St. Mary Catholic School Middle School Curriculum Update—Feb 3, 2023
Fractions, Fractions, Fractions.
Specifically fifth/sixth graders have worked on estimating fractions, adding and subtracting fractions with like and unlike denominators and learning to change mixed with like and unlike denominators and learning to change mixed numbers to improper fractions. By doing this, students are able to use cross canceling to help them to multiply and divide fractions as well. Once they conclude this chapter, they will be moving starting a unit on Geometry.
Speaking of fractions, the seventh graders recently finished their unit on fractions and took their chapter test. The learning targets for this unit included: estimating fractions as well adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and mixed numbers. Lots of attention was placed on remembering to simplify fractions and to change improper fractions backed to mixed numbers. We too are just starting our study of geometry and are currently learning about angle types, classifying triangles based on their angles and sides, classifying quadrilaterals, etc.
The challenges of working with ratios and percentages has been the focus for the students in Grade 8. In particular understanding the percent equation, how to negotiate changes in percentages, calculating selling prices based on markup percentages, etc. They have also been working on calculating simple interest on savings and on loans. The kids have a real interest in finance and have enjoyed using the banzai.org site to further explore how to best manage money.
One of the favorite units to teach students in middle school English/Language Arts Curriculum is the novel studies unit. We know that powerful learning—academic, social, and personal—that can happen when a community of students experiences the world of a novel together.
For students in grades 5/6 – we have begun our novel study by reading Holes by Louis Sachar. Throughout the book, students will be looking at internal and external conflict, and theme. Students will also be introduced to citing the text to support their answers.
In seventh grade we are diving into The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. This novel is a popular coming-of-age novel among middle schoolers as it deals with themes of acceptance and belonging. Students will be working with plot development, perspective and will continue to focus on using text evidence to support analysis.
Finally, in grade eight we are beginning to read the novel Monster by Walter Dean Meyers. This novel focuses on the concept of personal identity, namely the question ‘who has the power to tell you who you are?’ Students will be journaling in order to help make text-to-self connections and help reinforce the themes presented in the novel. We will engage in persuasive writing, and also explore the setting and its influence on the text.
Progress Reports
Please make sure that ask your child for the Second Trimester Progress Report that given to your child today. The progress report indicates what your child’s grade is at this time and any missing work that needs to be done before the end of the Trimester on Thursday, February 23, 2023. Please consult Mr. Buckman, Mr. Mitchell or Mrs. Frederickson if you questions or comments about the progress report or if you need to schedule time before/after school for additional help/assistance. Next week we will create another edition of this update an include information from Science, Social Studies and Art, Music and PE. Thank you.
