MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS
MONTH: JANUARY 2008 North Arlington High School Curriculum and Instruction: Mathematics Department Mr. Abu-Hakmeh’s Statistics students applied statistical analysis techniques in organizing their collected data after surveying students attending North Arlington High School. Mr. Dembowski’s Geometry classes finished triangle congruency using projects and paper to demonstrate the properties of triangles. Miss Fash’s Algebra II-A classes incorporated the subject of Linear Programming. Mrs. Maresca supervised the collection, packaging, and distribution of 46 boxes of food items that were donated by the students of the high school. Mr. Abu-Hakmeh’s AP Calculus class finished a unit on applications of differentiation. Students learned how to analyze functions and their graphs using first and second derivatives. Students learned and applied the concepts of modeling, related rates, and optimization techniques. Mrs. Maresca’s Precalculus classes applied right triangle trigonometry to solve real-world problems, such as constructing scale models of bridges and finding the bearing to indicate a new course of direction in navigation problems. Mr. Dembowski’s Geometry students completed their first major project this year. They demonstrated the use of triangle congruence conjectures in real life situations. Each student on their own created a story with questions that can only be answered by using a map the students have created and congruency statements. Students also used other subjects for the basis of their stories to show their understanding of Literature, PEG, U.S. History, and Science. Students in Ms. Fash’s Algebra II-A classes identified the subject of linear programming as a math/science cross-curricular topic. Students related programming to math and applied their prior knowledge of Algebra-I and II topics to this subject. Mr. Capriola’s Pre Algebra classes completed an enrichment activity modeling the concept of fractions and decimals. Students were asked to bring a set of US coins to class and identify what fraction of a dollar each coin represented. The students were then asked to identify the decimal value of each coin and compare both the fractional and decimal values of each coin. His Algebra-I classes completed a real-world project where students were given two sets of data and were asked to create tables and graphs and make predictions based on their graphs and explain the methods used to make these predictions. Ms. Miechenbaum’s Math Technology students completed two writing assignments relating the concepts they’ve learned in class to real world applications. Students in her Algebra-I classes completed a similar activity in the form of a writing assessment using logic and critical thinking skills in addition to algebraic concepts. Ms. Hazina’s Computer Programming students finished a group project ―Book Review Rating‖, using LOOPS and SUBPROCEDURES. Her HSPA
students learned how to solve Area and Volume problems, word problems using Right Triangle Trigonometry, geometric and arithmetic sequences, and compound interest problems.
English Department Ms. Albuquerque’s English IV classes are studing Greek Mythology as part of her literature unit. Students complete projects demonstrating their understanding of the influencing factors of that time period including inventions, drama, culture, literature and customs. Ms. Burns’ classes utilize SmartBoard technology weekly, if not, daily, to engage and involve students. Her English 3 and 3 Honors classes have been studying Old English v. Modern English by using a link with a person reading Old English, and researching the correlating Modern English in their texts and readings. Both classes have begun reading Beowulf as well. SmartBoard technology was also utilized in the POGO – Propaganda Genocide and Oppression class with excerpts from the ―CIA Manual on Psychological Operations of Guerilla Warfare,‖ the ―Iran Contra Affair‖ and ―China’s Communist Cultural Revolution,‖ presented for discussion and analysis. Ms. Hughes’ students enjoyed a contemporary forum for mid-term review, as the review information was placed on Pod-casts for students to download into ipods or mp3 players. Also, Ms. Hughes shared a website with other teachers: www.hotchalk.com – which is a wonderful site to view acutal footage of milestones in history. Students continue to work on their sophomore thesis paper. Ms. Ingannamorte received positive feedback from her students who took the January SAT. She will use this information to implement new strategies in the SAT Prep class. English IV students attended an enjoyable performance of ―Hamlet‖ with Ms. Nichols’ English IV students. Many of Ms. Nichols’ students attended a performance of ―Hamlet‖ in Budd Lake, and were able to come away with a better understanding of the characters. Creative Writing (Learning to Write) students have continued to enhance their writing ability by learning to use flashback and character mannerisms in their writing. Ms. Singler’s AP Lit students continue to write the now famous, ―AP Novel,‖ which also is currently being reviewed by the Department Supervisor. English 2 students in Ms. Singler’s classes handed in their sophomore thesis paper (100% handed in the rough drafts.) They will be working on final editing for their Feb. 14th submittal. Ms. Turner’s students in English I are learning to write vignettes, English II has completed To Kill a Mockingbird and have also completed their rough draft of the sophomore thesis paper. Journalism students have been focusing on peer-editing, and will concentrate more closely on the mechanics of well-researched and written news stories for the remainder of this school year.
World Language Department Ms. deDiego’s Spanish IV Honors have researched the South Cone and Mercosur system of trading and have researched one of the four countries involved, presenting a power point project in partners to the class.
Spanish II classes are communicating in the target language by describing themselves and others, as well as introducing others. Ms. LoPresti’s Spanish IV students continued their review of advanced grammar, and were introduced to new vocabulary in describing the environment (el medio ambiente.) Students in this class also created power point presentations and delivered them in the target language. Ms. Murad has used SmartBoard technology to review telling time. Spanish II classes are learning and using object pronouns and the past tense to enhance their communicative ability. Ms. Pereira’s Spanish I and I Honors continue to read a ―novela‖ in Spanish each month. They have continued to expand on their vocabulary and grammar skills. Additional studies in these classes have included the geography, history, culture and traditions of Spain and Mexico, including a paper and three minute oral presentations in the target language. Spanish 3 Honors have read popular American stories such as ―Superman‖ and ―Goldilocks and the Three Bears‖ in the target language to increase reading comprehension. Ms. McKeown’s French classes have utilized SmartBoard technology to implement word games to improve vocabulary and verb conjugation
Social Studies Department Mr. Galante and his students in the Sociology classes, along with the Spanish Honor Society are making final preparations for the ―International Dinner‖ which is scheduled for February 13, 2008. Parental invitations have gone out as well as the superintendent’s invitation. The Modern World class completed their biographical research papers on ―The Age of Enlightenment.‖ Ms. Ingannamorte’s US I students were able to research primary candidates and their platforms via SmartBoard technology. This information will be used for future discussion of the issues, culminating in a ―Super Tuesday‖ activity. Ms. Kusher’s US I students reenacted the ―Boston Tea Party‖ complete with Native American head dress and tea. US II students have researched ―Yellow Journalism‖ and created a front page story with illustrations. Additionally, documents including ―The Declaration of Independence‖ and Thomas Paine’s ―Common Sense‖ were examined and interpreted. Ms. O’Brien’s US II class also participated in the ―Yellow Journalism‖ project as well as researched the creation of the Panama Canal. PEG-Political Economical Geography classes use SmartBoard technology to examine the geography of the Middle East, including the religions that are represented there including, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The AP US History class is learning about the Harlem Renaissance, using primary source analysis, DBQs and political cartoon analysis. Ms. Smith’s US I classes are also using primary source documents; reading journal entries from soldiers who spent the winter at Valley Forge and creating illustrations to match the descriptions. PEG- Political Economical Geography classes viewed the video ―Rowanda‖ which tied into their study of Africa, and culminated in a creative activity depicting the maps, flags and general information of Africa’s fifty-five independent nations.
Science Mr. Necoechea’s Physical Science, students have finished the study of mechanics. Experiments included a PhET simulation of projectile motion, and a lab on the mechanical advantage of pulleys.
In Biology and Biology Honors, the following activities were completed: Mr. Mott’s Biology Honors classes: Osmosis and Turgor Pressure Lab: Students have examined the osmotic behavior of plant cells (potato and onion) by placing the plant cells in solutions with different salt concentrations and recording their effect on the plant cells. Students have used the microscopes to draw onion cells with different turgor pressures. Turgor Pressure and the Salt concentration Lab (Biology H): Students have examined the concept of turgor pressure and used it to determine the salt concentration naturally present in the cells of freshly cut potato stick. Passive Transport Activity: Students have created labeled diagrams to demonstrate the concept of diffusion, equilibrium, osmosis, and turgor pressure. Kidney Dialysis Computer Research (Biology H): Students have researched the invention of kidney dialysis, how it saves millions of people’s lives, and how it depends on the idea of osmosis. Facilitated Diffusion vs. Pumps Poster: Students have created diagrams to compare and contrast facilitated diffusion and sodium-potassium pump explaining the role of carrier proteins in both processes. Homeostasis Skit: Students have picked a cell transport process, and then they have created a skit to demonstrate that process. Students have presented the play in class. Mrs. Abdel-Messih’s Biology Honors class prepared a power point presentation on an individual organelle found in the cell. They also created a model of the organelle demonstrating how the organelle is designed to match its function. The students than taught a lesson about their organelle presenting their power point, showing their models, answering questions and than testing the students on the lesson. They also performed a plant and animal lab, where they prepared slides of elodea and cheek cells, diagramming each as seen thought the microscope and comparing them with unknown slides which they determined to be more animal or plant like. They also made a model of the organelle using dialysis tubing and potato, with peroxide. This demonstrated the idea of the semipermeable membrane and the value of containing enzymes in organelles. Finally they examined pond water and selected 5 organisms, once again determining if they were more plant or animal like. Mrs. Abdel-Messih’s Biology classes worked on the structures in a cell by designing a 3-d model of the cell, researching various types of cells and than presenting a model, poster or power point on their type of cell They also performed a plant and animal lab, where they prepared slides of elodea and cheek cells, diagramming each as seen thought the microscope and comparing them with unknown slides which they determined to be more animal or plant like. They also made a model of the organelle using dialysis tubing and potato, with peroxide. This demonstrated the idea of the semipermeable membrane and the value of containing enzymes in organelles. Lastly they examined 5 unknown slides and created a chart showing characteristics that made them more animal or plant like.
Mr. Velardi’s Environmental Science class students continued to aid in raising awareness for recycling through the collection and organization of discarded paper. The students also participated in a lab activity that displayed the effects of excess fertilizers in bodies of water. Additionally the students continued to gain more insight into water pollution in both freshwater and saltwater ecosystems. The students where also given a midterm review and a mid-term exam In Mr. Mott’s and Mr. Velardi’s Human Anatomy and Physiology classes the students performed a computer activity that increased their awareness of hair follicles. The students were also exposed to various layers of the skin and their functions. Colored and labeled diagrams were completed displaying layers of the skin. In addition, the smart board was used to provide visual aid in showing the various components in each layer of the skin. The students where also given a mid-term review and a mid-term exam. The Anatomy and Physiology students also examined in great detail the various tissue types found in the body. A diagram and description was made of each. Later these were used to identify unknown tissue types. They also began an epidermis lab in which they took fingerprints and compared to various types. They also prepared and examined hair of various members of the class. The various structures of the skin were examined by using prepared slides; after visiting the library and following a web quest a report was generated on hair growth, and diseases of the skin In Mr. Mott’s AP Biology class the students performed a photosynthetic lab. In this lab they did a chromatography on a variety of plants to determine the types of pigment involved in each plant. Rf factors were determined to help in the identification process. After the chromatography, a spinach leaf was crushed to extract its chlorophyll. This was exposed to various amounts of light as well as being boiled to determine the effects of light on chlorophyll. A spectrometer was used to determine the change in light transmittance over time. The students then combined data to determine the class average for the various conditions being tested. They also performed a mitosis and meiosis lab in which they demonstrated the various stages, observed stages in prepared slides, calculated the average time based on relative numbers, made a stained slide of onion and observed crossover in Sordaria In Mr. Rapp’s Chemistry class the students learned the role of Mendeleev in the development of the Periodic Table. Students also were able to explain how the Periodic Law can be used to predict the physical and chemical properties of certain elements. In Mr. Necoechea’s Honors Chemistry class the students have been introduced to the mole concept and have applied the concept to calculations of percent composition, as well as to the determination of empirical and molecular formulas. In the lab, students applied the mol concept to determine the number of waters of hydration in a hydrated magnesium sulfate complex. In Mr. Necoechea’s Physical Science class the students have finished the study of mechanics. Experiments included a PhET simulation of projectile motion, simple machines, and a lab on the mechanical advantage of pulleys. Youngsters completed an online activity involving the physics of building the pyramids. In Mr. Spaccavento’s Honors Physics 1 and Physics 1classes the students expanded their model of motion to include constant acceleration in one dimension, and then expanded that model to introduce two- dimensional motion, including projectile, circular, rotary and simple harmonic motion. The study of projectiles was detailed prior to the midterms. Laboratory activities included Galileo’s famous ramp experiment. Using the picket fences and
photo-gate to find ―g‖, and simulations including ―Graphs and Tracks‖ and ―Projectile Motion‖ In Mr. Spaccavento’s Physics 2 class the students looked at both sides of Nuclear Energy! Students viewed ―Day One‖ and ―Hiroshima‖ giving them an enlightened look at the development and use of the Atomic Bomb from the US and Japanese prospective. The class then looked at the ―Atoms for Peace program‖ and the applications of Nuclear Power and its place in the national and world wide energy picture. The class viewed ―China Syndrome‖ a movie about a possible nuclear meltdown prior to discussions regarding Three Mile Island and Chernobyl. Finally, issues of Nuclear Waste and Yucca Mountain were discusses along with both the chronic and acute effects of radiation exposure to humans.
Business Education Students in Mrs. Rosolen’s Desktop Publishing class completed their last two portfolio projects, a magazine/book cover and a tri-fold brochure this month. Their growth in the area of design concepts is very evident in these two last projects. Students in Mrs. Rosolen’s Multimedia class completed an interactive slide show based on the Dateline Timeline format. This slide show required the students to utilize all aspects of multimedia learned this year, including the use of PhotoShop, voice recording, and Flash animation. Mrs. Tomko’s Wall Street class completed a study with a visit from John F. McGovern, CPA CFP PFI. Topics discussed were setting up portfolios, college funding, careers, and market highlights. Mrs. Tomko’s Introduction to Business class completed the Marketing & Advertising Unit. Mr. Kenny’s Keyboarding/Computer Applications class completed the Tables Unit and will begin Research Papers after midterms. Mr. Kenny and Mrs. Tomko’s Computer Application II class completed the PowerPoint units with related projects. Mr. Kenny’s Accounting class worked on general ledger and trial balance materials and prepped for the ―college-level‖ Midterm.
Art Students in Ms. Dujack’s Art classes have been working on perspective in various forms—cubes, left side view, center view.
Music Mr. Kastner’s Band classes are currently preparing for the Spring Concert and their performances in Epcot and at the Teen Arts Festival by working out the technical requirements of the difficult sections. Ms. Corcoran’s Chorus classes have started working on the music for the spring concert. The classes are reviewing the basics of singing, learning new warm ups, and learning new techniques to improve the students vocal technique.
Family & Consumer Science o Students in Mrs. Comer’s Culinary Arts classes worked on recipe-costing projects. As a group, students were invited to a dinner party where they had to serve 20 people an appetizer, entrée, or dessert for $5.00. Students had to figure the cost of a cup of flour or the cost of a teaspoon of salt, etc. Class presentations were made as part of the project in preparation for future educational aspirations. At the conclusion of the projects, one recipe from each period was selected and each of the twenty kitchens that operate in a day prepared that dish. Recipes selected were macaroni and cheese, saucy franks, chocolate coffee cake, and sausage biscuits. Students in Mrs. Comer’s Child Development classes worked on a toy project to re-visit the social-emotional, physical, and intellectual development of a three year. They were given a budget of $20.00 and asked to select a toy that would be appropriate for a three-year-old in all areas of their development. Class presentations were made as part of the project in preparation for future educational aspirations.
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Guidance o Mrs. Puorro, Mrs. Griggs and Mrs. Lipskey met with all the sophomores through the U.S. History classes to speak about suicide awareness. A video and discussion completed the awareness sessions.
Extracurricular: Yearbook (Ms. Rosolen and Mrs. Tomko)—over half of the pages of the book have been completed and submitted to the publishers. Eight pages were added to the yearbook due to increased sales of ads. Class of 2008 (Mr. Kenny and Mrs. Tomko)—working on Prom, Senior Trip to Boston, and end of the year activities. I&RS (Mrs. Tomko and Mrs. Comer)--continued to monitor progress of students & assist new members with cases. Middle School Basketball Team (Mr. Kenny)—the team is doing well. Jazz Combo (Mr. Kastner) - students are meeting and memorizing the first two song structures which are part of their 2008 goal. Musicals (Ms. Corcoran)—rehearsals have begun for the Middle School musical Into the Woods and evening rehearsals for Little Shop of Horrors are scheduled to begin shortly. Girls Basketball – at slightly beyond the halfway point of the season the girls are 9 and 5, and are focused; they have qualified for the State nd Tournament and are looking forward to a successful 2 half of the season. The JV and Freshman teams are also doing well. Chess club under Mr. Mott continues to meet each Thursday. Students compete against each other or teachers to develop their ranking; time is spent on proper methods of recording moves, and use of a time clock for competitions. In addition some students meet on Friday and continue to practice, and teach new members the basics of chess.
Workshops Attended Math Mrs. Maresca attended a BCEA Instructional and Professional Development Workshop, Law Enforcement Striving to End Prohibition of Drugs, at the Glenpoint Marriott Hotel in Teaneck, on January 16. A former police officer, a member of the drug policy-reform group called LEAP (Law Enforcement Against Prohibition), spoke about their belief that a system of regulation and control is more effective than drug prohibition in saving lives, lowering the rates of disease, crime and addiction, as well as conserving tax dollars.
Science Mr. Spaccavento attended the American Association of Physics Teachers winter meeting in Baltimore, from Saturday 1/19 through Tuesday 1/22. Mr. Spaccavento is the NJ Section Representative to the National Association. He attended numerous workshops and committee meetings over the weekend. Guidance All counselors attended the Felican College information session HSPA Training was attended by Kathy Puorro and Marie Griggs
Accomplishments
Humanities The Spanish Honor Society sponsored the annual coat drive this year with 71 coats being collected. These will be delivered by Mrs. Pereira and Mrs. LoPresti at the end of January to St. John’s in Newark.
Science Mr. Spaccavento has been elected to the NAHS Athletic Hall of Fame for his 25 years of coaching. The induction ceremony for him and 10 former th. athletes is May 9
Student Recognition The following are students who broke 550 on the SAT Math on December 2007: William Manzo, Charles Marino, Palak Patel, Madison Riede, Nathalie Almonte, Denis Ermolin, and Sohyun Han. Student members of the newly formed Technology Club (―Techies‖) have contined to provide an invaluable service to our school. Student artwork has been displayed in both Town Hall and in the Superintendent’s hallway.
Mr. Spaccavento is a Quark Net Teaching Fellow from Rutgers University. Last year he received funding for one of his students, Matt Cordeiro, to work for three weeks during the summer in the Physics Department at Rutgers. Matt did some outstanding work using the Cosmic Ray Detector which we now have in the High School thanks to Quark Net. Congratulation to Steven Santos, John Sousa, Stephanie Della Vecchia and Karen Paparella for being chosen to attend this year’s Youth Peer Leadership Conference.
Press Releases Article advertising registration for the Nursery School program giving eligibility and contact information. Article highlighting the presentation to the art classes by former student Rip Lopuznak. Letter to Editor thanking community for support of Fashion Show Nov. 2007 Coat Drive
NORTH ARLINGTON MIDDLE SCHOOL Mathematics Miss Maucione’s Grade 7 classes worked on a project involving a budget, technology and group work. The students were responsible for planning a trip which involved a budget and some investigation with costs. Diagrams and ratios were included in these skills. Miss Thomas’ Grade 8 classes used calculators to solve two –step equations. Student demonstrations took place on developing a procedure using the 3-step algebraic approach with inverse operations. The students were instructed to balance equations with showing the procedure no matter how little or large the number. Miss Neubauer’s Grade 6 classes worked on a tangram project. This took several days of investigation of the different patterns that could be developed into an image or an object. Classroom activities using tangrams were used prior to developing a pattern. Posters were created and displayed. Miss Califano’s classes in Grade 7 used hands-on objects to develop patterns to enhance the topic of outcomes and possibilities. Clothing articles were used to visualize the concepts before using paper and pencil. Once the students were able to use visual skills to comprehend the skill, they were asked to compare the procedure through interpreting a numerical sequence. Mrs. Coughlin’s 8th grade math classes worked on co-ordinate pairs and sets. The students demonstrated their knowledge by working on individual grid boards. They worked in pairs and helped each other to form the correct graphs. Each student was given an extra assignment involving creating a drawing from the co-ordinate points they had to grid. th Mrs. Kowalczyk and her 8 math classes worked on changing fractions to decimals, and then into percents. Use of calculators was a major component for this group. Mr. Bernstein, the Grade 8 Math teacher, participated with Montclair State’s "Fellows in the Middle " program and visited China. The visit lasted two weeks and was sponsored by a National Science Foundation grant supplemented by the college and the
district. Mr. Bernstein met with other teachers from China along with representatives of the Ministry of Education and curriculum there. He, along with professors, graduate students and colleagues from other surrounding municipalities presented and observed classrooms in Beijing and Xian. "This was a great opportunity to exchange ideas and establish contacts as well as represent North Arlington in a positive way," stated Mr. Bernstein.
Language Arts Miss Neubauer's Grade 6 writing class honored Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by doing a writing assignment, "My dream is..." Many students discussed the importance of going to college, so that they will be able to pursue and accomplish their dreams. They also created no name calling posters, in honor of No Name Calling Week. Mrs. Helms’ Reading classes in grades 6-8 discussed no name calling. They discussed how unfair African Americans were treated after the Civil War ended. The students read about racial slurs that were used to describe African Americans. They also discussed how wrong it was to use these terms and that everyone should be treated equally regardless of their ethnicity or skin color. Finally all agreed that we will be more conscientious about name calling and not do it. Miss Keeler’s 8th Grade Reading class got to know one of America’s greatest short story authors, O. Henry. In reading such stories as ―A Retrieved Reformation‖ and ―The Gift of the Magi,‖ the students enjoyed O. Henry’s wit, wordplay, characterization, and the clever use of twist endings. Mrs. Duff’s Grade 6 Reading classes worked on vocabulary development with the novel, Where the Red Fern Grows. Classroom activities involved dictionaries and sentence structure. Use of important vocabulary terms through the story were critical lessons with developing reading comprehension skills. Mrs. Callahan’s 6th Grade Reading classes began reading SOR Losers. The skills that they completed were: conflict, foreshadowing and cliffhanger. The students also had to complete journals as the main character and compare the problems faced by the main character to similar situations in their own lives. Mrs. Boyd’s Grade 7 Reading classes worked on line in the computer lab enriching their skills through use of Study Island . The students enjoy the use of technology in challenging themselves on NJ Core related skills. Mrs. Callahan’s 7th grade Reading classes began reading Maniac Magee. The classes focused on the ―power of one‖—the power of one person to create change, for the better, in their own lives and the lives of people around them.
World Languages Mrs. Marchese’s seventh grade Spanish classes learned about a Spanish dance "Cumbia" and enjoyed learning a song and dancing to 'la cumbia'. Many lessons were spent on the Hispanic society. They learned about the family, and having two last names. They also learned about "La Quinceanera" which is big party given in the honor of a Spanish girl when she turns 15. Miss McNerney’s Spanish classes in grade 7 worked on greetings and farewells. They also learned many adjectives such as tall, short, fun, boring, nice, mean, attractive and serious.
Social Studies Mrs. Walsh’s Grade 6 Social Studies students honored Dr. Martin Luther King Day. The classes saw a video and dedicated a Bulletin Board to Dr. King’s life’s work. Mrs. Fisher’s Grade 7 Social Studies classes, in accordance with a focus on ―No Name Calling,‖ discussed the topic in depth. They talked about the long term effects of being verbally harassed. The class decided to explore opinions and feelings on name calling through poetry. Each student thought of a name they were called and they made this their title. They thought of the feelings that came about when someone labeled them. The students shared their poetry with their classmates. Mr. Wolowitz’ Grade 8 Social Studies classes investigated the government’s early structure through learning about our founding fathers. Important incidents and people were developed through class studies.
Science Miss Scerbo’s Grade 6 students began to learn about the animal kingdom. The students were introduced to the different types of symmetry. They completed many worksheets on bilateral and radial symmetry, watched Discovery Streaming Video Clips, and completed an activity in which they had to draw a symmetrical face. They learned about coral reefs, cnidarians, sponges and worms. An experiment was conducted in which students investigated the adaptations and body parts of an earthworm. A journal topic was covered which stated ―Imagine you are a small fish visiting a coral reef for the first time‖… Mr. Haines Grade 8 science classes have been involved in hands on projects in class with the graduate students from Montclair University. Recent investigation took place in class regarding reptiles and their how environment effects their lives. Mrs. Galante’s Grade 7 science classes used speculative writing to learn bout features of other planets. The students had to use these facts, develop posters, and discuss their findings through written form. The projects were displayed in the halls.
Art Mrs. Branco’s Grade 8 art classes created a grid on paper, either using 1 or ½ inch measurements. They created layers of shapes and chose two colors to color in the grid. The art was totally innovative and inspired. They made collage of art through progressing through a number of shapes.
Music Mr. Nicolle has begun work on progressing individual lessons with Band students for preparation for the Spring Concert.
Comprehensive Health & Physical Education: Miss DeBlasio’s students The 7th grade health class worked on a project about bullying. They first learned about cliques, peer pressure, belonging, beginning to have feelings for one another and acceptance. Then in small groups they described their topic through a comic strip. The 6th grade students in health class learned about families. They wrote essays about the type of family they have and what is important in a family. The students then had to research who is in their extended family. They learned how to create family trees.
Grade 8 began floor hockey skills. Skills were enforced prior to game being played. Teams were chosen, and games progressed through safety skills and in house rules.
Computers Mr. Guanci’s Grade 8 classes progressed through their on going Pass Key software with mathematical expression and worked using Study Island on line in class. Keyboarding skills continued with Grade 6 Grade 7 worked on developing a power point presentation on Martin Luther King Day. Mrs. Helms began developing a photography group. A new digital camera with docking station was purchased for the school to use for event and curriculum photos. Mrs. Helms volunteered to organize the unit and train a group of students as school photographers. These students were: Matt Manley, Christina Haag, Robert Keegan, Mackenzie Cutruzzula, Sara Alfano, and Matt Glaner.
Guidance Mrs. Bacek upgraded student lists with Teams 6-7-8 to address student ―At Risk‖ in their grades. She developed information taken from report cards during mid-term exam scheduling. She began meeting independently with students not meeting staff expectations.
Special Ed The students in Miss Tzakis’ class completed lessons on Compositional Risks. They discussed and developed examples for each aspect of a higher order writing. The students then made index cards that would outline and provide them with a ―cheat sheet’’ for writing, outlining these new strategies. They covered topics such as: developing statistics that would support your position, using literary devices, vivid language, transitional devices, quotation marks, and comparisons. After adjusting their writing to these guidelines, the students demonstrated a significant improvement on the quality of their work, which they themselves realized and were excited about. Miss Janczak’s class participated in ―No Name Calling Week‖ with classroom activities. The first activity was called, ―I was just kidding.‖ Throughout this lesson the students were asked to consider the difference between good-natured teasing and bullying tactics. The students discussed various situations in class. The class worked in groups to share feelings with each other. The second activity was called, ―Instant Replay‖. Throughout this lesson the students role played fictional situations. They were introduced to ―SAFE‖, a set of strategies for responding to bullying and taking care of their personal needs.
Workshop Attendance Mr. Cooper attended a workshop on ―Bullying‖ Mr. Haines attended a workshop on Environmental Education.
Student Recognitions The following students all received Straight A report cards for the second marking period: Yarema Hryvnak, Cara Beth Tillou, Matt Manley, Julie Rosenberg, Cara Dlugo, Anna Doherty, Christian Haag, Dana Correira, Allison Mack, Allison Manzo, Silena Hart, Amanda Awad, MacKenzie Cutruzzula, Amana Dell’Olio, Frans Monacayo, Brianna Kowalsky, Gabe Fiore, and Kenneth Avery. The following students were named Student of the Month: GRADE 6......Natalie Leite...Neffry Peralta....Sajan Gandhi.....Alex Samaan GRADE 7......Allison Mack..Eric Lavin...........Michael Brandao...Diana Correira GRADE 8......Joelle Cenanni......Virginia Hislop...Ashley Obrycki... Arsany Beshara Ms.Janczak....Edward Rohlic Ms.Tzakis......Kenny Karowski
School Accomplishments Mr. Haines, the Grade 8 Science teacher, has been meeting with the High School Science teachers regarding areas to address at the Grade 8 level. It was concluded that to address the concerns and expectations for the student’s success in high school there were two major concerns to address. These areas are now being addressed through rubrics in the Grade 8 Science curriculum. Mr. Nicolle began a fundraiser for Music to raise money for the end of the year trip to Great Adventure. The Student Council ran a Food Drive. All food was delivered by Mr. and Mrs. Walsh to a local church food kitchen. The church was very grateful for the donation of food. Our first Bake Sale netted a profit of $167.
Special Programs Our PTO held a meeting with police officers from North Arlington addressing topics such as gangs, violence, and bullying. The information included procedures followed at the school with communication with local authorities. Press Releases Ms.Scerbo's science classes, along with Ms. Janczak's class, got a little dirty as they investigated living earthworms.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: JEFFERSON SCHOOL Kindergarten Ms. McCrea’s Kindergarten and Mrs. Northrops’s Kindergarten children explored numbers 10 – 30 and letters T, E, Y . In science they engaged in a unit on weather and developed thematic units and centers dedicated to winter, citizenship and Dr. Martin Luther King First Grade Mrs. Paglucci’s first grade and Mrs. Periera’s first grade engaged in the following academic pursuits: Identifying the initial and final sounds of spoken words ( /l/le; /j/j; /z/z,
zz; /v/v.); learning the sounds represented by consonant digraphs(/ch/ch, tch, /kw/qu.); blending initial sounds with common vowel spelling pattern (-ump, -amp, -arn, -orn.). Students also worked on properly using nouns in a sentence ( one and more than one and special names and titles for people). In math, students learned to group objects that are alike in some way using a tally chart, bar graph, and picture graph. Students are learning to count, read, and write numbers to 100. In Science children learned how animals use plants to meet their needs as well as how animals can help plants. In Social Studies students are learning about our country through its symbols, heroes, and holidays. Second Grade nd Mrs. Nolan’s 2 grade students learned to tell time using manipulative clocks and the Smartboard. They learned about forms of matter. Students used the Social Studies ebook and the Harcourt School website to learn about citizenship and government. The classes continued to practice basic subtraction facts. nd Mrs. Korycinski’s 2 grade students have been working on the writing process. They are creating stories that include a topic sentence, 3-4 details, and a closing sentence. In math they are focusing on telling time and mastering regrouping in subtraction. In science, the children are learning about earth’s natural resources, and in social studies they just completed a unit of study about the leaders of our town, state, and country. Third Grade rd Mrs. Harte’s 3 grade the students are studying constellations integrating reading, science, art and the computer for research. They wrote about and drew constellations. The class discussed Dr. Martin Luther King and listened to his speech on the computer. Along with discussing Dr. King, the class talked about bullying/name calling and viewed a DVD on the subject of bullying. The class is presently working on a book about a famous Black American and is incorporating a summary and a bulletin board display into the project. Each student presented their collage of places in North Arlington and talked about their community. rd Mrs. Keogh’s 3 grade has combined forces with Mrs. Harte’s class to support the St. Jude Math-a-thon. This is an annual undertaking. Fourth Grade th Mrs. Herrmann’s 4 grade language arts students developed and applied different study strategies. Students recognized the elements and organization of expository nonfiction. Students identified the main idea of a selection and the supporting details. Students explored the steps story characters follow to solve problems. Students also engaged in picture prompt and poetry prompt writing. th Mrs. Rotondo’s 4 grade math students created and illustrated unique number sentences. They continue weekly open-ended word problem solving strategy assignments in both fourth and fifth grade classes. Students continued to observe Practice Algorithms Skills for Success (PASS) on a daily basis using the Harcourt NJ ASK test book. They also continue their weekly picture and poem prompt writing assignments. th Mrs. Jacobson’s 4 grade science students are preparing for NJASK by learning test taking strategies and applying them in practice tests. Students are learning about ecosystems and how habitats coexist. Students researched five animals and their habitats, adaptations, and what they eat. They completed a drawing of each animal onto cards. The students worked in groups and matched animals with their habitats. All the students were able to learn from their peers about many animals and their habitats. Mrs. Applegate’s fourth grade social studies class… o learned about primary resources and researched information about points of view and historical research o linked history and geography during Civil War period in America
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examined people and laws related to slavery in New Jersey studied timelines of the 1800’s in both the United States and New Jersey researched technological changes in transportation and communication in the United States and made a collage illustrating these things and wrote paragraphs discussing these changes read and discussed Dr. King, created a poster related to the Nobel Peace Prize, and research information on Dr. King and current recipients.
Fifth Grade Mrs. Applegate’s fifth grade language arts class… o Used Study Island to practice various skills in sentence structure and grammar usage and earn Blue Ribbons o Completed a writing activity for No Name-Calling Week in which they discussed ways in which they could better handle situations involving issues with their peers. o began reviewing persuasive writing techniques and viewed sample writings related to this issue. Mrs. Herrmanns’s 5 grade language arts students used story information and real life experiences to gather and combine information to form conclusions. The students learned how to adjust reading rate and to skim and scan text. They are learning how to recognize the mood of a story and the tone of the author’s writing and to identify narrative th elements: characters, setting, and plot. In addition, Mrs. Herrmanns’ 5 graders engaged in: Realistic fiction reports, Literature Circles, Readers Theater, Study Island activities and No Name Calling activities. Mrs. Rotondo’s 5 grade math classes engaged in timed activities to reinforce skills and concepts dealing with fractions. They read aloud a biography of Martin Luther King Jr. The Children shared what they felt was most memorable about MLK and then did a graphing activity derived from Martin Luther King data. Students are given the opportunity to submit higher level thinking mathematical questions to the program ―Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader.‖ th Mrs. Jacobson’s 5 grade science students are learning about the cycles in nature. Students created the Nitrogen Cycle on a poster and labeled each part. They wrote about how each part of the cycle is connected and equally important. Students created a carbon-dioxide oxygen-cycle. They learned how fossil fuels, photosynthesis, respiration, decay, solar energy, and combustion depend on each other to work as a cycle. Mrs. Applegate’s fifth grade social studies class… o researched information about early European explorers to the America’s, made a detailed chart of 14 explorers, areas explored, dates, purposes, and results. Using maps and the internet, they also were given maps to locate specific places, make a map key of explorers, and trace routes of the 14 explorers o were also given primary source articles on Jamestown and Pocahontas. After examining them, students watched a video on Pocahontas and compared information from the primary source and the video o watched a DVD My Friend Martin and discussed life and achievements of Dr. King. The issue of prejudiced was discussed and they related other issues, discussing the Holocaust and other forms of discrimination. Students wrote essays about the topics discussed in class.
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Art Ms. Erica Cronk established an Art Club which meets weekly after school. The group is comprised of gifted, talented and interested students.
Music Mr. Dave Mullin, instrumental music instructor, has begun to teach and prepare his students for the spring concert Comprehensive Health & Physical Education Mrs. Carol Robb made arrangements for a representative of the New Jersey Devils Hockey Team to speak to the students on the subject of Sportsmanship and Fair Play. World Languages Mrs. Gonzalez used Smartboard technology to help the students demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of both the spoken and written Spanish language. Computers Mrs. Tokarz has been trained in the use of Study Island. She began this month to th facilitate its use during weekly 5 grade computer classes. Reading Coach Mrs. Maier continues to teach the first grade students nuances of The Writer. Her objective is to not only teach fundamentals of keyboarding, but also instruct them in the proper use of capitalization and punctuation. Special Ed Mrs. Volpe, Mrs. Young, Mrs. Osinski and Mrs. Palermo continue to facilitate the action plans specific to each student’s respective academic needs. Regular assessment and evaluation provide feedback in order to revise curricula delivery. Communication between each teacher and the regular classroom teacher is on-going. Workshop Attendance Mrs. Rotondo attended Part I of a Differentiated Instruction Workshop K-6 at South Bergen Jointure. Ms. McCrea attended early childhood workshops at Kean University on Saturday January 26, 2008. She also participated in an Out of District Annual Review for student at the request of our child study team. Mrs. Northrop and Ms. McCrea participated in focus group on Full Day Kindergarten Various teachers met as members of the Intervention and Referral Services for four students Mrs. Carla Pereira and Mrs. Ariane Paglucci are members of the Parents As Partners Committee. They attended a meeting after school on January 31, 2008. Principals McKeown and Delaney inputted on-line data for NJASK 3, 4, and 5 Principals McKeown and Delaney continue to minister to needs of Roosevelt School Student Recognitions rd Mrs. Harte’s 3 grade played Math and Social Studies ―games‖ with ―prizes‖ and commendations given for correct individual answers and group work Students of the month demonstrate extra-ordinary effort, cooperation, kindness, a positive work ethic and learning attitude. Our teaching family is pleased and proud to proclaim Nicholas Jorda, Ashley Montesdeoca, Sebastian Pasquel, Patrick Czachor, Diego DePena, Enzo Correa, Katie Errico, Kim Olmeda, Saisuki Putumbaka, Brianna Valeri, Melissa LaBarbera, Mallory Jorda, Louis Rodriguez, Philip Arias, Travis Fisher, Allan Ford, and Marvin Caballero as Students of the Month of November. Students of the Month of December: Alexa Paparelli, Jarrett Weber, Maddie Carlo, Breanna Ferrara, Patrick Fischetti, Alyssa Miller, Kyle Camacho, Jesse Addeo, Rocco Caputo, Andrew Fernandez, Conrad Malinowski, Michael Ciaston, Amber Ciuba, Giovanni Gonnella, Tanaya Drakeford, and Diego Correa.
School Accomplishments Plans are being formulated for the Jefferson School PTO Tricky Tray on Tuesday th March 25 , 2008 at The Graycliff, 122 Moonachie Avenue, Moonachie, NJ. Tickets are $35 per person and include full dinner, dessert and one set of raffle tickets. For ticket information and/or to reserve a full table of 10, contact Denise King 201 998 3989 or Marisa Ryan 201 998 3818. Special Programs Mrs. Rotondo’s homeroom acknowledged No Name Calling Week with a writing prompt of how other students’ feelings get hurt from name calling. Ms. McCrea’s kindergarten and Mrs. Northrop’s kindergarten continue the Pizza Hut Reading Incentive Program and both began the 600 Minute Reading Club sponsored by Six Flags (organized by Linda Korycinski) Battle of the Books is a motivational reading program for students in grades 4 and 5. Introduced in our district in 1993, we proudly celebrate our 16th year of participation in this worthwhile reading program. Watch for more information! Boxtops for education has helped us raise over $2100 in the past 4 years. Clip the Box Top For Education coupon from general mills cereals and other products, send them to school with your child -- Mrs. Laura LaBarbera, the program moderator, will take it from there! nd Mrs. Nolan’s 2 graders continued to participate in Reading 2000 – reading a total of over 2,300 books thus far this year. Mrs. Carol Goffredo from the North Arlington Women’s Club visited and read to us about cowboys. She was dressed as a cowgirl – Mr. McKeown thought she looked like Dale Evans. Mrs. Zina Van Rensalier completed her student teaching assignment earlier this month. Press Releases GIFTED, TALENTED & EXTREMELY INTERESTED STUDENTS
MONTH: January ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Roosevelt
Kindergarten Mrs. Malanga’s class wrote stories using picture prompts. Mrs. Malanga’s class practiced technology skills by printing pictures that they made using software and observing the Eiffel Tower on-line.
First Grade Mrs. Arena’s class uses parent volunteers to assist with writing workshop. Mrs. Arena’s class practiced descriptive writing by writing riddles for one of their holiday gifts and asking classmates to infer what it was.
Second Grade Mrs. Phalon’s class was treated to a story read by Mr. Jennings and a visit by Ms. Riker to talk about her job in a vet’s office. Mrs. Phalon’s class studied Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., compiled a book of letters to him, and then designed a coin to honor him. Mrs. Phalon’s class is integrating language arts, science and technology to write a research paper about the sun and the moon.
Third Grade Mrs. DiTommaso, Basic Skills instructor, set up a store in her classroom for her third grade students who are learning math skills using money to make purchases and to make change. Mrs. Crismale’s class integrated science, art, and language arts by studying about frog metamorphosis, illustrating it, and explaining it. In technology the class is making pictures on the computer using software. Fourth Grade Ms. Jaume’s class practiced math skills by surveying friends and family members to collect data to recode on a tally table and transfer to a graph. Fifth Grade Mrs. Badiola’s class entered the North Arlington Elks essay contest, ―Why I am Proud to be an American‖. Mrs Badiola’s class is studying Christopher Columbus’s encounter with the indigenous Taino tribe. Students role played the encounter and used the Internet to learn more about cultures. Computers: In Ms. Tokarz’s classes: Kindergarten-Introduction to Kid Pix Deluxe including use of primary drawing tools. First Grade-More exploration of Kid Pix Deluxe. Students used shapes, Flood-Fill, Wacky-Brush, and use of Ctrl & Shift Keys and their uses. Second Grade-Use of Kid Pix Deluxe Typing Tool and its use in pictures students create. Third Grade-Use of Kid Pix Deluxe Typing Tool and its use in pictures students create. Fourth Grade and Fifth Grade- Use of Kid Pix Deluxe (graphic tools) to create winter pictures, save to both C-drive and network folders. This work would be then be Inserted into a Word document where students would write a Haiku, poem, or acrostic, to describe their picture. Students are reviewing Keyboarding with the intention to begin use of the Writers to begin more formal classes in the area. Special Programs: All students in Roosevelt School celebrated No Name Calling Week in January using their handprints assembled a rainbow of ideas to hinder bullying and harassment. The rainbow is located in the front hall of the school to give off positive vibes to everyone who enters. Fourth and fifth grade students (and their teachers) participated in Mix It Up Day to create new friendships and break down social barriers as a way to prevent bullying and harassment. Mrs. Malanga’s Kindergarten students learned about tolerance and peace and participated in friendship and partner yoga activities. They learned how to use a Peace Mat to help resolve conflicts with words, not actions. Students in grades 3-5 were treated to an environmental awareness multimedia production presented by the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission and received free coloring books. Mrs. Badiola’s class was treated to a safety slide show presentation by Melaim Gonzalez, Trauma Prevention Coordinator for Hackensack University Medical Center who spoke about trauma and how to prevent it.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Washington Pre-K Mrs. Luciano’s Pre-K class Students are developing fine motor skills by using shapes we know to ―color‖ and ―cut‖. They continue to work on address and phone number. The students created Snowmen stories with an art project they created by using their own materials brought from home. Student of the month: Maggie Higgins Otto the Auto Assembly Program Mrs. Johnson’s Pre-K class Students are developing fine motor skills by focusing on cutting skills (zigzag lines, fringe strips, and shapes). Puppets and stage were introduced, along with story retelling and cooperation. Otto the Auto Assembly Program.
Kindergarten Mrs. Haag’s Kindergarten class Learned the letters Cc and Aa. Researched mountains, valleys, hills and plains. Learned about geometry and fractions. Student of the Month: Sean Golon First Grade Ms. Pusaver’s first grade class Math: learned place value to 100. Science: learned how plants and animals need one another. Reading/Language Arts: distinguishing reality and fantasy. Wrote letters to Recovering Soldiers. Art: made snowflake symmetry. Every Thursday parent volunteers join us for writing workshops. Second Grade Ms. Mielke’s second grade class Math: Regrouping in math, addition and subtraction. Science: Reading habitat books; learned about salt water; completed a fresh water experiment. Language Arts: Practiced guided reading groups; wrote acrostic winter poems and winter stories (Writing Workshop). Second Grade Miss O’Connell’s second grade class Math: Addition and subtraction with regrouping. Social Studies: Regions of the World Poster. Language Arts: Winter poems and collages and Freedom Facts Poster about Martin Luther King. Third Grade Mrs. Schneider’s third grade class Students are developing multiplication skills and skills required to answer open-minded questions with meaningful and well constructed paragraphs. Language Arts Literacy: Reading of a biography on Martin Luther King and a writing piece (Snow Day) and related art activity. Science activities and experiments on the ―Water Cycle‖.
Fourth Grade Ms. Verrier’s fourth grade class Science: Completed a unit of study about Animal Growth & Adaptations with hands-on experiments (bird beaks, monarch migration) and student research reports – Bird Adaptations- implementing technology (using laptops to research science research topic; copy/paste pictures to go with research). Peer Mediation: No Name Calling Week skits. Fifth Grade Ms. Lonergan’s fifth grade class The fifth grade students created SMARTBOARD lessons on the three cycles of nature: water, nitrogen and carbon dioxide-oxygen cycle. Students are using Study Island technology to build skills for the state assessment. Taylor Barth is Student of the Month. Fourth Grade – 4C – Special Education Studying addition with regrouping, algebra, expressions and number sentences Created a Haiku poem for water, continued transition to cursive writing, studied life cycle of the butterfly and frogs, and learned about the 13 colonies in America. Entered the Elks Poster Contest: Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey. Students designed a poster with a substance abuse prevention theme. Student recognition: Christopher Conza: Student of the Month Physical Education – Mrs. Scalia K-2: Locomotor skills, tagging games, jump rope. 3-5: Jump rope, long and short ropes. Practicing for Jump Rope for Heart in February. Accomplishments: Walk Across America – pedometer program grades 3-5. Upcoming Jump Rope for Heart Event in February. Completed President’s Physical Fitness testing push-up test in January.
School Accomplishments Fund raising for needy local families by the Student Council exceeded $300.00.