7 Science has worked through the cell processes and levels of organization - next up is good old mitosis and meiosis - these can get confusing. An easy way for them to remember is that body cells - like our toes - generate new cells through mi"toe"sis. Meiosis is for the duplication of sex cells, and I am still trying to figure out an easy way for them to remember that one. After we wrap up cell duplication, we will begin heredity!!! This should be pretty cool, and the kids usually like the punnet squares and Sponge Bob genetics that we work through.
8 Science is getting into fossils and how earth can change over time - through things such as volcanic activity, tectonic plate changes, and even the rock cycle. I have some songs lined up for them, some more sweet labs, and a quiz at the end of the unit. Its has been a very productive year so far with them, and I greatly appreciate their ability to tackle so much information and make it their own.
7 Social Studies just finished their study of Early Stone Age peoples - they should be able to tell you a little bit about what life was like during the 3 main stone ages. We had a quiz last Tuesday and the grade is in PowerSchool. We will next begin studying Mesopotamia, and will have the opportunity to make our own cuneiform tablets, and have a good idea about the importance of water for our early river civilization.
8 Social Studies just wrapped up studying the 3 main types of colonies - we will have a short quiz on the 13 late this week, and again, will be spending some time on life and culture in the colonies before we begin to study the early uprisings against the tyrant, King George! We will also have the chance to experience taxation without representation through a simulation late in the week.