Since the Sun has decided not to participate in our 2nd Solar Oven Cookoff challenge, we’ll have to try the competition AGAIN tomorrow (Thursday, May 17) and your test will be then be Friday, May 18. Notebk due the following Monday.
6th – Our worlds will be rocked by “Tectonics”, but we’ve only just begun so nothing yet!
7th – Don’t forget about your “I’m Telling Mom” this weekend and we’ll know what day the test will be “planted” by next week!
8th – Get your “I’m Telling Mom” done!!! The official “Solar Oven Cookoff” happens this Tuesday, May 15, starting at 1:30 – HAVE THEM READY! Bring your s’mores supplies on Monday. Your test is the following Wednesday, May 16, with notebook due the following Thursday.
Have a fun weekend! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – You’ll receive all of the atoms contained in your test on “The Periodic Table” this Wednesday, May 9, with notebook due the following Thursday!
7th – Let’s get down with nature when we begin “Classifying Plants” on Monday. Nothing big scheduled yet.
8th – The annual Big Solar Oven Cookoff is not far away now! Your test on “Resources” will be scheduled by my next Friday post!
See you all on Monday! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
Welcome home – I missed you!
6th – So be sure to complete your “I’m Telling Mom” – Write the first 18 elements and their atomic numbers, by memory! Your CC’s begin this Monday, April 30 and your test is scheduled for Wednesday, May 9 with notebook due the following day!
7th -Your second day of CC’s is this Monday, April 30, with test the next Tuesday, May 1 with notebook due the following day!
8th – Still studying the material. Nothing really yet!
Be ready for a power packed week coming up – pedal to the metal!! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
(Early post due to holiday)
6th grade – We’re about to “classify” chapter 1, “Exploring and Classifying Life” as over once the test comes, scheduled for THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16. Your CHAPTER CHALLENGES have been changed to begin that Tuesday, September 14, with notebook due the day after test or Friday, September 17. Excellent work on the super-cool lab today! Wonder if there will be a pop-quiz sometime soon…
7th grade – You’ve successfully maneuvered your first Chapter Challenges and have a test scheduled for TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 (changed), with notebook due the following Wednesday.
8th – Wow – I’ve missed your creative Chapter Challenges and am glad to see you’re all still expanding the material in your own ways! Our final CHALLENGES come on Monday, September 13, with TEST scheduled for WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15. Notebook due the following Thursday.
HAVE A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY! Love, Mrs. B
6th grade – I’m impressed with your ability to respond to stimuli now that we’ve completed chapter 1! Tomorrow we begin your introduction to the SCIENCE FAIR with a visit from Mrs. Hernandez on acceptable research websites and we’ll soon begin chapter 2 on “The Living Cell”. In the mean time, make sure you’ve chosen your 3 Science Fair topics and have described each for tomorrow’s submission.
7th – Mrs. Hernandez comes on Tuesday to school you on acceptable Science Fair websites. Have your parent Science Fair agreement signed for tomorrow and tell your parents you recieved an official packet to help guide you. Also, make sure you’ve read Manya’s TECHTASTIC blog by Monday!
8th- Mrs. Hernandez comes on Monday to help us with acceptable SF websites and soon we’ll begin chapter 4, “The Periodic Table”. Be sure to have parent sign the agreement for SF and tell them you’ve recieved your official SF packet. Read Manya’s blog and I’ll see you soon.
Love, Mrs. B
All parents – please note that all students have received their SCIENCE FAIR packets.
6th grade – After viewing some blood and artery cells today, the Powerpoint and lecture will officially begin on Monday. Be sure to have your PARENT AGREEMENT signed and objective/hypothesis written out by Monday, September 27.
7th – We’re riding high on the “Waves” chapter now. Nothing due yet.
8th – We’ll continue the lecture on “The Periodic Table” on Monday.
Happy holiday to all!!
6th – Be sure to read SF packet pages 12-16 and come up with a catchy name for your SF project!
7th – Same as 6th grade’s assignment, but bring a paper towel roll also!
8th – Same as 6th grade’s assignment.
Have a great holiday and congratulations on completing your SF objective/hypothesis statement! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – Make sure ALL of your organelles are doing the following: work on your notebook, be ready for Chapter Challenges on Monday, Oct. 18, and complete your classwork together on the bus ride! Your test is scheduled for Wednesday, October 20, with notebooks due the following day.
7th – As we prepare to wave goodbye to “Waves, Sound, and Light”, be sure to prepare your Chapter Challenge for Friday, October 15. Your test is scheduled for Tuesday, October 19, with notebooks due the following day. Have your SF interview names and numbers prepared.
8th – Get your “mettle” together for your test on “The Periodic Table”, scheduled for Monday, October 18. Your 3-D PERIODIC TABLE PROJECT is due the day after that (this is your substitute for CC). Have your SF interview names and numbers prepared.
May your trip be a memorable and uniting experience! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
Welcome back…it was lonely here!
6th grade – Work on your notebook and have ALL CC’s ready by Monday, October 18. Don’t forget about your TEST on Wednesday, October 20, with notebook due the following day.
7th – Work on your notebook and we’ll finish your CC’s on Monday. Study for your Tuesday, October 19 test and complete your notebook for that following Wednesday.
8th – Study for your Monday, October 18 test and have your notebooks and 3 – D PERIODIC TABLE PROJECTS ready for that following Tuesday. Each of you will stand and give a simple description of what you’ve created – so be ready!
Love, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – Since you’ve just “inherited” the newest chapter, “DNA and Inheritance”, nothing scheduled with that yet. Just have your 8 SF sources and notecards ready for Monday.
7th – We’ll all just “diamonds in the rough” with regard to the new chapter on rocks. Just have those 8 source notecards ready for Monday and complete those 3 SF interviews.
8th – We’re starting to fulfill our electron needs with the next chapter on atomic bonding. Do the same as the 7th grade over the weekend.
Have a great one. Love, Mrs. Burkhart
***please note correction (posted 11/1) for 6th test***
6th – Make sure your genetic code is ready for the test on Monday, Nov. 8th and have your CC ready by Tuesday, Nov. 2nd. Be ready for your SF notebook check this Monday (to the extent applicable.) Keep working on your notebook for the day after the test!
7th – Let’s not have a “rocky” start on your “Rocks and Minerals CC’s – be ready on Wednesday, Nov. 3rd with test scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 9th and notebks due the next day. Be ready for SF notebk check this Monday (to the extent applicable).
8th – The elemental test orbitals are circling soon, but in the mean time prepare your CC for Tuesday, Nov. 2 and work on your notebook. Test is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 10, with notebk due the following day! Have SF notebk check ready for this Monday (to the extent applicable).
Have a great one, Mrs. B
The Chapter Challenges were so exciting! Thank you all for being your best!
6th – Get your DNA ready for Monday’s test on Monday, November 8th, and have your notebook ready for Tuesday. KEEP WORKING ON YOUR SF PROJECTS!
7th – Metamorphic pressure is increasing as we near the test, scheduled for Tuesday, November 9th, with notebook due the following day! KEEP WORKING ON THE SF!
8th – Now that we’re bonded with the chapter, be ready for the test on Wednesday, November 10, with notebook due the following day. KEEP WORKING ON THE SF!
Have a great weekend! Mrs. B
6th – Since we’ve just started “Physical Systems”, concentrate on your SCIENCE FAIR project this weekend.
7th – “Earth’s Past” is our present concern, but it’s early in the game, so work on your SCIENCE FAIR project this weekend.
8th – You’ve survived the test on “Atomic Structure and Bonding”, and that’s what “matters”, which happens to be where we’re going next. Work on your SCIENCE FAIR project this weekend!!
Have fun, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – Now that we’ve fully flexed our muscles with regard to our current chapter, “Support, Movement, and Responses”, you should remember that the test is scheduled for Thursday, December 2nd, with Chapter Challenges starting on Monday, November 29! Notebooks due the day after test!
7th- “Superposition” yourself for the test on “Clues to Earth’s Past” on Thursday, December 2nd, with Chapter Challenges starting onMonday, November 29. Notebooks due day after test.
8th – Pascal will be putting some equalized pressure on your brain for the test on “States of Matter”, scheduled for Friday, December 3, with Chapter Challenges starting on Tuesday, November 30 and Wednesday, December 1. Notebook due day after test!
Happy Kadima! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
THIS IS A REVISED POST. PLEASE NOTICE TEST DATES HAVE CHANGED FOR ALL CLASSES.
6TH – CHANGED TO FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3RD.
7TH CHANGED TO FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3RD
8TH – CHANGED TO TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7TH DURING EDITH’S CLASS.
(from prior post) 6th – We’re still working on our “Support, Movement, and Responses” labs, but don’t forget about the upcoming CC’s on Monday, November 29 and the test on Thursday, December 2 and notebooks due Friday, December 3.
7th – You should study for your test, scheduled for Thursday December 2 AND have your CC ready on Tuesday, November 30. Notebook due Friday, December 3.
8th – Your CC’s should be ready by Tuesday, November 30 with test scheduled for that Friday, December 3. Notebook due the following Monday.
Gobble. Love, Mrs. Burkhart
6th grade – Today all of our synapses were firing during the test on “Support, Responses, and Movement”! Your notebook is due Monday, December 6th of course, and your next SF check os Wednesday, December 8th!
7th – Trilobites dance in delight for your test today on “Earth’s Past”! Your notebook is due Monday, December 6th, of course AND your next SF notebook check is due Monday as well!
8th – If you all can take a break from being SUPERSTARS at performance art, you might want to study for your test on “Matter”, scheduled for Tuesday, December 7th, with notebook due the following day! Your next SF check is this Monday, December 6th. Also, have a black t-shirt ready by Wednesday, December 15th, the day of your graduation party… do I smell picture time???
Happy Hanukkah! Mrs. B
**Notice to all parents – COMPLETED SCIENCE FAIR PROJECTS (BACKBOARDS AND NOTEBOOKS) MAY BE SUBMITTED TO ME ON EITHER OF THE 3 FOLLOWING DATES: THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17, or MONDAY, JANUARY 3
6TH – Breathe a sigh of relief…your new chapter, “Respiration, Digestion, and Excretion” has only just begun! Just keep working on SCIENCE FAIR!
7th – With our Earthworms in tow, we’re just now starting our “Animals” chapter. Concentrate on Science Fair this weekend!
8th – You’ve inherited a new chapter with “Heredity”. Just keep working on Science Fair for now!
I look forward to soon seeing your magical SCIENCE FAIR creations, very soon! Have a great weekend. Mrs. Burkhart
ALL SCIENCE FAIR PROJECTS (NOTEBOOK AND BACKBOARD) DUE UPON RETURN FROM BREAK ON MONDAY, JANUARY 3.
6th – Be sure to be working on your Chapter Challenge, due Thursday, January 6!
7th – Be sure to work on your Chapter Challenge, due Monday, January 4! Your next test is scheduled for Thursday, January 6.
8th – Start thinking about your Chapter Challenges.
Thank you so much for the lovely Hanukkah cash – I will spend it wisely! Have a great two weeks off and I’ll see you all soon. Love, Mrs. Burkhart
Congratulations on some beautiful SCIENCE FAIR work! I can’t wait for January 25!
6th – Today is the first day of your Chapter Challenges and you’ll breathe a sigh of relief after your test on “Digestion, Respiration, and Excretion”, scheduled for this Tuesday, January 10. Notebook due the following Wednesday.
7th – Hurray for you – yesterday’s test on “Animal Classification” has been filed away and the notebook is due on Monday, January 10. No snarling as we begin “Animal Behavior” next week!
8th – All your cells are focused on “Heredity” and the Chapter Challenges, scheduled for Monday, January 9, with test scheduled for Friday, January 14.
Happy New Year! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – The current topic ”Circulation and Immunity” has begun flowing through our veins! We’ve only just begin, so be thinking about your Chapter Challenges.
7th – We’re busy exhibiting learned behavior with regard to our chapter on animals. Be sure to complete your “I’m Telling Mom” this weekend, otherwise nothing planned yet.
8th – I know you’ll be ready to “pass on” the notebook you “inherited” when we began the chapter, now that the today’s test is over. Have it ready for Monday!
Have a great one! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
Can’t wait to see you all at the 2010-2011 SCIENCE FAIR!
Don’t forget to check out all of the cool 6th, 7th, and 8th grade CHAPTER CHALLENGES to the right – click and enjoy!
6th – Don’t be “immune” to starting your notebook this weekend – and be prepared for your Chapter Challenges to begin Friday, January 28.
7th – May as well “submit” to your Chapter Challenges on “Animal Behavior” beginning Monday, January 24 and your test scheduled for next Thursday, January 27.
8th – Read chapter 17 this weekend, “Adaptations” and kick your brains out (you know what this is code for…). Practice makes perfect!
Love, Mrs. Burkhart
I was overtaken by SCIENCE FAIR mania this week! Your projects lined the gym like displays in the hallways of the Smithsonian. The fortitude and bravery each and every 8th grader demonstrated during the show was impressive. Just goes to show – if at first you don’t succeed… Thanks to everyone of you who made it happen! I am the proudest teacher on the planet! I’ll post the show video soon. AND congratulations to our esteemed winners:
FIRST PLACE – MANYA G.
SECOND PLACE – SYDNEY G.
THIRD PLACE – SARIT S.
AND HONORABLE MENTIONS: MICAH R., ELIZA I., AND DOUGLAS N.
So, it’s back to usual business.
6th – Chapter Challenges begin this Monday, January 31, with your test scheduled for Thursday, February 2.
7th – Ilyssa and Rebecca round out the last of the Chapter Challenges and your test is Tuesday, February 1.
8th – “Adapt” to your new chapter starting this Monday. It will be super FUN!
Parents – Your gift of a report card is coming home today!
6th – You’ll get those test back on Monday! We’ll be starting our chapter on tectonic plate movement Monday too!
7th – Nothing big coming yet.
8th – Be sure to complete “Living Without Thumbs” mini-lab this weekend!
Have a great one! Mrs. Burkhart
6th – We’ve become one with the chapter on Pangaea and the “Tectonic Plates” chapter. Chapter Challenges begin next Wednesday, February 16, with test scheduled for Tuesday, February 22 and notebook due the following Wednesday. Don’t forget your “I’m Telling Mom” this weekend.
7th – Conserve your energy for upcoming CC’s on “Conserving Life”, which begin on Wednesday, February 16. Your test is scheduled for Friday, February 18, with notebook due the following Tuesday, February 22.
8th – Evolve to accommodate your Chapter Challenges which begin today and run through Wednesday, February 16. Your test is Thursday, February 17, with notebook due the following Friday.
Have a good one! Mrs. Burkhart
6th – May all of your mental powers drift together for your test on “Plate Tectonics” coming Tuesday, February 22, with notebook due the following Wednesday, February 23.
7th – After today’s test on ”Conserving Life”, we’ll begin drinking in the next chapter, “Our Impact on Air and Water” by prereading it over the weekend. Finish your notebook by Tuesday, February 22.
8th – Time for some “punctuated equilibrium” as we progress into the world of “Human Regulation and Reproduction.” Just preread the chapter and get ready to be parent for the first time! NOTE: THE PREVIOUS STATEMENT IS FOR SIMULATED CLASSROOM LEARNING PURPOSES ONLY. No parenthood is recommended at the current time (remember, I said wait until you’re 30)!
Love, Mrs. Burkhart
Hope to see everyone here for FAMILY UNIVERSITY!
6th – Since we’ve only just begun chapter 21, “The Earth, Moon, and Stars”, may the moon shine brightly for your observation purposes this weekend for the completion of your “I’m Telling Mom” assignment. Nothing big on the horizon yet!
7th – “Our Impact on Water and Air” will become personal this weekend, as you complete “I’m Telling Mom” by measuring your water usage. Nothing big planned yet.
8th – Your babies (eggs) were such a joy for me to meet this week! Let’s try not to kill any more of them! Be sure to write in your baby journal this weekend. Be thinking about your Chapter Challenge beginning sometime later this next week!
6th – Keep trying to locate the Big/Little Dippers (will we ever again have a cloudless night???) and align your stars for the Chapter Challenges to begin on Wednesday, March 9. You next scheduled test is Monday, March 14, with notebook due the following day.
7th – After our exciting desalination lab dedicated to ”Impact on Water and Air” we’ll begin Chapter Challenges on Wednesday, March 9, with the test the following Monday, March 14. Notebook due the following day.
8th – Our brains are continuing their development with every Chapter Challenge, continuing through Tuesday. Your test is the next Wednesday, March 9, with notebook due the following day.
Have a great weekend. Love, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – Nothing big set up yet. Just go over section 1 in the chapter and be thinking about your CC’s.
7th – Same here as 6th.
8th – Since we’re drawing CC cards today, you should be thinking about that and by Monday, the ghost of Carl Sagan will guide us to an approximate test date (ha – this is science…we don’t believe in ghosts). Don’t forget to do your star gazing.
Have a fun weekend. Love, Mrs. Burkhart
Today concludes ITBS testing! Congratulations – time to get back to business…
6th – Today you complete part 2 of your “Matter” test. Your notebook is due Monday April 4! Be sure to read chapter 16 “Atoms and the Periodic Table” over the weekend – it’s a doozy!
7th – Part 1 of your test is today, with part 2 happening on Monday, so your notebook is due Tuesday, April 5, vocab only, no typed lab. Read chapter 12, “Classifying Plants” over the weekend!
8th – In the immortal words of Ricky Ricardo – “You got some studyin to do!” OK, those are my words but just make sure you complete your classwork over the weekend and your test will be Wednesday, April 6, with notebooks due the following Thursday, vocab only, no typed lab.
Have a great weekend! Love, Mrs. B
**Late post due to conferences
Congratulations to our newest National Junior Honor Society members: Jacob Orender and Rebecca Nathans
6th – I’m positive all of your protons are focused on gaining the new material on “Atoms, Elements, and the Periodic Table”. Nothing scheduled yet…
7th – Interest grows as we continue studying “Classificatin of Plants”. Nothing scheduled yet…
8th – Things heat up as we begin our “Thermal Energy” chapter. Nothing yet…
See you all tomorrow! Love, Mrs. B
May your break be filled with sunshine, laughter, and happiness… because we’ve got lots to accomplish when you get back!! ALL CLASSES WILL TAKE THE COMPREHENSIVE YEAR FINAL ON TUESDAY, MAY 31.
6th – Your CC’s will begin on Friday, May 6 when you return from NY. The test is scheduled for that Wednesday, May 11.
7th – Your CC’s are also to begin on Monday, May 9. The test is the next Thursday, May 12. BE SURE TO BRING YOUR FRUIT FOR FRIDAY, MAY 6TH LAB!
8th – Your LAST set of CC’s will begin on Monday, May 9, with final chapter test on (lucky) Friday, May 13. AND DON’T FORGET GRADUATION ON MONDAY, JUNE 6 (I doubt you will).
Three weeks without you all…it will be sad. Have a fantastic time and see you soon. Love, Mrs.
6th and 7th grades – How happy I am to have you back!
6th – Great CC’s today! Make sure to complete your “I’m Telling Mom” for Monday!
7th – It was Fruitapalooza today! Make sure to complete your “I’m Telling Mom” for Monday!
8th – What??? See ya Monday!
Love, Mrs. Burkhart
Yes, we’re getting close – but we still have stuff to cram into your noggins! Remember your year final is scheduled for Tuesday, May 31.
6th – We’re just becoming attracted to chapter 19, ”Electricity and Magnetism”. Nothing big yet.
7th – Get to work looking at the preliminary info on chapter 5, “Work and Simple Machines”. We’ll officially begin Monday. AND don’t forget to complete your chapter 12 notebook over the weekend!
8th – Studying for your final chapter test heats up over the weekend, since the chapter 10, “Thermal Energy” test is scheduled for Monday, May 16. And don’t forget your notebook for the following Tuesday.
Have a great one! Love, Mrs. B
**ATTENTION** – THIS IS A SPECIAL MONDAY POST BECAUSE TEST CHANGES HAVE BEEN MADE to the 6th GRADE TEST SCHEDULE. PLEASE READ!!
6th – Someone very close to you has made a plea on your behalf to alter the cumulative science test so your heads don’t blow off! I have seen fit to grant the request. YOU WILL NO LONGER HAVE A CUMULATIVE YEAR-END TEST, BUT WILL SIMPLY HAVE A FINAL ON ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM to be held on Tuesday, May 31. Your Chapter Challenges are still due on Tuesday, May 24. Your final notebook is still due Wednesday, June 1. So it all works out in the end. You should give that “someone very close to you” a hug.
7th – We’re still in the midst of “working” on the “Simple Machines” chapter, just look over things and your test will most likely be Thursday, May 26. Comprehensive, abbreviated final still May 31.
8th – All you have to look forward to is the comprehensive final on May 31. May all of our rockets take flight!
Have a great one! Mrs. B
6th – There’s a definite “excitement in the air” as we take the final exam on “Electricity and Magnetism” happening on Tuesday, May 31. Your notebook is due the following Wednesday.
7th – Your 5 – chapter final happens on Tuesday, May 31. No final notebook.
8th – Your comprehensive exam happens on Tuesday, May 31.
We’re so close – don’t stop now! Have a science-filled weekend!! Love, Mrs. B
If you’re looking at this, I should point out that it’s summer, so there’s nothing new posted for Mrs. Burkhart’s Middle School blog! I can say that I’ve come up with some all-new wacky ideas for the 2011-2012 year to help make learning science more exciting than ever! See you soon…
Mrs. Burkhart
6th, 7th, 8th – Nothing big planned yet, but you’ll be telling mom (or dad) something this weekend! Love, Mrs. B
What a great week we’ve had!
6th – We’re already into the scientific terms discussion in chapter 1, so you’ll be real junior scientist in no time! Don’t forget your “I’m Telling Mom” (or Dad) this weekend.
7th – Doing great so far and we must thank the current storm Irene for bringing extra interest into our first chapter, “The Atmosphere in Motion”. Get your “I’m Telling Mom” (or Dad) completed this weekend!
8th – “Forces Shaping Earth” is providing mountains of info for our first chapter study! Complete your “I’m Telling Mom” (or Dad) this weekend!
Have a great first weekend – and make the commitment to be your best this year!! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
Week 2 was power-packed!
6th – Over the long weekend, make sure you: work on your notebook vocabulary, get started on your Chapter Challenges (which happen to begin Friday, September 9), and review all covered material!
7th – Get those Chapter Challenges ready for Tuesday, September 6! Your first test is on Thursday, September, 8, with the notebook due the following Friday. Time to dazzle me!
8th – Same for you as above.
Happy Labor Day, Mrs. Burkhart
Again, we rocked another week!
6th – I’d “classify” the first Chapter Challenges as successful!! (Get it – classify – like Linnaeus)! Make sure your CC is very ready when I see you on Tuesday. Remember to bring your notebook packets for Monday!! AND notice I’ve scheduled your test for Monday, September 19!
7th – You blew the test away on “The Atmosphere” and have completed your first notebook and Chapter Challenge. Next is “Waves, Sound, and Light”, a favorite!! Nothing yet since it’s only the beginning.
8th – A mountain of work went into “Forces Shaping Earth”, so now we’re onto “The Periodic Table” – awesome! Nothing yet since it’s only the beginning.
Have a great weekend and Monday and I’ll see you Tuesday. Love, Mrs. Burkhart
HEY – check out the new pictures (click to the right)!!!
6th – May every organism in class rock this Monday’s test (September 19) on “Exploring and Classifying Life”! Your notebook is, of course, due the following Tuesday, September 20.
7th – Wave hello to our newest chapter, “Waves, Sound, and Light”. You should begin thinking about how to dazzle me with your Chapter Challenge and be reviewing a little every night. No test scheduled yet.
8th – All of our molecules are focused on the new chapter, “The Periodic Table”. Start thinking about your Chapter Challenge and remember, it’s a short chapter so keep up with things! No test scheduled yet.
Have a fun weekend. Love, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – Just make sure all of your nuclei have read chapter 2 “The Living Cell”. Nothing big scheduled yet!
7th – I see the light at the end of the tunnel for “Waves, Sound, and Light”. Your Chapter Challenges begin on Monday (be ready) and your test is October 3, with notebook due the following Tuesday.
8th – Your Chapter Challenges begin TODAY, with test scheduled for Tuesday, September 27. Notebooks due the following day.
Have a great weekend! Love, Mrs. B
Hey - check out all of the new pictures and posts!
6th – We’ll remember that bacteria can be your friend when it comes to our chapter 2 “The Living Cell”. We’re very close, so be thinking about your Chapter Challenge over the holiday and confirm that your idea doesn’t duplicate! Also, check out Joel’s awesome Techtastic Chapter Challenge! Your test isn’t for a few weeks considering next week is shortened too.
7th – Electromagnetic Waves will help you see the TEST on Tuesday, October 4 and by the way – killer CC’s!! Notebook due day after test, as always.
8th – Bunny day comes Monday!!!! Be here at lunchtime and we’ll eat and scurry off to the pet store! BRING your bunny money! Don’t forget to have yourself and mom watch 2 (two) periodic table videos. Hint: the potassium one is awesome!
Happy holiday. Love, Mrs. B
We’re progressing more quickly than I expected! Don’t forget about your CC’s due this Friday, October 7, with test on Wednesday, October 12. Notebook due the following Monday.
COMING SOON…VISIT THE 8TH GRADE “BUNNY BLOG”, WITH THE SENIOR CLASS MASCOT – PICKLES!!!!
6th – Today’s CC’s were GREAT! I look forward to viewing the rest on Monday and Tuesday, with your test scheduled for Wednesday, October 12. Notebooks due the following day, or Monday.
7th – May our current chapter “Rocks and Minerals” be hard for you to resist! Nothing yet except thinking about your CC’s.
8th – Congratulations on becoming bunny parents this week. What’s not to love about those furry little ears! Nothing scheduled yet, just be looking at your work packet – it has some cool surprises in it!
Happy holiday! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – Your test must now be postponed until Monday, October 17, with notebook due the following day. I know it was scheduled for Wednesday, but we will take that day and have a fierce team competition review due to your recent quiz grades.
6th – Don’t forget your ch. 2 test is now Monday, October 17, with notebook due the following Tuesday. Be ready!
7th – We’re still rockin’ on through ‘Rocks and Minerals”, but you should, of course be contemplating your CC and getting ready to eat some of our favorite rock specimens! I’d be ready for your CC on Monday, October 31, the week AFTER retreat. Chances are good the test will be around November 2, but let’s wait until we’re a little closer to place the date!
8th – I’d be thinking hard about bonding with your CC soon, since you’ll probably be covalent with them on Monday, October 31. The test will probably be around November 2, but let’s wait until the time gets closer. I’m giving you an extra day for CC’s since you’ll all be zombies the Friday you return from the trip!
Happy holiday weekend!
Love, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – Well, you survived the pathogens of chapter 2. Now onward to one of my personal favorites, “DNA, Genes, and Inheritance”! Do nothing for now since we haven’t even begun the study.
7th – Knock me out with your “Rocks and Minerals” CC’s, due Tuesday, November 1. Test scheduled for that Friday, November 4, with notebook due the following day.
8th – Help me be covalent in your enthusiasm for your CC’s – due on Tuesday, November 1, with test on Thursday, November 3. Notebook due the following Friday, November 4.
Happy holiday and have a successful retreat. Love, Mrs. B
Pickles is just FINE…she got a little overwhelmed with attention today, but she’s back to her old self! Thanks for all your concern! We’ll all practice handling her one at a time with quiet voices…
Oh and have I told you all how much I MISSED you while you were on retreat? Thanks for coming back.
6th – Really, we just got started with the chapter today…nothing yet!
7th – Remember, CC’s due on Tuesday, November 1 and test scheduled for that Friday, November 4, with notebook due the following Monday.
8th – I’ve changed your CC’s to WEDNESDAY, November 2, with test that Friday, November 4 and notebook due the following Monday.
Have a great weekend. Love, Mrs. B
6th – Your CC’s are scheduled for Thursday and come this Monday, we’ll have a test date set! Monday will also bring an “I’m Telling Mom” your way! Get it done for Tuesday!
7th – Make sure you’ve read “Earth’s Past” for my presentation on Monday. Nothing scheduled since we haven’t started!
8th – Make sure you’ve read “Matter” for your advanced study on the topic! Nothing yet…
Have a great weekend!
6th – Your CC’s are scheduled for Thursday and come this Monday, we’ll have a test date set! Monday will also bring an “I’m Telling Mom” your way! Get it done for Tuesday!
7th – Make sure you’ve read “Earth’s Past” for my presentation on Monday. Nothing scheduled since we haven’t started!
8th – Make sure you’ve read “Matter” for your advanced study on the topic! Nothing yet…
Have a great weekend!
6th – Yes, I’ve officially changed your CC date to Monday, November 14 (I know you’re disappointed)! Your next test, ”The Role of Genes in Inheritance” is Friday, November 18. Get your “I’m Telling Mom” done tonight!
6th – Work on your CC’s, due this Monday, November 14 and get all your alleles ready for your test on Friday, November 18! Notebooks due the following Monday.
7th – Feel free to go ahead and start thinking about your CC and notebook. We’re not even finished with the material though, so I can only estimate next Friday to begin your performances. I’ll know the exact CC date once we finish the study and the labs!
8th – Your CC’s are about 10 days away – we still have to finish the chapter AND there are some killer labs to be accomplished! Be brainstorming.
Have a great long weekend! Love, Mrs. B
6th – What a great success our CC’s were – you’re getting better all the time! You can carry out your mitosis in peace, knowing you’ve completed the test on “The Role of Genes in Inheritance” today! Your notebook is due on Monday, November 21.
7th – Uniformitarianism tells us you can expect another CC to come due just like before; that’s on Monday, November 28th, with your test falling on Wednesday, November 30.
8th – Matter really does matter on Monday, November 21st, when you dazzle me with your CC’s. Your test is that Wednesday, November 23 before Thanksgiving.
Have a fun time at convention! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – Time for some good ole’ scientific blood and guts! Be sure to read chapter 4, sections 1 and 2, “Support, Movement, and Responses” so you’ll be ready for my presentation.
7th – Be sure that CC is ready for the Monday after Thanksgiving, November 28. Your test will then be that Thursday, December 1, with notebook due the following Friday.
8th – It’s a solid fact that your “Matter” test has been moved to Monday, November 28. Notebook due the following Tuesday.
I’m thankful to constantly be mesmerized by science. Happy, happy, happy holiday! Love, Mrs. B
6th – It’s time to get your skeleton moving and start to think about how to accomplish your CC! You can also start on your notebook and keep reviewing a little every night!
7th – Let’s push ourselves to do great on chapter 4, “Forces and Motion”! We’ve just started, so nothing yet.
8th – We’re hot on the trail of “Thermal Energy”, chapter 10, so begin your CC’s this weekend and your notebook too!
Have a fun one! Love, Mrs. B
6th – Bone up on the chapter for your CC’s, due this Monday, December 12, with test that Friday, December 16. Notebook due the following Tuesday when you return from holiday!
7th – Get moving for your “Forces and Changes in Motion” CC’s, due on Wednesday, December 14, with test on Tuesday, January 3. Notebook due the following Wednesday.
8th – Things heat up on Monday, December 12 as we begin CC’s on “Thermal Energy”. Your test is Thursday, December 14, with notebook due the following Friday.
Have a great weekend! Love, Mrs. B
6th – Yes, we’ve CHANGED the test date to Wednesday, January 4, with notebook due the following Thursday. Tomorrow we’ll complete our CC’s!
7th – Your next test is Thursday, January 5, with notebook due the following Friday. We’ll finish our last set of CC’s when you return from Hannukah.
8th – Excellent job on your “Thermal Energy” test today! Notebook of course due tomorrow, Friday, December 16.
Have a peaceful and science-filled Hannukah! Love to you all, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – It’s time to move on and begin drinking in chapter 5, “Digestion, Respiration, and Excretion. Be sure to preread sections 1 and 2.
7th – One of my favorite times of the year is here – WORM TIME! Let’s go wild with “Animal Classification”, starting Monday.
8th – Have a great first weekend with your new babies. Congratulations! And remember the science motto: death bad. Be thinking about your CC presentations over the weekend. It’s not too far off.
Have a good one! Love, Mrs. B
6th – Just be thinking about how to accomplish your pop-up project for “Digestion, Respiration, and Excretion”. We’ll talk more about it on Tuesday.
7th – Complete your “I’m Telling Mom” for Tuesday. Nothing else yet since we haven’t finished the study.
8th – Be prepared for your Chapter Challenge presentations on Tuesday, January 17. Your test is the following Monday, January 23.
Have a great one!! Love, Mrs. B
6th – Now that we know everything from top to bottom about “Respiration, Digestion, and Excretion”, it’s time for lab fun! Remember you pop-up CC projects are due next Friday, January 27. The test will be the following Tuesday, January 30 with notebooks due the following Wednesday.
7th – We’re aiming for Thursday, January 26 for your CC’s. “Classifying Animals” test will probably be Wednesday, March 1.
8th – What beautiful babies you all have (had)! I must admit your CC’s were absolutely dazzling this time around!! Your test is this Monday, January 23, with notebook due the following Tuesday.
Happy long weekend! Love, Mrs. B
6th – Can’t wait to see your POP-UP CHAPTER CHALLENGES, due tomorrow Friday January 27 – remember to dazzle me! Your test is Tuesday, January 31, with notebook due the following Wednesday.
7th – Don’t forget your “I’m Telling Mom” – Give us the details about your assigned animal for Tuesday’s, Blazin’ Reptiles visit! Be working on your CC, due Monday, January 30, with test on Thursday, February 2. Notebook due the following Friday.
8th – Ok, so we’re still embroiled in one of my favorites – HEREDITY! Just review what we’ve done so far. Nothing big yet!
I’ll miss you Friday. Have a great weekend! Love, Mrs. B
6th – Our current chapter, “Circulation and Immunity” is sure to get your heart pumping. Nothing yet since we’ve just started!
7th – Just be contemplating your CC’s since we’re still in the learning phase.
8th – All of your genes should be ready for the “Heredity” test, set for this Tuesday, February 14 with notebook due the following day. Great CC’s so far!
Have a great weekend! Love, Mrs. B
6th – Who doesn’t love talking about DISEASES!?!?? We’re almost done with this chapter, so BE SURE to get started on your APP CC’s this weekend! They ‘ll probably be due about Monday, February 27, but I’ll know for sure once we’ve finished the chapter.
7th – Wednesday, February 22 is when we begin showing our “insight” into “Animal Behavior” with our first CC’s! Be sure to get your “I’m Telling Mom” on the 4 types of learned behavior completed this weekend.
8th – We’ll certainly adapt to the changes the new chapter on evolution will bring. We’ve only just begun…nothing yet!
Thanks to all of the PRESIDENTS who contributed to this great country! Have a freedom-filled weekend. Love, Mrs. B
6th – Be prepared to DAZZLE me with your “Circulation and Immunity”
APP CC’s, due on Wednesday, February 29. I believe your test is scheduled for Friday, March 2.
7th – So far, you been quiet as a mouse (get it) about the test on “Animal Behavior”, scheduled for Wednesday, February 29. Notebook due the following Thursday, March 1.
8th – Be thinking about your “Evolution and Adaptation CC’s due late next week (probably Friday). I’ll schedule your test once we complete the chapter study.
Have a fun weekend! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
6th – May your heart be at peace now that today’s test on “Circulation and Immunity” is complete! Your notebook is due on Monday, March 5.
7th – Conserve your energy for “Conserving Life” starting today! Nothing scheduled for anytime soon.
8th – The need for your CC’s on “Adaptations” is evolving! They’re due on Tuesday, March 6, with your test scheduled for Friday, March 9 and notebook due the following Monday.
Have a great weekend! Love, Mrs. B
6th – Since we’re still in the first stages of matter, just begin thinking about your CC and be sure to review what we’ve covered. Please try to view “Scale of the Universe” on my blog this weekend!
7th – I missed everyone today! be sure to pick up your CC rubric on Monday and begin thinking about how to accomplish it.
8th – Your notebooks are so evolved now – please bring me your next one, due Monday, March 12. And pre-read “Stars and Galaxies” so we can blast off on Monday!
Have a great weekend! Mrs. Burkhart
6th – Your typed summary of the chemical change demo is due the Monday I return, March 19. And don’t forget, the actual demos (CC’s) are all due on that Thursday, March 22. Your test is the next Tuesday, March 27 with notebook due the following day.
7th – Your CC biodiversity projects are due on Tuesday March 20, with the test on Thursday, March 22, BUT notebooks aren’t due until Monday, March 26.
8th – We’ve only just begun, so simply begin thinking about your CC assignments.
Be sweet to your sub and I’ll see you Monday! Love, Mrs. B
7th – Yes, you can thank the ITBS for this test date change! Your test will be moved from this Thursday, March 22 to Monday, March 26. The notebook is due on the following Tuesday. Your (long term) CC is still due tomorrow, Tuesday!
6th – You can blame this test change on the ITBS…What matters is that your test on “Understanding Matter” is now scheduled for Wednesday, march 28, with notebook due the following Thursday. Love the CC’s so far…we’ll probably finish them on Monday!
7th – Study for your “Biodiversity” test coming this Monday, March 26, with notebook due the following Tuesday. Your habitats were truly dazzling – great job! And don’t forget your “I’m Telling Moms” this weekend!
8th – Your CC’s will begin Thursday, March 29, with test scheduled for Tuesday, April 3. Notebooks due the following Wednesday. Don’t forget about your “I’m Telling Moms” this weekend.
Have a good one! Love, Mrs. B
6th – Now that we know matter matters, we’re delving into the world of the different kinds there are to be explored! Please be sure to complete your “I’m Telling Mom” by viewing 2 of the Periodic Tables on this blog!!
7th – In honor of our newest chapter, “Our Impact on Air and Water”, you have my permission to skip your weekend showers. You still have to ok it with your parents though! Ha – nothing yet, we’ve just started!
8th – Our final 2 CC’s will happen on Monday and your test is scheduled for Wednesday, April 4. Your notebook is due a long time from then – first day back from break!!
Have a fun weekend! Love, Mrs. B
6th – Over break you should be starting your CC. We haven’t even finished studying the chapter yet so be calm, but be reviewing!
7th – We’ve just completed the chapter, so be working on your CC’s, due Friday, April 20! In addition, get your “I’m Telling Mom” done by calculating your family’s water usage. When you return, we’ll be labbing and I’ve also scheduled your test for Wednesday, May 2. Notebook due the following Thursday.
8th – Your “Stars and Galaxies” test is now over, but your notebook is due the day you return from break on Tuesday, April 17.
Have a wonderful break! Love, Mrs. B
You’re all leaving me next week, but hopefully you’ll appreciate the science you observe on your TRIP!
6th – In the mean time, be sure to complete your periodic table boxes (to help yourself)! Be actively thinking about and working on your CC’s, which are due on Monday, April 30. Your test is on Wednesday, May 9, with notebook due the following Thursday.
7th – Your CC’s are due Wednesday, April 27 (the day you return)! The test is scheduled for Tuesday, May 1 with notebook due the following Wednesday.
8th – You’re pretty much free and clear since we’re just beginning “Resources”. Start thinking about your senior project: a solar cell, wind turbine, or hydroelectric generator. Hey as long as it can collect and transform energy, you can use a camel if you want. (Not a good idea – very messy!)
See you all soon. Have a memorable time! Love, Mrs. Burkhart
For my chapter challenge I had techtastic and I wrote about Daniel’s CC, Nathan’s CC, Ryan’s CC and Rachel’s CC.
First I did Daniel who picked the card Construction 4 Person and WOW I was impressed! Let’s start things of with the fact that I didn’t even know half of the things he showed us. I wouldn’t have even thought that an atom could degrade in five seconds or that most H2O has isotopes for hydrogen and oxygen. He was great in explaining and the info was very interesting (although I did keep losing him). Overall he did a great job and I hope he amazes me again with one of his cool and informative chapter challenges. Daniel you did great, do the same next time only better!
Next I did Nathan who did a combo of card three Demonstrator Diva and card four Construction 4 person. He demonstrated Rutherford’s experiment with the gold foil and the alpha particles. He used a slingshot to fire BB pellets at aluminum foil that was gold in color. He put things inside the shoe box that the foil was taped to so it the BB pellets bounced back like some of the particles. Other times he would miss so it would seem as if the charge in the atoms making up the foil propelled the pellets back. I think he did a great job give him a round of applause!
After that I did Ryan’s CC, he also picked the card Construction 4 Person but instead of a demonstration or info on a poster board he made a model of an atom. It was made out of colored cardboard and wood. He made a ring that the electrons move on. He made a nucleus made out rotons and neutrons.He also labeled it so we would know which were electrons, protons, or neutrons. I thought it was a very cool model and it must have taken a long time to make. Keep up the good work Ryan! You did great!
Last I did Rachel, she picked the card “Doctor of Fun”. She mad eup a game similar to “Candy Land” but it was called “Atom Land”. She made up one question for each space on the board. If you get a question right you move up a space, if you get it wrong you move back a space, if you don’t know the answer you don’t move at all. I thought it was such a good game it should be put on the market for people to buy. Overall it was a great chapter challenge. Keep up the great work!
I chose tech-tastic as my chapter challenge. The four people I chose to write about were Hannah G., Max M., Josh Z., and Shira D.
First, I’m going to write about Hannah’s project. Hannah chose the card called Power to the Point. She made a Power Point about the periodic table. It explained how the periodic table is organized. For example, she explained that there are seven periods that go left to right, and 18 groups that go up and down. The periodic table has 118 elements total. Hannah’s power point was very factual and creative. It was easy and fun to learn about the periodic table by watching her power point. I think Hannah did an excellent job with her project. I also think she put a lot of work into it because it had many pictures, facts, and sounds in each slide. Great job Hannah!
Next, I am going to write about Max’s chapter challenge. Max chose the card called Chef Surprise. For Chef Max’s project, he had us make a helium atom, a compound for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and a demonstration of Rutherford’s experiment. In case you don’t know what Rutherford did, here is a short summary. Rutherford shot atoms at gold foil to see if they would go through or bounce off. The whole point of this was to see what an atom was and has. He concluded that atoms were mostly empty space. For Max’s chapter challenge, he had us use M&M’s, a fruit rollup, some cookies, some icing, and some foil (not to eat). I thought Max did a very good job with his chapter challenge because he showed us atoms, experiments, and compounds only out of food. Way to go Max!
Now, I’m going to write about Shira’s chapter challenge. Shira chose the card called Wild Card. She made a game for her chapter challenge. The game she made was Jeopardy. Her categories were “Famous Scientists”, “The Periodic Table”, “Parts of an Atom”, and “Chemical Compounds.” We played in four teams. Then, we got to choose a category, an amount, and answer the question. For example if we chose “Chemical Compounds” card number 100, Shira might ask us “What is H2O?” Next, we would answer saying water, but if we got it wrong, other teams could buzz in and say the right answer. I think Shira did had very creative mind for this chapter challenge! It looked like she put a lot of work into the questions. Great job Shira!
Finally, I am going to write about Josh’s chapter challenge. Josh also chose the card called Wild Card, but he used it for a different reason. He made an art project. Josh made a model of an oxygen atom. Oxygen is number eight on the periodic table. An oxygen atom has 8 protons, 8 electrons, and about 8 neutrons. Josh showed us where all of the particles go, and he labeled them. He also explained things about oxygen atoms such as the isotope number, where it is placed on the periodic table, etc. I think Josh did a very good job, and his project deserves two thumbs up! Great job Josh!
This article was done by Reesa Z.
Rachel’s Chapter Challenge
Rachel had the Chapter Challenge “Wild Card” which was number 8. She decided to make a powerpoint on pesticides and how they affect the environment. Rachel explained that pesticides are substances that destroy pests, to keep insects and weeds from destroying crops. These substances are used by farmers and home owners. The problem with pesticides is that some of the chemicals run off into the water and can be very harmful.
Rachel also explained about the Dirty Dozen foods. These foods are called that because they have the most pesticides and fertilizers sprayed on them. You should buy these organic if you can. The list is this: strawberries, blueberries, apples, peaches, celery, sweet bell peppers, white potatoes, lettuce, nectarines, grapes, cherries, and spinach.
Pesticides can also contribute to environmental issues. Pesticide drift occurs when the chemicals are moved to other areas by wind or rain. Rachel explained that we could use alternative, organic based solutions instead of chemicals to keep all the pests away. We can also release natural predators that will not harm the plants but control the pests.
Word Count: 179
Julia’s Chapter Challenge
For Julia’s Chapter Challenge, she completed the Chapter Challenge “Smart Snack” also known as Chef Surprise. This is a chapter challenge where a student uses multiple food items to demonstrate some chapter aspect. She helped our class make a water treatment plant out of graham crackers, icing, and pretzels.
The blue icing represented water, the pretzels represented piping and the graham cracker represents the place where the water is cleaned and helps to connect the piping. The red food coloring represents sedimentation. The amount of the sediment decreases each time the water is cleaned, again and again until, there is almost no dirt at all. The yellow water at the very end represents the chlorification the water goes through. The triangle made of pretzels serves as a storage facility for the water. Now fully cleaned, the water waits to be shipped to the public.
Next we were allowed to eat the project. The great thing about creating the project out of food is that we were able to understand visually what happened in a water treatment center and the steps taken to clean the water and make it drinkable for the public in a creative way that made it interesting as well as fun.
Word Count: 204
Joey’s Chapter Challenge
Joey had the Chapter Challenge “Artsy Pants” number two. He showed us exactly how a sewage treatment plant worked. The water that goes down drains is called sewage and can contain harmful organisms that can make people sick. Sewage water that comes from homes and businesses is purified in three stages. These are called the primary stage, the secondary stage and the tertiary stage. After the water has gone through all these stages, it is pumped back into the river.
In the primary stage big metal screens are used to remove the largest of the solids from the sewage. The water flows through the screen and the solids are left behind. Then the sewage flow slows down as it enters a settling tank. Joey explained that here the smaller solids settle eat the bottom of all the water. The water has now been purified to the point where there are no solids but there are still big amounts of bacteria remaining.
In the secondary stage the sewage water is pumped into a bed of gravel where it trickles over the stones. The gravel has bacteria that breaks down any remaining solids into very fine particles. After this the wastewater flows to a different tank. The tertiary stage gets rid of all the bacteria and nitrogen and phosphorus. I learned from Joey that bacteria are killed by adding chlorine or UV rays. To remove the nitrogen and the phosphorus, the water passes through another bed of gravel and a sand filter. Then the water is discharged from the plant.
Word Count: 259
