We have accomplished a lot in Middle School over the last couple of weeks. Students have been closely following the election and learning about the election process. Students have researched the presidential candidates and state candidates for North Carolina Governor and Senate. After completing their research, students wrote an argumentative paragraph explaining their choice for one candidate. We then cast our vote using a North Carolina based organization called Generation Nation. Generation Nation's mission is to provide students in kindergarten through 12th grade with the tools necessary for civic engagement.
Students have learned about our constitution by doing close reads and analysis of the preamble, the articles, and the amendments. We have examined the responsibilities of each branch of our government and have learned the important role that checks and balances play in protecting our democracy.
Students are applying this understanding as they participate in their own constitutional confederacy. Each micronation is responsible for creating a constitution that clearly addresses how their government will function to protect its citizens, including "articles" and "amendments". Micronations are determining how their economy will function, including a currency and rules for trade. Additionally, each micronation is creating a flag and anthem.
In ELA students are busy completing their Genius Hour projects and preparing their final presentations. We have been examining diction and the ways students can improve their writing by paying close attention to word choice, specifically using strong verbs, adverbs, and adjectives. We completed a mini-unit about the Horror genre and students practiced applying the characteristics of horror writing and using strong diction by completing a micro-fiction writing task.
Lastly, we had a wonderful time last week on our first official field trip of the year. We enjoyed a rainy ghost tour with Ghosts of Davidson and then warmed up with some pizza from Mama's. On Friday we enjoyed a fun Halloween celebration. Thank you to all the parents who sent in delicious treats for us to enjoy!
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