2/9/18
TGIF…Twin Groves it’s Friday!
Tuesday, February 13th is an Early Release. Students will be dismissed at 1:30PM.
Please see below for some important dates in February.
2/13 Early Release- 1:30 PM Dismissal
2/19 No School
2/23 Half Day- 11:10 AM Dismissal
What’s Happening at TG?
8th Grade
Language Arts
In Language Arts and Advanced Language Arts we have been working hard to analyze the stories Flowers for Algernon and Great Expectations. We have also been discussing the structures and stylistic elements that authors use to craft their stories throughout various genres. Students have continued to improve their argument writing skills, and we will once again dive into comparing and contrasting pieces of writing, both short stories and poetry.
Advanced Language Arts- See Above
Science
In February, 8th grade science will be studying genetic engineering and technologies. Students will research gene therapies and genetically modified crops. They will end the unit on a bright note by participating in a bacterial transformation using the pGLO gene.
Social Studies
Students have been doing a wonderful engaging in discussions focused on JFK and the Vietnam war. Both topics fueled social and political turmoil within the United States and we’ve worked to help kids connect youthfully charged music of the era.
Up next will will focus on the Civil Right Movement, those that fought for racial equality through varying means, as well systems/beliefs that were in place that slowed the progression.
Bridge to Algebra 1
In February, we will be exploring properties and applications of exponents. The students will discover how to find properties and laws of exponents. This will help the students throughout the rest of the year and give them a preview into what they will learn in Algebra 1.
Algebra 1
In Algebra 1, students will be starting their polynomial expressions and quadratic functions unit. This unit is going to be essential for the students to understand in order to be successful in Algebra 2. Students will be learning operations of polynomials, how to factor using various methods, and different characteristics of quadratic functions.
Algebra 2
In Algebra 2, students will be working through the sequences and series unit. The students will be able to identify the difference between arithmetic and geometric sequences, find the sum of these series, and solve application type problems.
SLC
Unfortunately, the groundhog saw his shadow so be ready for 6 more weeks of winter! UGH!
This trimester, we have finished our science unit on “Heredity and Traits.” The students really enjoyed learning all about what inherited traits versus learned traits. Using the principles of genetics and inheritance first dissolved by Gregor Mendel, we created unique “monsters.”
We even created monster family offspring! Each so unique in a “monster” way!
We are currently coming to the end of the “Road to Revolution.” We are learning about the American Revolution, and the events that led up to it. We have also learned all about Paul Revere and the importance of his midnight ride. Vocabulary words are always included in our Social Studies units. Learning the meaning of new words expands vocabulary and helps build expressive language. Some of the vocabulary words include: revolution, redcoat, minuteman, protest and govern, to name a few.
We continue to provide targeted direct instruction to students in reading, written expression, mathematics, language for learning and language for thinking as well as reading comprehension. You can check TeacherEase to see the targets individualized to your child's learning levels in each of these areas.
As always, building independence, social skills and organizational skills are embedded throughout the school day. Please feel free to email or call with any questions, comments or concerns you may have.
Flu Season is here….
"Flu season is spreading within Lake County and KCSD 96. In the event your child is not feeling well, please notify the school office for absences including symptoms, if they have a fever, or if they are diagnosed with influenza from a medical provider. Please see the link below for more specific guidance on illness related absences."
http://www.kcsd96.org/student-services/health-guidlines
Band & Orchestra Boosters
Please click the BLOG to access the latest news from the Band & Orchestra Boosters.
Daily Announcements
Please see Twin Groves website for up to date school announcements. The announcements let you know what exciting activities and clubs are going on at Twin Groves. Please click HERE to access the Daily Announcements.
PTO
ATTENTION 8th GRADERS: Click HERE to enter the shirt size of your complimentary STEVENSON CLASS OF 2022 cotton t-shirt, courtesy of Twin Groves PTO.
Families can also purchase additional STEVENSON CLASS OF 2022 apparel through the on-line PTO MembershipToolkit by Friday, March 16th. Items should arrive within 2-3 weeks after deadline.
Please click HERE to access the PTO blog for more information.