2016
WELCOME
To the Walnut Grove Secondary School Virtual Library Learning Commons
QUICK LINKS FOR GREAT READS,
DATABASES, HOMEWORK HELP,
AND MUCH MORE
The Hour of Code
The Hour of Code is celebrated December 5-11th, but you can participate year round! The site Code.org has tutorials for learning about coding on all kinds of devices plus paper activities as well. Mission School District has gathered together some great resources. Watch the videos and be inspired by the idea of creating your own program and the possibilities of computational thinking.
Hours of Operation
Mon-Thurs: 7:45 AM - 3:30 PM *
Fri: 7:45 AM - 3:00 PM
*and sometimes even later
24/7
Access to
information
“Your Guide to Intelligent Giving”
So you want to make a charitable donation this Christmas but you’re not sure how much of your money will actually go towards the charity’s goal?
Or perhaps you aren’t clear about the charity’s mission or the actual work they do?
Perhaps you have some concerns with a particular charity after seeing something in the news?
Charity Navigator (a charity itself) is the place to obtain background on various charities. Enter the name to access quick infographics that show ratings and financial accountability. Perform side-by-side ratings of up to 5 charities at a time, view up to the past 3 years of financial records, peruse the Donor Advisory list, and determine which charity deserves your support this Christmas.
Christmas Food Hamper
WGSS is helping the Langley Christmas Bureau by donating Christmas Hampers. Our hope is that the hampers will provide all the trimmings for a hearty Christmas dinner as well as extra food for the holiday season. Please come down to the Libr@ry and drop your donations into the collection box on the circulation desk!
No-Name Calling Week
We celebrate kindness by putting it into action! Every year for No-Name Calling Week, GLSEN asks students and teachers to challenge bullying and name-calling in their communities. This year, No Name-Calling Week begins on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and ends on the Presidential Inauguration Day in the U.S. It is an important opportunity to show ally-ship to LGBTQ students, particularly transgender and gender nonconforming (GNC) students, as well as LGBTQ students of color. Moreover, it is an opportunity to examine the words we use that can hurt others. It is a week to be kind to everyone and to find ways to end bullying. Walnut Grove’s Pride Club is sponsoring a week’s full of activities to show that Gator Nation supports anti-bullying. -- adapted from GLSEN, 2016
Check out the link below to find more ways to participate!
Genius has no race. Strength has no gender. Courage has no limits.
Women have achieved some truly remarkable feats throughout history, too often without recognition. To help support this pivotal new movie, Hidden Figures, and encourage young women to succeed, TogetherFamilies.com is inviting students to share their own favourite female heroes.
The Canada-wide Hidden Figures Heroes contest will award a math scholarship of $2,000 to a winning student who tweets to tell us who their favourite female hero is and why using #HiddenFiguresHeroes.
For the month of February, the WGSS Library is setting students up on
Blind Dates...with books!
Come down to the library and check out the selection.
You might even find love!
SENIOR BOYS BASKETBALL PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONS!
Don't forget to come down to the library and start your
Spring Break Reading List!
NO LIMIT ON BOOKS!
For the second time in four years, our Senior Boys Basketball team was crowned Provincial Champions on the first Saturday of spring break! In a thrilling Championship Game, our Gators beat the Kelowna Owls for the 5th time this year, enacting revenge for last year’s loss in the provincial semi finals. The game was very close from the start and the teams were tied halfway through the final quarter, before our boys pulled away for a win. The victory capped off a fantastic week and incredible season for the team as they finished with only one loss to a Canadian team.
Great job Gators!
Beauty and the Beast
WGSS Theatre in the Grove’s musical production of
Beauty and the Beast
begins this week April 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29
All evening performances begin at 7pm
Special matinee performance April 29 at 2pm
Adults $15, Students and Seniors $12
Also available "Be Our Guest" tickets for
April 20 and 27 which includes dinner prepared by the ACE IT/ VCC Culinary Program Students
Tickets will be $25 for Adults and
$20 for Students and Seniors.
Tickets can be purchased online
http://theatreinthegrove.brownpapertickets.com
You may also contact the theatre department via email: theatreinthegrove@sd35.bc.ca or call
604-882-0220 ext 580 for more information
Cristy is the author of a number of books for young adults, all of which are available in our Library collection - including her books in the popular Orca and Side Streets series.
Cristy Watson
All students and interested parents are very welcome to attend this session to meet Cristy, hear about her work as an author and learn more about ways to extend and refine their own writing talents. The Library has also ordered a number of new information resources about writing which are available for students to read. See us for more information about these titles.
Come to the Libr@ry at flex on
Thursday, April 27
to meet author Cristy Watson!
Thursday May 11th is our WGSS Libr@ry Website's
1st Birthday, and you know what that means....
PRESENTS!
Fill out the Feedback form at the bottom of the Home Page for your chance to win a prize!
Contest goes from May 11th - 31st!
Take a Book, Leave a Book
A special thank you to Mr. Halabourda and his Carpentry and Joinery 11 class who designed and built these Little Free Libraries! These amazing Take a Book, Leave a Book Community Libraries are now in the process of being installed at four local elementary schools in the Walnut Grove and Langley areas –
see below to find out where!
Don't forget!
The Fraser Valley Regional Library
has a summer reading club!
The best time for reading is while you are enjoying the sunshine!
2017
Orange Shirt Day - Friday Sept., 29
To honour Survivors of Indian Residential Schools, promote the message of “Every Child Matters” and provide leadership in Truth and Reconciliation, the Langley School District has participated in Orange Shirt Day since 2014. Orange Shirt Day activities take place throughout the Langley School District
the week of September 26th to 30th.
Every October, artists all over the world take on the Inktober drawing challenge by doing one ink drawing a day the entire month.
Click here, and check out the video below to learn more!
I AM SCOUT by Charles J. Shields
813.54 SHI
One of my favourite reads is To Kill A Mockingbird by American writer Harper Lee. Probably one of the most widely read novels in high school English classes, generations of students have dissected its themes and plot points or watched the Academy Award winning performance of Gregory Peck as Atticus in the iconic movie version. But wait – there’s so much more to the back story behind this novel and its creation. This compulsively intriguing biography paints a portrait of Lee’s very private world, uncovers her struggles as a writer, describes the experiences which sparked the development of her novel characters, and showcases her life as an unconventional woman in a time where society dictated one’s future. The book recaps Lee’s childhood friendship with fellow author Truman Capote, her pivotal role in his bestselling crime thriller In Cold Blood, and offers insights into her reluctance to publish a follow-up novel. I Am Scout is not to be missed – I found it a very entertaining and satisfying read which only deepened my understanding and appreciation of Lee’s amazing accomplishments.
GREEN RIVER KILLER: A True Detective Story by Jeff Jensen
GX 364.152 JEN
A riveting thriller about the hunt for the worst serial killer in US history – Seattle’s Green River Killer -responsible for the slaying of more than forty-eight women and girls. A disturbing account written by the son of the detective who solved the case. An Eisner Award-Winning graphic novel.
An astounding graphic novel – this is not just a riveting, relentless crime story, but a crackling morality tale pitting the dark glamour of evil against the day-to-day hard work demanded in the upkeep of decency. It’s a chilling, unnerving story, with sharp burst of humor and a strong, true, humane heart. Absolutely fantastic. – Gillian Flynn, author of Gone Girl
SAMURAI RISING: The Epic Life of Minamoto Yoshitsune
952.01 TUR
With more beheadings than you can shake a katana at, this account of the life of twelfth-century samurai Minamoto Yoshitsune is pure excitement. While he is known mostly through legends, Turner plumbs the archives to figure out who Yoshitsune—the man who redefined the samurai—really was. Beginning in 1160, her account describes the clan rivalry between the Minamotos and the Taira, particularly Yoshitsune's father's failed power grab, which lost him his head and tipped the scales to favor the Taira. Yoshitsune was sent to a Buddhist monastery, but as a teenager, he snuck away to pursue a warrior's life and seek revenge. Throughout, Turner uses modern language and points of reference to draw meaningful comparisons to historic events. For instance, she likens Yoshitsune's sudden decision to undergo samurai training to that of a "boy who never had played Little League showing up for spring training with the Yankees." In short, fast-moving chapters—each with opening art by the masterful Gareth Hinds—readers witness the rebellious, brave Yoshitsune's formative battles, rise to fame, and eventual fall in 1189, while gaining an understanding of the changing role of samurai in Japanese society. Every bit as exciting as fiction, Yoshitsune's saga is supported with extensive chapter notes, a time line, a character list, and an explanation of how Turner recreated his world. Kids who think history is boring will lose their heads over this one. Booklist
100 DEADLY SKILLS: Survival Edition by Clint Emerson
613.69 EME
Written by a retired Navy SEAL this book offers a real-life checklist for surviving in any environment, and learning to defend yourself and others in moments of crisis. Short descriptions incorporating everyday objects and the use of clear graphic illustrations will help you learn how to:
Outwit a pickpocket
Escape a wild boar attack
Resist an attempted abduction
Survive a major earthquake
Filter water in a swamp
Survive a shark attack
And the winner is...
The Libr@ry will be hosting contests for students once every few months!
Be sure to keep your ears open for announcements about what the contest is, and what you could win!
NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) is an annual tradition where writers, aspiring writers, and people who just love a challenge all attempt to write 50,000 words in one month. For those with less free time there is the Young Writers Program or YWP.
The YWP allows the participant to set their own goal that is manageable within their schedule. Both the YWP and the NaNoWriMo website have some excellent resources (and exclusive deals) for writers including workbooks and discounts on software made specifically for writers. Not only that, but you can also find Pep Talks from some of your favourite authors, including the wonderful John Green! So get out there and write. A whole month of writing, there’s gotta be something good in there somewhere.
Follow the link for more information:
Our WGSS Library Advisory Council
is sponsoring this adorable
Saw-Whet Owl named Bauer!
NOTE: If you have a soccer net, please consider taking it down when not in use as they present a danger to owls. If you need to leave it up during the soccer season, you can help make your net more visible to wildlife by weaving cloth strips or ribbon 4-5 inches apart. Make it fun by using your team colours! --The Owl Foundation
By John Green F GRE
It's here: the eagerly awaited new novel by John Green, and-not to milk the suspense-it's superb. High-school junior Aza has an obsessive fear of being infected with the bacteria Clostridium difficile ("C. diff"), which can be fatal. Her fear has become obsession, plaguing her with "intrusive," thoughts that take over her mind, making her feel that she is not the author of her own life. - Booklist Review
By Adrianne Strickland and Michael Miller F STR
Mrs. Proske highly recommends this action-packed, sci-fi fantasy read!
Nev has just joined the crew of the starship Kaitan Heritage as the cargo loader. His captain, Qole, is the youngest-ever person to command her own ship, but she brooks no argument from her crew of orphans, fugitives, and con men. Nev can't resist her, even if her ship is an antique. As for Nev, he's a prince, in hiding on the ship. He believes Qole holds the key to changing galactic civilization, and when her cooperation proves difficult to obtain, Nev resolves to get her to his home planet by any means necessary. But before they know it, a rival royal family is after Qole too, and they're more interested in stealing her abilities than in keeping her alive.
By Jeanne Dobie 751.42 DOB
Through clear, illuminating exercises, this brilliant book explores new ways to think about color, generating responses that unlock personal creativity and allows artists to express themselves with paint as never before. This book gets a 5-STAR rating from WGSS Art Teacher, Mr. Gordon!
By Georgia Bragg 920 BRA
Everyone makes mistakes. Sometimes epic failures even lead to super successes…Sometimes they become deep, dark secrets. But to fail is human; to laugh about it is an easy way to learn about the past. From MontezumaI’s mistaking an enemy conqueror for a god to Amelia Earhart’s “winging it” until she crashed, How They Choked knocks fourteen famous achievers off their pedestals to reveal the human side of history.
We are at
638
and counting!
Where do the glasses go? Watch a video clip about
IRIS Mundial 2017
Guess the Book!
With winter looming before us, the library has decided to bring a little warmth with a contest. Against our very nature, we have (gasp!) shredded a book!
This motley assembly of parts has been poured into Ms. Elliott’s overlarge pickle jar.
Come down to the library and gawk at it!
Which book is it? How could you even tell? Have the library staff totally lost it?
JANUARY'S WINNER IS...
Maya B.
The answer was...The Maze Runner #1
NEW CONTEST COMING AFTER SPRING BREAK!
Visit us in the library to view the remains of this month’s book and take a guess!
Fill out one of our handy dandy slips of paper and drop it in the contest entry box.
If you get it right, you might win a Starbucks or Tim Horton's gift card!
As part of the tradition of recognizing excellent achievements at WGSS, last year Ethan Eigenfeldt, Kevin Kim, and Robin Lee took part in the annual 2017 ZoomFest student film competition based out of Vancouver. They had 48 hours to develop a script, film, and edit a short film and submit to the judging board by 48th hour. This year, there were over 160 entries in the Jr and Sr categories.
The team cleaned up. The won the following in the Senior division:
BEST OVERALL FILM
BEST GROUP PERFORMANCE
BEST SCREENPLAY – runner up
BEST EDITING – runner up
Check out their captivating video "The Yellow Day".
We love the name that you picked for this area, Madelaine!
Thanks to our WGSS PAC now we have a beautiful, custom counter top similar to the Quiet Side of the library, brand-new bar-stools, and charging ports.
Look for upcoming art displays on the new slat-wall bulletin board !
Check out this awesome video!
PBS NOVA's Rise of the Robots
Read, Run, Repeat
Check out our Featured Blog Post written by our very own Calysta Thompson!
Calysta is a WGSS Grade 12 student and Library TA who has a passion for writing. In her new blog post Calysta shares her personal experience participating in
NaNoWriMo - not sure what that is?
Check out her post to learn more!
TAKE A L
K AT THIS
By Jason Reynolds F REY
A timely read, considering the recent school shootings in Florida. Written in free verse form. -- Mrs. Proske
A Newbery Honor Book
A Coretta Scott King Honor Book
A Printz Honor Book
Longlisted for the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature
Winner of the Walter Dean Myers Award
Parents’ Choice Gold Award Winner
An Entertainment Weekly Best YA Book of 2017
A Vulture Best YA Book of 2017
A Buzzfeed Best YA Book of 2017
Fifteen-year-old Will, immobilized with grief when his older brother Shawn is shot and killed, slowly comes to mull The Rules in his head. There are three: don’t cry, don’t snitch, and “if someone you love / gets killed, / find the person / who killed / them and / kill them.” So Will locates Shawn’s gun, leaves his family’s
eighth-floor apartment, and—well, here is where this intense verse novel becomes a gripping drama, as on each floor of the descending elevator Will is joined by yet another victim or perpetrator in the chain of violence that took his brother’s life.
ByTheodore Gray 530 GRA
Into Chemistry? Theodore Gray’s continues his book trilogy with a brief recap of elements and molecules and explains important concepts that characterize a chemical reaction. Gray’s amazing photography and storytelling talents demonstrate how molecules interact in ways that are essential to our very existence. The book is organized by type of reaction and includes stunning never seen before photographs to support the information.
By Dion Leonard 636.7 LEO
If you are a sucker for dog stories, you are going to love reading this one! -- Mrs. Proske
Finding Gobi is the miraculous tale of Dion Leonard, a seasoned ultramarathon runner who crosses paths with a stray dog while competing in a 155-mile race through the Gobi Desert in China. The lovable pup, who would later earn the name Gobi, proved that what she lacked in size, she more than made up for in heart, as she went step for step with Dion over the Tian Shan Mountains, across massive sand dunes, through yurt villages and the black sands of the Gobi Desert, keeping pace with him for 77 miles.
As Dion witnessed the incredible determination and heart of this small animal, he found his own heart undergoing a change as well. Although Dion did not cross the finish line first, he felt he had won something even greater – a new outlook on life and a new friend that he planned on bringing home as soon as arrangements were made. However, Gobi went missing in the sprawling Chinese city where she was being kept. Dion, with the help of strangers and a viral outpouring of assistance on the internet, set out to track her down, and reunite forever with the amazing animal that changed his life and proved to him and the world that miracles are possible.
By Sophie Hannah F CHR
Have you watched Murder on the Orient Express? The world’s most famous detective, Hercule Poirot – Agatha Christie’s most famous creation – returns in this new novel from the New York Times bestselling author of The Monogram Murders: a diabolically clever mystery soaked in period atmosphere and loaded with clues, suspense, and danger.
Mr. Gordon
Art 8: Paper Cuts
In the style of Charlie Harper
Mr. Gordon
Art 10: Campbell's Soup
Using found imagery to create pop art
Mr. Gordon
Art 8: Experiments in Water Colour
Shape and Texture
By Lesléa Newman (F NEW)
October Mourning captures the heart wrenching reality of one of the most ruthless hate crimes of our time. Matthew Sheppard was 21 years old when he was lured from a bar, beaten within an inch of his life, strung up on a fence, and left to die. Why? Because Matthew was gay.
This murder took place only days before Gay Awareness Week at Matthew’s school, the University of Wyoming. Author Lesléa Newman, was present in Wyoming just days after this horrific event as a Keynote speaker for the University’s Gay Awareness Week. This deep connection to the town and the horror that shook the state of Wyoming shows through in her poetry.
October Mourning is the authors own poetic interpretation and reflection of the events that took place the night of October 6th, 1998. Newman uses quotes from Matthew’s parents, friends, police officers, and even the killers to accompany her poetry and provide deeper meaning to her words.
A heartbreaking read - but highly recommended. This book also contains further information regarding Matthew Sheppard’s murder, including a notes page for those who want to review related news articles and police information. -- Ms. Elliott
By Andy Weir (F WEI)
A fast-paced Moon-based thrill ride. Recommended by Mrs. Proske
The latest from #1 bestselling author of The Martian - Andy Weir. (Adapted from Amazon review)
Jasmine Bashara never signed up to be a hero. She just wanted to get rich. Not crazy, eccentric-billionaire rich, like many of the visitors to her hometown of Artemis, humanity’s first and only lunar colony. Just rich enough to move out of her coffin-sized apartment and eat something better than flavored algae.
So when a chance at a huge score finally comes her way, Jazz can’t say no. Sure, it requires her to graduate from small-time smuggler to full-on criminal mastermind. And it calls for a particular combination of cunning, technical skills, and large explosions—not to mention sheer brazen swagger.
The trouble is, engineering the perfect crime is just the start of Jazz’s problems. Because her little heist is about to land her in the middle of a conspiracy for control of Artemis itself. Trapped between competing forces, pursued by a killer and the law alike, even Jazz has to admit she’s in way over her head. She’ll have to hatch a truly spectacular scheme to have a chance at staying alive and saving her city.
Propelled by its heroine’s wisecracking voice, set in a city that’s at once stunningly imagined and intimately familiar, and brimming over with clever problem-solving and heist-y fun, Artemis is another irresistible brew of science, suspense, and humour from #1 bestselling author Andy Weir.
By Melissa Fleming (304.8 FLE)
Adrift in a frigid sea, no land in sight, just debris from the ship’s wreckage and floating corpses all around, nineteen-year-old Doaa Al Zamel stays afloat on a small inflatable ring and clutches two little girls- barely toddler – to her body. The children had been thrust in Doaa’s arms by their drowning relatives, all Syrian refugees who boarded a dangerously overcrowded ship bound for Italy and a new life. For days as Doaa drifts, she prays for rescue and sings to the babies in her arms. She must stay alive for them. She must not lose hope.
This emotionally charged, eye-opening true story represents the millions of unheard voices of refugees who will risk everything in a desperate search for the promise of a safe future. (Jacket notes)
By Ryan Smith and Silva Do Benedetto (GX NOV)
This new “Cody’s Corner” title has been flying off the shelves. Meet Nova one of the newest Marvel superheroes.
Nova’s father is still missing, and the only clue to his whereabouts just blasted off into space! So it’s time for Sam to follow the trail of a new mystery – one he’ll need the Avengers’ help to solve!
One of the most powerful kids in the galaxy has a lot to learn about himself. Stuck between two sides of a fight he wants no part of, Sam will be forced to make a tough choice. Can he continue as Nova?
New books last updated May 7th, 2018
Support your Libr@ry - Order through Scholastic!
Go to the Scholastic Reading Club Canada website and create an account!
From the homepage select First Time Here? PARENTS (Connect to your teacher). This will open a new window, follow the steps, select Walnut Grove Secondary as your school, and select
Mrs. Proske as your Teacher - then you can create your account. For Teens Books - Shop by Collection.
All Scholastic orders purchased through Mrs. Proske this way will give credit to the Library to purchase new books!
Our Libr@ry might be closed but the
Fraser Valley Regional Library
is not!
Check out their summer reading programs!
Have a great Summer!
BLACK OUT POETRY!
And the winner is...
Elizabeth M.
Thank you to all who have participated!
Be sure to check out our next contest when you return in September!
In the mean time, check out FVRL's Summer Reading Contest below !
Welcome Back, Gators!
Drawing and Painting 10, 11, and 12
Art 8: Self Portraits Gelli Prints
Mr. Gordon
Mr. Gordon
New Aboriginal Titles!
A big thank you to Mrs. Brazzy for selecting these great new Aboriginal resources for our Library.
Every October, artists all over the world take on the Inktober drawing challenge by doing one ink drawing a day the entire month.
Click here, and check out the video below to learn more!
Check out the What's Up Page
to see more fabulous art pieces created by the students in
Mr. Gordon's Art Classes for Inktober!
Updated October, 15th
Humanities 10 has created some amazing projects using Canva.
Check out their full Infographics on the
What's Up Page!
You may have seen Love, Simon on Netflix but I would highly recommend having the experience of reading this book – it’s funny, warm, and not-your-average romance story. Simon is a typical teenager – he loves music, participating in his drama club, and hanging out with friends. But Simon is keeping something from the people who know him best – he’s not ready to come out (just yet). When a peer intercepts private emails between Simon and his love interest, Simon faces an agonizing dilemma – does he accept being blackmailed, or should he fill the world in on his ‘secret’? Love, Simon is full of surprises and doesn’t disappoint!
By Becky Albertalli
F ALB
Introverted, play-it-safe Mateo and risk-taking art photographer Rufus both learn from Death-Cast that they will be dying before midnight of that day. Although they are strangers when they receive the call, they soon meet up because of the Last Friend App and decide to spend their End Day together. As Mateo and Rufus experience the joy of ticking off activities on their joint bucket list, they share their heartaches, fears, and regrets about the imminent end of their young lives. They Both Die at the End is a book about enjoying the moments that you have on Earth with people who will lovingly push you out of your comfort zone.
By Adam Silvera
F SIL
As a thirty-something reader, Young Adult (YA) literature used to mean something completely different than it does today – Sweet Valley High, anyone?! Thankfully, YA has had a major overhaul – shifting away from flaky beach babes fighting over boyfriends and goofy one-dimensional jocks, contemporary YA addresses multifaceted, complex problems and comments on social justice issues. Within the last few months, I have read some fabulous, diverse, and timely YA novels - titles that are available in the WGSS Libr@ry!
Recommended Fall Reads!
Ms. Johnson's
By Susin Nielsen
F NIE
Ashley and Stewart may be close in age, but they couldn’t be more opposite. Bookish, thoughtful, and socially awkward, Stewart is grieving the death of his mother and his transition to a new school. His new stepsister, Ashley, is the 3 Ps - popular, pretty, and put together. She’s also mourning a loss – her father’s transition out of the family home and into the backyard lane house. Told in two distinct voices, We Are All Made of Molecules reveals how our perceived enemies can sometimes become our greatest allies.
Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter’s life changes forever when she witnesses the murder of her unarmed childhood best friend, Kahil, at the hands of a police officer. Starr must decide if she will remain a silent witness of the night’s events, or, bravely become an advocate for social justice and change. The Hate U Give uses a contemporary call to action as a vehicle to further explore the complications of teen love, familial relationships, and daily life at an elite private school. This novel has recently been turned into a film adaptation – see it in theatres now! (But please read the novel first!)
By Angie Thomas
F THO
Shmoop
Struggling to make sense of Shakespeare? Read Fahrenheit 451 but just don't understand the theme? Schmoop is an amazing online resource that provides great literature support with entries written by knowledgeable Ph.D. grads from schools like Harvard, Standford, and Berkeley. These guys know how to explain ideas in terms that students will actually understand. Shmoop's free version also offers information on many non-literary topics with videos, learning guides, essay help, test prep, English language learning, and much more.
En français, s’il vous plaît?
Here is a sneak-peak at some of the amazing new French titles! We are cataloguing as fast as we can!
Nonfiction, Fiction and Graphic Novels!
Thanks to all of the students and French teachers who helped select these brand new books for the library!
Read, Run, Repeat
How do you select a new book to read?
Featured Blogger, Ms. Johnson, gives us some great tips for how to select a book that is just right for you!
What is your process for picking a book?
Let us know in the comments!
Grade 8
Total sign outs:
2,143
Average per student: 4.7
Grade 11
Total sign outs:
1,057
Average per student: 2.7
Grade 9
Total sign outs:
2,129
Average per student:
5
Grade 12
Total sign outs:
630
Average per student: 1.5
Grade 10
Total sign outs:
1,419
Average per student: 2.8
This past weekend, two of our WGSS Robotics Students, Dustin S. and Jacob T., participated in the
First Robotics Competition, Destination: Deep Space in Victoria, BC.
Check out some amazing pictures of the event on the What's Up Page!
GRADE 8 GIRLS BASKETBALL PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONS!
On Saturday, March 2nd, our Grade 8 Girls accomplished a “sports movie-like comeback” in the Provincial Finals versus Abby Middle. The girls were behind for most of the game and trailed by 17 points with five minutes left.
Kiera P. took over the game, and the Gators prevailed 60-56. In a stunning performance, Kiera scored 43 points out of 60 and received the MVP of the tournament.
A huge congratulations to Coaches Inkster and Knodel and our gutsy “never quit” Grade 8 Girls. You are the Provincial Champions of 2019!
Great job Gators!
Chomp is available to attend any school function. 5' 2", great listener, enthusiastic, flexible, and has amazing school spirit! Please see us in the library if you are interested in taking him!
Read a great book recently? Fill out a "Gator Approved" review for the chance to win a Starbucks card! Watch the bookshelves for these recommendations!
Can you tell Ms. Elliott is excited? Over 100 brand new French titles have been added to our collection Woohoo!
First® Robotics Deep Space
Recently, two of our WGSS Robotics Students, Dustin S. and Jacob T., participated in the
First Robotics Competition, Destination: Deep Space in Victoria, BC.
Click to learn more about First® Robotics Competitions or see Mr. Moslinger if you are interested in joining the Robotics Club!
Noun
-
Prose writing that is based on facts, real events, and real people, such as biography or history.
NON-FICTION
Do you prefer to listen instead of having to speak? Work on your own instead of joining group projects? Enjoy quiet time on your own, maybe tinkering away at your special interests or curled up with a good book? Chances are you are a card-carrying member of the one-third of people we know as introverts. You are in great company with Albert Einstein, J. K. Rowling, Michael Jordan, Elon Musk, Vincent Van Gogh and Steve Wozniak in your corner. This well-researched book offers new insights which will help you to realize that in a world focused on extroverts – introverts have much to contribute. The fun part about this book is you can select and read the chapters you want – a true introverted approach!
359.9 BLE
The Undaunted Courage and Ultimate Sacrifice of Navy SEAL Team SIX Operator Adam Brown.
“A vivid account of one man’s journey from all-American boy to all-American hero. Blehm’s writing take you beyond the battlefield and right to the heart of the personal battles, sacrifices, and triumphs of one of America’s elite warriors.” Nothing is sugar-coated in this riveting story of a young man who battles his inner demons while protecting others. This book is one of Mr. Wilson’s favourite reads – be sure to ask him why!
Bomb by Steve Sheinkin
623.4 SHE
A page-turning read about “the race to build – and steal – the world’s most dangerous weapon” - the atomic bomb. Learn more about the scientists behind the development of nuclear fission, the American-based Manhattan Project, and the Russian spies who successfully infiltrated and stole key blueprints for the completed bomb. The author includes details about the German’s efforts to develop the weapon and the pivitol role the Norwegian Resistance played in destroying a heavy water factory. This action-packed account inclues photographs of those involved in the atom bomb’s development, its devastating effects and Albert Einstein’s letter of warning to the US President. And you thought history was boring!
WGSS
ART
SHOW
Your books are OVERDUE!
You have been Flagged!
Thanks to all who came out for the opening night and throughout the week to check out some amazing work!
Our students truly value your support.
Fresh
Fabulous
&
PLASTIC SOUP: An Atlas of Ocean Pollution
by Michiel Roscam Abbing
363.73 ABB
Plastic dominates our lives.
Worldwide, about a truckload of plastic waste ends up in the ocean every minute.
The United National Environment believes plastic litter and microplastics to be one of the biggest environmental problems that the world is facing. The problem has acquired a name, too: plastic soup.
Around the world, activists are working to restrict plastic waste and raise awareness. Plastic Soup highlights these groundbreaking initiatives, from clean-up efforts to art installations and critical new legislation. A beautifully illustrated book which shares information and inspiration needed to help minimize waste and curb plastic pollution. (Jacket notes)
The Handmaid’s Tale: the Graphic Novel
by Margaret Atwood
GX ATW
The Handmaid's Tale should need no introduction. It's one of the greatest pieces of dystopian fiction in the last 100 years. This graphic novel presents the core story in beautiful illustrations and thoughtful visual compositions. The thin characters and red accented storyboards paint a picture of the world that is on-point with the feelings of the oppressed characters central to the theme of the novel. A truly lovely graphic novel in all respects. (Amazon review)
MOXIE by Jennifer Mathieu
F MAT
Vivian Carter is fed up. Fed up with her small-town Texas high school where the football team can do no wrong. Fed up with the sexist dress codes and hallway harassment. But most of all, Viv Carter is fed up with always following the rules. Viv takes a page from her mother’s activist past and creates a feminist zine that she distributes anonymously to her classmates. She’s just blowing off steam, but other girls respond. Pretty soon Vivi realizes that what she has started is nothing short of a girl revolution. Moxie is a book about high school life that will make you wanna riot! (Jacket notes)
The Playbook: 52 Rules to Aim, Shoot, and Score in This Game Called Life
by Kwame Alexander
796.01 ALE
You gotta know the rules to play the game. Ball is life . Take it to the hoop. Soar. What can we imagine for our lives? What if we were the star players, moving and grooving through the game of life? What if we had our own rules of the game to help us get what we want, what we aspire to, what will enrich our lives?
The Playbook is intended to provide inspiration on the court of life. Each rule contains wisdom from inspiring athletes and role models such as Nelson Mandela, Serena Williams, LeBron James, Carli Lloyd, Steph Curry and Michelle Obama. Kwame Alexander also provides his own poetic and uplifting words, as he shares stories of overcoming obstacles and winning games in this motivational and inspirational book just right for graduates of any age and anyone needing a little encouragement. (Jacket notes)
Illustrated by Harriet Russell
Summer Reading!
It's never to early to dive into your summer reads!
Didn't finish your book?
Need to start something new?
Visit us in the library for the down low on taking books out for the Summer!!!
Or check out some books at the Public Library!
Mr. Moslinger
VEX BCIT Robotics Competition
Our WGSS Robotics Students participated in the
VEX Robotics Competition put on by BCIT in Burnaby, BC.
Our robotics team made it to the semifinals and ended up placing a
solid 13th out of 50 teams! Way to go, Gators!
Check out some awesome photos of the event below!
Click to learn more about Vex Robotics Competitions or
see Mr. Moslinger if you are interested in joining the Robotics Club!
Every October, artists all over the world take on the Inktober drawing challenge by doing one ink drawing a day for the entire month.
Click here, to watch the video below to learn more!
Check out the What's Up Page
to see more fabulous art pieces created by the students in
Mr. Gordon's Art Classes for Inktober!
Updated October 23.
Christmas
Learn more about
other special Holidays
by visiting the
Multicultural Calendar
Have a wonderful winter break!
COMING SOON
Look for these recent additions to our shelves!
Click on the covers to learn more!
If you missed the
GLS: Board Games in the Library, don't fret!
The Library has these games for you to use - come down and see what we have available!
Welcome, Ms. Hewitt to the Library!
Ms. Hewitt will be with us for the next few weeks.
Please come down to the Library and introduce yourself!
Robotics!
On February 19, 2020, the new initiative, the first-ever I Read Canadian Day will take place. It is a day that brings awareness and empowerment to young readers and celebrates the richness, diversity, and breadth of who we are as a country within the pages of our books.
-- Paul Coccia, Canadian School Libraries Journal
Oh, Canada!
New Database!
Environmental Studies
"From climate change to automobile emissions, today’s environmental issues determine the destiny of tomorrow’s world.
Gale In Context: Environmental Studies provides students and researchers with comprehensive information to critically analyze and understand topics across environmental studies and the humanities from a global perspective. " -- Gale in Context
Action for Happiness - Kindness Calendar
Check out this monthly Kindness Calendar for daily activities to support and connect with yourself and the people in your life.
WGSS
Respect and Diversity Week
Take on the struggle as your own.
Stand up, even when you feel scared.
Transfer the benefits of your privilege to those who lack it.
Acknowledge that while you, too, feel pain, the conversation is not about you.
To learn more about what it means to be an ally, visit
http://www.guidetoallyship.com/
TO BE AN ALLY IS TO...
Can you help Investigator Wally solve the murders?
Come down to the library, check out the crime scene, go over the clues, can you determine who the murderer is?
Prizes to be won!
Check out some incredible fiction and non-fiction crime books while you are here!
Walnut Grove Secondary School
Theatre in the Grove Presents
April 2-4 & 9-11, 2020
Purchase your tickets at
Brown Paper Tickets
Don't forget to check out the guest blog by our very own
Samuel Jeong!
Read about the current
Library Murder Investigation on
Read, Run, Repeat
COMING
SOON!
!!!
Look for these recent additions to our Manga Spinners!
Click on the covers to learn more!
Willing to share your creations with us?
See us in the library to have your work showcased on the website!
Animal cams include Baboon, Penguin, Panda, Polar Bear, Ape, Koala, Giraffe, Elephant, Tiger, Burrowing Owl, and Condor!
Explore the waters by viewing this aquarium's collection of live cams including sea otters, kelp forest, coral reef, aviary, moon jellies, penguins and sharks!
If you are not using your textbooks, novels or library books, please drop them off at the school Thursday, April 23rd from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm outside our southside new gym exit near the track.
MangaRock is a free app that lets you download and read manga from over 20 different sources! It is available in 7 languages, and houses over 100,000 different titles such as Bleach, Naruto, Attack On Titan, and more!
logs
What is everyone saying about your favourite book?
Zingbox Read the latest Manga online! Check out their A-Z Directory or limit it to most popular titles. Create an account to help you keep track of what you are reading.
Happy 4th Birthday
To the WGSS Libr@ry Website
Our teachers are busy trying to figure out online learning as well! Here is Mr. Farenholtz in his new office.
Students (or parents) needing help with TEAMS setup or needing answers to technology questions should contact supportme@sd35.bc.ca.
Breanne P. has just won FIRST PLACE for her photo submission "Fight" for the Student-Life section in the upcoming Josten's Photo Contest. She has also earned an honourable mention for photo titled "Tuff." Check out the
"From climate change to automobile emissions, today’s environmental issues determine the destiny of tomorrow’s world. Gale In Context: Environmental Studies provides students and researchers with comprehensive information to critically analyze and understand topics across environmental studies and the humanities from a global perspective. "-- Gale in Context