Math New Unit --- Volume

We are learning about Volume now!!!
To get ready to work out those formulas, click on the Youtube video below.




The Volume Video... That voice who is narrating sounds just like Michael Jackson
This movie teaches students how to find the volume of a solid figure. Learn how to solve and find the volume of a 3D shape using length times width times height. Includes the volume song.









*Try not to laugh too much at the way the narrator says "box" (or "baux")

Volume of a Cube Formulas and images on:
http://math.about.com/od/geometry/ss/cube_3.htm

* Copy/paste into your browser window.

cube = a 3 *** In  a cube all the sides are the same length.

Which is the same as Volume = side x side x side
or V = length x width x height* Remember all the sides are the same units.


rectangular prism V = l x w x h 
V = B x h  ( if the base is calculated for you)   or    V= l x w x h

right triangle prism   
V = (base of triangle x height of triangle divided by 2) x height of prism
or V = (b x h  / 2 ) x H



irregular prism = b x h
*** Calculate the area of the Base





cylinder = b h = pi r 2 h
V = (pi  x  r 2) x h    *"pi" is a sign that I can't type on here.
                              * pi = 3.14   
                             * the small 2 means square the number or multiply the number by itself ex: 2 squared is 2 x 2 = 4.
 

Expository Writing Tips

Introduction to Expository Writing Song - It actually pretty much sums up expository writing, and the guy can actually sing!



The Expository Essay


An expository essay attempts to explain the subject to the audience. This may be accomplished by explaining a process, comparing or contrasting two items, identifying a cause-effect relationship, explaining with examples, dividing and classifying, or defining. Depending upon the particular type of expository essay being written, the order of presentation of supporting details may vary. The process essay will employ chronological (time) order; the essay which compares or contrasts, explains with examples, or divides and classifies may use an order of importance (most-to-least important or least-to-most important); the essay which employs causal analysis may identify a cause and then predict its effect or start with the effect and seek to identify its cause.

The Expository Essay Goal:
Expository writing seeks to inform, explain, clarify, define or instruct.


Characteristics:
The general characteristics of expository writing include:


•focus on main topic

•logical supporting facts

•details, explanations, and examples

•strong organization

•clarity

•unity and coherence

•logical order

•smooth transitions

Uses:
Expository writing appears in and is not limited to letters, newsletters, definitions, instructions, guidebooks, catalogues, newspaper articles, magazine articles, manuals, pamphlets, reports and research papers.

Example Prompts:
•Describe the cause and effects of pollution in the environment. Narrow your topic to one form of pollution, such as something that causes air, water or land pollution.




Here's another EXPOSITORY WRITING SONG... I know you want to download it to your ipod, just listen to what she has to say.... Just turn down the volume.

CANADIANS WHO MADE A DIFFERENCE AND RESISTED IN WWII

PAULINE VANIER HISTORICA MINUTES AUDIO FILE
http://www.histori.ca/minutes/minute.do?id=13563

Copy/paste this into your URL window and search for Pauline Vanier for a 1 minute Historica audio clip.

This audio clip could be used to help you further understand what we are studying. Feel free to learn more about Canadian volunteers like the Vaniers on this site.

Below is a Youtube video about the Vaniers... Watch and learn and REFLECT...

How did Governor General George Vanier and Pauline Vanier help the refugees of WWII. Why were their efforts so important. How did they stand up for what they believe in, and help refugees during WWII??

Social Studies/Current Events - Waving Flag

Waving Flag Song - Lyrics and song

K'Naan releasing Haiti charity song

Somali-Canadian rapper reworks Wavin' Flag to support relief effort

Video of the Young CANADIAN artists for Haiti


 

THE "Why Should We Care About
Haiti, Chile and Other Places Impacted By NaturalDisaster ASSIGNMENT...
Imagine you hear someone say to you, "I'm tired 
of hearing about Haiti, Chile and other places where there
 is natural disaster. It's sad, it's terrible what the earthquake did to the people of Haiti.
But I donated already 
and now I'm tired of hearing about it.
Besides, what can
I do anyways???"


What would you say to convince this person 
that they should care? 
What would you say to this 
person to convince them that if we don't 
care, who will?? 
How would you convince them to change their
attitude? 
What would you say to change their views??

PART I: In the form of a letter persuade this 
person to care. Give reasons that would convince
them on an emotional level and a factual level. Your letter should be 3-4 paragraphs if you 
are in grade 7 (intro paragraph, 1-2 middle paragraphs and a conclusion paragraph), and 4-5 
paragraphs if you are in grade 8(intro paragraph, 2-3 middle paragraphs and a conclusion paragraph). You can address the letter to "Dear Friend" or "Dear 
Dude with  Attitude"...

PART II: Take your letter and create a powerpoint that reflects images of Haiti, other people around the world and connections to home.
Your powerpoint must be of at least 10 slides with your letter incorporated between slides. All images must be appropriate and
sensitive to the nature of the current events issue. Be sure to incorporate music (not necessarily
"Waving Flag" to the powerpoint). Use transitions and many effects, but ensure that they do not detract from the message.
*** If you prefer, you do NOT HAVE TO INCLUDE ALL OF YOUR LETTER IN THE POWERPOINT... just the main ideas. Be sure to include a FULL DRAFT OF THE WHOLE LETTER AT THE END OF THE POWERPOINT  FOR EVALUATION.

* Be sure to organize your ideas using the storyboard organizer.
When you are finished you will present the powerpoint to the class.

*A Evaluation Rubric has been given to you in class. Please use it.

**  This assignment may now be completed in partners (writing the letter) and composing the powerpoint.Due Date: for this persuasive letter rough draft is April 1((I'm not fooling you!!) That is for both Mr. C's class and my class.

Anne Frank and Holocaust Persuasive Writing Prompt

ELA READING: ANNE FRANK AND RESISTING HITLER

Reading/Writing Assignment #1 - Resisting Hitler Letter
Imagine you are Helmuth from the short story, "Resisting Hitler" and you have merely 2 months to live as you sit in jail. Remember you received a punishment for standing up to the Nazis and their hate propaganda of the Jewish people. You have the opportunity to compose a letter to your brother with the last words you wish to share. What would you say?

The assignment from the RAFTS model.
Role - You are writing from Helmuth's perspective
Audience - Your brother (and peers)
Form - Friendly letter format
Topic - Words of wisdom, final thoughts on the resistance against the Nazis
Strong Verb - Explain your reasons for making the sacrifice and doing what was right or persuade your brother to carry on your mission

Follow these steps for writing:
1) PREWRITE - Brainstorm what you will include in the letter, thinking about the reasons and facts that connect to the story and what you know about the resistance.
Do this in the form of a detailed web with many branches.

Outline - What will you include in the INTRODUCTION, MIDDLE PARAGRAPHS/BODY and CONCLUSION? Create a detailed OUTLINE.

2) DRAFT - Compose the letter. Ensuring that you paint a "sensory picture" - identifying reasons why you went against the Nazis. Use at least 8 transitions in your writing.

3) REVISING - Check over the organization, details, content, word choice. Have you included all the details in the right order to paint the picture??

4) EDITING - Proofread and ensure that your letter is free of mechanical errors (grammar, capitalization, spelling and punctuation errors) and that the sentences and paragraphs are composed well.

5) PUBLISHING AND PRESENTING - Create an "AUTHENTIC" letter that reflects the time period. How could you make it reflect a young man in a WWII jail??

Reading Assignment  #2 - Anne Frank, Hero of the 21 Century
We will be completing a persuasive writing piece that connects to our lesson on Anne Frank.

The prompt:

Anne Frank was voted by Time Magazine as one of the most role models of the 21st century. In the form of a persuasive essay, explain to young people today why this is true (with multiple reasons and factual support) and why we should be aware of and learn about the Holocaust. 

MUSE - THE RESISTANCE
This song is not exactly about Anne Frank, but it makes me think about her family doing all they can to stay together. Listen to the lyrics and think about what connections you can make. Let this song be your "muse"...  :-)

Fractions Test Tips

REMEMBER THE FOLLOWING TIPS AND INCLUDE ON YOUR STUDY SHEET.


B - Brackets


E - Exponents


D- Dividing
M- Multiplying * Do these operations from left to right, depending on how they are presented.


A- Adding
S- Subtracting * Do these operations from left to right, depending on how they are presented.




DIVIDING FRACTIONS - "Flip and Multiply (the second fraction in the equaition) by the reciprocal
ex: 1/2 ~ 3/4 = 1/2 x 4/3           ***FYI  ~ means divide...


MULTIPLYING FRACTIONS - Just multiply numerator x numerator and
denominator x denominator


ADDING AND SUBTRACTING - YOU CHANGE THE FRACTIONS SO THEY HAVE THE SAME DENOMINATOR so... you need to create EQUIVALENT FRACTIONS (multiply the same number with the denominator and numerator...


MIXED NUMBER AND IMPROPER FRACTIONS


Change the following mixed number to an improper fraction.
1 2/3 (3 X 1 + 2) = 5/3




Change an improper fraction to a mixed number


Denominator divided into the Numerator.


8/5 8 divided by 5 = 1 and 3/5 (and it's in lowest terms)

WORD PROBLEMS HINTS FOR PROBLEM SOLVING...

Addition
in all, total, sum, both, combined, all together, how many, perimeter

Subtraction
fewer, left, how much, change, how many more, how much more, less, difference, minus, remains

Multiplication
total, in all groups (read and look for concepts that relate to grouping), times, twice, rate, area

Division
how many each, how many groups, divided equally (read and look for concepts that mean dividing something into equal groups)

Ex #11. Regina has wet weather on about 3/10 of the days in a year (365 days in year). It has wet weather on about four times as many days as it has fog. On what fraction of days of the year does Regina have fog?
  Numbers you will use: 3/10 and  4 times

Note operation words "as many" - means division.
3/10 ~  4/1 = 3/10 x 1/4 = 3/10  (remember the question only asks what fractin of the days are fog.)

Persuasive Writing Lessons and Videos

In April you are going to take part in the Assessment For Learning Writing Evaluation. This assessment will be conducted provincially, and results will be collected by the Ministry of Education. You will be assessed on 2 of the 3 forms of writing: Narrative, Expository and Persuasive. We have explored Narrative and Expository forms in most of our writing. So now I want to devote more of an indepth study into the Persuasive form. If you are comfortable with the persuasive form, you will be comfortable with expository writing. Narrative comes very naturally, as it relates to telling a story or retelling a significant event in a person's life...

The following prompt relates to what we are doing right now in ELA. I will guide you through the process of persuasive writing, but I know that some students will want a head start to prepare.



The following are notes on how to write a persuasive essay.



In persuasive writing, a writer takes a position FOR or AGAINST an issue and writes to convince the reader to believe or do something.
Persuasive writing is often used in advertisements to get the reader to buy a product. It is also used in essays and other types of writing to get the reader to accept a point of view. In order to convince the reader you need more than opinion; you need facts or examples to back your opinion. So, be sure to do the research!
Persuasive writing follows a particular format. It has an introduction, a body where the argument is developed, and a conclusion. After writing an essay, like any other piece of writing, you should read, revise,conference and revise, before publishing the final product. 


Introduction:
The introduction has a "hook or grabber" to catch the reader's attention. Some "grabbers" include:

1. Opening with an unusual detail: (Manitoba, because of its cold climate, is not thought of as a great place to be a reptile. Actually, it has the largest seasonal congregation of garter snakes in the world!)
2. Opening with a strong statement: (Cigarettes are the number one cause of lighter sales in Canada!)
3. Opening with a Quotation: (Elbert Hubbard once said , "Truth is stronger than fiction.")
4. Opening with an Anecdote: An anecdote can provide an amusing and attention-getting opening if it is short and to the point.
5. Opening with a Statistic or Fact: Sometimes a statistic or fact will add emphasis or interest to your topic. It may be wise to include the item's authoritative source.
6. Opening with a Question. (Have you ever considered how many books we'd read if it were not for television?)
7. Opening with an Exaggeration or Outrageous Statement. (The whole world watched as the comet flew overhead.)

Thesis Statement
The introduction should also include a thesis or focus statement.
There are three objectives of a thesis statement:


Through the thesis, you should say to the reader:
"I've thought about this topic, I know what I believe about it, and I know how to organize it."


Example Introduction:
[GRABBER-OPENING WITH A STRONG STATEMENT] Of all the problems facing the environment today, the one that bothers me the most is global warming. Some scientists say that the earth is getting warmer because of the greenhouse effect. [THESIS STATEMENT] In this paper I will describe the greenhouse effect and whether the earth's atmosphere is actually getting warmer.

1. It tells the reader the specific topic of your essay.
2. It imposes manageable limits on that topic.
3. It suggests the organization of your paper.

The Body: 
The writer then provides evidence to support the opinion offered in the thesis statement in the introduction. The body should consist of at least three paragraphs. Each paragraph is based on a solid reason to back your thesis statement. Since almost all issues have sound arguments on both sides of the question, a good persuasive writer tries to anticipate opposing viewpoints and provide counter-arguments along with the main points in the essay. One of the three paragraphs should be used to discuss opposing viewpoints and your counter-argument.

Elaboration: Use statistics or research, real-life experiences, or examples. 

• Generating hypothetical instance: Used particularly when creating an argument and you want the reader to see a different point of view. Use cues for the reader. (eg.: suppose that, what if...)
• Clarifying a position: Think about what needs to be explained and what can be assumed.
• Thinking through a process: Think through the procedure from start to finish. Most often the sentence will begin with a verb. Provide background information a reader may need. Illustrate whenever appropriate. Define special terms used. Use cues for the reader. (e.g..: first, second, next, then etc.)
• Drawing comparisons: Choose something similar to what is being explained. Use one of two patterns: Opposing or Alternating. End with a conclusion. Use cues for the reader.
• Making an analysis: You can analyze a problem by looking at the parts and therefore help the reader to understand.
• Drawing an analogy: Use an analogy to explain or elaborate and idea by identifying significant likenesses between two objects or ideas when otherwise they are quite different. This is helpful when the comparison is made to something that is familiar to the reader.
• Generating hypothetical instance: Used particularly when creating an argument and you want the reader to see a different point of view. Use cues for the reader. (e.g..: suppose that, what if...)

The Conclusion: 
A piece of persuasive writing usually ends by summarizing the most important details of the argument and stating once again what the reader is to believe or do.

1. Restate your thesis or focus statement.
2. Summarize the main points: The conclusion enables your reader to recall the main points of your position. In order to do this you can paraphrase the main points of your argument.
3. Write a personal comment or call for action. You can do this:
   
   
   
   • With a Prediction: This can be used with a narrative or a cause and effect discussion. The conclusion may suggest or predict what the results may or may not be in the situation discussed or in similar situations.
   • With a Question: Closing with a question lets your readers make their own predictions, draw their own conclusions.
   • With Recommendations: A recommendations closing is one that stresses the actions or remedies that should be taken.
   • With a Quotation: Since a quotation may summarize, predict, question, or call for action, you may use a quotation within a conclusion for nearly any kind of paper.

As a general guideline, when writing a persuasive essay:

• Have a firm opinion that you want your reader to accept.
• Begin with a grabber or hook to get the reader's attention.
• Offer evidence to support your opinion.
• Conclude with a restatement of what you want the reader to do or believe.

Persuasive Writing: General Tips:

• Make your argument clear right away. This will be your thesis. (e.g. Dogs are better than cats.)
• Have at least two good, strong reasons to support your side of the
  argument.
• Develop each of the reasons with different types of evidence.
• Evidence can be facts and details that support those reasons.
• Anticipate your readers’ objections and address them in your paper.
• When you include an objection someone might have to your side (such as “Cats are better because they require less attention.”), show why your point is stronger than your opponent’s objection.
• End with a good, clear, strong conclusion in which you re-state your main point or thesis again.

Persuasive Essay Outline
I. Introduction:

1. Get the readers attention by using a "hook."
2. Give some background information if necessary.
3. Thesis or focus statement.

II. First argument or reason to support your position:

1. Topic sentence explaining your point.
2. Elaboration to back your point.

III. Second argument or reason to support your position:

1. Topic sentence explaining your point.
2. Elaboration to back your point.

IV. Third argument or reason to support your position:

1. Topic sentence explaining your point.
2. Elaboration to back your point.

V. Opposing Viewpoint: (This is optional, however highly recommended, so that the reader will know you have considered another point of view and have a rebuttal to it.)

1. Opposing point to your argument.
2. Your rebuttal to the opposing point.
3. Elaboration to back your rebuttal.

VI. Conclusion:

1. Summary of main points or reasons
2. Restate thesis statement.
3. Personal comment or a call to action.

VIDEOS
25 Rules on Writing a Persuasive Essay. This video was based on a powerpoint and transitions quickly between slides. Get ready to pause, so you can process and think about the rule presented. Oh and try not to get too over-energized by the music. For some people I imagine the music fits persuasive writing. For me... I wanted to quickly grab a piece of paper and start brainstorming! Wait a second... maybe this might be good for using in the classroom...

A really good persuasive writing video... I selected it for the format that the teacher also explores regarding how to write using the writing process...



How to write an essay... I love the graphic organizers. We will use one that is similar to this!



Persuasive Writing Video - A cute video on how to do Persuasive Writing. This girl knows what she is talking about!! Listen to her video on how to write a persuasive essay...






Persuasive Paragraph Example

Paragraph illustrating how to write persuasion with supporting facts. Sources for the paragraph follow.


     Although many of us find fast food convenient when we are in a rush, it is a bad idea to eat it too much or too often. Recently, McDonald’s in Canada has had the two dollar deal: a Big Mac and small fries. This is a very big temptation, and even my son (who doesn’t normally eat at McDonald’s) bought this meal last week. But what did he eat when he ate a Big Mac and fries? First, in the hamburger he got 570 calories, with almost half of them (280 calories) coming from fat. Ten grams of this fat is saturated, the most dangerous kind, the kind which is harmful to our heart. The Canadian Food Guide recommends that we "choose lower-fat foods more often." Now, remember that my son also gets a small fries! Unfortunately, there are another 210 calories in the fries, with 10 more grams of fat (1.5 grams of it saturated). I’m sure he bought a drink as well, which adds another 150 calories (small size). Now, imagine he eats this dinner more than once a week! A two dollar meal contains a lot of fat. So, although it is very convenient (and cheap) to buy fast food, it is quite alarming to see just how much fat we are eating—I think I’ll go and eat an apple, instead! (Written as an example of persuasive writing, using facts to support opinions)
Sources for the Paragraph
Information on nutritional content of fast food:
Fast Food Facts
Canadian Food Guide(Information on fat in diet)

Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal (A book on the fast food industry)

Fast Food? Be Careful What You Eat!

Craig Kielburger article

Yep, it might be obvious that I think Craig Kielburger is pretty cool... And incidently we will be reading articles about Craig and his brother Marc. Here's one from Canadian Living...

"The Accidental Activists: Craig and Marc Kielburger"
Reference: http://www.canadianliving.com/life/community/the_accidental_activists_craig_and_marc_kielburger_4.php

This is the story of how Craig and Marc Kielburger came to be the activists they are today.
By Chistine Langlois

Marc Kielburger apologizes for the mess as he moves stacks of files, unopened mail and brochure material off an old sofa. With posters tacked to the walls and mismatched furniture, the space feels more like student digs than the downtown Toronto office of the executive director of Free the Children (FTC), a $4-million charity. And Marc, in blue jeans with a couple of unopened sub sandwiches sitting beside his laptop, looks more like a young intern who's just getting his feet wet than the boss of this successful organization. But appearances can be deceiving.

As social activists with a string of accomplishments between them, Marc and his more famous brother, Craig, have been meeting and exchanging views with celebrities, world thinkers and thousands of kids and adults on children's rights issues as well as peace building and volunteering initiatives since they were young teens growing up in Thornhill, Ont. FTC, an international network that has built more than 400 schools in developing countries, was launched by Craig when he was just 12. Its sister organization, Leaders Today, offers leadership programs and volunteer opportunities to young people abroad.

Big accomplishments
These days, Marc, a former Rhodes Scholar with degrees from Harvard and Oxford, oversees the various facets of the brothers' good works while Craig has taken on the role of full-time student at the University of Toronto. While he clears a spot on his office couch, Marc talks about the "amazing" (a trademark expression) time he and his partner, Roxanne Joyal, had the night before. They were in Santa Barbara, Calif., for an FTC meeting and had lunch with the American journalism titan Walter Cronkite, an honorary adviser to the organization. Walter asked them to stay for dinner. At the time, the November 2004 presidential election was days away and Walter wanted to talk politics and share stories from his six decades covering campaigns. "He gave us the most incredible history lesson," says the 27-year-old, with obvious excitement. As soon as he could, Marc got on the phone to tell his younger brother, Craig, all about the eventful night.

Craig, 21, was a tad jealous. Instead of rubbing shoulders with a media icon in balmy California, he took time away from his studies to take on the less glamorous – but equally important – task of wading through an early snowfall in Red Deer, Alta., to give a speech on behalf of FTC (one of 70 he gives a year) and hand out awards to rural kids involved in farming. One recipient was being honoured for his innovative idea for saving threatened farms. "It was worth the trip," says Craig sincerely.

And the award goes to...
The two brothers have received a slew of awards for their work. Craig has been nominated twice for the Nobel Peace Prize, and Marc was named one of Canada's Top 40 under 40 in 2003. Given all that they've accomplished, you can't help but wonder before you meet this pair just what you're in for. Can two brothers, still in their 20s, who have experienced so much and achieved so much for so many, still be just a couple of nice normal guys?


Fortunately, yes. Both Marc and Craig are as down-to-earth as they come; they're both warm, friendly and quick to laugh. Craig is a people person who listens intently and asks lots of questions. He talks about how much fun he has connecting to the young children he meets in his travels by making faces and playing peekaboo games with them. Marc peppers his conversation with adjectives such as "cool" and finishes every conversation about his work with some statement that reveals just how fortunate he feels to be doing it. And both brothers will modestly tell you they believe that everyone, in his or her own
way, can do what they both do. "We're both accidental activists," says Marc, adding they slowly got hooked on the joys of helping others.

Where it all began
Craig's role model for getting involved in social change was brother Marc. At 13, Marc became interested in environmental issues and eventually developed environmentally friendly cleaning products for a high school science project. He started collecting names on petitions for various environmental initiatives and enlisted his little brother, Craig, to help out. "He'd get me to go up and ask the girls to sign. They always would because I was so cute," says Craig, laughing.

So the seed of social consciousness was already planted when at age 12 Craig read with great dismay in the morning paper about the killing of another 12-year-old, Iqbal Masih, a freed child labourer from Pakistan. Indeed, he was so moved by Iqbal's struggles to end child labour and his eventual murder that he couldn't stop thinking about it. "I was shocked, and then I thought, What can I do? I'm only one person."

They caught the charity bug
But then Craig recalled Marc's zeal in raising people's awareness of environmental issues and that struck a chord. "I remember thinking, If he could do it, I can, too." A few weeks later, with the help of his school librarian, Craig had gathered enough information and mustered up the courage to talk to his Grade 7 class about child labour and ask if other kids wanted to join a group to fight against it. That first step back in 1995 eventually led to the participation of hundreds of thousands of children in 35 countries.

Craig and Marc's parents, Theresa and Fred, now retired schoolteachers, were big on supporting their kids in whatever they wanted to try. But they didn't set out to raise activists. Marc and Craig simply dragged them, but not unwillingly, along for the ride. "Sometimes our parents wonder where we really came from," jokes Marc.

Theresa is reluctant to discuss her sons and their work. But she's happy to talk about what she contributed to their outlook and values as a parent, which was teaching her sons to be aware of the world around them and making sure they had chances to learn from real-life experiences. "Kids become so desensitized by television and the media," says Theresa. "It's important to sensitize them, and you have to do it when they are young." Theresa talks about using small gestures – stopping to have a conversation with a homeless person rather than just handing over change, or asking a child to imagine what it feels like to be the kid in the class who everyone teases. These simple gestures raise kids' respect for others who are less fortunate.

Exceeding expectations
But Theresa and Fred got more than they bargained for when Craig took the idea of real-life experiences to the extreme. At age 13 he begged to go off to Asia for seven weeks to meet child labourers and learn about their lives firsthand with a human-rights worker who agreed to accompany him. Again Marc had already blazed the trail. He and Roxanne, who Marc met in his high school days and is now involved with Leaders Today, had taken time off from university to do volunteer work in Thailand with mothers and babies with HIV/AIDS. Still, it took Craig a long time to convince Mom and Dad to let him venture off to Asia, although it was something he clearly wanted so deeply. Theresa and Fred finally agreed once they were assured that the trip would be safe and Craig had raised half the airfare himself.

For years, Craig and Marc's endeavours took over the Kielburger home, which was the former FTC headquarters. "Sometimes I'd have 50 kids in the house," says Theresa. Marc adds that they often had dinner sitting on the couch because the dining room table was covered with FTC material. Eventually Theresa and Fred put their feet down and reclaimed their home. The FTC office moved to downtown Toronto a couple of years ago, but the family house still serves as the warehouse for its supplies, with spare bedrooms, the basement and garage filled floor to ceiling with school kits, medical supplies and furniture – all waiting to be sent to new projects. "We have never parked our car in the garage – never. It's always full of stuff being shipped to Africa or South America," says Theresa.

Want to read more??? Check out the full article at Canadian Living...(See above)

Here's yet another video about leadership and making a difference "One Person at a Time"
Think about - What contribution can I make to the world? What can I do as one person??



A speech from the Dalai Lama at the ME to WE conference in Vancouver, 2009...
This is pretty neat... Just listen...How can you use time more constructively to make a difference??

A new look...

Hopefully that high jack virus problem is fixed... I tried to fix it but had absolutely no clue as to what I was doing... I can't read HTML... I did my best and deleted a few things. But I kept the fish!! Stewie

Ears and Sound Waves Notes

EARS, MUSIC, SOUND AND WAVES... (NOTES)
- Ears help the brain collect and process sounds.
- Sounds are created by waves of vibrations that are carried
through the air and through other objects.
- The properties of waves include the following:
- amplitude (height)
- wavelength (distance between the peaks/crests
of each wave.
- Sounds become louder as the amplitude of a wave becomes higher.
- Frequency is the number of wavelengths in a given amount
of time and is measured in hertz.
- A hertz is a unit of sound, equal to a wave cycle from crest
to crest.
- The greater the number of wavelengths that pass in a unit of time, the more high pitched the sound.
- infrasound less than 20 Hz is a range of sound waves below the audible span for human hearing. Elephants can hear in these ranges!
www.pulsethemovie.com (these notes are based on that website information)

Study Questions for Quiz

1. What does Hz stand for?

2. What does Hertz mean?

3. Can elephants hear at lower frequencies than humans?

4. What is the difference between ultrasound and infrasound?

5. What is the difference between amplitude and wavelength?

6. How do atoms transport sound through air?

Olympic Theme Song

I think I'm addicted to watching the olympics... The opening ceremony was amazing. My husband was especially excited when W.O.MItchell's work was quoted for the "prairie excerpt" during the ceremony... However I think my favourite part was... the whales and the amazing poet from the NWT's. I need to get a copy of that poem!

To check out "I Believe" copy paste the following URL into the window:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pP9IQuz-jlk

ELA- Narrative Writing Assignment

Compose a narrative paragraph of 8-10 sentences retelling a personal experience that connects to the story "The Nest" (This was taken in class on last Thursday). This paragraph may explore issues related to people judging, friends that you defended, times when you had to stand up for what you believe... (Please reference the assignment that accompanies, "The Nest". The rough draft is due Tuesday, February 16. You are expected to write an introduction sentence that "reels in the audience"; 6-8 middle paragraph sentences that describe the events; be sure to use at least 4 transitions in the paragraph, to help your ideas "flow together"; and wrap it up with a conclusion sentence.
Due Date: Good copy - Monday, February 22 am. **Hand in all drafts.

MUSIC - Stomp unit

Videos from "Stomp Out Loud"found on Youtube.

We will be doing our own "found" and created instruments music project. Watch these videos to get some ideas...





Blue Man Group and Dave Matthews...

Music - Drumming Assignment

THE SOUND LAB - PULSETHEMOVIE.COM

Visit the Sound Lab on the PULSE website - Do this activity in PARTNERS.

A. Mega Taiko - Tell me 2 facts about this ancient drum
B. Go to Youtube and find an example of a performance with this ancient drum, the Japanese Taiko. Make sure it is an AUTHENTIC performance. *Write the title of the video and the website. Explain why this is an AUTHENTIC performance. How is the drum the central focus of the performance?
C. Draw an "X-Ray" of a drum and label it. (see the pulse website for this).
D. Explain how atoms transport sound through the air. Use a diagram if necessary.
E. How is this different in a gas, compared to a liquid, compared to a solid?
F. What is the difference between amplitude and frequency? Draw a diagram to aid in your explanation.
G. Have "Fun With Waves" - see the last activity with sound. Change the volume and pitch of the 2 tones.
How do the sounds interact? Explain briefly in jot not form.
THE SOUND LAB - PULSETHEMOVIE.COM

Visit the Beat Chaser on the pulse website.
Try out this interactive activity. What is the main OBJECTIVE or reason for creating this activity?
What can a person learn from participating in the activity?
DRUM MAKING…
Bring supplies to make your own rhythm instrument, like a drum. You can use a coffee can, soup or tin cans, other ideas?? Remember our culminating performance will involve a STOMP presentation, what instruments can you make?? Brainstorm here…

Social Studies

Canadian Geographic and CIDA have a map which will be a central part of our lessons in the mini unit, "Looking at Wealth Distribution in the World". This unit focuses on concepts in Interdependence and the role Canada has in helping developing countries.

To access the interactive map, "A Developing World", click on the following link or copy/paste it into your window browser.

http://www.canadiangeographic.ca/worldmap/cida/cidaworldmap.aspx

"3 PLUS U" LESSON IN GLOBAL ECONOMICS
Another site we will be viewing is one from cyberschoolbus. This activity will explore Global Economies, child labour, forced labour and discrimination. You will need earphones and paper/pencil for jotnotes.
Here is the address to copy/paste into your browser window:
http://cyberschoolbus.un.org/3PLUSU/index.html

February/March Important Dates

February 9th - Last day for Downhill Skiing Money and forms
February 12 and 15 No School
Tuesday, February 16 - Grade 8 "Spend a Day at Leboldus"
Wednesday, February 17 - Grade 8/Leboldus Presentation at Deshaye
Friday, February 19 - "Lightening Thief" (movie at Galaxy - we leave at lunch, so you will need to bring a lunch to school that day.) Movie connects with mythology unit. Make sure you are caught up with homework assignments so that you can go!
Tuesday, February 23 Downhill Skiing at Mission Ridge
Friday, March 5 - DQ Lunch Day
Tuesday, March 9 - Downhill Skiing at Mission Ridge

Wednesday, June 16 - Grade 8 Farewell (it's not in Feb or March... just mark your calendars!)

CHECK OUT THE LIGTENING THIEF Trailer
I'm so excited to check out the movie!

VIDEO GAMES WITH A SOCIAL MESSAGE...

Try out the following video games on-line.

WWW.PLAYAGAINSTALLODDS.COM

This game shows what it would like to live in a country that does not respect human rights and why some people become refugees. This game was created by the United Nations High Commission with the purpose of teaching students about human rights and the lives that refugees live.

WWW.DARFURISDYING.COM

Darfur is a western region of Sudan (in Africa). People everyday endure unimaginable atrocities. This video game reflects a small fraction of what it's like to survive in this region. The video is school appropriate, which means it was created to give students a chance to learn about life in this country. It is not violent nor does it treat the sensitive nature of this issue in way to "sell" video games. This game is sponsored by MTV and the Human Rights Foundation.

http://www.sayansi.ca/flash/sayansi-en.html

This game is sponsored by CIDA and I have yet to play it. It was designed for students... I'll let you know how it goes. It really took a long time to load, perhaps I was just too far away from my wireless connection hub. The cartoon at the beginning was pretty vivid.


As you play these games, think about the deeper meaning. The actual event that would be happening. Be sensitive to the fact that although it's a video game, the events were based on real people's lives. Play, have fun, but think and reflect too!

Ms. Stewie

Social Studies - Looking at the World and Wealth Distribution

QUESTIONS TO PONDER IN THIS MINI- UNIT...

How do we spend our money? How do we use our resources??
How does sustainability connect with economy? Why is it something that we should think about when we think of our future??
Is the way wealth is distributed around the world fair??
Who are the richest countries? Who are the poorest countries??
What is a fair trade product? How do fair trade products help to evenly distribute wealth in the world?
What does it mean to be a responsible consumer? What do responsible consumers do?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of buying locally produced goods; buying fair-trade products; and buying mass produced products?
Who "wins" or gets the best deal in each of the above situations??
How can we measure wealth? If you are wealthy, are you happier than those who are poor??

CANADIAN GEOGRAPHIC AND CIDA MAP OF THE DEVELOPING WORLD - INTERACTIVE SITE
http://www.canadiangeographic.ca/worldmap/cida/cidaworldmap.aspx

THE STORY OF STUFF VIDEO - Interesting video which connects to the questions above...



VIDEO - DO I NEED IT? A cute song written in reaction to "The Story of Stuff". The tune will probably never make the radio waves, but the message is excellent... Just listen to the message...



I couldn't help but feel a bit guilty about shopping as I watched the above video... Hmmm... something to think about....

DISASTER IN HAITI ESSAY

DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS IN HAITI


Please make sure you hand in your DISASTER IN HAITI ESSAY before 1st recess on MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8.
This essay will be part of not only a Social Studies mark, but also some of the content will be evaluated for Science (Earthquake information - "Exactly what happened in terms of the earthquake, plate tectonics, etc. in Haiti?")

Ensure you hand in all drafts, outline, web and jotnotes with your essay as well as the rubric. Please staple your essay requirements with the good copy on top with the rubric attached. All late assignments will be deducted 5% / day, as explained in the Social Studies Expectations and Procedures at the beginning of the year.

I look forward to reading your essays! Really!!
Ms. S-M :-)

CRAIG KIELBURGER - FREE THE CHILDREN IN HAITI



COLD PLAY VIDEO - HAITI RELIEF TELETHON



Coldplay just happens to be a band I really like... and check it out... they are trying to do their part and make a difference and help those in need!!

Other musicians who worked together to help Haiti...

Disaster in Haiti Essays

This is a reminder that your Haiti essay must be handed in on Monday, February 8 before 1st recess or there will be late marks (5%/day) deducted from your mark. *** REMEMBER to hand in all drafts, outlines, webs and jot notes for your essay. Remember to reference all handouts from class, as well as the rubric before you hand it in. This essay will be primarily a Social Studies mark, however one aspect on earthquakes will be used for Science. Again, refer to the assignment handouts and evaluation rubric for more information.

ESSAY EXPECTATIONS... Make sure you have an introduction with attention getting lead, topic sentence (what the essay is about) and thesis statement (what topics will be explored in the essay - see examples on handouts given in class); at least 3 body paragraphs (one must explain scientific information on plate tectonics, the other 2 on life in Haiti before the earthquake and life after the earthquake) and finally how can Canadians help... or how can we help; and finally a conclusion paragraph that restates what topics were explored in the essay, plus wraps up the essay and leaves the reader thinking.

Make sure you follow the format above for the 5 paragraph essay and include the expected research for the questions that were given in class.