Weekly Team News 12/4

Good Morning Team Independence Families!

Announcements:

Report cards can be expected in the mail any day now!

12/5/17-MMS Concert 6:30-8:00

12/7/17-PTO meeting immediately after school; all are invited to join

There is a middle school dance on Friday, December 8, from 7-9pm with a glow in the dark/black light theme.  Students can wear neoen, white or glow in the dark clothing.

Social Studies:  Last week was great to see all of the presentations.  Students presented a minimum of 3 times to small groups and it was easy to see the improvements made each time.  I opened it up to students to present in front of the whole class.  I was amazed to see all of the volunteers step up to present.  We are beginning the final phase of our exploration unit.  Students will focus on modern day exploration.  Ms Endres and I put together a list of explorers from the modern age for students to choose from.  By Tuesday, all students should have chosen an explorer to research.  Research will only be done through our MMS online library resources (students all have a packet entitled "Exploration: Research Paper and Project" with the instructions).  By Friday, all of the research should be complete.  They will have a graphic organizer to complete during the week for their notes.  Please check in with your son/daughter on their progress.  Thanks.

Language Arts: As noted above, students will be researching beginning in their social studies class and continuing in LA class.  An informational essay requirement will follow the research with a deadline set for December 15. On December 18, the STAR Reading assessment will occur.

Math students should be gearing up for the STAR Math assessment by reviewing their math facts.  The assessment will be held on December 11.

For Literacy class, students should continue to read a minimum of 20 minutes per night

Science students will continue their study of ecosystems and prep for the Science Fair.

We hope you have a great week!

Team Independence