Ms. Koplin: Team 6-3

Important Information

Students will have a test over our Metric System Unit on Friday, September 9. We will review in class on Thursday! You NEED TO STUDY Lessons 3.2, 4.7, and 4.8.
All students should have a binder with dividers strictly for math. We organized our binders in class on two weeks ago. If you do not have a binder, you must see me. You need to bring this binder to class EVERYDAY.

Monday, September 5

No School: Labor Day!

Homework: NONE

Tuesday, September 6

Lesson 4.7 Continued (Finish/Review PP pages 3-4)

Begin Lesson 4.8

Homework: Practice Packet Page 5. Study for the Metric System Test.

Wednesday, September 7

Lesson 4.8

Homework: Practice Packet Page 6 (# 1 and 6-16). Study for the Metric System Test.

Thursday: September 8

Review for Metric System Test

Homework: STUDY for the Metric System Test- tomorrow!

Friday, September 9
Metric System Test

Homework: Have a WONDERFUL weekend!

Reading/LA Syllabus: Week of September 5

2011-09-02T15:55:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Reading/LA Syllabus

Week of September 5, 2011

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Important Information:

· Remember the syllabus is posted on my blog each week.

· You will have a reading test on Wednesday, September 14. The test will cover the Reading Strategies and Elements of Plots.

· Mark your calendars! Curriculum Night is Wednesday, September 14, at 6:45 P.M. Please remember that curriculum night is for parents only; students are asked not to attend.

Monday, September 5
No School: Labor Day

Homework: Simile Practice Sheet is due tomorrow.

Tuesday, September 6 (LANGUAGE ARTS)

Simile Practice Sheet due

Metaphor Notes, Practice, and Play

Homework: Metaphor Practice Sheet- due on Friday

Wednesday, September 7

Media Center Orientation

Homework: None

Thursday: September 8 (READING)

Plot Coaster Notes and Review

Elements of Plot: Team Story “After Hours”

Homework: Study for your test on Reading Strategies and Elements of Plot.

Friday, September 9 (LANGUAGE ARTS)

Metaphor Practice Sheet due

Personification Notes

Identify Personification within Metaphor Play

Practice Personification

Homework: Have a fabulous weekend!!! Personification Practice Sheet- due on Tuesday 9/13.

PICTURE DAY IS ON MONDAY SEPTEMBER 12, 2011

Reading/LA Syllabus: Week of August 29

2011-08-29T11:28:00.002-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Reading/LA Syllabus

Week of August 29, 2011

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Important Information:

· This is the only week students will get a paper copy of the syllabus. In an effort to be green, Team 6-3 will post all syllabi online each week rather than making copies. If you do not have internet access and will need a copy of the syllabus please let us know.

· The typed final copy of Vital Statistics must be in proper format and is due on Tuesday, 9/30.

· Students need to have a pleasure books with them in class every day. On Friday I will check that you have your book and give you points for being prepared.

· Mark your calendars! Curriculum Night is Wednesday, September 14, at 6:45 P.M.

· Friday, September 2 is the First Friday of the month so it will be a Julian Spirit Day. Please wear your Julian Gear or Red & White.

Monday, August 29 (READING)
Review the Syllabus

Vital Statistics Q & A

Review Reading Strategies

Read Priscilla and the Wimps while using active reading strategies

Homework: GET SYLLABUS SIGNED! Your FINAL typed Vital Statistics is due TOMORROW.

Tuesday, August 30 (LANGUAGE ARTS)

Collect Typed Final Copy of V.S.

Correct/Review Grammar Pre-Test

Sample Writing Piece

Simile Notes and Activities

Homework: Simile Practice Sheet (be creativeJ)- due on Tuesday 9/6

Wednesday, August 31
No Reading/LA due to MAP Testing

Homework: None

Thursday: September 1
No Reading/LA due to MAP Testing

Homework: Be sure to have your pleasure book in class with you tomorrow.

Friday, September 2 (READING) SPIRIT DAY!

Pleasure Book Check and Silent Reading Time

Team Lesson: Plot Coaster

Homework: Have a fabulous Labor Day weekend! Be sure to finish writing your Simile Practice Sheet; they are due on Tuesday 9/6.

Math Syllabus: Week of August 29

2011-08-29T11:27:00.000-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Math Syllabus

Week of August 29, 2011

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Important Information

A weekly math syllabus will be displayed in the classroom at the beginning of each week for students to write down their weekly HW. Students are receiving a paper copy this week but will need to be access the syllabus on my blog all future weeks in order to save on paper waste.
All students should have a binder with dividers strictly for math. We organized our binders in class on Friday. If you do not have a binder, you must see me. You need to bring this binder to class EVERYDAY.
Students will be taking the end of the year course one test so I can be sure they were placed in the proper math level.

Monday, August 29
Course 1 Pre-Test

Homework: Show your parents your Math Syllabus! Go over the letter about the math text book with your parents and have them sign it (due Wednesday)

Tuesday, August 30
Course 1 Pre-Test

Homework: None

Wednesday, August 31

Assign Math Books and Review Online Text

Math Text Book Scavenger Hunt

Homework: Finish Math Text Book Scavenger Hunt

Thursday: September 1
Begin The Metric System Unit and receive Practice Packets

Lesson 3.2

Homework: Practice Packet Pages 1-2

Friday, September 2
Lesson 4.7

Homework: Have a WONDERFUL three-day weekend!

Math HW: Online Text Book

2011-08-29T11:25:00.002-05:00

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I would like to offer an opportunity that will help make your child’s book bag a great deal lighter and afford me the chance to have a classroom set of textbooks that would stay permanently in my classroom. Please allow your child to use the Online McDougal Littell Textbook instead of being assigned a hardcover textbook. Note that the Online Book contains all the same material that is in our hardcover textbook. I will show your child how to log onto the online book on Wednesday, as well as, explore all the features this website offers. I will also send your child home with a letter detailing all the features offered online at www.classzone.com. If you have a computer in good working order with a reliable Internet connection, this opportunity may be just what the doctored ordered! Students who opt not to take this option will still be assigned a textbook. This plan to have a complete set of classroom textbooks is contingent upon about 30 students agreeing to use the Online Textbook instead of a hardcover textbook at home. Please discuss this plan with your child, complete the form, and sign it below. I plan to give out textbooks this week; therefore, this form is due no later than Wednesday, August 31.

Thank you,

Linda Koplin

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Webpage: http://op97-koplin.blogspot.com

------------------------------------Please cut and return this form to Ms. Koplin----------------------------------------------

Student name____________________________________________ Math Period ________

Please check one of the following:

______ Yes. I would like my child to use the online textbook at home.

______ I prefer a textbook to be assigned to my child.

Parent signature ______________________________________ Date______________

Comments:

Welcome to Team 6-3!!!

2011-07-24T19:32:00.002-05:00

Thank you for visiting my blog. Just for fun be sure to take my survey on the left. Please read the following important information carefully.

My preferred method of communication is email; I check it frequently and will be able to get back to you quickly. My email address is lkoplin@op97.org.
By the first day of school you should know how to use a combination lock. We want you to be able to get your things from your lockers once you put them in it.
Bring your supplies to school the first day and every day thereafter.
On the first day of school you need to remember to bring a copy of your schedule and know who your advisory teacher is. All the advisory teachers will be standing in the hallway as you enter the school with signs to help you find us!
We have many special advisory activities planned for our first week of school involving our Positive Behavior Intervention Systems (PBIS) Program.
Julian Middle School looks like such a big school, but it really isn't. We have our SUPER SECOND FLOOR B-WING which you will spend at least five periods a day in... It is like our very own school within a school! Also, the teachers will be in the hallways to help you find your classes for the first weeks of school. So don't worry.
Starting the week of August 29th you will receive a syllabus from all your core teachers. You will receive a paper copy of your syllabus the first week, but Team 6-3 is GREEN so we will not give you a paper copy again. You will need to view the syllabi on our blogs that are posted every week; I usually have mine posted the Friday before the week starts so you can view it over the weekend to get yourself organized!
My blog even has a link to Ms. Galant's blog, Ms. Brown's blog, and Ms. Priebe's blog!
We really want you to have a successful academic year at Julian Middle School therefore checking our blogs will really help you to make sure your homework is done every day, turned in on time, and that you've completed the correct assignments.

I can't wait to meet you. We are going to have a FANTASTIC YEAR!!!

Team 6-3 Supply List: 2011-2012

2011-07-24T19:01:00.001-05:00

1.5 Inch 3 Ring Binder (For Math and LA) .......................................2 Binders

8 Subject Dividers (For Math) ..............................................................1 Package

5 Subject Dividers (For LA) ...................................................................1 Package

1 Subject Spiral Notebooks (Different Colors) ..................................3 to start

Pocket Folders with 3 holes for binder ..............................................2 to start

Post-it Notes .............................................................................................1 Package

Antibacterial Wipes ................................................................................1 Container

Large Glue Sticks ....................................................................................2 Sticks

USB Drive ..................................................................................................512MB or larger

#2 Pencils (Mechanical Preferred) ......................................................1 dozen

Zippered Pencil bag with 3 holes for binder ....................................2

Individual Pencil Sharpener ..................................................................1

Ball Point Pens (Blue or Black- no fashion colors) .........................1 dozen

Washable Colored Markers (no permanent) ...................................1 package

Colored Pencils ..........................................................................................1 package

Highlighters (different colors) ...............................................................3

3x5 lined index cards ..............................................................................100 count

Metric and English Measure Ruler ......................................................1

Protractor...................................................................................................1

TI-30XIIS Scientific Calculator ..............................................................1

Loose Leaf Paper-Wide Ruled ...........................................................3 packages

Kleenex ......................................................................................................3 boxes (for advisory)

Paper Towels ............................................................................................1 role

*** Organization Tip: Please do not label supplies before school starts. This will be done as a team the first week of school. ***

Additional Notes

Permanent Markers are NOT ALLOWED.
Supplies may need to be replaced throughout the year.
Some teachers may require additional supplies.
When purchasing backpacks, keep in mind that the lockers are 11" deep and 10" wide, therefore rolling backpacks will not fit.
Please keep additional supplies at home to conserve locker space

1st Period Pre-Algebra Syllabus: Week of May 23

2011-05-20T12:35:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Pre-Algebra Syllabus

Week of May 23, 2011

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Review Lesson 2.4 Text Practice

Monday, May 23

Practice Packet Page 20

Homework: Practice Packet Page 16

Tuesday, May 24

Lesson 2.5

Homework: Practice Packet Page 21 Even #s

Wednesday, May 25

Lesson 2.6

Homework: PP page 22

Thursday, May 26

Lesson 2.7

Homework: PP page 23 Even #s

Friday, May 27

Media Center Computers: Online Chapter 2 Review

Homework: Have an awesome Memorial Day weekend!!! STUDY for your Chapter 2 Algebra Test on Tuesday. Use pages 24-25 in your packet to help you prepare. If you want to check out a book and do the Chapter 2 practice test over the weekend, please let me know- I can also give you a key for it to check your work.

2nd/3rd Period Math Syllabus: Week of May 23

2011-05-20T12:28:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Math Syllabus

Week of May 23, 2011

Choice vs. Chance Activity

Please note our team does not accept any late work during the 3^rd trimester. It is very important to stay organized and get all of your work in on time to do well.

Homework: Must finish pages 5-6 in PP. Standardized Practice: Chapter 1

Wednesday, May 25

Finish Choice vs. Chance Activity (PP page 7)

Homework: Standardized Practice: Chapter 3

Thursday, May 26

Finish and Review Choice vs. Chance Activity

Analysis of Activity.

Homework: Finish analysis of Choice vs. Chance if necessary. Standardized Practice: Chapter 4

Friday, May 27

Media Center Computers: Year in Review

Reading/LA Syllabus: Week of May 23

2011-05-20T10:48:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Reading/ LA Syllabus

Week of May 23, 2011

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Website: http://op97-koplin.blogspot.com/

Important Information:

Our final Team 6-3 PBIS Reward Day is going to be on Friday, May 27^th during 8^th and 9^th period. Students will sign up for an outdoor activity and it will "cost" 15 Bee Tickets to participate.
Remember the end of the year field trip is on Wednesday 6/1.
I need Yearbook Signing Rules signed by all students and parents no later than Thursday, June 3.
Lit Circles: All groups meet on Tuesdays during 8^th period however Code Talker will meet on Fridays during 9^th period. In order to participate in the weekly meeting you must have your Packet 100% COMPLETE and have the novel in class with you.

Monday, May 23

Vocabra Word Story: Topic is Team 6-3

Lit Circles Work Time

Homework: Be ready for Lit Circle Meeting #3 tomorrow. Remember you need to have your packet 100% complete and your novel in class to participate in your group meeting.

Tuesday, May 24

8^th Period: Lit Circle Meeting #3

Lit Circle Work Time

Vocabra: Comic Strip Captions

Homework: Vocabra Sheet: Make Believe…

Wednesday, May 25

Spelling Race

Lit Circle Work Time

Classroom Jobs

Homework: STUDY for your Vocabra Tests- they are tomorrow.

Thursday, May 26

LAST Vocabra TESTS (List 15)

Media Center 9^th Period: Return Books and Work on Lit Circles

Homework: Work on Lit Circles. Code Talker- remember you are having your last Lit Circle during 1^st period tomorrow. Be sure to check with your first period teacher to find out what you will miss.

Friday, May 27

Code Talker- Last Lit Circle During 1^st Period

Team 6-3 PBIS Reward Day

Homework: Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!!! Finish your Lit Circles- remember your last meeting is on Tuesday! Come in with your book and packet 100% complete.

1st Period Pre-Algebra Syllabus: Week of May 16

2011-05-13T13:13:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Pre-Algebra Syllabus

Week of May 16, 2011

Review Lesson 2.1 Peer Notes

Monday, May 16

Lesson 2.2

Homework: Practice Packet Page 16

Tuesday, May 17

Real World Lesson 2.2: PP Page 17

Lesson 2.3 Exploration: PP Page 18 (Explore 1 and 2)

Cut Algebra Tiles

Homework: Practice Packet Page 18 #s 1-11. You will take home a set of Algebra Tiles to complete this- I need you to return them the next day, so please take care of themJ

Wednesday, May 18

Lesson 2.3 Notes

Homework: PP page 19

Thursday, May 19 (Shortened Classes due to Field Trip)

2.1 to 2.3 Mixed Review (Text Book Page 86)

Friday, May 20

Lesson 2.4

2nd/3rd Period Math Syllabus: Week of May 16

2011-05-13T13:12:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Math Syllabus

Week of May 16, 2011

Lesson 13.6 Guided Notes (PP page 14-17)

Monday, May 16

Review for Chapter 13 Test (PP pg 20)

Tuesday, May 17

Practice Packet Page 18

Homework: PP page 19

Wednesday, May 18

Homework: STUDY for Chapter 13 Test. Study Guide is PP page 24

Thursday, May 19 (Shortened Classes due to Field Trip)

Review for Test

Homework: STUDY for Chapter 13 Test. Study Guide is PP page 24

Friday, May 20

Chapter 13 TEST

Reading/LA Syllabus: Week of May 16

2011-05-13T13:11:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Reading/ LA Syllabus

Week of May 16, 2011

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Website: http://op97-koplin.blogspot.com/

Important Information:

Lit Circles: All groups meet on Tuesdays during 8^th period however Code Talker will meet on Fridays during 9^th period. In order to participate in the weekly meeting you must have your Packet 100% COMPLETE and have the novel in class with you.
Our eighth Reading Log is due on Thursday, May 12. You can include your Lit Circle novel on this log even though we haven't finished it.

Monday, May 16

Introduce Vocabra List #15

Lit Circles Work Time

Homework: Vocabra Word Drawing. Be ready for Lit Circle Meeting #1 Tomorrow. Remember you need to have your packet 100% complete and your novel in class to participate in your group meeting.

Tuesday, May 17

8^th Period: Lit Circle Meeting #2

Lit Circle Work Time

Vocabra: Divide up 12 Words with a Partner

Homework: Write 6 Vocabra sentences with YOUR 6 words. The extra credit letter to your Lit Circle Author is due tomorrow. Remember- it must be typed and you need to also bring in an addressed envelope with postage on itJ

Wednesday, May 18

Turn in Extra Credit Letter

Lit Circle Work Time

Read Socratic Seminar Article: "Should Kids Hunt"

Mark/Highlight "Should Kids Hunt"

Homework: Read "Should Kids Hunt" again! Tomorrow is the field trip- you need to remember your lunch $ and dress for the weather!

Thursday, May 19 (Shortened Class due to Field Trip)

Lit Circle Work Time

Homework: Write TWO high level discussion questions about "Should Kids Hunt" for the Socratic Seminar Tomorrow. You must have your marked article and 2 questions in class with you to participate in the seminar. Code Talker- your third lit circle is TOMORROW.

Friday, May 20

8^th Period: Socratic Seminar- Should Kids Hunt?

9^th Period: Code Talker- Lit Circle #3

All Other Groups- Work Time for Lit Circles

Homework: Have a wonderful weekend!!! Work on your Lit Circles.

1st Period Pre-Algebra Syllabus: Week of May 9

2011-05-06T11:56:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Pre-Algebra Syllabus

Week of May 9, 2011

Homework: Practice Packet Page 10-11 Odd #s

Monday, May 9

Lesson 1.7

Tuesday, May 10

Review Chapter 1: Practice Packet Pages 12-14

Homework: STUDY! Finish PP pages 12-14

Wednesday, May 11

Friday, May 13

Lesson 2.1

2nd/3rd Period Math Syllabus: Week of May 9

2011-05-06T11:55:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Math Syllabus

Week of May 9, 2011

Homework: Practice Packet Page 11

Please note our team does not accept any late work during the 3^rd trimester. It is very important to stay organized and get all of your work in on time to do well.

Monday, May 9

Review PP Page 10

Lesson 13.3

Tuesday, May 10

Lesson 13.4

Lesson 13.4 Practice (PP pg 12)

Wednesday, May 11

Homework: Finish PP Page 12

Thursday, May 12

Lesson 13.5

Homework: Practice Packet Page 13 #1-4

Friday, May 13

Review Lesson 13.5

Finish PP pg 13 # 5-12

Reading/LA Syllabus Week of May 9

2011-05-06T11:54:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Reading/ LA Syllabus

Week of May 9, 2011

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Website: http://op97-koplin.blogspot.com/

Important Information:

Lit Circles: All groups meet on Tuesdays during 8^th period however Code Talker will meet on Fridays during 9^th period. In order to participate in the weekly meeting you must have your Packet 100% COMPLETE and have the novel in class with you.
Our eighth Reading Log is due on Thursday, May 12. You can include your Lit Circle novel on this log even though we haven't finished it.

Monday, May 9

Vocabra- Write 12 Detailed Sentences

Lit Circles Work Time

Vocabra Charades

Homework: Be ready for Lit Circle Meeting #1 Tomorrow. Remember you need to have your packet 100% complete and your novel in class to participate in your group meeting.

Tuesday, May 10

8^th Period: Lit Circle Meeting #1

Discuss Week #1 Meetings: Tips for Next Week

Lit Circle Work Time

Homework: Work on Lit Circles

Wednesday, May 11

Media Center 8^th Period- Check Out/Return Books

Lit Circle Work Time

White Board Sentences

Homework: Finish your Reading Log- due tomorrow! Don't forget to get your parent signatures on the log. You CAN count your Lit Circle Novel on the Reading Log even though we have not finished it.

Thursday, May 12

Turn in Reading Log

Lit Circle Work Time

Spelling Race

Homework: Field Trip MONEY and PERMISSION SLIP is due TOMORROW! Code Talker- your second lit circle is TOMORROW. Remember you need to have your packet 100% complete and your novel in class to participate in your group meeting. Everyone else- work on your Lit Circles

Friday, May 13

Vocabra List #14 Tests

9^th Period: Code Talker- Lit Circle #2

All Other Groups- Work Time for Lit Circles

Homework: Have a wonderful weekend!!! Work on your Lit Circles.

1st Period Pre-Algebra Syllabus: Week of May 2

2011-04-29T14:31:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Pre-Algebra Syllabus

Week of May 2, 2011

Homework: Practice Packet Page 4

Monday, May 2

Lesson 13.1

Tuesday, May 3

Lesson 1.4 (Investigation PP page 5)

Homework: Practice Packet Page 6

Wednesday, May 4

No Math due to MAP Testing

Homework: Finish PP pg 6

Thursday, May 5

Lesson 1.5

Homework: Practice Packet Page 7-8

Friday, May 6

Lesson 1.6

Practice Packet Page 9

2nd/3rd Period Math Syllabus: Week of May 2

2011-04-29T14:27:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Math Syllabus

Week of May 2, 2011

Review Vocabulary: PP pages 1-2

Monday, May 2

Begin Probability Unit

Run Probability Experiments

Deal or No Deal (PP pg 3)

Tuesday, May 3

Homework: Write a complete paragraph in which you analyze the results of Deal or No Deal in class today. Think about experiment probability vs. theoretical probability. Determine if you class made good or bad decisions and if the decisions were based on probability. Be thorough.

Wednesday, May 4 (Retake at Lunch TODAY)

No Math due to MAP Testing

Homework: Finish Analysis of Deal or No Deal

Thursday, May 5 (2^nd Period is during 8^th and 3^rd Period is during 9^th)

Lesson 13.1 (PP page 8)

Homework: Practice Packet Page 9

Friday, May 6

Lesson 13.2

PP page 10

Reading/LA Syllabus: Week of May 2

2011-04-29T14:21:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Reading/ LA Syllabus

Week of May 2, 2011

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Website: http://op97-koplin.blogspot.com/

Important Information:

We are beginning Literature Circles this week! Thank you to all the parents who volunteered their time! All groups meet on Tuesdays during 8^th period however Code Talker will meet on Fridays during 9^th period. In order to participate in the weekly meeting you must have your Packet 100% COMPLETE and have the novel in class with you.
Our eighth Reading Log is due on Thursday, May 12.

Monday, May 2

Introduce List #14 Vocabra

Introduce Packets for Lit Circles

Introduce Authors- Complete Author Activity

Assign Books to Code Talker Group

Homework: Finish your Lit Circle Author Activity.

Tuesday, May 3

Assign Books to Remaining Groups

Review Lit Circle Terms

Lit Circle Work Time

Meet with Week 1 Discussion Directors

Meet with Week 1 Illustrators

Homework: Vocabra Word Drawing- Using the WORD itself

Wednesday, May 4

Team 6-3 Meeting

Vocabra Word Story- Topic is Reality Shows

Lit Circle Work Time

Brainstorm Words for "Year in Review: Team 6-3"

Homework: Work on your Lit Circles Packet and Reading

Thursday, May 5

No Reading due to MAP Testing

Homework: Code Talker- your first lit circle is TOMORROW. Remember you need to have your packet 100% complete and your novel in class to participate in your group meeting.

Friday, May 6

Vocabra Quickie Skits

9^th Period: Code Talker- Lit Circle

All Other Groups- Work Time for Lit Circles

Homework: Have a wonderful weekend!!! Work on your Lit Circles.

Smiley Face Tricks

2011-04-25T14:26:00.001-05:00

Name ____________________________________

JSmiley Face Trick #1J

MAGIC 3—Giving three examples in a series is pleasing to the ear and adds support to a point being made. Using modifiers before each item in the series can emphasize the effect.

A. "She blinked her blue-green eyes, chewed on a lacquered nail and frowned at the interviewer."

B. "I'm afraid to jump," said one chicken.

"Oh, " said the others.

"Me too."

"Me three."

"Me four."

"What if we can't jump that far?"

"What if we fall in a ditch?"

"What if we get sucked into the mud?"

The chickens tutted, putted, and flutted. They butted into themselves and each other until... (Helakoski)

Exercise: Write a paragraph about a farm animal using the Magic Three to describe the animal's actions.

Name ____________________________________

JSmiley Face Trick #2J

FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE- Comparisons such as similes, metaphors and personifications- can bring interest, humor and connection for the reader.

"When the teacher asks us all to hold hands and Wyatt reaches for mine, this jolt of electricity floods out of his fingers and ricochets through my whole body like I'm this human pinball machine and Wyatt's the ball."

(Sonya Sones)

Exercises:

Make Your Own Similes and metaphors

That girl was as skinny as________________________.

The chickens were as nervous as__________________.

Grandma's hug was as warm as__________________.

The librarian was wound as tightly as_______________.

He was as skittish as___________________________.

Her stomach growled like________________________.

The howl ripped through the air like a______________.

The breeze from the window was like_______________.

Fear crawled over him like_______________________.

Practice Personification: Personify extreme Hot or Cold. Write about what the heat or the cold does to you. Try doing so without using the words hot or cold.

Name ____________________________________

JSmiley Face Trick #3J

SPECIFIC DETAILS FOR EFFECT—Using specific details that invoke the senses help the reader imagine the place or person being described more clearly.

"The smell rushed at me as soon as I stepped inside. The hallway had that mama-don't-cook-nothin-without-onions smell. It lingered on top of musty cigarette smoke, the kind that never quite comes out of the carpet, no matter how long ago the smoker left. My arms rippled with goose bumps. I'd been here before."

Exercise: Describe a place in a barnyard or in a city you have seen. Use specific details and appeal to at least 3 of the 5 senses as you describe the scene.

Name ____________________________________

JSmiley Face Trick #4J

REPETITION FOR EFFECT—repeating words or phrases can emphasize a point.

"I'm going away from this place. Away from my disapproving mother, away from my groping brother and away from this infernal heat." (Leslie)

Excercise: Write a paragraph about your typical school-day morning. Use repetition to emphasize a particular thought or idea.

Name ____________________________________

JSmiley Face Trick #5J

EXPANDED MOMENT—Slowing down to expand a moment, rather than rushing through it, can stretch out tension and keep your reader hanging on to every word.

"Their chicken ears heard a noise in back of the cave, and they grew very quiet.

Four dazed chickens listened to a long, low growl. "I'm afraid of growls," said one chicken.

"Ohh, said the others. "Me too. Me three. Me four. What if it's a big animal? What if it's a big, hairy animal? What if it's a big, hairy, chicken chomping animal?

Something crawled from the back of the cave. It was big. It was hairy. It looked at the chickens and licked it's lips... (Big Chickens)

Exercise: Write a scene where you wake up in a dark house after hearing an odd sound. Expand the moment to build suspense.

Name ____________________________________

JSmiley Face Trick #6J

HUMOR—Having fun with your writing makes it interesting for both you and the reader.

"We have chicken power! We have chicken brains! We have chicken guts!"

Exercise: Write a paragraph that places a character in an environment or situation you wouldn't expect him to be. Example: A city boy in a ballet class or a pig in a chicken coop. Exaggerate the circumstances to create humor.

Name ____________________________________

J Smiley Face Trick #7 J

HYPHENATED MODIFIERS—Saying something in a different way can bring interest and recognition of how something feels. Hyphenated adjectives often cause the reader to "sit up and take notice."

"She rolled her eyes at her mother and turned her nose up with a "god-I-can't-believe-you-actually-said-that sniff."

Exercise: Write your own hyphenated modifiers.

1. Mom and Dad went in the back room for one of their __________________________________ _________________________________ talks.

2. The most popular girl in school threw me one of her _______________________________ ____________________________________looks.

3. The dog had a_______________________________________________________face.

4. His fingernails were of the______________________________________________variety.

5. She put her feet into the _______________________________________________shoes.

Write your own sentence now using HYPHENATED MODIFIERS!

_____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________

Name ____________________________________

JSmiley Face Trick #8J

FULL-CIRCLE ENDING—To wrap up a story, try repeating a phrase or idea that brings the reader back to an idea at the beginning of a piece.

Beginning: "One day four big chickens peeked out the coop window and saw a wolf sneak into the farmyard.

The chickens pwocked, flocked and rocked. They knocked into themselves and each other until one by one they tumbled out of the cop. The door slammed shut and the chickens ran into the woods to hide."

Ending: "...The chickens picked, pecked and pocked. They ruffled, puffled, and shuffled. They shrieked, squeaked, and freaked, until...the wolf ran out of the cave."

(Big Chickens)

Exercise: A 300-400 word descriptive narrative essay about a time in your life when you made a choice that did not make you feel good. You may want/need to embellish (to improve by adding details; often fictitious details.) the story a bit. The idea is for you to tell a story that is both descriptive and entertaining. Use 5-7 Smiley Face Tricks in your essay. Have fun with this. To help with ideas, you can brainstorm by listing words that relate to your topic or by stream of consciousness writing

1st Period Pre-Algebra Syllabus: Week of April 25

2011-04-20T11:07:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Pre-Algebra Syllabus

Week of April 25, 2011

Homework: Study for your Chapter 13 test.

Monday, April 25

Probability Project Due

Review Chapter 13

Tuesday, April 26

Chapter 13 TEST

Wednesday, April 27

PIG

Begin Algebra 1 Text Book

Thursday, April 28

Lesson 1.1

Homework: Chapter 1-2 Algebra Practice Packet: Page 1

Friday, April 29

Lesson 1.2 Investigation (PP pg 2)

Practice 1.2 (PP pg 3 Odd #s)

2nd/3rd Period Math Syllabus: Week of April 25

2011-04-20T11:06:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Math Syllabus

Week of April 25, 2011

Monday, April 25

Chapter 10 TEST

Dividing Fractions: Lesson 7.4

Tuesday, April 26

In Between Unit Day

Homework: NONE!!!

Wednesday, April 27

Homework: Lesson 7.4 Practice B

Thursday, April 28

Dividing Fractions: Lesson 7.5

Homework: Lesson 7.5 Practice B. Study for the dividing fractions Quick Quiz tomorrow.

Friday, April 29

Review Dividing Fractions

Quick Quiz: Dividing Fractions.

Reading/LA Syllabus: Week of April 25

2011-04-20T10:21:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Reading/ LA Syllabus

Week of April 25, 2011

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Website: http://op97-koplin.blogspot.com/

Important Information:

Last week students received a letter regarding the Literature Circle Unit we will begin next week. I am look for parent volunteers; please review the letter and send it back to school by Tuesday. If you have any questions please email me! THANKS!
The final poetry project will be due on Friday, April 29^th. Make sure you are working on your project and not waiting until the last minute J
Our eighth Reading Log is due on Thursday, May 12.

Monday, April 25

Just Because… Poems (Pg 34)

Write 12 Vocabra Sentences

White Board Sentences with Partners

Homework: Be sure to get Literature Circle Letters filled out by your parents. I need these by tomorrow, please. Work on poetry project!

Tuesday, April 26

Ode to… Poem (Pg 35)

Lit Circle Book Picks

Vocabra Quickie Skits

Homework: Work on your poetry Project. By today you should have all of your poems written. You need to work on editing, typing, illustrations, table of contents, dedication and a cover. Be sure to have your poetry in class tomorrow- we are working on Identification.

Wednesday, April 27

Poetry Project- Review Identification Requirements (Page 36)

Vocabra Sell It

Homework: Finish adding Poetry Elements and J Tricks to your poetry. There needs to be at least one identified in each poem. You need to use a highlighter and/or sticky notes to identify these throughout your project. You will have some poetry work time in class tomorrow- be sure you have your materials.

Thursday, April 28

Poetry Project Work Time

Spelling Race

Homework: Poetry Project is DUE TOMORROW! Be sure to check your rubric (Pg 37) and requirements handouts (Pg 22-23)! Study for Vocabra #13TESTS.

Friday, April 29

Turn in Poetry Project

Vocabra List 13 TESTS

Homework: Have a wonderful weekend!!!

1st Period Pre-Algebra Syllabus: Week of April 18

2011-04-14T15:46:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Pre-Algebra Syllabus

Week of April 18, 2011

Homework: Work on your Probability Project. Study for your Chapter 13 test.

Monday, April 18

Practice Packet Page 11

Tuesday, April 19

Lesson 13.6 (PP pgs 12-15)

Homework: Practice Packet Page 16

Wednesday, April 20

Review Chapter 13 Concepts

PP pg 17-18

Homework: Your probability project is due on Monday! Study for your Chapter 13 Math Test on Tuesday.

Thursday, April 21

No School: Institute Day

Homework: Your probability project is due on Monday! Study for your Chapter 13 Math Test on Tuesday.

Friday, April 22

No School: Good Friday

Homework: Have an awesome weekend!!! Your probability project is due on Monday! Study for your Chapter 13 Math Test on Tuesday.

2nd/3rd Period Math Syllabus: Week of April 18

2011-04-14T15:45:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Math Syllabus

Week of April 18, 2011

Homework: Practice Packet Page 33

Monday, April 18

Lesson 10.7

Tuesday, April 19

Review Chapter 10

Homework: STUDY!!!

Wednesday, April 20 (Lunch Review TODAY!)

Review Chapter 10

Homework: Study for your Chapter 10 TEST on Monday. You may use one side of the note card I gave you today to write down formulas/examples. You will be able to use this on your test on Monday.

Thursday, April 21

No School: Institute Day

Homework: Study for your Chapter 10 Math Test on Monday. Work on your note card.

Friday, April 22

No School: Good Friday

Homework: Have an awesome weekend!!! Study for your Chapter 10 Math Test on Monday. Work on your note card.

Reading/LA Syllabus: Week of April 18

2011-04-14T15:44:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Reading/ LA Syllabus

Week of April 18, 2011

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Website: http://op97-koplin.blogspot.com/

Important Information:

Students will have a Chapter 6 Grammar Test on Tuesday, April 19^th.
The final poetry project will be due on Friday, April 29^th. Make sure you are working on your project over the course the next few weeks! Don't wait until the last minute J
Our eighth Reading Log is due on Thursday, May 12. Students must read 2 or more books each month, log the book, and obtain parent signatures for each book read.

Monday, April 18

Introduce List #13 Vocabra Words

Grammar Ch 6: Review for Test

Emotion Poems (Pg 29-30)

Rhetorical Question Poems (Pg 31)

Homework: Study for the Chapter 6 Grammar test tomorrow! Use review sheet at the end of your packet. Also, work on your poetry project.

Tuesday, April 19

Turn in Reading Log #7

Grammar: Chapter 6 TEST

Bill Durham Poems (Pg 32)

I Don't Understand Poems (Pg 33)

Homework: Vocabra Word Drawing. Write Poetry. Work on Poetry Project. Remember- tomorrow is our Team PBIS Electronic Reward Day! You can bring in an electronic video game to play- if you are planning on bringing in a large game system please check with me. You need 10 Bright Blue Bee Tickets to participate.

Wednesday, April 20

Turn in Word Drawings

Team PBIS Electronic Reward Day!

Homework: Work on Poetry Project. Get Literature Circles Parent Letter Signed!!!! Enjoy your days off J

Thursday, April 21

No School: Institute Day

Homework: Poetry Project

Friday, April 22

No School: Good Friday

Homework: Work on your poetry project!

1st Period Pre-Algebra Syllabus: Week of April 11

2011-04-07T14:39:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Pre-Algebra Syllabus

Week of April 11, 2011

Homework: Practice Packet page 9

Monday, April 11

Lesson 13.3

Tuesday, April 12

Choice vs. Chance- A Probability Activity

Homework: Pages 1 and 2 of Choice vs. Chance activity must be completed by tomorrow.

Wednesday, April 13

Finish Choice vs. Chance- A Probability Activity

Homework: Finish Choice vs. Chance write-up (page 3)

Thursday, April 14

Lesson 13.4

Homework: Practice Packet Page 10. Read the Probability Project descriptions on Pages 19-21 in your practice packet. Don't begin the project yet- we will review the requirements in more detail tomorrow.

Friday, April 15

Lesson 13.5

Review Probability Project Requirements

Homework: Have an awesome weekend!!! Begin working on your probability project.

2nd/3rd Period Math Syllabus: Week of April 11

2011-04-07T14:38:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Math Syllabus

Week of April 11, 2011

Practice Packet Pages 27-28

Monday, April 11

Homework: Study Lessons 10.1 to 10.4. Finish your two-sided notes for these lessons!

Tuesday, April 12

Quiz: Lessons 10.1 to 10.4

Homework: Practice Packet pages 29-30

Wednesday, April 13

Lesson 10.5

Thursday, April 14

Lesson 10.6

Practice Packet Pages 31-32

Friday, April 15

Homework: Have an AWESOME weekend!!!

Reading/LA Syllabus: Week of April 11

2011-04-07T14:35:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Reading/ LA Syllabus

Week of April 11, 2011

Email: lkoplin@op97.org

Website: http://op97-koplin.blogspot.com/

Important Information:

Students will have a Chapter 6 Grammar Test on Tuesday, April 19^th.
The final poetry project will be due on Friday, April 29^th. Make sure you are working on your project over the course the next few weeks! Don't wait until the last minute J
Our eighth Reading Log is due on Thursday, May 12. Students must read 2 or more books each month, log the book, and obtain parent signatures for each book read.

Monday, April 11

Poetry Exploration (Poetry Packet Page 20-21)

Review Poetry Project (PP pg 22-23)

Begin "IF" Poem (Pg 24-25)

Homework: Finish "IF" poems. Reading Logs are due TOMORROW! Remember you need parent signatures!

Tuesday, April 12

Turn in Reading Log #7

Grammar: Lesson 6.1

Haiku Poems (PP pg 26)

Vocabra Newspaper Captions

Homework: None

Wednesday, April 13

Grammar: Lesson 6.2

Read Non-Fiction Dream Article

Dream Poetry (PP pg 27)

Homework: Write another dream poem. Include onomatopoeia and/or alliteration in this poem.

Thursday, April 14

Grammar: Lesson 6.3 (Our TEAM Lesson!)

"I AM" Poetry (PP pg 28)

Spelling Race

Homework: Study your Vocabra words from List #12

Friday, April 15

Vocabra Tests- List #12

Grammar: Lesson 6.4

Homework: Have an AWESOME weekend! Work on your poetry project. I suggest that you begin typing the poems you would like to include and plan your illustrations.

1st Period Pre-Algebra Syllabus: Week of April 4th

2011-03-24T10:34:00.003-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Pre-Algebra Syllabus

Week of April 4, 2011

Review Chapter 13 Vocabulary

Please note our team does not accept any late work during the 3^rd trimester. It is very important to stay organized and get all of your work in on time to do well.

Monday, April 4

Run Probability Experiments

Homework: None!

Tuesday, April 5

Deal or NO Deal

Homework: Analyze results and relate to theoretical and experiment probability

Wednesday, April 6

Lesson 13.1

Practice Packet Page 5

Homework: Practice Packet Page 6

Thursday, April 7

Lesson 13.2

Homework: Practice Packet Page 7

Friday, April 8

Practice Packet Page 8

2nd/3rd Period Math Syllabus: Week of April 4

2011-03-24T10:34:00.001-05:00

Ms. Koplin

Math Syllabus

Week of April 4, 2011

In Between Chapter FUN Day

Monday, April 4