Earle B. Wood Middle School

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Morning News Archives

Today is Tuesday, January 17, 2012.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Attention intramural athletes: Weight-training and Wii Sports starts TODAY for all three grades. You will have access to all the exercise equipment in the weight-room and the Wii. Meet outside the weight room after school today.

Auditions for “Mulan, Jr” will be after exams, on Tuesday, Jan. 24th and Wednesday, Jan. 25th. You do NOT need to attend auditions on both days. Please sign-up on the day you intend to audition on the sheets outside of Ms. Sato’s room (288). If you want more information, you can get an Audition Etiquette Checklist from outside Ms. Sato’s room, or you can contact Ms. Sato.

A reminder to the Wood M.A.S.T.E.R. Steppers: There will not be any practice this week. Please take this time to study and focus on your exams and we will see you all next week, January 24th. Any questions please see Ms. Fahnbulleh or Ms. Johnson.

There is no Novelists Club today. We will resume meeting next week on Tuesday, January 24th.

Attention Geography Bee Classroom Winners: The School Wide competition for the National Geography Bee will be held on Tuesday January 17th in the Media Center after school. You MUST attend after school to compete in order to qualify for the state competition. Please see Ms. Washington if you have any questions.

Please note that 6th grade ELO will take place today in Room 257 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Examine (verb)
to look over carefully.
The forensics class examined a counselor’s office for evidence of the crime.

Today is Friday, January 13, 2012.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Attention intramural athletes: Weight-training and Wii Sports starts next week and will continue into February for all three grades. You will have access to all the exercise equipment in the weight-room, and you will have some time to compete in Wii Sports. As time goes on, we will also try out the Wii Fit Plus.

Auditions for “Mulan, Jr” will be after exams, on Tuesday, Jan. 24th and Wednesday, Jan. 25th. You do NOT need to attend auditions on both days. Please sign-up on the day you intend to audition on the sheets outside of Ms. Sato’s room (288). If you want more information, you can get an Audition Etiquette Checklist from outside Ms. Sato’s room, or you can contact Ms. Sato.

Attention 6th graders: the permission slip and money for the upcoming field trip to the Natural History Museum is due to your Social Studies teacher TODAY.

Today is Thursday, January 12, 2012.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Attention SGA! Due to exams, our SGA meeting will be postponed to next Thursday. Thanks for your understanding and good luck on exams!

Reminder to all students: Turn in your completed Student Service Learning (SSL) forms from 1st semester today to Ms. Davis in the Counseling Department. See your Counselor if you have any questions.

Any 6th grader wanting to redo their Athens/Sparta brochure should meet Mrs. Zangrilli, Mrs. Giron, and Mr. Myers in computer lab 261 by 2:50 today.

Attention Drama Students! Auditions for “Mulan, Jr” will be after exams, on Tuesday, Jan. 24th and Wednesday, Jan. 25th. You do NOT need to attend auditions on both days. Please sign-up on the day you intend to audition on the sheets outside of Ms. Sato’s room (288). If you want more information, you can get an Audition Etiquette Checklist from outside Ms. Sato’s room, or you can contact Ms. Sato.

Attention 6th graders: the permission slip and money for the upcoming field trip to the Natural History Museum is due to your Social Studies teacher by Friday, January 13th. If you need another copy or if your parent would like to chaperone, please talk to your Social Studies teacher.

The Journalism students are writing their 3rd edition of the newspaper and would like to continue the “Dear Earle” section. To do this, WE NEED YOU! Put in your request for advice in the boxes in the cafeteria or the back hallway (near room 296). Don’t be shy! We’re here to help!

Computer lab 236 will be open after school today for students to use the computers for academic work.

The intramural ping-pong challenge continues today! This is open to all eligible students in all 3 grade levels. Meet in room 101 first to go over the rules!

Attention Geography Bee Classroom Winners: The School Wide competition for the National Geography Bee will be held on Tuesday January 17th in the Media Center after school. You MUST attend after school to compete in order to qualify for the state competition. Please see Ms. Washington if you have any questions.

Attention Wood M.A.S.T.E.R. Steppers please remember that there is step practice today. We will be meeting in the cafeteria at 2:50. Please be on time. Any questions see Ms. Johnson.

Please note that 8th grade ELO will take place today in Room 245 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Euphemism (noun)
A mild word or phrase which substitutes for another word because it is too direct, unpleasant, or offensive.
A euphemism for died is “passed on,” and since we don’t really rest in a restroom, that is a euphemism, too.

Today is Wednesday, January 11, 2012.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Congrats to the Lady Stangz on their game yesterday against Loiderman Middle School! The team was able to hold the lead throughout the entire game. Congratulations goes out to all members of the team. The Lady Stangz are now 2 -1. Thank you to all of the fans that came out to cheer them on!

The ping-pong challenge starts today! If you have any skills are just enjoy playing the game, then meet us today and tomorrow after school. This is open to eligible students in all 3 grade levels. Meet in room 101 first to go over the rules!

Attention SGA! We will be meeting tomorrow after school in order to prepare for upcoming events. Please come prepared with ideas for the rest of January and February. See you then!

SGA Officers, please see Mr. Carmi TODAY during lunch in order to touch base on the meeting. Thanks!

Novelists Club will meet after school today in lab 290. Bring your completed rough draft, or your soon-to-be-completed work in progress. See you there.

Reminder to all students: Turn in your completed Student Service Learning (SSL) forms from 1st semester by tomorrow to Ms. Davis in the Counseling Department. See your Counselor if you have any questions.

Any 6th grader wanting to redo their Athens/Sparta brochure should meet Mrs. Zangrilli, Mrs. Giron, and Mr. Myers in computer lab 261 by 2:50 today or tomorrow.

A reminder to all students who are participating in sports or extracurricular activities: that 2nd quarter ends at the end of next week – January 20th! If you are ineligible for Quarter 2, you will not be able to participate in any sports or activities. This means that you need to have a C average (a 2.0 GPA). Check in with your counselor or teachers at lunch or after school before it’s too late!

Attention Wood M.A.S.T.E.R. Steppers please remember that there is step practice today. We will be meeting in the cafeteria at 2:50. Please be on time. Any questions see Ms. Johnson.

Attention all Honors Geometry students: This is just a reminder that Mrs. Eising’s webinar for extra midterm exam review is tonight at 6:15pm. Log on through the link in edline or follow the instructions in your packet distributed on Monday. Hope to see you all online tonight!

Midterm exams begin tomorrow. Tonight, there will be a midterm webinar review for students in Honors Geometry and Algebra I. The Honors Geometry review will begin at 6:15 and the Algebra I review will begin at 6:30. A link to each of the webinars is posted on your teacher’s Edline page. The webinar will allow students to review for the midterm exam by working on problems at home on a personal computer. Teachers will be answering each question and breaking down the important steps in how to approach specific problems. We will emphasize vocabulary and other strategies to be successful on the midterm exam. Remember, in a high school class, your GPA is calculated by your semester grades, not quarter grades. The midterm exam accounts for 25% of the overall final semester grade. This is the reason why being highly successful on these exams is important in all of your classes, not just in math. Please take the time to study for a good length of time for these exams. The more serious you are in your approach to preparing for your exams, the more successful you will be!

Please note that 7th grade ELO will take place today in Room 287 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Equilateral triangle (noun)
A triangle with all sides congruent.
An equilateral triangle has all sides congruent and all angles acute with each measuring 60 degrees.

Today is Tuesday, January 10, 2012.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Our Lady Mustangs are playing Loiderman Middle School at home TODAY. The basketball game starts at 3:00, and the cost is $1.00 at the door for all eligible students. Come support your Lady Mustangs at the game today!

The ping-pong challenge starts tomorrow! If you have any skills are just enjoy playing the game, then meet us tomorrow and Thursday after school. This is open to eligible students in all 3 grade levels. Meet in room 101 first to go over the rules!

Attention SGA! We will be meeting this Thursday after school in order to prepare for upcoming events. Please come prepared with ideas for the rest of January and February. See you then!

SGA Officers, please see Mr. Carmi TOMORROW during lunch in order to touch base on the meeting. Thanks!

Novelists Club will meet after school tomorrow in lab 290. Bring your completed rough draft, or your soon-to-be-completed work in progress. See you there.

Reminder to all students: Turn in your completed Student Service Learning (SSL) forms from 1st semester by Thursday, January 12th to Ms. Davis in the Counseling Department. See your Counselor if you have any questions.

Any 6th grader wanting to redo their Athens/Sparta brochure should meet Mrs. Zangrilli, Mrs. Giron, and Mr. Myers in computer lab 261 by 2:50 today, tomorrow, or Wednesday.

Attention Drama Students! We finally have audition dates – get your calendars out! Auditions will be after exams, on Tuesday, Jan. 24th and Wednesday, Jan. 25th. You do NOT need to attend auditions on both days. However, in the past, we have had many people show up – so please be prepared for auditions to go past 4pm and have a ride ready. There will be sign-up sheets outside of Ms. Sato’s door – please write your name on the day that you intend of audition. You should have a 30-60 second vocal piece prepared that’s NOT from “Mulan.” This will be sung a cappella – in other words, no music. You can also prepare a short monologue, OR you can cold-read from the script, which will be provided. We will also have a rhythm portion of the auditions. All eligible students, from any grade level, are invited to audition, even if you’ve never been on stage or involved in theatre before! If you want more information, you can get an Audition Etiquette Checklist from outside Ms. Sato’s room, 288, or you can speak to Ms. Sato. Break a leg!

The Algebra teachers will be hosting a webinar tomorrow at 6:30pm to help students prepare for the midterm exam.

Please note that 6th grade ELO will take place today in Room 257 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Equation (noun)
A mathematical sentence that contains an equal sign.
4x+8=20 is an equation.
To solve it, subtract 8 from each side and then divide each side by 4 to get X=3 as your solution.

Today is Monday, January 09, 2012.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Our Lady Mustangs are playing Loiderman Middle School at home tomorrow. The basketball game starts at 3:00, and the cost is $1.00 at the door for all eligible students. Come support your Lady Mustangs!

Do you like playing table tennis, a.k.a. ping-pong? Or do you think you’re one of the top ping-pong players in the school?
Well you can find out this week as Mr. Bing will run a two-day intramural ping-pong challenge on Wednesday and Thursday. This is open to eligible students in all 3 grade levels.

The Algebra teachers will be hosting a webinar on Wednesday at 6:30pm to help students prepare for the midterm exam, which starts on Thursday. The webinar will allow students to review for the midterm by working on problems at home on a personal computer. Teachers will be answering questions and breaking down the steps. Emphasis will also be on vocabulary and other successful strategies. Students will receive the PowerPoint for the webinar ahead of time in case they want to start working on the problems early.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Empathy (noun)
being aware of and sharing another person’s, feelings, experiences, and emotions.

When you share someone else's joy or pain, you are experiencing empathy.

Today is Friday, January 06, 2012.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Do you like playing table tennis, a.k.a. ping-pong? Or do you think you’re one of the top ping-pong players in the school?
Well, you can find out next week as Mr. Bing will run a two-day intramural ping-pong challenge next week on Wednesday and Thursday. Intramural Wii Sports and weight training will begin the week after that.

Attention Wood M.A.S.T.E.R. Steppers, our practices next week will be on WEDNESDAY and THURSDAY. We will NOT be meeting on Tuesday. Please come to practice ready with sneakers on. Please see Ms. Johnson if you have any questions.

The Algebra teachers will be hosting a webinar on January 11th, at 6:30pm to help students prepare for the midterm exam, which starts next Thursday. The webinar will allow students to review for the midterm by working on problems at home on a personal computer. Teachers will be answering questions and breaking down the steps. Emphasis will also be on vocabulary and other successful strategies. Students will receive the PowerPoint for the webinar ahead of time in case they want to start working on the problems early. RHS expects students to earn a C or higher for the semester in order to be prepared for and enroll in Geometry, and the midterm exam accounts for 25% of the overall final semester grade, so this is a great way to study.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Elaborate (verb)
to explain with more details and examples.
We had to elaborate on the concept of responsibility in an essay for Ms. Feldman.

Today is Thursday, January 05, 2012.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Attention all 8th graders. It is time to prepare for HIGH SCHOOL! There will be a Rockville High School Elective Course Presentation period 6 tomorrow. The presentation is open to all 8th graders. You will report to period 6 and your teacher will escort you to the gym after the PA announcement. See Mrs. Gudnitz for more information.

Attention Wood M.A.S.T.E.R. Steppers, we will be meeting in the cafeteria at 2:50 sharp today for practice. Make sure that you are on time and ready for practice.

Attention intramural participants: Intramural Soccer continues TODAY for 7th and 8th graders only, and this will be the final day of soccer until the spring. Meet in room 101 before we go out to play. Intramurals for the rest of January and February will include table tennis, weight room, and Wii Sports and Wii Fit Plus!

Congratulations to the Lady Stangz on their WIN over Briggs Chaney Middle School. The Lady Stangz were tied at the end of regulation time and were able to take the lead in overtime with a 32 – 20 WIN! Congrats, ladies.

Spanish 1 students, please be prepared for tonight's webinar. We will begin at 6:30 pm and you will need to have your PowerPoint slides with you as well as your vocabulary lists. Make sure you have access to the Internet tonight. A recording of the webinar will be available later for individual review. Continue to study for your oral exams!

Reminder to ALL Students interested in trying out for Spring Soccer or who are currently playing Basketball! Second Quarter ends in 3 weeks on January 20th! If you are ineligible for Quarter 2 you will not be able to try out for soccer and will be dropped from the basketball team. This means if you do not have a C average (a 2.0 GPA), you will not be able to participate in any after school activities. Check in with your Teachers or Counselor at lunch or after school now before it’s too late!! Don’t forget to study in advance for your exams!

Homework help is available today and all next week. Call “Homework Hotline Live” with your questions from 4 to 6 PM, or text your question until 9 o’clock tonight! Call 301-279-3234 or go to AskHHL.org.That’s 301-279-3234 and AskHHL.org.

Please note that 8th grade ELO will take place today in Room 245 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

This is a reminder to all TCB students to report to the appropriate classroom during your TCB period today. Remember to bring your work, a pencil, and a book!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Effect (noun)
the result or consequence of an action or influence.
1) The effect of fertilizer on plant growth is amazing. 2) Your decision created a positive effect on our family.

Today is Wednesday, January 04, 2012.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Attention all 8th graders. It is time to prepare for HIGH SCHOOL! There will be a Rockville High School Elective Course Presentation period 6 this Friday Jan. 6. The presentation is open to all 8th graders. You will report to period 6 and your teacher will escort you to the gym after the PA announcement. See Mrs. Gudnitz for more information.

Attention all Wood M.A.S.T.E.R. Steppers. There will be practice this Thursday and on both days next week. Please remember that it is important that you attend every practice because you all have a vital role on the team. If you have any questions or concerns please see Ms. Johnson.

Our 1 & 0 boys basketball team open their home schedule TODAY against Briggs Chaney Middle School. The game starts at 3:00, and the cost is $1.00 at the door for all eligible students. Buses will be available for all remaining basketball games.

Attention intramural participants: Intramural Soccer continues TOMORROW for 7th and 8th graders only, and this will be the final day of soccer until the spring. Next week, we will play intramural table tennis, then Wii Sports and the weight room for the rest of the month.

All Algebra I students are scheduled to take their midterm exam starting next Thursday. Because the midterm exam accounts for 25% of the overall final semester grade, it is very important that students prepare for this assessment. Rockville High School expects students to earn a C or higher for the semester in order to be prepared for and enroll in Geometry the following year. The Algebra teachers will be hosting a webinar on January 11th at 6:30 pm to help students prepare further for the midterm exam. The webinar will allow students to review for the midterm exam by working on problems at home on a personal computer. Teachers will be answering each question and breaking down the important steps in how to approach specific problems. We will emphasize vocabulary and other strategies to be successful on the midterm exam. More information will follow as to how to access the webinar. In addition, students will receive the PowerPoint for the webinar ahead of time in case they want to start working on the problems early. The algebra team looks forward to seeing our students succeed on this very important midterm exam.

Reminder to ALL Students interested in trying out for Spring Soccer or who are currently playing Basketball! Second Quarter ends in 3 weeks on January 20th! If you are ineligible for Quarter 2 you will not be able to try out for soccer and will be dropped from the basketball team. This means if you do not have a C average of a 2.0 GPA you will not be able to participate in any after school activities. Check in with your Teachers/Counselor at lunch/after school now before it’s too late!! Don’t forget to study in advance for your exams!

Homework help is available today. Call “Homework Hotline Live” with your questions from 4 to 6 PM, or text your question until 9 o’clock tonight! Call 301-279-3234 or go to AskHHL.org.That’s 301-279-3234 and AskHHL.org.

Please note that 7th grade ELO will take place today in Room 287 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Editorial (noun)
An article or commentary that expresses an opinion.
These days there are many editorials to read about how to solve the global financial crisis.

Today is Tuesday, January 03, 2012.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Attention all 8th graders. It is time to prepare for HIGH SCHOOL! There will be a Rockville High School Elective Course Presentation period 6 this Friday Jan. 6. The presentation is open to all 8th graders. You will report to period 6 and your teacher will escort you to gym after the PA announcement. See Mrs. Gudnitz for more information.

Our 1 & 0 boys basketball team open their home schedule tomorrow against Briggs Chaney Middle School. Buses will be available for all remaining basketball games.

Please note that 6th grade ELO will take place today in Room 257 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Edit (verb)
to replace words, phrases and sentences that sound awkward or confusing as well as to check for spelling, usage, and mechanics.
Students should edit their assignments carefully before submitting their work.

Today is Friday, December 23, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Today is the Game! ALL PE and Health classes will report directly to the gym. If you want to play basketball against the teachers, then change into your PE clothes in the locker room first. The accumulated score will be announced at the end of each period all the way up to the final score after 7th period! Some of you will have a chance to shoot for prizes at half-time. Be ready for a fun day!

On December 21, the boys basketball team played their first game at Rosa Parks Middle School. The end result was a win for the boys with large contributions on the offensive end. The team is now 1-0, and is looking forward to their first home game here at Wood on January 4.

Students who are eligible for Junior ITS need to get their $7 processing fee in to Ms. Sato TODAY!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Dramatic monologue (noun)
A single speaker saying something to a silent audience.
The narrator in the play Our Town, gives a dramatic monologue at the beginning of the play that sets the scene for the audience.

Today is Thursday, December 22, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Tomorrow is the Big Day! All students will have a chance to contribute to beating the teachers in basketball! Tomorrow, ALL PE and Health classes will report directly to the gym, unless you want to play, you can change in the locker room first. If you’d rather just watch, that’s fine too, just wear your Wood gear to support your peers!

Attention SGA! Ms. Davis is looking for about 10 students to assist her in sorting gifts for our Holiday Gift Drive. If you choose to volunteer, you would be asked to help out after school from 3-4 in the counseling office. Please see Mr. Carmi or Ms. Davis if you are willing to help. You will also receive SSL hours for your work.

Mrs. Osborne regrets that there will be no Green Team today. She reminds everyone to read the labels on the bins and to recycle properly .

Students who are eligible for Junior ITS need to get their $7 processing fee in to Ms. Sato by tomorrow!

Please note that 8th grade ELO will not meet today. Your teachers look forward to seeing you on Thursday, January 5th, 2012. Thank you.

This is a reminder to all TCB students to report to the appropriate classroom during your TCB period today. Remember to bring your work, a pencil, and a book!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Drama (noun)
A form of literature that is acted out before an audience.
12 Angry Men is a drama studied in 8th grade English that shows the great effect one person can have on others.

Today is Wednesday, December 21, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Attention students and staff: there will be no activity buses this week. If any students stay after school for any reason this week, they must arrange their own transportation home.

Today is Game Day for our Lady Mustangs as they play Rosa Parks Middle School. The basketball game starts at 3:00, and the cost is $1.00 at the door for all eligible students. Please make sure you have a ride home after the game as there will NOT be activity buses. Come support your Lady Mustangs today!

The Big Game is only 2 days away! Do you really think the students can beat the teachers in basketball? Rumor has it the teachers have a few secret weapons for Friday’s game. 3rd period and 6th period PE/Health students better watch out! Ask your teacher today if they will be playing in the game!

Mrs. Osborne regrets that there will be no Green Team this Thursday. She reminds everyone to read the labels on the bins and to recycle properly.

There will be no Math Team this week, but we will resume in January. See you then!

Students who are eligible for Junior ITS need to get their $7 processing fee in to Ms. Sato by Friday!

Keep in mind others this holiday season and donate to the SGA Toy Drive, supporting families in need this holiday season. Donations will be collected in the Main Office, Counseling Department and Mr. Carmi’s room. Items must be NEW and UNWRAPPED. All items are welcome.

Please note that 7th grade ELO will not meet today. Your teachers look forward to seeing you on Wednesday January 4th, 2012. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Domain (noun)
The domain of a relation is the set of all x-coordinates from each pair.
The domain of ( (5,3), (8,2), (-4,-1) ) would be 5, 8, and -4 because they represent all of the x-values.

Flu Prevention Tips:
1) Always cover a cough or sneeze with a tissue—and throw the tissue away. If you don’t have one ready, cough or sneeze into the inside of your elbow. Don’t send your sneeze or cough into the air or spread it over your hand. This is good advice always, not just during the flu season.
2) Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze and both before and after you eat.
An alcohol-based hand sanitizer (minimum 60% alcohol) like this, will do if soap and water are unavailable, but a good washing is more effective.
3) Please try to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. These are places that germs can enter your body from your hands and fingers very easily.
4) Try to keep at least six feet away from sick people. This is called social distancing. The influenza virus (flu), is spread through the air, so keeping some distance will give the virus space to drop to the ground if someone is coughing or sneezing.
5) Monitor yourself for symptoms of fever, chills, headache, sore throat, cough, body aches, and vomiting or diarrhea.
6) Finally, we want you here every day, BUT if you are truly sick with flu-like symptoms, please stay home from school and any other public place until you are feeling well.

Today is Tuesday, December 20, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Attention students and staff: there will be no activity buses this week. If any students stay after school for any reason this week, they must arrange their own transportation home.

Since there are no activity buses this week, there will not be any intramural soccer this week.

The Lady Mustangs open their basketball season tomorrow against Rosa Parks Middle School. The game starts at 3:00, and the cost is $1.00 at the door for all eligible students. Please make sure you have a ride home after the game as there will NOT be activity buses. Come support your Lady Mustangs!

There will be no Math Team this week, but we will resume in January. See you then!

Students who are eligible for Junior ITS need to get their $7 processing fee in to Ms. Sato by Friday!

Today will be the last Novelists Club meeting before winter break. We will have novel work time in lab 290. If you choose to join us, you must have transportation lined up, as there are no activity buses.

We all know it’s the holiday season. Plenty of you are asking for the newest toys and hottest items out in stores. But what about the families that are struggling this year? Don’t they deserve gifts too? Keep in mind others this holiday season and donate to the SGA Toy Drive, supporting families in need this holiday season. We are looking for donations of small gifts for children ranging from 3months to 19 years old. Items can be as simple as board games to coloring books. Donations will be collected in the Main Office, Counseling Department and Mr. Carmi’s room. Items must be NEW and UNWRAPPED. All items are welcome.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Distributive property (noun)
In order to multiply a sum by a number, multiply each number in the parentheses by the number outside the parentheses.
To isolate the variable in the following expression:
4(2x + 5), multiply 4 by 2x and 4 by 5 to get 8x + 20.

Today is Monday, December 19, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Attention students and staff: there will be no activity buses this week. If any students stay after school for any reason this week, they must arrange their own transportation home.

Since there are no activity buses this week, there will not be any intramural soccer this week.

The Lady Mustangs open their basketball season on Wednesday against Rosa Parks Middle School. The game starts at 3:00, and the cost is $1.00 at the door for all eligible students. Please make sure you have a ride home after the game as there will NOT be activity buses. Come support your Lady Mustangs!

Did you know that Ms. Roddy can shoot lights-out from the 3-point line? And did you know that Mr. Carmi will block anyone’s shot who comes into the paint? Well, you will get the chance to find out on Friday when you (the students) take on the staff in basketball all day long during your PE or health period. We will add up the scores each period and have a final score at the end of 7th period; announcements will be made all day long. Any student can play! If you just want to watch, that’s fine too! In addition, some students have been chosen to shoot for prizes during the half-time show!

There will be no Math Team this week, but we will resume in January. See you then!

Congratulations to the students who have become eligible inductees into Junior International Thespian Society Troupe #88506. Please remember that if you want to take advantage of your eligibility and join JITS, you need to get your $7 processing fee in to Ms. Sato by Friday!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Distinguish (verb)
to find and explain differences.
Ms. Kingan explained that it is sometimes hard to distinguish wolves from dogs.

Today is Friday, December 16, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Attention students and staff: there will be no activity buses next week. If any students stay after school next week, they must arrange their own transportation home.

Attention Wood M.A.S.T.E.R. Steppers: there will be no practices next week. If you have any questions please see Ms. Fahnbulleh or Ms. Johnson.

Congratulations to the Wood Math Team on their 2nd place win Wednesday night against five other MCPS middle schools.
The Mustangs solved systems of equations and employed ingenious logic to solve problems and earned an impressive 25 points! Great job, Mathletes!!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Diameter (noun)
the distance of a line segment across a circle through the center point.
If a circle has a radius of 4m, the diameter = 8m because the diameter is always twice the length of the radius.

Today is Thursday, December 15, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Hey Wood! Looking for something to do tomorrow? How about catching a movie with your friends at the SGA MOVIE NIGHT ! Not only will the family classic “Home Alone” be aired, but we will also be sponsored by Carmen’s Italian ice!
Movie Tickets will be 5 dollars, but remember to bring some extra money for refreshments and drinks! More information will be coming soon. Also, see Mr. Carmi if you have any questions.

PSAT scores have arrived for students who participated in the PSAT in October. Tonight is PSAT Night. Parents can receive your scores, get help interpreting them, and find out how to help you prepare for your future PSATs and SAT exams. Hope to see you there!

Get ready to continue our new tradition at Wood MS! Next Friday December 23, the day before our holiday break, you will have a chance to take on many of your teachers in a friendly game of basketball. There will be a game for each period of the day, and you will have a chance to play during your health or PE time. The scores will accumulate all day long and be announced after each period so you can keep track of who is winning the game all the way up to the final game in 7th period! This is open to all students regardless of your basketball ability. Put your merits in the boxes at lunch time today if you want the chance to shoot for prizes at half-time, or to have the chance at PE all day! Ask your teachers today if they are playing in the game next week!

Attention all Boys and Girls Softball team players: Money for the team pizza party is due NOW! Don’t forget to turn your money in to Coach Allen or Offutt. We will have the party on Friday, Dec. 16th at 3 pm in the cafeteria.

Green Team is canceled for today; it will resume next week as usual.

Novelists Club will meet today in lab 290. We will not meet next week. It's not too late to finish! Work on finishing your rough draft now so that in 2012 we can revise and publish.

Hey Guys, we all know it’s the holiday season. Plenty of you are asking for the newest toys and hottest items out in stores. But what about the families that are struggling this year? Don’t they deserve gifts too? Keep in mind others this holiday season and donate to the SGA Toy Drive, supporting families in need this holiday season. We are looking for donations of small gifts for children ranging from 3months to 19 years old. Items can be as simple as board games to coloring books. Donations will be collected in the Main Office, Counseling Department and Mr. Carmi’s room. Items must be NEW and UNWRAPPED. All items are welcome. Look out for an informative flyer coming soon.

Computer lab 236 will be open after school today for students to use the computers for academic work.

This is a reminder to all TCB students to report to the appropriate classroom during your TCB period today. Remember to bring your work, a pencil, and a book!

Please note that 8th grade ELO will take place today in Room 245 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Dialogue (noun)
conversation between characters.
In prose writing, dialogue between characters is enclosed in quotation marks and each remark by a different speaker is written on a separate line.

Today is Wednesday, December 14, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Hey Wood! Looking for something to do this Friday? How about catching a movie with your friends at the SGA MOVIE NIGHT ! Not only will the family classic “Home Alone” be aired, but we will also be sponsored by Carmen’s Italian ice!
Movie Tickets will be 5 dollars, but remember to bring some extra money for refreshments and drinks! More information will be coming soon. Also, see Mr. Carmi if you have any questions.

If you missed the drama meeting yesterday, don’t worry! Notes will be available outside Ms. Sato’s room (288) after 2nd period today.

Intramural Soccer continues TODAY for 6th graders only. Meet in room 101, then we’ll go out and play, and dress for the weather!

Attention Girls basketball: There will be no practice today. There will be practice on Thursday.

This is a reminder to all students to place your merits in the boxes at lunch time if you want the chance to shoot for prizes at half-time, or to have the chance at PE all day next Friday December 23rd.

Green Team is canceled for this Thursday; it will resume next week as usual.

Novelists Club will meet this week today and tomorrow in lab 290. We will not meet next week. It's not too late to finish! Work on finishing your rough draft now so that in 2012 we can revise and publish.

Attention all music students! Call times for Wednesday evening's concert are as follows: Orchestra 6:15pm Room 202, Chorus 6:30 Room 204, Bands 6:30 Room 202. Please be dressed in concert attire and have your music, instrument, and any other necessary materials with you.

Get into the spirit of the season by attending Wood's Winter Concert tomorrow, December 14th! Doors open at 7pm and admission is free to all. We hope to see you there!

Please note that 7th grade ELO will take place today in Room 287 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Diagonal (noun)
a line segment that joins two non-adjacent vertices of a polygon.
A triangle has no diagonals because you cannot draw a line segment from two vertices that are non-adjacent.

Today is Monday, DecToday is Tuesday, December 13, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Intramural Soccer continues TODAY for 7th and 8th graders only. 6th grade will play tomorrow. Meet in the AUX GYM today to review the rules, then we’ll go out and play, and dress for the weather!

The drama meeting is today after school in Ms. Sato’s room (288). All eligible 6th, 7th, and 8th graders are welcome. We will discuss auditions for “Mulan, Jr.”, Junior ITS, and other upcoming events.

To learn all about the spring break trip to Rome and Paris, bring your parents to the Information Meeting tonight at 6:00 pm in room 202 (Ms. Tauber’s Room). Space is limited on the tour, so don’t miss the meeting, or you might miss out on the tour! Parents, if you can’t make the meeting, please be sure to contact Ms. Tauber at Ashley_H_Tauber@mcpsmd.org.

Green Team is canceled for this Thursday; it will resume next week as usual.

Novelists Club will meet this week on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in lab 290. We will not meet next week. It's not too late to finish! Work on finishing your rough draft now so that in 2012 we can revise and publish.

Get into the spirit of the season by attending Wood's Winter Concert tomorrow, December 14th! Doors open at 7pm and admission is free to all. We hope to see you there!

Please note that 6th grade ELO will take place today in Room 257 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Determine (verb)
to decide based on observation or investigation.
Ms. Duff taught us to determine the appropriate graph based on the data.

ember 12, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Intramural Soccer continues tomorrow for 7th and 8th graders only. 6th grade will play on Wednesday. There will not be intramurals on Thursday.

The drama meeting is tomorrow after school in Ms. Sato’s room (288). All eligible 6th, 7th, and 8th graders are welcome. We will discuss auditions for “Mulan, Jr.”, Junior ITS, and other upcoming events.

We need your help! The yearbook club needs pictures of clocks at different times. Each grade needs to take pictures of clocks set to the time of their grade, such as: 6th grade set to six o’clock; 7th grade set to seven o’clock; 8th grade set to eight o’clock. Please email or drop off all pictures to Mrs. Morrell.

Want to go to Rome and Paris over spring break? Now’s your chance! You could stand on the top of the Eiffel Tower, or in the center of the Coliseum in Rome... See the Mona Lisa, or taste-test gelato in an Italian ice cream factory. To learn all about the trip, bring your parents to the Information Meeting tomorrow at 6:00 pm in room 202 (Ms. Tauber’s Room). Space is limited on the tour, so don’t miss the meeting, or you might miss out on the tour! Parents, if you can’t make the meeting, please contact Ms. Tauber at Ashley_H_Tauber@mcpsmd.org.

Congratulations to the 6th grade students who attended Ms. Ahmed’s, Ms. O’Brien’s, and Ms. Duff’s perfect homework party on Friday. A total of 63 students have perfect homework in these classes for quarter 2. Keep up the good work. AS FOR THE REST OF YOU, Make sure that you are completing your homework every night!

Get into the spirit of the season by attending Wood's Winter Concert this Wednesday, December 14th! Doors open at 7pm and admission is free to all. We hope to see you there!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Design (verb)
to make a plan, pattern, or sketch.
The robotics students had to sketch their designs before building their robots.

Today is Friday, December 09, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Mark your calendars – there will be a drama meeting in Ms. Sato’s room (288) after school until 4pm on Tuesday, Dec. 13th. This is open to all eligible students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade.

Want to go to Rome and Paris over spring break? Now’s your chance! You could stand on the top of the Eiffel Tower, or in the center of the Coliseum in Rome... See the Mona Lisa, or taste-test gelato in an Intalian ice cream factory. All students are invited on a spectacular journey this Spring Break with the Cultural Arts Tour to Rome and Paris. Parents are welcome on the trip but not required. High School Credit is available to all students. To learn all about the trip, bring your parents to the Information Meeting, Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 6:00 pm in room 202 (Ms. Tauber’s Room). Space is limited on the tour, so don’t miss the meeting, or you might miss out on the tour! Parents, if you can’t make the meeting, please contact Ms. Tauber at Ashley_H_Tauber@mcpsmd.org.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Critique (noun)
a critical analysis or evaluation of a subject, situation, literary work, or film.
Mr. Taylor Nielsen’s harsh critique of the Twilight books dismissed Meyer’s sparkly daylight vampires as being even less scary than Count Chocula!

Today is Thursday, December 08, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Due to field conditions, intramural soccer is cancelled today. We will continue next week, 7th and 8th grade on Tuesday, 6th graders on Wednesday.

Mark your calendars – there will be a drama meeting in Ms. Sato’s room (288) after school until 4pm on Tuesday, Dec. 13th. This is open to all eligible students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. We will discuss auditions for the spring musical “Mulan, Jr.” as well as go over information about Junior International Thespian Society. If you can’t make it – that’s fine! Ms. Sato will have notes for you so that you don’t miss any important information!

Attention SGA! We will be having a meeting today after school in Mr. Carmi’s room. Our meeting will discuss Lily Pops, our Upcoming Movie Night and our December charity event. See Mr. Carmi if you have any questions.

Want to go to Rome and Paris over spring break? Now’s your chance! You could stand on the top of the Eiffel Tower, or in the center of the Coliseum in Rome... See the Mona Lisa, or taste-test gelato in an Intalian ice cream factory. All students are invited on a spectacular journey this Spring Break with the Cultural Arts Tour to Rome and Paris. Parents are welcome on the trip but not required. High School Credit is available to all students. To learn all about the trip, bring your parents to the Information Meeting, Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 6:00 pm in room 202 (Ms. Tauber’s Room). Space is limited on the tour, so don’t miss the meeting, or you might miss out on the tour! Parents, if you can’t make the meeting, please be sure to call the front office.

Computer Lab room 236 will be open after school today for students to use the computers for academic work.

This is a reminder to all TCB students to report to the appropriate classroom during your TCB period today. Remember to bring your work, a pencil, and a book!

Please note that 8th grade ELO will take place today in Room 245 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Describe (verb)
to write about using specific details.
Mrs. O'Keiff asked us to describe the setting of the novel.

Today is Wednesday, December 07, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Due to expected weather conditions, intramural soccer is cancelled today. 7th and 8th graders will play tomorrow depending on weather.

Attention SGA! We will be having a meeting this Thursday after school in Mr. Carmi’s room. Our meeting will discuss Lily Pops, our Upcoming Movie Night and our December charity event. See Mr. Carmi if you have any questions.

Please note that 7th grade ELO will take place today in Room 287 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Denotation (noun)
a literal dictionary meaning of a word.
The denotationof the word “rose” is a type of flower, but its connotation is a symbol of love.

Today is Tuesday, December 06, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Attention Girls Basketball: There will be NO practice today. The first day of practice will be tomorrow, Wednesday the 7th.

Intramural Soccer continues TODAY for 7th and 8th graders only. 6th grade will play tomorrow, and 7th & 8th graders will play again on Thursday. Meet in the AUX GYM today to review the rules, then we’ll go out and play, and dress for the weather!

Attention students who took the PSAT in October: We would like to invite your parents to PSAT Night at Earle B.Wood Middle School. This is an opportunity for your parents to receive your PSAT scores and to learn how to interpret them.
We will also offer strategies for helping you to become well-prepared to take the PSAT and SAT in high school. Information will be provided about course sequencing and how it relates to preparation for these important assessments.
The presentation will be held on Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. in the media center. If your parents do not attend the evening presentation, scores will be sent home to you by December 21st. Please have your parents return the RSVP form that was given to you in math class as soon as possible.

Please note that 6th grade ELO will take place for today in Room 257 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Culture (noun)
The ideas, activities (art, foods, businesses), and ways of behaving that are special to a country, people, or region.
Learning about different cultures provides interesting and critical knowledge of today’s world.

Today is Monday, December 05, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

A special shout-out to all the cast and crew of the fall Drama production of “Harvey”: You guys did a fantastic job this past weekend. Be proud, rest up, and see you at auditions in January for “Mulan, Jr.”!

Intramural Soccer continues tomorrow for 7th and 8th graders only. 6th grade will play on Wednesday, and 7th & 8th graders will play again on Thursday. You must be academically eligible to play in intramurals.

This announcement is for all students who took the PSAT in October. We anticipate receiving your scores any day now from the College Board and are excited to distribute them to you. We would like to invite your parents to PSAT Night at Earle B.Wood Middle School. This is an opportunity for your parents to receive your PSAT scores and to learn how to interpret them. In addition, we will offer strategies for helping you to become well-prepared to take the PSAT and SAT in high school and we will also provide information about course sequencing and how it relates to preparation for these important assessments. The presentation will be held on Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. in the media center. If your parents do not attend the evening presentation, scores will be sent home to you by December 21st. Please have your parents return the RSVP form that was given to you in math class as soon as possible.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Couplet (noun)
A stanza of two lines that usually rhymes and has the same number of syllables.
“I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.”
…is a famous rhyming couplet from the poem “Trees,” by Joyce Kilmer.

Today is Friday, December 02, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Cast and Crew of “Harvey”: Please remember that you should go home today after school, and your call time for tonight’s show is 5pm. Great job last night!

Speaking of “Harvey”... The show opened last night, and continues tonight at 7pm, and tomorrow at 2pm and 7pm. You’ve been hearing announcements about it since September, so come see what all the fuss is about!

The Wood journalism students are compiling their 2nd edition of the newspaper, The Mustang Pride. In this edition, they would like to add an advice column called “Dear Earle.” This column will give advice to students with problems and concerns in an anonymous (no names!) way. If you would like to submit an anonymous letter to be answered, a box will be available for all grades in the cafeteria during each lunch period. Don’t be shy! It’s completely anonymous! Let “Dear Earle” help you navigate the confusing waters of middle school!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Conventions (noun)
in writing: conventions are mechanical correctness.
A person who pays little attention to conventions probably makes errors in punctuation, grammar, and spelling.

Today is Thursday, December 1, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

“Harvey” opens tonight at 6pm, tomorrow at 7pm, and Saturday at 2pm and 7pm. You’ve been hearing announcements about it since September, so come see what all the fuss is about!

Please note that the PTA Book Fair being held in the Library all week will open each day at 7:30 am, not 7 am.

Intramural Soccer begins TODAY! ALL eligible 6th, 7th and 8th graders can participate, and you do NOT need to bring any paperwork. 6th graders ONLY TODAY, 7th and 8th graders will start next week. Meet in room 101 to review the rules, and dress for the weather!
Attention SGA! We will be having a meeting today to discuss our December events! Please come prepared to discuss some of your ideas. Also, if you have any questions, please see Mr. Carmi. Thanks!

Catch a glimpse of a monkey in the rainforest. Take a dip in the hot springs of a volcano. Fly through the trees of the canopy on a zipline. The opportunity of a lifetime is awaiting you in Costa Rica. Learn more about it by attending an information meeting with your parents on Monday, December 5 at 7pm in Ms. Gross' room 287. The trip is open to all students but there is a limited number of spots so don't miss out.
Just a reminder to students planning to take advantage of tutoring after school: The Rockville High School students will meet in room 280 rather than the media center today, due to the BOOK FAIR. Stop by and get some help from the National Honor Society students. It's a fun way to get your homework done and get some help in ANY subject!
Please note that 8th grade ELO will take place in Room 245 beginning at 2:50 today. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

This is a reminder to all TCB students to report to the appropriate classroom during your TCB period today. Remember to bring your work, a pencil, and a book!
Today’s Word of the Day is...
Connotation (noun)
The emotional content of a word.
People who watch their money can be called thrifty or cheap. The word cheap has a negative connotation.

Today is Wednesday, November 30, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Wascally Wabbit Cast and Crew of “Harvey”: We are here until 6:30 pm tonight. Little Bunny Foo Foo cast has rehearsal until 7:30pm. Make sure you have a ride.

Speaking of “Harvey”... The show opens THIS week, starting tomorrow at 6pm, Friday at 7pm, and Saturday at 2pm and 7pm. You’ve been hearing announcements about it since September, so come see what all the fuss is about!

Please note that the PTA Book Fair being held in the Library all week will open each day at 7:30 am, not 7 am.

Algebra help with Mr. Freiman will take place today after school in room 237. Please come if you would like more time to review for the unit 3 summative which is taking place tomorrow.

Intramural Soccer begins this week! ALL eligible 6th, 7th and 8th graders can participate, and you do NOT need to bring any paperwork. 6th graders will begin Tomorrow, and 7th and 8th graders will start next week. Meet in room 101 and dress for the weather!

Attention SGA! We will be having a meeting tomorrow to discuss our December events! Please come prepared to discuss some of your ideas. Also, if you have any questions, please see Mr. Carmi. Thanks!

There will be an informational meeting for parents and students interested in traveling to Costa Rica this summer in Ms. Gross’ room (287) at 7pm tonight. Come learn about this great opportunity to explore the rainforest and cultures of Costa Rica.

Please note that 7th grade ELO will take place today in Room 287 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Congruent polygons (noun)
Polygons that have corresponding sides and angles that are equal.
Congruent polygons have the same shape and size.

Today is Tuesday, November 29, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Little Bunny Foo Foo Cast and Crew of “Harvey”: We are here until 6:30 pm tonight. Wascally Wabbits, remember that you are staying until 7:30 tonight. Make sure you have a ride.

Cast and Crew of “Harvey”: please also remember that your pizza money for the all-day rehearsal is due TODAY by the end of rehearsal. You can also eat 6th grade lunch or bring a bag lunch that day, but you need to let Ms. Sato know!

Speaking of Harvey... The show opens THIS week, starting on Thursday at 6pm, Friday at 7pm, and Saturday at 2pm and 7pm. You’ve been hearing announcements about it since September, so come see what all the fuss is about!

Please note that the PTA Book Fair being held in the Library all week will open each day at 7:30 am, not 7 am.

The STEM Academy at Wood Middle School meets today from 2:45 to 4:00 pm in room 108. Only students attending JETS this Saturday, December 3rd should attend. Snacks and activity busses are provided.

Algebra help with Mr. Freiman will take place tomorrow after school in room 237. Please come if you would like more time to review for the unit 3 summative which is taking place this Thursday.

Intramural Soccer begins this week! ALL eligible 6th, 7th and 8th graders can participate, and you do NOT need to bring any paperwork. 6th graders will begin on Thursday, and 7th and 8th graders will start next week.

Attention all girls trying out for basketball: Tryouts will be held at Bauer Rec Center today. Please change as quickly as possible and meet in front of the main office. Do NOT go directly to the Rec Center.

The PBIS Pie in Your Face Winner is... 6th GRADE!!!! Congrats students and to those 6th grade teachers as well. Stay tuned for Friday's show to get to see your teachers get a pie in the face!

Attention SGA! We will be having a meeting this Thursday to discuss our December events! Please come prepared to discuss some of your ideas. Also, if you have any questions, please see Mr. Carmi. Thanks!

There will be an informational meeting for parents and students interested in traveling to Costa Rica this summer. The meeting will be in Ms. Gross’ room 287 at 7pm on Wednesday. Come learn about this great opportunity to explore the rainforest and cultures of Costa Rica.

Any student who would like to take advantage of the expertise and guidance of the National Honor Society students from RHS are invited to stay after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:45 until 4 pm. Tutoring is usually in the Media Center, but during the Book Fair this week, tutoring will take place in room 280. Why not go and get your homework done BEFORE you go home!

Please note that 6th grade ELO will take place for today in Room 257 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Conflict (noun)
The central struggle between opposing forces in a narrative work.
The conflict in the first Star Wars trilogy was between Luke Skywalker, a force for good, and Darth Vader who symbolized evil.

Today is Monday, November 28, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Cast and Crew of “Harvey”: We are here until 6:30 pm tonight. Make sure you have a ride. The Wascally Wabbits will be in costume first today, so make sure that you get to rehearsal as quickly as you can after school. Please also remember that your pizza money for the all-day rehearsal is due by tomorrow. You can also eat 6th grade lunch or bring a bag lunch that day, but you need to let Ms. Sato know!

Please note that the PTA Book Fair being held in the Library all week will open each day at 7:30 am, not 7 am.

Students: Please note that MCPS TV’s Homework Hotline Live is here to help you during the next 4 weeks as we approach the Winter Break. You can watch Homework Hotline Live on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 6 o’clock. Find Homework Hotline Live on the Web at AskHHL.org as well as on the MCPS cable TV channel. Or just call the Hotline, at 301-279-3234; that’s 301-279-3234.

The administration of Wood Middle School would like to remind all students of an important morning safety rule: Students may not leave school property in the morning after arriving by bus, walking, or being dropped off by a parent. This means you are not allowed to go over to the Safeway or any other store across the street on Bauer Drive for any reason after you arrive in the morning. Thanks.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Conclusion (noun)
In writing: the closing of a composition that emphasizes the topic and ties all ideas together to meet the purpose of the writing.
The conclusion of a paragraph, essay, novel, poem, movie, etc. brings the story to a close and usually leaves the reader or viewer something to ponder (think about).

Today is Tuesday, November 22, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

ALL cast and crew of “Harvey” have rehearsal today until 5pm. Students may stay until 6pm to continue to work on the show, but you must make sure you have a ride!

Attention Students and Teachers: Our Fall book fair will begin next Monday, November 28th and continue thru Saturday, December 3rd. It will be open before, during and after school. On Friday and Saturday, the fair will be open to coincide with 3 performances of the school play. Teachers interested in bringing your classes to the book fair, please see Mrs. Crowley in the Media Center. She will have the sign-up sheet in its usual location.

The STEM Academy at Wood Middle School meets today from 2:45 to 4:00 pm in room 108. Only those students who went to Final Frontiers and/or are attending JETS on December 3rd should attend. Please be aware that there are no activity busses, so you MUST have a ride home. Thank you!

This is a reminder to all staff and students that there are no activity buses today. If you stay after school today for any reason, please be sure that you have arranged a ride home.

Please also note that there is no 6th grade ELO today because there are no activity buses. ELO will resume for all grade levels next week. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Compound event (noun)
two or more simple events. To find the probability of a compound event multiply the probability of each event.
The probability of the compound event of heads on a coin and 2 on a die would be 1/12 because 1/2 X 1/6 = 1/12.

Today is Monday, November 21, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

ALL cast and crew of “Harvey” have rehearsal today until 6pm. Make sure you have a ride!

Attention Students and Teachers: Our Fall book fair will begin next Monday, November 28th and continue thru Saturday, December 3rd. It will be open before, during and after school. On Friday and Saturday, the fair will be open to coincide with 3 performances of the school play. Teacher’s interested in bringing your classes to the book fair, please see Mrs. Crowley in the Media Center. She will have the sign-up sheet in its usual location.

The IB Presentation is today during period 6. Students must report to period 6 and wait to be dismissed by PA announcement. The presentation will be in cafeteria. If your period 1 teacher does not have a blue pass for you may not attend.

A reminder to all girls trying out for basketball: Make sure you have all paper work ready for day one of tryouts. Tryouts will start today after school at 2:55 in the main gym. There will be NO activity buses so you will need to find your own way home.

The middle school Rams football team shutout the Cougars for a 6-0 win as the defense stifled another opponent. Congratulate our RAMS SUPER BOWL CHAMPS when you see them!

Congratulations to the following students for making it into the MCPS Middle School Honors Chorus! After weeks of practice and a very difficult audition, two sixth graders were both accepted as members of the honors chorus!

Congratulations to the STEM team for their participation and wins at Final Frontiers on Saturday. Students who created an amazing lunar bridge took first place, and the third place winners put their brains together in the Newton’s Nightmare challenge. Other projects included a competitive aero car, a golf ball barrage, and an innovative micro mass tower.
Congratulate these future engineers for their amazing ideas and committment. They fiercely represented Wood in this challenging competition!

Last December the SGA hosted the Find Frosty scavenger hunt in which students went around the school looking for the snowmen hidden by the SGA. This year the SGA is hosting the Harvest Hunt! Harvest Hunt has the same objective as Find Frosty but you will be looking for turkeys and scarecrows. The SGA has hidden 7 scarecrows/turkeys throughout the school and on the bottom of each scarecrow/turkey are numbers indicating a prize number.Rewards will vary from candy to gift cards! Keep in mind that these numbers represent the prizes you will be rewarded. A number 5 would represent the least valuable prize, while number 1 would be the best prize! You may not be out of class or late for any reason looking for the scarecrow or turkeys. Second, you may not steal or threaten someone for their prize. If you do, you will have immediate consequences. When you find the prize, please bring the item to Mr. Carmi so he can record your first and last name. He then will give you the prize you have been awarded.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
composite number (noun)
any whole number greater than one that has more than two factors.
Twelve is a composite number because it has the factors of 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12 that can divide evenly into it.

Today is Friday, November 18, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Cast of Harvey: MEMORIZE YOUR LINES! All cast and crew will meet on Monday until 6pm. Rockville High School’s production of “The Miracle Worker” opens TODAY! Come see it tonight or tomorrow at 7pm, or tomorrow or Sunday at 2pm.

Attention Staff and Students: Please be aware of an upcoming road closure. This Saturday, November 19th, sections of Baltimore Road will be closed from approximately 8 to 9 AM for the Rampace 5k and One Mile Family Fun Run. The area affected is Baltimore Road between Rockville High School and the Civic Center. Please use an alternate route during this time.

Attention all 8thgrade students. The Rockville High School IB Coordinator will be coming to Wood to share details about the program on Monday Nov. 21 during 6th period. If you want to participate in the presentation, you must sign-up with Mrs. Gudnitz not later than this Friday November 18.

A reminder to all girls trying out for basketball: Make sure you have all paper work ready for day one of tryouts. Tryouts will start Monday the 21st after school at 2:55 in the main gym. There will be NO activity buses so you will need to find your own way home. If you need any papers be sure to see Ms. Roddy before you leave school today.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Compile (verb)
to collect data or information.
Ms. Farsaii’s students began compiling their Science Expo data.

Today is Thursday, November 17, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

There is NO rehearsal today for “Harvey.” You MUST have your lines memorized for Monday’s rehearsal.

Rockville High School’s production of “The Miracle Worker” opens this weekend! Come see it tomorrow or Saturday at 7pm, or on Saturday or Sunday at 2pm.

The cross-country team will have their end-of-season celebration today, November 17th, immediately after school in Mrs. Blair’s room. See you all there!

Interested in tennis? Mr. Bing will run a one-day intramural tennis session today after school open to all students in all grades. Meet in room 101. Intramural soccer will start the week after Thanksgiving break for all 3 grades.

This is a reminder to all TCB students to report to the appropriate classroom during your TCB period today. Remember to bring your work, a pencil, and a book!

Please note that 8th grade ELO will take place today in Room 245 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Compare (verb)
to explain how things or concepts are similar and different.
Ms. Fahnbulleh asked us to compare the governments of El Salvador and Honduras.

Today is Wednesday, November 16, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

BOTH casts of Harvey are rehearsing today until 6pm. Make sure you have a ride and your lines are memorized! Costumes, Props, Sound, and Backstage crew should also be at rehearsal today until 6pm.

Rockville High School’s production of “The Miracle Worker,” the true story of Helen Keller, opens this weekend! Come see it this Friday or Saturday at 7pm, or on Saturday or Sunday at 2pm. Most of the cast and crew are Wood alumni, and the show was directed by our very own Mr. Tobiassen!

The cross-country team will have their end-of-season celebration tomorrow, November 17th, immediately after school in Mrs. Blair’s room. See you all there!

The Jets are the Intramural Football Champions, as they beat the Redskins 19 to 6. However, neither team was a match for your teachers! The game was highlighted by Ms. Giron’s 5 receptions and Mr. O’Shell’s one-handed over the shoulder interception as the teachers won 39 to 12! The Panthers finished the league in third place.

Attention 7th and 8th graders: Girls’ basketball tryouts begin today. The boys’ basketball tryouts continue tomorrow and next Tuesday depending on what day you signed up for. See Mr. Herrod or Mr. Bing if you have questions.

Interested in tennis? Mr. Bing will run a one-day intramural tennis session tomorrow after school open to all students in all grades.

Math Team will meet today after school in Room 282 with Mrs. Kunin. New members are welcome, so come join us today!

Algebra Help with Mr. Freiman will take place after school today. If you need extra help in Algebra, or, would just like enrichment work, please come to room 237. See you there!

Please note that 7th grade ELO will take place today in Room 287 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the classroom and please be on time. Thank you.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Comedy (noun)
A literary work which is amusing and ends happily.
People do not always agree on what is funny, but most people agree that the movie, Dumb and Dumber is supposed to be a comedy.

Today is Tuesday, November 15, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

BOTH casts of Harvey are rehearsing today until 6pm. Make sure you have a ride and your lines are memorized! Costumes, Props, Lights and Backstage crew should also be at rehearsal today until 6pm.

Today is the “Wood” Bowl. The Ravens and Panthers will play for third place. Then Ms. Giron, Ms. Gross, Ms. Fernandez and Ms. Tauber will show everyone how to play some football! Meet Mr. Bing in the Aux Gym after school. The teachers’ game will start around 3:30.

The cross-country team will have their end-of-season celebration this Thursday, November 17th, immediately after school in Mrs. Blair’s room. See you all there!

Algebra Help with Mr. Freiman will take place after school this Wednesday. If you need extra help in Algebra, or, would just like enrichment work, please come to room 237. See you there!

Please note that 6th grade ELO will take place for today in Room 257 beginning at 2:50. Please report directly to the lab and please be on time. Thank you.

The STEM Academy at Wood Middle School meets today from 2:45 to 4:00 pm in room 108. Activity buses and snacks are provided. See you there!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Colloquial (adjective)
Language that is familiar or informal; everyday talk.
Colloquial language is used among family and friends, but formal language is used for essays and academic speech.

Today is Monday, November 14, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

BOTH casts of Harvey are rehearsing today until 6pm. Make sure you have a ride and your lines are memorized! Costumes, Props, and Backstage crew should also be at rehearsal today until 6pm.

Attention 7th and 8th graders: Tryouts for boys and girls basketball begin this week. You will need a physical from your doctor to tryout. The boys start on Tuesday; girls on Wednesday. See Mr. Offutt for permission forms.

If you are interested in adventure, if you like to travel, if you are learning or already speak Spanish then book your trip to Costa Rica. Ms. Gross is looking to take a group of motivated, responsible students to Costa Rica to experience new culture and explore science in the tropical rainforest. If you are interested, see Ms. Gross in Room 287 before or after school to take home a flyer. There will be a parent/student informational meeting held on November 16 at 7pm for more details about the trip. See you there!

The “Wood” Bowl takes place tomorrow between the Redskins and Jets. The Ravens and Panthers will play for third place. Then Mr. Carmi, Mr. O’Shell and the Wood teachers will put on a clinic for all the intramural athletes. Meet tomorrow after school in the Aux Gym.

The cross country party will be after school on Thursday, November 17 in room 230. Please bring a dish as pizza & drinks will be provided by the coaches. You must bring your jersey or you will not be admitted.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Climax (noun)
The point at which the conflict between the protagonist and the antagonist has been solved or resolved; the turning point.
In a narrative text, the exposition and rising action builds to a climax where the reader knows how everything will resolve.

Today is Friday, November 11, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Cast of “Harvey” – memorize your lines this weekend! 6pm rehearsals start for both casts and crew next week!

Attention 7th and 8th graders: Tryouts for boys and girls basketball begin next week. You will need a physical from your doctor to tryout. The boys start on Tuesday; girls on Wednesday. See Mr. Offutt for permission forms.

If you are interested in the Costa Rica trip, see Ms. Gross in Room 287 before or after school to take home a flyer. There will be a parent/student informational meeting held on November 16 at 7pm for more details about the trip. See you there!

The “Wood” Bowl for the intramural football league will take place next Tuesday after school between the undefeated Redskins and the 5 & 1 Jets. After the game, both teams will have a chance to take on some of our very own Wood teachers in a friendly game of tag football.

Students who auditioned for the morning show: the list is NOW up outside of room 270 (the TV studio). We had many interested students, and unfortunately, we could not take everybody at this time.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Classify (verb)
To separate into appropriate categories.
The students classified the words by their part of speech:
nouns, pronouns, adjectives, verbs, adverbs, prepositions, conjunctions, and interjections.

Today is Thursday, November 10, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

There is NO rehearsal today for “Harvey” due to the half-day schedule. Cast – make sure your lines are memorized! We start 6pm rehearsals for everyone, everyday next week!

Attention 7th and 8th graders: Tryouts for boys and girls basketball begin next week. You will need a physical from your doctor to tryout. The boys start on Tuesday. You can choose one of three days to tryout; sign up on the sheets outside of the boys’ locker rooms. See Mr. Offutt for parent permission forms. The girls will meet with Ms. Roddy in room 265 for paperwork on Tuesday, then tryouts begin for ALL girls on Wednesday.

Due to today's early release, there will be NO tutoring in the media center today.

Broadway Stars are coming to Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School! Come to ArtSpeak for an evening of performance and discussion with Liz Callaway and Ann Hampton Callaway on November 14th at 7pm. It is free admission.

A reminder to all who tried out for the step team: There is no step practice for the remainder of the week. The list of all who made the step team will be posted outside of Ms. Fahnbulleh's room on this morning.

All lost and found items are now in the cafeteria. There is a LOT of stuff, so please check it out if you are missing anything!

Attention TCB Students: TCB is cancelled for today. We’ll see you next Thursday!

Students who auditioned for the morning show: the list is NOW up outside of room 270 (the TV studio). We had many interested students, and unfortunately, we could not take everybody at this time. If you were not selected, we encourage you to try again next year! Those students who were selected – please pay attention to the area where you were assigned, and the day you are expected to start coming to the studio. Please see one of the adult producers if you have any questions.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Clarify (verb)
to make clear and understandable.
Mrs. Eising clarified the directions so that we all understood the task.

Today is Wednesday, November 09, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Rehearsal for the Little Bunny Foo Foo cast of "Harvey" is today until 5pm. Costumes, props, and lights crew should also attend rehearsal until 5pm today.

Attention SGA! We will be having a meeting TODAY after school. We are going to continue and eventually implement the plans that we began last week. See Mr. Carmi if you have any questions.

Do you find difficult math problems intriguing? Do you look for more than one way to solve a problem? Are you in IM, Algebra, Geometry, or Algebra 2? If so, join the Math Team! Come calculate the fun today in Room 282, with Mrs. Kunin.

Anyone interested in tennis after school? Mr. Bingaman will run a one-day intramural tennis activity today after school for 6th and 7th graders only! 8th graders have the basketball clinic tomorrow after school, so tennis for 8th graders will take place next week.

Attention 7th and 8th graders: Tryouts for boys and girls basketball begin next week. You will need a physical from your doctor to tryout. The boys start on Tuesday. You can choose one of three days to tryout; sign up on the sheets outside of the boys’ locker rooms. See Mr. Offutt for parent permission forms. The girls will meet with Ms. Roddy in room 265 for paperwork on November 15th, then tryouts begin for ALL girls November 16th.

Report cards will be distributed on Thursday, 11/10. Please remember to return or pay for any overdue or lost library items before this date in order to receive your 1st quarter report card. If you’re not sure you owe something, either drop by and check or take a look at the list posted in the cafeteria. Report cards will be withheld if you’ve not cleared with the library. Thanks!

Students from Rockville High School's National Honor Society will be in the media center today from 2:40 until 4 pm to help any student with homework or provide tutoring. Students who need to ride the activity bus must sign in and stay until 4:00. Why not stop by and get your homework done BEFORE you go home?

Algebra help with Mr. Freiman will not take place this Wednesday. It will resume next Wednesday. See you there!

Novelists Club will meet today in lab 290. Come for inspiration and writing time. Novelists, you can do it!

All lost and found items are now in the cafeteria. There is a LOT of stuff, so please check it out if you are missing anything!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Circumference (noun)
the distance around a circle. (formula: C = ∏d)
The circumference of a circle with a diameter of 3m would be 9.42m because 3.14 X 3 = 9.42.

Today is Tuesday, November 08, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Rehearsal for the Wascally Wabbit cast of "Harvey" is today until 5pm. Costumes, props, and sound crew should also attend rehearsal until 5pm today.

Cast and crew of "Harvey" and interested staff members: TODAY is your LAST day to turn in money and information to Ms. Sato if you want a "Harvey" t-shirt! You can turn it in directly to Ms. Sato or have the front office place it in her box.

Attention SGA! We will be having a meeting tomorrow after school. We are going to continue and eventually implement the plans that we began last week. See Mr. Carmi if you have any questions.

Anyone interested in tennis after school? Mr. Bingaman will run a one-day intramural tennis activity TOMORROW after school for 6th and 7th graders only! 8th graders have the basketball clinic tomorrow after school, so tennis for 8th graders will take place next week.

Fundraiser participants: the last opportunity to pick up cookie and pizza orders is Tuesday, November 8th between 5:00pm-8:30 pm in the Wood Cafeteria.

Attention 7th and 8th graders: Tryouts for boys and girls basketball begin next week. You will need a physical from your doctor to tryout. The boys start on November 15th.

It’s playoff time TODAY for intramural football! Could the #2 seed Jets pull off the upset and win the Wood Bowl? We’ll find out TODAY as all six teams are playing! Meet in the AUX Gym after school.

You can choose one of three days to tryout; sign up on the sheets outside of the boys’ locker rooms. See Mr. Offutt for parent permission forms. The girls will meet with Ms. Roddy in room 265 for paperwork on November 15th, then tryouts begin for ALL girls November 16th.

As the weather gets colder, remember to sign up for the Fitness Club!!! You may now sign up on any day for either Tuesday or Wednesday, or both. The sign-up sheets are on the wall outside the locker room doors. Please see Ms. Purcell with any questions.

The STEM Academy at Wood Middle School meets today in room 108 from 2:45 to 4:00 pm. Activity buses and snacks are provided. See you there!

Novelists Club will meet today in lab 290. Come for inspiration and writing time. Novelists, you can do it!"

All lost and found items are now in the cafeteria. There is a LOT of stuff, so please check it out if you are missing anything!

Congratulations to the following students for auditioning for Montgomery County Honors Music Ensembles!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Cause and effect (nouns)
A relationship between two things; a cause makes something else happen; an effect is the result of that cause.
Transition words that signal cause/effect include, "because, since, and as a result."

Monday, November 07, 2011.
Here’s what’s happening around school today

Rehearsal for the Little Bunny Foo Foo cast of "Harvey" is today until 5pm. Costumes, props, and lights crew should also attend rehearsal until 5pm today.

Cast and crew of "Harvey" and interested staff members: Tomorrow is your LAST day to turn in money and information to Ms. Sato if you want a "Harvey" t-shirt! You can turn it in directly to Ms. Sato or have the front office place it in her box.

Attention SGA! We will be having a meeting this Wednesday after school. We are going to continue and eventually implement the plans that we began last week. See Mr. Carmi if you have any questions.

The middle school Rams football team dominated the previously unbeaten QO Cougars 16-6. Last week's games are now posted on YouTube--look up RFL Football. Julian Mobley had an interception. The Rams play the Patriots again this weekend in the playoffs for a chance to go to the Super Bowl. Come out and support the team!

The cross country team had their final informal meet against one of the best middle school teams in the county on Thursday, November 3. A final celebration party will be held on Thursday, November 17 in room 230. BYOJ - Bring your jersey or you will not be admitted. In addition, bring a dish. Pizza will be provided by the coaches. Please congratulate this outstanding team for their 4th undefeated season!!

It’s playoff time for intramural football! Can anyone knock off the undefeated Redskins? We’ll find out tomorrow as all six teams will be playing!

Fundraiser participants: the last opportunity to pick up cookie and pizza orders is Tuesday, November 8th between 5:00pm-8:30 pm in the Wood Cafeteria.

Attention all students: Rockville High School's National Honor Society members are now available for FREE tutoring every Tuesday and Thursday in the Media Center. The high school students are available from 2:40 until 4 pm and are willing and able to help you with all of your subjects. It's a great way to get your homework done before you go home. Activity busses are provided at 4pm.

Attention 7th and 8th graders: Tryouts for boys and girls basketball begin next week. You will need a physical from your doctor to tryout. The boys start on November 15th. You can choose one of three days to tryout; sign up on the sheets outside of the boys’ locker rooms. See Mr. Offutt for parent permission forms. The girls will meet with Ms. Roddy in room 265 for paperwork on November 15th, then tryouts begin for ALL girls November 16th.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Categorize (verb)
To organize data or information into groups.
Ms. Blair asked us to categorize different animals by genus and species.

Today is Friday, November 04, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Any students on the cast or crew of Harvey who would like to stay after school to help build the set, please make sure you have a ride to pick you up at 4pm and that you are wearing closed-toed shoes and pants. Please let Ms. Sato know if you intend to stay.

Attention students there will be a mandatory meeting for all students applying to any Magnet High School today at 12 pm in the counseling conference room with Mrs. Gudnitz. Again, it is mandatory that you attend, as Monday Nov. 7 is the deadline to submit Magnet Applications. If you have a test in your class during this time please come to the meeting as soon as you are finished.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Brainstorm (verb)
To gather and record ideas by thinking freely and considering all possibilities.
Brainstorming is a great way to gather ideas before writing an essay.

Today is Thursday, November 03, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

The Wascally Wabbit cast of “Harvey” will rehearse today until 5pm. We will meet in the chorus room. Costumes, props, and sound crew should also attend rehearsal today.

Attention intramural football athletes: All six teams will play TODAY! Come to room 101 dressed for the weather!

The third annual Rampace 5K and One Mile Family Fun Run will take place November 19 at Rockville High School. The race benefits Rockville High School’s award winning student newspaper The Rampage. Both the 5K race and the One Mile Family Fun Run cost $20 per person. For groups of four signing up together, the cost is only $13 per person. All participants will receive a Rampace 5K t-shirt. Registration forms are available on the home page of Rockville High School’s website. We hope to see you there!

The middle school Rams football team played their way into second place versus the Patriots Tuesday night, winning 8-6 in a tough-fought defensive struggle. The Rams play the undefeated Cougars in the last regular season game this Saturday at 5 o’clock. Come out and support the team!

Attention all 8th students. If you are applying to one of the Magnet High Schools, you must sign up with Mrs. Gudnitz during lunch by Friday and you must mail your application by this Monday November 7.

Attention SGA! We will be having a meeting today after school. We will be planning our upcoming spirit week, as well as implementing our "Lily Lollipop" fundraiser. Other things on the agenda include planning events for the Thanksgiving holiday. Please see Mr. Carmi if you have any questions. Thanks!

Please remember that tomorrow is make-up picture day. Picture envelopes are available in the Main Office. If you never had your picture taken or you were not happy with them, this is your last chance to have them taken. If you are having your pictures retaken you must bring the original packet of pictures and return them to the photographer.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Bisect (verb)
to separate something into congruent parts.
If ÐABC = 60° and is bisected by a line segment, then the two angles that are formed, ÐABD and ÐDBC, each equal 30°.

Today is Wednesday, November 02, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Students who have applied for an on-air position with the Wake Up Wood! Morning show but have not yet auditioned: Please come to the TV studio (room 270) after school today. You cannot audition if you did not turn in an application form!

Cast and crew of “Harvey”: Today’s rehearsal is CANCELED. We will resume our normal rehearsal schedule tomorrow.

This week Mr. Cunningham’s afterschool math help will be on Thursday. Wednesday’s help is cancelled.

Attention all students: All Health and PE students will report straight to the locker room TODAY for the “Walk for the Homeless” Talk and Walk. There will be NO health classes on these days!

Attention intramural football athletes: All six teams will play tomorrow! Come to room 101 dressed for the weather!

Members of the Wood Cross Country must attend a mandatory practice today after school if you would like to participate in Thursday's meet with Pyle Middle School. Please wear your jersey for Thursday's meet and be ready to turn it in at the end of the race. Again, everyone is invited to attend.

Attention SGA! We will be having a meeting this Thursday after school. We will be planning our upcoming spirit week, as well as implementing our "Lily Lollipop" fundraiser. Other things on the agenda include planning events for the Thanksgiving holiday. Please see Mr. Carmi if you have any questions. Thanks!

Please remember that Friday Nov. 4 is make-up picture day. Picture envelopes are available in the Main Office.
If you never had your picture taken or you were not happy with them, this is your last chance to have them taken. If you are having your pictures retaken you must bring the original packet of pictures and return them to the photographer.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Biography (noun)
The story of a person’s life written by someone other than the subject.
There are many biographies of Thomas Edison, a famous American inventor.

Today is Tuesday, November 01, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Students who have applied for an on-air position with the Wake Up Wood! Morning show but have not yet auditioned: Please come to the TV studio (room 270) after school today or tomorrow. You cannot audition if you did not turn in an application form!

The stage crew list is posted outside of Ms. Sato’s door (288). Please note that the first rehearsal for crew is TODAY until 4pm. You will get a rehearsal calendar as well as other important information to take home.

In addition, the Wascally Wabbit Cast will be rehearsing today until 5pm. Make sure you have a ride, and remember, this is your last week with your scripts - memorize your lines!

It's not too late to join Novelists Club. National Novel Writing Month starts on TODAY and we'll be kicking it off in lab 290 after school.

The STEM Academy at Wood Middle School meets today from 2:45 to 4:00 pm in room 108. Snacks and activity buses are provided. See you there!

This week Mr. Cunningham’s afterschool math help will be on Thursday. Wednesday’s help is cancelled.

Attention all students: All Health and PE students will report straight to the locker room TODAY and TOMORROW for the “Walk for the Homeless” Talk and Walk. There will be NO health classes on these days!

Attention intramural football athletes: The league continues TODAY for the Redskins, Chargers, Panthers and Saints. All six teams will play on Thursday! Come to room 101 dressed for the weather!

There will be cross country practice today, Tuesday and tomorrow, Wednesday 11/1 & 11/2 in preparation for Thursday's meet against Pyle Middle School. Please wear your jerseys on Thursday and be ready to hand them in at the end of the meet. Everyone is invited to watch this final match on Thursday.

Please remember that Friday Nov. 4 is make-up picture day. Picture envelopes are available in the Main Office. If you never had your picture taken or you were not happy with them, this is your last chance to have them taken. If you are having your pictures retaken you must bring the original packet of pictures and return them to the photographer.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Biased sample (noun)
a sample in which one or more parts of a population are favored over others.
If you wanted to find the favorite sport of Wood students and asked only the basketball team, this sample would be biased because it favors basketball over any other sport.

Today is Friday, October 28, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Students who want to apply to be a part of the Wake Up Wood! Morning Show need to get applications and grades in to Ms. Sato, Mr. Taylor Nielsen, or Mr. Tobiassen by the end of the day TODAY! If you have not yet auditioned, or set up an audition time, Mr. Taylor Nielsen will be in the TV studio (room 270) after school next week on Tuesday and Wednesday for potential on-air applicants. You cannot audition if you did not turn in an application form!

The stage crew list is posted outside of Ms. Sato’s door (288). Please note that the first rehearsal for crew is next Tuesday, November 1st until 4pm. You will get a rehearsal calendar as well as other important information to take home.

It's not too late to join Novelists Club. National Novel Writing Month starts on Tuesday, November 1st, and we'll be kicking it off in lab 290 after school. Get in on this thirty-day writing frenzy, and after November, see your rough draft become a real book. See Ms. Kidd in room 241 for details if you're interested.

Attention all students: All Health and PE students will report straight to the locker room on Tuesday and Wednesday next week for the “Walk for the Homeless” Talk and Walk. The walking will only take place on Wednesday outside during your PE or Health class. So there will be NO health classes on those two days!

Attention intramural football athletes: The Redskins, Chargers, Panthers and Saints will play on Tuesday. The other teams will play on either Wednesday or Thursday next week!

Please remember that Friday Nov. 4 is make-up picture day. If you never had your picture taken or you were not happy with them, this is your last chance to have them taken.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Macabre (adjective)
Of or related to horror or that which is gruesome.
Mr. Rattay’s costume was so macabre that he scared away all of the trick-or-treaters.

Today is Thursday, October 27, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

The Little Bunny Foo Foo cast of “Harvey” is rehearsing today. We will meet in the chorus room. Rehearsal is until 5pm today, so make sure you have a ride!

Students who want to apply to be a part of the Wake Up Wood! Morning Show need to get applications and grades in to Ms. Sato, Mr. Taylor Nielsen, or Mr. Tobiassen by tomorrow!

Attention SGA! We will be having our first meeting today after school in room 292, Mr. Carmi’s room. We will be discussing ideas for the upcoming year, Spirit Week and a Potential Thanksgiving food drive. See Mr. Carmi if you have any questions or concerns.

Attention intramural football athletes: All six teams play TODAY! Come to room 101 dressed for the weather!

P.5 students in Ms. Harvey’s class please remember to go to lab #254 today. Gracias!!

This is a reminder to all TCB students to report to the appropriate classroom during your TCB period today. Remember to bring your work, a pencil, and a book!

An important administrative announcement: Tomorrow, Friday, October 28, 2011, is a Wood Spirit Day. We encourage you to wear Wood colors. Please remember that we do not celebrate Halloween or wear masks to school. Please follow our school dress policy in appropriateness.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Bias (noun)
A general tendency or leaning in one direction; a partiality toward one view over another.
I just cannot help it; I have a bias for pepperoni pizza.

Today is Wednesday, October 26, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Today is the LAST day to turn in applications for stage crew for “Harvey.” Be sure to get them to Ms. Sato by the end of the day TODAY! The crew list will be posted on Friday, and crew’s first rehearsal is Tuesday, November 1st.

The Wascally Wabbit cast of “Harvey” is rehearsing today. We will meet in the chorus room. Rehearsal is until 5pm today, so make sure you have a ride!

Students who want to apply to be a part of the Wake Up Wood! Morning Show need to get applications and grades in to Ms. Sato, Mr. Taylor Nielsen, or Mr. Tobiassen by the end of this week. If you are interested in an on-air position, set up an audition soon!

Attention SGA! We will be having our first meeting this Thursday afterschool in room 292, Mr. Carmi’s room. We will be discussing ideas for the upcoming year, Spirit Week and a Potential Thanksgiving food drive. See Mr. Carmi if you have any questions or concerns.

Algebra help with Mr. Freiman is cancelled for this Thursday. It will resume again next week on a new day, Wednesday. If you would like any extra help in Algebra, or, enrichment activities, you are welcome to come any Wednesday. I look forward to seeing you there!

Attention Students: The Holiday Giving Forms are due today. Please bring forms to the Counseling Office.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league continues TODAY for the Redskins, Chargers, Panthers and Saints. All six teams will play Tomorrow! Come to room 101 dressed for the weather!

Attention all managers and players for the Boys Softball team. Please meet Mr. Offutt before school on Thursday at 7:45 sharp to hand in your jerseys and get the championship picture taken. Don’t be late or you won’t be in the picture.

The middle school Rams dominated the Wildcats 38-0. The Rams face off again with the Patriots this Saturday.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Autobiography (noun)
the story of a person’s life as written by that person.
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, is an autobiography written in 1845 that is still read by students today.

Today is Tuesday, October 25, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

The STEM Academy at Wood Middle School meets today (10/25) from 2:45 to 4:00 pm in room 108. Snacks and activity busses are provided. See you there!!

Students who are interested in being a part of stage crew for the fall show “Harvey” need to turn in applications to Ms. Sato by tomorrow!

The Little Bunny Foo Foo cast of “Harvey” is rehearsing today. We will meet in the chorus room. Rehearsal is until 5pm today, so make sure you have a ride!

Students who want to apply to be a part of the Wake Up Wood! Morning Show need to get applications and grades in to Ms. Sato, Mr. Taylor Nielsen, or Mr. Tobiassen by the end of the this week . If you are interested in an on-air position, set up an audition soon!

Attention SGA Candidates. Mr. Carmi and the SGA officers would like to thank all students that interviewed on Thursday. You all did a really good job. The official SGA roster will be posted in front of Mr. Carmi's room tomorrow during 1st period. See Mr. Carmi if you have any questions.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league continues tomorrow for the Redskins, Chargers, Panthers and Saints. All six teams will play on Thursday!

The Lady Mustangs completed their second undefeated season in a row last Thursday with a victory over Argyle.
It, again, was a total team effort. Congratulations Lady Mustangs for another great season!

The Boys Softball Team, won the Montgomery County Division three championship, with a 25 to 2 win against Argyle. The Boys were undefeated this season with a perfect record of 5 wins and 0 losses. They outscored opponents by a score of 98 to 6. The 6 runs was a school record for runs given up in a season. This is the second straight undefeated championship season for the boys’ team. Great Work Mustangs!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Author’s purpose (noun)
The writer’s intent (goal) for writing. It might be to explain, to persuade, to amuse, or to inform.
The author’s purpose for writing “The Declaration of Independence” was to show Great Britain that tyranny must end.

Today is Monday, October 24, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

Students who are interested in being a part of stage crew for the fall show “Harvey” need to turn in applications to Ms. Sato by Wednesday!

Cast of “Harvey”: Please remember that rehearsal today is canceled. We start 5:00 rehearsals this week, so make sure you have rides set up!

Stay after school with Ms. Purcell for Group classes of Aerobics, Tae Bo, Ellyptical cardio work or Stationary Bikes, Jump Rope, Wall climb, Calisthenics, Stretching and/or Weight Training! Sign up every Monday for Tuesday and/or Wednesday classes.

Tuesday, at Banneker Middle School, the Lady Mustangs took another step toward an undefeated season softball season with a 14 to 9 victory. Thanks again to the hard work from our managers!

The Wood Cross Country team crushed Argyle Middle School in their final meet on Thursday, 10/20. This makes the team undefeated for this season. Congratulations to the entire team for an outstanding season. The team's outstanding performance has not gone unnoticed in the county. Pyle MS has challenged our team to another race. As a result, the Cross Country team will continue practice this week as usual on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Listen for the date of the final pizza party celebration & don't forget to return your team jerseys.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Audience (noun)
the people who will hear or read a composition.
Teachers are usually the audience for most students’ writing.

Today is Thursday, October 20, 2011.

Here’s what’s happening around school today.

This is a reminder to all TCB students to report to the appropriate classroom during your TCB period today. Remember to bring your work, a pencil, and a book!

Want to be part of SGA? Well here is your chance! This Thursday we will be conducting interviews for SGA hopefuls after school in Mr. Carmi's room. Please bring your interview application and SIGN UP for a time slot. Sign up sheets are located in front of room 292. If your application is incomplete, please do not apply. See Carmi if you have any questions. Thanks!

A reminder to all students interested in trying out for girls or boys soccer or girls or boys basketball or playing intramurals, you MUST be eligible to try out or participate. The 1st quarter ends on Oct 28th and you need a 2.0 GPA on this date to be eligible. Don’t let time run out. Check Edline and see your teachers today.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league continues TODAY for the Redskins, Chargers, Panthers and Saints ONLY, as a make-up of yesterday’s games. The schedule for next week will be posted on Monday.

Stay after school with Ms. Purcell for Group classes of Aerobics, Tae Bo, Elliptical cardio work or Stationary Bikes, Jump Rope, Wall climb, Calisthenics, Stretching and/or Weight Training! Sign up every Monday for Tuesday and/or Wednesday classes.

Our girls softball team play their final home game TODAY against Argyle Middle School. Come support your Mustangs as this will be the last chance you have to see them in action!

If you are applying to be a part of the Wake Up Wood! Morning Show, applications are due to Ms. Sato, Mr. Taylor Nielsen, or Mr. Tobiassen by Friday, October 28th!

The Little Bunny Foo Foo Cast of “Harvey” will rehearse today after school in the chorus room until 4pm. See you there!

If you want to be a part of stage crew, tech crew, or costumes and props crew, be sure to get your application to Ms. Sato soon!

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Arithmetic sequence (noun)
a sequence of numbers in which you can find the next term by adding the same number to the previous term.
The sequence (2, 5, 8, 11, …) is arithmetic because you add 3 each time to get to the next term.

Today is Wednesday, October 19, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

There are still a few students who have not done the paperwork for your International Night hours. Please see Mrs. O’Keiff as soon as possible.

If you are interested in joining the Green Team, it will begin tomorrow and will meet in Mrs. Osborne's room #231.

The RAMPace 5K/family run will be held Nov. 19, 2011. The sign up deadline is Thursday Oct 20th. The fee is $20.00 per person or a group of 4 is $13.00 per person. The race benefits the journalism students at Rockville High School. Go to our website at www.therampace5k.com.

Applications for stage crew for the fall production of “Harvey” are due by October 26th to Ms. Sato.

The Wascally Wabbit cast of “Harvey” will meet in the chorus room after school today until 4pm.

Attention 8th graders applying for high school magnet programs: there will be an application essay workshop with Mr. Taylor Nielsen in room 281 on today after school.

Attention all English students! This is a reminder that the deadline for all independent reading pages is tomorrow, Thursday, October 20, 2011! No pages will be accepted after this date. Keep in mind that independent reading is 5% of your total grade, so it is important to turn in all of your pages!

6th and 7th graders who are interested in applying to be a part of the Wake Up Wood! Morning Show can pick up an application outside of room 270. Your application is due by October 28th to Ms. Sato, Mr. Taylor Nielsen, or Mr. Tobiassen.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league continues TODAY for the Redskins, Chargers, Panthers and Saints. All six teams will play Tomorrow! Come to room 101 dressed for the weather!

Our girls softball team play their final home game tomorrow against Argyle Middle School. Come support your Mustangs as this will be the last chance you have to see them in action!

The Boys softball team remained undefeated with a 22 to 1 win over visiting Banneker. Final game is away, tomorrow, against Argyle.

Stay after school with Ms. Purcell for Group classes of Aerobics, Tae Bo, Elliptical cardio work or Stationary Bikes…… Jump Rope, Wall climb, Calisthenics, Stretching and/or Weight Training! Sign up every Monday for Tuesday and/or Wednesday classes.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Area (noun)
The number of square units needed to cover a surface enclosed by a geometric figure. Area is always expressed in square units.
To find the area of a rectangle, multiply the width times the length.

Today is Tuesday, October 18, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

The STEM Academy at Wood Middle School meets today at 2:45 in room 108. Snacks and Activity Buses are provided. Be there or be square!!

There are still a few students who have not done the paperwork for your International Night hours. Please see Mrs. O’Keiff as soon as possible.

If you are interested in joining the Green Team, it will begin this Thursday, October 20 and will meet in Mrs. Osborne's room #231.

The first meeting of the Novelists Club is TODAY in room 241 after school. See Ms. Kidd for more information.

If you are interested in being a part of stage crew, tech crew, or costume and props crew for the fall show “Harvey,” then grab an application form from outside Ms. Sato’s door (288) or Mr. Tobiassen’s office (101D). Applications are due by Wednesday, October 26th.

The Little Bunny Foo Foo cast of “Harvey” will meet in the chorus room after school today until 4pm.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league continues tomorrow for the Redskins, Chargers, Panthers and Saints. All six teams will play on Thursday!

Our undefeated boys and girls softball teams play their final home games this week. The boys play Banneker TODAY, and the girls play Argyle on Thursday. Come support your Mustangs as this will be the last chance you have to see them in action!

Need help with your homework? Homework Hotline Live is available tonight! Go to AskHHL.org or MCPS cable TV from 4 to 6 pm and talk with real MCPS teachers. You can call with your homework questions from 4 to 6 pm, and text from the Hotline website or from your phone until 9 at night! So write it down: AskHHL.org, or call 301-279-3234. That’s AskHHL.org and 301-279-3234.

Attention 8th graders applying for high school magnet programs: there will be an application essay workshop with Mr. Taylor Nielsen in room 281 on Wednesday 10/19 after school.

Interested 6th and 7th graders are invited to apply to be a part of the daily Wake Up Wood! Morning Show. This includes students who are interested in both behind-the-scenes work in the tech booth, as well as students who would like to be on camera. Applications to be a part of this process will be located outside the TV studio – that’s room 270, in the 7th grade hallway. Applications are due on October 28th to Ms. Sato, Mr. Taylor Nielsen, or Mr. Tobiassen. Here are some important things to remember if you want to apply:

You must be academically eligible – that means no E’s and no more than two D’s on your report card! You need to include a printout of your grades with your application.
You must be a responsible student – you’ll be working with expensive equipment, and you’ll also have to make up any work that you miss in the first few minutes of 1st period.
You need to be willing to show up to school early – we start rehearsals by 7:45 at the latest, and it is better if you can get to school between 7:30 and 7:45.
If you want to be on camera, you need to either create a video of yourself reading the news, or schedule an audition time with either Ms. Sato or Mr. Taylor Nielsen BEFORE the application due date.

We look forward to your application and working with you. If you have any questions, please contact one of us. Back to you!

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Apparent (adjective)
easily seen or understood; visible.
After giving the problem some thought, the solution was apparent to everyone.

Today is Monday, October 17, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Any student interested in enrolling in one of the Magnet Schools must see Ms. Gudnitz today or Monday Oct. 17 during lunch. It is mandatory that you confirm your interest in Magnet Schools by signing-up and receiving your information packet. Thank you and see you at lunch.

If you are interested in joining the Green Team, it will begin this Thursday, October 20 and will meet in Mrs. Osborne's room #231.

The first meeting of the Novelists Club is tomorrow, Tuesday, October 18th in room 241 after school. See Ms. Kidd for more information.

Our first Monday rehearsal is here! The Wascally Wabbit cast of “Harvey” should meet in the chorus room after school today until 4pm. You MUST have a ride – there are no activity busses!

Attention intramural football athletes: The league continues on Wednesday for the Redskins, Chargers, Panthers and Saints. All six teams will play on Thursday!

Our undefeated boys and girls softball teams play their final home games this week. The boys play Banneker tomorrow, and the girls play Argyle on Thursday. Come support your Mustangs as this will be the last chance you have to see them in action!

Wood’s Girls’ Varsity Softball Team improved their record to 3:0, Tuesday on our home field in a close game against Parkland. After 2 games in which the Lady Mustangs scored 35 runs Parkland kept it close with Wood pulling out a 9-5 victory. Go Lady Mustangs!

Are you energetic, bold, loud or all of the above? If so we are looking for you to join Wood’s step team! We are calling on all students both boys and girls to come show us your moves starting tomorrow, October 18th in room 294 at 2:50 for try-out practices.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Antithesis (noun)
The opposite of.
Good is the antithesis of evil.

Today is Friday, October 14, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Hey Wood! Looking for something to do tonight? Want to get with your friends outside of school and listen to some music? How about the hitting up the FIRST DANCE OF THE YEAR from 7-9? Tickets will be sold during all three lunches today for $4. Tickets will also be sold at the door for $5. See Mr. Carmi if you have any questions.

If you are looking to join SGA, Mr. Carmi will be accepting applications to those interested in being part of SGA. This application can be found outside room 292, Carmi’s Room, and has a brief questionnaire on things we are looking for.

Any student interested in enrolling in one of the Magnet Schools must see Ms. Gudnitz today or Monday Oct. 17 during lunch. It is mandatory that you confirm your interest in Magnet Schools by signing-up and receiving your information packet. Thank you and see you at lunch.

The first meeting of the Novelists Club is next Tuesday, October 18th in room 241 after school. See Ms. Kidd for more information.

The Fitness Club will now use a Sign Up sheet. Any students who want to get some exercise after school on Tuesdays or Wednesdays must Sign Up EVERY Monday. The Sign Up sheets will be posted on the white board outside the locker rooms. Tuesdays will be limited to the Weight Room, but Wednesdays there will also be group exercise classes in the Auxiliary gym. You must Sign Up every Monday that you plan on coming in so that your parents and the staff will know who is staying after school and who is riding the activity bus. Remember to be dressed in gym clothes and shoes.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Anecdote (noun)
A very short tale told by a character in a literary work.
The Physical Education teachers like to tell amusing anecdotes about their sports achievements.

Today is Thursday, October 13, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Hey Wood! Looking for something to do tomorrow? Want to get with your friends outside of school and listen to some music? How about the hitting up the FIRST DANCE OF THE YEAR from 7-9? This dance’s theme is “Calling All Monsters” and should be a lot of fun. We spent over $300 on decorations, $200 on snacks and we even have a DJ!
Tickets will be sold during all three lunches today and tomorrow for $4. Tickets will also be sold at the door for $5. See Mr. Carmi if you have any questions.

If you are looking to join SGA, Mr. Carmi will be accepting applications to those interested in being part of SGA. This application can be found outside room 292, Carmi’s Room, and has a brief questionnaire on things we are looking for.
Next Thursday, you will bring your questionnaire to 292 for an interview in front of the SGA. Please take this seriously. Everyone has to apply, even if you were a delegate last year. We are looking for 20 highly qualified applicants! See Carmi if interested.

If you are interested in signing a banner for the US Olympic Track and Field team, the banner will be available during all 3 lunches. This is available TODAY only! We will give the banner to Coach Valmon, who spoke at International Night, as a thank you and to show Wood support at the 2012 Olympic Games!

Ms. Gudnitz will be available to speak to 8th grade students who are interested in the special programs offered at Blair, Richard Montgomery, Poolesville, and Rockville. She is available during 8th grade lunch. She will also be in the cafeteria for students to sign up in order to speak directly to the RHS teachers who teach Journalism, Project Lead the way, and IB. Teachers will be meeting with students starting next week.

The school store will be open after school beginning this week. The store is located at the end of the 6th grade hallway, near the front of the building. If you do not ride the school bus, and are interested in working at the school store to earn SSL hours, please see Mrs. Henze.

The first meeting of the Novelists Club is next Tuesday, October 18th in room 241 after school. See Ms. Kidd for more information.

Are you interested in working on the school yearbook? Come to an informational meeting after school today in room 254 with Mrs. Morrell.

Rehearsal for “Harvey” is CANCELLED today. Please go home after school. See you next week!

This is a reminder to all TCB students to report to the appropriate classroom during your TCB period today. Remember to bring your work, a pencil, and a book!

Attention intramural football athletes: All six teams play TODAY! Come to room 101 dressed for the weather!

The Wood boys and girls cross-country team shut out Parkland on Tuesday!! The boys won 39 to 56, and the girls 32 to 81.Congratulations, Cross Country!

The Wood Boys Softball Team beat a tough Parkland team by a score of 15 to 0. Next game is Tuesday against Banneker, come support your team!

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Analyze (verb)
to carefully examine the parts of something.
Mrs. O’Keiff guided us as we analyzed the novel Animal Farm as an allegory based on the Russian Revolution.

Today is Wednesday, October 12, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league continues TODAY for the Redskins, Chargers, Panthers and Saints. All six teams will play Tomorrow! Come to room 101 dressed for the weather!

The Wood boys and girls cross-country team shut out Parkland yesterday!! The boys won 39 to 56, and the girls 32 to 81. Congrats X-Country TEAM!!!!!

The first dance of the year is THIS Friday, from 7-9pm. Tickets will be sold at lunch tomorrow and Friday for $4 and at the door for $5.

If you’re interested in becoming a delegate for SGA this year, pick up an application form from Mr. Carmi’s room, 292.

Reminder to all of last year’s step team. There is a meeting in Ms. Fahnbulleh’s room at 2:45 today. This meeting is only for those currently on the step team and interested in stepping this school year.

The first meeting of the Novelists Club is next Tuesday, October 18th in room 241 after school. See Ms. Kidd for more information.

Rehearsal for the Wascally Wabbit cast of Harvey is this afternoon from 2:50 to 4pm.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Ambiguous (adjective)
describes that which can have more than one meaning.
For example, the meaning of “Carol ate the pretzels on the couch” is ambiguous.

Today is Tuesday, October 11, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Our undefeated girls’ softball and our undefeated cross country teams host Parkland Middle School TODAY. The game starts at 3:15. Please stay off the walkway paths during the cross country meet, and come support your Mustangs!

Attention intramural football athletes: The league continues tomorrow for the Redskins, Chargers, Panthers and Saints. All six teams will play on Thursday!

Hey Wood! Looking for something to do this Friday? Want to get with your friends outside of school and listen to some music? How about the hitting up the FIRST DANCE OF THE YEAR from 7-9? This dance will be called, “Calling All Monsters” and should be a lot of fun. We spent over 300 dollars on decorations, 200 Dollars on Snacks and we even have a DJ! Tickets will be sold during all three lunches Thursday and Friday for 4 dollars. Tickets will also be sold at the door for 5 dollars. See Mr. Carmi if you have any questions.

If you are looking to join SGA, we are going to do things a little differently this year. As opposed to voting in your World Studies classes, this year Mr. Carmi will be accepting applications to those interested in being part of SGA. This application can be found outside room 292, Carmi’s Room, and has a brief questionnaire on things we are looking for. Next Thursday, you will bring your questionnaire to 292 for an interview in front of the SGA. Please take this seriously.
Everyone has to apply, even if you were a delegate last year. We are looking for 20 highly qualified applicants! See Carmi if interested.

The school store will be open after school beginning this week. The store is located at the end of the 6th grade hallway, near the front of the building. Please stop by to see what’s new at the school store. If you do not ride the school bus, and are interested in working at the school store to earn SSL hours, please see Mrs. Henze.

Attention all members of last year’s step team. The first meeting of the year is Wednesday, October 12th. The meeting will being at 2:45 in Ms. Fahnbulleh’s room. This meeting is only for last year’s steppers who plan on stepping this school year.

The STEM Academy at Wood Middle School will meet today in room 108 at 2:45 pm. Snacks and activity buses are provided. Be there or be square.

Rehearsal for ALL cast members of Harvey is this afternoon from 2:50 to 4pm. We’ll be finishing up our blocking, so make sure you have your scripts and a pencil!

Have you ever read a book and thought to yourself, "I could do better than that"? Have you ever thought that someday you'd like to write a novel? Make "someday" this year -- this November, in fact! Join The Novelists Club and participate in National Novel Writing Month, a worldwide challenge to complete the first draft of a novel in just 30 days. Last year 200,000 adults and 41,000 young writers from around the world took on the challenge. In addition, after November we'll edit our rough drafts, create covers, bind books, and share them. We'll have lots of fun and a few parties along the way. Our first meeting will be Tuesday, October 18, after school, in room 241. See me if you have questions or want more information.

Ms. Gudnitz will be available to speak to 8th grade students who are interested in the special programs offered at Montgomery Blair High School, Richard Montgomery High School, Poolesville High School, and Rockville High School. She will be speaking in PE classes this week, and is available during 8th grade lunch. If you are interested, she has information to take home to share with your parent/guardian. She will also be in the cafeteria for students to sign up in order to speak directly to the RHS teachers who teach Journalism, Project Lead the way, and IB. Teachers will be meeting with students starting next week.

Some important reminders for those students taking the PSAT tomorrow: The PSAT is taking place tomorrow. Make sure that you know your testing room and report to the class first thing in the morning. If you have a graphing calculator, bring it with you to the testing room. If you don’t bring your own graphing calculator, you are not assured of getting to use one during the test. Be sure to get a good night sleep and eat a healthy breakfast. Please do not go to your 1st period class. Please pay close attention to the following information so that you know where to go in the morning. Remember, the score you receive on this test does not go on your permanent record. So, relax and don’t get too anxious. All we expect is for you to do your best!

PSAT 2011
Proctor	Room #	Students with Last Names Beginning With:
Stitzlein	280	A - Ce
Kunin	282	Ch - Garcia, Elmer
Eising	284	Garcia, Naomi - Kab
O'Brien	288	Kar - Mat
Mannhaupt/Durbin	292	Mc - Ree
Maddrey	294	Rem - Tam
Freiman	296	Tan - Z

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Allusion (noun)
a reference in one literary work to a character or theme found in another literary work.
The writers of The Simpsons often make allusions to works of literature such as “The Raven” by Edgar Allen Poe.

Today is Monday, October 10, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Our undefeated girls’ softball and our undefeated cross country teams host Parkland Middle School tomorrow. The game starts at 3:15. Please stay off the walkway paths during the cross country meet, and come support your Mustangs!

Attention intramural football athletes: The league continues on Wednesday for the Redskins, Chargers, Panthers and Saints. All six teams will play on Thursday!

The Wood Cross Country Team will be competing against Parkland Middle School tomorrow after school at 3:00. The race starts next to the outdoor basketball courts. Please come out and support this outstanding team!!

Alliteration (noun)
the repetition of the same consonant sound at the beginning of two or more words.
For example: Peter Piper, the pepper picker, picked a peck of pickled peppers. A peck of pickled peppers did Peter Piper, the pepper picker, pick. If Peter Piper, the pepper picker, picked a peck of pickled peppers, where is the peck of pickled peppers that Peter Piper, the pepper picker, picked?

Today is Friday, October 07, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Montgomery College is still accepting registrations for Kids College, which consists of enrichment and advancement courses for students in grades 2-12. You can contact the youth programs office at 240-567-7264 or 240-567-7917.

International Night volunteers with Ms. Grant & Mrs. O’Keiff should come to room 296 TODAY, on your way to lunch to fill out the paperwork for your service hours. See you today.

The Fitness Club has begun! The weight room and auxiliary gym will be open from 2:45 to 4pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The first 20 students to the weight room can stay. You must be dressed in gym clothes and shoes. Ms. Purcell will also open the Fitness Club on Mondays for staff ONLY.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Allegory (noun)
a story that illustrates an idea or moral principal in which objects or animals take on symbolic meanings.
Animal Farm, by George Orwell is a famous allegory about the problems of socialism.

Today is Thursday, October 06, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Montgomery College is still accepting registrations for Kids College, which consists of enrichment and advancement courses for students in grades 2-12. Courses are held on the Rockville campus, and cover a wide range of topics, from finances, writing, and leadership courses to music, math, and keyboarding. You can contact the youth programs office at 240-567-7264 or 240-567-7917.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league continues TODAY for the Jets, Chargers, Panthers and Ravens. Meet in room 101 and be dressed to play!

The Wood Cross Country Team turned in a great performance at the away meet at Briggs Chaney Middle School. The boys team won. In the end, the girls team was edged out by Briggs Chaney. The next meet is Tuesday, 10/11 so please come out and support this undefeated team!!

Congratulations to all performers, models, and helpers with International Night – the evening was a huge success, and enjoyed by all. Outfits, dishes, and utensils will be returned to owners promptly.

Attention to all TCB students. If you have received a pass for TCB, please report to your teacher’s room today during the appropriate period. Bring your books with you!

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Affect (verb)
To have an influence or to bring about a change in something (or someone).
The entire audience was affected by the tragic ending of the film.

Today is Wednesday, October 05, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league begins TODAY for the Redskins, Saints, Ravens and Jets. The other two teams will play TOMORROW. Meet in room 101 and be dressed to play!

For the second straight week, the Wood Boys softball won 17 to 2. Against Briggs Chaney, Wood fell into an early hole down 2 to 0 into the 3rd. inning. The bats came alive with 7 runs in the 3rd. and 6 runs in the 4th. The next game is at Parkland on October 11th.

If you are bringing food for International Night, please have your dish set up by 5:30 this evening. Students involved with the show need to be at Wood by 5pm. This year’s International Night charities are Peru, Red Cross Japan, and Michelle-o-Grams. We hope to see you there!

Today is Tuesday, October 04, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Montgomery College is still accepting registrations for Kids College, which consists of enrichment and advancement courses for students in grades 2-12. Courses are held on the Rockville campus, and cover a wide range of topics, from finances, writing, and leadership courses to music, math, and keyboarding. You can get more information at http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/wdce/youthpdf/kidscollege.pdf or contact the youth programs office at 240-567-7264 or 240-567-7917.

Last call for all summer SSL hours. Today is the absolute last day they will be accepted. You can turn in the forms to the counseling office or main offce.

The STEM Academy at Wood Middle School starts today from 2:45 to 4:00 pm in room #108. Be there or be square. Snacks and activity buses are provided.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league begins on Wednesday for the Redskins, Saints, Ravens and Jets. The other two teams will start on Thursday.

All students involved with International Night: Please remember that there is a MANDATORY after school rehearsal today from 3-6pm. Bring food or $2 for pizza money. You MUST have a ride home.

Today’s Word of the Day is...
Absolute value (noun)
a number’s distance from zero on a number line.
The absolute value of l-2l is 2 because -2 is 2 numbers away from zero.

Today is Monday, October 03, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Any 8th grader who has a field trip form for the Edison field trip tomorrow should bring it to Ms. Davis BEFORE lunchtime today to be eligible for the trip.

Last call for all summer SSL hours. Tomorrow will be the absolute last day they will be accepted. You can turn in the forms to the counseling office or main offce.

The STEM Academy at Wood Middle School starts tomorrow, October 4th from 2:45 to 4:00 pm in room #108. Be there or be square. Snacks and activity buses are provided.

Attention Wood Staff: MCPS On the Move begins TODAY! Make sure you start logging in your activity minutes. If you have not signed up yet, meet Ms. Purcell and Mr. Bing in Ms. Ale’s room 236 after school today from 3 to 3:15. From 3:15 to 3:45, our staff will be outside walking the path to build up our minutes, come join us!

Attention intramural football athletes: The league begins on Wednesday for the Redskins, Saints, Ravens and Jets. The other two teams will start on Thursday.

All students involved with International Night: Please remember that there is a MANDATORY after school rehearsal tomorrow from 3-6pm. Bring food or $2 for pizza money. You MUST have a ride home.

The list of accepted International Night volunteers with parent signatures is posted outside of rooms 103, 288, and 296. There will be a 5 minute meeting in Mrs. O’Keiff’s room after 5th period TODAY. Do NOT go to lunch first!

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Word choice (noun)
The words an author chooses to use that affect the meaning and tone of what is written.
For instance: “The lizard man walked up to the girl,” is not as dramatic or as creepy as….
“The nearly silent reptilian creature slithered to within striking distance of the unsuspecting warrior princess.”

Today is Friday, September 30, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league begins on Wednesday, October 5th for the Redskins, Saints, Ravens and Jets. The other two teams will start on Thursday, October 6th.

Any student who is enrolled in Algebra I, Honors Geometry, or Honors Algebra II is eligible to participate in the PSAT that will take place October 12th. We are encouraging all students taking one of these courses to participate. The cost of the test is $14. Please bring back your completed registration form and fee to your math teacher or Mr. Freiman today. By taking the PSAT, you are taking an important first step in preparing yourself for college and beyond.

All students and staff involved with International Night: Please remember that next Tuesday, Oct. 4th is our mandatory rehearsal, in the gym. The new rehearsal is from 3pm to 6pm. Please remember that you MUST have a ride home after rehearsal on Tuesday. Bring something to eat or pizza money ($2 per student).

International Night Performers: If you are performing to a song, you need to get your CD to Ms. Sato ASAP – Monday at the latest! You also need to let her know the name of the song, and who the original artist is.

International Night Models: Remember to bring flat shoes – brown or black – to rehearsal on Tuesday and to International Night on Wednesday. You may NOT step onto the stage barefoot, or you will be asked to leave. All models need to see Ms. Blauser or Ms. Sato if they have NOT had their picture taken in their outfit yet. If you still need an outfit, you MUST see one of us TODAY.

The list of accepted volunteers with parent signatures is posted outside of rooms 103, 288, and 296. There will be a 5 minute meeting in Mrs. O’Keiff’s room after 5th period on Monday, Oct. 3rd. We had many volunteers, so unfortunately, we could not accept everyone. If your name is NOT on the list, you ARE NOT a volunteer and should not stay after school, but we hope you will attend International Night and try again next year.

International Night is on October 5th – don’t miss out on the talent, costumes, and great food!

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Volume (noun)
The amount of space that a three-dimensional figure contains. Volume is always expressed in cubed units.
To find the volume of a rectangular prism, multiply the length x width x height.

Today is Wednesday, September 28, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

The renowned Wood International Night is coming soon on October 5 – only a week away! We still need sports models, so boys – don’t be shy! See Ms. Sato or Ms. Blauser if you’re interested.

Any student who is enrolled in Algebra I, Honors Geometry, or Honors Algebra II is eligible to participate in the PSAT that will take place October 12th. We are encouraging all students taking one of these courses to participate. The cost of the test is $14. Please bring back your completed registration form and fee to your math teacher or Mr. Freiman by the end of this week. By taking the PSAT, you are taking an important first step in preparing yourself for college and beyond.

A reminder to 8th grade TCB students: TCB is today!! You should receive your passes from your first period teachers. Remember to be on time!

This is reminder that this Fri. September 30th is Portrait Day. Students will have their pictures taken in the Auxiliary Gym during PE classes.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league will begin next Wednesday, October 5th. The teams playing will be announced later this week.

The STEM Academy is back at Wood! For the next 9 weeks, we’ll be engaging in science, technology, engineering, and math challenges – such as building an Aero Car, a Lunar Bridge, a Micro Mass Tower, and solving a space problem.
The STEM Academy is open to all grade levels, and we meet every Tuesday starting next week, October 4th, through November 29th. It takes place after school until 4:05. Students must commit to attending the Final Frontiers Competition on Saturday, Nov. 19th from 8:00 t0 1:00 pm at Wootten HS and the Journeys in Engineering, Technology, and Science Expo on Saturday, December 3rd from 8:00 to 1:00 pm at UMD Shady Grove.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Voice (noun)
in writing, the unique way a character or the author articulates his or her individuality.
An author's voice is like written fingerprints; it shows the author's style, attitude, and perspective.
For example: There have been few authors with a more distinctive or developed voice than Dr. Seuss.

Today is Tuesday, September 27, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

The renowned Wood International Night is coming soon on October 5 – less than two weeks away! We are still looking for international and sports outfits, and food donations. Don’t miss this fun event!

All International Night models will meet after school on TODAY from 3-4pm in the cafeteria. Bring FLAT black or brown shoes that you plan to wear with your outfit. Due to limited space on the activity busses, please try to find a ride home after the meeting. Thank you!

Rehearsal for ALL cast members of “Harvey” is today from 2:50-4pm in the chorus room.

Any student who is enrolled in Algebra I, Honors Geometry, or Honors Algebra II is eligible to participate in the PSAT that will take place October 12th. We are encouraging all students taking one of these courses to participate. The cost of the test is $14. Please bring back your completed registration form and fee to your math teacher or Mr. Freiman by the end of this week. By taking the PSAT, you are taking an important first step in preparing yourself for college and beyond.

A reminder to 8th grade TCB students. TCB will be held on Wednesday of this week because there is no school on Thursday. Students should expect to receive passes from their first period teachers on Wednesday morning.

This is reminder that this Fri. September 30th is Portrait Day. Students will have their pictures taken in the Auxiliary Gym during PE classes.

Attention intramural football athletes: The league will begin next Wednesday, October 5th. The teams playing will be announced later this week.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Vertical angles (noun)
two pairs of opposite angles formed by intersecting lines
Vertical angles are always congruent (equal).

Today is Monday, September 26, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

The renowned Wood International Night is coming soon on October 5 – less than two weeks away! All sign-ups for modeling and SSL hours are now closed for International Night.

If you have sports or international outfits that you are willing to lend for models to wear on International Night, please contact Ms. Blauser or Ms. Sato. All International Night models will meet after school on Tuesday, Sept. 27th from 3-4pm in the cafeteria. Bring FLAT black or brown shoes that you plan to wear with your outfit.

International Night is also all about the FOOD! If you can bring in a dish that represents a specific culture or country, please sign up in the main office, or speak to Ms. Osborne or Ms. Taylor.

Attention 8th graders: If you are going on the Solar Decathlon field trip tomorrow and did not meet with Mr. Durbin on Friday you MUST attend an informational meeting during lunch today. The meeting will be in Mr. Durbin’s room 238.

The Boys softball team beat Loiderman on Thursday by a score of 17 to 2. Our next game is against Briggs Chaney on Tuesday October 4th. Please come out and support your team!

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Vertex (noun)
The common endpoint of the rays forming an angle.
In a parabola, the vertex is the maximum or minimum point.

Today is Friday, September 23, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Attention Staff and Students: There will be two MAP-R make-up sessions will taking place today during 2nd and 3rd and 6th and 7th periods in Lab 261. Teachers should check their e-mail for the list of students who must attend these sessions. Also, as computer testing stations become available, additional students may be called.

The renowned Wood International Night is coming soon on October 5 – less than two weeks away! All sign-ups for modeling and SSL hours are now closed for International Night.

If you have sports or international outfits that you are willing to lend for models to wear on International Night, please contact Ms. Blauser or Ms. Sato.

International Night is also all about the FOOD! If you can bring in a dish that represents a specific culture or country, please sign up in the main office, or speak to Ms. Osborne or Ms. Taylor.

The deadline for the 2011 Spirit Wear competition is October 14th. Your design and/or slogan should inspire, motivate, or show pride in Rockville High School, as well as feature the mascot, the Ram, and school colors: orange, black, and white.

Attention 8th graders. If you are on the field trip list to attend next week’s solar decathlon, please meet in Mr. Durbin’s room (238) for an information session during lunch TODAY.

Congratulations to the boys and girls cross-country teams for shutting out Loiderman yesterday!

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Verify (verb)
to check something in order to prove that it is correct.
As we finished our compass constructions, Mr. Cunningham reminded us to verify our work visually.

Today is Thursday, September 22, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Attention Staff and Students: The first MAP-R make-up session will take place today during 6th and 7th periods in Lab 261.
Teachers should check their e-mail for the list of students who must attend this session. As computer testing stations become available, additional students may be called.

Rehearsal for ALL cast members of “Harvey” is today in the chorus room until 4pm. If you are interested in participating in crew, please listen for announcements over the next few weeks!

The renowned Wood International Night is coming soon on October 5! We need student volunteers to make this another successful and enjoyable evening. If you are interested in earning 10 SSL hours, and helping out with food, backstage, and other parts of International Night, please sign up in the cafeteria during your lunch today. Questions? See Ms. Blauser, Ms. Sato, or Mrs. O’Keiff.

If you auditioned for International Night, the final list of acts are posted on Ms. Sato’s door (288) and Ms. Blauser’s door (103). You will be assigned a staff mentor shortly.

Students and staff: if you have sports or international outfits that you are willing to lend for models to wear on International Night, please contact Ms. Blauser or Ms. Sato. All outfits need to have names clearly labeled on them, with the country or sport they are connected to. Outfits will be completely secure during storage and returned after International Night.

International Night is also all about the FOOD! If you can bring in a dish that represents a specific culture or country, please sign up in the main office, or speak to Ms. Osborne or Ms. Taylor.

The Rams football team was in control of its game Tuesday night versus the Titans, winning 32 to 0. Come out to the RFL fields this Saturday at 6:15 to cheer on our Rams as they face the Cougars.

The Lady Mustangs open their softball season TODAY against Loiderman Middle School. The game starts at 3:15, and there is no cost for softball games.

Cross country also hosts their first meet TODAY, so please stay off the walkway paths during the meet, and come support your Mustangs!

Attention intramural football athletes: There will be NO intramurals today or next week due to scheduling conflicts. Look for announcements next week about when we will begin our league.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Variable (noun)
a symbol used to represent an unspecified number or value.
In the equation 4m + 3 = 11, m is a variablewhich represents a number.

Today is Wednesday, September 21, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

This is a reminder that MAP-R testing continues today. If you are in Mr. Carmi or Ms. Fahnbulleh’s 7th period classes, please report for testing after this show. Ms. Fahnbulleh’s 7th period students should proceed to Lab 290, and Mr. Carmi’s 7th period class should report to Lab 261 when the Morning Show is over. All other classes that are testing today will be with their World Studies teachers. Thanks and good luck on the MAP-R test!

The first SGA meeting of the year is TODAY in room 292 after school. We will be planning out the school year, with a special focus on creating an SGA calendar and the first dance in October. See Carmi if you have any questions.

Rehearsal for ALL cast members of “Harvey” is today in the chorus room until 4pm. If you are interested in participating in crew, please listen for announcements over the next few weeks!

The Lady Mustangs open their softball season Tomorrow against Loiderman Middle School. The game starts at 3:15, and there is no cost for softball games.

Cross country also hosts their first meet tomorrow, so please stay off the walkway paths during the meet, and come support your Mustangs!

Six teams will compete in the intramural football league, including the Jets and Ravens! All 6 teams should meet in room 101 TODAY before we go out to play. If you have not signed onto a team and want to play, see Mr. Bingaman after school today.

Attention doodlers: Comic Book Club is cancelled this week. We will resume on Wednesday October 5 after school. Thanks!

The renowned Wood International Night is coming soon on October 5! We need student volunteers to make this another successful and enjoyable evening. If you are interested in earning 10 SSL hours, and helping out with food, backstage, and other parts of International Night, please sign up in the cafeteria during your lunch today and Thursday. Questions? See Ms. Blauser, Ms. Sato, or Mrs. O’Keiff.

If you auditioned for International Night, the final list of acts will be posted on Ms. Sato’s door (288) and Ms. Blauser’s door (103) by the end of 2nd period today. You will be assigned a staff mentor shortly.

Students and staff: if you have sports or international outfits that you are willing to lend for models to wear on International Night, please contact Ms. Blauser or Ms. Sato.

All outfits need to have names clearly labeled on them, with the country or sport they are connected to. Outfits will be completely secure during storage and returned after International Night.

International Night is also all about the FOOD! If you can bring in a dish that represents a specific culture or country, please sign up in the main office, or speak to Ms. Osborne or Ms. Taylor.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
URL (noun)
an acronym that stands for the Uniform Resource Locator. The URL is the address of a website.
The URL for Earle B. Wood Middle School is: http://montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/woodms/index.html .

Today is Tuesday, September 20, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

This is a reminder that MAP-R testing continues today. If you are in Ms. Guardado or Ms. Washington’s 7th period classes, please report for testing right after this show. Ms. Washington’s 7th period students should proceed to Lab 290, and Ms. Guardado’s 7th period class should report to the Lab 254 when the Morning Show is over. All other classes that are testing today will be with their World Studies teachers. Thanks and good luck on the MAP-R test!

The SGA will also be having the first meeting of the year tomorrow in room 292 after school. We will be planning out the school year, with a special focus on creating an SGA calendar and the first dance in October. See Carmi if you have any questions.

The first read-through rehearsal for both casts of “Harvey” is TODAY in the chorus room until 4pm. If you are interested in participating in crew, please listen for announcements over the next few weeks!

The Lady Mustangs open their softball season Thursday against Loiderman Middle School. The game starts at 3:15, and there is no cost for softball games.

Cross country also hosts their first meet on Thursday, so please stay off the walkway paths during the meet, and come support your Mustangs!

Attention intramural football athletes: It is not too late to sign up for the league! Just show up TODAY in the gym after school and Mr. Bing will make sure you are on a team. The league will then begin tomorrow!

Attention doodlers: Comic Book Club is cancelled this week. We will resume on Wednesday October 5 after school. Thanks!

The renowned Wood International Night is coming soon on October 5! We need student volunteers to make this another successful and enjoyable evening. If you are interested in earning 10 SSL hours, and helping out with food, backstage, and other parts of International Night, please sign up in the cafeteria during your lunch tomorrow and Thursday. Questions? See Ms. Blauser, Ms. Sato, or Mrs. O’Keiff.

International Night is also all about the FOOD! If you can bring in a dish that represents a specific culture or country, please sign up in the main office, or speak to Ms. Osborne or Ms. Taylor.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Understatement (noun)
A statement that lessens the importance of what is meant.
Saying that The Grand Canyon is “pretty big” is an understatement.

Today is Monday, September 19, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Attention SGA! If you were a delegate last year, and would still like to contribute to the SGA this year, please get in contact with Mr. Carmi. He is the process of creating the SGA roster for this year and is assessing how many new delegates he needs for the 2011-2012 year. SGA roster spots are limited, so please see Mr. Carmi by Tuesday. The SGA will also be having the first meeting of the year Wednesday in room 292 after school. We will be planning out the school year, with a special focus on creating an SGA calendar and the first dance in October. See Carmi if you have any questions.

Cast lists are posted for the fall drama production of “Harvey”! Lists are outside of Ms. Sato’s room (288), the TV studio (270), and Mr. Tobiassen’s office (101D). If you received a role and you accept it, you MUST initial by the end of the day today or your role will be given to another candidate. Our first read-through will be tomorrow, Sept. 20th, in the chorus room until 4pm.

51 athletes showed up to the intramural football meeting last week! We already have 4 teams formed, including the Redskins and Saints! It is not too late to sign up for the league even if you missed the first meeting! Just show up TOMORROW when we have our final meeting to form all the teams.

Comic Book Club meets every Wednesday after school in Room 233, where Mr. O’Shell lives. As Popeye once said, “Any kid which draws pictures can be a member of this swell club!”

The renowned Wood International Night is coming soon on October 5! We need student volunteers to make this another successful and enjoyable evening. If helping “behind the scenes” appeals to you and you can assist in food serving, set-up and clean-up, program distribution, talent and fashion show helping, informational guiding, and other critical jobs, we need you! Signups will be in the cafeteria during all lunches on Wednesday and Thursday, September 21 & 22. All volunteers earn 10 student service learning hours. This is an easy, enjoyable, and international way to serve your community and yourself. Please volunteer!

International Night is also all about the FOOD! If you can bring in a dish that represents a specific culture or country, please sign up in the main office.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Transition words (noun)
Words and phrases that signal a change from one idea to another.
Some transition wordsthat show sequence are first, second, then, and finally.

Today is Friday, September 16, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Cast lists are posted for the fall drama production of “Harvey”! Lists are outside of Ms. Sato’s room (288), the TV studio (270), and Mr. Tobiassen’s office (101D). If you received a role and you accept it, you MUST initial by the end of the day on Monday or your role will be given to another candidate. Our first read-through will be on Tuesday, Sept. 20th in the chorus room until 4pm.

51 athletes showed up to the intramural football meeting yesterday! We already have 4 teams formed, including the Redskins and Saints! It is not too late to sign up for the league even if you missed the meeting yesterday! Just show up on Tuesday when we have our final meeting before we go out to play.

Attention all students: Do you love to draw? Do you read comics or manga? Join the Wood Comic Book Club! Comic Book Club meets every Wednesday after school in Room 233, where Mr. O’Shell lives. As Popeye once said, “Any kid which draws pictures can be a member of this swell club!”

Are you artistic? If so, you are invited to submit your design for the 2011 Spirit Wear Contest! The design must feature the Rockville High School Mascot, the Ram, and school colors, Orange, Black and White. You can also submit a slogan that inspires, motivates, or shows pride in Rockville High School. Slogans can be submitted with or without an artistic submission. All submissions are due by October 14th. There are prizes available for the winner and the runner up – including cash and the chance to see YOUR design on spiritwear! Contact the Rockville Booster Club for more information.

The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test, referred commonly by its acronym, PSAT, is a test usually taken by 10th or 11th graders to prepare students for the SAT. Most colleges refer to the SAT as a key data point in deciding which students they should admit into their school. The test is intended to assess a student’s readiness for college. Wood is the only middle school in the county that gives students the opportunity to take the PSAT. Any student who is enrolled in Algebra I, Honors Geometry, or Honors Algebra II is eligible to participate. We are encouraging all students taking one of these courses to participate. The cost of the test is $14. Please bring back your completed registration form and fee to your math teacher or Mr. Freiman, by September 30th.

MAP-R testing begins on Monday September 19th. You will proceed to a lab with your Social Studies, World Studies, or History teacher unless you are in a class that meets 7th period. Students with a 7th period Social Studies or History class will receive a testing pass for a 1st period testing location. If you are testing 1st period, please check in with your teacher and do not report to your testing location until after attendance is taken and the Morning Show is over. Finally, always do your very best on the MAP-R test as we use these scores to help determine whether students need reading support or if they are ready for more advanced classes. Since this test is so important, all students should get a good night’s sleep before testing and eat a good breakfast, even if you do not normally do so. Also, remember to use all of your test taking skills such as: Using the process of elimination and reading all of the answer choices before selecting your response.
Wood Middle School has exceeded the national median growth rate the last 8 times we have given the MAP-R.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Transition (noun)
a changing from one state, stage, place, or subject to another.
Some students have a hard time with the transition from elementary to middle school.

Today is Thursday, September 15, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

International Night auditions are TODAY and are in the auxiliary gym. Auditions are for the TALENT portion of the show only.

Auditions for the fall drama production, “Harvey” are TODAY after school in the chorus room. You may perform either a partially memorized monologue or a cold-read dialogue.

The mandatory meeting for the Intramural Football League is TODAY. ALL eligible 6th, 7th and 8th graders can participate, and you do NOT need to bring any paperwork. Please do not create your teams until after today’s meeting. Meet Mr. Bing in the main gym at 2:50 to discuss the rules and the set-up of the league, then we’ll go out and play. There will be activity buses to take you home today!

Algebra help with Mr. Freiman will begin after school today. If you need extra help, or, would just like extra practice, please feel welcome to come. It will take place in room 237. See you there!

Attention to all 6th grade students. If you have received a pass for TCB, please report to your teacher’s room today during 7th period. Bring your books with you!

Need help with your homework? Homework Hotline Live starts today! Go to AskHHL.org or MCPS cable TV from 4 to 6 pm and talk with real MCPS teachers. You can call in with your homework questions from 4 to 6 pm, and text from the Hotline website, or right from your phone, until 9 at night! So write it down: AskHHL.org, or call 301-279-3234. That’s AskHHL.org and 301-279-3234.

Attention staff and students: MAP-R testing begins on Monday 09/19. Students will be brought to the computer labs by their World Studies or History teachers. In order to be at your best when you test, please get a good night’s sleep and eat a good breakfast before you take the test. Ask your World Studies or History teacher when your class is scheduled to take the MAP-R so you will be ready next week.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Transformation (noun)
A movement of geometric figures in the coordinate plane.
Translations (slides), reflections (flips), and rotations (turns) are all types of transformations performed on the coordinate plane.

Today is Monday, September 12, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

International Night auditions are THIS Wednesday and Thursday, September 14th and 15th, and will be in the auxiliary gym. Auditions are for the TALENT portion of the show only. Stay tuned for further information if you are interested in being a model. If you have a conflict with audition times for International Night, please speak with Ms. Blauser or Ms. Sato to arrange an alternative audition time.

In addition, tomorrow will be an optional rehearsal day for talent groups that want to try out for International Night. If you would like to take advantage of this rehearsal, please speak to Ms. Blauser.

Auditions for the fall drama production, “Harvey” are this week, Wednesday, Sept. 14th and Thursday, Sept. 15th after school in the chorus room. You may perform either a partially memorized monologue or a cold-read dialogue.

Since auditions for International Night and drama are the same days, if you want to try out for both, please be aware that you do NOT have to be at both days of auditions for either event. See Ms. Sato if you have any questions.

Have you ever heard of intramural sports? Intramurals are designed to promote participation in sport to all eligible middle school students, both male and female, grades 6, 7 and 8, from our school only! There are no try-outs, and you don’t need much experience to play. Mr. Bingaman will be starting intramural football this Thursday with an informational meeting in the gym after school.

Tryouts for boys and girls softball will take place tomorrow and Wednesday this week, and there will be activity buses available.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Third person point of view (noun phrase)
The viewpoint that tells things from the perspective of an onlooker.
The novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, is written in the third person.
You can recognize the third person point of view by the use of pronouns such as she, he, it, they, and them.

Today is Friday, September 09, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

International Night auditions have been moved to next Wednesday and Thursday, September 14th and 15th, and will be in the auxiliary gym. Auditions are for the TALENT portion of the show only. Stay tuned next week for further information if you are interested in being a model.

If you have a conflict with audition times for International Night, please speak with Ms. Blauser or Ms. Sato to arrange an alternative audition time.

In addition, Tuesday, September 13th will be an optional rehearsal day for talent groups that want to try out for International Night. If you would like to take advantage of this rehearsal, please speak to Ms. Blauser.

Auditions for the fall drama production, “Harvey” are next week – Wednesday, Sept. 14th and Thursday, Sept. 15th after school in the chorus room. You may perform either a partially memorized monologue or a cold-read dialogue.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Thesis statement (noun)
A simple sentence that announces the writer's attitude toward the subject and suggests an essay's overall pattern of organization.
Here’s an example of a thesis statement:
The potential benefits of using public transportation are saving money, saving time, and saving energy.

Today is Thursday, September 08, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

International Night auditions have been moved to next Wednesday and Thursday, September 14th and 15th, and will be in the auxiliary gym. If you have a conflict, please speak with Ms. Blauser or Ms. Sato to arrange an alternative audition time.

In addition, Tuesday, September 13th will be a rehearsal day for groups that want to try out for International Night. If you would like to take advantage of this, please speak to Ms. Blauser.

Today’s word of the day is…
Text features (noun)
features of informational text that help the reader to better understand.
Text features include titles, illustrations, captions, diagrams, labels, and even maps.

Today is Wednesday, September 07, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

International Night auditions have been moved to NEXT WEEK. Again, there are NO try-outs today. Exact dates, times, and location will be announced later in the week.

Auditions for the fall drama production, “Harvey” are next week – Wednesday, Sept. 14th and Thursday, Sept. 15th after school in the chorus room. See Ms. Sato if you have any questions.

Attention 7th and 8th graders: Tryouts for girls softball will begin TODAY! The boys will start tryouts TOMORROW! Arrive with your parent permission form, your physical form and dressed ready to play.

Cross country also starts TODAY with an informational meeting in Ms. Blair’s room 230 from 2:50 to 3:15. You will not be running , but you do need to turn in the parent permission forms. Cross country practice will then start TOMORROW.

For tryouts this week, there will be NO activity buses, so you will need to find your own way home. Activity buses will begin on Tuesday, September 13th!

Come out to the RFL fields this Saturday at 6:15 to cheer on our Rams as they face the Titans.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Theme (noun)
the message or main idea about a topic or life that an author wants the reader to remember.
One of the main themes of The Pearl by John Steinbeck is that greed is a destructive and evil force.

Today is Tuesday, September 06, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

International Night auditions have been moved to NEXT WEEK. Exact dates, times, and location will be announced later in the week.

Auditions for the fall drama production, “Harvey” are next week – Wednesday, Sept. 14th and Thursday, Sept. 15th after school in the chorus room. See Ms. Sato if you have any questions.

Attention 7th and 8th graders: Tryouts for both boys and girls softball will begin TOMORROW. Arrive with your parent permission form, your physical form and dressed ready to play.

Cross country also starts TOMORROW with an informational meeting in Ms. Blair’s room 230 from 2:50 to 3:15. You will not be running, but you do need to turn in the parent permission forms. Cross country practice will then start on Thursday.

For tryouts this week, there will be NO activity buses, so you will need to find a way home. Activity buses will begin next Tuesday, September 13th!

In other sports news, our middle school Rams football team dominated the Wildcats on Saturday 44-6. Come out to the RFL fields this Saturday at 6:15 to cheer on our Rams as they face the Titans.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Test (verb)
to prove or disprove a theory or hypothesis by trying it.
At the Science Expo, Mr. Durbin asked some students to test their hypotheses again in front of our guests.

Today is Friday, September 02, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Interested in auditioning for International Night? Try-outs are on Wednesday and Thursday, September 7th and 8th, in the gym after school. There are NO activity busses yet, so you must have a ride home. If you cannot arrange a ride, please speak to Ms. Sato or Ms. Blauser for an alternative audition time. Remember – your act doesn’t need to be perfect; we’re just looking for potential!

Wood Athletics: Our school offers four varsity sports for 7th and 8th graders only, for both boys and girls. The sports include softball and cross country in the fall, basketball over the winter, and soccer in the spring. If you are interested in trying out for any of these sports, you will need a physical from your doctor BEFORE you try-out. Mr. Allen and Mr. Bingaman will be distributing information this week during your PE/Health periods about softball and cross country this fall. Tryouts for both of these sports will start on Wednesday, September 7th.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Synthesize (verb)
to combine different ideas in order to create something new and substantially different.
The students synthesized their answers after reading information from many sources.

Today is Thursday, September 01, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Interested in acting, or being part of a backstage crew? If so, come to the Drama meeting TODAY after school in room 288. Drama is open to all grade levels, so don’t be shy! The meeting will only be about half an hour long, and we will discuss the shows for this year, audition & show dates, and what you can expect at auditions and rehearsals. Remember – there are NO activity busses, so you MUST have a ride home. If you cannot get a ride home, you can pick up a copy of the notes tomorrow morning, or you can speak to Ms. Sato.

Interested in auditioning for International Night? Try-outs are on Wednesday and Thursday, September 6th and 7th, in the gym after school. There are NO activity busses yet, so you must have a ride home. If you cannot arrange a ride, please speak to Ms. Sato or Ms. Blauser for an alternative audition time. Remember – your act doesn’t need to be perfect; we’re just looking for potential!

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Symbolism (noun)
The use of a person, place, item, etc. to represent an abstract idea.
The U.S. flag is a symbolof freedom. A red rose symbolizes love.

Today is Wednesday, August 31, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Attention students and staff: Did you know that Wood MS has once again won a Green School award? Well, we have, but we can still do much more to recycle effectively and conserve energy! Please do your share by turning off lights when they are not needed and by using the recycling bins properly. Please remember never to put trash in the recycling bin and to empty all cans and bottles before you put them in the proper bin. If you are interested in making Wood a greener school, please consider joining the Green Team.

Interested in acting, or being part of a backstage crew? If so, come to the Drama meeting tomorrow after school in room 288. Drama is open to all grade levels, so don’t be shy! The meeting will only be about half an hour long, and we will discuss the shows for this year, audition & show dates, and what you can expect at auditions and rehearsals. Remember – there are NO activity busses, so you MUST have a ride home. If you cannot get a ride home, you can pick up a copy of the notes on Friday morning, or you can speak to Ms. Sato.

Our theme for International Night this year is London 2012 Olympics. We’re going bigger and better this year, and including THREE fashion shows and TWO talent shows... As well as all of the delicious food you’re used to! Our fashion shows will include a theme of hats, to honor the British peoples’ adoration of interesting headwear; a theme of Olympic and sportswear; and a final theme of International clothing.

For the talent side of International Night, we are looking for singers, dancers, speakers, as well as Olympic talents. If you are interested in auditioning for International Night, try-outs will be held next week on Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 7 & 8. Try-outs will be in the gym after school. Since activity busses won’t be running yet, you will need to find a ride home. If you can’t get a ride, please come speak to one of us so that we can arrange a different audition time for you. We know that one week is not a lot of time to prepare something, but please remember that we are not looking for perfect acts – just potential!

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Suspense (noun)
An uncertainty about what is going to happen in a story (or in real life). Suspense results from the reader's identification with and concern for the welfare of a sympathetic character.
We waited in suspense for the fire rescue workers to arrive.

Today is Tuesday, August 30, 2011.

Here is what’s happening around school today.

Are you interested in showing off your talent on stage? Stay tuned tomorrow to learn more about International Night tryouts!

And, if International Night isn’t enough to satisfy your performance bug, come to an informational meeting about Drama and the upcoming theatre season at Wood! Drama is open to all grade levels, so don’t be shy! The meeting will be THIS Thursday, September 1st, after school in Ms. Sato’s room, 288. The meeting will only be about half an hour long, and we will discuss the shows for this year, audition & show dates, and what you can expect at auditions and rehearsals. Remember – there are NO activity busses, so you MUST have a ride home. If you cannot get a ride home, you can pick up a copy of the notes on Friday morning, or you can speak to Ms. Sato.

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Surface area (noun)
The sum of the areas of all the faces of a three-dimensional figure.
To find the area of a rectangular prism, find the area of each of the six rectangular faces and add them together.

Today is Monday, August 29, 2011.

Here’s what is happening around school today.

Are you interested in showing off your talent on stage? Stay tuned this week to learn more about drama auditions and International Night tryouts!

Today’s Word of the Day is…
Support (verb)
to give examples, reasons, or numbers to prove an idea.
Ms. Cicola requires us to support our topic sentences when we write well-developed paragraphs.