As we start the second marking period, I wanted
to give you a quick overview of where we have been and where we are
going academically.
I am pleased to inform you that most students are making a beautiful transition into 8th
grade’s expectations. While assessment scores may be disappointing for
some, students are training for a lifetime of analytical and critical
skills. Assessments encompass understanding, applying, analyzing, and
evaluating trains of thought in relation to curriculum and the modern
world. As their “brain training” moves along, assessment styles will
become more predictable (if you will). Following
most assessments, students review their assessment and self-assess
their areas of strength and weakness, which are addressed in a multitude
of ways in the days following.
During the second marking period, we will study and explore two texts,
The Diary of Anne Frank and Heroes. The themes are
“Tenacity of the Human Spirit [in Holocaust times]” and “Freedom from
Demons in Disguise.” The units are fascinating and eye-opening on many
levels.
This week, students will submit a self-reflection of
the first marking in which they identified: a) their overall feelings
about the first marking period, b) their work ethic (and a way to
improve), c) a second marking period goal (and how
to achieve it), d) their favorite activity/book/assignment. As marking
period grades become finalized this week, I encourage you to discuss
these goals and plans with your child.
I will also assign this marking period’s Freedom
Write, one entry which explore the “big ideas” of the marking period.
Continue to check the blog for class calendars, assignments, “extras,”
and audio files of text. There are many ways
to stay both on top of work and ahead of the game.
