
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
Bring in pieces of your Greek mythology project to work on to school tomorrow.
Continue working on Greek mythology project.
Due: February 17
Extra Milers:
Memorize next piece of Hamlet text, up through:
“It out-herods Herod. Pray you avoid it.”
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
If you didn't already finish it in class, read Ch. 2, B.O.T.
and create 3 thoughtful discussion questions re: the chapter
on a separate shee of notebook paper.
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
Math:
P. 50 (A & B)
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
Science:
Whatever you did not finish in your text (Cells):
take the STANDARDIZED TEST PREPARATION (p. 28-29).
Write out your answers on a separate sheet of notebook paper
(can be OPEN BOOK).
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
Write a one-paragraph write-up of where you are at in your Science Project.
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
Continue working on Science Project
Due: March 3
Social Studies:
In your history text book: (whatever you did not finish in class today) -
Ch. 9 (p. 256-259): Answer questions on p. 259 on a piece of notebook paper (title your paper Social Studies, YOU TRY IT, p. 259).
Read Section 1, p. 260-265. Answer the Assessment Questions on p. 265 1-5 (on a separate piece of Notebook paper; Title the page Ch. 9/Section 1 Assessment Questions…Remember: write in COMPLETE SENTENCES).
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
Bring in pieces of your Greek mythology project to work on to school tomorrow.
Continue working on Greek mythology project.
Due: February 17
Extra Milers:
Memorize next piece of Hamlet text, up through:
“It out-herods Herod. Pray you avoid it.”
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10
Flu Man Group
I suppose whatever the bug is that's been going around TPA/TPJA has finally caught up with me! I was out again today (the second time in three weeks) and will hopefully be in tomorrow.
I heard through the grapevine that the Sixth Graders had a really good day today. I have no doubt that they were on their best behavior with the teachers who filled in for me, and I am sure that they worked diligently on all the work that they were assigned during my absence.
To the best of my knowledge, Progress Reports will be sent home tomorrow. If you do not receive them by the weekend, please send me an email on Monday. If you would like to set up an (unofficial) conference time, please email me: npitman@tempeprep.org and let me know when a good time for you would be.
A reminder that this coming weekend is Presidents' Day Weekend and there will be no school on Monday, February 16. Your students' Greek mythology project is due on Tuesday, February 17 so I hope that they will either a) finish prior to the holiday weekend, or b) use their weekend time wisely to add "finishing touches" - not last minute full-blown work to their scrapbook and oral presentation work.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
I heard through the grapevine that the Sixth Graders had a really good day today. I have no doubt that they were on their best behavior with the teachers who filled in for me, and I am sure that they worked diligently on all the work that they were assigned during my absence.
To the best of my knowledge, Progress Reports will be sent home tomorrow. If you do not receive them by the weekend, please send me an email on Monday. If you would like to set up an (unofficial) conference time, please email me: npitman@tempeprep.org and let me know when a good time for you would be.
A reminder that this coming weekend is Presidents' Day Weekend and there will be no school on Monday, February 16. Your students' Greek mythology project is due on Tuesday, February 17 so I hope that they will either a) finish prior to the holiday weekend, or b) use their weekend time wisely to add "finishing touches" - not last minute full-blown work to their scrapbook and oral presentation work.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Friday, February 6, 2009
HOMEWORK, Friday, February 6, 2009
Language Arts:
Read Perseus the Gorgon Slayer
Read Ch. 1, The Book of Three (B.O.T.)
Due: Monday, February 9
Math:
Multiplying fractions, hand-out
Due: Monday, February 9
Social Studies:
Continue working on Greek mythology project
Pace yourself!
Due: February 17
Science:
Continue working on science project
Due: March 3
Extra Milers:
Memorize the first part of Hamlet's monologue
Up through "...that may give it smoothness."
Due: Monday, February 9
Read Perseus the Gorgon Slayer
Read Ch. 1, The Book of Three (B.O.T.)
Due: Monday, February 9
Math:
Multiplying fractions, hand-out
Due: Monday, February 9
Social Studies:
Continue working on Greek mythology project
Pace yourself!
Due: February 17
Science:
Continue working on science project
Due: March 3
Extra Milers:
Memorize the first part of Hamlet's monologue
Up through "...that may give it smoothness."
Due: Monday, February 9
The Daily Column
...as in Doric, Ionic and Corinthian (as well as air-dry clay and lots of toilet paper rolls) - NOT as in "newspaper."
We have been working on "building" Greek columns for quite a few days this week and I think we will devote one more hour or so to completing them next week.
Room 503 looks quite...hmmm...clay-ful at the end of each work session (I am sure our new maintenance man loves us), and, for the most part, there is some excellent work being done.
This weekend the Sixth Graders are beginning a new book in Language Arts The Book of Three (an ALA Notable Book) by Lloyd Alexander, and are continuing to read Greek mythology stories (this weekend, Perseus the Gorgon-Slayer).
Look for a note going out next Monday regarding Friday, February 13th's special Finally it's Friday activities...it should be a day full of fun, interactive, educational, and quite physical events.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
We have been working on "building" Greek columns for quite a few days this week and I think we will devote one more hour or so to completing them next week.
Room 503 looks quite...hmmm...clay-ful at the end of each work session (I am sure our new maintenance man loves us), and, for the most part, there is some excellent work being done.
This weekend the Sixth Graders are beginning a new book in Language Arts The Book of Three (an ALA Notable Book) by Lloyd Alexander, and are continuing to read Greek mythology stories (this weekend, Perseus the Gorgon-Slayer).
Look for a note going out next Monday regarding Friday, February 13th's special Finally it's Friday activities...it should be a day full of fun, interactive, educational, and quite physical events.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Thursday, February 5, 2009
HOMEWORK, Thursday, February 5, 2009
Math:
P. 39 (B & C); Draw
Due: Tomorrow, February 6
Social Studies:
Continue to work on mythology project
Due: February 17
Science:
Continue to work on science project
Due: March 3
*Bring in a pair of jeans
Tomorrow, Friday, February 6
P. 39 (B & C); Draw
Due: Tomorrow, February 6
Social Studies:
Continue to work on mythology project
Due: February 17
Science:
Continue to work on science project
Due: March 3
*Bring in a pair of jeans
Tomorrow, Friday, February 6
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
HOMEWORK, Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Language Arts:
If you neglected to bring in The Book of Three today,
Bring it in TOMORROW!
Math:
P. 29 (48, 49)
P. 38 (A-B)
P. 39 (A p4)
P. 41 (7-10)
P. 46 (40-49)
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 5
Social Studies:
Continue to work on mythology project
Due: February 17
Complete Greek packet started in class today
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 5
Bring in parts of your mythology project you would like to/can
work on to school tomorrow. You will have class time to work
on your project.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 5
Science:
Continue to work on science project
Due: March 3
*Bring in a pair of jeans on Friday, February 6
Extra Milers:
Research and type up (in required format) a one-page report
on the olympics of Ancient Greece. *This must be NEW additional
information (not the information on the hand out from the other day)
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 5
If you neglected to bring in The Book of Three today,
Bring it in TOMORROW!
Math:
P. 29 (48, 49)
P. 38 (A-B)
P. 39 (A p4)
P. 41 (7-10)
P. 46 (40-49)
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 5
Social Studies:
Continue to work on mythology project
Due: February 17
Complete Greek packet started in class today
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 5
Bring in parts of your mythology project you would like to/can
work on to school tomorrow. You will have class time to work
on your project.
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 5
Science:
Continue to work on science project
Due: March 3
*Bring in a pair of jeans on Friday, February 6
Extra Milers:
Research and type up (in required format) a one-page report
on the olympics of Ancient Greece. *This must be NEW additional
information (not the information on the hand out from the other day)
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, February 5
Various Vocabulary Voicings
I'm trying to keep up with all things literally literary...including adding in alliteration accordingly...
The students in Room 503 breezed beautifully through their first vocabulary/spelling test today...partially because they studied and studied and partially because I made this exam (as well as last semester's final exam) considerably easier. However, I do think the students are grasping the language more easily and able to use it more fluidly.
I am keeping this post short and sweet as I am preparing for an open house this evening for prospective TPJA parents for the 2009-2010 school year. Speaking of...
Student progress reports will be sent out next week. If you care to set up a time to meet with me concerning your student anytime thereafter, please email me: npitman@tempeprep.org and let me know when a good time is to meet. I am available at 8:00 AM any day of the week and Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays, 3:30 -5:00 PM.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
The students in Room 503 breezed beautifully through their first vocabulary/spelling test today...partially because they studied and studied and partially because I made this exam (as well as last semester's final exam) considerably easier. However, I do think the students are grasping the language more easily and able to use it more fluidly.
I am keeping this post short and sweet as I am preparing for an open house this evening for prospective TPJA parents for the 2009-2010 school year. Speaking of...
Student progress reports will be sent out next week. If you care to set up a time to meet with me concerning your student anytime thereafter, please email me: npitman@tempeprep.org and let me know when a good time is to meet. I am available at 8:00 AM any day of the week and Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays, 3:30 -5:00 PM.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
HOMEWORK, Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Language Arts:
STUDY! - for the Vocabulary/Spelling Test
Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Bring in The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander
(with your name in it)
Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Science:
Continue working on Science Project
Due: March 3
Bring in a pair of jeans (small, large - don't need to fit at all)
Friday, February 6
Math:
ACE 3, p. 40 (21-29, 37-38)
Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Social Studies:
Continue working on Mythology Project
Due: February 17
MANY, MANY THANKS...
To the parents who have supplied us with Kleenex and Sani-Wipes in the past couple of days. The students and I greatly appreciate your donations!!!
STUDY! - for the Vocabulary/Spelling Test
Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Bring in The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander
(with your name in it)
Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Science:
Continue working on Science Project
Due: March 3
Bring in a pair of jeans (small, large - don't need to fit at all)
Friday, February 6
Math:
ACE 3, p. 40 (21-29, 37-38)
Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Social Studies:
Continue working on Mythology Project
Due: February 17
MANY, MANY THANKS...
To the parents who have supplied us with Kleenex and Sani-Wipes in the past couple of days. The students and I greatly appreciate your donations!!!
Murder in Ancient Greece...A Case for Nancy Drew?
...Or simply a drama game in Room 503?
I am sure you suspect the latter, and if that's the case: mystery solved!
This morning we played a drama game that the students really enjoy called "Telegraph Murder" - a cross between the circle game "Telephone" and Charades. However, we played it with a twist: we used all things (ancient) Greek.
The main focus of the game is communication - sans voices - where participants must concentrate on getting information across to another by way of body language, actions and facial expressions only.
Five students form a team and while four of the members leave the room, the fifth onbe is left to choose (from three different cups) a location, an occupation and a weapon. They then have to act out each of these for one of their fellow teammates, who then must interpret what he/she has seen and act it out for the next teammate and so on. The final team player must guess what the original location, occupation and weapon was.
Today, someone could have chosen Sparta, for the location, playwright, as an occupation and brooches as the murder weapons (courtesy of Oedipus).
The game is a great deal of fun, but in no way is it easy. It's very difficult to communicate clearly when you may not use your voice (and, of course, in our class, that can be difficult as well).
Hopefully, the students will all communicate well by way of written word when they embark on their first Vocabulary/Spelling Exam of the semester.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
I am sure you suspect the latter, and if that's the case: mystery solved!
This morning we played a drama game that the students really enjoy called "Telegraph Murder" - a cross between the circle game "Telephone" and Charades. However, we played it with a twist: we used all things (ancient) Greek.
The main focus of the game is communication - sans voices - where participants must concentrate on getting information across to another by way of body language, actions and facial expressions only.
Five students form a team and while four of the members leave the room, the fifth onbe is left to choose (from three different cups) a location, an occupation and a weapon. They then have to act out each of these for one of their fellow teammates, who then must interpret what he/she has seen and act it out for the next teammate and so on. The final team player must guess what the original location, occupation and weapon was.
Today, someone could have chosen Sparta, for the location, playwright, as an occupation and brooches as the murder weapons (courtesy of Oedipus).
The game is a great deal of fun, but in no way is it easy. It's very difficult to communicate clearly when you may not use your voice (and, of course, in our class, that can be difficult as well).
Hopefully, the students will all communicate well by way of written word when they embark on their first Vocabulary/Spelling Exam of the semester.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Monday, February 2, 2009
HOMEWORK, Monday, February 2009
Language Arts:
STUDY! Vocab/Spelling test on Wednesday
Math:
p. 35 (A & B)
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3
Science:
Continue working on project (Due: March 3)
Write up (at least) one paragrpah about where you are at in your project: what materials you have collected; what data/information you've collected thus far; what's working/what you are having problems with.
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3
Social Studies:
Continue working on Mythology project (Due: February 17)
Dedication page (rough draft)
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3
Extra Milers:
*Re-do assignment on playwrights (if you were asked to do so)
Research the origins of each of the following Greek columns: Doric, Ionic and Corinthian. Write at least one paragraph on each – explaining how they first came to be used, what buildings/type of buildings each was used for in Ancient Greece, and what buildings/monuments use these columns here in America (cite at least one building/monument for each type of column). Include images of each building in your paper.
Paper must be:
~ Typed in 12 pt. font, in either Times New Roman or Georgia.
~ Double-spaced
~ At least three clearly-distinguishable paragraphs in length
Images must be attached (stapled on separate page[s]) or incorporated in paper.
*Worth 2 Extra Miler tickets
Paper is due tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3
STUDY! Vocab/Spelling test on Wednesday
Math:
p. 35 (A & B)
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3
Science:
Continue working on project (Due: March 3)
Write up (at least) one paragrpah about where you are at in your project: what materials you have collected; what data/information you've collected thus far; what's working/what you are having problems with.
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3
Social Studies:
Continue working on Mythology project (Due: February 17)
Dedication page (rough draft)
Due: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3
Extra Milers:
*Re-do assignment on playwrights (if you were asked to do so)
Research the origins of each of the following Greek columns: Doric, Ionic and Corinthian. Write at least one paragraph on each – explaining how they first came to be used, what buildings/type of buildings each was used for in Ancient Greece, and what buildings/monuments use these columns here in America (cite at least one building/monument for each type of column). Include images of each building in your paper.
Paper must be:
~ Typed in 12 pt. font, in either Times New Roman or Georgia.
~ Double-spaced
~ At least three clearly-distinguishable paragraphs in length
Images must be attached (stapled on separate page[s]) or incorporated in paper.
*Worth 2 Extra Miler tickets
Paper is due tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3
Happy Ground Hog Day and other Fun February Observances!
Well, it looks like we're in for at least six more weeks of winter, accoring to Phil, the ol' Ground Hog in Punxsutwaney, Pennsylvania.
This morning the students in Room 503 learned that the word February is derived from the Latin words februarius mensis (meaning month of purification). To celebrate, each student was given a bottle of water...thought it might be a nice change from all the junk and sweets that usually accompany our classroom celebrations.
Unfortuantely, it is also National Snack Food Month.
On a rather humorous note, yesterday began National Return Shopping Carts to the Supermarket Month, and on a more reverent note, this month is also Black History Month (I'm not sure why this observance falls in February...January seems like a more apropos time. If anyone knows the origins of this, please let me know).
Regardless of any or all of the above observances, the Sixth Graders will be taking their first Spelling/Vocabulary test of the semester on Wednesday. We have had two spelling "pop quizzes" over the last couple of days of class in the hopes that each student will have a good assessment of what they need to study/work on most for the test in terms of spelling. Tomorrow we will go over all the terminology as a refresher pre-test day.
I am writing progress reports this week that should be sent out next week. I was told some of you did not receive report cards until far after winter break (I also am aware that there were some mailing mishaps). If you do not receive your student's report card next week, please let me know and I will give you a personal copy.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
This morning the students in Room 503 learned that the word February is derived from the Latin words februarius mensis (meaning month of purification). To celebrate, each student was given a bottle of water...thought it might be a nice change from all the junk and sweets that usually accompany our classroom celebrations.
Unfortuantely, it is also National Snack Food Month.
On a rather humorous note, yesterday began National Return Shopping Carts to the Supermarket Month, and on a more reverent note, this month is also Black History Month (I'm not sure why this observance falls in February...January seems like a more apropos time. If anyone knows the origins of this, please let me know).
Regardless of any or all of the above observances, the Sixth Graders will be taking their first Spelling/Vocabulary test of the semester on Wednesday. We have had two spelling "pop quizzes" over the last couple of days of class in the hopes that each student will have a good assessment of what they need to study/work on most for the test in terms of spelling. Tomorrow we will go over all the terminology as a refresher pre-test day.
I am writing progress reports this week that should be sent out next week. I was told some of you did not receive report cards until far after winter break (I also am aware that there were some mailing mishaps). If you do not receive your student's report card next week, please let me know and I will give you a personal copy.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
Thursday, January 29, 2009
HOMEWORK, Thursday, January 29, 2009
*So sorry for the delay!
Language Arts:
STUDY for Vocab. Test
Next Wednesday, February 4
Math:
P. 40-41 (1-6)
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, January 30
Science:
Continue working on Science Fair project
Due: March 3
Bring in an old pair of blue jeans
By Friday, February 6
Social Studies:
Continue working on Greek Mythology project
Due: February 17
O.T.O.:
Do something nice for someone (and don't get found out)
By tomorrow, 8:25 AM
Drama:
Complete any reading/note-taking you didn't finish in class
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, January 30
Extra Milers: Write a one-page (at least) essay, comparing the the similarities and differences of the four great Greek playwrights: Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides and Aristophanes.
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, January 30
Vocal Warm-Ups:
Review Oedipus chorus
*(Especially those who did not know it completely today)
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, January 30
Language Arts:
STUDY for Vocab. Test
Next Wednesday, February 4
Math:
P. 40-41 (1-6)
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, January 30
Science:
Continue working on Science Fair project
Due: March 3
Bring in an old pair of blue jeans
By Friday, February 6
Social Studies:
Continue working on Greek Mythology project
Due: February 17
O.T.O.:
Do something nice for someone (and don't get found out)
By tomorrow, 8:25 AM
Drama:
Complete any reading/note-taking you didn't finish in class
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, January 30
Extra Milers: Write a one-page (at least) essay, comparing the the similarities and differences of the four great Greek playwrights: Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides and Aristophanes.
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, January 30
Vocal Warm-Ups:
Review Oedipus chorus
*(Especially those who did not know it completely today)
Due: Tomorrow, Friday, January 30
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
HOMEWORK, Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Language Arts:
Vocabulary/Spelling Test: STUDY!
Wednesday, February 4
Vocal Warm-Ups:
Memorize the rest of the Oedipus piece
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, January 29
O.T.O.:
Do something nice for someone else (and don't get found out about it).
By Friday, January 30
Math:
Make quiz corrections *(on separate sheet of paper)
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, January 29
Science:
Bring in a pair of old blue jeans (do not need to fit student)
By Friday, February 6
Continue to work on Science Project daily
Science Fair: March 3
Social Studies:
Work on Mythology Project daily
Due Tuesday, February 17
Vocabulary/Spelling Test: STUDY!
Wednesday, February 4
Vocal Warm-Ups:
Memorize the rest of the Oedipus piece
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, January 29
O.T.O.:
Do something nice for someone else (and don't get found out about it).
By Friday, January 30
Math:
Make quiz corrections *(on separate sheet of paper)
Due: Tomorrow, Thursday, January 29
Science:
Bring in a pair of old blue jeans (do not need to fit student)
By Friday, February 6
Continue to work on Science Project daily
Science Fair: March 3
Social Studies:
Work on Mythology Project daily
Due Tuesday, February 17
No (Trojan) Horsing Around!
Today the students in Room 503 were given Part III - the final part - of their Greek Mythology Project directions. The project is fairly in-depth and requires a great deal of thought, creativity and roll-up-your-sleeves, get-down-to-it kind of work...in just two and a half weeks.
In case your student doesn't the show you the requirements for the project, I am posting them here for your reference:
REQUIREMENTS:
“Scrapbook”
In case your student doesn't the show you the requirements for the project, I am posting them here for your reference:
REQUIREMENTS:
“Scrapbook”
*(Details can be found on your student's hard copy of the requirements)
~ Cover Illustration
~ Dedication Page
~ Table of Contents
~ Genealogical tree page
~ One written mythological story, where your character has a “starring” role.
~ A write up of why this story may have been important to the ancient Greeks
~ Story illustration
~ A list of three to ten references to your character in later forms of literature.
~ A (at least) one-page write up about your thoughts/feelings regarding your character, his/her experiences, and Greek mythology in general. Also include what your experience was like researching and learning more about Greek mythology: what you like about the stories, the characters, etc.
~ Bibliography
~ Back Cover
~ All written work MUST be typed:
· 12 point font
· Times New Roman or Georgia font style
· Double-spaced
· Indented paragraphs
~ Pages in “scrapbook” must be numbered (this will make for a clear Table of Contents) at bottom of page (centered or in right corner).
~ You may “decorate” and get as creative with the “scrapbook” as you like, as long as you use the above structure to do it in.
Oral Story
Use the story you (re)wrote in your “scrapbook” as the base for your oral story. You will be required to tell the story, out loud to the class. You will be graded on clarity, vocal work, presentation skills (including how you use your body and your voice to “color” your words). *(Ms. Pitman will show you an example next week)
*EXTRA MILERS: See Ms. Pitman, individually, to discuss how you will go the Extra Mile on this project.
FINAL DUE DATE: (For both the Scrapbook & Oral Story) Tuesday, February 17
Parents: If you have any questions regarding the project, please email me.
Cheers,
Ms. Pitman
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