Enjoy your summer, but don't forget to "Journal" and play around with grammar. Both of the web sites below have great information and suggestions for practice. While you are reading, notice how your favorite authors write. What are they doing to keep you interested? How do they create a "picture" for you to see?
Check out these web sites:

Great web site with examples and guidelines for the different types of essays.


Grammar terms, examples, and practice web site

posted on: May 29, 2007

Students will continue to work on their "Image Grammar" projects and refine their paragraph writing. Ask your daughter/son about the 'magic 3'.

Summer reading list has been handed out to students. All rising 8th graders must read the Pearl this summer, and at least two additional books from the list.

Have a wonderful summer.

HOMEWORK:
Read, read, and read

posted on: May 22, 2007

We discovered the Magic 3 in writing today and used it in our own sentence creation.
Students continued to work on their Image Grammar projects.

SKILLS:
Identifying parts of speech in real world writing
Selecting descriptive examples of the eight parts of speech
Developing spatial design to present examples
Expanding descriptive vocabulary

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: May 18, 2007

Continued to work on daily paragraph writing and the project will continue to fill our time.

SKILLS:
Identifying parts of speech in real world writing
Selecting descriptive examples of the eight parts of speech
Developing spatial design to present examples
Expanding descriptive vocabulary

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: May 17, 2007

Continued to work on daily paragraph writing and the project will continue to fill our time.

SKILLS:
Identifying parts of speech in real world writing
Selecting descriptive examples of the eight parts of speech
Developing spatial design to present examples
Expanding descriptive vocabulary

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: May 17, 2007

Field Day tomorrow! Have a great day!

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: May 15, 2007

Since I attended an inservice all day Friday in preparation for next year, our substitute teacher helped students use their Writing & Grammar Workbook to review prepositions for their "Image Grammar" project.
Students are transitioning from the last corrections on their expository process essays to collecting examples for their final project. Daily paragraph writing and the project will continue to fill our time these last two weeks of school.

SKILLS:
Identifying parts of speech in real world writing
Selecting descriptive examples of the eight parts of speech
Developing spatial design to present examples
Expanding descriptive vocabulary

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: May 14, 2007

A few students are finishing their last corrections to their essays. Students who have completed their last set of corrections have started working on the "Image Grammar" project. This is a creative opportunity to review the parts of speech, increase descriptive vocabulary and improve written expression. Since we still have a great deal of writing to practice, improve, and explore, we will be very busy (up to the very last minute of school). Write-On!

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: May 10, 2007

The presentations have helped students notice rough spots in their essays; therefore, students will continue to finish their final revising/editing tomorrow. Today we finished most presentations and enjoyed DEAR time.

HOMEWORK:
Read
Bring in THROW-AWAY gardening, cooking, sport, and outdoor magazines for the project - Thank you!

posted on: May 08, 2007

Students began presenting their essays. As students read their essays, another student followed the directions to accomplish the task or skill. Most presentations went very well, and third period especially enjoyed the popcorn.
Students marked parts in their essays that needed clarification, and most will continue to revise and edit their essays for another day or two.
We will be starting an "Image Grammar" projects and be working on paragraph organization until the end of the year.

SKILLS:
Researching facts for introductory paragraph
Writing steps to teach a process
Developing graphic organizer - web
Writing thesis statement
Writing middle paragraphs of rough draft
Adding transition words to steps
Writing introductory and concluding paragraphs of rough draft
Adding topic sentences
Adding clincher sentences
Revise/edit/revise/edit

HOMEWORK:
Read
If you did not present today - bring materials needed to teach your lesson tomorrow.
Bring in THROW-AWAY sport and outdoor magazines for the project - Thank you!

posted on: May 07, 2007

Several students continued writing or revising their rough drafts; some have turned in their copies for editing/grading.

SKILLS:
Researching facts for introductory paragraph
Writing steps to teach a process
Developing graphic organizer - web
Writing thesis statement
Writing middle paragraphs of rough draft
Adding transition words to steps
Writing introductory and concluding paragraphs of rough draft
Adding topic sentences
Adding clincher sentences

HOMEWORK:
Read
We start presentations on Monday - bring materials needed to teach your lesson. It should be great fun!

posted on: May 04, 2007

Students continued writing or revising their rough drafts, focusing on topic and clincher sentences for each paragraph. Introductory and concluding paragraphs also received extra attention.

SKILLS:
Researching facts for introductory paragraph
Writing steps to teach a process
Developing graphic organizer - web
Writing thesis statement
Writing middle paragraphs of rough draft
Adding transition words to steps
Writing introductory and concluding paragraphs of rough draft
Adding topic sentences
Adding clincher sentences

HOMEWORK:
Read
Revise rough draft - topic and clincher sentences for each paragraph.

posted on: May 03, 2007

As students finished writing their rough drafts they began to focus on topic and clincher sentences for each paragraph. Introductory and concluding paragraphs also received extra attention.

SKILLS:
Researching facts for introductory paragraph
Writing steps to teach a process
Developing graphic organizer - web
Writing thesis statement
Writing middle paragraphs of rough draft
Adding transition words to steps
Writing introductory and concluding paragraphs of rough draft
Adding topic sentences
Adding clincher sentences

HOMEWORK:
Read
Finish your rough draft and begin revising.

posted on: May 02, 2007

Second period: Students who began their middle paragraphs last night for homework continued to write the middle paragraphs. Those who finished their homework last night began their introductory and concluding paragraphs of their rough drafts.

Third period: Students finished their pre-writing activities, graphic organizer/web and thesis statement. Several students began their middle paragraphs last night for homework and were able to continue writing the middle paragraphs of their rough drafts. Those who did not complete their homework assignment started their middle paragraphs in class and will need to write all of their rough draft tonight.

SKILLS:
Researching facts for introductory paragraph
Writing steps to teach a process
Developing graphic organizer - web
Writing thesis statement
Writing middle paragraphs of rough draft
Writing introductory and concluding paragraphs of rough draft
Adding topic sentences

HOMEWORK:
Read
Finish all paragraphs (4-5) of your rough draft.

posted on: May 01, 2007

Today some students worked on finishing their pre-writing activities (each student is working at a different point in completing and checking off the pre-writing steps) while others were able to begin the middle paragraphs of their rough drafts.

SKILLS:
Researching facts for introductory paragraph
Writing steps to teach process
Developing graphic organizer - web
Writing thesis statement
Writing middle paragraphs of rough draft

HOMEWORK:
Read
Write "materials and equipment" paragraph and "steps" paragraph(s) DOUBLE SPACE and use your web and sticky notes.

posted on: April 30, 2007

Today students worked on pre-writing activities (each student is working at a different point in completing and checking off the pre-writing steps):
Researching facts for introductory paragraph
Writing steps to teach process
Developing graphic organizer - web
Writing thesis statement

Monday students will begin writing their rough draft, consisting of 4 to 6 paragraphs.

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: April 27, 2007

All students continue to work on their planning, organizing, and research of beneficial facts for their independent "how-to" essay. Humor and descriptive word choice is encouraged. Students have been cautioned to pick a topic that can be demonstrated at school safely. Cooking essays may present some problems and need to be carefully discussed with parents as we have no way to complete the cooking at school.

SKILLS:
Writing a thesis statement
Researching facts to develop interest or a purpose for reading the essay
Outlining instructional steps for How-To writing
Developing introductory paragraph
Turning instructional steps into middle paragraphs with transition words and phrases
Developing concluding paragraph

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: April 26, 2007

All students are in the planning and organizing stages of their independent "how-to" essay. Each student was encouraged to pick a favorite activity to "teach" to someone. Humor is encouraged.

SKILLS:
Recognizing types of expository writing
Outlining instructional steps for How-To writing
Developing introductory paragraph
Turning instructional steps into middle paragraphs with transition words and phrases
Developing concluding paragraph

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: April 25, 2007

Second period began developing their topic for their individual How-to essays and working on their steps.
Third period presented their toothbrushing demonstrations; another day of enjoying creative, how-to essays and laughter.
Both classes participated in DEAR Gorilla time.

SKILLS:
Recognizing types of expository writing
Outlining instructional steps for How-To writing
Developing introductory paragraph
Turning instructional steps into middle paragraphs with transition words and phrases
Developing concluding paragraph

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: April 24, 2007

Second period began our toothbrushing demonstrations; an enjoyable combination of expository writing, creative writing, and laughter.

Third period continued to work on their expository essays in anticipation of instructing one another in the fine art of brushing one's teeth.

SKILLS:
Recognizing types of expository writing
Outlining instructional steps for How-To writing
Developing introductory paragraph
Turning instructional steps into middle paragraphs with transition words and phrases
Developing concluding paragraph

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: April 23, 2007

CRCTs in the morning.

Expository writing - Analyzing the elements of expository essays and beginning a "starter essay" on brushing teeth.
We're hoping for a little bit of humor with this as well.

HOMEWORK:
Read
Some students are completing a set of worksheet questions regarding expository writing using their Writing and Grammar textbook.

posted on: April 19, 2007

CRCTs in the morning.

Introduction to expository writing - We enjoyed the tongue-in-cheek humor in the sample essays we explored today.

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: April 17, 2007

We have conquered the first day of CRCTs and it is all up-hill from here.
Have a wonderful week!

HOMEWORK:
Read

posted on: April 16, 2007

CRCT Review:
Analyze writing for: strong beginning, interesting and descriptive language, details, sentence structure, paragraph structure, dialogue, emotion, and memorable ending.

HOMEWORK:
Read
Complete worksheet pages 19-24

posted on: April 12, 2007

CRCT Review:
Analyze writing for: strong beginning, interesting and descriptive language, details, sentence structure, paragraph structure, dialogue, emotion, and memorable ending.

HOMEWORK:
Read
Complete worksheet pages 1-6 (the last 7 pages in the packet). Hint: Use the questions and answers for "Thunderstorms" as examples if you get stuck on a question for "Aloha".

posted on: April 11, 2007

Our CRCT review included using resource books and reference materials.

HOMEWORK:
Read
Complete worksheet pages 17, 27, 31, & 49

CRCT practice tests

posted on: April 10, 2007

I hope everyone enjoyed their spring break. My family enjoyed every minute, however, it is good to be back with my fantastic students!
We are focusing class time on reading, writing, and grammar review to better prepare for the CRCTs coming up.

HOMEWORK:
Read
Some students are finishing poster on the "10 Steps of Research"

posted on: April 09, 2007

Have a wonderful spring break!

HOMEWORK: Discover the BEST book ever and read, read, and read some more!

posted on: March 30, 2007

Students are reviewing and explaining (or providing examples) of the "10 Steps of Research" on their posters. We will read our research sections tomorrow and finish posters.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Writing Works Cited page
Editing for mechanics and conventions of writing

HOMEWORK:

Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week. Students need to finish reading their last 5 books by May 11th - A total of 25 books for the year.

posted on: March 29, 2007

We continued to work on "The 10 Steps of the Research Process" posters today. This has been a great way to review the steps we have used the past two months and present them in a different (and for some students - more interesting) format.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Writing Works Cited page
Editing for mechanics and conventions of writing

HOMEWORK:

Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week.

posted on: March 28, 2007

Students are continuing to refine their final copy or work on their research steps posters.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Writing Works Cited page

HOMEWORK:
KS worksheet pgs. 8 & 12, sent. 6-10
Read for 20-3- minutes

posted on: March 27, 2007

Most students have finished the final copies of their research paragraphs. Many are working on their posters of the "10 Steps of the Research Process". Creativity as well as correct information will count on the grade.

Remember - Bring an exciting book to read tomorrow during DEAR.

SKILLS:
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Transition words and phrases
Parenthetical citations
Editing for mechanics and conventions of writing

HOMEWORK:
Worksheet review - pgs. 8 & 12, sentences 1-5
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week. A few students need to turn in a book report.

posted on: March 26, 2007

Mrs. Hendrix's presentation today on technical writing was great. Students categorized/organized a large selection of words and phrases into groups having to do with technical writing. Then they adjusted their groups as Mrs. Hendrix lead the discussion about technical writing. Ask your son/daughter for some examples of technical writing they have used in the past 24 hours.

We did not get to work in the academy lab today, so students will continue to work on the final copy of their research paragraphs tomorrow, and we will read them

BONUS POINTS - Write a paragraph describing how you (not people in general) have used technical writing over this past week. Include both topic and clincher sentences, and specific examples.

SKILLS:
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Transition words and phrases
Parenthetical citations
Editing for mechanics and conventions of writing

HOMEWORK:
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week. Some students still need to finish

posted on: March 22, 2007

Students, you are on the Write-Track by checking our blog!

All students turned in their rough drafts for grading today. Some started typing their final copy today and others will start tomorrow, and all students will be reading their research sections to the class later this week - Thursday or Friday.

BONUS POINTS - What is technical writing?
Can you tell me before we go to the media center on Thursday?

We will go to the media center Thursday for a presentation by Mrs. Hendrix on 'technical writing'.

SKILLS:
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Transition words and phrases
Parenthetical citations
Editing for mechanics and conventions of writing

HOMEWORK:
Continue to edit research paragraphs if you needed to take them home.

Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week.

posted on: March 20, 2007

Students are finishing rough draft analysis and turning in their rough drafts for grading. Some will start typing their final copy tomorrow, and all students will be reading their research sections to the class later this week.

SKILLS:
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Transition words and phrases
Parenthetical citations
Editing for mechanics and conventions of writing

HOMEWORK:

Continue to edit research paragraphs if you were able to take it home.

Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week.

posted on: March 19, 2007

We continued to analyze and revise research paragraphs. Students will be reading their paragraphs aloud next week (hopefully Wed. or Thurs.) and then turn in their final copy for grading.

Have a wonderful weekend!

SKILLS:
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Writing Works Cited page
Transition words and phrases
Parenthetical citations
Editing for mechanics and conventions of writing

HOMEWORK:

Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week.

posted on: March 16, 2007

Students continued to enter parenthetical citations, correct punctuation, and re-write sentences. We will be in the academy lab tomorrow as students continue to type and revise their research paragraphs.

Parents, Please help your son/daughter with these paragraphs by: 1) reading them aloud for your son/daughter to hear their mistakes, 2) listen while they read to you and ask questions to help them improve their explanations or information, 3) circling errors that they have not noticed - but please don't tell them how to fix the errors - ask them leading questions or give suggestions for using the dictionary, grammar reference, or thesaurus. Thank you!

Report cards go home next Wednesday.

SKILLS:
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Writing Works Cited page
Transition words and phrases
Parenthetical citations
Editing for mechanics and conventions of writing

HOMEWORK:
Continue to work on editing your research paragraphs.
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: March 15, 2007

Parenthetical citations were introduced today, and students began inserting them into their research paragraphs. Students need to continue working on using their own words as they present factual information to avoid plagiarism - this can be challenging!

SKILLS:
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Writing Works Cited page
Transition words and phrases
Parenthetical citations
Editing for mechanics and conventions of writing

HOMEWORK:
Continue to work on editing your research paragraphs.
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: March 14, 2007

We continued the editing process, focusing on topic sentences and clincher sentences.
DEAR Gorilla provided the opportunity to look at other authors' transition words, topic sentences, and clincher sentences.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Writing Works Cited page

HOMEWORK:
Add topic sentences and clincher (concluding) sentences to your research paragraphs.
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: March 13, 2007

Welcome back to normal schedules. Jekyll was a wonderful learning opportunity and now we are adjusting our focus back to the classroom. Students are in the editing process of their research paragraphs; today's focus was on adding transition words.

The current 9 weeks will end the middle of this week - Report cards go home next week.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Writing Works Cited page

HOMEWORK:
Add transition words to your research paragraphs.
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: March 12, 2007

We enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate Dr. Seuss' birthday and created RAFTs through the medium of 'jingles'. Great creativity!

I will be on the Jekyll trip all of next week. Students will be having LA class with Mrs. Hieber the days they are not at Jekyll. All learning assignments and activities are based on Georgia Power Standards for 7th grade LA and help students continue to prepare for CRCTs and writing projects.

I look forward to seeing everyone at Jekyll next week.
Have a wonderful weekend!

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Writing Works Cited page

HOMEWORK:
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: March 02, 2007

Students finished their Works Cited page. We typed directly into Word from the Bibliography cards. Additionally, we tried out a template that formats the citations.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Writing Works Cited page

HOMEWORK:
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: March 01, 2007

Using our bibliography cards, students began typing their Works Cited page.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences
Writing Works Cited page

HOMEWORK:
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 28, 2007

Students received assistance writing their topic sentences. Students read their detail sentences of their rough draft, then the class offered suggestions for a basic topic sentence. After putting that on the overhead, everyone used a thesaurus and their topic sentence guide sheets to suggest improvements on structure, descriptive vocabulary, and content. The result - a messing overhead with very interesting and descriptive topic sentences.

Special notice
Reading 25 books - 3rd nine weeks ends the middle of March; leaving only 2 1/2 weeks to bring total number of books read to 20. The state criteria for books read each school year is 25 books and we are almost there. (Some students have already accomplished this and more!)

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Writing topic and clincher sentences

HOMEWORK:
Writing Analysis - Analyze 5 sentences from your research rough draft.
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 27, 2007

Welcome and thank you for checking our blog! Bonus points are available: Print this page and MARK the sentence below ...

Each student has completed 20 note cards because they are writing a research paper.
Formula ________

Special notice
Reading 25 books - 3rd nine weeks ends the middle of March; leaving only 2 1/2 weeks to bring total number of books read to 20. The state criteria for books read each school year is 25 books and we are almost there. (Some students have already accomplished this and more!)

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards
Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism

HOMEWORK:
Writing Analysis - Analyze 5 sentences from your research rough draft.
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 26, 2007

Students are discovering how difficult it can be to rewrite another person's research in their own words. Students continued to construct sentences that paraphrase the facts into their rough draft, with some students moving to the revising stages of adding transition words. We will be working with rough drafts again on Monday.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards

HOMEWORK:
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.
3rd nine weeks ends the middle of March; leaving only 2 1/2 weeks to bring total number of books read to 20. The state criteria for books read each school year is 25 books and we are almost there. (Some students have already accomplished this and more!)

posted on: February 23, 2007

Students continued to work on turning facts from their note cards into sentences in their rough draft.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing informational text from note cards

HOMEWORK:
3rd Period is to continue working on their rough draft.
Read for 20-30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 21, 2007

Students began writing their rough draft using a paragraph organizer. We focused on turning note card facts into the detail sentences of a paragraph. When the details have been developed we will write the topic and clincher sentences of the paragraphs.

Enjoy the long weekend and read a wonderful book!

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing complex sentences.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:
Parent signature on progress report for the students who forgot (Avoid silent lunch).
Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 16, 2007

Today we focused on organizing information - developing a web and sorting note cards in readiness for writing the rough draft. So many steps...

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing complex sentences.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:
Parent signature on progress report for those students who forgot (Avoid silent lunch).
Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 15, 2007

Most students completed their 20+ note cards today. Tomorrow we begin organizing our information and start writing the rough draft.

Progress reports were distributed today.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing complex sentences.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:
Parent signature on progress report.
Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 14, 2007

We continued to work on the research note cards. DEAR today.
Progress reports go home tomorrow.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing complex sentences.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:
Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 13, 2007

It was wonderful being back in the Write-Place today. Monday can be marvelous.

We reviewed note cards and most students completed 1/3 or 1/2 of the required note cards.

SKILLS:

Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing complex sentences.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:
Complete KS workbook pg. 53, sentences 6-10 (Several students demonstrated independence and foresight by working ahead and have already completed this page of the workbook.
DEAR tomorrow - remember to bring the book you are currently reading!
Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 12, 2007

Note card format was introduced today. Students read over their several pages of resource materials and chose the 4 best resources. They will begin to search for facts and then copy those facts to their note cards. We discussed how to avoid plagiarism; note cards can not have more than 8 words. We are also working 'smarter not harder' to help with future organizing of information; write only 1 fact on 1 note card.

No one noticed yesterday's BONUS points. :o

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Researching facts
Writing note cards
Writing complex sentences.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:
Complete KS workbook pg. 53, sentences 1-5
Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 07, 2007

Students worked in the computer lab to finish up their Response to Literature project and bibliography cards.
BONUS points to any student that copies the sentence below, underlines the dependent and independent clauses, and MARKs the sentence.

While studying for my science test on ecology, my dog ate my social studies project about Egypt.
GOOD LUCK!

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Writing complex sentences.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:

Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 06, 2007

Students worked to finish their bibliography cards. Great workers!

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Writing complex sentences.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:
***Complete KS workbook pg. 52, sentences 6-10 (2nd period - Please note the page is 52, not page 53 - I'm sorry I did not catch that error during your class period.)
Several students have reported that they have finished reading their most recent book, and they have been encouraged to complete their book report over the weekend.
Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 05, 2007

Students continued to work on their bibliography cards in class. The classwork assignment was to complete an additional 5 cards; students received a grade based on completion.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Writing complex sentences.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:
Several students have reported that they have finished reading their most recent book, and they have been encouraged to complete their book report over the weekend.
Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 02, 2007

I'm sorry this is being posted so late in the evening; we seemed to be experiencing server problems at school today. I hope the delay has not created a problem for any students and their families.

Today we trudged through the numerous details of bibliography cards. Students have collected several reference sources to help them practice writing their bibliography cards in class tomorrow.

SKILLS:
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Writing source citations and bibliography cards
Writing complex sentences.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:
KS workbook, pg. 52, sentences 1-5
Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: February 01, 2007

Student continued locating and collecting resources for our research project.
Several students are in the "January slumps" and are struggling to complete their homework or remembering to bring it to class. Now is a good time to double check organization and agendas. Thank you!

SKILLS:
Writing complex sentences.
Writing paragraphs with topic, detail, and clincher sentences.
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:

KS workbook, pg. 49, sentences 4-6 & pg. 51, sentences 7-10
Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: January 31, 2007

Today we enjoyed DEAR Gorilla and organized the research information we have currently collected. Students will go to the computer lab tomorrow and have an opportunity to search for additional resources to meet their expectation of various resources.

SKILLS:
Writing complex sentences.
Writing paragraphs with topic, detail, and clincher sentences.
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:

• KS workbook, pg. 49, sentences 4-6 & pg. 51, sentences 4-6

• Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: January 30, 2007

We used the computer lab to continue our research for a variety of sources (at least 4 different types of sources). Since we cannot use standard search engines at school, students (with parent permission) can check out additional resources using google, ask jeeves, etc. - optional.

SKILLS:
Writing complex sentences.
Writing paragraphs with topic, detail, and clincher sentences.
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.

HOMEWORK:

• KS workbook, pg. 49, sentences 1-3 & pg. 51, sentences 1-3

• Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along.

posted on: January 29, 2007

We connected to the Destiny system which catalogs all the books and resources in our media center; the first of many steps in our research process.
Ask your son/daughter why we are doing research. Hopefully they will remember that our purpose is to learn and practice the steps in of locating research sources.

SKILLS:
Writing complex sentences.
Writing paragraphs with topic, detail, and clincher sentences.
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.
Writing for a variety of genre.
Reading a variety of genre.

HOMEWORK:

• Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along. The book report is a variation on the daily reading log.

posted on: January 26, 2007

Students used the MARK strategy as they identifyed dependent and independent clauses in complex sentences. To expand the activity, students then composed complex sentences from sentence starters provided in their workbook.

We also continued revising the Response to Literature power points. Power points have been graded for design and content; we are completing revisions for the grammar/mechanics grade. Some students have come early or stayed after school to spend additional time on their power point. I am available Mon., Tues., Wed., and Thurs. mornings and Mon., Tues., and Wed., afternoons.

SKILLS:
Writing complex sentences.
Writing paragraphs with topic, detail, and clincher sentences.
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.
Writing for a variety of genre.
Reading a variety of genre.

HOMEWORK:

• Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along. The book report is a variation on the daily reading log.

posted on: January 25, 2007

Everyone received their topic for their research project and began working on their Research Plan handout. Tomorrow we will be on the computers checking out various ways to find information.

SKILLS:
Writing complex sentences.
Writing paragraphs with topic, detail, and clincher sentences.
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.
Writing for a variety of genre.
Reading a variety of genre.

HOMEWORK:

• Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along. The book report is a variation on the daily reading log.

• Kansas workbook, pg. 48, sentences 1, 2, & 3; pg. 50, sentences 1, 2, & 3. Underline and MARK.

posted on: January 24, 2007

Complex sentence review was our focus today. Students will be correcting the sentences they wrote last week.

SKILLS:
Writing complex sentences.
Writing paragraphs with topic, detail, and clincher sentences.
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.
Writing for a variety of genre.
Reading a variety of genre.

HOMEWORK:

• Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along. The book report is a variation on the daily reading log.
• Correct Complex Sentence worksheet #1 and #2
• Students need to bring a zip-lock bag and 40 note cards to class by Wed.

posted on: January 22, 2007

Friday moved too fast! However, we did enjoy the Research Carousel activity, sharing and listening to ideas from our class and other classes. We will steadily move along the research trail, with constant review and application of sentence variety/structure, paragraph structure, and the conventions (grammar) in our writing. Write-On!

SKILLS:
Writing complex sentences.
Writing paragraphs with topic, detail, and clincher sentences.
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.
Writing for a variety of genre.
Reading a variety of genre.

HOMEWORK:
Read for 30 minutes 5 days each week/Book report-You should be working on your book reports as you read, adding information as you go along. The book report is a variation on the daily reading log.

Students need to bring a zip-lock bag and 40 note cards to class.

3rd Period - ONLY - Complete workbook pages 127-130. Do not rush!!

posted on: January 20, 2007

Just in case the directions and worksheet won't open as a Word document for you:

Homework directions
pdf version

Homework worksheet
pdf version

posted on: January 17, 2007

We went over the complex sentences we wrote for homework Tuesday night, took the sentence formula quiz (retake on Friday), and continued learning about research.
I have an inservice tomorrow, so our class will have a wonderful sub. Everyone bring their best manners to class, please.

SKILLS:
Writing complex sentences.
Writing paragraphs with topic, detail, and clincher sentences.
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.
Writing for a variety of genre.
Reading a variety of genre.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Book report
Review/practice writing complex sentences - complete the complex sentence worksheet - both sides.
(I have attached copies of the directions and the worksheet. You may download and print them if you don't have your copy from class.)

Homework directions:

Writing complex sentences directions-3.doc

Homework worksheet:

Complex sentences wk 2.doc

posted on: January 17, 2007

Welcome back from the long weekend. Today we are in the media center learning about research as we start our research process this week. Over the next couple of weeks, we will be using both the research process and the writing process to complete our research papers. Our focus will be on the research aspect, working with multiple resources from various sources (internet, encyclopedia, books, periodicals), writing bibliographies, and correct citing of resources. Each student will work with at least two (2) resources from each of the four (4) areas/sources. To manage time and pacing, each student will write only a section of the class research paper, rather than an extensive paper, with focus on: paragraph structure (topic sentence, detail sentences, clincher/concluding sentence, transition words), revision (using $100 words, starting each sentence in a paragraph with a different word), editing (COPS), and sentence variety (simple, compound, and complex).

WRITE-ON!

SKILLS:
Writing complex sentences.
Writing paragraphs with topic, detail, and clincher sentences.
Using multiple sources to research a topic.
Applying MARK and COPS strategies to writing.
Writing for a variety of genre.
Reading a variety of genre.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Book report

Review/practice writing complex sentences - complete the complex sentence worksheet - both sides.
(I have attached copies of the directions and the worksheet. You may download and print them if you don't have your copy from class.

Direction for the homework - worksheet:

Writing complex sentences directions-2.doc

Copy of the homework - worksheet
Complex sentences wk 1.doc

posted on: January 16, 2007

We will have a sub tomorrow (Friday, 1/12). Please bring your best manners to class.

Homework:
Read 20-30 minutes. Our goal is to read at least 100 pages a week. Students will complete a book report for each book and turn in when they have finished the book. Students have the book report handout and can start answering the questions as they read - Don't wait until the end!

posted on: January 11, 2007

Complex sentences were our focus of instruction today. After enjoying the 'Mad Scientist' activity yesterday, identifying independent and dependent clauses and MARK-ing the complex sentences kept us busy today. The excitement of sentence variety!

Skills:
Expanding sentences
Identifying clauses (dependent/independent)
Complex sentences
COPS editing/proof reading
Paragraph construction (topic and clincher sentences)

HOMEWORK:
Workbook pg. 47 - Follow the examples from page 46 to MARK your sentences correctly. We will check this tomorrow.
Read 20-30 minutes. Our goal is to read at least 100 pages a week. Students will complete a book report for each book and turn in when they have finished the book. Students have the book report handout and can start answering the questions as they read - Don't wait until the end!

posted on: January 11, 2007

Hmmmmmm! I still have not seen a printed page of Mon. or Tues.' blog with a parent signature for BONUS points. I'm worried that my students have forgotten how to use their computers. Horror of horrors!

If you are reading this blog - you have moved to the level of responsible student. Fabulous! Print this page, ask a parent to read it and sign, bring back to class tomorrow for BONUS points.

Skills:
Expanding sentences
Identifying clauses (dependent/independent)
Identifying phrases
COPS editing/proof reading
Paragraph construction (topic and clincher sentences)

HOMEWORK:
Do NOT do Workbook pg. 47 - We will cover this tomorrow.
Read 20-30 minutes. Our goal is to read at least 100 pages a week. Students will complete a book report for each book and turn in when they have finished the book. Students have the book report handout and can start answering the questions as they read - Don't wait until the end!

posted on: January 10, 2007

Today was filled with a variety of activities. Some students are completing their Response to Literature project and preparing it for grading, others began DEAR, and all took the pre-test for complex sentences. Upcoming units - complex sentences, research and research papers.

BONUS points: No one brought in a copy of yesterday's blog post with a parent signature. Checking our blog daily may be beneficial to your academic health. Check away!

Homework:
For those students struggling to get back into the swing of things - finish yesterday's homework.
Tonight - Read 20-30 minutes. Our goal is to read at least 100 pages a week. Students will complete a book report for each book and turn in when they have finished the book. Students have the book report handout and can start answering the questions as they read - Don't wait until the end!
Happy Reading.

posted on: January 09, 2007

Welcome back and congratulations for checking our blog. You are in the Write-Place!! A parent signature on a printed copy of this page will earn BONUS points.

Skills review:
Topic sentence
Clincher sentence
Transition words
Simple and compound sentences

HOMEWORK:
Read for 20-30 minutes/When finished with book - finish book report form
Complete KS Workbook pg. 39 (2nd period - 6 of 8 sentences/3rd period - all 7 sentences).

posted on: January 08, 2007

As we continued working on our response to literature PowerPoint, students discovered that writing about the key four events was more challenging than they expected. Since each student had a reading partner at home, discussions about the Dream Series novel helps students analyze and summarize aspects of the story. A good topic of conversation at dinner might be about the events that helped the main character learn a lesson that changed his/her life.

Holiday Reading: Students have been asked to read 2 books (each at least 150 pages or 1 if over 300 pages) between December 14 and January 8th. They received 2 copies of a book report form to fill out for each book (due when we return from winter break).

Skills:
Analyzing characters for response to literature project
Analyzing lessons learned and theme
Four events leading to lesson learned (include four details of the event)
Paragraph structure: topic sentence, detail sentences, clincher sentence
Sentence variety: Compound sentences

HOMEWORK:
Read for 20 to 30 minutes

posted on: December 20, 2006

We enjoyed the gorgeous weather and took DEAR outside today. Sooooo nice!

Students have been asked to read 2 books (each at least 150 pages or 1 if over 300 pages) between now and January 8th. They received 2 copies of a book report form to fill out for each book (due when we return from winter break).

Skills:
Analyzing characters for response to literature project
Analyzing lessons learned and theme
Four events leading to lesson learned (include four details of the event)
Paragraph structure: topic sentence, detail sentences, clincher sentence
Sentence variety: Compound sentences

HOMEWORK:
Read for 20 to 30 minutes

posted on: December 19, 2006

We continued to work on our response to literature power point.

Students have been asked to read 2 books (each at least 150 pages or 1 if over 300 pages) between now and January 8th. They received 2 copies of a book report form to fill out for each book (due when we return from winter break).

Skills:
Analyzing characters for response to literature project
Analyzing lessons learned and theme
Four events leading to lesson learned (include four details of the event)
Paragraph structure: topic sentence, detail sentences, clincher sentence
Sentence variety: Compound sentences

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record
Bring a book to read for DEAR Gorilla

Reading Logs are due tomorrow

posted on: December 18, 2006

We started our Response to Literature power point projects today and will continue to work on them next week.

Students have been asked to read 2 books (each at least 150 pages or 1 if over 300 pages) between now and January 8th. They received 2 copies of a book report form to fill out for each book (due when we return from winter break).

Skills:
Analyzing characters for response to literature project
Analyzing lessons learned and theme
Paragraph structure: topic sentence, detail sentences, clincher sentence
Sentence variety: Compound sentences

Have a fabulous weekend!

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record

posted on: December 15, 2006

We started working on individual gathering charts for the key events in each student's Dream Series novel. Having met the author yesterday and working with students and reading buddies from another class has helped students better understand this part of the writing process. We will continue to work on this chart and begin the power point projects tomorrow.

The rest of class was in the Media Center. Mrs. Hendrix arranged for students to work with various resources in preparation for our up-coming research project (2007). Ask your son/daughter about the some of the holiday info they discovered.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record

posted on: December 14, 2006

Writing - Book Chat - Meet the Author! What a wonderful experience for our class! Everyone displayed outstanding manners, intelligent conversation, focus on task at hand, and mature behavior. I am so proud of everyone!
Have a wonderful evening.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record

posted on: December 13, 2006

This week has been busy getting ready for the Book-Chat tomorrow. Most students finished both their character chart and their focus statement in class today. If those were not finished they became homework.

Parents: If you are coming to our Book-Chat tomorrow, please fill out and bring the Book-Chat pass with you (your daughter/son has the paper).

Skills:
Analyzing characters for response to literature project
Analyzing lessons learned and theme
Paragraph structure: topic sentence, detail sentences, clincher sentence
Sentence variety: Compound sentences

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record
Finish Character Chart & Focus Statement

posted on: December 12, 2006

If you earned the bonus points offered last week, write your name on a slip of paper with the date of the 1st blog and the answer to the question of the 2nd blog. If you didn't read and earn the bonus points - You missed a great opportunity! Maybe you should go back and check to see what was there and try again. (Second chance :-D ).

Book-Chat News: We are sending home a Book-Chat Visitors form to make signing in an easy task and to monitor safety in our building. If you are coming to our book chat, please bring the filled out form with you. 5th period LA took the form home today. 4th period LA will bring it home tomorrow.

Skills:
Analyzing characters for response to literature project
Paragraph structure: topic sentence, detail sentences, clincher sentence
Sentence variety: Compound sentences

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record
Start Character Chart: Headings: Character = Lesson learned
include 3 or 4 characters from your Dream Series novel

posted on: December 11, 2006

Yes, we continued to type away. To adjust a quote, "So much writing and so little time."

Our meet the author and book chat will be this coming Wednesday, December 13. Ask your daughter/son for the information letter, with time and place, passed out Thursday.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record

posted on: December 09, 2006

Students who had not finished their final copy of the weekend paragraph continued typing. The rest of the class started typing the 3 middle paragraphs of their 5 paragraph essay on their Thanksgiving vacation. Very busy fingers!

Checking this blog will earn bonus points - Shhhhhhh-----
On the back of your COPS page write the difference between a clueing topic sentence and a specific topic sentence. (Hint: one includes a list of ideas , and the other gives a clue about what you included in the paragraph.

Skills:
Writing compound sentences
Writing topic sentences, detail sentences, and clincher (concluding) sentences.
Using the writing process in paragraph writing and multi-paragraph essays
Identifying and writing appositives

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record
Complete COPS analysis worksheet on your weekend paragraph.

posted on: December 07, 2006

Most students have completed their final copy of the weekend paragraph.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Summary sentence for each chapter if you are still reading your Dream Series novel
Complete topic sentence pages 7, 9, and 10 of green packet

posted on: December 06, 2006

We are working hard to complete all revisions and editing on the weekend paragraph. This was definitely a DEAR and typing day.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Summary sentence on chapters in the DS novel
Finish Thanksgiving web and organizer

posted on: December 05, 2006

Each student continued to move through the writing process at their own pace today. We hope to have a final copy of our weekend paragraphs by next Wednesday. Students are learning that they need to revise and edit rough drafts more than once - painful but productive. Have a wonderful weekend.

Continue skills:
Writing compound sentences
Spelling homonyms
Using the writing process in paragraph writing and multi-paragraph essays
Identifying and writing appositives

HOMEWORK:
Read/record/write summary for each chapter in you Dream Series novel.
If you have not already finished your Dream Series novel, try to finish this weekend.
Weekly reading goal, 100 pages or more each week :)

posted on: December 01, 2006

As we continue to revise our weekend paragraphs and lay the foundation for the Thanksgiving essay, everyone is working on a different step in the writing process. Today was very busy as students worked through several activities at their own pace.

Continue skills:
Writing compound sentences
Spelling homonyms
Using the writing process in paragraph writing and multi-paragraph essays
Identifying and writing appositives

HOMEWORK:
4th & 5th periods - Read/record/write summary for each chapter.
4th period - Write a paragraph (6 or 7 sentences)
4th period - Study for Spelling Quiz (desert, dessert, passed, past) OOPS! - We forgot to take the quiz today. 5th period did take the quiz.
4th & 5th periods - Parent Signature on Book Chat letter

posted on: November 30, 2006

We worked in the Academy Lab typing the rough drafts to our weekend paragraphs. We also began some revisions to our topic and clincher (concluding) sentences.

OOPS! We forgot to take our Spelling Quiz today ---- We will have the quiz tomorrow.

Students are bringing home a second Book Chat letter for the reading buddy to read and sign. We can't wait for December 13, Meet the author and Book Chat. I hope you enjoy reading and discussing the book with your son/daughter. We look forward to hosting those of you who will be able to join us that day for the book chat.

Continue skills:
Writing compound sentences
Spelling homonyms
Using the writing process in paragraph writing and multi-paragraph essays
Identifying and writing appositives

HOMEWORK:
Read/record/write summary for each chapter.
Write a paragraph (6 or 7 sentences) using your Spelling words, 3 compound sentences and 1 appositive.
Study for Spelling Quiz (desert, dessert, passed, past) OOPS! - We forgot to take the quiz today.
Parent Signature on Book Chat letter

posted on: November 29, 2006

A terrific day - full of reading (DEAR) and writing (compound sentences with very creative, collaborative input).

Skills:
Writing compound sentences
Spelling homonyms
Using the writing process in paragraph writing and multi-paragraph essays
Identifying and writing appositives

HOMEWORK:
Parent signature on progress report, if you did not return it today.
Study for spelling quiz
Write a paragraph using the Spelling homonyms (desert, dessert, passed, past).
Continue reading Dream Series novel - Read/Record - Write summary for each chapter.

posted on: November 28, 2006

Congratulations! You remembered to check the 'Write-Spot' after a long vacation - Print this page for BONUS POINTS - Shhhhhh - - -

Progress reports are coming home today. Please ask for a parent signature and return the progress report tomorrow. I will trade the signed one for a copy for parents to keep. Thank you!

Skills:
Writing compound sentences
Spelling homonyms
Using the writing process in paragraph writing and multi-paragraph essays
Identifying and writing appositives

HOMEWORK:
Parent signature on progress report
Study for spelling quiz
Complete Writing & Grammar workbook pg. 73 & 74. Use Spelling homonyms in the Writing Application on pg. 74
Continue reading Dream Series novel - Read/Record - Write summary for each chapter.

posted on: November 27, 2006

We continued to review appositives and organization of our paragraphs written about last weekend.

All students should be reading their novel from the Dream Series for the "Meet the author" and Book chat. I have attached the letter that I sent home last Friday explaining the activity. When we return after Thanksgiving I will sent home a second copy and ask for a parent signature to confirm parent understanding and level of participation.

Book chat letter Download file

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Chapter summary on your novel from the Dream Series in preparation for the "meet the author" and book chat on December 13.
Have a wonderful holiday and enjoy your family and friends.

posted on: November 21, 2006

The magic of appositives is our focus for today and tomorrow. Adding appositive clauses to our sentences increases our communication skills, adds descriptive information, and heightens reader interest. Absolutely magical! Who can resist writing????

For students starting their holiday early, homework is to complete workbook pages 35, 36, 37, and 38. Use colored pencils to MARK each sentence. If you forget which color goes to a particular part of speech, look back to a page you have already completed. You may check your work with the answer key in the back of your workbook. You can catch up on the appositive activities when you return. Happy Holiday!

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record
Finish workbook pg. 37 & 38, use colored pencils to MARK each sentence.

posted on: November 20, 2006

With the Thanksgiving holiday just around the corner, tuning-in during class today was a challenge. We focused on the "jobs" and variety of topic sentences, which are often the most difficult to write.

For students starting their holiday early, homework is to complete workbook pages 35, 36, 37, and 38. Use colored pencils to MARK each sentence. If you forget which color goes to a particular part of speech, look back to a page you have already completed. You may check your work with the answer key in the back of your workbook.

Write-On!

HOMEWORK:

Read for 20-30 minutes/Record pages read (Our goal is to read a minimum of 5 days and at least 100 pages each week.)

Complete pg. 35 and 36 - Use colored pencils to MARK the sentences. You can check your work with the answer key in the back of your workbook.

posted on: November 16, 2006

I hope everyone got home safely and as dry as possible.

We covered the structure of a paragraph ( 5-11 sentences) and topic (main idea) sentences today. Tonight's homework involves writing a paragraph using tonight's spelling words. Please include some simple and compound sentences in your paragraph.

My classes will be joining Mrs. Abrams' LA classes for a wonderful opportunity; meet the author and book chat. We will be reading novels from the Dream Series. Most students checked out one of the novels from the Dream Series today. All students have been asked to read a novel from the series and try to complete it by the time they return from the Thanksgiving Holiday. One of the authors from this series is coming from California to visit our school and participate in a meet the author and book chat. The book chat is scheduled for December 13th. Each student needs an adult reading buddy, someone who will also read the novel chosen by the student. Reading buddies are invited for the book chat and meet the author on Dec. 13th, however, reading buddies are NOT required to come. I will send home a packet of information tomorrow.

HOMEWORK:
Read for 20-30 minutes/Record pages read (Our goal is to read a minimum of 5 days and at least 100 pages each week.)
Write a paragraph (5 or more sentences) using tonight's spelling words. Include simple and compound sentences.
Spelling quiz tomorrow.

posted on: November 15, 2006

Read/Record
Write 4 compound sentences on notebook paper. Use 3 of the 4 homonyms on tonight's spelling list.
Spelling quiz tomorrow
Parent signature on helping verb chart quiz.

posted on: November 14, 2006

This was a great start to a great week. We took the time to search our warm-up paragraphs for sentence variety, simple and compound were essential and some complex sentences were also included. We also took the opportunity to complete some of our review using the promethean board. A great way to write! Paragraph structure and purpose is our next level of writing. We continue to review and study homonyms and use them in our sentence writing, and this will be on-going for the next few weeks.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record your last page read - Reading logs will be collected tomorrow.
Worksheet - Simple sentences to complex sentences. Use 3 of 4 homonyms in your sentences.
Parent signature on last week's spelling quizzes.

posted on: November 13, 2006

After taking our spelling quiz, we traveled to the media center. Mrs. Hendrix introduced the book chat scheduled for December, the Dream Series books and explained about our author visit connected to the book chat.
In preparation for our research paper, she also presented internet research and how to use various search engines. Examples of how to use the advance search options was also presented. Students have a worksheet (Flip It!) to complete and turn in before Thanksgiving.

I will not be in the classroom tomorrow. We will have a wonderful substitute tomorrow.

HOMEWORK:
Read 20-30 minutes
Complete worksheet, simple sentences and compound sentences. Use 3 of 4 homonyms.
Study for spelling quiz.

posted on: November 09, 2006

You are checking our blog - Fantastic!! Responsible behavior shines!

Writing is hard work and involves a great amount of effort. I am proud of student work that shows hard work and careful attention to details. Everyone can improve their homework quality; work carefully. (Shhhhhh- BONUS points for writing down these three sentences and their formulas.)

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record (some students do not need to record this week, as we are testing the reading habit.)
Study for tomorrow's Spelling quiz - 4 homonyms
Study Chart on helping verbs - quiz tomorrow.
Workbook pg. 30, 6-10. Use 3 of 4 homonyms in your sentences. Time to write Middle School quality sentences that match the formula. MARK everything.

posted on: November 08, 2006

We continue to review compound sentences, using FAN BOYS and semicolons. We are also working with subject verb agreement and remembering the list of helping verbs.

Enjoy your Time-Out (of school) Tuesday, yet remember to do your homework.

HOMEWORK: (4 Frogs)

• Read/Record/Draw Reading logs due Wed.

• Workbook pg. 30, sentences 1-5. Since there are only 5 sentences, be careful, avoid BORING verbs, use 3 of the 4 homonyms in your sentences, watch your subject - verb agreement, follow the formula, and MARK your sentences and check to see if they make sense.

• Study for the Spellng quiz over 4 homonyms

• Study for the Helping Verb Chart quiz

We will have a very busy Wednesday so come ready to 'zooooommm' in on writing! Write Away - Today.

posted on: November 06, 2006

While analyzing and reviewing our writing this week, we uncovered the mystery of the "forgotten helping verbs". We reviewed and categorized the helping verbs into 6 families with a total of 23 helping verbs. To help each of us remember and use them accurately, I have posted a website with information and activities.

Practice using helping verbs!

All that we learn must be practiced in our writing; writing is the inking of our thinking. What are you thinking?
Shhhhhh - - - - BONUS points: Find the helping verbs (and linking verb) in the two sentences above. Write the formulas for both.

Write Today!

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Draw - a picture of one character, scene, event, etc in your chapter book.
Study for Spelling Quiz on Monday - 4 homonyms

posted on: November 03, 2006

HOMEWORK:
Read/record
Workbook, pg. 29, 1-5 - Use 3 of the 4 homonyms in the spelling list.
Study the 4 homonyms for tomorrow's Spelling Quiz

posted on: November 02, 2006

Last night must have been fun, as everyone was 'worn-out'.
We took the time to write about last night and analyze our paragraphs for structure, descriptive adjectives and nouns, vivid verbs, and punctuation. Some students were amazed their writing was very descriptive, others were disappointed that their writing lacked description. Self-analysis is often painful, but also productive.

Write Now and forever!

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record
Workbook pg 28, 6-10. Use 3 of the 5 homonyms in your sentences.
Spelling quiz tomorrow over 5 homonyms

posted on: November 01, 2006

Congratulations, you checked our blog on a day filled with fall fun and spooky stories.

I suggest you look at yesterday's blog, as there is a "Shhhhh.....! " there, and I will accept your list tomorrow too.

HOMEWORK:

Happy Halloween!!

posted on: October 31, 2006

Today was "snazzy"! We returned to our compound sentence writing, and we used Mrs. Parker's interactive Promethean board. However, we did experience some "temperamental technology".
We have begun to review homonyms, and tonight we need to study all four and use at least three homonyms in the compound sentences on pg 28.

Shhhhhhhhh ! ----- BONUS points - Write 5 Halloween adjectives or verbs that are very vivid and descriptive.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record
Parent signature on Noun Quiz
Complete 1-5 of pg. 28, compound sentences (use at least three homonyms in your five sentences)
Study for spelling quiz tomorrow (4 words)

posted on: October 30, 2006

Enjoy the patter of the dripping rain and read a good book this weekend. Extend yourself and read more than you ever have before.

Happy weekend!

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record Read 50 - 100 pages

posted on: October 27, 2006

Students are bringing home their Writing & Grammar Workbook home tonight, so they can review the noun activities on pages 1-6 for tomorrow's noun quiz.

They should only need to spend 10-15 min. studying/reviewing the noun rules on these pages for tomorrow.

I hope everyone enjoyed the dance!

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record
Study for noun quiz

posted on: October 26, 2006

We are finishing "Cat On The Go" tonight, so we can complete a character analysis activity tomorrow in class.

As we return our focus to composing compound sentences, reviewing simple sentences, and parts of speech, I wanted to share a wonderful web site from the publishers of our Write Source books. This web site explains most of the grammar rules (punctuation, capitalization, word usage, etc) in an iMovie style. It is very informative and presented in small chunks. Please explore it, bookmark it, and use it throughout the year. Write-On!
Interactive grammar rules from Write Source


HOMEWORK:
Read for 20-30 minutes/Record pages read
Finish to page 118, "Cat On The Go" - Review character analysis for James Herriot, Helen Harriot, and Oscar

posted on: October 25, 2006

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Vacation from summary sentences this week
"Cat On The Go" pgs. 111-114
Parent signature on DOL quiz

posted on: October 24, 2006

We continue to throw away "boring verbs" and use the thesaurus to expand our list of vivid verbs. Now the challenge is to use them when we speak and write. Rise to the challenge!

According to several students' writing response, this was an exciting weekend. We heard about events ranging from band competition to baby squirrels. We hope to finish our short story "Cat On The Go" and the novel Old Yeller by the end of this week. Great reading!

DOL quiz is coming home today for parent signatures. Several students improved their grades from the last DOL quiz. Super studying!

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Super summary sentences
Reading Logs collected tomorrow
Parent signature on DOL quiz

posted on: October 23, 2006

This week has flown by, and we have squeezed a lot of learning into our short classes. I enjoyed meeting parents and bragging on outstanding students! However, I will be glad to have our longer class time back next week. The world of Language Arts is just brimming over with wonderful opportunities for learning.

Shhhhh!! BONUS POINTS: Write down any idioms you can find in the sentences above and then add 3 more idioms and bring to class Monday.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Super summary sentence
Have a wonderful weekend!

posted on: October 20, 2006

We have a DOL/DOG quiz tomorrow. Remember to study your DOL worksheet tonight. The quiz will be 4 of the 10 sentences on your DOL worksheet.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Super summary sentence (more students earned a trip into the "bucket" today).
"Cat On The Go" pages 109 & 110, there are 6 questions. Use your character traits worksheet to help you.
Quiz tomorrow - Study DOL/DOG worksheet.

posted on: October 19, 2006

If you are checking today's blog - which you are! There are bonus points available from yesterday's blog. Soooo, check yesterday's post to earn bonus points.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Super summary sentence This is slipping away again -- Please catch the vision and READ.
"Cat On The Go" pgs 107 and 108, answer the 5 questions in the left margins of the 2 pages.
If you need to correct or finish Monday's & Tuesday's homework in your W & G workbook (purple), you can. We will finish checking these pages tomorrow in class.

posted on: October 18, 2006

DEAR and the Bookfair occupied most of our class time today. We are continuing to review nouns, address character analysis (the short story "Cat On The Go"), and writing. Our shortened schedules definitely have an impact on all of us.

So - for fun (?!?) -- Shhhhhh!
BONUS points: "Someone who makes no mistakes does not usually make anything." Respond to this quote, writing a minimum of 5-7 sentence paragraph.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Super summary sentence, using the 5 W's and how.
Writing & Grammar workbook, pgs. 5 & 6, nouns

posted on: October 17, 2006

We will begin our character analysis of the short story "Cat On the Go" and continue to review parts of speech, and sentence structure. The shorter classes this week emphasis the importance of using our time wisely to accomplish as much as possible in class.

HOMEWORK:
Writing & Grammar workbook, reviewing nouns, pgs. 1, 2, 3, & 4.
Read/Record/Answer Monday's question (and any questions you missed earlier).
Questions for this week's Reading Log:

Thursday:
What is the author’s tone (the way she/he feels about the characters or events) in your book? Copy one sentence or clause from the book to support your answer.
Friday:
What do you think will happen next? Why?
Monday:
What character, place, or event reminds you of something in your own life? Explain.

posted on: October 16, 2006

We had the opportunity to enjoy part of the James Herriot story, "Cat On The Go", today. Listening to the Scottish accents added a wonderful sense of being there.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Answer 2 questions - Thursday and Friday (I forgot the student holiday)
One notebook paper, rewrite and correct sentences from workbook pg 27, 2A

Questions for this week's Reading Log:

Thursday:
What is the author’s tone (the way she/he feels about the characters or events) in your book? Copy one sentence or clause from the book to support your answer.
Friday:
What do you think will happen next? Why?
Monday:
What character, place, or event reminds you of something in your own life? Explain.

posted on: October 12, 2006

Homework tonight is focused on writing --- Writing compound sentences from a prompt.
Writing with a variety of subjects. Writing with vivid verbs (we threw away the boring ones.) Writing, writing, and writing.

HOMEWORK:
Workbook pg 27, CS 2A. After you have written each sentence, use the MARK strategy to check your sentence and see if it really does match the formula.
Read/Record/Answer the question.
Questions for this week's Reading Log:

Tuesday:
List 2 idioms or 5 descriptive adjectives from the pages you just read.
Wednesday:
What is the point of view of the book or story (who is speaking or telling the story – 1st person/3rd person)? Copy one sentence or clause from the book to support your answer.
Thursday:
What is the author’s tone (the way she/he feels about the characters or events) in your book? Copy one sentence or clause from the book to support your answer.
Friday:
What do you think will happen next? Why?
Monday:
What character, place, or event reminds you of something in your own life? Explain.

posted on: October 11, 2006

Thank you for checking our blog! This is the Write Spot to check out.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/List 2 idioms or 5 adjectives
Workbook page 25, Compound sentences 1C. Use the MARK strategy.

posted on: October 10, 2006

What does "magnanimous" mean? Today, as we finished the short narrative "Seventh Grade", Mr. Bueller was very magnanimous and understanding of Victor's plight.

BONUS points: Bring in the definition for "magnanimous" or "plight" tomorrow. Write-Away!

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Answer the character ?
Complete worksheet 1B, pg. 24. Use the MARK strategy - mark:

• prepositional phrases
• infinitives
• verb
• subject

posted on: October 09, 2006

Today we explored our various but "familiar" feelings of the first day of school in 7th grade. We wrote about them, and we read the short story "Seventh Grade". We enjoyed the humor, vivid descriptions, personal experiences, and idioms tucked inside this delightful story.

We will explore additional narrative selections in preparation for writing our own narratives. Enjoy your Fall weekend and "Fall" into the "Write Place" in your book.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Answer Friday's question

posted on: October 06, 2006

Mrs. Hendrix, our media specialist, presented a wonderful lesson on Internet information and safety today. Everyone seems to love our days in the media center. The information shared today will be a great help as we research and write this year.

BONUS points - Write down one new fact you learned about the internet today and turn in to me tomorrow.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Answer the Thursday question.

posted on: October 05, 2006

Checking our blog "Write Away" demonstrates maturity and independence. Congratulations!
We will be going to the media center tomorrow.

HOMEWORK:
Worksheets 2C & 2A - Sentences #9 & #10 on both pages. Worksheets will be collected tomorrow for a grade.
Use the MARK strategy on all sentences
Read/Record/Wednesday character question

posted on: October 04, 2006

We are coming to the last week of grades before report cards. All make-up work needs to be in this Friday. You should have finished 7 books for this nine weeks. Be sure and record your reading, no matter where you are. You want to get credit for all of your reading.

Be alert to variety with your subjects and verbs in your sentence writing. No more "boring verbs", use the vivid verbs on your list. Do not repeat subjects or verbs.

HOMEWORK:
Worksheets 2C & 2A - Sentences #7 & #8 on both pages. Wednesday evening will be the last night to work on these TWO worksheets. I will collect them Thursday.
Read/Record/Super summary sentence - The Super summary sentence has been changed to specific character questions for 5th period. 4th period will receive the character question list tomorrow.
Some students still need to ask a parent to sign their DOL quiz from last Friday.

posted on: October 03, 2006

I hope you had a memorable weekend; the weather was glorious! (compound sentence - I;I)
Obviously, my weekend must have been filled with perfect weather, since I realized at 2:00 A.M. Monday morning I had forgotten to post our Friday homework. Everyone did write it in their agendas Friday, so I am hoping you took the time to complete it.
BONUS POINTS (since the teacher forgot to complete her homework, I did grade papers) for all students who completed their homework.
HOMEWORK:
I will collect Reading Logs tomorrow during DEAR Gorilla, bring your book.
Read/Record/Super SS
Worksheets 2c and 2a, sentences 5 & 6. Remember to MARK your sentences.

posted on: October 02, 2006

It's great to be back, even after just one day away. I was so delighted our substitute, Mrs. Boye, left very positive comments about our classes.

If you are reading this blog, shhhhhhh! You are in the 'write' place for bonus points. Write a compound sentence about DEAR Gorilla using the coordinating conjunction 'so'. Happy writing!

HOMEWORK:
Worksheets Simple Sentence 2C and Compound Sentence 2A, complete sentences #1 and #2 on each worksheet.
Read/Record/Super summary sentence (Don't lose your Reading Log!)

posted on: September 28, 2006

Congratulations! You checked our blog! News - we will have a sub tomorrow and DEAR Gorilla as I will be at an inservice. Don't forget to bring an interesting and challenging chapter book to class. If you did not ask your parent to sign your Simple Sentence test, do so tonight.

Our focus of instruction = Identify and write simple and compound sentences, expanding to complex and compound-complex sentences, avoiding fragments and run-ons.

HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/Super Summary Sentence - Since this is the only homework tonight and tomorrow night, I expect some wonderful, informative summary sentences when I return on Thursday. Yum, yum??

posted on: September 26, 2006

The Simple Sentence tests were graded and returned to students today. Students who scored below 80% on the Simple Sentence test need to study their graded test and study guide tonight. They will take a retest tomorrow in class.

HOMEWORK:
Ask a parent to sign your test.
Read/Record/SSS
Study if you need to take the retest.

posted on: September 25, 2006

Students completed their Simple Sentence Test today. We reviewed compound sentences and will expand our use of them in our writing.

We have also joined Mrs. Worthington's advanced LA classes for a novel study, Old Yeller. We started yesterday, and we will join them for the last 10-15 minutes of class most days. We have enjoyed listening to the novel read aloud and joining in on class discussions.
Have a wonderful weekend!
HOMEWORK:
Read/Record/SSS

posted on: September 22, 2006

Students began their test over simple sentences today. They will finish their test tomorrow.

HOMEWORK:
Correct any errors and rewrite any incorrect sentences on study guide and worksheets to help you as you complete the test tomorrow.
Rewrite the incorrect sentences on notebook paper and attach to your study guide.
Read/Record/SSS

posted on: September 21, 2006

Although our day was shorter than usual (early dismissal), we reviewed for tomorrow's test and students received their study guide.

HOMEWORK:
TEST Tomorrow
Complete the study guide
Study for the Test
Read/Record/Super Summary Sentence

posted on: September 20, 2006

You are on the 'Write Track' !
HOMEWORK:

• Worksheet 18C (Since planning a sentence that fits a format is challenging, Monday's corrected homework and practice pages are attached to assist with tonight's sentence writing.)

• Read/Record/Super Summary sentence (Remember the Summary Bookmark)

posted on: September 19, 2006

If you are on the 'Write Track' you will see bonus points below. Checking in is worth it!!

Monday was a continued review of simple sentences with two subjects and two verbs. We will have a quiz Wednesday or Thursday over simple sentences - all types - all formulas SV, SSV, SVV, SSVV, and the definitions of a simple sentence and an independent clause.

We explored (a vivid verb) some more vivid verbs. Remember to use at least two of the vivid verbs on your "boring verb page" in your sentences tonight.

Homework:
Worksheet 18B, remember: Sentences need a least words to match your number of birthdays.
Read/Record/Super Summary Sentence (These are slipping again - ouch!)
Reading Logs are due tomorrow

Bonus points: To show you are more alert than you were in class today (very mellow Monday), write down the number of vivid verbs you currently have on your "boring verb page".

posted on: September 18, 2006

Today we began throwing away 'boring verbs' and started digging up 'vivid verbs'. We will use the vivid verbs to bring our writing to life.

Homework:
Ask your parents to sign your progress report.
Read/Record/SSS

Have a wonderful weekend!

posted on: September 15, 2006

Thank you for checking our Write-On (right on) blog!! If you have not been checking, you have missed out on some bonus points. Five opportunities for bonus points have been posted over the last four weeks. Keep watching for more.

Mrs. Hendrix, our media center specialist, arranged for our class to learn about non-fiction books and types of non-fiction books. This lesson was exciting as each student participated by using the Promethean Eggs. (Tell your parents about the "eggs".)

Progress Reports will be sent home tomorrow. Students, please ask one of your parents to sign your progress report and return to school on Monday.

Homework:
Worksheet 15B - Sentences need to be 8 words or more.
Read/Record/Super summary sentence

posted on: September 14, 2006

We are continuing to improve our writing of simple sentences. Things to remember: PENS MARK, match the formula, check your subject-verb agreement, capitals, punctuation, prepositional phrases, and infinitives. That is a lot for a 'simple' sentence!
Check your work by reading your sentences out loud, or have someone else read them to you, and listen carefully to the way they really 'sound'. Sometimes it is hard to 'hear' our own mistakes.

Tomorrow we are going to the media center. Mrs. Hendrix will present a brief lesson on internet vocabulary. Bring your chapter book to renew or return for another book.

Homework:
Read/Record/Super summary sentence
Worksheet 13 B - Match the formula and MARK.

posted on: September 13, 2006

Thank you for checking our blog today! (Shhhh....there may be bonus points at the end of this post!)

"DEAR Gorilla", every Tuesday, is a wonderful time to read 'thoughtfully' and write reflectively. Focusing our reading and writing on a specific question