December 22nd

Students finished presenting their research on STDs. We then started a discussion on thier experiences as a "Teen Parent" and how difficult it is to be a parent.

December 21st

Students presented what they learned about their assigned STD with the class, including how teh STD is passed, how it is treaded, what the symptoms are and what the consequences are if left untreated.

December 20th

Students were spilt into pairs and had to research an STD using information found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Each pair will share the information found with the class tomorrow.

December 17th

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 15th

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 16th

Students watched the second part of a video on the importance of abstinence before marriage and monogamy after marriage titled "Sex still has a price tag." 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 14th

Students continued learning about the warning signs of abusive relationships and how to prevent dating violence from occurring. We also discussed what they should be able to expect from healthy relationships.

December 13th

Students learned about what rights they have as they date and what responsibilites they have when dating. They also started watching a video called "Stop the Violence" on dating violence, which we will discuss tomorrow.

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

Today, we discussed and learned about the differences between love and infatuation. We watched a short video clip from called "Fanny's Dream" and used questions and role plays as examples for the students to decide if it is love or infatuation.

December 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.

December 7th

Students wrote about what qualities they are looking for in the people they date. We also watched "CinderEdna" which is a book about two princesses who made different choices about the people they married based on how well they knew the other person and what kind of life they wanted to live.

December 6th

We finished the stages of adolescent attractions and read an example called "The class ring" about someone who was dating for the wrong reasons.

December 3rd

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 2nd

Students had a mid-term test today on the Relationships unit. We discussed this test yesterday and what they would be tested on and needed to study. We will start the Responsible Dating unit on Friday.

December 1st

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. 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.

November 30th

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.

November 29th

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

We finished our discussion about different family types and dealing with different family members due to changing cirumstances.

November 23rd

Students continued watching "Your's, Mine and Our's" so we can discuss family types and the challenges blended families face.

November 22nd

Students had a sub today, since I am not feeling well. They watched the first part of the movie "Yours, Mine and Ours" and had some questions to answer. We will talk more about this movie clip when we discuss step-families and the challenges they face.

November 19th

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 18th

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 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 16th

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 15th

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.

November 12th

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 is worth 50 points and is due on Thursday of next week.

November 11th

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 10th

There was no class today due to the Freshman Field trip to Herriman High to watch their play. Those students who did not attend had a packet of work to do that went along with what we have been learning about in class. This is due at the start of class on Thursday.

November 9th

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 this Friday and students sign up for a weekend as they return their parental permission slips.

November 8th

Students had an end-of-term test today on the Communication and Critical Thinking units. We discussed this test on Thursday and Friday and what they would be tested on and needed to study. We will start the Relationships unit tomorrow.

November 5th

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.

November 4th

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

November 3rd

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.

November 2nd

There was no class today due to the 9th grade Science assembly. Any student who did not bring in their permission form for the assembly did have to come to class and did homework or read instead.

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 discussed responsibility and how it relates to the risks we take and the consequences which may occur because of our choices.

October 27th

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 26th

We have finished our etiquette unit and went back to our critical thinking unit. Today, we discussed good judgment and how it affects our decisions and values. A few notes were taken, but nothing was due.

October 25th

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. Students who are going on the La Caille field trip need to meet Thursday after school at 3:25 by the office. If students are driving with their parents or parents are meeting us there, you need to be there around 4:15 and we will be seated at 4:30.

October 22nd

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 21st

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 28th 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 the end of school today. Students will then take their receipt and permission form to class and turn it into the basket by 3:00 p.m. 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.

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.

October 19th

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 18th

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.

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 we discussed why everyone sees things differently.

October 12th

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 11th

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 8th

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 7th

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.

October 6th

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 5th

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.

October 4th

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 30th

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

September 29th

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 (tomorrow) and went through the test in detail so they knew exactly what to study and what would be on the test.

September 28th

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 27th

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 24th

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 23rd

Students watched a video on Teenage Anger and completed some questions about how they can learn to control their own anger, which they turned in for points.

September 22nd

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.

September 21st

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 20th

There was no school today due to the fire in Herriman. I hope all of you and your families are ok! We will all get through this and I can't wait to see you all when we can get back to the school. My thoughts are with you all!

September 17th

Today, we finished learning about the 7 prime emotions and discussed different colors and what the meanings and feelings of different colors are.

September 16th

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 15th

Today we 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 14th

We continued on values today 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 13th

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 10th

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. Students also needed to turn in their journal entries for this week by the end of the class period.

September 9th

Students learned about stress, what it is, common teen stressors and how teens can cope with stress. They had 10 questions to answer about how personally deal with stress they had to turn in by the end of class.

September 8th

We finished up on the activities dealing with self-concept, self-esteem and self-confidence.

September 7th

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. Students' roadmaps from last Friday were also due into the basket today by the end of class.

September 3rd

Students were given 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.

September 2nd

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.

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.

August 31st

Students had a sub today, so they learned about self-concept and how it affects their self-image.

August 30th

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 $10.00 lab fee and two permission forms due in two weeks. If a student is on a fee waiver, they need to contact the main office 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 3rd

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

June 2nd

No class due to the Lagoon activity!

June 1st

Students were in and out of class for the 9th grade awards assembly and memory book signing, so there were no assignments today.

May 28th

I gave students their final grades and citizenship for them to look at and make sure there were not any mistakes. Students were then 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 27th

Today we graded our end-of-term test so the students could get their score. We also talked about other options teen parents have, besides raising the baby on their own.

May 26th

Students had an end-of-term test today on the Dating and dating responsibilities units. We discussed this test yesterday and what they would be tested on and needed to study. We will grade this tomorrow in class.

May 24th/May 25th

Today, students discussed the different types of child abuse, why it occurs and why it is more common when the parents are teens. We also discussed what shaken baby syndrome is, how it occurs and some of the most frequent reasons why. We also demonstrated to the students what happens when a baby is shaken by using our shaken baby syndrome simulator. They also watched a video on shaken baby syndrome which shows the aftereffects of this type of abuse. The last day to turn in late work and extra credit is May 25th by 2:30!

May 21st

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 20th

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 25th.

May 19th

I was sick today, so 3rd period finished the video called "Sex still has a price tag" and 5th period watched part of "The Buttercream Gang" about gangs and positive and negative types of peer pressure.

May 18th

5th period students watched the second part of a video on the importance of abstinence before marriage and monogamy after marriage titled "Sex still has a price tag." 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. 3rd period will finish this tomorrow since they missed class for the Diamondback of the Month assembly.

May 17th

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 14th

Today, we discussed and learned about the differences between love and infatuation. We watched a short video clip from called "Fanny's Dream" and used questions and role plays as examples for the students to decide if it is love or infatuation.

May 13th

Students finished discussing dating rights, dating violence and abuse.

May 12th

Today we finished learning about the warning signs of domestic violence and abuse. We also discussed what rights we have while on a date and the expectations we should have of the people we date.

May 11th

Students continued learning about the warning signs of abusive relationships and how to prevent dating violence from occurring. We also discussed what they should be able to expect from healthy relationships.

May 10th

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 7th

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

May 6th

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 5th

We finished the stages of adolescent attractions and read an example called "The class ring" about someone who was dating for the wrong reasons.

May 4th

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 3rd

Students had a mid-term test today on the Relationships unit. We discussed this test on Friday and what they would be tested on and needed to study. We will start the Dating unit tomorrow.

April 30th

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. Students were also reminded about their mid-term test on Monday and we went through what was on the test and what they should study for it.

April 29th

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. 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 28th

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 27th

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 26th

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 23rd

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 were given participation points for playing.

April 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. Students who are going on the La Caille field trip need to meet today after school at 3:15 by the office. If students are driving with their parents or parents are meeting us there, you need to be there around 4:15 and we will be seated at 4:30.

April 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.

April 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.

April 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.

April 16th

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.

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

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 13th

Students finished watching the next part of "The Pact" and we talked about positive peer pressure and encouraging other people to meet their goals.

April 12th

Students continued to watch the next part of "The Pact." We will finish this tomorrow and continue learning about relationships.

April 9th

The students started watching "The Pact." This video is about three friends from an inner city area who decide to make a pact to become Doctors. They use positive peer pressure and their close relationship to drive all three to succeed. We will watch this over a series of class periods and discuss each section while we learn about relationships.

April 8th

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 is worth 50 points and is due on Tuesday of next week.

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.

April 6th

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.

March 31st

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 the Friday after spring break and students sign up for a weekend as they return their parental permission slip.

March 30th

Students had an end-of-term test today on the Communication and Critical Thinking units. We discussed this test yesterday and what they would be tested on and needed to study. We will start the Relationships unit tomorrow.

March 29th

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 25th

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. We also checked their grades and citizenship for 3rd term and made sure they were accurate/correct.

March 24th

Students continued watching a film which shows real-life examples of critical thinking skills in action and taking a risks and responsibility for themselves. We will finish this film tomorrow.

March 23rd

Students discussed responsibility and how it relates to the risks we take and the consequences which may occur because of our choices.

March 22nd

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.

March 19th

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 18th

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. Today was also the last day to turn in any late.missing assignments from this term and any extra credit, including late and hall passes from this term. New passes will be given out for next term next week.

March 17th

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 18th. No exceptions will be made.

March 16th

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, March 18th.

March 15th

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.

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 18th.

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 discussed why our brains may see something different then everyone else.

March 10th

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.

March 9th

Students had a sub today and learned about values. Students turned in a paper for participation points from questions asked about a story called "Test day".

March 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.

March 5th

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 4th

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.

March 3rd

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.

March 2nd

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.

March 1st

Students played the "Game of Life," the board game, seeing some of the things that may happen in real life. They answered questions on a sheet about some of the things that happened to them during the game and turned it in at the end of class for points.

February 25th

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.

February 24th

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

February 23rd

We continued discussing stress and focused on stress reducers. We also talked about biofeedback and handed out biodots to use to see how they are reacting to the daily stress they have in their lives.

February 22nd

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.

February 19th

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 18th

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.

February 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.

February 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.

February 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.

February 11th

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.

February 10th

Students finished discussing personalities by completing another couple of activities, 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.

February 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.

February 8th

We continued on values today 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.

February 5th

We finished up on the activities dealing with self-concept, self-esteem and self-confidence. Their journal entries for this week were due today at the end of class.

February 4th

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.

February 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.

February 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.

February 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.

January 29th

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.

January 28th

Students were reminded about the three things due tomorrow (Class fee, Human Sexuality Instruction permission form, PG movie permission form). We finished the video from the last two days and then started our discussion on the eight types of developmental stages during adolescences.

January 27th

I had to leave quickly on Tuesday do to a death in the family, so the students ended up watching a video that we will use later in our discussion about emotions. We will finish this tomorrow (Thursday) and then start again where we left off before I had to leave.

January 26th

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 25th

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 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 April 7th. Students will then take their receipt and permission form to class and turn it into the basket by 3:00 p.m. on April 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.

January 22nd

Students had the shortened class period today to finish their Coat of Arms. This was due in the basket by the end of class. They will have a guest speaker on Monday from La Caille and they will be meeting in the foods room for that one day only.

January 21st

Today, students were given their assigned seats. They spent the rest of the class time getting to know the other students in their class by creating a coat of arms to show other students a few things about themselves.

January 20th

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 January 29th. If a student is on a fee waiver, they need to talk to me by this deadline.

January 15th

Students received their final grades and citizenship for this term. They were given time in class to check for any mistakes I may have made. We also finished up the class be reading "The Place You Will Go!" by Dr. Seuss.

January 14th

Students had a pop quiz on the 5 types of development of teenagers. We also finished discussing challenging times and issues. Students turned in their final starters from this week and will receive their final grades tomorrow.

January 13th

Students continued to learn about some of the most common birth defects and some of the reasons as to why they occur.

January 12th

Students learned about some of the most common birth defects and some of the reasons as to why the occur. We also finished a video from yesterday and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.

January 11th

Students learned about the effects of alcohol and drug use on an unborn baby. 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.

January 8th

Today was the last day students could turn in any late/missing work and an extra credit. The students also discussed common reactions to teen parents and other consequences, such as the loss of friends, that may occur.

January 7th

We discussed what shaken baby syndrome is, how it occurs and some of the most frequent reasons why. We also demonstrated to the students what happens when a baby is shaken by using our shaken baby syndrome simulator. They also watched a video on shaken baby syndrome which shows the aftereffects of this type of abuse.

January 6th

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 Friday, January 8th.

January 5th

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 4th

Students learned about and discussed possible common consequences which occur when teens do not abstain from sex (STDs, pregnancy, end of the relationship, etc.). They were also reminded of about the upcoming deadline for any late/missing assignments and extra credit which is Friday, January 8th.