I labored as I do each year over the explanation of ‘perfect tense’ with most grade levels this week. I’ve always believed an important part of teaching this concept is pointing out how, in this case, perfect does not refer to something “flawless.” Rather, this leans on the less popular definition of perfect where perfect simply means “complete.” Therefore ‘perfect tense’ deals with completed actions. My point incoming …
I delight in emphasizing this version of perfection. It is a ‘perfect’ that does not emphasize the shiny or polished or pretty. It simply acknowledges the need for all parts to be present, a pursuit of wholeness. This is the perfection I want our Cooper Kids to be hungry for – it’s one that doesn’t look to the mirror but looks out into the world. This ‘perfect’ is another lesson, a new friend, another attempt at a skill. This ‘perfect’ is not just grades, it’s also experiences and the process itself. This ‘perfect’ asks not, “How can I be less flawed?” but, “How can I be more complete?” This perfect is not just the glossy pumpkin pie with a centered flourish of whipped cream, it’s the table of recipes executed to varying levels of success surrounded by people who care for each other. Messy but whole, scattered but complete. Middle school is a bunch of kids in the thick of pursuing perfection, and it’s our job as teachers and families to point out where true perfection lies. I hope you get a chance to demonstrate the pursuit of “the good perfection” with your families over the break and revel in it. Even in the times where there are “things missing,” may we seek to complete ourselves in fresh new ways. I certainly feel “more perfect” when I am here teaching your brilliant kiddos.
With thanks,
MK
Math:
This week, we reviewed division of decimals before moving on to review the unit (fractions and decimals) entirely. When we return from Thanksgiving break, we’ll spend a few days reviewing fractions and decimals before taking our assessment on December 4th!
ELA:
This week, 6th grade writers carefully outlined their essays and gathered evidence to artfully incorporate in the first draft. They drafted their pieces, paying close attention to in depth elaboration and providing readers with the right amount of context to make their essays crystal clear. We also took a grammar test on 11/21 – so be on the lookout for those grades!
After Thanksgiving break, 6th graders will be in the heart of revisions and edits. We will also begin another 2 week vocabulary study with a test planned for 12/12.
Social Studies:
Sixth grade did a great job this week learning how Chinese inventions shaped the world, as well as the true reasons for the Great Wall of China. We also had fun playing a fun game about Thanksgiving called the Unfair Game! (Ask them about it, they love it!) When we come back we will start discussing the decline of their empires and how outside influences finally took them down. Enjoy your holiday and be safe!
Science:
The sixth graders insulated their container homes this week. They figured out which materials are the most effective to use to maintain a consistent temperature. The sixth graders also learned about keystone species and chose one to research. They worked on presentations about their keystone species which they will present to the class when we get back from break. They will continue to learn more about the diversity of life.
Important Dates:
November 22: Harvest Feast @ 10:30 (11:30 Dismissal)
November 25-29: Thanksgiving Break
