Sixth & Seventh Grade: February 24 - 28, 2025
Hello, Middle School Families,
This week we started our Algebra and Geometry block, which introduces the fundamental concepts of Algebra to the students. While the students had some trepidation at stepping into the world of Algebra, they are starting to see the value of this language. The block began with an overview of the history of Mathematics, starting with the Greeks, and the development of proofs of theorems. The class worked with various puzzles/problems in class, and the students were challenged with coming up with a formula that would hold true for each problem.
Additionally, we tackled the Greek Geometric Game, mirroring the process that Euclid went through for making geometric constructions. How did early mathematicians develop their rules, laws, and formulas? How does one go about solving a mathematical question or mystery? Through trial and error, students worked to figure out how to draw a 5 division of a circle, before learning the Euclidean method.
We wrapped up the Renaissance block by finishing and discussing the book The Second Mrs. Giaconda. This book gave a wonderful glimpse into the life of Leonardo, and the events leading up to the painting of The Mona Lisa.
As part of our continuing analysis of works of literature, we have been studying Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech this month. The students were able to see how Martin Luther King framed his speech around repetitive phrases (“I have a dream”, “let freedom ring”). The use of repetitive phrases has been seen in the poetry the class studied this year. They could see how this effective technique can also be used in speeches. Students selected an excerpt from either the speech or a quote from Martin Luther King to make a Main Lesson page. Additionally, as part of the “Wish” from our “Wish, Wonder, Surprise” writing block, the students will use this as a starting point for their next creative writing assignment. What wish, dream, or hope do they have for themselves or the world?
Finally, we closed out the week celebrating Major's birthday! Happy Birthday, Major!
Announcements and Reminders for Sixth/Seventh Grade:
3/8: Community Work Day
3/27: Group Picture Day - Individual Picture retake day
4/4: Half Day - Grandfriend’s Tea 11:00 a.m.
4/7 - 4/11: Spring Break (No School)
4/25: Annual Auction Fundraiser - Half Day
4/26: Community Work Day
Thank you for the honor of teaching your children,
Ki Lesley
