After announcements, pledge and opening devotions, we read together our booklet: Abuse Is Not OK. This subject is emotional and often hard to discuss, but we have the benefit of curriculum that acknowledges we are the "daughter or son of God, created in His image. You are a member of the Body of Christ, deserving of respect and dignity. No one has the right to strip away self-respect and dignity." Our booklet also states, "This is not a perfect world." We read about, what is abuse? Claiming your power and healing and forgiveness. Students are asked to share this booklet with parents for conversation.

English 8 students, finished The Old Man and the Sea. We discussed the ending and used quotes to support our observations. Students were given guidelines to a critical response of the book they will write. The rough draft is due next Wednesday.

Geography 7 students discussed the meaning of the word "culture." We used an iceberg as a metaphor; more lies beneath the surface than is observed. Culture includes values, respect, family roles, definition of beauty, attitude... many of these are hard to measure. Our study will include looking at "cultures" of other countries and how does geography determine how people live.

Students not in choir today, read with 1st grade students. I personally find this to be rewarding and a wonderful opportunity to bond with younger students at OLL. Mrs. Urling guides our partnerships with her students so the time is well spent.
6th grade students were to turn in problems in Math, pg. 26 problems 3-13. Also each student talked us through a double-digit division problem on the board. Students were given a practice worksheet that is due tomorrow. It is extremely helpful to your student, if you can check his/her work. This serves to build confidence in your budding math scholar!

For World History, 6th grade students gave oral presentations on the life of a hunter/gatherer tribe and presented their visuals. Students can be proud of their speaking skills, and creative-informative visuals. I was proud with them for the good work they did. We intend to display these in the hall for the benefit of other students. I also hope to post some photos.

8th grade students had 45 minutes to work on any assignments they needed to complete: vocabulary is due tomorrow, spelling test on Friday, begin writing book analysis, or read a book of their choice. There is plenty to do... and still have "down" time. Another week is soon over; time is flying!