Science

 

In our study of physical science, we have looked at Newton’s laws, work & power, and simple machines. 
Students were exposed to the six simple machines and compound machines. They completed mini-research
projects about Newton’s laws and amusement parks and caveman using simple machines. These mini-unit assessments are part of the Milford Science curriculum being taught to all eighth graders in town.

Did you know that there are only six simple machines? Can you name them? When these machines are combined together in various forms they make compound machines. 

You son/daughter is also preparing for his/her first exposure to Science on the CMT’s. We are reviewing in class thirteen key areas of science, and students are taking notes for each section or completing a worksheet for each section.  

What’s ahead? There is basic astronomy—motion in outer space; an introduction to matter; and more laboratory experiences to reinforce concepts we have learned this year. Can you name the three states of matter?

Answers: The six simple machines are: the inclined plane, wedge, screw, lever, wheel & axle, and the pulley. The three states of matter are solids, liquids, and gases.

Mr. Dudeck (tdudeck@milford.org)

 Spanish

¿Cómo estás hoy?

In Spanish class, we are currently exploring our health and medical unit. Students are gaining practical vocabulary and phrases that will come in handy if they ever decide to travel to a Spanish-speaking country or have a future career in the medical field. We continue to develop our language skills and it is exciting to see the students being able to convey more elaborate thoughts in Spanish. Go ahead! Ask your child how they are feeling today and they will be able to give you a response in Spanish.

Ms. Hannigan (khannigan@milforded.org)

Social Studies

Recently, Team 5 students completed a unit on our American system of government.  We learned that there are two parts of Congress, namely the Senate and the House of Representatives. We also discussed different specific powers that determine what Congress can and cannot do. Combined with the Executive and the Judicial branches, the rights of American citizens are protected.

The students are composing a letter to a Connecticut member of Congress focusing on one amendment in the Bill of
Rights They will relate this amendment to their personal lives and tell why they feel that their chosen amendment is important. They will specifically make an analogy to an incident in American or World History which has a connection to the particular right chosen.  Do look for our letters which will be on exhibit in the hall in the middle of March.               
Ms. Eagan (Jeagan@milforded.org)

Language Arts



We have recently finished up our unit on A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which was the students’ first experience with Shakespeare. The students did so well tackling the intricate plot twists and challenging language, and I think a lot of students were surprised at how much they enjoyed the play! We capped off our unit with a visit from Shakespearience, a theatrical group which combines performance and education. They had us laughing from start to finish! It was awesome to see so many of our students volunteering to participate as performers in the workshop. Now, we are working on the CMTs, and will soon be starting our sci-fi unit focused around The Giver.

Happy Spring!
Ms. Ferrara (lferrara@milforded.org)

 Math

Geometry, Algebra and Exponents….Oh My!

Team 5 Mathematics –We’re moving along at a steady pace! The students should be able to impress you with their rationalizing skills!

Pre-Algebra: We’ve deep into our study of geometry. We have just studied area and perimeter and are moving on to volume and surface area.  These skills will come in handy for painting or wallpapering a room. The kids are amazing me with their ability to think critically! They are beginning to think like true mathematicians!

Algebra: The Algebra students have finished chapter 7, focusing on systems of equations and inequalities. We’ve moved into our study of exponents, scientific notation, and exponential functions. The students will also become more comfortable with the graphing calculator. They will become more familiar with it next year. 

Questions to ponder: What is the difference between a radius and a diameter?

                                     What does the solution to a system of equations mean?

Mrs. Astrosky (kastrosky@milforded.org)