I gave my classes a paper structure challenge last week. I heard words like "impossible" and "confusing" and "fail", but I also heard words like "fun" and "magic". I took the idea for the lesson from a post by Tim Bowman with the intention of letting student groups struggle. It's easy to link the idea of struggling to science because that's what science is all about. Trying something, collecting data, seeing if your idea works. When I heard the word "fail" I said "Don't use the F word!" because it's all learning! If something doesn't work, you (probably) won't do it again the same way again. We learn from mistakes and it's important to work through the struggle. Add a "yet" to the end of that statment.
I also had my 6th period class try their hands at the Cup Stacking Challenge. We ended with a silent challenge and my cheeks were sore from smiling and laughing so much. They did an outstanding job!
I'm looking forward to seeing my classroom full of new faces on Wednesday! We'll have plenty of time to tour the school, work with lockers, get to know each other, and answer lots of questions.
Last year the big new thing I had to adapt to was the block schedule. This year's the 8th Grade Academy science department will be launching Interactive Science workbooks this year! This has been specifically created to align with the Massachusetts science standards for 8th grade. (Yes, this looks like a workbook you may have used with MSA, but it shouldn't overlap much material because of the new science standards.)
Each student will receive their own write-in workbook, and there is a digital component that includes an eText available online if a book gets misplaced or left at school. Students will have a username and password to access the online resources at Pearson Realize.
As always, please feel free to contact me if you with any questions or concerns. I look forward to getting to know my new students and expect we'll have a great year together!
Eclipse it!
There is a lot of buzz about the solar eclipse on the 21st!
Please have a plan to view it safely, whether you travel or stay home.
Check out NASA's FAQ site for more information on safety and much more!
Photo courtesy http://shop.unearthedcomics.com/product/solar-eclipse-poster/
