Wishes for Christmas

Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love! ~Hamilton Wright Mabie

Pictures of the Egg-speriment

We have finished the egg-speriment and moved on. The lab write-ups are due on Friday. It is all cleaned up and put away... but here are some pictures taken as students worked. You can see how interested and curious they get about this particular activity.

Homework Archive -- November, 2009

November 30 --Social Studies -- Guided Reading for North America unit is due 12/7.Science -- Egg-speriment lab write up is due 12/4.Science -- Scale drawing of a cell will be due 12/5.Math Thales and Archimedes -- Greatest Baseball Player of All Time project will be due on 12/9.November 20 --Social Studies (Ms. Daniel's class -- room 204) -- Write four paragraphs (5-8 sentences each) about the four African countries you have learned about through the 10-choice project presentations.Social Studies -- Guided Reading for North America unit is due 12/7.Science -- Egg-speriment lab write up is due 12/4.Math Thales and Archimedes -- Greatest Baseball Player of All Time project will be due on 12/9.Science -- Scale drawing of a cell will be due on Tuesday when we come back after Thanksgiving.November 19 --Geography -- North America Map test (sections 1-3) will be 11/20.Social Studies (Mrs. Elfers' class -- room 205) -- Write four paragraphs (5-8 sentences each) about the four African countries you have learned about through the 10-choice project presentations.Social Studies -- Guided Reading for North America unit is due 12/7.Science -- Egg-speriment lab write up is due 12/4.Math Thales and Archimedes -- Greatest Baseball Player of All Time project will be due on 12/9.November 18--Geography -- North America Map test (sections 1-3) will be 11/20.November 17--Computer -- Finish the USA Today Snapshots project. Due Wednesday, Nov. 18.Geography -- North America Map test (section 4 and Island Nations) will be 11/18. North America Map test (sections 1-3) will be 11/20.Thales and Archimedes Math -- finish your turkey. If you still need the data for calculating mean, median, mode and range, here it is:George -- 25 poundsMillie -- 22 poundsLulu -- 24 poundsKiki -- 30 poundsChi Chi -- 24 poundsWonka -- 14 poundsKyle -- 23 poundsBoo -- 28 poundsBobbie Jo -- 8 poundsNovember 16 --Math Archimedes -- Box and Whisker Plot worksheet.Math Thales -- pp. 77-78, problems 4, 5, 15-17, 19 AND pp. 82-83, problems 1-4, 9-12Computer -- Finish the USA Today Snapshots project. Due Wednesday, Nov. 18.Science -- Test on Chapter 2 is tomorrow.Geography -- North America Map test (section 4 and Island Nations) will be 11/18. North America Map test (sections 1-3) will be 11/20.November 13 --Computer -- Finish the USA Today Snapshots project. Due Wednesday, Nov. 18.Social Studies -- 10-choice project on Chapter 17 countries in the social studies text. Projects will be due on Monday, Nov. 16.Science -- Complete the review materials in the textbook fore chapter 2 (cells). We will review together on Monday. The test will be given on Tuesday, Nov. 17Geography -- North America Map test (section 4 and Island Nations) will be 11/18. North America Map test (sections 1-3) will be 11/20.Math Thales -- finish 2-6 practice and 2-6 word problemsMath Archimedes -- finish chapter 2 reviewNovember 12 --Social Studies -- 10-choice project on Chapter 17 countries in the social studies text. Projects will be due on Monday, Nov. 16.Science -- chapter 2 (cells) test will be given on Tuesday, Nov. 17Geography -- North America Map test (section 4 and Island Nations) will be 11/18. North America Map test (sections 1-3) will be 11/20.Math Thales -- read pages 76-82November 11 --Social Studies -- 10-choice project on Chapter 17 countries in the social studies text. Projects will be due on Monday, Nov. 16.Science -- chapter 2 (cells) test will be given on Tuesday, Nov. 17November 10--Math Archimedes --p. 77, problems 1-3, 13, 14, 19 AND p. 82, problems 3,4,9-12, 20Social Studies -- 10-choice project on Chapter 17 countries in the social studies text. Projects will be due on Monday, Nov. 16.Students are working on a written assessment for the work from chapter 16. This work is due on Wednesday. There will be no formal test for this material.Science -- chapter 2 (cells) test will be given on Tuesday, Nov. 17Geography -- Make FLASH CARDS for Island Nations (list is on the website).North America Map test (section 4 and Island Nations) will be 11/18. North America Map test (sections 1-3) will be 11/20.Math Archimedes -- read pages 76-82Math Thales -- finish your stem and leaf plots for the presidents' ages at inauguration and at the time of their deaths.Geography -- North America Map test (section 4 and Island Nations) will be 11/18. North America Map test (sections 1-3) will be 11/20.November 9--Social Studies -- 10-choice project on Chapter 17 countries in the social studies text. Projects will be due on Monday, Nov. 16.Students are working on a written assessment for the work from chapter 16. They will have one more class period to work on this and then work will be due on Wednesday. There will be no formal test for this material.Math Archimedes -- p. 74, problems 9, 12, 14-17, 21-26Geography -- North America Map test (section 4 and Island Nations) will be 11/18. North America Map test (sections 1-3) will be 11/20.November 6 --Science -- draw a diagram of mitosis similar to the one on pp. 40-41 in your textbook. Here's a different look at this kind of information: MitosisHere's the link to the mitosis animation that we couldn't see on the computer at school: Mitosis AnimationSocial Studies -- 10-choice project on Chapter 17 countries in the social studies text. Projects will be due on Monday, Nov. 16 Math Thales-- p. 74, problems 9, 12, 14-17, 21-26Math Archimedes -- Finish the Presidents Stem and Leaf Plot project. Due Monday, 11/9Geography -- North America Map test (section 4 and Island Nations) will be 11/18. North America Map test (sections 1-3) will be 11/20.November 5 --Science -- p. 39, questions 1 & 2Social Studies -- be prepared to present your team's discussion on Peacemaking and Conflict ResolutionMath Thales -- pp. 67-69, problems 1-10 and 25Math Archimedes -- Presidential Age Stem and Leaf plot project will be due on Monday.November 4 --Math Thales -- read pages 66 and 67Math Archimedes -- read pages 72 and 73Social Studies -- Read the story "Journey to Jo'burg" and complete the worksheet.Science -- Donations needed! We are beginning an experiment with eggs. Needed are approximately 2 gallons of corn syrup. We have enough vinegar. If you can donate items, please send them to school with your child this week. Thank you!November 3 --Math Thales -- p. 64, problems 1-10Math Archimedes -- pages 67-69, problems 1-10, 25Science -- Donations needed! We are beginning an experiment with eggs. Needed are approximately 2 gallons of corn syrup. We have enough vinegar. If you can donate items, please send them to school with your child this week. Thank you!November 2 --Science -- read pp. 36 & 37, answer questions 1-3.Science -- Donations needed! We are beginning an experiment with eggs. Needed are approximately 2 gallons of corn syrup. If you can donate items, please send them to school with your child this week. Thank you!Math Archimedes -- Read pp. 66-67.

Advent Calendar

Advent is upon us.

Beginning tomorrow, Christians from around the world will join in this season of waiting for the birth of the Christ child. It is a time to pray, to listen carefully, to grow in our faith. One tradition, used by many families, is the Advent calendar. It is a simple way to mark the days and focus our devotion. Here is one link to an online, interactive Advent calendar:

http://www.beliefnet.com/Faiths/Christianity/Advent/Advent-Calendar.aspx

I-EARN Heroes Project

Sixth grade students are participating with students from around the world in an I-EARN project about heroes. Here are comments that students put on the I-EARN Heroes Project website about what they've learned about their African heroes: Isaiah - 11/18/2009 at 7:11:32 AM. My hero is: stephen biko. I just recently did a report on him and he is amazing. he was born on Dec. 18, 1946 in King Williams town, south Africa. he enrolled in medical school and founded the Black Peoples Convention. he was kicked out of medical school when the white members didn't aprove of his actions against apartheid. he was taken into police custody and tortured many times but still kept on fighting. finaly he was taken into custody for the last time. wile he was being interrogated he suffered a blow to the head. after that he was unresponsive and often blacked out. police medical investigators examined him and said he needed to be taken to a hospital. instead he was taken, naked, on a 12 hour car ride to the Pretoria Central Prison where he died about 12 hours later on September 12, 1977. Alex -11/18/2009 at 7:09:11 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela was a person who fought for what he thought was right. Nelson was born on July 18 1918 in Transkei, South Africa. throughout his life he was in prison for in totle of 27 years for fighting for black African rights. He also won a Nobel prize, and became the first black president of South Africa. Marianne -11/18/2009 at 7:06:09 AM. My hero is: Stephen Biko. Stephen Biko was born on December 18,1946 in Kings William's Town,South Africa. He had three wives and four children. Stephen Biko received an education at the University of Natal and studied madicine. He could speak fluent english. Stephen Biko is considered a hero because he played a big part to help stop apartheid in South Africa. He also started an anti-apartheid movement called the Black Consciousness Movement. Stephen Biko died on September 12,1977 at the age of thirty. More than 10,000 people attended his funeral. He is famous for the saying "black is beautiful." Jack Bu.-11/18/2009 at 7:03:20 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela . Nelson Mandela was born in South Africa on July 18th 1918. His dad was chief of the Tembu tribe.Nelson Mandela went to school at Universitiy College of Fort Hare and the Universitiy of witwatersrand. Nelson won the nobel peace prize in 1993. Jack G.- 11/18/2009 at 7:01:10 AM. My hero is: Stephen Biko. My hero is Stephen Biko. He was born on December 18th 1946, in Eastern Cape, South Africa. He went to school at Lovedale and a boarding school in Natal. He was an only child. He fought for almost his entire life for black rights against Aparthied. He was jailed several times and sadly, on September 12th 1997, he died of severe police beatings. Sarah - 11/18/2009 at 7:00:57 AM. My hero is: nelson mandela. He was born on July 18, 1918 in Transkei.Nelson had been married 3 times and had 6 children 4 girls and 2 boys . Nelson spent almost 27 years in prision befor set free.He spent many years fighting to stop apartheid.Since there many more blacks than whites it was very crule.When apartheid ended Nelson Mandela became president. he did not want to fight he wanted to bring peace.he also tried to help tobring peace to others areas around the world and is always helping others. Neil - 11/18/2009 at 6:59:51 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela was born in Trankei,South Africa.He worked to free other peoples rights in a time of struggle.Nelson was the first in his family to attend school.When Nelson got out of school he organized many boycotts.In 1993 he won the Nobel Peace Prize.He was also the first black president.That is my report on my hero. Leah - 11/18/2009 at 6:59:45 AM. My hero is: Queen Nzingha. Queen Nzingha was born in 1582 in Angola and was in the Nbundi tribe, but got captured and brought to Kabasa. Queen Nzingha was known as a hero to a lot of people. she organized a resistance army using mercenaries and Africans the Portugese had trained. She led many battles and peace treaties. She fought for a free and peaceful Angola until she died of age 82 on december 17, 1663. She demonstrated intelliugence, bravery, and is remembered as an Angolan leader who never accepted Potugese authority. Queen Nzingha is a real hero to me. Gillian - 11/18/2009 at 6:58:49 AM. My hero is: Haile Selassie. Haile Selassie was born on july 23, 1892 in Ejarsagoro,Hara,Ethiopia. He was the emperor of Ethiopia from 1930 to 1974. Haile was exiled in 1936 and then regained his power in 1941. He died on August 27,1975.He was looked up upon because he was a great emperor and modernized ethiopia.He also led the Resistance against the Italian invasion. Haile Selassie is my African hero. Sharon - 11/18/2009 at 6:58:20 AM. My hero is: Constance Baker Motley. Constance was born on September 14, 1921 in New Haven, Connecticut. She graduated from New York University in 1943. She received her law degree in 1946 from Columbia University. She got married to Joel Wilson Motley. She was chosen to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on January 25, 1966. She became the first African American Women to serve for the Southern District of New York. She died on September 28, 2005, at the age of 84. Caroline - 11/18/2009 at 6:57:14 AM. My hero is: Imhotep. Imhotep was born in 3000 BC. He died in 2950 BC. Imhotep was born in Memphis, Egypt. He was an only child, but he had a mom, dad, and wife (when he was older). His mom's name was Khreduonkh. dad's name was Kanofer, and his wife's name was Ronfrenofert. Imhotep had a liberal education. His accomplishments were that he invented the pyramid, author of ancient wisdom, architect, high priest, physician, astronomer, and writer. Jake - 11/18/2009 at 6:56:55 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela was a very great man. He was the first black president of South Afirca. He is a truely amazing man. He freed South Afirca from the terrible times of the Apartheid. Nelson Mandela added up went to jail for 27 years! Just for the freedom of his people. I don't tink anyone would do that for his people. He did though. I think everyone should call him a hero or even more than that. Meredith - 11/18/2009 at 6:56:25 AM. My hero is: Stephen Biko. Stephen Biko was an activist. Stephen Biko was born on December 18, 1946 in King William's Town, South Africa. He died at the age of 30 on September 12, 1977 in Pretoria, South Africa. He had a wife, Ntsiki Mashalaba, and has four children. He attended several schools including Lovedale but he was expelled from his school because of his anti- apartheid views. The next school he attended was St. Francis. Afterward, he wasa student at the University of Natal Medical School. cian steele from cincinnati, OHIO u.s.a- 11/18/2009 at 6:56:03 AM. My hero is: nelson mandela. my hero is nelson Mandela. nelson Mandela was born on July 18 1918 in transkei, South Africa. he was the first president to be elected fully represented by a democratic election. he held office from 1994-1999 in national congress. he served 27 years in jail when the dutch took over. Nelson Mandela wan hundreds of prizes but the best of all he won the Nobel Peace Prize. Michela - 11/18/2009 at 6:55:26 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela was worlds famous person because he stood up for aparthate. Although he got caught many times.He was he son of Chief Henry Mandelaof the Tembu Tribe. He became president at the end of aparthate, which hepled South Africa to stop aparthate. Liz - 11/18/2009 at 6:55:20 AM. My hero is: Kofi Annan. Kofi Annan is a Ghanaian diplomat who was Secretary General of the United Nations from Jan.1 1997- Jan1 2007. Kofi Annan is a hero because he played a leading role in 2001 for global action because of 9-11. He has also recieved many degrees from schools all over the world. He is also fluent in many languages. Mallory - 11/18/2009 at 6:54:13 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. He was a person who spoke what he thought was right and who tried to stop slavery. He was arrested for speaking out and when he was released, he kept fighting for what was right. Finally they listened to him and he became president of South Africa. Braedy - 11/18/2009 at 6:53:17 AM. My hero is: haili salase. haili was the eporor of ethiopia. He used nonviolent ways to get help in a war. He was persistant and got the help. Eric - 11/18/2009 at 6:53:01 AM. My hero is: Imotep. He in the 3rd dynasty.He was born near egypt. one important thing he did was raised a temple over his wife's grave William - 11/18/2009 at 6:30:27 AM. My hero is: Mansa Musa. Mansa Musa was the Mansa (king) of Mali from 1312 to 1337. His father was a prince but he was never a Mansa. When he came back from a trip (not known where)she brought back many arabs and archatects. With these people he built up the city. A Muslum exploror said he might have been the best mansa of Mali. He died in 1337 and not t5wo centeries after he died Mali was conquard. By the 18th century Mali had dissapeared. Sierra - 11/18/2009 at 6:28:56 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela was born on July, 18, 1918. He was born in Umtata, South Africa. He attended the University College of Fort Hare. Nelson had three wives with which he had 6 children total:4 daughters, and 2 sons. He was the first to be elected in a fully representative demacratic election. He was the leader of a movement against apartheid. He also helped establish the African National Congress(ANC) Youth League. Jack B. - 11/18/2009 at 6:28:03 AM. My hero is: Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. Nelson Mandela was born July 18th, 1918 in Transkei, South Africa. Nelson is still alive today and his age is 91.His real name is Rolihlahla and Nelson is his english name. Nelson belongs to the Mandela clan and is from the village Mvezo. His great grandfather was the king of the Thembu people. His father, Gadla Henry Mphakanyiswa, was the chief of Mvezo. Nelson attended a methodist missionary school. Nelson Mandela was a person of royalty and was supposed to become chief when his father died, but instead he chose to fight apartheid. His anti-apartheid activities were sabotage and protests. He later was arrestsed and sent to prison for thes activities, he spent 27 years in prison. After he had been released from prison apartheid had ended and he had been elected the first black president of South Africa from 1994-1999. During his presidency he fought to keep equal rights between blacks and whites. He is a great hero, and he is my hero. Christina - 11/18/2009 at 6:28:01 AM. My hero is: Patrice Lumumba. Patrice Lumumba was born July 2, 1925. He was born Democratic of the Congo. He died February 11, 1961. He died in the same place he was born. Patrice was raised in a catholic family. He was one of four sons. When he got older he got married and had five children. As a kid Patrice Lumumbawent to a Primary School, then he went to a Catholic Missionary School, and then he went to a government post office training school. Patrice became head of the Cercles of Stanleyville. He worked on editing and distributing party literature.He became Prime Minister and accomplished the freedom of the Congo.He helped a lot of people while he was alive. Mollie - 11/18/2009 at 6:27:20 AM. My hero is: Sir Seretse Khama. Sir Seretse Khama he was born in 1921 in Serowe, and he was the son of Sekgona Khama 11. the first president of Botswana. he recieved a B.A at Fort Hare University collage in south africa and went to study at the University of Oxford. khama married married Ruth Williams. Arielle - 11/18/2009 at 6:27:05 AM. My hero is: Patrice Lumumba. Patric Emery Lumumba was an extraoridary person he helped sooo many people then had a major consenquence. Patrice was born July 2nd 1925 in Onaloa, Katakoma. What made him soo amazing was he help win independence from Beligum in 1960. After that he was Congo's Prime Minster. I personally find that a amazing accomplishment! Later the government turned on Patrice and put him in prison. He was sentenced to death. Like I said big accompishment but big consenquence. Thats what made him my hero. I'll look up to him always. Sileye - 11/18/2009 at 6:25:38 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela By;Sileye Sow Summary Nelson Madela is a survivor of hardship. He lived in the time of Apartheid.He had to spend 27 years in jail.When he had gotten out he. decided to make a change,so he decided to run for presedent.....and he acually became the presedent of Africa.He is not the presedent anymore.This shows that no matter what happens you can still make a change. Audrey - 11/18/2009 at 6:25:24 AM. My hero is: Patrice Lumumba. Patrice Emery Lumumba was born in stanlyville (now Kisangani)in Congo's Orientale Province July 2nd 1925 and died January17th 1961. He was raised in a Chatholic family and was one of 4 sons. He was educated at a Protestant primary school, a cathlic missionary school.pattrice was a fine student even though he couldn't study after dark because they didn't have any electricity.also the mission schools had very few text booksand only basic school suplies. his teachers spotted his quick intellegence and let him borrow their books encouriging him to advance. He protested for doing so. he became the first elected Congoleseprime minister in 1960 when his country became independent from belgium. less than seven months later he was assassinated. Beatrice - 11/18/2009 at 6:24:37 AM. My hero is: Kofi Annan. My hero is Kofi Annan. He was the 7th Secretary-General of the United Nations serving two terms for 10 years and was the first to emerge from the ranks of the United Nations staff.Annan won the 2001 Nobel Peace Prize for this.He served from January 1, 1997 to January 1, 2007. He was born on April 8th, 1938 in Kumasi, Ghana.He is currently married to Nana Maria Annan with three childrn. Also, Annan has his own fondation(Kofi Annan Foundation) that supports leadership and conflict resolution. He is a chairman and board member for multiple groups. He is still working to help the poor and vulnerable in Africa today. Jessica - 11/18/2009 at 6:24:29 AM. My hero is: Haile Selassie. My hero's name is Haile Selassie. He was the emperor of Ethiopia from 1930 to 1947 which is 43 years. His birth date is July 23rd, 1892. He died on the 27th of August in 1975. He was born in Ejersa Goro, Harar. I believe he was a hero because of all the years he dedicated himself to the government of Ethiopia. He was the leader of many wars and seemed like a really nice man who could keep things under control. His bones were found under a concrete slab on the palace grounds. Mr.Selassie will go down in history! Avary - 11/18/2009 at 6:22:56 AM. My hero is: Queen Nzingha. My heros name is Queen Nzingha, she was born in 1583, she died in 1663. Her place of birth was in Portugal. Queen Nzigha had brothere that was a king and he worked with the slavery. After a while Queen Nzighas brother died. So thats how she got to become Queen Nzingha. Blake - 11/18/2009 at 6:22:47 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. My hero is Nelson Mandela and he was born in transkei, South Africa on July 18,1918. His father was Cheif henry Mandela of the tembu tribe. He was meducated at the University College Fort HARE and the University of Witwaterstrand. Andrew - 11/18/2009 at 6:21:51 AM. My hero is: Osei Tutu. I look at Osie Tutu for two reasons. The first reason is because when he was a kid his unkle died while ruleling so he stood up and took his place as king. The last reason why I like him is because when he was in war with his cousin his cousin was stabbed and killed so he took an army of 300,000 people. I think Osie Tutu was very brave and had lots of courage for loosing his so many family memmbers,and takeing a whole throne. Olivia - 11/18/2009 at 6:21:39 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela was born on July 18,1918. I consider him a hero because he spent 27 years in prison fighting to end apartheid. People in Africa loved him so much that they elected him president!!! He served as president from 1994-99. He currently is an elder statesman who continues to speak out on topical issues. In 1993 he won the Noble Peace Prize. Also, in South Africa he known as Madiba. He has received more than a hundred awards. I think he is brave to stand up for what he believes, even if it means getting in trouble. He risked his life for a lot of people. That is why I consider Nelson Mandela my hero. Kyrah - 11/18/2009 at 6:21:34 AM. My hero is: Nzingha. Nzingha was the Queen of Angola. She was born on December 17, 1583 in a royal family in Angola in Southwest Africa. No one knows what happened to Nzingha's mom, but she had a father who led the Ndongo people, 1 brother who became a king, and 1 sister who suceeded Nzingah. She was a very strong and intellegent girl. After her brother died in 1623, she became queen og Angola. Her country loved her. Unfortunaly since she is a girl, her brother was the favored child. So he was the one who trained to be the next Ngola after his father. But her brother could not accomplish the mission so instead he became a king. Soon Nizingha broke the rules and followed her father's footsteps and became a leader after his death. She soon married a good man and had a baby. Gabe - 11/18/2009 at 6:20:58 AM. My hero is: Askia The Great. He is my hero because he ruled the Songhai Empire nicely. All his people loved him and he set up many schools to educate the children in his Empire. HE also brought a huge increase in trade with Europe and Asia. He made sure that the best scholars came from Mali, which was in his empire. The scholars were so good, they produced some books that are still in use today. Jack Bel - 11/18/2009 at 6:20:32 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela lived in South Africa durring aparthied. He protested against apartheid until he was sent to prison.He was in prison for 27 years. When aparthied ended he became the president of South Africa. Emily - 11/18/2009 at 6:18:58 AM. My hero is: Haile Selassie. Haile Selassie was born on July 23, 1892 in Ejarsagoro Harar, Ethoipia. His mother was Woizero Yeshimebet. He became govenor of Harar at the age of 17. In 1931 he issued a written constitution and retained all major powers. On August 27, 1975 he died because his successor murdered him. Kate - 11/18/2009 at 6:18:06 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. My heros name is Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela was a man who fought for his freedom.When the British settelers invated South Africa,the made a new type of govornment called "APARTHEID". This made it so that Blacks and Asians where not able to go into certin public places.Nelson Mandela did not like this! He steped in and took some action. When he did this he got arested by the British. He went to prision for 27 years untill the South African's declared freedom. After he was relesed,he was elected president of South Africa. He then retired and is now living in South Africa today. Marissa - 11/18/2009 at 6:18:01 AM. My hero is: Nzingha. Nzingha was born in 1582. She lived during a time when the Atlantic slave trade was growing quickly. She had two sisters and one brother. She became queen at the age of 41. Nzingha fought the Portuguese for her whole life, keeping her people free from slavery. Later on all of Portugal and most of Europe respected her. Nate - 11/18/2009 at 6:16:54 AM. My hero is: kenneth kaunda. Kennth Kaunda also know as k.k. he was born on April 28-1924. They think he is still alive but No one has seen him. He was the youngest of 8 children, his father was the minister. His mother was a teacher. He went to Lubwa Mission school. He started the Zambia African Union Party. Kennth had 7 children. Harrison - 11/18/2009 at 6:16:51 AM. My hero is: Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela helped the South-African slaves escape slavery.He took down the government in South Africa,and made a better one.Later he became president of South Africa.He made it so there was no more slavery. Cal - 11/18/2009 at 6:12:45 AM. My hero is: Sir Seretese Khama. Sir Seretese Khama is my hero, because he was the first president of Botswana, and gained independence for the country. He was also Prime Minister of Bechuaral in 1962. He gained independence for the people of Botswana. Ben - 11/18/2009 at 6:12:40 AM. My hero is: Kofi Annan. Kofi Annan is a very peaceful guy. Kofi Annan won was born on April 8,1938 in Kumasi, Ghana. Kofi is still living today. In 2001, Kofi Annan and the United Nations jointly were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. In 1958, kofi began studying for a degree in economics at Kumasi of Science and Technology To see other thoughts from our students about heroes, read at the My Hero Forum.

Island Nations

Indian Ocean -- Comoros Maldives Madagascar Mauritius Seychelles Sri Lanka Mediterranean -- Malta Cyprus Pacific Ocean -- Figi Kirbati Marshall Islands Naura Palau Vanuatu Tuvalu Papua New Guinea Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Solomon Islands Tonga Carribean -- Antigua and Barbuda Barbados Dominca Grenada Saint Kitts - Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and The Grenadines Atlantic Ocean -- Cape Verde Trinidad and Tobago

Egg-Speriment

SCIENCE – 6TH Grade: The Egg-speriment Introduction: Our bodies are made up of cells that are responsible for every job our body does. But for our cells to perform all these jobs properly, they need to bring in certain particles from outside the cell. One way for particles to enter the cell and help it do its job is to simply pass through the cell membrane. All living cells are surrounded by a membrane which separates the stuff inside the cell (water, nucleus, etc.) from the stuff outside the cell (water, other cells, nutrients, etc.) This membrane determines what can enter the cell and what should stay outside. One way that it prevents certain particles from entering is by having holes only large enough to allow small particles to enter. It is therefore called a semi-permeable membrane. An analogy could be made to a basketball net. Only certain size balls will get through. That is, a tennis ball will go through the hoop, a basketball will go through the hoop, but a big beach ball will not. The same holds true with cell membranes. Many particles, such as sugars and salts that are dissolved in the water surrounding the cell try to enter the cell, but they are too big and therefore cannot pass through the membrane. DEMONSTRATION NOTES: Demonstration #1: Materials: 1/2 cup salt 1/2 cup dry beans jar with lid (quart or liter) colander large bowl Describe the procedure followed for this demonstration – Describe what you observed during this demonstration – What conclusion can you draw from this demonstration? Demonstration #2: Materials: ( 1 ) beaker or clear cup 1/2 cup of water 3-4 drops of food coloring Describe the procedure followed for this demonstration – Describe what you observed during this demonstration – What conclusion can you draw from this demonstration? EGG-SPERIMENT: At last to the main part of the experiment -- here an egg will be the model for a cell. The “problem” or purpose in this experiment will be to explore and discover the processes of osmosis and diffusion. As you work through this experiment, look for information that will help you to understand how osmosis and diffusion work in a cell. First, the shell must be removed to expose the cell membrane. Vinegar takes care of this job very easily because it is an acid that reacts with the calcium in the shell to remove the shell. Once the shell is removed, the concepts of diffusion and osmosis can be illustrated. The egg will be transferred from the beaker with vinegar to a beaker containing various other solutions. You and your team will make observations on the condition of your egg, on a daily basis throughout this experiment. Objectives: To understand one way that materials enter a cell To understand the function of the cell membrane To understand the principles of diffusion and osmosis To record careful and detailed observations of a scientific experiment Vocabulary (you will be expected to understand and be able to use this vocabulary by the time you complete this experiment): cell cell membrane semipermeable membrane concentration diffusion osmosis circumference Materials: for each group of students: (3) 250 ml beakers or big clear cups (1) egg (be careful handling the egg!) 12" piece of string ruler, paper and pencil to record observations Procedure: Carefully weigh and measure the egg that your teacher will give you. Use a triple balance scale to weigh the egg. Use a piece of string and a ruler to measure the circumference of the egg in both directions (lengthwise and around the “middle”). Record your measurements in the table below. Place egg into one of the beakers. (Be careful -- do not drop the egg in.) Fill beaker with enough vinegar to cover the egg. Record observations immediately. What do you notice? Continue to record observations over the next three days. Be sure to note how the egg feels when you touch it each day. Don't squeeze too hard – it will be fragile! Throughout the remainder of this experiment, your egg will be immersed in a variety of solutions including corn syrup, plain tap water, water with food coloring, and salt water. Make a hypothesis about what you believe will happen to your egg as you work with it in this experiment. Follow the directions given by your teacher for how to complete the rest of this experiment. Required Outcomes: Directions: Write your responses to the following on notebook paper (you may type it if you choose). All responses must be written in complete sentences where appropriate. Use your best handwriting, and pay attention to spelling and appropriate grammar. § Describe what you understand about the problem that was explored through this experiment. § Describe the procedures that you followed throughout this experiment. § List all of the materials used in this experiment. § Define the vocabulary given above. § Answer the following questions to turn in:

Why was the shell removed first? How did the egg change from the beginning of the experiment to the middle to the end? Explain why using the vocabulary above. How did the egg change while it was in the syrup? Explain why this change occurred? What do you think would happen if the egg was placed in orange juice instead of corn syrup? Why? What caused the changes that you observed when the egg was placed into water? What did you observe when the egg was placed into salt water? Explain why this occurred. If you could place the egg in another liquid of your choice, what would you choose? Predict the outcome for the egg in the solution you would choose for it. § Extension: In order to make his shows more entertaining to the public, Mr. Barnum of Barnum and Bailey Circus, decided to collect whales from the ocean and display them for his audience. He collected the whales and kept them in large uncovered tanks until showtime. Unfortunately, it rained the opening day of his show. The salt water in the tanks, which held the whales, was diluted by the rain that fell that day. This change in the amount of salt in the water compared to the amount of water, caused the death of the whales. Unwilling to admit to his audience that the whales were dead, he told them that that day's rain would cause the cancellation of the show. Not to fear, he would give everyone a check that would allow them to see the next whale show. He would give them a rain check. Mr. Barnum is credited with coining the phrase "rain check". What does the death of Mr. Barnum's whales have to do with the experiment you have just completed on the subject of osmosis? To complete this experiment, you must attach your notes and observations to the written work required above. Lab Report Evaluation Rubric --

0, 5, 10 -- Clear and Appropriate HEADING, TITLE, PROBLEM, and HYPOTHESIS. 0, 5, 10 -- All MATERIALS listed and a summary of PROCEDURE. 0, 10, 30, 50 -- Appropriate presentation of DATA and observations including graph(s), chart(s), drawing(s), etc. Accuracy of data. 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 -- Clear and concise CONCLUSIONS. Conclusion addresses problem and states knowledge gained. Answers to all QUESTIONS. 0, 5, 10 -- Overall- NEATNESS, GRAMMAR, adheres to FORMAT, etc.

Homework Archive -- October, 2009

October 30 --Science -- Donations needed! We are beginning an experiment with eggs. Needed are approximately 2 gallons of corn syrup and 2 gallons of vinegar. If you can donate items, please send them to school with your child next week. Thank you!Social Studies -- groups should have completed play scripts ready to practice and present next Monday and Tuesday.October 29 --Geography -- Africa test, Part 2 is scheduled for tomorrow.Math Thales -- p. 59, problems 15, 16, 17Math Archimedes -- p. 64, problems 1-10October 28 --No homework this evening... Students should study for the Africa map test which is scheduled for Friday.October 27 --Science -- finish the Microscope Mania wordsearch and make-a-word challenge puzzles.Math Thales-- finish the TV in the bedroom frequency table worksheet.Math Archimedes -- Finish your adding machine tape bar for our graph. Include your name, a self-portrrait, your height in centimeters, your age in months, and a list of 10 talents that you have.Geography -- Africa Map test Part 1 -- October 28, Africa Map test Part 2 -- October 30October 26 --Science -- students worked with microscopes today. They have word puzzles which we will finish in class tomorrow.Geography -- Africa Map test Part 1 -- October 28, Africa Map test Part 2 -- October 30October 23 --Parents - Everyone that I talked to today, and every substitute's written notes, spoke to how kind, cooperative, polite and patient your children were during this week when I have been away from school with the flu. I am awfully proud of everyone of them, and I wanted you to know what a great group of kids you have raised. :-)Social Studies -- Finish the Giant Africa Map Travel project, and the map scale practice worksheet.Geography -- Africa Map test Part 1 -- October 28, Africa Map test Part 2 -- October 30October 15 --Math Thales -- make the foldable on p. 49Math Archimedes -- pp. 52-53, problems 3-5, 12, 13, 16Social Studies -- African Heroes research is due on 10/20Geography -- Africa map tests are scheduled as follows: Part I -- October 28, Part II-- October 30October 14 --Math Thales -- Chapter 1 test is tomorrow. Students may want to prepare by working with the practice test on p. 45.Science -- Write up for the plant a sock project is due tomorrow and should include the following items:**sketch of the original seed collection on the sock** sketches and notes taken in class today** answers to these questions: 1) Where did you collect your seeds? 2) Did your seeds sprout? 3) How would you explain what happened in your box?Social Studies -- African Heroes research is due on 10/20Geography -- Africa map tests are scheduled as follows: Part I -- October 28, Part II-- October 30October 13 --Math Archimedes -- Find another piece of writing to analyze for most commonly used words. Make a frequency table to record your data. Compare with the TV in the Bedroom article and compile YOUR list of the five most common words in the English language.Math Thales -- The chapter 1 test has been delayed until Thursday.Social Studies -- African Heroes project -- due 10/20.Geography -- Africa map tests are scheduled as follows: Part I -- October 28, Part II-- October 30October 12 --I did not get papers handed back today because we were gone for the field trip. Graded papers will be handed back tomorrow..Geography -- Africa map tests are scheduled as follows: Part I -- October 28, Part II-- October 30October 7 --Math Archimedes -- "TV in the Bedroom" frequency table activity.Math Thales -- ch. 1 test is on Wednesday, Oct. 14. To prepare, please work on these problems in the textbook: pages 42-44, problems 8, 9, 11, 14, 15, 16, 19, 21, 24, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31, 3,, 34, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47, 52, 55, 56, 57Social Studies -- Africa reading packet will be collected on 10/13Read the Wangari Maathai article. Do not start the hero activity.Geography -- Africa tests will be scheduled as follows: Part 1, Oct. 28 -- Part 2, Oct. 30October 6 --Math Thales -- p.41, problems 9-19 (odd)October 5--Math Archimedes -- Chapter 1 test is tomorrow.Math Thales -- Chapter 1 test is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 14Health -- Personal Hygiene Product poster is due tomorrow.Social Studies -- Africa Reading packet is due 10/12October 2 --Health -- Personal Hygiene Product poster -- due 10/6Social Studies -- Africa Reading Packet -- due 10/12Science -- Plant a sock: due Monday, 10/5Math Thales -- p. 38, problems 1-3Math Archimedes -- Review for ch. 1 test (scheduled for Tuesday, 10/6). Recommendation: pp. 42-44, problems 1-7, 11-19 (odd), 20, 21, 23, 26, 27, 28, 30, 32-37, 38, 40, 41, 56, 57. NOTE: This is work that is recommended for student preparation. I will NOT collect review work. We will discuss issues and questions related to the work on Monday.October 1 --Health -- Personal Hygiene Product poster -- due 10/6Social Studies -- Africa Reading Packet -- due 10/12Science -- Plant a sock: due Monday, 10/5

Models of Circle Graphs

We're graphing. Lots and lots of different activities that help to review and expand the understandings that kids have of bar graphs, line graphs, and circle graphs... We'll tackle stem and leaf plots and box and whiskers plots in the next week. We'll figure out measures of central tendency. Then, we'll get busy analyzing the statistics of some of the best baseball players ever.

Here, the kids are working together to make circle graphs using adding machine tape and string.

Learning about Microscopes

As we begin the study of cells, it becomes important to learn how to use a microscope. Students worked to complete a series of stations that allowed them to gain experience with using microscopes, to learn to make a wet mount slide, to identify the various parts of a microscope, and to understand how magnification and resolution work. Materials for this set of activities were found at the Microscope Mania website.

Teacher Has Been Sick

Friday, October 23, 2009 I am finally back at school – feeling a bit weak and weary, but glad to be over the worst of the flu. Thank you all for your kind words and thoughts as I vanished from the scene. Between my class at Xavier last Friday, and the four days that I was home ill, I have been gone a whole week! To make it even more difficult for us all, I was unclear enough about what was really happening in my absence that I didn’t keep the website up either. So, for the record, here’s the list of things that students worked on this week: Science – P. 33 in the textbook – a worksheet and timeline Cell parts worksheet Cell parts flashcards Social Studies – Africa Heroes Reports were due on Tuesday Africa Video Notes Math Thales— Chapter 2 Foldable Notes from Lesson 2-1 p. 54-55, problems 1-10 Draw a Line Graph/Draw a Bar Graph worksheet Math Archimedes – p. 54-55, problems 1-10 Draw a Line Graph/Draw a Bar Graph worksheetExtra Practice, Lessons 2-1 and 2-2, pp. 596 & 597 Special Note: Many students have missed parts of the Terra Nova and InView tests. We will work to makeup these tests over the next week.

Looking At "Boxes of Dirt"

Late in September, students were asked to go out and walk around in their neighborhoods -- in their socks. The hope was that they would "capture" various seeds on their socks. They then "planted" their socks and waited to see what would sprout. By the time the projects came to school on October 5, there were only a few sprouts showing. We stashed the "boxes of dirt" all around the classroom and watered and watched and waited. By the early part of this week, we had many more seedlings up and growing and we took time to observe the developments. Plotting where the various seeds were gathered on a map of the city gave us a picture of the dispersion of our seeds, and knowing which ones grew and which didn't gave students a much clearer picture at the way plants are adapted to their environments in terms of their seed dispersal mechanisms.

Giant Map of Africa

We've had the National Geographic Giant Traveling Map of Africa in the old gym this week. According to the National Geographic website about these maps, Giant Traveling Maps invite children to explore geography in a very hands-on —or rather feet-on—way. The maps’ brightly-colored, smooth vinyl surfaces accurately illustrate and label the countries, bodies of water, mountains and cities. Students take part in activities including safaris, scavenger hunts, and competitive games. Along the way they gain knowledge of country locations, capital cities, population centers, and physical features, as well as learn important historical, wildlife and cultural characteristics. Accompanying each map is a set of ready-to-use activities as well as atlases, books, music, videos, and game materials. Recommended grades: K-8What teachers are saying about National Geographic Giant Traveling Maps... One teacher who used the map, Bo Garrett, said: “I loved it! It was big enough for the whole class to sit in the Sahara Desert. I feel like I had a connection to Africa...” Students in the sixth grade spent two class periods on the map, studying the various regions, and then planning an imaginary trip around the continent. They gained familiarity with the African continent and had an opportunity to apply their measurement and math skills.

"Hatchet" at LaBoiteaux Woods

We spent our day today learning about "surviving in the woods." The program, presented by naturalists from the Cincinnati Parks Department's LaBoiteaux Woods, led our students in an experience based on the book, Hatchet, by Gary Paulsen.

The book tells how a routine journey turned into a life-threatening and life-changing experience. The central character, thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson, is stranded alone at a lake deep in the Canadian wilderness for fifty-four days. A small plane, carrying Brian from his mother's home in Hampton, New York, to the oil fields in Canada where his father works, crashes after the pilot dies in flight from a heart attack.

Our students learned a great deal from their experience today. They built survival shelters, and tried to start a fire using flint and steel. They gathered tinder and kindling and built small firest themselves. A hike through the woods gave them an opportunity to discover what might, or might not, serve as food and water sources, should they find themselves lost for an extended period. Too, a great deal of our day was spent on learning how to not become lost in the first place.

They worked together, listened and participated with enthusiasm, and made us very proud. It felt like a very good day.