We had more fun with Math Around the World. Today was lo-shu or Magic Squares. The children have their puzzle board in their binders. I hope you will try to complete the puzzle. After you are done have your child explain the puzzle to you. Most of the online links for Magic Square either just explain them or provide a different kind than what we practiced today. A quick Google search of Magic Square will offer you a wonderful array of explanations from the very detailed to a kid friendly version. Have fun.
Oh, I found another link for Hanoi's Tower
http://www.mathsisfun.com/games/towerofhanoi.html
I've decided that I really like the Math is Fun website. Lots of wonderful help in child friendly language.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Second Grade Update - Feb. 29
After a slight delay for a tornado drill, we launched into our seventh lesson of Hands-On Equations. This lesson introduced the white pawns. Right now this doesn't mean anything different than it did to have blue pawns. We'll move into the blue and white pawns becoming opposites. We'll do this rather slowly. Everyone did a great job again today. Mrs. Blumberg came into see our lesson and was impressed with the work the children were able to accomplish.
We also tried to figure out the student made rhymes in pictures. Each child was given a set of the rhymes and they can share those with you. We moved on to visual codes. We worked together to solve one code then I gave the students one to solve on their own. Most have made a good start and a few finished the code. If your child didn't finish decoding the message they should finish that for next week. Also, once they decode the message they need to complete the code page. Not all 26 letters are used in the message and so the children need to figure out what the code would be for those letters not used in the message. Please see that these come back next week.
We also tried to figure out the student made rhymes in pictures. Each child was given a set of the rhymes and they can share those with you. We moved on to visual codes. We worked together to solve one code then I gave the students one to solve on their own. Most have made a good start and a few finished the code. If your child didn't finish decoding the message they should finish that for next week. Also, once they decode the message they need to complete the code page. Not all 26 letters are used in the message and so the children need to figure out what the code would be for those letters not used in the message. Please see that these come back next week.
Equations Links
Many of the kids are struggling with the idea of exponents and order of operations. So I went in search of some help. I am now in love with this website - Math is Fun (mathisfun.com). They make everything seem so easy. It's fun to read and everything is explained in simple language.
Exponents: http://www.mathsisfun.com/algebra/exponent-laws.html
This site easily explains how to use exponents and then gives examples the children can try.
Order of Operations: PEMDAS - http://www.mathsisfun.com/operation-order-pemdas.html
Parenthesis
Exponents
Multiplication
Division
Addition
Subtraction
I encourage the use of parenthesis when writing a valid equation. It takes away any doubt another player may have about your solution.
Hopefully everyone took the time to read over the "official" rules for the competition. I know it's a lot, and we'll be reviewing some of the finer points as we get closer to the competition.
Exponents: http://www.mathsisfun.com/algebra/exponent-laws.html
This site easily explains how to use exponents and then gives examples the children can try.
Order of Operations: PEMDAS - http://www.mathsisfun.com/operation-order-pemdas.html
Parenthesis
Exponents
Multiplication
Division
Addition
Subtraction
I encourage the use of parenthesis when writing a valid equation. It takes away any doubt another player may have about your solution.
Hopefully everyone took the time to read over the "official" rules for the competition. I know it's a lot, and we'll be reviewing some of the finer points as we get closer to the competition.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Fourth Grade Update - Feb. 28
After completing our Language Arts Challenge Problems the students had the entire period to work on the Lewis and Clark timeline activity. The students were given ten to twelve events from the expedition to figure out the correct order of events, verify the order, then create an illustrated timeline of the events. The only research materials allowed were the books I have in the classroom. I am really stressing the use of "touchable" resources, not the internet. They worked very hard, but did not get to the illustration part of the timeline. Next week we'll do the building of the timeline.
We'll begin the dilemma activity on March 13, when I return from the Equations Tournament. They will work with one partner on that one, with just one student (who volunteered) doing the activity on their own. There are eight dilemmas and we have 15 students so it just didn't work out to partner every one up.
I have put off the individual project until March 27, so that the kids do not have homework over Spring Break.
Homework:
Keep "playing" the online games. However, specifically looking up events on your timeline is strictly forbidden. I want you to use the materials in the classroom. If you have free time in class you could ask your teacher if you can come to my classroom to work on the events.
Review the projects and Native Americans that the expedition met and try to choose what you want to do for your project and which tribe you will research.
We'll begin the dilemma activity on March 13, when I return from the Equations Tournament. They will work with one partner on that one, with just one student (who volunteered) doing the activity on their own. There are eight dilemmas and we have 15 students so it just didn't work out to partner every one up.
I have put off the individual project until March 27, so that the kids do not have homework over Spring Break.
Homework:
Keep "playing" the online games. However, specifically looking up events on your timeline is strictly forbidden. I want you to use the materials in the classroom. If you have free time in class you could ask your teacher if you can come to my classroom to work on the events.
Review the projects and Native Americans that the expedition met and try to choose what you want to do for your project and which tribe you will research.
First Grade Update - Feb 28
Today was very busy with geography, time and geometry.
We began by visiting with Flat Erin who has just returned from Portland, Oregon. She had adventures in two Canadian Provinces, Ohio and Morocco as well as Portland. She is now off on more adventures. What an exciting time she had. We also got the real Flat Jack back in the mail this week after his extended visit to Moscow it looks like he took a detour through Virginia and Arizona in order to get back to us here at Flynn.
Next, we read the story, Grandfather Tang's Story, A Tale Told with Tangrams. We saw the many ways the tangram puzzle can be manipulated to make animals, furniture, toys and many other items. I have sent home a Tangram puzzle for the students to keep at home. This will require adult help. The pieces must be cut out and they cutting needs to be exact or the puzzles just don't go together correctly.
Last, we created a memory tool for the passage of time. We began with seconds, and continued to centuries. Ask your child to explain the line of time that we made. You should be able to see if they are beginning to understand how time progresses.
We began by visiting with Flat Erin who has just returned from Portland, Oregon. She had adventures in two Canadian Provinces, Ohio and Morocco as well as Portland. She is now off on more adventures. What an exciting time she had. We also got the real Flat Jack back in the mail this week after his extended visit to Moscow it looks like he took a detour through Virginia and Arizona in order to get back to us here at Flynn.
Next, we read the story, Grandfather Tang's Story, A Tale Told with Tangrams. We saw the many ways the tangram puzzle can be manipulated to make animals, furniture, toys and many other items. I have sent home a Tangram puzzle for the students to keep at home. This will require adult help. The pieces must be cut out and they cutting needs to be exact or the puzzles just don't go together correctly.
Last, we created a memory tool for the passage of time. We began with seconds, and continued to centuries. Ask your child to explain the line of time that we made. You should be able to see if they are beginning to understand how time progresses.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Kindergarten Update - Feb. 27
Today's lessons were all focused on looking for details. Our first activity was a very detailed picture of a party scene. The children first looked for clues to answer questions I posed to them about the picture. Then I asked them to color the picture while looking for the tiny details in the entire scene. We had an excellent discussion around both of these activities. They did a fabulous job.
Next, we reread the book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and then completed the Word Wizard activity using words we had heard in the story. This page has come home for you to see. I had noticed last time the children were not using the clues given to help them solve the word puzzles. I encouraged them to use all the clues to help with their answers. Then, once they thought they knew the answer, they needed to use phonetic clues of a word to help them fill in the spelling. I heard a lot of slow, stretching of words to figure out the spelling. Wonderful work.
Last, we reviewed the Roman Numeral system again. I brought in a watch to show them Roman Numerals in action and it turns out the watch had an error in it's numbering. Ask your child if they can remember what the mistake was.
Next week we'll complete some logic puzzles and use the book, Franklin in the Dark to complete our word puzzles.
Next, we reread the book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and then completed the Word Wizard activity using words we had heard in the story. This page has come home for you to see. I had noticed last time the children were not using the clues given to help them solve the word puzzles. I encouraged them to use all the clues to help with their answers. Then, once they thought they knew the answer, they needed to use phonetic clues of a word to help them fill in the spelling. I heard a lot of slow, stretching of words to figure out the spelling. Wonderful work.
Last, we reviewed the Roman Numeral system again. I brought in a watch to show them Roman Numerals in action and it turns out the watch had an error in it's numbering. Ask your child if they can remember what the mistake was.
Next week we'll complete some logic puzzles and use the book, Franklin in the Dark to complete our word puzzles.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Fifth Grade Update - Feb. 23
Today was community service and stock market day. Box Tops must be submitted by March 1st, so the students helped to prepare the supply we have for mailing. Having 20 hands working really makes the process painless. While some were working on Box Tops, the stock market groups were working to check their status and make trades.
DUE NEXT WEEK:
Your child's invention is due next week. The students should have their model, the Invention Log and their binders with them when they come to class next week. We will make advertisements for the invention next week. Our display for the school will be March 8. The inventions will also be on display at the GATE Showcase on May 8 at Jackson Park Elementary. Please mark that date on your calendar.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Third Grade Update - Feb. 22
Today was the last day of the Shongo networks. I gave the students a very difficult problem. The solution was to figure out there was no way to complete the network. They have the problem in their binders. I would be thrilled if they would try to share it with you. No one was able to solve it without guidance, which is actually ok. It was VERY hard. Once I explained it however, they had a better understanding of the dilemma. The children also wrote network stories. I'll be copying these to share with everyone, so you'll see those next week.
We also did our regular Think and Touch activities. Feel free to look through your child's binder. They can explain the problems to you so you can see what they are doing when they first walk in my door.
I didn't have enough time to start another activity so I gave the students a choice of activities. The choices ranged from Reading to Math activities. I saw students reading books on mythology and short chapter books. Some students were trying to solve Rubik's Cube while others were using pentominoes to try and make a rectangle. Then there were the students waiting to get to use the Hanoi Tower games I have so they could continue to work on getting those discs moved in the fewest possible moves.
It's really interesting to watch what children choose to do with free time. I once had a student complain that free time in the GATE classroom, isn't really free choice, because everything here makes you think. :) That made me very happy. They are thinking, but when they can choose the activity, they don't see it as learning or work, just as fun.
We also did our regular Think and Touch activities. Feel free to look through your child's binder. They can explain the problems to you so you can see what they are doing when they first walk in my door.
I didn't have enough time to start another activity so I gave the students a choice of activities. The choices ranged from Reading to Math activities. I saw students reading books on mythology and short chapter books. Some students were trying to solve Rubik's Cube while others were using pentominoes to try and make a rectangle. Then there were the students waiting to get to use the Hanoi Tower games I have so they could continue to work on getting those discs moved in the fewest possible moves.
It's really interesting to watch what children choose to do with free time. I once had a student complain that free time in the GATE classroom, isn't really free choice, because everything here makes you think. :) That made me very happy. They are thinking, but when they can choose the activity, they don't see it as learning or work, just as fun.
Second Grade Update - Feb. 22
Today was post-test day for the Hands-on Equations program. The students have had just six lessons and they dove into the test as if it was no big deal. Just six weeks ago, the same test frightened them. But, they've practiced and today nobody missed more than two points. There were just 16 points possible with two points per problem. Please look over your child's test which is in their binder. I'm sure those that missed a problem can show you what they did wrong.
Next we worked on our thinking activity. Today's focus was still on visual thinking. We saw nursery rhymes in picture form. After doing seven together, I had the students illustrate a nursery rhyme of their choice. I've copied everything the children did and will give everyone a set next week. Next week we're going to explore secret codes.
Last, I introduced the children to the math game Equations which is played in competition during third grade. I'm using their enthusiasm for algebra to introduce the game this year, then next year when it's time to form teams we'll be ready. I am going to introduce the game in very small chunks as the year finishes out. If you are a math enthusiast and think you might be interested in being the parent coach next year, please let me know, I'd be thrilled to have you join us as we learn the game on Wednesdays each week.
Next we worked on our thinking activity. Today's focus was still on visual thinking. We saw nursery rhymes in picture form. After doing seven together, I had the students illustrate a nursery rhyme of their choice. I've copied everything the children did and will give everyone a set next week. Next week we're going to explore secret codes.
Last, I introduced the children to the math game Equations which is played in competition during third grade. I'm using their enthusiasm for algebra to introduce the game this year, then next year when it's time to form teams we'll be ready. I am going to introduce the game in very small chunks as the year finishes out. If you are a math enthusiast and think you might be interested in being the parent coach next year, please let me know, I'd be thrilled to have you join us as we learn the game on Wednesdays each week.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Fourth Grade Update - Feb. 21
Due to a field trip that 30 of the fourth graders attended, we did not have GATE today. Keep reviewing the Lewis and Clark sites I posted last week. I have already had one student who found a Native American Tribe they want to research. Maybe, through your research you'll find the tribe you want to learn more about.
First Grade Update - Feb. 21
Today's thinking skills lesson required the children use their visual abilities to solve a puzzle. The children were given 24 dominoes with shapes on them. Some of the shapes had dots or darkened circles on them as well. The children had to make a line out of the dominoes. To match shapes though they had to find the mirror image of the domino already laid down. There were very subtle differences on some of the dominoes. I had the students do the line at least twice. It was very interesting to see the second round, as I would have thought that would make it easier. But, for most of the children, it got harder. Even though they had already seen the matching shapes, they still had trouble. I think this was a very good exercise in perseverance also. I was so proud with how well they all worked. It was so quiet, due to their concentration, that I think I could have heard the proverbial pin drop.
We also learned about Leap Year today. Your child should have the handouts from this activity. I have discovered that the children's understanding of days, weeks, months and years is not what I expected. We will do some more work on these concepts next week.
We also learned about Leap Year today. Your child should have the handouts from this activity. I have discovered that the children's understanding of days, weeks, months and years is not what I expected. We will do some more work on these concepts next week.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Fifth Grade Update - Feb. 16
Today, we had an inventions working day. The students created their posters using their Past, Present and Future research. Most of the students used this opportunity to research something close to the item they are inventing and that was exactly the point of the assignment. I spoke with each child about their inventions and gave them tips to keep going and how to proceed with the model building.
Models need to be at school on Thursday, March 1. We will have a public display on Thursday March 8. Next week, we will create an advertisement for the inventions. Your child needs to know what they would charge for their invention and where it might be sold in order to complete this activity. The information on prices and location should be written into the Invention Log.
We did not having a building activity this week because I had lost my notes. Luckily I found them yesterday, but not in enough time to gather materials for today. So, next week we'll be doing another quick thinking building activity.
IMPORTANT: I have reminded the students many times not to wait until the last minute to ask for help on their invention project. They must have their model here on March 1.
HOMEWORK:
- Continue to work on your invention. Check the the Invention Log page to make sure you are covering everything you need to do. There is no need to actually interview a person for the price portion, but you should use the internet to look up reasonable prices.
- Begin building your model. List your real and model materials in the Inventions Log. If you need something let me know soon.
- Keep an eye on business news. Decide if you want to buy more stock, sell some of what you already own, or just sit tight and watch. You do NOT have to sell or buy something every week. Patience is how you make money on the stock market.
Models need to be at school on Thursday, March 1. We will have a public display on Thursday March 8. Next week, we will create an advertisement for the inventions. Your child needs to know what they would charge for their invention and where it might be sold in order to complete this activity. The information on prices and location should be written into the Invention Log.
We did not having a building activity this week because I had lost my notes. Luckily I found them yesterday, but not in enough time to gather materials for today. So, next week we'll be doing another quick thinking building activity.
IMPORTANT: I have reminded the students many times not to wait until the last minute to ask for help on their invention project. They must have their model here on March 1.
HOMEWORK:
- Continue to work on your invention. Check the the Invention Log page to make sure you are covering everything you need to do. There is no need to actually interview a person for the price portion, but you should use the internet to look up reasonable prices.
- Begin building your model. List your real and model materials in the Inventions Log. If you need something let me know soon.
- Keep an eye on business news. Decide if you want to buy more stock, sell some of what you already own, or just sit tight and watch. You do NOT have to sell or buy something every week. Patience is how you make money on the stock market.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Third Grade Update - Feb. 15
Man o' Man did the children work their thinking caps today. We did a detailed analysis of the networks the children worked on last week. The children analyzed the odd and even vertices in each network they drew last week. Then they were looking for a pattern in those numbers that might determine whether or not a particular network can be traveled in one continuous, non-repeating line. Please take a look at your child's papers. Most of them are loose in the front pocket of their binder.
Next week they'll be working on a final project, a test of sorts. They will be able to use all the information we've gathered on networks in order to solve the final problem, so please do not recycle the work they have in their binders.
We also did our think and touch problems. Your child should have their answers in the first section of their notebook. They should also be able to explain each of the problems.
Book orders are due tomorrow if you are sending in a paper order. If you'll be ordering on line, please place that order by the end of Friday. I will submit the order over the weekend.
Next week they'll be working on a final project, a test of sorts. They will be able to use all the information we've gathered on networks in order to solve the final problem, so please do not recycle the work they have in their binders.
We also did our think and touch problems. Your child should have their answers in the first section of their notebook. They should also be able to explain each of the problems.
Book orders are due tomorrow if you are sending in a paper order. If you'll be ordering on line, please place that order by the end of Friday. I will submit the order over the weekend.
Second Grade Update - Feb. 15
We have made it through the first unit of Hands-On Equations. The children are doing a fabulous job. Remember to practice skip counting the digits 1 - 9. If they can do that it will help tremendously. Next week they will take a test. This is similar to the pretest they looked at when we began the unit. Then on Feb. 29 we'll introduce the next level of difficulty (-x). Yes, they will do equations with negative numbers.
We moved onto PETS visual thinking skills. Today they had tangram activities that had the student not use one piece of the tangram set to solve the puzzle. They are so used to using all seven pieces that this activity proved to be bit difficult for some. These activities develop the connection between our eyes, thinking and require the students to use deductive thinking to solve the puzzles.
Many of the students are working each week to learn how to solve the Rubik's Cube puzzle. This ties in so well with our visual thinking skills I am encouraging them to continue working on it at home if they have a cube. Unfortunately I just don't have enough cubes to allow mine to be checked out.
Remember, book orders are due to me tomorrow or to be placed on line by Friday.
We moved onto PETS visual thinking skills. Today they had tangram activities that had the student not use one piece of the tangram set to solve the puzzle. They are so used to using all seven pieces that this activity proved to be bit difficult for some. These activities develop the connection between our eyes, thinking and require the students to use deductive thinking to solve the puzzles.
Many of the students are working each week to learn how to solve the Rubik's Cube puzzle. This ties in so well with our visual thinking skills I am encouraging them to continue working on it at home if they have a cube. Unfortunately I just don't have enough cubes to allow mine to be checked out.
Remember, book orders are due to me tomorrow or to be placed on line by Friday.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
BOOK ORDERS DUE THIS WEEK
If you want to submit a paper order form with a check please send that in on Thursday. If you are going to order on line you can do that through Friday, Feb. 17. I will submit the order over the weekend.
Website: www.scholastic.com/bookclubs
Click on I am a parent. The first time you will need to set up a login id and password.
Classroom Activation Code: GL7HN
On Line Ordering
Click on I am a parent. The first time you will need to set up a login id and password.
Classroom Activation Code: GL7HN
First Grade Update - Feb. 14
Today was our day to finish up two different activities. First we finished learning about Abraham Lincoln. The children have their booklet to share with you. There were many difficult concepts, but my goal is to introduce them to the information. If they enjoyed the topic, maybe they will seek out a book at their own reading level to learn even more. We learned two really big words today emancipation and seceded. I wast thrilled with the amount of information that the students remembered from last week.
We also finished our pattern activity. The children should have a bead necklace with them that is designed using a building pattern of their own development. I was happy with the results.
Next week we'll be finishing the Max the Magician Visual / Spatial Learning activities. Our next thinking skill is Evaluative Thinking with Jordan the Judge, an owl.
We also finished our pattern activity. The children should have a bead necklace with them that is designed using a building pattern of their own development. I was happy with the results.
Next week we'll be finishing the Max the Magician Visual / Spatial Learning activities. Our next thinking skill is Evaluative Thinking with Jordan the Judge, an owl.
Fourth Grade Lewis and Clark
This week marks the beginning of our unit on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Many of the lessons will be in class, but each child will also have an individual assignment. I will give as much time in class as I can to work on them, but THERE will be work to be done at home. We will be taking a field trip to the Lewis and Clark Historic Site in Hartford, IL on April 25.
Below is a copy of the assignment sheet and tasks the children were given Tuesday, February 14. For each of the tasks there is a specific assignment sheet that will be given to the children once they make their decision. Decisions must be made by February 28 and can not change after March 6. All individual projects will be due March 27. We will begin presentations that day.
Below is a copy of the assignment sheet and tasks the children were given Tuesday, February 14. For each of the tasks there is a specific assignment sheet that will be given to the children once they make their decision. Decisions must be made by February 28 and can not change after March 6. All individual projects will be due March 27. We will begin presentations that day.
The Lewis and Clark Expedition – Corps of Discovery
Each student will complete the activities listed below to extend your understanding of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. This will require research and work outside of our scheduled GATE time. You should make use of the Internet sources listed below and posted on the Flynn GATE Blog. You can also go to the University City Library to find additional books on your specific topic. Books in the classroom must stay in the classroom.
- You will take a pre-test and post-test on the Expedition.
- Along with the members of the group you are assigned, you will research a series of events, put them in order and then create an illustrated timeline of the events. Everyone in the group is to assist in locating the date of the events using any resource available in the classroom.
- You will be assigned a dilemma to research and discover the real solution as described in the journals and other resources. Your dilemma number is ___________________________
- You will act as in Interpreter for one of the Native American Tribes encountered by the Corps. Choose a tribe and complete the research as describe on the Interpreter handout. Get your index card from Mrs. Lecours when you are ready to prepare your final product.
- You will choose one task from the list of Task Descriptions attached. Task _______________
- You will make an oral presentation to the class using one of the tasks from #5 as your source.
Below is a short list of Lewis and Clark Internet resources. There are hundreds of sites on the expedition. You are not limited to these sites, but be careful when doing general searches on the web, many sites are for adults and may be too difficult to understand. Please let me know if you have trouble with the links. I have tested them and as of this post they are working.
Scholastic: Slow to load http://teacher.scholastic.com/activities/lewis_clark/#
National Geographic:
Kid Friendly http://www.nationalgeographic.com/west/
Kid Friendly http://www.nationalgeographic.com/west/
Adult Version http://www.nationalgeographic.com/lewisandclark/
Interactive Movie: http://www.kidsknowit.com/interactive-educational-movies/free-online-movies.php?movie=lewis%20and%20clark
Smithsonian: http://www.edgate.com/lewisandclark/
Lewis and Clark Task Descriptions
Use the handout to guide your project, but be sure to come back here for the final assignment; some have been changed from the handout.
Sign Language – Learn why sign language was so important to the Expedition. Write a report for Mrs. Lecours. Learn 10 words related to the expedition and teach them to the class.
Speech to Congress – Research Jefferson’s reasons for wanting the Expedition. Write and present a speech to request the money needed for the Expedition.
Equipment for the Expedition – Research and write about the equipment needed for the Expedition.
Poem – Create an original poem about the expedition.
Biography – Research and write about a member of the Corps of Discovery.
Louisiana Purchase – Research the history of the Louisiana Purchase. Write a newspaper article either in support or against the purchase of this land.
Plants & Animals – Research one of the NEW plants or animals discovered by the Expedition. Present a report and picture (original) to the class.
Fort Mandan & Fort Clatsop – Research one of the forts. Write a report and build a model of the fort.
Animal Skin – Write a story on “animal skin” then translate it for your classmates.
Native American Tribe Map – Research the Native American tribes that helped the Expedition. Create a map to show your classmates where they lived at the time of Lewis and Clark’s trip.
1803 US Map – Research the states and territories of the United States at the beginning and end of the Expedition. Create maps to show the changes.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Kindergarten
Today was all about making up for lost time. We covered a lot of material in a short time and the children were wonderful. They used deductive (detective) thinking in every activity we completed. We started with a reading of the book Corduroy. I then put them to figuring out words when given a clue and a set of letters. The words they made are on a paper they brought home that was printed after they completed the activity.
Next, we went back to visit Dudley in Crystal Pond Woods. We reviewed his rules of detective thinking. The rules are:
There is only one right answer.
Delay judgement of certain information if necessary.
Put more than one clue together to find all needed information.
And last, patience is important.
We used these skills to complete three Dudley activities. First, I read clues that lead to the children guessing the animal that was being described. Then, we used clues to rule out which picture - out of five- matched our clues. (I am keeping the Dudley activities until we are done with the unit so that we can reference them as we move along.)
Last, I introduced the children to Roman Numerals. The children are bringing home an activity page we did together and a bookmark with the Roman Numbers for 1 - 10. We'll be revisiting these each week for a while. They will be able to recognize 1 to 20 in Roman Numerals in a just a few short weeks.
Last, I gave your child the GATE book club orders. I realize this is late in coming to you, but if you'd like to order I will need paper orders back here by Thursday or you can order on line through Friday.
Due to the President's Day Holiday we won't have class next week. Again, we'll just have a busy day on February 28.
Next, we went back to visit Dudley in Crystal Pond Woods. We reviewed his rules of detective thinking. The rules are:
There is only one right answer.
Delay judgement of certain information if necessary.
Put more than one clue together to find all needed information.
And last, patience is important.
We used these skills to complete three Dudley activities. First, I read clues that lead to the children guessing the animal that was being described. Then, we used clues to rule out which picture - out of five- matched our clues. (I am keeping the Dudley activities until we are done with the unit so that we can reference them as we move along.)
Last, I introduced the children to Roman Numerals. The children are bringing home an activity page we did together and a bookmark with the Roman Numbers for 1 - 10. We'll be revisiting these each week for a while. They will be able to recognize 1 to 20 in Roman Numerals in a just a few short weeks.
Last, I gave your child the GATE book club orders. I realize this is late in coming to you, but if you'd like to order I will need paper orders back here by Thursday or you can order on line through Friday.
Due to the President's Day Holiday we won't have class next week. Again, we'll just have a busy day on February 28.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Fifth Grade Update - Feb. 9
Wow, it was another exciting day in Room 213. Today's tower building activity involved shaving cream and toothpicks. The children were given one cup of shaving cream and 30 toothpicks. It was so much fun to see these "older" children playing in shaving cream. They actually wanted to play when we were done. That made me smile. The winning tower was just one foot tall, which seemed short compared to the last few weeks' towers. However, had you seen the activity in progress, you understand why this was such an amazing feat. The winning team was Miles and Leanne. Many other teams also built towers that would stand, but theirs was the tallest. We saw many in the 9.5 inch to 11 inch range. Very impressive.
We spent more time than I had planned on the towers, so we did not get to making our posters on the past, present and future research. There is no new homework this week, just continue to work on the invention log and begin gathering materials for the actual building of the model.
Each week your child should bring their binder and their invention log to class so they are prepared to work on their invention in class.
Remember, inventions are due MARCH 1.
We spent more time than I had planned on the towers, so we did not get to making our posters on the past, present and future research. There is no new homework this week, just continue to work on the invention log and begin gathering materials for the actual building of the model.
Each week your child should bring their binder and their invention log to class so they are prepared to work on their invention in class.
Remember, inventions are due MARCH 1.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Third Grade
Today I introduced the children to Shongo Networks. This is another exercise in mental discipline. The children are wonderful about staying focused to accomplish the task. Here is a link that explains the networks: Shongo Networks - Lawrence Hall of Science. The Lawrence Hall of Science is the unit I am doing with the children, so this is right "from the horse's mouth."
Next week we'll investigate a mathematical way to know if a network can be traveled in one continuous line. Please ask your child to show you their trials from today's class. I was very impressed with the perseverance they showed in trying to get the problems.
Book Orders are due next Friday, Feb. 17.
Next week we'll investigate a mathematical way to know if a network can be traveled in one continuous line. Please ask your child to show you their trials from today's class. I was very impressed with the perseverance they showed in trying to get the problems.
Book Orders are due next Friday, Feb. 17.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Fourth Grade Update - February 7
We had a great last day of division today. The students were put into pairs to solve a multi-step problem. After much work, everyone was able to get an answer. Best of all, each group had a different right answer. Please ask your child about this problem. They really worked hard.
Next week we begin Lewis and Clark - in depth.
Next week we begin Lewis and Clark - in depth.
First Grade - Feb. 7
We received another Flat person letter, this time from Moscow, Russia. Flat Jack went to visit his mom's cousin who lives in Russia. It was an exciting letter with many photos of his time in Moscow. Please let us know where your Flat person is traveling. We love to keep up on all the activities.
We also began a lesson on Abraham Lincoln. Today we covered his early years up to his time in the US Congress. I gave the children a very brief lesson on our political parties. I would love to know if any of them bring this up in conversation. Next week we'll finish our Abe Lincoln lesson and the booklet will come home at that time.
Last, we created patterns with beads as part of our visual/spatial lessons in PETS. I introduced expanding patterns. This is a very difficult task. While most of the kids were able to figure out expanding patterns, making them is a more difficult task. Most of the kids made the same pattern, which they will see next week when we finish this activity. They will be bringing home pattern necklaces for you to see the pattern they created.
Book order forms were also sent home with those children that chose to take a packet. If you like to view them online check out the directions in my earlier Book Order post on this blog.
We also began a lesson on Abraham Lincoln. Today we covered his early years up to his time in the US Congress. I gave the children a very brief lesson on our political parties. I would love to know if any of them bring this up in conversation. Next week we'll finish our Abe Lincoln lesson and the booklet will come home at that time.
Last, we created patterns with beads as part of our visual/spatial lessons in PETS. I introduced expanding patterns. This is a very difficult task. While most of the kids were able to figure out expanding patterns, making them is a more difficult task. Most of the kids made the same pattern, which they will see next week when we finish this activity. They will be bringing home pattern necklaces for you to see the pattern they created.
Book order forms were also sent home with those children that chose to take a packet. If you like to view them online check out the directions in my earlier Book Order post on this blog.
Kindergarten - February 6
I am sorry I had to cancel class yesterday, Feb. 6. I will see the students next week, Feb. 13.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Fifth Grade Update, February 3
This week's word plexers really stumped the kids. We've finally hit the ones that aren't so easy. It will be fun to see how they grow as they learn to "read" these tricky puzzles.
Our tower this week was built with 12 straws and three paper clips. Gage and Makore built the winning tower, with Amit and Thomas right behind them. Way to go!
Inventions is in full gear. This week there are two assignments for the children to be working on.
1. Research the past and present of an invention and then try to imagine what it will look like in the future. The students will create the report part of this assignment in class next week. They have a detailed description of the assignment, but PLEASE DO NOT complete the poster part of the assignment, just the research.
2. Begin working on your own invention. You can use the above assignment to begin this research or go in a totally different direction. Again, a VERY detailed assignment sheet was handed out. Read it carefully. Make sure any information you collect about your invention is noted in the Invention Log Book made on Thursday. You will have class time for most but not all the work. The actual prototype will need to be made at home, but if you need supplies just ask. Inventions are due March 1.
Last, we began our Spring Stock Market game. The students are in teams that include only others from their homeroom classes. This should make it possible for them to check with each other, log on to their accounts to check progress and make decisions. They need my approval to sell or buy a stock which they can get any time. I am almost always in my room before school so they can come up and see me once they check in with their teachers.
NOTE: There were four absent students this week. If you are reading this and you were absent please come see me on Monday to get your assignments.
Book orders are ready on line, I just forgot to pass out the paper orders on Thursday. If you want a paper order before Feb. 9, just come on up and get one from the room.
Our tower this week was built with 12 straws and three paper clips. Gage and Makore built the winning tower, with Amit and Thomas right behind them. Way to go!
Inventions is in full gear. This week there are two assignments for the children to be working on.
1. Research the past and present of an invention and then try to imagine what it will look like in the future. The students will create the report part of this assignment in class next week. They have a detailed description of the assignment, but PLEASE DO NOT complete the poster part of the assignment, just the research.
2. Begin working on your own invention. You can use the above assignment to begin this research or go in a totally different direction. Again, a VERY detailed assignment sheet was handed out. Read it carefully. Make sure any information you collect about your invention is noted in the Invention Log Book made on Thursday. You will have class time for most but not all the work. The actual prototype will need to be made at home, but if you need supplies just ask. Inventions are due March 1.
Last, we began our Spring Stock Market game. The students are in teams that include only others from their homeroom classes. This should make it possible for them to check with each other, log on to their accounts to check progress and make decisions. They need my approval to sell or buy a stock which they can get any time. I am almost always in my room before school so they can come up and see me once they check in with their teachers.
NOTE: There were four absent students this week. If you are reading this and you were absent please come see me on Monday to get your assignments.
Book orders are ready on line, I just forgot to pass out the paper orders on Thursday. If you want a paper order before Feb. 9, just come on up and get one from the room.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Fourth Grade Update - January 31
Fourth graders were given their first of two final division problems. Working in pairs the students had to figure how many pens they could make for the Maharaja's elephants given certain constraints. Once they figured out how to make the pens, they had to use the "King's Rule" to determine how many elephants they could hold. Next week, they will work on a more challenging problem using this week's information to advise their work. Next week's activity will be the final division activity. We'll begin the Lewis and Clark unit in Mid-February.
They also continued the Language Arts Mind Builders. This week we looked at imperative sentences, past participle forms of verbs and then brainstorming adjective, verbs and adverbs for the letters SMILE. The students are getting better at using the resource book I've provided to answer their questions.
They also continued the Language Arts Mind Builders. This week we looked at imperative sentences, past participle forms of verbs and then brainstorming adjective, verbs and adverbs for the letters SMILE. The students are getting better at using the resource book I've provided to answer their questions.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
February Book Orders Are Available
Scholastic Book Club Orders – Due Date: Friday, Feb. 17
You can order online by following the directions below. If you would rather, you can send a paper order form to me along with a check, made payable to Scholastic Book Clubs. OR you can send cash with your paper order.
If your child’s classroom teacher also does the book clubs, please order from them first. I provide above grade level clubs to enable you to find those books your child might be able to read and enjoy. However, the grade level selections are often of the most interest to the students so don’t overlook those either.
On Line Ordering
Click on I am a parent. The first time you will need to set up a login id and password.
Classroom Activation Code: GL7HN
First - Second - Third Updates
This just got away from me this week, so here are the Tuesday and Wednesday Updates all in one posting.
First Grade - The students finished their visual thinking activity which required that they copy a picture. Seems easy enough. But, they had the first picture with a grid over it, then using the grid they were to copy each square. It was very difficult. But, I see some budding artists in the group. I was able to bring in "real" art work that used this method to reproduce a photo to a colored pencil drawing while enlarging it in the process.
Next we learned about groundhogs. Hopefully by now you've seen the activities we did. I like these weekly reading activities. So far we've had topics that the children do not have very much background in, which makes it even better. New information, new learning, reading comprehension, writing skills, spelling, all of these areas are covered with these simple books. For me the best part is the enthusiasm your children show for absorbing new information. Next week we'll learn about Abraham Lincoln.
Last, I had the children do a quick write about something they had lost. This is a tie in to the Frog and Toad story, The Lost Button that we've been using for a different activity each week.
I also sent home the book orders. Please see the book order post for the details on ordering on line if you haven't seen the order forms.
Second Grade - The children did a fabulous job again today with the Hands-On Equations. I hope you are able to look through their work each week and see the level of work they are accomplishing.
Binders have been an issue lately. It seems each week a different batch of students don't have their binders. Please help your child to remember this important tool each week. I wish I had room to store them at school, but I don't and then you wouldn't see what we do each week either.
The second activity today was a round-robin writing lesson. I gave out different story starts to each student at a table. They were also given four random words that were drawn from a bag. Once they read the story starter they continued the story. After about 10 minutes of writing they gave the story to another student at their table. This went on for four rotations. Once the story got to the last person, they had to tie it up and finish the story. Last, the children had a chance to read all the stories they had contributed to and then with the little bit of time left they shared with other tables. I can't wait to read all the stories.
Third Grade - In third grade the students continued with the Hanoi Tower activity. Today, we learned the mathematical route to knowing how many moves each set of discs would take to complete. We also graphed the data. It was so much fun to see their excitement with the REALLY large numbers we were dealing with. We used the calculators to figure 2 ^64 - 1 = 18,446,744,073,709,551,615. Which is the number of moves it would take to move all 64 discs.
Third Grade Equations Update: Due to many obstacles, we were not able to get our 3rd grade Equations team together in enough time to practice for this year's tournament in March. So, I will be introducing the children more to Equations as the school year continues. Then, in the fall, we'll be ready to launch a fourth grade team for Equations 2012 - 2013.
First Grade - The students finished their visual thinking activity which required that they copy a picture. Seems easy enough. But, they had the first picture with a grid over it, then using the grid they were to copy each square. It was very difficult. But, I see some budding artists in the group. I was able to bring in "real" art work that used this method to reproduce a photo to a colored pencil drawing while enlarging it in the process.
Next we learned about groundhogs. Hopefully by now you've seen the activities we did. I like these weekly reading activities. So far we've had topics that the children do not have very much background in, which makes it even better. New information, new learning, reading comprehension, writing skills, spelling, all of these areas are covered with these simple books. For me the best part is the enthusiasm your children show for absorbing new information. Next week we'll learn about Abraham Lincoln.
Last, I had the children do a quick write about something they had lost. This is a tie in to the Frog and Toad story, The Lost Button that we've been using for a different activity each week.
I also sent home the book orders. Please see the book order post for the details on ordering on line if you haven't seen the order forms.
Second Grade - The children did a fabulous job again today with the Hands-On Equations. I hope you are able to look through their work each week and see the level of work they are accomplishing.
Binders have been an issue lately. It seems each week a different batch of students don't have their binders. Please help your child to remember this important tool each week. I wish I had room to store them at school, but I don't and then you wouldn't see what we do each week either.
The second activity today was a round-robin writing lesson. I gave out different story starts to each student at a table. They were also given four random words that were drawn from a bag. Once they read the story starter they continued the story. After about 10 minutes of writing they gave the story to another student at their table. This went on for four rotations. Once the story got to the last person, they had to tie it up and finish the story. Last, the children had a chance to read all the stories they had contributed to and then with the little bit of time left they shared with other tables. I can't wait to read all the stories.
Third Grade - In third grade the students continued with the Hanoi Tower activity. Today, we learned the mathematical route to knowing how many moves each set of discs would take to complete. We also graphed the data. It was so much fun to see their excitement with the REALLY large numbers we were dealing with. We used the calculators to figure 2 ^64 - 1 = 18,446,744,073,709,551,615. Which is the number of moves it would take to move all 64 discs.
Third Grade Equations Update: Due to many obstacles, we were not able to get our 3rd grade Equations team together in enough time to practice for this year's tournament in March. So, I will be introducing the children more to Equations as the school year continues. Then, in the fall, we'll be ready to launch a fourth grade team for Equations 2012 - 2013.
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