TBMS Weekly Newsletter - Issue 25-26.33

SEVENTH GRADE

Last week brought an end to our study of East Asia in social studies with students exploring periods in Japanese history, elements of the Shinto faith, and the importance of art and landscapes.  Currently, we are traveling the Silk Routes through simulations and role play to learn about people, goods, and geographical features encountered throughout this ancient trade network.

During FLEX last week, students received academic support and opportunities to catch up on assignments, participated in games and team-building activities as a way to relax and decompress after MCAS testing, and completed a lesson that had been displaced due to the testing schedule. This week a flex activity of note was making posters and cheering on peers who participated in the Special Olympics at Littleton Middle School!

EIGHTH GRADE

In Civics, students recently wrapped up their unit on the rights and responsibilities of US citizens and have now pivoted to two exciting projects.  The first is a Supreme Court "Crime Podcast" activity in which students dive into a research project on a landmark Supreme Court decision that changed the course of American history. Choosing from cases spanning from the mid-1800s to the 2010s, they are exploring the background and cultural significance of their chosen case. To showcase their findings, students will get creative and present their research in the style of a true-crime podcast, turning historical facts into an engaging narrative.  The  second project is the Civics Action Project.  Running through the rest of the school year, this project empowers students to choose a community issue they are passionate about and brainstorm ways to become agents of change. After presenting their ideas to the class, they will take potential action steps to address the issue. The overall goal of this project is for students to realize that civic action isn't just something that happens in Washington, D.C., or the State House in Boston. It happens through everyday, local changes made by any citizen with the desire to make their community a better place.

Over the last couple of weeks, 8th-grade Flex time has been packed with a variety of productive activities. Students participating in year-end concerts have been busy with chorus and band rehearsals, while others have engaged in targeted Math and Science lessons to prepare for the MCAS tests in those subjects.  But one of our favorite Flex activities occurred during Teacher Appreciation Week. While some students volunteered to help organize and deep-clean the 8th-grade classrooms, others wrote letters of appreciation for their teachers. Their thoughtful gestures were deeply appreciated by the entire 8th-grade staff. The students' enthusiasm to give back shows what a special group this class is!

UNIFIED ARTS

This month our middle and high school students took the stage for a fantastic Instrumental Concert and Chorus Concert! At the instrumental concert, families were treated to a wide variety of music, from the beautiful sounds of Canon in D performed by the string ensemble, to the powerful Echoes of Iron by 6th grade band, a musical setting inspired by the poetry of Edgar Allan Poe in 7th grade, and exciting selections from our 8th grade/Wind Ensemble including Bluesville and You’re Welcome from Moana. Students also had the opportunity to hear performances by our high school Jazz Band, an exciting opportunity available to our upcoming 9th graders!

The Bromfield choral singers presented a successful and meaningful Spring Concert! Their diligence and focus resulted in a fantastic sendoff for our graduating seniors, and a wonderful musical experience for all! In case anyone missed it, here is the Vimeo Link to view the Concert.

Choruses will now be working on preparing the Star-Spangled Banner for performances at the Woo Sox on 5/23 (grades 7/8), Eighth grade graduation (grade 8), and additional music for step-up day (grade 6). 

Woo Sox Ticket/Info Link. 

And in theatre class, we are wrapping up the writing of our original play in the style of a Greek tragedy, and will begin rehearsals next week. Students are in charge of all aspects of their play including acting, costumes, casting, lighting, backdrops, props, directing, blocking, etc. They are rising to the challenge with humor and open minds. It is wonderful to see them successfully and actively creating each day.