Brilliant sixth graders…
The sixth grade delved deeper into their study of ancient China by investigating how the philosopher Confucius improved the dynasty with his wisdom. First, they communicated with one another without words to match famous proverbs. Then, we translated the proverbs to modern language and explored how the principles of Confucianism apply to China - and the world - today!
Seventh grade became active readers by annotating A Christmas Carol to explore Scrooge’s character and the setting and mood of the text. They worked in pairs to carefully select text that described Scrooge's character and explored how Charles Dickens used language to develop a character. They shared their annotations discussing who Scrooge is and how he is responding to the setting.
8th grade presented their projects on patterns of gentrification and decline in Chicago neighborhoods. They analyzed data that reflect population trends and socioeconomic changes in the neighborhoods using their knowledge of equations, percents, and proportions. The came up with some incredible reflections about the factors that contribute to change in Chicago!
Our very own Jadzia Augustin completed her MYP community project this week. Jadzia chose to promote anti-bullying at St. Matthias. All students from Pre-K through grade 8 supported her efforts by wearing a splash of blue with their uniforms. She visited classrooms to teach the effects of bullying through engaging activities and gave advice to prevent it. She encouraged our students to become upstanders rather than bystanders! Way to go, Jadzia!
This weekend kicks off the St. Matthias basketball season! Come support our 7th and 8th grade teams tonight at Amundsen High School. The 7th grade boys tip-off is at 7:15pm and 8th grade is at 8:15pm. You may park in the lot on Damen and enter through Gate 4. The 6th grade girls play at St. Matthias tomorrow at 1pm and the 6th grade boys at 3pm. Come out and support our Mustangs!
Looking ahead…
Pajama Day: The middle school will have a Pajama Day on Monday for $2. Enjoy a day wearing comfy clothes at school.
School mass: We will have mass next Tuesday, November 24th. Please drop your child at St. Matthias in the morning.
Thanksgiving Break: Begins November 25th---No School next Wednesday. Classes will resume on Monday, November 30th.
Feed My Starving Children: The middle school will be volunteering at this non-profit Christian organization on November 30th. We will hand-pack meals specifically formulated for malnourished children around the world. What a wonderful way to end our Thanksgiving and begin the season of Advent.
Report cards: Teachers will close their grades for the first trimester on November 30th. Report cards will be sent home on December 7th.
Stay Warm
Mrs. Prinzivalli and Ms. Denten