ELA+90+-+What+did+we+do+today?


 * __Monday, June 21st to Friday, June 22nd, 2010__

Well, here we are! Welcome to your final two days of grade nine before exams start. I can't believe it is alreay time to watch you walk out the door when it feel like you just walked into classroom 210. I am proud of each and every one of you and how much your have grown over the last ten months. With that being said, please don't forget that your last task for me is to come in and give your oral presentations this Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.



On Monday, June 21st you will be given time, in my class, to work on your speeches (some of you are presenting at noon), study for your science and math, and begin the process of cleaning out your lockers.

On Tuesday, June 22nd (THE VERY LAST DAY OF CLASSES) you will be given time, again to work on your speeches, study for math and science, and clean out your lockers.

From Wednesday, June 23rd to Friday, June 25th (for those students who chose not to give their speeches on Monday and Tuesday) you will be presenting your final presentations to me in my room. Remember, YOU were the ones who chose your time to present. It is YOUR responsibility to show up. If you do not give your speech, your final mark will not be turned in. I know none of you will allow this to happen! :)

Also, please remember to have all your libray fines paid up before you leave for the summer. Your report cards will be MAILED out to you next week.

For the last time, I hope you have an amazing weekend, and have an AWESOME SUMMER!!!!

**ORANGE AND GREEN BEANS TIMES FOR FINALS:

ELA 9: Throughout exam week. Have you signed up for your presentation time with Mr. Young? You have had since Thursday, June 17th to do this. That is YOUR responisiblity. Math 9: Thursday, June 24th, 9:00 am You will write your Math exam in your period 1 class Science 9: Friday, June 25th, 9:00 am You will write your Science exam in your period 1 class

ELA 9: Here are the handouts you received for your FINAL ORAL PRESENTATIONS. Have you signed up with Mr. Young for a time during exam week? If you have, you can show your parents your time on the reminder sheet that you filled out.


 * __Monday, June 14th to Friday, June 18th, 2010__

__What are we learning?__ **


 * We can practice the skills of being effective writers
 * We can write a personal letter to ourselves
 * We can express ourselves in our writing to self and others through clarity and emotion
 * We can practice the skills of being an effective speaker
 * We can create a personal reflection of a certain time period and express it to an audience

__How we will learn it__


 * Monday, June 14th**: SURPRISE! I asked you to hand in all of your Killing Mr. Griffin study packages for evaluation! I bet you didn't see that one coming! Of course you did as I have been reminding you of that it was coming for the last three weeks! Today, we also started writing our grade nine letters to ourselves for grade 12. We generated some questions that you could write about. You will be given today and tomorrow to work on your letters.


 * Tuesday, June 15th:** You had your second opportunity to work on your letter and your letters for your friends. A reminder, these letters will be sealed in your envelope on Monday, June 21st . Any letters for your friends will need to be turned into me as I can get them into your friend's envelopes. I will NOT be reading these. They are your personal letters that you will be receiving in grade 12 at the graduation supper.


 * Wednesday, June 16th:** We worked on our "Warm Fuzzies" that will be going into your envelopes for grade 12.


 * Thursday, June 17th**: We began working on your final presentations for our class. You were given a handout and rubric explaining everything that needs to go into these presentations. These will be presented during exam week as your final project for my class. Sign ups for when you present will be on a first come, first serve basis starting at noon today.

Here are the handouts you received:




 * Friday, June 18th**: This was your second opportunity to work on your final presentations. Don't forget that you letters for graduation are due on Monday They will be sealed on that date and put away until your grade 12 graduation supper!

Have a great weekend! 2 days left of classes! :)

__Monday, June 7th to Friday, June 11th, 2010__

__What are we learning?__ __**How we will learn it**__ This week, as I am only here on Monday, you will have these tasks to work on all this week: 1. Complete your reading (the whole book) of Killing Mr. Griffin 2. Complete the study package of study questions for Killing Mr. Griffin 3. Complete the vocabulary package for Killing Mr. Griffin 4. If you have completed all the tasks above, you may work on your math and science homework or assignments
 * We can read age and skill appropriate reading material of our choosing
 * We can answer guiding questions as we work through a specific novel (Killing Mr. Griffin)
 * We can look at past experiences to relate to certain topics and characters traits in our novel
 * We can use talk to express and to share feelings, ideas, and opinions in one-to-one, small group, and large group discussions
 * We can practice the abilities of effective speakers
 * We can practice the behaviours of effective writers
 * We can gain a better understanding of the different types of vocabulary that are used throughout a piece of literature and apply it to our writing

Remember, you may work by yourself, with a partner, or a group of three.


 * On Monday, June 14th, be prepared for what I will be asking when I walk into the classroom at the beginning of each class. YOU ALREADY KNOW THE ANSWER if you have been paying attention. Remember, it is YOUR responsibility to complete these tasks. YOU are almost grade 10s!! :)

Have a great week and I will see you on Monday! :) **

__Monday, May 29th to Friday, June 4th, 2010__


 * __What are we learning?__**

__**How we will learn it**__ ALL study questions and ALL vocabulary assignments are your responsibility! You will want to have these completed by the time we get to the end of the book. TRUST ME! :)
 * We can read age and skill appropriate reading material of our choosing
 * We can answer guiding questions as we work through a specific novel (Killing Mr. Griffin)
 * We can look at past experiences to relate to certain topics and characters traits in our novel
 * We can use talk to express and to share feelings, ideas, and opinions in one-to-one, small group, and large group discussions
 * We can practice the abilities of effective speakers
 * We can practice the behaviours of effective writers
 * We can gain a better understanding of the different types of vocabulary that are used throughout a piece of literature and apply it to our writing
 * Monday, May 31s**t: We will work through chapters 6 and 7 of Killing Mr. G
 * Tuesday, June 1st**: We will work through chapters 8 and 9 of Killing Mr. G
 * Wednesday, June 2nd**: We will work through chapters 10 and 11 of Killing Mr. G
 * Thursday, June 3rd**: We will work through chapters 12 and 13 of Killing Mr. G
 * Friday, June 4t**h: We will work through chapters 14 and 15 of Killing Mr. G

__Tuesday, May 25th to Friday, May 28th, 2010

What are we learning?__
 * We can read age and skill appropriate reading material of our choosing
 * We can answer guiding questions as we work through a specific novel (Killing Mr. Griffin)
 * We can look at past experiences to relate to certain topics and characters traits in our novel
 * We can use talk to express and to share feelings, ideas, and opinions in one-to-one, small group, and large group discussions
 * We can practice the abilities of effective speakers
 * We can practice the behaviours of effective writers
 * We can gain a better understanding of the different types of vocabulary that are used throughout a piece of literature and apply it to our writing
 * We can prepare an acitivity for a certain age group and present it to them.
 * We can use our language skills to effectively speak to a ceratin age group.


 * __How will we learn it?__

Tuesday, May 25th**: We will take the first 20 minutes of class to practice your learning centers for Thursday's trip to Sunningdale. You will then use the remainder of the class to present your center to some assigned grade 1 and 2 students. Please remember for Thursday to bring all of your supplies to Sunningdale and dress appropriately!

1. Up to the end of chapter 4 read 2. Up to the end of chapter 4 study questions completed 3. Up to the end of chapter 4 vocabulary completed 4. Begin reading chapter 5 on your own
 * Wednesday, May 26th**: Today, we are working on our Killing Mr. Griffin Novel. Here is what needs to be done:

This task is your responisbility. Trust me, you will want to have it done! :)


 * Thursday, May 27th**: SUNNINGDALE TRIP! SEE YOU THERE AT 8:40 AM!! BRING YOUR SUPPLIES!!


 * Friday, May 28th**: Talk about how things went at Sunningdale (look at pictures). Continue working on Killing Mr. Griffin!!!


 * __Monday, May 17th to Friday, May 22nd, 2010

What are we learning?__** __**How are we going to do it?**__
 * We can read age and skill appropriate reading material of our choosing
 * We can answer guiding questions as we work through a specific novel (Killing Mr. Griffin)
 * We can look at past experiences to relate to certain topics and characters traits in our novel
 * We can use talk to express and to share feelings, ideas, and opinions in one-to-one, small group, and large group discussions
 * We can practice the abilities of effective speakers
 * We can practice the behaviours of effective writers
 * We can gain a better understanding of the different types of vocabulary that are used throughout a piece of literature and apply it to our writing


 * Monday, May 17th**: Last week we started working on chapter 1 of Killing Mr. Griffin. We will be continuing on with that today by looking at the main characters in the story. Remember, can you picture what the characters look like in comparison with the people in our family? You will also be given some time for independent reading during the course of the class.


 * Tuesday, May 18th**: You will be given a chance to head to the library at the beginning of the period to renew, checkout, and pay your fines. You will then be given a few minutes for independent reading. We will then go through a quick review of what has already happened so far in our novel (Killing Mr. Griffin). Remember, every so often, we will stop (within the story) to discuss things that are playing a key role in the characters lives. We will also be looking at the morality and the actions of what they are doing when it comes to dealing with their problems. **You will also be given your study questions and vocabulary booklets for the novel before the end of the period. Keep these in your binder. You will need to keep them up-to-date!**


 * Wednesday, May 19th**: As you can tell, I am not here. I am at the track and field sectionals today with the Peacock team. Here is what needs to be completed over the course of the period:
 * a.** Working of the study questions for Killing Mr. Griffin ( you received your study packages yesterday )
 * b**. Working of the vocabulary booklets for Killing Mr. Griffin ( you received these yesterday )
 * c**. If you finish your questions and vocabulary you can read quietly at your desk. You were given a chance to go to the library yesterday so you better have your books with you.

a. Expectations and Understanding of what happens during the morning (use of pictures) b. Our Theme (SPRING ACTIVITIES) c. Our groups (Will be done in ELA class) d. Draw to see which area will be looked at by each group (ELA, MATH, SCIENCE/SOCIAL, PHYS ED.)
 * Thursday, May 20th**: Today, we going to hit pause on our study on Killing Mr. Griffin and begin working on our "Grade 1 and 2 Centers" for our trip to Sunningdale ( coming up on May 27th ). During this time we are going to come up with the following things:


 * Friday, May 21st**: All groups will be given time to work on their activity centers for Sunningdale.

__Monday, May 10th to Friday May 14th, 2010

What are we learning?__

__**How are we going to learn it?**__
 * We can read age and skill appropriate reading material of our choosing
 * We can view a representation of Romeo and Juliet and check for understanding between movie and script
 * We can compare and contrast the film version of Romeo and Juliet to Shakespeare's actual script
 * We can examine a piece of unfamiliar text through listening and reading strategies, and class discussion
 * We can show comprehension of Romeo and Juliet through writing a short quiz


 * Monday**: We will finish up our quizes that we started on Friday and take them up in class! Remember, you have your books and a partner to use, if you wish. This is your chance to take control of your mark and get that 100% that I know many of you want! :)


 * Tuesday**: We will be heading into the auditorium to watch the 1997 version (Leonardo DiCaprio version) of Romeo and Juliet. Your job is to create a similarities and difference chart for this movie. Remember we are looking at the script vs. the movie, just like we did throughout the older version.


 * Wednesday**: Please see Tuesday's entry for what we did. We are diong the same thing today.


 * Thursday**: We finished up the movie version of Romeo and Juliet. Your comparison charts are due tomorrow.


 * Friday**: You handed in your comparison charts (worth 20 marks to you) for Romeo and Juliet. You also had library time and we started working on our new novel study, Killing Mr. Griffin.

Have an awesome weekend!

__**Monday, April 26th to Friday April 30th, 2010**

What are we learning?__ __**How are we going to learn it?**__
 * We can read age and skill appropriate reading material of our choosing
 * We can view a representation of Romeo and Juliet and check for understanding between movie and script
 * We can compare and contrast the film version of Romeo and Juliet to Shakespeare's actual script
 * We can examine a piece of unfamiliar text through listening and reading strategies, and class discussion
 * We can show comprehension of Romeo and Juliet through writing a short quiz


 * Monday**: We will begin the day by correcting our Act 3 quiz of Romeo and Juliet. We will then start working on Act 4 of the play through listening to the script on the tape, following along in the script, and having class discussion about the language Shakespeare uses to gain clarification.


 * Tuesday**: We will continue to work through Act 4, scenes 2, 3, and 4 of the play. Again we will use the tape, script, and class discussion to progress through the play.


 * Wednesday**: We will be given a copy of scene 5 of Act 4 and begin working through the scene on our own (you may work with a partner or by yourself). Your job is to write a detailed paragraph about what the scene is about. You will then turn this into Mrs. Frey or Ms. Berry. You will then be given the study questions for Act 4. You can use the scripts to work on your study questions (books are on the shelf). If you finish the questions you may quietly read at your desk.


 * Thursday**: We will look at your write-ups for the scene 5 of Act 4. We will then take it up, as a class, on the tape. We will then work on the study questions and take them up in class.


 * Friday**: We will watch the video version of Romeo and Juliet and look for similarities and differences between the script and movie. We will then have an opportunity to go to the library to check out books, renew, and pay our fines. Your quiz for Act 4 will be on Monday, May 3rd.

**Monday, April ** 19th to Friday, April 23rd, __2010

What are we learning?__


 * __We can read age and skill appropriate reading materials__
 * 
 * 
 * __We can examine a piece of unfamiliar text through listening and reading strategies, and class discussion__
 * 

__How are we going to learn it?__

 Today, after reading time, we continued to During the course of and Tuesday's classes we are going to finish up Act 3 of Romeo and Juliet. You were given your study questions last week for you to complete as we __work through__ each of the scenes.

On Wednesday, you will be given time to go to the library to check out books, pay fines, and renew. You will be given more time to work on the study questions for Act 3.

On Thursday, we will be viewing the film version of Romeo and Juliet. We will talk about the characters and the similarities and differences between the movie version and Shakespeare's version of Romeo and Juliet. We will also take up the study questions in class.

On Friday, we will be having __our__ short quiz on Act 3. Remember, alot of the __study__ of Romeo and Juliet. Please remember that you have been givenquestions that are on the quiz come from your study package. It is up to you to complete __your study package__ for Act 3 and it is your responsibility. At the end of Act 3 we will and __be__ viewing the portion of video for Act 3 and then ready for your quiz.

Each class this week will allow you to __have__ our quiz. some time to read the books that you checked out from the library. Always bring your library books to class!

Have a good one!


 * __Thursday April 15th and Friday April 16th, 2010__**

Here is what I need from you for the next two days of classes:

1. You better miss me a whole lot. Remember, I have spies EVERYWHERE! :) I SEE ALL! Plus, Ms. Berry and Mrs. Frey always tell me how you are!! You better bring them some Tim Hortons!

2. On Thursday, you are going to be given time to go to the library and check out your books, pay fines, and renew. You will have 15 minutes up there to complete this task.

3. You will then be given your study packages (on my desk) for Act 3 of Romeo and Juliet. You will complete up to the end of scene 3 for Monday's class.

This is how you may use your time in class for the rest of Thursday and Friday:


 * Finishing your study questions for Romeo and Juliet
 * Reading quietly at your desk
 * Working on any homework you have for Math
 * Working on any homeowrk you have for Science
 * Just as a small reminder, if you decided to go loopy and spend all your time talking and being pains (which none of you are, right?) my replacement teacher, Mrs. Frey, and Ms. Berry have a blue binder (on their desk) that they can pull anything out of and give to you for extra work (the entire class). Anything that they give you will be due for Monday. Hint Hint! Wink Wink! Trust me!**


 * I expect nothing but the best from all of you! :)**

Have a great weekend!


 * __Wednesday, April 14th, 2010

What are we learning?__**


 * We can select reading material for our age and reading level
 * We can use our reading strategies to work on study questions for Romeo and Juliet

__**How are we gong to learn it?**__

Today, we are heading to the library for the first 15 minutes of class. We will then spend some time having some personal reading time.

The last half of class will be spent working our study package for Act 3 of Romeo and Juliet. Remember, it is up to you to keep up with your study questions as, you know, there will be a quiz at the end of the act.

Tomorrow, we will be working through scene 3 of Act 3.

Have a good one!

__**Monday, April 12th and Tuesday, April 13th, 2010**__

__**What are we learning?**__


 * **We can read age appropriate and skill approrpirate reading materials, of our choosing.**
 * **We can take a piece of unfamiliar text and construct understanding through listening, reading, and discussion (Romeo and Juliet)**


 * __How are we going to learn it?__**

Welcome back! Did you have a great Easter break? I hope you did! :)

Today, we are heading back into Romeo and Juliet by working on Act 3. We also did a bit of a review as we have not been working on Romeo and Juliet for the last little bit (we were working on our writing benchmarks).

Again, we are using the script, verbal dialogue (tape), class discussion, and video to work our way through this play.

Have a good one!


 * __Wednesday, March 30th, 2010__**

Today, we headed off to SIAST for our Come. See. Investigate. (CSI). It was an amazing morning and we had alot of fun in our different areas. We would like to thank all of the professors and heads of departments for opening their classroom doors to us this morning! IT WAS AWESOME!


 * Parents, please don't forget that interviews take place tonight from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm in the gymnasium and from 9:00 am till noon tomorrow, in the gymnasium. We look forward to seeing you!**

Have an awesome day and a great Easter break!!!

Also, if you missed it, HERE IS THE VIDEO FROM THE DAY THAT I LOST ALL MY HAIR!! THIS IS THE $2200 HAIRCUT!


 * __Monday, March 22nd, 2010 to Tuesday, March 29th, 2010

What are we learning?__**


 * We can write for a specific audience
 * We can use persuasive writing to make our audience see our view points.
 * We can use the writing process to help us in our writing
 * We can use the tools on the computers to help us create our pieces of writing
 * __How will we learn it?__

Over the next five classes we are going to be completing our "Writing Benchmarks" for the Prairie South School Division. All of the grade nines in the division will be expected to complete a persuasive essay from the prewriting phase all the way to a published copy that we will complete on the school computers. All students are encouraged to make sure that they are present for ELA 9 as all of the writing must be completed during school time.

Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday we will be busy working on our pre-writing, 1st drafts, and revision drafts. On Thursday and Friday, we will be heading into the computer labs to allow the students to use the computers to help them create their published copies. These published copies, and other drafts, will be handed into Mr. Young. Any students that do not finish by Friday will be expected to come in on Monday, March 29th, at lunch, to finish up their published work.

Our goal is to see how well the grade nines have progressed from their elementary writing up till now.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email me at young.brett@prairiesouth.ca.

Have a good one! **

__Friday, March 19th, 2010

What are we learning?__
 * We can use voice as a tool for showing expression in our reading
 * We can use our presentation skills to engage our audience in our scripts (Romeo and Juliet)

__How will we learn it?__

Today, we presented our scripts for "Romeo and Juliet: Write it Your Way". How did you do? Did you feel confident when you were up in front of the class. For those that presented today, you did very well. For those of you that were not ready today (except period 3, as we didn't quite get through everyone today), you were given alot of class time to get it done. It is your choice if you did not finish. Trust me, it will show when it comes to report card time (in a few days).

Also, I would like to congratulate the Orange and Green Beans on reaching their goal of $1825 for the "One Step at a Time Gym Floor Campaign" that is taking place here at Peacock Collegiate. That means that we made $25 per student! That is AMAZING! Thank you to everyone that contributed! What a great goal to reach!

Have an awesome weekend!


 * __Thursday, March 18th, 2010__**

__What are we learning?__ > > __How will we learn it?__
 * We can read grade appropriate and skill appropriate literature of our choosing
 * We can use work on voice and tone by reading scripts (we created) with our group

Today, as I am away, and we discussed this yesterday, you have three tasks to complete today:

1. You will head up to the library to renew your books, check new books out, and pay your fines. You will only be up in the class for 10 minutes so you need to get that done quickly.

2. You will be given time to read at your desk for about 20 minutes. Everyone will have something to read. No excuses.

3. For the last half of the class, you are going to be given time to work on reading over your scripts with your groups. Remember to practice, practice practice. If would be awesome if you would entertain my replacement teacher with showing him or her what you have created. Tomorrow, I am walking in and you are presenting! BE PREPARED!!!

REMEMBER, ANY MONEY YOU HAVE, PLEASE GIVE TO MRS. FREY AND MS. BERRY!! WE ARE GETTING SO CLOSE TO THAT OTHER GOAL!!!! CAN WE MAKE IT??

Have a good one!

__Tuesday, March 16th, 2010 and Wednesday, March 17th, 2010

What are we learning?__


 * We can use Microsoft Word to create our scripts for Romeo and Juliet "Write it Your Way" project.
 * We can use class discussion to discuss evaluation for your project
 * We can play with the site [|Xtranormal]to find out what it does.

__How will we learn it?__

Today, we headed into the computer lab to work on our scripts for "Romeo and Juliet: Write It Your Way". Before headed into the lab though, we discussed how our evaluation would look:

20 Marks 1. Does the scene make sense? 2. Using a font that is easy to read. 3. Using different words instead of ones from script to make it sounds more "modern day"

Some people did finish typing out the scripts during class time. If you finished your script, you were invited to go and play with the site [|www.xtranormal.com]. It is a animation site that we will be using in the next little while that takes your text and make an animated character say whatever you type. Play with it and see what you can come up with!

We will be back in the computer lab for one more opportunity tomorrow.

Have a good one!

__**Monday, March 15th, 2010**__

__What are we learning?__


 * We can take a selection of heavily worded text and paraphrase it into our own words

__How will we learn it?__

Today, after quiet reading time, will be your last opportunity to work on your Act 1 or 2 scene of Romeo and Juliet and putting the words into your own writing. Remember, not ever single line needs to be looked at. You need to look at what the characters are saying as a whole and put it into your own words. Seven sentences in "Shakespeare's Words" might be only 1 or 2 sentences in "Our Words". Do not get hung up on the things you don't understand. Look for things that you can figure out.

If you need any help at all, please do not hesitate to ask.

__Friday, March 12th, 2010__

Today, we headed into the auditorium for your "Subject Exploration" time with the grade 10 teachers. You listened to them explain what courses are offered in grade 10 so that you have an informed choice when you go to choose your classes for grade 10. Hard to believe that you are getting closer and closer to being in grade 10!

After that, you each received a permission note to send home to your parents for our SIAST field trip on Wednesday, March 31st. Please make sure that you parents sign the letter and choose your top 3 of the courses you can visit. You will only be visitng one section and you can sign up with Mr. Lys once your permission letter is brought back to him. Remember, this is on a first come first serve basis. So, the quicker you hand in your permission form, the more likely you will be in your first choice.

If you need a copy of the letter, please feel free to download it here:

[|SIAST tour parents letter 2010.pdf]

Have a great weekend!

__**Thursday, March 11th, 2010**

What are we learning?__


 * We can take a piece of text from Romeo and Juliet and put it into our own words that we use in our culture.
 * We can use the 6 traits of writing to accomplish the above task objective

__How are we going to learn it?__

Today, after silent reading time, you are going to either work by yourself or with a partner in taking a scene from Romeo and Juliet and turning it into a script that we can understand in our everyday language. Please consult the sheet you were given yesterday ("What Did He Say?"). There are extra copies on my desk.

You are to take the script and start going through a scene of your choice from Act 1 or Act 2 and make it so that we can understand the language very clearly.

As you can see, I am not in the classroom, but I am in the building. I expect you to be working hard and be welcoming to my replacement teacher! If you aren't, they will know where to find me! Muhhhh ha ha ha ha (evil laugh).

Have a good one!

__**Wednesday, March 10th, 2010**

What are we learning?__


 * We can you our writing to demonstarate our knowledge of Romeo and Juliet through a comprehensive quiz

__How are we going to learn it?__

Today you wrote your Act 2 quiz for Romeo and Juliet. How do you think you did? I hope you did well. Remember, you need to make sure that you are writing in details using example from the play in the short answer section. I am not a mind reader so you need to make sure that you explain yourself in full.

After the quiz we then took a look at your assignment for Act 1 and 2. You all received a copy of the "What Did He Say?" project. Please make sure to read over the sheet to know your expectations. As I am away tommorrow, you will be working on this assignment by yourself or with a partner.

Have a good one!

__**Tuesday, March 9th, 2010**

What are we learning?__


 * We can watch a visual representation of Romeo and Juliet to understand the play in greater detail and check for understanding

__How are we going to learn it?__

First of all, thanks so much for working on those posters welcoming the grade eights to our school. I heard many good things about them and I very proud of you for what you created! Also, I heard you worked very well while I was out sick yesterday, which makes it even better! :)

Today, after silent reading time, we dived into the second act of Romeo and Juliet by watching the movie version. Again, remember, we are always looking at Shakespeare's words. The movie is just a representation of of the play. As we watch the movie this time, I want you to notice how many things you noticed about the lines that the character's speak. Are you noticing that you understand the lines without having the script in front of you.

Tomorrow, we will be having our Act 2 quiz. Please don't forget.

Have a good one!

__**Thursday, March 4th, 2010**

What are we learning?__


 * We can read age appropriate and skill appropriate reading materials, of our choosing
 * We can take a piece of unfamiliar text adn construct understanding through listening, reading, and discussion (Romeo and Juliet)

__How are we going to learn it?__

Today you were given about 10 minutes of quiet, independent reading time. How are you books? They look awesome! I even saw someone reading The Hobbit today (one of my personal favorites).

After reading time we continued on into Act 2, scenes 5 and 6 by using the tape, our scripts, and class discussion. You were also given time to work on the study questions for the entire Act.

Tomorrow is going to be a different day, in our class. I am not going to tell you why but it has to do with what you did last at this time, last year. Can you think of it?

On Monday, we will be watching the video for Act 2 and we will have our quiz on Tuesday.

Have a good one!

__**Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010**

What are we learning?__


 * We can read age appropriate and skill approrpirate reading materials, of our choosing.
 * We can take a piece of unfamiliar text and construct understanding through listening, reading, and discussion (Romeo and Juliet)

__How are we going to learn it?__

Once again, you were given the first 10 minutes of class for independent reading time. Do you have your library books with you? We will be heading back to the library tomorrow to renew your books, pay fines, and check out new ones.

We are now moving into Act 2, scene 4 of Romeo and Juliet. The plot is starting to thicken as Romeo and Juliet have just decided to marry each other a few scenes ago and now they are inching closer to the wedding ceremony. Will they be able to keep their secret? Will Friar Laurence's plan work? Let's find out as we use the tape, class discussion, and our scripts to analyze what is going on within the story! :)

Also, you received yoru study package for Act 2 questions. You need to have those completed before the end of the Act. Be prepared! :)

Have a good one!

__**Monday, March 1st, 2010**

What are we learning?__


 * We can read age appropriate and skill appropriate reading materials, of our choosing.
 * We can take a piece of unfamiliar text and construct understanding through listening, reading, and discussion (Romeo and Juliet)

__How are we going to learn it?__

First of all, I would like to thank the ORANGE AND GREEN BEANS for the birthday celebration on Thursday. It was alot of fun

Today, we had our first independent reading time since our break. My apologies for not giving you time last week, but we are starting again.

We also headed into Act 2, scene 3 of Romeo and Juliet. We are starting to get through the play more quickly, now. Please make sure you are keeping up and if you have any questions, please DO NO HESITATE to ask.

Have a good one!

__**Wednesday, February 24th, 2010**

What are we learning?__
 * We can take a piece of unfamiliar text and create understanding (Romeo and Juliet)

__How are we going to learn it?__

Today we headed up to the library to renew our books, pay our fines, and even find some new books for us to read during the course of the week. Please remember that library books are your responsibility. If you don't return your library books, you will have to deal with it. Welcome to grade 9! :)

After we returned from the library we continued working through Act 2, scene 2 of Romeo and Juliet. Yes, it is the balcony scene. However, is it the most romantic scene in all of literature? You get to decide!

Have a good one!

__Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010

What are we learning?__


 * We can take a piece of unfamiliar text and create understanding (Romeo and Juliet)

__**How are we going to learn it?**__

Today, we took a few minutes to correct, and go over, your quiz on Act 1 from Romeo and Juliet. We then jumped into Act 2 using the script, the tape, and our class discussion. We will be continuing on with this throughout the rest of the week.

Have a good one!


 * __Monday, February 22nd, 2010__**

I dont' know if today was a "learning" day, so to speak. Today, the Orange and Green Beans helped the rest of the student body and staff help get our rooms back in order after being taken over with the Saskatchewan Winter Games. I was very proud of them as they helped put things away, moved desks, and just helped where they were needed.

The rest of the morning we spent talking about our break and the fun things that we did.

Tomorrow we will finish marking your Romeo and Juliet quizes from last week. Those that did not get to write the quiz last Friday, you will be given the opportunit to write it tomorrow during class. Be prepared!

Also, a big congratulations to the following students for their accomplishments during the Saskatchewan Winter Games:

Ty Nordick (bronze medal in wrestling) Abbie-May Shaw (fifth in the Biathalon) Jeremy Beam (bronze in bowling)

Congrats you three!

Have a good one!


 * __Friday, February 12th, 2010

What are we learning?__**


 * We can show our knowledge of Romeo and Juliet through our writing

__How will we learn it?__

Today, we wrote our first quiz on Act 1 of Romeo and Juliet. How did you do? Again, there shouldn't have been any surprises. If you were not present on Friday, you will be writing the quiz on our first day back after break.

Have an awesome and safe break everyone! We will see you in a week! Hope you all get a chance to watch some of the Winter Olympics on TV and take in some of the Saskatchewan Winter Games here in Moose Jaw.

Have a good one!

__Thursday, February 11th, 2010

What are we learning?__


 * We can read age appropriate and reading level appropriate materials based on our own choice.
 * We can use classroom discussion to answer guiding questions based on Romeo and Juliet

__How we are going to learn it__

Today, we are heading up to the library to find some new books for you to check out over winter break. I am also going to give you some reading time in class and some time to finish up your study questions for Romeo and Juliet.

We will take up the study questions before the end of class.

Tomorrow, you will be having your Romeo and Juliet quiz for Act 1. Please make sure to look over your study questions (hint hink wink wink).

Have a good one!


 * __Wednesday, February 10th, 2010__**

__What are we learning?__


 * Use a visual representation of play (movie of Romeo and Juliet) to gain a greater understanding of the text and what life would be like during a certain time period (1300s).

__How we are going to learn it__

We have just completed Act 1 of Romeo and Juliet. Today, we are going to look at the visual side of the play. We have been using the tape, the script, and class discussion to work our way through the play. The movie we are about to watch is Act 1 of Romeo and Juliet.

We will be using this movie and watch each act after we have completed it in class. This is just to give you an idea of what the story would look like on stage and what the time period would be like.

My hope is that by watching the movie you gain a greater understanding for Shakespeare's work. Plus, I hope that you are going to notice that you can understand what is going on in the story because of the work we have one in class by using the script, tape, and class discussion.

Please remember that tomorrow we will be heading to the library, and we will be looking at the study questions for Act 1. On Friday, you will have your first quiz on Romeo and Juliet, just dealing with Act 1.

Have a good one!

__**Tuesday, February 9th, 2010**__

__What are we learning?__


 * Constructing meaning from unfamiliar text
 * Using class discussion to understand unfamiliar text

__How are we going to learn it?__

Today, we dove right into Romeo and Juliet by completing Act 1, scene 5 by using the tape, the script, and class discussion. This is the very last scene in the act and that means that tomorrow we will be watching "older" version of the movie (image below). We will be using this version of the movie to get a visualization of what it would actually look like during Romeo and Juliet's time period.

On Thursday, we will be heading to the library and also going over our Act 1 study questions (you have them in your binder).

On Friday, you will have your first quiz on Act 1. Remember, many of questions for the quiz will be taken right from your study questions. Please have them completed.

Have a good one!

__**Monday, February 8th, 2010**__

__What are we learning today?__


 * Practice readng strategies on grade level and skill appropriate reading materials
 * Constructing meaning of unfamiliar texts
 * Using class discussion to understand unfamiliar text

__How are we going to learn it?__

Today, as you can see, I am not here (or I might be, depending on where I am in the building). You are going to have about 15-20 minutes of reading time on your own. My replacement teacher when let you know when it is time to stop.

Next, you are going to be given a handout that has a list of Shakespearean quotes on it. It is going to be up to you, to figure out what each quotes mean. If you get all of them, awesome! if you get some of them, that's ok too. You are going to be given 10 minutes to figure it out on your own.

Next, you are going to get into partners or groups of three and go over your quotes with your chosen people. What did they come up with? Was their understanding of the quotes the same as yours?

Lastly, come back together as a class, and go over the quotes together. Was your understanding similar or different than others in the class?

If you need a copy of the assignment, please download one here:

[|Shakespearean Quotes.pdf]

Tomorrow, we continue on with Scene 5 of Romeo and Juliet.

Have a good one! (Period 3, you better know what to do!)

__**Friday, February 5th, 2010**

What are we learning today?__


 * Practice reading strategies on grade and skill approprate reading materials
 * Using class discussion, audio, and the script to understand the language in Romeo and Juliet

__How are we going to learn it?__

Today, after our 10 minutes of reading time, we worked through the study questions for Act 1 scenes 2 and 3 or Romeo and Juliet. We then moved on the the "Party Scene" of the play as we went through scene 4 and 5.

On Monday, we will finish up these scenes and on Tuesday, we will be watching the first part of the movie "Romeo and Juliet". You will not want to miss this.

Have an awesome and safe weekend!

__**Thursday, February 4th, 2010**

What are we learning today? __  How are we learning it?
 * Working on our reading strategies using age (and skill) appropriate level material.
 * Using our reading strategies to answer questions based on Romeo and Juliet

I am away today! Do you miss me? Just remember I am always watching. :)

You are heading off to the library today for the first 15 minutes of class. Mrs. Frey and Ms. Berry will be hanging out in the classroom waiting for you to return from the libarary and my replacement teacher will be escorting you to the library.

When you return, you will have the opportunity to read at your desk for as long as you would like. However, during the class, I would like you to finisht the study questions for Act 1, scenes 2 and 3 of Romeo and Juliet. You have your study questions in your binder and you know where the scripts are.

I am expecting good things from you today! Make me proud! :)

Have a good one!

__**Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010**__

__What are we learning today?__

 How are we learning it?
 * We can take a selection of unfamiliar text and construct meaning through different resources and class discussion
 * We can review class material through analysis questions

Today, we are working on Act 1, scene 3 of Romeo and Juliet. We will be working through the script, using the tape, and class disucssion.

We will also be working on the study questions for scenes 2 and 3.

Tomorrow, we will be heading off to the library (yes, tomorrow, finally) for you to exchange books and get new ones.

Have a good one!

__**Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010**__

**__What are we learning today?__**

 __** How are we learning it? **__
 * **We can take a selection of unfamiliar text and construct meaning through different resources and class discussion**
 * **We can review class material through analysis questions**

Today we are jumping, feet first, into Romeo and Juliet. We will have a class discussion on the Act 1, sc. 1 questions from yesterday and then we will start into Act 1, sc. 2 of the play.

Again, we are using the script, the audio version of the play, and class discussion to figure out Shakespeare's story. You are starting to do a great job of figuring out which key words and phrases to look at to divulge meaning from the play.

Here we go.....

Have a good one!

__**Monday, February 1st, 2010**__ What are we learning today? **

 __** How are we learning it? **__
 * We can read material for our reading level independently
 * We can take a selection of unfamiliar text and construct meaning through different resources and class discussion
 * We can review class material through analysis questions

First of all, welcome back! Exam week is over and we are starting into our new semester. In our case, it just means carrying on where we left off, and that means continuing through our study of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.

You did receive your midterm exam back. I was quite pleased with many of your writing samples. Again, you were given EVERYTHING, so I expected some very good results. Well done! Report cards will be mailed out to your home address later on in the week. I will be sending a progress report card home tomorrow so you can show your parents your updated mark. This should be the one that appears on the report card.

We then continued our study in Romeo and Juliet by completing some study questions, as a review. We then continued working through Act 1, scene 2. We will continue here tomorrow.

Have a good one!

__Friday, January 22nd, 2010__


 * __What are we learning today?__**

 __How are we learning it?__
 * We can write to describe
 * We can write to explain
 * We can write to narrate
 * We can use our writing to verbalize our feelings and story behind a visual image (photograph)
 * We can take a piece of unfamiliar text and write it out in our own words

Today was your last day to work on your midterm writing samples. Please remember to look at the rubrics you have been provided with and make sure that you prepare for the exam on Tuesday, January 26th, 2010 (9:00 am). Remember to report to your period 1 class for all of your exams.

Have a great weekend preparing for your first exam week. BE CONFIDENT that you will do well! Take the time to prepare. The choice is yours.

Have a good one!

__Thursday, January 21st, 2010__


 * __What are we learning today?__**

 __How are we learning it?__
 * We can write to describe
 * We can write to explain
 * We can write to narrate
 * We can use our writing to verbalize our feelings and story behind a visual image (photograph)
 * We can take a piece of unfamiliar text and write it out in our own words

Today, you had your first opportunity to work on your midterm exam. Please remember to use the outline, rubrics, and everything else you have been given, by me, in order to help you. Again, everything you will need can be found in the entries below or on the "Handouts" section of this wiki.

Tomorrow, you will be given one more time to work on your four pieces of writing for the midterm. Again, you can bring all drafts of your writing to the midterm (Tuesday, January 26th, 9:00 am, your period 1 class).

Have a good one!

__Wednesday, January 20th, 2010__

__What are we learning today?__  __How are we learning it?__
 * We can write to describe
 * We can write to explain
 * We can write to narrate
 * We can use our writing to verbalize our feelings and story behind a visual image (photograph)
 * We can take a piece of unfamiliar text and write it out in our own words

Today, after we headed off to the library to renew our books, you were given your first opportunity to work on your pieces of writing for your midterm. Please remember to use the outline, rubrics, and everything else you have been given, by me, in order to help you. Again, everything you will need can be found in the entries below or on the "Handouts" section of this wiki.

Tomorrow, you will be given more time to work on your four pieces of writing for the midterm. Again, you can bring all drafts of your writing to the midterm (Tuesday, January 26th, 9:00 am, your period 1 class).

Have a good one!


 * __Tuesday, January 19th, 2010__**


 * __What are we learning today?__**

 __**How are we learning it?**__
 * We can read and listen to a selection of unfamiliar text and construct meaning
 * We can analyze an unfamiliar text so that it makes sense to us
 * Read independently to increase knowledge and reading skills

Today, first thing, we started looking at your midterm review. Please check the entry from yesterday for specific details. You all received a handhout from me that explained when and where your exams take place. Also, we went through some procedures for you to follow when you are in the exam room.

We then went over the English review and my expectations for you on your midterm. Again, you will be very prepared for your exam if YOU take the time to prepare. If you need extra copies of the review, you can downlad some here:

[|Review Midterm January 2010 pg1 ELA9.pdf] [|Review Midterm January 2010 pg2 ELA 9.pdf]

Again, you will be given time tomorrow, Thursday, and Friday to prepare for this exam. Everything has been given to you. NO SURPRISES! We will also be going to the library to exchange books and pay fines.

After we went through the midterm review, we then continued on with Romeo and Juliet.

Have a good one!

__**Monday, January 18th, 2010**__


 * __What are we learning today?__**

 __How are we learning it?__
 * We can read and listen to a selection of unfamiliar text and construct meaning
 * We can analyze an unfamiliar text so that it makes sense to us
 * Read independently to increase knowledge and reading skills

The first thing that we talked about today was how our exam week is going to look when we come into the classroom to write them next week. Students will be given a letter to bring home, tomorrow, so that parents can be familiar (and know) where students will write the exams, which exams they will be writing on which day, and the procedures of the school when it comes to Finals/Midterm Week.

Some things we highlighted today that will be sent home in the note tomorrow are:

1. Which exam is on which day:


 * Monday, January 25th, 9:00 am Math 9 midterm
 * Tuesday, January 26th, 9:00 am English 9 midterm
 * Wednesday, January 27th, 9:00 am Social Studies final

2. All exams will be written in the students period 1 classes.

3. Over the next few days, we will be going over reviews with the students to prepare for our exams. More information will follow in the letter tomorrow.

After our discussion we then continued to work on Act 1, scene 1 of Romeo and Juliet by using the our scripts, the tape, and our class discussion. My hope is that it is starting to become easier for you to look at the play and pick out the pieces of information so that we can make sense of the story.

Tomorrow, we will go over the letter for your midterm exam, that you will be taking home to your parents, and continuing on with Romeo and Juliet.

Have a good one!

__Friday, January 15th, 2010__

__What are we learning today?__

 __How are we learning it?__
 * We can read and listen to a selection of unfamiliar text and construct meaning
 * We can analyze an unfamiliar text so that it makes sense to us
 * Read independently to increase knowledge and reading skills

Today, after our independent reading time, we continued to work thoughRomeo and Juliet by looking at Act 1, scene 1. We used the tape and our books to help us find out what is going on in the story. Every so often, I would stop the tape and we would have a class discussion about what is going on so far in the scene.

On Monday, we will continue with our study on Romeo and Juliet. You will also be given some study questions to work on for the scene. Please remember that these study questions will be used to develop your quiz for each of the acts.

Also, on Monday, I will be dicussing your Midterm in English that will be happening in two weeks. You already know two things that are going to be on it. Do you remember what they are? Maybe you should mention it to your parents! :)

Have an awesome weekend!

__Thursday, January 14th, 2010__

__What are we learning today?__  __How are we learning it?__
 * We can read and listen to a selection of unfamiliar text and construct meaning
 * We can analyze an unfamiliar text so that it makes sense to us
 * Read independently to increase knowledge and reading skills

Today, after our independent reading time, we went straight into Romeo and Juliet by looking at Act 1, scene 1. We used the tape and our books to help us find out what is going on in the story. Every so often, I would stop the tape and we would have a class discussion about what is going on so far in the scene.

Tomorrow, we wil continue to work through Act 1, scene 1 and get our first introducation to the character of Romeo.

Have a good one!


 * __Wednesday, January 13th, 2010__**

__What are we learning today?__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * We can read a selection of unfamiliar text and construct meaning
 * We can analyze an unfamiliar text so that it makes sense to us

Today, we headed off to the library renew our books, pay our fines, and check new books out. Again, you will need to make sure you have a book for our independent reading time in class.

Once we returned from the library, we read a few examples of our "Going to the Dentist" descriptive paragraphs and then you handed them in. These are worth 10 marks to you as your rough drafts in the writing process. These were your rough drafts that you have made for your midterm. You will need to hold onto these copies for the midterm. Again we will be discussing the midterm next week, so please be prepared.

After looking at the descriptive paragraphs, we then looked at our prologue paragraphs or Romeo and Juliet. Again, you will need to hang onto those for your midterm. Trust me, you will want to hang onto them.

We then started to look at Act 1, scene 1 of Romeo and Juliet.

Tomorrow, we will continue on with Act 1, scene 1 as we begin our journey into one of Shakespeare's most famous plays.

Have a good one!

__**Tuesday, January 12th, 2010**

What are we learning today?__ <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * We can read a selection of unfamiliar text and construct meaning
 * We can analyze an unfamiliar text so that it makes sense to us
 * Read independently to increase knowledge and reading skills

I am away! Do you miss me?

Today, like I told you yesterday, your day is going to look like this:

1. 10-15 minutes of silent reading. You all have your library books or you can grab a Reader's Digest. Remember this is your time to read.

2. My replacement teacher (or Mrs. Frey or Ms. Berry) will hand out the green paragraph notes package to you. You will then go over the notes on DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPHS. After that, you will be given time to continue work on your descriptive paragraph about going to the desntist (aka make Mr. Young sick). **These rough copies are due tomorrow.

Here is a copy of the paragraph notes, if you need it:**

[|ParagraphNotesELA9.pdf]

3. You will also work on writing out the prologue for Romeo and Juliet in your own words. You will take the pink sheet, that we have been working on, and write out the prologue so that it makes sense to you. I know we have not been through the whole thing, but you can try it out and tomorrow we will see how you did. **These are due tomorrow**.

Tomorrow, we will be heading up to the library to renew our library books. We will then begin Act 1, scene 1 of Romeo and Juliet.

Have a good one!

__Monday, January 11th, 2010__


 * __What are we learning today?__**

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * We can read a selection of unfamiliar text and construct meaning
 * We can analyze an unfamiliar text so that it makes sense to us
 * Read independently to increase knowledge and reading skills

Today, after our quiet reading time,we continued looking at the prologue for Romeo and Juliet. Again, this is unfamiliar text to all of us.

What we did was take the prologue and "blow it apart" and looked at it line by line to see what we can discover about the story. You worked on this witha partner and then we came back together to work on it as a class.

You were then set to the task of writing out the prologue, using the notes that you made for yourself, in paragraph form. The trick is to write out the prologue using the language that we use every day and not "Shakespeare" language. We then shared a few of these in class. A reminder that this questions may appear on your midterm (which we will be talking about next week), so please be prepared.

Tomorrow, as I will be away, you will be given your independent reading time, time to work on the pologue if you aren't quite done, and time to work on your descriptive paragraphs for your visit to the dentist.

Have a good one!

__Thursday, January 7th, 2010__


 * __What are we learning today?__**

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * We can read a selection of unfamiliar text and construct meaning

Today, we are going to dip our toe into the water of Shakesepeare's Romeo and Juliet. This is the start of our journey for the next little while as we begin to look at the Prologue.

A prologue, for a play, is the part at the begnning that tells the audience what the play is going to be about. If you have ever seen the Star Wars movies, you would know that at the begining of every movie, they start off with a prologue of everything that has happened leading up to the point that the story starts. For example, check the video below:

The prologue in Romeo and Juliet is very similar to the one like you see in the video above. However, in Romeo and Juliet's prologue, we are told the entire story. This means that there WILL NOT be any surprises at the end.

As as a class, we are going to read the prologue together and then I am going to give you some time to come up with your ideas of what actually happens in the story. We will then go through it, using a class discussion, to describe, in everyday English, what happens to Romeo and Juliet.

On Monday, we begin Act 1, Scene 1. Be prepared! :)

Have an awesome weekend!

__Thursday, January 7th, 2010__

__What are we learning today?__ <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> How are we learning it?
 * We can view a video for understanding on a specific figure in history
 * We can take notes for comprehension of what is said in the video
 * We can use class discussion to emphasize our understanding of the video

Today we are going to begin looking at Shakespeare, the person, the playwright. To take a look at the life of Shakespeare, we are going to we watching a short video on the facts of his life and his career as a playwright.

As we watch the video, I want you to take notes on the questions that have been given to you on your handout. As these are notes for yourself, please do not worry about getting them down in full sentences but get as much information as you can written down.

Once we have finished watching the video we will take up the questions as a class. You will be expected to share your answers and add more details to your notes, as we discuss.

Any time that is left will be spend working on our descriptive paragraphs for "Going to the Dentist" that we started yesterday.

Tomorrow, we will be looking the the Prologue (the part of the play that tells us everything we need to know about the story) for Romeo and Juliet. It is a pretty important class as this is the class you will learn exactly what happens in the play.

Have a good one!

__**Wednesday, January 6th, 2010**__

__What are we learning today?__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * Reading a short piece of descriptive writing for comprehension and how to write using descriptive details
 * Write to describe a specific incident using vivid details

First of all, welcome back! I hope you had an awesome two weeks off filled with lots of rest, relaxation, and food!

Today we are going to start looking at our unit on "Love and Loyalty" by starting down the path of looking at the Shakespearian play, Romeo and Juliet. However, before we get into Romeo and Juliet, we are going to be taking a quick look at William Shakespeare, the man, and his style of writing.

The first thing we are going to look at is how Shakespeare used specific details in his writing by looking at the short essay called "Shakespeare's Dentist." Once we have looked at the short essay we will answer the responding questions on that are attached to the handout. Then, you will be given the opportunity to write a descriptive paragraph (rough draft) about going to the dentist (using very specific details) and then we will read some of them in class. Here is a copy for you to download:

[|Shakespeare's Dentist.pdf]

Tomorrow, we will be viewing a short video about Shakespeare's life and then we will be starting to look the actual play of Romeo and Juliet by looking at the Prologue (the beginning of the play where we find out exactly what happens in the story).

Just so you are prepared, Romeo and Juliet can be quite a heavy play to get through. However, we will be using many different resources to work through the play (scripts, audio versions of the play, videos, class discussions, role playing, study questions, and writing samples). You are encouraged to keep your attendance up as we will be working through the play. Anytime that you are feeling that you don't understand what is going on within the play, you need to make sure that you come and see me for extra help. Do not let yourself get to the end of the play and still not know what is going on. It is your responsibility to ask for help if you need it.

Have a good one!

__Friday, December 18th, 2009__

Well here it is! We have finally made it to the last day before Christmas break begins! Today we had our Jr. SGA assembly in the morning and then we broke for lunch at 11:00. You resumed your afternoon classes at 12:00. We then headed into the auditorium for the all school annual Winter Lit. A big thank you to the Senior SGA for putting on such a great show! What a fantastic group of talent we have here at Peacock! Amazing job and well done!

I hope that everyone has an awesome, and safe, Christmas break. Please remember to take some time to relax and be with your family. Eat lots!

** School will resume on Wednesday, January 6th, 2010 ****. When we get back, we will be starting to tackle the story of Romeo and Juliet.

Happy Holidays!

__Thursday, December 17th, 2009__**

Today in class we had our annual "Spring Cleaning of the Lockers" day. My hope is that you are all organized for when you get back after the Christmas break.

We also talked about our family's holiday traditions. Some of you had some amazing stories and I would really like to have some of your family's cooking! It sounded amazing!

Well this is it. Tomorrow is the last day before Christmas break begina. It is hard to believe that we have come this far in the semester already.

One sleep left!

Have a good one!


 * __Wednesday, December 16th, 2009__**

Today we started off with "Clean Your Binder" day because, let's face it, some of you need it!

After our shortened classes, we headed into the auditorium for GeoChallenge 2009. Congratulations to our finalists and to Emily F. for winning the challenge!

Tomorrow, we will be cleaning out your lockers and ending the period with a few "English Games".

Again, if you have not handed in your children's story to me, you are late. Please get that in.

Have a good one!


 * __Tuesday, December 15th, 2009__**

Today we started off by heading up to the library to renew our books, checkout books, and pay our late fees. You were invited by Mrs. Craik to check out as many as 10 books for the holiday season. That's alot of books!

When we returned to the classroom, from the library, we debriefed about yesterday's trip to Sunningdale and Palliser School. We looked at the pictures that were taken of you working with the grade one and two classes. You did an amazing job! You should be very very proud of yourselves.

Tomorrow we have shortened periods as we will be working with Mr. Lys on GeoChallenge 2009. You all wrote the test in your social studies class and now it is time to find out the results and see who will be competing in the next part of the competition. As classes will be shortened, to participate in this activity, we will be taking some time in my class to clean out our binders and our lockers in preparation for the Christmas break. We want to make sure that everything is organized for when you return to school after the break.

Have a good one!


 * __Monday, December 14th, 2009

What are we learning today?__**

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __**How are we learning it?**__
 * ** Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships). **
 * ** Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose. **
 * ** Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact. **
 * ** Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups **

Well we made it! Today was the day that you took your finished children's books and went into the classroom to work with the grade one and two classes at Sunningdale and Palliers Heights. For those at Palliser, I hope you had an awesome time. For those that were with me at Sunningdale, it looked like you were having a great time with your buddies.

Tomorrow we will debrief how today went and share our experiences in a class discussion. Between Mrs. Varjassy and myself we have alot of pictures to look at of the experience! I can't wait to talk to you about it.

I am very proud of all of you for participating in this experience! Well done!

Have a good one!



__**Friday, December 11th, 2009

What are we learning today?**__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">Today was your final half hour in the computer lab before we shared our stories. You had the opportnity to print anything that you needed, last minute, and then we talked about what to expect on Monday when you are in the grade one and two classrooms.

Remember, if you are meeting at **Palliser Heights**, you will meet Mrs. Varjassy, Mr. Polupski, and Mrs. Berry at the front doors of the school for attendance. If you are meeting at **Sunningdale**, you will meet Mr. Young, Miss Johnston, and Mrs. Frey at the front door of the school and we will head into the gymnasium to get ready.

Again, you were given a letter to take home yesterday to your parents explaining Monday morning to them. You are responsible to find a way to the school and a way back to Peacock. You will be released in plenty of time (11:30) to get back to Peacock for lunch and your afternoon classes.

Your stories are now completed and ready to be shared. Remember, it is your responsibility to bring the stories with you to your school. You will also be responsible to get your story to me on Tuesday, to hand in for evaluation.

I really hope that each of you are looking forward to Monday. It is truly an amazing morning and a great way to really kick of the Christmas week at Peacock.

See you Monday! Have an awesome weekend!

__**Thursday, December 10th, 2009**__

__What are we learning today?__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">Today we headed off to the computer lab, again (big surprise, I am sure) for you last full day to work in on your children's stories. I would say almost everyone has printed off their stories, read them over, and have begun to work on their illustrations.

You also found out which school (Palliser Heights or Sunningdale) you will be attending on Monday, December 14th. You wer then given a letter to take home to your parents explaining how Monday is going to look. Parents, again, please be aware that it is the student's responsibility to get to the school and to get back to Peacock. Student will be expected to arrive at their school by 9:50 am for attendance and then they will be escorted to the grade one and two classrooms shortly after for our morning. They will then be released at about 11:30 for lunch. This will give them time to find a way back to Peacock or go for lunch. Afternoon classes will continue, as normal. Here is the letter if you need a copy:

[|Children story letter 2009.pdf]

Tomorrow, we will be your very last half an hour in the lab to go over your story in preparation for Monday. We will also be going over some expectation that I will have while you are in the grade one and two classrooms.

Have a good one!

**__Wednesday, December 9th, 2009__**

__What are we learning today?__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">Today was your third full day in the lab to work on your stories. My hope is that you have finished putting in all the "text" into your stories and you are now proofreading and adding illustrations to your story, starting tomorrow. Again you will need to complete the "Editing and Revising Checklist" before you hand in your final story.

Tomorrow we will be back in here again for another worktime (your last full period). Please make sure you are using your time wisely.

Have a good one!

__**Tuesday, December 8th, 2009**__

__What are we learning today?__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">Today was your second full day in the lab to work on your stories. My hope is that you have finished putting in all the "text" into your stories and you are now proofreading and adding illustrations to your story, starting tomorrow. Again you will need to complete the "Editing and Revising Checklist" before you hand in your final story.

Tomorrow we will be back in here again for another worktime. Please make sure you are using your time wisely.

Have a good one!

__**Monday, December 7th, 2009**__


 * __What are we learning today?__ **

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">Today, we headed to the computer lab to work on the "creating" part of your children's stories. Please remember that you will have all of this week to get your books ready. If you need extra time, I am available all this week at lunch and after school. It is your job to tell me if you need to come into the computer lab during these times and I will be there for you. There is absolutely no excuses for not having this assignment done by the end of the week. Remember, if your story is not complete by Friday you will not be attending our visit to Palliser Heights and Sunningdale School on Monday, December 14th (more info on that later in the week).

In the computer lab, today, we looked at have to use Microsoft Publisher to create your stories and then you had the rest of the time to begin taking your 2nd and 3rd drafts of your story and start creating your children's book (visual presentation).

Please don't forget about your evaluation for your final children's story (you received last week). I will be using that rubric to evaluate your final children's story. You will also need to hand in the "Writing Checklist" (pink sheet) with your final copy. Please remember to check over all of the elements of the checklist and find three people to read your story over for you. If you need copies of the rubric and checklist, you can download them here:

[|Editing and Revising Checklist-3.pdf] [|Children's Story Rubric 2009.pdf]

Also, you received a progress report from me today that includes your current mark in my class. This mark is the mark you will see on your report cards (distributed next week). If you have any questions or concerns about your mark, please feel free to come and see me. This progress report is to be taken home, signed by your parent or guardian, and brought back to class.

We will be back in the computer lab tomorrow to continue working on this assignment.

Have a good one!

__Thursday, December 3rd, 2009__

__What are we learning today?__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">Today we continued to work through the rough drafts of our children's story. Everyone should have already had their green "Beginning Your Story" worksheet signed off by me. If you do not have it signed off by me, you are really behind. You should all have them in your binders. This part of your project was due on Monday. Remember, we are keeping every piece of writing in our white binders (given to you on Monday) so that you know where everything is (prewriting, drafts, illustrations, etc.)

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-weight: normal;">Please remember that today was your last scheduled class time to work on your stories until Monday. You will need to make sure that you have all of your drafts completed for Monday, December 7th. We will be in the computer lab on that day working on creating your actual story books (including illustrations). Please make sure that you are using time wisely in class. Remember, you don't have class this Friday. You will definitely need to make sure that you are doing some writing and editing outside of class time.

Have a good weekend. We will see you on Monday.

__**Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009**__


 * __What are we learning today?__ **

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">Today we continued to work through the rough drafts of our children's story. Everyone should have already had their green "Beginning Your Story" worksheet signed off by me. If you do not have it signed off by me, you need to. Please get that done. You should all have them in your binders. This part of your project was due on Monday. Remember, we are keeping every piece of writing in our white binders (given to you on Monday) so that you know where everything is (prewriting, drafts, illustrations, etc.)

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-weight: normal;">Please remember that tomorrow will be your last scheduled class time to work on your stories until Monday. You will need to make sure that you have all of your drafts completed for Monday, December 7th. We will be in the computer lab on that day working on creating your actual story books (including illustrations). Please make sure that you are using time wisely in class. Remember, you don't have class this Friday. You will definitely need to make sure that you are doing some writing and editing outside of class time.

Have a good one!

__**Tuesday, December 1st, 2009**__

__What are we learning today?__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">Today we continued to work through the rough drafts of our children's story. Everyone should have already had their green "Beginning Your Story" worksheet signed off by me. If you do not have it signed off by me, you need to. Please get that done. You should all have them in your binders. Remember, we are keeping every piece of writing in our white binders (given to you yesterday) so that you know where everything is (prewriting, drafts, illustrations, etc.)

We also took some time today to go over the rubric for this assignment. Please make sure that all parts of the rubric have been checked over as you go through this process of creating your story. The total for this assignment will be out of 72 marks. You are being given plenty of class time to work on this so I expect only the best from all of you. If you need an extra copy of the rubric you can download it here.

[|Children's Story Rubric 2009.pdf]

Tomorrow we will continue working on this assignment. Remember, all drafts must be completed by Monday, December 7th as we will be heading into the computer lab to work on the "creating" process of our children's book.

Have a good one!

__**Monday, November 30th, 2009**__

__What are we learning today?__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

Today you handed in your green "Beginning Your Story" worksheet so that I could go over it and get it back to you. If you did not hand it into me you lost on on 10 marks toward your final evaluation. Remember, writing is a process and we all need to practice it.

You also received the "Me? I'm a Children's Author" package that contained our Student Learning Outcomes for this assignment and our schedule for the next two weeks. You can download this, as well, at the end of this post.

Tomorrow, you will continue to work on your rough drafts of your stories.

[|ChildrensBookAssignment2009.pdf]

Have a good one!

__**Friday, November 27th, 2009

What are we learning today?**__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

We are going to go with Rider Gree today as our color for our entry today as we are celebrating RIDER day here at Peacock Collegiate! Today we reviewed yesterday's lesson as we debriefed on how you did if your groups with reading your children's stories. We made sure to emphasize voice, tone, and audience when we were with our groups. Again, please make sure to use the rubric (look at yesterday's entry) to help you with your reading.

We then started looking at what we are going to do with your children stories that you will be writing for your grade one and two reading buddies. You recieved a green copy of the "Beginning Your Story" worksheet. I ask that you please fill it out this weekend and have it ready to hand in on Monday. If you need a copy of the sheet, you can download it below. Please have this done for Monday as it is the first part in your journey to creating your children's story.

[|Beginning your story worksheet.pdf]

Have a great weekend! GO RIDERS!!



__Thursday, November 26th, 2009__

__What are we learning today?__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

To reach the student learning outcomes above we are going to be starting to work down a path looking at the unit of "Love, Loyalty, and Relationships." What better way to start off this unit then to remember back to the days where laughing, playing, and the building blocks for our relationships was built. For most of us, that started when we were very young and used to have our favourite books read to us, or we were beginning to read them on our own. How many of you remember such titles as "Love You Forever" by Robert Munsch, "If You Give a Pig a Pancake?", "Mortimer, Be Quiet!", the Franklin the Turtle series, or the Bernstein Bears.

Your homework assignment, from yesterday, was to find one (or two or three or four, etc.) children's book from your treasury that you can bring and share with the class.

Today, to start off, we reviewed the skills of using voice, tone, and audience in our reading. Please refer to yesterday's entry for explanations of those for skills if you don't understand. You also received a rubric focusing on voice, tone, and audience from me so that you can evaluate on yourself on how you are doing in working on these skills. Here is a copy of the rubric if you need on:

[|Story Telling Voice, Tone, and Audience Rubric.pdf]

You were then broken up into groups of 3-4 members and set to the task of reading the children's story that you brought with you to your group. In each of your groups, each one of you was given the opportunity to work on your voice, tone, and you had to pretend you were working with your target audience of grade ones and twos. Again, in two weeks you will be working with them for a morning so what we are doing now is preparing you with the tools that you will need to engage this younger audience.

Then we came back together to have a discussion about the success and the things we need to work on when it comes to using voice, tone, and audience in our reading. You were then given time to evaluate yourselves using the rubric. We put these into our binders for safe keeping as we will return to them in the near future.

Tomorrow, we will continue to work on the student learning outcomes above as we complete our group readings and we start to look at some of the topics you might be interested in writing about for your children's story.

It is very important that, as we create these next pieces of writing, you remember to keep your audience in mind and work hard so that you will have a finished story to share in the next few weeks.

More to come on that on Friday.

Have a good one!

__**Wednesday, November 25th, 2009**__

__What are we learning today?__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

To reach the student learning outcomes above we are going to be starting to work down a path looking at the unit of "Love, Loyalty, and Relationships." What better way to start off this unit then to remember back to the days where laughing, playing, and the building blocks for our relationships was built. For most of us, that started when we were very young and used to have our favourite books read to us, or we were beginning to read them on our own. How many of you remember such titles as "Love You Forever" by Robert Munsch, "If You Give a Pig a Pancake?", "Mortimer, Be Quiet!", the Franklin the Turtle series, or the Bernstein Bears.

All of us have our treasury of children's stories that we remember from our younger days. Today, I brought you my collection of children's books and we had the chance to read a few of them and look at the types of stories that you remember from being a child. We even took some time to look at the "theme" of each story. That is, the author's message or life lesson that we learn from each of the stories that we read.

Your homework assignment, from yesterday, was to find one (or two or three or four, etc.) children's book from your treasury that you can bring and share with the class.

Using the books that you brought today, you were given a chance to work on the 4th outcome listed above in the "What did we learn today?" section. By using what we have learned about voice, tone, and audience in reading (think about yesterday's lesson and how I read to you, and when we read Losing Joe's Place) we can engage a specific audience and make our reading more vibrant, alive, and energetic. This in turn, captivates a reader's attention (especially ones that are in grade 1 and 2).

After going through "The True Story of the Three Little Pigs" we talked about voice, tone, and audience. Voice is the skill of projecting your voice so that people can hear you. Tone is using your voice to show expression and feelings (character's voice, excitement, sadness, etc.) Audience is the type of people that you are reading to. We talked about informal (you hanging out with your friends) and formal (weddings, funerals, graduations, etc.) audiences and appropriate types of voices to use with them.

You were then given the chance to go off and read, outloud, your children's story that you brought with you today and work on voice, tone, and audience. If you forgot yours today, I strongly encourage you to bring one with you tomorrw.

Tomorrow, we will continue to work on the 4th student learning outcome. You are going to be placed into groups of 3-4 members and you will read your children's story to them, using the elements discussed today (Voice, Tone, and Audience).

You will also be given a rubric to help you with those skills that we worked on today.

Have a good one!

__**Tuesday, November 24th, 2009**__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-weight: normal;">__What are we learning today?__

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> __How are we learning it?__
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Write to narrate and experiment with a variety of text forms that explore identity (Love, Loyalty, and Relationships).
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Create and present a variety of visual presentations to best represent message for an intended audience and purpose.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Assess own and others’ work for clarity, correctness, and impact.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Use oral language to interact purposefully, confidently, and appropriately in a variety of situations including small groups

To reach the student learning outcomes above we are going to be starting to work down a path looking at the unit of "Love, Loyalty, and Relationships." What better way to start off this unit then to remember back to the days where laughing, playing, and the basis for our relationships was built. For most of us, that started when we were very young and used to have our favourite books read to us, or we were beginning to read them on our own. How many of you remember such titles as "Love You Forever" by Robert Munsch, "If You Give a Pig a Pancake?", "Mortimer, Be Quiet!", the Franklin the Turtle series, or the Bernstein Bears.

All of us have our treasury of children's stories that we remember from our younger days. Today, I brought you my collection of children's books and we had the chance to read a few of them and look at the types of stories that you remember from being a child. We even took some time to look at the "theme" of each story. That is, the author's message or life lesson that we learn from each of the stories that we read.

Your homework assignment, for Wednesday (tomorrow), is to find one (or two or three or four, etc.) children's book from your treasury that you can bring and share with the class. You will also need to tell us why you chose the book that you did. If you can try to find a book that gives a theme or a life lesson, that would be great. Books like "Where's Waldo?" or "Mighty Machines" are great books, but not what we are looking for for this assignment. On Wednesday, I will be diving you up into groups and each group member is going to be sharing (reading) their chosen book to their group.

The next few things we will be working on will lead us into creating your own children's book that will be shared with a group of grade ones and twos at some specific elementary school's around the division. We will let you know which schools in the next few days.

It is very important that, as we create these next pieces of writing, you remember to keep your audience in mind and work hard so that you will have a finished story to share in the next few weeks.

More to come on that on Thursday.

Have a good one!

__Monday, November 23rd, 2009__

__What are we learning today?__

We can view and demonstrate comprehension of a photograph. We can summerize ideas from photographs.**
 * Read grade 9 appropriate texts to increase fluency and expression.

__How are we learning it?__

Today we started off with some silent reading time. We then started working on our theme of "Acceptance." You viewied a photograph and wrote down your ideas about what was going on within that photograph based on no prior knowledge. We then had a class discussion about what each of us saw in the photograph and why we saw what we did. We then read the very short story that went along with the photograph and discussed the author's message.

After reviewing the paragraph mentioned above, we then worked on the five (5) "Responding to the Story" questions on the back of the sheet that I passed out to you. Again, you may download the story and questions below.

Please remember to return your library books before they are due. Also, please remember to take care of your library books and not lose them. You will be charged late fees and replacement fees if your books are overdue or not returned at all because they have been lost. Take care of your books!

To download a copy of the short story and photograph please click on the file below:

[|acceptance story.PDF]
 * [[image:http://c1.wikicdn.com/i/mime/32/application/pdf.png width="32" height="32" caption="external image pdf.png" link="http://mryoungspace.wikispaces.com/file/view/acceptance+story.PDF"]] ||
 * external image pdf.png ||

Have a good one!

__**Thursday, November 19th, 2009**

What are we learning today?__

We can view and demonstrate comprehension of a photograph. We can summerize ideas from photographs.**
 * Read grade 9 appropriate texts to increase fluency and expression.

__How are we learning it?__

Today we started off with some silent reading time. We then started working on our theme of "Acceptance." You viewied a photograph and wrote down your ideas about what was going on within that photograph based on no prior knowledge. We then had a class discussion about what each of us saw in the photograph and why we saw what we did. We then read the very short story that went along with the photograph and discussed the author's message.

After reviewing the paragraph mentioned above, we then worked on the five (5) "Responding to the Story" questions on the back of the sheet that I passed out to you. Again, you may download the story and questions below.

To download a copy of the short story and photograph please click on the file below:

[|acceptance story.PDF]

We also worked on a reading assessment for Mrs. Varjassy. If you have not completed that, you need to see me as soon as possible. All students will complete this assignment for her.

__**Wednesday, November 18th, 2009**

What are we learning today?__

We can view and demonstrate comprehension of a photograph. We can summerize ideas from photographs.**
 * Read grade 9 appropriate texts to increase fluency and expression.

__How are we learning it?__

Today we started off with some silent reading time. We then started working on our theme of "Acceptance." You viewied a photograph and wrote down your ideas about what was going on within that photograph based on no prior knowledge. We then had a class discussion about what each of us saw in the photograph and why we saw what we did. We then read the very short story that went along with the photograph and discussed the author's message. We will continue with this on Thursday.

To download a copy of the short story and photograph please click on the file below:

[|acceptance story.PDF]

Also, for those that were away on Monday (check Monday's entry) here are the three Weekly News that you worked on. Please choose two (2) of the three articles, read them, and complete all the activities. These were due yesterday. However, lots of people have been out sick so we are putting these on the wiki so that you can work on them at home. These are worth 10 marks each for a total of 20 marks. Here are the articles:

[|Canada's Seal Hunt.pdf] [|Cell Phone Banning.pdf] [|Olympic Fever 2010.pdf]


 * //Just to note, period 2 and 3 had the lesson above. Period 1 were having their final time of writing based on the outcomes below. Period 1 had the lesson yesterday.//**

__**Tuesday, November 17th, 2009**

What are we learning today?__

We can view and demonstrate comprehension of a photograph. We can summerize ideas from photographs.**
 * Read grade 9 appropriate texts to increase fluency and expression.

__How are we learning it?__

Today we started off with some silent reading time. We then started working on our theme of "Acceptance." You viewied a photograph and wrote down your ideas about what was going on within that photograph based on no prior knowledge. We then had a class discussion about what each of us saw in the photograph and why we saw what we did. We then read the very short story that went along with the photograph and discussed the author's message. We will continue with this on Thursday.

To download a copy of the short story and photograph please click on the file below:

[|acceptancestory.PDF]

//Just to note, period 1 had the lesson above. Periods 2 and 3 were having their final time of writing based on the outcomes below. Tomorrow, period 1 will have their final time in the computer lab and period 2 and 3 will have the lesson mentioned above. Therefore, periods 2 and 3 will be handing in their 3 pieces of writing **today** and period 1 will hand them in **tomorrow** .//

__**Monday, November 16th, 2009**

What are we learning today?__

We can read independently and demonstrate comprehension of a news article.**
 * We can read appropiate texts to incurease fluency and expression.

__How are we learning it?__

As I am away, you will start the day, as you usually do, with 15 minutes of DEAR time (Drop Everything And Read). You will not be allowed to go to the library today, so please don't ask.

After DEAR, you will be going through the three "Weekly News" articles, on your own. As you can see, there are three articles to choose from. Your job is to work through 2 of the 3 articles, completing all parts. This will be worth 10 marks to you for each article (20 marks total). Please remember to use complete sentences and do your best. They are due tomorrow.

Here are the articles for you to download if you were away:

[|Cell Phone Banning.pdf] [|Olympic Fever 2010.pdf] [|Canada's Seal Hunt.pdf]

Tomorrow, we will be back in the computer for your LAST PERIOD of getting your final copies of your three pieces of writing. If you need more information, please check the entries below. You can also check the "Handouts" section of the wiki for any downloads (editing checklist, rubric, etc.) that you may need. You were given everything in class, this is just if you need extras.


 * Did you get your H1N1 letters from Mrs. Frey and Ms. Berry?? These need to be brought back tomorrow (Tuesday)! Please make sure that happens!**

Have a good one!

__**Friday, November 13th, 2009**

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">What are we learning today? __

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Students will be learning how to write using these forms of writing:

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Students will be at different places during this outcome. However, all students will complete all parts of the outcome above.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">describe (Save the World)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">narrate (Losing Joe's Place letter)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">explain (Meet the Robinsons)

We are also learning how to assess own and others' work for clarity, correctness, and impact. This outcome will be completed as students finish working on their different forms of writing through their writing samples.

__How are we learning it?__

Today, we headed into the computer lab, for the second time, to work on on our final copies for our three writing samples. My hope is that you have used this time to get all the typing of your assignments completed (you may also hand write your final copies if you wish). Please make sure that you are using your time wisely.

Remember, I will be looking for the following things in your writing sample packages:

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;"> As I am away on Monday, we have changed the due date of these assignments to **Tuesday, November 17th**. That will be your last time in the computer lab. Your three pieces of writing will be due at the end of the period on Tuesday. You have had numerous amounts of classtime to finish these assignments up. Please make sure they are done. Again, if you need anything, such as the editing checklists or rubric, please make sure to check the "Handouts" section of the wiki.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">PreWriting
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Rough Draft (1st Draft)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">2nd draft
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">3rd draft, 4th draft, etc.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Final Copy (typed or hand-written)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Editing Checklist (all categories signed off)

Have an awesome weekend!

__**Thursday, November 12th, 2009**

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">What are we learning today? __

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Students will be learning how to write using these forms of writing:

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Students will be at different places during this outcome. However, all students will complete all parts of the outcome above.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">describe (Save the World)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">narrate (Losing Joe's Place letter)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">explain (Meet the Robinsons)

We are also learning how to assess own and others' work for clarity, correctness, and impact. This outcome will be completed as students finish working on their different forms of writing through their writing samples.

__How are we learning it?__

Today, we headed into the computer lab to work on on our final copies for our three writing samples. You will have today and tomorrow to get all the typing of your assignments completed (you may also hand write your final copies if you wish). You will also be in here tomorrow to continue working on these writing samples. Please make sure that you are using your time wisely.

Remember, I will be looking for the following things in your writing sample packages:


 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">PreWriting
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Rough Draft (1st Draft)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">2nd draft
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">3rd draft, 4th draft, etc.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Final Copy (typed or hand-written)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Editing Checklist (all categories signed off)

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">These assignments are due on **Tuesday, November 17th**. You have had numerous amounts of classtime to finish these assignments up. Please make sure they are done.

__**Tuesday, November 10th, 2009**__

__What are we learning today?__

Students will be learning how to write using these forms of writing:

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Students will be at different places during this outcome. However, all students will complete all parts of the outcome above.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">describe (Save the World)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">narrate (Losing Joe's Place letter)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">explain (Meet the Robinsons)

We are also learning how to assess own and others' work for clarity, correctness, and impact. This outcome will be completed as students finish working on their different forms of writing through their writing samples.

__How are we learning it?__

Today, we had or final class time of working on the editing process with our own wrting and reading our peers work, as well. My hope is that you used this time wisely as this was our last "in class" time work on your three writing samples.

On Thursday and Friday, you will be heading to the computer lab to work on your final copies of your three writing samples. Please remember to use this time wisely. Then, on Monday, you will have one last opportunity to finish up your final copies, get your packages ready, and hand them into me.

Remember, I will be looking for the following things in your package:
 * PreWriting
 * Rough Draft (1st Draft)
 * 2nd draft
 * 3rd draft, 4th draft, etc.
 * Final Copy (typed or hand-written)
 * Editing Checklist (all elements signed)


 * These assignments are due on Monday, November 16th. You have had numerous amounts of classtime to finish these assignments up. Please make sure they are done.**

Today, we also had our Remembrance Day services at Peacock Collegiate. All students took the time to remember our vetrans that have served and gave their lives so that we can live in a free country! We thank them for serving our country and letting us live the free life that we do.



__**Monday, November 9th, 2009**__

__What are we learning today?__

Students will be learning how to write using these forms of writing:

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">**Students will be at different places during this outcome. However, all students will complete all parts of the outcome above.**
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">describe (Save the World)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">narrate (Losing Joe's Place letter)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">explain (Meet the Robinsons)

We are also learning how to assess own and others' work for clarity, correctness, and impact. This outcome will be completed as students finish working on their different forms of writing through their writing samples.

__How are we learning it?__

Your 2nd and 3rd drafts for the three assignemnts were due today. You were given the time to use your rubric and editing checklist to revise your work and your peers work, as well. Don't forget to have your editing checklist signed off. You will be handing them in with your final copies on Friday.

Tomorrow will be your last classtime to work on the editing process. On Thursday and Friday we will be heading in to the coputer lab to work on your final copies of your writing samples. Please make sure to use this time wisely as it is being given to you to create your best work.

Tomorrow, as well, don't forget that it is "Formal Day" for our Remembrance Day assembly. Students are being encouraged to dress-up as we honor our vetrans.

As a reminder, please scoll down to download any documents (paragraph notes, rubric, editing notes, and editing checklist) that you may need to help you create your writing samples.

Have a good one!


 * __Friday, November 6th, 2009__**

__What are we learning today?__

Students will be learning how to write using these forms of writing:

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">**Students will be at different places during this outcome. However, all students will complete all parts of the outcome above.**
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">describe (Save the World)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">narrate (Losing Joe's Place letter)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">explain (Meet the Robinsons)

We are also learning how to assess own and others' work for clarity, correctness, and impact. This outcome will be completed as students finish working on their different forms of writing through their writing samples.

__How are we learning it?__

Today you used your notes on paragraph set-up, your editing checklist, and the "6+1 Traits of Writing Rubric", to create our writing samples for the assignments mentioned above. Some of you, once your were done your 2nd and 3rd drafts used the time to swap papers with your classmates and go through their work using the resources listed above. Remember, on the editing checklist, you need to sign off on their sheet if you read their work and made corrections.

Your 2nd and 3rd drafts for the three assignemnts are due on Monday. We will then have one hour of peer editing on Monday where everyone will have the chance to get someone else to read your writing samples and look for the "good" things ("awesome job, I like this, great description, etc.) and things that we could work on (eg. capitalization, grammar, sentence structure, etc.).

Remember, we are all practicing our writing. This is a process that will get us to be better writers and it will get easier as we move through year. Next week we will begin working on the "Presentation" stage in the Writing Process.

If you need any of the handouts for the last few days you can download them here:

[|Paragraph Notes ELA9 2009.pdf] [|Editing TIPS.pdf] [|Editing and Revising Checklist-3.pdf] [|6 Traits of Writing Rubric.pdf]

Have an awesome weekend!

__**Thursday, November 5th, 2009**__

I am wondering where yesterday's post went to? Has anybody seen it? That is very interesting. I will add it to the bottom of this post.

Today, we continued to work on our wrting samples. You were given the time to work on your 2nd and 3rd drafts using the checklist that was given to you on Monday. Please remember that these drafts (for your three assignments) need to be completed for next week as we will be going into the computer lab to print out your final copies.

Tomorrow, you will be given a rubric on how you are going to be evaluated for these assignments. The same rubric will be used for all three. It will focus on sentence fluency and the editing checklist that you have been using in your writing. Remember, writing takes practice. It should be no surprise on what you are going to be evaluated on and how you can achieve a great evaluation for your writing.

Remember, "Writing is an exploration. You start wtih nothing and learn as you grow." - E.L. Doctorow

Have a good one!


 * __Wednesday, November 4th, 2009__**

Today we had our first opportunity to have the entire classtime to work on our three writing assignments. You used your editing checklist and the notes that were provided to you on editing to work on this task.

Remember, we are working on our sentence fluency, structuring our ideas so they make sense, and our grammatical and presentation skills. By doing this, we are becoming better writers. All of you have some amazing ideas and imaginations, we just need to learn how to express those ideas in our writing so it makes sense.

Remember, you need to find your "Core 3" people that can help you with thise process. Fresh eyes can spot things that you didn't see before. Plus, it is awesome for others to see how creative you can be in your writing.

Tomorrow, we will continue working on these skills.

Have a good one!


 * __Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009__**

Today we worked on completing the Editing Tips handout from yesterday, you also received "the partner" worksheet called "Did You Check?" This is the checklist that you will need to complete for your final copies of your writing samples. This sheet should now be in your binder and you will get more copies as we get closer to handing in your final copies. You will complete these for each of your writing samples so that I know that you have gone through the editing process.

Here is a copy of the worksheet you received today, "Did You Check?":

[|Editing and Revising Checklist-3.pdf]

Tomorrow, you will have most of the class time to work on your second drafts of your three assignments:

1. Losing Joe's Place letter 2. Save the World 3. Meet the Robinsons

These second drafts will be done for Friday (you will be given class time to work on them). Next week, we will be heading into the computer lab to work on your final copies. Please be prepared.

Also, a letter from the Five Hills Health Region and Prairiesouth has been released regarding the prevention against H1N1. Please read when you have the chance.

[|Letter to Schools H1N1 Nov 2 2009.pdf]

Have a good one!


 * __Monday, November 2nd, 2009__**

I cannot believe that today is November 2nd! Where has the time gone? Pretty soon that tree will be up and we will be breaking for Christmas vacation.

Today, we went through the process of what I will be evaluating you on as you are working on the the writing process. You received a copy of editing tips (green sheet) from me and we went through it today. I was very thorough in my expectations of what I expect. Please make sure that, as you are working on your writing samples, you refer back to this sheet so that you know what I will be looking for in your writing.

Tomorrow, I will be giving you the checklist for editing (based on what we took today). With this checklist you will be able to physically check off everything that you do to your writing in the writing process.

Here is a copy of the handout from today:

[|Editing TIPS.pdf]

Have a good one!


 * __Friday, October 30th, 2009__**

Today was Peacock's annual Halloween Festivity day. It was so great to see many of you dressed up and ready to have some fun. The grade nines were treated to an awesome assembly put on by the Jr. SGA! It was filled with fun, cheering, and activities that the grade nines could participate in. Thanks so much to Mrs. Rosso and the Jr. SGA for doing an amazing job! Some of you that helped out are in our family! YOU WERE AWESOME!!

I hope that you all have a great and safe weekend. Please remember to be careful tomorrow night in what you are doing. Another reminder that the Better Together Food Drive will be stopping by your house over the course of the evening to collect any canned goods that you wish to donate to the Moose Jaw Food Bank!

Have a good one!


 * [[image:P1030570.JPG width="329" height="230" align="center" caption="Just some of the AWESOME costumes that we saw today!"]] ||
 * Just some of the AWESOME costumes that we saw today! ||


 * __Thursday, October 29th, 2009__**

This morning we headed over to the Hillcrest Apostolic church to volunteer our services to the Better Together Food Drive. Throughout the morning the Beans were put in charge of:

1. Putting together boxes (over 1000 of them) for the food to go in 2. Setting up tables 3. Creating posters 5. Putting together a "Thank You" wall

It was an awesome morning and I am VERY PROUD of how the grade nines behaves and were so involved in the spirit of volunteering!!

Just as a reminder, the **Better Together Food Drive** will be coming around to everyone's house over the course of the day on Saturday, October 31st. If you still have your brown paper bag (delivered in your mailbox) or a plastic bag, you can fill it with canned goods that will be used to donate to the food bank. Also, if you are going to the Warrior's game on Saturday, you can bring your food there and someone will make sure it gets to the church.

Tomorrow, well it is dress-up day here at Peacock. If you feel like dressing up in your costume, please feel free. A reminder that all costumes must be school appropriate. If it is not school appropriate, you will be sent home to change. We are looking forward to a fun morning and Mrs. Rosso and the Jr. SGA even have a Halloween assembly planned for us. It should be alot of fun!

A reminder that I am going to be here at the school between 5:30 and 7:30 TONIGHT if there is anybody that needs to have an interview with me. It will be on a first come, first serve basis. Please stop on by!

Have a good one!


 * [[image:P1030548.JPG width="418" height="323" align="center" caption="At the Better Together Food Drive"]] ||
 * At the Better Together Food Drive ||

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">**__Wednesday, October 28th, 2009__**

Today we started working on the rough drafts of our paragraphs for "Meet the Robinsons."

We also took the time to discuss what is involved in paragraph writing I handed out the first page of our paragraphs notes. Again, we are working through the writing process. We already have our prewriting complete and are now starting to work on our first drafts of our paragraph for this assignment.

You can download the notes here:

[|Paragraph Notes ELA9 2009.pdf]

We have been working for a bit on the first part of this process. On Monday, I would like to see the following from you:

1. Your rough drafts for your "Losing Joe's Place letter" completed 2. Your rough copies of "4 minutes to save the world" completed 3. Your rough copies for your "Meet the Robinsons" paragraph completed


 * All of these drafts are due for Monday, November 2nd!**

Again, these rough drafts are your responsibility to complete. Next week we are starting on our second drafts of the writing process.


 * Please remember that, tomorow, we are heading to the Hillcrest Apostolic Church to help out with the Better Together Food Drive. We will be spending the morning setting up for this. If you have a ride to the church, you may meet us their at 9:00 am. Those that are walking to the church, from the school, will meet us here at our regular class time and we will begin to walk up there. PLEASE DRESS APPROPIATELY!!!**

Have a good one!

**__Tuesday, October 27th, 2009__**

Today we had DEAR, and then we finished up our Meet the Robinsons movie. We also had a time of reflecting on the question "Why did Mr. Young show us this movie?" From there we talked about the choices that we make as grade nines and how are choice can affect our future. We must always remember that bad stuff does happen; we make bad decisions. However, we must remember to "Keep Looking Forward" and not get hung up on the past. We can't change the past, but we can impact the future.

Tomorrow we will be looking at our prewriting and how each of us answered the question from the movie. This will lead into us working on our paragraph writing.


 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Have a good one!

__Monday, October 26th, 2009__

Mr. Young is back! Yay! I really missed being with you all last week!

Today, we continued through "Meet the Robinsons" as you made prewiriting notes for yourself (see below).

We will be finishing this up tomorrow. We then begin working on the "editing" portion of the writing process by using your Losing Joe's Place letters as examples.

Also, I did not receive very many letters back from my interview students for rescheduling your interviews. Parents, if you would like to meet with me I will be available on Wednesday, October 28th, and Thursday, October 29th between the times of 5:30 and 7:30 in my room (210). Please feel free to stop by and see me about your child's progress.

Thanks so much!

Have a good one!

__Wednesday October 21st and Thursday October 22nd__

Please begin the morning, grade nines, with DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) for 10 minutes.

You are only allowed to go to the library if my replacement teacher, Mrs. Frey or Mrs. Berry give you permssion. They can refuse to do this if they need to!

Today, I want you to get a piece of paper out of your binders.....DO NOT RIP IT OUT AS YOU NEED TO MAKE SURE THIS GOES BACK IN YOUR BINDERS!!! YOU WILL NEED IT LATER!!! HINT HINT WINK WINK!!

Once you have done that, I would like for you to:

1. Put you name at the top of it on the right hand corner 2. Please title this "What is Mr. Young trying to Tell Us?" Go ahead, do it, I'll wait.....oh look, a butterfly! :)

The movie you are about to watch is called "Meet the Robinsons". Alot of you may have heard about it or already watched it. However, this time, you are going to watch it and try and get inside MY HEAD! That's a scary thought, isn't it!? But, I want you to ask yourself the question, "Why is Mr. Young showing us this movie?" I do have a reason for showing it to you, but it is up to you to come up with the answer.

As you are watching the movie, I want you to make little notes for yourself (PREWRITING!) about why Mr. Young would make you watch this movie? There is something that I am trying to make you think about as grade nine students. What could that be? Is there one answer or more? hmmmmmmmmmm?

My expectations are that you watch and listen carefully to what is going on within the movie. You may even find that writing down examples about the character's actions, what they are saying, and the decisions the characters make in the movie, will help lead you answer the question, "Why is Mr. young showing us this movie?"

You will be working on this today and tomorrow. If we need to finish it up on Monday, we will!

Please make sure you are respectful and remember that you are not in Galaxy Cinemas, you are in the classroom.

Now everyone make that THX sound (the one that plays before all DVD movies) all together now, and enjoy the movie!

__Tuesday, October 20th, 2009__

Ladies and gentlemen, what a day!

Today we had our time for DEAR and then we started looking at our orange sheets for our Student Lead Conferences that are coming up this week (Thursday evening and Friday morning). My hope is that you have all taken your letters home to show your parents.

Now, this is where it gets a bit interesting. Those students who were partnered up with me for their Student Lead Interviews (you know who you are in period 2), we are going to have to reschedule your interviews for sometime next week as I have developed a case of Pink Eye, and will not be back in the school until next week. The students who are not partnered with me will have their Student Lead Conferences with Mr. Polupski, Miss Johnson, and Miss Varjassy as they normally would, during their scheduled times.

Those students that were partnered with me, you will be receiving a letter on Wednesday or Thursday about when I will be rescheduling your interviews. I really appreciate your cooperation in this. I would love to be there but, I just learned, this Pink Eye is pretty contageous so, under doctors orders, I have to stay away until next week when it will all be cleared up.

I will be posting the next two days to the wiki for my replacement teacher. Please make sure to listen and follow directions!

Have a good one! Be healthy!

__Monday, October 19th, 2009__ **

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Today we started preparing for our student-lead conferences that are happening on Thursday evening and Friday morning.

Parents, you will receive a letter from one of your child's morning teachers (Mr. Young, Mr. Polupski, Miss Jonstone, or Miss Varjassy) as to when your interview has been scheduled. We please ask that you either email us or send the slip back (attached at the bottom of the letter) if you will be attending the conference or not. If the time that has been scheduled for you does not work, please contact the teacher that your son or daughter has been assigned to (they know which one based on who gave them their letters) and we can reschedule for a time that is convenient for you. Again, we would love for you attend as this is a great time for your son or daughter to take you through the all of the things they have been working on so far in our classes.

Grade nines, you started filling our your "Strengths, Things to work on, and Goals" section today. Again, you will have those when you come to the interview. We will continue workin on those tomorrow.

Have a good one!


 * __Friday, October 16th, 2009__**

Good morning grade nines!

As you can see, I am not there today. I am taking our advice from yesterday and staying home, as I am not feeling well. Please make sure that you are good listeners and stay on task. Remember, I am always watching! :) So is Mrs. Frey and Mrs. Berry (hint hint, wink whink)

Here is what you need to do today:

1. Attendance and Announcements

2. DEAR (Drop Everything And Read): You may go to the library if you need to take back or renew books with the replacement teacher's permission. (20 minutes)

3. Please continue with your rough drafts of your Losing Joe's Place letter, if you are not done. For those are done, you are starting to work on your second drafts now. The rough drafts and one second draft will be due for Monday's class. So on Monday I will be asking to see your rough copies and your first second draft. TRUST ME! You will want to have those done for Monday. Please note that I said, " **TRUST ME** !" (hint hint, wink wink)

Make sure for your **second drafts** you look at the " **Revision** " section of the " **Writing Process Notes** " (In your binder, green package)

You can look at a copy by downloading that here:

[|Notes on the writing process.doc]

4. If you complete your rough copies and your second drafts, you can continue to work on completing your Bare-Bones Sentences (worksheet in your binder) and your "Save the World" write-ups. We will be looking at both of these assignments next wee, so please continue to work on them so you can get ahead.

I hope you have a great and productive day. Please remember to use the time you are given wisely (cough cough period 3 cough cough). I will have my email open; so at anytime, my replacement teacher, Mrs. Frey, or Mrs. Berry can feel free to contact me.

Have a great day and a great weekend!

Mr. Young


 * __Thursday, October 15th, 2009__**

Today we started of with about 20 minutes of DEAR time. Students went to the library to exchange their books, as well.

We also had a very quick discussion about taking care of ourselves with the flu and the H1N1 virus that is going around. We talked about making sure our hands are clean, that we are using the "Hand Foam" that is in our room and not sharing drinks with other people. We also talked about staying healthy and that if we feel like we are comind down with something, to make sure that we tell our parents/guardians, and that we go and get a check-up at the doctor's office.

After our discussion, we then worked on the rough copies and second drafts of our Losing Joe's Place "Letter Home" assignment. We will also be working on those tomorrow. Rough drafts and second drafts will be due on Monday.

Have a good one!


 * __Wednesday, October 14, 2009__**

Today, you had the entire period to work on your Losing Joe's Place questions. You have now completed the entire book and will be handing in those questions to me TOMORROW MORNING when you walk into class.

We will be looking at the rough copies of our Losing Joe's Place letters tomorrow and your "Save the World" rough drafts, as well.

Have a good one!

__Tuesday, October 13th, 2009__ <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">I hope that everyone had a great long weekend! We are back and ready for our short week this week.

Today we had some DEAR time and then we jumped into Losing Joe's place, and FINISHED IT! YAY!

Once we finsihed the book, I told the grade nines that they have been writing their Losing Joe's Place exam all the way along the course of the book. I will be taking in their study questions (that we have worked on since the begining and answering in full and complete sentenes with details) on Thursday, October 16th. The grade nines have been given plenty of time in class to work on these questions so I am expecting some very good quality work. If the questions are not handed in on Thursday, they will be placed in HIP (Homework Intervention Program) next week.

I will be evaluating on the following elements:

25 marks will be based on using full and complete sentences in their answers. 25 marks will be based on the quality of details put into their answers (which means explaining themselves in full)

That is for a total of 50 marks.

Also, report cards are going to be mailed home this week. PARENTS, PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU WILL NOT SEE AN ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS MARK ON YOUR CHILD'S REPORT CARD. Because of the way our evaluation is working this year, I have just got the first round of assessments in for your child. I will be sending home a progress report outlining their mark in my class NEXT WEEK. A progress report is a print off of your child's assessment in my class and it will break down how they have been evaluated assignment by assignment.

Tomorrow, the grade nines are being given an entire hour to work on their Losing Joe's Place questions in order to be ready to hand them in on Thursday.

Have a good one!

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">__Friday, October 9th, 2009__

Finally, Mr. Young was back in the classroom. Orange and Green Beans, you did an awesome job with me not being in the classroom over the last few days! My hope is that you used your time wisely to get your assignments (listed below) completed.

Today we had some DEAR time (Drop Everything And Read) and then we jumped into Losing Joe's Place and completed chapter 12.

You will have time to complete the chapter 12 questions on Tuesday. However, I did STRONGLY SUGGEST that you if you are behind in your work and not completed up to the end of chapter 11 questions, that you come in and sign out a book. Did you do that?

I hope that you have an amazing long weekend and EAT LOTS OF TURKEY!!!!

Have a great and safe long weekend!

__Wednesday, October 7th and Thursday, October 8th, 2009__


 * As I am away today, I am going to leave a list of what you should have been working on over the next two days:

1. I would like you to work on the questions for Losing Joe’s Place chapters 10 and 11.

2. Go over “The Writing Process” handout (green package with PREWRITING at the top) and go through the package with the students. We have just started looking at Prewriting and Rough drafts.

[|Notes on the writing process.doc]

3. The students have just started working on a rough copy of a letter for the novel, Losing Joe’s Place. They are to pick a character and write from that character’s point of view. The students know what to do and Mr. Frey and Ms. Berry can clue you in on exactly what they are doing with this assignment. Please give them time to work on this assignment.

4. Please handout the Stretch-a-Sentence worksheet and give the students time to work on this assignment. This is the yellow sheet on my desk.

Grade nines, you know what you need to do to be successful over the next few days!

Have a good one and I will see you on Friday!**

__Tuesday, October 6th, 2009__


 * HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MRS. VARJASSY TODAY!!!

Today was a whilwind day! We had our silent reading and then we jumped right into Losing Joe's Place. We were going to continue with our writing but I am going to be away for the next two days so we got some reading finished up. Period 3 please remember that we finished on page 188. You will need to finish that tomorrow.

Please note that I have added Wednesday and Thursday above because I will be gone the next two days. The "Beans" know what they need to do for the next two days as we went over it today during class.

Have a good one! See you all on Friday!**

__Monday, October 5th, 2009__


 * Today, after our quiet read time, we took the rest of the period to SAVE THE WORLD!! Actually, it's probably what you are thinking. Today, I asked the "Beans" one questions: "You have 4 minutes to save the world! What are you doing to do?" From this question, we worked on our Pre-writing phase of the writing process for only 4 MINUTES! You only had that amount of time to write down ANYTHING you would do to save the world. Remember, there were not rules. You could have had superpowers, an army, a space shuttle, etc., as long as it helped you saved the world. After the four minutes was over with (and Mr. Young yelling that "TIME IS RUNNING OUT", we all sat back to see what our plan was to save the world.

You were then given time to start on the second part of the writing process, the rought draft! You were given 20 minutes to take your pre-writing and put it into a short description about what you were going to do to save the world. We then took the last few minutes of class to share a few of your rough drafts wtih the class.

We will be continuing on with this tomorrow, plus we will be looking at your pre-writing for your letter in Losing Joe's Place! Please remember to do your homework tonight (ACT LIKE YOUR CHARACTER IN FRONT OF SOMEONE!).

Have a great evening!**

__Friday, October 2nd, 2009__


 * Thank you two all of the Orange and Green Beans that brought cookies today for "Cookie Buffet" we had a great time sampling all the cookies and it was a special treat for all of us as we worked.

We had our quiet reading time (cookie eating time) and then we started working on the writing process for our upcoming assignmnet. The PRE-writing phase is where we are starting. Everyone picked their favorite character and then wrote out (in a list) what that character could write in a letter to someone, using examples from the book.

As for homework, well if you are reading this, parents, I would like you to ask your son or daughter what the homework assignment for the weekend is. They will DEFINITELY be able to SHOW you!! hint hint grade nines!

Have an awesome weekend!**

__Thursday, October 1st, 2009__


 * Welcome to October! Today we had our time for quiet reading. You will be able to exchange your books from the library tomorrow as Mrs. Craik was in meetings and library wasn't checking books out.

You were also given half an hour today to work on your study questions for Losing Joe's Place. You are doing a really good job of using complete sentences and thoughts! Well done! remember, we do not use three word answers! We also worked on updating our character lists. You also had some time today to work on Social Studies and Math if you were done your Losing Joe's Place stuff.

After the half hour, We jumped into chapter 10 and only got about two pages in before class was over.**

Tomorrow, as promised, we are having cookie buffet in ELA classes. If any student wishes to bring a batch of cookies (this is pot luck style) to contribute they are more than welcome to! There will be cookies for everyone! Again, it is not mandatory, it is volunteer.


 * Also tomorrow, we will be working on some prewriting activities for an assignment on Losing Joe's Place. Have you chosen your favorite character yet?

Have a good one!**

__Wednesday, September 30th, 2009__


 * Today we worked on getting through up to the end of the chapter nine in Losing Joe's Place. Tomorrow, you will have time to work on the study questions for chapters 8 and 9. Remember, these study questions are YOUR reponsibility. You are being given class time to work on them....please use it!

Tomorrow we will continue into chapter ten and then on Friday we will be beginning a writing assignment for the novel. Who is your favorite character in the story so far? You will need to know for Friday.

Have a good one!**

__Tueday, September 29th, 2009__


 * Today, like habit, we began our day with silent reading. I had many students exchange their books in the library. Let's NOT get library fines!

We also continued with Losing Joe's Place today be completing chapter 8. We also had class discussions about the chapter and we worked on our study questions. Period 2 and 3 also finished up their "anti-bullying talk" with me today. You can find some of the videos we watched by looking on Page 2 of the video page.

Tomorrow, we will continue on with Losing Joe's Place. Who is your favorite character and what would they say if they had a chance to write home about their adventures so far? We will be looking at that.

Have a good one!**

__Monday, September 28th, 2009__


 * Today, after silent reading, my first question to you was, "do you have your study questions done up to the end of chapter 7 for Losing Joe's Place?" I had about 90% of each of the three period hold up their hands. FANTASTIC JOB! The thing is, and I told you in class, please remember to have those questions completed and updated as we go through each of the chapters. Trust, at the end of the book, it will all make sense. You just need to remember to be responsible for your work and get it done.

After that class discussion we moved into debriefing about Mr. Shareski's presentation from Thursday. We talked about the things that he presetned to us on our "Digital Footprint" and the things that we need to watch out for when we are posting certain things online and how sometimes those things maybe aren't presenting us in the best light. We also looked at two videos about posting things online and about cyber bulling (which we will do in period 3 tomorrow because we didn't get to it today).

Tomorrow, we will work on chapter 8 and 9 of Losing Joe's Place as we continue to read and check for understanding through class discussion and written reponses.

Have a good one!**

__Thursday, September 24th, 2009__


 * Today our morning was a bit broken up. You had shortened periods. In ELA you were given time to either quietly read at your desk, exchange books from the library, or work on your Losing Joe's Place questions.** Please remember that these questions are due for Monday, September 28th. **<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">I have reminded you SEVERAL times! :)

After our shortened morning, at 11:00, we met in the auditorium and Mr. Shareski spoke to you about leaving your Digital Footprint. He talked to you about what you post online, your privacy when on the internet, posting specific things, and cyber-bullying. It was an awesome presentation and, I believe, you took away a few pieces of information that I hope all of you will think about the next time you are online.

If you would like more information on Mr. Shareski please feel free to check out his website [|www.ideasandthoughts.org]or follow him on twitter, [|www.twitter.com/shareski].

Have an awesome long weekend! There is no school tomorrow because of teacher's convention. **

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">__Wednesday, September 23rd, 2009__

**<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">First of all, my apologies for not posting this after school, like normal. I was actually there for period 1 and 2 today and had to leave during period 3 to take the Peacock Cross Country team to Balgony for a meet today.

Second, it was awesome to see so many families at the BBQ last night! It was very nice to meet all of you and to give you a brief introduction to our family, "The Orange and Green Beans". Again, if you have any questions, that did not get answered last night, please do not hesitate to drop me and email ( young.brett@prairiesouth.ca ) at any time!

Today, we had, of course, some silent reading time, and then we continued to work through chapter seves of Losing Joe's Place. You were then given time to work on the study questions for chapters 6 and 7. My hope is that you got most of them done in class today. Also, please remember to have your questions caught up and completed, fully, for Monday, September 28th. Trust me, you will want to make sure that they are done. As well, as your "Character Lists" that we have been keeping of our six main characters (Jason, Don, Peach, Plotnik, Jessica, and Rootbeer).

Tomorrow, we have Mr. Shareski coming in to do a presentation for our on Media Awareness. He has asked that you bring your cell phones with you. I know you are shocked by that, but he would like you to bring them to his presentation. We will also have shortened periods, because of the presentation, and we will be renewing our library books and having some "catch up time" on our questions for Losing Joe's Place.

Have a good one! **

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">__Tuesday, September 22nd, 2009__


 * Today, we began the class, as usual, with some silent reading. Lots of people are remember to take back their books and get new ones, which is great! No late fees for us!

We also continued our look at Losing Joe's Place by finishing up chapter six and work into chapter seven. Thank you to my period three class that helped me put up the personal character webs up on walls at the back of the room. If you do not see yours up thers, I did not get it! Please turn it in asap!

Tomorrow, we will continue to work on Losing Joe's Place. I would like to get to the end of chapter nine before the weekend as there is some things I would like to do with you as an activity for the novel, up to this point.**

Please don't forget that tonight is our BBQ here at Peacock. It starts at 5:30 pm and will begin with a short introduction to the family teachers and then the rest of the night will be used to socialize in the student lounge with some AWESOME food! Hope to see you there!


 * Have a good one!**

__Monday, September 21st, 2009__


 * Today, I was away and you worked on your silent reading and up to the end of chapter six in Losing Joe's Place. Missed you all! However, I was working with Mr. Shareski on a few things that I want to try with you in the upcoming weeks on the computers.

Should be fun!

Have a good one!**

__Thursday, September 17th, 2009__

**<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Today, we decided to take our classroom outside. So, we packed up our binders and books and headed out to the front steps on the school to have class, and get some much needed fresh air.

We began with silent reading for 10 minutes and then we jumped into Losing Joe's Place. Every so often, we would stop and check that we understood what was going on in the story by answering questions verbally and we also gave some opionions about our feelings of certain characters within the story. We finished up to the end of chapter five and you had time to work on the study questions with your group or independently.

Also, I am starting to go YOU (grade nines) to start adding tweets to our Twitter site! If you would like to follow our classroom activities on Twitter please visit [|www.twitter.com/mrbyoung]. **

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">PLEASE REMEMBER OUR GRADE NINE BBQ ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND, STARTING AT 5:30 PM. We will have some brief introductions by the family teachers, a quick tour around the school, and some awesome socializing over some grilled meat! Hope to see you there!


 * Tomorrow, well, you don't have school! Long weekend for you! Enjoy it!

We will see you all on Monday!

Have a good one!**

__Wednesday, September 16th, 2009__


 * Today, we started off the morning by receiving our photo packages of our school pics. If you would like to purchase packages for the pictures, please have your child return the forms, with the money, to Mr. Young, by Monday September 21st.

We then had our time of silent reading for 10 minutes. After, we worked on taking up the chapters 1-4 questions of Losing Joe's Place by having a class discussion. We then started reading through chapter 5.

Tomorrow, we will continue through chapter 5.

Have a good one!**

__Tuesday, September 15th, 2009__


 * Today we finished up reading chapter 4 in Losing Joe's Place after our silent reading time. We also had time to work on our study questions from chapters 1-4 and we worked on our character web/lists for our six characters (please see yesterday's entry).

Tomorrow, we will continue to work through Losing Joe's Place by starting chapter 5.

Also, please note the H1N1 document on the homepage of the wiki (also you can download here) from Dr. Mark Vooght, Chief Medical Officer for the Five Hills Health Region. This letter is being sent to all the school's around our area concering H1N1. Please fee free to read.

[|Memo attachment - Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Common Questions.doc]

Have a good one!**

__Monday, September 14th, 2009__


 * First all, a big thank you to all the Orange and Green Beans that said "congrats" to me. Yesterday, I participated in my second full marathon yesterday in Regina. It was an awesome experience and I would like to thank all of the supports here at Peaocock (including the students) that have been encouraging me for the last number of months as I trained.

Today, we had our time of silent reading and then we began working on our Losing Joe's Place novel study. We created "character webs" for six of our main characters: Jason, Don, Peach, Plotnik, Jessica, and Rootbeer. As we are going through the novel, it is expected that you will keep a constant log of the character's physical characteristics and personality traits. Near the end of the book there will be an assignment based on what you have written down for each character. We also continued into chapter 4 today.

Tomorrow I will be giving you some class time to work on your study questions and character webs/notes. We will also finish up chapter 4 as we didn't get all the way through it today.

Have a good one!**

__Friday, September 11th, 2009__


 * Today we continued with Losing Joe's Place. I handed out the novel package to everyone that included the study questions for each chapter. We went over my expectations as you are working on these questions (seperate piece of paper, complete sentences, etc.).

If you ever lose your copy of the questions, you can download them here:

[|LosingJoe's Questions Handout.PDF]

On Monday, we will continue to work on the chapter questions for chapters 1-3. We will also continue into chapter 4.

Have an awesome weekend!**

__Thursday, September 10th, 2009__


 * GYM BLAST 2009 happened today!! It was awesome! A big thanks to Mrs. Rosso for orgaizing it for us! The blue team did pull of the victory today! My team, the green team, came in second! We will prevail next year!

Tomorrow, we carry on with Losing Joe's Place! I have your handouts ready, and you will receive them tomorrow.

Have a good one!**

__Wednesday, September 9th, 2009__

Gym Blast 2009 that is taking place tomorrow. The grade nines had time for silent read. We then went through our teams for Gym Blast so that they knew what team they were on. The teams are Green, Blue, Yellow, and Red. Those that are on the winning team...I mean...the GREEN team had Mr. Lys and myself as their staff leaders.
 * Today was one of our days that we call "weird days" in our grade nine world. We had shortened classes as we were getting prepared for

Psssst, Green team, remember to wear your green stuff tomorrow! We want lots of points!

We did get into a bit of Losing Joe's Place with period 2. However, we ran out of time with everyone else. We will pick it up on Friday.

Please remember that your personal character webs are due tomorrow! You have had a week to get them into me! Please get them in!

Have a good one!**

__Tuesday, September 8th, 2009__


 * Today we started off with silent readin for 10 minutes and then had a short discussion about Gym Blast which is going to be held on Thursday morning! We then moved into our reading of Losing Joe's Place by finishing up to the end of chapter 3.

Tomorrow, we will continue with Losing Joe's Place and for the last hour of the morning we will be breaking off into our Gym Blast groups and getting prepared for Thursday! It's going to be an exciting day!

Also, please remember that your personal character webs are due over the next three days. Thursday will be the last day to hand in your webs before you are placed in HIP, with Ms. Rowe.

Have a good one!**

__Friday, September 4th, 2009__


 * Today we started off the day with having ten minutes of silent writing and then we started into chapter 1 and 2 of our novel, Losing Joe's Place.

Please remember, grade nines, that you personal character web is due next week. Remember, if I not see your web by Thursday, September 10th, you will be placed in HIP with Ms. Rowe. Please don't have that happen to you.

On Tuesday, we will contine with our novel study, plus we will continue of discussion on our Needs and Wants chart.

Have a great and safe long weekend!**

__Thursday, September 3rd, 2009__


 * Today we took about half an hour to have silent reading at our desks as we were all getting our pictures taken today! There were alot of us in and out of the classroom.

We also chose our family crest, which will be revealed to you tomorrow as there are a few touch ups that are getting completed on it. Congrats to Jade F. for having the entire family win the vote for her crest! We will be using it all over!

We also started have a class discussion on Needs vs. Wants when we are living by ourselves. This is the start-up to our novel study "Losing Joe's Place" which we will be starting tomorrow.

Have a good one!**

__Wednesday, September 2nd, 2009__


 * Today we had our library orientation. The Beans (my new name for them, because we are the Orange and Green Beans) headed to the library to work with Mrs. Craik on how to find books in our library by call number and on the computer. They were then given time to look for a book, check it out, and bring to ELA tomorrow as we are starting our reading time tomorrow. A big thank you to Mrs. Craik for giving us our library orientation today!

Tomorrw, we are going to look at what it would be like to live on our own and the responsibilities we would have. We will also be starting our first novel study.**

Also, please do not forget that tomorrow is picture day at Peacock Collegiate. Please remember to bring the forms you were given last week, in class. Remember, you don't need to bring money as you will given proofs of your pictures at a later date. You can then choose the package you want and bring the money to school then.


 * Please don't forget your reading books tomorrow and that your personal character webs are due next week!

Have a good one!**

__Tuesday, September 1st, 2009__


 * You had the entire hour to work on your personal character web. How did you do? Did you come prepared? Did you use your time wisely? Please remember that your character webs will be due the week of September 8th. You will have until Thursday, September 10th, to hand in your character web to me.

If I do not receive your character web on Thursday, September 10th, you will be placed in Homework Intervention Program (HIP) with Ms. Rowe. Please, let's not have that happen.

Tomorrow, we will be heading to the libary for orientation with Mrs. Craik. You will then be given time to check out a book for yourself. We will begin each class with some quiet reading time from now on.

Have a good one!**

__Monday, August 31st, 2009__


 * Today we continued our class discussion about who we are as individuals (our family, fears, and other interesting things about us). Tomorrow we will be starting to work on our self character webs as we look at our "All that I Am" unit. We will also be starting our first novel study on Wednesday.

Please remember, that for homework tonight, you are looking for pictures, magazine cutouts, and other things to put onto your character web. You will be given one hour of class time tomorrow to work on this project. It will be due the week of Tuesday, September 8th, 2009. That is plenty of time to get it done!

Have a good one!**

__Friday, August 28th, 2009__


 * WE HAVE A FAMILY NAME!!! We are officially the "Orange and Green Beans".

What a great Family name! Remember, you received a copy of the family crest at the end of the morning. You will have to Tuesday to submit your idea for our family crest and we will vote on Wednesday for which one will be our crest for the rest of the year. This crest will go on alot of stuff that we use throughout the year!

Please remember to find pictures this weekend for your character webs. We will keep discussing the questions (below) on Monday, and begin to work on our webs, as well. Also, please remember that if you take any older pictures from your home, have your parents give permission to bring it to school. We will be keeping these webs up all year so please make sure that it is ok that you bring them.

We have had an awesome week and we are looking forward to a good one next week.

Have an awesome weekend!**

__Thursday, August 27th, 2009__


 * Today we started looking at us as individuals in our class. I gave you my story and I am starting to learn more about you.

Remember to look at the questions we will be looking at in class as we start our personal character webs:

1. What elementary school did you attend? 2. Favorite TV show? 3. Your favorite type of music, band, or singer. 4. You can only choose one: Facebook or Texting? 5. Favorite supper. 6. What extracurricular/outside of school activities are you involved in? 7. Favorite Dairy Queen blizzard? 8. What is your biggest fear? 9. What was your favorite toy as a child? 10. What do you want to be when you grow up? 11. Your favorite book or the last book that you read.

We will be discussing these questions in class tomorrow and we will also be choosing our Family name and you will give a blank crest to create our family banner! We will vote on the name and the banner!

Have a good one!**

__Wednesday, August 26th, 2009__


 * Today we went over our course outline for our ELA 9 class. The grade nines were told what my expectations for them throughout the year was, and what the can expect from me, as their teacher.

Each student was given a copy of the course outline. Here is a copy if you would like to view it:

[|Fall 2009.doc]

You can also view the course outline on the "ELA 90 - Course Outline" page on the left hand side of the page.

Tomorrow we will be looking at the students as individuals as we begin our "All That I Am" unit.

Have a good one!**

__Tuesday, August 25th, 2009__ **

Welcome to GRADE NINE! Today we took to the time to get to know each other, you were issued your lockers and we even went on a quick tour to help you get settled into your new school.

In ELA we started looking at our course outline and then Mr. Young started to get to know you by looking at your likes, dislikes, and everything else that makes you who you are!

Tomorrow, we will have a bit of a refresher and continue to look through our course outline as we begin the new semester!

Have a good one! ||