Week 33: P.E. Poetry, Midquarter, and Thrive

I caught a few photos of the class on their last day of racquet activities in gym:

 

Playing Badminton at PE

I was so excited to read the concrete poems the kids came up with.  We started our poetry unit with a few groans and ended it with deep discussions of metaphors had the students expressing ideas from different viewpoints as we compared different interpretations.  I was proud that kids picked subjects that were meaningful and took the time to refect, revise and add other poetic elements besides just a good shape.  I'm eager to hear their poetry poster presentations on Monday (a little alliteration for you)

I know its probably TABOO for mom or dad to step into the JH building, but please embarass your child and stop by before or after school to check these out in our lower hallway:

Look carefully - it's the basketball free throw line.

Midquarter today

Be sure to check out updated grades on Sycamore this weekend with your child.  It is a good time to set goals as we head into the "home stretch".  Reminding them to clean out Friday folders is good too.

Coming home today: 
1) permission slip for Thrive (green) and lesson outline to keep at home (white)
2) flyer about our May field trip

Thrive Best Choice

In 2 weeks, we welcome Thrive Best Choice to lead our Religion classes.  Through this program, students will be involved in active discussions about setting goals, healthy relationships, puberty, and making God-pleasing decisions.  A permission slip is coming home today to sign and return for your child to participate.  An outline of the curriculum is also coming home.  To help you prepare for discussions with your child at home, here are the topics for the week of April 25.  I pray that you use these as opportunities to open the dialogue with your child and share your values with them.  Research shows parents are still the number one influence on their teens!

Monday:  Goals, Risky Behaviors, and Decision Making
Tuesday: Respect, Friendships, and Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships, Refusal Skills
 Thursday: Male/Female Puberty  & STDs
Friday: Media Influence, Emotional Consequences, Boundaries, and Avoidance Techniques