Events
Deadline: February 9, 2018 (extended until this Friday)
“A Change is Going to Come” is this year’s theme. Reach out to Clare Brooks brooks@conceptschools.org if you plan to attend with students.
http://socialstudies.conceptschools.org/spoken-word/
Deadline: February 23, 2018
“It’s A Matter of Words” Writing Contest – This year’s writing contest focuses on writing in ALL subjects and ALL teacher may make submissions. The full program information has been posted here on the Concept English website since October. Please check it out and share with your whole school if you have not!
Deadline: March 2, 2018 (Extended)
We have extended this program. Mr. Duman has sent out an email to our network contacts appealing for stories, and soon a request for help (nominating parents) will be coming to you, from me, through your school. We will be offering rewards for teachers who nominate and support key parents to tell their stories.
Completed: Book Mark Reading Challenge
Shout out to Mr. Bowen at Michigan Math and Science and Mr. Petrella at HSA Belmont for implementing this year’s program. We hope to build on their success moving forward.
Curriculum – Core Classes
6th Grade Unit 4 – Making Your Voice Heard: Teachers are backward mapping this unit so that students are prepared to complete the performance task which is writing and presenting an Argumentative Speech.
7th Grade Unit 4 – Risk and Exploration: Teachers are backward mapping this unit so that students are prepared to complete the performance task which is writing and presenting a Persuasive Speech. Cross discipline connection in this unit with Science.
8th Grade Unit 4 – Approaching Adulthood: Teachers are backward mapping this unit so that students are prepared to complete the performance task which is creating a Multimedia Campaign. Cross discipline connections in this unit with History and Technology.
9th Grade Unit 4 – Sweet Sorrow: Teachers are backward mapping this unit (via mini-lessons on writing skills) so that students are prepared to complete the performance task which is writing an Analytical Essay. Cross discipline connection in this unit with History. Reach out to Andy to brainstorm ideas – Shakespeare is challenging!
10th Grade Unit 4 – How We See Things: Teachers are backward mapping this unit (mini-lessons on imagery, details, transitions) so that students are prepared to complete the performance task which is writing a Narrative Essay. Cross disciplinary connection in this unit with Science and Math.
11th Grade Unit 4 – A New Birth of Freedom: Teachers are backward mapping this unit so that students are prepared to complete the performance task which is writing and presenting a Persuasive Speech. Cross discipline connections to History and Technology.
12th Grade Unit 4 – Seeking Justice, Seeking Peace: Teachers are backward mapping this unit (mini-lessons on claims/counterclaims, transitions) so that students are prepared to complete the performance task which is to write an Argument Paper. Cross discipline connection to History.
Assessments
Each school has their own approach to the assessment data. Please know that Concept English is available for consultation insight when requested. We are happy to help.
Middle School – Teachers, please remember you can schedule a meeting via Webinar with me to discuss your NWEA data and trends so that I can help you plan your re-teaching. Remember our units spiral. Hopefully you have introduced and/or taught almost all the standards by now and spiraling back for master is key. Email aflaherty@conceptschools.org to set up a Webinar.
High School – How do you feel about your EOC’s? Not all schools chose to do the 2nd EOC, but if you did and would like to compare and discuss #1 and #2, I am available. Email aflaherty@conceptschools.org to set up a Webinar.
As always, let us know what you need and how we can support you. Happy Valentine’s Day!
