Success

Success
Give me your definition for the word success. Then name two people you think are successful and write why you consider them successful. Only one person can be an athlete.

Success

Give me your definition for the word success. Then name two people you think are successful and write why you consider them successful. Only one person can be an athlete.

Your Break

Time off
What are looking forward to do over your break. Do you want to sleep in? Go visiting? go shopping? Write 2 complete sentences to tell me what you will do for 2 weeks over your Xmas break.

Time off

What are looking forward to do over your break. Do you want to sleep in? Go visiting? go shopping? Write 2 complete sentences to tell me what you will do for 2 weeks over your Xmas break.

Talents

Everyone has a special talent. What's yours? Write about your special talent and tell what you do. reading, sports, music, babysitting, cleaning, being a good friend, church, neighbor.

Saturday

Saturdays are the best
What do you do on Saturdays? Do you spend the morning as a "couch potato" watching TV? Do you have chores to do? Are you doing sports? Write for me what a typical Saturday is like for you at your house.

Nobel Peace Prize Day

The peace prize was named after Alfred Nobel who invented dynamite. Later he had such guilty feelings for inventing something that caused so much injury that he came up with this award. The award is presented in Norway and goes to an individual who has done the most for the good of humanity.
Today President Obama is getting the award.Obama said he received the award with "great humility" and acknowledged the "controversy" saying that next to "some of the giants of history who have received this prize my accomplishments are slight".

Did you ever do something good after doing something bad? Is it possible to "cancel out" bad with good?

meet who?

Today I want you to think about a person from the past you would have really wanted to meet personally. You would tell their name and why you wanted to meet them. It could be a star or even a family member you never met, but you must tell me why?

example: Helen Keller was an amazing woman who always intrigued me with all she accomplished even thou she had so many handicaps and obstacles to overcome.

someone to meet?

Today I want you to think of a person from the past you would have really wanted to meet personally. Give the name and why you want to meet this person. It could be family a grandparent, a famous person, or anyone you would of loved to have met.

example: I would love to have met Helen Keller. She was an amazing woman who always intrigued me with all she accomplished even thou she had many handicaps. Helen Keller was blind and deaf and yet became a teacher and author.

Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor Attack
On December 7th, 1941, before many Americans were even awake, the Japanese Navy struck the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor with a surprising and deadly attack.Pearl Harbor is a United States naval base located west of Honolulu on the island of O'ahu, Hawaii.

If you could go to any memorial or museum what would you pick to learn more about our history.

Pearl Harbor Attack

On December 7th, 1941, before many Americans were even awake, the Japanese Navy struck the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor with a surprising and deadly attack.Pearl Harbor is a United States naval base located west of Honolulu on the island of O'ahu, Hawaii.

If you could go to any memorial or museum what would you pick to learn more about our history.

Predictions

Predict something,anything. Tell what you think will happen, where will it happen, and who will be involved. It does not have to be serious but it does have to be appropriate.
For example:
I predict that someday my son will learn how to save money instead of always spending it all.
You could predict that someday your little sister won't bug you.

Who is your HERO?

Heroes
Write about someone who is a hero or heroine in your opinion. It does not have to be someone famous. What makes you think so highly of this person? what has he or she done?

Heroes

Write about someone who is a hero or heroine in your opinion. It does not have to be someone famous. What makes you think so highly of this person? what has he or she done?

Tempers

Temper
Describe a time when you lost your temper. What happened? Why were you angry in the first place? What was the result of your temper tantrum? If you never have lost your temper describe when you saw someone get angry and how you felt?

Temper

Describe a time when you lost your temper. What happened? Why were angry in the first place? What was the result of your temper tantrum? If you never have lost your temper describe when you saw someone get angry and how you felt?

Thank You

Thanks
In 1860 President Abraham Lincoln announced that Thanksgiving Day is to be celebrated the last Thursday in November.
List 3 things from this past year you are thankful for and why you are thankful for them?

Thanks

In 1860 President Abraham Lincoln announced that Thanksgiving Day is to be celebrated the last Thursday in November. List 3 things from this past year you are thankful for and why you are thankful for them?

The need for Speed

In Germany there is no speed limit, except in construction areas. People drive as fast as they want. 100 mph. Do you think that drivers in the United States should be able to drive as fast as they want? explain your answer.

Manners

Manners and Courtesy
Manners are needed everywhere and the world would be more enjoyable if people were more polite to one another. Write about a time you were polite and courteous and it made you feel good. Why did it make you feel good to show good manners and do something for someone else?

Manners and Courtesy

Manners are needed everywhere and the world would be more enjoyable if people were more polite to one another. Write about a time you were polite and courteous and it made you feel good. Why did it make you feel good to show good manners and do something for someone else?

Cartoons

On this day in 1928 Mickey Mouse made his first appearance on TV. He was the first animated talking cartoon. Write today about your favorite cartoon. Any animated character favorite and why is is that cartoon your favorite? How often do you watch your favorite cartoon?

My favorite animated cartoon character besides Mickey Mouse is Shrek. All the characters have such unique personalities and I just love all the Shrek movies.

CARTOONS

On this day in 1928 Mickey Mouse made his first appearance on TV. He was the first animated talking cartoon. Write today about your favorite cartoon. Any animated character favorite and why is is that cartoon your favorite? How often do you watch your favorite cartoon?

My favorite animated cartoon character is Shrek. All the characters have such unique personalities and just love all the Shrek movies.

Superstitions and Friday the 13th

Friday the 13th
Some are afraid of Friday the 13th because of Superstitions that say it can be bad luck. Some people are afraid to walk under a ladder, some wear special shirts, or socks when they play a sport because their "lucky". some people are afraid of black cats.

Tell me about a superstition you have. maybe you won't do something because of your superstition. If you do not have one list at least 3 superstitions you have heard of.

Friday the 13th

Some are afraid of Friday the 13th because of Superstitions.when we have fears for no reason. Some people are afraid to walk under a ladder, some wear special shirts, or socks when they play a sport because their "lucky". some people are afraid of black cats. Tell me about a superstition you have. maybe you won't do something because of your superstition. If you do not have one list at least 3 superstitions you have heard of.

Veterans Day

We do not have school on Wednesday to honor our Veterans. In some places it is called Remembrance Day or Victory Day. Today I want you to remember someone special that is a soldier. Someone you know that is in the service like the Army, Navy, Marines, or Air force. If you do not know any soldier give a name of someone who is very special to you and why?

Veterans Day

We do not have school on Wednesday to honor our Veterans. In some places it is called Remembrance Day or Victory Day. Today I want you to remember someone special that is a soldier. Someone you know that is in the service like the Army, Navy, Marines, or Air force. If you do not know any soldier give a name of someone who is very special to you and why?

Act Different?

Substitute Teacher
Why do students act different when they have a sub in their class room? Tell me if you or if you notice students that act different when their teacher is out and a substitute is in your class? Why do you think students act different for a sub?

Substitute Teacher

Why do students act different when they have a sub in their room? Tell me if you or if you notice students that act different when their is a sub in your class and not your regular teacher.

Sandwich

In 1718 a man invented the sandwich. He said he was a very busy man and did not want to sit down to eat, so he put his meal in his hand. Today describe to me your favorite sandwich. What is your favorite sandwich? Tell me what it is and how often you eat it.

Trick or Treat

Halloween costumes, parties, haunted houses have always been a fun part of celebrating Halloween. Today I want you to describe your favorite costume from one you wore or saw. Describe the costume you would love to wear to go trick or treating. If you don't go trick or treating who is someone you would like to dress up as.

Hide-n-seek
Their is a contest to see if you could hide somewhere in your house for 3 hours and not be found by any family members. You could win a $100 prize if you could find a hiding place that your family could not find you. Could you do it? and where would that hiding spot be in your house?

Hide-n-seek

Their is a contest to see if you could hide somewhere in your house for 3 hours and not be found by any family members. You could win a $100 prize if you could find a hiding place that your family could not find you. Could you do it? and where would that hiding spot be in your house?

Try and try again

You can Do It
Write a couple sentences today about something you didn't think you could do but did anyway. Tell me how you felt afterwards.

example: I did not think I could ever learn to line dance but I bought a video and practiced and now I can. I feel proud of myself because I really wanted to learn this and it is so fun.

Blog Bellwork

.Daily ExpectationsEveryday you will be expected to respond to the daily journal topics. You will be receiving points for each post you make. . Be sure that you have written in full sentences and you have checked your spelling before posting since everyone in class will see what you have written. I am happy you are here today.Here is your topic to journal on in our

BLOG:If you had to spend an entire day in one room of your house, which room would you choose? Explain why you chose that room

Last Day of Qtr.

Last Day
Today is your last day of Writing Lab, I have enjoyed having you this quarter and I want you to remember what you learned and become a great writer. Give me an appropriate idea for an awesome writing prompt. Think of a topic that would be fun to write about. Thank you for being creative responsible Dirksen writers. :-)

Last Day

Today is your last day of Writing Lab, I have enjoyed having you this quarter and I want you to remember what you learned and become great writers. Give me an appropriate idea for an awesome writing prompt you would love to write about. Thank you for being creative responsible Dirksen writers.

The long SLEEP

5 years
You woke up today to find out you have been asleep for 5 years. What are the first 2 questions you will ask? What will you want to do or go see first?

5 years

You woke up today to find out you have been asleep for 5 years. What are the first 2 questions you will ask?
What will you want to do or go see first?

Old man

Whispers
A old man gets on a bus and whispers to the driver. Then the old man immediately gets off the bus. Think of three reasons why the man got off the bus.

Remember 3 REASONS

Whispers

A old man gets on a bus and whispers to the driver. Then the old man immediately gets off the bus. Think of three reasons why the man got off the bus.

No Schools

No Schools
How would you feel if all the schools were closed down and students were only taught by a computer in their home? What things would change for you? Would your grades be better or worse?

No Schools

How would you feel if all the schools were closed down and students were only taught by a computer in their home? What things would change for you? Would your grades be better or worse?

Driving Age

Driving Age
Imagine that the driving age were lowered to your age. What would be the best thing about this change? What would be the worst thing? Would you want your drivers license right away if you could? answer each question

Driving Age

Imagine that the driving age were lowered to your age. What would be the best thing about this change? What would be the worst thing? Would you want your drivers license right away if you could?
answer each question

Saturdays are the best

Saturdays
What do you do on Saturdays? Do you spend the morning as a "couch potato" watching TV? Do you have chores to do? Are you doing sports? Write for me what a typical Saturday is like for you at your house.

Saturdays

What do you do on Saturdays? Do you spend the morning as a "couch potato" watching TV? Do you have chores to do? Are you doing sports?

Write for me what a typical Saturday is like for you at your house.

PIZZA PIZZA

Pizza Month
October is National Pizza Month. The first pizza place in the United States was in 1905 in New York City.

Answer these questions about pizza.
When you can have pizza anyway you want it, what do you put on it? How much do you usually eat? What else do you like with it?

Pizza Month

October is National Pizza Month. The first pizza place in the United States was in 1905 in New York City.
Answer these questions about pizza.

When you can have pizza anyway you want it, what do you put on it? How much do you usually eat? What else do you like with it?

The Ideal

Describe the "ideal" teacher. What would he or she be like? What would their classroom be like? Do not give names of teachers just describe the ideal teacher.Be serious about this don't just write about someone "who doesn't give homework" or "lets kids do what they want"...be serious describe to me what the perfect teacherwould be like

The Ideal Teacher

Describe the "ideal" teacher. What would he or she be like? What would their classroom be like? Do not give names of teachers just describe the ideal teacher.Be serious about this don't just write about someone "who doesn't give homework" or "lets kids do what they want"...be serious describe to me what the perfect teacher
would be like.

WHO???

Meet someone
Today I want you to think about 2 people you would love to meet personally. Give me their names and why. You would tell their name and why you wanted to meet them. It could be a star or even a family member you never met, but you must tell me why?

example: I would have really liked to have met Abraham Lincoln, to talk about what he did for our country and the rights of our people.Helen Keller is another person who always amazed me. All she could accomplished even thou she had so many handicaps and obstacles.

Meet someone

Today I want you to think about 2 people you would love to meet personally. Give me their names and why. You would tell their name and why you wanted to meet them. It could be a star or even a family member you never met, but you must tell me why?

example: I would have really liked to have met Abraham Lincoln, to talk about what he did for our country and the rights of our people.
Helen Keller is another person who always amazed me. All she could accomplished even thou she had so many handicaps and obstacles.

$1000.00

television
You have just been told that each student in your class will receive $1,000 dollars if every student in the class agrees not to watch television for a month.
How will you make sure this happens that no one in your class is watching TV? No Cheating!

No television

You have just been told that each student in your class will receive $1,000 dollars if every student in the class agrees not to watch television for a month. How will you make sure this happens. No Cheating!

Appearance

A boy who used to be the sloppiest dresser in the whole school is now always s well dressed and clean. Write down what your explanation is and why he changed the way he looked and dressed. Tell me why you think he suddenly has a new look.

the way you look

A boy who used to be the sloppiest dresser in the whole school is now always s well dressed and clean. Write down what your explanation is and why he changed the way he looked and dressed. Tell me why you think he suddenly has a new look.

The Perfect Bus

Perfect Bus
Today I want you to describe the perfect school bus for field trips. Make sure it has everything you need for comfort and entertainment while on the road for your field trip.
Be descriptive.

Perfect Bus

Today I want you to describe the perfect school bus for field trips. Make sure it has everything you need for comfort and entertainment while on the road for your field trip. Be descriptive.

Try and try again

You can Do It
Write a couple sentences today about something you didn't think you could do but did anyway. Tell me how you felt afterwards.

example: I did not think I could ever learn to line dance but I bought a video and practiced and now I can. I feel proud of myself because I really wanted to learn this and it is so fun.

You can Do It

Write a couple sentences today about something you didn't think you could do but did anyway. Tell me how you felt afterwards.

example: I did not think I could ever learn to line dance but I bought a video and practiced and now I can. I feel proud of myself because I really wanted to learn this and it is so fun.

Sharks & Whales

Choices
Today I want you to explain to me which you would like to be for a day,
because you have the power to be a shark or a whale?

Which would rather be a shark or a whale and why? YOU MUST Explain WHY

Choices

Today I want you to explain to me which you would like to be for a day because you have the power to be a shark or a whale?

Which would rather be a shark or a whale and why? Explain

America 9/11

Time is passing. Yet, for the United States of America, there will be no forgetting September the 11th. We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. .
Proverbs are sayings with a message:

1. You can't judge a book by it's cover. (don't judge people by their looks)
2. You don't get something for nothing (You will have to work for your success)

write a proverb or saying you know, and give the meaning.

Pets are Great

Pets
Pets are very calming for some people. Many hospitals allow pets to come and visit patients that are scheduled for surgery to calm patients.
Pets also have jobs such as seeing eye dogs for the blind.

What is your favorite kind of dog? If you have a pet tell me what it is and what is his name. If you do not have a pet tell me about a family or friends pet.
BE DESCRIPTIVE when you describe your pet.

Adjectives

Describe
Describing people, places and things takes very descriptive adjectives. Today I want you to describe what you would consider a perfect day using at least 4 adjectives.

example: To me a perfect day would be a slight cool breeze in the morning with beautiful, add white fluffy clouds sitting in front of a gorgeous bright blue sky. Then I would go to my favorite restaurant for a delicious lunch and eat outside to really enjoy the perfect day.

Describe with adjectives

Describe
Describing people, places and things takes very descriptive adjectives. Today I want you to describe what you would consider a perfect day using at least 4 adjectives.

example: To me a perfect day would be a slight cool breeze in the morning with beautiful, add white fluffy clouds sitting in front of a gorgeous bright blue sky. Then I would go to my favorite restaurant for a delicious lunch and eat outside to really enjoy the perfect day.

You are the PE teacher

Pretend you are in charge
Imagine that your PE teacher is out for the day and you are in charge of the class. What activity would you plan to be sure that everyone has fun and still gets exercise?

Explain in complete sentences.

Pretend you are in charge

Imagine that your PE teacher is out for the day and you are in charge of the class. What activity would you plan to be sure that everyone has fun and still gets exercise? Explain in complete sentences.

Happy you are here

.Daily Journaling ExpectationsEveryday you will be expected to respond to one of the daily journal topics. You will be receiving points for each post you make. . Be sure that you have written in full sentences and you have checked your spelling before posting since everyone in class will see what you have written. I am happy you are here today.Here is your topic to journal on in our

BLOG:If you had to spend an entire day in one room of your house, which room would you choose? Explain why??

Be Smart

.Daily Journaling Expectations
Everyday you will be expected to respond to one of the daily journal topics. You will be receiving points for each post you make. . Be sure that you have written in full sentences and you have checked your spelling before posting since everyone in class will see what you have written.

I am happy you are here today.Here is your topic to journal on in our BLOG:
If you had to spend an entire day in one room of your house, which room would you choose? Explain why??

First Week

Today you just completed your FIRST WEEK of school. After going these last 5 days tell me what was the best thing that happened to you this week. Did you get an amazing grade? Were you up and ready everyday on time? New clothes?
Something that made your first week better.

Welcome to Writing Lab

Welcome
If you had to choose between having a computer or a television, and you could only have one which would you choose? Your answer must be 3 complete sentences. Explain

Welcome

If you had to choose between having a computer or a television, which would you choose? Your answer must be 3 complete sentences. Explain

Memories

Memories of the school year
Today is the last day for our 8th graders to go to their classes. What a fast year. Tell me today what your favorite class is or your favorite day you had this year? Remember to tell me why it is your favorite class or favorite day of school.

Last week of school

Today is the start of our last full week of school. What a fast year. Tell me today what your favorite class is and why? Remember to tell me why it is your favorite class.

whats your name?

YOUR NAME
Today I want you to write your full complete name. How do you feel about your name? Were you named after anyone a relative or someone famous? Do you use your middle name?

example: My full name is Debra Jean Ann Kusnik and only the Ann in my name was after my grandmother. I never liked my name because there were too many Debby's my age.

YOUR NAME

Today I want you to write your full complete name. How do you feel about your name? Were you named after anyone a relative or someone famous? Do you use your middle name?

example: My full name is Debra Jean Ann Kusnik and only the Ann in my name was after my grandmother. I never liked my name because there were too many Debby's my age.

Frozen Food

Frozen Foods
Do you like frozen pizzas? I love them, I like a frozen pizza better then going our for pizza. 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?

You need your journal BLOG points

Hi! When you are done with your journal blog move into Study Island for 30 minutes and then go to My Access. Remember all your essays are due at the end of next week.
May is Adopt-a-Shelter Dog Month.
Write 5 tips to help a person select the prefect canine (dog) companion. Remember to use complete sentences.
Example what Size of a dog and reason for wanting a dog.

Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance has been said in the schools since 1916. Today I want you to write a sentence about the Pledge and if you think it should be said in the schools everyday.

example:I feel the Pledge symbols our freedom and yes, it should be said in the schools.

Pledge of Allegiance

The Pledge of Allegiance has been said in the schools since 1916. Today I want you to write a sentence about the Pledge and if you think it should be said in the schools everyday.
example:
I feel the Pledge symbols our freedom and yes, it should be said in the schools.

Pets are great

Pets
Pets are very calming for some people. Many hospitals allow pets to come and visit patients that are scheduled for surgery for a calming effect..Pets also have jobs such as seeing eye dogs for the blind. What is your favorite kind of dog? If you have a pet tell me what it is and whats his name. If you do not have a pet tell me about a family or friends pet.

T.G.I.F.
TGIF is an Acronym for Thank Goodness its Friday. This acronym has been around along time as an abbreviation for a popular saying.Today I want you to give me another acronym that you can think of, no slang such as LOL,
I want true acronyms look at examples.

examples:FAQ.........frequently asked questions
NBA........National Basketball Association

favorite TV show

Television Favorites
Everyone has a favorite TV show. My favorite TV show is Criminal Minds. I love the way the characters on the show do the profiling to discover the personality of who would do the crime, I find it all so amazing the details they can discover by watching their body language and eyes. My favorite show is on tonight at 8.

What is your favorite TV show and WHY?

Television Favorites

Everyone has a favorite TV show. My favorite TV show is Criminal Minds. I love the way the characters on the show do the profiling to discover the personality of who would do the crime, I find it all so amazing the details they can discover by watching their body language and eyes. My favorite show is on tonight at 8.

What is your favorite TV show and WHY?

Adjectives

Describe
Describing people, places and things takes very descriptive adjectives. Today I want you to describe a classroom at Dirksen. Use 4 adjectives in your description so someone reading it will know what room your describing by your perfect description.
example:
The warm friendly office at Dirksen has lovely plants and the nicest, sweetest friendliest helpful secretaries you will ever find anywhere.

Describe

Describing people, places and things takes very descriptive adjectives. Today I want you to describe what you would consider a perfect day using at least 4 adjectives.

example: To me a perfect day would be a slight cool breeze in the morning with beautiful, white fluffy clouds sitting in front of a gorgeous blue sky.

Astronomy

Astronomy is the study of the stars. Many people feel very strongly that their zodiac sign and horoscope must be read everyday. Do you know anyone that reads their horoscope all the time?

Your zodiac sign depends on your birthday. Do you know what your zodiac sign is?



example: My zodiac sign is Pisces and I read it only on the weekends.

ODD DAY

For the mathematically challenged, Thursday's date, 5/7/09, is one of only six this century that will feature three consecutive odd digits.
Numbers lovers say the rare occurrence is an excuse to celebrate.

the date being all odd numbers hasn't happened since 1/3/1905 —

What could you do today that would be really odd and unusual for you?

example: Today, to be odd on odd day, I am going to whisper all day.

SLEEP

May is called the National month of Sleep. Studies have been given to show that different people require different amounts of sleep depending on personalities and habits. Think about your sleep habits.

Besides your bed where is your favorite place to sleep? what time do you go to bed on school nights and weekends?

Cinco de Mayo

It marks the victory of the Mexican Army over the French at the Battle of Puebla. Although the Mexican army was eventually defeated, the "Batalla de Puebla" came to represent a symbol of Mexican unity and patriotism.

1. Will your family do anything to celebrate this holiday?
Remember you must write in a complete sentence

My family will celebrate Cinco de Mayo by eating Mexican food tonight.

Happy Monday

Happy Monday
Once you are done writing, in the blog open up Study Island and get started there.
Imagine that you have been selected to choose your new school mascot for Dirksen. Senators came from Illinois Senator Dirksen.

What would you choose? Explain why this is a good choice for our school.

Politicians and Teachers

Many teachers eventually go into politics even here at Dirksen that could happen. Tell me a teacher or advisor at Dirksen that would seem like a politician. Would they be a mayor, Governor, the president, any job in politics. Write a sentence telling me what teacher and what office in politics would they would be in.

Popcorn

Popcorn
Today is National Popcorn Day. Popcorn now comes in many flavors, butter, sour cream, cheese and just plain with salt. Popcorn can be a very healthy snack with very little calories if you eat it plain. When I go to a movie I just have to have popcorn.

1. What is your favorite kind of popcorn and where is your favorite place to eat it?My favorite popcorn is ...

Doctors

Doctors
Today is the birthday of the man who invented the stethoscope. He is called the "the father of chest medicine" he first made it with paper tubes. The stethoscope is the instrument used to listen to your heart. The Dr. puts it in his ears then listens to your chest.

1. Write about the last time you ever visited a doctor or a family member that you saw at the doctor.

N.B.A. acronyms

Acronyms
TGIF is an Acronym for Thank Goodness its Friday. This acronym has been around along time as an abbreviation for a popular saying.Today I want you to give me another acronym that you can think of, either use different words for TGIF or a whole new one.
ANSWER MUST BE IN A COMPLETE SENTENCE

examples:do not use use expressions like ....LOL that is slang, think of a true acronym FAQ.........frequently asked questions
NBA........National Basketball Association

Acronyms

TGIF is an Acronym for Thank Goodness its Friday. This acronym has been around along time as an abbreviation for a popular saying.Today I want you to give me another acronym that you can think of, either use different words for TGIF or a whole new one.
examples:
do not use use expressions like ....LOL that is slang, think of a true acronym

FAQ.........frequently asked questions
NBA........National Basketball Association

do you need a BFF?

BFF
Describe the "perfect best friend". Tell what that person is like, what do they say, and how does a bff act with you, how do you feel when you are with that person.Do you think everyone needs a BFF? don't give names, just explain what a true friend is.

BFF

Describe the "perfect best friend". Tell what that person looks like, says, and does, and how you feel when you are with that person and do you think everyone need a BFF?

All about YOU

How would other people describe you?
Today I want you to think about the image you give to other people that do not know you. Lets pretend some one comes into our room to observe you, they do not know anything about you. How will they describe you by how you act, dress, and treat other people around you. Finish this sentence:

People would describe me as _______________
because I ___________________.

All about YOU

How do people see you?
Pretend a stranger came in the room today to find out what YOU are like but cannot talk to you. Today I want you to think about how other people see you. If someone did not know you, what could they find out about you by the way you dress, act, talk , and treat other people. Be honest with yourself.

People would see me as..........because I...........

Memories of kindergarten

In 1873 the first grade school opened. This was the 1 st time a public school offered to have a kindergarten class for 5 yr. old students.Do you have any memories of kindergarten? Today write 1 sentence telling me what your favorite memory is of kindergarten and your teachers name if you remember.

Kindergarten

In 1873 the first school opened to have a kindergarten class. Do you have any memories of kindergarten? Today write 1 sentence telling me what your favorite memory is of kindergarten and your teachers name if you remember.

You ready? Minutemen are

Minuteman
Minutemen are troops in the armed services that had to be ready on a minutes notice. Have you ever gotten up late an only had minutes to get ready? Write a sentence telling me about that time, where did you have to go? What happened that you slept in? How long did it take you to get ready? did you make it on time?

Minuteman

Minutemen are troops that had to be ready on a minutes notice. Have you ever gotten up late an only had minutes to get ready? Write a sentence telling me about that time, where did you have to go? What happened that you slept in? How long did it take you to get ready? did you make it on time?

Show me don't tell me

When writing descriptive sentences we need to use adjectives and be very descriptive. I will write a "telling sentence" you will need to change it to a showing sentence.

Telling sentence: Every morning before school I do the same thing.
example of a showing sentence: Each morning I wake up to the sound of my alarm clock as I crawl out of my bed and slowly walk to school using an identical routine everyday.

1. I walked over to talk to the boy. (make this a showing sentence)

Telling and Showing

When writing descriptive sentences we need to use adjectives and be descriptive. I will write a "telling sentence" you will need to change it to a showing sentence.

Telling sentence: Every morning before school I do the same thing.
example of a showing sentence: Each morning I wake up to the sound of my alarm clock as I crawl out of my bed and slowly walk to school using my same identical schedule everyday.

1. I went over to talk to the boy.

DO NOT LITER ANYWHERE

Keep America Beautiful
Many Americans need to be educated on the problems of littering and ways to improve the environment. Most families are recycling or helping their town by picking up trash when they see it.
Today write a sentence telling me how you and your family are helping this litter and recycle problem in our town?

example: I am trying to help the environment by recycling paper and plastics at my house.

Keep America Beautiful

Many Americans need to be educated on the problems of littering and ways to improve the environment. Most families are recycling or helping their town by picking up trash when they see it.

Today write a sentence telling me how you and your family are helping this litter and recycle problem in our town?
example: I am trying to help the environment by recycling paper and plastics at my house.

Hate

Hate is a really strong word. Many times we don't really hate something we strongly dislike it. today you are to think of something you just hate

Your 3 favorite ITEMS

You were told that you had to move away and live 1 year on an island. You are with 2 members of your family and your food ,shelter, and clothes are all provided.You can only take 3 things with you,tell me what 3 items you would bring with you and why?

remember what is already provided

Your Favorites

FavoritesYou were told that you had to move away and live 1 year on an island. You are with
2 members of your family and your food ,shelter, and clothes are all provided.

You can only take 3 things with you,tell me what 3 items you would bring with you and why?
remember what is already provided

Favorite Book

The famous author Hans Christian Anderson was born yesterday. He was 1 of the most famous authors of fairy tales. His first book he ever wrote was the "Ugly Duckling"

1. What was the best book you ever read? Think of a story even in your Language Arts class if you don't read on your own think of books at school or any book on your own time.

My most favorite book I have ever read was Amazing Grace. Was awesome and I highly recommend it.

Books

Today is Hans Christian Anderson's birthday. He was 1 of the most famous authors of fairy tales. His first book was the "Ugly Duckling"

1. What was the best book you ever read? You may think of books at school or on your own time.

My most favorite book I have ever read was Amazing Grace. Was awesome and I highly recommend it.

Aprils Fools Day

Almost 5 centuries ago the New Year Began on April 1.
It started with a festival that lasted a week. As more and more countries started to change the 1st day of the year to January 1, some people still refused and those people were called Fools. That is how April Fools began.

1. Write a sentence about a harmless yet fun April Fools joke someone played on you or you played on them.

1st day of Writing Lab

Welcome to the Writing Lab, I love teaching in the writing lab. Students in here get to watch their scores go up with each revision. Everyday you come in and do the blog and write your complete sentence for your bell work. Your grades in class will be from the Blog, Study Island, and My Access, do your best and lets have a great quarter.

1. Everyone is good at something, sports, writing, texting, and even being a good friend. Today I want you to tell me what your good at.

example: I am good at wrapping presents, I can really make a simple ugly box look great.

Welcome to 4th Qtr.

Welcome to the Writing Lab. I am glad you are here because I love my job as a Writing Lab teacher. 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. 3 points a day for your Blog. It is your bell work daily and must be taken seriously, always use a complete sentence, it is part of your grade. Everyone can read this never be inappropriate or you will loose computer privileges.

1. What do you do when you get to stay up late? Read a book, watch TV, talk on the phone?
example; When I stay up late I like to ...

the last day of 3rd QTR

LAST DAY
Last day of writing labToday 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 holistic score. You will continue to use these tips in your Language Arts classes. The corrections like repeating the prompt at the beginning, middle and end,transitions, spell check of course, and my editor.1.



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

LAST DAY

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 holistic score. You will continue to use these tips in your Language Arts classes. The corrections like repeating the prompt at the beginning, middle and end,transitions, 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?

Shamrocks

Today is St. Patrick's Day in memory of the patron saint of Ireland, Bishop Patrick. Many parades and parties and of course the "wearin of the green."
The shamrocks is the official symbol of the Irish because it symbolizes luck.

Describe your favorite green thing. Do you like to wear it, eat it, sit on it, or spend it?

Acronyms

TGIF is an Acronym for Thank Goodness its Friday. This acronym has been around along time as an abbreviation for a popular saying.Today I want you to give me another acronym that you can think of, either use different words for TGIF or a whole new one.examples:

FAQ.........frequently asked questions
NBA........National Basketball Association

T.G.I.F.

TGIF is an Acronym for Thank Goodness its Friday. This acronym has been around along time as an abbreviation for a popular saying.
Today I want you to give me another acronym that you can think of, either use different words for TGIF or a whole new one.
examples:

FAQ.........frequently asked questions
NBA........National Basketball Association

A phone call

Telephones
On this day in 1876 Alexander Graham Bell made the first telephone call. Many people today only have cell phones and do not even have a house phone.

Today I want you tell me why you have a cell phone and why is it important to you. If you do not have one, would you like to have a cell phone and why?

Telephones

On this day in 1876 Alexander Graham Bell made the first telephone call. Many people today only have cell phones and do not even have a house phone.

Today I want you tell me why you have a cell phone and why is it important to you.
If you do not have one, would you like to have a cell phone and why?

To Do First

On this day in 1961, we had the first American to travel in space. Being the first American was a magnificent honor for him. Today I want you to think of something you would like to be first at.Would you like to be a first at something? What specific thing would you like to be the "first" to do?

Example:I would like to be the first person to swim the 10 miles in Chicago's Lake Michigan along Lakeshore Drive.

Do First

On this day in 1961, we had the first American to travel in space. Being the first American was a magnificent honor for him. Today I want you to think of something you would like to be first at.
Would you like to be a first at something?
What specific thing would you like to be the "first" to do?
Example:
I would like to be the first person to swim the 10 miles in Chicago's Lake Michigan along Lakeshore Drive.

3 favorites

Favorites
You were told that you had to move away and live 1 year on an island. You are with 2 members of your family and your food ,shelter, and clothes are all provided. You can only take 3 things with you,tell me what 3 items you would bring with you and why?

Favorites

You were told that you had to live 1 year on an island. You are with 2 members of your family and your food ,shelter, and clothes are provided. You can only take 3 things with you,tell me what 3 items you would bring with you and why?

Birthdays

What is your favorite memory of a birthday party or just a favorite day? If you do not have a favorite memory what would be the perfect birthday to you?

Furniture

Everyone has a favorite chair, bed, couch, or even a table. Today I want you to think about your favorite piece of furniture in your house or anyones house and describe it.

example: My favorite place to sit, is the love seat in my living room, it is the perfect length so my feet can prop up and I am so comfy on the soft cushions watching TV.

Laugh

Funny
Everyone thinks different things are funny and we laugh for different reasons. Sometimes when people fall it can be funny. I fell at Jewel the other day and people all around me were trying not to laugh, and it was funny,I laughed too even thou I was so embarrassed.
Today I want you to finish this sentence,

"I saw something funny today when.................."If not today , what about yesterday?

Funny

Everyone thinks different things are funny and we laugh for different reasons. Sometimes when people fall it can be funny. I fell at Jewel the other day and people all around me were trying not to laugh, and it was funny,I laughed too even thou I was so embarrassed. Today I want you to finish this sentence,

"I saw something funny today when.................."

If not today , what about yesterday?

Senior Citizens

You all have grandparents, maybe even great grandparents, or you see elderly people around town. Is there anything you can do to help an older person with their problems?

What do you think is the biggest problem for the older people in Joliet?
remember use a complete sentence

What do you do well?

Today I want you to think about something your good at. Really give it thought, to explain to me what it is that you can do really well. Remember how I say sometimes to all of you,"pat your self on the back"

today I want you to tell me 1 thing you do and "toot your own horn"that means go ahead and brag about 1 thing you do well
Make sure all is appropriate so we can continue using computers

BRAG

Today I want you to think about something your good at. Really give it thought, to explain to me what it is that you can do really well. Remember how I say sometimes to all of you,
"pat your self on the back" today I want you to tell me 1 thing you do and "toot your own horn"
that means go ahead and brag about 1 thing you do well.

example...I can wrap presents really well, people always want me to wrap their gifts, I can make great bows for my packages.

Doctors

Today is the birthday of the man who invented the stethoscope. He is called the "the father of chest medicine" he first made it with paper tubes. The stethoscope is the instrument used to listen to your heart. The Dr. puts it in his ears then listens to your chest.

1. Write about the last time you ever visited a doctor or a family member that you saw at the doctor.

George Washington

Today many are celebrating "The Father of Our Country". George Washington played a very important part in the American Revolution and George Washington was a very courageous man.

1. Tell me something you have done you consider courageous or describe someone you know that did something courageous. USE complete sentences

example, The pilot, Scully, in the airplane that landed on the Hudson River was very courageous.

Lincoln

We are off on February 12 because of Abraham Lincoln celebration. List as many facts about Lincoln that you can and tell me if you think this is a good holiday to celebrate.

Thank You

Thankful
Everyone needs to be more appreciative and thankful. Today write a sentence about someone you are grateful for. Could be a family member, friend, neighbor, anyone...why are you grateful to have them in your life?

Are you thankful?

Thankful
Everyone needs to be more appreciative and thankful. Today write a sentence about someone you are grateful for. Could be a family member, friend, neighbor, anyone...why are you grateful to have them in your life?

Thankful

Everyone needs to be more appreciative and thankful. Today write a sentence about someone you are grateful for. Could be a family member, friend, neighbor, anyone...why are you grateful to have them in your life?

Describe the room

Room Description
Remember the rules of My Access and to always revise to get the better score. Revisions must show effort.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 using adjectives and adverbs.

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

Room Description

Remember the rules of My Access and to always revise to get the better score. Revisions must show effort.
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 using adjectives and adverbs.

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

Scrooge

Today is Scrooge's birthday. He is the main character in the story Christmas Carol. For most of the story Scrooge is really "stingy" or selfish and mean. Can you think of a time it would be smart to be stingy or selfish?

Temperature

On this day, in 1947, a town in Canada has the record lowest temperature of 62 degrees below zero. This is the coldest temperature ever recorded. It gets really cold here in Joliet but not as cold as 62 degrees below zero.

1. Tell me what you think is the most ideal perfect temperature that you would like it to be year round and why.
I think the perfect temperature would be......because....

Groundhog Day

Today we celebrate Groundhog Day. If the groundhog sees his shadow we have six more weeks of winter and the groundhog goes back in his hole. Today the goundhog did see his shadow so looks like we have 6 more weeks of winter.

1. Write a descriptive sentence using adjectives to describe the weather today using sound, smell, or sight. example:
It was such a cold day you heard the students teeth chatter and the snow crunch as the students walked into school.

Superbowl XLIII

The Superbowl this year will be played in Tampa, Florida on Sunday February 1, 2009. The game can never be played at either teams home stadium. The stadium in Tampa holds 72,500 fans and the 2 teams that will play in the Superbowl this year are the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Arizona Cardinals.
(with the pieces of paper on your table tell me what the Roman number XLIII is..
shhhhhhh tell no one)

1. Will you watch the Superbowl on Sunday and do you like the fun commercials?

Baseball

Today is the anniversary of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Babe Ruth was the first player named to the Hall of Fame. Baseball is played all over the world. I want you to think of your favorite team in baseball.

1. Write a complete sentence telling me your favorite team or player. If you have a favorite high school team tell me that team.

All about YOU?

Pretend a stranger came in the room today to find out what YOU are like but cannot talk to you. Today I want you to think about how other people see you. If someone did not know you, what could they find out about you by the way you dress, act, talk , and treat other people.

People would see me as..........because I...........

How do people see you?

Pretend a stranger came in the room today to find out what YOU are like but cannot talk to you. Today I want you to think about how other people see you. If someone did not know you, what could they find out about you by the way you dress, act, talk , and treat other people.

People would see me as..........because I...........

The Need for Speed

Speed Limits
In Germany did you know that cars can drive as fast as they want? There is 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?
all answers must be appropriate.

Popcorn

Today is National Popcorn Day. Popcorn now comes in many flavors, butter, sour cream, cheese and just plain with salt. Popcorn can be a very healthy snack with very little calories if you eat it plain. When I go to a movie I just have to have popcorn.

1. What is your favorite kind of popcorn and where is your favorite place to eat it?
My favorite popcorn is ...

New Quarter

Welcome to the Writing Lab. Today is our 1st day of the quarter and the first day for our new 44th President of the United States Barack Obama. We all have responsibilities in our school as a student and as teachers. We all need to do our part to be caring and kind citizens to make this a better place to be.

1. Tell me what you think is one of the most important responsibilities of the President of the United States?

Inauguration

Welcome to the Writing Lab. Today is our 1st day of the quarter and the first day for our new 44th President of the United States Barack Obama. We all have responsibilities in our school as a student and as teachers. We all need to do our part to be caring and kind citizens to make this a better place to be.

1. Tell me what you think is one of the most important responsibilities of the President of the United States?