The Knights’

Roundtable

at MMSBegins Fall 2010

Monday—Friday

Daily

What is The Knights’ Roundtable?

• 30 minutes Monday—Thursday for tutoring and Knights’ Quest groups or other special activities

• 30 minutes on Friday for lessons and activities with your Roundtable group

When is The Knights’ Roundtable?

• During period 9 (2:30-3:00) on FULL days of school

• Roundtable is not held on early dismissal days, late arrival days, parent conference days, etc.

What Can I Do During The Knights’ Roundtable?• If your name is on the

tutoring list, you must report to tutoring.

• If you are not being tutored, you must report to your assigned Knights’ Quest.

• On Fridays, you report to your assigned Roundtable.

Tutoring

3 ways to be signed up for tutoring– Teachers add students to their tutoring list

• Possible reasons: Low grades or test scores

– Students can request to be added to a teacher’s tutoring list

• If you’ve missed instruction, if you need help with homework, need help with a project, would like something re-explained, etc.

– Parents can request that their child be added to a teacher’s tutoring list

Tutoring Schedule• Tutoring can occur on any day, but priority

is given to certain content areas on certain days: – Mondays—Specials/PE/Health– Tuesdays—Math– Wednesdays—Language Arts– Thursdays—Science/Social Studies

• Tutoring always takes priority over all other activities

What Knights’ Quest Groups Are Available?

How Do I Sign Up ?• The slides that follow describe the Knights’ Quest

groups available this year.• You will view the slides and discuss the groups with

your Roundtable teacher.• Then you will use an online form to indicate the

groups in which you are interested.• Your Roundtable teacher will receive and share

your group assignments soon.• New groups will be assigned each term.

STEM Quests(Science , Technology, Engineering, and Math)

Blogging BuddiesDescription: Students in this group will learn

all about blogs, one of the fastest growing web 2.0 tools available today. In this group, you’ll be able to connect with others and practice responsible digital citizenship while exploring innovative Internet technology.

Teacher: Ms. Foley

The Chesapeake Bay

Description: Students will learn about aquatic life by participating in labs and activities related to the ecosystems and organisms of the Chesapeake Bay. Students will also discuss ways to help and protect the waterways around Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay.

Teacher: Ms. Martz

Lego Robot

Description: Students will work on a variety of STEM-related activities using Lego Robots. These activities include programming the robot to complete a moon course, drag racing, and a tug-of-war competition.

Teacher: Mr. Seiler

Math and Logic Games

Description: Students will have the opportunity to play math and logic games such as Othello, Mancala, Yahtzee, Mastermind, Battleship, and Connect Four. Some aspects of game theory and probability will be explored during the sessions

Teacher: Mrs. Stuart

Murder Mystery

Description: Students will solve a crime using CSI (Crime Scene Investigation) and police techniques.

Teacher: Ms. Provenza

Rubik’s Cube

Description: Students will gain information on the history and excitement surrounding the Rubik's Cube. Students will learn how to solve and work together in groups to complete this challenging logic puzzle.

Teacher: Mr. Beet

Schoolyard Habitat

Description: This group of students will analyze, evaluate, and suggest improvements for environmental issues at our school and will also survey our school grounds for possible natural habitat development projects.

Teacher: Ms. Brandenburg

Science Olympiad

Description: Students in this year-long group will work cooperatively to problem solve using many STEM skills and 21st century skills.  Students will research, design, build, and demonstrate their knowledge at a culminating event in the spring (a county competition) and may advance to the state competition.

Teacher: Ms. Brandenburg

The Science of Toys

Description: Come and explore levers, pulleys, elasticity and energy using various toys. Be a kid and a scientist too! 

Teacher: Mr. Davis

Space Exploration

Description: Students will learn about the engineering and design challenges necessary for space exploration.

Teacher: Mr. Adlon

Sudoku & KenKen

Description: Students will enjoy solving Suduko and KenKen Puzzles.

Teacher: Mrs. Foster

Physical Education andHealth Quests

Badminton

Description: Students will focus on the skills and history involved with badminton. They will play team and individual tournaments as well as participate in skills challenges.

Teacher: Mr. Phillips

Basketball/Hoops for Heart

Description: Students will participate in a variety of basketball competitions including a 3 on 3 tournament, compute and analyze individual and team statistics, and have an opportunity to earn Student Service Learning hours if they participate in fundraising for the American Heart Association. 

Teacher: Mrs. Phillips

Cooperative Games

Description: Come enjoy building relationships with your classmates through problem solving activities.  This is a fun way to learn communication and sportsmanship skills.

Teacher: Ms. McNemar

Cross-Country

Description: Students will improve cardiovascular fitness through walking and running. This group will meet outdoors (weather permitting).

Teacher: Ms. Byrd

Orienteering

Description: Students will participate in a sport that involves cross-country running and land navigation using a topographical map and compass.

Teacher: Mr. Grove

Pedometer/Walking

Description: While walking, students will have the opportunity to use a pedometer to track data and individual performance.

Teacher: Mrs. Pond

Soccer

Description: Students will participate in small sided soccer games.  The students will have the opportunity to learn the game of soccer, improve soccer skills, play a variety of positions, and increase physical fitness.

Teacher: Mr. Powell

Sports ChallengeDescription: Students will participate in a

variety of sports and challenge activities testing their abilities and skills for that sport as well as participate in tournaments.

Teacher: Mr. Daw

Humanities Quests (Art, History,

Language, Literature)

Black-Eyed Susan Books

Description: If you would like to read one or more of the Black-Eyed Susan Books, this Quest is for you!  We will meet to read and discuss the books.  We will also identify examples of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) in the books.

Teacher: Mrs. Stevens

Fantasy Film Study

Description: Amazing creatures, enchanted objects, mysterious journeys…many people think of these things when they hear the word fantasy. In this group, students will define fantasy, identify the characteristics of a great fantasy film, and compare fantasy films to those of other genres.

Teacher: Mrs. Busz

Fun with FrenchDescription: Explore fun and fascinating

aspects of French culture with Madame Crowell.  Experience the sights, sounds, and TASTES of France while learning about French daily life. We will sample one French food item each week, so students will sign up and volunteer to bring in an approved French food item for a specific date.

Teacher: Madame Crowell

Greek Mythology

Description: Students will conduct research and complete activities to gain knowledge of ancient Greek mythology.

Teacher: Mrs. Caron

Knowledge Masters

Description: Are you a fan of game shows & trivia contests? Do you have lots of knowledge in a particular area? If you answered “yes” to these questions, this semester-long group may be right for you. The Knowledge Masters work as a team to answer timed questions in 14 academic areas during fall and spring competitions.

Teacher: Ms. Weese

Literature in Film

Description: In this group students will watch movies and identify elements of literature used in today's films.

Teacher: Ms. Burnside

Origami

Description: Students will create a variety of origami projects.  Beginners will learn the basics while more advanced origami enthusiasts can try their hand at complicated projects.

Teacher: Ms. McErlean Fee: $1.00

Poetry Slam

Description: You will learn about several forms of poetry, including haiku, cinquain, bio-poem, acrostic poems and sonnets.  Our session will conclude with a poetry slam where students get to read their favorite creations aloud.  Students will leave the session with a collection of their own poetry.

Teacher: Mrs. Casey

Philosopher’s CornerDescription: Each week we will review opinions or

pieces of writing by great thinkers or discuss puzzling questions.  We will occasionally play philosophers’ games requiring logic and reasoning to win.  We will solve mysteries.  This club is for thinkers, those who want to improve their thinking and analytical skills, and those who are willing to learn.  You may leave with a headache but your mind will be opened.

Teacher: Mrs. Cowan

Psychology

Description: Psychology is the study of human thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Join this group to unlock the mysteries of the human mind and learn to interpret dreams, analyze handwriting, decode body language, and more.

Teacher: Mrs. Schmidt

School NewspaperDescription: Be the first to report the

happenings at MMS! The Knight Times is a student-created quarterly newspaper dedicated to the news and views of MMS. Reporters, editors, cartoonists, columnists, & graphic artists needed!

Teacher: Ms. Weese

Sit-coms and Screenwriting

Description: Students will view situation comedies (sit-coms) from the 1950’s to the present day and write a sit-com script.

Teacher: Mrs. Donald

Sketch It!

Description: Like to draw? Bring your own dedicated sketch pad and draw anything from comics, manga, fantasy, real life subjects etc... Learn cartooning, and improve skills and shading techniques. Challenge drawing competitions!

Teacher: Mrs. Wright

String Art

Description: In this group you will create fascinating geometric line designs stitched on card stock.

Teacher: Mrs. Severn

Writing Contests

Description: Do you like writing essays, poetry, short stories, etc.? Do you like to respond to things you’ve read? Are you interested in entering the FCPS Literacy Fair and other writing competitions? If so, the Writing Contests Quest is for you!

Teacher: Mrs. Krajewski

Women’s Studies

Description: Come explore the lives of prominent women throughout history. Hear about the lives of Joan d’Arc, Queen Elizabeth, and other women who have made an impact on history. The activity will end with a symposium of guest speakers.

Teacher: Mrs. Early

Word Fun

Description: Time will be spent doing fun things with words.  We will study idioms, colloquialisms, Tom Swifties, etc.  We will also play Buzz Word, a whole group game that forces you to look at words in different ways.

Teacher: Mrs. Hoover

Young Historians

Description: Are you interested in history, museums, and the world around you? Young Historian’s quest is a place where you can develop your interest in history and heritage by creating an entry for the the yearly History Day competition.

Teacher: Ms. Weese

Miscellaneous Quests(exciting activities

requiring critical and creative thinking)

All-American Snacks

Description: Students will create a variety of healthy snacks that are easy to make and delicious to eat!

Teacher: Mrs. Routzahn Fee: $10.00

Agriculture

Description: Learn about agriculture, farming, and gardening in this group.  Students will plant a garden, create a mini compost bin, make a water filter, and much more.

Teacher: Mr. Lipscomb

Around the World in a Term

Description: Travel the world...or at least dream about it!  Use your senses to experience the sights, sounds and tastes of countries around the world.  Through activities and games we'll explore geography, language and culture of some interesting places.

Teacher: Ms. Burrall

Chess

Description: Want to learn how to play chess or improve your performance in this classic game of strategy? Join the chess quest—players of all levels are welcome.

Teacher: Mr. Jenkins/Mr. Vetter

Crafts Crazy

Description: If you like to make things, join us to make various fun craft projects using a variety of materials. 

Teacher: Mrs. Beach Fee: $5.00

Days Not Long Enough?

Description: Are your days just not long enough?  Join Mrs. Bentley to get organized or to get help with your homework.

Teacher: Mrs. Bentley

Donkeys & Elephants

Description: This quest explores political current events and opinions.  Students will be expected to bring in and discuss current event articles and Op/Ed articles related to political issues of the day.  An open and orderly exchange of ideas and opinions will be encouraged.

Teacher: Mr. Cochran

Duct Tape Creations

Description: Students will plan, design, and create everything from flowers to lunch boxes in this fun for all Duct Tape Quest.

Teacher: Mrs. Wicks Fee: $8.00

Instrumental Music Workshop

Description: Attention Band & Orchestra Students-Do you need that extra half hour of practice time to add to your practice log?  Are you auditioning for an all-county or all-state music group this year OR performing at the county solo and ensemble festival?  Are you a music student who needs a little bit of extra help with your music/instrument?  If so, then the Instrumental Music Workshop is for you!

Teacher: Mrs. Cave

Globe Trotters

Description: Students will research a destination for travel using a variety of resources such as internet, books, magazines, and interviews from people who have traveled to their preferred destination.  Students will create an itinerary, find accommodations and travel arrangements, and estimate the costs.

Teacher: Mrs. Sunkel

News Junkies

Description: Students will bring in a current events news article and be prepared to discuss during our session.  A variety of topics will be discussed including local events, politics, sports, and weather.

Teacher: Mr. Baker

Page Turners

Description: Students will enjoy the opportunity to read books silently in the Media Center.

Teacher: Mrs. Poscover

Preparing for an Audition

Description: Students will learn different skills and techniques that will make any audition for a theatre show a success.  Students will work on preparing a monologue and other items needed for an audition.

Teacher: Ms. Ion

Sewing CircleDescription: Students will

sew a variety of items (fun pin cushions, pillows, etc.) and take their finished projects home to keep. Some sewing experience would be helpful.

Teacher: Mrs. Bussard

Fee: $5.00

Yearbook CommitteeDescription: Every school year is

filled with fun, friendships, & new opportunities. Help capture these special memories and learn about design, photography, & book production by joining the Yearbook Committee. Space is limited (10 students per grade).

Teacher: Ms. Weese