8th Graders Talk About Books

Our week began with a follow-up to Father Frank's homily: Now or never? My plan was to bring the "real" Elvis version of this song... but I brought the wrong Elvis CD. Father Frank... you still reign! We talked about Jonah's eagerness to escape God's plan for him. And how God steered him back to Plan A... the best plan. This is about us. We often choose the "rough" path. But God does not give up on us. He uses the struggle even for our good. Let us hold to attitude of an learning as we grow in our faith.

8th grade students do not need to do the Iowa Test of Basic Skills. The spelling words for this week were introduced. Then we were off to the Latte Da' for book talks. We ordered our drinks and settled in. Each student reviewed his/her book based on the criteria assigned for this book talk. It was evident to me that all students had some valuable opinions about the books they read. A coffee shop adds that "cozy" touch so students can listen and talk more freely to each other. We had the added bonus of Sammy Hicks (a parent) visiting us at the coffee shop. Thank you 8th graders for your insights and good book reviews. We returned to OLL by 11:15.

6th Grade Math students are starting a new unit. Today we learned about numerical expressions vs. algebraic expressions. This concept of variables is not yet "set". But we learned from the last unit, that as we move forward and practice, new ways of expressing math will begin to make sense and become comfortable. So be strong; you will gain confidence and know success! Problems 9-21 on page 37 are due on Wednesday. Any math assignments PAST DUE (from the last unit) are due tomorrow.

7th Grade geography students were scheduled to present bug visuals and legends(in ink or typed) today. Only 2 students came prepared. These two received extra points. Other students must have the visuals and legends in the 7th grade work-drawer by Wednesday, or they start to lose points. Students need to use their own time to complete this assignment as adequate time was given in class. Students were given a Latin American terms worksheet to complete: define and draw meanings. This is also due Wednesday.

Students did not have band today so had the final hour for a study hall. Most 8th grade students demonstrated a good use of this time. Thank you.
p.s. Congratulations Ms. Shields and Clare Lulich for finishing the half-Whistlestop marathan. You deserve our applause.