Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your families! The 8th graders are continuing their study of chemistry. Our focus is currently the periodic table (history, organization, etc.). The students recently completed their test on solids, liquids and gases and they did a great job! We are also continuing to learn about physical and chemical change and physical and chemical properties. Students are working on a mystery powder lab, identifying similar white powders by using their knowledge of the powders' properties.
After break students will be working on their element project. Each student will select an element and we will be preparing posters and a class powerpoint project on the periodic table. The 8th gradrs are doing an outstanding job in class. They are doing well at functioning as indepedent learners in their lab work and also in creating their own notes and study guide. I am really pleased with their effort and attitude in class. Keep it up!
Enjoy your break!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Language Arts/Reading - Miss Mataloni
The 8th graders are presenting their final projects for The Outsiders novel this week. They worked extremely hard during class all of last week to get the projects finished prior to leaving for Christmas break. The students had the option of making a soundtrack to the book, reenact scenes and present the video to the class, or create a model of the various settings within the book and connect it to the main events that happened there. The students worked with a variety of technology programs to fulfill the objectives (PPT, AVS editor, Movie-Maker, etc) They did alternative projects instead of a written test for this novel. Their hard work will be rewarded with watching The Outsiders movie Tuesday/Wednesday.
When we return from break, we'll dive into a fiction writing unit in which each student will be responsible for going through the writing process to create a fictional piece with all the elements of a short story. They will then be converting their story into a picture book to read with the kindergartners. In grammar, we'll work on sentence structure, fragments and run-ons to help improve their writing pieces.
Happy Christmas!
When we return from break, we'll dive into a fiction writing unit in which each student will be responsible for going through the writing process to create a fictional piece with all the elements of a short story. They will then be converting their story into a picture book to read with the kindergartners. In grammar, we'll work on sentence structure, fragments and run-ons to help improve their writing pieces.
Happy Christmas!
Religion/Faith Formation
Hello Parents!
Your students took an Apostles and Nicene Creed Test today. We began in the middle of the Creed and worked through the meaning of the words through the end. The students were very curious about the Christian understanding of the afterlife and the resurrection of the body. I encourage your family to continue to study the Creed at home as it includes the basic tenets of our faith. Below is a link to the USCCB website that might help guide you through the Creed. It becomes helpful when we are called the teachings of our faith with others.
http://www.usccb.org/catechism/text/partone.shtml
The Digital Nativity Story
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkHNNPM7pJA
Enjoy the Holidays with your family.
Your students took an Apostles and Nicene Creed Test today. We began in the middle of the Creed and worked through the meaning of the words through the end. The students were very curious about the Christian understanding of the afterlife and the resurrection of the body. I encourage your family to continue to study the Creed at home as it includes the basic tenets of our faith. Below is a link to the USCCB website that might help guide you through the Creed. It becomes helpful when we are called the teachings of our faith with others.
http://www.usccb.org/catechism/text/partone.shtml
The Digital Nativity Story
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkHNNPM7pJA
Enjoy the Holidays with your family.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Math: Mrs. Cindy Streff
After what seems like a long time working in Chapter 4, Real Numbers, 8th graders will test over the chapter on Monday, December 21 and Tuesday, December 22. This was a chapter filled with a lot of different concepts and too many to test over in 1 day. This will allow 8th graders to leave for Christmas vacation with nothing to worry about in Math. Chapter 5, Application of Proportion will be started after the new year.
A friendly reminder that a pencil is needed every day for Math and dry erase markers are needed for review days. Many students need to replenish their supply of markers and pencils from the beginning of the year. Thanks for your help with this.
Have a wonderful holiday season with family and friends!
A friendly reminder that a pencil is needed every day for Math and dry erase markers are needed for review days. Many students need to replenish their supply of markers and pencils from the beginning of the year. Thanks for your help with this.
Have a wonderful holiday season with family and friends!
Mrs. Wallace-Social Studies
The 8th graders have been busy presenting their glogs over events from 1800-1850. Ask your student if you can see their presentation on http://www.glogster.com/ . They could insert pictures, text, video, and sound into their presentation. I am expecting for them to be done with their presentations by Christmas break. When they return in January, we will start to study the Civil War.
I also spoke with the 8th graders about the National Geography Bee. You can access the information at http://www.nationalgeographic.com/geobee/teachers-and-parents. This year, each class will be holding its own bee and those winners will then move on to the final SFA geography bee. We will be doing reviews in class and they can also do daily quizzes on the website.
The students also have the opportunity to participate in the National History Day project: http://www.nationalhistoryday.org/. This year's topic is Debate and Diplomacy. They can work individually on a project or in groups up to 5 people. Working with Mrs. Larson, we are going to try to give them some time to work during class time on their projects. I think that this is such a great activity to get involved in and that the students would really enjoy it. Have your student contact myself or Mrs. Larson if they are interested.
I also spoke with the 8th graders about the National Geography Bee. You can access the information at http://www.nationalgeographic.com/geobee/teachers-and-parents. This year, each class will be holding its own bee and those winners will then move on to the final SFA geography bee. We will be doing reviews in class and they can also do daily quizzes on the website.
The students also have the opportunity to participate in the National History Day project: http://www.nationalhistoryday.org/. This year's topic is Debate and Diplomacy. They can work individually on a project or in groups up to 5 people. Working with Mrs. Larson, we are going to try to give them some time to work during class time on their projects. I think that this is such a great activity to get involved in and that the students would really enjoy it. Have your student contact myself or Mrs. Larson if they are interested.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Science: Mrs. Louise Mistry
The 8th graders have completed their study of animals and are moving into chemistry. We have started with the basics such as physical and chemical properties of matter, the difference between elements, compounds and mixtures and the relationship between energy and changes in matter.
Next week we will be learning about the three states of matter and will focus on characteristics of each state, as well as changes in state. This Monday, students will be participating in a fun and interesting lab using dry ice to observe submlimation. Following states of matter, we will learn about gas behavior and understanding Boyle's and Charles's laws. The students are no longer receiving a study guide but are creating their own notes, which are then reviewed in class. Most students are doing very well with this. Generally, as we move through the year I am looking for more depth and detail in their work (notes, labs, daily work and tests) but I am pleased with their progress so far. The 8th graders have demonstrated excellent behavior and participation in class!
Next week we will be learning about the three states of matter and will focus on characteristics of each state, as well as changes in state. This Monday, students will be participating in a fun and interesting lab using dry ice to observe submlimation. Following states of matter, we will learn about gas behavior and understanding Boyle's and Charles's laws. The students are no longer receiving a study guide but are creating their own notes, which are then reviewed in class. Most students are doing very well with this. Generally, as we move through the year I am looking for more depth and detail in their work (notes, labs, daily work and tests) but I am pleased with their progress so far. The 8th graders have demonstrated excellent behavior and participation in class!
Religion/Faith Formation
Our week this week was dedicated to conversion. We have been talking about the purpose and meaning of Advent. In the spirit of Advent, your children reflected, prepared, and celebrated the sacrament of Reconciliation today. We were all so proud at how maturely they conducted themselves throughout the time in the chapel today.
Your children also finished watching St. Peter a film describing the life of the apostles and the early days of the Church. Your children are currently preparing for a graded discussion on Monday and Tuesday regarding how we can live out our faith more like the apostles. Also next week the students will begin their Creed Unit, investigating first, what our ancestors passed on to us about the end of life. Students will have a Creed Quiz before they leave for Christmas break.
Attached below are two websites that might add to your family's Advent growth and transformation.
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/videos/ (Watch "Enter the Story" video)
http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Advent/ (Advent Prayer Resources)
Advent Service Opportunities:
Salvation Army Bell Ringing
http://desmoinessa.volunteerfirst.org/public/search_pro_featured.asp?ID=11
Jolly Holiday Lights (Make a Wish Foundation)
http://volunteer.truist.com/icovs/org/opp/10427550449.html
Gigi's Playhouse
Contact Lisa Prey: lisasprey@aol.com
Gigi's Playhouse is a Down syndrome Awareness and Educational Center that provides resources, specialized teaching and support to individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community.
Over two weekends, they are in need of volunteers to sell Gigi's Playhouse calendars at Hy-Vee and Dahl's, with adult supervision.
Hy-Vee on 86th & Douglas
December 10th from 5:00 - 7:00
December 11th from 9:00 - 11:00
December 12th from Noon - 2:00
Your children also finished watching St. Peter a film describing the life of the apostles and the early days of the Church. Your children are currently preparing for a graded discussion on Monday and Tuesday regarding how we can live out our faith more like the apostles. Also next week the students will begin their Creed Unit, investigating first, what our ancestors passed on to us about the end of life. Students will have a Creed Quiz before they leave for Christmas break.
Attached below are two websites that might add to your family's Advent growth and transformation.
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/videos/ (Watch "Enter the Story" video)
http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Advent/ (Advent Prayer Resources)
Advent Service Opportunities:
Salvation Army Bell Ringing
http://desmoinessa.volunteerfirst.org/public/search_pro_featured.asp?ID=11
Jolly Holiday Lights (Make a Wish Foundation)
http://volunteer.truist.com/icovs/org/opp/10427550449.html
Gigi's Playhouse
Contact Lisa Prey: lisasprey@aol.com
Gigi's Playhouse is a Down syndrome Awareness and Educational Center that provides resources, specialized teaching and support to individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community.
Over two weekends, they are in need of volunteers to sell Gigi's Playhouse calendars at Hy-Vee and Dahl's, with adult supervision.
Hy-Vee on 86th & Douglas
December 10th from 5:00 - 7:00
December 11th from 9:00 - 11:00
December 12th from Noon - 2:00
Math Mrs. Cindy Streff
I enjoyed talking with many of you at conferences. Thank you for taking the time to discuss your son/daughter and their education.
8th graders are busy working in Chapter 4, Real Numbers. We have spent some time with prime factorization and using it to find the GCF (Greatest Common Factor) and the LCM (Least Common Multiple). We are also working with fraction--simplest form, comparing & ordering, and now adding, subtracting, multiplying, & dividing. We will explore square roots and use the Pythagorean Theorem in the coming weeks. We should complete the chapter before Christmas break.
As we continue through the year it is always a good idea to review math facts. Spending a little time with both addition and multiplication facts will help prevent mistakes on quizzes and tests.
8th graders are busy working in Chapter 4, Real Numbers. We have spent some time with prime factorization and using it to find the GCF (Greatest Common Factor) and the LCM (Least Common Multiple). We are also working with fraction--simplest form, comparing & ordering, and now adding, subtracting, multiplying, & dividing. We will explore square roots and use the Pythagorean Theorem in the coming weeks. We should complete the chapter before Christmas break.
As we continue through the year it is always a good idea to review math facts. Spending a little time with both addition and multiplication facts will help prevent mistakes on quizzes and tests.
Social Studies- Mrs. Wallace
This week the 8th grade students are finishing up their unit over the Constitution. Their test will be on Monday, December 6th. Also, their notebooks are due on Monday, December 6th. The students should review their notes and also should visit my website: http://www.wix.com/jmwallace/mrs-wallace to do some review games.
The students will next be studying the time period of 1800-1850. The students will choose an event and then will create a page about that event on http://www.glogster.com/. They will then present their pages to class and explain the significance about their chosen event.
Have a great weekend with your families!
The students will next be studying the time period of 1800-1850. The students will choose an event and then will create a page about that event on http://www.glogster.com/. They will then present their pages to class and explain the significance about their chosen event.
Have a great weekend with your families!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Language Arts/Reading: Miss Mataloni
The 8th graders have just finished Chapter 6 in The Outsiders. They have done a wonderful job working in their literature circles and participating in meaningful conversations about Ponyboy and the Greasers. We will be finishing the book prior to Christmas break. The students will take a comprehensive test December 16, and they will complete an extension project of their choice by Dec. 22. The 8th graders have a vocabulary test this Friday, December 3rd over their 2nd word list. A comprehensive test over all 40 words will be the week of December 13th.
In Grammar, the 8th graders will be reviewing the parts of speech to start off the 2nd trimester. The students will take control of teaching a part of speech to the class.
Thank you and enjoy your weekend!
In Grammar, the 8th graders will be reviewing the parts of speech to start off the 2nd trimester. The students will take control of teaching a part of speech to the class.
Thank you and enjoy your weekend!
Friday, November 19, 2010
Spanish
8C is having a quiz over their adjective vocabulary words on Monday, Nov 22nd. 8A and 8B will have their quiz on Thursday, Dec 2nd, after Thanksgiving break.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Math: Mrs. Cindy Streff
8th graders are working hard in Chapter 3, Graphing in a Coordinate Plane. They know three ways to graph a line, how to determine the slope of a line, and can solve a system of linear equations by graphing. Each chapter brings new concepts and challenges and the 8th grades are doing a good job of taking on the new concepts that will help them in their Math in the years to come. Keep up all the hard work! We will test over the chapter on Thursday, Nov 11. Chapter 4, Operations with Fractions, will start with the new trimester.
Language Arts/Reading
The 8th graders just completed a "Dark Side" short story unit for reading. The students did an excellent job comprehending these difficult and interesting pieces of literature. Next week, we will begin our first novel study over The Outsiders. Students will work collaboratively in literature groups with daily reading assignments and assessments. In addition, 2000 reading minutes and a written book report are due this Thursday, November 11th.
The students are also finishing up a grammar unit over the 8 parts of speech. We will review Monday and test on Tuesday, November 9th. Our next grammar unit will focus on sentence structure and its components.
Have a great weekend! Go Hawks!
The students are also finishing up a grammar unit over the 8 parts of speech. We will review Monday and test on Tuesday, November 9th. Our next grammar unit will focus on sentence structure and its components.
Have a great weekend! Go Hawks!
Religion/Faith Formation
Hello Eighth Grade Parents!
For the past few weeks your children have been researching the Saints. They have heard and learned many stories of the holy men and women who have gone before us.
I provided a link below from the Catholic Catechism to help you learn about the communion of saints and further the discussion with your children at home.
http://www.usccb.org/catechism/text/pt1sect2chpt3art9p5.shtml
There are also many links on the SFA 8th grade webpage that allows you to search for my different saint stories. You are also welcome to sign up to receive a Saint of the Day email each day. It is a great way to bring the stories of our ancestors into your family life each day.
http://www.americancatholic.org/features/saintofday/default.aspx
Students will also begin watching the movie St. Peter next week. They will be learning about the faith, courage and love of the early Church. The eighth graders will have a quiz next Wednesday over the stories of the early Church, mostly found in the Acts of the Apostles.
Four Serviam Service hours are due by November 11th as that is the last day of the first trimester. If you need ideas ask your student to bring home their worksheet from the Service Fair, as they took notes on many organizations they could work with. Also the SFA 8th grade website always has ideas on the "Pre-approval list." Thank you again for your support of the service program, the kids really benefit greatly from the activities they participate in.
We have several eighth grade students attending the Jr. High Youth Rally tomorrow. Please keep them in your prayers, for save travel and open hearts. Have a great weekend.
For the past few weeks your children have been researching the Saints. They have heard and learned many stories of the holy men and women who have gone before us.
I provided a link below from the Catholic Catechism to help you learn about the communion of saints and further the discussion with your children at home.
http://www.usccb.org/catechism/text/pt1sect2chpt3art9p5.shtml
There are also many links on the SFA 8th grade webpage that allows you to search for my different saint stories. You are also welcome to sign up to receive a Saint of the Day email each day. It is a great way to bring the stories of our ancestors into your family life each day.
http://www.americancatholic.org/features/saintofday/default.aspx
Students will also begin watching the movie St. Peter next week. They will be learning about the faith, courage and love of the early Church. The eighth graders will have a quiz next Wednesday over the stories of the early Church, mostly found in the Acts of the Apostles.
Four Serviam Service hours are due by November 11th as that is the last day of the first trimester. If you need ideas ask your student to bring home their worksheet from the Service Fair, as they took notes on many organizations they could work with. Also the SFA 8th grade website always has ideas on the "Pre-approval list." Thank you again for your support of the service program, the kids really benefit greatly from the activities they participate in.
We have several eighth grade students attending the Jr. High Youth Rally tomorrow. Please keep them in your prayers, for save travel and open hearts. Have a great weekend.
Science: Mrs. Louise Mistry
The 8th graders finished up their study of animal behavior this week with an in-class graded assignment today. The students did a great job of exploring this very interesting topic. We used materials from the Great Ape Trust and other current articles on animal behavior and intelligence. The students learned the characteristics of intelligence and viewed examples of animals demonstrating specific behaviors and characteristics. Next week we will be diving into chemistry, beginning with the basics, such as describing matter, characterisitics of solids, liquids and gases, organization of the periodic table, etc.
Check out the website from the Great Ape Trust (greatapetrust.org). They have wonderful pictures and video footage. The students really enjoyed using it.
Check out the website from the Great Ape Trust (greatapetrust.org). They have wonderful pictures and video footage. The students really enjoyed using it.
Social Studies: Mrs. Wallace
The 8th graders are continuing to work through the chapter on the Constitution. This week, they have been preparing for our Supreme Court trial. The students will be discussing an actual Supreme Court case concerning the 4th Amendment; search and seizure within schools. Some students will be arguing on behalf of the students while others will be presenting the side of the school. Also, nine students in each class will be acting as Supreme Court justices while questioning both sides. They do such a great job with these simulations.
Next week, the students will have a quiz on Thursday over the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
They continue to be such a great group of students to teach. Enjoy the weekend with your families.
Next week, the students will have a quiz on Thursday over the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
They continue to be such a great group of students to teach. Enjoy the weekend with your families.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Math Mrs. CIndy Streff
I think it is safe to say that all 8th graders are glad we have completed Chapter 2, Equations and Inequalties. It was a tough chapter but in the end they all did well on the chapter test. We have now started working on Chapter 3, Graphing in a Cooordinate Plane, something completely different from the last chapter. They have had fun graphing an apple by connecting the points they were given and even challenged themselves to graph an alligtor or tiger. Now that they know how to graph we will learn three ways to graph a line. We should be able to complete this chapter before the end of the first trimester.
Enjoy the beautiful fall weather and have a great weekend!
Enjoy the beautiful fall weather and have a great weekend!
Friday, October 22, 2010
Social Studies: Mrs. Wallace
The 8th graders finished up their chapter on the American Revolution this week. I received some amazing projects on the American Revolution;descriptive journals, funny and educational videos, great models of battles, and informative presentations. I think that they not only produced some great projects, but learned so much of the content at the same time.
Our next chapter is on the Constitution (my favorite chapter!). This week, the students took an actual US Citizenship test to test their knowledge over US history and government. I think that some were worried they might be deported:) however, they will learn all of it during our Constitution unit. We will be holding a mock constitutional convention and will have a Supreme Court trial over the 1st Amendment.
Students can still register for the DC Trip:
The tentative dates are June 10th-13th. You can register three ways:
~Send in the registration packet.
~By phone (1-800-468-5899)
~Online at http://www.christiandiscoveries.com/ (Trip ID# is 54077)
Our next chapter is on the Constitution (my favorite chapter!). This week, the students took an actual US Citizenship test to test their knowledge over US history and government. I think that some were worried they might be deported:) however, they will learn all of it during our Constitution unit. We will be holding a mock constitutional convention and will have a Supreme Court trial over the 1st Amendment.
Students can still register for the DC Trip:
The tentative dates are June 10th-13th. You can register three ways:
~Send in the registration packet.
~By phone (1-800-468-5899)
~Online at http://www.christiandiscoveries.com/ (Trip ID# is 54077)
Student Council Schedule
Student Council is off to a great start! This week we met to prepare posters for our next jeans day, which is Thursday, October 28 for the Columban Fathers. Max Palmer spoke at Mass today and told the students about the jeans day and the work of the Columban Fathers. Meeting schedule for the first part of the year is below. All meetings (unless otherwise specified) are on Fridays from 7:45-8:20.
October 15: ALL
October 22: 8th Grade, Group 1
October 29: 8th Grade, Group 2
November 5: 6th and 7th Grade
Wednesday, November 10: ALL
November 19: 8th Grade, Group 1
No meeting, week of November 22
December 3: 8th Grade, Group 2
December 10: 6th and 7th Grade
December 17: ALL
October 15: ALL
October 22: 8th Grade, Group 1
October 29: 8th Grade, Group 2
November 5: 6th and 7th Grade
Wednesday, November 10: ALL
November 19: 8th Grade, Group 1
No meeting, week of November 22
December 3: 8th Grade, Group 2
December 10: 6th and 7th Grade
December 17: ALL
Middle School Dance Schedule
All dances are on Fridays, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Please bring $7.00 for admission and school ID.
August 27 Holy Trinity
October 29 Holy Family
November 19 Christ the King
December 17 St. Pius X
January 14 St. Theresa
February 11 Sacred Heart
March 4 St. Anthony
April 15 St. Francis
May 13 St. Joseph (6th Graders invited)
Please bring $7.00 for admission and school ID.
August 27 Holy Trinity
October 29 Holy Family
November 19 Christ the King
December 17 St. Pius X
January 14 St. Theresa
February 11 Sacred Heart
March 4 St. Anthony
April 15 St. Francis
May 13 St. Joseph (6th Graders invited)
Mrs. Louise Mistry, 8th Grade Science
The 8th graders are finishing up their study of animals with a test on birds and mammals on Monday. This week they learned about structure and function of birds and mammals. They dissected owl pellets and classified the bones they found, with each group creating a display poster of the identified bones. Next week we will be focusing on animal behavior, using materials from the Great Ape Trust here in Des Moines. We will be learning about what characteristics are used to determine intelligence in animals and comparing and contrasting behavior in a diverse group of mammals.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Religion/Faith Formation
Hello Parents!
The eighth graders have discussed life issues this week. We've discussed many threats to life including abortion, the death penalty, suicide, scandal, euthanasia, and war. Our conversations have been very interesting and many students have come up with good questions. I encourage you to talk to your children regarding these topics. The students will have a quiz on the Church's teachings on this topics at the beginning of next week. Below I have attached some resources on our Catholic teachings regarding life issues. When you go to the USCCB Website select "Issues" and you will be able to select your issue of choice to discuss with your child. http://www.usccb.org/prolife/tdocs/index.shtml
Next week we will have two guest speakers. Tom Chapman our Catholic lobbyist will be in to talk to the kids about their role as a Catholic Citizen. Below is a website to help guide you through your decision to live out your role as a Faithful Citizen. http://www.faithfulcitizenship.org/ November 2nd don't forget to vote!! Fr. Kautzky will also be up to talk to the kids about his favorite Saints to kick off our next unit. The students will begin working on their Saint Facebook page which will be due on Nov. 22nd. Much of their research will need to be done on their own.
Next week is Red-Ribbion Week as you know the eighth graders will be going to Gray's Lake to do their annual walk for being drug free. The eighth graders will also be traveling down to the Cathedral to have mass with the Bishop and a tour of the Cathedral on Nov. 1st, the Feast of All Saints. Please watch for permission slips coming home next week.
Just a reminder, students were made aware of the Prudential Spirit of the Community Award. They each have handouts of the directions on how to apply for this award. The due date for the application is November 1st and they must get Mrs. Hade to certify their application. The application can be found at: http://spirit.prudential.com/view/page/soc
Four Serviam Service hours will be due by November 11th as that is the last day of the first trimester. If you need ideas ask you student to bring home their worksheet from the Service Fair last week, as they took notes on many organizations they could work with. Also the SFA 8th grade website always has ideas on the "Pre-approval list." Thank you again for your support of the service program, the kids really benefit greatly from the activities they participate in.
Have a great weekend.
Ms. Nennig
The eighth graders have discussed life issues this week. We've discussed many threats to life including abortion, the death penalty, suicide, scandal, euthanasia, and war. Our conversations have been very interesting and many students have come up with good questions. I encourage you to talk to your children regarding these topics. The students will have a quiz on the Church's teachings on this topics at the beginning of next week. Below I have attached some resources on our Catholic teachings regarding life issues. When you go to the USCCB Website select "Issues" and you will be able to select your issue of choice to discuss with your child. http://www.usccb.org/prolife/tdocs/index.shtml
Next week we will have two guest speakers. Tom Chapman our Catholic lobbyist will be in to talk to the kids about their role as a Catholic Citizen. Below is a website to help guide you through your decision to live out your role as a Faithful Citizen. http://www.faithfulcitizenship.org/ November 2nd don't forget to vote!! Fr. Kautzky will also be up to talk to the kids about his favorite Saints to kick off our next unit. The students will begin working on their Saint Facebook page which will be due on Nov. 22nd. Much of their research will need to be done on their own.
Next week is Red-Ribbion Week as you know the eighth graders will be going to Gray's Lake to do their annual walk for being drug free. The eighth graders will also be traveling down to the Cathedral to have mass with the Bishop and a tour of the Cathedral on Nov. 1st, the Feast of All Saints. Please watch for permission slips coming home next week.
Just a reminder, students were made aware of the Prudential Spirit of the Community Award. They each have handouts of the directions on how to apply for this award. The due date for the application is November 1st and they must get Mrs. Hade to certify their application. The application can be found at: http://spirit.prudential.com/view/page/soc
Four Serviam Service hours will be due by November 11th as that is the last day of the first trimester. If you need ideas ask you student to bring home their worksheet from the Service Fair last week, as they took notes on many organizations they could work with. Also the SFA 8th grade website always has ideas on the "Pre-approval list." Thank you again for your support of the service program, the kids really benefit greatly from the activities they participate in.
Have a great weekend.
Ms. Nennig
Language Arts
The students have been reading and working on elements of fiction within our Dark Side Short Story Unit. We have done an extensive study of Edgar Allan Poe's works as well as a few dark classic pieces. We will finish up with our last story, "The Most Dangerous Game" next week. During the first week of November, we will review and take a comprehensive assessment over all the stories we've covered. They also have one more vocabulary test over the last two stories this coming Thursday, October 28th. The students have been doing an excellent job staying engaged and attentive with these difficult pieces.
Next week, 8th graders will be diving into our first grammar unit: The 8 Parts of Speech. This will be a quick review unit, so they will be tested prior to the trimester's end.
Upcoming dates for reading requirements:
October 27 - Alternative Book Report Project due
November 11 - Written Book Report due
November 11 - 2,000 reading minutes due (remind students to get their bookmarks signed by a parent)
Next week, 8th graders will be diving into our first grammar unit: The 8 Parts of Speech. This will be a quick review unit, so they will be tested prior to the trimester's end.
Upcoming dates for reading requirements:
October 27 - Alternative Book Report Project due
November 11 - Written Book Report due
November 11 - 2,000 reading minutes due (remind students to get their bookmarks signed by a parent)
Friday, October 8, 2010
Social Studies: Mrs. Wallace
The 8th graders are continuing with their study of the American Revolution. This coming Monday, October 11th, their American Revolution projects are due. The students have had about 3 weeks and 4 class periods to work on the projects. I can wait to see their battlefield models, videos, presentations, and journals.
We will more than likely be testing on the American Revolution the week of October 18th. We will then be moving on to our next chapter is the Constituion and we do a mock Constitutional Convention in class. Be on the look-out for some white "powdered" wigs that they could use as they dress-up as a delegate to the convention.
Registration deadline for the 2011 Washington DC trip is Friday, October 22nd. The dates are June 10th-13th. You can register three ways:
~Send in the registration packet.
~By phone (1-800-468-5899)
~Online at http://www.christiandiscoveries.com/ (Trip ID# is 54077)
We will more than likely be testing on the American Revolution the week of October 18th. We will then be moving on to our next chapter is the Constituion and we do a mock Constitutional Convention in class. Be on the look-out for some white "powdered" wigs that they could use as they dress-up as a delegate to the convention.
Registration deadline for the 2011 Washington DC trip is Friday, October 22nd. The dates are June 10th-13th. You can register three ways:
~Send in the registration packet.
~By phone (1-800-468-5899)
~Online at http://www.christiandiscoveries.com/ (Trip ID# is 54077)
Student Council: Mrs. Louise Mistry, Sponsor
The first student council meeting is next Friday at 7:45 a.m. If your child is participating they received a handout at school today.
Members are as follows:
Grade 6: Megan McAllister, Sarah Shadle, Alyssa Weber, Sarah Westholm, Allie McLuen, Emme Doll, Jenny Bowman
Grade 7: Jared Allison, Emily Heckle, Rosie McAninch, Maddie Overton, Megan Pollpeter, Lindsey Coon, Hannah Farley
Grade 8:
Group 1: Lauren Bockhaus, Connor Cosgrove, Abi Goeser, Zack Grasso, Johnny Harmeyer, Max Palmer, Ann Marie Westercamp, Taylor LaRosee
Group 2: Taylor Dworek, Will Finstad, Bret Markowski, Madalyn Mauro, Tommy Merfeld, Jesse Proehl, Matt Rettenmaeir, Anna Wisnieski
We will meet next Friday, October 15 at 7:45 in the Science Room (all members) to discuss goals for the year and meeting schedules. Looking forward to a great year!
Members are as follows:
Grade 6: Megan McAllister, Sarah Shadle, Alyssa Weber, Sarah Westholm, Allie McLuen, Emme Doll, Jenny Bowman
Grade 7: Jared Allison, Emily Heckle, Rosie McAninch, Maddie Overton, Megan Pollpeter, Lindsey Coon, Hannah Farley
Grade 8:
Group 1: Lauren Bockhaus, Connor Cosgrove, Abi Goeser, Zack Grasso, Johnny Harmeyer, Max Palmer, Ann Marie Westercamp, Taylor LaRosee
Group 2: Taylor Dworek, Will Finstad, Bret Markowski, Madalyn Mauro, Tommy Merfeld, Jesse Proehl, Matt Rettenmaeir, Anna Wisnieski
We will meet next Friday, October 15 at 7:45 in the Science Room (all members) to discuss goals for the year and meeting schedules. Looking forward to a great year!
Science: Mrs. Louise Mistry
The 8th graders are continuing their study of animals, currently focusing on vertebrates such as fish, amphibians and reptiles. Last week we completed our frog dissection which is the final dissection lab. The students have been learning about body systems and structures and characteristics and examples of each group of animals. Next week we will move on to learning about birds and mammals and the students will analyze owl pellets to learn about the feeding habits of owls and to work on their classification skills. We will finish up this unit with a study of animal behavior, using current research in animal behavior and including resources from the Great Ape Trust here in Des Moines. I will also be sharing some books and logs written by Dr. Jane Goodall. The students are doing a wonderful job of working together and learning. Keep up the good work!
Math Mrs Cindy Streff
8th graders are finishing up Chapter 2, Equations & Inequalities. This past week we have taken what we know about solving equations and have been solving inequalities. Almpst everything is the same except instead of an equal sign (=) inequalities have greater than (>) and less than (<) signs. They are doing a great job with inequalities. We will spend some time reviewing multi-step equations (a difficult concept, but an important one) next week before testing over this chapter.
Many 8th graders still have trouble with their math facts. It is a good idea to continue to review them, even in 8th grade. I have told students to keep a box of math flash card in their car and to practice them when they are traveling a short diatance. A couple of minutes each day can help a lot!
Many 8th graders still have trouble with their math facts. It is a good idea to continue to review them, even in 8th grade. I have told students to keep a box of math flash card in their car and to practice them when they are traveling a short diatance. A couple of minutes each day can help a lot!
Religion/Faith Formation
Good afternoon!
The students completed their Knights of Columbus Essays describing the responsibility of a Catholic citizen in America. This was a joint effort in both Religion and Language Arts class as the students worked on content in religion and the components of writing in Language Arts. Students this week have also discovered that our Catholic Church is a social group similar to any other with specific purpose, membership requirements, and an organized form of leadership. This weekend students will be investigating volunteer and missionary opportunities through the Catholic Volunteer Network. Hopefully this will open some doors for those that love to serve. The eighth graders will finish their "Being Catholic" Unit on Tuesday, October 12, when they will have a test over the elements that make us Catholic.
The students were also invited to the Christ our Life Conference coming to Des Moines in a few weeks. The link is below if you are considering attending. Tickets are buy on get one free. Please take a minute to watch the overview video on the website. http://www.christourlifeiowa.com/
Students were made aware of the Prudential Spirit of the Community Award. They each have handouts of the directions on how to apply for this award. The due date for the application is November 1st and they must get Mrs. Hade to certify their application. http://spirit.prudential.com/view/page/soc
Lastly, October is the Month of the Rosary and as a middle school we pray the rosary every week. We are praying the Joyful Mysteries in support of all those struggling with life decisions. Some students are struggling with remembering the prayers for the rosary so please review the rosary prayers with your child using the following website. http://www.newadvent.org/images/rosary.pdf Thank you.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Peace,
Ms. Nennig
The students completed their Knights of Columbus Essays describing the responsibility of a Catholic citizen in America. This was a joint effort in both Religion and Language Arts class as the students worked on content in religion and the components of writing in Language Arts. Students this week have also discovered that our Catholic Church is a social group similar to any other with specific purpose, membership requirements, and an organized form of leadership. This weekend students will be investigating volunteer and missionary opportunities through the Catholic Volunteer Network. Hopefully this will open some doors for those that love to serve. The eighth graders will finish their "Being Catholic" Unit on Tuesday, October 12, when they will have a test over the elements that make us Catholic.
The students were also invited to the Christ our Life Conference coming to Des Moines in a few weeks. The link is below if you are considering attending. Tickets are buy on get one free. Please take a minute to watch the overview video on the website. http://www.christourlifeiowa.com/
Students were made aware of the Prudential Spirit of the Community Award. They each have handouts of the directions on how to apply for this award. The due date for the application is November 1st and they must get Mrs. Hade to certify their application. http://spirit.prudential.com/view/page/soc
Lastly, October is the Month of the Rosary and as a middle school we pray the rosary every week. We are praying the Joyful Mysteries in support of all those struggling with life decisions. Some students are struggling with remembering the prayers for the rosary so please review the rosary prayers with your child using the following website. http://www.newadvent.org/images/rosary.pdf Thank you.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Peace,
Ms. Nennig
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Language Arts
8th graders have been doing an excellent job with our Edgar Allan Poe/Dark Side Short Story Unit. On Tuesday, October 12, the students will be testing over the powerpoint notes which cover the elements of a short story. We have read and quizzed over Tell-Tale Heart. The Raven and Annabel Lee have been completed as well. The Cask of Amontillado will conclude our Poe study which we will cover throughout next week. Wednesday, October 13, the students will be tested over all the Poe vocabulary. We will read 2 additional dark stories which will require application of the short story elements.
In writing, the students just completed an essay which coincided with religion class. In class, we worked on implementing introductory leads, transitions/topic sentences within paragraphs, and conclusions that tie it all together. Students also worked on creating strong thesis statements.
Bookmark minutes need to continue to be turned in prior to the end of the 1st trimester mid-November. Students should have 1,000 minutes completed at this time. Also, their alternative book report project is due at the end of the month, October 27.
In writing, the students just completed an essay which coincided with religion class. In class, we worked on implementing introductory leads, transitions/topic sentences within paragraphs, and conclusions that tie it all together. Students also worked on creating strong thesis statements.
Bookmark minutes need to continue to be turned in prior to the end of the 1st trimester mid-November. Students should have 1,000 minutes completed at this time. Also, their alternative book report project is due at the end of the month, October 27.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Math Mrs. Cindy Streff
8th graders did an awesome job on the Chapter 1 Test. It is a chapter full of review concepts and I was glad to see so many of them remember things from last year! Keep up the hard work 8th graders. We are now in Chapter 2, Equations and Inequalities. Ask your son/daughter how to combine like terms and use the distributive property. Most of this past week was spent learning these concepts and will be helpful as they continue thru their 8th grade year of Math and beyond.
8th grade Washington DC Trip
The Registration Deadline for the 2011 DC Trip is October 22nd. The dates are June 10th-13th. Please have your student pick up a registration packet from Mrs. Wallace if they are interested.
Nennig - Religion / Faith Formation
Hello Parents!
The students have continued our "Being Catholic" Unit. We took a look at the Apostles and Nicene Creeds this week to learn what truths our ancestors passed down to guide us. The students also began writing their Knights of Columbus Essays. Thank you to those of you who brainstormed with your children about what the responsibility is of a Catholic American citizen. I am excited to read what the kids came up with in their drafts. Ms. Mataloni will be working with them to finalize these essays next week.
In religion next week the students will be taking a look at the unique and special characteristics of Catholicism. There will most likely be a quiz later next week.
Just a reminder please talk with your child about choosing a Confirmation Sponsor. It is important for their faith development this year to have someone to discuss what we are learning in the classroom.
Enjoy your weekend.
The students have continued our "Being Catholic" Unit. We took a look at the Apostles and Nicene Creeds this week to learn what truths our ancestors passed down to guide us. The students also began writing their Knights of Columbus Essays. Thank you to those of you who brainstormed with your children about what the responsibility is of a Catholic American citizen. I am excited to read what the kids came up with in their drafts. Ms. Mataloni will be working with them to finalize these essays next week.
In religion next week the students will be taking a look at the unique and special characteristics of Catholicism. There will most likely be a quiz later next week.
Just a reminder please talk with your child about choosing a Confirmation Sponsor. It is important for their faith development this year to have someone to discuss what we are learning in the classroom.
Enjoy your weekend.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Science: Mrs. Louise Mistry
The 8th graders are continuing to study animals. They just took a test on invertebrates, focusing on mollusks, arthropods and echinoderms. The students are learning about the body structure, development and behavior of a large variety of animals. This week we did a starfish dissection lab and will finish up our dissection labs next week with fish and worms. The 8th graders are doing a wonderful job with the dissection labs, demonstrating excellent technique and observation skills. They are working well with their lab groups and are on task and focused during class. We also completed a classification lab, using a variety of shells from the Sanibel/Captiva area. Students were able to classify and identify over 30 different kinds of shells. Next week we will be studying vertebrates, specifically fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.
Language Arts
8th graders tested over their first literature unit, "Growing Up," earlier this week. We have just begun a "Dark Side" short story unit featuring works by Edgar Allan Poe. An Edgar Allan Poe impersonator/performer will be presenting his work and life history to the students Friday, September 24th at 1:45. You are welcome to join!
Also, the students will be taking an essay topic they've brainstormed from Religion and working on the writing process in class for revising and editing purposes. We will be reviewing writing traits and conventions.
Also, the students will be taking an essay topic they've brainstormed from Religion and working on the writing process in class for revising and editing purposes. We will be reviewing writing traits and conventions.
Mrs. Wallace-Social Studies
The 8th graders took their first chapter test this week over the colonies. Just a little reminder- I am willing to review with any student the day of test around 8am in my classroom if they would like to have one final review session.
This week the 8th graders were given their first project over the American Revolution. They have four options for their project; they can write a journal, make a model of a battle, make a video, or do a presentation. They will be given several class periods to work on their projects, but they should be working outside of class on them also. The projects are due on Monday, October 11th. They are continuing to do a great job in class...they are a pleasure to teach!
This week the 8th graders were given their first project over the American Revolution. They have four options for their project; they can write a journal, make a model of a battle, make a video, or do a presentation. They will be given several class periods to work on their projects, but they should be working outside of class on them also. The projects are due on Monday, October 11th. They are continuing to do a great job in class...they are a pleasure to teach!
Friday, September 10, 2010
Nennig - Religion/Faith Formation
For the past two weeks the students have worked on their Faithlines. This project has allowed the students to look into their own life journeys to recognize when and where God has been present. I encourage you to talk with your student about their Faithlines if you have not already as I have been impressed with the thought and quality of their work. The students will have their
Please encourage your son or daughter to line up a Confirmation Sponsor so they are able to begin journey of Confirmation together.
I have linked several useful (spiritual and catechetical) websites to the SFA 8th grade web page. Hopefully this will help you guide your child throughout this journey. Have a great weekend.
Please encourage your son or daughter to line up a Confirmation Sponsor so they are able to begin journey of Confirmation together.
I have linked several useful (spiritual and catechetical) websites to the SFA 8th grade web page. Hopefully this will help you guide your child throughout this journey. Have a great weekend.
Social Studies- Mrs. Wallace
Welcome Back! It was great to see the familiar faces of our 8th graders. They have really had a great start to the year. We have been impressed with their focus and attention in class.
This year in social studies, the students will be studying US History. We study just about everything in US History; from the American Revolution to WWII. We are currently studying the Age of Exploration and the 13 colonies. The students are taking their first quiz today over the first settlements in the New World. I have their test over the colonies tentatively scheduled for Monday, September 20th.
Also, don't forgot to look at my website: http://www.wix.com/jmwallace/Mrs-Wallace for any needed notes or project assignments. You can view them off the website or save them to your computer at home.
Please do not hesitate to contact me ever with any questions or concerns. I look forward to the year with your students!
This year in social studies, the students will be studying US History. We study just about everything in US History; from the American Revolution to WWII. We are currently studying the Age of Exploration and the 13 colonies. The students are taking their first quiz today over the first settlements in the New World. I have their test over the colonies tentatively scheduled for Monday, September 20th.
Also, don't forgot to look at my website: http://www.wix.com/jmwallace/Mrs-Wallace for any needed notes or project assignments. You can view them off the website or save them to your computer at home.
Please do not hesitate to contact me ever with any questions or concerns. I look forward to the year with your students!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Math
Mrs. Streff
Welcome back! It has been a great start to the new school year. I really enjoyed this group of students last year and continue to look forward for them to come to my class each day this year. This is a wonderful bunch of kids!
8th graders will be completing Chapter 1 next week with the chapter test on Thursday. Chapter 1, Algebraic Expressions & Integers, was a review of many concepts of last year including writing algebraic expressions, integers, finding the mean, median, and mode of a data set, and the properties of numbers. Chapter 2, Equations & Inequalities, will get them into more of an algebra mode. We will spend time combining like terms and solving multi-step equations, very much the heart of algebra for next year. It should be a year full of fun and learning!
Welcome back! It has been a great start to the new school year. I really enjoyed this group of students last year and continue to look forward for them to come to my class each day this year. This is a wonderful bunch of kids!
8th graders will be completing Chapter 1 next week with the chapter test on Thursday. Chapter 1, Algebraic Expressions & Integers, was a review of many concepts of last year including writing algebraic expressions, integers, finding the mean, median, and mode of a data set, and the properties of numbers. Chapter 2, Equations & Inequalities, will get them into more of an algebra mode. We will spend time combining like terms and solving multi-step equations, very much the heart of algebra for next year. It should be a year full of fun and learning!
Science: Mrs. Louise Mistry
The 8th graders have started off the year very focused and ready to learn! We are beginning the year with a study of animals, starting with very simple life such as corals and worms and finishing up with mammals and animal behavior. On Monday the students completed their first dissection lab, observing external and internal anatomy of an earthworm. Tomorrow we will be dissecting clams. The students are working on proper dissection techniques and making detailed observations. They have done a great job so far. Our current area of study is mollusks, arthropods and echinoderms. The 8th graders completed their first test, which will be posted on Infinite Campus along with other grades. Please encourage your child to take responsibility for checking their progress in each class. I am enjoying teaching your children and appreciate their enthusiasm and positive attitudes!
Language Arts
Welcome back 8th grade parents!
The 8th graders have just completed a vocabulary study of homonyms, homophones, and homographs. We are currently in the middle of a "Growing Up" short story unit. With this unit, students are working on reading comprehension and the application and analysis of literary elements. To accompany this unit, they are responsible for completing a Biography Board this trimester. Students signed up for their week to present between now and the end of October. I have been very impressed with the boards turned in so far.
As a reminder, students have weekly spelling lessons and tests. In addition, the reading requirements for 8th grade consist of 2000 reading minutes per trimester and 3 book reports (book talk, alternative style report, and written report) completed per trimester. Your child should be reading 10-20 minutes at home each night. Many students have begun turning in signed bookmarks already which is great! Keep it up!
The 8th graders have just completed a vocabulary study of homonyms, homophones, and homographs. We are currently in the middle of a "Growing Up" short story unit. With this unit, students are working on reading comprehension and the application and analysis of literary elements. To accompany this unit, they are responsible for completing a Biography Board this trimester. Students signed up for their week to present between now and the end of October. I have been very impressed with the boards turned in so far.
As a reminder, students have weekly spelling lessons and tests. In addition, the reading requirements for 8th grade consist of 2000 reading minutes per trimester and 3 book reports (book talk, alternative style report, and written report) completed per trimester. Your child should be reading 10-20 minutes at home each night. Many students have begun turning in signed bookmarks already which is great! Keep it up!
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