Friday, October 28, 2011
My system to Finding a Book
The reason why I choose to go by the cover and title is because that's what I first see. That's what makes me go towards the book and want to read it. The reason why I read the back is because it gives me a over view of what the book is going to be about. I read the first chapter because that gives me a little hint of how the book is written.
The last book I choose was Shiver. The book cover was white with blue branches going around it. The tile was black but in this cool scary, mystery font. For the dot for i, it was a drop of blood. When I read the first chapter, it dragged me in and it made me want to keep on going until I was finished with the book.
System for Choosing Books :)
I chose books in a variety of ways. I ask friends if they read they book and what they think of it, I read the back of the book, I skim inside the pages of the book, I look at the cover, and I look for reviews of the book online.
Sometimes if I’m in the library, I will look around for books that look interesting. I know you aren’t supposed to judge a book by it’s cover, but when the cover has a picture of a rotting body or has a name like “Human Trash”, I normally would veer away from it. On the other hand, If the book has a picture of two girls back to back smiling or has a name like “Untold Secrets of the Terrible Twins” I might look into it. Providing the book cover or title seem to my interest, I might go as far as looking at the back of the book where it tells a little about the story or puts a quote down. If the back cover has nothing on the back, or short quotes from readers that just say things like “It was Fantastic!!!!!”, I will go on to skim inside of the book. Then, given I like it, my journey ends and I read it!
At this point you may be thinking “What if your not in a library and want something to read?” If I’m in that situation,I first go to the internet and look up books by authors I like, go on a random search through random books, or see if movies I liked are books so I can read the original. When I find titles I like, I may read through reviews or possibly call up a friend.
Calling up friends doesn’t always apply to when I found a title I want to know more about. You can see people everywhere reading a large variety of books. If one of my friends is reading a book that looks good to me, or they are heavily into what they are reading (you can tell this by if you have to say there name more then once to catch their attention, see their expressions change in what they read, see them reading the book any chance they can, or notice they are re-reading their book) I will ask them about their book later when they aren’t reading or busy.
These are some of the ways that I personally find books I enjoy.
Book Inspection
I’m sorry to say that, I do judge a book by its cover. If it doesn’t catch my eye, then I’m not going to get it. Unless someone recommends it for me. So if the book does catch my eye, I’ll pick it up. I’ll inspect the back cover. Read it. Then I open to book to the first page. Usually I’ll let my eyes wander around the page without letting them actually read it. Then I’ll start to read the first page. If I don’t like they way the book sounds by the first page, I put it back. But, if I like the way the author speaks and uses words. Then I get it.
So when I read the first page, it has to be a specific way of writing. I can’t really explain it. The way the author writes has to be as though their not only writing the story, but actually writing the story for me exclusively to read. I want them to talk to me, not just tell me a story using spice less words. I don’t know about you, but when I’m reading a story where the author uses the same boring words over and over again! I want to just collapse on my book, because I have become so saturated in boredom. So when the writer uses words with some ZING. Or words that jump out at me, and make me think “Wow, thats a really cool word! I think I’m going to start using it!”.
So if the book passes my inspection of it. I usually get it. But, if I start to read it and it gets boring. Then I usually don’t and say I did, meaning I don’t read the book but say that I did. If it doesn’t get boring and I love it, then I’ll definitely recommend it!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
The way I choose my books.
Why I look at the “teaser” on the back of the book is so I can get to know what the book is about. Like the book i’m reading is called Best Friends. It is about these two girls named Gemma, and Alice. They have been best friends sense they were born, they don’t care what each other like, all they care about is their friendship. But then one day Alice has to move, and there friendship is put to test, they wonder if they will still be best friends even though they are living hundreds of miles away from each other. That is what makes me want to read those kind of books, it makes me wonder what happens.
Why I choose the book by the author is because some authors just don’t seem appealing to me, or my friends. Like for example Stephen King. I just don’t like the title of most of his books. He also doesn’t amuse me. I have seen his house before...it is EXTREMELY creepy. That's one reason I don’t read his books, because me personally just think his books will be creepy. The other reason is me personally I think he is a weird man, that is just my opinion.
Some people have different ways of choosing books, this is mine.
Instincts never lie
So the first thing that I do when I am looking for a book is look at the covers. I know right, don’t judge a book by it’s cover, but if the cover catches my interest at all I pick it up and read the back or inside cover, where the description is. I also look for familiar titles and authors...because if I like one book by an author I should like another right?
I mostly look at the titles like that have cool and catchy names. If an author has a good title I am inclined to read it. I mostly lean towards fantasy and mystery. I like some suspense and something to bring me into the world of the book. Like this one book the cover caught my eye and I liked the title, and guess what, it was a fantasy/ realistic fiction.
Then if it sounds interesting, or I feel inclined to read, it I do...I am a girl who goes by her instincts…. and her friends. My friend Klaire is like almost the same person as me! True she is a little more harsh and blunt, but we are like clones...that look different and grew up in different enviroments. (but thats not the point) Klaire is one of my book sources, the to-go girl, when i want to know a good book to read.
The Infamous Perfect Book
The second thing I do once I have found a book with a satisfying cover and title is flip it over and read the back. When I read the back I look at the main character. I like stories with a strong interesting lead. I also like a story with a good mystery. A good supernatural mystery I should say... because I find the real world a snore fest. But the one thing I really look for on the back is interesting wording and a creative story. I like something I’ve never heard before... something new and exciting.
Lastly I read the first page or two to see if I like the narration of the story. My personal favorite for narration are the Percy Jacksons I like the wit and humor Rick Riordan brings. Some stories I just can’t get into because they lack a good narrator. I think the narrator wether on of the characters or not should be just as interesting as the characters.
This is my system for finding that impossible good book. It doesn’t always work, I have enough failed attempts to tell you that, but it does work once in a while. If you want to know a secret though... the best source for a good book is probably my best friend Rady don’t you can steal her though... I’ll find you. My point is though if you really want to find a good book chances are the person sitting next to you has read one... at one point or another.
How I choose my books
Another way that I choose books to read is to go on my computer and look up book lists, like top of the year, or top in a genre (for instance, Top Fantasy books of 2007). Then I choose books who seem to have an interesting plot, or that have been very highly praised by all. Then if I decide to buy this book (say, on Amazon) then there are usually a list of suggestions based on the book I bought.
Sometimes, I also choose books because someone I know said the book was good. For instance; my dad has often introduced me to new series and new authors that he has read and liked before. Most of the books that I read are found this way.
Charlie
How I Choose My Books
I like to chose my own books and not be given books to read. This is some of the ways I do it. One of the ways is I pick a book if it resembles`me. By me I mean it could be intense, funny, adventurous, sporty, or a mystery. My favorite is probably intense plus a mystery. So I take a look at the cover and read the back to see if it is the kind genre like intense/mystery. So if it is that kind of genre I probably would get into it really good and try to predict things. Then it is so intense I never want to drop it. Those are my kind of books.
Another way is if it is in the mood I am in. So I might be in a real adventurous mood and want to read about a book about someone that is lost in the wilderness like when I was in 3rd grade and was in a mood like that. So I got Lost In a Mountain In Maine which turned out to be a very good book. I might be in a sporty mood so I read a good book about sports. Like when I was in 7th grade and read Look Who’s Playing Third Base and that was a good book. So those are some ways I like to chose my books.
New Book? No problem! ✮ Izzy Simbari ✮
One way I look at this year’s reading, where you make the choice of book, is as an opportunity for literary enrichment, and as a way to stretch my bubbly, interest-filled, personal life. You might look at what you’re interested in; for me, being theatre, and seek a plot that follows the topic. It’s generally very easy to find a script or famous production in book form, because the world is swarming with the dramatic genre. The outcome of reading based on books sharing similar interest is I am finding improvement and impact in my recreational, enjoyed life while also handling with the credits in E.L.A class.
While in the library or online, think about something you’ve never done or tried, or may never do. Experiencing through the character’s perspective, their breath-taking events, allows you to grow in your character and YOUR perspective. The theme of the book adds to whether you might change your mind and make a beefy leap out of your comfort zone.
Another is, look on your shelves! I don’t know about you, but in the past, my family has bought my sister and I a fabulous collection of books of varying genres that often, I let slip my mind. Because they might not be the sparkling-covered, ‘it’ reads of the week doesn’t mean they should cease to exist! There could be an engrossing voice dying to rise from those pages, you never will know if it’s a style you’ll enjoy until you take a peek at their synopsis!
~Settling Into a New Book~
Another strategy I use is reading the teaser, which is on the back of the book, or sometimes on the inside of the cover. It explains to the readers what the book is about in a paragraph or so and can really help you think about if it’s a good book for you or not. Usually I can decide whether or not to read it by that. If the description sounds interesting and relateable I most likely will go on and read it.
And one of my big systems is reading the first chapter or few pages. If it seems a little too easy, I probably will drop it. Though if it’s too hard I might accept it because I like the challenge. Finding books can be a problem for some, though once you find ways to and your style it becomes easier with practice.
"The Teaser"
To find a book, I first look at the cover. The title is usually on the cover, and if it’s catchy, it automatically catches my attention. Also, the graphics on the front cover. If they are bright and colorful, they are appealing to the eye and make me want to read them, even if I have no clue what they’re about. The graphics on the front also give you an idea what genre the book is. If there’s a unicorn on the front, I’d assume it’s fantasy, but if it’s of a small child frowning, I’d assume it’s realistic fiction or memoir.
Next, I look to find the book teaser. It’s usually found either on the back or inside cover of the jacket. I’ll read it over, and if it sounds good, I consider reading it. Also by doing this, I get a definite idea of what genre it is. By the teaser, you can usually find reviews of the book and other titles that author is written. If there are bad reviews, I wouldn’t want to waste my time.
The last thing I do is read a couple pages or chapters into it. If the plot and characters are enticing, and the story in it’s whole is captivating to me, I will most likely read it. I find that, in my case, If I really like I book, I sort of grow an attachment to it. I never want to put it down and stop reading, and I feel a sense of loss and sorrow when It’s finished. If a small section of the book hooks me, there’s no way that I’d be able to not read it!
This system usually works for me, and I have read many great titles I’ve grown slightly obsessed with, such as the Twilight series and the House of Night novels. I find them so great, I even re read them!
The Wonders of Reading
Sometimes, I choose books by the genre. For example, I love reading horror, mystery, and action novels. These are my top three favorite genre’s because they all have suspense involved. Plus they all have action. My favorite books are mostly action. I have a few Alex Rider books at home and I just love to read these action stories.
I also love the plots of stories. In the Alex Rider books, the story would start in a nice peachy area. Then the story will start climbing up to where a little action gets involved. Next, there would be a suspenseful moment that will make you keep on reading. Finally, near the end of the book, a huge battle breaks out and after the fighting, the whole story will get peachy and the story will go back to normal.
I love to read because you’ll never know what will happen. Books are full of wonders.
For The Blog,
I choose books in many ways, like looking at the cover or reading the first page of the book. Here is the first way.
Whenever I look for a new book to read I look at the cover. If it looks modern I would be able relate to it. I know you aren’t supposed to o this but if it looks interesting I may consider reading this book. After I do this I read the back to see what it’s about.
Then after all of this I read the first page or chapter. If most of these catch my eye I read it.
One of the books I’ve down this with was the Lightning Thief. And all of these steps helped me pick out the book.
What to choose?
Have you ever heard the saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover”, well sometimes I feel its alright to. I use the front cover sometimes to help me decide because I feel the cover should tell part of the story as well as the text inside. Covers that catch the eye have cool, bright, modern text and graphics on them.
The title is also a factor when I choose books because I like catchy titles that stick. Some catchy titles i’ve heard about and read are Plain Kate, Abduction, and Cupcake Wars. I’ve continued on with these books and found that the titles usually describe the plot or characters.
I also use the teaser to help me decide. The teaser is the text on the back cover or the inside cover of the book. It gives an overview or summary of the book. If the content is good then I would be willing to give the book a try.
The last step I do is look at the first page. The purpose of reading the first page before picking up a book is to see if there was vocabulary that would confuse me or take my attention away from the content.
There are many ways to choose books and those are the few I use.
Is It Appealing?
So next time you want to find a new book, maybe just walk by a shelf of books and look at a book that catches your eye. After you’ve studied the graphics on the book, read the teaser if you’d like. These techniques may help you find books that you may not have thought about reading before. Maybe you’ll find an interesting book that you’ll never be able to put down.
Justin Brown
Green Light to Read
The way I choose a book to read is actually kinda simple. First, I take a look at the cover, see if it looks interesting. I know that you aren’t supposed to judge books by their cover, but I don’t judge the book per se, I just look to see if it seems interesting. When I find a book that intrigues me, I read the back/flaps of the jacket to see what the story is about. In my opinion, the teaser of the story is what makes or breaks whether I read that particular book. For example, Dreamcatcher by Stephen King was a really good book, and the teaser basically said that there was something going on at a hunting camp in the woods of Maine. I enjoy fantasy/science fiction books, and when there was signs of aliens in the book, that was a green light to read it.
One other way I choose to read a book is by who the author is. If I know the author and have read some of their books before and enjoyed them, chances are those books will stand out to me. After reading the Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz, I then look to see what other titles were by him, and I found the Gatekeepers by him.
The way of choosing books varies from person to person, but the way I choose is very effective for me. I hope that you found my steps helpful in searching for your next read.
Sincerely, Gordon Thomas
People are always saying “Don’t Judge a book by it’s cover!” but that may be just the right way to find a book you are really interested in! The system in which i choose the books I read is mostly based on the cover. I like the look of books with a catchy title and a picture on the front that looks kind of modern and unique. If the book doesn’t look very interesting at a first glance I probably won’t choose to read it. I usually read the teaser found on the back. The teaser just tells a little bit about the book or a portion of the book that may be an important part. It gives a little background information about the story line of the book without giving too much away. If the storyline sounds interesting, I will give it a try. At the beginning of the year when I was looking for new books to read or a new book series, I immediately wanted to read the Need series by Carrie Jones found in Mrs. Leighton’s library because the cover looked like something I would want to read and it had something captivating about it. This genre is fantasy and I have found that I really like it. I also enjoy reading realistic fiction that has a point of view from people about my age. If a book has these things I would definitely read it.
If people have recommended me a book because they really liked it, I will probably read it too and see if my opinion matches that person’s. Although if I start the book that was recommended and just the first few pages or the first chapter doesn’t intrigue me I wouldn’t continue to read the book. Julia Zavaleta is still reading a book called Modellland by Tyra Banks and she said it’s great so far, I’m thinking about using these techniques after she is done and giving that book a try too!
People are always saying “Don’t Judge a book by it’s cover!” but that may be just the right way to find a book you are really interested in! The system in which i choose the books I read is mostly based on the cover. I like the look of books with a catchy title and a picture on the front that looks kind of modern and unique. If the book doesn’t look very interesting at a first glance I probably won’t choose to read it. I usually read the teaser found on the back. The teaser just tells a little bit about the book or a portion of the book that may be an important part. It gives a little background information about the story line of the book without giving too much away. If the storyline sounds interesting, I will give it a try. At the beginning of the year when I was looking for new books to read or a new book series, I immediately wanted to read the Need series by Carrie Jones found in Mrs. Leighton’s library because the cover looked like something I would want to read and it had something captivating about it. This genre is fantasy and I have found that I really like it. I also enjoy reading realistic fiction that has a point of view from people about my age. If a book has these things I would definitely read it.
If people have recommended me a book because they really liked it, I will probably read it too and see if my opinion matches that person’s. Although if I start the book that was recommended and just the first few pages or the first chapter doesn’t intrigue me I wouldn’t continue to read the book. Julia Zavaleta is still reading a book called Modellland by Tyra Banks and she said it’s great so far, I’m thinking about using these techniques after she is done and giving that book a try too!
Which Book to Choose?
Which Book to Choose?
I choose books with a couple of different ways. The first way I would choose a book, would be to see what cover looks interesting. I know you’re never supposed to choose a book by its cover, but hear me out. If it looks interesting, I read the back. I personally know that I like some types of books and not others. For example, I like to read things about the Holocaust, so when I saw the book Night, I picked it up, and read the back, I knew it was about the Holocaust, so I decided to read it. That’s what I would look for when I read the back of the book.
Another way I choose books is to open up to a random page, or in my case, I usually open up to page 23, because it is my favorite number, and read it. If this page interests me, I will usually read the book. If it doesn't, I will flip to another page. If this page doesn't interest me, I will leave the book. If it does, I read the book. This is not the way I usually choose my books, but its what I use when I have more time, like during class, and after school.
The way I choose most of my books is to look at either the Prologue or the last page of the book. I mostly use the Prologue to read, so I don’t spoil the ending,because thats the best part of course. But there is one more way I choose a book, and thats by asking my friends what they like to read, and if they have read any good books lately, or if they wanted to read a book, that I could read before them and give them feedback.
Finding Your Next Great Book
This is how I choose the books that I read. I choose books in a few different ways. The first step I always do when choosing a book is look at the cover and the title. I know that you’re not supposed to judge books by their cover but I believe that to me it feels natural to and I do, but I don’t completely toss a book to the side if I don’t enjoy the cover.
The next step that I usually do to determine if I will read a book is read the back (or inside of the book jacket) of the book to get a jest of what the book is about. Also, I try to figure out what genre the book is. If I liked the book so far I will then turn to a random page and read it. If I know almost all of the words (not all) and it seems to be close to my reading level I might then read the first chapter and see if it interests me enough to want to read it. In the first chapter I could tell the point of view and the setting (sometimes) this usually influences my decision about reading a book.
Also I tend to recognize what my friends and family around me are reading. I like to get recommendations from my friends because my friends and I tend to have similar taste in books. The steps that I have told you about are the ways in which I usually choose my books. I hope this helped you find your next good book.
Sincerely,
Jared B.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Zoos Are Good....
Their living environment has changed. Instead of all the iron bars and cement cages, their habitats look and feel more like their natural living environment. Also zoos use their habitats to bring back endangered species by breeding them and then releasing them back into the wild. There is this one true story where they brought back the Pere David’s deer from the brink of extinction. The deer had ceased to exist in the wild but some zoos in Europe and China had them, they then released some of them into the wild and now they are self-sustaining. Also, zoos have changed their methods of getting animals. Instead of capturing them from the wild, zoos now get their animals from other zoos and through captive breeding programs.
Some zoos have taken abandoned animals that wouldn’t have a home if they hadn’t taken them. Take the Baltimore Zoo and the Detroit Zoo for example. They both took in polar bears rescued from a traveling circus; the Bronx Zoo took care, and is still taking care of a snow leopard cub, Leo, in 2007. Zookeepers now understand that many animals need activities to keep them from being bored and mental deterioration. That’s why sometimes you see monkeys playing with toys and tigers “hunting”. Many zoos even contribute to the care of the animals wild natural habitats. The Toledo Zoo is helping restore butterfly habitats in Ohio, and the Bronx Zoo has put more than 3 million dollars toward conservation projects in Africa.
Zoos give scientists an opportunity to conduct research. According to Jennifer Horton, an environmentalist and journalist, in 2002, zoos participated in 2,230 research projects and conservation projects in 80+ countries.(Horton, 2011)
The information that they gathered helps them develop new medicines an improve animal health; besides all the good things that zoos have for animals they help people too. Zoos educate and give children a fun way to learn. Children aren’t the only ones to learn either, zoos aim programs toward adults and teens too. Zoos teach people about what animals need and that conservation is important and why; when people get exited enough they just might be more towards donation to conservation projects. Just another good thing about zoos.
While I’m here telling you about all the good things about zoos there are people who will argue that zoos are bad. Animals like zebras, giraffes, gazelles are ment to run around, and while the habitat that zookeepers are just beginning to understand, and it is very hard to replicate the environment in which they naturally live in.
It is an on going debate in whether zoos are good or bad. It all depends on what zoo you are talking about and whether you are talking about a random zoo animal or a random wild animal a thousand miles away.
Horton, J. (2011). Are zoos good or bad for animals?. Retrieved from http://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/zoos-good-or-bad1.htm
Free Place to Post Your Opinion!!!
Why gum should be allowed in school (Charlie)
It has been proven that there is an explanation of why gum helps. We’ve even learned about it in Science. When you do some form of physical exercise (running, jumping, and in this case, chewing) your body pumps blood faster, trying to get oxygen to the parts of the body that need it to provide energy. When you chew gum, a lot more oxygen comes through your body. The brain loves this oxygen, and it seems to make your mind work better.
I’ll disprove another assumption that most people think; that gum damages teeth because people are chewing it for so long. There is sugar free gum, and even regular, sugary gum only does minimal damage to weaker teeth. Nothing that can’t be scrubbed of by a good toothbrush. The sugar free gum does no damage at all. Gum can even clean off the pieces of food from your teeth after you’ve eaten lunch, clearing junk that could wear away the outer covering of your teeth. It strengthens your jaw muscles, making it easier for you to eat other foods.
Many teachers think that most gum chewers will stick it under desks, or on walls, or something like that. Many kids though, say they would never do that if they didn’t have to hide it. Teachers also think that gum is too loud, even though it is barely recognizable unless if it is being smacked or blown into a bubble. If that happens, then the teacher can just tell the student to chew more quietly.
Another great reason to chew gum is that people really do enjoy chewing it. People like the taste of the flavors, the constant motion of the chewing, and because they know that chewing gum can help you in school. If the gum becomes a distraction, then the teacher can tell them to be quiet or to spit it out. I’m not saying there won’t be consequences for abusing gum chewing. Very few kids, though, have it explained to them why gum is not allowed in middle schools. If someone could explain the consequences (like a ban if gum is misused) then maybe kids would use it much more responsibly. The high schools allow gum, and they seem to have few troubles with gum.
I myself chew gum very much. Whenever I play sports, I ritually get two pieces of gum. It really seems like I do better when I use it, and I can’t imagine I’ll ever stop (it’s like when my favorite team scores a lot of runs to take the lead, and I’m afraid to change my position on the couch). I bring gum with me to school, too, to chew during our breaks (and I think teachers and students would prefer it if the kids’ breath smelled better than a sewer). As far as I know, when I was chewing gum, or when I gave it to someone else, the gum never became a distraction. I wish that I was able to chew it all the time, because I always feel more comfortable with it.
Gum is a great way to enhance concentration, and kids should be able to take advantage of it. Many tests have proved how much it helps their concentration, attention, and memory. That three percent difference shown in the test can be for many kids the difference between an A or a B, or even the difference between a pass and a fail. As long as the privilege is not abused too much, then gum should be allowed in middle school.
Lebron Best Player of His Era?
One of the first questions I had to ask was who would be the other candidates for the title, best player of LeBron James’s era (2003-2004 season to present day). One of the immediate candidates was of course the Black Mamba himself, Kobe Bryant. Another person would be Steve Nash, the only other player of his career to achieve more than 1 MVP was Steve. Other candidates include, Derrick Rose of the Bulls, KG of the Celts, Kevin Durant or the Durantula as he is also know as, Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs, Dirk Nowitzki of the Mavs, Lebron’s current teammate Dwayne Wade, and finally Dwight Howard who has won three straight Defensive Player of the Year awards.
Another question that I had to ask was out of the candidates who owns a championship ring. Out of the candidates the most rings a player has is, Kobe Bryant who has 5 championships under his belt. Now, I know that ring mean a lot to how good a player is but really I’m talking about skill and being a great teammate. Let’s just compare some of their stats, head to head, points per game, rebounds, assists, field goal percentage, free throw percentage, blocks, steals, and turnovers;
Kobe (in the order that I listed): 25-5-5-.454-.828-.2-1.2-2.96.
Lebron: 28-7-7-.479-.744-.8-1.7-3.3.
Those stats sway towards Lebron to me, especially the 28-7-7 compared to the 25-5-5. What do you think? Okay, back on topic the other candidates with championship rings include, KG, Tim Duncan, and Dwayne Wade.
Now out of those players that have won rings, let’s take a look at who they had on their team and then look at who Lebron has had. Kobe; Kobe played with Shaq when he was in his prime and put up 30 points, 14 boards, and swatted 3 blocks per game, pretty good, right, oh yeah he won the MVP that year also. KG; well let’s just say that he played with the best three point shooter ever and a very good other man called Paul Pierce who won the Finals MVP the year they won the title. Tim Duncan; Tim won 4 NBA titles, very nice, yes, but he had two All-stars with him. The All-stars were none other than Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili who has proven himself to a very exceptional clutch shooter. The last Finals winner in Lebron’s era is Lebron’s now-teammate Dwayne Wade. Wade won the Finals in the 05-06 season but had a very nice supporting cast including, Shaq who averaged a double double in the playoffs, Udonis Haslem who almost had a double double in the 05-06 playoffs, Jason Williams and Antoine Walker both put up double digit points, and great leadership from Hall of Famer Alonzo Mourning.
Now, let’s look at the best team of Lebron’s the 06-07 team when he reached his first NBA Finals. The best teammate he had was Larry Hughes who went for 15-4 (ppg followed by apg) and then Ilgauskas who went for 12 points and 7.7 rebounds. Now to me that sounds like two all right role players but not starters on an NBA Finals caliber team. I believe that Lebron in the 06-07 season had one of the worst supporting casts of any team ever to make it to the Finals.
Let’s turn our attention to Lebron James career achievements. Lebron is the youngest player in NBA history to score 10,000 points and the third quickest (fewest amount of games) behind Wilt the Stilt and MJ. Lebron has 7 all-star appearances in 8 years in the league. Lebron has won MVP twice. He has the 3rd highest ppg in NBA history (27.8). LBJ has the highest efficiency rating (26.9) among active players and second all-time behind MJ. He was compared to the ABA Doctor J, Bo Jackson, and the ’92 Pippen by Bill Simmons in his book “The Book of Basketball, the NBA According to the Sports Guy” (which is pretty cool considering who he is). NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 2004. All but his rookie season he was awarded an All-NBA either 1st or 2nd team accolade. Also Lebron is the only player ever to avg. at least 26 points 6 rebounds and 6 assists in their career. There are way too many so I had to stop there on one of his greatest accomplishments. The list literally goes on forever.
After all of my research and after finding some great accomplishments such as the one about Lebron being the only player ever to avg. 26-6-6, I have definitely decided that he is the best player in his era. After all he is only 26 and in the NBA players typically reach their “prime” between the ages of 28-32 so just wait he may just go down in the books (if he wins some rings) as the greatest NBA player.
Homework should be limted
Here is a situation that happened to me that might help you understand. Last week (it was late in the week), I got assigned a writing and reading project. Science questions and I had to finish my reading goal. That night I was really stressed out and got very frustrated because I had a hard time figuring out my writing project. The next day I was worried all day that I was going to get in trouble because I wasn’t able to finish it all.
I know that teachers don’t mean to stress us out. They just want us to have a good eduction and exceed in life. All they have is good intentions. But it’s getting out of hand. Students are having 1 to 2 hours of homework a night and sometimes more. The homework has sky rocketed since the 1990’s and is getting higher. A recommendation that I would say is that the teachers communicate on homework so we wont have so much.
Thank you so very much for listening and hope that you will really think about this.
Homework Should be Banned by Jessica L.
So back to the iconic figures. As you may know Ted Turner, Liz Claiborne, Whoopi Goldberg, Albert Einstein and Howard Stern didn’t excel in school but still managed a profitable adult career.There school failure reflected on the fact that school and school homework they were assigned was not completed.Well, it could be that many people are forcing students into a “good student” mold which suppresses the students learning. According to a PhD named Robert McCall many or most underachievers catch up to the achieving peers later on in life. Meaning homework doesn’t effect our adult future.
I would also like to go back to the point of time spent on homework is time that could go towards family time and physical activities. I would like to begin by stating a quote by Melissa Cooper a NCTE-middle school teacher. She says quote “Many of them have outside obligations like sports or babysitting, and many are dealing with some heavy-duty stuff outside of school. Who wants to worry about algebra when your mom is dying or you don't know when you're going to eat next?” To me this statement is so very true and so very touching because really, who wants to work out math problems when they could spend that time with a relative for the remaining time that loved one has left. Plus people are telling kids things like “You need to spend more time outside” or “Stay physical” but really what student has time after completing the pile of homework they were assigned. And factor in the time it takes for them to eat a good meal, get a good night sleep, and build a bond with family. There really isn’t much time for homework. Homework sets this kind of barrier that limits out side of school activities.
Sleep is also very important for students and homework limits sleep time. According to The National Sleep Foundation Statistics found that 22% of children fall asleep doing homework. And 80% of teens do not get the recommended amount of sleep which cause at least 28% to fall asleep during school which then causes more homework.
Next I would like to go back to the added stress and annoyance it puts on students. So basically teachers are assigning homework that a child doesn't want to do. Student much rather be playing and living there child hood. So what are they not going to do. Thats right there homework. So in simple terms there setting students up for failure. Plus I would like to point out that since they don’t want to do it, in a hurry to complete there assignment those students will resort to cheating to get the job done.
I would also like to counter argue an immense point for the “pro” homework people. They say homework improves test scores. Well according to a study done by a researcher named Harris Cooper who wrote “Homework Research and Policy: A Review of Literature” there are increases in some students test scores but there is no proof that the increase is caused by homework.
Based on the information that I have presented I can conclude that I am a believer in the ban of homework. Well think about it. Would you want the burden or stress of homework when you should or could be with family members or outside playing and being physical. And remember even though you might not excel in school, or you just can’t seem to stay on top of your school work doesn’t mean you can’t be an Einstein when you grow up.
Cooper, H. (1994). Concerns affecting homework. Retrieved from http://lrs.ed.uiuc.edu/students/plato1/constructhome/page7.html
Debatable Topic- Cell Phones in Middle Schools
Cell phones should not be allowed in middle schools.They have been seen to be disruptive in past years, with them ringing in class and people concentrating on their conversation instead of the lesson. Imagine, you are in class, trying to concentrate on a test and the person sitting next to you’s cell phone rings. You completely lost your train of thought.
Also tests could be cheated on. People could text their friends for answers to questions on exams or tests, or even take a picture of their quiz and send it through picture message and they could get answers back. With smart phones you have the ability to do “Hands Free” an app that you can talk to people and they can dictate the answers to you. Newer mobile devices have the internet, which is great, you can find out anything in the blink of an eye. But this is a set back to having them in school, you could easily cheat! Old and new mobile phones have calculators too, this should be a worry for all school who are allowing these devices in school, math tests would be a breeze, but it isn’t fair to others.
Students could take unwanted or inappropriate pictures of students and post them online and humiliate them. The internet again on cell phones is huge pictures could be updated from the cell phones camera to Facebook or MySpace. Cell phones could cause rumored violence or threats through cyber bullying. in recent years a girl killed herself because she was so nervous to go to school because she had been threatened to be beat up via text message on her cell phone.
Also new research is being done by Dr. Michael H. Repacholi, Occupational and Environmental Health, World Health Organization, that cell phones, the higher radiation they have, there are more chances of developing cancer. Michael H. Repacholi, Occupational and Environmental Health, World Health Organization.
So lastly, I just have to say that middle schools shouldn’t allow cell phones. Who wants brain cancer? Who wants to be interrupted during a test? Can’t you just use the school phone to make connections with your parents during emergencies? Cell phones are important you can’t deny that, but they are not appropriate for a learning environment.
Debate Topic-Homework should be banned, By Julia Eleanor Zavaleta 7L
Why should homework be banned? That is the question, here’s my point of view on this issue. Homework does have some plus sides, but it also has many down sides. One of them is that homework can keep you up all night, especially when you have several big projects due, on the same day! And as many of you know, staying up all night weakens your immune system making you more prone to diseases, and having diseases can make you miss school that can give you more homework.
But that is only one reason I feel that homework should be banned. If homework was banned, I know that I would be outside getting exercise and being more active, along with many more students. But instead I get cooped up inside doing homework, also, along with many other students. Another reason that homework can be unhealthy is that, when students get home they get a snack and do their homework. And when you are eating and concentrating on something you don’t even notice when you get full, so you will keep on eating and eating until you get done with your homework. And that type of thing can cause obesity.
When students have to much homework, they can spend hours and hours doing it,they can even spend all night doing their homework if they have enough! So they loose concentration and students can start getting tired. Especially when you have major projects due. I feel that if teachers and sports coaches communicated with each other, so that practices, projects, and homework wouldn’t get in the way. I feel it would help so much, and students would get their homework done. And they would get higher scores on it.
I know that not all teachers do this, but some do push you to do extra curricular activities. Those after school activities can put some students back on homework, students need that after school time to work on homework. Which brings me back to this, if coaches and teachers communicated that could make such a big difference!
So to wrap it all up, homework can be good, and it can raise test scores. But if teachers let up on it a bit there would be no harm done, and students would be outside getting exercise. And younger people in general may just be a little more fit. And students wouldn’t be so tired and they may get higher grade averages from not being so stressed out the night before.
Gum Chewing in Middleschool- Hailey Craig
The company that produces wrigley gum performed a study on the benefits of hewing gum in class. It was headed by Craig A. Johnston who has a Ph.D. for children's nutrition research center Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. This took place from 9:00 to 10:00 am on Wednesday, April 22, at the American Society for Nutrition in 2009. they found the following research.
The researchers found that students who chewed gum showed an increase in standardized testing scores, and their final grades were better than those who didn't chew gum. If chewing gum increases grades, shouldn't we be able to chew it in school? Isn't school all about grades? Not only do schools want to give their students a start at life and a brighter future, but seeing their school as one of the top schools in the area grade wise, it wouldn't only be rewarding to the teachers for doing exceptionally at their jobs, but to the students, who got fabulous grades to help set a good model for younger students.
they also found that students who chewed gum during math class for fourteen weeks and while doing homework had an extreme increase in their standardized math test scores compared to those who didn't chew gum. Chewing gum has been scientifically proven to increase memory, thus making you remember those pesky math drills better. the motion of chewing gum exercises a part of the brain, which increases blood flow. From personal experience, I know on Monday mornings it's hard to zone in on those two step equations. getting blood flowing through your body wakes you up and makes you more alert, thus helping you stay focused. Summing up everything I just said, Chewing gum makes raises grades because it makes you more alert, focused, and increases memory.
Another experiment was held also. At the university of Northumbria in Great Britain in 2001, Professor Andrew Scholey performed a research project to figure out the benefits and effects of gum chewing. He took three controlled groups of people, and had them all take the same test. One group chewed gum during the test. Another pretended to chew gum, just acting out the movement of of chewing, and the last group kept their jaws and lips still. After the test, Scholey found that things were revealed about gum chewing. The gum chewers doubled the scores of those who kept their jaws still. The group who didn't chew gum but still moved their jaws improved, but not as well as those who chewed for real. they did significantly compare to those who did nothing at all.
Scholey found that there are insulin receptors in the brain, on both right and left hemispheres. When the insulin went into the grooves of the hemispheres, they excite the parts of the brain cause attention, comprehension, and memory. The insulin is caused by the chewing movement, and the body getting in sync, and the body being fooled into thinking that real food is coming. Insulin is released because insulin's job is to control glucose in the blood, so if the brain believes that you are going to receive food that contains glucose, it creates insulin. So, therefor, chewing increases attention, comprehension, and your memory.
So, what about gum on the floors at school? Under the desks or chairs? Every school has those few who are "rebels." If schools allowed gum chewing, they could have a meeting at the beginning of the school year, like a laptop meeting, to discuss the penalties and rules of chewing gum on the school property. If students are continually caught being irresponsible with the subject, ban chewing gum for a week. try to pinpoint what class and/or what person seems to be causing the most issues. If it is a specific person, and they get caught numerous times acting irresponsibly, it could end in a demerit and/or detention. If it is a more general group, say a class, have meeting with that class and explain the rules once again. Explain that chewing gum is a privilege, not a right. If necessary, make up a contract having all students agree to the rules and agree to accept any punishment that may come their way resulting from their actions. That way, they can't have the excuse of "you never said that" or "that's not what I heard." It would be practically fool proof. Until people turned in their contracts, they would not be allowed to chew gum.
Middle schoolers love chewing gum, and we all love it for different reasons. It tastes good, it makes your breath smell good, and for a teachers benefit, it would most likely keep kids quiet during class. they will be busy chewing away. There are so many benefits, and if gum chewing was allowed, those students could achieve those benefits. The school could even do a test sort of thing. They could consider it a research project. For one week, allow middle schoolers to chew gum. If everything goes smoothly, it should be okay. If it's a disaster, well, it wasn't a good idea. So, with all the good things that could come of it, why not give it a try? You may be surprised at what us pesky kids could accomplish.
Works cited
Lind, AE. (2009). New study shows chewing gum can lead to better academic performance in teenagers. retrieved from http://www.eurekalert.org/pub releases/2009-04/epr-nss041709.php
wnchsler, HB. (2006). Forget what you heard in school, chewing gum activates your brain. retrieved from http://ezinearticles.com/?Forget-what-you-heard-in-school,-Chewing-Gum-Activates-You-Brain&id=198507
Persuasive Essay: Music Education In Schools. Justin Brown
I have heard, and read, only one con that music education brings. It’s “Music education takes time away from students core classes and negatively affects their learning.” I very much disagree with this over used statement. If someone can provide evidence that supports this, then I will gladly tip my hat to them but I have found no such evidence. On the contrary, I have found statistics that prove that music education has positive effects on students and makes them more academically and emotionally stable, intelligent, and even healthier than students who don’t participate in such music education.
According to Gregory Blankenbehler, a music educator with over 25 years of experience performing and teaching music from PitchPerfectPublishing.org, he says that on average, students with music education have had 27% higher math scores, 57 points higher on SAT’s and 46% higher IQ scores.(Blankenbehler, 2010) That’s a great reason to use some class time for music education. He also says that students with music education experience the lowest rate of gang activity and substance abuse. And the list goes on! Music participants receive more academic awards for grades over B’s, 73% of teens who play an instrument are less likely to have discipline problems, students who are rhythmically skilled also tend to better plan, sequence, and coordinate actions in their daily lives, and music educated students show less test anxiety and performance anxiety than other students.
Another benefit I would like to point out is that music education not only helps young and older students but adults and elderly people as well. According to Pitch Perfect Publishing, it has been tested and proven that music education lessens depression, loneliness, stroke, pain, migraines, and stress. It also helps Alzheimer's patients lessen agitation, increase focus and concentration, enhance ability to respond verbally and behaviorally, and have better social interactions.
I know some of you are saying to yourselves that we have to cut music education because we can’t cut anymore teacher’s salaries, we can’t cut anymore faculty positions, and we need more funding for core classes. I’m saying that music education should become a core class. With all of the benefits I have listed above, it does not make sense to cut music education.
During an average music class, students are learning history, math, and reading. Music education incorporates history because somehow, music has been changed throughout the years by someone or something. Mozart is a great example. He was called the world’s best musician. He came up with new tones, playing styles, and rhythms that have changed the way music is played and written forever. Math is a huge part of music. You need a way to count rhythms and measures. Reading is also an important part. There needs to be some way of reading notes, so why not use letters. Almost all of the core classes are incorporated in music education, another reason to not cut it!
To wrap this up, I would like to ask you a question. What do Aristotle, Leonardo da Vinci, Isaac Newton, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Edison, and Steven Halking have in common? They were all musicians! Coincidence? Certainly not.
Works Cited:
Blankenbehler, G.B. (2010). The importance of music education in public schools. Pitch Perfect Publishing, Retrieved from http://pitchperfectmusic.org/articles/importance-music-education-public-schools/
Blankenbehler, G.B. (2010). Studies showing the benefits of music education. Pitch Perfect Publishing, Retrieved from http://pitchperfectmusic.org/articles/studies-showing-benefits-music-education/
Did Operation Iraqi Freedom do more good than harm?
We all love America, right? I know I do. Think about it, all those American soldiers, dead. How can anything good come from thousands of body bags containing young men being sent back to the States? You might say that they consciously knew what they were doing, and that it may lead to death, and that is true. But its not good, is it? It’s not something you would want to go through, the loss of a loved one, right?
Saddam Hussein was the Iraqi dictator when we invaded them. Of course, all of you probably know, he was quite brutal. In fact, he had one of the worst human rights records in the world. He reminded many people of the WWII era Russian dictator, Josef Stalin. In fact, Saddam said that Stalin was his role model. So, needless to say, it was necessary to attempt to free Iraq when Saddam may have had WMD [Weapons of Mass Destruction]. We found he did not have any, but when he had ties with terrorists, he probably could have had easy access to them if he really wanted to. Anyways, we took him and his Ba’ath government down, but nothing good came from it other then one terrorist down. [yet with others in the Middle East, did it really matter that only ONE was dead?] You might say “We took him down! That’s what we wanted to do! We did everything that was promised!” but you forget the cost of that, perhaps this war didn’t effect you personally, but it affected many families personally when they are missing a loved one, forever. You can’t sit there and say that this war was absolutely positive 100% when these men are dying and lives are being changed perpetually.
Some might say that America does no wrong. The government does everything right. But if YOU say that, do you think sorrowful families and dead people are ‘benefits’ from this? Is high taxes good? How about the fear in Americans that terrorists will attack again? Are these good things? No, absolutely not.
In total, the death count was 2,119,087. That being both American, Iraqi, and Insurgent troops. That was in seven and a half years of war. Think about all those families, missing someone at the dinner table, because they were killed, or because they were in service for however long. Would YOU want your Father, Mother, Son, or Daughter to be missing from the family, for months to years at a time, or worse, forever?
Operation Iraqi Freedom, was necessary, but it was costly, it fueled our debt, and the gas prices. According to www.usmilitaryservices.com, in 2008, the United States spent 5,000 dollars per second on military efforts in Iraq. In 2009, it was 7.3 billion dollars per month, and the cost to deploy ONE soldier to Iraq, 390,000 dollars. Keep in mind, the taxpayers [you or your parents] are the ones paying for this, and the thing that came from this was death to soldiers. Again, is this what you call “doing everything right?”
In conclusion, I personally believe that Operation Iraqi Freedom had nothing beneficial come from it. The only results were negative. I would like you, to ponder on what I have said, and I am sure that you will agree that Operation Iraqi Freedom had many negative effects. Because, if you love America and agree with what it stands for, would YOU want all of these men gone, lives cut short? I think not.
Why do we pick on the Pitbulls?
Pit bulls have been put down for a while. In the beginning of the 20th century, they were the most popular breed of dog in the world. But afterwards, into the end of the 20th century, they were given the title of “Dangerous” and “Killers”. According to the ASPCA website, ” No other breed of dog has experienced as many discrimination's and misconceptions as has the Pit Bull. ” They were deemed the most vicious dog breed on the planet. This is NOT true. They were and still are a very intelligent and loyal breed of dog,and even though their size and looks might intimidate you,they are the perfect family dog.
Myth One:A pit bulls jaw will lock once it has “latched onto” you or another object.This is impossible. Although the pit bull has a strong jaw,as well as many other dogs,it is impossible for the jaw to “Lock” in place. The way this myth came into play was because a pit bull,or any dog trained to attack,is trained to rip and tear.In a video I watched on pit bull fights,they fight to save themselves.They can grab ahold of their opponent by the neck,and kill,yet,so can any other good sized dog,but who is picked as the most dangerous?The pit bull,just because of the past of dog fighting for the breed.
Myth two:Pit bulls are aggressive towards other dogs as well as humans and other animals. Untrue. According to my classmate Jessica,” Pit bulls are not as bad as people make them out to be. I have a three year old pit bull retriever mix named Sadie. She may look aggressive but she’s not. She is the friendliest dog I have ever owned. She has never bitten anybody in my family in less it was a play bite but she knows what hurts and what doesn’t she would never cause anyone or anything any pain not even a fly. And the aggressive towards other animals I have two other dogs and a cat and she doesn’t bother them at all.”Bit bulls only fight when they need to survive,and it is the only was to stay alive.They Don’t fight for their own profit,humans fight for money,but they don’t get hurt,the dogs do.
Myth Three:Pit bulls are a danger to society and should be euthanized for he safety of the community. Why should we kill an innocent animal for being alive?You wouldn’t kill your house pet,your poodle,your german shepherd,Chihuahua.If you wouldn't do that,then why would you kill a pit bull?Just because of their past?In a shelter in texas, out of the 1.4 million dogs euthanized in the shelter, .7 million were pit bull types.That is half for the dogs that were killed.And why you may ask?because nobody wanted them because of what they had heard about them.
Altogether A pit bull is the future wonder dog.They are being trained as seeing eye dogs and they save people and animals.Once,A pit bull saved 30 people,29 dogs,13 horses,and a cat during a flood in south Carolina. If that is not a wonder dog,then what is?A pit bull is just another breed of dog,and no matter what the past of the breed is,they should not be put down just because of what we,we the humans that force the dogs to kill,make the dogs do,for us to make easy money.A pit bull is just another type of dog,and there is no evidence that can make a pit bull any different from all the other dogs.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
The Osama bin Laden Death.
Dear Whoever,
In the New York Times Student Opinion, there is the article, “What is Your Reaction to the Death of Osama bin Laden, by Holly Epstein Ojalvo. It is about last week, when the President announced that bin Laden had been killed by U.S. soldiers. Bin Laden had been behind the 9/11 attacks, and had killed thousands of people. Almost ten years later, he was found and killed in his compound in Pakistan.
I am quite pleased that bin Laden has been killed. I won’t feel sorry that a mass murderer is dead. It is a better thing for the world, because he was such an important part of Al-Qaeda. Hopefully there will be no retaliation.
From,
Charlie
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Summary:
Dear Reader,
According to the New York Times Student Opinion Page, Article “What is Your Reaction to the Death of Osama bin Laden?” The article is asking your opinion on the death of al Qaeda leader, Osama bin Laden. The article goes on to talk about what made bin Laden the #1 man on the wanted list by telling the reader about the 9/11 incident. My personal opinion is that I am very happy that the United States has killed the most wanted man on earth. I’m joyful that we have one less terrorist left on earth and hopefully this starts a chain reaction that eventually causes the fall of al Qaeda. This was a great event for the USA and a great event for the world and the war on terror.
Sincerely,
Jared B.
"What Would You Do With a Gap Year?"
The main idea of the passage “What Would You Do With a Gap Year” written by Holly Epstein Ojalvo discusses how Gregory Kristof took a year off from education and put off his freshman year in collage. He wanted to take a load off and live exciting experiences, and he has lived those in China.
My comment on this includes that in my opinion, Gregory should have waited till he was done with schooling to take this time off. The idea of the gap year is entirely new to me, but I think that he should have found love in his life before an experience that thrills him, like rock-climbing in China.
"What Annoys You?"
The article “What Annoys You?” by Katherine Schulten is about what the word annoyance really means. Like some believe it’s the weakest form of anger, overtones of disgust, and even panic. Also, if there is an annoying situation, like if you need all six colors of M’n’M’s to make a rainbow and you realize you just ate the last green one, and you just get frustrated.
My opinion is that this article has many logical viewpoints and ideas. I happen to agree with most of them. Many people get annoyed in many different ways, and I do believe that many different forms of annoyance do exist. Who knows, we never may be able to find one logical definition to the word annoyance that is applicable towards all forms.
Just for good measure, things that annoy me are the following:
. The M’n’M’s thing listed above
. When people sing a song you love a kill it
. When you start making brownies then realize you don’t have any eggs (happens to me all the time)
Sincerely,
Hailey :)
The New York Times and Our Opinions
Forgetting Cursive?
Summary and Opinion
In the article I read, the topic was about whether or not Obama should have released photos of Osama bin Laden’s body. The topic is up to debate because some say that a photo would convince all that he was really dead, but on the other hand; Mike Rogers, a representative from Michigan says “Imagine how we would feel if al-Qaeda killed a military or political leader from the US and posted pictures on the internet. We shouldn’t show pictures because it could endanger our soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan.”
I believe that Obama should post pictures of Osama bin Laden’s body because it would prove to everyone that he is dead. I mean, sure, the al-Qaeda members may become enraged that we posted pictures of their dead leader, but I believe that they are probably drained of morale. I mean if they had killed Obama per se, then our country would’ve been shocked and stunned and it may take a little while to “get back into it.” So I believe that they wouldn’t show any signs of enragement and even if they plan on doing so, it is hard without their mastermind, Osama bin Laden.
Sincerely, Gordon
What Annoys You?
Dear Reader,
The article “What Annoys You?” by Katherine Schulten is about what gets inside your head and annoys you to the point of being crazy. Like an annoying sound or act. For example, a fly. Small and harmless, but the constant buzzing and landing on you can bring you to your boiling point.
This is what annoys me...
I get really annoyed quite quickly, especially when someone purposely does something that they know I can’t stand. Like when people eat, they scratch their plates with their forks. The sound just drives me to the boiling point. It’s just so annoying and makes me mad! Another thing that makes me angry is when I’m talking and laughing with a group of friends when we’re not supposed to and a teacher yells at me for talking. I know I have a loud voice, but it’s very irritating when I’m the one that gets picked out from the group and is threatened with demerits or warnings. And, I love it when other kids in my class can get away with certain things. Their is a group of girls in my class that like to take pictures of themselves in the bathroom. It is sooooo annoying. They grab all their buddies and run into the girls bathroom where they take pictures of themselves in the mirror. They can even skip study hall and stay in there for like half an hour and no one realizes their gone. It’s just stupid and aggravating.
Sincerely,
Justin
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
Friday, October 22, 2010
Thursday, October 14, 2010
How To Access Your Web Noteshare
2. Click on RSU24 bookmark (upper left gray area)
3. Click on Technology tab
4. Click on "Links and Resources"
5. Click on "RSU24 Noteshares for Viewing"
6. Bookmark this site.
7. Find the Noteshare for your class and click.
8. Enter "hgs" as password.
9.Find your own Noteshare and click.
10. Use your password to open your Noteshare.
Best Wishes. Working with technology can be frustrating. Breathe.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Longer Break
I think that we should have a longer break in the Fall and Spring and a shorter break in the Winter. In the Winter no one wants to go outside anyway and in the Spring and Fall kids want to be outside as much as possible.
In the Winter no one wants to go out into the cold air and stand around doing nothing for ten minutes. In the inter all we can do is stand around on the pavement waiting for the snow to melt away.
At the beginning and end of the year we can play kickball, run around, swing, sit and talk on the bleachers, and lay on the grass. Those are just some of the things we can do outside.
As you can see, we can do much more in the Fall and Spring than we can do in the Winter. Which is why I think that we should have a longer break when we have things we can do outside and a shorter break when we can do nothing.
From,
Jacob
None For The Show letter to the editor 2
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Maria Libby 8L
March 8, 2010
Final Draft
We Need Our Laptops Back
At the beginning of our eighth grade year, we were given brand new, one-thousand dollar laptops. We all were very happy to have a new tool to use at school. As the year has gone on the attitude has changed a bit towards the use of the computers. Several students have been using them for things other than school. Such as facebook and checking personal email. After some of the middle level teachers found this, they proposed that the laptops remain at school until after February vacation. Well, when we all came back from our break, the seventh grades and eighth grade were not given the right to take the laptops home as they were supposed to. Now there has been a lot of talk about when we are going to get them back. Here is mine opinion.
Okay, I understand that some students are misusing them, but why should you punish everybody? I am one of many students that have been using them correctly and I used the computer for my homework every night. I don’t think that we should have them taken away if certain people’s homework is being completed. There are students making honor roll and working hard to succeed and sometimes it is hard to do that when you can’t bring your laptop home.
As I started discussing in my previous paragraph I have noticed that I have had a harder time completing my school work. For all of my classes we use them and when homework is assigned, it is very frustrating and stressful to do at school because I know that I only have my hour of study hall to complete things from five classes. Usually we have some homework in all five subjects.
Also, I would like to say that it has been a big help so far this year having these laptops. It has been such a help looking for research and examples. I really think that it is too bad that the teachers here can’t trust us with our school computers. We do a lot of slideshows using the application Keynote and write a lot using Pages. Actually right now using our laptops has been very helpful in our Wabanaki studies, and our science inventions. We also use Noteshare which is a program where us students are able to see interact with each other and our teachers.
All students have different opinions and this is mine. I know that things are changing and we are learning new ways of working things out. Hopefully when you read this, you are seeing my point of view and the values that us students have.
Monday, March 8, 2010
When I get home from school the last thing I want to do is homework. It might be different if it was just a page but I think we have too much homework.
For example, last Tuesday we had a game in Stueben, which is pretty far away. After the game I got home around 8:30 I was tired so I was gonna go to bed. I look in my bag real quick and remembered all the homework I had to do so I stayed up till 11 at night getting it all done! Then the next day I did terrible in school because I was so tired.
We go to school for 7 hours a day. Our parents usually say “ don’t complain, we work all day”. Well, we go to school all day and we do just as much as our parents. When I come home I want to rest I worked all day in school but no I cant rest i have to do a few HOURS of homework.
Our “working” parents get to come home and rest. I think we should be able to just come home and rest too. I lose a lot of sleep because of homework. I stay up till late hours because I have basketball. So when I come home at eight at night from a game, I have to stay up till 11 getting my homework done. I wake up at 6 i need my sleep. When i come to school Im tired and its hard to listen and be alert causing bad grades. All this is caused because of homework.
Or maybe teachers can work out deals with the students. For example maybe if we are good in class we don’t get homework but if we are bad we get homework. I understand homework is kind of a tradition. My math teacher, for example, always says, “Don’t complain. When i was a kid i had 50 or 60 questions a night! That was her life 40 years ago but things have changed, we have technology making it easier to learn and personally having homework does not make me smarter. Usually it does not help me if I get stuck there is no one there to help me. Then when i come to school and say i didn’t get it. The teachers don’t believe me and say it was just a excuse.
One more thing homework causes a lot of stress especially when you don’t get it done. Man am, I scared when I forget to do a assignment. And like I said, I play basketball and if you don’t get your homework you get a detention. So when I forget to do my homework, I rush to get it done causing it to not be done right.
So all together i think homework is a bad idea and it causes all of these things maybe teachers could do the homework in class so they can help us.