The Trial of Gus Capone

In one class, students reenacted the trial of Al Capone, presenting evidence of the crimes of the famed gangster.  This example reminds us that by having 7th graders act out events of the 1920s, they conceptualize history.  Through their research, students create their presentation, design their roles, and demonstrate their understanding.  Plus, it's fun!

The formal presentation of the trial

Planning the presentation.

The backstage work - some students are the cast and some are the crew.

Practicing for the big event.

"First Things First...I'm a Realist"

There's nothing like a little Iggy Azalea to get you thinking of the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens.  In this Flyertime, students used that line to design dance moves to each of the habits.  Iggy's famed "Fancy" hook reminds students to "put first things first."

Dancing to the habits

Designing posters about the habits

Sketching visual images related to each of the habits

The final product!

Backpacks, Time for Lunch, and School Start Time

As 8th graders work on their journalistic writing skills, there are some common themes in their topics related to school: backpacks in class, amount of time for lunch, and school start times.  However, since these are not editorials, they must stick to just the facts.  Whew!  While I might philosophically (and physically) agree to a later school start time, the backpack conversation is old, and I'll never understand why they want more time for lunch when they just stand at the door waiting for the bell to ring at the end of it anyway....

But, look at that writing!



Maybe, student writing topics should move beyond the rules and structures that feel so limiting and instead focus on the great learning that happens within the walls of TMS!

Packing the Pringles:  7th graders have been seen dropping these cans down the stairs to test their hypothesis on good packing.

Technology Use:  Students write the solution on the tablet as it projects for all to see.

Foldables:  Paraphrasing definitions for literary elements.

Graphic Organizers:  Visual representations used to analyze our learning.

Making Models of the Earth's Layers

Earth's Layers:  Students choose the materials that best represent their understanding of this science topic.

EQ:  Learning about Emotional Intelligence

Look!  Guidance Counselors Teach Too!