Last week we discussed the importance of using descriptive language when creating the setting of a short story. We talked about using language that paints a picture in the mind of the reader. Students were encouraged to incorporate the five senses into their writing.

This week students are submitting topics for our class debate. Once we select a topic as a class, teams will be created and collaboration will begin.

Today we will spend time analyzing a portion of a political debate. Students are being asked to observe and report on the effective strategies and tactics that each candidate used.

Teams will divide up the debate responsibilities amongst their peers. One member of each team will be responsible for the following roles:

• Opening statement
• Presenting the argument
• Rebuttal
• Crossfire questions
• Closing Statement

As explained the in the document below, students will earn a group grade for the debate as well as an individual mark. Please re-read the rubric as you begin to prepare for the debate. Each student is responsible for conducting research, analyzing and finding credible sources (expert testimonies, statistics, etc.) citing their sources, preparing at least three main points, and developing questions prior to the debate. We will review the essential elements and skills necessary to create a strong debate in class.

Debate strategies and information can found in the Google Slides presentation below:

Grade 8 Debate Unit

Please note that the students will need to work diligently in-class and at home to adequately prepare for their debate!

Grade 8 Debate Assignment/Rubric

Individual Debate Graphic Organizer

Debate Group Graphic Organizer

Due Dates:

October 13th-Individual Graphic Organizer

October 26th-27th- Group Graphic Organizer/Debate Presentations

This week we have begun our Short Story Unit. Students will be studying: literary devices, setting, plot diagrams, characterization, mood, theme, conflict, and other key concepts. We will be reading and analyzing short stories along with creating our own. Please click the link below to review our notes/activities Google Slides presentation. (Please note: This presentation is a living document –> It will be updated daily)

Grade 7 Unit 1: Short Stories

 

Today students were asked to complete a Bullying Awareness Survey. This anonymous survey provided students with a series of questions relating to their own personal experiences with bullying. We will analyze this data as a class in preparation for our first novel study. Tomorrow our class will discuss the results of this survey and create connections to our North Stars and Seven Habits.

Dear Parents,

Welcome to our “Virtual Back to School Night” at OJCS! If are unable to make it to our live Google Meet discussions, please check out the video presentations below. Each presentation contains expectations, a curriculum overview, behaviour management policies, homework policies, distance learning information, and contact information.

Click the link below to access the Middle School Distance Learning Schedules: Distance Learning Schedules

This document will be used to brainstorm a variety of debate topics.  By Friday, each student should add their name and at least five debate topics to this list. We will vote on the topics as we dive deeper into our debate unit.

Debate Topic Brainstorming Sheet

This year, students will access the library online to reserve books! After students have reserved a book, Mr. Washerstein will deliver the book to you during English class. When you are finished, you can return your book to Mr. Washerstein.

Click here to view our library catalog: OJCS Library Link

It will then ask you to log in.  Your login is the first letter of your first name, then a period, then your last name.

Example: b.areader 

Everyone’s password is the same: books

 

How do I reserve a book?

Step 1: Select a book

Step 2: Click the holdings tab

Step 3: Click the reserve button

 

 

 

Reflection is essential in order promote personal growth. Today we will spend time discussing mindful moments.

The purpose of this activity is to reflect upon your experience over the past 7 months. Our lives have changed in various aspects for better or worse. How can we learn from these experiences moving forward?

Click here to access the assignment:

Moving Forward During a Pandemic Assignment Sheet

As we enter a new school year, each student will be asked to complete a learning styles survey. The purpose of this survey is to reflect upon your own learning and personal development.

Click here to open the survey:

Learning Styles Survey

Welcome back! We are excited to begin a new school year filled with learning, personal development, and critical thinking. Today we spent the first three periods discussing expectations, changes, and other essential information that every middle school student should be aware of. As questions arise, please reach out to your teachers as soon as possible!

Click the link below to access and review our presentation:

OJCS Middle School 2020