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!