Where the Wild Things Are
I read something somewhere in the great unknown of social media this week that said something to the tune of: “Be an elementary school teacher if you like structure, a high school teacher if you like your subject matter deeply, and middle school… middle school is where the wild things are. Go there if you, too, are a wild thing.” I don’t know how ‘wild’ I can claim to be (my bed time is a case against that) but I certainly resonate with the wild wonder that is middle school. It often feels like we are learning everything, everywhere, all at once. Their minds are moving through one of the most unique turns, they are discovering new things all the time (this week at TCS specifically: new clubs/interest groups, new social emotional concepts), and I watch them find new sides of themselves every day.
Many adults are fearful of the wild middle schooler and their unique ways of being, but I suggest viewing them through the lens of their learning. Their writing, readings, interactions with peers, projects, discussions… they all point to the purpose and beauty of this wild rumpus.
-MK
ELA- This week, 8th grade researchers gathered an abundance of quotes and evidence that represented multiple angles of their issues. They reviewed their findings to take a position and develop a clear thesis statement with reasons based on evidence. We outlined our essays methodically so we could tackle first drafts on Monday! 8th graders also took their vocabulary tests on Thursday, so be sure to inquire about their grades.
Next week, 8th grade is deep in first drafts and revisions as we work towards the paper due date 9/9. We will also transition to our first grammar unit of the year!
Science- This week in science 8th grade discovered the acceleration of gravity by analyzing the speed and acceleration of a falling ball. We discussed newtons and the difference between weight and mass using spring scales. Next week we will explore gravity on other planets and how it compares to Earth.
Social Studies- Eighth grade has begun their project on the “ideas of revolution” for the French and American revolutions. This is a great way for them to develop a deeper understanding of these world events and their true impact on human societies going forward. I am looking forward to you being able to see their finished product at curriculum night!
Math- This week in math, 8th graders wrapped up the first portion of this unit by using circles to construct precise squares before we begin connecting these skills to real-life applications in construction. We explored using circles to construct parallel lines, perpendicular bisectors, equilateral triangles, squares, hexagons, and so much more!
Next week, we’ll build onto this knowledge, and older prior knowledge from seventh grade math, to complete different rigid transformations such as rotations, reflections, and translations. This exploration will help guide us into our future explorations of angles, symmetry, and proofs.
