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Faust Newsletter
Marking Period 3
Mrs. Barrale
Dear Faust School Families,
Spring has sprung, and we are now officially in the 4th and final marking period of the school year. This may be the home-stretch, but we still have so much going on here at Faust, and just in time, we will have a well-deserved break the week of the 15th. I hope everyone enjoys this time off! Please take the time to read through our Wildcat Newsletter and see all the wonderful learning activities and projects that are taking place in the classrooms.
As we navigate the challenges and joys of supporting our middle school students and the days stay brighter later into the evening, it's natural for our daily routines to shift, including bedtime schedules. It is important that we continue to ensure they get adequate sleep each night.
Middle school is a pivotal time in our children's lives, marked by significant physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. Sleep plays a crucial role in supporting these developments and overall well-being. Adequate sleep is essential for middle school students, and by prioritizing their sleep, we are investing in their overall well-being, academic success, and emotional resilience.
Here are a few considerations and tips to support healthy sleep habits during this time:
Consistent Bedtime: Encourage your middle schooler to maintain a consistent bedtime, even though it may still be light outside when it's time to go to sleep. Consistency helps regulate the body's internal clock and supports better sleep quality.
Limit Screen Time Before Bed: With longer daylight hours, it's tempting for children to stay up later using electronic devices. However, the blue light emitted from screens can disrupt sleep patterns. Encourage your child to power down devices at least an hour before bedtime.
Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Help your child wind down in the evening by establishing a calming bedtime routine. This could include reading a book, listening to soothing music, or practicing relaxation techniques.
Darken the Bedroom: Make sure your child's bedroom is conducive to sleep by using blackout curtains or shades to block out the extra daylight in the evening. A dark environment signals to the body that it's time to rest.
Encourage Physical Activity: Encourage regular physical activity during the day. Physical activity can promote better sleep and make your child feel more relaxed in the evening.
The 4th marking period also brings the New Jersey Student Learning Assessment (NJSLA). We plan to start on Tuesday, May 7th, and go through Thursday, May 16th. A friendly reminder will be sent out closer to the testing dates. Please ensure your child receives a reasonable amount of sleep the night before testing and has breakfast in the morning. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact our School Counselor, Ms. Muse.
Thank you for your continued support and trust, knowing we always put your child’s health, safety, and education first.
On behalf of the faculty and staff at Faust School, best wishes for an enjoyable, safe, and healthy Spring Break!
Sincerely,
Regina Barrale
FREE HUG DAY ~ Student Council
On April 8th, the student council launched Free Hug Day in honor of National Stress Awareness Month. Stress can have significant negative impacts on our lives, especially for middle school students who are juggling academics, extracurricular activities, and social pressures. It is crucial to raise awareness about stress and provide tangible ways to manage it effectively. Research has shown that hugging is one effective method to alleviate stress. Clinically-proven benefits of hugging include slowing down heart rate and decreasing the levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, in our bodies. Hugging makes us feel calm, safe, and relaxed, providing an instant mood boost. Fist bumps and high fives were also available, all with consent!
English Department
6th Grade ELA ~ Mr. Tunnell
- Exploring the graphic novel "New Kid": Our 6th graders embarked on an enriching journey through Jerry Craft's captivating graphic novel, "New Kid." They immersed themselves in the story's themes, characters, and visual storytelling techniques, enhancing their literary appreciation and comprehension skills.
Mastering Persuasion: In an engaging unit on Arguments & Persuasion, students delved into the art of rhetoric, learning about ethos, pathos, and logos. The students worked closely on analyzing commercials and advertisements. Furthermore, they honed their critical thinking abilities and crafted argumentative essays based on various topics. The 6th graders also participated in various class debates. The unit culminated in a thrilling Shark Tank Innovation & Invention challenge project.
Starbooks Cafe Adventures: The Starbooks Cafe provided a cozy setting for students to explore various literary genres and discover their perfect reads. This immersive experience allowed them to find "just right books" and fostered a love for reading.
Our 6th grade language arts curriculum continues to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for literature. Keep up the fantastic work, scholars!
7th Grade ELA ~ Mrs. Petraitis
Students in the 7th English Language Arts Classes have been learning and practicing the process of close reading, chunking, and annotating informational texts. This is an important feature of the reading process, as it makes reading rigorous texts more accessible. Students are also being taught the importance of identifying the author’s purpose, identifying and elaborating on the author’s viewpoint, and making connections to texts. Students have also been learning how to analyze text structures of informational writing and practicing how to use in-text citations to enhance their writing. More importantly, students will be able to transfer this knowledge to all other core content areas.
ELA 8 and Honors English 8 Grade 8 ELA Classes Go From Page to Stage ~ Ms. Bayeux & Mr. Colavito
Ms. Bayeux and Mr. Colavito's ELA 8 classes have been very busy exploring drama and film during the third marking period. Students have been reading The Miracle Worker by William Gibson and exploring the moving story of Helen Keller in several ways. Students acted out scenes from the play and watched the 2000 Disney film version as well. As part of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, students compared and contrasted text and film to evaluate choices made by the writer and director of the play and film. During the marking period research project, students learned about individuals with various disabilities and considered how individuals such as Helen Keller have contributed to society. At the culmination of this unit, students responded to a Literary Analysis Task focused on theme in preparation for the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments that will take place this May. Students participated in a Writer's Workshop as they worked their way through constructing an essay. Everyone enjoyed learning about Helen Keller while sharpening their acting and writing skills!
Science Department
6th Grade Science ~ Mrs. Rosales
The 6th-grade science classes delved into the fascinating world of physics by exploring Sir Isaac Newton's renowned laws of motion. With a focus on Newton's third law – for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction – students embarked on an engaging experiment using balloons! By creating and launching balloon rockets, students witnessed firsthand how the release of air from the balloon generated a forward thrust, demonstrating Newton's third law in action.
On April 8, 2024, students explored the phenomenon of the solar eclipse. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, blocking the sunlight and casting a shadow on Earth's surface. Through hands-on exploration, we simulated this celestial event using foam balls and flashlights, allowing us to witness the phenomenon firsthand. This exciting activity not only deepened our understanding of the solar eclipse but also celebrated the 2024 solar eclipse.
7th Grade Science ~ Mrs. O'Conner
In the engaging activity known as "Baby in a Bag," students had the opportunity to simulate the random selection of alleles from each parent during sexual reproduction. Working in pairs, students participated in this hands-on exercise by selecting traits from a cup or bag. With their understanding of dominant and recessive alleles, students were able to deduce both the genotypes and phenotypes of their "offspring."
Traits such as dimples, freckles, sickle-cell anemia, and hair color were among those randomly selected. Following the activity, students conducted research to determine whether these mutations or variations were beneficial, harmful, or had no discernible effect on the simulated baby. Some students even had the chance to visually represent what their child might look like based on the inherited traits. This activity provided a dynamic way for students to explore the principles of genetics and inheritance.
March Mammal Madness ~ Mrs. O'Connor
March is all about March Mammal Madness, also known as MMM. It's a spinoff of the March Madness college basketball tournament, but instead of predicting which basketball team will win, students predict which animals will triumph in battle. On April 3rd, the Championship battle unfolded between the Giant Squid and the Great White Shark, despite both contestants being non-mammals. Surprisingly, the Great White Shark was victorious, claiming the crown. Among the winners, Kallise Fernandez secured the victory for 7th grade, Gabriela Podkalicka for 8th grade, and Mrs. O'Connor (myself) for the staff category. A big congratulations to the champions who dared to choose a third-seeded contender to win it all.
8th Grade Science ~ Mrs. Yang
Mrs. Yang's 8th-grade science class developed and utilized models to describe that when the arrangement of objects interacting at a distance changes, different amounts of potential energy are stored in the system.
When two objects interact, each one exerts a force on the other that can cause energy to be transferred to or from the object. For example, as an object is raised, energy is transferred to an Earth-object system, increasing the gravitational field energy of the system. This energy is then released as the object falls due to the gravitational force. Similarly, two magnetic and electrically charged objects interacting at a distance exert forces on each other, enabling the transfer of energy between them.
The class engaged in PhET simulation practices including Energy Skate Park, Hooke’s Law, John Travoltage, and Pendulum Lab to further explore these concepts.
Mrs. Lahullier
Ms. Laurel Lahullier’s class has been bustling with activity throughout Marking Period 3! In Language Arts, students have been diligently honing their reading and writing skills through daily exercises on IXL. One significant focus has been on argumentative or persuasive writing, guiding students through the intricacies of the writing process. A highlight was the lively debate on whether students should be permitted to use cellphones during school hours, with students brainstorming ideas and outlining essays to support their arguments. Additionally, students have been mastering the R.A.C.E. strategy for responding to open-ended comprehension questions, emphasizing restating the question, providing answers supported by evidence, and explaining their reasoning, all with the invaluable support of their teacher and paraprofessionals. Alongside these endeavors, the class has embarked on a captivating journey into Jerry Spinelli’s "Maniac Magee," engaging in detailed chapter analyses through window notes and summaries, with plans to delve into biographies and autobiographies in the upcoming marking period.
In Science, the focus has been on delving into the fundamentals of physics, particularly Newton’s Three Laws of Motion. Through hands-on experiments with balloons and Newton’s cradle, students have been gaining a deeper understanding of these laws, supplemented by interactive tasks on platforms like Nearpod, EdPuzzle, and ReadWorks. A highlight was the exploration of the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, where students not only learned about the phenomenon but also actively participated in creating flow charts and models to comprehend the event. Discussions on safe observation practices further enriched the learning experience, with plans for students to share their observations with the class.
In Mathematics, practicality meets education as students dive into the realm of budgeting and geometry. Armed with circulars, students prepared for a Community Based Instruction (CBI) trip to Stop and Shop, where they put their budgeting skills to the test. The lessons extend to geometry, where students are mastering concepts of perimeter and area through real-world applications. A recent trip to the laundromat provided an immersive experience for students, where they not only applied their mathematical skills in purchasing items and making change but also engaged in tasks like identifying coins and bills, further solidifying their understanding. Meanwhile, in Social Studies, students delved into the foundations of democracy, exploring The Constitution and The Bill of Rights. The creation of a class constitution fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility, complemented by daily sessions of CNN 10 to stay abreast of current events, sparking insightful discussions in the community circle that followed
Developmental Disability Awareness Month
Celebrated every March, the world comes together to promote respect and inclusivity for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We celebrate it at Faust because it provides us all with the opportunity to extend understanding, encouragement and opportunities to support persons with developmental disabilities so that they can lead productive and fulfilling lives. This year, we provided education on "A World of Opportunities" which shed light on ways to work together to remove obstacles to building communities where everyone can do well and succeed!
Internet & Overall Safety Student Assembly
On January 31st, Faust School is proud to host Ms. Pfeifer of the New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking. Education is prevention and this student assembly will help students and educators make safer decisions on the internet. Risk factors and warning signs are all around us so increasing our students' levels of awareness is key in prevention!
Spring Safety Tips
Recognizing the difference between allergies and serious illnesses is crucial for prioritizing health. It's also essential to effectively manage allergies to prevent asthma flare-ups. Below, you'll find information on symptoms, common triggers, and treatment tips to help you stay safe and healthy during the allergy season.
Allergy Symptoms:
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Cough (new or persistent)
- Congestion
- Post-nasal drainage
- Sneezing
Common Triggers:
- Pollen
- Grass
- Mold
- Pet dander
- Dust mites
Treatment Tips:
- Avoid allergens to the best of your ability.
- Don't forget to wash your hands regularly.
- Take over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants as directed.
- Make sure to change your air filters regularly and consider using air purifiers.
- Take your asthma medications as prescribed to keep it under control.
Asthma/Allergy Action Plans:
- Update your child's seasonal allergy and asthma action plans with your healthcare provider. Also, make sure to share a copy with your school nurse.
World Language
Mrs. Fox & Ms. Cuello
Throughout the third marking period, students have actively honed their Spanish language skills through speaking, listening, reading, and writing exercises. Utilizing a diverse range of platforms such as Pear Deck, Edpuzzle, Flip, and Formative, students have been immersed in interactive learning experiences. To gauge their progress, students have been guided by a proficiency track, providing valuable insights into their linguistic development.
In the 8th grade, students delved into discussions about their summer activities using the preterite tense of the verb "ir." They embarked on a virtual exploration through a Webquest, selecting and visiting a country and resort of their choice. Additionally, they enthusiastically engaged with the adventures depicted in "Brandon Brown vs. Yucatan," bringing the narrative to life through classroom role-play activities.
In the 7th grade, students delved into the rich tapestry of Hispanic American culture during Hispanic Heritage Month, interpreting information about notable figures. Presently, they are immersed in learning about "Día de los Muertos" as part of their second unit.
Meanwhile, 6th-grade students immersed themselves in the captivating narrative of "Brandon Brown Dice la Verdad" by Carol Gaab, showcasing their comprehension and application of learned vocabulary within context. Currently, they are delving into the vibrant tapestry of Hispanic cultural celebrations, exploring the rich traditions and customs that define them.
Math Department
6th Grade Math ~ Mrs. Alberta
Our sixth-grade students have been putting in tremendous effort in Math class. We have delved deeply into the world of geometry, covering topics such as area, surface area, and volume. Additionally, we've explored the realm of statistics, learning how to analyze data sets and calculate various components, including averages. With the completion of our statistics unit, we have successfully covered the entire curriculum for the sixth-grade school year. Mrs. Alberta is incredibly proud of the hard work the students have demonstrated throughout the school year, and she is confident that they will finish the year strong! Keep up the excellent work, sixth grade!
7th Grade Math & Pre-Algebra ~ Mrs. Gentry
8th Grade Math ~ Mrs. Gerity
Students in Mrs. Gerity's math classes are wrapping up the final chapters of their middle school math journey. Pre-Algebra students are currently immersed in our Geometry unit, where they are exploring Angle Relationships. Following spring break, we will delve into Exponents and Scientific Notation. Meanwhile, Algebra students are concluding our unit on Quadratics.
Physical Education & Health
Mr. Cocozzo & Ms. Ravettine
During marking period 3, the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students had a blast! We kicked off the marking period by diving into the world of Exercise and Fitness. Students were introduced to a variety of equipment including push-up counters, TRX bands, dumbbells, Slam Balls, and more. They learned how to calculate their own Heart Rate after engaging in physical activity. Alongside the Fitness Unit, we delved into Nutrition in Health Class. We explored Nutrition Labels and how to monitor portion sizes of foods.
Next, we transitioned to the sport of Badminton, which was new to many of the students. Starting with practicing serves to ensure the shuttlecocks cleared the net, students quickly progressed to volleying over the net. They became enthralled with the game, eventually participating in a tournament-style rotation for Badminton, thoroughly enjoying every moment.
In Health class, students covered topics such as First Aid, Emergency Situations, and various Diseases, Disorders, and Illnesses.
As we approach the final marking period of the school year, students will engage in activities like bowling, soccer, corner strike, and floor hockey. It's been a fantastic journey so far, and we're looking forward to more exciting experiences ahead!
Cycles
Financial Literacy ~ Mr. Ling
We're delighted to share the success of our students in Financial Literacy during the third marking period! Our class delved into the practicalities of navigating the financial landscape, equipping students with essential life skills. Here are some of the key topics our students explored:
Exploring Potential Careers: Students delved into various occupations, conducting research to understand the educational requirements, responsibilities, and potential earnings associated with different career paths.
Navigating College Financing: Recognizing the importance of higher education, we explored avenues to finance college. From scholarships and grants to student loans, students gained insight into budgeting for tuition fees.
Venturing into Investment: Our class ventured into the world of investing, exploring real estate and stocks as means of wealth building. Students grasped the fundamentals of real estate investment and learned how to research and analyze stocks in the market.
Understanding Banking: Understanding personal finance management, students explored the significance of having a checking account. They learned practical skills such as writing checks, using debit cards, and maintaining a bank account responsibly.
Maximizing Financial Potential: Students worked on strategies to optimize their income and savings for the future. From budgeting techniques to smart financial decision-making, they gained insights into maximizing their financial well-being.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all our students for their outstanding efforts on their final Financial Literacy projects. Their demonstration of a solid understanding of core concepts and practical applications reflects their hard work and dedication. We're immensely proud of their achievements and look forward to their continued success.
Dance ~ Mrs. Francica
I'm thrilled to share updates from our bustling halls, where students in grades 6-8 are immersing themselves in the world of dance. From exploring dance history to mastering the art of choreography, our young dancers are embracing a variety of exciting experiences.
In our dance classes, students are discovering the joy of self-expression through movement, from the expressive twirls of contemporary dance to the rhythmic footwork of jazz. Each class offers a unique journey, fostering creativity and building a strong foundation in various dance styles.
To deepen their appreciation for dance, students are delving into the captivating world of dance history. By exploring the evolution of different dance forms and the cultural influences that have shaped them, our students are gaining a deeper understanding of the traditions and innovations that define dance as a timeless and ever-evolving art form.
Creativity takes center stage as our students embark on the exciting journey of choreography. They are learning to compose their own dance routines, selecting movements, and arranging them into cohesive and visually stunning performances. The dance classroom is alive with creativity as these budding choreographers bring their visions to life, fostering teamwork and individual expression.
I am immensely proud of the progress our Cycle 3 students have made, and I eagerly anticipate witnessing their continued growth and success in the years to come.
Additionally, our 6th Grade Cycle 3 students have been hard at work preparing for a Performance Show. This show showcases talent and hard work from the 6th Grade Cycle 3 music class, theater class, and dance class! The students have dedicated themselves to memorizing song lyrics, mastering movements, and rehearsing scenes. The Performance is inspired by the excitement of a school variety show, and the students excel in portraying their individual roles. Mrs. Romero, Mrs. Schweikardt, and I are thrilled to watch them perform on April 10th.
Theatre ~ Ms. Romero
In Theatre class this marking period, our 6th, 7th, and 8th graders delved into the world of theater stages, exploring the various types and understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each theatrical space.
Our 6th graders engaged in creative activities, crafting original characters and writing monologues and scenes for their characters.
Meanwhile, our 7th and 8th graders explored technical theater and the diverse career opportunities within the field. Working in groups, they researched specific technical theater careers and presented their findings to the class. They then collaborated to bring a scene to life, with students taking on various roles such as costume design, set modeling, sound cue creation, and prop making.
Additionally, our 6th graders are diligently practicing for their upcoming performance of "Faust Got Talent," which they will present to Lincoln students as part of their Cycle Performance.
Artistic Expressions ~ Ms. Machere
In the vibrant world of Ms. Machere's middle school art class, creativity knows no bounds! Our 6th graders are currently exploring the delicate art of watercolor painting, allowing their imaginations to bloom on paper as they delve into painting with value in their under-the-sea landscapes. Meanwhile, our 7th graders are immersing themselves in the mystical realm, painting larger-than-life dragon eyes that seem to peer into the soul. And what about our 8th graders? They're satisfying their sweet tooth by bringing their favorite candies and treats to life on a grand scale, transforming their classroom into a whimsical candy wonderland. With each stroke of the brush and every prop crafted for our 6th-grade showcase, these budding artists are leaving their mark, proving that creativity truly knows no limits.
National Junior Honor Society
Mr. Tunnell
The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) members have been shining brightly this marking period, spreading the love for reading and fostering school spirit through their dedicated efforts. Here's a glimpse of their impactful initiatives:
- Promoting Literacy with Read Across America Events: Our NJHS members took the lead in organizing a series of engaging Read Across America events, igniting a passion for reading among students and fostering a love for literature. Through interactive activities, book discussions, and reading challenges, they inspired fellow classmates to embark on literary adventures and explore the magic of storytelling.
- Designing Spirit Weeks: With creativity and enthusiasm, NJHS members continued to design exciting spirit weeks that brought our school community together in celebration.
- Monthly School Reports: Our dedicated 8th-grade representatives have upheld their responsibility of delivering monthly school reports at our Board of Education meetings with professionalism and poise. They provide valuable insights into our school's achievements, initiatives, and student accomplishments, ensuring that our voices are heard and our achievements celebrated at the highest levels.
Creative Writing
Creative Writing Grade 6 ~ Mr. Tunnell & Ms. Cuello
6th Grade Creative Writing had a fabulous 3rd Marking Period Adventure! We began the new semester by engaging in thoughtful reflections on the essence of creative writing. Students pondered the question, "What is creative writing?" and embarked on a journey of self-discovery, setting the stage for the adventures to come.
- Exploring Fiction: Our young writers delved into the enchanting world of fiction, crafting their own imaginative tales that transported readers to faraway lands and thrilling adventures. From epic quests to heartwarming narratives, their stories captivated our hearts and minds.
- Mastering Descriptive Writing: With the power of words, students explored the art of descriptive writing. They honed their skills in painting vivid scenes with sensory details, allowing readers to step into the worlds they created and experience every moment with all their senses.
- Creating Soundtracks for Life: In a unique and introspective assignment, students curated soundtracks that reflected the essence of their lives. Through the power of music, they delved into personal narratives, capturing the emotions, memories, and dreams that define their individual journeys.
- Digital Comic Adventures: As the marking period drew to a close, our young writers embraced the digital age of storytelling. Utilizing platforms like Google Slides and Pixton, they embarked on thrilling comic book creations, bringing their characters and narratives to life in vibrant digital formats.
7th Grade Creative Writing ~ Mr. Colavito & Mr. Majsiak
The 7th and 8th-grade students have successfully completed their semester-long Creative Writing course. Throughout the semester, students delved into various writing genres, honing their skills and exploring their creativity.
As a culminating assignment, the 7th-grade students selected two quotes from the "7 Rules of Life" and crafted reflective pieces on how these rules resonate with their daily experiences as middle schoolers, navigating through trials and tribulations.
Furthermore, to assist the incoming group of 8th graders, the previous semester's 8th-grade class devised writing prompts and choice boards for their peers, providing guidance and inspiration for their writing endeavors.
Mr. Colavito and Mr. Majsiak express immense pride in his students' achievements and wishes them all the best as they transition into their World Language studies.
8th Grade Creative Writing ~ Mr. Colavito & Ms. Bayeux
In our final marking period of the semester, 8th grade creative writing class explored several literary movements and wrote essays describing each individual movements’ impact on society’s way of thinking and writing. Simultaneously, students took pride in creating individual poetry portfolios. Students embarked in exploring free verse and villanelle structured poems. Mr. Colavito and Ms. Bayeux were very proud of their diverse group of 8th grader writers. Good luck in your future high school endeavors!
Music Department
Band ~ Mr. Schweikardt
The Faust band has been diligently preparing for our upcoming Spring Concert, and we're excited to showcase our hard work on May 21st.
Additionally, our eighth-grade band members are gearing up for their performance and adjudication at the Bergen County Teen Arts Festival on May 17th.
Furthermore, our 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade band members are eagerly anticipating their participation in the "Trills and Thrills" music festival on June 7th. Professional musicians at Neptune High School will adjudicate the students' performances. Following the adjudication, they will enjoy a day at Six Flags Great Adventure with their peers from various schools across counties and states.
We're grateful for your encouragement and support, and we can't wait to share our music with you. Thank you for your ongoing support!
Music ~ Mrs. Schweikardt
It's hard to believe we've reached the end of the 3rd marking period already. The students have shown exceptional progress during this time. Our 6th graders have excelled in learning how to read and write notes on the grand staff. In music history, the 7th graders have thoroughly enjoyed exploring the lives of great composers from the past. One of their highlights was listening to "Bolero" by Maurice Ravel.
Meanwhile, the 8th graders have demonstrated creativity by using current events as inspiration for creating soundtracks on SoundTrap. A special shoutout goes to the 6th graders, who have been working tirelessly on their upcoming show titled "Faust Got Talent," scheduled to be performed on April 10th for Lincoln School. Their dedication and hard work are truly commendable.
Social Studies
A Successful Exploration of the Constitutional Convention ~ Mrs. Benevento 6th Grade Social Studies
After weeks of immersive learning, the 6th-grade students have successfully completed their unit on the Constitutional Convention. Throughout this engaging journey, students delved into the heart of American history, exploring the pivotal moments that shaped our nation's foundation. One of the highlights of the unit was the dynamic role-playing activity, where students stepped into the shoes of delegates at the Convention. In another spirited event, students participated in a rap battle between Federalists and Anti-Federalists, showcasing their understanding of the differing viewpoints surrounding the ratification of the Constitution. Interactive videos, graphic organizers, crossword puzzles, and online games further enriched the learning experience, providing diverse opportunities for students to engage with the material and reinforce their understanding of key concepts. Through these activities, students gained insight into the significance of compromise in the political process. They learned how the delegates navigated differences of opinion and forged agreements that laid the groundwork for the United States we know today.
With the Constitutional Convention behind them, students are now poised to embark on their next adventure: exploring the U.S. Constitution itself, starting with the inspiring words of the Preamble. As they continue their journey through American history, the 6th graders are well-equipped to appreciate the enduring legacy of our nation's founding principles.
7th Grade Social Studies ~ Mr. Majsiak
In Mr. Majsiak's 7th-grade Social Studies class, students explored African American history in the 1800s, delving into the disparities between American ideals and the realities faced by African Americans. They then examined the factors that divided the nation and led to the Civil War, gaining insight into the complexities of this pivotal period in American history.
To conclude their studies, students pitched a Netflix series based on three key events leading to the Civil War, showcasing their understanding of historical significance and their creative storytelling abilities. Through this hands-on approach, students not only deepened their understanding of the past but also honed their critical thinking and presentation skills, preparing them for future academic endeavors.
Highlights from Ancient Greece ~ Mr. Barone
In Mr. Barone's 8th-grade Social Studies class, students embarked on an enriching journey through Ancient Greece. They delved into various forms of government, including Monarchy, Tyranny, Oligarchy, and Democracy, gaining insight into the complexities of governance in the ancient world.
Exploring significant conflicts such as the Persian War and the Peloponnesian War, students grasped the profound impact these wars had on the Greek city-states, shaping their political, social, and cultural landscapes.
The rise of Alexander the Great was a central focus, with students understanding how the Peloponnesian War weakened the city-states, ultimately facilitating Macedonia's conquest of Greece.
Moreover, students were introduced to the extraordinary achievements of ancient Greek philosophers, writers, scientists, mathematicians, historians, doctors, artists, and inventors. Their enduring contributions continue to shape our world today, highlighting the profound influence of Ancient Greek civilization.