Christmas is coming!

We are wrapping up the semester fast & furiously. This week we will just be finishing up assignments and reviewing. We will have a math test as well.

Tuesday's homework due will be Investigation 7. We will be using our math time to finish this up as well as other lessons.

We will continue our science chapter, but will pick up where we left off in the new year.

If you are interested in having a Christmas party this Thursday, please let me know what you would be willing to provide or any ideas for a party you might have. I am open to most anything.

Have a wonderful week!

Chapter 8-1 Notes
Chapter 8-2 Notes

Science Test Tuesday!

This week the 7th graders wrapped up lessons 70-75. No homework was assigned.
The 6th graders also finished up lesson 65-70 or 30-40. Again, there was no math homework.

The inquiry class will be taking a trip to Sugar Land to the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Please return your permission slips and money ASAP! I must have it if you are planning on attending. If anyone is willing to drive, we are in need of either a driver or adult passenger still.

This Tuesday we will have another science test, chapter 7. It was a quick chapter with only 3 short sections. Notes are posted below. Be sure to complete both the review and chapter choices assignment for Tuesday. Study your review!

Progress reports should go out tomorrow. Be sure to return these Monday.

Have a great weekend!

Ch 7-2 Notes
Ch 7-3 Notes

We're in the homestretch!

Alright, Thanksgiving is over so back to the grindstone! This week 7th graders are covering lessons 71-75. Today's homework, due Thursday, was lesson 72. Don't forget the math test on Thursday!



6th graders covered lessons 66 & 67. Lesson 67 will be due Thursday.



or...



6th graders covered lessons 26-30. Lesson 30 will be due Thursday.



Our science chapter began today with discussion about weathering and erosion. It's a short chapter, so be prepared! We will probably cover the entire chapter this week and test on Tuesday of next week! Chapter choices remain the same.

Chapter 7-1 Notes

All inquiry students or those student invited to attend need to return a permission slip for the field trip along with $5 for admission ASAP!



We have completed another 3 weeks, so progress reports will also be coming out soon!



Have a great week!

Happy Turkey Day!

There was no math homework over the weekend due to the Cornerstone Feast. However, all chapter 6 science work is due tomorrow, Tuesday! We will also be having our chapter test tomorrow. Please bring all science work, chapter choices & review, to school tomorrow. Study the review for the test!

There will be no homework over the holidays.

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Thursday News

Today we covered section 2 of chapter 6 in science. We discussed energy, conservation and conversion of energy. We will most likely finish this chapter next week and take an exam a week from Tuesday. Be sure to pace yourself when you are completing your chapter choices assignments.

7th graders completed through lesson 65, so the homework assignment will be lesson 65 rather than 64.

6th graders will complete their assignment on Tuesday.

Have a great weekend!

Week Update!

So to clarify...

Thursday the 7th graders should complete both lessons 59 and 62. We will have a benchmark cumulative test on Thursday in math. 6th graders completed their assignment in class, so they have no math homework.

Be sure to be working on your chapter choices assignment that was passed out today. We have finished section 1 for chapter 6 and will conduct an experiment on Thursday.


Have a good week!

Chapter 6-1 Notes

Energy & Power

This week we will begin our science chapter over energy and power. We will look at the energy transformed by plants, fossil fuels, and more. We will cover section 1 and conduct an experiment comparing elastic potential energy and gravitational potential energy.

For math this week, we will have a test on Tuesday and Thursday (we skipped it last week due to our science exam). Tuesdays homework for 7th graders will be Lesson 62 and Thursdays homework will be Lesson 64. 6th grade homework will be announced.

Have a great week!

Tomorrow's Agenda

Tomorrow's agenda consists of lessons 55-56 for 7th graders. 6th graders will be completing lessons 50-52. Homework will be Lesson (unless we get done quickly, and are able to cover lesson as well). In science we will finish up chapter 5 with an experiment over mechanical advantage. Chapter choices will be due on Thursday and we will also be having a test on Thursday as well.

As for tomorrow though, you should turn in lesson 54 for 7th graders and for 6th grade, the homework assignment was lesson 49.

Don't forget to be working on your chapter choices!

Have a good evening!

For Tomorrow...

Tomorrow we will have another math test. Look over all the lessons through 45 for 7th grade and through 40 for 6th grade. Homework this week is lesson 52 for 7th graders and lesson 46 for 6th graders.

We conducted an experiment yesterday about see-saws. We compared the weight of an object and its distance to the pivot point. Most students turned in their analyze and conclude questions that we reviewed in class, but if you have not completed the assignment, please turn it in tomorrow.

It looks like we will have a science test next Thursday, so be preparing by completing your chapter choices assignments. If you have corrections for any tests, please be sure to return them ASAP.

If you have not returned your signed progress report, please do that as well.

Have a great week!

Thursday's Happenings

We have started a new science chapter about simple machines, mechanical advantage, and efficiency. We read chapter 5-1 and 5-2 Thursday. Chapter choice assignments have also gone out. Look carefully, there is a new option listed!

For math, 6th grade covered lessons 43 & 44 while 7th graders covered lessons 47-49. Homework for 6th grade is lesson 44 and 7th grade should complete lesson 49.

Be sure to sign and return progress reports. They should go out tomorrow. Feel free to contact me via e-mail or phone if you have any questions or concerns.

Have a great weekend!

Ch 5-1 Notes
Ch 5-2 Notes

One test down, one to go...

Science test down, now on to math. Another math test will be held on Thursday, it should include through lesson 40 for 7th graders and through lesson 35 for 6th graders. Please let me know if you have any questions!

Math homework for the week will include lesson 46 for 7th grade and lesson 42 for 6th grade.

We will begin discussing chapter 5 in science on Thursday. For those of you who are inspired, you may start your chapter choices early if you wish.

We have already completed 3 weeks of the six weeks, so look for progress reports soon!

Have a good week!

Test tomorrow!

Science test tomorrow! Study the review! Check your answers! Use your book! If you know the review material, you will do great! If you don't study and don't complete your review- pray!

As for math, 7th grade should complete and turn in lesson 44 or Investigation 5, whichever you have not completed. 6th graders should complete lesson 39.

Science homework is all of Chapter 4 assignments. Chapter choices and chapter reviews are due tomorrow. Don't let this one get by you! Please finish your science assignments! They are there to help you learn and study for the test! Those who don't do well on the test almost always don't turn in their science work.

Good luck!

Chapter 4-5 Notes

Tomorrow's Assignments

We have continued to dive into Newton's Laws of Motion, covering inertia, conservation of momentum, and the relationship between mass, acceleration, and force. We will finish up the chapter tomorrow with the final section and review. Therefore, our test on will be on Tuesday and all chapter assignments will be due on this date. That includes the chapter review and the chapter choices assignments. Study hard!

As for math, we will have a math test covering up through Lesson 40 for 7th graders and lesson 35 for 6th graders. For homework, 7th graders will need to complete lesson 41 and 6th graders will need to complete Lesson 36. We will be covering lessons 42-44 tomorrow in 7th grade and reviewing through lessons 35 with Miss Mitchell. Be prepared for the exam!

Have a good evening!

Angles, Newton, and more!

This last week we started our science unit over physics. We have discussed the relationships between mass, acceleration, and force, We also discussed Newton's laws of motion. We should finish chapter 4 after this week, so be sure to keep up with your chapter choices assignments.

7th graders- congrats! You did awesome on your benchmark math test! Wow!

As for math, 7th graders will be studying triangles, percents, fractions, and the distributive property. 6th graders will tackle squares & square roots, decimals, circle graphs, and more! We will have another math test on Thursday.

Homework for the weekend, and due Tuesday, is lesson 39 for 7th grade and lesson 37 for 6th grade.

Have a great weekend!

Chapter 4 Sec. 2 Notes
Chapter 4 Sec. 3 Notes

Thursday's Work

This Thursday Lesson 36 for 7th grade is due and lesson 35 is due for 6th graders. Be sure to begin working on chapter choices in science, they will be due at the end of the chapter (probably a couple of weeks from now).

All corrections for science are due and any late science work is already overdue and will not be accepted after Thursday.

Have a good evening!

Science Notes Ch 4.1

Tuesday's Tasks

This Tuesday we will have another math test covering lessons 1-30. Lesson 34 for 7th grade is also due, and lesson 32 for 6th grade.

Science tests have been graded, and look great overall! Congratulations! We will begin chapter 4 in the science text this Tuesdays. We are leaving chemistry behind and pursuing a chapter about forces and motion (physics). We will again be completing the chapter choices for this chapter.

Have a good evening!

Test Week

Today we finished off test 4 in math and Thursday we will wrap up science chapter 3. Therefore, ALL science work is due on Thursday- this includes all the chapter choices, reviews, labs, etc. And don't forget to study for the test either!

Math homework due Thursday is lesson 30 for 6th grade and 31 for 7th grade, all questions. Investigation 3 will be due next Tuesday.

Study those acids & bases hard! Hopefully your test will have a more basic pH than an acidic one!

Chapter 3-4 Notes

End of the 6 weeks!

The 6 weeks has come to an end, and report cards are now here. Please sign up for conferences in the downstairs hall starting Friday. Mrs. Blase and I will be available on Friday, Oct 2nd. We would like to meet with all parents and hand out your child's report card. If you are unavailable on this date, please let us know and we will try to schedule another time.

If your child has any missing work, I must have it tomorrow morning! All grades must be turned in, so I will need all missing or late work ASAP!

This Tuesdsay we will have our next round of math tests and on Thursday we will wrap up Chapter 3 in science with a test. All chapter assignments will be due on that date.

Math homework due on Tuesday is Lesson 29, all problems for 7th graders and Lesson 27 for 6th grade.

Good luck and have a great weekend!

Finishing Up!

This is the last week of the 6 week. Wow, how time flies. Therefore, everything is due ASAP! If anyone has any missing work, it must be turned in now to avoid a zero.

As for math, 6th grade should complete lessons 23 (odd) and 24 (even) for Tuesday. 7th graders should complete lessons 25 (odd) and 26 (even) as well as investigation 2.

Science is just about complete for the 6 weeks. Next week we should have chapter 3 test, which means all chapter assignments will also be due.

Thanks for all the hard work this 6 weeks.

2 Tests Down...

We finished up tests in both subjects this week, and are continuing on to the next. We are discussing ratio, rate, fractions, perimeter, and more in math.

In science we began chapter 3 over solutes and solvents in solutions. We will be conducting experiments with acidic and basic solutions, discussing pH, saturation, dilution, and more. The same chapter assignments from chapter 2 will be used for chapter 3. Be sure to keep up with it! Any corrections for Chapter 2 tests are due Tuesday without exception.

Math homework due Tuesday for 7th graders includes lessons 22-24 even numbers. 6th graders are expected to complete investigation 2, all problems.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Chapter 3 section 1 Notes

Mathematics and more...

This Thursday we will have another math test. It will cover lessons 11-20. Be sure to study. Lessons 19 through 21 will be due on Thursday as well. All are even numbers.

For science, we took our Chapter 2 test over atomic bonds. Those will be returned on Thursday. Grades below 70 should be signed, corrected, and returned by next Tuesday. Grades of 70-79 may be corrected for partial credit, but do not require a parents signature. Chapter Choices were due Tuesday and are now late. Please turn those in to avoid a zero.

Have a great week!

Up Next, Chapter 2!

What a busy week we have had! We wrapped up chapter 2 in science, covering covalent bonds and ionic bonds. We tried an experiment comparing the conductivity of an ionic solution (salt water) and that of covalent solutions (baking soda, vinegar, and water). The ionic solution was the only one that would conduct electricity to light the light bulb. We discussed crystalline structures of minerals and molecular compounds and ionic compounds. So up next, Ch 2 test.

Remember, you are required to complete your chapter assignments and return them Tuesday. The list of acceptable assignments was passed out on Tuesday. Based on your previous test grade, you will be required to complete these assignments. If you made an 80 or above on your last test, you are only required to complete 1 chapter assignment and 1 review. If you made between a 70 and 80, you are required to complete 2 chapter assignments and 1 review. If you made less than a 70, you will be required to complete either 3 assignments and 1 review or 2 assignments and 2 reviews. If you have not already completed the salt water crystal experiment on page 68 called Shape Up!, be sure to do so. You are to copy and complete the data chart and answer the analyze and conclude section questions. I know this sounds like a lot, but most of the assignments are short. Hopefully you have kept up with your chapter assignments throughout the chapter, and won't have to cram. Study Study Study!!!

Chapter 2-3 Notes

As for math, 6th graders are required to turn in lessons 17-18 even and lesson 19 odd on Tuesday. 7th graders are required to turn in lessons 17-18 even on Tuesday. 7th graders will be given time to complete lesson 19 on Tuesday. We will also be having a math test on Thursday covering lessons 11-20.

Happy Studying!

Math, Science, and more...

This week we are diving further into fractions, reciprocals, measurement, and more. The 7th graders covered lessons 15 and 16 today. Lesson 14 , & Lessons 15 & 16 even numbers are due Thursday. 6th grade covered lessons 15 through 17. Lessons 15 & 16 are due Thursday. You will have time in class on Thursday to complete lesson 17.

In science we have been discussing atomic, ionic, and chemical bonding. We discussed chapter 2, section 2 over covalent, polar, and nonpolar bonds today. Be sure to keep up with your science work. Remember, based on your previous test grade, you will need to choose your assignment from the "Chapter Choice" page. These assignments will be due on the day of your test- DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE!!! Manage your time wisely so you are not swamped with a ton of work! I plan on passing out the chapter review on Thursday, which you will have the choice of completing or choosing the book's chapter review.

Chapter 2, section 2 notes

Have a good week!

Half way there!

Half of the first six weeks is over- wow has it flow by! Therefore, look for progress reports to go out tomorrow. Please sign and return them by Monday. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to e-mail me or call. I am usually quick about returning e-mails, and will try to return calls promptly.

Math homework this weekend includes Lessons 12-14 for 7th grade and Lessons 13-14 for 6th grade. Don't forget to staple them in order and turn them in on Tuesday.

We began discussing chemical bonds in science today, including valence electrons, ions, and more. I passed out the notes but they may also be found here:

Chapter 2-1 Atomic and Ionic Bonds Notes

Have a great labor day weekend!

Math Up Next!

Don't forget!!! Tomorrow is your math test! Study lessons 1 through 10 in your book. Be sure to remember the commutative, associative, identity, and inverse properties. Judging by your math work, study hard!!!

As for your science tests, you will need to correct ALL questions for partial credit if you received a failing grade. You are given the opportunity to correct your test if you received if you received a C, but are REQUIRED to correct it if you failed.

Math homework will also be due tomorrow. 6th grade should turn in lessons 10-12 and 7th grade should turn in lessons 10 & 11. Remember, late work receives a 10 point deduction and is only accepted up to 1 week late.

Parents, look for progress reports to go out Friday.

Happy studying!

Lots of Goings On...

We have had lots happening this week and more next week. Today we conducted a science experiment comparing the physical and chemical properties of copper and lead (graphite). We found that copper (further to the left on the periodic table) conducted both electricity and heat better than lead. We also discussed the maleability, color, and brittleness of the substances.

Science reviews can be found on your desk on Friday morning. This review will be due on Tuesday. I HIGHLY suggest you study the review- it is your key to success on the test. The test will have multiple choice, true/false, fill in the blank, short answer, and a few essay questions.

Remember to complete the Size of an Atom page, including the chart, circles, graph, and questions if you did not complete it in class. You will need a ruler and a compass to complete it.

Don't forget about math homework either- 6th graders need to complete Lessons 7-9 evens. 7th graders should complete Lessons 7-8 evens. 7th graders will be given time to work on lesson 9 on Tuesday. Be aware that your math test is scheduled for Thursday.

Have a great weekend and study hard!

Test Approaching!

Homework due this Thursday for Math included lessons 5 & 6 2-30 even. Please staple them in order and return them tomorrow. Science homework this week was to begin the comparing atom sizes, which we will complete tomorrow.

Tomorrow we will cover lessons 7-9 in math. Homework will be 2-30 even. We have concluded our 1st science chapter, and will spend tomorrow reviewing and conducting experiments. Science homework will be Chapter 1 Science Review. All homework will be due on Tuesday, along with Chapter 1 Science Test. Please study the review closely, as the majority of the test will be taken from the review.

Have a great week and Happy studying!!!

Chapter 1 Section 4 Notes

Starting Strong!

As our first full week of school comes to an end, we are going strong! In math today the class discussed how to find a missing value for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. The 7th graders also discussed arithmetic sequences and geometric sequences. Homework due Tuesday is to complete lessons 3 & 4, 2-30 evens only.

In science we continued our discussion of the periodic table of elements, including alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals, metalloids, and nonmetals. We discussed the increasing reactivity of the elements from the right to the left of the table. The structure of an atom includes protons, electrons, and neutrons. We viewed slides of the atomic structure and discussed atomic weight and numbers. Next week we will finish up our first chemistry chapter by discussion section 4, reviewing the chapter, and conducting an experiment over the conductivity of metals. There is no science homework this week.

Have a wonderful weekend!



Ch 1-2 Notes

Ch 1-3 Notes

Welcome back!

Welcome back! It's so good to see all the new and familiar faces this year. Our class has nearly doubled in size, and we are thrilled to begin another year of math and science. This week we are digging right in to our textbooks. In math, we are focusing on the commutative and associative properties of addition and multiplication, as well as the additive identity property and the multiplicative identity property. Tuesday's assignment is to complete lessons 1 & 2, numbers 1-29, odd numbers only. Be ready on Thursday with your assignment, notes, book, and math journal!



In science we have started off with a bang! We are discussing the properties of matter- both physical and chemical. We are taking a look at the elements and the periodic table, comparing molecules, atoms, mixtures, and compounds, and their properties. It promises to be an interesting chapter. The notes for Chapter 1, section 1 are attached here. Be sure to have read Chapter 1, section 2 in your book. It's only a few pages long. We will begin discussing the chapter on Thursday, as well as beginning section 3.

If you haven't returned your signed acknowledgements, emergency contact cards, etc., please do so ASAP.



Looking forward to a great week!

The End is in sight!

Only 2 more weeks of school! The end is in sight, and everything is winding down. Soo.....

Don't forget...

Science planet project is due Thursday. See previous post for criteria.

Science Chapter 16 studyguide is due Thursday. Hopefully you have been working on this.

Science Chapter 16 Review will be due Thursday.

Science Chapter 16 Test will also be Thursday.

Hopefully you have been diligent in working on these assignments throughout the last few weeks.

Please be sure to return your field trip permission forms. They are due this week. We will be visiting the George Bush Library to see their space exhibit on Tuesday, May 19th. If any parents are available, we would appreciate the additional assistance.

If you are involved in the inquiry class, be sure to have your projects ready this week as well.

Have a super week!

Astronomy Science Project

Our final chapter for science this year is all about the solar system. We are planning a trip to the George Bush library to see their space exhibit on the 19th. If anyone is willing to assist, please let me know.

As for the science project, each student has chosen a planet or other item from the solar system. Students are to research important information pertaining to their selected planet and create a report for the class. The information should include distance from the sun, size, any moons or rings and their names, temperature, composition, and length of 1 year in days. Any other information that is special to your planet should also be included. You may make a model, draw a diagram, create a poster, or any other visual you wish.

Don't forget to bring your labeled drawing of the sun and its atmospheric layers on Tuesday.

Have a great weekend!

Science Test Tomorrow!

Tomorrow wraps up Chapter 13- it has been a fast and furious chapter about the atmosphere. Remember, the studyguide is bonus this time, but the review is due tomorrow. You also have a math page due tomorrow, the General Review.

The science notes for the chapter are as follows:

Chapter 13 Notes

Section 1: The Air Around You

I. Importance of the Atmosphere
A. Weather- the condition of Earth’s atmosphere at a particular time and place
B. Atmosphere- layer of gases that surrounds the planet
1. Makes conditions on Earth suitable for living things
2. Contains oxygen and other gases
3. Traps energy from the sun to keep Earth warm
4. Protects from sun’s radiation
5. Prevents Earth from being hit by meteoroids
II. Composition of the Atmosphere
A. Nitrogen
B. Oxygen
1. Organisms use oxygen from the air
2. Ozone- form of oxygen that has 3 oxygen atoms in each molecule
C. Carbon dioxide
1. Plants must have CO2
2. Burned fuels give off CO2
D. Water vapor
1. Water in the form of a gas
2. Clouds form when water vapor condenses
E. Other gases
F. Particles of liquids and solids
1. Dust
2. Smoke
3. Salt
4. Other chemicals

Section 2: Air Quality

I. Air Pollution
A. Pollutants- harmful substances in the air, water, or soil
B. Most pollution is the result of burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, gasoline, and diesel
II. Particles
A. Natural Sources
1. Water vapor
2. Salt
3. Mold and pollen
4. Dust, soot
5. Dust & ashes
B. Human Activities
1. Burning fuels releases soot
2. Soil particles
III. Smog
A. Particles in coal smoke combine with water droplets in air
B. Photochemical smog- The nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, and other air pollutants then react with one another in the presence of sunlight to form a mix of ozone and other chemicals
IV. Temperature Inversion
A. A layer of warm air prevents the rising air from escaping
B. Polluted air is trapped
C. Smog becomes more concentrated
V. Acid Rain
A. Forms when nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides combine with water in the air to form nitric acid and sulfuric acid
B. Acid rain- rain that contains more acid than normal
VI. Improving Air quality
A. Filters on factories
B. Pollution control devices on cars

Sec. 3: Air Pressure

I. Properties of Air
A. Mass
B. Density- amount of mass in a given volume of air (mass/volume)
C. Pressure- the force pushing on an area or surface
II. Air pressure- the result of the weight of a column of air pushing down on an area
A. Barometer- an instrument used to measure changes in air pressure
1. Mercury barometer- consists of a glass tube open at the bottom end and partially filled with mercury
2. Aneroid barometer- an airtight metal chamber sensitive to changes in air pressure
B. Measured in millibars or inches of mercury
III. Increasing Altitude
A. Altitude- elevation, or distance above sea level
1. Air pressure decreases as altitude increases
2. As air pressure decreases, so does density

Sec. 4: Layers of the Atmosphere

I. Troposphere
A. Lowest layer of the Earth’s atmosphere
B. Conditions are more variable than in other layers
C. Where weather occurs
D. As altitude increases, temperature decreases
II. Stratosphere
A. Extends from the top of the troposphere to about 50 km above Earth
B. Upper stratosphere is warmer than lower stratosphere
C. Upper stratosphere contains ozone
III. Mesosphere
A. Marked by a drop in temperature
B. Middle layer of the atmosphere
C. Coldest part of the atmosphere, temps near -90C
D. Protects surface from being hit by most meteoroids
IV. Thermosphere
A. Outermost layer of the atmosphere
B. No definite outer limit
C. Very hot, up to 1800 C
D. No heat felt; not enough molecules
E. Layers
1. Ionosphere- lower layer of the thermosphere
a. Aurora borealis- northern lights
2. Exosphere- outer layer of the thermosphere where satellites orbit

Happy studying!

Science Update! Math Test

This week we finished up our chapter on the water cycle and started a new chapter on the atmosphere. I am including the notes we covered in class. This will be a quick chapter, and then we are on to the solar system.

As for math, we are having a test on Tuesday. Be sure to study!

Science notes:

Chapter 13 Notes

Section 1: The Air Around You

I. Importance of the Atmosphere
A. Weather- the condition of Earth’s atmosphere at a particular time and place
B. Atmosphere- layer of gases that surrounds the planet
1. Makes conditions on Earth suitable for living things
2. Contains oxygen and other gases
3. Traps energy from the sun to keep Earth warm
4. Protects from sun’s radiation
5. Prevents Earth from being hit by meteoroids
II. Composition of the Atmosphere
A. Nitrogen
B. Oxygen
1. Organisms use oxygen from the air
2. Ozone- form of oxygen that has 3 oxygen atoms in each molecule
C. Carbon dioxide
1. Plants must have CO2
2. Burned fuels give off CO2
D. Water vapor
1. Water in the form of a gas
2. Clouds form when water vapor condenses
E. Other gases
F. Particles of liquids and solids
1. Dust
2. Smoke
3. Salt
4. Other chemicals

Section 2: Air Quality

I. Air Pollution
A. Pollutants- harmful substances in the air, water, or soil
B. Most pollution is the result of burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, gasoline, and diesel
II. Particles
A. Natural Sources
1. Water vapor
2. Salt
3. Mold and pollen
4. Dust, soot
5. Dust & ashes
B. Human Activities
1. Burning fuels releases soot
2. Soil particles
III. Smog
A. Particles in coal smoke combine with water droplets in air
B. Photochemical smog- The nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, and other air pollutants then react with one another in the presence of sunlight to form a mix of ozone and other chemicals
IV. Temperature Inversion
A. A layer of warm air prevents the rising air from escaping
B. Polluted air is trapped
C. Smog becomes more concentrated
V. Acid Rain
A. Forms when nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides combine with water in the air to form nitric acid and sulfuric acid
B. Acid rain- rain that contains more acid than normal
VI. Improving Air quality
A. Filters on factories
B. Pollution control devices on cars

Have a great weekend!

End of 5th Six Weeks is coming!

As the end of the 5th 6 weeks draws near, all outstanding work is overdue! I need anyone who still owes me any work to turn it in ASAP to receive a grade higher than 0.

We will also be having a math test on Tuesday of next week. This test will include:


1. adding, subtracting & multiplying compound measures


2. finding a % of a number


3. solving equations for x (3x= 12 what is x?)


4. degrees in a polygon or angle


5. area, perimeter, and circumference of circles, ssquares, triangles, rectangles, and parallelograms


6. order of operations


7. adding decimals


8. exponents


9. proportions


10. multiplying, adding, subtracting, and dividing decimals


11. adding, subtracting and dividing fractions





Have a super weekend!

Testing Week!

This week is SAT testing week. So far we are doing great! Everyone is working hard and doing well. Because of testing, our regular week is on hold. We will continue to work on a little science and math, but it will be limited to time available. Next Tuesday we will have a test however in math.

Happy testing!

Back in the swing of things!

Now that spring break is over, it is time to get back in the swing of things for the final homestretch! Don't forget that your studyguide and your chapter 11 review are due tomorrow. Please have progress reports signed and returned for tomorrow as well.

Chapter 11 test is tomorrow! Don't forget to study your notes, studyguide, and especially your review. If you know the info on the review, you should do great!!!

Happy studying!

Chapter 11 Notes

Chapter 11 Notes

Sec. I: Plate Tectonics

I. Earth’s Moving Plates
A. plates- large pieces of rock that make-up the lithosphere
B. plates move centimeters a year
C. Pangea- supercontinent made up of all continents fit together
II. Theory of Plate Tectonics
A. Plates are in constant , slow motion
B. plates form and move
C. plates interact, produce volcanoes, mountain ranges, earthquakes, and features
of the ocean floor
D. plates move due to movement of material in the upper mantle
III. Effects of Plate Movement
A. plate boundaries- cracks between the plates of the lithosphere
1. plates slide past each other
2. plates pull apart
3. plates move together

Sec. II: Earth’s Crust in Motion

I. Stress in the Crust
A. Earthquakes- the shaking and trembling results from the movement of
rock beneath Earth’s surface
B. Stress- a force that acts on rock to change its shape or volume; adds energy to
rock
II. Types of Stress
A. Shearing- stress that pushes a mass or rock in two opposite directions
B. Tension- stress force that pulls on the crust, stretching rock so that it becomes
thinner in the middle
C. compression- stress force that squeezes rock until it folds or breaks
D. Stress works over millions of years
E. deformation- any change in the volume or shape of Earth’s crust
III. Kinds of Faults
A. fault- a break in the curst where slabs of crust slip past each other
1. rocks on either side move up or down or sideways
2. occur along plate boundaries, where forces of plate motion compress,
pull, or shear the crust so much it breaks
B. Strike-slip Faults
1. rocks on either side of the fault slip past each other sideways with little
up or down motion
2. transform boundary- strike-slip fault that forms the boundary between 2
plates
3. San Andreas Fault (California)
C. Normal Faults
1. fault is at an angle, so one block of rock lies above the fault, while the
other block lies below the fault
2. hanging wall- half of the fault that lies above
3. footwall- half of the fault that lies below
4. Sandia Mountains, NM
D. Reverse Faults
1. produced by compression forces
2. same structure as a normal fault, but the blocks move in the opposite
direction
3. Appalachian Mountains
IV. Friction Along Faults
A. Friction- the force that opposes the motion of one surface as it moves across another surface
B. moderate friction, sides of the fault jam together, produce small earthquakes
C. high friction, rocks lock together and do not move, produce large earthquakes
D. earthquakes release the stress and plates slide past each other
V. Mountain Building and Uplift
A. Mountains formed by faulting
1. two plates move away from each other
2. tension forces create many normal faults
3. when two of these normal faults form parallel to each other, a block of
rock is left lying between them
4. as the hanging wall of each normal fault slips downward, the block in
between moves upward
5. When a block of rock lying between two normal faults slides
downward, a valley forms
B. Mountains Formed by Folding
1. plate movement causes the crust to fold
2. folds- bends in rock that form when compression shortens and thickens
part of earth’s crust
C. Anticlines and Synclines
1. anticline- a fold in rock that bends upward into an arch
2. syncline- a fold in rock that bends downward in the middle to form a
bowl
3. found where compression forces have folded the crust
4. Black Hills
D. Plateaus
1. uplift can raise plateaus
2. plateau- a large area of flat land elevated high above sea level
3. Colorado plateau

Sec. 3: Measuring Earthquakes

I. Earthquakes
A. focus- point beneath Earth’s surface where rock that is under stress breaks,
triggering and earthquake
B. epicenter- the point on the surface cirectly above the focus
II. Seismic Waves
A. Carry the energy of an earthquake away from the focus, through Earth’s
interior, and across the surface
B. Energy is greatest at the epicenter
C. Categories
1. P waves
a. comes from focus
b. earthquake waves that can compress and expand the ground like
an accordion
c. first waves to arrive
d. can move through both solids and liquids
2. S waves
a. occur after P waves
b. earthquake waves that vibrate from side to side as well as up and
down
c. shake the ground back and forth
d. can not move through liquid
3. surface waves
a. when p waves and s waves reach the surface, some are
transformed into surface waves
b. move more slowly than p & s waves
III. Seismograph
A. records and measures the vibrations of seismic waves
B. records the ground movements caused by seismic waves
IV. Measuring Earthquakes
A. Magnitude- a measurement of earthquake strength based on seismic waves and
movement along faults
B. Mercalli Scale- rates earthquakes according to their intensity
C. Richter Scale- rating of the size of seismic waves as measured by a particular
type of mechanical seismograph
D. Moment Magnitude Scale
1. rating system that estimates the total energy released by an earthquake
2. can be used to rate earthquakes of all sizes, near or far
V. Locating the Epicenter
A. scientists measure the difference between the arrival times of P & S waves to determine epicenter
B. Farther away an earthquake is, greater the time between arrival of P & S waves

Sec. 4: Volcanic Activity

I. How Magma Reaches Earth’s Surface
A. Magma rises because it is less dense than surrounding solid material
B. Volcanic Eruptions
1. gases are trapped in magma under pressure
2. as magma rises, pressure is released
3. volcano erupts when an opening develops in weak rock on the surface
4. gases dissolved in magma rush out, carrying magma with them
II. Inside a Volcano
A. Magma chamber- pocket where magma collects beneath a volcano
B. Pipe- a long tube in the ground that connects the magma chamber to Earth’s
surface
C. Vent- opening in a volcano through which molten rock and gas leave
D. Lava flow- area covered by lava as it pours out of a vent
E. Crater- a bowl-shaped area that may form at the top of a volcano around the
volcano’s central vent
III. Characteristics of Magma
A. Temperature- determines if it is thick of fluid (hotter=more fluid)
B. Silica
1. material that is formed from the elements oxygen and silicon
2. determines how easily magma flows (more silica= thicker magma)
3. more silica= lighter color
IV. Types of Volcanic Eruptions
A. Silica content of magma determines if volcanic eruption is quiet or explosive
B. Quiet eruptions
1. magma flows easily
2. Lava types
a. Pahoehoe- fast moving, hot
b. aa- cooler and slower moving
C. Explosive eruptions
1. magma is thick and sticky
2. slowly builds up in volcano’s pipe, like a cork
3. trapped gas builds up pressure until it explodes
4. pyroclastic flow- occurs when an explosive eruption hurls out ash,
cinders, and bombs as well as gases
V. Stages of a Volcano
A. active- live volcano is one that is erupting or has show signs that it mnay erupt
in the near future
B. dormant- sleeping volcano
C. extinct- dead volcano unlikely to erupt again
VI. Monitoring Volcanoes
A. monitor magnetic field
B. monitor water level in a volcano’s crater lake
C. monitor temp. of water near surface
D. monitor the many small earthquakes in area around volcano
VII. Other Volcanic Activity
A. Hot springs- groundwater heated by a nearby body of magma collects in a pool
B. Geysers- a fountain of water and steam that erupts from the ground
C. geothermal energy- reliable energy source provided by water heated by
magma
VIII. Volcano Hazards
A. Quiet eruption- lava flows pour from vents, setting fire to and burying everything in their path.
B. Explosive eruption- volcano belches out hot, burning clouds of volcanic gas, ash, cinders, and bombs

Section 5: Volcanic Landforms

I. Landforms from Magma
A. Volcanic necks- forms when magma hardens in a volcano’s pipe
B. dikes- magma that forces itself across rock layers & hardens
C. sills- forms when magma squeezes between layers of rock
D. batholiths- large rock masses formed when a large body of magma cools inside
the crust
E. dome mountains- forms when rising magma is blocked by horizontal layers of
rock
II. Landforms from Lava and Ash
A. Shield Volcanoes- thin layers of lava pour out of a vent and harden on top of
previous layers to build a wide, sloping mountain
B. Cinder Cone Volcanoes- a steep, cone-shaped hill or mountain
C. Composite volcanoes- tall, cone-shaped mountains in which layers of lava
alternate with layers of ash
D. Lava Plateaus- high, level areas formed from lava eruptions
E. Calderas- huge hole left by the collapse of a volcanic mountain
III. Soils from Lava and Ash
A. soil is initially barren
B. over time, soil forms
C. soil becomes fertile

Test Tuesday!!! Progress reports coming!!! Homework due!!!

It's time for yet another math test this Tuesday! I will be out of town, so Mrs. Moak will be administering the exam. Be sure to check all your work and be careful!!!

Homework is pp 251-252 Review of Equations. This is due Tuesday. Any work not finished in class on Tuesday is due Thursday when I return.

Be sure to be working on your ch.11 science studyguide as well. The test is coming soon!

Progress reports will also go out next week. Be sure to return them the following math/science class.

Test 14 Topics:

1. determine what percent a number is of another (10 is what percent of 12)

2. determine the measurement of angles of an iscosceles triangle

3. how many degrees in a circle, triangle

4. what is a protractor

5. what is a compass

6. what is a diameter

7. what is a radius

8. how many degrees in a right angle

9. what is an acute angle, obtuse angle, straight angle

10. what is an equilateral triangle

11. know the formulas for the area of a circle, circumference of a circle, perimeter of all polygons, area of all polygons

12. find the areas of circles, rectangles, squares, triangles

13. find the circumference of a circle

14. find the perimeter of polygons

15. order of operations

16. exponents

17. dividing by fractions

18. find the base of a percentage (27 is 39% of what number?)

19. adding, subtracting, and multiplying fractions

5th grade will have an exam on the following:

1. subtracting decimals

2. adding & subtracting mixed numbers

3. 3 digit multiplication

4. long division

5. lowest common denominator

6. find missing term (1/2=3/?)

7. reduce to lowest terms

8. change improper fractions to mixed numbers

9. convert measures

Happy studying and have a great weekend!!!

Up next- Science Test!

It seems like we just had a science test- and we did two weeks ago! Because this was a short and sweet chapter, another test is up again on Thursday. Therefore, the studyguide for Chapter 10 on Rocks and the chapter review will be due on Thursday. Be sure to study the review questions- if you know the review, you will be ready for the test.

Don't forget the PSIA test is this Saturday! We will spend some time on Thursday reviewing and studying for the math and science exams. If you are not taking either of these exams, please bring material to study for any of the PSIA exams you are taking. Best of luck!

The science notes for this chapter are as follows:

Chapter 10 Notes

Sec. 1: Inside Earth

I. Earth’s exterior
A. Rock- the material that makes up Earth’s hard outer surface
B. crust- sold rock layer that surrounds Earth’s surface
II. Science of Geology
A. Geology- study of planet Earth, including Earth’s surface and interior
B. Geologists- scientists who study Earth and the processes that have shaped Earth over time.
1. study physical conditions, such as temperature and pressure, inside earth
2. Study the forces inside Earth that affect the surface
C. Seismic waves- vibrations that travel through Earth every time an earthquake shakes the ground
III. Earth’s Interior
A. Inner Core- sphere of hot, solid metal (pressure)
B. Outer Core- liquid; extremely hot
C. Mantle- thick layer surrounding the core
D. Lithosphere- rigid outer covering of Earth
1. crust
2. uppermost part of the mantle
E. Temperature and pressure increase with depth
F. Magnetic Field

Sec. 2: Minerals

I. Minerals
A. Solid- definite volume and shape
B. inorganic material- not from living things
C. Forms naturally on or beneath Earth’s surface
D. Crystal structure- repeating pattern of a mineral’s atoms
E. Definite Chemical Composition
II. Identifying Minerals
A. Properties
1. hardness
a. Mohs Hardness scale
b. scratch test
2. color
3. streak- color of a minerals powder
4. luster- the way a mineral reflects light from its surface
5. cleavage- minerals split apart easily along flat surfaces
6. fracture- minerals form irregular surfaces when they break apart
7. density- how much mass in a given volume
8. other properties
a. magnetism
b. carbon
c. fluorescent
d. electrical properties
III. How Minerals Form
A. Form when molten material cools and hardens inside Earth or on the surface
1. magma- molten material inside Earth
2. lava- molten material that reaches the surface of the Earth
B. Form when materials dissolved in water come out of solution
1. veins-minerals that form solutions often occur underground in narrow bands
IV. How People Use Minerals
A. Gemstone- mineral that is valued for its beautiful color, hardness, and glassy luster
B. medicines
C. building materials
D. electronics
E. chemicals

Sec. 3: Rocks and the Rock Cycle

I. Building Blocks of the Crust
A. rock- solid material made up of one or more minerals or other substances, incluing the remains of one-living things
B. Common minerals- rock forming minerals
II. Classifying rock
A. color- depends on the minerals that make up the rock
B. texture-
1. the size, shape, and arrangement of a rock’s grains
2. grain- one of the particles that make up a rock
a. course grain texture- large grains
b. fine-grain texture- small grains
C. composition- viewed thru a thin section- slice of rock made by cutting and grinding a rock
D. how it is formed
1. igneous
2. sedimentary
3. metamorphic
III. Igneous Rock
A. Form when magma or lava cools and hardens
B. Intrusive rock- igneous rock formed from magma beneath the surface
C. Extrusive rock- igneous rock forms from lava on the surface
IV. Sedimentary Rock
A. Forms when particles of rock and other materials are pressed and stuck together
B. sediment- particles of rock or material from living things
C. Erosion- moves sediment from place to place
1. wind
2. water
3. ice
D. deposition- occurs when water slows down or stops moving
1. layers of sediment build up
2. compaction- layers of sediment are squeezed together
3. cementation- sediment is glued together
E. Types of sedimentary rock
1. clastic rock- pieces of rock that have been pressed and stuck together
2. organic rock- rock formed from remains of plants and animals
3. chemical rock- dissolved minerals come out of solution and form crystals
V. Metamorphic Rock
A. heat and great pressure deep beneath Earth’s surface can change rock to metamorphic rock
B. texture changes
VI. The Rock Cycle
A. Forces inside Earth and at the surface produce a rock cycle that builds, destroys, and changes the rocks in the crust
B. Rock cycle- a series of processes on and beneath Earth’s surface that slowly change rocks from one kind to another

Happy studying!

Test Tuesday!

This Tuesday we will have a math test over the following concepts:

1. calculating total cost with sales tax

2. adding, multiplying, dividing and subtracting decimals

3. multiplying and dividing fractions

4. finding the percent of a number (37% of 50)

5. exponents

6. long division

7. finding the base of a percentage (17 is 23% of what number)

8. finding the percentage (89 is what percent of 179)

9. finding circumference of a circle

10. finding area of a circle

11. finding area of a rectangle, square, triangle, parallelogram

12. constructing circles with a given diameter or radius

13. measuring degrees in an angle

We will also have another science test on Thursdsay covering Chapter 10, the Earth. The studyguide and Chapter 10 Review will be due on Thursday. Don't forget to study!

Thanks so much for everyone's help with the Valentine's party- it was much appreciated.

Please don't forget to keep Mrs. Warner in your prayers as she recovers from her ailments.

Have a great weekend!

Science Test Next! And Valentine's Party!

As the six weeks comes to a close, we have one more test in science to wrap up. This Thursday we will conclude Chapter 9 with our exam. The review and the studyguide will also be due for Ch. 9. Please remember to bring them to class. Be sure to study the review- it will help you immensely on the test!

And if you didn't turn in pp 217-218 Circle review on Tuesday, that will also be due.

This Thursday we will also be having a Valentine's party. Pizza will be provided for lunch. Please e-mail me and let me know if you would like to volunteer to bring anything. We will need drinks, plasticware, paper goods, desserts, and anything else you might think of.

Here are the notes for Ch. 9 science, and happy studying!!!

Sec. 1: Energy and Fossil Fuels

I. Energy Transformation - a change from one form of energy to another; energy conversion
II. Fuels and Energy
A. fuel- a substance that provides a form of energy- such as heat, light, electricity, or motion- as the result of a chemical change
B. combustion- the process of burning a fuel to release stored chemical energy
C. production of electricity
1. energy stored in fuels generate electricity
2. power plants to homes
a. thermal energy produced by burning fuel boils water, creates steam
b. mechanical energy of steam turns blades of turbine
c. turbine is connected to generator
d. generator consists of powerful magnets surrounded by coils of copper wire
e. as shaft rotates, magnets turn inside wire coil, producing electric current
f. current flows thru power lines to homes
III. Energy transformation in the home
A. water heaters
1. electric heater transforms electrical energy into thermal energy, heating water
2. natural gas heater transforms stored chemical energy of fuel into thermal energy, heating water
B. cooling systems
1. heat flows from a warm to cold
2. refrigerator
a. fridge compressor squeezes refrigerant particles and causes the pressure and temp to rise
b. gas loses thermal energy, becomes liquid
c. liquid then evaporates and cools
d. cold gas is pumped through tubes in fridge and absorbs thermal energy from inside
e. gas returns to compressor to repeat cycle
3. a/c works the same way as fridge
IV. Fossil Fuels
A. fossil fuels- energy rich substances formed from the remains of once-living organisms.
B. Three types
1. oil
2. natural gas
3. coal
C. hydrocarbons- energy rich chemical compounds that contain carbon and hydrogen atoms
1. combustion- carbon and hydrogen combine with oxygen to form CO2 and H2O to release heat and light energy
2. fossil fuels have more hydrocarbons than other fuels
D. nonrenewable resources- fossil fuels take hundreds of millions of year to form
V. Oil
A. thick, black, liquid fossil fuel
B. petroleum- oil
1. 1/3 of energy produced
2. fuels most transportation
3. environmental effects
a. air pollution
b. oil spills
c. groundwater polluted
C. Oil deposits
1. Finding oil difficult due to deep location
2. Use sound waves to find oil
D. Refining oil
1. crude oil pumped from ground
2. refinery- crude oil is separated into fuel and other products by heating
3. petrochemicals-compounds that are made from oil
a. plastics
b. paints
c. medicines
d. cosmetics
VI. Natural Gas
A. Mixture of methane and other gases
B. produces large amounts of energy, but fewer pollutants
C. explosive
D. odorless; smell is added
VII. Coal
A. solid fossil fuel formed from plant remains
B. Coal mining
C. reserves- known deposits of coal that can be obtained using current technology
D. Coal as energy source
1. most plentiful fossil fuel in US
2. increases erosion
3. run-off can cause water pollution
4. air pollution

Sec. 2: Renewable sources of Energy
I. Renewable resources- a resource that is naturally produced and easily replaced in a short amount of time
II. Solar Energy
A. energy from the sun
B. Sun provides energy as light and heat
C. most renewable energy resource
D. inexhaustible resource- exists in such large supply that it can be considered almost limitless
E. none at night
III. Solar Technology
A. Solar plants- uses giant mirrors to focus sun rays to heat water to create steam
B. Solar cells- converts solar energy into electricity
C. Solar heating systems
1. passive- converts sunlight into thermal energy without pumps or fans
2. active- captures sun’s energy, uses fans and pumps to distribute heat
IV. Other sources of renewable energy
A. Water
1. flowing water can turn a turbine and create electricity
2. hydroelectric power- electricity produced by flowing water
B. biomass materials- fuels made from things that were once alive; wood
C. Wind
1. turns turbine to generate electricity
2. free; pollutant free
D. earth’s interior- geothermal energy
1. magma heats underground water, steam
2. unlimited source of cheap energy
E. hydrogen
1. burns cleanly; water byproduct
2. inexhaustible resource
3. combined w/ water; takes too much energy to obtain

Sec. 3: Nuclear Energy

I. Fission Reactions
A. nucleus- central core of an atom that contains protons and neutrons
B. tremendous amount of energy
C. convert matter to energy
D. fission- the splitting of an atom’s nucleus into two smaller nuclei
1. nucleus of large atom is shot with neutron at high speed
2. nucleus splits apart into 2 smaller nuclei and 2 or more neutrons
3. cycle repeats
4. if not controlled, causes huge explosion
5. atomic bomb
6. energy released as heat
II. Nuclear Power Plants
A. heat released from reactions used to change water to steam
B. steam turns blades of turbine to generate electricity
C. reactor vessel- the section of a nuclear reactor where nuclear fission occurs
1. fuel rods- rods of uranium-235
2. control rods- rods made of metal cadmium between fuel rods used to control reaction
D. Heat exchanger
1. heat removed from reactor vessel by liquid pumped thru reactor
2. liquid boils water; produces steam to run generator
III. Risks of Nuclear Fission
A. meltdown- fuel rods generate so much heat they melt
B. explosions
C. radioactive contamination
D. disposal of radioactive wastes problematic
E. Chernobyl
IV. Fusion
A. combining of 2 atomic nuclei to produce a single larger nucleus
B. can produce much more energy
C. water is fuel
D. high temperature makes it difficult

Sec. 4: Energy Conservation
I. Conservation and efficiency
A. Search for new sources of energy
B. Conserve current fuels to last longer
C. energy conservation- reducing energy use
D. efficiency- percentage of energy that is actually used to perform work
E. Lighting
1. incandescent lights- wasteful
2. compact fluorescent bulb- more efficient
F. insulation- layer of material that helps block the transfer of heat between air inside and outside a building
1. fiberglass insulation-layer of trapped air helps keep building from losing/gaining heat from outside
2. insulated windows
G. Transportation conservation
1. carpooling
2. mass transit
II. What you can do
A. use heater & a/c less
B. use less electricity
C. turn off lights/tv when not in room
D. mass transit/ ride bike or walk
E. recycle

Test for Tuesday!

This Tuesday we will all be taking a math test. For the 6th graders, the following will be tested:

1. percent of a number

2. area of a square

3. relationship between radius and diameter

4. circumference

5. conversions

6. addition, subtraction of decimals

7. addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of fractions

8. find the given percent of a number (what is 73% of 98)

9. find the area of a triangle, square, parallelogram, rectangle

Don't forget your homework- pp. 215 & 216.

We will be finishing up Chapter 9 on Tuesday and will have our test on Thursday as well. Be sure you have completed your studyguide and review by Thursday for the test.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Math Test Hints, progress reports, and homework

Progress reports will go out tomorrow. Please sign and return these to my box by Friday.

Homework due tomorrow was "More work with a compass" page. Be sure to bring your compass, protractor, and ruler to class. We will be constructing circles, measuring angles, finding circumference and area of a circle. It is very important you bring all your math supplies!

Tomorrow we are having a math test covering the following:

1. calculating total cost with sales tax

2. area of a rectangle

3. adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing decimals

4. finding a percentage of a number

5. adding and subtracting mixed number fractions

6. multliplying and dividing mixed number fractions

7. exponents

8. conversions

9. formulas for area of a square, rectangle, and triangle

10. formulas for perimeter of a square and parallelogram

11. finding perimeter of a rectangle, square, and parallelogram

12. finding area of a rectangle, square, parallelogram, and triangle

13. finding percents for a circle graph

14. writing percents as a decimal

15. finding a fraction of a number (like 6/7 of 14)

16. finding a percentage of a number (like what percent is 12 of 36)

17. finding the percent of increase

For 5th grade math, your quiz will consist of:

1. roman numberals

2. conversions of time

3. mixed numbers

4. division

5. finding the average of 3 numbers

6. what is a denominator

7. finding the sum of two numbers

8. writing numbers using digits from words (ie. write ten thousand numerically)

9. conversions of capacity

10. adding fractions with like denominators

11. subtracting fractions with like denominators

12. writing remainders as a fraction

Happy studying!!!

Test week!

Next week we start off with our Chapter 7 science test over animals. Be sure to complete your science review, studyguide, and animal comparison chart. They are all due on Tuesday. Don't forget to study for your science test as well, it is Tuesday. If you know everything on the review, you should do great!

We will also continue our study of geometry this week with circles. We will learn about diameters, radii, area, and circumferences of circles. Do NOT forget to bring your compass and protractor to class. We will be constructing circles.

This week we will also have a math test on Thursday. I will post more info about it later.

Have a great weekend and don't forget to study!!!

Here are the science notes:

Chapter 7 Notes: Animals

Sec. 1: What is an Animal?
I. Characteristics of Animals
A. Multi-cellular
B. Heterotrophs
C. Most Reproduce Sexually
1. Sperm cell and female egg cell unite to form zygote
2. Some reproduce asexually- hydra (budding)
D. Structure and Function in Animals
1. Adaptation- a characteristic that helps an organism survive in its environment and reproduce
2. Many animal body structures are adaptations that enable the animal to perform a function
3. Adaptations for Food
a. Herbivores- eat only plants
b. Carnivores- eat only animals
i. Predators- hunt and kill other animals
ii. prey- hunted animals
c. Omnivores- eat both plants and animals
E. Mobile
1. Movements are related to obtaining food
2. Reproducing
3. Escaping danger
F. Respond to stimulus
II. Classification of Animals
A. Vertebrates- animal with a backbone
B. Invertebrates- animal without a backbone
C. Most species lack a backbone

Section 2: Symmetry
I. Symmetry- a balanced arrangement characteristic of all complex animals
II. Bilateral symmetry- line symmetry (2 identical halves)
A. Fish, worms, insects, humans
B. Larger and more complex animals
C. Front end that goes first during movement
D. Move more quickly and efficiently
E. Sense organs
III. Radial symmetry- many lines of symmetry that go through a central point
A. Sea anemones, corals, jellfish
B. No distinct front or back ends
C. All live in water
D. Slow moving
E. Watery environment carries food to them

Sec. 3: Sponges, Cnidarians, Worms, and Mollusks
I. Sponges
A. Pores- openings that are important in functions such as reproducing and obtaining food and oxygen
B. Lack tissues and organs
C. Feed on bacteria and protists in water
II. Cnidarians
A. Jellyfish sea anemones, hydras, and corals
B. Radial symmetry
C. Invertebrates
D. Have long, wavy tentacles arranged around a mouth
1. Carnivores that use stinging cells to capture prey
i. Injects venom to paralyze prey
ii. Tentacles pull prey into mouth
2. Use stinging cells to defend themselves
E. Both sexual and asexual reproduction
F. Shapes
1. Polyp- like a vase with mouth at top
2. Medusa- mouth opening at bottom
G. Specialized tissues for movement
III. Worms
A. Structure
1. Invertebrates
2. Bilateral symmetry
3. Long narrow bodies, no legs
4. Have tissues, organs, and organ systems
B. Function of a brain
1. Nervous system- detects and responds quickly to external stimuli
2. Brain and sense organs
IV. Flatworms
A. Flat bodies
B. Planarians
V. Roundworms
A. Cylindrical body
B. Digestive system with opening at both ends
C. Anus- waste exits from far end
VI. Segmented worms
A. Bodies made up of many linked sections called segments
B. One-way digestive system w/ 2 openings
C. Closed Circulatory system w/ heart, blood vessels, blood
VII. Mollusks
A. Invertebrates
B. Hard outer shells for protection
C. Mantle- thin layer of tissue which covers their internal organs
D. Foot- muscular organ used for movement
E. Gills
F. Radula- flexible ribbon of tiny teeth that scrape food from a surface
G. Octopus, snail

Sec. 4: Arthropods and Echinoderms
I. Arthropods
A. Bilateral symmetry
B. Invertebrate
C. External skeleton (exoskeleton)
1. Protection
2. Molting- process of shedding exoskeleton and growing new, larger ones
D. Segmented body
E. Jointed attachments called appendages
1. Provides flexibility and movement
2. Antennae
F. Insects
1. Butterfly, dragonflies, cockroaches, bees
2. 3 body sections
a. Head- sense organs located
b. Thorax- midsection to which wings and legs are attached
c. Abdomen- contains many of the internal organs
3. 6 legs
4. One pair of antennae
5. One or two pairs of wings
6. Life cycle
a. Tiny, hard-shelled, fertilized eggs
b. Metamorphosis- process in which an animal’s body undergoes dramatic changes in form
i. Egg
ii. Larva- an immature form of an animal
iii. Pupa- insect is enclosed in protective covering
iv. Nymph- egg hatches and resembles adult insect
G. Crustaceans
1. Shrimp, crab
2. Two or 3 body sections
3. Usually 3 pairs of appendages structured for chewing
4. Always have five or more pairs of legs
H. Arachnids
1. Spiders, mites, and ticks
2. Two body sections- head and chest
3. 8 legs, no antennae
I. Centipedes and Millipedes
1. Centipede
a. 1 pair of legs per segment
b. Predators
2. Millipedes
a. 2 pairs of legs per segment
b. Herbivores
J. Echinoderms
1. Sea star, sea urchin sand dollars, sea cucumbers
2. 5 part radial symmetry
3. Invertebrate
4. Lives on ocean floor
5. Spiny endoskeleton made of plates
6. Water vascular system- internal fluid system that functions in movement and food gathering

Sec. 5: Fishes, Amphbians, and Reptiles
I. Vertebrates
A. Vertebrae- many similar bones that form the backbone
B. Endoskeleton- internal skeleton
1. Made up of bones
2. Supports and protects the body
3. Gives the body shape
4. Gives muscles a place to attach
5. Skull and ribs
C. Regulating Body Temp.
1. Ectotherms- animals that have a body temp that is close to to the temp of their environment
2. Endotherms- animals that have a stable body temp. that is typically much warmer than their environment
D. Fishes
1. Ectothermic
2. Vertebrate
3. Lives in water and has fins
4. Have gills and scales
a. Gills contain many blood vessels with a large surface area
b. Enables gills to absorb large amount of oxygen
5. Circulatory system
II. Kinds of Fishes
A. Jawless Fishes
1. Hagfish and lamprey
2. No scales
3. Skeletons made of cartilage- a strong tissue that supports the body, but is flexible and softer than bone
4. Scrape, suck, and stab their food
B. Cartilaginous Fishes
1. Sharks, rays, and skates
2. Skeletons of cartilage
3. Have jaws and fins
C. Bony Fishes
1. Trout, tuna, goldfish
2. Bony skeletons
3. Scales and gills
4. Swim bladder- internal gas-filled sac that helps the fish stabilize its body at different depths
III. Amphibians
A. Ecothermic
B. Vertebrate
C. Spends its early life in water and adult life on land, returning to water to reproduce
D. Respiratory and circulatory system
1. Tadpole single loop circ. System
2. Adult amphibian has double loop circ. System
a. Blood flows from heart to lungs and skin and picks up oxygen
b. Oxygen-rich blood returns to the heart
c. Blood pumped to rest of body, delivering oxygen
d. Blood then returns to heart and lungs for oxygen
3. 3 heart chambers
a. Atria- two upper chambers of the heart that reeive blood
b. Ventricle- lower chamber of the heart which pumps blood out to the oungs and body
E. Metamorphosis
1. Eggs
2. Eggs hatch to larvae that swim and have gills
3. Larvae develop to adult
F. Kinds of Amphibians
1. Frogs and toads
2. Salmanders
IV. Reptiles
A. Ectothermic
B. Vertebrate
C. Has lungs and scaly skin
D. Spend their entire lives on dry land
1. Adaptation of dry, tough, scale-covered skin
2. Kidneys- organs of excretory system
E. Most breathe entirely with lungs
F. Two-loop circ. System
G. 3 chamber heart
H. Eggs with a shell
1. Egg adaptation to live on land
2. Shell and membranes
a. One membrane holds the yolk which provides food
b. Another membrane holds the liquid that surrounds the embryo
I. Kinds of Reptiles
1. Lizards
a. Four legs, usually with claws on the toes
b. Most are carnivores
c. Iguana, chameleon
2. Snakes
a. No legs
b. Eat large pre
c. Jawbones can spread apart widely
d. Snake’s skull can move to let the snake swallow a large animal
3. Turtles
a. Protective shell
b. Box turtle, snapping turtle
4. Alligators and Crocodiles
a. Carnivores that hunt mostly at night
b. Strong, muscular tails to swim quickly
c. Large, sharp pointed teeth
d. Very strong jaws

Sec. 6: Birds and Mammals
I. Birds
A. Endothermic
B. Vertebrate
C. Has feathers
a. Enable most birds to fly
b. Contour feather- give shape to a bird’s body, help balance and steer
c. Down feathers- trap heat and keep bird warm
D. Lays eggs
E. Eating like a bird
1. Digestive system delivers food to body cells
2. Average bird eats food equal to a quarter of its body weight
3. No teeth
4. Use bills and claws to capture, grip and handle food
5. Crop- stores food after swallowing
6. Gizzard- squeezes and grinds partially digested food
F. Delivering Oxygen to Cells
1. Air sacs- enable birds to obtain much more oxygen from each breath of air
2. Four chambered heart (2 atria, 2 ventricles)
G. Quick Response to Stimuli
H. Reproducing and Caring for Young
1. Female lays eggs in a nest prepared by one or both parents
2. Eggs only develop at a temp. close to the body temp of parent
3. Parent incubates eggs
4. Parent birds feed and protect young until able to fly
I. Why Birds are important
1. Carry pollen to flowers
2. Eat seeds and distribute
3. Predators of pests
II. Mammals
A. Vertebrate
B. Endothermic
C. Four-chambered heart
D. Skin covered with fur or hair
1. Insulation of body heat
2. Layer of fat beneath skin
E. Young of most mammals are born alive
F. Young mammals fed by mother’s milk
G. Teeth
1. Enables mammals to chew
2. Four different shapes of teeth
3. Size, shape, and hardness of teeth reflect diet
H. Breathing
1. Breathe with lungs
2. Breathe in and out because of combined action of rib muscles and diaphragm (large muscle located at the bottom of the chest)
I. Nervous System and Senses
1. Brains enable mammals to learn, remember, and respond to stimuli
2. Highly developed senses adapted for the ways they live
J. Reproduction
1. Few kinds of mammals lay shelled eggs
2. Most develop within their mothers’ bodies
3. All feed young with milk from mother’s mammy glands
4. Young stay with their mother or both parents for an extended time
K. Monotremes
1. Mammals that lay eggs
2. Spiny anteaters & duck-billed platypus
L. Marsupials
1. Mammals whose young are born alive, but at an early stage of development
2. Usually continue to develop in a pouch on their mother’s body
3. Very short gestation period- length of time between fertilization and birth
4. Opossums and kangaroos
M. Placental Mammals
1. Develops inside its mother’s body until its body systems can function independently
2. Placenta- an organ in pregnant female mammals through which materials pass between the mother and developing embryo
3. Classified into groups based on how they eat and move
a. Whales, dolphins, porpoises (swim)
b. Cats, dogs, otters, and seals (predators)
c. Primates
d. Larger the placental mammal, the longer its gestation period

Goings on...

This week we started working with perimeter and area of triangles, rectangles, parallelograms, and squares. In science, we covered sponges, cnidarians, worms, mollusks, arthropods, echinoderms, fishes, and amphibians. Next week we will finish the chapter with reptiles, birds, and mammals.

On Tuesday we will have a math test covering the following:
1. perimeter of a rectangle
2. percentages
3. characteristics of a quadrilateral
4. parallel lines
5. right angles
6. circle graphs
7. triangles
8. formulas for the perimeter of all quadrilaterals
9. congruent figures
10. name of 3 to 10 sided figures
11. line segments
12. intersecting lines
13. parallel lines
14. ray
15. parallelogram
16. squares

You have math homework due on Tuesday- page 184 (both sides). Don't forget to work on your science studyguide and phylum chart.

Have a great weekend!

Inquiry Class Project

We wrapped up our Inquiry Class Election Projects- finally! Here are the skits! (They are only accessible through our class website, which is a private site.)

Happy New Year!

Hope everyone is rested up and ready to go! We will start this semester off with a new unit in math- geometry! Be sure to have a protrator, ruler, and compass. We are discussing geometric shapes and terminology, and measuring perimeter of shapes.

In science, we will kick off the new year with Chapter 7- Animals! We have discussed characteristics of animals, bilateral & radial symmetry, and will begin discussing the different animal phyla tomorrow. Sponges, Cnidarians, and worms are up tomorrow!

There is no homework due tomorrow, but be sure to begin working on your studyguide (I will pass them out tomorrow) and your Animal chart as well.

See you tomorrow!