Descriptive

You are writing descriptive stories using adjectives and adverbs;remember adjectives describe nouns adverbs describe the verbs. When writing your essays in MyAccess you need to use a wide variety of vocabulary and kinds of sentences.

1. Using 2 adverbs write a sentence to describe snow falling.

Gift Giving

GIFTS
Gift giving has been a Christmas tradition for 100 years. The saying it is"Better to Give then to Receive" is a smart and true quote.Gifts do not have to cost money many of the best gifts do not cost a dime. My son one year gave me a card that said he would shovel the month of January and not be asked to do it and not be paid, that was an awesome gift.

1. Tell me an idea of gift giving for someone in your family that would not cost money?

GIFTS

Gift giving has been a Christmas tradition for 100 years. The saying it is
"Better to Give then to Receive" is a smart and true quote.
Gifts do not have to cost money many of the best gifts do not cost a dime. My son one year gave me a card that said he would shovel the month of January and not be asked to do it and not be paid, that was an awesome gift.

1. Tell me an idea of gift giving for someone in your family that would not cost money?

Descriptive Adjectives

You use adjectives to describe nouns. School is a noun and we could describe our school with colors, temperatures, feelings etc. To describe a yard we would use words with color and texture.

Now, in 1 sentence write a description of your bedroom or any room in your house.

1.Think about ways to describe your bedroom or any room in your house?(try some $25 words)

Frozen Foods

Do you like frozen pizzas? Frozen foods have been helpful since 1926,many people only eat frozen foods and cook them in the microwave. Clarence Birdseye founded the frozen food industry. He found a way to process foods and he established the company General Foods.

1 What is your favorite frozen food and not pizza? what other foods do you eat that are frozen?

Dreams

Thanks I know you have been working hard but, I see way too many red triangles in Study Island. Remember if you need to go to the lesson to review you must do that before taking the test. The red crate also has review of the lesson, Study Island is a part of your grade, take it serious. Stay in your seat unless given permission to get up. thank you1.

2.What was the best dream you ever had, or what would be just a dream come true for you?

Music

Many people react differently to music .Music causes many strong feelings and your emotions can react differently to different people. Music can make your feelings really move you:People could be sad, angry,calm,or excited.Music can cause many different feelings and give you certain memories.

1. Tell me a time you were moved by music? why did you get moved by the particular song?

Fridays

Yeah its Friday! TGIF is a saying that has been around along time, because everyone likes the weekend. How can you make your weekend better? do you read, visit anyone, or are you helpful at home?
Remember: our blogs are the bellwork of writing lab, 1 complete sentence in the correct format, example This weekend I...

1. Tell me 1 thing you are going to do with your time this weekend, and it cannot be sleeping or TV ?

Heroes

Many of us have heroes or heroines(heroines is a female hero) that we look up to. One of my heroes is my mother, she is a wonderful, well respected, caring person. Raised her family and went back to school to be a nurse. I want you to think of a hero or heroine that is REAL. no fictional or cartoon characters.

1. Who is one of your heroes and why do you look up to them?

Heroes

1. Do you have a hero or heroine? In your opinion what make a hero? What has your hero done to be a hero?

Does size matter?

Napoleon was a very brilliant and important figure in European history.Napoleon became a giant among men, he was inspirational and strong. He was only 5 feet tall.

1. Do you think it matters if a person is tall, average or short? Is there an advantage to being tall or short?

Rosa Parks

On this date in 1955 Mrs. Rosa Parks a seamstress from Alabama, was tired and just wanted a seat, so she sat in the front of the bus. This was the beginning of the civil rights movement. After that racial segregation on city buses was outlawed.

1.Do you think you would have been as brave as Rosa Parks, and break the law? why or why not?

Thanksgiving

Being Thankful
With Thanksgiving this week we all need to realize we need to be more appreciative and thankful for what we have. Your health, your family, your friends, grades, whatever you can think of.I am grateful for my family who I love and for a career choice;that I can spend time with kids in a positive environment.

1. What are you most thankful for and why? Will you be eating turkey on Thanksgiving?

Thankful

With Thanksgiving this week we all need to realize we need to be more appreciative and thankful for what we have. Your health, your family, your friends, grades, whatever you can think of.
I am grateful for my family who I love and for a career that I can spend time with kids in a positive environment.

1. What are you most thankful for and why?

Speed Limits

In Germany did you know that cars can drive as fast as they want? they have no speed limits in Germany, you can drive from 40 mph or 140 mph, do you think we should be able to do that in the United States?

1. Explain why we need or don't need to have speed limits on our highways in the US?

Lincoln

On this day, in 1863, President Lincoln gave his speech of "Four score and seven years ago" this speech on the Civil War in Gettsysburg was only 3 minutes long yet it is one of the most famous speeches of our country.

1. give me one fact you know about Abraham Lincoln?

Abraham Lincoln

On this day, in 1863, President Lincoln gave his speech of "Four score and seven years ago" this speech on the Civil War in Gettsysburg was only 3 minutes long yet it is one of the most famous speeches of our country.

1. give me one fact you know about Abraham Lincoln?

Favorite Sayings

Favorite Sayings
Many times we hear people use their favorite saying, like "what's up?" "I'm bad" (Which I do not like to hear from any of my students because we have no bad kids here)

My favorite saying is:

"If you do what you always did, you will get what you always got"


1.tell me your favorite saying or tell me what mine means to you?

Favorite Sayings

Many times we hear people use their favorite saying, like "what's up?" "I'm bad" (Which I do not like to hear from any of my students because we have no bad kids here)
My favorite saying is:
"If you do what you always do, you will get what you always got"

1. what do you think my saying means?

Rap

William Handy was born on this day. He was an African-American songwriter, known as the "Father of the Blues". Rap music is as popular today as the Blues were a few years ago. Do you like Rap music?

1. Give your favorite Rap group and why you like their music?

Talents

Everyone has a special talent. Your talent maybe sports, reading, and writing. Some of you, your talent is to write great stories. As you are writing in My Access I want you to read what you have written already and pick one sentence to change and make it better. Take 1 of your sentences and improve it with a quote or more description.


1. What is your best talent? tell me your talent and what you do with it.

Free Time

Having 5 days off this past weekend you had time to relax. Hopefully you had time with your friends, sleep in and hopefully read. Free time is valuable and you need sometimes to make a plan or a list to fit it all in that you want and need to do.

1. When you have days off from school what is your favorite thing to do? What was the best part and the worst part of being off this past long weekend?

Seasons

Seasons
Wow October and first quarter are over! October brings colors, cooler temperatures, football games and 2nd quarter.This is my favorite season for all the above reasons. Today we will be working in My Access to continue with our Encounter a spaceship. Lets make sure we are using descriptive words on our setting, what season is it? what colors can you see? what time of day did the ship land?

1. Which season is your favorite and why?

Favorite Sandwich

Did you know the sandwich was invented on this day in 1718? It was invented by Earl Montague. He always liked to play cards but he needed to find a way to eat. He never liked to stop for meals so he invented the sandwich so he he could play cards and eat at the same time.

1. What is your favorite sandwich? Subway? what are all the ingredients? how often do you have your favorite sandwich?

Sandwich

Did you know the sandwich was invented on this day in 1718? It was invented by Earl Montague. He always liked to play cards but he needed to find a way to eat. He never liked to stop for meals so he invented the sandwich so he he could play cards and eat at the same time.

1. What is your favorite sandwich? what are all the ingredients? how often do you have your favorite sandwich?

Election Day is Here

Today is the election for our President of the United States. The most important election in our nation. Today our officers were announced for Dirksen Student Council another important position held for just our school.

1. Would you ever like to run for a government or school office? If so which one and what would they say about YOU?

Elections

This year the Election Day for our President is the biggest election turn out our country has ever had.The polls say that most voters are effected by weather. The weather is beautiful so the turn out will be even bigger then predicted.

1. Will someone in your family vote for our President? Have you or would you ever like to run for anything, student council, class officer etc.? how would you describe yourself?

Trick-or-Treat day

Haunted Houses
Wandering through a haunted house is fun to do on Halloween.Haunted houses freak me out big time, I never like the "unexpected" jumping out, or worst of all touching me. Dressing up in costumes and trick-or-treating are also fun things people like to do on the spookiest night of the year.

1. Describe your favorite costume or Halloween prank from this year or the past. Or describe the costume you would like to wear if you could be anyone or anything you wanted?

Haunted Houses

Wandering through a haunted house is fun to do on Halloween. Dressing up in costumes and trick-or-treating are also fun things people like to do on the spookiest night of the year.

1. Describe your favorite costume, from this year or the past. Or describe the costume you would like to wear if you could be anyone or anything you wanted?

Statue of Liberty's Birthday

Today is the Statue of Liberty's Birthday. The statue, also known as Miss Liberty, was dedicated on this day in the year of 1886. Miss Liberty was a gift from France. She weighs 225 tons and is 112 feet high with her index finger being 8ft. long.

1. Write a descriptive sentence on your favorite Fourth of July. What were the smells, sounds, and what did you see?

Welcome 2nd quarter.
Welcome to the Writing Lab. I am glad your here. This is a great program working in My Access and you all will become fabulous writers. It will be fun to watch your scores improve from now till the end of the quarter.Remember to put just your first name last initial and grade, always use the same format. 5 points a dayfor your Blog.

1. What do you do when you get to stay up later? Read a book, watch TV, talk on the phone?

Welcome 2nd quarter.

Welcome to the Writing Lab. I am glad your here. This is a great program working in My Access and you all will become fabulous writers. It will be fun to watch your scores improve from now till the end of the quarter.Remember to put just your first name last initial and grade, always use the same format. 5 points a dayfor your Blog.

1. What do you do when you get to stay up later? Read a book, watch TV, talk on the phone?

Last day of writing lab

Today is your last day of the quarter in writing lab. Please remember all you learned in My Access to use the corrective actions we discovered to up your score. You will continue to use this in your Language Arts classes. The corrections like repeating the prompt at the beginning, middle and end, spell check of course, and my editor.

1. Name which trick or correction you learned to help your holistic score the most. What did you like best about Writing Lab?

Room Description

Our last week of 1st quarter. WOW, that went fast! Remember the rules of My Access and to always revise to get the better score. Today I want you to look around the room and think of ways you would describe this room to someone who has never been in here.

1. Write a very descriptive sentence with details to describe what the writing lab looks like.

Room Description

Our last week of 1st quarter. WOW, that went fast!
Today I want you to look around the room and think of ways you would describe this room
to someone who has never been in here.

1. Write a very descriptive sentence to describe what the writing lab looks like.

Learn Best

The end of the quarter this week. Wow, that went fast. How do you learn best? By listening, reading, or doing? Write an example that you learned something by just doing it. For example you didn't learn how to ride a bike by looking at books.

1. Write a sentence about what you have learned by doing it?

Dangerous

Some people do very dangerous things. Some people have a different idea of what is dangerous.after the Blog make sure you work on revisions and continue in study island.

1. Tell me something you think is dangerous and if you will ever try it? why or why not?

Dangerous

Some people do dangerous things. some people have a different idea of what is dangerous.
after the Blog make sure you work on revisions and continue in study island.

!.Tell me something you think is dangerous and will you ever try it? why or why not?

School lunches

National School lunches
October is the month that schools are to take surveys for students to decide their favorite school lunch. Instead of complaining about the ones you don't like describe now the one you like the best:

1. What is your FAVORITE school lunch and what makes it taste so good ?

National School lunches

October is the month that schools are to take surveys for students to decide their favorite school lunch. Instead of complaining about the ones you don't like describe now the one you like the best:

1. What is your FAVORITE school lunch and what makes it taste good

10/10 day

Today is the 10th day of the 10th month. In China they celebrate this as the 10 10 celebration day.

1. Describe how your life will change in 10 years. what things will be easier for you? What are your responsibilities now?

self taught

Some people learn to do new things all on their own.Did you ever teach yourself to do something all on your own. Maybe play an instrument and never take a music lesson? art?

1. If you haven't ever taught yourself to do anything, what would you like to learn? Could you teach yourself to do it? how?

Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention
This is fire prevention week. We all need to be smart about being safe. Fire drills are always to be taken seriously.
Today you will go to Study Island after the Blog. When you go into My Access we will be finishing our essays on Encounter with a Spaceship and you will also be doing revisions.Make changes before you submit.

1. Does your family have a smoke detector at home? Where is your smoke detector located at your house?

Fire Prevention

This is fire prevention week. We all need to be smart about being safe. Today you will go to Study Island after the Blog. When you go into My Access we will be finishing our essays on Encounter with a Spaceship and you will also be doing revisions.

1. Does your family have a smoke detector at home? Where is your smoke detector located at your house?

Saturdays

What do you like to do the most on a Saturday?are you a "couch potato?"
start to revise if you have submitted your essay

Talents

Everyone has a special talent, some of you, your talent may be the talent to write great stories. As you are writing in My Access I want you to read what you have written already and pick one sentence to change and make it better.

1. What is your talent? tell me your talent and what you do with it.

Talents

Everyone has a special talent, some of you, your talent may be the talent to write great stories. As you are writing in My Access I want you to read what you have written already and pick one sentence to change and make it better.

1. What is your talent? tell me your talent and what you do with it.

Seasons

Wow September is over! October brings colors, cooler temperatures, football games and Halloween. This is my favorite season for all the above reasons.
Today we will be working in My Access to continue with our Encounter a spaceship. Lets make sure we are using descriptive words on our setting, what season is it? what colors can you see?

1. Which season is your favorite and why?

Seasons

Wow September is over after today. October brings colors, cooler temperatures, football games and Halloween. Today we will be working in My Access to continue with our Encounter a Spaceship. Try to use words that tell what time of year it is.

1. What do like best about the Fall? Which is your favorite season and why?

Favorite Sayings

Today I am with the 8th grade on a field trip, like your class had last week. Best behavior of course and all same rules apply today.
earn them Dirksen Dollars!

1. One of Charlie brown's favorite sayings is "Good Grief!" Write two or three of your favorite sayings and tell when you usually say them. school appropriate of course

Contest

Today I will explain an essay contest for you to participate in. This is a choice assignment. You will be given the prompt about Problems in Society.

1. Ever try to be in a contest before? did you win? How did you win it? If you could win something under $100 what would it be?

contest

Today we will talk about a new contest.
1.Have you ever been in a contest before? what was it? if you could win a prize under $100 what would it be?

Appreciation

1. Today is appreciation day. Think of someone or something you appreciate, who are you thankful for? A parent, grandparent or a favorite toy, game, shoes, anything you really appreciate.

Appreciation

1. Today is Appreciation Day. Who do you appreciate? someone or something you are grateful for, could be a parent, a friend, even a pet or stuffed animal. maybe a comfortable pair of shoes. You decide, just tell why you appreciate it.

Sept. 22, 2008

Today after your BLOG entry, go to My Access. Look over your results from the Happiest time in your Life we are going to work slowly through the process to allow time for narrowing focus and analyzing prompts. opening lines to grab attention creating characters.
Think about your life in 20 years from now.

1. What did you do outside over the weekend?

Sept. 19, 2008

All essays on the happiest time of your life must be subbitted today. Next week we will start revisions. Please see me if you are having trouble with your essay. Go to study island and continue working ....lets get some blue ribbons!

1.Today is Friday and the weekend is suppose to be beautiful. What do you want to do this weekend to enjoy this perfect weather?

Sept.18, 2008

Today everyone has to submit their essay on The Happiest time of your life. Make sure you have a beginning a middle and an end in your essay. Do you use the word "happy?"
go to study island when you complete your BLOG.

1. Do Manners Matter? Tell me a time you were courteous and polite and you felt good about it. Did you do something for someone and you weren't even asked? how did you feel after?

Sept. 17, 2008

Today is called National Courtesy day. Its purpose is to remind everyone that life could be more enjoyable if people were more polite to one another.
when you are finished go to Study Island

1. Tell me a time you were courteous and it paid off. How did you feel? what did you do?

Sept. 16, 2008

Essays are being submitted this week. Do your best work on "Happiest time of your life" I have read some excellent essays. Keep working hard. describing your happy experience in your essay.Go to study island when finished with BLOG.

1. Do you know an older person you look up and respect? write about an older person you know who you enjoy being with. a grandparent, neighbor, family friend,or someone else you know.

9/15/08

September is national breakfast month. Starting your day with food is important. It has been proven students who eat something before school do better at school.


1. Do you eat breakfast? Is breakfast on the weekends different then breakfast on school days?

9/11/08

Today we are continuing our essay on The Happiest Day of our Life. Remember to look for the describing words in your essay. Today is also 9/11 our Blog entry will be patriotic .

1. What is the best way to describe our AMERICAN FLAG ?

Sept. 10, 2008

Your essays are started now. Remember to look for the power words that tell you what to DO in your prompt. informing,describing, explaining, always look what you have to DO.

1. If you could go watch any sport and any team, what team would it be and why?

September 9, 2008

On this day in 1850, California became the 31st state.The hottest temperature ever recorded in US history was in California at 135 degrees. Do you like hot weather?
Which is your favorite season and why?

September 8, 2008

All 1st essays should have been submitted. Please make sure you do your BLOG journal when you first come in the wwriting lab. After that go to Study island unless I tell you differently. Work in the area where you have the triangles.

1.Do you watch much television? What is your favorite TV show and why?

September 5, 2008

Did you know Sept. is National Clock Month? Clocks are an important part of everyone's day.
Below are a couple questions about watches. Answer the questions then go to Study Island.
Lets have a great Friday.
Which do you like better, digital clocks or analog clocks (clocks with hands) ?
Do you own a watch? Is it digital or analog? Is their a particular kind of watch you would like to have someday?

September 4, 2008

Today is Newpaper Carrier Day. On this day in 1933 a 10 yr. old boy was hired to deliver papers for the New York Sun. His name was Barney Flaherty and he answered the add in the paper to be a carrier.

1. Have you ever had a job you got paid for? Do you think kids should have jobs?

Sept.3,2008

Today we will be working on our essays from My Access. Some of you have already started, so you will resume. 6th grade will be just starting their essays.
Please continue in Study Island when you finish in the BLOG.
REMEMBER: Always try for a blue ribbon and lets get rid of some triangles today.
thanks......... you are working hard.

1. Do you have something you think is lucky? Write about your lucky shirt, lucky socks, or rabbit's foot, why is it lucky?

Sept. 2, 2008

Hope you enjoyed our nice 3 day weeeknd, such beautiful weather. Today we will be working on our essays for our baseline prompt on My Access. When you have finished we will go to Study Island. Please remember to all be responsible peace builders. Have a great day and choose from the following 2 choices. USE CORRECT FORMAT...thanks, Mrs. K

1. What is your favorite sweet food and when do you like to eat it?

2. What was the best telephone call conversation you ever had? Or who would you like to call you and sit and have a nice conversation with? anyone

August 29, 2008

Hooray !!!! You have just completed your first full week of school. Today is crazy Friday, you never know what I will have a picture of to comment on.

1. Look at the picture on the screen and tell me what you think of ?

August 29, 2008

Hooray! we are now ready to start our narrative essays. Again, please remember to use correct format, stay in your seat. and have a wonderful, peace building day.

1. Today is picture Friday. What do you think of when you see this picture?

2. If you could pick a lifestyle would it be happy, rich, or famous? why?

August 27, 2008

Thanks I know you have been working hard. I see way too many red triangles in Study Island. Remember if you need to go to the lesson to review you must do that before taking the test.

Stay in your seat unless given permission to get up. thank you

1. Do you know a teacher who would make a good politician,why?

2.What was your best dream?

August 26, 2008

Happy first week of school. As I was reading your comments last week many were excellent and I enjoyed reading about grasshoppers and all the Hawaii details. But,many of us did not use the correct format. Remember repeat part of the question in your answer

you get 2 points each day.

Use the green sheet if you forgot how to publish comments. and login
Pick one of these choices today to comment on in our Blogger
1. Eleanor Rooselvelt once said "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." What do you think this means?

2. If you could fly anywhere in the world, where would you go? And why would you go there?

Auugust 22, 2008

August 22, 2008
Welcome to class! I am so glad you are here for Writing Lab. This year is going to be a great year. We will be working with Blogger (which you are in now), Study Island (we will do this in a few minutes), and My Access (this will be @ our next class).


Every day when you come in, you will need to sit at your assigned computer. It is very important that you always sit at the correct number so your computer usage can be monitored.

When you enter the room, you will go directly to your computer, open up Internet Explorer (the big Blue E) and read and respond to the daily blog. You should respond by incorporating the question into your answer.

You receive 2 points each day you respond (one point for your answer and one point for formatting). At the end of the quarter you should have answered 42 posts.

To publish your comment, you will type in your first name, last initial, and grade under "NAME/URL" and then hit the orange button to submit. You do not have an URL- leave that blank.

Now here are your prompts to choose from:

1. Hawaii became the 50th state on this date. what interesting facts do you know about Hawaii? Would you want to visit Hawaii?

2.What would you do if a big beautiful grasshopper was sitting on your keyboard right now?

August 21, 2008

Welcome to class! I am so glad you are here for Writing Lab. This year is going to be a great year. We will be working with Blogger (which you are in now), Study Island (we will do this in a few minutes), and My Access (this will be @ our next class).

Every day when you come in, you will need to sit at your assigned computer. It is very important that you always sit at the correct number so your computer usage can be monitored.

When you enter the room, you will go directly to your computer, open up Internet Explorer (the big Blue E) and read and respond to the daily blog. You should respond by incorporating the question into your answer.

You receive 2 points each day you respond (one point for your answer and one point for formatting). At the end of the quarter you should have answered 42 posts.

To publish your comment, you will type in your first name, last initial, and grade under "NAME/URL" and then hit the orange button to submit. You do not have an URL- leave that blank.

Now here are your prompts to choose from:

1. Hawaii became the 50th state on this date. what interesting facts do you know about Hawaii? Would you want to visit Hawaii?

2.What would you do if a grasshopper was sitting on your keyboard right now?

May 30 Journal

Thank you for working so hard. You must stay in your seats and should not be wandering. Every time you are out of your seat, I am taking off 2 points.

Work on getting rid of red triangles. There are still way too many!

1. May is National Hamburger Month. What is your favorite food? Which month would you like to designate to honor this food? Explain.
2. Imagine that you are a farmer and you just discovered that your hen is laying golden eggs. Write about what happens next.

May 28 Joural

Hi. Today you can finish off any outstanding essay. This means your persuasive and your narrative should each have 3 submissions.Excellent job with the presentations. I watched all the webcam video and you should all be proud. Everyone who presented received a passing grade! Awesome job.

This week you need to work on getting rid of any red triangles in Study Island. Red triangles will effect your grade and could possibly lower it. Let's not take that chance and get rid of the triangles.

1. Which book character would you like to have come to life? Explain.
2. What is your favorite type of music? Compare it to your least favorite type of music.

May 27 Journal

Hi. Today you can finish off any outstanding essay. This means your persuasive and your narrative should each have 3 submissions.

Excellent job with the presentations. I watched all the webcam video and you should all be proud. Everyone who presented received a passing grade! Awesome job.

This week you need to work on getting rid of any red triangles in Study Island. Red triangles will effect your grade and could possibly lower it. Let's not take that chance and get rid of the triangles.

1. If you could change the color of your hair, would you? Explain.
2. Imagine that you have a tomato plant that is suddenly growing something else instead of tomatoes. Write about what happens next.

May 22 Journal

Today I am subbing in the office. I set up the web cam, be on your best behavior. Most of you had great behavior on Tuesday- please continue.

Some of you still have not made three submissions on either your special day or your persuasive. Those essays need to be completed by TODAY or zeros will be issued.

Also, all red triangles must be gone in Study Island. There should not be any red triangles left on your main screen. Red triangles will effect your grade!

Presentations will finish today. Ms. Shannon has the printed essays and who is going today. Everyone must present. The lowest grade you could get would be a 70, if you are nervous, and that is way better than a zero.

1. Pretend that you are a famous author of many award-winning books. What would you say to children about the importance of reading and writing?
2. Do you prefer to read books or magazines? Explain.

May 21 Journal

Today I am subbing in the office. I set up the web cam, be on your best behavior. I have to say that the 6th grade class' behavior was unexceptable Monday. 8 and 7 were good. Please stay in your seats and follow directions.

Some of you still have not made three submissions on either your special day or your persuasive. Those essays need to be completed by Thursday or zeros will be issued.

Also, all red triangles must be gone in Study Island. There should not be any red triangles left on your main screen. Red triangles will effect your grade!

Presentations will finish today. Ms. Shannon has the printed essays and who is going today. Everyone must present. The lowest grade you could get would be a 70, if you are nervous, and that is way better than a zero.

1. Is it ever okay to break a promise? Explain.
2. the third Friday in May is National Bike to Work Day. Not all people can safely ride a bike to work or school. Explain what you would do to make riding to work or school safer.

May 20 Journal

Today I am subbing in the office. I set up the web cam, be on your best behavior.

Some of you still have not made three submissions on either your special day or your persuasive. Those essays need to be completed by Thursday or zeros will be issued.

Also, all red triangles must be gone in Study Island. There should not be any red triangles left on your main screen. Red triangles will effect your grade!

Presentations will start today. Ms. Shannon has the printed essays and who is going today. If you don't present today- you will be presenting at our next class meeting.

1. Imagine that while on a field trip with your class, you discover something that has never been seen before. What do you find? Explain how you will tell the world about your discovery.
2. May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. Write an exercise plan for yourself to implement over the next seven days. What will you do to stay active?

May 19 Journals

Today I am subbing in the office. I set up the web cam, be on your best behavior.

Some of you still have not made three submissions on either your special day or your persuasive. Those essays need to be completed by Thursday or zeros will be issued.

Also, all red triangles must be gone in Study Island. There should not be any red triangles left on your main screen. Red triangles will effect your grade!

Presentations will start today. Ms. Shannon has the printed essays and who is going today. If you don't present today- you will be presenting at our next class meeting.

1. May 19 is Visit Your Relatives Day. Which relative would you most like to visit? Explain how you would spend your day.
2. Pretend that you are a young scientist receiving an award for your latest invention. Write a short article for a science magazine describing your new invention.

May 16 Journal

Hi. We may be having some principals from other buildings pop in and out today looking at the My Access program. I am not sure when they will be coming so please be on your best behavior. Today I would like to finish your persuasive essay and narrative essay in My Access. You have unlimited submissions, so I will take the top three grades for my grade book.

1. National Transportation Week is celebrated the week that includes the third Friday in May. In what ways do you think transportation will be different 25 years from now? In what ways do you think it will be the same?
2. Would you rather be a caterpillar or a butterfly? Explain.

May 15 Journal

Hi. Today you need to go directly to My Access and work on your Persuasive essay. Once that is done you will go and revise your narrative. Remember to use the Tutor and Editor in My Access to improve your trait scores. Next week we will be working in Study Island.

1. Imagine that your family is preparing for a garage sale to get rid of any unwanted household items. Your parent has told you that you must select three items from your room to sell. What three items would you sell? Explain.
2. Pretend that you are shopping at a garage sale when suddenly you hear a toy doll speaking to you. Write about what happens next.

May 13 Journal

Once you are done with your journal today, move into My ACCESS and work on your essay. In about 10 minutes I am moving into Direct Instruction to show you a few things.

1. If you could play any professional sport, what would you play? Explain.
2. Pretend that your parent has asked you to give up one type of junk food and eat a healthy food in its place for a month. What food would you give up? What would you replace it with? Explain.

May 12 Journal

Today we are working on Submission 2. Once you are done with that, you may work in Study Island.

1. National Bike Month is celebrated in May. Explain how life would be different if you had to ride a bicycle to get around.
2. Would you rather go on a safari in Africa or visit a rain forest in Central America? Explain.

May 9 Journal

Hi. I am in the office today for Mrs. Baldwin, but I set up the webcam so it's like I'm with you. I've gone over everything with Ms. Shannon. After journal, go directly to MY ACCESS. You need to be making your second submission today, but before you do that Ms. Shannon is going to do 10 minutes of direct instruction to do the MY TUTOR with you. I have left everyone feedback who submitted and I am very impressed with your writing. Keep up the great work! If you make your second submission today you can work in STUDY ISLAND.

1. The second Sunday in May is Mother's Day. Write a paragraph describing your definition of a mother.
2. Would you rather visit a friend's house or have a friend visit your house? Explain.

May 8 Journal

Hi. I am in the office today, so please behave. I have the webcam on and can see what you are doing or not doing. Ms. Shannon is prepared to go through your lesson with you since I have gone through it with her. You need to use your manners today and stay in your seat. Today you will work in Study Island for 15 minutes, unless you did not finish your persuasive wizard. After the 15 minutes, the entire class will move to My Access and Ms. Shannon needs to do 10 minutes of direct instruction and then you'll move back to independent study. Your goal is to finish the wizard, insert the essay, make modifications, and make your first submission.

1. The Saturday before Mother's Day is National Babysitters Day. Imagine that you are a babysitter when a storm knocks out the power. Write about what happens next.
2. May 8 is No Socks Day. Pretend that you are a sock. Describe how you will spend you day off duty.

May 7 Journal

I am glad you are here. When you are done with your journal, you have 15 minutes to work in Study Island and then I am going to move into direct instruction and show you how to transpose your outline from the persuasive wizard into the essay. For those of you who did not insert your persuasive wizard yet, I guess you have 15 minutes.

1. Imagine that you are an animal living in the wild. what animal are you, and what is your favorite time of the year? Explain.
2. Pretend that you would like to set up a lemonade stand to earn some extra money. Where is the best location for your new business? Explain.

May 6 Journal

I am glad you are here. Today once you are done with your journal, I want you to go to MY Access and log into the Persuasive Wizard. You need to finish the Wizard today. Once that is done, you may work in Study Island.

1. National Teacher Day is celebrated on the Tuesday of the first full week in May. Who is a teacher who has impacted your life, here at Dirksen, and why?
2. Imagine that when you get home from school one day, your family looks different and they are acting very strange. Upon closer look, one of your family members has been replaced by one the staff members from Dirksen. Who is the new member of your family? Who did they replace? Why do you think they were the replacement?

May 5 Journal

We are coming to a close today. When you are done with your journal, log into My Access and begin working on finishing your Persuasive Wizard today. You may only work in Study Island if the Persuasive Wizard is finished. We have an assembly about First Tee Golf today as well.

1. May is National Book Month. Would you rather rad more books or fewer books than you currently read? Explain.
2. The first full week in May is National Pet Week. What animal d you think would make the perfect pet? Explain.

May 2 Journal

Good Day. I am glad you are here. Today we are going to work in Study Island for 20 minutes and then continue with our research and work on updating our first three screens in the persuasive wizard. If you read this statement- do not say anything to anyone- quietly go and push the easy button and fill out a blue ribbon, come back and finish your journal.

1. The first full week in May is Be kind to Animals Week. Write a poem or a paragraph that expresses the importance of animals in your life.
2. If you were a flower, would you rather be planted in a garden at someone's house or at a park? Explain.

May 1 Journal

I am glad you are here. Spend 20 minutes in Study Island. After that I will review My Access with you and you will be able to use today to research your topic.

1. May 1 is Mother Goose Day. Choose two nursery rhyme characters, such as Little Miss Muffet, Old Mother Hubbard, Humpty Dumpty, or Little Boy Blue. Write about an encounter between these two characters.
2. School Principals' Day is May 1. Write a thank you note to Principal Pfoutz or Assistant Principal Lawrence for all that they do for our school.

April 30 Journal

Hi. I am glad you are back. Today we are going to work in Study Island for 20 minutes and then spend the rest of our time in My Access. We are going to pick topics, and research.

1. April 30 is National Honest Day. Do you think that there is ever a time when it is okay to be dishonest? Explain.
2. April showers are said to bring May flowers. Pretend that you are flower. Write a thank you note to the rain showers.

April 29 Jouranl

Good Day! I am glad you are here. Today you will work in Study Island for the first 30 minutes and then I am going to go over some academic vocabulary terms with you, we will pick topics and partners and review prompts. I really need for you to be present in mind and body today.

1. The zipper was patented on April 29, 1913. Imagine that you are camping in the woods with a friend. As you try to get out of the tent in the morning, you realize that the zipper is stuck. Write about what happens next.
2. Would you rather be an ant at a picnic or a bee in a flower garden? Explain.

April 20 Journal

I am glad you are here. If you are an 8th or 6th grader, we have a survey to complete. Once you are done with this journal I will pass them out. Today I will be explaining our next essay in My Access. It is very important that you take notes and are "present" during Direct Instruction since this is new material I will be covering. You also need to complete the "simile" poetry assignment by Wednesday.

1. Pretend that you are a bird. Write the steps for building the perfect nest.
2. Are you more like a spring thunderstorm or a winter snowstorm? Explain.

April 25 Journal

Good day! I am glad to see you back. Today we are in Study Island and catching up on our poetry assignments. We will be starting our next essay in My Access next week.

1. On this date in 1901, New York became the first state to require license plates on vehicles. Using no more than eight letters or numbers, design a personalized license plate for your self. Explain what it means and why you chose it.
2. Imagine that you are flying a kite when suddenly you are lifted up and start soaring with the kite. Write about what happens next.

Simile Poetry

*NOTES for your NOTEBOOK*

Definition: A simile is the comparison between unlike nouns (persons, places, things, or ideas) using AS or LIKE to make the comparison.
For example, my hand is like a tomato or my hand is red as a tomato.
The simile asks the reader to consider a tomato as one possible description of the hand.
For example, My hand is like a tomato, red and peeling from too much sun.

**Writing Assignment**

1. Complete one of the following sentences.
2. Answer: Who? What? Where? When? Why? and How?
3. Your poem must be the minimum of 6 lines long.

• Trees move like
• Sun looks like
• Moon looks like
• River is shaped like
• Stars feel like
• Oceans are like
• Rainbows bend like
• Earth is like
• Mountains stand like
• Wind whispers like
• Rain falls like
• Gold appears like
• Glaciers glide like
• Day begins like
• Night ends like

Example:

Glaciers glide like skiers (where?) down the sides of mountains.

Sample Poems:

"Rainbow"

A rainbow bends like a smile turned upside down,

not as a frown turned right side up.

Just as a rainbow stretches

from one end of the city to the other side,

so does a smile reach from one ear to the other.

"Night"

Night is the alphabet,

a mass of jumbled lines,

a jag of lightning before thunder,

some needles on some pines.

Night is like a thief,

a game of tic tac toe,

roots from a darkened cave,

an arrow from a bow.

"Rain"

Rain falls like crystals

in magic puddles

on glaciers

standing tall on the earth.

April 24 Journal

Hi. I am glad you are here. Today we will be working in Study Island, working on posting the Personification poem, writing the Metaphor poem, and finishing off "Special Day" if it is not done.

1. List as many words as you can that rhyme with SPRING.



2. Imagine that you could take a trip to any planet in our solar system. Which planet would you most like to visit? Which planet would you least like to visit? Explain.

April 23 Journal

I am glad you are here today. Remember if you did not post your Personification poem you need to do so today so you receive the 10 points.
Today you will work in Study Island and work on a Metaphor Poem. We will be starting our next essay at our next class, so if you did not finish the "Special Day" please do so today.

1. The first movie theater opened in new York City on April 23, 1896. would you rather watch your favorite movie at the theater or at your own house? Explain.
2. The first public school in America opened on this day in 1635. How do you think the first day of school in 1635 would compare to your first day of school this year?

Metaphor Poem

*Please copy these notes about metaphor into your notebooks*

Metaphors gain their power from our senses. When a writer names nouns (persons, places, and things), the reader automatically associates the nouns with smells, tastes, touches, sights, and sounds.
Because metaphors use one noun to describe another, they create instant pictures. For example, "Shoes are hats for feet" or "Shoes are the brains at the southern end." These both create pictures.
Metaphors are easy to write. Just compare one noun to another noun with a different meaning using the verbs IS, ARE, OF. Consider the following: "Love is a glove." "Love is a baseball." "Love is a turnip." These sentences may at first seem unusual. The connections between the nouns within the metaphors, however, can always be explained in interesting ways, as in the following example: "Love is a turnip. It is a root of happiness."

**Your writing assignment**

1. In your notebooks, write the name of a thing, place, or event from science, history, geography, nutrition, literature, math, or PE.
2. Begin each sentence with "I am."
3. Complete your sentences with facts about your subject.
4. Your poem should have the minimum of five stanzas or 10 lines total.

Choose one of the following topics or write about something of your own choice:

the sea a recipe an animal a planet a character in a book a novel a city a state a country a math fact an ocean a part of speech

***Here is an example-

"I Am Illinois"

I am Illinois, growing in the sunlight and soaking in the rain.

Like the corn of my farmland, I have my family roots.

I am the midwest, in the middle of somewhere in between

searching for identiy between the vastness.

I am the small town, a dot on the map

where people's lives intertwine to become one.

I am the farmer struggling to exist

Waiting and watching as nature plays its tricks

I am the tornatdo twirling and swirling.

I am Illinois all the way through.

April 22 Journal

Hi. Mr. Sartain is not here today, so I am subbing in the office. Please be on your best behavior- I have the webcam set up.

Today we have a few things to get done. First, you must finish your "Special Day" essay. If it is not done by the end of today a zero will be issued. Second, work in Study Island and get those blue ribbons! Don't forget you should be using your notebooks for notes and use the word wall. Third, you have a poem to work on today. The poem is due on Thursday. It must be posted on the blog for credit. All the directions for the poem are on the link under this posting.

Remember to behave since I would be the person processing your referral today.

1. "A penny saved is a penny earned" are famous words of Benjamin Franklin. What do you think he meant? Do you agree?
2. Today is Earth Day. What are four things you can do to help our planet?

Personification Poetry

Personification is the assignment of human characteristics to a non-human thing. Today you will write a poem that uses personification. If you like this poem, you may enter it for the Open Mic Poetry Reading at Barnes and Nobel on April 30 and receive 20 extra credit points in class.

Today's writing exercise is an easy one. You are going to take the shell that I give you and adapt it to fit your poem. Write your poem inside your notebook first and then you will post it on the blog.

First pick an emotion to work with. Don't pick a quarter word like Happy or Sad. Think more towards a $5 word like Elated or Depressed.

Now think of how that emotion would act? The better you can describe the feeling, the better the poem will turn out. Here is your writing shell.

"Title Should be the Emotion You Choose"

I saw ____________ clearly.

He/She was _______________________.

He/She turned _____________________.

I saw his/her ___________________ eyes and __________________ skin.

I heard him/her say __________________________

And I felt _________________________________.

Here is my personification poem I wrote after my mother past away from Leukemia:

"Cancer"

I see Cancer clearly.

It is standing along the sidelines,

watching,

looking for its next victim.

It's face is pale and body weak;

however, its eyes are glowing green with the ability to see through society's social classes.

It smells damp-

Feels cold-

Has the ability to regenerate.

Be cautious of Cancer for it strikes without warning...

One cannot hear it whisper their name-

Shh...

I hear something...

Here is TJ's poem, he was a former student:

"Joy"

I saw Joy clearly.

He was smiley and very polite.

He turned gingerly and walked towards me cleanly and gracefully.

I saw his great ocean-like eyes that seemed to conjoin perfectly with is tan skin.

I heard him say melodious things to me

And I felt calm and warm.

So you can see, the poetry shell has a lot to offer. You can really expand on this poem like I did or just do a fill in like TJ. Either way, you'll come up with a great poem!

This assignment is worth 10 points!

April 21 Journal

Today we will be spending time in Study Island, writing a piece of poetry since it's National Poetry Month, and then anyone who needed to finish up on Special Day will have time to do so.

1. April 21 is Kindergarten Day. Describe your favorite kindergarten memory.
2. Pretend that you are going on a hot-air balloon ride and can invite one friend. Your best friend is afraid of heights but still might feel hurt if you do not invite her/him. Explain what you would do.

April 18 Journal

I am glad you are here. Unfortunately, Gillion is feeling well so I had to stay home. However, I have set up my webcam and am recording class. Please be on your best behavior. You need to be on your assigned computer and stay seated unless you are using the word wall.
Today you'll have 30 minutes in Study Island an then I want you to move to My Access. Try and get the essay done and submitted today. Remember it is due on Monday. Also, remember what I said the other day: don't freak out if your score is low now. I expect it to be low, but I promise- if you trust me- the score will be higher by the end of the quarter.

1. national Coin Week is celebrated in April. Pretend that coin money will no longer be used in the United States. Explain how everyday life might be different.
2. Baseball? Piano? Dancing? What one after school activity would you like to participate in? Explain.

April 17 Journal

I am glad you are here. Did you start working on your Special Day essay? If you have it with you in written form and need to type it- once you are done with your blog posting you may go to My Access and begin typing. If you are working on the essay at home, you may go to Study Island after you are done posting. Please remember the essay is due by Monday, April 21 (no excuses). I am in the office for Mrs. Baldwin today, but I've gone over everything with Ms. Shannon. I have my webcam set up, so I will know if you are off task. Please be on your best behavior.

1. Imagine that you are walking through the park with your friend and you find a bag of money. Explain what you would do.
2. List five things that you and your family can do to help the environment.

April 16 Journal

I am glad you are here. Did you start working on your Special Day essay? If you have it with you in written form and need to type it- once you are done with your blog posting you may go to My Access and begin typing. If you are working on the essay at home, you may go to Study Island after you are done posting. Please remember the essay is due by Monday, April 21 (no excuses).

1. National Wear Your Pajamas to Work Day is held each year the day after income taxes are due. Why do you think it is held on this day? When would be a good time to have a National Wear Your Pajamas to School Day? Explain.
2. What new school rule would you like to implement? How would this new rule make your school a better place?

April 15 Journal

Welcome back. Today when you are done with your journal, move directly into Study Island. After 30 minutes we will move into direct instruction and I will teach you a new application.

1. April is Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month. Write a list of 5 reasons you should not be cruel to animals.
2. April 15 is Income Tax Pay Day. Would you vote for a presidential candidate who said that she or he would eliminate the income tax for all Americans? Explain.

April 14 Journal

Welcome back. Today when you are done with your journal, move directly into Study Island. After 30 minutes we will move into direct instruction and I will teach you a new application.

1. Alfred M. Butts, inventor of the board game Scrabble, was born on April 13, 1899. What is your favorite board game and why?
2. Combine the features of two different insects to create a new insect. Name and describe your new creature.

April 10 Journal

Welcome back to the writing lab. I am glad you are here. Today I am going to review Study Island with you for about 5 minutes and then I will give you today to work inside the program and help you trouble shoot any questions. We are also going to have a quiz over the seven steps to making a blog/journal posting. Review your notes if you have to.

1. National Siblings Day is April 10. would you rather be an only child or have siblings? Explain.
2. The safety pin was patented on April 10, 1849. Write a story paragraph that ends with "That little safety pin saved the day!"

April 9 Journal

Welcome back to the writing lab. I am glad you are here. Today I am going to review Study Island with you for about 5 minutes and then I will give you today to work inside the program and help you trouble shoot any questions. We are also going to have a quiz over the seven steps to making a blog/journal posting. Review your notes if you have to.

1. April is National Poetry Month. Use the letters in the word "spring" to write an acrostic poem about spring.
2. Do you think thunderstorm are scary or cool? Explain.

April 8 Journal

Welcome to writing lab. This class is going to be work, but it is also going to be the best class you have had all year.
Today I am going to go over class expectations with you as well as how to log into two of our applications.
First I am going to walk you through how to make a posting and then how to log into Study Island. I expect for you to take notes.

1. National Soft Pretzel Month is in April. Write a silly paragraph explaining how pretzels came to be shaped the way they are.
2. All of you have been writing since you started school. What do you think you do well at as a writer and what is something you still need to work on? Explain.

April 7 Journals

Welcome to writing lab. This class is going to be work, but it is also going to be the best class you have had all year.
Today I am going to go over class expectations with you as well as how to log into two of our applications.
First I am going to walk you through how to make a posting and then how to log into Study Island. I expect for you to take notes.

1. Throughout your educational career you've had to write for all of your classes. What do you think you do well on as a writer and what do you think you need to improve on this quarter?
2. Would you rather be a bird or an insect? Explain.

April 4 Journal

Today is your last day in the lab. Be sure you get rid of red triangles, turn in your study island notebook, answer the three open ended questions on the back of your submission tracker, and turn in your submission tracker. I am very proud of all of you! Keep writing.

1. April is National Kite Month. Pretend that you are a kite. Write a weather report for a perfect day for you.
2. List four things that you can do indoors on a rainy day. Give reasons for your selections.

April 3 Journal

Today is your last day of class. Work on finishing up everything on the "focus" chart located in the room. Don't forget that we will be having visitors today and I'm not sure when they'll be walking through, but I do know you'll make me proud.

1. Today is National Humor Month. Imagine what life would be like if everyone in the world were always serious. Do you think this would be a positive thing? Explain.
2. Pretend that you are an earthworm crawling through the ground when suddenly a rain shower begins to soak the ground. Write about what happens next.

April 2 Journal

1. nickelodeon, the cable tv channel for kids, debuted on this day in 1979. What is your favorite Nick show?
2. April 2 is International Children's Book day. What is your favorite book from when you were a child? Explain.

April 1 Journal

Hi. Today I ask that you work in Study Island making sure your red triangles are gone and that you are up to date with your Study Island notebooks which are due on Thursday. Thursday, during the 3/4 block, we will have guests in the room and they want to see you working in My Access.

1. Today is April Fools' Day. Would you rather play a joke on someone or have a joke played on you? Explain.
2. Pretend that you are a raindrop. Describe what you see and do on your adventure through the water cycle.

March 31 Journals

Today is your last week in Writing Lab. Please take out your submission tracker. Remember when I am looking at your second and third submissions, I expect to see higher scores. This shows me you are attempting to revise and improve your writing. Work on completing all essays and getting rid of red triangles in Study Island. I expect everyone to have attempted one extra credit essay.

1. March 30 was Doctors' Day. Imagine and describe what the world would be like without doctors.
2. What TV show family is most like your family? What are 2 similarities and 2 differences? Explain.

March 20 Journal

Today you really need to focus in on making the "Special Day" submissions and finishing off any outstanding essays. Students, remember I expect you to work on the minimum of ONE EXTRA CREDIT essay.

1. The first day of spring is also National Agriculture Day. Describe a type of flower that you and your classmates could plant in your schoolyard for students to enjoy now and in the future.
2. Think of a favorite television show that you watched when you were younger. What was it called? Why did you like it?

March 19 Journal

Happy Birthday to ME! Today if you need to work in My Access right after journal you may. I am going to check in submission trackers today and tell you your grade thus far.

1. If you could have one birthday wish what would it be?
2. What was your best birthday and why?

March 18 Journal

Tomorrow's my birthday and I will be...?

Work on getting rid of red triangles and catching up on essays. You only have 3 more days of class before the end of the quarter.

1. Describe your most awkward moment and how you felt at the time.
2. Image that you find Jack's beanstalk and climb it. At the top you spot the castle and decide to explore. Once inside, the giant notices you. What happens next?

March 17 Journal

Hi. I'll be in and out all day. Remember our discussion the other day about getting out of your seat. Everyone should be busy either getting rid of red triangles in Study Island or working on essays in My Access. If you are out of your seat or off task- zero for the day.

1. You have been asked at the last minute to dress as a leprechaun for the class St. Patrick's Day party. Describe how you could make a costume using only the materials in your classroom.
2. If you were chosen to be in a national talent competition on television, what talent would you perform? Explain.

March 14 Journals

I'm glad you are here today! Remember our 3 goals for the end of the quarter: 1- get rid of red triangles in Study Island; 2- Finish "Special Day" submissions; 3- Make all 12 submissions and record your scores on your submission tracker for My Access.

1. After waiting all winter, what is your favorite thing to do once spring arrives? Explain.
2. The U.S. Military Academy was founded on March 16, 1802. Their motto is "Duty, Honor, Country." If you had to create your own motto to live by, what would it be? Explain.

March 13 Journal

I'm glad you are here today! Remember our 3 goals for the end of the quarter: 1- get rid of red triangles in Study Island; 2- Finish "Special Day" submissions; 3- Make all 12 submissions and record your scores on your submission tracker for My Access.

1. Would you rather be an astronaut or deep-sea diver? Explain.
2. Today is National Open an Umbrella Indoors Day. Some people say that this is bad luck. Do you believe in bad luck? Explain.

March 12 Journal

Yippy I am in class today. We need to have a discussion over the expectations for the last three weeks of class.
Goal 1: First priority to get rid of red triangles in study island.
Goal 2: Revise your special day essay. Remember you wrote the 1st submission for your pretest and now you have 2 submissions left (the 3rd submission will count as your post test).
Goal 3: Have all assigned essays completed and scored on your Submission Tracker Matrix.

1. The Girl Scouts of the USA was founded on this day in 1912. What three word can describe the importance of Girl Scouting?
2. Some very powerful people wear hats, such as generals, kings, and queens. If you could wear someone else's hat and become him or her for a day, whose hat would you choose? Explain.

March 11 Journal

Yippy! I'm back. Today we are going to go over what we need to get done for the end of the quarter. We need to discuss the red triangles in Study Island and what you need to do in My Access.

1. Imagine you are lost in a foreign country and do not speak the language there. How would you communicate with others without speaking?
2. National Anthem Day is in March. Describe how you feel when you hear our national anthem being played.

March 10 Journal

Hi. Today is my last day in the office. Thank you for being such a great classes while I help out while Mrs. Baldwin is sick. Remember, do not get out of your seat. Any student out and walking around will be issued a zero for the day.
8th grade- welcome back. Spend the first 20 minutes in study island and then Ms. Waller will show you how to get started on the persuasive wizard for the "occupation" persuasive.
7th grade- Work in study island for the first half and you should be working on your first or second submission for the "occupation" essay. The essay should be done by Friday.
6th grade- You will work in study island for the first half and then Ms. Waller will introduce the "occupation" essay to you. You need to work on the persuasive wizard.

1. The first U.S. paper money was issued on this day in 1862. If we did not use money as currency, what could be used in its place? Explain.
2. March is Save Your Vision Month. Imagine that you could have the eyesight of any animal. Which animal would you choose? Explain.

March 7 Journal

Hi. I am in the office again today. I watched you on the web cam at your last class and still some of you are out of your seat. Remember you will be receiving a zero if you get out of your seat during class. Please stay seated.
7th grade- Work in Study Island for the first half and My Access the second half. You need to finish your persuasive wizard, insert, and reformat your essay. Remember you need to add an introduction to the front of your thesis and add a closing after your third argument. Remember this will be 5 paragraphs and is the format of an essay NOT a letter.
6th grade- Work in Study Island to get rid of your red triangles. There are far too many students who have not received a blue ribbon because they are not getting rid of the triangles.

1. Imagine you are an animal living on a farm or in a zoo. Describe what your everyday life would be like.
2. The game Monopoly was invented on this day in 1933. Imagine that the Parker Brothers Company has asked you to design a new version of the game. Describe what you would change.

March 6 Journal

Hi. I am glad you survived ISAT. I know you are tired, but please be on your best behavior since I am watching. Remember if you get out of your seat, you will be getting a zero. Most of you were able to meet this expectation. Please continue.
7th grade you will work in Study Island and then I expect that you finish your persuasive wizard, insert, and begin reformatting your essay to make your first submission.
6th grade, use your time in Study Island to get rid of your red triangles.

1. Would you rather be a polar bear or a grizzle bear? Explain.
2. Image that dogs and cats have thumbs. With this new addition, what would be different about having a dog or cat as a pet? Explain.

Welcome Brownie Troop 563

Welcome to my classroom. Today we will be working on our computer badges. Can you name a job where the person uses a computer?

March 5 Journal

Hi. I am glad you are here. I am working in the office today, but I am watching you on the webcam so please stay seated.
7th grade- you will work in Study Island for the first half and in My Access for the second half of class. Ms. Waller is going to introduce your new essay prompt. I expect that you will get your persuasive wizard done today and finish for homework.
6th grade- you will work in Study Island today unless you still need to work on your Gettysburg Address essay.

1. Celebrate Your Name Week is observed the first full week in March. Explain how you got your name.
2. March is National Nutrition Month. Write a letter to your favorite fast-food restaurant making suggestions on how its menu could be healthier.

March 4 Journal

Hi. I am in the office today, but remember I am watching on the web-cam. Students who are out of there seats will be receiving a zero today. Stay seated!
Today we are getting back on track- you will have 30 minutes in Study Island and then Ms. Waller will introduce your last prompt to you "Rewarding Occupation" persuasive. You need to work on the Persuasive Wizard for this prompt. This is your homework and should be done by next class.

1. Celebrate your Name Week is observed the first full week in March. Write a fictional story explaining how you got your name.
2. March is National Nutrition Month. Write a letter to your favorite fast-food restaurant making suggestions on how its menu could be healthier.

February 28 Journal

Welcome back. We will blog, do Study Island for 15 minutes, give speeches, and work on the writing submission. If you are done with the Gettysburg Address, see me for the format of the essay for contest and the contest forms.

1. Imagine that you could be a guest actor on any TV show. what show would you choose, and what would you like your role to be?


2. Explain what you would do if you found out your best friend lied to you about something.

February 27 Journal

Hi. We are journaling, then Study Island for 15 minutes, presenting speeches, and then working on the Gettysburg Address. 8th graders have their assembly at 8:45 and 6th graders have their's at 1:00.

1. Imagine that you are a hockey puck during a hocky game. Describe how you feel.


2. Would you rather be wearing a sweatshirt or shorts and a t-shirt? Explain.

February 26 Journal

I'm glad you are here. You are working on Study Island for 15 minutes, then moving into speeches, and then finishing up the Gettysburg Address.

1. Imagine that you are a shark and all the other fish in the sea are afraid of you. What would you say to convince them that you are really friendly?


2. Write a poem that describes how you feel about winter.

February 25 Journal

Hi. Today work in Study Island for 15 minutes, then we will do our presentations, and spend the rest of the time in class working on the Gettysburg Address rewrite. Remember- I WANT TO GO TO SPRINGFIELD!

1. National Pancake Week is celebrated in February. Create a recipe for a pancake sandwich that uses two pancakes in place of bread. What will you call your sandwich creation?


2. The first president of the United States, George Washington, was born of February 22, 1732. Imagine that you pull a dollar out of your pocket and the picture of George Washington begins to talk to you. Write about the conversation that you have with him.

February 21 Journal

Hi. Today work in Study Island for 30 minutes and then I am going to discuss your new prompt. I am going to talk to you about midterm grades as well and schedule your times to present your persuasives.

1. Imagine that you are the captain of your own ship. where would you sail to? Who would travel with you? Explain.


2. Pretend that you have just received from a friend a letter that has been lost in the maili for a month. Write about your letter's month-long adventure.

February 20

Hi. Today we will be working in Study Island for 30 minutes and I will be introducing your next prompt. You will have until Feb 28 to work on this next submission.

1. Imagine that you just won the lottery, but you must share your earnings with another person. With whom would you share? Explain.


2. Pretend that you just found a ladder that leads into the ground. Write about what happens next.

February 19 Journals

Hi. I am working in the office today. Please be on your best behavior; I'm only a buzzer away. You should not be up a walking around nor should you be on someone else's computer. If you are on your second submission in My Access go right there after this and skip Study Island. If you are on your third submission, work in Study Island for 30 minutes and then go and finish up your essay in My Access. If you are done with your essay, work in Study Island for 30 and then begin your next prompt, "The Gettysburg Address...". Remember, My Access will lock essays out tonight at midnight. Smile for the webcam :-)

1. Would you rather go suba diving or skydiving? Explain.


2. Imagine that you are a cat and a huge dog is casing you. Write about what you would do to outwit the dog and make your way to safety.

February 18 Journal

Good morning. I am working in the office today so I am just a buzz away. Please be on your best behavior. You should not be out of your seat nor should you be on a different computer. Today is the last day for you to make the third submission for My Access. If you are still on your second submission, please go directly to My Access and skip Study Island. If you have made your second submission and are working on your third, work in Study Island for 30 minutes and then go to My Access. If you are done with My Access all together, you may start the next prompt: "Abraham Lincoln."

1. The third Monday in February is Presidents' Day. Would you rather be president of the United States or a famous movie star? Exlain.


2. On this date in 1930 the planet Pluto was discovered by astronomer Cylde Tombaugh. Pretend that you are an astronomer who just discovered another planet in our solar system. Name your planet and describe what it looks lik and where it is located.

February 15 Jouranl

Hi. I am at the Spelling Bee, but should be back before lunch. I'll be watching you for my webcam on my laptop so BEE good. Go in Study Island for 30 minutes and then move to work on your essay in My Access. If you have made the third submission you may stay working in Study Island. Please be on your best behavior and stay on task.

1. February is Library Lovers' Month. Write a top five list of reasons to love the library.


2. Imagine that your friend has just come to you very uspet after failing a mat test. Expalin what you would tell your friendto help make him or her feel better.

Feb 14 Journal

Happy Valentine's Day. I am glad you are all here. Today work in Study Island for 30 minutes. I am going to review quickly after that steps 13, 14, and introduce step 15. Then, you will have the remainder of class to work on your essay. Hav a great day!

1. Today is Valentine's Day. Imagine that you have just annonymously received the perfect gift. Write about what it is and how you will figure out who gave it to you.


2. February 14 is Ferris Wheel Day in honor of George Washington Gale Ferris, the engineer who invented the Ferris wheel. Would you rather ride a Ferris wheel or a roller coaster? Explain.

Feb 13 Journal

I am glad you are here! Today work in Study Island for 30 minutes. I am going to take 10 minutes of direct instruction with you to review Steps 12 and 13 from your handout. Today you should be working on making Submission 2 or Submission 3. If you are done with all three submissions, you may work in Study Island or on an extra credit essay. Remember- write to reach that target score!

1. Yesterday was Lost Penny Day, a day set aside to put all those pennies stashed in jars, candy dishes, and drawers back into circulation. Imagine that your class collected all its lost pennies to donate toa charity. Which charity would you donate them to? Explain.


2. Would you rather receive a box of chocolates, floweres, or a book for Valentine's Day? Explain.

February 11 Journal

Welcome back to class. Today I am going to give the girls a red star and the boys a blue star. Write your name on this star. I will then dismiss you by tables to hang your star in the hallway next to the presidential candidate you would vote for. Remember your vote is private and should not be swayed by th populus. Look at the Study Island Race- 6th grade pulled a head of 8th grade and are now in 2nd place. 7th grade is still in the lead and have turned the corner. Keep up the great work. When you are done with your journal, work in Study Island for 30 minutes. I am going to do about 10 minutes of direct instruction with you after Study Island. Today we will be working on making the 2nd submission for My Access. I am going to show you how to do 5 new things in My Access as well.

1. Thomas Edison, inventor of the lightbulb, was born on Feb 11, 1847. List as three items that use lightbulbs. Then write about how life would b different without this important invention.
2. Imagine that you have a little brother and he just lost his first tooth. Other than money, what would you like the Tooth Fairy to leave him under his pillow.

February 8 Journal

I am glad you are here! Today work in Study Island for 30 minutes. As of today, the 7th grade is in the lead, followed by the 8th grade, and 6th grade. I have the four remaining candidates for President of the US out in the hallway. Today, take a star and place it by the candidate you want to see as our next President. I will be doing 10 minutes of direct instsruction following Study Island. I am going to go over how to use the tutors, editor, and writer's models. You should be working on your second submission.

1. Imagine that you and your family are on a campingtrip in a remote wilderness area when most of your gear falls over a cliff. You are left with only a pocket knife and a canteen of water. Explain what you would do to survive for four days.


2. Would you rather go white-water rafting or skiing? Explain.

February 7 Journal

Welcome back! Today you will work for 30 minutes in Study Island. Then I will do direct instruction and show you how to take the Persuasive Wizard, insert it, and reformat the paragraphs.

1. Laura Ingalls Wilder was born on February 7, 1867. Shw wrote many books about growing up as a young pioneer. Imagine that you have no electricity or running water. Write about a day in your life without these luxuries.


2. Imagine that a pioneer girl arrives at your school in a time machine. Name three things that you think would surprise her. Explain.

February 6 Journal

Welcome back! Today you will work for 30 minutes in Study Island. Then I will do direct instruction and show you how to take the Persuasive Wizard, insert it, and reformat the paragraphs.

1. What one compliment would you like to give your best friend? Explain.


2. Pretend that you are a squirrel. Desribe how you feel after a huge snowfall.

February 5 Journal

I'm glad you are here. Today you will have 30 minutes to work in Study Island. Be sure you are using your notebooks (I should see them out). Work for those blue ribbons. Currently the 7th grade is in the lead, followed by the 8th grade and 6th grade right behind. I am going to do some direct instruction in My Access today and show you how to navigate through the Persuasive Wizard. You will take notes. Check the homework on the side of the blog as well as the extra credit.

1. February 5 is Weatherperson's Day. Pretend that you are a weatherperson reporting on a weather-related breaking news story. Write what you would be broadcasting.
2. Think about a time when you have worked as a part of a team. Write about this experience.

February 4 Journal

I am glad to see you have made it here through the snow. I thought we might get another day off, but here we are. Today you will answer your journal, spend 30 minutes in Study Island and then I am going to go over how to do the persuasive wizard in My Access.

1. Imagine that you just got your pilot's liceanse and can fly anywhere in the word. Where would you fly first? Explain.
2. What one thing would you like to do for a family member or friend to make hi or her life better? Explain.

January 31 Journal

Hi. I am filling in the office today. Please be on your best behavior since I am only a buzzer away and plus your parents may be in the building tonight picking up your report cards. Today you will work in Study Island for 30 minutes. I am out of candy- sorry, but you can still earn your blue ribbon. When the 30 mintues is over, you will need to take notes on Persuasive in your notebook. Then you will pick a partner to write against; yes, against. One of you will be pro and the other con. You will also be choosing your topics of your papers today and should have time to begin your researach. Your homework will be to have your Thesis, 3 arguements, and supporting detail research done by next Tuesday. Be good. I am watching you on my web-cam.

1. What would your family rather do together: go bowling, see a movie, play a board game, or have an indoor picnic? Explain.


2. Describe what your life would be like if you were a book in the library.

January 30 Journal

Hello. Today you have 30 minutes to work in Study Island. After that time I will move into direct instruction and discuss your research project. Get those BLUE ribbons and race around the room!

1. Today is Faun at Work Day. Write a note to your parent suggesting three zany things he or she could do to have fun at work.


2. Pretend that you have a substitute teacher today. Imagine that every time she scratches her nose, all of the books in the classroom begin acting strangely. Write about what happens when she scratches her nose and then sneezes.

January 29 Journal

I am glad you are here. This weekend you should have worked on your pretest. If for some reason your pretest is not done, you have today to complete it or it will go into the grade book as incomplete. If you haven't turned in your student information slip- do so now.
When you are done with your journal today you have two options: one- go and work in Study Island. Remember we are racing around the classroom and as of 8:23 this morning the 8th graders are in the lead; two- work in My Access and finish your pretest.
At our next class meeting, we will be starting the research paper (bring note cards).

1. You've just spotted a wise old owl sitting in a tree. If the owl could talk, what three things do you think it would say to you?


2. How are a bicycle, a car, and a scooter alike? Different?

January 25 Journal

Welcome back to the Writing Lab. Remember you will respond to only one of the journals. Don't forget to put your name and grade in the "nickname" identity and move the green dot there. Take out your parent/student information slip and place it on your table. Also when you are done, open up Study Island and begin working on either completing your notes or testing in the first activity.

1. January is Walk Your Pet Month. Besides walking your pet daily, explain three other important things you should do to care for it.
2. Explain how to set your dinner table for a regular family meal.

January 24 Journal

Welcome back to the Writing Lab. Remember you will respond to only one of the journals. Don't forget to put your name and grade in the "nickname" identity and move the green dot there. Take out your parent/student information slip and place it on your table. Also when you are done, open up Study Island and begin working on either completing your notes or testing in the first activity.

1. Imagine that by accident you get locked in a department store after it closes for the night. Describe how you spend the night.


2. Wow! You are going to be a guest on the Oprah show for kids! What will you talk about? Why?

January 23 Journal

Welcome to Writing Lab. Every day when you come in, you will need to sit at your assigned computer. It is very important that you always sit at the correct number so your computer usage can be monitored.When you enter the room, you will go directly to your computer, open up Internet Explorer (the big Blue E) and read and respond to the daily blog. You should respond by incorporating the question into your answer.

You receive 1 point each day you respond. At the end of the quarter you should have answered 21 posts.
To publish your comment, you will type in your first name and grade under "NICKNAME" and then hit the orange button to submit.

1. Today is National Handwriting Day. Write a note to your doctor explaining why it is so important that he or she always write neatly.
2. Pretend that you write an advice column for your school newspaper. What advice would you give a new student who is having problems making new friends?

January 22 Journal

Welcome to Writing Lab. Every day when you come in, you will need to sit at your assigned computer. It is very important that you always sit at the correct number so your computer usage can be monitored.
When you enter the room, you will go directly to your computer, open up Internet Explorer (the big Blue E) and read and respond to the daily blog. You should respond by incorporating the question into your answer.
You receive 1 point each day you respond. At the end of the quarter you should have answered 21 posts.

To publish your comment, you will type in your first name and grade under "NICKNAME" and then hit the orange button to submit.

1. Today is Answer Your Cat's Question Day. Pretend that you see your cat sitting at your computer. It has typed three questions. What are they? How will you answer each question?
2. Pick one of the following jobs and explain why this job is important to the community: firefighter, police officer, or mayor.