The Cooper School Daily

Emerging Leaders in Middle School

Now that we are about a month into school, the middle school students have become comfortable with their new routines and procedures. This week, we have seen an emergence of organization. Students have been working together to organize their lockers and are even devising a plan to present to administration that will improve their current locker system. Their collaboration with one another has been very encouraging and motivating. They are truly leaders. We are proud of the ownership they have over their own learning and their personal learning environment.

One of our favorite times of the day is when we get to go outside, play, and release some energy. This week, students have discovered the wonderful game of four-square. The teachers have enjoyed jumping in to play. Healthy competition is flowing through middle school and new friendships are forming! 

Here’s a look at what is happening in each of the classes: 

What’s happening in Science:

Geologists began their National Parks Study this week! To launch their project, they explored the importance of longitude and latitude for cartographers, but also for map users. They also explored the perspectives of conservationists and preservationists to decide what viewpoint resonates with them. Finally, they began to research the The National Park system and what it has to offer us as citizens. They researched specific parks across the country to choose a specific region they will create their “own” park. 

For a brain break, they accomplished the Marshmallow Challenge! This specific challenge is conducted by thousands of people, from kindergarten students to top managers from world-leading companies! The rules are easy; in 20 minutes, each group can use 20 sticks of spaghetti, one yard of tape, and one yard of string, and one marshmallow to build the tallest structure with the marshmallow on the top. 

What’s up in Math?

The 6th graders took their Unit 1 Test this week. They are anxious to get scores back and I am excited to show them how much they have learned. We are starting Unit 2 and switching gears to fractions! Unit 2 is definitely different from Unit 1, but I am excited to work with them on ratios, proportions, and rates. They are also showing engagement with the material as they find ratios challenging. I am happy to see them persevere through problem solving and I know some breakthroughs are coming! 

What’s happening in ELA?

The sixth graders are doing a great job! We started out with the great mystery reveal on Monday! The students compelled Dr. Ev to share her own mystery novel that she has been reading. They voted on who they felt the guilty person would be and learned if they were correct with their prediction. If they haven’t shared, be sure to ask them about the mystery reveal. Sixth graders have also been working on their grammar skills by using correct punctuation marks, identifying nouns and homophones, and using context clues to define words. They are preparing a mini debate about two of the major characters in Home of the Brave. I am looking forward to the great debate. Finally, everyone is reading the novel Hatchet. Please ask your kids to share what they have read with you.

Important Dates:

September 21- Middle School Parent Coffee

September 22- Virtual Curriculum Night

October 18th & 19th: Fall Break NO SCHOOL