Week of November 19th

Dear Parents,
The North America final test is behind us and I must say, though not surprised, I was extremely pleased by the results. I appreciated students seriousness, effort, and how well they were able to demonstrate their understanding. Overall, it was definitely a successful experience. 31 out of 42 students earned either an "A" or "B." Congratulations! In the coming week, please ask you son/daughter to see their test.

Our next unit of study is South America and this will begin right after Thanksgiving break. No homework is assigned this weekend nor will there be any homework over Thanksgiving break. I however do encourage students to continue to pick up their journals and share what they are thinking and wondering. Each student should by now have a list of possible ideas of how to use their journal. We discussed this in class three weeks ago, and during class a list was copied in the journal. Some students are very responsibly assuming this and again, the emphasis is simply on extending what has or is being learned in Social Studies. Examples have included artwork depicting the topic of "imbalance," further research and opinions/questions shared on Cuba and Fidel Castro, and political cartoons about Native American affairs and life on reservations. Your support with encouraging your child to utilize this tool is greatly appreciated. You may even wish to ask if you can take a look at the work they have completed so far. Many have detailed notes from me included.

As always, thank you for all your support at home!


Kindly,
Matt Piercy
7th Grade Social Studies