Reading in the Classroom

As a teacher, I can say it didn't take me long to figure out that kids who struggle with reading, struggle in many subject areas at school. This is why I believe that we must schedule reading time as a whole class activity throughout the school year.

With a minor in Social Studies for Secondary school, teaching reading was never on my to-do list. However, I found that when we did it in the class, the kids became interested (especially if I didn't assign any reading homework) and wanted to get into the book every day! This was enough encouragement for me. 

I can't say when I jumped into adding reading as units in my classroom that the delivery was perfect - oh no! I started off with a simple book - Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell. The thing is, I went sooooo slowly, that we took the entire first term on that one book! To be fair, we managed to learn a lot about novels and its parts, and the students loved the book. But, I found that too much time was wasted because I myself was now figuring out how I should do things!

So, by the end of the school year, I tried again, this time with Wringer, by Jerry Spinelli. I grabbed a free pdf and made it available in google classroom. We read for the morning period every day for a total of one week and 3 days! When we were finished we discussed its content, talked about theme, symbolism, characters and plot - and you know what? It was amazing! The students brought mature discussions, and were excited every day about reading! 

As a closing activity, we did a book review that I got free from the @secondaryenglishcoffeeshop blog by @AddieWilliams


What are you reading in your classroom?

Skallywag Bay

By: Aashiana Maharaj

                                                       Image source: Skallywag Bay

I hope you all had a great weekend! I thought that with summer quickly approaching, some of you would like a staycation idea. Trinidad has recently developed theme parks that are great for families and friends of all ages. Skallywag offers something for everybody. Rides and activities such as roller coasters are available for those looking for a thrill. those who want to cool down after being in the sun can enjoy the water rides, rock climbing is there for those feeling energetic, and golfing is available for those who are looking for a more calm but fun, competitive activity. The theme park is a great way to experience excitement and adventure in one of the very few theme parks existing in the Caribbean, all while getting to bond with family and friends.

People of all ages can visit Skallywag Bay, so the prices are listed below for each age group so the whole family can plan for a visit!

Image Source: Skallywag Bay

Take Time

Happy Sunday everybody, so as you all know we try to bring something new and refreshing to you as often as we can. Today I'm bringing just a little poem that will give you some inspiration and some tips. Here goes:

Take Time

Take time for now.
This is the only moment you are sure of.
Take time for friends.
They will help you through the very worst days.
Take time for family.
You will miss them immeasurably when they are gone.
Take time for work.
But don't let work take all your time.
Take time to laugh.
Laughter raises spirits and lift the glooms.
Take time for music.
It will feed your soul and bring you joy.
Take time to exercise.
You have one body, you should look after it well.
Take time for you.
For if you keep dividing yourself, what will be left?
Take time to understand.
That we cannot save time.
We can just try to use it wisely.
Take time to live.

- Liam Porter

As we read this poem let's point out the main key, and that is time. Time doesn't wait on no one, so as we live on this mortal earth let us take time for as much as we can, and remember time waits on nobody.

Peche Patisserie

By: Aashiana Maharaj

I hope you all are having a great weekend so far! In spirit of our summer vacation being a week away, I'm going to introduce to you restaurant\bakery located in Charlieville called Peche Patisserie which would be a great spot to check out over the break. This restaurant offers a unique selection of dishes that include breakfast options all week and lunch options on weekdays. My family and I recently visited Peche Patisserie and really enjoyed some of the breakfast options.

Above is the chocolate french toast with strawberries and blueberries on the side which is definitely something you have to try if you love chocolate. Peche Patisserie also has a bakery section that sells breads, croissants and many other assorted pastries. Being a chocolate lover as you can probably tell from what I ordered, I would highly recommend trying the chocolate croissants if purchasing from the bakery.

Visit Peche Patisserie for a great experience I can guarantee!

Wringer

By: Wisdom Garcia

Hello, everyone.  Today my class and I have finished reading a book called Wringer. in the sense of a summary, the book is about a character called Palmer who is scared of becoming ten, because he doesn't want to become a wringer. In the book, an annual Pigeon Day is kept every year, where after pigeons have been shot, ten-year-old males wring its neck off. This is a wringer. In the town where this book is set it's like a tradition that most ten years old boys become wringers, and surprisingly Palmer doesn't want to become one. On Palmer ninety birthday party the boys who seem to have been bulling him shows up at his party and treats him as their own. Palmer begins to feel as if he's now fitting in. Everyone in Waymer hates pigeons. What happens when a pigeon shows up at Palmers window and is determined to stay. Would his secret get out?
Now everyone that was just the summary, but do you want to know what I think about it? no point in asking because I'm going to tell you anyway. To my perspective, this book is really about finding/ knowing who you are. If you're not friends with "the cool kids" that doesn't make you a loser. Everyone has their own personality and that's what defines you as a human being, that is what makes you. So please, people don't hide behind someone else's identity, because guys we have too much of the same people in this world or " wannabes" So if you're reading this article and having problems figuring out who you are this is a good reference. Go check out Wringer.

Grade 8 Review! My perspective

Andre Montenegro
In comparison to my other classes, I can ensure you that this was one of the best years of education I have ever received so far. I learnt new things such as ways how to lay out work, how to work in groups and especially, time management. The teacher is awesome and she is always there for you when you need help the most. In H.A.S she will ask you for example, what subject is most difficult for you. In terms of her teaching, trust me, you will sail through the programs like its nothing because she is that good of a teacher. In this class you may confront a lot of people that may want to push you off the cliff of success, but don't worry because the teacher tells you exactly what to do. Grade 8 wasn't just a school year or a class to me, but it was an adventure. An adventure to find my ways and my flaws and anything that was inside of me that I have never shown. It was a year, where I found, myself.

Rainy Weather Treats!

Are you having bad weather and don't know how to deal with it? Are you worried about having to cancel your plans? Well, you're not alone, because I feel the same. Luckily, today I have a few treats that I'm sure you'll enjoy during the rainy weather!


1. S'mookies

Ingredients:

1 Icup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup old-fashioned or quick-cooking oats

1/3 cup packed brown sugar

2 teaspoons grated lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon grated whole nutmeg or 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup cold butter, cubed

2 tablespoons heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup cinnamon baking chips

10 tablespoons Biscoff creamy cookie spread

20 large marshmallows

Directions:

1. Place the first six ingredients in a food processor; process until blended. Add butter, cream and vanilla; pulse until dough comes together (do not overmix). Stir in cinnamon chips. Divide dough in half. Shape each into a disk; wrap and refrigerate until firm enough to roll, about 30 minutes.

2. Preheat oven to 350°. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion of dough to 1/4-in. thickness. Cut with a floured 2-1/2-in. square cookie cutter. Place 1 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake until cookies begin to brown, 10-12 minutes (do not overbake). Remove from pans to wire racks to cool completely.

3.Preheat broiler. Spread 1 tablespoon cookie spread on bottoms of half of the cookies. Set aside. Place a marshmallow on bottoms of the remaining cookies; transfer to a baking sheet. Broil 5-6 in. from heat until marshmallows are golden brown, 30-45 seconds. Cover with cookie spread halves; press down gently.

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  Image Source: Taste of Home
  
  
  
  
  2. Hot Dog Roll-Ups
  
  
  Ingredients:
  • 8 hot dogs
  • 1 block (4 ounces) cheddar cheese, cut into 8 strips
  • 2 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 tube (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent rolls
    
  Directions:
  Cut a lengthwise slit in each hot dog; fill with a strip of cheese and about 1/2 teaspoon bacon. Separate crescent dough into 8 triangles. Place a hot dog on the wide end of each triangle; roll toward the point. Place cheese side up on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 375° until golden brown, 12 minutes or until golden brown.
  
  Image Source: Taste of Home
  
  
  
  
  
  
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5 Stress Relief Tips

By: Aashiana Maharaj

Exam week has officially begun which means we're one week closer to the end of all the stress and pressure we've been feeling over the past couple weeks. However, there is still the rest of the week to get through, so take a look at the following stress relief tips that will help to stay relaxed while being on top of your studies.

1. Light a candle while listening to music
Scents such as lavender, rose and chamomile are perfect for easing your mind and getting rid of pressure. Adding soothing music while lighting a candle will add to the serene setting which will bring you to a calm place where all stress will be forgotten.

Image source: Envato Elements

2. Journaling
I know the idea of writing down what is causing stress can seem childish like writing in a diary, but this method of stress relief truly works. When we're angry, venting to a family member or friend always makes us feel better, and journaling works the same way! Just write about all the problems you are facing that are putting pressure on you will make you feel better in the end because you let everything out and the stress feels like it's in the past.

Image Source: Bustle

3. Take time for laughter
As hectic as your day maybe after school, try to take the time to watch or read or spend time with someone that will put a smile on your face. Youtube videos can be so short, but they are guaranteed to make you laugh. Read a comic or joke that will give a quick laugh, or talk to that one hilarious friend you have for just a few minutes to make you feel like the stress and pressure was lifted at least a little.


Image Source: Dan's Cartoons

I hope you enjoy using these stress relief tips because I have used some of these myself and they have honestly helped me when I was feeling like I was under a lot of pressure. Have a great week ahead!

Saturday Anger Management!

by Andre Montenegro

Are you angry all the time? What about disrespectful and can't control it? Then I have a solution just for you! Most of you know that Childline came to Trillium a few days ago talking about anger management. I learnt a few things from what they said in their presentation. Here are some tips and tricks that might help you to control yourself:

1. Remember that your thoughts control your anger, not the person
2. Ask yourself if it really was necessary to get violent.
3. When you are made at the other person, stop and listen to their perspective of the argument.
4. Get something that makes you happy and try to calm down.
5. Count to 10 breathing through your nose and up to 10 exhaling through your mouth.
6. Try getting someone that makes you happy to be with you until you calm down.

If none of these tips worked, and you need further help, try calling 800-4321 which is Childline. They are on 24/7 so there is no need for you to be worried about time. For more info call them.

Smoothie Friday

by: Wisdom Garcia

Is anyone feeling the heat right now? I know we are in the tropical zone but it's like this heat is neverending. Today, at Trillium, apparently the student council recognized how hot it was and decided to make some delicious smoothies. These smoothies enticed the student population with its unique titles, such as the Strawberry Blast and the Triple Berry Blend! I personally tried the Strawberry Blast and was completely satisfied! We sincerely thank the student council for their healthy drinks sale and look forward to it every week. Great job guys!

Movie Day Review!

Andre-

Yesterday, the movie day took place and caught most of the school student’s attention. During the movie
the students received drinks, snacks, popcorn and hot dogs so the taste buds are not disappointed.
The movie took place at around 9:30 and ended around 11:45 which is not very disturbing for me as
a student since I loved movies since young. Anyways, the movie was pg and it was fun and enjoyable to
watch, although the movie wasn’t my preference it was still very interesting. If anyone of you guys are
interested in the movie, it is called Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. Also make sure to click on the
follow button if you aren’t yet and please, click on the titles so you can correctly view and throw in
feedback in the comment section below. Thank you :).

Binder Dashboards

June is quickly coming to an end... can you believe how fast this academic year went by???  All of us, students, parents and teachers alike are on burnout mode. Right about now, all I can think about is sleep, sleep and more sleep. But, with just a few more days to go, I decided that we should use some of our time in the classroom to dedicate to organization - especially of items we can reuse in the upcoming new term. So, the gang and I gathered some materials and got started on preparing our binders that we will use in September. No, no.. we wont be gathering worksheets and assignments from now. Instead, we created a binder dashboard. (The dashboard is located on the inside cover of the binder.) Since I wanted the kids to be able to use this in the classroom, I wanted them to go beyond decorating a space, to including effective tools that they can utilize as reference or review.  The following photos show what the creative process looks like in middle school!

 In the photo above, this student already completed 2 reference tools and is on to the third! One is drawn on a flashcard (the hamburger paragraph outline) the other is on a card that is inserted into a pocket (persuasive writing outline), and the third is in the shape of a pencil (the writing process)!

This guy is all about the right heading! He is taking the time to label his resources so that sectioning them on the dashboard will become easier and thus locating the items will be much faster.

These darlings pulled out everything they needed to get inspired - including an old doodle assignment booklet!

Getting Started

We began by creating items like you would for a lapbook activity. Students used construction paper, coloured pencils, decorative tape and anything else they had on hand to get started on their tools. Items to be added on the dashboards are endless. We are including Math and Scientific Formulas, and even some Vocabulary Terms in addition to the tools mentioned before.

According to the nature of the binder, for example, the teacher binder, you can include 'to do' lists, lesson plans at a glance, mini calendars, parent contact info, computer links and passwords and many more. The idea is to figure out the things you use frequently and combine them in a space that you can easily access throughout the term. This way, you can add to your productivity in the classroom, as a student or teacher. 

Isn't this a fun and productive way to end of the term??? 

Movie Day!

By Jovon James

As some of you may know, here at Trillium we will be having a movie day tomorrow. I am very excited about this event and I am sure all the other students feel the same. The thing about times like these is that although we are at school, we get to relax, have fun and enjoy a movie with ALL our friends. We get to know each other a little better out of the ordinary classroom setting! I usually sit with the guys. But, even though I try to concentrate on the movie, I always end up laughing at the (lame) jokes they tell, and sometimes I catch myself staring at the girl of my dreams! Yup! Let's be real. Times like these are some of the most precious moments of our school days!

5 Study Tips

By: Aashiana Maharaj

The end of our school term is 3 weeks away and exams are right around the corner. For me personally, exams are an extremely stressful time and I am so grateful for any advice I can get. This is why today I’m providing you with 5 study tips to help you get through your exam preparation period.

Exercise Before an Exam:
Exercising or taking a short walk before an exam will help your performance on the exam. Exercising helps to increase your memory on the topic as well as your brain power which will help you stay focused during the test.

Be the Teacher:
Whether or not you have an audience, explaining the topic as though you are the teacher will help in retaining information. Pretend that whoever you are speaking to, real or imaginary, has no knowledge on the topics so that it is up to you to teach and explain as thoroughly as you can so that your audience can learn just as much as you know simply from your teaching.

Create Study Notes:
Don't be afraid to go the extra mile by expanding on what you learn in the classroom. Study notes, whether they be one-page visual summaries, flash cards, or any note-taking method that works for you, allow you to write down as well as add to the information you received in class to help you have a thorough understanding of the topic.

Above are my personal one-page summaries that have truly helped me have an understanding of topics taught in many subject areas in class.

Take Breaks:
When you plan on studying for several hours at a time, it's hard to remain focused and retain information without giving your brain a chance to absorb what is being read. Taking breaks every 45 minutes to an hour will give your brain the opportunity to take in information instead of cramming too much to handle which doesn't allow you to truly remember what you need to learn for the exam.

Use Scents and Gum:
This is an unusual tip that surprisingly works. Spray perfume or an air freshener when studying that you wouldn't normally use, then spray it again just before your exam. The scent will help bring your memory back to what you are studying when you last used the spray. The same works with gum! Chew a flavour of gum when studying that you wouldn't normally chew, then use the same flavour before your exam to jog your memory.

Happy studying guys!

Psalm of the day

By: Wisdom Garcia

Good morning everyone, I hope you guys are having a blessed and wonderful Sunday. In keeping with Sunday traditions in my family, I wanted to bring something new to the blog. I would like to share a scripture taken from the Bible, from the book of Psalm with all of you!

When we read this psalm let us remember that whatever we are going through the Lord will always be there for us. He is our rock. He will deliver us from any bad situations or downfalls in our lives.

Today if you're in a bad place, remember the Lord is your shield. Have a happy Sunday!

5 Life Hacks!

By: Aashiana Maharaj

Today I'm bringing to you five life hacks that are quite surprisingly helpful and very simple.

1. Whenever you have a sore throat that causes a lot of pain, try eating marshmallows. When the marshmallow is in your mouth, it will coat your lungs and provide temporary relief.
2. Do you ever have a pimple that just can't seem to go away? Try dabbing any mouthwash to dry the pimple out quickly.
3. The pain of a paper cut is small but causes a lot of pain. Luckily, if you have some chapstick around, you can rub it on the cut to numb the pain.
4. Burning your tongue can be extremely painful, but putting sugar on it will surprisingly ease the pain.
5. If you don't have enough time to iron your shirt when getting ready, simply hang the item of clothing in your bathroom while taking a hot shower. The steam will take all the wrinkles away.

If you try these, comment below and let us know how they worked for you!

Zanzibar restaurant

By: Wisdom Garcia

Its the weekend, and I'm in the mood to go out with my family for dinner and have some fun. But there is only one issue; I don't know where we should go. Does this happen to you?
Recently, (yes, only recently) I heard about a restaurant in Price Plaza, Chaguanas, from the kids in my class. You see, I don't live in the area, and so I was intrigued when they told me about Zanzibar. From what I hear, the food is really good and there is a wide variety of meals from vegan to all kinds of meats! I was enticed by their feedback and I think I just might convince my parents to take out my siblings and me this weekend to try it out myself!

x

Above is a sample of one page of the menu. Feel free to comment about your experience below!

Teaching Algebra with Pizzaz!

Today, I challenged myself to create a resource or two that would help some of my struggling students to grasp the concept of Algebra, once and for all. This is what I came up with!

1. "I Have, Who Has" with a new spin.
The traditional game is played where you give students cards with an 'I have" term or concept, and then they have to ask who has what they have written on their card. I hope you understood that piece of gibberish I just wrote as I struggle to find the words to better explain myself! Anyhoooo, my idea was to create the question cards to maintain the tradition, but then I added some answer cards - with a math problem to solve! The students will be grouped and given at least 4 cards - 2 of each. A team captain would begin by stating what they have, for example, 10. They would then ask the class who has, let's say, 4. But, in order for them to know what they have, they must solve the question cards before them. They can either get some time in the beginning to solve, and then play a timed game, or it can go however the creative teacher would prefer!

2. Algebra Answer Quest!
As an alternative, I used the same game cards in a different way. Here, I decided to solve the problems and add the answers to the top right-hand corner of different cards. The student begins to solve one problem, then hunt for the answer on the other cards. When they find it, they solve that card, and go in search of the answer in the pile again! This one works well in math centres, as individual work or in very small groups!

These resources can be created easily using PowerPoint! Have fun creating!

New Technology!

By Jovon James

Recently, while I was searching through the internet, I came across an article that caught my attention. In the article, I read about a new computer system called The Quantum Computer System. It is one of the most captivating things researchers, governments, and organizations have been working on for the past century. I thought that it was interesting because it can allow people to do even more detailed research than they intended to. It is also said to be one of the most advanced computers of the year. I think that this computing system can help many students academically with tasks such as research assignments, essays and any other information they need to suit their desires. This computing system can also benefit teachers and proffessors who are more want a more elaborate view of their topic of research.

Image Source: mikaelsyding.com

Bullet Journals

By: Aashiana Maharaj

Have you ever found it difficult to keep track of all the tasks, events and extras in our lives by writing down everything on a boring notepad or notebook? Don’t you think it be awesome if we could design our own artistic ways of staying on top of everything in our lives all in one journal? If so, you definitely need to try a bullet journal.

In a bullet journal, you’re the artist and you have all the control. You can begin your bullet journal by using any type of book you wish to write in and getting drawing materials ( pencils, pens, markers, etc.) and anything else you would like to add such as stickers, tape and pictures. Next, decide what you want to include in your journal such as calendars, weekly layouts, to-do lists, and even health and fitness trackers. I personally create my journal layouts one month at a time, so if you would like to do the same, ensure that your layouts will last you the entire month. For example, if you choose to do a weekly spread, make sure to include the exact amount of weeks in that month. Once a layout is chosen, you can finally get creative and design your journal however you desire.

Above is what my calendar and weekly layout looks like. I like to jot down important events and holidays in my calendar, but i choose to include more detailed tasks and activities for each day in my weekly layout. Using a bullet journal has allowed me to keep track of tasks inside and outside of school all while getting to work on my art which is something I love to do. If you want to be better at organizing and staying on track in all aspects of your life, I can guarantee you giving the bullet journal a try will be a major benefit.

Rice Crispy Treats

By: Aashiana Maharaj

Today, I'm going to give you two variations of a loved recipe, Rice Krispie Treats!

1. Traditional Rice Krispie Treats

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp. of butter
• One package of marshmallows
• 6 cups Rice Krispie cereal

Instructions:

• In a large saucepan, melt butter iver low heat. Add marshmallows and stir ntil completely melted. Then remove from heat.
• Add Rice Krispie cereal and stir until well coated
• Using a buttered spatula, evenly press mixture into pan coated with cooking spray. Cool then cut into squares.

Source:https://www.ricekrispies.com/en_US/recipes/the-original-treats-recipe.html

2. Oreo Rice Krispie Treats

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispie cereal
• 20 regular oreos chopped
• 5 cups mini marshmallows
• 3 tbsp. butter
• White chocolate for drizzle (optional)

Instructions:

• Spray a dish with cooking spray
• In a large bowl, pour Rice Krispie cereal
• Chop and mash oreos
• Add oreos to Rice Krispie cereal and stir
• Pour melted marshmallows over cereal and oreos and use a spatula sprayed with cooking spray to quickly combine all the ingredients
• When cereal is combined, spread mixture into the prepared dish
• Use a spatula t spread the mixture around the dish

Source: https://www.chef-in-training.com/oreo-rice-krispie-treats

Joke Time

Jokes- By Andre Montenegro     
Source: frugalfun4boys.com

What did the Sensei tell the pig?
Do a pork chop!

Knock Knock
Whose there?
Old lady
Old lady who?
Waw, I didn't know you could yodel!

Joke Time!

By Jovon James
Source: Helen Earley

Where do sharks go on vacation?
Finland!

What did the Pacific Ocean say to the Atlantic Ocean?

Nothing, it just waved.

How can you tell elephants love to travel? They always pack their own trunk!

What happens when you wear a watch on a plane? Time flies!