Wow!  It's hard to believe we are starting the third month.  Time has slipped by so quickly.

First of all, let me thank everyone for their patience as I returned to the "swing of things" after my trip to Australia. It was an absolutely amazing experience and though the flight is long - it is highly recommended.  The people and the country are fantastic!

When I returned there were major mark updates.  As you can see, some students continue to struggle with the expectations of grade 7 and 8.  There is really no excuse for missing work or incomplete work.  The students were provided the deadlines in September and therefore know when assignments and projects are due, as well as test dates.

One huge area of concern is the attitude that some students have exhibited and feel that they are entitled to.  All students are held to the same standard in respect to behaviour, attitude within class, response to redirection, and ultimately their utilization of class time.  I recognize that Grade 7 and 8's always arrive with some attitude (as I'm sure you can appreciate) but a few feel they are superior and this is leading to unnecessary issues.  Please keep in mind that this applies to only a handful of students but if you could, please check with your daughter and reiterate the importance of appropriate behaviours.

The trip information letters will be coming home this week.  I do apologize for the delay in this.  Please review the information and return all required paperwork by Friday, November 6th.

Progress Reports are being sent home this week in addition to the marks being posted on a regular basis.  Please review these with your daugther and return them signed by Wednesday, November 4th.

In regards to curriculum, we will be exploring the following topics:

                                       Grade 7's                                     Grade 8's

Math                              Patterning                                     Data Management
History                          New France                                  Confederation
Geography                    Themes of Geography                  World Human Patterns
Science                          Ecosystems                                   Cells
Phys. Ed.                        Fitness Testing/Volleyball/Drug Unit in Health
Art                                3-D Drawings                                3-D Drawings
Language                      Remembrance and Respect Unit for both

Again, do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns at 905-436-2054

Thanks

J. Keller