Mrs. Ziegler ([email protected]) Math (Room 201)

The units of study in seventh grade are as follows: Algebraic reasoning, integers, rational and irrational numbers, proportional relationships, percents, data analysis, measurement, equations and probability.  Get ready for an action packed math class this year.  Students will create a year long journal of the essentials of math concepts. Mrs. Ziegler will have her classroom materials listed on her class syllabus that all students will receive at school during the first week of school.  Students will need a calculator for at home assignments.  If you are going to purchase a calculator for your child, we suggest a scientific calculator.  The Texas Instrument TI34II calculators are available in the classroom.  Whether you purchase the same brand or a different one, the student should be consistent in the use of the calculator in order to become proficient in its use.  

Mrs. Gruver ([email protected]) Science (Room 226)
This year in Life Science we will be covering many new things.  We are going to start with some basic science skills and then move into measurement.  From there we will study the microscope and cells.  This will take us up to the middle of the year.  The next half of the year will be spent on cellular processes, genetics and classification.  Students will have multiple projects to complete throughout the course of the year.  An animal project at the end of the year will be a major research project in and outside of school.  I will use Essential Questions, Graphic Organizers and Summaries to help students learn.  Students are required to use a 3 ring binder with 4 dividers for my class.

Ms. Stewart ([email protected])  Social Studies (Room 204)
Seventh grade Social Studies covers world history from ancient times through the Medieval and Renaissance periods.  Using primary and secondary sources, we will explore the geography and cultures of ancient civilizations including China, Japan, India, Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, the Middle East, and Europe.  In addition to regular assignments based upon our reading, students will complete a variety of projects involving research and documentation.  To organize papers for this class, students should have a three-ring binder with pockets to hold smaller study aids, such as flash cards.

Mrs. Wilsbach ([email protected]) Learning Support (Room 216)
In any classes that will be taught through direct instruction, the concepts taught in the learning support classroom will cover the same concepts being taught in Ms. Kruise's and Mrs. Ziegler’s regular classrooms. However, direct instruction in the learning support classroom provides smaller groups and opportunities for more individualized instruction and pacing.  Additionally, deficit skills will be addressed and progress on goals will be monitored. 

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Power School:
Student's grades can be accessed through the Internet.  More information can be obtained through the school's office.  Students should keep an accurate record of grades at all times.  The teacher will have documented grades using Power School.  The link to Power School can be found here and on our Links page.

Homework:
Homework is assigned daily from all teachers.  Homework may be defined as written work, working on on-going projects, studying notes, and re-reading text from classes.  Study skills and strategies may include making flash cards, creating outlines, and reviewing vocabulary terms.  Students in seventh grade should expect to devote about 60-70 minutes of time on "homework" daily.  This is stated in Board Policy 130 found in the Middle School Student Handbook.

Team Website:
Check out our team website!  It can be accessed through the Crossroads Middle School website under "Team Razzle Dazzle."  Once you visit the site, bookmark it for easy access!  Our website will provide you with important information and upcoming events.  Please notice the date posted next to each teacher's name to reflect the most current updates.  Some of our team teachers have individual teacher web pages, as well.

Portfolio Conferences:  
Our team will be conducting portfolio conferences this school year.  This opportunity is after marking period 1 on November 21. Please plan to attend this wonderful opportunity with your child to view and share your child’s cumulative work.  The students are very proud to show off their work to you on these days!
  

 
Cell Phones: Team Razzle Dazzle will abide by WSSD policy regarding electronic communication devices, Board Policy 237 (The entire policy is available on the links page).  In summary, student use of communication devices during non-instructional periods, such as lunch or recess, shall be permitted, provided that it does not create a substantial disruption to the environment.  Except as specifically permitted or authorized, if a device is used to transmit or receive any communication during class time, the student will receive disciplinary consequences as outlined in the student handbook and/or Student Discipline Policy 218.  The use of any communication device is prohibited in locker rooms, health suites, lavatories, and/or any other area where an individual would have a reasonable expectation of privacy.  The District assumes no responsibility under any circumstance whatsoever for the loss, destruction, misuse, or theft of any electronic or personal communication device that is brought to school at any time or to any school-sponsored activity.

Team Expectations/Rules:
The classroom should be a comfortable home away from home, an atmosphere which challenges, yet helps, encourages, and allows students to become excited about what they are studying.  In order to achieve those goals, the following rules will be in effect in all of our classrooms.

1. Be on time and be prepared.
2. Bring books, planner, pencil and paper to all classes on a daily basis.
3. Be a listener who HEARS.  When someone is talking, your hand is down.
4. NO talking during announcements.
5. Follow directions the FIRST time.
6. Your planner will be used to sign in & out of your classes.
7. Respect must be earned.

* Board Policy 218….Students have certain responsibilities regardless of age, including regular attendance, conscientious efforts in the classroom, and compliance with school rules, regulations, and expectations.  Students also have the responsibility to make positive contributions to the school climate.  No student has the right to interfere with the educational process of any other person.  Students are expected to be courteous, cooperative, and respectful of the rights of other persons in the educational process……”