Week 7 Update

This was a crazy week with power outages, WIFI issues, and our awesome Chili Cook Off, but we still did lots of exploring and learning in English and Social Studies! Here are some highlights:

ENGLISH
In English, we dove into Lois Lowry's The Giver. Students are tracking signposts and answering tough questions like "Is a society where everyone is treated the same fair?" and "What is the relationship between equality and fairness?" I am looking forward to discussing Chapter 5 first thing next week and would encourage you to ask your Explorer about this very important chapter at home this weekend!

We also had our second Pop-Up Debate this week, questioning whether the Olympics should have a permanent home. 7th-grade Explorers did an awesome job debating the merits and drawbacks of keeping the Olympics in a single location. I was really impressed with their speaking and listening skills and the willingness of all students to participate in public speaking, even though it can be intimidating to stand up and speak in front of all your peers.

SOCIAL STUDIES
In social studies, we spent several days exploring the Arabian Peninsula and sharpening our map-reading skills. Then, we began learning about Arabia in the 6th century and the early life of Mohammad. Next week we will explore the origins and spread of Islam and work in groups on a Muslim House of Wisdom project.

REMINDERS

• Progress reports went home this week! Please click here to read a very important message about Humanities progress reports
• Your signature is required on two rubrics this weekend. The Book Review rubric (a green half-sheet) and the Social Studies Unit 1 Assessment rubric (a white full sheet). Revisions are available for all students on these assessments for the next two weeks at WELL.
• My WELL takes place on Wednesdays from 12:30-1:15. Students should sign up to attend WELL here and be prepared to know exactly what they will be working on when they arrive. 
• This is the last week to get book orders in - I will place the order before we leave for October break.

This is also my last week to teach English and Social Studies to students in periods 4 and 5. After the October break, Mrs. Chavez will be returning from her maternity leave. I will really miss my 4th and 5th period Explorers, but rest assured I will still be on campus teaching every day in the morning. Mrs. Chavez and I will work very hard to align our curriculum as closely as possible for the remainder of this year, and I will always be available to help any 7th-grade Explorer with Humanities work! Please be on the lookout for a letter of introduction from Mrs. Chavez in your inbox next week.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Ellis

mellis@westlakecharter.com