Winter Break

Today I want you to think about your 2 week vacation you will start tomorrow.

What will be the best part of being off school? You may not use I am excited to sleep in. I know everyone is excited not to get up early for school. What part of being with family and friends do you like best when you get to spend time together?

Last Day

Today is our last day before our holiday winter break. Tell me 3 things you are looking most forward too during your 2 weeks off of school, and not just sleeping in. Please be creative and sincere as you think about this valuable time off to be with your family & friends during this time of year.

Believe

Today we will watch part of the movie Miracle on 34th Street. The movie is trying to get people to still believe in the spirit of Christmas. We will begin watching the movie after we do part of our presentations on the pros and cons of spending money.

1. Today write a toy or a symbol of Christmas with each letter of your name. Here is my example:

D decorations E elfs B bows R reindeer A angels

Miracles

Today we are going to begin watching Miracle on 34th Street. A wonderful movie on Believing in the Spirit of Christmas. During the movie I want you to think about the pros and cons if Santa exist.

Today we will also be giving some of our speeches on pros and cons of an Allowance with our Spending Money essay.

1. Write your first name and give me a toy that starts with each letter. For example A is for airplane B is for bicycle.

Holiday symbols

Poinsettia plants are the beautiful red flowers you see at Christmas time. They are a vibrant plant that originated in Mexico. There are many holiday symbols you see that always remind you of Christmas.

Today I want you to think of the symbols of Christmas.

1. What five symbols of Christmas do you see that remind you of the holiday season? You may not use SNOW.

Poinsettas

Poinsettias are the pretty red flowering plant you see this time of year. The plant is originated in Mexico and has become a symbol of Christmas. There is now 100 different varieties of colors of the poinsettia plant. My favorite is red. This year they expect to sell 150 million plants. That is a lot of flowers!

1. What are five other symbols of Christmas besides the beautiful poinsettia plant?

Nobel Peace Prize

Today is the Nobel Peace Prize Day. Alfred Nobel invented dynamite. He hated that dynamite became such a big part of our wars and caused injury and death. He then wanted this day to honor those that lead PEACE in our country. Nobel wanted something good to be remembered by him and not the dynamite. Martin Luther King, Mother Teresa, and President Obama are a few of the winners of the Nobel Peace Prize.

1.Have you ever did something wrong then immediately realized it and tried to do something good? explain

Music & Moods

Music can affect your mood. Sometimes happy loud songs make you hyper. Then other soft songs can make you think or be sad. Songs also make you think or reminds you of something or someone. I hear patriotic songs and I get very proud. Many kids listen to music and the words or just the music sets them in a good mood.

1. What kind of song do you like to listen too because it puts you in a good mood? Why does this kind of music make you be happy? Where do you listen to music the most?

Mood Music

Many people have different reactions to music. Some listen to opera, or even a simple song you can get strong feelings. Happy, sad, excited or calm. Today think about a song or just music that moves you.The music that just moves me is patriotic. The National Anthem even at a hockey games is very moving.For me anytime I hear patriotic songs I am very touched and proud of our country and service men.

What kind of memories does the song bring to your mind? How do you feel when you hear a favorite piece of music?

Do you have a hero?

Heroes and heroines are people we look up to and admire. This person could be a family member,a parent, a neighbor, a teacher, someone from your church. Today think about that person and tell me who they are.

1. Tell me your hero or heroine and why you look up to them. What do they do that makes you feel that they are a person to admire.

Heroes and Heroines

Do you know any HEROES? Write about someone who is a hero or heroine in your opinion. They do not have to be a famous person. What makes you think so highly of this person? What have they done?

Rosa Parks

Rosa Parks was a woman in 1955 who decided to break the LAW. Rosa had worked a long day and was tired. She boarded the bus and decided she would sit in the front of the bus and not the back as blacks were told to do. Rosa was then driven to the police station and arrested for breaking the law.

1. What if you were Rosa Parks? Pretend today that you are on this bus. Would you be brave and sit where you wanted or go to the back? Describe your feelings at that moment you were arrested.

Rosa Parks

On this day in 1955 Rosa Parks decided after a long day of work to take the bus home. There were no seats in the back of the bus so Rosa sat right down in the front. A white man told her to get up, Rosa said my feet hurt, in a very polite manner. Rosa was then driven to the police station by the bus driver and Rosa Parks arrested.
1. Pretend today that you are Rosa Parks. You worked all day and are tired. What will you do? Would you break the law? How would you describe Rosa Parks?

Manners

Manners are so important everywhere. At home and at school because the world needs more thoughtful and kind people. When everyone treats people the way they want to be treated our world is a happier place.

1. Today tell me a time where you witnessed someone using excellent manners. How did you feel? Tell me a time you saw bad manners and how you felt afterwards.

Manners Matter

I always enjoy seeing a student helping out another student. Manners are important and needed everywhere. Helping when someone drops their books or just saying please.

Describe a situation wen someone uses poor manners. Then describe the same situation when you see some using good manners?

Thankful

Thanksgiving is Thursday. A day to reflect on what you are grateful for. Today we are thinking of people and traditions that your family does for the Thanksgiving holiday.

1. What are you eating for Thanksgiving? Who will you be with? What are you most grateful for?

President Kennedy

On this day in 1963,our 35th President John F. Kennedy was assassinated,as he rode in a parade on the streets of Dallas with his wife Jackie, sitting next to him. President Kennedy was 46 years old and served less than 3 years in office. This was a tragic day for our country. Exactly 40 minutes later the man who shot Kennedy was found and arrested.

1. Think of a US President that you can write something about, a fact or anything he did to be a know as a great US President. This can be Any US President at all.

Mickey Mouse

On this day in 1928 Mickey Mouse was presented to the world. He was our very first animated cartoon created by Walt Disney. Today I want you think about your favorite cartoon character. Mickey Mouse is my favorite cartoon character. I love Mickey Mouse because his face and voice just make me smile. His personality is always trying to do good and make people happy.

1. What is your favorite cartoon character and why? Describe to me what this character does to be your favorite.

Mickey Mouse

On this day in 1928 Mickey Mouse made his first movie. Everyone has a favorite animated cartoon. My favorite is Mickey Mouse. I like everything about Mickey he makes me smile and I love his voice.

1. Tell me your favorite cartoon character and describe why this is your favorite. Describe some things that happened and why he is your favorite?

UFO's

UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS people have been claiming to see things in the sky for years. Scientist and investigators have never proven it yet if this is true. Is their life on other planets? It is just your opinion right now.

1. Do you believe in UFO"s? if not why aren't you convinced? If you do believe in life on other planets explain why?

UFO's

On this date in 1947 a man claimed to have seen an object in the sky. Investigators never did find anything to prove this, however many other people now have also said they have seen unidentified flying objects.

1. What do you think about UFO's? Do you think there's something out there? why or why not?

Mistakes happen

Have you ever gotten mixed up before and did the wrong thing? When I was in Junior High on the girls 7th gr. basketball team I got mixed up and when the coach put me in I made a basket, I was so happy. Then I realized I made it in the wrong basket, the other team got the 2 points. I felt so embarrassed. But we all make mistakes and things happen.

1. Write about a time you made a mistake and how you felt afterwards. We have all made mistakes but today tell me how you felt after.

Veterans Day

Yesterday we were off to observe Veterans Day. A day to honor all our men and women in the Armed Forces. All military soldiers in all areas of our country: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard.
Have you ever wondered why American Soldiers wear the flag patch backwards on just the right side of their arm?
The basic answer is: they are brave!
This flag is symbolic of the men who used to march into battle with an actual flag. So steady and strong that the flag would blow behind them. On the arms of our soldiers, the flag faces as if being carried into battle, blowing behind them.

1. Today tell me about someone special you know that was in the military. Could be a family member; a grand parent or neighbor, anyone you know that was in the military. Or explain why a member of your family is extra special to you.

Veterans Day Remembering

After World War I on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month a moment of silence was observed to honor all our soldiers. The day, then was called, Armistice Day, which means peace. Thursday we will celebrate Veterans Day. Today I want you to think about the men and women who are now in the armed services and fighting for our country.

1. Do you know any soldiers? Think about remembering someone special who is no longer here. Maybe a grandparent or neighbor who you are remembering as a special person to you and explain the reasons why?

Giver

Many people are very wealthy in the world. Some people work real hard and have good jobs and save money. Other people could have won a lottery and came into a lot of money. Today think about what you would do if you won a lottery of millions.

1. Should wealthy people be forced to give to the poor? If you were wealthy would you be generous to poor people?

PEACE

We all want to have Peace in our world. Today think about different ways our country could change to get peace in our country.

1. If you could bring peace to the world what would you personally do to change the way people in our country act?

Philosopher

Philosophy is why do people do what they do and think what they think. Philosophy on a topic means that you have given the topic a lot of thought. Schools are different in many other countries, some countries go year round, some have a much longer school day. Today think about our schools here in the US.

1. Write a wise sentence on how you would describe The philosophy of schools in the United States?

National Communication week

The first week of November is considered Communication Week. Think of all the ways we communicate. With our TV, Computers, cell phones, and house phones. Today think about how life would be with out them.

1. You just found out no one can use their phone or computer for 2 weeks.What would be the hardest part about not having any communication tools? What would be the easiest part? Explain

Imagine

This weekend is all about using your imagination and trick or treating and costumes. Today we are going to try and imagine something very odd that just happened to you as you were walking through Walmart.

Copy and paste the question. Remember your BLOG journal responses are a grade, and must be done in complete sentences.

Imagine you are in a store with a costume shop and one of the costumes comes to life? How do you react, which costume was it?

Halloween

Today I want you to think of your favorite costume. Many Halloween stories are about ghosts and haunted houses. Remember to answer the question. as always copy and paste the question then answer it.

1. Do you like haunted houses? Describe one you went to or heard about. What is your favorite costume if you could be anybody? If you do not participate in Halloween who is someone you would want to meet and why?

Trick or Treat

Have you ever gone through a haunted house? I personally do not like haunted houses and never did. I do not like the "unexpected feeling"when things are suppose to jump out and touch you. YUK! With Halloween coming I want you to think about how you feel about costumes and haunted houses. The best costume I ever had is when my husband and I were The Flintstones. We even won a contest that year.

1. Describe the most favorite costume or haunted house that you ever experienced or by someone telling you about it. If you could be anything or anyone what would you pick to wear this year?

Best Friends

Hi and Welcome to the Writing Lab! Today we will do the Blog first for your bellwork, next Study Island, and then we move to My Access. Always do your best on your blog, it is part of your grade. Copy and paste the question and ALWAYS answer in a complete sentence.

1. How would you describe a best Friend? Describe how a best friend would act and remember NEVER use any names.

Welcome

Welcome to the Writing Lab! Everyday for bellwork you will be required to write in the BLOG and answer the question of the day. Always copy and paste the question in your blog and then answer. After answering the Blog go to Study Island and work in Writing. I will tell you when we will start My Access.

1. Describe to me today what is a best friend? No names are to be given just describe what a best friend would be like.

Last day of the quarter

Today is your last day of Writing Lab! Today give me an idea for a prompt or your favorite prompt you did and explain why you liked it.

A great idea for a prompt is? My favorite prompt ever was ?

Manners Matter

Do you notice when someone is polite? Have you ever wondered what it would be like in our world if everyone followed the golden rule? "Do unto others as you want done to you"

Students need to remember how they want to be treated and feelings get hurt everyday.

1. Tell me a time you showed your good manners and made someone feel really good? explain how you felt after.

Kindness

Sunday was Sweetest Day.

People try to do a kind act or remember

someone who has been kind to them. Do you notice when people have manners?

1. Today write about a time you did something kind to someone or someone did something kind for you?

Last Week of the Qtr.

Today you need to be serious about raising your scores. You have till 3:00 on Thursday to up your My Access scores and get rid of your RED TRIANGLES. When you finish the blog bellwork go to My Access to check on your 3 submissions you need on Year Round Schools. Use your tools. Then go to Study Island and get blue ribbons.

1. If you could ask President Obama 1 question what would it be and WHY and explain?

last week of the quarter

When you are done here move to My Access to complete your essay on Year Round School. Then go to Study Island and get rid of the red triangles! You only have till 3:00 on Friday to make any changes on your scores in Writing Lab.

Keep answers appropriate and remember, points on the blog bell work are for your grade. copy & paste the question

If you could ask President Obama any question what would it be and explain why?

School Lunches

Our School Lunch Ladies have important decisions to make. The school lunch has to give you a healthy choice. Everyone has favorites. I know my favorite is the baked chicken with mashed potatoes and green beans.

1. What is your favorite school lunch? If you bring your lunch what is your favorite sack lunch?

School Lunches

We all have a favorite lunch. My favorite lunch is baked chicken I love chicken and mashed potatoes.Today I want you to think about your favorite lunch. How often do you eat it.

My favorite lunch is........

13 13 13

Triskaidekophobia is a very long word with a short simple meaning the "Fear of number 13"

Superstitions have been around for a long time. Like don't walk under a ladder, bad luck when a black cat walks in front of you, or 7 years bad luck when you break a mirror.

Do you have like a lucky shirt or lucky socks?

What kids of things are you superstitous about?

Columbus Day

"In 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue" We were off yesterday to honor Christopher Columbus.
Like many other sailors at this time Columbus was afraid of sea monsters. He was afraid the sea monsters would eat his crew and wreck his ship. Columbus was never afraid that the world was flat and he would fall off. Today think of something you are really afraid of and explain why.

I am so afraid of ........ because.......

"In 1492 Columbus sailed the Ocean Blue" Like many other sailors at this time Columbus was afraid of sea monsters. He thought they would eat his crew and his boat. Unlike the other sailors who were afraid they would fall off the edge of the earth. Your answer must be a complete sentence and explain why.

Tell me something you are afraid of and why? I am afraid of ....because....

Fire Prevention Month

October is Fire Prevention Month. Today I want you to convince me that my home needs a smoke detector. Use convincing words why homes need to have smoke detectors for their safety. Write a short paragraph for your persuasive reasons why homes need smoke detectors.

Your home needs a smoke detector because ...

Fire Prevention Month

October is Fire Prevention Month. We had a fire drill with the Joliet Fire Dept. here at Dirksen to make sure we use proper procedures for student safety.Today I want you to write a short paragraph on why your home needs a smoke detector. Remember to use words like you should and not what if.

1. Your home needs to have a smoke detector because...

Typical Saturdays

Saturday is a great day to make your own choice on what to do. Many of us like to move a little slower on a Saturday morning. I like to get up early to make my day off last longer. However, I do slowly drink coffee, read the paper, and do a little shopping on the Internet.

What do you do on Saturday mornings? Are you a coach potato and watch cartoons on the couch? Do you play sports or have practice? Do you have chores to do? Write about a typical Saturday for you.

OCT. is PIZZA MONTH

In Italy they have declared pizza as National Pizza Month. When you can have pizza what is your favorite? How often do you eat pizza? What do you like with your pizza? Have you ever made your own pizza?

Angels

Today has been known as Angel Day. Many songs talk about angels. One song I love is
"Angels among Us" a beautiful song saying if you lost a love one, they are still here in spirit.

What do you believe about angels? What do you think they look like? Who are the angels?

Your dream

The future belongs to those that believe in the beauty of their dreams...today I want you to think of a special dream you have had on what you will be in the future.

1. The dream I have for my future is.....because......

Dreams

"The future belongs to those that believe in the beauty of their dreams" today I want you to describe to me a dream you have about your future.

1. My dream for my life in the future is...

Help

Tell me today what you consider a perfect day. What is the weather like, who you are with, and what day of the week. How often have you had a perfect day like that? Have you ever experienced an absolutely perfect day?

Good people get caught

Sometimes when you do something that gets you in trouble, people forget all the times you did many good things. Can you think of a time this happened to you? Maybe your parents caught you the one time you hit your little sister instead of trying to help her. Or maybe you borrowed something from your brother and didn't ask him.

Tell me today how you felt when this happened to you, when normally you are a really good kid.

Cones

I love ice cream and I can even eat it when it is freezing outside.
Some people only like ice cream in the summer, not me I like it year round.

Do you like ice cream only from DQ, Frosty Tips, etc...
What is your favorite ice cream, where do you eat, where is it from? If you do not like ice cream what is your favorite dessert?

Cones

On this day in 1903 ice cream cones were discovered. The chef was making a pastry to hold pudding and it became known as a "cone" and we now use it to hold ice cream. Americans consume more ice cream then any other country.We use 900 million gallons of ice cream a year!
copy and paste the question
1. Tell what is your favorite ice cream? where do you buy it? when do you eat it? give details.

Gratitude Day

Today is the day for thinking positive. Remember the good things in your life and be grateful for them. Being thankful and positive for the good in your life is important in staying healthy.
Use complete sentences and copy and paste the question

Write about someone or something you feel grateful for. Are you grateful for something big (your parents or family) or something small (your favorite stuffed animal or favorite shoes)?

Oh No!!

Today you have a sentence starter, write a short paragraph for this sentence starter.
Use complete sentences and be creative. Then go to Study Island.

I was outside jumping on my trampoline when all of a sudden...

Write a short paragraph with this beginning;
copy and paste the start of your sentence.
Use correct grammar and punctuation.

I was outside jumping on the trampoline when all of a sudden....

Seasons

The smell and feel of Fall is in the air. Seasons change and we think of different activities we do in that season. In fall I think of football games, burning leaves, sweaters, and boots. Today you will write COMPLETE SENTENCES to answer the question. Make sure you have 2 submissions in for your prompt Anger Management or Success (for 6th grade). Do My Access first today after the Blog.

1. Which season is your favorite? give me 2 reasons why you like it best

Seasons

Fall is in the air. I love the smell burning of leaves and the crisp morning air. Fall also means sweaters, boots and different clothes. The football season is here also. Today when you are finished with the BLOG, go to My Access for your 1st submission on Anger management that is due today.

1. Today write about your favorite season and why? give 2 reasons this is your favorite season.
USE COMPLETE SENTENCES

Effort to keep trying

I am glad you are here today. Today you will publish your comments in the BLOG then go to Study Island. If you have more then 3 triangles you must go in TEST mode to try to get rid of your triangles.
Did it ever take you a long time to learn to do something? Was it a sport, cooking, a hobby, or a musical instrument that you kept trying to get better at? Did you then have to help someone else learn to do it?
my example is: I wanted to learn how to make the perfect stuffing for Thanksgiving dinner. I tried different recipes for a few years and now I love my dressing to have with our turkey. Now I have taught my own kids the recipe and they make the perfect yummy stuffing too.

1. Today write about why you wanted to do keep trying to learn how to do this, and how long it took you to get it right?

how long

I am glad you are here today. Today you will publish your comments in the BLOG then go to Study Island. If you have more then 3 triangles you must go in TEST mode to try to get rid of your triangles.
Did it ever take you a long time to learn to do something? Was it a sport, cooking, a hobby, or a musical instrument that you kept trying to get better at? Did you then have to help someone else learn to do it?

my example is: I wanted to learn how to make the perfect stuffing for Thanksgiving dinner. I tried different recipes for a few years and now I love my dressing to have with our turkey. Now I have taught my own kids the recipe and they make the perfect yummy stuffing too.
1. Today write about why you wanted to do keep trying to learn how to do this, and how long it took you to get it right?

grandparents

Happy Monday! I am glad you are here. Please write grammatically correct and use full sentences. Once you have posted, please move directly into Study Island.
pick one of the choices and copy and paste the question into comments.

1. National Grandparents Day is celebrated on the first Sunday after Labor Day. Would you prefer to have grown up during the time when your grandparents grew up? Explain.
2. September 12 is Video Game Day. Imagine that you have been asked to come up with a concept for a new video game. Describe it.

2 choices

I am glad you are here. Today you have 2 choices and you have to choose one to answer and post your comments. Copy and paste the question and answer in a complete sentence. When you are finished go to Study Island

1. Imagine that your school board is considering starting school an hour earlier. How would you tell the school board what your opinion is about this.
2. If you watch any of the music awards like MTV Awards, who's performance do you think is the best and why?

choices

I am glad you are here. Today you have 2 choices and you have to choose one to answer and post your comments. copy and paste the question and answer in a complete sentence. When you are finished go to Study Island

1. Imagine that your school board is considering starting school an hour earlier. Write a letter to your school board expressing your opinion about this.
2. If you watch the MTV Awards, who's performance do you think is the best and why?

Labor Day

For many students Labor Day is the last free day of summer. In 1894 the President declared the first Monday of the month Labor Day to honor all who are employed and have a job. Your job now is to be the best student you can be.

1. What are you looking forward to this school year? What are you not looking too forward to this year?

Labor Day

Labor was first celebrated in 1882. It became a national holiday the 1st Monday in September to honor all who are employed. For many years it was also the first day of school. Chicago starts school today and for students in Chicago their summer free time is over.

1. What are you looking most forward to this school year? What are you not looking forward to?

Manners

September is have good manners month. Today I want you to think of a time you saw good manners and the same situation when students did not use good manners.
Please copy and paste the question answer in complete sentences.

1. Describe a situation where a student is using poor manners and then when you saw good manners.

Manners Matter

Remember to write in full sentences and copy and paste your question in the comments box. September is Children's Good Manners Month many times all of us forget our manners. I watch everyday students who are using their manners and people around them being nice. Today's journal topic is comparing a time someone with out manners and then someone with manners. YOUR BEST MANNERS TODAY. Make me proud of my class. thanks

1. Describe a situation where someone is using poor manners. Then describe the same situation, only this time with someone using good manners.
.

To give or not to give

Many people are very wealthy. Some people have good luck and and other rich people work really hard. We also have many people in America that are very poor.
copy and paste the question

1. Do you think wealthy people should be forced to give money tot he poor? If you were rich would you be generous to poor people?

Rich or not

Share our wealth: was a popular slogan in the 1920's. Many people felt that if you had a lot of money you needed to be generous to others who did not have money.
Do you think rich people should be forced to give money to help poor people?
If you were rich would you share your money with strangers?

Game Rules

Hoyle was a man who said we must live by the rules. He was from England and an authority on games and rules. When was the last time you were playing a game and had to look up the rules?
example: I love to watch hockey because I like the Chicago Blackhawks, but I have no idea what the rules are for hockey. I do play chess with my husband but do not know all the rules.

1. What is a game you play where you do not know all the rules but still like to play? Who do you like to play the game with?

Give to the Poor

Teacher to Politician

Many teachers become politicians after teaching. Think of a teacher that is good in Math or maybe just a good speaker and reader. The President, Mayor, Governor and treasurer are all politicians. (copy and paste your question and explain)

1. Which one of your teachers would make a good politician? What job in politics do you think that teacher should have and explain why?

Teacher to politician

Many school teachers go into politics. Think about a math teacher to be our State Treasurer and keep track of the states money or a history teacher for President. Or any type of teacher to be a politician.
(copy and paste the question then go to Study Island)

Do you know a teacher that would make a good politician? What do you think one of your teachers should run for? Why?

Happy Wednesday! I enjoyed meeting some of your parents last night. Today after the Blog go in to Study Island and continue working. Remember to copy and paste your question into your comments.
Would you rather own a sports team or be the President of the United states? Explain

Open House Today

Today is our Open House at Dirksen. I hope to meet some parents. Please remember your "BLOG posting" rules. Always copy and paste the question in your comments box, use complete sentences and remember we ALL can read your response.

1. What could schools do to make the classroom more comfortable for students learning?

OPEN House

Welcome to our Open House on Tuesday. I am happy to have you in my class this quarter.Please remember all students read your answers. Read over your post and always make it school appropriate. When finished go to Study Island.
School is like your "home away from home" Copy the question and post your comment.

1. What would you like to see different in your classrooms to make your day more comfortable for learning?

Welcome to Writing LAb

Hi Welcome to writing lab this 1st quarter. We will everyday write in our "BLOG" and answer the question I give you for the day. ALWAYS have your answer be school appropriate and remember EVERYONE can read whatever you write. You will always copy and paste the question in your response then answer.

Today: What school item is the most important thing to remember when school starts? Also what is your favorite part about you? your personality, family, looks, friends etc.

Welcome to writing lab

Hi and Welcome to my class.
I love my class and love Dirksen, this will be a great quarter. Each day you come to class and start with our "BLOG" I will sometimes give you a choice and you will choose which topic. Always copy and paste the topic in your response at the beginning of your post.

1. What do you like most about your personality? Explain

2. What is the one item you think all kids must have when heading back to school? Explain

Summer

Well the end OF THE YEAR is near. Hopefully everyone has worked hard to finish their assignments and got rid of their RED TRIANGLES. Today tell me your most favorite part of summer and if you are doing anything special or different on this summer vacation. be descriptive

Hi class, Summer is here what a warm weekend.
In My Access today you can finish off any outstanding essay. Look in your portfolio and this means your persuasive and your narrative should each have at least 2 submissions.Excellent job with revisions so far because your scores must go up. 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. Awesome work from some of you!

What is your favorite type of music? Compare it to your least favorite type of music.

Change

Hi. Today you can finish off any outstanding essay. This means your persuasive and your narrative should each have at least 2 submissions. 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.


If you could change the color of your hair, would you? Explain why and how this would change your personality?

Tempers

Do YOU Control your temper?
Describe a time when you lost your temper. What happened? Why were you so angry? 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?

USE NO NAMES

Your Temper

Do YOU Control your temper?
Describe a time when you lost your temper. What happened? Why were you so angry? 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?
USE NO NAMES

Acronyms

Acronym
TGIF stands for Thank God its Friday. CEO of a company means the Chief Executive Officer, FBI stands for Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Think of 2 Acronyms that you know and explain what they stand for.
THINK! Not what you use in texting, but a true acronym.
Do not use LOL OMG DK that is text slang not an acronym.

Acronym

TGIF stands for Thank God its Friday. CEO of a company means the Chief Executive Officer, FBI stands for Federal Bureau of Investigation. Think of 2 Acronyms that you know and explain what they stand for. THINK!

Not what you use in texting, but a true acronym.

Do not use LOL OMG that is text slang.

Take a ride

The largest Ferris Wheel in the world opened in 1893. Gale Ferris was an engineer who invented the ride and the first Ferris wheel ever was in Chicago.
When you go to a carnival or an amusement park, which rides do you like to ride? Why? Which kind of rides don't you like to ride? Why?

Carnival rides

The largest Ferris Wheel in the world opened on this day in 1893. Gale Ferris was an engineer who invented the ride and the first Ferris wheel ever was in Chicago. When you go to a carnival or an amusement park, which rides do you like to ride? Why? Which kind of rides don't you like to ride? Why?

Choices

Happy Tuesday, I am glad you are here. If you had a choice would you rather cross the United States in a helicopter or hot air balloon? Explain why?

Go to My Access after the blog and see if you submitted once for Cellphones in school. If you did submit go to Study Island.Have a great day!

Happy Monday, I am glad you are here. Would you rather cross the United States in a helicopter or hot air balloon? Explain why
Go to My Access after the blog and see if you submitted once for Cellphones in school. If you did submit go to Study Island.
Have a great day!

Mothers

Mothers Day
The first official mothers day was in 1908. It then became official to be the second Sunday in May.Write about your mother. If you do not have a mother, write about a woman who takes that role in your life. An aunt or grandmother or anyone special. What do you admire about her or tell me something special you do together.

Mothers Day

The first official mothers day was in 1908. It then became official to be the second Sunday in May.
Write about your mother. If you do not have a mother, write about a woman who takes that role in your life. An aunt or grandmother or anyone special. What do you admire about her or tell me something special you do together.

Are uou an only child?

Only child
Are you an only child? If you are an only child write about how you feel about being the only child. If you have brothers and sisters tell what is the best part of having family that you can have fun with like friends.

Only child

Are you an only child? If you are an only child write about how you feel about being the only child. If you have brothers and sisters tell what is the best part of having family that you can have fun with like friends.

Month of May

MAY DAY
Today is May 3rd. The U.S. celebrates Labor Day in September. Some countries call this day an 8 hour work day, to honor all the working people.

What kind of job do you think you'd like to have when you finish school? give your reasons for your choice

MAY DAY

Tomorrow is May 1st. The U.S. celebrates Labor Day in September. Some countries call this day an 8 hour work day, to honor all the working people. What kind of job do you think you'd like to have when you finish school? give your reasons for your choice

Dirksen favorite

Favorite thing about Dirksen
As our year comes to an end I want you to tell me what is the ONE best thing about Dirksen. Your classes, where it is, sports, coaches, your friendships, better then staying home , or anything you choose. You must have 1 favorite thing you like about being at Dirksen.

Favorite thing

As our year comes to an end I want you to tell me what is the ONE best thing about Dirksen. Your classes, where it is, sports, coaches,your friendships, better then staying home , or anything you choose. You must have 1 favorite thing you like about being at Dirksen.

Your favorite lunch

Favorite lunch
Hi class! After you are done posting in your Blog you have 30 minutes in Study Island and then you will transition into My Access. Today I want you to describe your favorite school lunch. Give all details of looks, taste and how often you get to have your favorite.

If you bring your own sack lunch describe your favorite lunch you bring from home. Please remember to use adjectives.

Favorite lunch

Hi class! Be GOOD!
After you are done posting in your Blog you have 30 minutes in Study Island and then you will transition into My Access. Today I want you to describe your favorite school lunch. Give all details of looks, taste and how often you get to have your favorite. If you bring your own sack lunch describe your favorite lunch you bring from home. Please remember to use adjectives.

Windsock Fans

The term "windsock fans" means you keep changing what team you are for. Some people pick a team only when they are winners. What an awesome Bulls game last night! The term windsock means you keep switching who you like because you only want a winning team. I am a BULLS fan always if they are winners or not. Tell me today what your team is and do you switch if the team is not good. If you do not like sports tell me about someone you know who does.

Quotes

Quotes
Some of the most popular important quotes come from presidents. President Kennedy, our 35th president, had a famous quote: "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." Tell me in your own words what it means.

I think this quote means....

Quotes

Some of the most popular important quotes come from presidents. President Kennedy, our 35th president, had a famous quote:
"Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." Tell me in your own words what it means.

I think this quote means....

Minuteman

Troops known as Minutemen were to be ready at a minute's notice and be ready for a battle. They are known as the soldiers that are always ready to go. Have you ever gotten up late and only had a few minutes to get ready before you had to go somewhere? Where did you have to go? what happened, how long did it take you to get ready? Did you make it on time?

Minuteman

Troops known as Minutemen were to be ready at a minute's notice. Have you ever gotten up late and only had a few minutes to get ready before you had to go somewhere? Where did you have to go? what happened, how long did it take you to get ready? Did you make it on time?

The Titantic sinks

Have you ever heard of the Titanic? It was a cruise ship that hit an iceberg and sank in 1912 on April 16. Because the Titanic sunk in such deep water, no one was able to find it for many years. Only 700 people were rescued from the cold freezing water.

Pretend that you are home in some type of disaster. You will not be hurt,but you can only take one thing with you, something you can carry on your own. What will you take and why?

Titantic

Have you ever heard of the Titanic? It was a cruise ship that hit an iceberg and sank in 1912 on this day. Because the Titanic sunk in such deep water, no one was able to find it for many years. Only 700 people were rescued from the cold freezing water.

Pretend that you are home in some type of disaster. You will not be hurt,but you can only take one thing with you, something you can carry on your own. What will you take and why?

Shakespeare

William Shakespeare was an amazing author and poet. One of the most famous plays is Romeo and Juliet. Which would you rather do: write a play,watch a play, or act in a play? give your reasons for your answer.

Scary weather

On this day many years ago the winds were at 260 mph. Winds that strong can be very very scary. Have you ever been in weather that is scary? Was it a winter blizzard? A thunderstorm? Think of a time weather scared you, if you haven't been scared, tell me what weather would scare you the most.

On this day in 1934 one of the strongest winds on record was in Texas and the wind was 260 m.p.h. Wind blowing that hard can be scary. Have you ever been frightened by the weather? If yes share the time you were scared. If no, what kind of weather might frighten you?

On this day in 1974 Hank Aaron passed Babe Ruth's record for the number of home runs. Many times some one sets a world record then someone breaks it. Pretend that you have set a record of some type. Describe what you did. How did you set that record and describe how you feel.

example:I saw that a girl from Ohio set a world record for texting the fastest.

On this day in 1974 Hank Aaron passed Babe Ruth's record for the number of home runs. Many times some one sets a world record then someone breaks it. Pretend that you have set a record of some type. Describe what you did. How did you set that record and describe how you feel.

example:I saw that a girl from Ohio set a world record for texting the fastest.

School

what do you remember about Kindergarten? your teacher your favorite part of the day? What was your teacher's name?

Kindergarten

Kindergarten
Many teachers feel that play is an important part of learning at a young age. Kindergarten was started so children could learn to socialize and play with other children. Write today 2 sentences about your best memories of kindergarten. Who was your teacher? where did you go to school then? What are some things you did?

Kindergarten

Many teachers feel that play is an important part of learning at a young age. Kindergarten was started so children could learn to socialize and play with other children. Write today 2 sentences about your best memories of kindergarten. Who was your teacher? where did you go to school then? What are some things you did?

Time Change

DST
Daylight Saving Time began in 1918. It is when we "spring forward" with our clocks. Does the change of time affect you? Are you glad it stays lighter longer? If yes, why? how?Tell me why or why not having more daylight is better?

DST

Daylight Saving Time began in 1918. It is when we "spring forward" with our clocks. Does the change of time affect you? Are you glad it stays lighter longer? If yes, why? how?

Tell me why or why not having more daylight is better?

Everyone is Good at something?

Welcome to Writing Lab
Today is your 1st day of Writing Lab. We have 3 lessons in here You will answer the blog each day then you will go to Study Island. The last lesson each day will be My Access. Today I want you to tell me what you do best. Is it in a certain class, a sport, dance, a friend,writing,or maybe just being a good kind person at home and school.
Tell me in 2 sentences what you are good at.

Welcome to 4th qtr.

Welcome to Writing Lab
Today is your 1st day of Writing Lab. We have 3 lessons in here You will answer the blog each day then you will go to Study Island. The last lesson each day will be My Access. Today I want you to tell me what you do best. Is it in a certain class, a sport, dance, a friend,writing,or maybe just being a good kind person at home and school.
Just tell me in 2 sentences what you are good at.

Last day of the QTR>

Last A day of the quarter

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 in My Access 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 A day of the quarter

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 in My Access 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. :-)

Happy St. Patrick's Day

This is a happy day for the Irish. In Ireland this is a holy day and a huge holiday.The shamrock is the traditional symbol of the day.

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

Amelia Earhart

On this day, in 1932 Amelia began her solo flight. Amelia was the first woman pilot to fly across the Atlantic Ocean. Amelia began to fly around the world in 1937 when she mysteriously disappeared and was never heard from again.

Have you ever flown in an airplane? If yes tell what it was like. If no, tell what you might think it is like?

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.

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.

HOMETOWN

A common saying is "Home is where the heart is." Describe what you love about Joliet. Yes you have to find something positive to say. If you have lived in another city compare Joliet to where you did live.

Example:I personally love the size and location of Joliet. I was raised in a really small rural town and we only had a Kmart, not even a McDonalds. I was so happy to live where I could go shopping and get on the highway easily and go where ever we want.

A common saying is "Home is where the heart is."
Describe what you love about Joliet. Yes you have to find something positive to say. If you have lived in another city compare Joliet to where you did live.
Example:
I personally love the size and location of Joliet. I was raised in a really small rural town and we only had a Kmart, not even a McDonalds. I was so happy to live where I could go shopping and get on the highway easily and go where ever we want.

Favorites

Children Stories
When you think back to your years in grade school what was your favorite story or movie? Charlotte's Web, Where the Red Fern Grows, Stuart Little, anything Disney?Think of one of your favorites when you were younger.My favorite memory of a book and movie I loved and still do is 101 Dalmatians. That is my favorite all time children's book and movie that I still love to watch. My second favorite would be Matilda.

Children Stories

When you think back to your years in grade school what was your favorite story or movie? Charlotte's Web, Where the Red Fern Grows, Stuart Little, anything Disney?
Think of one of your favorites when you were younger.
My favorite memory of a book and movie I loved and still do is 101 Dalmatians. That is my favorite all time children's book and movie that I still love to watch. My second favorite would be Matilda.

TV

Do you watch TV at night? Does your family have any TV rules? How many hours a day do you think you watch TV? If you don't have any rules about TV at your house why do you think some people do?

TV

Do you watch TV at night? Does your family have any TV rules? How many hours a day do you think you watch TV? If you don't have any rules about TV at your house why do you think some people do?

ISAT

Morning 8th grade..these are your last ISAT testing, you have other test in high school but not this one. What is your favorite part when you think about going to high school?
The school, new friends, old friends, tell me what you are looking forward to most. Did you go to Dirksen all 3 years?

What will you do?

Imagine that one cold, dark evening, as you are curling up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa and a good book, you hear a strange noise outside of your house.

Do you go and investigate, or do you hide under a blanket? Explain what happens next.

Substitues

Why do students act different when they have a sub in their room? Tell me if you act or if you notice other students that act different when their regular teacher is out? Why does this happen? What can teachers do so students act appropriately for a substitute? Be honest and appropriate.

SUBS

Why do students act different when they have a sub in their room? Tell me if you act or if you notice other students that act different when their regular teacher is out? Why does this happen? What can teachers do so students act appropriately for a substitute? Be honest and appropriate.

The need for speeding?

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

SPEEDING

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

Do YOU Control your temper?

Your Temper

Describe a time when you lost your temper. What happened? Why were you so angry? 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?
USE NO NAMES

Tempers

Your Temper
Describe a time when you lost your temper. What happened? Why were you so angry? 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? NO NAMES

True Friends
In life, you do not need a lot of friends you just need good true friends. Describe today the "perfect friend". Tell what that friend does, what they say, and how you feel when your with that person. NO NOT USE NAMES

True Friends

In life, you do not need a lot of friends you just need good true friends. Describe today the "perfect friend". Tell what that friend does, what they say, and how you feel when your with that person. No NAMES

Manners

Courteous
Tell a time that you were courteous. That you did something nice for someone and you felt good about it. Life would be more enjoyable and pleasant if people were more polite to one another.

Courteous

Tell a time that you were courteous. That you did something nice for someone and you felt good about it. Life could be more enjoyable if people were more polite to one another.

Hero or Heroine

Write about someone who is a hero or heroine in your opinion. This person does not have to be famous. What makes you think this person is a hero?
What has he or she done?
It could be a family member, parents, grandparents or friend.

Heroes

Write about someone who is a hero or heroine in your opinion. This person does not have to be famous. What makes you think this person is a hero? What has he or she done?
It could be a family member, parents, grandparents or friend.

Super Bowl

Will you watch the Super Bowl on Sunday? Which 2 teams are playing?
What is your favorite part of the game? What Super Bowl is this?

If you are not interested what will you do on Sunday evening?

Quote

One of my favorite quotes by Eleanor Roosevelt:
"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."

inferior means- less or not worthy of

Write what you think this sentence means in your own words. THINK

Spring is Coming

February 2 is known as "Groundhog Day". The groundhog comes out of hibernation. If he sees his shadow, he goes back into his hole and waits for 6 more weeks of winter.

Give me clues when you can tell spring is almost here. Describe the "clues" that you can see, smell, hear, or touch. think, maybe even sports?