7th Grade--4/27

Today we began class by checking in and reviewing the grammar homework from last night. This homework was a review of simple/complete subject and predicate. Next week, we will be moving on to a new grammar concept, which will be direct and indirect object. If you are still confused about subject and predicate, please sign up to see me or post a question below and I'd be happy to help you. Remember, our final grammar test of the year is coming up on May 16th.

Next, we worked together to create a master list of ways to improve our writing. Students supplied suggestions such as varying sentence structure, literary elements, writing using the senses, dialogue, etc. As a class, we wrote all of these strategies on the board.

It's a little blurry, but blame that one on my iPhone.

We then used this list to guide our journal writing. Students were instructed to begin writing in their journal with these aspects of strong writing in mind. I gave kids the option to either start fresh with a new story, or to go back and rewrite one of their stories from the beginning of the year with these new strategies and skills guiding their writing.

At the end of class we did our usual sharing activity, with students bracketing 1-2 sentences they felt were strong. They then shared these sentences with the class.

Homework due tomorrow:
-Bring digital images to school either on a flash drive, CD or through gaggle that will enhance your podcast (which we will begin tomorrow).
-Bring the most recent copy of your narrative.
-Practice reading your narrative aloud, so that you are comfortable enough with it for your podcast.

Long term due dates:
5/2--April IR Log due (signed!)
5/4--Narrative Podcasts Due
5/16--Grammar Test