Ahhh, early adolescence. These guys, by virtue of their ages (10-12) are all at the crossroad of a great metamorphosis, and as they journey forward, you'll no doubt observe that they're more focused on social relationships and expectations than ever before.
Their "task" is individuation, the process by which we become our distinct selves. This is often a confusing, frustrating, emotional process.
Many children this age tend not to talk with adults about things that are going on in their lives --particularly those things that are uncomfortable or confusing.
If you think back on your own adolescence, you will agree that this is not an easy time for kids.
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| I'll be fine. . . |
That being said. . .As we enter what is, perhaps, the most substantive learning time of the year, it's time to remind students that, just as socializing is an important part of their emotional growth, paying attention in class, following directions, and attending to task are vital to their academic growth. It's a balance that needs tweaking every so often.
There is much to do, and the learning opportunities are plentiful. I want all students to "own" their learning, to listen respectfully, to persevere, to ask good questions, and to contribute to a safe, meaningful, and enjoyable classroom environment.
You may submit one entry each for both of Green Up Vermont's annual poster and writing contests. They must be received no later than January 31. Posters should be 11" X 14", created by hand without the aid of computers and must include the words "Green Up Vermont." Writing entries can be a poem or an essay of up to 400 words relating to what "Green Up Day" means to you.
ASSIGNMENTS FOR
THE WEEK OF
JANUARY 11-15
Tuesday: Complete Climate vs. Weather Interactive Notebook activities -
Part 1: WEATHER MAPS.
- Interactive Notebook: Weather Symbols
- Interactive Notebook: Weather Tools (More information can be found HERE.)
Check out EXPLORING WEATHER for facts on, well, weather. It's cool! While you're at it, check out THIS animated map of global wind, weather, and atmosphere. . . .And then there's THIS great site. . . (Good grief; I'm doing it again. . .)
For a little background before you do today's assignment, watch:
Weather Fronts
Wednesday: Forecasting the Weather Webquest. (Find it HERE)
Thursday: "Air, Wind, and the Atmosphere" packet
- Interactive notebook: Types of Fronts & Describing Weather
Friday: Complete all work from the week.
SOCIAL STUDIES
Tuesday: A Video Worth Watching from National Geographic
Wednesday--Thursday: Continue work on Ancient Egypt Fact Books.
Friday: How to Draw Frontalism
MATH
Essential Question: How can you use Unit Rates to make comparisons?
What is a Unit Rate??
A bit more practice
with Unit Rates:
Wednesday: Using Unit Rates 4.7 Essential Question: How can you solve problems using unit rates?
Applying Unit Rates andRatios in the Real World
Thursday: Algebra--Equivalent Ratios and Graphs
Graphing Equivalent Ratios
One More Time:
Friday: Review Test
READING Because of Winn Dixie
Monday: A day to organize. . .Tuesday: Read Chapters 15 & 16 (and answer questions)
Wednesday: Read Chapters 17 & 18 (and answer questions)
Thursday: Read Chapters 19 & 20 (and answer questions)
Friday: Read Chapters 21 & 22 (and answer questions)
Just a little extra!
SPELLING
Monday-Thursday: 21-24. Test Friday
Weather Map image first Maurice Sendak illustration second Maurice Sendak illustration parent and child in conflict cartoon blame the teenager cartoon family at the table image frazzled teacher image teacher/student block print rainbow animated balls border Egyptian animated guy weather forecast
