Maple Avenue Middle School
September 2018 Back to School Edition
Student of the Month: 8th Grader, Eliana Staub
Sapphire Portals
Instructions to apply for a parent account are available on our website. Please allow 3 to 5 business days for accounts to be processed. Once the parent account has been approved, you will receive an email with a PIN to log into the Sapphire Community Portal.
Questions should be forwarded to sapphirehelp@lasd.k12.pa.us
We look forward to a successful school year!
Measures of Academic Progress (MAP)
In the first few weeks of school, your student took tests called Measures of Academic Progress® (MAP®). We give students MAP tests to determine your child’s instructional level and to measure academic growth throughout the school year, and from year to year in the areas of Reading and Math. Your student will take the tests on his/her Chromebook or iPad.
MAP tests are unique in that they adapt to be appropriate for your student’s level of learning. As a result, each student has the same opportunity to succeed and maintain a positive attitude toward testing. And with MAP tests, we can administer shorter tests and use less class time while still receiving detailed, accurate information about your child’s growth.
We are truly excited to begin a new era that focuses on every child’s individual growth and achievement. Partnering to help all kids learn, parents and teachers can have a profound positive effect on the lives of our children. Within the next few weeks, be on the look out for your student's score report and goal-setting sheet. We are asking that parents partner with us to support your child in reaching his/her academic and learning goals!...Stay tuned!
Team Bolts: 6th Grade
Sixth Grade science is off to a great start! This year Mrs. Becker's and Mr. Urey's classes will be using the Integrated Science program. Students will have access to the book online. They have been given their username and password to get into the sight. The site can be found at: https://my.mheducation.com/login. They can also access the site through their Schoology site. Throughout the year, students will be immersed in lessons focusing on exploring our Earth, exploring life, understanding matter, and understanding energy. We will also be incorporating the nature of science throughout all units. In both classes, students will be working with interactive notebooks which will contain information to help them prepare for tests and quizzes. These notebooks should be brought to class each day. Our students are eager to learn, so we are looking forward to a fantastic year in science!
Mrs. Koontz and Mrs. Raubenstine’s Core I Math classes are starting off the year introducing students to some mathematical practices which will be used throughout the year. Students are getting acclimated to the classroom routines as well as the CPM curriculum and the uses of their personal Chromebooks. The students will be using a combination of textbook and technology to learn about and apply understanding of math concepts. In class, students are also organizing their notes in an interactive notebook which encourages note taking, practice of skills, and reflection. Parents are encouraged to talk to your student about their Schoology account along with how they have been utilizing technology in classes.
Mrs. Koontz's Core II Math class will be diving into fractions, decimals, and integer operations in order to review previously covered material, as well as extend students’ current knowledge. Following this, students will begin to work with positive and negative integers. These base concepts are very important for students to master in order for them to move forward to more difficult material in the future. We will be working hands-on throughout the year, using a variety of manipulatives to increase interest and understanding.
Miss Collins’ English Language Arts classes are digging deeper into how to write a successful text dependent analysis. Students are breaking down the assignment by using the R.A.C.E. method. Additionally, students are reading Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli and are completing the book in small chunks. In Geography, we are examining how and why geographers look at the world. Through station rotations we are learning how geographers use maps to answer questions and solve problems.
Mr. Baumgardner’s ELA classes are off to a fantastic start. We are currently working through the novel Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli and are focusing on certain reading skills throughout the novel. Along with the novel, the students are exploring certain aspects of grammar on a weekly basis as well, which hopefully will help improve their writing. In Geography class, we are just finishing up with Chapter 1: Visualizing the World and are moving in to Chapter 2: The U.S. and Canada. Since our textbook is online, the students are able to access it from home via their Chromebooks.
Ms. Willet’s ELA and SS classes are practicing and learning how to improve RACE and TDA writing skills. They are addressing literature standards while reading the novel Hoot. “What does it mean to think like a geographer? How do geographers look at the World? How do geographers use maps to answer questions and solve problems?” are questions that the students are currently exploring in geography. The next chapter will focus on the United States and Canada.
Team Aviators: 7th Grade
The Aviators are flying high and off to a great start. The beginning of school brings new routines and new teachers.
Math
In math class we are focusing on rational numbers in our first unit. Students are reviewing concepts from last year and learning new math skills. By the end of the unit students will be able to convert rational numbers from fraction to decimal to percent. They understand the order of operations and also be able to add, subtract, multiply, and divide integers and fractions.
Be sure to check out the homework help website if your student is ever having some trouble with a math homework problem. This website is a great resource that breaks down the problems and guides the students as they work to find the answer. https://homework.cpm.org/cpm-homework/homework/category/CC/textbook/CC2
Science
What a great start of the beginning of the year! For our first Pre Unit students are doing lots of hands on learning with the Tools of Science. We are exploring: tools for protections (Lab Safety); tools for exploring and discovery (microscopes/hand lens;, tools for measuring (lab equipment); and tools for recording (scientific method). The Digital Interactive Book Mcgraw Hill Series won’t be used until this Pre Unit is over. We will then launch into Unit 10 - Chemistry to start with our Science Content. More to come in next month’s newsletter. Students will be using Schoology for the platform to find work and assignments in science. Links to the digital book will be linked in Schoology. Students and parents will be able to also use the web site address to also access our science book when logins and passwords will be given. The ipad will have specific Apps that will be downloaded onto the ipad for easiest access to the science ebook. Any questions please contact me at sanderj@lasd.k12.pa.us! It is going to be a great year!
Social Studies
In social studies, we have been learning about Ancient Mesopotamia. In class, we have read an excerpt from the oldest story ever recorded The Epic of Gilgamesh.
English
Students have been working diligently through their MAP assessments in preparation for our first class novel, The Outsiders. Students will explore the life of Ponyboy and the Greaser Gang as they battle with the Socs. Students have selected their first independent novels as well. As we dive deeper into the school year, students can expect to have various opportunities to demonstrate their best writing efforts. Text-dependent analysis essays will be our focus for the school year.
Team Lightning: 7th & 8th Grades
7th & 8th Grade Lightning Science
The year started with a focus on the metric system and how scientific inquiry is done. This involved the use of tools to collect data from experiments the students designed. The experiments addressed simple questions, but caused the students to develop detailed procedure and conduct an experiment as it would be done in the real world. As we approach the end of the 2nd week of school, 7th and 8th grade are going their separate ways. 7th grade will be using microscopes to discover what living things are made of and develop the cell theory. This will carry over into the study of the parts and functions of the cell. 8th grade has been tasked with development of an experiment that will answer the question “does a hat keep you warm in the winter?” This must be tested during September and causing them to really think. They will be moving into the study of matter, and how it changes along with gaining an understanding of the function of the period table and how to use it as a tool in chemistry.
MATHEMATICS: Mr. Heller and Ms. Enoff
7th & 8th Grade:
All math classes have had a strong start to the 2018-2019 school year. As technology is introduced, students can become more independent learners and creative problem-solvers. Classes have been working hard through Chapter 1, not just focusing on content, but also learning the class procedures and expectations. If not already there, your student should be taking the assessment for Chapter 1 soon. Look for updated grades in Sapphire through the parent portal. This is a good way to stay on top of your child's academic progress. Please contact your child's teacher with any questions regarding grades in their class.
ENGLISH: Mr. Peglow and Mrs. Trout
7th Grade:
We have started this year with a primary focus on the elements of Fiction. We will explore these elements through our first novel, The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. This will take us up to mid-quarter. After enjoying this classic, we will begin aligning our program with the Social studies curriculum to discuss literature, articles, poems, etc. that focus on the time periods that correlate with their Ancient Civilizations class.
Recently, your student took the MAP Growth test to determine their instructional level in Reading. This data will be used to measure academic growth throughout the school year (and from year to year) in Reading Literature, Reading Informational Text and Vocabulary. This detailed picture of what your child knows and is ready to learn—whether it is on, above, or below their grade level provides immediate and accurate information about your child’s learning. Teachers then identify students with similar scores that are generally ready for instruction in similar skills and topics, and plan instruction accordingly. Please watch for more information including goal setting plans that your student will develop with support from you and their teacher.
8th Grade:
Eighth graders will continue reading their class novel Ender’s Game and discussing the aspects of Fiction. Students will also compete in logic competitions in relationship with the novel that will challenge them to work together in a team and think outside the box to complete the complex tasks. In addition each student will begin to apply his or her own understanding of fiction as they begin to write their first narrative short story.
SOCIAL STUDIES: Mr. Popoff and Mrs. Trout
7th Grade Ancient Civilizations:
Students in Ancient Civilizations began the year by setting their sights on some of the world’s earliest civilizations including the Sumerians, Phoenicians, Hittites, Babylonians, and Kushites. As we progress through the month of September students will try and decipher one of the most interesting and well-known civilizations in world history: the Egyptians. One thing each of these early civilizations had in common was that everyone had certain responsibilities. By sharing responsibilities each civilization was able to prosper.
8th Grade U.S. History:
Students in U.S. History began the year by focusing on early exploration and the colonization of the Americas. Now that we are finished with 1492 when Columbus sailed the ocean blue, we will set our sights on the beginning stages of the great nation of America. During the latter stages of September we will examine the original 13 colonies of America. Creating each colony took teamwork. No one single individual would have been able to successfully create a colony. Everyone had certain responsibilities. By delegating responsibilities each colony was able to succeed. As we progress into the month of October we will go into battle with our mother country, Great Britain as we fight for our independence during the Revolutionary War.
Team Sky Pilots: 8th Grade
The Sky Pilot teachers are committed to providing your child with a meaningful and memorable school year. The new school year has had a very promising start thanks to a great parent turn‑out for Open House and a super group of students. Many interesting projects and assignments are under way and the students are working diligently. The big news is that each student are permitted to take their iPads home. Please remind your child to charge their device each night when they go to bed.
Eighth graders can be quite challenging to parents and teachers alike. It is our belief that your child’s school year will run much more smoothly if we work together. The Sky Pilot team has come up with a few suggestions to make life easier for students and parents.
1. Set up a regular time, daily for your child to complete homework assignments. This should be away from TV and other distractions.
2. We suggest that you and your child review the contents of the agenda on a daily basis. Something should be written for every subject (even if there is no assignment).
3. Check to see that all assignments are complete.
4. Note any upcoming test dates.
5. Look for any notes from your child’s teachers.
6. Remember, the agenda is the primary means of communication between teachers and parents.
7. Students should email teachers when absent.
The Homework policy we follow is one that corrects the behavior instead of punishing the student’s grade. We believe that homework is very important. It allows us to assess the students informally. Instead of giving a score of zero (0), we will be assigning lunch detention. We need your help and support with homework. Again, we are trying to correct the behavior instead of punishing the grade.
One last reminder; please utilize our homework page on the school website: Also, visit https://app.schoology.com/login to see assignments, up- coming curricular assignments. Make these web sites favorites and visit them frequently.
We are looking forward to a great year!
Mr. Gilbert, History, Rm 304
Mrs. Fatland, LS, Rm 311
Mr. Myers, Math, Rm 303
Mr. Crockett, ELA, Rm 305
Mrs. Trone, LS, 315
Mr. Liberty, Science, Rm 302
Bolt PRIDE
In conjunction with the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program, students at Maple Avenue participate in bi-weekly Pride Meetings.
September Pride meeting time will be spent getting to know one another and participating in National Character Day on the 26th. Even though students are already familiar with one another, gaining a higher level of comfort with their pride group is essential for open communication as the year progresses. Our goal is for all students to feel comfortable and connected in their pride groups.
Sneak A Peek Into Our TWEETS
September's Growth Mindset Mantra: "Everyone can learn!"
When students and teachers possess the belief that intelligence and skills can be developed, they are exhibiting a "Growth Mindset." We improve, learn, and achieve excellence through outlook, hard work and effort. Challenges are stepping-stones to improvement not roadblocks to avoid. Approaching work with this mindset encourages our school community to focus on continuous improvement regardless of where we begin on the learning spectrum. At Maple Avenue Middle School, it is not about how smart we are. It is about the attitude we bring to learning and how hard we work. Growth Mindset is the lens through which we Fly World Class. Our Maple Avenue “pilots” are committed to excellence through their effort and positive Growth Mindset!
Student Absences
If your student is absent from school, regardless of the reason, a note from a parent/guardian is required. If the student does not hand in an excuse after three days, the absence will be considered unexcused. Parents are encouraged to email (williamsb@lasd.k12.pa.us) excuse notes, or students and parents may also deliver excuses to the office. If possible, please obtain a doctor’s note. If the absence has been for three or more consecutive days, the student will be required to submit a physician’s note.
Excused Absences: Absence from school is considered "excused" for the following reasons:
1. Illness of a student
2. Death in the immediate family
3. Religious Holidays, with prior approval
4. Quarantine
5. Planned Family trips with prior approval
Unexcused Absences: All absences for reasons other than stated above, will be considered unlawful. A "First Notice" will be sent after three unlawful absences. When a student is charged with six days of unlawful absences, the parents will be liable for legal action under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and referred to Children and Youth Service.
Prior Approval: All vacations, trips, or other pre-planned days of absence shall be considered unexcused unless a Planned Family Trip Request form is completed and approved by the principal prior to the date(s) of absence. Unless authorized by the Superintendent, no student may be excused for an excess of three trips per year, not to exceed a total of ten school days in one year. Prior approvals will not be granted during state mandated PSSA/Keystone test window dates.
Guidance Counselor's Corner
Survive middle school with tips from a school counselor
When it comes to the tools your child will need to succeed academically, he/she will need more than just pencils and paper. Be sure to send him to class with proper “middle-school survival skills,” too!
These skills are crucial because excelling in middle school involves more than academics. Your child will have the best chance of thriving if he:
Is emotionally healthy. Adolescents are notoriously filled with self-doubt. And that can make them more likely to give in to peer pressure or attempt to “fit in” at all costs. So help keep your child emotionally strong. Spend time with him. Encourage healthy friendships and then get to know those friends. Take an interest in the things that interest your child. And if you see him losing his way, seek professional help.
Understands his changing body. Never underestimate the impact physical changes can have on your child! A poor self-image can quickly translate into poor grades. Body image is that important to preteens. So talk to your child about the physical changes he’ll likely experience during the middle school years. If he knows they’re normal, he may feel less abnormal when they happen.
Gains more independence. This is often a source of conflict as adolescents rely less on parent and more on friends. Know who your child’s friends are and be aware of the types of communications they are having with others. Provide some privacy and freedom, but set reasonable limits. Stay connected by having conversations and being a good listener.
For more tips check out the full article: “Surviving Middle School: Tips for Parents from a Middle School Counselor,” American School Counselor Association, niswc.com/mid_counselor.
Important Dates to Remember
September 25: Mid-Marking Period
October 5: No School (Fall Break)
October 8: No School for Students (Act 80 Day)
October 30: End of the 1st Marking Period