October 26th through November 6th

In language arts classes, we're continuing to write and analyze stories, examining plot through the lens of the Hero's Journey archetype. We've been thinking both creatively and critically, reading and writing in a range of styles and genres. During the first week of November, students will take a quiz on the Hero's Journey Archetype and the key literary terms we've been working with in our reading and writing. Here's a link to a list of key terms and plot elements we've been studying.

In history, students will be studying the "Road to Revolution." We'll begin with an overview, using the comic style history text Adventure Tales of America (here's a copy of the question guide) as well as a higher-level history textbook for more depth. Then we'll be launching into one of my favorite parts of the year: the Boston Massacre Mock Trial!

October 12th through October 23rd

It's hard to believe it, but the end of the first quarter is coming up on October 23rd. It's been a great start to the year!

In language arts, we'll be jumping into the SPRINGBOARD books, beginning with an examination of the Hero's Journey Archetype. We'll read, analyze, and discuss an excerpt from A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle, "The Drummer Boy of Shiloh" by Ray Bradbury, and a section of Homer's Odyssey.

In history, students will be preparing and presenting a mock trial. The trial is based on the historical trial of Anne Hutchinson. We'll review some of the key people, concepts, and places we've studied during the first quarter, and we'll have an end-of-quarter test on Thursday, October 22nd. Here's a link to a study guide for the test.