WELCOME!!!

Hello everyone,

Welcome to Mr. McDowell's classroom blog. I am very excited to have a classroom webpage and I hope that you will find it useful. The purpose of this blog is to provide a convenient (and reliable) communication link between students, parents, the school and Mr. McDowell. I invite you to check this blog on a daily basis as I will be posting valuable information about the classroom and the school - including daily homework assignments, important dates, classroom/school news, etc.

For your convenience, you can also sign-up to receive "daily updates" from this blog that automatically gets sent to your email every day there is a new posting. Simply type in your email address into the 'submit' box found on the right side of this blog.

More importantly, if you ever have any questions or concerns about your son/ daughter, please do not hesitate to contact me via phone, email, or this blog:

M.C. Knoll School - 786-5540
Email - benson.mcdowell@gssd.ca



Friday, January 28, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 28

It wasn't the "end of January" that I envisioned - being at home with COVID this week.  However, I do look forward to being back next week...and starting February off on the right foot!  

Great job to EVERYONE for working especially hard this week!

Just a reminder...there is NO SCHOOL for students next Monday, January 31 and Tuesday, February 1.  These are professional development days for all GSSD staff.  Students will return to school on Wednesday, February 2.  YAHOO!

Have a wonderful "long" weekend!

Homework:
ELA - Small Group Reading #3 (OVERDUE)
Social - Cultural Comparison Google Slides (OVERDUE)
Social - Conflict and Compromise Q's (Page 16-25) (OVERDUE)
Social - What in the World Articles (x2) (OVERDUE)
Art - Elements of Art Summary Notes (OVERDUE)
Math - Algebra Language (Wednesday, Feb. 2)
ELA - Small Group Reading #4 (Wednesday, Feb. 2)

Reminders:
- We will try to get to Weinmaster Park next week - to take in an afternoon of tobogganing, skating and/or hockey (especially since this opportunity was missed this week).  Fingers-crossed we get some more "warm" winter weather next week!

Thursday, January 27, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 27

One more day to go!

Homework:
ELA - Small Group Reading #3 (OVERDUE)
Math - Substituting Variables (Friday, Jan. 28)
Social - Cultural Comparison Google Slides (Friday, Jan. 28)
Social - Conflict and Compromise Q's (Page 16-25) (Friday, Jan. 28)
Social - What in the World Articles (x2) (Friday, Jan. 28)
Art - Elements of Art Summary Notes (Friday, Jan. 28)
Math - Algebra Language (Wednesday, Feb. 2)
ELA - Small Group Reading #4 (Wednesday, Feb. 2)

Reminders:
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".
- There will be NO SCHOOL for students next Monday, January 31 and Tuesday, February 1.  These are professional development days for all GSSD staff.  Students will return to school on Wednesday, February 2.  AWESOME!!

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 26

To my understanding, the 7M class decided to NOT go ahead with today's Adventure Ed. plans due to the "windy" conditions.  However, if the weather improves, our 7M class will go either tomorrow (Thursday, Jan. 27) or Friday, Jan. 28 - to enjoy tobogganing, skating and/or hockey at Weinmaster Park.  As before, for those who plan on tobogganing, please bring your own sled.  For those who plan on skating or playing hockey, you must bring your own skates and helmet.  Hockey players must only play with a soft shinny or ball (NO PUCKS).  YIPPEE!

Just a reminder, please ensure that you son/daughter has an extra pair of "headphones" at the school - to be used for assignments while using the Chromebooks.  Thanks in advance!

Homework:
ELA - Small Group Reading #3 (OVERDUE)
Math - Intro to Algebra (OVERDUE)
Social - Cultural Comparison Google Slides (Friday, Jan. 28)
Social - What in the World Articles (x2) (Friday, Jan. 28)
ELA - Small Group Reading #4 (Wednesday, February 2)

Reminders:
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".
- There will be NO SCHOOL for students next Monday, January 31 and Tuesday, February 1.  These are professional development days for all GSSD staff.  Students will return to school on Wednesday, February 2.  AWESOME!!

Tuesday, January 25, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 25

Ask your son/daughter about today's "day at school" with Mrs. Daviduk!

Students will need to dress for appropriate outdoor weather for tomorrow's (Wednesday, Jan. 26) Adventure Ed. class.  Students will be heading to Weinmaster Park to enjoy tobogganing and/or skating/hockey.  For those who plan on tobogganing, please bring your own sled.  For those who plan on skating or playing hockey, you must bring your own skates and helmet.  Hockey players must only play with a soft shinny or ball (NO PUCKS).  YAHOO!

Also, please ensure that you son/daughter has an extra pair of "headphones" at the school - to be used for assignments while using the Chromebooks.  Thanks in advance!

Homework:
ELA - Small Group Reading #3 (OVERDUE)
Math - Intro to Algebra (Wednesday, Jan. 26)
Social - Cultural Comparison Google Slides (Friday, Jan. 28)

Reminders:
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".
There will be NO SCHOOL for students next Monday, January 31 and Tuesday, February 1.  These are professional development days for all GSSD staff.  Students will return to school on Wednesday, February 2.  AWESOME!!

Monday, January 24, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 24

Happy Monday!

Sorry for the NO POST last week.  I was away from the school looking after one of my own kiddos at home.

And...speaking of "being away from the school", I will unfortunately NOT be at school for this entire week - as the COVID bug has found its way into my own home!?!?

I know a few families have already asked about the week ahead - especially for those students who are also at home for an extended time.  Due to the fact that I am unable to be at school, and gather any materials for your son/daughter, I strongly encourage your child to stay up-to-date on the Google Classroom.  I will try my best to post daily assignments - with Math and ELA being priority; Science, Social Studies and Arts. Ed. secondary.  When I return to school (hopefully next week), I would be more than happy to gather a "paper-copy" of the work - for those who would prefer this method of "at-home learning".  For those students who are still able to attend "in school" learning, I have planned a GREAT week of learning for you!  Your substitute teacher, Mrs. Daviduk is excited!

I will also try my best to continue to make a daily post to Edsby - to keep everyone updated with the daily news of the classroom.  I'll be in contact with Mrs. Daviduk each day to get the latest gossip!

If you have any questions/concerns, do not hesitate to reach out.

Take care!  

Homework:
ELA - Small Group Reading #3 (Tuesday, Jan. 25)
Social - Cultural Comparison Google Slides (Friday, Jan. 28)

Reminders:
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".
- Students will need to dress for appropriate outdoor weather for the Wednesday, Jan. 26 Adventure Ed. class.  Students will be heading to Weinmaster Park to enjoy tobogganing and/or skating/hockey.  For those who plan on tobogganing, please bring your own sled.  For those who plan on skating or playing hockey, you must bring your own skates and helmet.  Hockey players must only play with a soft shinny or ball (NO PUCKS).  YAHOO!

Thursday, January 20, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 20

Ask your son/daughter about the "Mixtures and Solutions" Science experiments they enjoyed the passed few classes.

Homework:
Math - Subtracting Integers (Friday, Jan. 21)
Math - Integer TEST (Monday, Jan. 24)
ELA - Small Group Reading #3 (Tuesday, Jan. 25)

Reminders:
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".
- Also, as part of the Charlotte's Web fun, tomorrow (Friday, Jan. 21) is "Farmyard Friday"!  Dress up as a farmyard animal or wear clothes that have a farmyard animal on them to celebrate our school reading together!
Anyone interested in ordering from the Scholastic Reading Club, some information was sent home earlier in the week.  When ordering online,  please use our class code: RC178758.

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Small Group #1":
- TL            - JP               - MR         

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Small Group #2":
- TB              - DB              - MD           - TL            - JP               - MR     

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Edit the Story 1 or 2":
- KC             - TL            

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 19

Anyone interested in ordering from the Scholastic Reading Club, some information was sent home earlier in the week.  When ordering online,  please use our class code: RC178758.

Homework:
Math - Adding Integers (Thursday, Jan. 20)

Reminders:
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".
- Also, as part of the Charlotte's Web fun, this Friday, Jan. 21 is "Farmyard Friday"!  Dress up as a farmyard animal or wear clothes that have a farmyard animal on them to celebrate our school reading together!

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Small Group #1":
- TL            - JP               - MR         

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Small Group #2":
- TB              - DB              - MD           - TL            - JP               - MR     

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Edit the Story 1 or 2":
- KC             - TL            

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 18

Despite the cold temperatures, some of our 7M students were extra brave today as they chose to work on their quinzees.  Way to go KNIGHTS!  Students are encouraged to continue to work on them for the remainder of the week.

Homework:
Math - 2.5 Subtracting Integers using Number Lines (Wednesday, Jan. 19)

Reminders:
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".
- Also, as part of the Charlotte's Web fun, this Friday, Jan. 21 is "Farmyard Friday"!  Dress up as a farmyard animal or wear clothes that have a farmyard animal on them to celebrate our school reading together!

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Small Group #1":
- KC             - MD             - TL            - JP               - MR         

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Small Group #2":
- TB              - DB              - MD           - TL            
- JP               - MR             - RV

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Edit the Story 1 or 2":
- KC             - MD             - TL            

Monday, January 17, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 17

Happy Monday!

Ask your son/daughter about today's Science "Safety Quiz"...

Students will need to dress "extra warm" for tomorrow's (Tuesday, Jan. 18) Adventure Ed. class - digging out their quinzees.  Bring a good digging shovel from home too (if you have).

Homework:
ELA - Small Group Reading #2 (OVERDUE)

Reminders:
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Small Group #1":
- KC             - MD             - TL            - JP               - MR            

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Edit the Story 1 or 2":
- KC             - MD             - TL            

Friday, January 14, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 14

With all of the recent surge's of COVID in our community, and the possibility of our classroom/school being moved to "online learning", it is important for me to be aware of any families who might be in need of some additional technology supports.  Hypothetically speaking, if our 7M class was to be moved to "online learning", who would need to borrow a Chromebook from the school?  If this applies to your family, please let me know ASAP.  If I do not hear from you, I will assume that your family has enough technology (laptop, desktop computer, chromebook, iPad, etc.) for your child to be successful with "online learning".  Thanks in advance!  

Have a wonderful weekend!

Homework:
Math - 2.4 Subtracting Integers using Tiles (Monday, Jan. 17)
ELA - Small Group Reading #2 (Monday, Jan. 17)
Science - WHMIS and Lab Safety TEST (Monday, Jan. 17)

Reminders:
- Students are encouraged to continue to build their quinzee over the weekend - as we will begin to "carve" them out next Tuesday, Jan. 18.
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Small Group #1":
- KC             - MD             - TL       
- JP               - MR             - DS         

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Edit the Story 1 or 2":
- KC             - MD             - LD            - TL                  - MR     

Thursday, January 13, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 13

With all of the recent surge's of COVID in our community, and the possibility of our classroom/school being moved to "online learning", it is important for me to be aware of any families who might be in need of some additional technology supports.  Hypothetically speaking, if our 7M class was to be moved to "online learning", who would need to borrow a Chromebook from the school?  If this applies to your family, please let me know ASAP.  If I do not hear from you, I will assume that your family has enough technology (laptop, desktop computer, chromebook, iPad, etc.) for your child to be successful with "online learning".  Thanks in advance!  

Homework:
Math - 2.3 Adding Integers using Number Lines (Friday, Jan. 14)
Science - WHMIS and Lab Safety TEST (Monday, Jan. 17)

Reminders:
- Students are encouraged to continue to build their quinzee all week long (over recess, after school, etc.).  We will begin to "carve" them out next week.
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".

The following people have OVERDUE "ELA - Small Group #1":
- DB               - KC                 - MD                 - TL                
- JP                 - MR                - DS                   - RV

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 12

Ask your son/daughter about today's "day at school" - as I was away from the building today (and they had their first substitute teacher of the year)!

With all of the recent surge's of COVID in our community, and the possibility of our classroom/school being moved to "online learning", it is important for me to be aware of any families who might be in need of some additional technology supports.  Hypothetically speaking, if our 7M class was to be moved to "online learning", who would need to borrow a Chromebook from the school?  If this applies to your family, please let me know ASAP.  If I do not hear from you, I will assume that your family has enough technology (laptop, desktop computer, chromebook, iPad, etc.) for your child to be successful with "online learning".  Thanks in advance!  

Homework:
Math - 2.2 Adding Integers using Tiles (OVERDUE)
ELA - Small Group Reading #1 (OVERDUE)

Reminders:
- Students are encouraged to continue to build their quinzee all week long (over recess, after school, etc.).  We will begin to "carve" them out next week.
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 11

An important letter was sent home today with information regarding COVID and our 7M class.  If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the school.

Unfortunately, our PAA class was cancelled today - due to a water main concern at Yorkdale.  Hopefully out 7M class will be able to "make up" the class at a later date.

Homework:
Math - 2.2 Adding Integers using Tiles (Wednesday, Jan. 12)
ELA - Small Group Reading #1 (Wednesday, Jan. 12)

Reminders:
- Students are encouraged to continue to build their quinzee all week long (over recess, after school, etc.).  We will begin to "carve" them out next week.
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".

Monday, January 10, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 10

Happy Monday!

Ask your son/daughter about today's Adventure Ed.- quinzee/snow-fort building!  Students are encouraged to continue to build the quinzee all week long (over recess, after school, etc.).  We will begin to "carve" them out next week.

Homework:
Math - 2.1 Representing Integers (Tuesday, Jan. 11)
ELA - Small Group Reading #1 (Wednesday, Jan. 12)

Reminders:
- Continue practicing your "computer keyboard" skills on TypingClub.com
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".

Friday, January 7, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 7

For the Monday, Jan. 10 Adventure Ed. class (quinzee/snow-fort building), students will NEED to bring a shovel and dress appropriately for outdoor weather.  YAHOO!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Homework:
Music - Musicals Test (OVERDUE)
Math - Review of Integers (Monday, Jan. 10)
ELA - Small Group Reading #1 (Wednesday, Jan. 12)

Reminders:
- Continue practicing your "computer keyboard" skills on TypingClub.com
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".

Thursday, January 6, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 6

The "end of the work week" is near...

Homework:
Math - Intro to Integers (OVERDUE)
Music - Musicals Test (Friday, Jan. 7)

Reminders:
- Continue practicing your "computer keyboard" skills on TypingClub.com
- Enjoy reading Charlotte's Web with your family - as part of the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program".
- With ALL of the snow that has arrived, be sure to dress appropriately for outdoor recess and our upcoming Adventure Ed. classes - winter jacket, mitts, touque, boots, etc. 

Wednesday, January 5, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 5

Our 7M class were introduced to TypingClub.com - a free program that teaches students the lifelong skill of "how to use a computer keyboard" properly.   Ask your son/daughter about it...and maybe even challenge them to a typing competition or two!

Also, MC Knoll School officially launched the "One School, One Book Family Reading Program" today - where we encourage ALL families to read Charlotte's Web by E.B. White.  A free copy of the book and some information was sent home today with your son/daughter.  Happy Reading!  

Homework:
Math - Intro to Integers (Thursday, Jan. 6)
Music - Musicals Test (Friday, Jan. 7)

Reminders:
- With ALL of the snow that has arrived, be sure to dress appropriately for outdoor recess and our upcoming Adventure Ed. classes - winter jacket, mitts, touque, boots, etc. 

Tuesday, January 4, 2022

Classroom News - Jan. 4

Welcome back!

I hope the holiday season treated everyone well - full of family, friends, food, gifts....and some much needed rest!

Ask you son/daughter about today's "Ribbon Shirt/Skirt Day".

Homework:
Social - Ribbon Shirt/Skirt Drawing (Wednesday, Jan. 5)
Music - Musicals Test (Friday, Jan. 7)

Reminders:
- With ALL of the snow that has arrived, be sure to dress appropriately for outdoor recess and our upcoming Adventure Ed. classes - winter jacket, mitts, touque, boots, etc.