May 9
Today was a Mathletics day. I am very impressed with the skills some students are displaying in the lab. Tomorrow we are back at the books so don't forget your text.
Science: Worked on Static Electricity labs. I've attached some pictures. May 6
Well the warm weather seems to be upon us and I started classes today with a public service announcement about the sun. http://youtu.be/_4jgUcxMezM Here is the link to the video if you'd like to watch it as well.
We spent the class working together on section 7.3 creating similar polygons using protractors and rulers. No homework for the weekend. May 4
We finished up section 7.2 "Reductions" and started 7.3 "Similar Polygons". No school tomorrow but study for a short quiz on Friday on sections 7.1 and 7.2. April 11
I forgot we had Mathletics booked today. We will be working on the Unit Project Tuesday and Wednesday and the Test has been pushed to Thursday.
April 7
Math: last run at the inequalities. We will work on the unit project on Monday and Tuesday and the test is Wed.
Science: Watched a quick atom video and did the online quiz together. We built atoms out of jujubes to end the day. http://bit.ly/dVJX48
Above is the link to the video. Enjoy. Have a great long weekend. April 6
Math : Continued to work on Review of Unit. Exam on Inequalities will be Wed, April 13
Science:Today we started Acids and Bases. We are getting close to the end of the chemistry unit.
. April 5
Math: Reviewed Inequality Word Problems.
Science:Day two of Gummy Bear Lab. We talked about large cargo ships and how they manage to float. Lab Report due tomorrow.
. April 4
Today we really saw the connection between math and science. I have always maintained that math is the handmaiden of all sciences.
We are currently working on the Equations and Inequalities unit and came across the formula for density. This brought home the idea that we can use equations to model and solve problems. We did the Gummy Bear Lab in science class to see the formula in action.
Those students who did not do as well as they should have on their equations exam did a rewrite on the sections they needed to improve on. Results will be given back tomorrow.
March 29
Pink registration sheets are due. Today students got their equations exam back. Those students who did not do as well as I believe they should have will be rewriting on Friday. Corrections must be done. They were given the opportunity to get help during math class. We also worked on Mathletics and I did a quick mini lesson on Prezi (an alternative to Power Point). March 28
Students began the registration process today. Please call the school if you have any questions about grade ten classes. March 24
Students wrote their equations exam today. No school tomorrow due to Hoopla.
Reminder that Golf sign up sheet is in the office.
If you missed interviews and would like to meet please call and I will make arrangements.
. March 16
Report cards went home today. We worked on Word Problems. Tomorrow students will receive their practice test for the unit. I've included it on the wiki as I am away at a conference tomorrow.
March 15
Period one had their turn in the lab for Mathletics today. Period 2 worked on the geometric word problems that they missed yesterday because they were in the lab.
Science: We worked on a Smarties and M&M lab to learn about Solutions. Tonight the homework is to figure out what a solvent is and what a solute is.
Vicki and her team mates were in the paper last night and here is a copy of it if you missed it.
March 14
Today was the start of Jail and Bail ( our annual fundraiser for the NICU) Our class was the first to go. Everyone participated and thanks so much to everyone who bailed them out! We will keep you posted with the fundraising details. This cut into Science class and we watched the final video of the student from Winnipeg who we helped out with an experiment. Here's the link if you want to watch it again. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rlxeo6qieyM&feature=player_embedded
I've also included some pictures of period one students in jail!!
AND Congratulations to Vicki for a bronze medal at Wrestling Regionals in Swift Current. She's off to Wrestling Provincials this weekend. Good luck Vicki!!
Vicki loves to have her picture taken so here's a lovely shot of her. Way to go Vicki we are proud to have you in our family.
Future Provincial Champion
March 10
Once again we reviewed the 5 types of equations. I quickly mark each of these sheets and hand them back and then we go over each question at the board. Each student knows where they need extra practice. They had an opportunity to go and work with another teacher to get ready for the exam tomorrow. Everyone should be hitting the books tonight. AFTER THE JR GIRLS FINAL AT PEACOCK AT 6:15. March 9
We did a quick practice quiz of equations. Those who needed extra help got that today. Test is Friday. We continued with Translation and started word problems.
Science: worked with the triple beam balances today. March 8
Review sheet on all types of equations we have covered. We took a look at our next item on the agenda which is translating symbols and phrases from English to mathematics and vice versa. Students chose Friday as their quiz day for Solving Equations.
. March 7
Friday was PINK DAY and there was a great picture in the Times Herald. I've attached a copy if you didn't see it on Saturday. It was so great to see all of the grade nines in our Family getting involved. I'm so proud to be a part of that. Thanks you guys.
Anyone wanting a pink shirt can see me as we are going to send in another order. We will be having another PINK DAY April 14th.
We went to the lab today to start a new unit in Mathletics.
March 4
Started Ratio Type equations. No homework but it would be a good idea to review over the weekend. March 3
I was absent but the substitute did a great job of teaching type 4 equations. March 2 Corrected work from yesterday. Started Type 3 equations. Remember there is a science exam on Friday. March 1 Worked on Type 2 Equations today. These are equations that involve 2 steps. Please be asking questions if you are unsure of yourself as we are building day to day on prior knowledge. These get hard pretty quickly so you need to know what you are doing.
February 18
Students wrote their polynomial exam today. Have a great break and rest up!
Congratulations to Shai, Justine, Courtney, Ashley,Samara, Miranda and Emma on getting involved in the musical Oklahoma. There's still a chance to get tickets. I'm going Saturday night with the family. February 15
We began the review process for the exam which will now be on Friday. Please make sure you are done the questions on pages 259-261 that I assigned. 1,2,3,6,12,15,19,22,27 February 14
Happy Valentine's Day. Today on the wiki you have an assignment. Please visit the Voicethread emedded here and participate. Remember you can use type or voice. Get creative and try the pen attached to the Voicethread. Try creating your own! http://voicethread.com/share/1737857/ February 11
Wrote the quiz today and worked on Geometry and Polynomials together. Have a great weekend.
If you are interested in helping out Mrs. McKinnon's class here is a link: Please help Peacock students win a conversation with Mr. Brett Wilson, of Dragons’ Den fame.
Please help us spread the word. You register at www.bestconversationever.ca first. Then….once in….You can go to the Gallery and search for ‘Mr. Wilson’ to find our submission. Or….simply click on this link: http://bestconversationever.ca/entry/3948453-Mr.-Brett-Wilson%2C-Will-You-Cha?offset=0&channel=10257&sort= to find the submission. The ‘vote’ button is in the lower lefthand corner; scroll down. I’d LOVE for Peacock students to be able to have a conversation with Mr. Brett Wilson. You can vote every day, and you can also vote from several email accounts. Please help us out!
Thanks!
B February 10
Tomorrow we will have a quiz on the polynomial concepts we have covered so far this unit. Period 2 has homework that is due for tomorrow. Page 256-257 questions 11,12,16 and 20. If these are not done there will be phone calls coming home. February 9
Started multiplying and dividing polynomials. We reviewed previous skills and concepts like multiplying and dividing integers as well as basic exponent rules. We practiced for the remainder of the period. Most seem to have caught on quite well. We will continue tomorrow.
February 8
Worked on the mid unit review on page 237. We will correct this tomorrow and then move on to multiplying and dividing polynomials. February 7
We spent the morning in the computer lab on a new program called Mathletics. Mathletics is an online resource that is aligned with the grade nine curriculum. It allows students to work at their own pace on concepts we have previously covered in class. We are just getting aquainted with the system but it seems that students are enjoying themselves and working.
Congratulations to Vicki for another great wrestling performance over the weekend. A silver medal to add to her bronze medal from last weekend. Girls RULE!! February 3
Today we worked with the alge tiles and the concept of zero pairs. Two groups created short videos with their explanations of how this works. I am going to try to transition the wiki over to the students. My goal is to get them to take turns uploading information each day. If you have any ideas about how to make this work let me know. I'd love to hear from you.
February 2
Well good news everyone: I saw my shadow this morning so 5 more months of school. Yay!! And I think I figured out the video situation.Big thanks to Samara, Miranda and Jonathon for making our first Alge Tile Video.
We went over the homework questions from yesterday and started Combining Like Terms.
February 1
Another great day in math and science. Today we worked with Alge Tiles. A great introduction to creating and understanding polynomials. I will be uploading pictures and perhaps videos tonight as I forgot my camera cord at home. I am going to have to ask Jaden to help upload the video again. He showed me a great shortcut (twice) and I can't remember!! I do have pictures though.
Kids need to have page 214 questions 4-7 and 9 done for tomorrow so we can move on.
Reminder that tomorrow is GroundTeacher Day. If I wake up and see my shadow we will have 5 more months of school if not enjoy an extended summer holiday.
January 31
Exciting first day back for semester 2. We have a few new students to welcome to our family: Chantelle and Melissa. Welcome to Peacock ladies.
Today we did a Unit 5 diagnostic0001.pdf in math for Unit 5. I was very pleased at how the kids worked at it. This will be a great unit. I can feel it.
Report Cards will be handed out Friday. January 13
Today we started to look more closely at the review for math. I did two mini lessons: one on surface area (many of you need to work on this one) and one on rational numbers (fractions). Make sure you are looking over the questions and asking for help when you need it. Do not leave studying until the last minute.
January 7
The final exam schedule is out. Grade nines will write:
ELA on Monday, January 24 9:00
Science on Tuesday January 25 9:00
Math on Wednesday January 26 9:00
Today we did a review of unit two Exponents. We will take this up on Monday. Have a safe and enjoyable weekend. January 6
Still no schedule out for finals yet but I will post and send out an email as soon as I get it. Today we section 4.4 Matching Equations and Graphs. Remember if you are still having trouble with Subtitution and Solving Type I and II Equations this is going to be rough. Come in for extra help and don't get discouraged.
We spent the last 20 mins of the period going over the review for unit one. We will be revisiting each of the units over the course of the next 2 weeks to get ready for the final. Please do not leave the studying to the last minute. January 5
Welcome back. I hope everyone had a lovely holiday. Now to ruin that for you!! We have 13 school days until final exams begin. Finals will run from January 24-27. The schedule is not yet finalized but I will post it on the wiki as soon as I get it.
Today we did a review of sections 4.1-4.3 and then finished off the day working on a review of Unit One. Remember, now is the time to start studying for your finals.....not the night before. December 14
Today we started equations of horizontal and vertical lines. We will continue with the equations of oblique, horizontal and vertical lines tomorrow. December 13
Reviewed the many ways we can determine if a relation is Linear. December 10
In math period one we continued to work on algebraic equations. 12 questions are due for Monday.
Period 2: We watched the Mythbusters Christmas Special. If it looks fun it probably involved math. Remember that, math is the handmaiden to all sciences.
You still have time to vote for World Vision Gift. I will order on Monday. December 9
We corrected yesterday's assignment together on the board. Period one did not get a new assignment as they had to fill out a School Culture Survey. Period 2 has 12 questions to work on for algebra review.
Please take the time to fill out the survey below. Everyone in your family is encouraged to vote.
December 8
I'm back in!! Not sure what the issue was but we are back up and running. Students will have their Coordinate Plane quizzes back tomorrow. December 2
Worked on Type II and Type III Equations together as well as Substitution. Students chose worksheets that are at the level they are currently working at. December 1
Today we started Unit 4. We reviewed basic skills and vocabulary we will need to be successful in this unit. Find attached the Unit 4 Newsletter.
November 23
Yesterday the students received a practice exam for the rational unit. They worked on that today as well. I also taught a concept from the math 10 text today. It was a cool way to find the LCM of numbers. I was pleasantly surprised at how well they did with this.
The Rational Exam will be on Thursday November 25. Coats for Kids. Peacock is collecting coats for people in the community who don't have the means to purchase winter clothing. We have had several calls from elementary schools asking for coats that will fit little people. If you have any kids coats at home that no longer fit your little ones please feel free to send them to school where we will find them a grateful new home. Have a great long weekend. Thursday, November 18
Corrected dividing rationals assignment from yesterday. Started section 3.6 Order of Operations with Rationals
High School Confidential: Yesterday 5 of our grade nines including Shailynn, Emma and Courtney from our Family taped a radio show for Country 100. The show will be aired on Sunday at 8:00 am and 8:00 pm so please try to take the time to give it a listen.They did a fantastic job! Thanks girls....you make me so proud to teach here. YOU ROCK
Basketball tryouts: Jr Boys tonight at 3:30 and Jr girls Thursday at 5:30. Let's get out there ladies and gents!
. Wednesday, November 17
Rewrote exams. I will mark them this evening and hope for better results than yesterday. We started section 3.5 Dividing Rational Numbers.
Tuesday, November 16
Students wrote their quizzes today. It did not go well for most. When I asked who studied I did not see many hands. We will be rewriting the exam tomorrow and students are expected to study tonight. This exam has been posted for over a week on the board, in their agendas and on the wiki. I am more than a little frustrated today.
They have their initial exams to study from as I marked them immediately and we went over them in class. Please don't hesitate to call if you have any questions. Monday, November 15
Today we started 3.4...Multiplying Rational Numbers. Below are the notes and examples. Please remember you have a test tomorrow on ordering rationals and adding and subtracting. Please study. It really does make a difference.
Wednesday November 10
We went to the computer lab to work on our VoiceThread assignment. No more class time. No science today as we were at the Remembrance Day service. I would like to thank you for your exemplary behaviour. I should not be surprised as you are a wonderful group of kids but it was so wonderful to show you off! Have a lovely weekend. See you Monday. Remember you have a quiz on Tuesday. Tuesday November 9Tomorrow is Formal Day (Remember to wear your poppy.)
Corrected yesterday's assignment. We reviewed ordering rational numbers. The kids will have a quiz on sections 3.1-3.3 on Tuesday November 16.
Those of you working on your VoiceThread at home don't forget to set your voicethread to public or else when we put it on the wiki no one can see it!
Monday November 8
Worked on Subtracting Rationals. The notes are here.
I hope many of you made it to the Fall Play last week. We had several kids from our Family involved in the two productions. Below is a picture of them. It's so great to see our grade nines getting involved in extra curricular activities and grabbing on to the opportunities we have here at Peacock.
If you haven't heard.....THE TORNADOES WON THE CITY CHAMPIONSHIP ON SATURDAY AT GUTHERIDGE FIELD. I can't help but feel partly responsible as I was working the gate!! Kidding. But very proud to have Brandon and Levi playing on the team. You can watch them in action this Saturday at 1:00. (I will be working the gate again....so for sure another win!!)
Sunday Night
Ok I finally located the camera I had all of the Gymblast videos on!! So I've made a bunch of Animoto videos. Two are short ones and the other has all of my pictures and is a full length music video. You are famous! I encourage you to check out Animoto yourself. It's free to sign up and you can make all the 30 second videos you like. In the words of John Cougar Mellancamp ....."Check It Out"
November 5
I purchased a class membership to a site called VoiceThread. Today after we had completed our own word problem and solution we went to the computer lab to turn it into a Voicethread. This is going to take a few trips to the lab as this is a brand new technology for most students. One group did get their initial attempt done before class was over so here it is: http://ed.voicethread.com/share/1472469/
Nice work Ashley and Justine.
. November 4
Period One worked on ordering rational numbers. Mrs. Tressel had us write down a decimal number on a piece of paper and without talking organize ourselves in the right order in the hall. We tried it with fractions too and the class did really well. The students need to have their word problem done for tomorrow as we are going to the lab to use Voicethread.
Period Two worked on ordering rational numbers. We started section 3.2 Adding Rational Numbers. Have your word problem done for tomorrow as well. November 2
We started section 3.1. Please find attached the notes and examples. This is perhaps the worst section in the entire math 90! Please hang in there as it is extremely important.
October 27
We went over the Rationals Diagnostic Exam today. Students were pleasantly surprised that although they did not do well on it yesterday they were starting to remember "stuff" from last year! We ended the morning getting ready for Gymblast which is tomorrow. Wear your colours for the morning. Halloween costumes are allowed for the afternoon.
. October 26 Don't forget Parent Teacher Interviews this week.
Students got their exams back today. Most did very well. We started the Rational Unit today. A newsletter will be going home soon.
We have Gymblast on Thursday. Everyone was assigned to a team colour. October 25
Unit Two exam today. Student Led Conferences (Parent Teacher Interviews) are this week Thursday 6:30-8:30 and Friday morning 9-12. No need to book just drop in. Oct 22
We went over the Practice Test. The test has been pushed back to Monday. Sorry about the confusion. Have a safe weekend. There's lots to do. Soccer today at 4 and Football tomorrow at 3:15. Check out the Peacock gym all weekend for Sr boys and girls volleyball action. Oct 21Report Cards went home today
I went over the review and answered any questions students had. We wrote a practice exam today. Some students will write tomorrow, others have opted for further review and will write on Monday. Either one works for me. exponent practice exam.pdf
Here's a nice video courtesy of Andrea's mom. I think it speaks volumes about what we are trying to be here in Ginger and Friends. Thanks Leslie.
Christmas Gift Ideas: If you are looking for gift ideas check out this article in the paper with our very own Shailynn. She has her own business called Sun Kissed Creation. She and Emma were in the paper at the Trade Show. Way to go Shai!
We are almost done this unit and will be having an exam by week's end. October 15
First congratulations to Tyson and Braeden for taking up the Thanksgiving Challenge and working out the Double the Penny vs $500 Challenge. How cool was that to see that you would receive $10 million dollars by the end of the month. They both go home with a nice prize today.
We wrote our exam today. They are all marked and will be handed back first thing Monday morning. My marks have to be in for report cards by 8 am Monday morning.
I'm going to post something that I read on someone's blog this morning. I cried when I read it. It covers some fairly mature themes but I think the message is so very important. I love teaching math and science, but the reality is, you can learn that anywhere, anytime, what's really important is being a good person. I think I'll let the letter speak for itself.
http://vicky-bell.blogspot.com/2010/10/letter-to-my-daughter-in-wake-of.html
.PS I haven't forgotten Justine's interview. I'm still waiting for Teacher Tube ....Argghhh!! Tough loss in the shootout last night but it was the game of the season for sure. . October 14
Today we corrected the math assignment that Mr Anholt had left. Thank you to all the grade nines. Mr. Anholt said you were wonderful.
We worked on a Mid Unit Review which is due tomorrow. Page 69 Questions 1,2,3a,4,5,6,8,9, and 10.
We will be having a quiz on the first three sections tomorrow as well. STUDY
Justine's interview will be posted as soon as I get it back from Teacher Tube.
. October 12
I'm not at school today. I'm at an amazing Technology Conference. I just had to post anyway because the soccer team won in a shootout against Central last night. Way to go Justine. We will have an interview with Justine when I get back on Thursday. October 11
Welcome back. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Today we corrected the math assignment from Friday and did an Attempt #1. We started section 2.3 (see notes below).
Period 1: questions 3,4 and 10 on pages 66 &67
Period 2: questions 3,5,7,8,10,15 on pages 66& 67
Please get this done for tomorrow. Remember I will be away tomorrow at a conference. Mr Anholt will be in for the day.
Oct 8th
49% of our students wore their pajamas today. Waiting for results from the other families. We are awesome.
We corrected yesterday's assignment. As predicted, students are enjoying this unit much better than the last one. We started section 2.1. Assignment: page 61 questions 1 and 4-9
Fun trivia for the weekend. Get parents involved in this. Of course this is for fun prizes.
" What would be the better deal? Would you rather have your parents give you $500 for the month of October or have them give you a penny on the first day and double the value every day for the month?"
Work out the math and show me on Tuesday...... Have a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving.
. Oct 7 Tomorrow is pajama and teddy bear day for grade nines only!
Students got their tests back today. We started the Exponent Unit today. The notes and examples are below. 2.1 notes.pdf
Huge congratulations to Courtney Hunter who won SILVER at the South Central Meet yesterday. She now moves on to Provincials in a few weeks. You Rock Courtney. We have an interview taped and I hope I can get it to work!! Jaden got the video to work. He obviously is a genius. Thanks Emma for taping. PICT0011.AVI
Also big congrats to the 11 parents who answered the trivia question in the newsletter. Your prizes will be arriving home this evening. I cannot thank you enough for getting involved. Darrell Denet was first to answer again. I posted at 2:09 and he answered at 2:11. Oct. 6
We wrote a test today. We start Exponent Unit tomorrow.
Oct 5th
Today we did a final review for the exam tomorrow. Some students who felt they were very well prepared for the unit test picked up the first set of notes for Unit Two. I will be sending home a parent newsletter for Unit Two tonight.
We had Dean Shareski in today to give a presentation on "Digital Citizenship". His discussion focused on "Being Your Best Self Online". It was excellent. Thanks to Emma and Courtney for introducing him.
Please be aware that Courtney is running cross country on Wednesday in Wakamow. Let's try to get down there and cheer her on.
Nice work to the Jr Boys and Jr Girls volleyball teams on the weekend. I kept missing the girls' games but got to see the boys play Winston Knoll. It's so great to see our grade nines getting involved in Extra Curricular. Girls.....I'll try to make a league game this week. Go Peacock.
Jr SGA meeting tomorrow at noon in my room. Planning for Gym Blast on the 28th. Please check out the science class wiki if you haven't been there yet. Bookmark it as cool things like this will be happening there soon.
SEPT 30
A quick change to next week's agenda. The exam will be Wednesday as I forgot we have no school AGAIN on Monday.
I heard a strange comment this morning "you can't study for math".....after I calmed down my response was of course "Yes you can, and you must!" Over the course of this unit you have been given no less than 8 Attempts, a Practice Quiz and a Real Quiz. Not to mention homework questions. I have gone over all of the answers and you have been able to copy them down. You study math by redoing questions and checking your work. Please study. I cannot stress the importance of this enough.
Today we started with an Attempt for section 1.4 1.3 and 1.4 attempt #1.pdf
We finished off the class by starting the Review in the textbook on page 45. We will continue to work on it tomorrow. Sept 29
We continued working on surface area of composite objects. Questions 3-5 on page 40 are due tomorrow. I know some of you are having trouble with this so come in for extra help or ask questions in class. This is something you will need to know for math 10 so you need to get a handle on it now.
UNIT EXAM IS TUESDAY Sept 28
Last week 5 of our grade nines volunteered for the morning at Yara Community Gardens. They picked and delivered over 400 pounds of potatoes! We often only hear negative stories about teenagers and I love it when the paper and radio pick up stories like the one below. If you didn't have a chance to read it in the Times Herald take a look now. Thanks to Jesse, Chance, Harley, Levi and Tyler for shining the spotlight on Peacock and the great kids who go here. There will be plenty of opportunity for students to volunteer throughout the year. If you haven't filled in your Work Based Learning Program sheet (or you lost it) get another one from me. community gardens .pdf The work on Sept 28
We started the class like we always do with another review. By now everyone should be ready to write the unit exam and score 100%. If you have questions please ask. 1.1 and 1.2 attempt #2.pdf
We worked on Section 1.4 together and then a short textbook assignment. Sept 27
Started the day with another review (attempt) of 1.1 and 1.2. Please work at these. They are designed to prepare you for the unit exam. I am seeing great results from people who are working at these and correcting their mistakes. Also I almost cried when I saw people who were working on times tables when they were done their work. That is commitment and that is what we are all about here. Don't be shy or embarrassed to be doing that. I tells me that you are serious about improving your math skills.
We ended the period playing with blocks! We created composite objects and then tried to determine the surface area of such objects. I was very impressed with some of the groups who came up with great strategies to solve. Awesome day.
Here is today's attempt if you want to try it again at home (now that you have your answers from this morning). Also below are tomorrow's notes if you would like to get a head start.
1.4 notes.pdf Sept 24
Everyone got their exams back today. We had a rewrite for the review unit. Most students worked on surface area. We are reviewing area formulas and discovering our own formulas for surface area. I will be posting some fun stuff this weekend. Stay tuned. Sept 23
Students wrote their 1.1 and 1.2 quiz today. Marks will be given back tomorrow.
Link to Science Wiki which will become operational today http://rosso303science.wikispaces.com
Sept 22
Busy day in math today. We started with a quick Attempt at 1.2 Square Roots of Non-Perfect Squares.
We started surface area of rectangular and triangular prisms. Students were given a box of blocks and had to figure out their own surface area formulas. I was pretty impressed.
We ended by doing a quick review of multiplying/dividing fractions and order of operations. Remember, if you are rewriting the Unit One test with Ms. Tressel you better be studying.
Quiz tomorrow on Section 1.1 and 1.2 FOR MARKS Sept 21
Well I am back. I just wanted to start today's post by reminding grade nines that Jr SGA starts tomorrow at lunch. Any students who are interested in joining please meet in my room at lunch. We do not vote for positions or anything crazy like that. We all just learn to work cooperatively to make Peacock an even better place to be. Also check out the Extra Curricular link to find out what's happening.
We started today's class by doing an Attempt #1 to see where we are at in the unit. Students mark their own and of course record it in the front of their binder. We worked on Square Roots of Non-Perfect Squares. We will be having a Quiz on THURSDAY that counts for marks. Be prepared by studying a little every night. Ask lots of questions.
We ended the class by doing a quick review of adding and subtracting fractions. It's important to remember that basic skills are necessary to the success of any math class. It's not cheesy to practice your times tables. In fact, where I come from it's really considered COOL!
Sept 14
Students were handed back their exams. Mrs. Tressel has made a deal with some of them that they can rewrite a section that they did poorly on. They have been given a photocopy of the exam so they can practice. This rewrite will occur next week when I get back so some studying should be done prior.
We continued to work on square roots and perfect squares.
I will be away for the next three days. Reminder that there is no school for kids on Monday, Oct. 20th. Sept 13
Students wrote their first exam today on Integers, Order of Operations and Fractions. The tests will be marked today and handed back tomorrow. Parents: there is a very short survey a little further down the page. I'd love it if you could take a minute and fill it out. Thanks
As promised here is the video of the English Rap the girls performed on Friday.
Weekend of Sept 11/12
I meant to put this in Friday's wiki. Chance was at Lacrosse Nationals in Saskatoon last weekend. Before he left I asked him what their chances were. He was not to optimistic. What a wonderful surprise to read in the paper that they brought home a bronze medal. Chance was also featured in the article as a key player to their success. Way to go Chance. Here is the article for anyone who missed it. Dalgarno Lacrosse.pdf
I've also included a little informal survey for parents.
Sept 10
It has come to my attention that some people are having difficulty opening attachments at home. I'm going to try to remember to save documents in the old microsoft word and see if this helps at all.
Today we went over the practice exam question by question. Please ask to see how your son/daughter did on the test. Make sure they are ready to write the real exam on Monday.
Last week we had a contest for our new Family Crest. Katie's won by a landslide and we are so proud to be hanging it in our classrooms. Katie you are one incredible artist. Click on the link below to take a look at the talent that "Ginger and Friends" have.
Keep checking the wiki on the weekend. I videotaped some of the girls doing their English Rap and will have it uploaded soon. See you at the dance tonight!! Sept 9 School Dance is Tomorrow Night 7-10 in the gym.
Today we worked on a Practice Exam for the Review Unit on Integers, Order of Operations and Fractions. We will be correcting this Practice Exam tomorrow in class so it MUST BE DONE. I will be checking so don't let me down.
. In each newsletter I send home there is a trivia question. Congratulations to Darrell Denet for so quickly emailing a response. He is the official winner today and a nice bag of treats will be heading home for you at the end of the day.
For those parents who haven't given me an email it's not too late. I like to send out exam reminders and important school information when I can. rosso.sophie@prairiesouth.ca
Sept 8
Wow what a day. Everyone is working at their own level. I have a ton of worksheets to upload as there were about 5 different groups going today. I'm very happy to see most people pushing themselves as hard as they can. Congratulations to the group who challenged themselves with the Order of Operations with Fractions. It was one of the most brutal worksheets I've ever handed out. Great cooperative work today. We are going to move on tomorrow and that means a first exam coming up soon.
Labor Day Weekend:
Please be safe. I saw a great video on Karl Fisch's blog today. (He's a great math teacher from the United States). He shared this video with his students and I thought it was amazing so here it is for you. I think it sums up our Be Your Best Self idea nicely. Let me know on Tuesday if it made you cry....I did.
September 3
We went over the answers to Attempt #2 and corrected yesterday's assignment. Some students chose to review the BEDMAS rules again today and some students chose to move on to the Fraction Review. Have a great long weekend.
Here's the video of the Bubble Gum Lab we did in Science today. Parents: those of you who have students in science this semester will be getting the link to the science wiki on Tuesday.
September 2
We reviewed order of operations and the students worked on questions 1-29 which is due for tomorrow. I also had some errors on my answer sheet for order of operations attempt #1. No excuses.....sorry!! The corrections have been made. Thanks to Andrea and Emma who brought it to my attention SO POLITELY!! The next attempt for order of operations is below along with the answer key (I hope it's right!!)
For those of you who have been acing the attempts then you might be ready to move on to the fraction review. Here is a nice adding and subtracting fractions review video.
September 1
Today we started Order of Operations review. Below are the notes and examples. Students were to pick a level that best suited their level of understanding. I went over all the questions in class. Also below is Attempt #1 for Order of Operations.
August 31
Continued working on Integers. Review of adding and subtracting and started notes and examples on multiplying and dividing. Everyone needs to find a strategy that best works for them when tackling a question. What's yours? Is it a table, writing the question differently or sticking with a rule?
Students should have done Attempt #2 last night. I had hard copies and answers in the classroom for those who forgot. If you need help you should be asking. If you still need practice Attempt #3 is attached below.
August 30
This morning we started a full rotation of classes. Students were RANDOMLY split into two groups. Group One will have English, Math, and Social this semester. Group Two will have Math, English and Science this semester.
We started integers this morning. Students were all given a sheet with all of the year's concepts on it. They will keep this in the front of their binder and use it as a guide to better prepare themselves for quizzes and exams.
Tonight's homework is to do the integers pre-assessment quiz. Those of you who score 6 out of 8 or higher will not be required to write any further practice quizzes. Those of you who scored lower will continue to write practice quizzes to better prepare you for the real quiz at the end of the week. You are in charge of your own destiny here. I will not be hounding you. I assume that you are being your best self and doing the right thing. Be sure to record your marks on your
The key to Attempt #2 is located here as well. Why the key? Why not? Students are expected to be advocates for their own learning. Cheating on these concept assessments would be ridiculous as they do not count for marks but are for preparation. The idea is to see where you still need help and then get that help. Help can be obtained from fellow classmates, Mrs. Rosso, parents or another source. The most important thing is that real understanding is reached.
August 27 We spent the morning on introductions and working on picking a Family Name. We will henceforth be known as Ginger and Friends. The students have been split into two groups and starting on Monday they will be in either science or social studies period three. Have a great weekend. Please join the wiki if you haven't done so already. Those of you who have not submitted the course expectations form or given me a picture of your study area have until Monday to get this to me.
August 26
Try joining this wiki
1.Hit Join this space in the top left hand corner
2. user name should be first name and last initial (no last names)
3. password is whatever you want
4. When asked if you want to make a wiki pick NO
5. confirm your email address
6. go back to the wiki and pick join this wiki again
7. Write me a little note
Tomorrow we will be heading to the library as a giant group to get to know one another and pick our Family Name. Here are the questions you will be needing to know the answers to!!
1. Last school attended 2. Siblings and their names 3. Parents’ names 4. Pets and Names 5. Hobbies 6. Best thing I did this summer vacation 7. Favorite movie/tv show 8. BFF9. What would you do if you won $1000?
August 25
There are two things that need to be done tonight as "homework". These two items are important. I need them done, but I don't want you to just rush through them as they will be an important part of the course.
1.Once you have read and feel you understand the course requirements please fill out and submit the form below. Please share this page with your family as they are part of your support group for math.
2. Find a place where you find it best to do school work. If you don't already have a study place think about your spot before you pick it. What makes a place an ideal study spot for you? When you have settled on a spot take a picture of it an email it to me. Include some information about why this is the best spot for you to get your work done.
If you don't have a digital camera then draw the space and we'll take a picture of your drawing at school!
Today was a Mathletics day. I am very impressed with the skills some students are displaying in the lab. Tomorrow we are back at the books so don't forget your text.
Science: Worked on Static Electricity labs. I've attached some pictures.
May 6
Well the warm weather seems to be upon us and I started classes today with a public service announcement about the sun.
http://youtu.be/_4jgUcxMezM Here is the link to the video if you'd like to watch it as well.
We spent the class working together on section 7.3 creating similar polygons using protractors and rulers. No homework for the weekend.
May 4
We finished up section 7.2 "Reductions" and started 7.3 "Similar Polygons". No school tomorrow but study for a short quiz on Friday on sections 7.1 and 7.2.
April 11
I forgot we had Mathletics booked today. We will be working on the Unit Project Tuesday and Wednesday and the Test has been pushed to Thursday.
April 7
Math: last run at the inequalities. We will work on the unit project on Monday and Tuesday and the test is Wed.
Science: Watched a quick atom video and did the online quiz together. We built atoms out of jujubes to end the day.
http://bit.ly/dVJX48
Above is the link to the video. Enjoy. Have a great long weekend.
April 6
Math : Continued to work on Review of Unit. Exam on Inequalities will be Wed, April 13
Science:Today we started Acids and Bases. We are getting close to the end of the chemistry unit.
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April 5
Math: Reviewed Inequality Word Problems.
Science:Day two of Gummy Bear Lab. We talked about large cargo ships and how they manage to float. Lab Report due tomorrow.
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April 4
Today we really saw the connection between math and science. I have always maintained that math is the handmaiden of all sciences.
We are currently working on the Equations and Inequalities unit and came across the formula for density. This brought home the idea that we can use equations to model and solve problems. We did the Gummy Bear Lab in science class to see the formula in action.
Those students who did not do as well as they should have on their equations exam did a rewrite on the sections they needed to improve on. Results will be given back tomorrow.
March 29
Pink registration sheets are due. Today students got their equations exam back. Those students who did not do as well as I believe they should have will be rewriting on Friday. Corrections must be done. They were given the opportunity to get help during math class. We also worked on Mathletics and I did a quick mini lesson on Prezi (an alternative to Power Point).
March 28
Students began the registration process today. Please call the school if you have any questions about grade ten classes.
March 24
Students wrote their equations exam today. No school tomorrow due to Hoopla.
Reminder that Golf sign up sheet is in the office.
If you missed interviews and would like to meet please call and I will make arrangements.
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March 16
Report cards went home today. We worked on Word Problems. Tomorrow students will receive their practice test for the unit. I've included it on the wiki as I am away at a conference tomorrow.
March 15
Period one had their turn in the lab for Mathletics today. Period 2 worked on the geometric word problems that they missed yesterday because they were in the lab.
Science: We worked on a Smarties and M&M lab to learn about Solutions. Tonight the homework is to figure out what a solvent is and what a solute is.
Vicki and her team mates were in the paper last night and here is a copy of it if you missed it.
March 14
Today was the start of Jail and Bail ( our annual fundraiser for the NICU) Our class was the first to go. Everyone participated and thanks so much to everyone who bailed them out! We will keep you posted with the fundraising details. This cut into Science class and we watched the final video of the student from Winnipeg who we helped out with an experiment. Here's the link if you want to watch it again.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rlxeo6qieyM&feature=player_embedded
I've also included some pictures of period one students in jail!!
AND Congratulations to Vicki for a bronze medal at Wrestling Regionals in Swift Current. She's off to Wrestling Provincials this weekend. Good luck Vicki!!
Vicki loves to have her picture taken so here's a lovely shot of her. Way to go Vicki we are proud to have you in our family.
March 10
Once again we reviewed the 5 types of equations. I quickly mark each of these sheets and hand them back and then we go over each question at the board. Each student knows where they need extra practice. They had an opportunity to go and work with another teacher to get ready for the exam tomorrow. Everyone should be hitting the books tonight. AFTER THE JR GIRLS FINAL AT PEACOCK AT 6:15.
March 9
We did a quick practice quiz of equations. Those who needed extra help got that today. Test is Friday. We continued with Translation and started word problems.
Science: worked with the triple beam balances today.
March 8
Review sheet on all types of equations we have covered. We took a look at our next item on the agenda which is translating symbols and phrases from English to mathematics and vice versa. Students chose Friday as their quiz day for Solving Equations.
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March 7
Friday was PINK DAY and there was a great picture in the Times Herald. I've attached a copy if you didn't see it on Saturday. It was so great to see all of the grade nines in our Family getting involved. I'm so proud to be a part of that. Thanks you guys.
Anyone wanting a pink shirt can see me as we are going to send in another order. We will be having another PINK DAY April 14th.
We went to the lab today to start a new unit in Mathletics.
March 4
Started Ratio Type equations. No homework but it would be a good idea to review over the weekend.
March 3
I was absent but the substitute did a great job of teaching type 4 equations.
March 2
Corrected work from yesterday. Started Type 3 equations. Remember there is a science exam on Friday.
March 1
Worked on Type 2 Equations today. These are equations that involve 2 steps. Please be asking questions if you are unsure of yourself as we are building day to day on prior knowledge. These get hard pretty quickly so you need to know what you are doing.
February 18
Students wrote their polynomial exam today. Have a great break and rest up!
Congratulations to Shai, Justine, Courtney, Ashley,Samara, Miranda and Emma on getting involved in the musical Oklahoma. There's still a chance to get tickets. I'm going Saturday night with the family.
February 15
We began the review process for the exam which will now be on Friday. Please make sure you are done the questions on pages 259-261 that I assigned. 1,2,3,6,12,15,19,22,27
February 14
Happy Valentine's Day. Today on the wiki you have an assignment. Please visit the Voicethread emedded here and participate. Remember you can use type or voice. Get creative and try the pen attached to the Voicethread. Try creating your own!
http://voicethread.com/share/1737857/
February 11
Wrote the quiz today and worked on Geometry and Polynomials together. Have a great weekend.
If you are interested in helping out Mrs. McKinnon's class here is a link:
Please help Peacock students win a conversation with Mr. Brett Wilson, of Dragons’ Den fame.
Please help us spread the word. You register at www.bestconversationever.ca first. Then….once in….You can go to the Gallery and search for ‘Mr. Wilson’ to find our submission. Or….simply click on this link: http://bestconversationever.ca/entry/3948453-Mr.-Brett-Wilson%2C-Will-You-Cha?offset=0&channel=10257&sort=
to find the submission. The ‘vote’ button is in the lower lefthand corner; scroll down. I’d LOVE for Peacock students to be able to have a conversation with Mr. Brett Wilson. You can vote every day, and you can also vote from several email accounts. Please help us out!
Thanks!
B
February 10
Tomorrow we will have a quiz on the polynomial concepts we have covered so far this unit. Period 2 has homework that is due for tomorrow. Page 256-257 questions 11,12,16 and 20. If these are not done there will be phone calls coming home.
February 9
Started multiplying and dividing polynomials. We reviewed previous skills and concepts like multiplying and dividing integers as well as basic exponent rules. We practiced for the remainder of the period. Most seem to have caught on quite well. We will continue tomorrow.
February 8
Worked on the mid unit review on page 237. We will correct this tomorrow and then move on to multiplying and dividing polynomials.
February 7
We spent the morning in the computer lab on a new program called Mathletics. Mathletics is an online resource that is aligned with the grade nine curriculum. It allows students to work at their own pace on concepts we have previously covered in class. We are just getting aquainted with the system but it seems that students are enjoying themselves and working.
Congratulations to Vicki for another great wrestling performance over the weekend. A silver medal to add to her bronze medal from last weekend. Girls RULE!!
February 3
Today we worked with the alge tiles and the concept of zero pairs. Two groups created short videos with their explanations of how this works. I am going to try to transition the wiki over to the students. My goal is to get them to take turns uploading information each day. If you have any ideas about how to make this work let me know. I'd love to hear from you.
February 2
Well good news everyone: I saw my shadow this morning so 5 more months of school. Yay!! And I think I figured out the video situation.Big thanks to Samara, Miranda and Jonathon for making our first Alge Tile Video.
We went over the homework questions from yesterday and started Combining Like Terms.
February 1
Another great day in math and science. Today we worked with Alge Tiles. A great introduction to creating and understanding polynomials. I will be uploading pictures and perhaps videos tonight as I forgot my camera cord at home. I am going to have to ask Jaden to help upload the video again. He showed me a great shortcut (twice) and I can't remember!! I do have pictures though.
Kids need to have page 214 questions 4-7 and 9 done for tomorrow so we can move on.
Reminder that tomorrow is GroundTeacher Day. If I wake up and see my shadow we will have 5 more months of school if not enjoy an extended summer holiday.
January 31
Exciting first day back for semester 2. We have a few new students to welcome to our family: Chantelle and Melissa. Welcome to Peacock ladies.
Today we did a Unit 5 diagnostic0001.pdf in math for Unit 5. I was very pleased at how the kids worked at it. This will be a great unit. I can feel it.
Report Cards will be handed out Friday.
January 13
Today we started to look more closely at the review for math. I did two mini lessons: one on surface area (many of you need to work on this one) and one on rational numbers (fractions). Make sure you are looking over the questions and asking for help when you need it. Do not leave studying until the last minute.
January 7
The final exam schedule is out. Grade nines will write:
ELA on Monday, January 24 9:00
Science on Tuesday January 25 9:00
Math on Wednesday January 26 9:00
Today we did a review of unit two Exponents. We will take this up on Monday. Have a safe and enjoyable weekend.
January 6
Still no schedule out for finals yet but I will post and send out an email as soon as I get it. Today we section 4.4 Matching Equations and Graphs. Remember if you are still having trouble with Subtitution and Solving Type I and II Equations this is going to be rough. Come in for extra help and don't get discouraged.
We spent the last 20 mins of the period going over the review for unit one. We will be revisiting each of the units over the course of the next 2 weeks to get ready for the final. Please do not leave the studying to the last minute.
January 5
Welcome back. I hope everyone had a lovely holiday. Now to ruin that for you!! We have 13 school days until final exams begin. Finals will run from January 24-27. The schedule is not yet finalized but I will post it on the wiki as soon as I get it.
Today we did a review of sections 4.1-4.3 and then finished off the day working on a review of Unit One. Remember, now is the time to start studying for your finals.....not the night before.
December 14
Today we started equations of horizontal and vertical lines. We will continue with the equations of oblique, horizontal and vertical lines tomorrow.
December 13
Reviewed the many ways we can determine if a relation is Linear.
December 10
In math period one we continued to work on algebraic equations. 12 questions are due for Monday.
Period 2: We watched the Mythbusters Christmas Special. If it looks fun it probably involved math. Remember that, math is the handmaiden to all sciences.
You still have time to vote for World Vision Gift. I will order on Monday.
December 9
We corrected yesterday's assignment together on the board. Period one did not get a new assignment as they had to fill out a School Culture Survey. Period 2 has 12 questions to work on for algebra review.
Please take the time to fill out the survey below. Everyone in your family is encouraged to vote.
December 8
I'm back in!! Not sure what the issue was but we are back up and running. Students will have their Coordinate Plane quizzes back tomorrow.
December 2
Worked on Type II and Type III Equations together as well as Substitution. Students chose worksheets that are at the level they are currently working at.
December 1
Today we started Unit 4. We reviewed basic skills and vocabulary we will need to be successful in this unit. Find attached the Unit 4 Newsletter.
November 23
Yesterday the students received a practice exam for the rational unit. They worked on that today as well. I also taught a concept from the math 10 text today. It was a cool way to find the LCM of numbers. I was pleasantly surprised at how well they did with this.
The Rational Exam will be on Thursday November 25.
Coats for Kids. Peacock is collecting coats for people in the community who don't have the means to purchase winter clothing. We have had several calls from elementary schools asking for coats that will fit little people. If you have any kids coats at home that no longer fit your little ones please feel free to send them to school where we will find them a grateful new home. Have a great long weekend.
Thursday, November 18
Corrected dividing rationals assignment from yesterday. Started section 3.6 Order of Operations with Rationals
High School Confidential: Yesterday 5 of our grade nines including Shailynn, Emma and Courtney from our Family taped a radio show for Country 100. The show will be aired on Sunday at 8:00 am and 8:00 pm so please try to take the time to give it a listen.They did a fantastic job! Thanks girls....you make me so proud to teach here. YOU ROCK
Basketball tryouts: Jr Boys tonight at 3:30 and Jr girls Thursday at 5:30. Let's get out there ladies and gents!
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Wednesday, November 17
Rewrote exams. I will mark them this evening and hope for better results than yesterday. We started section 3.5 Dividing Rational Numbers.
Tuesday, November 16
Students wrote their quizzes today. It did not go well for most. When I asked who studied I did not see many hands. We will be rewriting the exam tomorrow and students are expected to study tonight. This exam has been posted for over a week on the board, in their agendas and on the wiki. I am more than a little frustrated today.
They have their initial exams to study from as I marked them immediately and we went over them in class. Please don't hesitate to call if you have any questions.
Monday, November 15
Today we started 3.4...Multiplying Rational Numbers. Below are the notes and examples. Please remember you have a test tomorrow on ordering rationals and adding and subtracting. Please study. It really does make a difference.
Wednesday November 10
We went to the computer lab to work on our VoiceThread assignment. No more class time. No science today as we were at the Remembrance Day service. I would like to thank you for your exemplary behaviour. I should not be surprised as you are a wonderful group of kids but it was so wonderful to show you off! Have a lovely weekend. See you Monday. Remember you have a quiz on Tuesday.
Tuesday November 9 Tomorrow is Formal Day (Remember to wear your poppy.)
Corrected yesterday's assignment. We reviewed ordering rational numbers. The kids will have a quiz on sections 3.1-3.3 on Tuesday November 16.
Those of you working on your VoiceThread at home don't forget to set your voicethread to public or else when we put it on the wiki no one can see it!
Monday November 8
Worked on Subtracting Rationals. The notes are here.
I hope many of you made it to the Fall Play last week. We had several kids from our Family involved in the two productions. Below is a picture of them. It's so great to see our grade nines getting involved in extra curricular activities and grabbing on to the opportunities we have here at Peacock.
If you haven't heard.....THE TORNADOES WON THE CITY CHAMPIONSHIP ON SATURDAY AT GUTHERIDGE FIELD. I can't help but feel partly responsible as I was working the gate!! Kidding. But very proud to have Brandon and Levi playing on the team. You can watch them in action this Saturday at 1:00. (I will be working the gate again....so for sure another win!!)
Sunday Night
Ok I finally located the camera I had all of the Gymblast videos on!! So I've made a bunch of Animoto videos. Two are short ones and the other has all of my pictures and is a full length music video. You are famous! I encourage you to check out Animoto yourself. It's free to sign up and you can make all the 30 second videos you like. In the words of John Cougar Mellancamp ....."Check It Out"
November 5
I purchased a class membership to a site called VoiceThread. Today after we had completed our own word problem and solution we went to the computer lab to turn it into a Voicethread. This is going to take a few trips to the lab as this is a brand new technology for most students. One group did get their initial attempt done before class was over so here it is:
http://ed.voicethread.com/share/1472469/
Nice work Ashley and Justine.
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November 4
Period One worked on ordering rational numbers. Mrs. Tressel had us write down a decimal number on a piece of paper and without talking organize ourselves in the right order in the hall. We tried it with fractions too and the class did really well. The students need to have their word problem done for tomorrow as we are going to the lab to use Voicethread.
Period Two worked on ordering rational numbers. We started section 3.2 Adding Rational Numbers. Have your word problem done for tomorrow as well.
November 2
We started section 3.1. Please find attached the notes and examples. This is perhaps the worst section in the entire math 90! Please hang in there as it is extremely important.
October 27
We went over the Rationals Diagnostic Exam today. Students were pleasantly surprised that although they did not do well on it yesterday they were starting to remember "stuff" from last year! We ended the morning getting ready for Gymblast which is tomorrow. Wear your colours for the morning. Halloween costumes are allowed for the afternoon.
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October 26 Don't forget Parent Teacher Interviews this week.
Students got their exams back today. Most did very well. We started the Rational Unit today. A newsletter will be going home soon.
We have Gymblast on Thursday. Everyone was assigned to a team colour.
October 25
Unit Two exam today. Student Led Conferences (Parent Teacher Interviews) are this week Thursday 6:30-8:30 and Friday morning 9-12. No need to book just drop in.
Oct 22
We went over the Practice Test. The test has been pushed back to Monday. Sorry about the confusion. Have a safe weekend. There's lots to do. Soccer today at 4 and Football tomorrow at 3:15. Check out the Peacock gym all weekend for Sr boys and girls volleyball action.
Oct 21 Report Cards went home today
I went over the review and answered any questions students had. We wrote a practice exam today. Some students will write tomorrow, others have opted for further review and will write on Monday. Either one works for me.
exponent practice exam.pdf
Here's a nice video courtesy of Andrea's mom. I think it speaks volumes about what we are trying to be here in Ginger and Friends. Thanks Leslie.
Christmas Gift Ideas: If you are looking for gift ideas check out this article in the paper with our very own Shailynn. She has her own business called Sun Kissed Creation. She and Emma were in the paper at the Trade Show. Way to go Shai!
October 20
Mr Anholt was in today. Students worked on the review in the Text Book.
October 18
We started section 2.5 Exponent Laws II
We are almost done this unit and will be having an exam by week's end.
October 15
First congratulations to Tyson and Braeden for taking up the Thanksgiving Challenge and working out the Double the Penny vs $500 Challenge. How cool was that to see that you would receive $10 million dollars by the end of the month. They both go home with a nice prize today.
We wrote our exam today. They are all marked and will be handed back first thing Monday morning. My marks have to be in for report cards by 8 am Monday morning.
I'm going to post something that I read on someone's blog this morning. I cried when I read it. It covers some fairly mature themes but I think the message is so very important. I love teaching math and science, but the reality is, you can learn that anywhere, anytime, what's really important is being a good person. I think I'll let the letter speak for itself.
http://vicky-bell.blogspot.com/2010/10/letter-to-my-daughter-in-wake-of.html
.PS I haven't forgotten Justine's interview. I'm still waiting for Teacher Tube ....Argghhh!! Tough loss in the shootout last night but it was the game of the season for sure.
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October 14
Today we corrected the math assignment that Mr Anholt had left. Thank you to all the grade nines. Mr. Anholt said you were wonderful.
We worked on a Mid Unit Review which is due tomorrow. Page 69 Questions 1,2,3a,4,5,6,8,9, and 10.
We will be having a quiz on the first three sections tomorrow as well. STUDY
Justine's interview will be posted as soon as I get it back from Teacher Tube.
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October 12
I'm not at school today. I'm at an amazing Technology Conference. I just had to post anyway because the soccer team won in a shootout against Central last night. Way to go Justine. We will have an interview with Justine when I get back on Thursday.
October 11
Welcome back. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Today we corrected the math assignment from Friday and did an Attempt #1. We started section 2.3 (see notes below).
Period 1: questions 3,4 and 10 on pages 66 &67
Period 2: questions 3,5,7,8,10,15 on pages 66& 67
Please get this done for tomorrow. Remember I will be away tomorrow at a conference. Mr Anholt will be in for the day.
Oct 8th
49% of our students wore their pajamas today. Waiting for results from the other families. We are awesome.
We corrected yesterday's assignment. As predicted, students are enjoying this unit much better than the last one. We started section 2.1. Assignment: page 61 questions 1 and 4-9
Fun trivia for the weekend. Get parents involved in this. Of course this is for fun prizes.
" What would be the better deal? Would you rather have your parents give you $500 for the month of October or have them give you a penny on the first day and double the value every day for the month?"
Work out the math and show me on Tuesday...... Have a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving.
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Oct 7 Tomorrow is pajama and teddy bear day for grade nines only!
Students got their tests back today. We started the Exponent Unit today. The notes and examples are below.
2.1 notes.pdf
Huge congratulations to Courtney Hunter who won SILVER at the South Central Meet yesterday. She now moves on to Provincials in a few weeks. You Rock Courtney. We have an interview taped and I hope I can get it to work!! Jaden got the video to work. He obviously is a genius. Thanks Emma for taping.
PICT0011.AVI
Also big congrats to the 11 parents who answered the trivia question in the newsletter. Your prizes will be arriving home this evening. I cannot thank you enough for getting involved. Darrell Denet was first to answer again. I posted at 2:09 and he answered at 2:11.
Oct. 6
We wrote a test today. We start Exponent Unit tomorrow.
Oct 5th
Today we did a final review for the exam tomorrow. Some students who felt they were very well prepared for the unit test picked up the first set of notes for Unit Two. I will be sending home a parent newsletter for Unit Two tonight.
We had Dean Shareski in today to give a presentation on "Digital Citizenship". His discussion focused on "Being Your Best Self Online". It was excellent. Thanks to Emma and Courtney for introducing him.
Please be aware that Courtney is running cross country on Wednesday in Wakamow. Let's try to get down there and cheer her on.
Nice work to the Jr Boys and Jr Girls volleyball teams on the weekend. I kept missing the girls' games but got to see the boys play Winston Knoll. It's so great to see our grade nines getting involved in Extra Curricular. Girls.....I'll try to make a league game this week. Go Peacock.
Jr SGA meeting tomorrow at noon in my room. Planning for Gym Blast on the 28th.
Please check out the science class wiki if you haven't been there yet. Bookmark it as cool things like this will be happening there soon.
SEPT 30
A quick change to next week's agenda. The exam will be Wednesday as I forgot we have no school AGAIN on Monday.
I heard a strange comment this morning "you can't study for math".....after I calmed down my response was of course "Yes you can, and you must!" Over the course of this unit you have been given no less than 8 Attempts, a Practice Quiz and a Real Quiz. Not to mention homework questions. I have gone over all of the answers and you have been able to copy them down. You study math by redoing questions and checking your work. Please study. I cannot stress the importance of this enough.
Today we started with an Attempt for section 1.4
1.3 and 1.4 attempt #1.pdf
We finished off the class by starting the Review in the textbook on page 45. We will continue to work on it tomorrow.
Sept 29
We continued working on surface area of composite objects. Questions 3-5 on page 40 are due tomorrow. I know some of you are having trouble with this so come in for extra help or ask questions in class. This is something you will need to know for math 10 so you need to get a handle on it now.
UNIT EXAM IS TUESDAY
Sept 28
Last week 5 of our grade nines volunteered for the morning at Yara Community Gardens. They picked and delivered over 400 pounds of potatoes! We often only hear negative stories about teenagers and I love it when the paper and radio pick up stories like the one below. If you didn't have a chance to read it in the Times Herald take a look now. Thanks to Jesse, Chance, Harley, Levi and Tyler for shining the spotlight on Peacock and the great kids who go here. There will be plenty of opportunity for students to volunteer throughout the year. If you haven't filled in your Work Based Learning Program sheet (or you lost it) get another one from me.
community gardens .pdf
The work on Sept 28
We started the class like we always do with another review. By now everyone should be ready to write the unit exam and score 100%. If you have questions please ask.
1.1 and 1.2 attempt #2.pdf
We worked on Section 1.4 together and then a short textbook assignment.
Sept 27
Started the day with another review (attempt) of 1.1 and 1.2. Please work at these. They are designed to prepare you for the unit exam. I am seeing great results from people who are working at these and correcting their mistakes. Also I almost cried when I saw people who were working on times tables when they were done their work. That is commitment and that is what we are all about here. Don't be shy or embarrassed to be doing that. I tells me that you are serious about improving your math skills.
We ended the period playing with blocks! We created composite objects and then tried to determine the surface area of such objects. I was very impressed with some of the groups who came up with great strategies to solve. Awesome day.
Here is today's attempt if you want to try it again at home (now that you have your answers from this morning). Also below are tomorrow's notes if you would like to get a head start.
attempt #3 for 1.1 and 1.2.pdf
1.4 notes.pdf
Sept 24
Everyone got their exams back today. We had a rewrite for the review unit. Most students worked on surface area. We are reviewing area formulas and discovering our own formulas for surface area. I will be posting some fun stuff this weekend. Stay tuned.
Sept 23
Students wrote their 1.1 and 1.2 quiz today. Marks will be given back tomorrow.
Link to Science Wiki which will become operational today
http://rosso303science.wikispaces.com
Sept 22
Busy day in math today. We started with a quick Attempt at 1.2 Square Roots of Non-Perfect Squares.
We started surface area of rectangular and triangular prisms. Students were given a box of blocks and had to figure out their own surface area formulas. I was pretty impressed.
We ended by doing a quick review of multiplying/dividing fractions and order of operations. Remember, if you are rewriting the Unit One test with Ms. Tressel you better be studying.
Quiz tomorrow on Section 1.1 and 1.2 FOR MARKS
Sept 21
Well I am back. I just wanted to start today's post by reminding grade nines that Jr SGA starts tomorrow at lunch. Any students who are interested in joining please meet in my room at lunch. We do not vote for positions or anything crazy like that. We all just learn to work cooperatively to make Peacock an even better place to be. Also check out the Extra Curricular link to find out what's happening.
We started today's class by doing an Attempt #1 to see where we are at in the unit. Students mark their own and of course record it in the front of their binder. We worked on Square Roots of Non-Perfect Squares. We will be having a Quiz on THURSDAY that counts for marks. Be prepared by studying a little every night. Ask lots of questions.
We ended the class by doing a quick review of adding and subtracting fractions. It's important to remember that basic skills are necessary to the success of any math class. It's not cheesy to practice your times tables. In fact, where I come from it's really considered COOL!
review #1 for rewrite.pdf
Attempt #1 perfect squares.pdf
Sept 14
Students were handed back their exams. Mrs. Tressel has made a deal with some of them that they can rewrite a section that they did poorly on. They have been given a photocopy of the exam so they can practice. This rewrite will occur next week when I get back so some studying should be done prior.
We continued to work on square roots and perfect squares.
I will be away for the next three days. Reminder that there is no school for kids on Monday, Oct. 20th.
Sept 13
Students wrote their first exam today on Integers, Order of Operations and Fractions. The tests will be marked today and handed back tomorrow. Parents: there is a very short survey a little further down the page. I'd love it if you could take a minute and fill it out. Thanks
As promised here is the video of the English Rap the girls performed on Friday.
Weekend of Sept 11/12
I meant to put this in Friday's wiki. Chance was at Lacrosse Nationals in Saskatoon last weekend. Before he left I asked him what their chances were. He was not to optimistic. What a wonderful surprise to read in the paper that they brought home a bronze medal. Chance was also featured in the article as a key player to their success. Way to go Chance. Here is the article for anyone who missed it.
Dalgarno Lacrosse.pdf
I've also included a little informal survey for parents.
Sept 10
It has come to my attention that some people are having difficulty opening attachments at home. I'm going to try to remember to save documents in the old microsoft word and see if this helps at all.
Today we went over the practice exam question by question. Please ask to see how your son/daughter did on the test. Make sure they are ready to write the real exam on Monday.
Last week we had a contest for our new Family Crest. Katie's won by a landslide and we are so proud to be hanging it in our classrooms. Katie you are one incredible artist. Click on the link below to take a look at the talent that "Ginger and Friends" have.
Keep checking the wiki on the weekend. I videotaped some of the girls doing their English Rap and will have it uploaded soon. See you at the dance tonight!!
Sept 9
School Dance is Tomorrow Night 7-10 in the gym.
Today we worked on a Practice Exam for the Review Unit on Integers, Order of Operations and Fractions. We will be correcting this Practice Exam tomorrow in class so it MUST BE DONE. I will be checking so don't let me down.
Review Unit Practice Exam.docx
I sent an email to all the parents early this morning with the
For those parents who haven't given me an email it's not too late. I like to send out exam reminders and important school information when I can.
rosso.sophie@prairiesouth.ca
Sept 8
Wow what a day. Everyone is working at their own level. I have a ton of worksheets to upload as there were about 5 different groups going today. I'm very happy to see most people pushing themselves as hard as they can. Congratulations to the group who challenged themselves with the Order of Operations with Fractions. It was one of the most brutal worksheets I've ever handed out. Great cooperative work today. We are going to move on tomorrow and that means a first exam coming up soon.
fraction practice.pdf
order of operations challenge .pdf
Labor Day Weekend:
Please be safe. I saw a great video on Karl Fisch's blog today. (He's a great math teacher from the United States). He shared this video with his students and I thought it was amazing so here it is for you. I think it sums up our Be Your Best Self idea nicely. Let me know on Tuesday if it made you cry....I did.
September 3
We went over the answers to Attempt #2 and corrected yesterday's assignment. Some students chose to review the BEDMAS rules again today and some students chose to move on to the Fraction Review. Have a great long weekend.
Here's the video of the Bubble Gum Lab we did in Science today. Parents: those of you who have students in science this semester will be getting the link to the science wiki on Tuesday.
Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.
September 2
We reviewed order of operations and the students worked on questions 1-29 which is due for tomorrow. I also had some errors on my answer sheet for order of operations attempt #1. No excuses.....sorry!! The corrections have been made. Thanks to Andrea and Emma who brought it to my attention SO POLITELY!! The next attempt for order of operations is below along with the answer key (I hope it's right!!)
BEDMAS worksheet.pdf
Attempt #2 order of operations.docx
Attempt #2 order of operations answers.docx
For those of you who have been acing the attempts then you might be ready to move on to the fraction review. Here is a nice adding and subtracting fractions review video.
September 1
Today we started Order of Operations review. Below are the notes and examples. Students were to pick a level that best suited their level of understanding. I went over all the questions in class. Also below is Attempt #1 for Order of Operations.
August 31
Continued working on Integers. Review of adding and subtracting and started notes and examples on multiplying and dividing. Everyone needs to find a strategy that best works for them when tackling a question. What's yours? Is it a table, writing the question differently or sticking with a rule?
Students should have done Attempt #2 last night. I had hard copies and answers in the classroom for those who forgot. If you need help you should be asking. If you still need practice Attempt #3 is attached below.
August 30
This morning we started a full rotation of classes. Students were RANDOMLY split into two groups. Group One will have English, Math, and Social this semester. Group Two will have Math, English and Science this semester.
We started integers this morning. Students were all given a sheet with all of the year's concepts on it. They will keep this in the front of their binder and use it as a guide to better prepare themselves for quizzes and exams.
Tonight's homework is to do the integers pre-assessment quiz. Those of you who score 6 out of 8 or higher will not be required to write any further practice quizzes. Those of you who scored lower will continue to write practice quizzes to better prepare you for the real quiz at the end of the week. You are in charge of your own destiny here. I will not be hounding you. I assume that you are being your best self and doing the right thing. Be sure to record your marks on your
Parents, please ask your child about their Pre-Assessment quiz this morning. If they scored lower than 6/8 they need to try Attempt #2.
The key to Attempt #2 is located here as well. Why the key? Why not? Students are expected to be advocates for their own learning. Cheating on these concept assessments would be ridiculous as they do not count for marks but are for preparation. The idea is to see where you still need help and then get that help. Help can be obtained from fellow classmates, Mrs. Rosso, parents or another source. The most important thing is that real understanding is reached.
August 27
We spent the morning on introductions and working on picking a Family Name. We will henceforth be known as Ginger and Friends. The students have been split into two groups and starting on Monday they will be in either science or social studies period three. Have a great weekend.
Please join the wiki if you haven't done so already. Those of you who have not submitted the course expectations form or given me a picture of your study area have until Monday to get this to me.
August 26
Try joining this wiki
1.Hit Join this space in the top left hand corner
2. user name should be first name and last initial (no last names)
3. password is whatever you want
4. When asked if you want to make a wiki pick NO
5. confirm your email address
6. go back to the wiki and pick join this wiki again
7. Write me a little note
Tomorrow we will be heading to the library as a giant group to get to know one another and pick our Family Name. Here are the questions you will be needing to know the answers to!!
1. Last school attended
2. Siblings and their names
3. Parents’ names
4. Pets and Names
5. Hobbies
6. Best thing I did this summer vacation
7. Favorite movie/tv show
8. BFF9. What would you do if you won $1000?
August 25
There are two things that need to be done tonight as "homework". These two items are important. I need them done, but I don't want you to just rush through them as they will be an important part of the course.
1.Once you have read and feel you understand the course requirements please fill out and submit the form below. Please share this page with your family as they are part of your support group for math.
2. Find a place where you find it best to do school work. If you don't already have a study place think about your spot before you pick it. What makes a place an ideal study spot for you? When you have settled on a spot take a picture of it an email it to me. Include some information about why this is the best spot for you to get your work done.
If you don't have a digital camera then draw the space and we'll take a picture of your drawing at school!