ALWAYS INSIGHTFUL

IN TIME: THE VIEW FROM LS

ISM GRADE 9 STRATEGY INSTRUCTIONQUARTER 1: WEEKS 1 & 2

ISSUE NO. 1

REVIEW:
GEO:
Students focused on the impact humans have had throughout various eras. They were challenged to take notes and discuss in groups to synthesize their understanding. A 500 word analysis, based on data gathered focusing on ISM High Schools ability to be sustainable was assigned.

ENGLISH:
Students conducted a VARK survey about their preferred learning style: Visual, Aural, Reading/Writing, Kinesthetic. The class then progressed to exploring the stages of the Heros Journey. A Personal Learning Journey Map was assigned.

MATH:
Students focused on problem solving with integers. A visual number line was created to help demonstrate how negative integers can be subtracted.

SCIENCE:
Groups were tasked with creating a song and poster that helped to remind and reinforce safety procedures. The Scientic Method was introduced using a rubber band slingshot.

SI:
The class made both a personal ag and license plate to demonstrate their individuality. The Grade 9 Code was cracked by the class. Students began building/organizing a 3-ring binder.

In Strategy Instruction we will begin the weekly process of checking 3-ring binders and tracking the students ability to remain current with ling away any papers for their content classes. The class will be coached in creating a Full Value Contract and encouraged to commit to the established norms and expectations for optimal learning during each class period. Their Learning Passports will be distributed with labeled sections so they can begin to demonstrate their abilities and earn stamps to document their journey through Strategy Instruction. A Class Crest will be completed where each class determines a name, motto and 4 symbols that will guide and protect them throughout the year. A short story will be crafted in the style of the Heros Journey based on a print by Chris Van Allsburg.

SI PREVIEW:

TIP, TOOL, TECHNIQUE FOR HOME Consider purchasing a Two-Pocket Bifold Folder made of durable, thick plastic. Label the left pocket: Take Home. Label the right pocket: Take to School. The Take Home should contain any HW needing completion or sheets that parents should see. Check the Take Home side to see what needs to be acted on. At night, double check that HW has been completed and moved to right side so it can make it to School.

HIGH LIGHTS & CONCERNS + Meeting new people. + Little HW + Holidays + Science class was fun because we made a video. + During theater we learned some about improv acting. + Programming class was great. - My schedule changed. - Schedule was confusing. - Didnt know answers to Math HW

DATES & REMINDERS Wednesday 8/28: Club Expo, 8:30 4:30 pm. Friday 8/30: Friday Night Lights, 4 - 7 pm. Thursday 9/12: Gr. 9 Meets with Book Authors, 8 - 9 am. Weeks of 9/23, 9/30 and 10/7: MAP Testing