**SPECIAL NOTE** In my experience as an 8th grade teacher, I am very aware of the stress and excitement many students encounter in the last six months of their middle school life. Parents, if you are new to the 8th grade experience, be prepared for a student who may feel frustrated, sad, apathetic, or "done" with 8th grade. We typically see 8th grade burnout start right before Spring Break. We also see the panic that comes as some students realize they may not see some of their friends again after graduation.
Fear not!! And remember patience!! Tony and I are very aware of this phenomenon and are armed with strategies to make the best of our last few months together. We keep pretty busy, which helps combat many of the issues stated above. We often brag about what an amazing group of kids we have this year. I appreciate their enthusiasm, their honesty and their compassion for one another. I am also so grateful for the family support we have this year. Thank you!
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Thursday January 10, 3:45 Parent Meeting for Sacramento Trip and High School Information
Thursday January 17, 3:45 Sacramento Parent meeting(for those who couldn't make the Jan 10 date)
Monday January 21: No School. MLK Day
CSI SCIENCE:On Tuesday, we kicked off our endeavors into Chemistry with a murder mystery. Students will record evidence, interview suspects, perform tests on the evidence, and have a mock trial as they figure out whodunnit. During the mystery, students will look at atomic structure and learn about important biochemicals critical to life including carbohydrates, lipids and proteins.
MATH CHANGES:
We made a few more adjustments to our two math classes with some movement of students from one class to the other. Both classes are still devoted to 8th grade math curriculum with an emphasis now in BOTH classes on the Algebra standards. One of the classes is moving at a somewhat slower pace in order to hone basic skills needed to be successful in math. We are currently working on "How To" Posters to help us understand:
- linear equations in the form y=mx + b
- recognizing slope (m), y-intercept (b) from the equation
- writing a linear equation by looking at a graph
- graphing a line given a linear equation,
- writing a linear equation given a point (x,y) and slope (m)
- writing a linear equation given two points.
- finding the slope of a line parallel to another line
- finding the slope of a line perpendicular to a line
Weekly quizzes have been changed to Fridays. There are no Language of Math words in this Friday's quiz, but we will include problems associated with the topics listed above. At this point students should be able to plot coordinates on a graph and recognize slope and y-intercept from an equation in the form y = mx + b. If not, please practice with your student at home.
Example: Given the linear equation y = 4x - 2. What is the slope (m) and y-intercept (b)?
Answer: m= 4, b = -2
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