Just another day of Cooperation, Research, and Planning in Dr. Gil's Class

Expository Research in Action

Students today are spending time researching for their Expository Book project.  Today and yesterday have been spent in website validation, examining sources, and recording information found on topics.  They're doing a great job. 

How to find Book Binding for the Expository Project

I would like all students to have a hardcover blank book for their expository writing project.  There are several options for purchasing these. I would like all students to have an empty book by December 9th. 

 

1.)    Teaching Things (a teacher supply store in Trussville) has these books for sale anywhere from $2.49 (smaller)-$3.99 (larger version).  One option is that you may go to the store and purchase one.  Teaching Things:  408 Walnut Drive, Trussville, AL 35173

2.)     The Hardcover white blank book from Teaching Things can also be found online: here.  This option is easy- but you may have to pay shipping.

http://catalog.teachingthingsonline.com/index.php?route=product/product&keyword=blank%20books&product_id=10079

 

3.)    Around town I have found these empty hard cover books at TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Tuesday Mornings, Target, and Walmart from time to time.  Stores often call these blank books “journals.” (Office Max, Office Depot, Dollar General, or even The Dollar Tree may have them as well.)  One of my students bought one at Marshall’s over the weekend and when I flipped it over – it had a mere “$1.99” listed on the price tag.

 

Happy Hunting!  If you are unable to purchase one of these books, don’t break your back trying.  I know the holiday season is a busy one.  Your child can fashion one out of a composition notebook or even blank paper, so NO WORRIES.  Blank paper glued inside and on top of an old hard back book may also suffice!

 

~Erin Naugher Gilchrist

PhD English Curriculum and Instruction

6^th Grade HTMS

Expository Project

Last week students began an expository research project on the subject of their choice.  This research will culminate in each student publishing a book (roughly due before Christmas break).  Encourage your student to take ownership in his or her book.   Pride in their work will produce an end result of hard work, great research, and an excellent grade! 

The rubric can be found on my teacher website at the Trussville City Schools website. https://www.trussvillecityschools.com/Teachers/Erin.Gilchrist/default.aspx
 


Caitlin and Anna sharing technology to explore possible research topics in class last week.



Exploring expository texts in class.


HAPPY RESEARCHING!

English Portfolios

Today your student should come home with their English Portfolio.  This file folder is full of student grades, for them to "show off" at home.  This should let you know what your student needs to work on in the future. 

• Legible Handwriting
• Spelling, capitalization, and punctuation in writing
• Turning things in on time (there is always a 30 point deduction for late assignments)
• Making sure they have a name on their papers. (No-Name is always -10 points)
• Following directions
• Studying for tests/quizzes

Students can empty out these portfolios at home and are expected to bring back the empty file folder by Monday, with a parent signature.

BONUS POINT OPPORTUNITY:  Students can get 5 bonus points added to their next assignment for snapping a picture of something from their Portfolio on display at their home!  These can be emailed to me at erin.gilchrist@trussvillecityschools.com or simply shown to me in class.  RATIONALE FOR THIS: Many things motivate students, but having pride in your own work is one of the biggest motivators. Help give your students fuel to move forward and accomplish even more this year. For students, ownership and pride in work is a catalyst for achievement.

Mystery Prompts: Harris Burdick



Mystery Story Writing Prompts

MR. LINDEN'S LIBRARY
______________
He had warned her about the book.  Now it was too late.