ATTENTION STUDENTS WHO NEED TO TAKE THE EOG READING RETEST!

EOG scores were received today, and students who scored a level 1 (if they turned in their permission form) or 2 will need to retest next week.

Here are some effective websites to visit over this long weekend so that you can practice for next week's reading retest.  Just copy and paste the links!  Remember, no crying or feeling bad.  Instead, take a good, deep breath and work, work, work!  Put your heart, soul, and mind into it, and you can accomplish ANYTHING! :)

http://www.nysedregents.org/Grade7/EnglishLanguageArts/home.html

-Click on BOOK 1 for each year.  Answers to this site are provided: click on Scoring Key and Item Map.  Use your own notebook paper for this.

http://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/tg/sr/documents/cstrtqela7.pdf

Use SQ3R for longer passages!  This is the closest thing to the EOG that you can find due to its length.  As you work on this, practice your focus skills and be thinking as you go, just as you will on the test next week.

http://www.doe.virginia.gov/testing/sol/released_tests/2011/test11_reading7.pdf

This is a good practice site and it has answers so that you can see what you missed.  As you do this, look for those key words in passages!

http://www.wcpss.net/success-series/MS_Language_Arts/language_arts.html

Many students told me that the videos in this website helped them A LOT!  You will need Quicktime to watch, and you can download it from this site.  Watch each part listed on the bottom of the page.  Find a computer that will work if yours doesn't, because these videos are worth it.

http://www.quia.com/mc/155157.html

This is a good site for review of elements of stories and plot.

Want more practice?  Check out the sites that were listed a few weeks ago, too!

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May 21-25

-Students who failed their May 4 AR reading test need to be reading every single night!  The make-up test is 5/29, and if you test early, five points are added to your score.

-EOG test results are due back on Thursday or Friday of this week.  I'll let you know what score you made just as soon as I can!

-Late signed interim grade reports are overdue.  Bring them this week.

-Thanks again to the many families who sent in goodies/donations for our after the EOG test celebrations!

-SPAN is up-to-date and many students are missing work.  Turn in make-up work ASAP!  Remember, the only zeroes that can't be made up are the EOG practice assignments since we reviewed the answers in class on the day they were due.

-We begin our hardest unit of the year this week.  Practice those wicked vocabulary words, folks!

-Students will rewrite their lemur research papers in class on Wednesday.  Tutors will be available for one-on-one assistance.  It is homework to finish what you do not wrap up in class.  Remember, anyone who scored under a 60 is required to rewrite.

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Monday, 5/21

-NO HOMEWORK! 

Tuesday, 5/22

-Write each "Hallucination" vocabulary word 3x and its definition once.  Use the format we discussed in class (it's on the top of your handout).  Be neat, spell each word out loud as you write, and proofread.  These are difficult words, people!

Wednesday, 5/23

-Finish the rewrite of your lemur research paper if you did not do so in class today.

Thursday, 5/24

-Create 13 flash cards, one for each of your "Hallucination" vocabulary words.  We have a quiz on these next week.  Remember, word goes on the front of the card, and definition goes on the back.  Use index cards or cut up your own.  Spell each word out loud as you write it, and proofread your cards.  Draw little pictures for each one if it will help your memory.

Friday, 5/25

-No formal homework, but if you haven't taken your re-test for your AR book, you need to be reading this weekend!  :)

A QUICK NOTE . . .

If you go on SPAN this weekend, don't panic if you don't see a grade in a column.  The grading program we use has shut down as of 5:00 tonight, and I'm unable to finish entering all of my scores.  If the grades don't show up by Monday night, feel free to worry (and make up your missing work, for that matter)!

By the way, thanks to the many, many, many families who sent in goodies and/or donations for our after-EOG test celebrations.  We had plenty of treats all three days, and it was wonderful for our students to be able to sit back, relax, and enjoy goodies after such stressful days of testing.  We have an AWESOME team! :)

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WEEK OF MAY 14-18

-EOGs begin Wednesday with the BEST one, which of course is READING! Thursday is math with calculator, and Friday is math without calculator.  Students should be reviewing their EOG terms handout that was given out Monday and their many EOG practice packets that were handed out today as well.

-We desperately need treats for our after-EOG snacks.  Our lunch time is after 1:00, and students will be starving!    We need individually wrapped goodies of every type (cookies, brownies, cupcakes, chips, Cheetos), juice boxes, canned or SMALL bottled drinks/water, and individually wrapped candies!  Parents, please send in anything that you can.  Monetary donations are fine, too--we'll be happy to do the shopping for you!  Thanks SO much.  This is a huge undertaking, and we can't do it without you.

-Our EOG Extravaganza is Tuesday during 4th period.  Parents are invited to attend, especially if they have a child who is performing!  Students who are performing need to come to my room during lunch tomorrow to practice.  The Extravaganza will begin at 12:30 and be over around 1:10 or so!

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Monday, May 14

-Finish the "Ooka and the Stolen Smell" packet if you didn't do so during Smart Lunch.

-Signed interim reports are due Wednesday.

-Bring in GOBS of GOODIES!

Tuesday, May 15

-Take your lemur home today (if it isn't on display in the glass case by the Media Center).

-Get plenty of rest and eat a good breakfast so you'll be ready for tomorrow's reading EOG!

-BRING GOODIES!

Wednesday-Friday

-No homework!  Be here at school ON TIME so you won't have to take a make-up test!

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THE INDIVIDUALIZED EOG PACKET IS DUE TOMORROW (THURSDAY!).  IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS A WEBSITE, SUBSTITUTE IT WITH ONE BELOW.  REMEMBER, GUYS, I TOLD YOU TO EMAIL ME BY 5:30 TODAY IF YOU NEEDED ONE THAT SPECIFICALLY ADDRESSES YOUR NEEDS, BUT IF YOU DIDN'T, THESE ARE GOOD SITES.

WEEK OF MAY 7-11

-Interim grade reports go home on Friday and are due back by next Wednesday!  Early turn-in equals extra credit!

-Students who failed their AR book test last week (grades under 70) must take another test on a similar-level book by May 29.  On Monday students told me what books they plan to read, and they are expected to score 85% or higher on this upcoming new test.  Taking notes, using SQ3R, writing summaries, and focusing will REALLY make a difference.  Reading for at least 20 minutes a night is always expected, but it's especially important for those who need to test!  Parents, remember, too, that the public library offers downloading of many, many read-aloud books so that your child can listen and read at the same time.

-On Tuesday, students can expect to take home a letter to parents begging for goodies!  This team's tradition is to treat students to snacks every single day of EOGs.  We will need individually wrapped goodies of every type, juice boxes, canned or SMALL bottled drinks/water, and individually wrapped candies!  Parents, please send in anything that you can by next Tuesday.  Monetary donations are fine, too--we'll be happy to do the shopping for you!  Thanks SO much.  This is a huge undertaking, and we can't do it without you.

-We have begun our EOG Extravaganza troupe work this week, and will have our final performance on Friday.  Homework this week will be to memorize lines!  The best of the best groups will perform at our EOG Extravaganza next Tuesday during 4th period, and parents are invited to attend.  

-Students need to continue to work on their individualized EOG website packets.  I have extended the time this is due to THURSDAY of this week.  Remember to do steps 1 and 2, and do step 3 if necessary.  Parents need to sign the instruction handout.

-New STAR reading reports will go home on Friday along with interims for students who have shown growth this year.  In addition, AR reports for this quarter will go home as well.

HOMEWORK FOR MONDAY-THURSDAY:

-Continue to work on your individualized EOG website handout(s).  Your parent-signed instruction page and your evaluation/what you'll remember are all due on Thursday instead of Wednesday (you're welcome).

-Memorize your lines for the EOG skits!  You will have a quiz in class on Thursday where you must perform in front of Mrs. Brown.  The final performance will be videotaped on Friday, so be ready!  Practice in class and use your time well.

Friday, May 11

-Take home your interim and L.A. reports.  Let your parents know if YOUR group was chosen as best of the best.  Parents are invited to come next Tuesday (during 4th period) to watch our EOG Extravaganza.

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WEEK OF APRIL 30 - MAY 4

-Our very last AR book test is Friday!  Students committed to their books on March 23 and the goal is to score 85% or higher!  Read, read, read, Supernovas!

-Several weeks ago, students took a practice EOG test called CASE 21.  Using the data from the test, I have compiled individualized reports for each student.  The reports show the grade they would have made on the EOG based on the CASE 21 test and then lists websites that offer practice in the areas in which they were not strong.  These reports took me a long time to compile, and it is each student's job to follow the instructions on their reports and do the exercises on the websites BY MAY 9TH.  Parents, you will need to sign the instruction handout, and please help your child set aside time to regularly work on getting this work done by 5/9.  It is a LOT of work, and will require at least 20 minutes each night between now and the 9th.  I am convinced, though, that it will translate into higher EOG scores for your child in reading!  :)

-Back by popular demand (and due to considerable whining), both Wednesday and Thursday will be reading workshops.  Students may read or test early, pay library fines (please, please, please), and bring a snack to enjoy.

-The lemur research papers are looking GREAT and will be returned to students next Monday.  Parenthetical documentation and a full Works Cited?  That's pretty hard stuff!  I am proud of how very much my students have learned about lemurs, research, and how to write formal research papers.

-Thank you notes are being sent home on Monday for families who donated a bit extra so that all of our students could enjoy our field trip.  WE APPRECIATE OUR GENEROUS FAMILIES SO MUCH!

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Monday, April 30

-READ for Friday's AR book test!

-Finish your EOG Test Tips brochure if you did not do so today.  Remember, you must give ten really good tips for surviving that upcoming reading EOG.

Tuesday, May 1

-Finish "Rabbit's Tall Tale" if you did not do so in Smart Lunch today.

-Take home your individualized CASE 21 EOG report and begin visiting websites and following directions.  Be sure to get your parents to sign the instructions!  The instruction page is due on May 9 when you turn in steps 1-3.

-Bring a book and a snack for our Reading Workshop!  Bring $ if you owe a fine, too.

Wednesday, May 2

-Bring book and snack for the Reading Workshop!

-Continue to work on your individualized EOG practice!

Thursday, May 3

-Be ready to test on your book tomorrow!  Continue to work on your EOG practice, too.  Bring your CASE 21 REPORT and you can get some of your work done while we are up in the Media Center tomorrow!  You are free to do this once we take our STAR and AR tests.  YAY!

Friday, May 4

-No official homework, but continue to work on your individualized EOG practice.  Remember, your instruction handout (signed by your parents) and steps 1-3 for all assigned websites are due next Wednesday!

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WEEK OF APRIL 23-27

-Many, many thanks to the wonderful families who sent in donations to help our students go to see the lemurs this week.  The Supernovas team is filled with fantastic students, and now we know WHY!

-We go to the Duke Lemur Center on Wednesday (Mrs. Brown's and Ms. Wilson's 2nd period classes) and Thursday (Mr. Rutten's and Mrs. Farmer's 2nd period classes).  Remember to dress for the weather, as we will be outdoors for the majority of the time.  Bring your $ for lunch at McD's, too!  Be sure you are earning extra money, Supernovas, so that you can buy cool lemur stuff at the Lemur Center Gift Shop!  YOU ARE ALLOWED TO TAKE PICTURES OR VIDEOS AS LONG AS THERE IS NO FLASH!  You are also allowed to use iPods or other hand-held devices on the bus going there and coming back.  We discuss these rules in class on Tuesday.

-The lemur projects are being presented in class this week and they look awesome!  Well done!  The best of the best will be chosen to go up on display in the glass box by the Media Center.  Final grades will be given out by Friday at the latest.  It depends on when Ms. Schweigert can get here to choose her favorites!  Those chosen to go on display will receive 5 added points.

-Our last Accelerated Reader book test is next week, on the 4th.  Be reading every single night!

-Wednesday and Thursday will be reading workshops in Language Arts.  Bring a book and a snack for class those days.  Due to the field trips, first and fourth period classes get two days of reading in a row.  Lucky, lucky, lucky.  Bring your AR book to school this week.

-SPAN is up and working!  All research logs and works cited pages must be finished tomorrow and turned in.  First period will complete their works cited pages in class on Tuesday.

-Parents, if you plan to meet us at McDonald's (Hwy 70 at Millbrook Road) for lunch on the day your child goes on the field trip, don't be surprised if we are either a bit early or a bit late!  We should be there by 12:30, but we are always at the mercy of our bus and traffic!  We do look forward to seeing you there.

-Friday is an Early Release day! 

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Homework for Monday-Friday

-It is my policy that if students are assigned work to do over the weekend (what I consider to be their family time), there is no homework the following week to make up for it.  This week, there is no official homework, but students do need to be reading in order to get ready for next week's AR book test.  Our goal is to score 85% correct or higher on tests.  Parents, please ensure that your child is reading at home, and students, do your very, very best to do well on this last test.  It's time to GROW!  :)

Bring your AR book to school this week!

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WEEK OF APRIL 16-20

-The field trip $11 is due Friday!  We really, truly appreciate any donations toward this expensive trip.  Quite a few students have told me that, due to unemployment or underemployment at home, they cannot pay the entire $11.  Thanks to the many parents who have already generously sent in some extra money to help.  This is an AWESOME team!  :)

-Our 3-D lemur project is due MONDAY, April 23!  Be sure to follow the instructions sent home last week and make your lemur LOOK LIKE the one you are researching!  Remember the snout, tail, and coloring!  I sent home recipes for homemade dough, or you can use Crayola Model Magic, fabric over a frame, felt, etc.  Remember the many samples we've looked over in my class, Supernovas.  Late projects = 10 points off and a phone call home, so turn your lemur in on time!

-Turn in your lemur project this week and get five points added to your project grade!  It's due next Monday.

-Field trip dates: 

  Mrs. Brown/Ms. Wilson's 2nd period go Weds., April 25

  Mr. Rutten/Mrs. Farmer's 2nd period go Thurs., Apri l 26 

  *Remember to bring $ for lunch and save up to buy cool stuff at the Lemur Center gift shop, too!  Wear walking shoes, and watch the weather and dress accordingly.

-We have a pep rally on Friday!  GO TEAMS!

-We will be writing our Works Cited in class on Monday.  If you did not finish it in class, you will need to come during lunch to finish it up.  You must turn this in, or I won't grade your lemur research paper!  It would be plagiarism without the Works Cited page.  EEK!

-We will be writing our lemur research paper in class and learning how to do parenthetical documentation from Tuesday through Thursday.  The paper is due Friday at the beginning of class.  You may type it at home for five points added to your score, but be SURE to include the parenthetical documentation!

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MONDAY, APRIL 16

-Your Lemur Picture Page is due tomorrow!  Remember to have pictures of different types of lemurs, and be sure you label each picture with the lemur name.

-Come to my room tomorrow during LUNCH if you didn't finish your Works Cited page.

TUESDAY, APRIL 17

-If you didn't finish it during Smart Lunch, wrap up "Lesson One: The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" EOG test prep.  Remember, you must say WHY the right answer is correct and WHY the incorrect answers don't work.  This must be done in order to get full credit for your work.  I WILL NOT ACCEPT LATE WORK ON EOG TEST PREP ASSIGNMENTS!  ONCE WE GO OVER ANSWERS IN CLASS, THE ONLY FOLKS WHO CAN TURN IT IN LATE ARE THE PEOPLE WHO WERE ABSENT THAT DAY!

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18

-No official homework.  Remember that your decorated lemur folder (extra credit) is due Friday.  If you feel you are running behind on your research paper writing, you may work on your body paragraphs at home.  Use  your Media Center Logs for your body paragraph facts.  The body paragraph formula for a research paper is:

1)TOPIC SENTENCE (example:  The XX lemur is a fascinating animal.)

2)Eight facts from your Media Center Logs.  Make sure they flow logically, and connect the ideas.

3)THESIS (example:  As you can see, there is a lot to learn about the XX lemur.)

THURSDAY, APRIL 19

-Finish your lemur research paper if you did not do so in class.  Don't forget parenthetical documentation!  If you wish to type it, you will get five points added to your score. 

-Your extra credit decorated lemur folder is due tomorrow!

-FIELD TRIP MONEY MUST BE TURNED IN TO YOUR 2ND PERIOD TEACHER TOMORROW!  SCHOOL POLICY!

FRIDAY, APRIL 20

-Your 3-D lemur project is due Monday.  Remember that you will also need to be able to tell the class 10 things about your lemur.  Write some facts down on a 3x5 card so that you will remember them when you are up in front of the class!  Best projects will receive extra credit, and if Mrs. Schweigert chooses yours, it will go on display in the glass box upstairs by the Media Center.  COOL!

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LANGUAGE ARTS 1ST PERIOD KIDS!  PLEASE NOTE THIS CHANGE IN MONDAY NIGHT'S HOMEWORK!

The "Lemur Heaven" article is NOT homework for MY FIRST PERIOD!  Since we got so carried away talking about lemurs today in class, you will read and fill out the article tomorrow.  All other classes do indeed need to fill out the article for HW tonight.  :)

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WEEK OF APRIL 9-13

Happy 4th quarter!

-Report cards go home on Thursday!  Language Arts Accelerated Reader quarter 3 reports go home that day, too, along with field trip info!

-Have you turned in your spring pictures or picture money?  Oh, the shame!  Turn these in ASAP!

-We begin our wonderful lemur research unit this week!  Information handouts on the unit itself and the project go home on Monday, so be on the lookout, parents.

-The ONLY project that I assign all year long is the 3-D lemur project which is due on April 23.  Parents, expect your child to spend about two to three or more hours on this!  Read over the handout (which includes a recipe for homemade dough if you wish) and be very sure that the project is turned in on time!  Projects turned in early receive five points added to their score.

-The field trip information form goes home on Thursday with report cards!  Your $11 is due by next Friday, April 20!  Donations are needed and would be greatly appreciated.

-Remember that all research and writing of the research paper will be completed in my class at school.  Please don't write at home, as I need to teach parenthetical documentation!

-Our next AR test is May 4, so be reading for 20 minutes every night.

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Monday, April 9

-Read over and then fill out the "Lemur Heaven" article packet.

-Take home both lemur research paper unit handouts.  Parents, these are blue pages, so be watching for them.  Your child may need supplies for their lemur project, and students will need to be earning and saving up their money!  The field trip cost is $11, and students must buy their own lunch at McDonalds, not to mention the cool stuff that's available at the Lemur Center gift shop.

Tuesday, April 10

-Wrap up the "How Smart Are Animals" EOG practice from Smart Lunch if you didn't already do so.  Remember, to get full credit for answers you must say WHY your correct answer is the right one and WHY the incorrect ones don't work.  This is expected on ALL reading EOG practice work.

Wednesday, April 11

-Study your Ring of Power Word List for next Friday's big test! 

Thursday, April 12

-Take home the field trip info form and bring in your $11 by next Friday, 4/20.  Remember, we sure could use donations to help students whose families are having a tough time.  This is an expensive trip when you consider that students must buy their own lunch, too.  Thank you, parents, for your generosity.

-Get report card envelopes signed and keep your AR report at home. 

-Be thinking about how to get pictures of lemurs so that you can create the lemur picture page due next week.  These pictures must be labeled with lemur names!  You just need 8 1/2 x 11 inch paper, but feel free to go wild and make yours larger if you wish.  Hand-drawn or computer printed pics are fine.  My room will be open at lunch on Monday if you need a working printer, but understand that the pictures will not be in color if you print them here.

Friday, April 13

-None, of course!  Remember, your lemur project is due 4/23, and our ROP test is next Friday!

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WEEK OF MARCH 26-29

-Yep!  It's a four-day week!  I wish you each a lovely and restful Spring Break!

-Have you turned in your pictures/picture money yet?  I'm still missing many envelopes, folks. 

-Congratulations to the 18 students who qualified as Mrs. Brown's Certified Essay Tutors!  Remember, if you are a tutor, and you choose to help someone else, you will receive extra credit for your time.  How did these students get to be tutors?  They had to have made a 95 or above on the essay.

-Essays will be returned as soon as all rewrites are turned in and graded.  If you need to rewrite, I expect you in my room at lunch tomorrow and Wednesday!  Look on the list of Certified Essay Tutors and ask someone to help you!  Remember--you really DO have access to 50 thousand coaches in life, people! :)

-The "I Wandered Lonely As A Cloud" quiz packet that you do in Smart Lunch on Monday/Tuesday is due Wednesday in class, so what you don't finish during Smart Lunch will be homework on Tuesday.  Don't forget to say WHY incorrect answers don't work and WHY the correct answer is really right.  I know you hate it, but you know that"I must be cruel to be kind!"

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Monday, March 26

-Read your new AR book for 20 minutes and be thinking:  is this a book that I can truly comprehend?  Take ten notes, and don't forget the TITLE and pages read.  If you feel that you need to change books, you must let me know by Thursday of this week.  After Thursday, you are committed to reading the book you have selected.

-Our next AR book test is May 4th!

Tuesday, March 27

-Finish the "I Wandered Lonely As A Cloud" packet and answer all questions, writing WHY answers are correct/incorrect in the margins.  You may use your class notes to help you!  This will be checked first thing Wednesday, so be very sure that you have it with you.  Once I review answers in class, you may NOT turn it in, so late EOG test prep exercises will not be accepted unless you were absent.  Even then, you must get the work the following day.  Don't wait for a week and suddenly realize that you haven't turned it in, or it will be too late.

Wednesday, March 28

-Write or type your final copy of your extended metaphor poem!  Decorate it if you wish.  Be sure to check your spelling!

Thursday, March 29

-Homework over the break?  Nope, but read if you are worried about the May 4 test!  HAPPY SPRING BREAK!

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ATTENTION SUPERNOVAS!  THERE'S BEEN A CHANGE OF PLANS!

There is NO homework tonight.  CASE 21 testing caused us to run late, and you are NOT ready to write your extended metaphor poem!  We'll do this next week.  I know this breaks your hearts . . .  :)

Tomorrow will be a partial Reading Workshop.  I need everyone to have their new AR book for 4th quarter, and many of you were unable to get your book today in the Media Center.  Bring your new challenge book for 4th quarter and a snack to class, and if you didn't get your book today, either bring it in tomorrow or plan to go up to the Media Center during our Workshop and check one out.  See you then!

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WEEK OF MARCH 19-23

-Our school is taking part in CASE 21 testing this week, so 7th graders will be taking practice reading and math EOG's on Monday/Tuesday.  Classes will be shortened both days to make up for the morning test sessions.

-Have you turned in your pictures/money for pictures yet?  Do so this week!

-Due to CASE 21 testing, our Accelerated Reader book test will be taken on 3/22 in the Media Center, not 3/21.  Lucky you!  Now you can test on 3/21 and get the extra five points added to your score!  Remember, you can test during homeroom time (20 minutes) and after school, too.  Smart Lunch time is available on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays for testing as well. 

-When we go up to the Media Center to test on our AR book on Thursday, students will get their new AR book for 4th quarter's test.  All students MUST choose the HIGHEST LEVEL BOOK THEY HAVE READ YET!  Make sure that the book you have is challenging, and use all of the reading strategies we went over during first semester so that you will do wonderfully on your next test.

-We continue to explore figurative language this week!

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Monday, 3/19

-Finish your Smart Lunch poem questions if you did not do so today.  Remember, you must write in the margins WHY the correct answer works and WHY the other answer choices are incorrect.

Tuesday, 3/20 and Wednesday, 3/21

-Two nights of no homework?  Yep.  Now you have no excuses for not being ready to test on your AR book on Thursday, if not before.

Thursday, 3/22

-Write your own extended metaphor poem!  Length:  8-10 lines.  Remember, you have ONE metaphor comparing something or yourself to ONE thing, and then you explain that metaphor in the 8-10 lines that follow.  Review the "Oh Captain, My Captain" poem and class handouts to help you do your best.  Describe, use alliteration, and do all of those things that good poets know to do!  Be prepared to share your poem in class tomorrow.

Friday, 3/23

-None this weekend, folks!  Hope you have a good one! :)

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WEEK OF MARCH 12-16

-We begin EOG test prep sessions during Smart Lunch this week.  Lucky you!  This means less homework for you in Language Arts, so work well.  Remember, it's not enough to just pick the correct answer on handouts.  You must write notes in the margin explaining WHERE you see evidence to prove the answer is correct, and also WHERE in the text you see proof that an answer is incorrect.  This is good, solid critical thinking, folks!  Smart Lunch handouts will be reviewed daily in Language Arts and will be put into an EOG portfolio that is a grade.

-All students need to be reading for 20 minutes every night.  We no longer have time for reading in class, as students have learned reading comprehension strategies to address their individual reading styles.

-Friday is an Early Release day! 

-Our last Accelerated Reader book test is March 21--NEXT WEEK!  Read, read, read!

-We begin our EOG/Root Word/Poetry unit this week.

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Monday, March 12

-Read your AR book for 20 minutes and take ten notes.  Be sure to write down the title of the book and the pages that you read.  Be ready to test by 3/21 or earlier for extra credit if you can!

Tuesday, March 13

-Finish "Telling Stories in Clay" if you did not do so during Smart Lunch today.  Remember, next to your correct answer you must write WHERE you see evidence to prove that it's the right choice, and next to incorrect answers you must explain WHERE you see evidence to rule them out.  This will be reviewed tomorrow in class, and it will go into an EOG portfolio as a grade in Language Arts.

Wednesday, 3/14

-Read the poem "Me" on the handout and answer questions on the back of the form.  Follow instructions carefully!

Thursday, 3/15

-Write a short letter to Mrs. Brown.  You only need 3-4 sentences.  Tell her what you are doing to be sure that you will do your BEST on the AR test next week.  How will you make sure that you are comprehending what you read and that you will score well on your test?

Friday, 3/16

-No formal homework, guys, but remember to read if you need to do so.  Our test is next week!

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WEEK OF MARCH 5-9

-YAY!  The good folks at Schoolnotes.com tell me that they've fixed this site, so you won't have to get your Language Arts info from Mr. Rutten's site anymore!

-Parent-signed interims are due TUESDAY!  These and the 3rd quarter AR reports went home last Thursday, and many students still have not turned them in.  Be sure to get these signed and turn them in, or you'll have to phone home and serve silent lunch, Supernovas!   EEK!

-The final copy of our letter recommending a book to a friend is due on Friday at the beginning of class.  Students ARE allowed to type this at home to get five points added to their grade, but the requirements are that it be in 14 point print and no smaller, and that the paper be DOUBLE-SPACED.    Papers typed without these requirements will not receive the extra credit!

-Many, many thanks to the 40 students who have volunteered to help out as peer tutors for our essay!  I am very proud of each of you!  Remember to turn in a piece of paper showing who you tutored, how long you worked, and what you helped with.  That way I can reward you with extra credit.

-Our next AR test is 3/21, so be reading at home for 20 minutes each evening.  Remember, you may ONLY test on the book you have committed to in Language Arts.  See Mrs. Brown after you test so that I can update your data.

-Fellowship of the Ring Lunch Bunch meets on Thursday!  Bring any materials you want to use for your puppets/music video!

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Monday, 3/5

-Read for 20 minutes and finish the "ARP Reading Log #1."  Use lovely, complete sentences for the two questions requiring answers.

-Turn in signed interim/AR report tomorrow!

Tuesday, 3/6

-Read for 20 minutes to prepare for the 3/21 test.  Take notes/write summaries and you can use these to help you with your test and then turn them in for extra credit.  Life is good!

Wednesday and Thursday, 3/6 and 3/7

-If you finished your final copy in class, take it home tonight if you wish and type it up for extra credit.  To get five points added to your essay grade (WOW!), you MUST DOUBLE-SPACE your paper.   If you have Microsoft Office 2007, you go up to Page Layout, Click on Paragraph (there's a little box on the right side at the bottom), then go to Line Spacing and click DOUBLE and OK.   Not only must it be double-spaced, you must use print that is easily readable and is no smaller than 14.  Studies show that ARIAL is most favored by readers, so it is the font I suggest.

-Read for 20 minutes to get ready for our upcoming test, and take notes/write summaries for EC!

-Bring your AR book to read if you turn your essay in early!  Testing early equals extra credit, you know.

Friday, 3/9

-No official HW, but remember to get ready for the AR test on 3/21, especially if you want to drop a low test grade and read two books by the deadline.

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WEEK OF FEBRUARY 13-17

-As Charlie Brown would say, “good grief!”   Where is all of last week’s work?  Where is the homework for my students?  Where’s the essay info that I typed up for parents?  It seems that Schoolnotes is still having trouble with my account.  Sorry, folks.  I’ll email the managers at Schoolnotes after I finish typing this week’s work (which I sincerely hope you actually get).

-All essay rewrites are due on Thursday.  Parents, please go to SPAN and check out your child’s essay grade.  Students who scored below a 77 are required to rewrite.  Tutors are available in my room during Smart Lunch/Lunch time, and we spent time last week going to essay stations and taking notes on writing so that students will better understand the essay requirements.  No student should have a failing grade on their essay.

-Due to popular demand (and lots of student whining), Tuesday will be a Reading Workshop day.  Bring your book and snack.  The AR book test must be taken by Wednesday.

-Friday is an early release day.

-Picture day will be Thursday, 2/23!  Fliers will be coming home this week.

Monday, 2/13

-Carefully fill out the “Good Book” handout that I gave you in class.  Choose your book well, because you will have to write two ten-sentence body paragraphs next week describing it and saying how/why this book is worth reading.  Make SURE you choose a book that you can bring to class every day and refer to as you write.

-Bring a book and a snack for tomorrow’s Reading Workshop.  Now, STOP emailing me and begging!  HA!  HA!  :)

-Test by Wednesday!

Tuesday, 2/14

-Finish the SQ3R handout if you didn’t do so in class today.

-Be ready to test on your AR book tomorrow.

Wednesday, 2/15

-Our next AR test will be on March 21.  Be sure that the book you choose to read next is the right level for you based upon your last test score.  Remember the .4 rule, and don’t forget that you have flexibility in choosing not to drop down in level if you feel that the reading level isn’t too hard for you.

Thursday, 2/16

-None!  Tomorrow is Career Day, so we have no core classes.

Friday, 2/17

-No homework on this long weekend.  Just remember to be reading your AR book so that you can test by 3/21.

WEEK OF JANUARY 30 THROUGH FEBRUARY 3
-Report card envelopes are due back signed by Wednesday!
-Our next AR book test is 2/15, and students should be reading every single night at home.  Parents, your child needs to read for 20 minutes per day.  Students who take notes or write summaries may use these when they test (WOW) and then turn their work in for extra credit points.
-The critical response to literature essay on what Scrooge learned will be returned next week.  Many thanks to the 30 students who have been acting as certified tutors!   Remember, the extra credit points you earn can be saved up to equal a homework pass if you choose.  Students will have the opportunity to become a certified tutor every time we do an essay assignment, and we'll be doing quite a few more over the next two months.
-There will be a QUIZ on the "Third Wish" vocabulary words on Friday.
-Starting this quarter, it is a requirement that each week's class notes be kept on one piece of paper (all right, all right--you can staple two together if you cover one paper front and back, but most of you won't).  These will be collected and graded each week as a notebook quiz.
-The Fellowship of the Ring Lunch Bunch meets Thursday for the poster contest judging!  Friday is our movie mania night, so bring in your permission form and $3 to help pay for our pizza.  I supply drinks, cups, plates, and napkins.  Don't forget to bring in snacks/desserts to share.  Pizza!  Cheetos!  The Two Towers movie!  Sigh.  Life is good.
-------------------------------------------
Monday, 1/30
-Read for 20 minutes and take notes or write a summary for extra credit if you wish.  Reading is mandatory, but the writing is your choice.
Tuesday, 1/31
-Write each word on your "Three Wishes" paper three times and the definitions once.  Use the format we discussed in class.  You have 11 items on your list, so that's a total of writing 33 words.  SLOW down, SOUND WORDS OUT as you write, and really THINK as you go.  Remember, this is how you study as you work!
-AR test is 2/15!
Wednesday, 2/1
-Study your vocabulary for "Third Wish" using a piece of paper that is folded long-ways.  Number the words on the front (1-11) and on the inside of the paper, number the definitions (1-11).  Study by looking on the front to see if you know the definitions, and then open to the definitions and see if you can spell the words.  Use this with a partner if you can.
Thursday, 2/2
-Vocabulary word quiz is tomorrow!  Study your folded paper or use today's prequiz to be sure that you do well.
Friday, 2/3
-None, naturally, but be sure you are ready to test on the 15th.
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WEEK OF JANUARY 24-27
Welcome to second semester, Supernovas!
-Parent-signed 2nd Quarter AR Student Record Reports are due on Thursday!  These went home last week.
-Report cards go home on Friday of this week.
-Make-up Ring of Power Word Tests will be given during 2nd lunch on Wednesday.  Students making this up will use their typed notification as their pass to Mrs. Brown's room on Weds.
-We will wrap up our critical response to literature this week in class.  The final copy is due Friday.
-Students need to bring their AR books every single day to LA in order to read while essays are being edited or in case essays are finished early.
-The next AR test will be on February 15.
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Tuesday, 1/24
-Read for 20 minutes and write a five-sentence summary or take ten notes.  Remember that spelling, capitalization, and punctuation count, as does underlining the title of your book.   Don't forget to write your page numbers down!
-Your signed 2nd Quarter Student Record Report for AR is due Thursday.
Wednesday, 1/25
-Read your AR book for 20 minutes.
-Signed Qtr. 2 AR Student Record Report is due tomorrow.
Thursday, 1/26
-Read your AR book for 20 minutes.
 -Bring your AR book and snack for tomorrow's reading workshop.  You must finish and turn in your final copy of your essay before you read/eat.

Friday, 1/27
-No homework!  Just remember that our next AR test is 2/15.   :)
*************************************************************
WEEK OF JANUARY 17-20
-Our Ring of Power Word Test for 2nd quarter is on Thursday of this week!  Do your homework AND practice!
-Second Quarter Student Record Reports for AR tests go home on Thursday for parent signatures.  Parents, be sure to ask your child about his/her progress and about reading goals for 3rd quarter.
-Our next AR test will be on February 15.  Remember to be SURE that your book is the correct level for you, and that we have an AR test here in the Media Center.  To check for tests, go to LRMS website, click on Media Center, and then look for AR Books by Title.  You can check the level of the books there, too.
-We continue to write our Critical Response to Literature on "What Scrooge Learned" in class.  Remember, all formal writing is done in school and not at home, although students may sometimes opt to take their papers home and type them for extra points.  This will be an option on our NEXT essay, but not this one.
-We will have a Reading Workshop on Thursday after the ROP word test, so bring your book and a snack!
-----------------------------------------
Tuesday, January 17
-Write your ROP words three times each, and definitions three times each (if your words have them).  This is practice for Thursday's test, so DO it.
-Want 50 points extra credit?  Bring in a note tomorrow saying that you saw this offer on new.schoolnotes.com, and it's YOURS!  Get your parents/guardians to sign your note.  By the way, this is to make up for the missed opportunity two weeks ago when so many of you couldn't access my schoolnotes site due to server issues.  Sadly, if you are one of the few who got the extra credit from two weeks ago, you can't get it again.  I know, I know.  Boo hoo!  As always, don't tell those lazy bumlet friends of yours about this offer, because it's between YOU and ME!
Wednesday, 1/18
-Take a practice ROP test and check it!  Be ready for tomorrow's REAL test.
-Bring your AR book and snack for tomorrow's Reading Workshop.
Thursday, 1/19
-Take your AR Student Record Report home for your parents/guardians to sign.  Be sure that the book you are reading is the correct level!  Reports are due back next Thursday, but early is EXTRA CREDIT.
-Finish your AR Book Initial Evaluation if you didn't do so in class today.
Friday, 1/20
-Homework on a Friday?  Hmmmm.  Not in THIS class!
*********************************************************************
 
WEEK OF JANUARY 9-13
-The new year began with schoolnotes unavailable for my account!  Sorry for the inconvenience, everyone, but the folks at schoolnotes tell me they have corrected the issue.  Here's to a wonderful new year filled with no more technical troubles!  Don't worry about the missed extra credit, either.  I plan to make up for it very soon.
-Our second and last Accelerated Reader book test for this quarter is on Thursday of this week.  All classes will meet up in the Media Center, and every student should leave with their new AR book for 3rd quarter.  Students are reminded to follow the .4 rule (either moving up or down in reading level, depending on whether they score an 85% on their test).  Remember, too, that all books you read must have AR tests available at this school.  Go to the LRMS site, click Media Center, and then look at AR Books by Title to make sure your book has an AR test and that it is the appropriate level for your next test.
-Students should bring their AR book to class every day this week.
-We continue to work on our Critical Response to Literature.  All formal structured writing is done in class.
-Our Ring of Power test for 2nd quarter is set for 1/19, so study your Ring of Power Word List each night.
-Parents are reminded that for students to grow in comprehension, they need to be reading their AR book for 20 minutes each night.  The AR books are targeted at each student's individual level to ensure growth in reading.
-Friday is an early release day.  We will have our open notebook quiz on Friday in class.
-----------------------------------
Monday, 1/9
-Read your book for 20 minutes and write a three-sentence summary of what happened.  Remember to put the TITLE and PAGE NUMBERS!
-Take your AR test by Thursday if you haven't already done so.  Early tests = five points added to your test grade.
Tuesday, 1/10
-Write each of your Ring of Power words and/or messages three times to practice for next week's ROP test (1/19).
-Test on your AR book by Thursday if you have not yet done so.
Wednesday, 1/11
-All classes meet in the Media Center tomorrow to test on AR books and to get new books for 3rd quarter.  Every student should leave the Media Center with a new AR book in hand, so if you already have your new book, bring it with you to the Media Center.  All 3rd quarter books need to be checked by Mrs. Brown for appropriate level.
Thursday, 1/12
-Be sure you have your notebook with you tomorrow for our notebook quiz!
Friday, 1/13
-No homework, naturally!  See you on Tuesday!  :)
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WEEK OF JANUARY 3-6

-Happy 2012, Supernova students and parents! We will be working for the next several months on formal structured writing as well as focusing on reading growth. All formal writing of essays will be done in class, but students must remember that it is their responsibility to read their Accelerated Reader books at home for 20 minutes every single night in order to be ready for the two AR book tests that are required in Language Arts.

-Want to start off 2012 in a happy way? How does 50 points of extra credit sound? Just have your parents/guardians sign a note saying that you saw this offer on schoolnotes.com, turn it in ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 3, AND NO LATER, and those extra points are yours. Remember not to tell those lazy bumlet friends of yours about this special offer--it's between YOU and ME! See you Tuesday! :)

-Our last AR book test for 2nd quarter is 1/12/12! If you test early, I add five points to your score, so plan ahead.

-Tuesday, 2/3, will be a Reading Workshop day, so bring your AR book and plan to test if you're ready! Don't forget to bring a snack too, if you've found that having one helps your comprehension.

----------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday, 1/3

-Create a book cover for your current AR book, using a scene or idea. Don't forget title and reading level. The best will go up on our AR Book Board, so take your time and do well. Use the paper I have given you. Computer art is fine. The best covers never have much white space, folks!

-Be ready to test on your next AR book on Thursday, 1/12!  Early testing equals 5 points extra credit!

Wednesday, 1/4

-Take your AR book test by 1/12.  No excuses, Supernovas!

Thursday, 1/5

-Our Ring of Power test for 2nd quarter will be 1/19.  Use your Ring of Power Word List to practice at home.  Remember, these are YOUR personal spelling demons, so practice writing them to help your memorization.

-Test on AR book by 1/12.

Friday, 1/6

-No homework, unless you need to read that AR book! :)

WEEK OF DECEMBER 19-21

-There will be no formal homework this week, as we have so many students who are out due to holiday travels.  Students are reminded, however, that they need to take their next AR book test on or before January 12.

-I wish all of my wonderful Supernova students a most restful and peaceful winter break.  May you spend time with those who mean the most to you, and may you always remember to tell those special people just how much they mean to you.  Don't forget all of the many lessons that Scrooge learned in our play!

-I look forward to seeing you all NEXT YEAR, when we will begin our three month unit on formal, structured essay writing.  Rest up those HANDS!

xoxoxoxo--Mrs. Brown :)
**********************
WEEK OF DECEMBER 12-16

-Signed interim reports and AR student record reports (stapled together in class today) are due on THURSDAY of this week.

-Turn in your field trip $ by Thursday of this week!  It goes to your homeroom teacher.  All kind donations for needy students are very, very appreciated.

-Make-up vocabulary quizzes will be given on Wednesday during 2nd Smart Lunch.  Make-up notebook check #3 will also be on Wednesday during 2nd Smart Lunch.

-We begin our Critical Response to Literature, a mini-essay, immediately after we finish our "A Christmas Carol" interactive reading this week!

-Be sure to be reading your next AR book for the test on 1/12!  Look over your AR Student Record Report and make sure your next book is the correct level based upon your last test.  Remember the .4 rule, and move up if you scored 85 or higher, or move down if you didn't score 85.  By the way, it's OK to read slightly higher than you have to as long as the book isn't making your head spin.  Just see Mrs. Brown first.

-----------------------------------------------

Monday and Tuesday, December 12 & 13

-Practice your lines if Mrs. Brown told you to do so.  Return your script tomorrow before homeroom.  Bring your signed practice form to turn in after you read!

-Bring signed interim/AR report back by Thursday.  Early is extra points.

Wednesday, December 14

-Read your AR book for 20 minutes and write a beautiful three-sentence summary about what happened in the book.  Include underlined TITLE of book and page numbers you read.

-Bring signed interim/AR report back TOMORROW or PHONE HOME!

Thursday, December 15

-No homework tonight! :)

Friday, December 16

-Remember that your AR test is 1/12!  Read, take notes for EXTRA CREDIT, and be ready to test early if you can to get those added five points.

*****************************************
WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-9

-Students, take that Giving Tree handout home and ask your folks if they can help our fellow students in need!

-We have a vocabulary quiz on Thursday!  Practice those 16 wicked words from our Dickens unit and be ready to spell and define them on Thursday.

-Our last AR test for the quarter will be January 12.  For students who failed their 11/30 test (copies of AR scores will go home with interim reports), you have the time to read TWO books so that I can drop your low grade.  Just be sure the books are in your level.  Follow the .4 rule, and see Mrs. Brown if you have any questions.

-Our reading workshop with your new AR book will be Friday.  Be sure to have your book with you, and check to make very sure that it is the right reading level based on your last test's level and the grade you made.   Remember the .4 rule!  If you make under an 85, go down from .1 to .4, and if you make an 85 or above go up from .1 to .4.

-Parents/students, don't forget to always check to see if your book is truly a LRMS AR book!  The school can't afford to buy all the available AR books/tests, so go to the LRMS website, click on Media Center, and look over the list of AR books by title.  Warning--don't try to print this out!  It will be about 100 pages long! :)

-Donations requested!  Feeling benevolent?  We are using lots of Clorox wipes to sanitize props/hats for our play and sure could use more!  Donations of any sanitizing wipes would be very, very much appreciated.

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Monday, December 5 through Wednesday, December 7

-Practice your lines at home if Mrs. Brown told you that you were reading tomorrow.  Bring your script back tomorrow a.m., and don't forget to get that Reading Practice form signed to turn in on the day you read.

-Vocabulary word quiz is Thursday!

Thursday, December 8

-Bring your AR book and snack for tomorrow's reading workshop.  Double-check to ensure that you are reading the correct level book, Supernovas!

Friday, December 9

-No homework!  Review your lines if Mrs. Brown told you that you'd be reading your part in the play on Monday!  I hope you all have a lovely weekend. :)

*******************************************************************
 
SPECIAL MESSAGE!

We will be wrapping up auditions tomorrow and everyone will know their part in our upcoming interactive reading of Dickens' play by Thursday!  Be sure to take your practice sheet and script home on the night before you read and get that sheet signed by a parent/guardian/adult!  Mrs. Brown will let you know when you will read, so be sure to check out the script before you leave Language Arts and bring it back to Mrs. Brown the next morning.  The practice form is due on the day that you read.  Students will receive practice forms on Thursday.

*******************************************************
 
WEEK OF NOVEMBER 28-DECEMBER 2

-All missing work is due Friday!  Work not turned in at this time will be changed to a zero on SPAN.  Oh no!

-Our big AR test must be taken by Wednesday.  This is 10% of your quarter grade, and you've had six weeks to prepare, so no excuses, folks.  We meet up in the Media Center on Wednesday, so come ready to make your best score yet on your hardest ever book!  Congratulations to the many, many students who have tested early.  I like the growth I'm seeing in reading level and scores. :)

-The Fellowship of the Ring Lunch Bunch has movie mania night on Friday!  Don't forget to turn in your $3 for pizza.  Bring whatever snacks you'd like--I'm ordering the pizza and bringing drinks and dessert.  (I hear that Cheetos go REALLY well with pizza!)

-Bring your notebooks to the Media Center on Wednesday!  We have a notebook quiz after we test.

-------------------------------------------

Monday, 11/28

-Test on your AR book by Wednesday.  Remember, test early during Smart Lunch or homeroom and get that five extra points added to your score.  Review your book before you test, and remember that when you test you can use any notes that you have taken as you read.  Turn those same notes in for extra credit after you test.  It's a win-win situation!

-All make-up work is due Friday.

-If you are auditioning for Scrooge, Marley, or Scrooge's Lost Love, practice those lines and be ready for auditions tomorrow.

Tuesday, 11/29

-Write your 16 wicked vocabulary words for the Dickens unit five times each and their definitions once (you probably will have time in class to do this, so show your folks your work if they ask you).

-Want extra credit?  Draw a good, detailed picture for any or all of the 16 vocabulary words.  Be sure to correctly spell the word and then use it in a picture or cartoon of some sort.  The best go up on the wall!  This is due THURSDAY of this week.  Oh, by the way, computer art is just fine, too.

-Bring your NOTEBOOK to the Media Center so that you'll do well on your notebook quiz tomorrow.

-All classes meet in the Media Center tomorrow for AR testing.

Wednesday, 11/30

-No homework!  Be sure to turn in make-up work on Friday, and remember that extra credit vocabulary art is due tomorrow.

Thursday, 12/1

-Make-up work is due tomorrow!

-Practice your lines IF Mrs. Brown has told you that you'll be reading tomorrow!

Friday, 12/2

-Absolutely, positively NO homework!  By the way, our next  AR test is January 12, so plan ahead.  Enjoy your weekend! :)

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WEEK OF NOVEMBER 21-22

-On Monday, 11/21, students were given a list of all missing work in Language Arts and they had time in class to work on getting some of this done.  All completed make-up work is due by no later than 12/2 in order to get credit!

-Our AR book test is next Wednesday, so use the time over Thanksgiving to read if you haven't yet tested.  Remember, this is 10% of your quarter grade, so do your best!

------------------------------------------

Monday, November 21

-All make-up work is due 12/2!  Put your completed work (don't forget headings!) in your class folder in our make-up bin.  See Mrs. Brown if you need any forms/vocabulary words, etc.  No excuses for zeroes, Supernova students!

-Bring your AR book and snack for tomorrow's Reading Workshop.

Tuesday, November 22

-No homework over the holiday, folks.  Enjoy your time with loved ones, and know that I'm thankful for each and every one of you.  :)

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WEEK OF NOVEMBER 14-18

- CONGRATULATIONS to our ABSOLUTELY AWESOME MATH TEACHER, MRS. FARMER!  She's just been named Teacher of the Year for LRMS!  We are so lucky to have her on the Supernovas team!  Kids and parents, be sure to let Mrs. Farmer know how happy you are for her.

-Be ready to take your first AR book test by 11/30.  Early testing = five extra points added to your score, so plan ahead!

Language arts classes go up to the book fair on Wednesday!  Bring $$$ for books, and plan to see some cool new literature!

-The Fellowship of the Ring Lunch Bunch has movie mania on Friday after school!  Be sure to bring your permission form and $3 for pizza.  Any student who is reading Tolkien's books (The Hobbit, The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, or The Return of the King) is invited to attend weekly Lunch Bunch meetings during 2nd lunch in my room.  We discuss the books, have fun, and have movie mania nights once a quarter!

-We have a notebook quiz on Wednesday.

-Our Reading Workshop will be Friday.

---------------------------------------------

Monday, 11/14

-No homework tonight.  Enjoy!

Tuesday, 11/15

-Bring $ for tomorrow's trip to the Book Fair!

-Read for 20 minutes and write a 3-sentence summary of what happened.  Remember to put your book's title (underline it!) and pages read.  Your next test is 11/30, so don't procrastinate.  Test early to get five points added to your score.

Wednesday, 11/16

-Read your AR book for 20 minutes and record title and pages read.  Write down your 2nd quarter READING GOAL and then write down WHAT you are doing to make that goal a reality.

Thursday, 11/17

-Fill out the "Subjects and Predicates" handout.  READ IT OVER FIRST, and follow all directions!  You only have to do 1-20, by the way.  (You're welcome!)

-Bring your AR book and a snack to tomorrow's Reading Workshop!

Friday, 11/18

Here's something different for you.  I told you we use these sentence types all the time!

-I hope your weekend is wonderful.  (declarative)

-Happy weekend! (exclamatory)

-Doing anything cool this weekend?  (interrogative)

-Have fun.  (Imperative)

I do mean all of it, too.  Enjoy, Supernovas! :)
***********************
WEEK OF NOVEMBER 7-10

-The signed Accelerated Reader Quarter One Report is due Wednesday!  Turn it in early for those bonus points, folks.  Parents, be sure to pay attention to your child's GOAL for quarter two!  You can help at home by ensuring that your child has time to read every single day.  I'm very, very proud of how much my students are already learning and growing in their reading!

-No school on Friday! :)

-Signed report card envelopes are due Wednesday.  Be sure to keep your report card!

-Our next Accelerated Reader book test is 11/30.  Plan ahead and test early for bonus points added to your test grade!  Remember, once you have read and tested on TWO AR books in your reading level, you may read ANYTHING you wish, whether it is in your level or not.  You are always responsible for doing your reading homework, whether you're reading an AR book or a free-choice book.

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Monday, November 7

-Read your AR book for 20 minutes and write a three-sentence summary about what happened.  Dont' forget TITLE and PAGES READ.

-Signed AR contracts (and report card envelopes) are due Wednesday.

Tuesday, November 8

-Read your AR book for 20 minutes.  Write down the answers to WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, WHY, AND HOW as they relate to what happened.  Use the format we discussed in class today.

Wednesday, November 9

-BEFORE you read tonight, skim over the pages you think you will cover in 20 minutes.  NEXT, on a clean piece of paper, write down THREE QUESTIONS you have about what might happen when you read.  AFTER you read, answer each question.  If you didn't find out an answer, explain when and/or how you think you'll find out the answer to it.

Thursday, November 10

-Hmmm.  Seems like it's the weekend already and that today is really a Friday after all.  All righty, then--no homework!  Enjoy your long weekend!  DO read if you're worried about that 11/30 AR test coming up.
 
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WELCOME TO 2ND QUARTER!

WEEK OF NOVEMBER 1-4

-We have a BIG vocabulary word quiz on Friday, 11/4!  Study all 18 words on the "Sam McGee" and Edgar Allan Poe handout, and know how to spell and define each one.

-Quarter one Accelerated Reader individual student reports go home on Friday with report cards.  Parents, review the progress your child is making in reading, and pay special attention to the goals that he/she has set for second quarter's reading.  This report must be signed and returned by 11/9.

-Our Reading Workshop will be held this Thursday, 11/3.

-Our next Accelerated Reader test will be 11/30.  Test early and get bonus points added to your score!

-Not sure what to do with all that Halloween candy?  Donate it to Mrs. Brown and and I'll keep it for YOUR class.  Then, we'll use it as rewards in Language Arts!  Be sure all candy is individually wrapped.  Healthy treats, too, are much appreciated.

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Tuesday, 11/1

-Write each vocabulary word for Edgar Allan Poe three times and their definitions once.  Use the format we began in class.

Wednesday, 11/2

-Write all 18 words on the "Sam McGee"/Edgar Allan Poe handout one time and their definition once.  Quiz is FRIDAY!

-Bring a book and a snack for tomorrow's Reading Workshop.

Thursday, 11/3

-Using your pre-quiz, study for tomorrow's big vocabulary word QUIZ.

Friday, 11/4

-Why none, of course.  Happy weekend!

 
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WEEK OF OCTOBER 24-28

-Students will get their preliminary quarter one grades for Language Arts on Tuesday of this week!  Report cards go home next week.  All make-up work is due Tuesday.  You can go on SPAN tonight to see what you need to turn in if you've forgotten.

-The next AR test is due to be taken by 11/30!  Use this extra long time to plan ahead and test early on your required book!  Remember, I add five points to your score if you plan ahead and test before the due date.

-Turn in all fundraiser "Treasure Cards" that you don't sell.  If you sell any, bring in your money on Tuesday!  Next Tuesday, November 1, will be the last day to turn in "Treasure Card" fundraising money.

-Make-up picture day is Tuesday of this week!

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Monday, October 24

-Create your book cover for your first required quarter two AR book that you checked out in the Media Center last Friday.  Remember to include the title and the reading level, and put your name on the front.  Whose will go up on the board?  Find out on Thursday!

-Next AR test is 11/30.

Tuesday, October 25

-Using your "Cremation of Sam McGee" handout, write each of the words 3x and their definitions once using the format we began in class.  Sound out the words as you spell them so that you LEARN as you WRITE!

Wednesday, October 26

-Using your "Cremation of Sam McGee" handout, write a poem or short story using all nine vocabulary words.  HIGHLIGHT OR CIRCLE each word as you use it!  If you forget, it will count off 15 points!

Thursday, October 27

-Bring your AR book and snack for tomorrow's Reading Workshop.

Friday, October 28

-None!  Enjoy your restful weekend.  :)
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WEEK OF OCTOBER 17-21

-Our first quarter Ring of Power test is Tuesday, 10/18!  Students have practiced in class every day since 10/10 in order to learn their individual writing objectives (both goals and spelling words).  Be sure to practice on Monday night, and have a parent/sibling/friend quiz you, students!  Do well on this test.  It's 10% of this quarter's grade.

-Our final AR test is due Friday of this week!  Read, take notes, summarize, predict, and use all of those reading strategies we discuss on Reading Workshop days so that you will do your best!  Congratulations to the many, many students who have tested early and who have told me how well they have done on this second (or third) book.  Remember, if you test before Friday, I will add five bonus points to your score, and if you test on more than two books in your level, I drop your lowest test grade!

-Friday is AR test and new book check-out time, so bring your old book to turn in and gear up for next quarter's AR requirements.  FYI:  Next quarter's test dates are 11/30 and 1/12.  Each new book you read must be .1 to .4 levels higher than the last book you tested on if you score 85% correct.  Drop down by that amount if you make under an 85% on your test.

-Tuesday, 10/18, is the first day to turn in your Treasure Card fundraiser collections!  Tomorrow, for each card sold you will receive silly sour legs, and if you sell five cards, you receive five changes to win an iPAD!  Remember, cards are $20 and checks should be made out to LRMS PTSA.  The next turn-in date will be 10/25.

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Monday, 10/17

-Practice your Ring of Power words/goals/messages for tomorrow's big TEST!

-Read for 20 minutes and write down five facts about what happened in your book.  Remember to put the TITLE OF BOOK and record the page numbers you read (100-120, etc.).

-AR test is due Friday!  Early testing = five bonus points added to your score.

Tuesday, 10/18

Read for 20 minutes and write down five facts about what happened in your book.  Remember to put the TITLE OF BOOK and record the page numbers you read (130-160, etc.).

-Bring your AR book to class tomorrow.

-AR test is due Friday!  Early testing = five bonus points added to your score.

Wednesday, 10/19

-Read for 20 minutes and write down five facts about what happened in your book.  Remember to put the TITLE OF BOOK and record the page numbers you read (190-200, etc.).

-Bring your AR book and a snack for tomorrow's Reading Workshop!

-AR test must be taken on Friday if not earlier!  Early testing = five bonus points added to your score.

Thursday, 10/20

-Bring your old library books to turn in tomorrow and be ready to take that AR test if you haven't already.  You will get your new AR book for second quarter tomorrow (if you haven't already done so).

Friday, 10/21

-Homework?  Tonight?  On a weekend?  No way!  Enjoy your family time and have a super weekend, Supernova students! :)
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WEEK OF OCTOBER 10-14

-Fellowship of the Ring Lunch Bunch meets on Wednesday during 2nd Smart Lunch!  Be sure to get a pass if you need to come back from the cafeteria.

-Treasure Cards, our new school fundraiser, go home on Tuesday!  In homeroom on Tuesday, each student will receive 5 cards to sell, if possible.  Remember, prizes will be available in the cafeteria Fridays of each week during lunch hour, and any student who sells five or more cards gets his/her name in a drawing to get an iPad!

-Our Ring of Power test for the first quarter is next Tuesday (10/18)!  Practice for homework every night this week so that you will do well.

-The last Accelerated Reader book test for this quarter is next Friday (10/21).  Remember, I take the two highest AR grades, BUT THE TESTS MUST BE IN YOUR READING LEVEL!  Don't bother testing on books that are too low, as I won't count them anyway.

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Monday, October 10

-Well, I've promised it all quarter, so here it is.  If you'd like a free homework pass, have your parents/guardians write me a note saying that you saw this offer on new.schoolnotes.com, and bring me the note TOMORROW!  Be sure they sign it.  I won't take it after tomorrow, so act fast.  Remember, don't go telling those lazy bumlet friends of yours.  This is my way of checking up on who is coming to schoolnotes every week the way they SHOULD, and it's between you and me. :)

-Read for 20 minutes and fill out the reading chart we copied down in class.  Extra work (summaries over one or two sentences long or notes on what you read) should be stapled to the chart when you turn it in on Thursday so you can get extra points.

-On a clean piece of paper, write down everything on your Ring of Power Word List, then check your work.  Did you spell everything correctly?  Did you include everything?  Make changes and bring this to school tomorrow.  BE SURE TO PUT TONIGHT'S DATE AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE!

Tuesday, October 11

-Read for 20 minutes and fill out the reading chart we copied down in class.  Extra work (summaries over one or two sentences long or notes on what you read) should be stapled to the chart when you turn it in on Thursday.

-On a clean piece of paper, write down everything on your Ring of Power Word List, then check your work.  Did you spell everything correctly?  Did you include everything?  Make changes and bring this to school tomorrow.  BE SURE TO PUT TONIGHT'S DATE AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE!

Wednesday, October 12

-Read for 20 minutes and fill out the reading chart we copied down in class.  Extra work (summaries over one or two sentences long or notes on what you read) should be stapled to the chart when you turn it in tomorrow for extra points.

-On a clean piece of paper, write down everything on your Ring of Power Word List, then check your work.  Did you spell everything correctly?  Did you include everything?  Make changes and bring this to school tomorrow.  BE SURE TO PUT TONIGHT'S DATE AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE!

Thursday, October 13

-Bring your AR book and a snack for tomorrow's Reading Workshop.

-Our next AR test is next Friday, 10/21.

Friday, October 14

-Read if you need to do so in order to test next Friday!  Enjoy your weekend, Supernova students! :)

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WEEK OF OCTOBER 3-7

-Students who failed their first AR test taken on 9/23 will be testing on their make-up book this Thursday!  Be sure to be reading, kids, and remember that you can come to my room Monday and Tuesday of this week during lunch if you want a quiet place to read.  If  you test early, I add five points to your score (as always).  Do your BEST!

-Signed interim reports/student record reports for AR are due Wednesday.  Turn them in early for extra points!

-Thursday will be our Reading Workshop day since Friday is an early release day.

-The last AR test for first quarter must be taken by 10/21, so be reading, Supernovas!

-The Fellowship of the Ring Lunch Bunch will meet on Thursday during 2nd lunch!  Get a pass if you need to come back from the cafeteria or if you need to leave your Smart Lunch class to join us!

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Monday, 10/3

-Create your Reading Log that will be collected at the end of this week.  At the top of a clean piece of paper, write your book's title and its reading level.  Then, skip a few lines and write "Monday, 10/3,"  read your book for 20 minutes, and then record the pages that you read.  Remember, write "Pages 10-20," not just "10 pages".  This is due on Friday, so keep it with you!

-Signed interim reports are due Wednesday.

Tuesday, 10/4

-Read for 20 minutes and record your page numbers on the Reading Log for this week!

-Signed interim reports are due tomorrow!

Wednesday, 10/5

-Read for 20 minutes and record your page numbers on the Reading Log for this week.  Remember, it is due Friday!

-Students who failed their first AR test must take their make-up test by tomorrow!

-Bring your book and a snack for tomorrow's Reading Workshop.

Thursday, 10/6

-No HW tonight, Supernovas!

Friday, 10/7

-No official HW, but remember that your last AR test is due by 10/21, so read if you need to do so!
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EVEN MORE INFO!  WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 26-29

-Interim grade reports go home on Thursday!  Expect to see grades for Language Arts and a report showing AR book test results.  Students have evaluated their test results and have chosen strategies to use to increase reading comprehension for their next book.  The last AR test for the quarter must be taken by 10/21, but as always, testing early gets you extra points added to your score.

-What's that?  Your child failed his/her AR test?  No problem.  Students know that in my class, failing a book test is just another chance to learn and grow.  All students who scored under a 70 are required to test on TWO AR books by the 10/21 deadline.  The first test is due on 10/6.  I met with students who failed their first AR test during class on 10/27, and they should all have their new AR books tonight.  I expect students to always read for 20 minutes each night, but my two-book testers may need to bump it up a bit.  I look forward to dropping a low grade, all right, but most of all I look forward to seeing how my students use this opportunity to truly learn and practice better comprehension/study skills when they read and test on books.

-Friday is a teacher workday.  Lucky, lucky, lucky kids . . :)

-The first meeting of the Fellowship of the Ring Lunch Bunch is this Thursday during 2nd Smart Lunch.  This is a chance for students who are reading The Hobbit or any of J.R.R. Tolkien's books to sit together, eat lunch, and talk about cool literature!  Plan to bring your lunch or pick up your lunch in the cafeteria and hurry on back to my room.  You will need a note to return to the team area if you go to the cafeteria to pick up your lunch, so see Mrs. Brown on Thursday morning.  At the end of the quarter we'll have Movie Mania night and watch the first of the LOTR movies (with parent permission, of course), eat pizza, Cheetos, and whatever else you want to bring, drink Pepsi, and enjoy the art of Tolkien brought to the big screen.  Remember, I count the Tolkien books as meeting whatever requirements you have for your GE, so everyone is invited.

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Tuesday, September 27

-Design your new AR book cover.  Use the paper I gave you in class today, and don't forget the title of the book and its reading level.  The best go up on the board, so do well!

Wednesday, September 28

-Read your AR book for 20 minutes.  On a clean piece of paper, explain what you are doing at home to aid your comprehension when you are reading.  Be specific!  Don't say "I focused."  Tell me HOW you focused and what you did to help you focus.  Record your pages read and write your book's title at the top of the page.

-Bring your AR book and a snack for Thursday's Reading Workshop!

Thursday, September 29

-Take your interim report and stapled AR test results home and bring this back signed by Wednesday of next week.  Early is extra points!

-If you have to take two tests by 10/21, READ over this long weekend!  Your first test is due 10/6!  Remember, if you take notes or write summaries of chapters, you may use these when you test, and if you turn them in, they are worth extra credit.  Learn and grow, Supernovas, learn and grow!  xoxo--Mrs. Brown :)

WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 26-29

Hello, Supernovas!  Today's new.schoolnotes.com info will be short, but don't worry!  I'll add lots of extra info tomorrow.

Monday, September 26

-Your next AR test will be 10/21, so get ready!  If you failed last Friday's AR book test, don't panic.  Remember that you will need to read two books by 10/21 (be sure they are in your correct reading range based on your GE), and I'll drop your low test grade.  Parents, you'll be getting a blue sheet on Thursday with our interim reports that shows how your child did on the test, and that also outlines the strategies that your child will use on the next book read.  A failed test is just a chance to learn and grow more, right Supernovas? :)

-Read your new AR book for 20 minutes and write a 3-sentence summary about what you read.  Be sure to include the title of the book (properly underlined, of course), the reading level of the book, and the page numbers that you read (1-10, 25-30, etc.).  You need to read every single night for 20 minutes, you know!

 

 

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WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 19-23

-Your BIG, BIG, BIG Accelerated Reader test is Friday!  Do what you need to do in order to finish your book, test, and score a wonderful grade on your test.  Remember, it is 10% of your quarter grade.  Think about the goals you set today, and be sure to read and think and test well!

-Our Reading Workshop will be Wednesday in order to help those of you who need some extra reading time.

-Turn in all fundraising money this week during home room.

-We go up to the Media Center on Friday, so bring your old books and turn them in.  You can check out your next AR book on Friday after you test.

-Test early on your AR book and get five points extra credit added to your score!

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Monday, September 19

-Read your AR book for 20 minutes and take ten notes.  For my zippy kids who have already tested and who don't have a new book yet, read anything you desire for 20 minutes and take those notes.

-Ok, I promised it, so here it is.  As a reward for my new.schoolnotes.com kids, get your parents/guardians to sign a note saying that you saw schoolnotes tonight and turn tht note in to me tomorrow in class for 50 points extra credit.  This is JUST FOR YOU!  Don't go telling all those lazy bumlet friends of yours--this is how I see who is going to schoolnotes each week!  Remember, you must turn this in tomorrow, not later!

Tuesday, September 20

-Bring your AR book and a snack for tomorrow's Reading Workshop.

-Be ready to test by Friday if not before.

Wednesday, September 21

-Read your AR book for 20 minutes and be ready to test by Friday.

Thursday, September 22

-Finish your AR book if you haven't done so and be ready to test in class tomorrow.

Friday, September 23

-No homework, naturally!  Enjoy your weekend, Supernovas! :)

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WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 12-16

-All grades are up on SPAN!  Turn in any missing work before I have to ask you for it so you won't lose points!

-Our first QUIZ that you must study for is this Wednesday!  Review your PLOT diagram and class notes, plus know those vocabulary words for "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi" that you've had since last week!

-All students should be reading their AR book at home for at least 15 to 30 minutes per day.   Our BIG Accelerated Reader book test is next Friday, so finish your book BY THEN!  Remember, you can read during homeroom time and Smart Lunch, too.  Your AR book test will count as 10% of your first quarter grade.

-We have our school's open house this Thursday!  Invite your parents/guardians!  It's from 6:30 to 8:30 (meet in the gym).

-Friday is an early release day (lucky you!).  We will have our Reading Workshop on Thursday of this week since Friday will be such a short day.

-Keep bringing in those BOX TOPS FOR EDUCATION! :)

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Monday, 9/12

-Using the format we took notes on in class, write each vocabulary word for "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi" three times and the definitions once.  You don't need to do #8 or #9.

-Begin studying the components of PLOT if you are worried about knowing this for Wednesday's quiz.

-Quiz on PLOT and "Rikki" words is on Wednesday!  Study while you do your HW, just like we discussed in class today!

Tuesday, 9/13

-Have someone call out your vocabulary words for "Rikki," numbers 1-7, and practice for tomorrow's quiz!  Fill in a PLOT diagram, too, to be ready!

-Want some extra credit?  Do some research on the INDIAN GREY MONGOOSE or on the INDIAN COBRA!  You can create a poster, write something, do a power point, or whatever you'd like, just as long as you use YOUR OWN WORDS!  Your extra credit points will be determined by the quality of your work and on time spent.   This will be due next MONDAY, 9/19!

Wednesday, 9/14

-Using your own copier paper or what you have from me, create your very own BOOK COVER for the Accelerated Reader book you are currently reading.  Be creative, and don't just copy what's already on the cover.  Think of an event from the book and do that instead.  You MUST include the TITLE and the READING LEVEL of the book!  Be creative!  The best go up on our bulletin board, and get extra credit, too.  (Yes, you may use computer art, but unless you do some CREATIVE coloring or work of your own, it won't be judged as the best!)

-Bring your AR book and a snack/drink to class tomorrow for our weekly Reading Workshop.

Thursday, 9/15

-No homework, unless you didn't finish your Workshop evaluation and notes form.  Turn it in tomorrow if you didn't turn it in today.

Friday, 9/16

-Absolutely positively NONE!  Remember, though, that our AR test is next Friday, 9/23.  Read over the weekend if you are worried about finishing your book on time.

 

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WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 6-9

-Bring the signed AR Contract for 1st quarter back, signed, by Wednesday!  Remember, your first test is on 9/23, so be reading at home every single day.

-Friday will be our first Reading Workshop day.  Students are invited to bring in a drink/snack for reading time.  We will be discussing reading styles and learning how to take notes on these workshop days.  We will also be using those comfy pillows/husbands in the room, so wear comfortable clothes (no skirts, girls).  Be very, very, very sure to have your AR book with you, and double-check to make sure it is in YOUR personal reading level.

-Fundraiser packets went home on Friday, so do your best to support our school!

-Bring in box tops for education, Supernovas!  These provide much-needed funds for our school, and there are always cool incentives for winning teams (and you guys all know we are definitely a winning team, right?).  Bring those tops in!  Students in Mrs. Brown's HR, remember "Free-Day Friday" for ten box tops.

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Tuesday, 9/6

-Bring in your white copy of the AR Contract for 1st quarter!  Remember, you keep the blue copy.  Did you give your family your STAR test and cover letter?  That's important to keep at home this year!

Wednesday, 9/7

-Create flash cards for your vocabulary words for "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi."  These words are on the back of your PLOT handout!  Remember, use your own paper and cut it up or use spiffy index cards, but DO YOUR WORK!  I don't want anyone to have to phone home about not having their homework tomorrow!

-Make sure your notebook is organized for our open notes quiz tomorrow!

Thursday, 9/8

-Bring your AR book and a snack for tomorrow's Reading Workshop! :)

Friday, 9/9

-Homework over the weekend?  Don't you remember?  NEVER!  Enjoy your family time, and remember to read if you're worried about that 9/23 test date.

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WEEK OF AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 2

-All forms sent home last week are due, signed, by Wednesday of this week.

-Students need to use a 3-ring binder and loose-leaf paper in Language Arts this year for organizational purposes.  Let Mrs. Brown know if you need a binder!

-It is my policy to have students PHONE A PARENT OR GUARDIAN any day that they do not have their homework.  If you turn in late work the next day, no points are taken off.  If I have to chase you down and ask you to do it during lunch, you will lose 30 points.  Remember, nobody can make a zero on homework in Language Arts, so DO YOUR WORK WHEN IT IS ASSIGNED, because you have to do it sometime anyway!

-Our first quiz will be Thursday.  It's a notebook check, so keep your notebook organized and all handouts for this class together so that you'll do well on this quiz.

-We will be going to the Media Center for books on Friday.  Our first required AR test will be on September 23, so be reading at least 15 minutes per night to prepare for this.  AR tests count 10% of your grade.

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Monday, 8/29

-Follow the instructions on your "Dear Mrs. Brown" letter handout and write me a GOOD paragraph about yourself.  Be sure to use topic/conclusion sentences like we discussed in class today.  Remember, no typing this one assignment.  I want to see you as a writer without the use of spell-check!  Do spend time on this and read it out loud when you proofread.

-All forms are due back on Wednesday.

Tuesday, 8/30

-No homework!  Just be sure you turn in all required forms tomorrow.

Wednesday, 8/31

-Using your PLOT handout and notes from today, create TEN flash cards for the elements of plot.  Remember to add setting, subplot, internal and external conflict, and genre to the five components on the handout.  (FLASH CARDS SHOULD HAVE COMPONENT ON ONE SIDE AND DEFINITION ON THE OTHER.  YOU MAY USE YOUR OWN WORDS IF YOU WISH).  Cut up your own paper if you don't have index cards.

-Notebook quiz tomorrow!  Bring your organized notebook and get ready to make an easy A!

Thursday, 9/1

-Take your STAR reading test results and your Accelerated Reader contract home and share this information with your parents.  Bring the white AR contract back signed by next Tuesday.  Keep the colored AR contract copy and your STAR test results at home.

Friday, 9/2

-No homework, of course!  Have a happy L-O-N-G weekend. :)

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WELCOME NEW SUPERNOVAS!

WEEK OF AUGUST 25-26

It's the start of a new year, and I look forward to gettting to know each of my new Language Arts students!  Here's some basic information about Language Arts for this week.  Much more information will be coming your way, and I don't want to overwhelm you, so I'm keeping our first week's new.schoolnotes.com pretty simple.

Every week on Monday late afternoon/evening, I update this site for the entire week.  You'll find homework for each night (I only give homework three nights per week and NEVER on weekends), schedules for quizzes/tests, and various Language-Arts related information.  Be sure to sign up to get this information sent to you automatically when it's updated, because there will be at least TWO extra credit opportunities each quarter for new.schoolnotes.com visitors ONLY!  Free homework passes and free extra credit points are always popular!

If you ever have any questions, send me an email using the information on this site!  By the way, all of the Supernovas teachers use new.schoolnotes.com, so finding out what's up and keeping up with all of the core classes is just a click away.

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Thursday, August 25

-Read over ALL of the papers you take home and get them signed and returned.  These are due Friday, but early birds who turn theirs in before then get entered into a contest to win prizes.  Whoooo Hooooo!

--Bring a LOCK for your locker!  You get lockers tomorrow.

Friday, August 26

-It's the weekend already, so NO HOMEWORK!  Have a wonderful weekend, Supernovas, and welcome to my class!