December 19th

Today we finished up learning about abusive relationships. Their Baby, Think it Over reports were also due and scored today. These were due for those students who decided not to take one of the electronic dolls over a weekend and chose the report option instead.

December 18th

There was no class today because of the music department assembly.

December 17th

Students were given a new seating chart and we did their journal entry. They finished watching a video on recognizing and preventing abuse in relationships, especially dating relationships and enjoyed carols from the foreign language classes.

December 16th

Students discussed the warning signs of abusive relationships and how to prevent dating violence from occuring. Students were given ideas of ways to date more safely and people to contact if something does occur.

December 15th

Students discussed how and why people break-up and how students can handle break-ups better. We also discussed how relationships leave their mark on our personalities and will affect our future relationships.

December 12th

Today, we discussed and learned about the differences between love and infactuation. We should a short video clip from "Little Manhattan" and used questions and role plays as examples for the students to decide if it is love or infactuation.

December 11th

Today, students were given ideas of inexpensive and creative dates. We also analyzed a date from the perspective of both a girl and a boy and what both could be or are thinking.

December 10th

We discussed why people date, some of the unrealistic expectations people have for the people they date. We also watched the video "CinderEdna" and discussed what men and women are really looking for in the people they date.

December 9th

Students discussed what they are looking for in a future mate and people they date. They watched a video titled "The book and the rose" about looking past people's exteriors to see what is inside.

December 8th

Students finished watching the videos clips on adolescent attractions and we then discussed why we date and what outside variables affect when and who we date.

December 5th

Students learned about the stages of adolescent attraction by discussing each stage and by using examples. They took notes while we discussed and video clips were used to identify the different stages.

December 3rd

The students had a sub today and had a lesson on Peer pressure. Nothing was due or was assigned today. The read a story called "A Bad Case of the Stripes." They should have discussed why people give in to peer pressure and done a couple of activities related to this. I should be feeling better and back at work tomorrow and we will start where we left off in class yesterday.

December 4th

The students watched a demonstration of how the electronic babies work, what items are sent home with the babies and what the student will be scored on. They learned about the check-out and check-in times and procedures. There is also a report option that any student who chooses to opt out of the baby simulation can do to earn the points instead. The first babies will be checked out starting tomorrow (Friday).

December 2nd

Students are watching an educational movie titled "No Big Deal" on teens, relationships, decisions and consequences, critical thinking skills and peer pressure. They will finish this on Wednesday (tomorrow).

December 1st

Students read along to a taped copy of an assembly given a number of years ago by an inmate named Rex on the effects of peer pressure. We didn't have time to do the questions which go along with the tape, so we will discuss the story later.

November 26th

Students are watching an educational movie titled "No Big Deal" on teens, relationships, decisions and consequences, critical thinking skills and peer pressure. They will finish this on Monday.

November 25th

The students learned about peer pressure, what it is, why it occurs and what they can do to combat negative types of peer pressure. We also had a couple of activities related to peer pressure, but no assignment.

November 24th

Students compared friendships to pottery. Friendships can be great and you have to put a lot of work into them, but if they are broken, they can never be fully repaired. We also had an example of breaking a friendship (or in our case, a plate) and two students tried to repair it the best they could. We then discussed how this also applies to any of our friendships.

November 21st

We identified the differences between peers and friends and discussed qualities of a good friend and good friendship. We also discussed the changing types of friendships throughout our lives. Nothing was due today.

November 20th

Students watched the video "The Mailbox" about the importance of caring for and communicating with the elderly and grandparents. They were then given time to answer questions about their own grandparents or elderly people in their lives. At the end of class, students were given the option of completing two different activities to earn extra credit. One is an interview and one is a simulation of doing an activity the way it used to be done without modern conveniences. This is needs to be turned in by the last week of the semester.

November 19th

The students learned about how the elderly are often taken advantage of and some of the programs available to the elderly for extra help and support. We also discussed the increase in elder abuse and watched a video made by the state of Utah about what elder abuse is and who to report abuse to if we suspect abuse occurring to an elderly person we know.

November 18th

Students discussed aging and what they consider "Elderly." Students learned about the Stages of the Life Span, reasons for the growing elderly population and how they feel about being "Old" longer than they were considered "Young." We discussed activities, such as service and employment the elderly participate in to keep them active.

November 17th

We continued discussing the elderly and how they relate to teens and families. We also watched a couple of clips from "Young@Heart"

November 14th

Due to the unusually high number of students absent today (I hear that there was a math and a science test today), we started watching "Young@Heart" which is a documentary about seniors signing rock songs. We were going to watch it next week when we focus on relationships with the elderly, but decided to start watching it today and the lesson from today dealing with support systems will be moved to Monday.

November 13th

Students learned about and discussed Maslow's Hierarchy of Human Needs. We discussed each level in detail and gave examples of all. We also related these needs to their needs, as well as the needs of their parents. Also, their Family TV analysis and the How well do you know your parents? interview is due into the basket by the end of class tomorrow (Friday).

November 12th

Due to the fire drill today during 4th period, the students only had time to finish their questions about the story "Becky" and then we cleaned parts of the room. We will continue discussing relationships, specifically what individuals need from relationships, tomorrow.

November 11th

Students discussed how they cope with their parents and how much they know about their parents. Students read a story about Becky and turned it in. They were also assigned a test about how much they know about their parents and how much do their parents know about their student. This will be due on Tuesday, November 18th and is worth 50 points.

November 10th

The students discussed what independence is, why people want it and what responsibilities come with it. We then discussed why everyone has to rely on at least one other person throughout their lives, and right now that happens to be their parents. We discussed the saying "No man is an island." They were also reminded about their TV family analysis which is due on Friday, November 14th.

November 7th

We finished up the lesson from yesterday on the changing state of families and the forces on them. They were assigned the family TV analysis and they decided to make it worth 100 points and to be due on the 14th.

November 6th

Students started the Relationships Unit today. Today we focused on the changing view/image of the family and how our environment, namely television and movies have influenced how families are perceived today. The students had a journal entry and were also assigned an analysis of a TV or movie they have seen. They must write this up in the role of a TV or Movie critic and answer all the questions given. This is due on Tuesday, November 11th, but they can turn it in earlier.

November 5th

The students watched clips of "The Incredibles" and had to write down what responsibilities each family member had for each other, how they communicated with each other and what the family learned about each other to draw them closer to each other. This will introduce the students to our next unit on relationships, especially family relationships.

November 4th

Students had a sub today. The watched "Cypher in the Snow" and wrote about someone they know who has been left out and forgotten. They also had to share something about themselves that no own else knows.

November 3rd

The students were given new hall passes and late passes for this new term. We also reviewed how journal entries are scored by reading through the scoring rubric on their journal entry sheet. We then watched a video on Sexual harassment, then discussed what it is, why people harass others and what to do if it happens to them or if others complain about it occurring.

October 30th

There was no class today due to the Earth Sciences field trip. The couple that I did have helped me but the diaper bags together for the electronic baby simulation next term.

October 29th

Students learned about and discussed harassment of all kinds today. We discussed the types, why it is inappropriate and how this behavior makes others feel. I also gave students their final grade printout for 1st term and we checked their citizenship as well. Most students will be gone tomorrow for the Earth Sciences field trip, so we checked them today instead.

October 28th

Students continued to discuss responsibility today and we focused the rights and responsibilities they have and how they are responsible for for their role in a group, including in families. They also answered two different questionnaires about how responsible they are and how they are helping create harmony in their families. Neither had to be turned in for points.

October 27th

We first finished discussing the seven types of risk and then students learned about and discussed responsible behavior. We will discuss how one affects the other tomorrow in class.

October 24th

Students learned about and discussed risk today. We covered the seven categories of risk, why we take risks and what consequences could result. They read stories about risks taken and what happened to each person involved in the stories. Also, today was the last day to turn in any missing/late work, absent work or extra credit, including unused late and hall passes. These were all due at the end of class. They have been warned about this for the past two weeks, so no exceptions will be given.

October 23rd

Students had a lesson on decisions and consequences, as well as responsibility. Students will have a journal entry, answer a questionaire entitled "Best Interest Test," finished the video and paper on decisions and consequences, responsibility and critical thinking and how they all relate to each other.

October 22nd

Students learned about and discussed phobias. They were also given a list of phobias to identify along with famous individuals and their fears. The students were given the answers at the end of the period.

October 21st

Students had a journal entry today and a lesson on attitudes. We discussed what influences their attitudes, what we can do to change our attitudes for the better and read some quotes relating to attitudes. Students then watch and answered questions on a video entitled "Get a winning attitude" and turned it in for points. They were also warned that the last day for any late/missing work, extra credit and anything else for their grade is due on Friday, October 24th. No excpetions will be made.

October 15th

Students had a journal entry, followed by a scenerio about survivors from an ocean liner sinking. They are in a life boat and have to make a choice who they would get rid of first and second if they had to to survive. We then discussed their choices and reasons why, what communication and critical thinking skills they used and if they would have made different choices. We discussed stereotypes, diversity and workplace skills as well.

October 14th

We discussed critical thinking situations. Students learned the process of critical thinking and why it's important. Using situations two teens found themselves in, we used the steps to come up with possible solutions and consequences.

October 13th

No class today due to the 9th grade Science movie during this class period.

October 10th

We are discussing conflict resolution and the many parts that are involved in conflict resolution. What issues tend to be the most common, how personality styles affect conflict, how to approach it, and how to resolve conflict. Students identified some of these aspects in a couple of stories and then came up with how to resolve the issue.

October 9th

We talked more about etiquette that should be used in a restaurant, especially for those who are going to La Caille. We watched a short video about good restaurant etiquette. We practiced calculating a 15% gratuity. We also looked at bus etiquette not only for La Caille but for any time you ride a bus.

October 8th

We passed out the papers for Etiquette day and explained what it was. Students will take their paper with them to all of their classes tomorrow and will be scored in 5 areas by each of their teachers. They will be scored on politeness to other students and adults, cleaning up after themselves, appropriate language and use of proper manners. They will also earn extra credit for dressing up in their "Best dress" for each of their classes. This activity is for all Teen Living and Foods I students, not just those attending La Caille. This will be due on Friday, October 10th, which is the next day this class will meet. Students were encouraged to turn this in Thursday after school or Friday morning to the class turn-in basket or my box in the office so that they will not lose it or forget about it. Extra forms are in a folder pasted to the window by my door if they misplace theirs. Students who were absent today can pick up their paper from me tomorrow morning. During the rest of the class period, we discussed the appropriate do's and don'ts when dining, as well as the dress code for the La Caille trip tomorrow.

October 7th

Today we started our etiquette unit in preparation for La Caille. We talked about telephone and cell phone etiquette. We talked about introducing people, how to greet people and what types of things to talk about.

October 6th

The class did team building activities. We discovered how to work better as individuals to accomplish one main goal. Students worked well together and learned how to get along and help each other. We talked about the purpose of team building and why it's important in many parts of our lives.

October 3rd

Students discussed the dangers of spreading gossip about others and it's affect on themselves and on others. Students turned in their journal entries from this week and questions about the story "Confessions of a teenage gossip."

October 2nd

We talked about three communication styles: aggressive, passive and assertive. Students identified the styles by statements made by or descriptions about the three styles. Then in groups, they role-played one of the three styles to understand what they look like.

October 1st

Class today was shortened due to the 9th grade Reality Town activity. After the students finished and came to class, they reviewed the three types of personalities (aggressive, assertive, and passive) and discussed how these personality types affect the way they communicate with other people. They also had an activity where they had to match up the personality type to a characteristic listed or an example of something they would say.

September 30th

We discussed the importance of listening today, talking about how to listen well and how it benefits relationships. We did a 'guided' walk outside: in pairs of two, one partner was blind-folded while another led them only using words; Partners then switched the blind fold and the partner who could see guided the other using no words but only touch. Most students found it easier to follow when their partner used words. A story was also read to the students and their listening skills were tested by answering questions about the story.

September 29th

We talked about verbal communication. We watched a couple short video clips about bad verbal communication and poor public speaking skills. Students learned some tips about public speaking. We then talked about the 5 love languages: giving gifts, giving service, physical touch, quality time, and verbal affirmation. Students identified their love language by taking a quiz. They then drew pictures of different types of love languages their family or friends tend to show.

September 25th

Students learned about the differences between verbal, non-verbal and written forms of communication. We then focused on non-verbal communication cues that people use to send off messages to others. We also watched a couple of video clips on verbal, non-verbal and written forms of communication at the end of class.

September 24th

Students continued with the communication unit. Today, they learned about and compared a hammer to destructive and constructive communication. A class note page was provided to the students to write notes on.

September 23rd

We started on the Communication unit today and started with learning the differences between child like, parent like and adult like communication styles. They also watched three clips from "The Emperor's New Groove" and had to identify the three types of communication.

September 22nd

Students put together their sample for this class for their portfolio. We also had a journal entry and discussed solitude and stress reducers. Students were also reminded that anything not turned in past two weeks after it's due date will not be accepted and that it is their responsibility to check Skyward and the blog site at least once a week to check on their grades.

September 19th

Students started learning about stress, stressors, and stress reducers today. We shared examples of stressors. They also learned about distress, eustress and stress reducers. They took a questionnaire to rate how much stress they have and we discussed how everyone handles stress differently. We also discussed biofeedback and handed out biodots to use to see how they are reacting to the daily stress they have in their lives.

September 18th

Students watched a presentation from our guest speaker from La Caille today. She discussed and demonstrated proper etiquette procedures students would use on dates and when dining out. Students are also taking an optional field trip on October 9th after school to La Caille. Parents are also invited to attend. The dinner is $32.00 per person and must be paid to the office by September 30th. Students will then take their receipt and permission form to class and turn it into the basket by 3:00 p.m. October 1st to be added to the list and the count. Reservations will be made that day at 3:00 and no additions or subtractions can be made.

September 17th

The students had a journal entry and an activity today. They had to visually demonstrate to me what they have learned about themselves thus far. They had to fold a paper into 8 squares had to label the eight squares:
Things that raise my self-concept:
My top extrinsic values are:
My top intrinsic values are:
Things that describe my personality are:
When I am happy I:
When I am sad/angry I:
Things that stress me out are:
Things that reduce my stress are

They had to then find or draw pictures of these things to demonstrate what they have discovered about themselves. These are due tomorrow at the start of class.

September 16th

Students discussed what makes them angry and learned the differences between hot, cold and warm anger and compared these emotions to balloons. They also read the book "When Sophie gets angry" and talked about what they can do to control their anger. There was a paper that went with this, but the students didn't turn this in.

September 15th

Students were given an activity called "Written all over your face" to help them distinguish between emotions and facial expressions. They had all of class to work on it and the answers and prizes were given at the end of class for those who had the most correct.

September 12th

We read the book "What are you so grumpy about" and discussed the seven basic emotions. Then we discussed and wrote about how these emotions are portrayed in the books they are reading and the TV and Movies they watch.

September 11th

Students discussed emotions, feelings and the affects these feelings have on us and others around us. We read "My many colored days" and we also studied how our surroundings, especially the music we listen to, can effect our moods. Students listened to clips from different types of music and had to explain how each made them feel.

September 10th

Students were supposed to identify their color personality using the Hartman color code. They told me they had done it last year during Health, so they watched a portion of Charlotte's web instead. I also explained the La Caille trip and handed out permission forms. The permission forms and money/receipt is due in to me by October 1st if they decide to attend. the trip is the night of October 9th. If you have questions about the field trip, please email me or call the school and my extension number is 1016.

September 9th

Students discussed what different factors have made up/influenced their personality. They were then shown common personality tests people have created. Today, students learned about astrology signs, the Chinese zodiac and A/B type personalities.

September 8th

Students finished watching select clips from "Charlie and the Chocolate factory" to identify each of the values each golden ticket winner had. We continued and discussed common values each member of society has and talked about setting priorities. The students then answered a series of questions to rank their values in order of priority from the most important to the least. We also discussed how our values and priorities effect the goals we set and if we will be able to reach those goals or not. We are more likely to achieve goals that we value or that we see as a high priority.

September 5th

Students started discussing values and focused on the differences between intrinsic and extrinsic values. they had to know and recognize the difference between the two types and they practiced by watching a few movie clips about children and their different types of values.

September 4th

Today, we finished up learning about self-concept by watching part of the movie "Charolette's web." We discussed how Charolette spends her time trying to help Wilbur feel better about himself and to help other's see the same things in Wilbur that she sees. We also spent some time discussing the book "Stargirl" and how she works to help others and make them feel special and how it ties in to self-esteem.

September 3rd

Students continued learning about self-concept today and focused on Self-confidence. We discussed being a unique individual and listened to a song and watched a couple of video clips on confidence. We also shared a couple of children's books which students can use with their younger siblings.

September 2nd

At the beginning of class, we read the story "You are special" and answered a journal entry question having to do with the book. We also had a "Pop" quiz to see how many of the students remembered the five types of development during adolescence. Students finished and turned in their personal road maps, which were due today. Students learned about the differences in the terms self-concept, self-esteem, and self-image, as well as how they affect all areas of our life. We were in the middle of taking a questionnaire entitled "How strong is your self-concept" so we will finish it and discuss it tomorrow.

August 29th

We finished discussing the five types of adolescent development, which we related to the acronym of Pepsi. We then moved on to discussing common roadblocks to development that people may face and the challenges associated with each one. Students were given the rest of the class period to create a road map of their life so far, including any roadblocks which may have changed the course of their life thus far. This will be due at the beginning of class on Tuesday. Students will have a tardy quiz on the 5 parts of development on Tuesday.

August 28th

Students finished discussing and watching movie clips about the eight stages of development. We also discussed another theory about stages of development which we nicknamed PEPSI for the first letter of each word. They will have a quiz tomorrow on the five stages of development.

August 27th

Students started learning about the eight stages of development that teenagers pass through. They watched short clips from various movies to see examples of each stage in action. Students also learned how to do their journal entries and what I was expecting and how their journal entries would be graded.

August 26th

Students reviewed the class disclosure, human sexuality policy, PG video list and the course content. They also have a $5.00 lab fee and two permission forms due to me by August 29th. If a student is on a fee waiver, they need to talk to me by this deadline.

August 25th

Students were welcomed to class and we discussed what Teen Living is and some of the activities they will do doing throughout the semester. RATTLE traits and emergency procedures were also reviewed. Students were given a survey of what they would like to learn in the class this semester( http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=KwW_2bIm5aea7OLxDLLaZdFw_3d_3d) . They spent the rest of the class time getting to know the other students in their class by playing a get to know you game for treats/prizes.

August 23rd

Welcome to Teen Living at Fort Herriman Middle School. I hope that you have an enjoyable experience this semester in class. In order for you to have a good time and learn, you must participate! This means that you need to participate in class discussions, activities and out of class activities which will include La Caille, blogs, interviews, and a little bit of homework. Remember that this class does count as high school credit to graduate, so don't blow it off!

May 30th

Students were given their final grade and citizenship to check for any mistakes. Then, they watched a video on recognizing and preventing abuse in relationships, especially dating relationships.

May 29th

Students took their final end of term test during class today. This will be placed on their grade and they will see their final grades tomorrow.

May 28th

The rest of the students presented the information on their assigned birth defects to the class. They were given points based on the information the presented as well as the way they presented the information. While other students were presenting, the rest had to write down the information on the note taking guide. The end-of-term test will be tomorrow instead.

May 27th

Students presented the information on their assigned birth defects to the class. They were given points based on the information the presented as well as the way they presented the information. While other students were presenting, the rest had to write down the information on the note taking guide. The class also has their final test tomorrow on information presented during the second half of the term (relationship unit).

May 23rd

Student signed up with a partner to research a birth defect. They were then taken to the media center lab were they had the rest of the period to find out what the birth defect is, what causes it to occur, what the characteristics are, the effects of it on the baby, and what treatment options or cures there are. They will be presenting these on Tuesday and have about 2-3 minutes for each group to present their information. They also have a test on Wednesday from information from the last half of this term.

May 22nd

Students were taken to the media center lab and were given time to complete an online activity which demonstrates how much it costs to care for a baby during the first year of life. They can access this site at: www.teenageparent.org/english/costofbaby2B.html

May 21st

We discussed what shaken baby syndrome is, how it occurs and some of the most frequent reasons why. They also watched two videos on shaken baby syndrome.

May 20th

Students finished watching the video from yesterday and then we discussed what consequences could result from their relationships with others. Options teen parents have were explored, mainly focusing on keeping the baby or giving it up for adoption.

May 19th

Students watched a video on the importance of abstinence before marriage and monogamy after marriage titled "Sex still has a price tag." They will finish the second part tomorrow. Any parent who is worried about the content of this or any other video or lesson is free to come in to ask questions. Feel free to contact me if you would like to view anything. The video is district approved and meets state and district guidelines.

May 16th

Students discussed why teens may or may not be ready for parenthood and what affects teen pregnancy have on the teen parents, the family and the baby. Stories were also shared and read as part of the lesson.

May 15th

Students studied and analyzed current statistics for HIV/Aids, as wells as other STDs in the nation and in the state of Utah. The students also discussed common reactions to teen parents and other consequences, such as the loss of friends, that may occur.

May 14th

Students finished watching the video from yesterday and then we discussed the stages of physical intimacy and the danger zone people enter. The students also discussed what consequences could result from their relationships with others.

May 13th

Students discussed a variety of refusal skills and common myths about sexual responsibility that teens share. Students were encouraged to make promises with their friends to wait until marriage before engaging in sexual activity. They were also reminded of the due date for any last late work or extra credit, which is May 27th.

May 12th

Students discussed the warning signs of abusive relationships and how to prevent dating violence from occuring. Students were given ideas of ways to date more safely and people to contact if something does occur.

May 9th

We focused on what proper etiquette is on field trips and when eating at nice restaurants. We went through the expectations of students when riding on a bus, eating around others, etc. We also watched a short video on La Caille and dining etiquette.

May 8th

Students continued learning about common etiquette skills used when dining, using cell phones, writing thank you notes, etc. No assignment was due or was assigned, but they did have a journal entry.

May 7th

Students learned about common etiquette skills used when dining, using cell phones, writing thank you notes, etc. No assignment was due or was assigned, but they did have a journal entry.

May 6th

Students discussed how and why people break-up and how students can handle break-ups better. We also discussed how relationships leave their mark on our personalities and will affect our future relationships.

May 5th

We discussed why people date, some of the unrealistic expectations people have for the people they date. We also watched the video "CinderEdna" and discussed what men and women are really looking for in the people they date.

May 2nd

Today, students were given ideas of inexpensive and creative dates. We also analyzed a date from the perspective of both a girl and a boy and what both could be or are thinking.

May 1st

Students discussed what they are looking for in a future mate and people they date. They watched a video titled "The book and the rose" about looking past people's exteriors to see what is inside.

April 30th

Students finished watching the videos clips on adolescent attractions and we then discussed why we date and what outside variables affect when and who we date. Males and females also shared what they are looking for for in a girlfriend/boyfriend.

April 29th

Students learned about the stages of adolescent attraction by discussing and using examples. They took notes while we discussed and video clips were used to identify the different stages.

April 28th

The class took their mid-term test today in class. Tomorrow we will be starting the dating unit.

April 25th

Students compared friendships to pottery. Friendships can be great and you have to put a lot of work into them, but if they are broken, they can never be fully repaired. We also had an example of breaking a friendship (or in our case, a plate) and two students tried to repair it the best they could. We then discussed how this also applies to any of our friendships.

April 24th

We discussed characteristics of good friendships and what kinds of things happen to break up friendships. They also took a "Friendship test" to see how good of a friend they are.

April 23rd

Students discussed the reasons why people form groups and what their functions are, especially as it relates to friendships and peers.

April 22nd

Students continued learning about the outside influences, such as friends, family and heredity which influences student choices and pressures they face. We discussed the pendulum swing between peers and parents and read the book "If I had a green nose." We finished the class period be discussing how people try to one-up each other and how advertisers and businesses make the problem worse to drive people to spend money.

April 21st

Students finished watching clips from the "Little Rascals" and discussed how our friends effect the decisions we make, as well as help us deal with the consequences to our actions. Students also had time at the end of class to check their grade and catch-up on or turn in missing assignments.

April 18th

Students started the "Relationships with friends and peers" unit by watching a portion of "The Little Rascals." We will then discuss these portions of the movie in class on Friday.

April 17th

Students read a story about Rex and the effects of peer pressure. They read in groups or individually and had questions to answer. Students turned in their questions, but those who didn't finish can take it and finish it for homework.

April 16th

Students discussed common activities older people participate in, ways they are scammed or taken advantage of and ways they are abused, especially by their main caretakers.

April 15th

Students discussed aging and what they consider "Elderly." Students learned about the Stages of the Life Span, reasons for the growing elderly population and how they feel about being "Old" longer than they were considered "Young." We discussed activities, such as service and employment the elderly participate in to keep them active.

April 14th

The class finished their activity on birth order and shared their likes and dislikes about their birth order in their family. Students watched the video "The Mailbox" about the importance of caring for and communicating with the elderly and grandparents.

April 11th

Students will be learning about and discussing siblings, the effect of birth order, and sibling rivalry. Today is all discussion, so nothing was due, but a few notes were written down.

April 10th

Students learned about the six different types of people in their support systems. They were then given different case studies to use to identify these types of support and they had to identify who and why different people in their personal lives are in their personal support systems. These were turned in by the end of class and were worth 25 points.

April 9th

The Family TV analysis was turned in today or 30 points. Students discussed how they cope with their parents and how much they know about their parents. Students read a story about Becky and turned it in. They were also assigned a test about how much they know about their parents and how much do their parents know about their student. This will be due on Tuesday April 15th and is worth 50 points.

April 8th

Students had a sub today. They watched "Cypher in the Snow" and wrote about someone they know who has been left out and forgotten. They also had to share something about themselves that no own else knows.

April 7th

Students learned about and discussed Maslow's Hierarchy of Human Needs. We discussed each level in detail and gave examples of all. We also related these needs to their needs, as well as the needs of their parents. Also, their Family TV analysis was due into the basket by the end of class tomorrow.

April 4th

Students had a guest speaker from the Utah Education Network about online safety and protecting your online identity. He also discussed the dangers of meeting people online, cyberbullying and sexual harassment.

April 3rd

Students started the Relationships Unit today. Today we focused on the changing view/image of the family and how our environment, namely Televison and Movies have influenced how families are perceived today. The students had a journal entry and were also assigned an analysis of a TV or movie they have seen. They must write this up in the role of a TV or Movie critic and answer all the questions given. This is due on Tuesday, April 8th, but they can turn it in earlier.

April 2nd

The class took their 3rd term test today in class. This will be graded and put on PowerSchool sometime in the next week. Tomorrow we will be starting the relationships unit, which will last all of 4th term.

April 1st

Students learned about and discussed harassment of all kinds today. We discussed the types, why it is inappropriate and how this behavior makes others feel.

March 28th

Students had to write about their role model, which we then used to discuss why these people are their role models and what they did to influence them. We read a story titled "A Coach I Can't Forget" and answered questions about the story, after we discussed them.

March 27th

Students had a lesson on decisions and consequences, as well as responsibility. Students will have a journal entry, answer a questionaire entitled "Best Interest Test," finished the video and paper on decisions and consequences, responsibility and critical thinking and how they all relate to each other.

March 26th

Students finished watching "No Big Deal." They were then asked to write about an experience they had that peer pressure was used to pressure someone into doing something they didn't want to do and what the consequences were. This had to be descriptive and at least half a page long. This was due into the basket by the end of class.

March 25th

Students are watching an educational movie titled "No Big Deal" on teens, relationships, decisions and consequences, critical thinking skills and peer pressure. They will finish this on Wednesday (tomorrow).

March 19th

Today was the last day students could turn in any extra credit, including hall passes and late passes, plus any late assignments from the past two weeks. They were due at the end of the class period. Students learned about and discussed phobias. They were also given a list of phobias to identify along with famous individuals and their fears. The students were given the answers at the end of the period.

March 18th

Students had a journal entry today and a lesson on attitudes. We dicussed what influences their attitudes, what we can do to change our attitudes for the better and read some quotes relating to attitudes. Students also learned about the term "Ethnocentrism" and its' effects on the way we live and interact with others. We also discussed different cultures and customs and how they have formed the United States. There was no homework today.

March 17th

There was a sub today. Students discussed the importance of critical thinking and discovered ways to build and use critical thinking skills. Students learned about current research being done on dementia and Alzheimer's and what they can start doing now to help prevent the disease later on in life. Students were shown 3-D images and were also given brainteasers to work on over the weekend. Answers will be provided to the students tomorrow. There is a prize for the student who has the most correct.

March 14th

Students partnered up and were given a scenerio about hot air ballooning over the Rockies. They had to decide what pieces of equipment they would throw out 1st, 2nd, ect. to use their critical thinking and communication skills. They were then put into groups and had to do the same thing, but this time they had to take into account the opinions of everyone in the group. We then compared this to the workplace and working with others to solve problems. Students were then provided with the opinion of experts and what they would do in a similar situation.

March 13th

Students had a journal entry, followed by a scenerio about survivors from an ocean liner sinking. They are in a life boat and have to make a choice who they would get rid of first and second if they had to to survive. We then discussed their choices and reasons why, what communication and critical thinking skills they used and if they would have made different choices. We discussed stereotypes, diversity and workplace skills as well.

March 12th

Reminders to students: All extra credit and missing/late assignments are due a week from today on Wednesday, March 19th. Students learned the steps to the critical thinking process and discovered how they learned to form opinions, as well as how they have formed their opinions thus far. They read one of two stories about Julio and Silvia and had to answer a set of questions based on the story they read.

March 11th

The students watched a video titled "Relationships... When they help, When they hurt." The video was about using communication to build relationships and gave examples about when people use communication to tear down a relationship. They also had a journal entry at the beginning of class. They were also reminded that the last day to turn in extra credit or late work is Wednesday March 19th.

March 10th

The students had a sub today and had a lesson on Peer pressure. Nothing was due or was assigned today.

March 7th

Students discussed the dangers of spreading gossip about others and it's affect on themselves and on others. Students turned in their journal entries from this week and questions about the story "Confessions of a teenage gossip."

March 6th

Students were reminded about the upcoming deadline for extra credit and late work for the next two weeks is all due to me by March 19th to be put on their grade. Students learned about inter and intra-personal communication and ANTs (automatic negative thoughts) and how they relate to how we communicate with others. Students took a few notes, but nothing was due.

March 5th

Students discussed listening skills and participated in a couple of listening activities, including reading the book "Listen Buddy" and listening to common sounds and telling me what they are. Students also had to state how certain things people do when they should be listening make them feel and how they react.

March 4th

Students answered a journal entry question, then worked on a questionnaire and an activity dealing with their love language (how the tell show or do something for someone they love). Class was pretty flexible today because of the DWA testing for the ninth grade.

March 3rd

Students learned about the differences between verbal, non-verbal and written forms of communication. We then focused on non-verbal communication cues that people use to send off messages to others. We also watched a couple of video clips on verbal, non-verbal and written forms of communication at the end of class.

February 28th

in class today we discussed different ways that people communicate destructively and constructively. These were written down on a note taking guide to be used later when referring back to this lesson when discussing good and bad relationships.

February 27th

We started out Communication unit today and started with learning the difference between child like, parent like and adult like communication styles. They also watched three clips from "The Emporer's New Groove" and had to identify the three types of communication.

February 26th

The class took their mid-term test today in class. We also had time to grade it and put the results on PowerSchool. Tomorrow we will be starting the communication unit.

February 25th

Students put together their sample for this class for their portfolio. We also had a journal entry and discussed solitude and stress reducers. Afterwards, we discussed what they needed to study for their mid-term test tomorrow, which will start at the beginning of class so that we have time to grade it as well. Students were also reminded that anything not turned in past two weeks of it's due date will not be accepted and that it is their responsibility to check PowerSchool and the blog site at least once a week to check on their grades.

February 22nd

Students finished discussing poor ways people use to numb stress and we focused on depression and suicide. The students watched an educational video on the effects of suicide and how people can identify warning signs from friends and family.

February 21st

No class due to the science and geography movie activity.

February 20th

Guest Speaker from La Caille for a demonstration on proper etiquette.

February 19th

Students were given the information for the La Caille extracurricular activity on May 22nd. They will be having a guest speaker from La Caille tomorrow to teach about Etiquette. We also discussed poor coping mechanisms people use to try and deal or runaway from the stress in their life. We will continue with positive stress reducers on Friday.

February 15th

Students today learned about distress, eustress and stress reducers. They took a questionnaire to rate how much stress they have and we discussed how everyone handles stress differently. We also discussed biofeedback and handed out biodots to use to see how they are reacting to the daily stress they have in their lives.

February 14th

Students started learning about stress, stressors, and stress reducers today. We shared examples of stressors, such as too much snow, and stories. No assignments were due or where given today.

February 13th

Students discussed what makes them angry and learned the differences between hot, cold and warm anger and compared these emotions to balloons. They also read the book "When Sophie gets angry" and talked about what they can do to control their anger.

February 12th

Students had a sub today. Students were given an activity called "Written all over your face" to help them distinguish between emotions and facial expressions. they had all of class to work on it and answers and prizes were given the next day for those who had the most correct.

February 11th

Students started a new sheet of journal entries for this week. We read the book "What are you so grumpy about" and discussed the seven basic emotions. Then we played charades using descriptive terms dealing with emotions.

February 8th

Students discussed emotions, feelings and the affects these feelings have on us and others around us. We also studied how our surroundings, especially the music we listen to, can effect our moods. Students listened to clips from different types of music and had to explain how each made them feel.

February 7th

Students answered a series of questions to find out their "Hartman Personality code" color. They also met in groups sorted by their color to learn what each one meant. We finished discussing personality types today and will start on emotions tomorrow.

February 6th

Students discussed what different factors have made up/influenced their personality. They were then shown common personality tests people have created. Today, students learned about astrology signs, Greek mythology, the Chinese zodiac and A/B type personalities.

February 5th

Students finished watching select clips from "Charlie and the Chocolate factory" to identify each of the values each golden ticket winner had. We continued and discussed common values each member of society has and talked about setting priorities. The students then answered a series of questions to rank their values in order of priority from the most important to the least.

February 4th

Students started discussing values and focused on the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic values by watching a few movie clips about children and their different types of values.

February 1st

Students had a journal entry and turned in their entries for this week. They also turned in their class fees, signed human sexuality form and video permission form. They need to finish their life road map and turn it in by Wednesday. Today, we finished up learning about self-concept by watching the video "The great love experiment" about a group of friends and their experiment to raise a classmates self-concept.

January 31st

Students continued learning about self-concept today and focused on Self-confidence. They had a writing assignment about being unique, as well as listened to a song and watched a video clip on confidence.

January 30th

Students learned about the differences in self-concept, self-esteem, self-image, as well as how they affect all areas of our life. They were read the story "You are special" and wrote down the definitions of the terms, but the rest of class was a discussion. For the last few minutes of class, students finished and turned in their personal road maps.

January 29th

Students had a tardy quiz on the 5 parts of development, which we nicknamed PEPSI. Students who got 100% were either given Rattle cards or a can of Pepsi! We then moved on to discussing common roadblocks to development that people may face and the challenges associated with each one. Students were given the rest of the class period to create a roadmap of their life so far, including any roadblocks which may have changed the course of their life thus far. This will be due at the end of class tomorrow.

January 28th

Students finished discussing and watching movie clips about the stages of development. We also discussed another theory about stages of development which we nicknamed PEPSI for the first letter of each word.

January 25th

Students had the rattle card assembly today. Any student who did not purchase a ticket with rattle cards stayed in class for DEAR reading time.

January 24th

Students started learning about the eight stages of development that teenagers pass through. They also watched small clips from various movies to see examples of each stage on action. Students turned in their journal entry form for this week, which should have two entries on it. Tomorrow, 4th period will be an assembly. Those excused for the assembly will be in the auditorium while those who were not excused will be in class doing DEAR reading.

January 23rd

Today, students were given their assigned seats. We discussed how to do the journal entries for this class and how they are expected to be completed for grading. They were also given a survey of what they would like to learn in the class this semester. They spent the rest of the class time getting to know the other students in their class by playing a get to know you game for treats.

January 22nd

Welcome to the new semester! Students reviewed the class disclosure, human sexuality policy, PG video list and the course content. They also have a $5.00 lab fee and two permission forms due to me by February 1st. If a student is on a fee waiver, they need to talk to me by this deadline.

January 17th

Students were given their final grades and citizenship. Students were also given time to look their grade over carefully for any mistakes I made have made or computer errors.

January 16th

Students had their last journal entry today and turned it in for grading. We discussed what shaken baby syndrome is, how it occurs and some of the most frequent reasons why. They also watched two videos on shaken baby syndrome and we spent the rest of the class discussing child abuse as well. Students will receive their final grades tomorrow.

January 15th

Students studied and analyzed current statistics for HIV/Aids, as wells as other STDs in the nation and in the state of Utah. the students also discussed common reactions to teen parents and other consequences, such as the loss of friends, that may occur.

January 14th

Students discussed a variety of refusal skills and common myths about sexual responsibility that teens share. Students were encouraged to make promises with their friends to wait until marriage before engaging in sexual activity.

January 11th

Students finished watching the video from yesterday and then we discussed the stages of physical intimacy and the danger zone people enter. The students also discussed what consequences could result from their relationships with others. Today was also the last day students could turn in extra credit and missing assignments from the last two weeks.

January 9th

Students discussed the warning signs of abusive relationships and how to prevent dating violence from occuring. Students were given ideas of ways to date more safely and people to contact if something does occur.

January 10th

Students watched a video on the importance of abstinence before marriage and monogamy after marriage. They will finish the second part tomorrow. Any parent who is worried about the content of this or any other video or lesson is free to come in to ask questions about any lesson or view any movie or video ahead of time or after. Feel free to contact me if you would like to view anything. The video is district approved and meets state and district guidelines.

January 8th

Students discussed what they are looking for in a future mate and people they date. They watched a video titled "The book and the rose" about looking past people's exteriors to see what is inside.

January 7th

Students discussed how and why people break-up and how students can handle break-ups better. We also discussed how relationships leave their mark on our personalities and will affect our future relationships.

January 4th

Today, students were given ideas of inexpensive and creative dates. We also analyzed a date from the perspective of both a girl and a boy and what both could be or are thinking. Students then watched a film version of the book "Fanny's Dream" as an introduction to our discussion on Monday about Love vs. Infactuation.

January 3rd

Students finished watching the videos clips on adolescent attractions and we then discussed why we date and what outside variables affect when and who we date. Males and females also shared what they are looking for for in a girlfriend/boyfriend.

January 2nd

Students learned about the stages of adolescent attraction by discussing and using examples. They took notes while we discussed and video clips were used to identify the different stages.