We made it to Thanksgiving Break!

Hooray!  It's Thanksgiving Break, which means a much needed week off school for both teachers and students!  Can you believe it's already this time of year?  This means only 3 more weeks of school until Christmas break!  Wow, time flies!

We've been extremely busy in class, which is probably why it seems to have flown by so quickly.  Last week the students' digital Native American project was due.  I am spending a large portion of the Thanksgiving break working hard at getting them all graded.  So far, it looks like the students have really gotten a better understanding of how to research and use proper documentation.  I think the Webquest project from last six weeks really helped to prepare them.  I am always glad to see progress in their work and learning.

When we return from the break we will wrap up our unit on Native Americans and Early Exploration of Texas, and be testing on Chapters 4 and 5.  After the test we will spend the remainder of the semester going over test taking strategies and reviewing for the students' mid-term exam.   Then we'll be ready for a new semester and new material....after a well deserved Christmas break that is.  

Go Cubs!

Its been awhile....

To those of you who keep up with my blog, I apologize for neglecting to update it the last few weeks.  Things have been moving pretty quick up here, and I just haven't made the time.  I guess I have a lot to catch you up on....

The 2nd six weeks came to an end on Friday, and we are beginning the 3rd six weeks.  It's hard to believe that soon the semester will be coming to a close as well.  This school year is moving so quickly.

Parents, be on the lookout, report cards go out tomorrow.  I'm happy to report that all of my wonderful students passed for the six weeks.  I am so proud of them for getting their work in, and doing such a great job.

This week we have  begun a new unit on Native Americans and European Exploration of Texas.  The unit covers chapters 4 and 5 in the student's textbook.  Tomorrow we will begin our Indian Symbols project and will be spending a lot of time in the computer lab during the coming week, much like we did for the Texas Webquest.  The students will have the option of using several computer and web 2.0 programs.

The students will learn about the history and culture of Native Americans in early Texas by exploring designating online resources.  They will create a digital presentation that includes a variety of symbols and information representing their assigned tribe.  Hopefully, this information will enhance their knowledge and appreciation of the Texas Native American Culture, and they can have some fun along the way!

Go Cubs!