Hello Families,
Our sixth grade students are planning a field trip to the Zoo this Thursday Dec.15. In order to facilitate this we will need parent drivers. If you can drive, please send in a note with your student telling how many students you can transport, and whether or not you would be able to stay and chaperone.
This week in class we are continuing our math computation clinics. Students are working on several skills based on their individual needs. This ranges from multiplication practice to algebra, so be sure to ask your child how they are feeling about their progress.
This Friday Dec.16 we are having a winter break celebration. Students have starting signing up to bring in food, and we will be playing games and doing some fun experiments. It should be a great way to kick off the start of winter.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Family Night Potluck - Wednesday Dec. 7 from 4:00-6:00pm
Next Wednesday December 7 from 4:00-6:00pm, we will be having a family night. We will be having a potluck dinner, so please see the list below for the items we would like our families to contribute.
Find the letter below that your last name begins with, and please bring a corresponding item:
A-F - Main Dish
G-L - Side Dish
M-R - Dessert
S-Z - Drinks
I look forward to seeing everyone next Wednesday!
Find the letter below that your last name begins with, and please bring a corresponding item:
A-F - Main Dish
G-L - Side Dish
M-R - Dessert
S-Z - Drinks
I look forward to seeing everyone next Wednesday!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Great to be back
Hello IA Families,
I hope everyone ha a joyful week off. It is great to be back. These next few weeks before winter break are going to be jammed packed with eventful learning. Yesterday the students listed all of the things they would like to learn and accomplish before winter break. Their list included some specific goals for our backyard project, learning about integers, continue reading The Number Devil, finish our Junior Achievement lessons, and possibly begin The Earthquake Project. The students also decided to try to fit in one more field trip before our break, and so they are beginning to set the date and plans for us to go to the zoo. More information on this event will follow.
I am looking forward to a productive and meaningful week of learning!
I hope everyone ha a joyful week off. It is great to be back. These next few weeks before winter break are going to be jammed packed with eventful learning. Yesterday the students listed all of the things they would like to learn and accomplish before winter break. Their list included some specific goals for our backyard project, learning about integers, continue reading The Number Devil, finish our Junior Achievement lessons, and possibly begin The Earthquake Project. The students also decided to try to fit in one more field trip before our break, and so they are beginning to set the date and plans for us to go to the zoo. More information on this event will follow.
I am looking forward to a productive and meaningful week of learning!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Welcome Back
Good Morning Families,
This is our last week before Thanksgiving Break. This week we will finish up our Number Books in math. These books reflect knowledge about concepts like absolute value, factors, multiples, prime numbers, composite numbers, and perfect squares. We also may be venturing into the world of integers this week, time permitting. I have been very excited to hear many students say they are working on Khan Academy at home. This will no doubt serve them very well in math now and in the future!
We will also be continuing our work on the backyard project this week. Please be prepared, students may be asking for your help in locating or transporting resources for our project. The progress the students are making in this project is tremendous, but we still have a ways to go before completion. As my grandfather always said, anything worth doing takes time. I am looking forward to a beautiful week!
This is our last week before Thanksgiving Break. This week we will finish up our Number Books in math. These books reflect knowledge about concepts like absolute value, factors, multiples, prime numbers, composite numbers, and perfect squares. We also may be venturing into the world of integers this week, time permitting. I have been very excited to hear many students say they are working on Khan Academy at home. This will no doubt serve them very well in math now and in the future!
We will also be continuing our work on the backyard project this week. Please be prepared, students may be asking for your help in locating or transporting resources for our project. The progress the students are making in this project is tremendous, but we still have a ways to go before completion. As my grandfather always said, anything worth doing takes time. I am looking forward to a beautiful week!
Monday, November 7, 2011
Upcoming Learning
Hello Families,
Last week our students had an amazing time at Balboa Park. We visited the Museum of Man where the students were able to see exhibits about ancient Maya, Egypt, and early man. We also visited The Japaneses Friendship Garden to provide inspiration for our own backyard project. Thank you again to all the parents that drove and chaperoned the trip.
The students began making their exact model drawings last week, and also started a supply list of things they will need to accomplish their building. This week we will continue this work, adding in the next step which is to locate the resources we will need.
Last week students also gave presentations about vermicomposting. They taught each other about landfills, recycling, decomposers, and worm biology. It was so great to see them present their learning.
This week we will continue to implement our geometry learning with our backyard project, but will also be moving into some new concepts, learning about prime numbers, composite numbers, factors, multiples, and perfect squares. We will end the week with an open-ended math challenge problem that even most adults struggle to answers!
Last week our students had an amazing time at Balboa Park. We visited the Museum of Man where the students were able to see exhibits about ancient Maya, Egypt, and early man. We also visited The Japaneses Friendship Garden to provide inspiration for our own backyard project. Thank you again to all the parents that drove and chaperoned the trip.
The students began making their exact model drawings last week, and also started a supply list of things they will need to accomplish their building. This week we will continue this work, adding in the next step which is to locate the resources we will need.
Last week students also gave presentations about vermicomposting. They taught each other about landfills, recycling, decomposers, and worm biology. It was so great to see them present their learning.
This week we will continue to implement our geometry learning with our backyard project, but will also be moving into some new concepts, learning about prime numbers, composite numbers, factors, multiples, and perfect squares. We will end the week with an open-ended math challenge problem that even most adults struggle to answers!
Monday, October 31, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Field Trip Postponed Until Nov. 2
Hello Families,
For many reasons, the students decided yesterday afternoon to postpone our Museum of Man and Japanese Friendship Garden Fieldtrip until next Wednesday Nov. 2. Some of the reasons included that many students had not paid, we were short on drivers, and I would not be able to go with them, as I have just had stitches in my foot. For all parents who offered to drive, thank you. We are still looking for drivers for next weeks field trip, so please sign back up if you can.The times of departure and arrival back remain the same.
For many reasons, the students decided yesterday afternoon to postpone our Museum of Man and Japanese Friendship Garden Fieldtrip until next Wednesday Nov. 2. Some of the reasons included that many students had not paid, we were short on drivers, and I would not be able to go with them, as I have just had stitches in my foot. For all parents who offered to drive, thank you. We are still looking for drivers for next weeks field trip, so please sign back up if you can.The times of departure and arrival back remain the same.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Student Led Conferences This Week
Hello Families,
Just a quick reminder that student led conferences are this week. If you have not yet signed up for a time, please stop by Michael's room today and fill out the sign up sheet. Since we will be having conferences this week, school will end at 12:00pm on Wednesday Oct. 12, Thursday Oct.20, and Friday Oct. 21.
Student Led Conferences are an amazing event. When you arrive for your conference your student will begin taking you around and showing your their work. You will then find a comfortable place to sit and work on goal setting with your child. For the last part, Michael and I join in the hear about your student's goal, answer questions, and provide feedback. Student Led Conferences start every 10 minutes, but will last around 25-30 minutes. Having parents and students walk through various steps and stations allows for the overlap. This makes it of the utmost importance to be on time. Thank you in advance for you help with this.
Today, and for the next 6 Mondays, we will be joined in the afternoon by guest speakers from junior achievement. They will be doing some lessons with the kids about domestic and international trade. Stay tuned for more on these lessons. Also, this week in class, groups will finish up working on their presentations, 3-D models, and advertising campaign for the backyard. They will be presenting their work on Thursday and Friday of this week. I can't wait to see it!
Just a quick reminder that student led conferences are this week. If you have not yet signed up for a time, please stop by Michael's room today and fill out the sign up sheet. Since we will be having conferences this week, school will end at 12:00pm on Wednesday Oct. 12, Thursday Oct.20, and Friday Oct. 21.
Student Led Conferences are an amazing event. When you arrive for your conference your student will begin taking you around and showing your their work. You will then find a comfortable place to sit and work on goal setting with your child. For the last part, Michael and I join in the hear about your student's goal, answer questions, and provide feedback. Student Led Conferences start every 10 minutes, but will last around 25-30 minutes. Having parents and students walk through various steps and stations allows for the overlap. This makes it of the utmost importance to be on time. Thank you in advance for you help with this.
Today, and for the next 6 Mondays, we will be joined in the afternoon by guest speakers from junior achievement. They will be doing some lessons with the kids about domestic and international trade. Stay tuned for more on these lessons. Also, this week in class, groups will finish up working on their presentations, 3-D models, and advertising campaign for the backyard. They will be presenting their work on Thursday and Friday of this week. I can't wait to see it!
Friday, October 14, 2011
Field Trip on October 26
Hello Families,
On October 26 we are taking our first field trip. The field trip will be $5. Please have your student bring the $5 as soon as possible. We are going to The Museum of Man and The Japanese Friendship Garden. We are leaving around 9:15am, and will do a self guided tour through the Museum of Man at 10:00am. We will then have lunch and walk through the Japanese Friendship Garden. We will leave Balboa park around 2:15pm, returning to school by 3:00pm.
If you can drive for this field trip, please fill out the form in the link below.
On October 26 we are taking our first field trip. The field trip will be $5. Please have your student bring the $5 as soon as possible. We are going to The Museum of Man and The Japanese Friendship Garden. We are leaving around 9:15am, and will do a self guided tour through the Museum of Man at 10:00am. We will then have lunch and walk through the Japanese Friendship Garden. We will leave Balboa park around 2:15pm, returning to school by 3:00pm.
If you can drive for this field trip, please fill out the form in the link below.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Our Project is Underway
Hello All,
Last week was amazing. We began full stream ahead on our Garden Project. Students worked individually to create 2-D architectural plans for our backyard space. Then they wrote a persuasive essay explaining why their plans are the best use of our school's space. We also learned about all types of angles and the proper use of a protractor.
This week, students will begin joining groups and making 3-D plans and a presentation to the class. I can't wait to see their ideas in action.
Last week was amazing. We began full stream ahead on our Garden Project. Students worked individually to create 2-D architectural plans for our backyard space. Then they wrote a persuasive essay explaining why their plans are the best use of our school's space. We also learned about all types of angles and the proper use of a protractor.
This week, students will begin joining groups and making 3-D plans and a presentation to the class. I can't wait to see their ideas in action.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Earth Science and The Cycles
I am so excited about our upcoming week. Last week we entered into the beginning phase of our outdoor project. The essential question for part one of this project is, "How can we use the land behind our classrooms as effectively as possible." Students will be grappling with this question while they begin planning and designing an outdoor space. The students have been learning all about area, perimeter, and architectural scale, all of which they will be using when sketching out their 2-D design plans.
In addition to all of the math elements in this project, we began on Friday discussing the energy, water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles. Students are evaluating what to put in the outdoor space through a lens of sustainment and maintenance. Their are already some amazing ideas on how to use the earth's natural cycles to maintain our land!
On a different note, I am looking for volunteer parents who would be willing to come in to help put together some new chairs. I have 9 new chairs for our students, but they are currently in boxes awaiting a handy volunteer to assemble. If you would be able to help, simply drop by the room whenever is convenient.
Also, thank you so very much to the parents who donated the book, "The Number Devil". We had a very generous large donation, and I am now set for books!
In addition to all of the math elements in this project, we began on Friday discussing the energy, water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles. Students are evaluating what to put in the outdoor space through a lens of sustainment and maintenance. Their are already some amazing ideas on how to use the earth's natural cycles to maintain our land!
On a different note, I am looking for volunteer parents who would be willing to come in to help put together some new chairs. I have 9 new chairs for our students, but they are currently in boxes awaiting a handy volunteer to assemble. If you would be able to help, simply drop by the room whenever is convenient.
Also, thank you so very much to the parents who donated the book, "The Number Devil". We had a very generous large donation, and I am now set for books!
Friday, September 30, 2011
Gmail Account
Hello Families,
Next week I would like to start incorporating The Khan Academy to our math program. The Khan Academy is an amazing free resource that allows students to work at their own pace on math skills that fit their individual needs. To use this resource, however, all of our students must have a Gmail account. If your child does not already have a Gmail account, please set one up with them as soon as possible. It will not only allow them access to the Khan Academy, but also to google documents, which will be useful in peer and teacher editing in humanities. Please feel free to check out the Khan Academy and have your student work on it at home as well. The link is on my blog under math fun sites. Thanks...
Next week I would like to start incorporating The Khan Academy to our math program. The Khan Academy is an amazing free resource that allows students to work at their own pace on math skills that fit their individual needs. To use this resource, however, all of our students must have a Gmail account. If your child does not already have a Gmail account, please set one up with them as soon as possible. It will not only allow them access to the Khan Academy, but also to google documents, which will be useful in peer and teacher editing in humanities. Please feel free to check out the Khan Academy and have your student work on it at home as well. The link is on my blog under math fun sites. Thanks...
Monday, September 26, 2011
Math and Science Fun Stuff
Hello Families,
Last week was amazing. Our students realized geometry was all around them when they measured shapes and objects around our school. This week we will continue to build upon our new geometry skills and introduce our first project. This project will include a variety of things including developing 2-D and 3-D architectural plans, learning about the life cycle, creating a sustainable garden, and most of all making our back yard space beautiful. Stay tuned for more details.
On a side note, thank you to all of the families that have so graciously donated classroom supplies. We are getting fully stocked, and your support has been phenomenal! Have a wonderful week.
Last week was amazing. Our students realized geometry was all around them when they measured shapes and objects around our school. This week we will continue to build upon our new geometry skills and introduce our first project. This project will include a variety of things including developing 2-D and 3-D architectural plans, learning about the life cycle, creating a sustainable garden, and most of all making our back yard space beautiful. Stay tuned for more details.
On a side note, thank you to all of the families that have so graciously donated classroom supplies. We are getting fully stocked, and your support has been phenomenal! Have a wonderful week.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Geometry Rocks
I hope everyone had a wonderful week. Last Friday, Michael and I had the privilege of learning all about our students when they gave short presentations. They were amazing, and we are finishing up the final few today. I can't wait! Also, last week students created amazing bar graphs that represented how they learn. The students did multiple drafts of their work, and gave each other feedback before moving on to creating a final draft. This made for some exceptionally beautiful work.
This week we are moving forward with preparing students for an upcoming project involving architecture, design, sustainable gardening, and composting. We will begin this week by investigating aspects of geometry like surface area, perimeter, volume, angles, and the ever popular Pi. I look forward to having fun and exploring together this week.
On a different note, while working last week our classroom discovered it was still in need of a few items. We need several ultra fine point black sharpies and some scotch tape. Thank you for all bringing in supplies over the past few weeks, it has helped immensely.
This week we are moving forward with preparing students for an upcoming project involving architecture, design, sustainable gardening, and composting. We will begin this week by investigating aspects of geometry like surface area, perimeter, volume, angles, and the ever popular Pi. I look forward to having fun and exploring together this week.
On a different note, while working last week our classroom discovered it was still in need of a few items. We need several ultra fine point black sharpies and some scotch tape. Thank you for all bringing in supplies over the past few weeks, it has helped immensely.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Great First Week
Let me first just start by saying what an amazing week I had with all of the students. We have such an incredible group! I hope everyone had a safe and fun unexpected three day weekend. I heard many stories of outdoor barbecues and games of flashlight tag this morning.
Last week the students focused on getting to know each other with a series of activities ending in a culminating event on Thursday, "The Newly Friend Game!" Please make sure to ask your student what they learned about their classmates.
This week our focus is going to be students getting to know themselves better as learners. On Tuesday we will be taking a multiple intelligence test to find out how each individual student learns best. The students will then graph their results, and use it as a visual aid in a comprehensive presentation about themselves to the class on Friday. I can't wait to get to know everyones' learning style and find out more about the students' interests.
Also, I have one fairly large wish list item we will be needing this year for math. I am trying to get a class set of the book, "The Number Devil". We need 25, but any amount would help. If you think you might be able to donate a copy, please just drop it by the classroom at your convenience. Have a great week.
Last week the students focused on getting to know each other with a series of activities ending in a culminating event on Thursday, "The Newly Friend Game!" Please make sure to ask your student what they learned about their classmates.
This week our focus is going to be students getting to know themselves better as learners. On Tuesday we will be taking a multiple intelligence test to find out how each individual student learns best. The students will then graph their results, and use it as a visual aid in a comprehensive presentation about themselves to the class on Friday. I can't wait to get to know everyones' learning style and find out more about the students' interests.
Also, I have one fairly large wish list item we will be needing this year for math. I am trying to get a class set of the book, "The Number Devil". We need 25, but any amount would help. If you think you might be able to donate a copy, please just drop it by the classroom at your convenience. Have a great week.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Welcome IA Sixth Graders
Hello Innovations Academy Families,
Let me first begin by saying how excited I am to be continuing teaching sixth grade for a second year at IA. I will continue this year with my IA team to build a safe, warm, and enthusiastic environment for our students. I cannot wait to begin this year and learn all about each and every one of you!
Since this is many families first year with IA, I wanted to introduce myself and let you all know a little about me. I am a proud mother of three children. My daughter Crysta is 18, and my sons Aris and Joshua are 15 and 7. I have my Undergraduate Degree in Finance and my Masters Degree in Science. Prior to IA, I worked in 6th grade Math/Science at High Tech Middle School and worked as a College Instructor teaching courses in accounting and business. I enjoy teaching in an environment that doesn’t dictate but rather guides students’ interests, fostering growth and never stifling creativity. IA allows us to embark on an educational journey together, and I can’t wait to get started.
My favorite quote is, “He who knows best knows how little he knows” – Thomas Jefferson
Below you will find the sixth grade supply list. This supply list is for BOTH sixth grade teachers combined. Again, this is the only supply list you will need for your incoming sixth grader.
Sixth Grade Supply List
Items for Individual Use:
(1) Spiral notebook
(1) Red folder with 3 holes punched
(1) Green folder with 3 holes punched
(2) 2 inch three ring binders
(1) Writing journal (any notebook that inspires writing)
(1) Pack of twelve pencils
(1) Roll of Scotch Tape
Items for Classroom Use: (Please choose at least five items from this list to donate to our classroom)
Markers (regular and thin)
Sharpies (all colors, fine and ultra fine tip)
Colored Pencils
Dish Towels
Adult Size Scissors
Duct Tape
Glue Sticks
Tissues
Rulers
Pens (any color)
Dry Erase Markers
Paint and Paint Brushes
Poster Paper
White Out
Teacher Wish List
Michael – Bean Bag Chairs, Pillows, Pillow Cases, Curtains, Curtain Rods, Board Game Risk, Classroom Plant, Tennis Balls
Stephanie – Bean Bag Chairs, Board Game Monopoly, Decks of Cards, Classroom Plant, Heavy Metal Stapler, Electric Pencil Sharpener
*In addition to beginning of the year supplies, we are also hoping to have a fund to replenish supplies throughout he year. The suggested classroom donation for additional supplies this year is between $10-$20, however donations of any size are welcome. Please turn in monetary donations to the office. Funds will be directed to classrooms. Tax deductible forms can be obtained for all donations at the front office.
**Please remember that Innovations Academy is a public charter school and no donations are required.
Let me first begin by saying how excited I am to be continuing teaching sixth grade for a second year at IA. I will continue this year with my IA team to build a safe, warm, and enthusiastic environment for our students. I cannot wait to begin this year and learn all about each and every one of you!
Since this is many families first year with IA, I wanted to introduce myself and let you all know a little about me. I am a proud mother of three children. My daughter Crysta is 18, and my sons Aris and Joshua are 15 and 7. I have my Undergraduate Degree in Finance and my Masters Degree in Science. Prior to IA, I worked in 6th grade Math/Science at High Tech Middle School and worked as a College Instructor teaching courses in accounting and business. I enjoy teaching in an environment that doesn’t dictate but rather guides students’ interests, fostering growth and never stifling creativity. IA allows us to embark on an educational journey together, and I can’t wait to get started.
My favorite quote is, “He who knows best knows how little he knows” – Thomas Jefferson
Below you will find the sixth grade supply list. This supply list is for BOTH sixth grade teachers combined. Again, this is the only supply list you will need for your incoming sixth grader.
Sixth Grade Supply List
Items for Individual Use:
(1) Spiral notebook
(1) Red folder with 3 holes punched
(1) Green folder with 3 holes punched
(2) 2 inch three ring binders
(1) Writing journal (any notebook that inspires writing)
(1) Pack of twelve pencils
(1) Roll of Scotch Tape
Items for Classroom Use: (Please choose at least five items from this list to donate to our classroom)
Markers (regular and thin)
Sharpies (all colors, fine and ultra fine tip)
Colored Pencils
Dish Towels
Adult Size Scissors
Duct Tape
Glue Sticks
Tissues
Rulers
Pens (any color)
Dry Erase Markers
Paint and Paint Brushes
Poster Paper
White Out
Teacher Wish List
Michael – Bean Bag Chairs, Pillows, Pillow Cases, Curtains, Curtain Rods, Board Game Risk, Classroom Plant, Tennis Balls
Stephanie – Bean Bag Chairs, Board Game Monopoly, Decks of Cards, Classroom Plant, Heavy Metal Stapler, Electric Pencil Sharpener
*In addition to beginning of the year supplies, we are also hoping to have a fund to replenish supplies throughout he year. The suggested classroom donation for additional supplies this year is between $10-$20, however donations of any size are welcome. Please turn in monetary donations to the office. Funds will be directed to classrooms. Tax deductible forms can be obtained for all donations at the front office.
**Please remember that Innovations Academy is a public charter school and no donations are required.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Lots of Info
Hello Families....
This week is jammed packed with information and fun. Tomorrow, Thursday June 2 we leave for our 2 day camping trip. We will leave school around 4pm. Please make sure your student has brought in all of their supplies, including the food they have signed up for. We really appreciate all of the families for contributing food, as it will be great fun to cook out family style and enjoy meals together!
For the remainder of this week and part of next, students will be preparing for their end of the year Presentations of Learning. We will sign up today or tomorrow, and post the day and time of your students POL by the end of the day Thursday June 2. Please stop by, or ask your child when they will be giving their POL. It is an amazing experience to hear students talk about their growth through learning, so if you can attend their presentation, we would love to share the moment with you.
This week is jammed packed with information and fun. Tomorrow, Thursday June 2 we leave for our 2 day camping trip. We will leave school around 4pm. Please make sure your student has brought in all of their supplies, including the food they have signed up for. We really appreciate all of the families for contributing food, as it will be great fun to cook out family style and enjoy meals together!
For the remainder of this week and part of next, students will be preparing for their end of the year Presentations of Learning. We will sign up today or tomorrow, and post the day and time of your students POL by the end of the day Thursday June 2. Please stop by, or ask your child when they will be giving their POL. It is an amazing experience to hear students talk about their growth through learning, so if you can attend their presentation, we would love to share the moment with you.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Camping Supply List
Hello Families,
Below you will find a list of items that students will need to bring to our camping trip on June 2 - June 4.
Some students have also offered to bring tents to our trip. Please see the list below:
All Students:
1. Sleeping Bag or Blankets
2. Pillow
3. Water Bottle
4. Clothing - please wear layers, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, pants, shorts, socks, hat, under garments
5. Swim suit
6. Towel
7. Shoes – at least one pair of closed toed shoes
8. Toothbrush/toothpaste
9. Sunscreen
10. Bug spray
11. Deodorant
12. Flashlight
13. Musical Instruments (optional)
14. Deck of Cards ( optional)
15. Camera (optional)
16. Medication (please have it in its original container with instructions on the label) – If the parent will be there, they may hold onto the medication and dispense it themselves to their child. If the parent will not be attending, please make sure the medication is given to Michael prior to
the trip).
17. Each person is in charge of their own eating supplies: plastics bowl, cup or mug, utensils, plate
Students Who have Volunteered Tents
Michael – 3 tents – 9 people
Kerouac 1 tent – 3 people
Simon 1 tent – 6 people
Azriel 1 tent – 6 people
Martin 1 tent – 5 people
Sean – 1 tent - 2 people
We still need additional tents, so if you have any extra, please let us know asap.
(We ask that you refrain from having your child bring any multi tooled items, including pocket knives)
Below you will find a list of items that students will need to bring to our camping trip on June 2 - June 4.
Some students have also offered to bring tents to our trip. Please see the list below:
All Students:
1. Sleeping Bag or Blankets
2. Pillow
3. Water Bottle
4. Clothing - please wear layers, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, pants, shorts, socks, hat, under garments
5. Swim suit
6. Towel
7. Shoes – at least one pair of closed toed shoes
8. Toothbrush/toothpaste
9. Sunscreen
10. Bug spray
11. Deodorant
12. Flashlight
13. Musical Instruments (optional)
14. Deck of Cards ( optional)
15. Camera (optional)
16. Medication (please have it in its original container with instructions on the label) – If the parent will be there, they may hold onto the medication and dispense it themselves to their child. If the parent will not be attending, please make sure the medication is given to Michael prior to
the trip).
17. Each person is in charge of their own eating supplies: plastics bowl, cup or mug, utensils, plate
Students Who have Volunteered Tents
Michael – 3 tents – 9 people
Kerouac 1 tent – 3 people
Simon 1 tent – 6 people
Azriel 1 tent – 6 people
Martin 1 tent – 5 people
Sean – 1 tent - 2 people
We still need additional tents, so if you have any extra, please let us know asap.
(We ask that you refrain from having your child bring any multi tooled items, including pocket knives)
Monday, May 9, 2011
Why Does The Space, I Don't Know Why
Well, we are well into our next project titled, Why Does The Space, I Don't Know Why. If this title is confusing to you, ask your students about it's origin, there is a neat story behind it. Students are beginning to embark on building a story board for their documentary films on a concept in space. They have been collecting information and enjoyed our trip to the Microsoft store on last Wednesday to get some hands on film and editing experience. In class we are also learning about math through a scientific lens. For instance this week we learned about scientific notation and scaling, as the students scaled a timeline of important event in their life. It was fun to see a variety of time lines ranging from 1 trillion years to 27 minutes.
Also, as many already know, permission slips went home last week for our upcoming camping and six flags trips. Camping will be from Thursday and Friday June 2-4, and Six Flags will take place on Tuesday June 14. We will need parent drivers and chaperones, so please email myself or Michael if you are interested. Also, drivers will be compensated for gas to Six Flags, as we realize it is quite a distance away.
Student Led conferences are occurring May 23-26. Those days are half days to accommodate a parent meeting schedule. The sign up for the conferences is outside my classroom, so please stop by as soon as possible to get your preferred day and time. Also, you only need to sign up for one conference, as Michael and I will both be present.
Thanks and have a beautiful week!
Also, as many already know, permission slips went home last week for our upcoming camping and six flags trips. Camping will be from Thursday and Friday June 2-4, and Six Flags will take place on Tuesday June 14. We will need parent drivers and chaperones, so please email myself or Michael if you are interested. Also, drivers will be compensated for gas to Six Flags, as we realize it is quite a distance away.
Student Led conferences are occurring May 23-26. Those days are half days to accommodate a parent meeting schedule. The sign up for the conferences is outside my classroom, so please stop by as soon as possible to get your preferred day and time. Also, you only need to sign up for one conference, as Michael and I will both be present.
Thanks and have a beautiful week!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Student Led Conferences and Field Trips coming in May
On Wed. May 4 our students will be taking a filed trip to The Microsoft Store in Fashion Valley. We now have enough drivers, so thank you to all that were able to assist. This filed trip will be an excellent way for students to learn about film making for our latest project on outer space. The students already have a ton of questions, so this real world connection will be very meaningful.
During the Week of Monday May 23- Thursday May 26 we will have student led conferences. That week, school will only be in session for half days, leaving the afternoons available for student, parents, and teachers to connect. I have posted a sign-up list for with dates and times outside of my classroom, so please swing by and sign up at your earliest convenience, but no later that Wed. May 18. I am asking for sign-ups to please be done in person, or by your student, as taking email requests would be very difficult logistically.
During the Week of Monday May 23- Thursday May 26 we will have student led conferences. That week, school will only be in session for half days, leaving the afternoons available for student, parents, and teachers to connect. I have posted a sign-up list for with dates and times outside of my classroom, so please swing by and sign up at your earliest convenience, but no later that Wed. May 18. I am asking for sign-ups to please be done in person, or by your student, as taking email requests would be very difficult logistically.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Our Vast Universe...and Beyond
This week is going to be a blast. We have concluded our Shake it Up Project, and we are moving full speed ahead into our Outer Space Project. Students will be working in both Math/Science and Humanities for this learning adventure. They will be in small groups diving deep into a concept of their choice, eventually making a documentary film to showcase their work. This project will cover several math concepts, including academic language like velocity, circumnavigate and overall mathematical scale.
We will be starting STAR testing this Thursday from 9:30am to 11:00a.m. They testing will continue next week on April 26, 27, and 28 in the morning as well. Please make sure your students are on time these days and have had a hearty breakfast.
Below I have attached some photos from our Super Successful Shake it Up Project!
Have a great week.
We will be starting STAR testing this Thursday from 9:30am to 11:00a.m. They testing will continue next week on April 26, 27, and 28 in the morning as well. Please make sure your students are on time these days and have had a hearty breakfast.
Below I have attached some photos from our Super Successful Shake it Up Project!
Have a great week.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Welcome Back
Hello All-
It is great to see all the smiling faces back from spring break this morning. I hope everyone had a chance to rest and unwind. This week will be finishing our Earthquake Project and testing our structures. Students who have finished the project will get to work on both Zingy Learning (science) or Khan Academy (math).
As many of you already know, we have begun using the Khan Academy website for some additional, more individualized math exploration. If you look under my Math Fun Sites page, you will see a link to the Khan Academy site. Please take a moment this week and have your student log in and show you their work. This site includes interactive lessons, and tracks your student's progress. The site can be accessed from home, so if you feel your student needs additional help, it can be a great resource.
On the horizon for next week is an interdisciplinary project that Michael and I are going to embark on together, so stay tuned!
It is great to see all the smiling faces back from spring break this morning. I hope everyone had a chance to rest and unwind. This week will be finishing our Earthquake Project and testing our structures. Students who have finished the project will get to work on both Zingy Learning (science) or Khan Academy (math).
As many of you already know, we have begun using the Khan Academy website for some additional, more individualized math exploration. If you look under my Math Fun Sites page, you will see a link to the Khan Academy site. Please take a moment this week and have your student log in and show you their work. This site includes interactive lessons, and tracks your student's progress. The site can be accessed from home, so if you feel your student needs additional help, it can be a great resource.
On the horizon for next week is an interdisciplinary project that Michael and I are going to embark on together, so stay tuned!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Welcome Back Campers
Welcome back to everyone who went to camp. I hope the experience was wonderful and am glad to see all of our students back together. This week we will continue our work on the problem solving project. Students will be presenting their solutions this Wednesday. I can't wait to hear all their amazing ideas.
Also, we will continue this week with work on our earthquake project. The devastating earthquake in Japan this week is a grim reminder of mother nature's power. In our project we will focus on learning from these earthquakes and finding ways to make structures as safe as possible. We will also be learning about measurement and scale, using architectural and building skills. The goal is to empower students to become as knowledgeable and as safe as possible when dealing with unpredictable earthquakes.
Also, we will continue this week with work on our earthquake project. The devastating earthquake in Japan this week is a grim reminder of mother nature's power. In our project we will focus on learning from these earthquakes and finding ways to make structures as safe as possible. We will also be learning about measurement and scale, using architectural and building skills. The goal is to empower students to become as knowledgeable and as safe as possible when dealing with unpredictable earthquakes.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Camp Next Week
Can you believe camp is next week? This year is flying by. We now have enough drivers to and from camp, so thank you to all who have volunteered. We will be leaving right at 9:00am next Monday, March 7, so please be on time for school that day. We will be returning at approximately 1:00pm on Thursday, March 10.
Please reference your camp information for packing guidelines. Students are asked to leave all electronic devices at home, as they could be easily lost or damaged. I can't wait to leave next Monday!
Please reference your camp information for packing guidelines. Students are asked to leave all electronic devices at home, as they could be easily lost or damaged. I can't wait to leave next Monday!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Shake it Up!
It is finally time to begin our earthquake project. Shake it up!
We will learn from the past and prepare for the future.
Essential Question: How can we use information from past earthquakes to design safer structures for the future?
The project will be in three phases…
1. How do earthquakes work?: Students will learn about the earth’s dynamic structure and how plate movement causes earthquakes.
o Earth’s structure
o Classroom earthquake plot
2. How have earthquakes caused damage in the past? Students will research historically large earthquakes
o Historical Article
o Damage analysis (earthquake preparedness)
3. How can we design earthquake safe structures?: Students will research safe earthquake building ideas and create the following:
o Blue print of design
o Outline of earthquake safe components
o Physical structure to tested on shake table
o Analysis of earthquake readiness
Extension Opportunities for students who want an extra challenge could include the following:
Predicting the next big one…
• Using all of the information we have learned about earthquakes, predict where and when the next big one is going to be.
How would Innovations Academy fare in an earthquake…
• Using our building design ideas, complete a building analysis of Innovations Academy and determine how prepared we are for a large earthquake.
I am so excited to start this project that links math and science together in such an interactive way! You can check out the Earthquake Project Page for research links.
We will learn from the past and prepare for the future.
Essential Question: How can we use information from past earthquakes to design safer structures for the future?
The project will be in three phases…
1. How do earthquakes work?: Students will learn about the earth’s dynamic structure and how plate movement causes earthquakes.
o Earth’s structure
o Classroom earthquake plot
2. How have earthquakes caused damage in the past? Students will research historically large earthquakes
o Historical Article
o Damage analysis (earthquake preparedness)
3. How can we design earthquake safe structures?: Students will research safe earthquake building ideas and create the following:
o Blue print of design
o Outline of earthquake safe components
o Physical structure to tested on shake table
o Analysis of earthquake readiness
Extension Opportunities for students who want an extra challenge could include the following:
Predicting the next big one…
• Using all of the information we have learned about earthquakes, predict where and when the next big one is going to be.
How would Innovations Academy fare in an earthquake…
• Using our building design ideas, complete a building analysis of Innovations Academy and determine how prepared we are for a large earthquake.
I am so excited to start this project that links math and science together in such an interactive way! You can check out the Earthquake Project Page for research links.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Family Night Info - Revised
First, let me please apolozie for the confusing information. Family Night is at 5pm, not 6pm on Thursday Feb. 10, 2011.
Thanks Again, Stephanie
Thanks Again, Stephanie
Monday, February 7, 2011
Family Night This Week
Hello IA Families,
Family Night is this Thursday Feb. 10, 2011 at 5pm. Beginning at dismissal on Thursday we will be selling raffle tickets for some great spa gift certificates values at $75. You can buy one ticket for $1 or 6 tickets for $5. Winners will be announced at Family Night! Also, we have a four day weekend this coming weekend, meaning we do not have school on Friday Feb. 11 and Monday Feb. 14.
This week in class the students will be reviewing fraction concepts and finishing up their fraction finale projects. Most students have turned in their completed work, and I have been so impressed by the creativity and thoughtfulness of their work. We will also spend some time this week reviewing adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing with positive and negative numbers.
Students are moving into the proposal portion of their "problem solving project". Up until now, the students have been working mainly in Michael's class on this project. This week, however, they will begin developing a business proposal for their solutions. This will involve making time lines, gathering data on resources needed, and projecting some statistical outcomes, all of which they will be working on in my classroom throughout the next several weeks.
See you Thursday
Family Night is this Thursday Feb. 10, 2011 at 5pm. Beginning at dismissal on Thursday we will be selling raffle tickets for some great spa gift certificates values at $75. You can buy one ticket for $1 or 6 tickets for $5. Winners will be announced at Family Night! Also, we have a four day weekend this coming weekend, meaning we do not have school on Friday Feb. 11 and Monday Feb. 14.
This week in class the students will be reviewing fraction concepts and finishing up their fraction finale projects. Most students have turned in their completed work, and I have been so impressed by the creativity and thoughtfulness of their work. We will also spend some time this week reviewing adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing with positive and negative numbers.
Students are moving into the proposal portion of their "problem solving project". Up until now, the students have been working mainly in Michael's class on this project. This week, however, they will begin developing a business proposal for their solutions. This will involve making time lines, gathering data on resources needed, and projecting some statistical outcomes, all of which they will be working on in my classroom throughout the next several weeks.
See you Thursday
Monday, January 31, 2011
Car Wash and Other Fun Stuff
Hello All
As many of you know, the students hosted a car wash last Thursday and made almost $100 for camp. We will continue doing this most Thursday's until camp, going from 2:45pm - 3:30pm. Our cash wash is located in the back parking lot of the school.
This week we are continuing our fraction finale project we began last week. I am seeing some amazing work, so keep it up. Also, we now have Zingy Learning accounts for all of our students. This is a self paced computer program that allows students to explore science based on their interests. It is fun and interactive, and I am excited to get it started tomorrow.
Also, the dates for Camp Cuyumaca have changed. We are now leaving for camp on March 7 and returning on March 10. Camp staffers will be at school this Wed. at 9:00am to give students a glimpse into the camp and answering any of their burning questions. Parents that still have questions are welcome to attend the presentation.
As many of you know, the students hosted a car wash last Thursday and made almost $100 for camp. We will continue doing this most Thursday's until camp, going from 2:45pm - 3:30pm. Our cash wash is located in the back parking lot of the school.
This week we are continuing our fraction finale project we began last week. I am seeing some amazing work, so keep it up. Also, we now have Zingy Learning accounts for all of our students. This is a self paced computer program that allows students to explore science based on their interests. It is fun and interactive, and I am excited to get it started tomorrow.
Also, the dates for Camp Cuyumaca have changed. We are now leaving for camp on March 7 and returning on March 10. Camp staffers will be at school this Wed. at 9:00am to give students a glimpse into the camp and answering any of their burning questions. Parents that still have questions are welcome to attend the presentation.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Sixth Grade Camp Info Night and More...
Hello IA Families,
This Thursday, January 27 at 6pm is an informational meeting about sixth grade camp. Camp staffers will be here to answer questions and provide parents insight into a day in the life of a student camper.
This week we have also finished up POLs. The POLs were amazing! Listening to students speak about their learning, reflect on their struggles, and establish goals was a beautiful experience. Some of my favorite moments included detailed explanations of how a project or concept deepened knowledge and improved critical thinking skills. Once again, I was utterly impressed with our students!
With the ending of POLs, also comes the end of the semester. Report cards will be going out on Friday January 28, 2011. These report cards will include a comment section by both the student and the teacher. Are goal in doing the report cards in this fashion is to provide both students and parents with a deeper understanding of your students struggles and triumphs.
In class this week we began using our knowledge of fractions to reduce/increase recipe ingredients. We reduced a rice krispie treat recipe from serving 12 to only serving 3. Then each group of 3 students had the chance to make their own treats using the microwave. They were yummy!
As we continue to become fraction masters, we are moving onto to our fractions finale project. For this project students need to demonstrate their knowledge of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with fractions. They can choose any way they would like to do this. Some ideas thus far have been a comic strip and fraction wheel of fortune. Again, I am sure the students will amaze me with their creativity and knowledge.
This Thursday, January 27 at 6pm is an informational meeting about sixth grade camp. Camp staffers will be here to answer questions and provide parents insight into a day in the life of a student camper.
This week we have also finished up POLs. The POLs were amazing! Listening to students speak about their learning, reflect on their struggles, and establish goals was a beautiful experience. Some of my favorite moments included detailed explanations of how a project or concept deepened knowledge and improved critical thinking skills. Once again, I was utterly impressed with our students!
With the ending of POLs, also comes the end of the semester. Report cards will be going out on Friday January 28, 2011. These report cards will include a comment section by both the student and the teacher. Are goal in doing the report cards in this fashion is to provide both students and parents with a deeper understanding of your students struggles and triumphs.
In class this week we began using our knowledge of fractions to reduce/increase recipe ingredients. We reduced a rice krispie treat recipe from serving 12 to only serving 3. Then each group of 3 students had the chance to make their own treats using the microwave. They were yummy!
As we continue to become fraction masters, we are moving onto to our fractions finale project. For this project students need to demonstrate their knowledge of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with fractions. They can choose any way they would like to do this. Some ideas thus far have been a comic strip and fraction wheel of fortune. Again, I am sure the students will amaze me with their creativity and knowledge.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
POL Week
As many of you already know, our students will be giving their Presentations of Learning this Thursday and Friday. A schedule with exact student times was emailed to parents and is also posted outside of my classroom. Students have worked diligently to finish and polish up their presentations, so continue asking them about their progress and even have them practice at home.
We also moved into multiplying and dividing with fractions and mixed numbers last week and will continue that work this week. Coming soon we will be testing our fractions skills by sizing down a rice krispie treat recipe and making them in class! This will be followed by a fractions "mini project" that will allow students to demonstrate their knowledge in a way that is unique to them.
We also moved into multiplying and dividing with fractions and mixed numbers last week and will continue that work this week. Coming soon we will be testing our fractions skills by sizing down a rice krispie treat recipe and making them in class! This will be followed by a fractions "mini project" that will allow students to demonstrate their knowledge in a way that is unique to them.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Presentations of Learning
On Thursday January 20, 2011 students will be giving presentations of learning, or as we call them POLs. Students will be individually presenting two projects or topics, one from humanities and one from math or science. They will be explaining what they have learned, show their work to prove their learning, and reflect on goals made at their student led conferences. Students are practicing their presentations, but please also help your student practice at home. Their presentation should be around 10 minutes total, so time them, and help them add to or edit it as needed.
Presenting work and being reflective is a hard skill for anyone at any age, so some questions you might ask your student to spark their thinking might include:
1. What are some of the meaningful concepts you learned in the project you are presenting?
2. What work do you have that shows you learned those concepts?
3. How did the work you did in this project help you in achieving your goals set at your student led conference?
Presentations of Learning are a wonderful way to showcase learning and reflect upon how to continue to improve and grow as a life long learner. Thank you for helping us share in this experience.
Presenting work and being reflective is a hard skill for anyone at any age, so some questions you might ask your student to spark their thinking might include:
1. What are some of the meaningful concepts you learned in the project you are presenting?
2. What work do you have that shows you learned those concepts?
3. How did the work you did in this project help you in achieving your goals set at your student led conference?
Presentations of Learning are a wonderful way to showcase learning and reflect upon how to continue to improve and grow as a life long learner. Thank you for helping us share in this experience.
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