JFHMS

"All Our Best....All the Time"

3/4/10

As the year progresses farther into the second semester, here are some things Falcon students can look forward to:

Computer

This semester in Computer Literacy 8, the students will be learning how to create and present a PowerPoint presentation, create a spreadsheets with functions, formulas and charts and experiment with databases. Similar to last semester, students will upload all of the projects they complete in class to Moodle (we are going green!). Also on Moodle, they can find the link to my PortaPortal which is full of fun games and technology resources, view videos to review materials and participate in discussion boards.

English

During the remainder of the school year, English classes will focus on reading great literature: short stories, novels, and drama. We will continue our discussion on literary elements, analogies, word parts, and other qualities that give meaning and help to shape what we read.

Math

We will be spending the second semester in Math 8 improving our skills for the SOL test. We will be working on reviewing the math and also on test taking skills to suceed on the SOL test. In Algebra 1 Part 1 we are continuing our Algebra lessons but will also prepare for the Math 8 SOL test. Algebra I classes will be working on graphing and finishing Chapter 5. We will be working with the graphing calculators and getting ready for our SOL test in May.

Science

This semester in Physical Science, students will begin studying chemistry. Students will be learning how to read the periodic table, as well as learning about compounds, mixtures, and ions. We will also cover units on sound and light. As we get closer to May, each student will receive an SOL review packet that reviews 6th and 7th grade science material, as the SOL test in science this year covers 6th, 7th, and 8th grade science topics. After the SOL test is completed, students can look forward to doing hands on labs including an ice cream lab, where each student will make their own batch of ice cream to enjoy during class.

World Studies/Geography

World Studies and World Geography classes will be studying the 11 regions of the world as defined by the Virginia Standards of Learning during the second semester. We will also be preparing for the final exam and the SOL test in World Geography.