Welcome back to school 7th and 8th graders!

Summer's almost over...can you believe it?  It went by so fast.  I'm looking forward to hearing what you did over summer.  I hope to see everyone at the Open House on August 26.  You can bring your school supplies, get your locker ready, visit your classrooms, and see everyone again! 

 Happy Birthday to Abi on September 8 and Emily on September 22!

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Please don't hesitate to email or call me if you have a question or concern.  The best way to reach me is through email.  My email is wpoltrock@stmb.org.  I try to check my email several times a day and will usually get back to you within 24 hours.  You may also call me at 763-1515, ext. 201.  I am only able to take phone calls before and after school, however please feel free to leave a voicemail at any time.

In 7th grade science this year, the students will start out learning about science and technology.  This includes the scientific process, the metric system,  and safety in the lab.  We will then study Cells and Heredity, where we will learn about a cell's anatomy, photosynthesis and respiration, mitosis and meiosis, and simple genetics.  After that we begin to learn about all the systems of the human body.  PLEASE NOTE: 7th grade science is the same series as 6th grade.  We have modular books and will switch throughout the year.

In 8th grade science we will begin studying Motion, Forces, and Energy.  This includes Newton's laws, speed and acceleration, gravity, pressure, simple machines, and energy.  After that, we will begin our study of Chemistry.  We will learn about atoms and molecules, compounds and elements, the Periodic Table, acids and bases, and states of matter.

In 8th grade social studies, we will pick up where we left off in 7th grade-the beginnings of the Civil War.  We'll talk about Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad, Abraham Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation, the different battles of the Civil War, and the surrender at Appomattox Court House.  We will continue through the book with the goal of ending with World War 2 in May.  Hopefully we can do that!  The 8th graders will also be working on a Washington DC project in preparation for their trip in October.  Details will be provided during the first few days of school.