This weekly newsletter from the middle school provides updates from three teachers - Mr. Benitez, Mr. Tobon, and Mr. Parent. Mr. Benitez encourages parents to help children see math in everyday life and develop a positive attitude. Mr. Tobon hints that there is a hidden code and reminds students to work hard. Mr. Parent advises students to stay focused and organized as they prepare for Thanksgiving break.

1. Week of Nov. 15 - Nov. 19, 2010
MIDDLE SCHOOL
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
Mr. Benitez
email: rbenitez@stpatrickcatholicschool.com webpage: www.myteacherpages.com/webpages/Rbenitez
* Doing More Math at Home - Two important goals for all students are that they learn to value mathematics and
they become confident in their ability to do mathematics. Parents can help children develop a “can do” disposition
toward math by nurturing their children’s natural curiosity and providing support and encouragement. Math is
everywhere, yet many children don’t see it. Look for ways to point out and reinforce math skills at home. For
example, involve children in tasks that require computing, measuring, estimating, building, following directions,
problem solving, and reasoning (Connected Mathematics Project, 2009).
Word for the Week
propitiate [proh-PISH-ee-ayt] (verb) to gain or regain the favor or goodwill of, esp. of a god, spirit, person
The people of ancient Greece thought it was important to propitiate the goddess, Athena, in order to win the battle against their enemies.
Mr. Tobon
email: ctobon@stpatrickcatholicschool.com webpage: www.myteacherpages.com/webpages/ctobon
* All classes: This week there is a hidden code in my section of the newsletter. High fives and a prize go to the first
person who finds it! Also, a lot of students have been asking me for opportunities to raise their grades. Never giving
up is a good quality to have, but remember that the effort has to be strong from the start. Keep working hard during
this week on all the assignments I will be giving you in class. Stay focused and do not settle for the minimum grade.
* 7th grade – Keep thinking about your Memory Book page. Take some pictures that really represent who you are.
* 6th grade Science – Make sure that you are looking through your notes often so that you may understand and
remember what we discuss in class.
Looking back at our 7th grade
Battleship (en español) Tournament
Mr. Parent
e: tparent@stpatrickcatholicschool.com w: www.myteacherpages.com/webpages/7th8th/myblog.cfm
All Classes- As we prepare to go on Thanksgiving break, let's stay focused.
Stay organized and study for your tests and quizzes. A great way to study is to look over your notes. You'd be
surprised to find how far a quick review will go in remembering things. Also, ask lots of questions. Try not to
leave class without understanding what was being taught. We love questions as long as you were paying
attention the first time!
It Happened This Week!
November 15th- A draft of the Articles of Confederation was approved by the U.S. Congress in 1777.
November 17th- The U.S. Congress first met in Washington D.C. in 1800.
November 18th- Mickey Mouse, created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, first appeared on the screen in
1928.
November 19th- Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address in 1863.
1