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 explored more ways to manipulate and use expressions, equations, and inequalities. After break, we’ll spend some time using these different solving strategies to master solving different types of equations and inequalities.
ELA:
7th grade continued exploring the pages of Flying Lessons this week, examining how each author in the anthology used their craft (or style) to shape a unique story and develop characters. They also had a grammar test on 11/21 – so be sure to look out for their test grades!
After Thanksgiving Break, readers will select a contemporary author from our anthology to both read and develop a project about. We will also start another 2 week vocabulary unit with a test planned for 12/12.
Social Studies:
Seventh grade worked hard this short week to learn about the rise of the English colonies and just how different they all were from each other. We also worked on South Carolina as a colony and our importance to the world. We also had fun playing a Thanksgiving themed game called the Unfair Game. (Ask them about it, they love it!) When we return we will continue with English colonies and how these colonies shape us today. This will lead into their next research project in which they will be given a colony and will research its historical significance. Have a fun and safe break!
Science:
Seventh graders presented their slideshows about the unique species in the Longleaf Pine Forest this week. They also learned about ecosystem services and how the environment provides indirect and direct services that have a monetary value. The seventh graders also choose a local ecosystem they will research and then make an ecosystem in a jar. We will go on field trips to collect specimens after Thanksgiving Break.
Important Dates:
November 22: Harvest Feast @ 10:30 (11:30 Dismissal)
November 25-29: Thanksgiving Break
