December 22nd

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. We also finished the video from yesterday.

December 21st

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.

December 18th

Students met in the P206 computer 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

December 17th

Students watched a video on dating/domestic violence, which gave tips on preventing violence, as well as warning signs and legal information pertaining to domestic violence.

December 16th

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

December 15th

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 14th

Today, we discussed and learned about the differences between love and infatuation. 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 infatuation.

December 11th

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 10th

Today, students were given ideas of inexpensive and creative dates. We also discussed the importance and purpose of group dates in high school.

December 9th

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 8th

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 7th

Students discussed their experiences with their electronic babies. We then watched "The teaching of Jon" about a boy with Down Syndrome and the lessons he is teaching his family.

December 4th

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.

December 3rd

Students played the "Real Friends" game in groups. The game is patterned after the game of "Clue", but focuses on a school and the situations students find themselves in. Nothing was due, but students won treats and were given a treat for participating.

December 2nd

Students were taught the "Keys to friendship," which are the basic qualities people are looking for in good friendships. We then discussed what other qualities the students are looking for in their best friends.

December 1st

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 30th

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 on Friday.

November 25th

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 24th

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.

November 23rd

Students finished watching "Young@Heart." We will discuss what the people in the movie went through during the filming and what the students think life will be like when they are older.

November 20th

Students continued to watch "Young@Heart." They will finish this on Monday.

November 19th

Due to me being gone, the students started watching "Young@Heart" which is a documentary about seniors signing rock songs. This goes with the lesson from yesterday about the myths we have about the elderly and how they spend their time.

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

There was no class today due to the 9th grade Science activity.

November 16th

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 questionnaire about how much they know about their parents and how much do their parents know about their student.

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.

November 12th

Students discussed ideas/ways to get along better with their family members, as well as ways they can add to the harmony in their own families.

November 11th

Today, students learned about how families are changing and the outside influences which are causing a lot of the changes we are seeing. We also started discussing our family relationships.

November 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.

November 9th

Today, we finished or discussion of harassment and focused on Internet safety and Cyberbullying.

November 6th

We continued learning about different types of harassment. Students watched a video on Sexual Harassment and we discussed cyberbullying as well.

November 5th

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 4th

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.

November 3rd

Students continued discussing and learning about common gender issues. Today we played "Gender wars." Students were separated into male and females and each team was asked different questions about the opposite sex. The team with the most answers correct won treats/prizes.

November 2nd

Students discussed the way gender effects education, career choice and salary. We also compared gender equity in the United States to other countries. Participation points were given for participating in the discussion and answering questions. They were also given new hall passes and late passes for this term.

October 29th

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 were given printouts of their grade and citizenship and the students were given time to check for any mistakes I may have made.

October 28th

Students finished watching and discussed examples of critical thinking from the film "On Our Own." They also had to turn in their assignment from this film which was worth 20 points.

October 27th

Students started watching the film "On Our Own" which shows a real-life example of critical thinking skills in action and students taking a risk and responsibility for themselves. We will finish this film tomorrow. Students had to identify 10 times in the film the children exhibit good judgment and 10 times they exhibit poor judgment. This will be turned in tomorrow for 20 points.

October 26th

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.

October 23rd

Students had a lesson on decisions and consequences, as well as responsibility. Students had a journal entry, answered a questionnaire entitled "Best Interest Test," and discussed decisions and consequences, responsibility and critical thinking and how they all relate to each other.

October 22nd

We discussed the appropriate do's and don'ts when dining and finished up our discussion about various etiquette skills. We also watched a short video about good restaurant etiquette and also discussed appropriate bus etiquette, not only for La Caille but for any time you ride a bus.

October 21st

We talked more about etiquette that should be used in a restaurant, especially for those who are going to La Caille. We focused on dining etiquette in particular.

October 20th

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. Students were also reminded of the upcoming deadline on Thursday, October 22nd for any other late assignments or extra credit.

October 19th

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, which the students turned in after we discussed them.

October 16th

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.

October 15th

Students partnered up and were given a scenario about hot air ballooning over the Rockies. They had to decide what pieces of equipment they would throw out 1st, 2nd, etc. 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. They were also warned about the upcoming deadline for make-up work and extra credit which is Thursday, October 22nd.

October 14th

Students had a journal entry, followed by a scenario 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. The students were also reminded about the upcoming deadline for extra credit and missing work, which is next Thursday, October 22nd.

October 13th

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 tonight. Answers will be provided to the students tomorrow. There is a prize for the student who has the most correct.

October 12th

We discussed critical thinking. 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 9th

We learned about the 5 love languages: giving gifts, giving service, physical touch, quality time, and verbal affirmation. Students identified their love language by taking a questionnaire which then helped identify what type they are. They then drew pictures of different types of love languages their family or friends tend to show.

October 8th

Students discussed and read about the dangers of gossip and it's effects on people. We read the story "Confessions of a Teenage Gossip" and answered questions based on the research and information in the article.

October 7th

Students learned about inter and intra-personal communication and ANTs (automatic negative thoughts) and how they relate to how we communicate with others. We also had a visual demonstration using Mr. Box to show students what kinds of things get in the way of good communication. Students took a few notes, but nothing was due.

October 6th

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 listen to verbal instructions to complete a drawing exercise.

October 5th

Today, students learned about non-verbal communication skills. We watched a video and students had to answer questions based on different non-verbal communication skills terms. This was turned in for points.

September 30th

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

September 29th

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 shown in the movie clips.

September 28th

Students had a sub today and learned about values. Nothing was due today.

September 24th

Students had a mid-term test today on the Independent Living Skills unit. We discussed this test on Tuesday and what they would be tested on and needed to study. We will start the communication unit on Monday.

September 23rd

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 22nd 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 October 7th. Students will then take their receipt and permission form to class and turn it into the basket by 3:00 p.m. on October 7th 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 after that time.

September 22nd

Today, students learned about stress reducers. I provided a number of different stress reducers and the class shared ways they prefer to reduce their stress. We also discussed their upcoming mid-term test on Thursday and went through the test in detail so they knew exactly what to study and what would be on the test. Tomorrow we will meet in the Foods lab for a guest speaker from La Caille to teach etiquette skills to the students for the upcoming field trip on October 22nd.

September 21st

Students discussed 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.

September 18th

Students learned about stress, 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 17th

After filling in their student/teacher assessment sheet for Student-Led Conferences, the 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 16th

We first discussed different colors and what the meanings and feelings of different colors are. Students were then given a choice of activities. One was called "Written all over your face" to help them distinguish between emotions and facial expressions. They had the rest 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. The other was charades and the students had to act out and guess different descriptive words of emotions.

September 15th

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 14th

Students finished their personalized license plates and car comparing parts of it to parts of their own personality. We then discussed emotions, feelings and the affects these feelings have on us and others around us. We 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 11th

Students finished discussing personalities by completing another couple of activities, like the Hartman Color Code, a personalized license plate and a photo of a car comparing parts of it to parts of their own personality. The car and license plate were turned in for points and these will be placed in their Student-Led Conference portfolios.

September 10th

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 9th

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 8th

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 a couple of examples from a couple of movies. We also spent some time discussing the book "Stargirl," which the students read last year as a school, and talked about 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. Their PG video permission form, Human Sexuality permission form and their $5.00 lab fee was also due today. These will be posted on Skyward today as well.

September 2nd

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.

September 1st

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 teens 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 Thursday.

August 31st

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 28th

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 and had to write down each stage in their notes.

August 27th

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 September 4th. If a student is on a fee waiver, they need to talk to me by this deadline.

August 26th

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!

June 5th

Any 9th grade student who attends school today will help clean the clothing lab.

June 4th

No class due to the Lagoon activity!

June 3rd

No class because of the 9th grade awards assembly!

June 2nd

Students checked and finalized their grades and citizenship. We also had a final activity to finish up the class and read the book "Oh, the places you'll go."

June 1st

We finished our discussion on 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 29th

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 28th

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

May 27th

Today, students discussed the different types of child abuse, why it occurs and why it is more common when the parents are teens. The last day to turn in late work and extra credit is on May 29th.

May 26th

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 22nd

We continued our discussion on sexual responsibility when dating, the importance of abstinence before marriage and the consequences of STDs, both now and in the future.

May 21st

The students had a patriotic assembly, then we discussed sexual responsibility when dating, the importance of abstinence before marriage and the consequences of STDs, both now and in the future.

May 20th

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

May 19th

Students continued to present the information on their assigned birth defects to the class. They were given points based on the information they 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. Afterward, we watched a video on Fetal Alcohol syndrome and Drug-effected infants and compared the physical symptoms of each of these syndromes to a healthy infant.

May 18th

Students presented the information on their assigned birth defects to the class. They were given points based on the information they 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.

May 15th

Students signed up to research a birth defect. They were then taken to the computer 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 Monday and have about 2-3 minutes for each person to present their information.

May 14th

Today, students were in a computer lab working on a website at (www.teenageparent.org/english/costofbaby2B.html) which computes how much a baby would cost just during the first year of life. They had to estimate how many diapers, how much formula, how many articles of clothing, etc. would have to be purchased for the infant.

May 13th

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 12th

Today, we discussed and learned about the differences between love and infatuation. 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 infatuation.

May 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.

May 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.

May 7th

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 6th

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.

May 5th

The students finished watching "The story of Jon" and we discussed some of their fears and hops as future parents, as well as how to treat and act around others with disabilities. We then started our dating unit.

May 4th

To finish up the relationship unit, we started watching "The story of Jon" about a man with Downs Syndrome. The movie tells of the relationships Jon has with his family and others around him and how people have learned to adapt to Jon, instead of having him adapt to them, as well as what personal prejudices others show towards him. We will finish this tomorrow.

May 1st

We didn't have class today due to the RHS sophomore election assembly from 9:30 to 10:30.

April 30th

We discussed the appropriate do's and don'ts when dining and finished up our discussion about various etiquette skills.

April 29th

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.

April 28th

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.

April 27th

Students discussed the reasons why people form groups and what their functions are, especially as it relates to friendships and peers. Their "How well do you know your parents?" assignment was also due today and was worth 50 points.

April 24th

Their "How well do you know your parents?" assignment was also due today and was worth 50 points. 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 next Friday.

April 23rd

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. Then we discussed the effect of peer pressure on Rex's life as well as those around him.

April 22nd

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.

April 21st

Students were taught the "Keys to friendship," which are the basic qualities people are looking for in good friendships. We then discussed what other qualities the students are looking for in their best friends.

April 20th

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 17th

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.

April 16th

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 questionnaire about how much they know about their parents and how much do their parents know about their student. This will be due on Friday, April 24th and is worth 50 points.

April 15th

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.

April 14th

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.

April 8th

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 7th

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 6th

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 questionnaire about how much they know about their parents and how much do their parents know about their student. This will be due on Friday, April 17th and is worth 50 points.

April 3rd

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 is due into the basket by the end of class on Tuesday.

April 2nd

Students discussed ideas/ways to get along better with their family members, as well as ways they can add to the harmony in their own families.

April 1st

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, April 7th, but they can turn it in earlier.

March 31st

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.

March 30th

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."

March 26th

The students were given their final grades and citizenship for this term. They were given time to find any mistakes which may have been made and before I finalize grades. They also watched a video on Sexual Harassment and we discussed cyberbullying as well.

March 25th

We discussed what sexual harassment is, why people harass others and what to do if it happens to them or if others complain about it occurring. We then watched a video on Sexual harassment.

March 24th

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 23rd

Students finished watching and discussed examples of critical thinking from the film "On Our Own."

March 20th

Students started watching the film "On Our Own" which shows a real-life example of critical thinking skills in action and students taking a risk and responsibility for themselves. We will finish this film on Monday.

March 19th

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 and we also discussed the seven categories of risk and the consequences of each. 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.

March 18th

Students had a lesson on decisions and consequences, as well as responsibility. Students had a journal entry, answered a questionnaire entitled "Best Interest Test," and discussed decisions and consequences, responsibility and critical thinking and how they all relate to each other.

March 17th

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 16th

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." They were also warned that the last day for any late/missing work, extra credit and anything else for their grade is due on Thursday, March 19th. No exceptions will be made.

March 13th

Students partnered up and were given a scenario about hot air ballooning over the Rockies. They had to decide what pieces of equipment they would throw out 1st, 2nd, etc. 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 12th

Students had a journal entry, followed by a scenario 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. The students were also reminded about the upcoming deadline for extra credit and missing work, which is next Thursday, March 19th.

March 11th

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 tonight. Answers will be provided to the students tomorrow. There is a prize for the student who has the most correct.

March 10th

No class today due the DWA testing.

March 9th

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.

March 6th

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. At the end, we discussed how to use constructive forms of communication instead of destructive in our relationships.

March 5th

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.

March 4th

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 3rd

Students discussed and read about the dangers of gossip and it's effects on people. We read the story "Confessions of a Teenage Gossip" and answered questions based on the research and information in the article.

March 2nd

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 listen to verbal instructions to complete a drawing exercise.

February 26th

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 April 30th 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 April 15th. Students will then take their receipt and permission form to class and turn it into the basket by 3:00 p.m. on April 15th 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.

February 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 and watched an educational video about nonverbal communication.

February 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.

February 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.

February 20th

We finished up this unit on Independent Living Skills and stress by doing a round robin of stress reducing activities. The students had to complete at least 2 out of the 4 activities in order to earn the participation points today.

February 19th

Today, students learned about stress reducers. I provided a number of different stress reducers and the class shared ways they prefer to reduce their stress. The class also practiced relaxation techniques during the last few minutes of class using a prerecorded relaxation tape.

February 18th

Students discussed 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 17th

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.

February 12th

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.

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. There was a paper that went with this, but the students didn't turn this in.

February 11th

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.

February 10th

We first discussed different colors and what the meanings and feelings of different colors are. Students were then given an activity called "Written all over your face" to help them distinguish between emotions and facial expressions. They had the rest 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.

February 9th

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.

February 6th

Students finished discussing personalities by completing another couple of activities, like the Hartman Color Code, a personalized license plate or a photo of a car comparing parts of it to parts of their own personality.

February 5th

Students discussed what different factors have made up or 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.

February 4th

The students 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.

February 3rd

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

February 2nd

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.

Janaury 30th

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.

January 29th

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.

January 28th

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 worked on finishing their personal road maps, which are due tomorrow in class.

January 27th

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 Thursday.

January 26th

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.

January 23rd

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 and had to write down each stage in their notes.

January 22nd

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 5th. If a student is on a fee waiver, they need to talk to me by this deadline.

January 21st

The students were introduced to the course and some of the major activities we will do this semester. We also handed out hall/late passes for this term to each student. They received their first assignment today which is to take a survey about the Teen Living topics and learning activities they would like to do. They can take this by cutting and pasting the following address into the address window: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=IpGDn_2bMB3AuKcev16MqNlg_3d_3d

Make sure you put your name at the top and submit it! That is the only way I know who took it! They need to do this by Monday and is worth 20 points. We then did a "Get to know each other" activity.

January 16th

Students were given their final grade and citizenship to check for any mistakes that I may have made or the computer may have made. Then, they watched a video about people with special needs.

January 15th

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. This was the last assignments on their grade for this term.

January 14th

Students presented the information on their assigned birth defects to the class. They were given points based on the information they 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.

January 13th

Students signed up with a partner to research a birth defect. They were then taken to the computer 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 Wednesday and have about 2-3 minutes for each group to present their information.

January 12th

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.

January 9th

Today, students were in a computer lab working on a website at (www.teenageparent.org/english/costofbaby2B.html) which computes how much a baby would cost just during the first year of life. They had to estimate how many diapers, how much formula, how many articles of clothing, etc. would have to be purchased for the infant. Today was also the last day to turn in any late/missing assignments and any extra credit, including unused late or hall passes. They have been reminded about this deadline every day this week in class.

January 8th

Today, students discussed the different types of child abuse, why it occurs and why it is more common when the parents are teens. The last day to turn in late work and extra credit is tomorrow, Friday, January 9th.

January 7th

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 6th

We finished watching the video from yesterday, then we discussed the most common progression to physical intimacy and the pitfalls involved in going to far, which includes STDs, pregnancy and the end of most relationships.

January 5th

Students watched a video on the importance of abstinence before marriage and monogamy after marriage titled "Time to wait for sex." 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 owned by the school, is district approved and meets state and district guidelines.