Great News!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The MaST charter school website has been updated. I will now be posting all assignments on the MaST website.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
Due dates of week of 10/26-30
Dear parents and students,
This week is a very business week for us. We are approaching the end of the first quarter. Please be mindful of the following due dates:
Due Tuesday, October 27
* Classwork assignment: 5 pictures of the Keeper's pets (group assignments)
* Work on "Life according to Shimmer" assignments
Due Wednesday, October 28
* Finish the book "Dragon of the Lost Sea"
* Finish chapter titles (due 10/30)
On Thursday, October 29
* Voc test words 6 & 7
* Hand in "Life according to Shimmer" today
On Friday, October 30
* Present Google sketch up project
* Take test on the book "Dragon of the Lost Sea" (see previous blogs for more details)
* Chapter titles for novel "Dragon of the Lost Sea"
* Voc words # 7 pages all neatly colored in
This week is a very business week for us. We are approaching the end of the first quarter. Please be mindful of the following due dates:
Due Tuesday, October 27
* Classwork assignment: 5 pictures of the Keeper's pets (group assignments)
* Work on "Life according to Shimmer" assignments
Due Wednesday, October 28
* Finish the book "Dragon of the Lost Sea"
* Finish chapter titles (due 10/30)
On Thursday, October 29
* Voc test words 6 & 7
* Hand in "Life according to Shimmer" today
On Friday, October 30
* Present Google sketch up project
* Take test on the book "Dragon of the Lost Sea" (see previous blogs for more details)
* Chapter titles for novel "Dragon of the Lost Sea"
* Voc words # 7 pages all neatly colored in
Dragon of the Lost Sea (study guide)
Dragon of the Lost Sea Test Outline
I. Topic sentence: (focus on Shimmer’s personality in the beginning of the book)
o Example # 1
o Example # 2
o Example # 3
o Example # 4
o Example # 5
Direct quote # 1 (page # __)
Direct quote # 2 (page # __)
Direct quote # 3 (page # ___)
(Please note: A direct quote can represent one of your examples)
II. How Shimmer changed from the beginning of the story to the end.
• Example # 1
• Example # 2
• Example # 3
* Example # 4
* Example # 5
Direct quote # 1 (page # ___)
Direct quote # 2 (page # ___)
I. Topic sentence: (focus on Shimmer’s personality in the beginning of the book)
o Example # 1
o Example # 2
o Example # 3
o Example # 4
o Example # 5
Direct quote # 1 (page # __)
Direct quote # 2 (page # __)
Direct quote # 3 (page # ___)
(Please note: A direct quote can represent one of your examples)
II. How Shimmer changed from the beginning of the story to the end.
• Example # 1
• Example # 2
• Example # 3
* Example # 4
* Example # 5
Direct quote # 1 (page # ___)
Direct quote # 2 (page # ___)
Essay test question for Friday "Dragon of the Lost Sea"
On Friday, October 30th there will be an essay test (2 paragraphs) on the book "Dragon of the Lost Sea"
* Open book (Dragon of the Lost Sea)
* Open notes
* Students may use a dictionary and or Thesaurus
* Students will take their test in class
ESSAY QUESTION: How has Shimmer’s character/ personality changed?
Paragraph one (10 or more sentences min)
• This paragraph must contain at least 5 different illustrations and/or examples of Shimmer’s personality/ character from the beginning of the novel.
• You must provide “specific references” to the story
• Use at least 3 direct quotes (from the book)
• Use appropriate transition words :
o “As an illustration”
o “For example”
o “For instance”
o “As evidence” etc.
Paragraph two (10 or more sentences min)
• This paragraph must contain at least 5 different illustrations and examples to demonstrate how Shimmer’s character (personality) is now different at the end of the novel)
• Provide specific references to the story
• Use at least 2 direct quotes from the story
• Use appropriate transition words
Grading standard:
- Essay correctly answers the question
- Contains 5 accurate examples (which can includes quotations) in each paragraph
- Use of appropriate transition words
- No spelling errors
- No grammar errors
- Each sentence makes sense
- Final draft of test is written neatly in ink (any test written in pencil will earn an automatic "C")
* Open book (Dragon of the Lost Sea)
* Open notes
* Students may use a dictionary and or Thesaurus
* Students will take their test in class
ESSAY QUESTION: How has Shimmer’s character/ personality changed?
Paragraph one (10 or more sentences min)
• This paragraph must contain at least 5 different illustrations and/or examples of Shimmer’s personality/ character from the beginning of the novel.
• You must provide “specific references” to the story
• Use at least 3 direct quotes (from the book)
• Use appropriate transition words :
o “As an illustration”
o “For example”
o “For instance”
o “As evidence” etc.
Paragraph two (10 or more sentences min)
• This paragraph must contain at least 5 different illustrations and examples to demonstrate how Shimmer’s character (personality) is now different at the end of the novel)
• Provide specific references to the story
• Use at least 2 direct quotes from the story
• Use appropriate transition words
Grading standard:
- Essay correctly answers the question
- Contains 5 accurate examples (which can includes quotations) in each paragraph
- Use of appropriate transition words
- No spelling errors
- No grammar errors
- Each sentence makes sense
- Final draft of test is written neatly in ink (any test written in pencil will earn an automatic "C")
Friday, October 16, 2009
Literatures circle groups will officially start on Nov 2st
Our literature circle groups will officially start on November 2nd. Unfortunately, we are still waiting for some of the books that were ordered to arrive.
In the meantime, we will start reading the book "Dragon of the Lost Sea". This is book is a fantacy based book. I believe most of the students will enjoy it.
In the meantime, we will start reading the book "Dragon of the Lost Sea". This is book is a fantacy based book. I believe most of the students will enjoy it.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Knots in Yo-Yo String Project
Knots in My Yo-Yo String Project
Due: October 16, 2009
Task: Create a comic book based on the book Knots in My Yo-Yo String by Jerry Spinnelli.
1. The comic book must contains 24 boxes (one for each chapter)
2. Label each box with the chapter title’s name- (in the same order as it appears in the book)
3. The comic book must be creative, neat, and colorful.
4. The comic book must accurately summarize the book Knots in My Yo-Yo String by Jerry Spinnelli.
o Hand draw all of the pictures on computer paper
o Use the website www.readwritethink.org/materials/comic
o Use the website www.toondoo.com (parent’s permission required)
o This website requires the users to register
o The website allow you to create an online comic book that can emailed (do not attempt to print)
o Find another website to create your website
Due: October 16, 2009
Task: Create a comic book based on the book Knots in My Yo-Yo String by Jerry Spinnelli.
Project requirements:
1. The comic book must contains 24 boxes (one for each chapter)
2. Label each box with the chapter title’s name- (in the same order as it appears in the book)
3. The comic book must be creative, neat, and colorful.
4. The comic book must accurately summarize the book Knots in My Yo-Yo String by Jerry Spinnelli.
Project options:
o Hand draw all of the pictures on computer paper
o Use the website www.readwritethink.org/materials/comic
o Use the website www.toondoo.com (parent’s permission required)
o This website requires the users to register
o The website allow you to create an online comic book that can emailed (do not attempt to print)
o Find another website to create your website
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Check list/ Rubric for Informative Essay due 10/2/09
Informative essay Rubric
Content
Basic requirements
o Essay contain 5 paragraphs
o Essay is about 6 grade(rs)
o Font: Times New Romans size 14
o Each paragraph contains at least 7 sentences
o Essay is written in 3rd person (1st person is not used at all)
o Paper and outline are typed
Outline requirements
Outline
o Contains Roman numerals I. – V.
o Roman numeral I = Introduction paragraph
o Attention grabber
o Thesis statement (written correctly)
o Contains A. B. C.
o Roman numeral II= 1st paragraph of body
o Topic sentence (written correctly)
o Contains A. B. C.
o Transition sentence
o Roman numeral III = 2nd paragraph of body
o Topic sentence (written correctly)
o Contains A. B. C.
o Transition sentence
o Roman numeral IV = last paragraph of body
o Topic sentence (written correctly)
o Contains A. B. C
o Roman numeral V. (conclusion paragraph)
o Restated thesis statement
o Contains A. B. C. (same order as the introduction paragraph)
Paper
Paragraph # 1
o Attention grabber (1st sentence)
o Contains a thesis statement (use a ; to avoid writing a run-on sentence)
o Contains sentences that “generally” introduces the topic
o 7-10 sentences
Paragraph # 2
o Topic sentence (use same key words in thesis statement)
o Order of sentences match outline
o Examples and details used to support topic sentence
o 7-10 sentences
o Transition sentence (contains key words from main idea # 1 and main idea # 2)
Paragraph # 3
o Topic sentence (use same key words as in thesis statement)
o Order of sentences match outline
o Examples and details used to support topic sentence
o 7-10 sentences
o Transition sentence (contains key words from main idea # 2 and main idea #3)
Paragraph # 4
o Topic sentence (use same key words as in thesis statement)
o Order of sentences match outline
o Examples and details used to support topic sentence
o 7-10 sentences
Paragraph #5
o Begins with “In conclusion,….”
o Contains a restated thesis statement
o Summarizes the three main topics in chronological order
Mechanics
o Every word spelled correctly
o Correct grammar is used
o Consistent use of tenses (if you use past tense, you must use the past tense throughout the entire paper)
o Correct punctuation
o No run on sentences
o Every sentence makes sense
Monday, September 21, 2009
topic and thesis statement
Topic sentence
What is a topic sentence?
A topic sentence is the first sentence in a paragraph. The topic sentence summarizes what that paragraph is all about. The topic sentence must include the same vocabulary that is used in the thesis statement.
Transition sentence
What is a transition sentence?
A transition sentence informs the reader that a topic is about to change (in an essay or paper). The topic sentence should include key “transition words”. For example: “In addition…”, “As a result of….” Etc. The transition sentence should first mention the 1st topic and then introduce the next topic.
Example: “ As a result of students becoming more independent, they now desire to have a more active social life.
What is a topic sentence?
A topic sentence is the first sentence in a paragraph. The topic sentence summarizes what that paragraph is all about. The topic sentence must include the same vocabulary that is used in the thesis statement.
Transition sentence
What is a transition sentence?
A transition sentence informs the reader that a topic is about to change (in an essay or paper). The topic sentence should include key “transition words”. For example: “In addition…”, “As a result of….” Etc. The transition sentence should first mention the 1st topic and then introduce the next topic.
Example: “ As a result of students becoming more independent, they now desire to have a more active social life.
Thesis statement
Thesis statements
What is a thesis statement?
A thesis statement is the main idea of a paper.
Why include a thesis statement?
An author includes a thesis statement in the introduction of their paper in order to provide the reader with the main idea of their paper.
How do you write a thesis statement for a five paragraph essay?
The first part of the thesis statement should mention the main topic of the essay. The last part of the thesis statement should list the three subtopics.
Example:
Computers are an essential part of everyday life; computers are used at most businesses, schools and places of employment.
Based on this thesis statement the reader should expect to read about:
• In paragraph # 1: The introduction! General information about how computers are used daily.
• Paragraph # 2 : How computers are used in most businesses
• Paragraph # 3: How computers are used in schools
• Paragraph # 4: How computers are used in places of employment.
• Paragraph # 5: The conclusion! Summary of thesis.
What is a thesis statement?
A thesis statement is the main idea of a paper.
Why include a thesis statement?
An author includes a thesis statement in the introduction of their paper in order to provide the reader with the main idea of their paper.
How do you write a thesis statement for a five paragraph essay?
The first part of the thesis statement should mention the main topic of the essay. The last part of the thesis statement should list the three subtopics.
Example:
Computers are an essential part of everyday life; computers are used at most businesses, schools and places of employment.
Based on this thesis statement the reader should expect to read about:
• In paragraph # 1: The introduction! General information about how computers are used daily.
• Paragraph # 2 : How computers are used in most businesses
• Paragraph # 3: How computers are used in schools
• Paragraph # 4: How computers are used in places of employment.
• Paragraph # 5: The conclusion! Summary of thesis.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Grades from take home test
Last night's take home test was a practice test. It will not be included in their average. Have a wonderful weekend.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Format for outline
Here is the format for the outline we will be using this year.
Topic: _________________________________________________________________
I. Introduction
A.
B.
C.
Thesis statement:
II.
Topic sentence
A.
B.
C.
(closing sentence) Transition sentence
III.
Topic sentence
A.
B.
C.
Closing sentence (transition sentence)
IV.
Topic sentence
A.
B.
C.
Closing sentence
V.
Topic sentence
A.
B.
C.
Restated Thesis statement:
Topic: _________________________________________________________________
I. Introduction
A.
B.
C.
Thesis statement:
II.
Topic sentence
A.
B.
C.
(closing sentence) Transition sentence
III.
Topic sentence
A.
B.
C.
Closing sentence (transition sentence)
IV.
Topic sentence
A.
B.
C.
Closing sentence
V.
Topic sentence
A.
B.
C.
Restated Thesis statement:
Monday, September 14, 2009
Hispanic American Presentation
Students will present on Friday, September 18, 2009
* Each student is required to list 5 facts (about the person they chose) & 5 accomplishments
* Each student must come to class with a a colored picture (no bigger than 5 x 7) of the person who they researched.
* Each student is required to list 5 facts (about the person they chose) & 5 accomplishments
* Each student must come to class with a a colored picture (no bigger than 5 x 7) of the person who they researched.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Q & A from Back to School Night
Dear Parents,
Thank you for a wonderful back to school night. I've listed some of the questions that were asked.
Q. Will my son/daughter have homework on the weekends?
A. No. Homework will be assigned Monday - Wednesday. However, there will be projects and papers due (however, students will generally have two weeks notice). I encourage students to spend their weekends enjoying their family.
Q. Will my son/daughter have tests and or quizzes?
A. Yes. Most of the test and quizzes will be taken online (http://www.classmarker.com/) . There will be times when a student will be responsible for taking an online test at home.
Q. What is the best way to contact you?
A. Email is the fastest way to get in contact with me. My email address ssumner@mastcharter.org
Q. What is the most effective way to monitor my son/daughter's academic progress?
A. View your son/daughter's grades via Powerschool. Please let me know if you need help obtaining a passcode and user id
Q. How long does the class normally take to read one novel.
A. Normally 1-2 weeks.
Q. What should I do if my son/daughter's grades start to decline?
A. It depends on the reason. If a student's grade are dropping because of missing assignments have them make up the assignments (for reduced credit). If a students grades are dropping because they are struggling academically, please schedule parent/ teacher conference with me.
Q. What should I do If I have computer problems when assignments are due?
A. Please contact me as soon as possible and arrangements will be made. These arrangements could include completing the assignments using the school's computers or extended time to complete the assignment.
Q. Will my son/daughter learn grammar?
A. Yes.
Thank you for a wonderful back to school night. I've listed some of the questions that were asked.
Q. Will my son/daughter have homework on the weekends?
A. No. Homework will be assigned Monday - Wednesday. However, there will be projects and papers due (however, students will generally have two weeks notice). I encourage students to spend their weekends enjoying their family.
Q. Will my son/daughter have tests and or quizzes?
A. Yes. Most of the test and quizzes will be taken online (http://www.classmarker.com/) . There will be times when a student will be responsible for taking an online test at home.
Q. What is the best way to contact you?
A. Email is the fastest way to get in contact with me. My email address ssumner@mastcharter.org
Q. What is the most effective way to monitor my son/daughter's academic progress?
A. View your son/daughter's grades via Powerschool. Please let me know if you need help obtaining a passcode and user id
Q. How long does the class normally take to read one novel.
A. Normally 1-2 weeks.
Q. What should I do if my son/daughter's grades start to decline?
A. It depends on the reason. If a student's grade are dropping because of missing assignments have them make up the assignments (for reduced credit). If a students grades are dropping because they are struggling academically, please schedule parent/ teacher conference with me.
Q. What should I do If I have computer problems when assignments are due?
A. Please contact me as soon as possible and arrangements will be made. These arrangements could include completing the assignments using the school's computers or extended time to complete the assignment.
Q. Will my son/daughter learn grammar?
A. Yes.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Literature and Composition Syllabus
Grading policy
• Classwork (tests, quizzes, papers, and projects)
• Unexcused late assignments (student was present but did not have assignment the day it was due) will earn an automatic 50% **** exceptions illness or family tragedy *****
• Assignments copied from a classmate (or given to be copied by a classmate) will earn a ZERO for all students involved.
• Assignments that have been plagiarized will be given an automatic ZERO.
Example: Copying and pasting information from the Internet and claiming it as your own work
• Students will have only one week to make up assignments (when absent) in order to receive full credit. If assignments are handed in after the two week deadline, they will receive reduced credit.
Student responsibilities
• Complete all assignments on time and to the best of your ability
Parent’s responsibilities
• Monitor grades online via Powerschool (If you do not have access to their grades please send a letter to Mr. Brophy requesting a user identification and passcode.
• A Matter of Trust (Bluford Series)
Examples of assignments
• Online test and quizzes (www.classmarker.com)
• 5 paragraph essays
• Multimedia projects
• Arts related
• Homework (home assignments)
• Comply with the uniform policy (brown shoes, brown belt, khaki pants, navy MaST shirt ….)
• Comply with school / classroom rules and regulations
• Check Powerschool and homework hero weekly
• Communicate with teacher as needed.
Readings List
• Dragon of the Lost Sea
• Freak the Mighty * (some adult language)
• Knots in My Yo-yo String
• Lost and Found (Bluford Series)
• Pictures of Hollis Woods
• Scorpions ** (some adult situations)
• Secrets in the Shadows (Bluford )
• Shabanu, Daughter of the Wind ** (violence, adult language)
• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens
• The Giver (violence)
• The Outsiders *** (some adult situations)
• Self-selected titles (5 minimum)
• Acorn People *** (some adult language)
- Narrative essay
- Persuasive essay
- Autobiography
- Biography
- Business letter writing
- Digital movies (using Window Movie Maker)
- Websites
- Video games
- Skits, puppet shows, plays etc.
- Posters
- Songs/ Raps/ Poems / Spoken word
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Basic school supplies needed
The following school supplies are needed for 7th grade literature class
1. Flash drive (at least 1Mb)
2. Marble copy book (for class and homework assignments)
3. Folder (to save handouts)
4. Pens
5. Three dry eraser markers
6. Highlighters
7. Color pencils or markers
1. Flash drive (at least 1Mb)
2. Marble copy book (for class and homework assignments)
3. Folder (to save handouts)
4. Pens
5. Three dry eraser markers
6. Highlighters
7. Color pencils or markers
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