I hope everyone enjoyed the nice long Christmas break! It is good to be back. We are not quite in routine yet thanks to the snow, but it won't take long:)
The 8th graders are working in the Confirmation books now. We are currently on Chapter 2. We will be focusing on preparing for the Sacrament spiritually as well as preparing for the actual Mass. The students should be working on the remainder of their service hours which are due February 25, 2010. Remember the Confirmation retreat has been changed and is now Saturday, February 27 at 1:00 P.M. The students will meet their sponsors outside the cafeteria at 4:45 and then attend 5:00 Mass. We will have a short informational meeting/practice immediately following Mass. (20-30 minutes max) We will also be working on the Gospel of Mark Bible study. Some of this will be completed in class and some will be assigned for homework. Currently your child is working on a project involving the Saint they have chosen as a namesake for the Sacrament. These will be displayed in the hallway during the CSW open house. The 8th graders will be ministering at the Friday Mass on January 22. They will also minister at the Ash Wednesday 8:15 A.M. Mass.
The 8th graders are moving ahead in algebra.We are again hitting exponents in algebraic equations and fractions. There are so many rules to keep straight and many problems involve ALL these rules! We will keep practicing. Algebra is so good at teaching the students to work step by step and to use those problem solving skills.
The 7th graders are moving forward in the Blest Are We series. We are currently on Chapter 8 and will test on Tuesday of next week. They will minister at the Mass on Friday, March 5.
The 7th graders have just begun the chapter on fractions. Many students have a real fear/dislike of fractions. I hope to work through that fear and help them to stop dreading fraction problems. Each problem can take a lot of steps, but they can be done and done correctly. A positive attitude is so important in math class. Please encourage your student to, "Think they can!"
*Special Note: My classroom is cold. Please encourage your child to dress appropriately.
Looking ahead: We have a very special reason to encourage the 8th graders (and their families) to attend the Easter Vigil this year. Father has asked for 8th grade volunteer readers and distributors. If your child is willing to help and is able to attend, please let me or Father know. I will be at the Easter Vigil Mass. If any or all 8th graders want to attend, they are welcome to sit with me at the Mass. It will be a very special occasion.
