Wednesday

High school looms in the not-so-distant future, in case anyone needs a reminder, or in my case, a memory jog. About ten years ago one of my guitar students stated that she didn't see the point of high school. So many "points" come to mind, and most of them involve life after school and the development of productive, responsible citizens--take a look at "A Very Important Day" in the Reading book. The story fits so well with our report project on Family Histories. And, since Friday is a teacher workday and the kids won't be here, we will make Monday, February 1st, the official due date for the report project. I'm looking forward to reading anecdotes about relatives and ancestors. Have a good (and productive) weekend!

Friday

The kids have been working hard on their Family History Reports, and rough drafts of the interviews are nearly done for most. Next week we'll work on the final drafts and do the remaining components, including a bibliography and pictures/drawings before the project is due a week from today. I have report covers but students are welcome to make their own if a fancier design is desired.

Lots of current events came in this week, and bonus questions challenged several students. Did you know soap and water beats hand sanitizer for killing germs? We're reading a story about immigrants in New York City becoming United States citizens and one family has the name Dionetti which led to another bonus question: From what country did this immigrant come from? Several students correctly found the answer-Italy. Way to go!

Monday

January is dark. We've been talking in class about how late the sun rises in the morning and how early it sets. During current events our "weather reporters" tell the exact time of sunrises and sunsets along with forecasts for rain and cold weather. But January is also filled with activity, including our Family History Report Project. Students should be finishing their three interviews this week and taking care of their notes on cards so we can start working on rough drafts next week. The reports are due Friday, January 29th. Below is a list of the report components.

FAMILY HISTORY REPORT


1. Interview family members (at least three). Take notes on cards. 10 pts.

2. Notes can include jobs, traditions, interests, and place of birth. Ask for an anecdote(personal story from a person’s life) because that is always the most interesting part of report. 20 pts.

3. Rough draft: convert the notes from the interviews to paragraphs so there is at least one page for each of the three people interviews. Add and introduction and a conclusion to your report. 20 pts.

4. Final copy: Revise and edit your rough draft. Rewrite for the final copy. 40 pts.

5. Indicate on maps (U.S. and world) where your family and ancestors have come from and lived. 20 pts.

6. Include a family tree. Use diagram provided or make your own. 15 pts.

7. Include a self-portrait and;/or family pictures. 20 pts.

8. Copy a family recipe or favorite recipe and include it in the report.15 pts.

9. Make an attractive cover for your report. 10 pts.

10. Give a three minute presentation of your report to the class. 30 pts.


Out of 200 possible points, I received_____________total points.