Ricketts Language - Spelling list # 21 - THE END

This is the last spelling list for the year!  Thank you to Fadi, Ourania, Paige, Soran and David for these technology related words:

aeronautical engineering, targeting system, satellite guidance, unmanned airborne, vehicle, electronic, emotionless robot, computer program, mechanically, watts, performance and California

Ricketts Language - Spelling list # 20

Thank you Fotini, Michelle and Sarah for providing these words that relate to global issues:

severe, extreme poverty, malnutrition, contamination, environmental circumstances, transmitted, symptoms, establishing  necessity, potential, foundation and raise awareness

Ricketts Science - Grade 6 Flight Read the Infographic about Mars Science Laboratory Rover "Curiosity"

Read about this fascinating exploration.  Think about how the information in the infographic and how it is set up can help you make your own infographic.

Curiosity Rover

Ricketts Language - Infographic descriptive feedback for SMART ideas planning of supporting details

Please be prepared on Monday, June 16th to do a peer edit of your 6 - 10 supporting details for each sub-topic.  We need to make sure your information is relevant to the topic before you create your infographic.

Ricketts Math - Probability Unit Problem chart paper due Mon. June 16th

We are completing an assignment for a unit problem about probability.  It involves various questions and many steps.  We are using class time to complete our work.  Our rough draft work is to be completed before we put our finalized work on chart paper.  The final work is due Monday, June 16th.

Success criteria we constructed in class is as follows:

• include title,questions and state your answer in a sentence
• correct use of probability vocabulary
• diagrams / charts etc. to show work
• use problem solving in math steps to show work and thinking where appropriate
• organized layout on chart paper
• calculations are clear and accuracy demonstrated in answers
• use fractions, decimal and percent where appropriate

Ricketts Language - Pictochart for Infographic Assignment

INFOGRAPHIC LEARNING GOAL:  Create an inforgraphic text based on a topic of your interest that will provide detailed information to inform the reader about your topic.

We are in the planning phase currently for our infographic.  We are using the SMART idea program to organize our topic into 3 subtopics of researched information.

You will need to have your planning on SMART idea approved by using the descriptive feedback given BEFORE you start the infographic.

When using the pictochart software to create your infographic the login is

lina.el-khoury@tdsb.on.ca

The success criteria we have developed so far for the infographic is as follows:

• balanced layout of text and illustrations
• one topic, 3 sub-topics, 6 - 10 supporting details for each sub-topic
• display information in at least 5 various formats Examples: graph, chart, jot notes, short paragraph, photos, illustrations, diagram etc.
• information is accessible / easy to navigate and understand for reader

Ricketts Language - Spelling List # 19

We are creating inforgraphic texts based on a topic of our interest.  These spelling list words were chosen by students and are related to our infographic assignment:

informative, balanced layout, appealing, comprehension, diagram, authentic, relevant, illustrations, captivating, accessible, theme specific and deceptive

Ricketts Science - Grade 6 How to make various aircraft types

You will make a variety of airplanes using different instructional methods.  Make sure to label your creations with YOUR NAME AND AIRCRAFT NAME. Store your aircraft in the space Ms. Ricketts has designated for their safe keeping until an arranged flying date!  For safety reasons do not fly these aircraft in class.

Construct the following aircraft in any order:

Beginner Airplanes to construct using written instructions AND/OR video
With this site DO NOT PRINT .  Read the instructions and follow the videos to make ONE of the following types of planes : Arrow, Delta, Classic-Dart, Condor, or Dragonfly

How to make the "Hurricane" drone helicopter
Use the materials outlined on the website that includes grid paper to make the Hurricane helicopter. There are two pages for this website and you will have to click the "next" button to complete all steps.

Airplane Challenge
Your cursor must be on top of aircraft for the name to show on this website.  Make ONE aircraft from this site that CHALLENGES your ability.  Do not make a plane you already know how to make OR one you tried during this unit.  Maybe their is an aircraft on the site you find usual or wonder how well it would fly. CHALLENGE yourself!

Ricketts Science - Grade 6 Flight website for research and activities

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Ricketts Health - Growth and Development Test Fri, May 30th

The health test will be on Friday, May 30th.  Prepare for labelling diagrams, true or false, multiple choice, fill in the blank and short answer questions.

Ricketts Math - Probability Assignement

The probability assignment is due Fri. May 23rd.  It includes your results paper, your graph to show your findings and a paragraph to explain the similarities and differences between the experimental and theoretical probability.

Ricketts Gr. 7 Science - Heat Unit Test

Can you feel "da heat"?  Our unit test for heat will be on Tues. May, 26th.  The test will be on material we covered in the unit and on your submitted true OR false, multiple choice and fill in the blank practice questions.

Ricketts Gr. 6 Science - Spacecraft Design and Launch

We will "buy" our materials and design our spacecraft on Thursday, May 22nd.  Any grade 7 who would also like to design a spacecraft is welcome to bring in their own materials and build on the same date.

The objective of your design is to be able to land on the target located below a window in our classroom (spacecraft will be dropped) and to safely protect the "scientific cargo and astronauts" that will be represented by a raw egg.

Each person will also be required to draft a labelled diagram of the final spacecraft design and write a rational for the materials used in the design.

If our spacecraft designs are ready on Friday, May 23rd and weather permits we will test then, if not we will launch on Monday, May 25th.

Good luck to all spacecraft engineers!

Ricketts Science - Grade 6 Spacecraft Design

The planning sheet that details how you will spend your $650.00 and your diagram is due Fri. May 16th.

Ricketts Language - Novel Study Board Games and Box DUE DATE CHANGE MONDAY, MAY 26TH

We have been working on board games and boxes that are based on themes, characters and events that relate to our novel study books. Our board games and boxes are due Monday, May 26th.  To allow proper assembly from the various group members, we can play the games on Tues. May 27th.

Ricketts History - Fall of New France

Use these links and your textbook to write a detailed answers to the following questions.

1.Why did New France cease to exist?
2. What was British North America (BNA)?
3. Who were the Loyalists? What did they believe in?
4. Read about Benedict Arnold pg. 84.  Do you think he was a hero or a villain? Explain why.


Virtual Museum - Fall of New France

Ricketts - Grade 6 Science

NASA Living in space  Link

Use your worksheet and this link to help answer questions about how astronauts live in space.

Ricketts Science - Grade 7 Hot and Cold Balloons Experiment Observations and Conclusions

Grade 7 students should have completed the experiment by today. The will use information from the textbook on Particle Theory and a handout on "Thermal Expansion and Contraction" to complete their conclusions.  Due date: Monday, May 5th.

Ricketts Math - Fractions Test Monday, May 5th

We will review concepts that have been taught on Friday, May 2nd.  There will be a fraction test on Monday, May 5th.  It will include the material that we have covered.  Please review ordering fractions, representing fractions with drawings, adding and subtracting fractions (proper, improper and mixed numbers) and problem solving questions involving fractions.  

Spelling List # 18 - Freak the Mighty

Thank you to Anna, Fotini, Sadiq, David and Nived for the spelling list words for this week.  The practice test will be on Friday, May 2nd and the final will be on Mon. May, 5th.

ornithopter, Excalibur, unvanquished, colossal, algorithm, midget, dictionary, learning disability, confidence, technical, kidnapped and knowledgeable

Ricketts Science - GRADE 7 Hot and Cold Balloon Experiment

Student have been given the instructions and the materials needed to complete this experiment at home.  Please ensure you do the experiment with parental permission and also make sure your parents are home when you do the experiment.  Perform the experiment and complete the hypothesis and observations page by the Fri. May 2nd.

Ricketts Language - Reading response final draft Due Friday, May 2nd

We have chosen the best 1 out of our 4 reading responses.  We have been given time to peer edit and also descriptive feedback was provided by Ms. Ricketts.  Based on the success criteria and feedback we have been instructed to revise our work and submit the final published draft on Friday, May 2nd.
* Remember to include a title and your name on your final draft.

Ricketts Language - Reading Response of your choice edited based on first round of descriptive feedback

Choose your best reading response out of the 4 we have completed.  Edit it based on the success criteria and the descriptive feedback you received in class.  Please print your response if possible OR have it readable on the computer for Monday, April 28th.

Success Criteria

Use the writing process to help you develop and expand on your ideas

Use examples from the text to support your answers

Make inferences by combining clues from the text with your own knowledge

Use strategies like referring to details from specific pages in the text, adding quotations from text and making comparisons to support your answers 

Use descriptive vocabulary that demonstrates a gr. 6 - 7 level

Organize your ideas (main idea, supporting details and conclusion) when answering a question

Stay on topic for concise answers

Proofread your work for spelling, grammar and punctuation

Spelling List # 17 - Sunita's Secret

Thank you Ines, Elini, Ourania and Russell for this week's spelling list.

conceited, vengeful, impertinently, exhausted, gargantuan, reluctant, optimistic, melodramatic, criminal, irritated, energetic and devious

The final for this test will be on Monday, April 28th.

Ricketts Science - Grade 6 Space Unit - Constellations

Constellations WebQuest

Use the link to fill in your Constellations WebQuest questions.

Spelling List # 16 - "The Skin I'm In" Novel

Thank you Michelle. Amanda, Paige and Anthony for the following spelling list related to your novel.  The final test will be on Tues. April 22nd.

deodorant, cigarette, verbal abuse, racist comments, harassment, bullying, dignity, librarian, scholarship, representative, neighbourhood / neighborhood and curriculum

Literature Circle Books - Read by Wed. Apr. 16th

Students need to have finished reading their novels by Wed. Apr. 16th.  Class time is given and time at home will be required.
Students also need to be prepared to RE-READ some sections of the book on their own and with their group in order to complete tasks.  Examples: Re-read to identify a quote to explain their reading response answer.  Re-read to help summarize an event in the plot for a group task etc.

Literature Circle Reading Responses - Success Criteria and due date - Mon. Apr. 28th

Freak the Mighty

Sunita's Secret

The Skin I'm In

Touching Spirit Bear

Our class have determined the success criteria for the reading responses to the 4 questions that appear on Padlet to be as follows:

• Use the writing process to help you develop and expand on your ideas
• Use examples from the text to support your answers
• Make inferences by combining clues from the text with your own knowledge
• Use strategies like referring to details from specific pages in the text, adding quotations from text and making comparisons to support your answers 
• Use descriptive vocabulary that demonstrates a gr. 6 - 7 level
• Organize your ideas (main idea, supporting details and conclusion) when answering a question
• Stay on topic for concise answers
• Proofread your work for spelling, grammar and punctuation

The completion of the 4 reading response questions will be on Monday, April 28th.  We will make sure to help one another by providing descriptive feedback based on the success criteria before the due date.  

Spelling List #15 - Novel Study "Touching Spirit Bear"

Thank you Sarah, Danny, Fadi and Soran for being the facilitators for this week's spelling:

vigorous, Minneapolis, inferno, consequences, silhouette, spiritual, trauma, detention centre, scavengers, abdicated, accomplished, sarcastically

Spelling list words from members of each novel group - DUE: Tues. Apr. 8th

• Each group member is responsible for 6 spelling words that relate to the novel they are reading  
• Each word must be used in a sentence that relates to the novel
• Groups will present spelling list words over the next 4 weeks so that it will help us understand the various books that are being read by each group

Transformational Geometry Artwork NEW DUE DATE : FRIDAY, Apr. 11th

Tessellation - A geometric pattern made up of one repeated shape that covers a flat area (plane) without overlapping or gaps.
Symmetry - When one shaped becomes exactly like another when is is translated, reflected or rotated.

This week we will be examining symmetry while creating works of art using tessellating designs. Use the link to further examine the work of M.C. Escher to see how he used transformations (translations, reflections and rotations) and applied them to irregular shapes to create his artwork.

M.C Escher artwork

Learning Goal: Create an irregular tessellating shape from a shape that will tessellate (tile a plane). Use the irregular shape to create an artwork that uses one or a combination of transformations (translation, reflection and rotation).

Success Criteria:

• At least one shape is irregular 
• The shape or shapes will tessellate - leave no gaps and not overlap
• Measurement and a ruler must be used to create any shape and the tracing tile
• The edges of the artwork page do not show a full shape - See work of M.C Escher for examples
• Colour is used to enhance the artwork

Increasing complexity of  the artwork:

• One shape is required but more than one can be used 
• More than one type of transformation can be used
• A design on each shape can be used 

Ricketts - Gr. 6 Social Studies and Gr. 7 History

Learning Goal:  Create a multi-media wall that includes words and graphics using Padlet software or bristol board material that educates the audience on issues related to Canadian history involving the First Nation and European communities.

•  The assignment requires that students work during time provided at school and also at home 

• This week we will use class time to prepare success criteria, provide descriptive feedback to our peers and use the feedback to revise our presentations

• Students will present their work in small groups during the week of Apr. 14th

The due date for the project is Monday, Apr. 14th.  Those using Padlet software will be asked to e-mail the link of their work to  michelle.ricketts@tdsb.on.ca

Success Criteria for gr. 6 Social Studies and gr. 7 History Project

• Sufficient titles and sub-headings are used to display the work and make it easy to understand

• The written work has been displayed in at least 4 different ways   Examples:  Paragraph, Jot Notes, Timeline, Quotes, Fact Box, Venn Diagram, Chart, Statistic Box

• Work from the planning sheet was used BUT not copied word for word – BIG IDEAS from the research are communicated

• Writing is concise and uses researched factual information (it is to the point and provides the details necessary to understand the BIG IDEAS)

• Presentation is eye-catching and attractive; the layout demonstrates a balanced composition of words and pictures

• Work is age appropriate and understandable, when read it will educate the reader on the topics of:

- European / First Nation relations

- The residential schools system

- Actions that were taken to address the experience of the residential school system

- A connection to a world event

• Work has been edited for spelling, grammar and punctuation

Congratulations TW Ballroom Dancing Team!!

Congratulations goes out to the entire TW ballroom team for a wonderful showcase at our school on Wednesday, Apr. 2nd.  It was great to see students, parents and staff get their ballroom groove on :)

The semi-final on Fri. Apr. 4th was a great success and our competitive team of:

Team Captains:  Fadi and Ourania
Merengue: Noah and Fotini
Foxtrot: Christopher and Vanessa
Rumba: Ian and Paige
Tango: Danny and Kaitlyn
Swing: Jesse and Drew

placed in the GOLD category and will be off to the final competition on Wed. June 18th.  Feel proud of your demonstrate of respect, team work and taking on a new challenge.  Great job everyone!

Grade 6 Ballroom Dancing Showcase Wed. Apr. 2nd 2:05 PM

Grade 6 students please dress accordingly for your ballroom dancing showcase.

• Dress / skirt or dress pants
• Collar shirt or dressy top
• Dress shoes  - no heels please

Ballroom dancing competition team members will also need to wear the above mentioned clothing this Friday, Apr. 4th for their competition.  Also, you must bring a lunch if you are going to the competition this Friday.  

Science Grade 7 - Heat

1.Read the information in the link about convection, conduction and radiation.

2.Make notes about each of the 3 types of heat transfers and include a picture or diagram to explain each.

Heat Transfer

3. Do the heat transfer quiz and check your answers by going to the link below. Click "play this game".

Heat Quiz

Planning Sheets Due: Friday, Mar. 28th - Social Studies / History Multi-Media Assignment

Learning Goal:  Create a multi-media wall that includes words and graphics using Padlet software or bristol board material that educates the audience on issues related to Canadian history involving the First Nation and European communities.

This week students will be given a planning package in order to complete the initial work and also will be introduced to Padlet software.  

Research material - Students have watched a CBC movie, been given 3 subject specific handouts, research material from our library has been brought to the class and grade 7 students will use their history text book. On-line research for additional information is optional.  

Planning Sheets Due : Friday, March 28th - Students will receive Padlet password early if they submit  planning sheets before Friday.  They will not be provided with Padlet passwords until planning sheet are complete.  

Spelling Test # 14 - Polar Bears Grrrr...

We will be working on our editing this week for our Toronto Zoo polar bear naming expositions.  The spelling list is inspired by our new furry friend...

habitat, carnivorous, Arctic Circle, vulnerable species, indigenous people, insulated, buoyancy, physical power, starvation, hibernate and Nunavut

Exposition Text - Rough draft for peer editing due: Friday, Mar. 21st

Success Criteria for Exposition Text – Naming of Polar Bear Cub

• Your opinion is stated clearly in introduction
• Includes an introduction, body and conclusion
• 3 reasons are provided to prove your point and at least 2 supporting details for reason are included
• Supporting details are effective to prove your opinion
• Higher level vocabulary is included
• Paragraphs are organized – sentences are in the right paragraph
•  Unnecessary sentences and details are eliminated (they don’t support your opinion) 
• Grammar, spelling and punctuation have been edited for accuracy
• Make sure to use the same tense and stick with it (past, present, future)

New France virtual museum website and questions

These are questions that were created by your class about life in New France.

1.Use your textbook and the link to the virtual museum of New France to answer questions.
Virtual museum of New France

2. Write each question before answering it fully in jot note or proper sentence format.

3. Answer these questions in any order.

What was the landscape like of New France?
What harsh climate and living conditions did the inhabitants have to face in New France?
What were common foods eaten in New France?
Describe the economy and employment of New France.
What were the religions and beliefs that were represented in New France?
Why did young people have to pay taxes if they were not married by a certain age?
What diseases and illness were common in New France?
What did newcomers do to adapt to the lifestyle of New France?
Explain the population growth in New France.

Geometry - Websites for classroom and home

Identify co-ordinate pairs on a graph

Transformation Strategies

Shape Mods Interactive Transformation Game

Spelling List #13 - Transformational Geometry

This week's spelling list is associated with our new unit it in math.

transformation, translation, rotation, reflection, image, vertices, clockwise, diagram, corresponding side, corresponding angle, similar, rotational symmetry

Ricketts Language - SMART idea graphic organizer for naming of polar bear cub Due: Thursday, March 6th

The graphic organizer is due:  Thursday, March 6th
If you need to work at home on this assignment, you can put your ideas on a WORD document and then e-mail or use a USB to then paste your ideas into the SMART ideas program at school.

Success Criteria for planning web for naming the polar bear

Our class has started to use the SMART idea software program.  Students are to create a graphic organizer (web) to prove their opinion about the name given to a polar bear cub at the zoo.  This is the success criteria for the web so far. Students are encouraged to be thinking of additions to this list as we will be adding to it in the near future. 

• Shape with specific colour in the middle for name you choose
• Different shape and colour to list reasons ( 3 reasons provided)
• Different shape and colour for details ( at least 2 important details)
• Name must make sense and be appropriate for an animal in a publicly funded zoo
• Provide 3 sensible reasons why you choose the name
• Provide at least 2 important details for each reason 

***Students need to have read in detail about the life of the polar bear cub.  Check below for the link to the Toronto Zoo if necessary.

Ricketts Math - Grade 7 ONLY - Ordering, addition and subtraction of integers test Tues. Mar 4th

Grade 7 students have been working on ordering, adding and subtracting integers.  We can use tiles and number lines when doing addition and subtraction operations.

Ricketts - Visual Art - Norval Morrisseau written work and 2 re-creations of his paintings

Our class has been examining the life of  Norval Morrisseau and his unique painting style.  The written work about his life and art style and the 2 re-creations of his paintings are due Thursday, Feb.  27th.

Our next step will be to use his style to make a creation of our own.  We will sketch our artwork and then use paint.

Ricketts and Marshall's Class - Maryvale Library Walking Trip - Monday, March 3rd

Ms. Ricketts class AM / PM will be walking to Maryvale Library for a presentation on Monday, Mar. 3rd. Our presentation starts at 9:45 AM and will walk back to school for lunch time.  Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather.  Below is a description taken from the "Engineers Without Borders" website to that explain the program.  Mr.Marshall's AM / PM students will attend in the afternoon session.

Water for the World

Water for the World Workshops are delivered to Toronto Public Libraries by EWB volunteers to school students (Grades 5 to 9) during the National Engineering Month in March. This interactive workshop generates discussions on local and global water issues, and what youth can do about these issues.

In the next 25 years, a third of the population will face severe water scarcity. With 20 percent of the world’s total freshwater resources and the longest marine coastline of any country in the world, Canada plays a pivotal role in managing global water resources. The next generation of Canadians must be well equipped to tackle the world’s water challenges. EWB aims to ignite a sense of pragmatism to develop systemic change leaders.

Ricketts Language - Name the Polar Bear

Toronto Zoo name baby polar bear link

Ricketts Math - Math Test Mon. Feb. 24th

Please review concepts that have been taught that include:

order of operations, pattering, algebra

CHANGE - No integers yet for gr. 7

RickettsLanguage - Spelling List # 12 Olympics Inspired part 2

Here are this week's spelling words:

skeleton, slalom, tournament, Alpine skiing, bobsleigh, confidence, schedule, national anthem, icicle, thermometer, freezing and temperature

Ricketts - Visual Art

Use this link to read about First Nation artist Norval Morrisseau and complete your questions.  After you can make your own re-creation of one of his paintings.

Norval Morrisseau Biography

Maslak Mcleod Gallery - Morrisseau Paintings

Ricketts Language - Poetry Assignment Due: Tues. Feb. 18th

We have been working in class on various types of poems that will be published in our own classroom "Poetry Anthology".  There are 6 poems that need to be submitted:

perspective poem, my heritage poem, definition poem, Clerihew poem, cinquain poem and an Olympic inspired OR free choice poem

Success criteria we developed in class for an effective poem includes:

• SHOWING not telling what you want to communicate in poem
• use of the 5 senses
• use of rhyme when appropriate
• grammar and spelling are appropriate for poem (break rules when it fits)
• a variety of font types and sizes when appropriate
• punctuation is used to help in how to read the poem
• organization of each line and stanza is planned carefully to help make poem look appealing and easily understood by read
• demonstrate an expanded and highly descriptive vocabulary
• use of simile and metaphor (at least 2 of your choice)

We also will include an "About the Author" page that is a paragraph written in 3rd person with a photograph of each author.

I can't wait to see the finished product of our Poetry Anthology!  

Spelling List # 11 - Olympic Inspired spelling words

Thanks 6/7 students for the following Olympics inspired words:

opening ceremony, determination, biathlon, athletic, physical ability, perseverance,  international competition, achievement, encouragement, stadium, podium and medalist

Urban Voices - Due date for parental form and poetry or artwork is Wed. Feb. 12th

Students are encouraged to submit their poetry or visual art for the chance to be published in the TDSB 2014 Urban Voices book.  Please e-mail Ms. Ricketts your poetry by Wednesday, Feb. 12th and submit your permission form if you would like to apply.  michelle.ricketts@tdsb.on.ca

Ricketts Language - Reading factual information and making inferences based on what we read

READING WITH A  PURPOSE AND FOR UNDERSTANDING -  The purpose for reading is to find factual information related to moving to another country.  Using 8 facts you will make inferences based on what is important to you as someone who is relocating to this country.  Use the examples below that we created in class to guide you in writing your responses.

Fact from text

The temperature range in Mexico is from +10 - +30 degrees Celsius.

Fact from text that demonstrates higher thinking through inferencing (using the information that I read to draw a conclusion OR make a judgment)

The temperature range in Mexico is +10 - +30 degrees Celsius.  If I lived there I would no longer be able to have a “White Christmas”.  Maybe my family and I would start a new tradition by celebrating Christmas at a 5-star resort on one of Mexico’s beautiful coast lines.(thanks Sadiq for helping us with this inference)

DUE:  Tuesday, Feb. 11th

Spain?? Let's GO Netherlands!

Students in Mr. Marshall's class, please remember to wear any orange clothing that you have.

Also, a reminder to those students with overdue library books and/or unreturned math tests; I would like books and signed tests returned tomorrow. That's Thursday.

Lastly, to all of Mr. Marshall's grade 8s, please have the original draft and second draft of your persuasive writing piece with you tomorrow morning. That's Thursday.

Olympic Ceremonies at TW - Ricketts' class SPAIN

DON'T FORGET YOUR YELLOW, RED AND BLACK clothing for representing Spain at the 2014 Olympics!!!

Un, Dos, Tres!

Ole, Ole, Ole!

Ricketts Math - Algebra and Graph Problem Solving Question NEW DUE DATE: Mon, February 10th

In class we used this question to create algebraic equations and a double line graph to explain our findings:

Bowling for Dollars!!

You want to invite your friends to a  bowling competition.  You haven't yet decided how many games will be played in the competition, but you are confident that you will play at least 2 games and at most 5 games. There are two bowling sites quite nearby and you are trying to decide which offers the better deal.  At site 1 each person would pay a rate of $3.50 per game plus a one-time $3.00 fee for shoe rental.  At site 2 each person would pay a rate of $4.50 per game, but there is no shoe rental.  Which site offers the better value?

Now it's your turn... Create a question that involves the comparison of 2 options for a better deal.  

Use chart paper to:

• Write out your question
• Include all calculations on the chart to show the algebraic equations for the 2 options 
• Make a double line graph to explain your findings.  
• Answer your question using a sentence to explain which is the better deal
• Make sure your chart paper design is attractive and easy to understand 

DUE: Monday, February 10th

Spelling Test # 10 - Kearney Inspired...

Thanks grade 5 and 6 students for a great excursion to Kearney!  Welcome back!

excursion, co-operative, Inuit games, strength, agility, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, experience, environmental footprint, organic, conservation and energetic

Ricketts Language - 3 poems due Mon. Jan. 27th

We are working on 3 different types of poems.  We have read the outlines related to creating these types of poems and also practiced by composing group poems.  The individual "my heritage", "Clerihew" and "definition" poems are due on Monday, January 27th.

Ricketts Gr. 6 Social Studies - Fact sheet on an influential Canadian

Grade 6 student have been given time in the library this week each day to work on researching and creating a fact sheet on a influential Canadian.  The fact sheet is to be ONLY 1 sheet.  The checklist is as follows:

• Name of person                                    YES     NO

• Photo or graphic of person                      YES     NO

• Birth date and death if they are deceased   YES     NO

• Where they were born                            YES     NO

·                     Their MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENT in a box of some type

YES     NO

• 5 – 8 facts and / or comments that other Canadians should know about him / her (additional facts other than their name, birth/death and major accomplishment)

YES     NO

Ricketts Science - Grade 7 Pure Substances and Mixtures Test Wed. Jan. 22nd

Grade 7 students will have their unit test this Wednesday.  In class, we prepared by writing our own possible test questions in groups.  Use your binder notes, pages from the textbook we used and also the website (pages. 1 - 15) to prepare.

Electronic Study Resource Website

Be ready for a variety of question types including true or false, word bank / fill in the blank, multiple choice and short answer questions.

Spelling list # 9 - Patterning and Algebra

Last week we started a new patterning and algebra unit in math.  Thank you Sarah, Michelle and Anna for your initiative and input in creating this week's spelling list:

strategy, algebraic expression, variable, multiple, order of operations, ordered pair, coordinates, horizontal axis, vertical axis, column, representation and increasing

PREZI gr. 6 science and gr. 7 geography send to e-mail below

The PREZI assignment is due Monday, Jan. 20th.  Please e-mail it to michelle.ricketts@tdsb.on.ca

• Put your name in the subject line of the e-mail
• Copy and paste the website address of your PREZI in the e-mail

During READING FOCUS time on Monday and Tuesday, we will set up the laptops to share our work with fellow classmates.  Each student will be responsible for writing a response sheet related to the PREZI assignments they read.

Peer Edit for gr. 7 geography and gr. 6 science PREZI project

The due date for the PREZI assignment is Mon. Jan.  20th.  Have your work ready for peer editing Wed. Jan. 15th.

Ricketts Math - Representing Growing Patterns

Today we reviewed that growing patterns can be represented with numbers, words, visuals and value charts.
Create 4 different pairs that demonstrate how growing pattern can be represented.  Use each way (words, numbers, visuals, and value charts) at least once.
Ex:     1, 3, 5, 7  (numbers)      Start at 1 and add 2 to get the next term.  (words)

Spelling List # 8 - Poetry "The Cremation of Sam McGee"

Students are learning to analyse and write their own poems.  We have read the famous Canadian poem by Robert Service titled "The Cremation of Sam McGee".  Students have chosen words this week that are from or relate to this ballad form of poetry. The words this week are:

ventured, derelict, hearkened, debt, moil, sluice, scowl, crematorium, loath, clamour, grimace and gristly

Girl's Volleyball Team - Skill development and Olympic highlights videos

We were really excited to start our volleyball practise with the grade 5/6 and 7/8 volleyball teams this week.  These posts are to help with skill development and also demonstrate the high degree of movement that occurs on the court in a competitive game of volleyball.

Serving under and over hand

How to volley

How to bump pass

London 2012 USA vs. Korea volleyball game highlights

Ricketts Language - Perspective Poem final draft

In class we have received peer feedback.  It is important we use the feedback to revise and edit our poems. The final draft of the perspective poem is due Friday, Jan. 10th

Ricketts Language - Perspective Poetry

Complete rough draft of your perspective poem .  Due: Wednesday, Jan. 8th

Ricketts Geography - Grade 7 Geography project

The grade 7 students will do their final geography unit on the subject of "Natural Resources".  In class we will learn about different types of natural resources.  Students will complete a PREZI project that involves research about an environmental problem OR an environmental solution related to natural resource management. Topics will be decided in class. Your presentation will need to follow the criteria listed below:

Answer these questions:

• What is the topic?  Give an explanation or a definition to explain it.
• If it is an environmental problem - Explain how it is damaging to the environment
• If it is an environmental solution – Explain how it helps the environment
• Give an exact example of somewhere in the world this problem or solution is found and describe it
• Find 10 interesting facts about the problem or solution
• Give a personal critique of the problem of solution.  What is your opinion about it?  Is it serious and why?  What can young people do to stop the problem or help with the solution?  If you made all the decisions about this problem or solution what would be your suggestions?

Success Criteria:

·     An introduction PREZI slide to provide an overview of your project

·     A balance of images and words is used to communicate the research with a minimum of 8 slides

·     All written material is original (not copied) and therefore appropriate for a middle school audience (jot notes or sentences or a combination of the 2 is acceptable)

·    Research demonstrates understanding of subject matter

·    Information is presented clearly and follows an organized manner

·     Proper citing of information to explain where you found your researched material

·     Use of PREZI software enhances presentation

Due date TBA plan on week of January 20th.

Ricketts Drama - Drama Reflection for those who did not attend Wexford performance

Watch the student video that is a parody of "The Hunger Games" in the link below and answer the questions.  You may print or e-mail you responses.
"The Dame Games" parody
1. Write a summary of what happens in "The Dame Games" parody (high school is called Notre Dame).
2.  What was your impression of "The Dame Games" parody?
3. What did the presenters do to evoke ideas, feelings and images for you as a viewing audience?

Ricketts Math - Journal questions on volume of a triangular prism

Complete the journal questions about finding the dimensions of a triangular prism that has a volume of 100 cm cubed.  Due: Tuesday, Jan. 7th

Spelling Test # 7- Poetry

This week's spelling test is related to our new poetry unit in language:

poetic verse, perspective, description, metaphor, simile, anthology, vivid imagery, Urban Voices,  publication, analyse, emotion, rhythmic

Ricketts Science - Grade 6 Electricity Project

Grade 6 - Electricity Project

During the ice storm of 2013 we learned about how dependent we are and how important electricity is to our lives.  You will use PREZI software to create a presentation about electricity.  We will be working with Mrs. Farrow in the library to gain skill in using PREZI. Your presentation will need to follow the criteria listed below:

Answer a minimum of 3 of these questions:

·         How did the ice storm damage power lines?

·         Why did some areas not experience power outages?

·         What were some of the negative affects to the public during this time?

·         How did community members, Hydro workers  and the other sectors of the government help during this difficult time?

·         What are warnings and advise that can be given to affected people of an ice storm who experience power outages for prolonged periods of time?

CBC new article - also check out "related stories" - middle left side on page

Your choice:

Research 1 type of electrical energy source to explain how it produces energy.

·         Solar

·         Nuclear

·         Battery

·         Wind

·         Hydro

·         Geothermal

Success Criteria:

·         An introduction PREZI slide to provide an overview of your project

·         A balance of images and words is used to communicate the research with a minimum of 8 slides

·          All written material is original (not copied) and therefore appropriate for a middle school audience  (jot notes or sentences or a combination of the 2 is acceptable)

·         Research demonstrates understanding of subject matter

·         Information is presented clearly and follows an organized manner

·         Proper citing of information to explain where you found your researched material

·         Use of PREZI software enhances presentation

Due date TBA plan on week of January 20th.

Ricketts gr. 7 Science- Electronic Resource Study Unit

Read pg. 116 in the science textbook on "The Four Points of the Particle Theory" and watch the student video linked below.  Make a page in your notes for your binder. Use pictures and words to explain what you learned about the Particle Theory of Matter.

Particle Theory of Matter Student Demonstration

Grade 7 students will complete an independent study on subject material related to the Pure Substances and Mixtures Unit.  Using the link below:

• read the material on each page
• do the quiz at the bottom of each page
• make notes on definitions and information in the charts UNTIL PAGE 15 of the website

You may choose to create handwritten notes for your binder OR you may use a WORD document to copy and paste the information for studying purposes. 

The date for the test for this unit is TBA. Prepare for the week of January 20th. 

Electronic Resource Study Unit

Gr. 5 and 6 - Kearney Information Evening - Thursday, Jan. 9th @ 6PM

There will be an information meeting for all grade 5 and 6 parents on Thursday, January 9th from 6 PM - 7 PM in the library.  Information about the Outdoor Education excursion to Kearney and necessary permission forms will be available. 

Happy New Year !!

Happy New Year to all students and TW families!  Thank you very much for the kind gifts and I hope everyone had an enjoyable and relaxing holiday.