January and February flew by because of interruptions we could not control....including so many of us being out sick (teacher included). With that said we still have so much to be proud of as far as what we were able to accomplish when class was in session. Since returning from winter break we completed two different Breakout EDU games: Student Slueth (digital breakout) and The Jewel Heist. We completed our Keith Haring study then produced our own works of art using his style as inspiration. We even gambled with our art a little by allowing the roll of a die determine which shapes and figures we created in our art! Our novel studies continue...we are getting to the end of both "The Egypt Game" and "The Westing Game". If you walked in during our literature lessons you might feel like you walked in to a book club at Barnes and Noble. The discussion is lively, rich and the students are taking control of the clues, discussions, and the mystery behind the story. Another exciting part of our class is our History's Mysteries mini lessons. We have learned about the Dancing Plague of 1518, the Kraken, and the missing 1975 US Quarter. Our forensic studies have focused on forensic anthropology. We learned about the different types of anthropologist (physical, linguistic, cultural) and then learned more about why and when forensics comes into play. Ask your child about Dr. William Bass and the Body Farm at the University of Tenn! In addition to this, all students were given a chance to practice digging up bones. Each student was given an opportunity to complete an owl pellet study and although some were disgusted at first, all participated and enjoyed the experience. We have started a new artist study for the artist Joan Miro. Visit our site in March for more information about the artist himself and student work. All students are working on a genius hour project. Every project is very different, as are my students. Gracie G. completed a clay mask, Hope a blackout poem, Abigail an Amelia Earhart poster, Grace H. is developing her own character, Andrew completed his first robotics challenge, Taylor is working on a model of a constellation....and SO MUCH MORE!!! Last, but not least, all classes are getting together and making plans for our annual end of year event....details to come!!