Last call!

Do you owe me work? Come to me 2nd Nutrition Break to get caught up. I will have the Celery Lab/Onion Lab/ Animal Lab ready for you to do. This is your chance~! Also, if you are curious about your mark, come and see me. Get it all done and feel great about the holidays!

EEEk! Almost the holiday!

Do you owe me work? Come to me 2nd Nutrition Break to get caught up. I will have the Celery Lab/Onion Lab/ Animal Lab ready for you to do. This is your chance~! Also, if you are curious about your mark, come and see me. Get it all done and feel great about the holidays!

Monday, Dec. 17, 2012 Science This week!!!

Everyone (except 7/8A!):
Presentations!!!!  Some of the presentations I have seen would rival a grade 10 biology class. WELL DONE! Others... well, not so much!

Science 7/8A:
You have a tiny quiz tomorrow on the microscope. You will do fine as long as you were paying attention last week and have the note. Have a quick peek at it tonight and you will do fine!

Class 7/8A - Advisory:
Thank you so much to Meredith Blackmore. Her art is superb and her passion is inspirational! Here is her website:
www.meredithblackmore.com

Thank you to Madison for her great presentation. I think you have the patience of JOB! You would make a fantastic Kindergarten teacher! I think a co-op position should be in your future!!!

Me to We Water Facts!

Cool Water Facts!

I am so proud of all of you for bringing in your pennies and spare change. You are very thoughtful.

Here's a little song that reminds me of you.

If you give a little

12, 12, 12 - very cool!

Another cool thing:

Selective Attention Test


Well done, 8D - the presentations were great!
Looking forward to the rest.

Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012

7/8A Science:
Good work today, everyone. Next class we will stain (with iodine!) celery again and also onion, and then answer the questions in our lab. You do NOT have to answer the questions attached to your lab observation sheets.

For next class, you need to know all the parts of the microscope - I will show you this diagram and you need to be able to fill in the blanks. It only shows 2 objective lens: high and low. You will need to know their magnification and the medium magnification, too.



8B Science:
Despite a rocky start, I think we saw some good presentations today. We will use next week's class to finish them up, or, you can book at time with me before or after school to show me.

Monday, Dec. 10, 2012

Class 7D Science: 
Well done today! Great work in class. Your poster and oral presentation is due NEXT science class. I will pull names as to who goes first. If you didn't get your science poster finished in class, you are welcome to work on it during any second nutrition break in my room.

Class 7/8A Science:
You have Science tomorrow. Your oral presentation was due last class. Since then, three other groups have shown me their presentations at recess and they were wonderful! If you have not shown me your presentation, (that is no more than 2 minutes) you need to send it to me via You Tube or another way. I have one presentation in the morning, at 8:30. All other will be viewed online please.
I'm doing this so that we can work on microscopes tomorrow.

7/8A Science: for the Week of Dec. 10 - 14th

Your oral presentation was due this past week. Only two groups were ready. This both amazes me and disappoints me. Despite telling you during last class and writing it in your agenda, two groups/five people were ready.
You have to either book your oral presentation during a Nutrition Break, before next science class (which is TUESDAY) or submit it to me on YouTube, also by Tuesday.

During our next class, we will begin our super short unit on Microscopes and Cell Biology.

Grade 7 Science for the Week of Dec. 10 - 14th

ALL grade 7 students will be expected 
to do their oral presentation in front of 
their class next week. 
Here are the criteria (once again!!!):

Oral presentation Gr. 7 Ecosystem

Grade 8 Science for the week of: Dec. 10 - 14th

ALL grade 8 students will be expected 
to do their oral presentation in front of 
their class next week. 
Here are the criteria (once again!!!):
oral presentation - cell cycle

oral presentation - body system

I also expect students in the audience to participate by
asking insightful questions and/or adding information they know.
You will be marked for participation.

Class 7B and 7C Science:
Good work today in class! NOW, if your poster is not finished, please come in either nutrition break tomorrow or any 2nd nutrition break next week BEFORE NEXT THURSDAY. Remember, you also have an oral presentation to do that day. Here are the success criteria:

Oral Presentation Check List!! (Success Criteria)

ALL GRADE 7's:
Please come and see me either nutrition break tomorrow and 'dismantle' your ecosystem.
Thank you!

Look what i got tonight!

Follow your passions!

Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2012

Class 8D Science:
Fantastic job today! Wow! There are some great projects happening! NOW, you can come in ANY 2nd  Nutrition Break to finish up anything, including your ORAL PRESENTATION, WHICH IS DUE NEXT PERIOD. You may work on your oral presentation at home.

Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2012

7/8 A Science Homework - due next science class!

Create a Numbers Pyramid of Wolf Island - including producers, and all levels of consumers, and species labelled,

OR

Answer Questions 1 - 5 on page 48 in the Green Textbook: Interactions in the Environment.

Grade 8B Science:
You have had your LAST class to work on your projects. You may come in ANY 2nd nutrition break and work on anything you need to finish. You will be expected to have your Science Oral Presentation ready for next class. You may work on your oral presentation at home if you wish. Great work, today.

From my BFF...

   Don't be afraid to be different.My best friend loves that I'm wacky. And passionate. And love animals and children. And cry easily.
   It was hard for me today, during Advisory Period, listening to your opinions on bullying and being a bystander. It's not that I don't believe every word you tell me, I do.  It's just hard for an adult, a parent, to hear that what we are doing about bullying is having no real affect.
   If you tell me something, my instinct is to 'fix it'. Does that help? I'm not sure. What happens when I'm not there? Or another teacher, or parent isn't there?
   My best guess? Find some allies; some good friends to stick by you. You don't need many - maybe two or three. Bullies are frightened by groups.
   What not to do? Try to change to suit them; don't try to play along. You can't please a bully. That's not what they want. They want your fear. They want you to feel lonely and scared, like they do.
   Don't be afraid to be bonkers. The best people will appreciate you.

Monday, Dec. 3, 2012 Take the time to VOTE!

A wonderful guy, Benton, asked me to vote for this great cause. I did, and now I would like to pass the info along to you. It does take a minute to register (one whole minute...!) but well worth it! Please go to this link:


Barrier Free Playground in FERGUS!!!!

If you have any troubles logging in, try:

www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas


The idea # is: 13678

Thanks, Benton, for bringing this to my attention. Okay everyone! VOTE!!!

Grade 8 Science at a Glance for Dec. 3rd to 7th

Grade 8's! You should be working madly in class, trying to finish your Cell Projects - either a stop-animation movie of the Cell Cycle, or a 3D body system. If you have forgotten what I wanted, here is the SUCCESS CRITERIA:
Success Criteria for Cell Biology Task #2

You will also need next period to create an oral presentation (2 minutes, MAX) for your body system. This will include the following SUCCESS CRITERIA:

Success Criteria for Oral Presentation of the Body System

or

Success Criteria for Oral Presentation for Cell Biology - Cell Cycle

All work needs to be completed in class. If you do not feel you can complete it in the time allotted, please come in during any 2nd Nutrition Break to work on it. Please do not work on it at home.

But, why Mrs. Bibby Smith? Why can't I work on it at home?

Because, dear Student, some parents just LOVE doing projects and oral presentations, and I want to know what YOU can do!

Gr. 7 Science at a Glance for Dec. 3rd to 7th

Grade 7's! You should be working madly in class, trying to finish your professional, scientific posters. If you have forgotten what you are supposed to do, here is the SUCCESS CRITERIA:
Success Criteria for Posters

You will also need next period to create an oral presentation for your ecosystem. This will include the following SUCCESS CRITERIA:
Success Criteria for Oral Presentations

All work needs to be completed in class. If you do not feel you can complete it in the time allotted, please come in during any 2nd Nutrition Break to work on it. Please do not work on it at home.

But, why Mrs. Bibby Smith? Why can't I work on it at home?

Because, dear Student, some parents just LOVE doing posters and oral presentations, and I want to know what YOU can do!

December Newsletter

HO HO HO!

Dear Parents and Students,

As of Monday, I will no longer be teaching the Language Arts' portion of the curriculum. My wonderful colleague, Ms. Baker, will be taking over this class. She comes to JD Hogarth with a plethora of experience and talent. For now, I will be continuing with the Science portion of the curriculum.  Class 7/8A knows Ms. Baker and is excited to have her full time for Language! Welcome, Ms. Baker!!!

Here is the link for Ms. Baker's Blog: http://patricebaker.blogspot.ca/

Grade 7 Science:

We will be finishing our Biology unit on Ecosystems this month, ending with the creation of a Scientific Poster and Oral Presentations. All work is to be done in class. Students will be dismantling their ecosystems and bringing home their 'pets'. Our next unit will be Mixtures and Solutions - a Chemistry Experiment-based unit.

Grade 8 Science:

We will be finishing our Cell Biology unit this month, ending with the creation of either a stop-motion animated film of the Cell Cycle, or, a working model of a system of the body. All work is to be done at school. Our next unit will be a highly-condensed version of the 7's Mixtures and Solutions - to introduce the Scientific Process and Chemistry Experimentation. It will involve a more in depth look at the Periodic Table and elements (preparation for high school!!)

For the next two weeks in December, you will be able to come to the Science Room during second Nutrition Break to work on anything you owe me. NO EXCUSES FOR NOT GETTING ANYTHING IN TO ME. Anyway, it's cold outside and nice and warm in my room!!! Please, come see me if you want to improve your mark/do extra work, ... anything.

Remember, check the blog on Fridays - I will be posting what's coming up for the next week!

Cheers and here's to having a wonderful December.

Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012

Scientists -
Check this out:

capuchin monkeys and fairness

Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2012

Grade 8B:
Well, some of you were prepared for today, and some of you were not. Let this be a warning to other grade 8 students: COME PREPARED!!

Grade 7/8A:
- Please finish your posters at break tomorrow. Well done everyone!
- a few reminders - report cards? College Hts forms? Novel studies? Anyone? Anyone? Anyone?........

Monday, Nov. 26, 2012

Class 7/8A:
- please return your technology use form
- Get your Novel Study Mark Sheet Signed and bring back
- Gr. 8's - please bring in your College Heights form
- Reading 20+ mins

Absolutely fantastic Advisory period today. Despite Ms. Meredith not being able to make it, we had two excellent presentations from McKenzie

and Jessica.
You both had done so much research into your choice fields. Very, very well done, ladies.
Next week: Breanna and Taylor C!! We are looking forward to them both!

Class 7D:
- The clock is ticking! Starting Today or Tomorrow, you need to take 7 consecutive days' worth of observations (excluding weekends of course!)
- If you are doing a Biome in a Box, it is due, in my room, by Wednesday, with the brochure. You will be responsible for presenting to your classmates during next week's science class.

Sunday, Nov. 25, 12 - Sick Science!!

We gotta do this...

strawberry dna

Grade 7 Science at a Glance for Nov 26 to 30

Science at a Glance for the week of: Nov. 26th to Nov. 30th

Grade 7's: (except 7D - see farther below)

This is a HUGE week for you. You will create a Scientific Information Poster for your Ecosystem! This is your final project for this unit. All of the tasks you have learned so far in Science will be applied to this project:
- Drawing a Scientific Diagram with correct, neat labels
- Drawing a Food Chain for your ecosystem
- Using correct Vocabulary for your ecosystem, such as Detrivore, Carnivore, etc.
- Synthesizing the information from your daily observations and drawing conclusions about the success or lack of success of your ecosystem.

I will provide the poster bristol board. You bring: sharpie markers, ruler, your science lab books, and anything else you think will help create your group poster.

During this class you also have to decide how you are going to ORALLY present your information to the class - who will talk about which sections, etc.

Good luck!


7D - you will be given an extra two weeks to continue working on your ecosystems. HOWEVER, use that time to RECORD YOUR OBSERVATIONS and make adjustments to your ecosystem. IF your ecosystem is NOT UP AND RUNNING... COME AND SEE ME!!!!

Grade 8 Science at a Glance for Nov. 26-30

Science at a Glance for the week of: Nov. 26th to Nov. 30th

Grade 8's:

This is a HUGE week for you. You get TWO classes to create your Culminating Task for our Cell Unit. The 3D Cell Project was a warm up. Now it's time for the big league. You are doing either:

A. Create a 'working' organ or system,
or
B. Creating a Stop-Motion Animated movie about Mitosis.

ALL work is done in class. You will have two full 100 minute blocks to complete this task.
Here are a couple of links to get 'inspired':

and

or here:

Parent-Teacher Interviews!

Wow!!! I have just whizzed through a million parent-student-teacher interviews! Here is some fantastic feedback I got from students and parents:

This week in Science

Students who see me once a week for Science:
- Rather than hope all of my students check this blog every day, I am going to set up a post on FRIDAYS that states: Next Week in Science: 
and in that post I will list all of the class assignments that are due, tests, etc. I hope this helps my once/week Science people.

- Some of you really need to participate more. You only do Science 1/week for 100 minutes. If you don't 'perform' during that 100 minutes, it's not like Language, where you might think, "Oh, I get her tomorrow, I'll just finish it then." Nope! So, the message went home loud and clear: WORK IN CLASS. period.

- Nothing is forever. Not happy with your mark? Change it!!! I have a Make Up Science Class once a week. Come. Get help. Redo a test. Catch up on a note. If you are away and missed Science - definitely come and see me! We are lucky in Grade 7/8 in that you can decide that you want to do better, put in the effort and those D's and F's disappear. It's all about persistence and effort.

Students who have me for Language Arts and Science:
- A few of the parents asked me why they aren't seeing more homework coming home. Especially since I said in September that I would be sending homework home regularly. Here is my response to that:

• 1/3 of the students do it immediately and hand it in promptly.

• 1/3 of the students hand it in after I bug them, call home, have them call home, have them write it again in their agendas, give them extensions, do it with them at recess, their parents finally do it, etc.

• 1/3 never do it. It just doesn't happen. I ask, cajole, bug, request, yell and it's just not happening. I said to one student, "Am I ever going to see your Spelling Homework that you owe me?" Her response,"You still want that?!"

By Thanksgiving I was ready to cry. I spoke to other intermediate teachers and they responses varied: from they don't give it - to - fail them!
If 2/3 of my class is doing less work than me on their homework, I truly don't know what to do. I am open to suggestions.

To the parents that came - thank you. For me, it sends a very loud and clear message: you love your kid and you want them to do well. If you wanted to come but these interviews were not at a good time: Please contact me through your child's agenda or call the school and we can set up an interview time that suits you.
Thanks,
lynn

Friday, Nov. 23, 2012 PA Day!!!

Good morning! Or should I say good afternoon? Are you all sleeping in? Well done. Now, if you are bored already, get your parents to sign a note that gives you permission to help me and come and do just that, between the hours of 12:30 and 2. I don't have any interviews at that time and would love some help moving things around, cleaning things up, generally organizing.
Come on. If you're reading this blog chances are you haven't planned much for this aft.
Pls?

Mrs b.

Just some cool thoughts from one of my favourite persons:

1. Follow Your Curiosity “I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.”

2. Perseverance is Priceless “It’s not that I’m so smart; it’s just that I stay with problems longer.”

3. Focus on the Present “Any man who can drive safely while kissing a pretty girl is simply not giving the kiss the attention it deserves.”

4. The Imagination is Powerful “Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions. Imagination is more important than knowledge.”

5. Make Mistakes “A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.”

6. Live in the Moment “I never think of the future – it comes soon enough.”

7. Create Value “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.”

8. Don’t be repetitive “Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.”

9. Knowledge Comes From Experience “Information is not knowledge. The only source of knowledge is experience.”

10. Learn the Rules and Then Play Better “You have to learn the rules of the game. And then you have to play better than anyone else.”

Source: Dumb little man

Thursday, Nov. 22, 2012

Everyone! Tomorrow is a PD day. Please only come if you have an interview with me! And yes, if your parents have booked an interview with me I EXPECT you to accompany them.

Technology in the classroom form signed and brought in.

Report card signed and brought in - pretty please. With sugar on top.

Wednesday, Nov. 21, 12

7/8A: REPORT CARDS. NOW. BRING THEM BACK. I'M READY TO BREATH FIRE...

All classes: if I have given you Technology use forms, please get them signed and put them in the envelope that should be in your room by the blackboard. These forms will allow us to use your own technology for EDUCATIONAL purposes during classes.

Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2012

7/8A:
Please bring back Technology form signed ASAP.

The following people owe me:
Report Card Envelopes:  Cole, Eric
Report Card signed by parent: Trent
Both: Justin, Ethan, Kevin, Alexis, Brooklyn

A HUGE thank you to Mr. Jeff Neale and to Lane for fantastic presentations yesterday in Advisory. Jeff was so interesting. Here are some things he was talking about, so if you want to follow up, you can:
- Jackie  Cochran: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacqueline_Cochran

- the movie, the Right Stuff: IMDB

- Air Cadets 121 Red Arrows Squadron in Guelph: The Red Arrows

- Soaring Club north of Arthur:  Soar

- The Avro Arrow:  Arrow

And a huge thanks to Lane. A marine biologist!! Very, very cool. Thanks for sharing your passion with us!

MOANday, November 19, 2012

Ugh. Did you ever have one of those days? Well, today was one for me!

For those of you who are curious why we have a poster in our room that states: Be a donkey, not a horse, 
it is because a horse looks for a leader in times of trouble. Horses are wonderful pack animals that will follow their leader anywhere. This can be great if you want train or ride. However, donkeys are different. They think for themselves; they do not look for a leader or exhibit 'crowd/group behaviour'. They assess each situation and decide cautiously what is best for them. And, they are not afraid to stand and fight.
In a bullying situation, think like a donkey, not a horse. Don't follow the leader, go with the crowd or run when you see danger. Take a stand. Defend yourself and others. Have you ever seen a flock of sheep in a field and one donkey grazing around with them? That is because farmers know: if there is danger (coyotes, for instance), a donkey will stand and fight for their pasture, protecting their 'right' to be there. They protect their comrades as well - the sheep!
So, in a bullying situation, be a donkey. Don't be a horse.

Class 8B: Sorry that Science period was not very productive. Our efforts will be rewarded, however, as WE GET TO USE OUR TECHNOLOGY NEXT CLASS!!! Mr. Slater said yes to our request for using stop-motion apps to record our MITOSIS videos. Your job is:

1. to take home the technology form I am going to give to you tomorrow, get it signed and bring it back ASAP.
2. bring your iPod, phone, etc.. next class ONLY if you: a. got your paper signed and, b. chose to do the stop motion video for your final cell task.
3. Check out some FREE Stop Motion Apps. There are tons out there. I use NFB pixSTOP for my iPad. See which app looks easiest to use for our purposes.

Class 7/8A:
- PINK DAY TOMORROW!!! THE MOST PINK WILL WIN A PRIZE!!!
- You need to hand in your missing assignments. Tomorrow. By 9:00 AM. You know who you are!!!
- Let's set up an emergency phone tree tomorrow during first break so we can use it in case, well, of emergencies!! Anyone want to take that on???
-  Language: We will be creating our very own Websites tomorrow.

Friday, Nov. 16, 2012

7/8A: Geek Squad tryouts start on Monday! Bring your laptops in if you have one (and even if you find it doesn't work with our wifi Scott - Ms. Preston can fix it I think!)
Do not forget your Report Card please!

Grade 7 Science Classes: You should have at LEAST 5 entries for your ecosystem journals. AND, the Biome in a box is due on Wednesday!

AND REMEMBER: BE A DONKEY, NOT A HORSE!!!

PLEASE REMEMBER!!! I would like to meet with you and your parents for an interview. Please book your appt. online or call me and I will book you in!

Thursday, Nov. 15, 2012

7/8A: Well done on your stories! Some of you are writing novels!! We will share what we have tomorrow and for those of you that need to keep writing... do it! And just make sure to add my name to the people you thank when you publish your first book!

8C Science: We enjoyed the Covenant House Assembly today; however, we need to get those labs in to me. Please hand them in to me ASAP. Thanks.

Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2012

Grade 7/8A:
Progress notes went home today. It would be wonderful if you and your parents could discuss and write your comments on the bottom portion of the second page and send back. We will have an opportunity to discuss the progress note tomorrow, together.

I have gotten away from checking the agendas this week. Please bring it in tomorrow, signed, with your reading recorded.

I look forward to discussing ME to WE day with you, also. It was an incredible day. Maybe Trent and Cole would like to tell you about it!

Spencer West

M n c kielburger

At WE DAY!

Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2012

SORRY! I should have posted earlier (it is my anniversary today - please cut me some slack!)

8D Science-
Here is the note we took today in class:

cell cycle note

7B/C - Science tomorrow! Adjust ecosystems as need be; record observations and prepare to be amazed with a food web WITHOUT HUMANS!

7/8A - I am not here technically tomorrow - I am at ME to WE. Please be nice to your supply.
- Pita forms are due tomorrow!

Good night.

Mrs. B.

Monday, Nov. 12, 12

7/8A:
- Pita forms due Wednesday if you want to order a pita for the 21st.
- Life after People Food Web - we will do it as a class! Not individually; however, keep your individual notes.
- ME to WE day on Wednesday
- Bring headphones to French class tomorrow!
- Read 20 mins x 5nights/week

8C Science:
Your Cell Project was due today. If you have not already handed it in to me, please do so.

November is Anti-Bullying Month! And...

Ms. muir would like us to - "select 2 students from your class who would like to do an anti-bully announcement. Email me their names and I will organize dates and announcements."
Anyone interested? Please let me know!

Tuesday, Nov. 6, 12

7/8 A Language:
Reading! You are reading 5x/week I hope, and recording it.

7/8 A Science:
Let's collaborate our Ecosystem Observation Questions! I will start a Google Document and I would like you to add your questions to the list. Then, if you see a question that you prefer, you can ADD it to your list. I say add, because you want to ask the same questions daily - but you can always give more info!

Classes 7C and 7B Science:
Bring ALL of your specimens tomorrow to Science class. We will start our Observation Journals tomorrow.

November Newsletter!!!!!

oops. I forgot. Here we go!!

- Check out the Google Calendar -  I am hoping to have it updated by tomorrow for important dates. Actually, Trent - you get on that!!

Grade 7 Science:
I am hoping that we will spend November journelling about our Ecosystems and reporting on our Biomes in a Box. Starting December, we will begin our experimental unit, "Solutions and Mixtures", focusing on the Scientific Method.

Grade 8 Science:
Our Cell unit is going very well. We will finish the end of November and join the 7's in the experimental unit, "Solutions and Mixtures", focusing on the Scientific Method. I know it's a grade 7 unit, however, my understanding is you had mostly theory regarding this, so we will continue with mostly hands-on learning, and, we really need to focus on the Scientific Method and the process involved. You will be expected to know this going into grade 9.

Grade 7/8 Language:
We will finish our Narrative study of novels and segue into my absolute favourite type of fiction: the short story. Some people hate short stories; some people love them. I happen to love them and so does Ms. Baker. She will be guiding us through a unit on short stories. If you are excited about exploring this genre, you could check out some of my favourite short story authors:

Mavis Gallant (expat Canadian)
Alice Munro (Canadian)
Shirley Jackson (American)
Dave Beynon (local - Fergus author)
and my all time favourite short story author:
Stephen King (universal!)

Some authors need 400 pages to tell a good story. Some need only 8.

Monday, Nov. 5, 12

Class 7/8A Science:
Thank you for a great walk and a super science class! Sometimes I just have to get out there! I could not imagine a job behind a desk.
You are creating WONDERFUL ecosystems. I saw real research happening today. Well done. Remember, bring in your tablets and laptops to help with research. You can always leave them in my closet and we can lock them up.
HOMEWORK: yes, I said homework. Due next Monday. Please draw a detailed food web for Fergus. Include biotic elements only. Please do it on LEGAL-SIZED paper. You can get a piece in our paper cabinet.

8B Science:
Well done on a kind of boring lab about bacteria. The important lesson to take home is that bacteria is SMALL!! I am heating up yoghurt gently right now - I am going to see if it makes a difference. If you are interested in finding out, come first break and we will have a look through the microscope.

Sunday, Nov. 4, 12

To All my Students:
Your Homework this week: go on UGCloud and change your profile picture from a blank face to YOU! First 20 get a present... send me an email when you've done it.

11/2/12 - Electronics Update

I'm crazy about technology. Some would just say I'm crazy. Whatever the case, the intermediate teachers, Vice Principal Muir and Principal Slater met today. We discussed electronics in the classroom. You know I have been letting you bring your 'gadgets' in to my classroom, because you have been using them responsibly; using them for researching your ecosystems, taking pictures, etc. This cannot continue. Only students who have laptops and tablets, with written permission from their parents/guardians, can bring them in. You do not have permission to bring in your iPods, phones, etc. Sigh... I truly understand where Administration is coming from. There are liability issues, etc. In a perfect world, everyone  would have a Chromebook. Please respect Admin's wishes: no phones or iPods, etc. in class.

We'll get there - hopefully someday soon.

Mrs. Bibby Smith

November 2, 2012

To ALL of my students:
One million bonus points if you download the app: Socrative Student before you come to your next class.

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Class 8C:
Fantastic work today. You are all becoming such good scientists. You do not have homework, other than your Cell Project - due November 12th - OR SOONER : )

Class 7/8 A Language:
The bell rings at 8:50 a.m. I expect that you are at your seat, WORKING, by 9:00 a.m. Tomorrow, if you are finished your novel study assignment, you can play language games, visit the library for a book exchange (we missed today) or read a book for enjoyment.

Happy Hallowe'en!!!

Hallowe'en CHOCOLATE update!!!

ALL OF MY CLASSES:
Do you love pets?  If you do, and would like to help raise money for a great Pet Rescue, called:
Grand River All Breed Animal Rescue

All you have to do is SAVE YOUR CHOCOLATE BAR WRAPPERS AND CHIP BAGS! That's it!!!!!  Throw your chocolate bar wrappers and chip bags (they don't have to be cleaned or flattened) in a plastic bag and when all of your Hallowe'en treats are eaten, bring in your garbage!  One of the volunteers from GRAB is collecting them for a fundraiser. She said: WRAPPERS = CASH!!!

So, please bring me those wrappers and bags!!!

Thanks.

Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2012

Class 7C and 7B:
Ecosystems tomorrow! Please come prepared.

Class 7/8A:
Mr. Lindsay has asked me to remind you that you have a Math test on Thursday. He shared a link with you (on UGCloud) to help you practice. Good luck!

Class 7/8A:
Tomorrow is Halloween. If you decide to wear a costume, please make sure it is comfortable and appropriate. If you would like to bring in treats, please share them at 2nd Break. You can stay in both parts of the break to enjoy them!

Monday Night... at the Bibby Smith house...

I promise you, this is NOT how I mark. But it makes me laugh...

Mrs. B.
Mr. D and marking.

Monday, October 29, 2012

7/8 A Language:
You are doing well! You get two more full periods to work on your narrative novel assignment. I expect the work to be done in class, unless you have spoken to me previously.

Grade 8B and 8FI:
Cell projects are due on this Wednesday - whether you have science or not! Please hand the projects to me in my room.



All Classes - sorry, I haven't finished blogging about the Conference I attended :( I'm now working on report cards!!!

Saturday, October 27,2012

Dear Students,
Sorry, I didn't finish reporting on my workshops. I was too busy attending them. I am back from my conference and, after I catch up with my family, I will let you know what other cool things I did and saw.

7/8 A Language Class:
Please bring your laptops and iPods (and any device that can take a picture) for language on Monday.

All Grade 7 Science Classes:
I will be giving a retest on Roles in an Ecosystem during second break. Please bring your first test with you, signed.

Friday, Oct. 26th - Novel Study

7/8A: Language
Mr. Harrison (Scott) asked for the Novel Study information and I thought that others might be trying to remember what to work on. I did send the first half of the requirements to your UGCloud account; however, I will post it below as well:

Novel Study

1. A paragraph explaining why I chose this book. Remember to include things like: the cover of the book, the back paragraph; any pictures that might be in the book; the author (you might have read something from this author before); a friend’s recommendation, etc.

2. 3 summary paragraphs of first three chapters.  Make sure to include only what is IMPORTANT, not just a list of what happens.

3. 3 APE Questions and answers from first three chapters. Remember when you are answering: ANSWER, PROVE (with page number) and EXTEND your answer. (Level 3 or 4 Questions and answers—deep thinking!)

4. COPY 1 sentence, with page reference from Chapter 4, of an apostrophe used as a possessive.

5. COPY 1 sentence, with page reference from Chapter 4, of an apostrophe used as a contraction.

6. 1 sentence, with page reference from Chapter 4, broken down—showing what part of speech each word is. Please pick a GOOD sentence. You can show the parts of speech as a chart, or colour-coded, etc. The parts of speech include: NOUN, VERB, PRONOUN, CONJUNCTION, ADVERB, ADJECTIVE, INTERJECTION and PREPOSITION.

7. Chapter 5: Predict NOW (using 3—6 sentences) how the book will end. Make sure to include character’s names and what you think will happen to each of them. If you have read the whole book, you have to think, as of chapter 5, how would I think each character would react and therefore, how it would end?

8. Draw a picture, on blank paper, of your favourite character, wearing clothes that help describe who they are. Label  the picture if you can, showing items from the story. For instance, do they have something they use, hold on to? Are they are farmer? A poor person? Make sure I can tell from the picture. If you don’t want to draw, take a picture of someone dressed/resembling them, or cut a picture out of magazine.

The other 'half' includes:

- 3 paragraphs (4-6 sentences long) for beginning, middle and end of your novel

- a plot roller coaster, noting 'highlights' (when the roller coaster goes higher) and the climax noted, with page numbers.

- final project: don't do that at home - you will have class time to do it.

Science and Technology Workshop

This workshop focused on different tools that might be handy in a science classroom. The SmartBoard, of course, was lauded. AND, I have to apologize 7/8A - I have had a change of heart! Why can't it be a TOY, and not just a tool?!?!? That's how we learn! PLAYING!!! SO PLAY AWAY! Just don't break the SmartBoard. They are crazy expensive and I will get into trouble...

On my tech wish list:

• a SmartBoard Camera Document. They are about 800 bucks but they are SO COOL!!!

coolest camera - it comes with a cube that can make things 3D!!!! Check it out!!!!

• Smart Exchange Notebook website - with very cool teaching tools to demonstrate information in an engaging way. In other words, STOP YOU FROM BEING BORED!!! (free - just time to learn, sort, and prepare lessons...)
• Moodle APP - your next quiz could be on MOODLE! Cool way to test your knowledge; it marks itself and you get immediate feedback, which is what every student wants, right? And, frankly, I LOVE to plan and prepare lessons, but HATE marking. This does the marking if I have planned and prepared info for you! Win-Win situation! I think you can get a MOODLE APP on your iPod. Check it out and let me know if you can.

PHEW! Off to next session!

Thursday, Oct. 25, 2012

Conference Update!! 
Hello Students! Wow! I'm a little overwhelmed with all of the fantastic information I've learned today. Honestly, I need time to process all of the wonderful ideas that have been presented.

First, we had an incredible keynote speaker: John Seely Brown. He spoke to us about the importance of the teacher as a cultivator of imagination. He said that the 'half-life' of a skill is now approximately 5 years. If you want an explanation on half-life, ask a parent, or check out:  wikipedia - Half-life

That means whatever skill I teach, that skill has a chance of being obsolete in five or so years. So what do I teach? Dr. Seely Brown asked,
"Are we willing to re-invent learning for an era of constant change?"

Well, how I'm going to do that will be a learning process, and I hope you are ready to join me down that road! There is space for your passions or interests, your friends, and academics (school learning!):

Why are peers important? Social networking is important!! We are social animals! Why am I at a conference in Richmond Hill? I could have just read things on the internet. Because there is value in face-to-face interactions. The problem is, for so long in classrooms, students and teachers alike see learning as occurring only when we are being quite, and working independently. We know this isn't always true. However, we also know that sometimes, when we work with our friends/peers, we can not be focused or productive. How do we solve that?!

Off to the next workshop!

Afternoon workshop: Google Apps!

In this workshop, Mme Ghazarian and I are learning about the UG Cloud and all of the wonders of Google Apps.

I have created a website, talking about a movie that I am excited to see! Here it is:

Mrs. B's new website about the upcoming movie: Les Mis!

Lunch with Mme Ghazarian!!

Well, what a fun lunch! I taught Mme  Ghazarian how to use PixStop! Here is her first feature film!!!

Animation workshop

I'm learning about wonderful software for stop motion animation and interactive media!
How would I use this in the classroom?
- Digital storytelling
- stop motion procedure
- story board making
- media literacy
- integration of art and technology...

Sorry my hand shows up sometimes! This takes patience and practice!

Mrs. B.

Wednesday,Oct. 24, 2012

Hello Students!
I am not at school for the next three days, because I am at an ECOO Conference! (That's Educational Computing Organization of Ontario). You can check out their website at:
ECCO

My conference is at:
Conference 2012

This morning I am learning how to access National Film Board of Canada's content to use as a teaching tool in the intermediate classroom. Beside their fabulous documentaries, there are very cool interactives - documentaries/films that you can interact with - it's a fusion of film and website!  Check one out here:

HIGHRISE explores vertical living in the global suburbs. It's an Emmy-winning, multi-year, many-media, collaborative documentary experiment at the National Film Board of Canada.

Okay! My break is over! I'll log in soon!

Mrs. Bibby Smith

Monday, Oct. 22, 2012

Class 7C and 7B Science:
Build your Model Ecosystem tomorrow during class!

Class 7/8 A:
- please remember all of your forms.
- Language - There will be no spelling this week or next. I know you are overloaded with assignments. Talk to me if it gets too much.

Friday, October 19, part two...

From your Art Teacher:

Could you please remind your class to bring in the following items for art on Monday:

- cardboard for the base (if they haven't already)
- shoebox for storage of pieces
- materials for diorama (fabric, beads, string, etc...

Thanks for helping me out with this!

Alison

Friday, October 19, 2012

Class 7/8A:
- Brooklyn - please bring in your BLUE trip form!!!
- Grade 8 girls: HPV forms in.
- Grade 7's: 2 vaccination forms in.
- Grade 8's: Blue trip form that was stapled into your agenda - returned please!
- Language Update (the long piece of paper that was attached to the long, white file folder) - stapled into your agenda and signed please!

Grade 7/8A Language:
- If you have finished up to chapter 5 and answered to novel study questions that I have given to you - you have no homework. If not, please finish and give to me on Monday.

Have a great weekend!

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Class 7/8A Language:
We will work on our novel studies in the morning. If you are finished the work I requested, then it's Language Games time!

Class 7/8A Science:
Please decide if you are doing a "Biome in a Box" (like a diorama of a Biome) OR a model ecosystem. If it is the latter, and you can bring in a large, clear plastic box or a fish tank (10 gallons+) that would be fantastic.

Class 7/8A Advisory:
A HUGE thank you to Mr. Dave Beynon for coming in today and speaking to us about being an author! Wow! He is an inspiration for all of us to pursue your dreams!
A big thank you also to Abby, Cole and Jimmy for their great presentations to the class. They were wonderfully done. Abby, you aren't going to be a sculptor, you ARE a sculptor. Jimmy, you love math and need to figure out the best way to make it your living (like work for NASA maybe?!?!) even though you would make a great doctor, too. Cole, I will look forward to hearing my husband yelling, "GO NEWTON!! Pass it up the side!!!!" when he is sitting in front of the TV, watching an NBA game in a few years! (If I give you an A, will you give him tickets to a game sometime?!?)
Next week, we will be inspired by Lane and ... any volunteers??

Happy Thursday,

Mrs. B.

Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2012

Class 7/8A:
Picture Day for those who missed it and class photo for tomorrow!! We had a discussion in class today and decided we would all wear RED AND/OR WHITE shirts!!! Just for fun!

Advisory Period tomorrow! We have Dave Beynon, local author, coming to talk to us about how he followed his passion. Also, we have Abby, Jimmy and Cole are telling us about their passions!!

Science 7D:
GET READY TO MAKE YOUR MINI ECOSYSTEMS!!!

Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2012

7/8A:
- BLUE trip forms in for gr. 8's: River Run Centre Career Day OR Soccer Tournament!
- PHOTO DAY TOMORROW! (And Class Pictures the next day!)
- Don't forget you are to be reading 5x/week and recording it in your agenda.
- HEY CLASS - MR. NEWTON JUST REMINDED ME TO TELL YOU THAT YOU HAVE A GEOGRAPHY TEST ON FRIDAY!!! Study, study, study! (No, you do not have Geography on Friday, but you are still having a test that day!!)

"But, as on the race track, the reasons why matter less than the facts at hand."

Monday, Oct. 15, 2012

7/8A
PLEASE RETURN YOUR CAREER DAY BLUE TRIP FORM TOMORROW!!!

7/8A Language Arts:
Spelling was due today. Please make sure it is in to me.

Science 7C and 7B:
Science test tomorrow! Good luck!

Friday, October 12, 2012

8FI Science:
You have a Cell test on Monday! See you then!

7/8A Language:
Your spelling is due on Monday.
Last chance for apostrophe photos - see Oct. 3rd post for info.


Have a great weekend!

PARENTS...STOP DOING YOUR KIDS' HOMEWORK!!

Please, please don't do your child's homework. I would rather they not do it then have you do it for them! THEY TELL ME!!! They say, "Oh, my Poppa did this for me.", or, "My mom did it. I had Lacrosse." !!!??? Is there too much homework coming home? Please let me know if this is the problem. Write in your child's agenda what you think is an appropriate amount of homework for your child. It can be adjusted!
Thank you for your cooperation.

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Class 8B Science:
You have a Cell test tomorrow. Please bring a reading book, so that if you finish early, you can read quietly while other people work.

7/8A: Language
1.  Please make sure your apostrophe photos are in - either to my UGCloud account or on a jump drive or printed out.
2. Please make sure your Media Literacy assignment is handed in by tomorrow.

7/8A: Advisory
Thank you so much to Kevin, Eric and Makenna for absolutely fantastic presentations today. Very, very well done. What came across the most is how each of you have found something that you love doing - with Kevin - it's paleontology; with Eric - it's drawing; and, with Makenna - it's animals. Fantastic. And a huge thank you to Mrs. Mathewson, for coming in and talking to us about the animal rescue that your whole family, including Makenna, donate countless hours volunteering for. That rescue is called, Grand River All Breed Rescue, or GRAB Rescue. Here is there website:

G.R.A.B. Rescue

Next week, we will be excited to listen to Abby and Jimmy present for us. Also, we will be having a special guest, Mr. Dave Beynon, published author and local resident. He will be speaking to us about being an author!

7/8A: Science:
You have a test tomorrow! You can have a cheat sheet that is 3"x5" (roughly 8x13 cm). IT BETTER NOT BE BIGGER  - because I will CUT it smaller if it is!!!

Biotic vs. Abiotic...hmmm!

Remember our discussion as to whether or not a 'table' could be considered biotic, because it was made out of wood, which is biotic.   Well, here is the answer to that!!!

Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2012

Class 7/8A:
Good morning! I have been back on the Cloud and returned your documents with comments. I apologize that it has taken me this long - there were technical difficulties. Please have a look at my comments and speak to me in class if you have any questions. Also, just FYI - I dont have an apostrophe key on my keyboard at home, so if you notice I am missing any apostrophes - I am sorry!!! LOL!
Mrs. B.

7/8 A Language Arts:
Your apostrophe assignment (5 - 10 photos of apostrophes - either on the Cloud or printed out) is due tomorrow.

Class 7D:
You have a science test tomorrow. Bring your cheat sheet. It can be a piece of paper that is 3 inches by 5 inches (sorry that it is not in metric). No computers needed at this time. Good luck!

Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2012

Class 7/8A:
Language - please finish your Media Literacy handout, front and back.

Class 7B/7C:
Science - you will have a test on Tuesday, October 16th. You can do your test orally if you wish before the test time. Please book at time with me (see schedule outside of my door). The test is on the Roles of Organisms in an Ecosystem AND the Organization of Life (organism - population - community - ecosystem - biome - biosphere). ANY questions, come and see me at ANY break.

Class 8C:
I will see you tomorrow for Science. You do NOT have a test. I did not want you to have to study over the long weekend, so your test will be a week behind everyone else's. (You are welcome!!)

Science: Just something fun!

Make your own SmartBoard!




The original photo bomb!

Thursday, Oct. 4th: GRADE 8 SCIENCE TESTS!

 Science Test:  It will be on the organelles and their functions. Also, you need to know the procedure of how to use a microscope.  COME BY ANY BREAK I AM THERE (and I'm there almost every single break) to study, play Organelle Concentration or receive help on anything you don't understand. Also, if you want to take the test orally, you need to set up an appointment - because it will take some time. Again, please come see me.

Dates: 
Class 8B:  FRIDAY, OCTOBER 12th.

Class 8FI: MONDAY, OCTOBER 15th.

Class 8C:  WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17th.

Thursday, October 4, 2012

If you have 3 minutes, students, grab your parents and your siblings and watch this, please. Stand up against bullies!


News anchor addresses bully on TV


Grade 7/8A
SCIENCE:
- Please hand in milkweed weed diagram or game instructions by Friday. If you don't understand what to do, please stop by at any break and ask.
- You will have a test on the Different Roles in an Ecosystem and The Organization of Life next Friday, October 12th.  If you have any questions at all, stop by to make sure you understand. If you would like to study together, come to the next Science make up class WITH YOUR CHEAT SHEET (3"x5" card - both sides) and we can study together!  Yes, you can make a cheat sheet.

- Draw a scientific diagram (labelled, notes/observations, coloured!!) of a PINEAPPLE WEED - due next Friday. Sorry about the confusion!


Grade 7/8 A
Language:
Be ready to go outside tomorrow a.m.
Contract people - your contracts are due tomorrow please.

Wed. Oct. 3 - part deux...

Class 7/8A:

Parents - do you know how SPECIAL your children are?!?!? I asked them to send me a letter/short story/document today, practising using UGCloud. They have made me laugh and cry! You are all amazing!!! I'm writing back to you now. Thank you!

Mrs. B.


Education and Technology

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Class 7FI:
- Please hand in all weed diagrams or game instructions by Friday. If you don't understand what to do, please stop by at any break and ask.
- You will have a test on the Different Roles in an Ecosystem and The Organization of Life next THURSDAY, OCT. 11th.  If you have any questions at all, stop by to make sure you understand. If you would like to study together, come to the next Science make up class WITH YOUR CHEAT SHEET (3"x5" card - both sides) and we can study together!

- the next Science make up class is: Wednesday, October 10th, 2nd break.

Class 7/8 A:
Language Arts:  Assignment due next Thursday, October 11th.   You have a choice of either:

1.    Take 5 to ten pictures (digital - with a digital camera or iPod, etc) of any signs, posters, advertisements, etc. that have an APOSTROPHE in it!! Then, upload them to the UGCloud and email them to me!!

Or

2. If you are not on UGCloud,  take  5 to ten pictures (digital - with a digital camera or iPod, etc) of any signs, posters, advertisements, etc. that have an APOSTROPHE in it!! Then, print them out and bring them to class.

If you do not have a digital camera or an iPod, please let me know. I might be able to ask around and lend you one.  This assignment looks at two things: the use of apostrophes, and also media literacy!

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

I'm sorry I'm posting this so late!! DOES ANYONE ELSE NEED A THREE DAY WEEKEND!?

Grade 8's:
You have a science make up test tomorrow. It will be at 2nd break, both halves. You need to bring your first test back signed please!

Class 7/8A:
Nothing!

Monday, October 1, 2012

Class 7B and Class 7C:
Great job at the predator/prey game today! Your homework is either:

A. Draw a detailed drawing of a milkweed plant. Make sure to LABEL all parts, including a seed pod. DON'T PICK ONE. The monarchs need them. Please just let them be.

OR

B. Write out Instructions for today's game!  Make sure to include:

1. A Title for our game (be creative!)
2. The roles of Carnivore, Omnivore and Herbivore - what they do and what they need to get (was 6 water too many? how many food for each?) 
3. Hiding the food and water stations
4. Add in Disease and Natural Disaster as a factor (and maybe scavengers?!?)
5. Any other rules that would make it fun and exciting that we didn't think of (like solving the problem of the carnivore - what happens to them?)

SUBMIT TO MRS. BIBBY SMITH BY FRIDAY. THE BEST ONE FROM EACH GRADE 7 CLASS WILL GET A LARGE CHOCOLATE BAR OR A LARGE BAG OF CHIPS - THEIR CHOICE...! (no prize for milkweed homework  - your choice.)


Class 7/8 A Homework:
- Take home Lamontagne package and show parents. Due back October 15th.
- Spelling Homework: new list given out today! Due October 15th.

OCTOBER NEWS:
Gr. 7 (and 7/8) Science:
- The Grade 7 classes (and my grade 7/8A class) will continue on with Interactions in the Environment. We will build our own mini-ecosystems as we explore what ecosystems need to be sustainable. We will also be looking at our impact on our local environment.

Grade 8 Science:
- Cell work continues! Students are learning to operate a microscope. They are also learning how to do some cool things like prepare a slide and irrigate a sample! We will be continuing to look at cells and their components for the rest of this month, as well as move into organs and tissues.

Grade 7/8 Language Arts:
- Our work on grammar will continue as well as focusing in on certain conventions, such as apostrophes. Our individual novel studies will take up the bulk of our time, and most of our writing will be related to our novel studies. The novel study work is expected to be done in class - not at home. I am encouraging students to leave their novel study books at school. We will begin to look at media literacy and how it impacts our lives.

Grade 7/8 Advisory Class:
- We are talking about our passions and how they might be translated into a job! If students aren't sure what they want to be when they grow up - no problem! But we are hoping to be able to answer questions about how we like to spend our time and finding out what is our 'element'! I am hoping to have guest speakers come in and discuss their passions and careers.

Any questions? Please don't hesitate to call.