Inspire Academies: Rockdale & Bell
4th Six Weeks Update
Bell
ELA - Ms. Claycomb / Ms. Vance
In detention, students created a Black History Month Brochure on individuals that made impacts in history. Students were able to pick from a list that most of them did not know. They were given the person's biography and their brochure had to include their major contribution, facts about them and family history. They were able to include photos and show their artistic creativity as well. The students also read an article about Vivien Thomas, the "Heart Saver".
Math - Ms. Robinson
In Algebra 1 we reviewed linear equations and systems of equations. Each student created a city with linear equations and systems.
Social Studies - Ms. Worthem-McPeake
In Social Studies, students explored how to debate. Students were focused on picking passionate topics and adhering to appropriate debate conduct and expectations. When debating controversial topics, it involves ethical, historical, and strategic considerations. Students researched the historical context, familiarized themselves with different perspectives, acknowledged why those different perspectives are also valid while engaging in constructive dialogue. Students debated the use of atomic bombs during World War II. This required sensitivity and empathy from our students, given the profound human suffering and historical significance of the events involved. It was essential to approach the topic with seriousness and a commitment to understanding its complexities. Debating this topic and the skills they learned is a great segway going into the upcoming Civil Rights Unit.
Science - Ms. Johnson
Students in science focused on the contributions of African American scientists and how they influenced the scientific community bringing a wider range of perspectives and experiences to the table. These scientists made significant contributions across various scientific disciplines, bringing unique insights and innovations that enrich the scientific community. Learning about African American scientists provides inspiration and role models for aspiring scientists, particularly for students from underrepresented minority backgrounds. Seeing successful scientists who share their racial or ethnic identity can encourage students to pursue careers in STEM fields and believe in their own potential for success. Studying their work not only enriches our understanding of scientific concepts, but also contributes to the advancement of human knowledge and innovation.
Rockdale
ELA - Ms. Aguilar
In English, we have been learning different ways to be persuasive. Students have been busy creating a product to advertise. The goal of this assignment was to persuade their peers and teacher to buy their product. There were so many ideas, and the students really took their role as a salesman seriously. Rhetorical devices such as Ethos (Credibility), Logos (Logic), and Pathos (Emotions) had to be used in each advertisement to make their advertisement and argument stronger. We took a look at current trends like the Stanley cups and Nike Dunks because every teen loves new Dunks. It was interesting to have the students put the Logical Fallacy like Bandwagon with these current trends. We are gearing up for STAAR testing in April and will be writing often in class. Students have an opportunity to make the leaderboard in our Reading Plus program each week in three different categories. Having a friendly way to be competitive in the classroom by improving your reading skills and speed has been fun. The newest Top Readers are posted each Friday afternoon.
Math - Mr. Pantaleon
During this six weeks students applied concepts of linear relationships. Students solved problems involving direct variation, wrote equations of parallel and perpendicular lines, described transformations of linear functions, calculated the correlation coefficient of linear scatter plots and wrote equations for lines to best fit on a scatter plot. As always, students utilized our online program, DreamBox Math, to strengthen their skills.
Science - Mr. Dismuke
This six weeks we have been focusing on cells. We discussed how our bodies are made up of cells and how every living thing has at least one. We learned how Bacteria are an example of living things that are made up of one cell. We can’t see them with our eyes, but we can see them under the microscope. We learned how bacteria helps us digest food and fight disease but can also be the cause of disease. We also learned about DNA. We learned how DNA can determine the traits we have and where our DNA comes from. We were able to compare our traits in class and determine how some traits a majority of the kids have and some traits that are less common. These are dominant and recessive traits. We have also been preparing for the STAAR test. These topics are highly tested, and we spent a lot of time making sure we are prepared for the test when it is time.
Social Studies - Ms. Bartsch
This six weeks, in celebration of Black History Month, students researched individuals that made a positive impact on our country and culture. Each student investigated a unique individual and created a biography card to represent what they have learned. In addition, U.S. History students are studying Manifest Destiny and the expansion of the United States.
Tamra Vance
Head of Schools - Rockdale and Bell County Inspire Academies
Website: Inspire Academies
Phone: 210-638-5701
Email: tvance@brainaiton.net