What’s Happening in January for Eleventh Grade?

11th Grade – January Curriculum Overview

Welcome to January! Our theme is Renewal—a time to reset, set new intentions, and approach learning with fresh energy. We have four instructional weeks this month, with no school on Monday, January 19, for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This is a great time to reflect on Dr. King’s vision for justice and equality and consider how you can be a positive force in your community.

Week 21 (Jan 5–8): New Beginnings

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read a selection (book, article, or essay) focused on personal growth or transformation.
    Reading Log: Read daily and record title, author, minutes, and a thoughtful reflection. Submit logs in Google Classroom at the month’s end.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write about a time you experienced renewal or a fresh start. Focus on structure and clarity.
  • Spelling (Renewal Vocabulary):
    • Week 21 words: renewal, transformation, initiative, resolve, optimism, clarity, adapt, vision, perseverance, motivation
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a complex sentence.
      • Wednesday: Identify each word in your reading or writing.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Review and practice solving equations, inequalities, and algebraic expressions.
• Science: Investigate cycles and renewal in nature—how ecosystems recover and adapt.
• Social Studies/History: Explore New Year’s traditions and how different cultures celebrate renewal.
• Music: Listen to or analyze a piece of music that represents new beginnings. How does music express change?
• Art: Create an artwork or collage that symbolizes your goals or hopes for the year ahead.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 22 (Jan 12–15): Setting Intentions

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read a biography or memoir about someone who overcame obstacles and renewed their path.
    Reading Log: Continue daily entries and reflections.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a letter to your future self about your intentions for this year—what will you work toward?
  • Spelling (Intentions & Growth):
    • Week 22 words: intention, perseverance, initiative, achievement, resilience, focus, resourceful, progress, mindful, aspiration
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a complex sentence.
      • Wednesday: Identify each word in your reading or writing.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Apply algebra and statistics to real-life scenarios (budgets, planning, or predictions).
• Science: Study plant or animal adaptations and survival strategies as forms of renewal.
• Social Studies/History: Research a leader who set and achieved meaningful goals.
• Music: Explore musical pieces that inspire change or hope. Try composing a short melody.
• Art: Design a vision board or digital artwork for your intentions in 2026.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 23 (Jan 19–22): Dreaming Big (No School Monday – MLK Jr. Day)

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read about Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement.
    Reading Log: Continue daily entries and reflections.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a reflection on your own dreams for your life, community, or the world. What actions can you take to make a difference?
  • Spelling (Dream & Justice):
    • Week 23 words: dream, justice, equality, inspire, speech, courage, unite, peace, respect, legacy
    • Weekly spelling routine (Tue–Fri):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Tuesday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Wednesday: Use each word in a complex sentence.
      • Thursday: Identify each word in your reading or writing.
      • Friday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Explore mathematical patterns or sequences—how do they relate to growth and progress?
• Science: Study innovations and discoveries that transformed society.
• Social Studies/History: Discuss MLK Jr.’s legacy and the ongoing work for justice and equality.
• Music: Listen to or perform a piece related to the Civil Rights Movement.
• Art: Create a poster or digital artwork about your dreams for a better world.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 24 (Jan 26–29): Growth & Reflection

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Choose a book, article, or poem that inspires you to try something new.
    Reading Log: Complete and submit your January reading log in Google Classroom.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a story or essay about a character who faces challenges and grows from them.
  • Spelling (Growth & Hope):
    • Week 24 words: growth, hope, challenge, adapt, future, learn, support, imagine, succeed, renewal
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a complex sentence.
      • Wednesday: Identify each word in your reading or writing.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Review and practice key math concepts from this month.
• Science: Reflect on how science helps us solve problems and innovate.
• Social Studies/History: Share something new you learned about a person, movement, or place this month.
• Music: Create a playlist or journal entry about music that inspires you to grow.
• Art: Make a “January Reflections” collage or sketchbook page.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Fun Fridays (Jan 9, 16, 23, 30)

• Jan 9 – New Year’s Vision: Create a vision board or digital collage for 2026.
• Jan 16 – Kindness in Action: Do a random act of kindness and reflect on the impact.
• Jan 23 – MLK Reflection: Watch or read about Dr. King and discuss what “dream” means to you.
• Jan 30 – Winter Nature Walk: Go outside and notice signs of renewal in nature. Write or sketch your observations.

Recommended Free Resources

• Khan Academy – Literature & Writing
• Purdue OWL – Writing & Grammar
• ReadWriteThink – High School ELA
• iCivics – Government & Social Studies

January is about fresh starts, setting intentions, and believing in your ability to grow. Let’s renew our energy, curiosity, and commitment to learning together!

What’s Happening in January for Eighth Grade?

8th Grade – January Curriculum Overview

Welcome to January! Our theme this month is Renewal—a time for fresh starts, new goals, and building on what we’ve learned. We have four instructional weeks this month, with no school on Monday, January 19, for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Use this time to learn about Dr. King’s vision for justice and equality, and reflect on how you can contribute to a kinder world.

Week 21 (Jan 5–8): New Year, New Goals

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read a story or article about someone who made a fresh start or overcame a challenge.
    Reading Log: Read daily and record title, author, minutes, and a short reflection. Submit logs in Google Classroom at the month’s end.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write about a goal you want to achieve this year and the steps you’ll take to reach it.
  • Spelling (Renewal Words):
    • Week 21 words: renewal, ambition, determination, optimism, adapt, progress, challenge, opportunity, commitment, vision
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a sentence.
      • Wednesday: Copy each word in cursive or type it three times.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Review and practice solving equations and expressions.
• Science: Explore cycles in nature—how ecosystems renew themselves.
• Social Studies/History: Learn about New Year’s traditions and celebrations around the world.
• Music: Listen to or learn a song about new beginnings. How does music inspire you?
• Art: Create an artwork that represents your hopes or goals for the year.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 22 (Jan 12–15): Setting Intentions

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read a biography of someone who made a difference through perseverance.
    Reading Log: Continue daily entries and reflections.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a letter to your future self about what you hope to accomplish this year.
  • Spelling (Intentions & Growth):
    • Week 22 words: intention, perseverance, initiative, improvement, resilience, focus, resourceful, achieve, mindful, progress
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a sentence.
      • Wednesday: Copy each word in cursive or type it three times.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Practice operations with fractions and decimals in real-world contexts.
• Science: Investigate plant life cycles and renewal in nature.
• Social Studies/History: Study a leader who set and achieved meaningful goals.
• Music: Try composing a short melody or rhythm that represents a “fresh start.”
• Art: Make a vision board or digital collage of your intentions for the year.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 23 (Jan 19–22): Dreaming Big (No School Monday – MLK Jr. Day)

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read about Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement.
    Reading Log: Continue daily entries and reflections.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write about your own dream for your community or the world. What actions can you take to make a difference?
  • Spelling (Dream & Justice):
    • Week 23 words: dream, justice, equality, inspire, speech, courage, unite, peace, respect, legacy
    • Weekly spelling routine (Tue–Fri):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Tuesday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Wednesday: Use each word in a sentence.
      • Thursday: Copy each word in cursive or type it three times.
      • Friday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Explore patterns, sequences, and predictions.
• Science: Learn about inventors and innovations that shaped society.
• Social Studies/History: Discuss MLK Jr.’s legacy and the impact of the Civil Rights Movement.
• Music: Listen to or perform a song from the Civil Rights era.
• Art: Create a poster or mural about your dreams for a better world.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 24 (Jan 26–29): Growth & Reflection

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Choose a book or article that inspires you to try something new.
    Reading Log: Complete and submit your January reading log in Google Classroom.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a short story about a character who faces a challenge and grows from it.
  • Spelling (Growth & Hope):
    • Week 24 words: growth, hope, challenge, adapt, future, learn, support, imagine, succeed, renewal
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a sentence.
      • Wednesday: Copy each word in cursive or type it three times.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Review and practice key math concepts from this month.
• Science: Reflect on how science helps us solve problems and innovate.
• Social Studies/History: Share something new you learned about a person or place this month.
• Music: Create a playlist or journal entry about music that inspires you to grow.
• Art: Make a “January Reflections” collage or sketchbook page.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Fun Fridays (Jan 9, 16, 23, 30)

• Jan 9 – New Year’s Art: Create a vision board or digital collage for 2026.
• Jan 16 – Kindness Challenge: Do a random act of kindness and share your story.
• Jan 23 – MLK Reflection: Watch a video or read about Dr. King. Reflect on what “dream” means to you.
• Jan 30 – Winter Nature Walk: Go outside and notice signs of renewal in nature.

Recommended Free Resources

• Khan Academy – Literature & Writing
• Purdue OWL – Writing & Grammar
• ReadWriteThink – Middle School ELA
• iCivics – Government & Social Studies

January is all about fresh starts, setting intentions, and believing in your ability to grow. Let’s renew our energy and curiosity together!

Hearth Circle: Embracing Fresh Starts & New Intentions

January Hearth Circle – The Month of Renewal

🎉 JANUARY 2026 🎉

🙌 THE MONTH OF RENEWAL 🙌

💖 Monthly Mantra 💖 

 (use to light candle/chalice)

 

 In this new year, we open our hearts to renewal, 

 Welcoming fresh starts and gentle hope. 

 We gather together, letting go of what is past, 

 And setting intentions for the days ahead. 

 We choose to support one another with patience and kindness, 

 Trusting that every sunrise brings another chance to grow. 

 May our home be filled with peace and possibility, 

 And may we carry the spirit of renewal into all we do. 

🔔 Extinguishing the Chalice 🔔 

 As we extinguish this flame, we remember that new beginnings are always possible. 

 May we carry courage when we feel uncertain, 

 Gentleness for ourselves and others, 

 And hope for the journey ahead. 

 Even when the path feels unclear, 

 May we trust in the promise of renewal. 

🎉 Friday Fun Days 🎉 

 Jan 9: Vision board — create a collage or drawing of your hopes and dreams for 2026. 
  

Jan 16: Kindness challenge — do a random act of kindness and share your story with the family.   

 

Jan 23: MLK reflection — listen to a short story or watch a video about Dr. King, then talk about your own dreams for a better world. 

 

Jan 30: Winter nature walk — bundle up and go outside to notice signs of renewal in nature. Share something new you see or feel.

What’s Happening in January for Fifth Grade?

5th Grade – January Curriculum Overview

 

Welcome to January! Our theme this month is Renewal—a time to refresh our minds, set new intentions, and bring positive energy into our learning. We’ll focus on starting the new year with curiosity, kindness, and a renewed sense of purpose. There are four instructional weeks this month, with no school on Monday, January 19, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Take a moment that week to learn about Dr. King’s dream for equality and how we can help others in our communities.

Week 21 (Jan 5–8): New Beginnings

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read a story or article about fresh starts or personal growth.
    Reading Log: Read daily and record title, author, minutes, and a short reflection. Submit logs in Google Classroom at the month’s end.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write about a time you tried something new or set a goal for yourself.
  • Spelling (Renewal Words):
    • Week 21 words: renew, begin, change, goal, fresh, resolve, growth, habit, journey, improve
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a sentence.
      • Wednesday: Copy each word in cursive or type it three times.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Review place value and practice multi-digit multiplication/division.
• Science: Explore the water cycle as a symbol of renewal. Try a simple evaporation experiment.
• Social Studies/History: Learn about New Year traditions around the world.
• Music: Listen to a song about new beginnings. How does music make you feel hopeful?
• Art: Create a “New Year, New Me” self-portrait or collage.
• PE: 20–30 minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 22 (Jan 12–15): Setting Intentions

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read a biography of someone who made a positive change.
    Reading Log: Continue daily entries and reflections.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a letter to your future self with your hopes for the year.
  • Spelling (Intentions & Growth):
    • Week 22 words: intention, focus, effort, courage, plan, achieve, wish, support, mindful, progress
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a sentence.
      • Wednesday: Copy each word in cursive or type it three times.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Practice fractions and decimals in real-life scenarios (cooking, shopping, etc.).
• Science: Investigate plant growth and how living things renew themselves.
• Social Studies/History: Study someone who made a difference by setting big goals.
• Music: Learn a new song or instrument technique. What’s challenging about learning something new?
• Art: Draw or paint a picture representing your goals for the year.
• PE: 20–30 minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 23 (Jan 19–22): Dreaming Big (No School Monday – MLK Jr. Day)

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read about Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement.
    Reading Log: Continue daily entries and reflections.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write about your own dream for a kinder, fairer world. What can you do to help others?
  • Spelling (Dream & Justice):
    • Week 23 words: dream, justice, peace, equality, kindness, speech, inspire, unite, freedom, respect
    • Weekly spelling routine (Tue–Fri):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Tuesday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Wednesday: Use each word in a sentence.
      • Thursday: Copy each word in cursive or type it three times.
      • Friday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Explore patterns and sequences—what comes next?
• Science: Learn about inventors and inventions that changed the world.
• Social Studies/History: Discuss the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King’s legacy.
• Music: Listen to or sing “We Shall Overcome” or another song of hope.
• Art: Make a poster or mural about your dreams for your community.
• PE: 20–30 minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 24 (Jan 26–29): Fresh Starts & Looking Forward

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Choose a book or article that inspires you to try something new.
    Reading Log: Complete and submit your January reading log in Google Classroom.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a story about a character who faces a challenge and grows from it.
  • Spelling (Renewal & Hope):
    • Week 24 words: hope, challenge, renew, brave, future, learn, adapt, support, imagine, succeed
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a sentence.
      • Wednesday: Copy each word in cursive or type it three times.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Review and practice key math concepts from this month.
• Science: Reflect on how science helps us grow and solve problems.
• Social Studies/History: Share something new you learned about a person or place this month.
• Music: Create a playlist of songs that help you feel renewed or hopeful.
• Art: Make a “January Reflections” collage or drawing.
• PE: 20–30 minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Fun Fridays (Jan 9, 16, 23, 30)

• Jan 9 – New Year’s Art: Create a vision board for 2026.
• Jan 16 – Kindness Challenge: Do a random act of kindness and share your story.
• Jan 23 – MLK Reflection: Watch a short video or read a story about Dr. King. Talk about what “dream” means to you.
• Jan 30 – Winter Nature Walk: Go outside and notice signs of renewal in nature.

Recommended Free Resources

• Khan Academy – Literature & Writing
• Purdue OWL – Writing & Grammar
• ReadWriteThink – Elementary ELA
• iCivics – Government & Social Studies

January is all about fresh starts, setting intentions, and believing in your ability to grow. Let’s renew our energy and curiosity together!

What’s Happening in December for Eighth Grade?

8th Grade – December Curriculum Overview

 

December’s theme is Light. For 8th grade, we’ll explore how wisdom, creativity, and kindness can help us “shine” in our families and communities. We have three instructional weeks before Winter Break (December 22, 2025 – January 2, 2026). Always check Google Classroom for assignments, reading logs, and updates.

Week 18 (Dec 1–4): Shining a Light on Understanding

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read a chapter or article about a historical or literary figure who made a positive impact.
    Reading Log: Read daily and record title, author, minutes, and a short reflection. Logs are submitted in Google Classroom at the month’s end.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a paragraph about how someone’s actions brought “light” to their community. Focus on using strong topic sentences and supporting details.
  • Spelling (Academic Vocabulary):
    • Week 18 words: illuminate, influence, perspective, empathy, altruism, clarity, resolve, inspire, community, support
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a sentence.
      • Wednesday: Copy each word in cursive or type it three times.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Practice solving equations and word problems involving “light”—distance, speed, or time.
• Science: Study properties of light—reflection, refraction, and color. Try a simple experiment with a flashlight and a mirror.
• Social Studies/History: Research a leader or movement that brought positive change. Share your findings in a short presentation or discussion.
• Music: Listen to a song about hope or kindness. Reflect on how music can lift others up.
• Art: Create a drawing or painting that uses light and shadow to tell a story or express emotion.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom (walk, run, dance, etc.).

Week 19 (Dec 8–11): Voices that Shine – Advocacy & Action

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read an article or speech about advocacy or social change.
    Reading Log: Continue daily entries and reflections.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a persuasive letter or short essay: “How can young people use their voices to make a difference?” Practice using transitions and persuasive language.
  • Spelling (Advocacy & Action):
    • Week 19 words: advocate, empower, courage, initiative, collaboration, communicate, resolve, justice, fairness, leadership
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a persuasive sentence.
      • Wednesday: Copy each word in cursive or type it three times.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Analyze data or create graphs about a real-world issue (energy use, access to education, etc.).
• Science: Research renewable energy sources or how light is used in technology. Present findings in a poster or short video.
• Social Studies/History: Study a historical event or a leader who stood up for justice. Discuss relevance today.
• Music: Learn about a musician who used their art for social change. Listen and discuss the message.
• Art: Create a poster or digital artwork advocating for a cause important to you.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 20 (Dec 15–18): Reflection & Growth – Carrying Light Forward

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Finish your December book or selection. Reflect on the main themes and lessons.
    Reading Log: Complete and submit your December reading log in Google Classroom.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a personal reflection: “How have I grown or helped others this year?” Review grammar skills as needed.
  • Spelling (Reflection & Growth):
    • Week 20 words: reflect, resilience, perseverance, insight, gratitude, summary, theme, evidence, revision, accomplishment
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a reflective sentence.
      • Wednesday: Copy each word in cursive or type it three times.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Semester review—practice key concepts and problem-solving skills from the fall.
• Science: Review major science topics from the semester. Optional: create a concept map or summary notes.
• Social Studies/History: Reflect on what you’ve learned about leadership, change, and resilience.
• Music: Create a playlist or journal entry about songs that inspired you this year.
• Art: Make a “Year of Light” collage or artwork showing your growth and hopes for the new year.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Fun Fridays (Dec 5, 12, 19)

• Dec 5 – Lanterns of Light: Make a lantern or artwork using light and color. Talk about how people can be “lights” in their communities.
• Dec 12 – Light of Kindness: Write a thank-you note or create a digital message for someone who has helped you this year.
• Dec 19 – Solstice Reflection: Family or solo ritual: reflect on your growth and set a hope for the new year.

Optional Family Fun Day (Dec 26 – During Winter Break)

• Year-in-Light Reflection: As a family, share highlights and challenges from 2025, and how each person brought light to themselves or others.

Recommended Free Resources

• Khan Academy – Literature & Writing
• Purdue OWL – Writing & Grammar
• ReadWriteThink – Middle School ELA
• iCivics – Government & Social Studies

December in 8th grade is about finishing the semester strong, reflecting on how you can be a source of light for yourself and your community, and setting intentions for the new year. Use the break to recharge and celebrate your growth!

What’s Happening in December for Eleventh Grade?

11th Grade – December Curriculum Overview

 

December’s theme is Light. In 11th grade, we’ll focus on how knowledge, self-reflection, and action can serve as “light” in our lives and communities. We have three instructional weeks before Winter Break (December 22, 2025 – January 2, 2026). Students should always check Google Classroom for assignments, reading logs, and updates.

Week 18 (Dec 1–4): Illuminating Ideas – Research & Reflection

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read your chosen classic or contemporary literature, focusing on passages about discovery, hope, or personal growth.
    Reading Log: Read daily and record title, author, minutes, and a thoughtful reflection in your digital log. Logs are submitted in Google Classroom at the month’s end.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a short analytical response: “How does the main character act as a ‘light’ or catalyst for change?” Edit a previous essay for clarity, grammar, and structure.
  • Spelling (Academic Vocabulary):
    • Week 18 words: illuminate, catalyst, perspective, synthesis, thesis, evidence, analysis, articulate, clarity, nuance
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a complex sentence.
      • Wednesday: Identify each word in context from your reading.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Apply algebraic reasoning to real-world “light” problems (angles of reflection, brightness, or rates of change).
• Science: Explore the physics of light—reflection, refraction, and the electromagnetic spectrum. Try a simple experiment (prism, lenses, color mixing).
• Social Studies/History: Investigate historical figures or movements that “brought light” to society (civil rights, scientific discovery, reformers).
• Music: Listen to and analyze a piece of music that uses “light” as a theme (e.g., Debussy’s “Clair de Lune,” or a song of your choice). Reflect on how music can express illumination or hope.
• Art: Create a visual artwork inspired by the concept of light—photography, painting, or drawing. Experiment with shadows, highlights, or color to show “illumination.”
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom (walk, run, yoga, dance, etc.).

Week 19 (Dec 8–11): Voices & Vision – Sharing the Light

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read and annotate an essay, speech, or article about leadership or advocacy.
    Reading Log: Continue daily entries and reflections.
  • Writing/Grammar: Draft a persuasive essay: “How can individuals use their voice to create positive change?” Practice using parallel structure and advanced punctuation.
  • Spelling (Argument & Rhetoric):
    • Week 19 words: rhetoric, ethos, pathos, logos, assertion, counterclaim, refute, synthesize, perspective, audience
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a persuasive sentence or argument.
      • Wednesday: Identify each word in context from your reading or research.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Analyze graphs or statistics related to social issues (e.g., access to education, literacy rates, or energy use).
• Science: Research renewable energy sources and their impact. Present findings in a short report or presentation.
• Social Studies/History: Study a reform movement or leader who used their “voice” for change. Discuss relevance today.
• Music: Find and share a song that advocates for change or carries a message of hope. Discuss how music can inspire action.
• Art: Create a visual or performance piece that conveys a message or advocates for a cause—poster, painting, or digital art.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 20 (Dec 15–18): Reflection & Resilience – Carrying Light Forward

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Finish your December book or major reading selection. Reflect on key themes and lessons.
    Reading Log: Complete and submit your December reading log in Google Classroom.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a personal reflection: “How have I brought light to my own life or others this year?” Review grammar or writing skills as needed (student choice or teacher feedback).
  • Spelling (Review & Reflection):
    • Week 20 words: reflect, resilience, perseverance, insight, clarity, summary, synthesis, theme, evidence, revision
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a reflective or analytical sentence.
      • Wednesday: Identify each word in your own writing or reading.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Semester review—practice key algebra, statistics, and problem-solving skills.
• Science: Review major science topics from the fall. Optional: create a mind map or concept chart.
• Social Studies/History: Reflect on what you’ve learned about leadership, change, and resilience.
• Music: Create a playlist or write a review of songs that helped you through the year. How did music support your resilience?
• Art: Create a “Year of Light” portfolio page, collage, or artwork that captures your growth and learning in 2025.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Fun Fridays (Dec 5, 12, 19)

• Dec 5 – Lanterns of Light: Create a lantern or light-inspired artwork. Discuss how symbolic “light” has appeared in literature or history.
• Dec 12 – Light of Kindness: Write a letter or create a digital post to encourage or thank someone who has been a positive influence.
• Dec 19 – Solstice Reflection: Take time for self-reflection or a family ritual. Share a hope or intention for the new year.

Optional Family Fun Day (Dec 26 – During Winter Break)

• Year-in-Light Reflection: As a family, discuss highlights and challenges from 2025, and how each person brought light to themselves or others.

Recommended Free Resources

• Khan Academy – Literature & Writing
• Purdue OWL – Writing & Grammar
• ReadWriteThink – High School ELA
• iCivics – Government & Social Studies

December in 11th grade is about finishing the semester strong and reflecting on how you can be a source of light for yourself and your community. Focus on what matters most, and use the break to recharge for the new year!