The Animation Lab Comes to FM

During the month of November we had a tremendous opportunity to work with some new equipment that came to our school called the Animation Lab.

We worked with MacBooks, Video Cameras, Firewire cables, and iStop and iMovie software. Our job was to take some sort of action figure or something that could be molded to make a movie trailer. Mrs. Rust's class had the opportunity to make a clay figure that moved and changed its shape. It was a very interesting project but it's like all programs and has flaws. Through the course of making my animation my group and I ran into some small problems with the program when our progress did not save. After that, it was very much smooth sailing.

Besides that, the project was a very fun one. I think my group and I did very well on this project. We really liked the Animation Lab and I think it should be used at many other schools so that lot of kids can enjoy creating their own stop motion videos. Out of 10 stars i would give the program a 7.5.

If you would like check out the videos that we made please go here http://chatt.hdsb.ca/~cannm/Animation%20Lab/.

By Liam.

Stanley's Wild Ride

Do you love dogs, skateboards and adventure? This book is for you! Stanley, Alice, Elwood, and Gassy Jack are back in another wild adventure. This time, Stanley escapes the confines of his yard and encourages his friends to get involved. Before we know it, the town is full of howling dogs who joy ride around town. The inspirational message at the end of the book complete this outstanding book.

I think Naruto is an excellent series. Naruto is about a boy who wants to become a ninja warrior. Everyone picks on him but Naruto perseveres. This Manga series is filled with action, drama and adventure. The characters in it are excellent and the story line is action packed! I recommend this book for everyone in grade 6 and over. This is a YA (Young Adult) read and the FM Library currently has volumes 1 to 30.

By Aiden and Mr. Cann

Fall is a magical time of year. Multi-coloured leaves fall to the ground and animals feverishly eat and collect food for winter. Last week our Kindergarten friends enjoyed "Kitten's Autumn" by Eugenie Fernandes. Fernandes' unique artwork brings all the wonders of fall to life. We had fun trying to find kitten who was very well hidden in some pictures. If you are looking for a book about fall for young children, "Kitten's Autumn is not to be missed.

September 2011

We've had a great start to our school year in the FM Library.

All of our Grade JK to 4 classes have been up for their weekly Library exchange and the books have been flying out the doors. Students are encouraged to return their Library books on a weekly basis so they can get new books.

Our Grade 5 to 8 classes have had their Library Orientation sessions and we have enjoyed playing Jeopardy and watching "The Girl Who Hated Books" by Jo Meuris which you can watch here http://t.co/02yDM9u.

Homework Club has started up for our Grade 6 to 8 students during 1st Break. A huge thank you to Ms. Rust and Mrs. Nakahara who make this happen! This is a great chance for our students to get some homework done in a supportive environment.

See you soon in the Library!

Bee-Wigged

Jerry the bee is misunderstood. People are afraid of Jerry. Jerry is a large bee. Our Grade 3 students enjoyed hearing the story of Jerry this week. Bee-Wigged written by Cece Bell is a story of ones longing to fit in. It's also a story of friendship and acceptance of differences. At the end of this touching story we realized that it's what's inside that counts. Bee-Wigged is an outstanding picture book that is not to be missed.

Buzz Visits Telling Tales!!

Our Library mascot, Buzz, had an amazing time at the Telling Tales Storytelling Festival on Sunday, September 18th. The weather was outstanding and Buzz had the chance of a lifetime to meet some famous authors!

The day started with a bus ride from the Rockton fairgrounds to Westfield Heritage Village. It was Buzz's first bus ride and you can tell by the smile on his face that he enjoyed every minute of it.
Buzz then visited the "Swapping Tales" Children's Book Swap where he exchanged some of his books for books he had never read before. The air was buzzing as people excitedly swapped books.

Next Buzz had the pleasure of meeting Mireille Messier author of "Luca". Written in French, "Luca" is vividly illustrated by Carl Pelletier and reminds us that going to sleep can be hard especially if you have an outstanding and creative imagination! Buzz was excited to bring back a copy of "Luca" to the FM Library!
Buzz was thrilled to meet Barbara Reid. Her new book "Picture a Tree" once again showcases her outstanding artistic talents using plasticine. "Picture a Tree" shows all the things a tree can be and the many ways a tree can be pictured. Barbara Reid even signed a copy of her new book which Buzz has brought home to the FM Library! Thank you so much :-)

Kean Soo's "Jellaby" books continue to be a popular Graphic Novel read here at FM. Our very own Paige W. has written a review of "Jellaby" which you can find here. Buzz had a chance to talk to Kean about his books and his unique artwork. Thank you Kean and we can't wait for your next book!
After visiting the many unique buildings at Westfield Heritage Village Buzz reclined in the sunshine to enjoy some popcorn and a reading of "Gifts" by Jo Ellen Bogart and Barbara Reid.

What a great day and a huge thank you to all the folks who helped to make the Telling Tales Festival happen. Make plans to attend next September.

For more information visit the Telling Tales website.