REMIND 101 is the best method to contact me with questions. Simply enroll in your child's grade through your mobile device. It is safe and secure communication intended for parents and students. Actual cell phone numbers are not shared through this app.
Remind 101 Enrollment:
In a new text box enter the following in the phone number area: 81010
In the message portion of the text, enter the code that corresponds with your child's grade level. You may enroll in more than one if you have children in multiple grades. They will be coded by grade level.
6th grade families enter the following code:
@6thelama
7th grade families enter the following code:
@7thelamat
8th grade families enter the following code:
@8thelamat
Remind allows me to immediately address questions or concerns outside of school hours. I typically have my phone near and will usually be able to reply to all messages received before 9:00 p.m. on the same day. Messages sent to me are only viewed by me and not the entire group. I can send messages to individual families or to entire groups. I have found this to be a very effective way to clear up homework questions or due date questions without students having to wait until the next school day for answers.
Remind 101 Enrollment:
In a new text box enter the following in the phone number area: 81010
In the message portion of the text, enter the code that corresponds with your child's grade level. You may enroll in more than one if you have children in multiple grades. They will be coded by grade level.
6th grade families enter the following code:
@6thelama
7th grade families enter the following code:
@7thelamat
8th grade families enter the following code:
@8thelamat
Remind allows me to immediately address questions or concerns outside of school hours. I typically have my phone near and will usually be able to reply to all messages received before 9:00 p.m. on the same day. Messages sent to me are only viewed by me and not the entire group. I can send messages to individual families or to entire groups. I have found this to be a very effective way to clear up homework questions or due date questions without students having to wait until the next school day for answers.
Approach to Literature: As students enter middle school, our focus with regards to reading and literature evolves. In the past, students may have been simply asked to "re-tell" stories and include relevant details. In middle grades, and beyond, the focus is to synthesize information within literature. This will come in the form of making relevant connections, observations, and logical assumptions based on information the author provides. I have found these goals well outlined in the SOAPSTONE method. A copy of the following will be provided to students and we will work on this method throughout the year. Attached is a link to the document. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yg1NxnoJ0Dp0n-dmF7myt8oBIEmk2fLrlOtjUD7Jdbk/edit
Approach to English: Sixth grade students have been learning many valuable writing skills in elementary school. As they enter middle school, it is my intention to continue more advanced nuances associated with proper grammar and structure then apply these skills in their writing pieces. Focus will be placed on more substantial and sustained written pieces with focus on proper form and technique. I will model and teach specific writing techniques and offer ample practice and feedback prior to students being expected to produce a piece, independently. Some writing formats we will work on include: cause and effect, compare/contrast, creative writing (with and without dialogue), and research writing using MLA.
Approach to Math: Math is an evolutionary subject. Security in concepts previously taught will be essential to success as we progress through our curriculum. For example, very basic pre-algebra may be challenging if a student is not yet secure in multiplication facts. My goal is to make math as engaging and enjoyable as possible. We will employ a variety of techniques to gain mastery, based on the needs of the students. Practice and repetition is a proven method to make concepts "automatic" to students. Class time will be devoted to direct instruction, supported practice, and independent practice. Homework will be given very often to ensure the concepts remain concrete after class.
Approach to English: Sixth grade students have been learning many valuable writing skills in elementary school. As they enter middle school, it is my intention to continue more advanced nuances associated with proper grammar and structure then apply these skills in their writing pieces. Focus will be placed on more substantial and sustained written pieces with focus on proper form and technique. I will model and teach specific writing techniques and offer ample practice and feedback prior to students being expected to produce a piece, independently. Some writing formats we will work on include: cause and effect, compare/contrast, creative writing (with and without dialogue), and research writing using MLA.
Approach to Math: Math is an evolutionary subject. Security in concepts previously taught will be essential to success as we progress through our curriculum. For example, very basic pre-algebra may be challenging if a student is not yet secure in multiplication facts. My goal is to make math as engaging and enjoyable as possible. We will employ a variety of techniques to gain mastery, based on the needs of the students. Practice and repetition is a proven method to make concepts "automatic" to students. Class time will be devoted to direct instruction, supported practice, and independent practice. Homework will be given very often to ensure the concepts remain concrete after class.