Harriet Tubman

Students participated in a Reader's Theater version of the play, "Harriet Tubman and the Road to Freedom" in class today.  Students learned about Harriet's own escape to freedom and then her transformation into one of the most famous conductors on the Underground Railroad.  Learn more by watching the short video below:
 

Underground Railroad Vocabulary

       

Underground Railroad Vocabulary » flashcards

Friday's Incentive

All seventh graders that have been on time each day of both the ELA and mathematics test will be rewarded by having a chance to go outside and enjoy the nice weather in an old-fashioned recess.  Students will be able to play a variety of sports on the field by the school as well simply hang out and talk with friends.  Students should be sure to bring a jacket because although it will be sunny, it may still be a little cool.

You Did It!

Congratulations to all of the seventh graders that have worked so hard over the last two weeks of testing.  You all have really tried your best and your teachers are very proud of your efforts.  There is only day of testing left.  Get some rest and come tomorrow ready to finish on a positive note!

Studying Frederick Douglass

     
     This week students will be reading the essay, "My Escape from Slavery," by Frederick Douglass.  This essay was a follow up to his very popular autobiography, but told the true story of his escape from slavery since at the time of its publication slavery had been outlawed for nearly forty years. Students can learn even more about Frederick Douglass by watching the video below.  

Please be advised that the video is quite realistic in its depictions of slavery which could be troubling to some viewers.

New Unit

     The final unit of the year involves both literacy and history.  Seventh graders will be studying slavery in the United States by reading non-fiction, fiction, drama, and poetry about the subject.  Students will then develop a research question that they would like answered about slavery and do research to answer that question.  Finally, students will create a children's book that answers their research question.  Not only will students learn and use a variety of reading, writing and research skills, but they will also learn about a very important time in American history.

It's Finally Over

After three grueling days, the NYS ELA assessment is over!  Students worked very hard on this challenging test.  In every testing room, students were applying strategies to help them understand the passages and working throughout the ninety minute block.  Students were seen roadmapping the readings and often going back to the passages as they attempted to answer questions.  Regardless of the score, Mrs. Earl is very proud of ALL of her students!

Students of the Week

Congratulations to the Students of the Week for 4/8-4/12:

1st Period - Kyanna R.A.

2nd Period - Jacqueline S.

4th Period - Ivory B.

5th Period - Durga K.

A Busy Week, Hopefully a Restful Weekend

The students in seventh grade ELA have been very busy this week refining their reading and writing skills for next week's state assessment.  Hopefully everyone will relax this weekend and come in fresh next week ready to tackle the test!

Students of the Week

Congratulations to the Students of the Week for 3/25-3/28.  Keep up the good work!

Period One - Mohamud F.

Period Two - Samir S.

Period Four - Dayja B.

Period Five - Francois N.

Out of Class Reading Assignment

Just a reminder that the third installment of the out of class reading assignment is due by the end of the day on 4/12/13.  Students should submit their three summary activities to Mrs. Earl by 2:45 on Friday.  Questions?  See Mrs. Earl.