This week brought some new change -- multiage projects, for one! Our afternoon hour and a half has been opportunity to research, create, discuss, and learn -- side by side with a new group. Each teacher is facilitating a slice of Environmentalism/Earth Day. The kids are independently working on an aspect for a product to be shared (more on that next week!)
In reading, we have plunged into nonfiction with fury. When we use our signposts (Contrasts and Contradictions, Numbers and Statistics, Extreme Language, Quoted Words, and Word Gaps), we are forced (in a good way) to slow WAY down and really consider what the information means and what the author is wanting to convey. It also takes away the "read to memorize." Memorizing facts about the article tends to be temporary. If they really interact and think about the text, they will remember in a deeper, clearer way.
We've reviewed the fiction signposts (Again and Again, Contrasts and Contradictions, Words of the Wiser, Aha Moment, Memory Moment, Tough Questions) and summary (CSERT), These signposts are different in that they point us right to the character and the struggle that creates the theme of the book.
Finally, we have covered Poetry Annotations -- looking at rhythm, rhyme, figurative language and literary devices. These help us interpret, and get straight to the poem's meaning.
Phew! The challenge right now for some of us, is distinguishing what kind of text we are reading so that the correct signposts are used. It's going to take time and practice, but we'll get it!
In writing, we've been incorporating our novels to compose unique responses. They are working on versions of patterned books using the information we are enjoying together in the living room.
In math, 4th graders have been converting with measurement this week. We used customary units of length, weight, and liquid volume to convert from inches to yards, ounces to pounds, and liters to milliliters.
Our 3rd graders made robots out of graph paper. They were given the area and perimeter and then used graph paper to make their rectangles for the body, legs,and arms.
The 2nd graders enjoyed using a ruler to measure 1 inch and 12 inch items around the classroom. They also practiced choosing the correct tool when measuring length. All three classes ended the week completing Sunshine math.
Our fourth grade scientists have had delved into the world of ecosystems, creating their own terrariums and aquariums to coexist in one ecocolumn. They've worked in teams to create their mini-habitats. After collecting, observing, and measuring materials for their terrariums, they were ready to put them together.
Cheers to weekends!
SBLC Trio
In reading, we have plunged into nonfiction with fury. When we use our signposts (Contrasts and Contradictions, Numbers and Statistics, Extreme Language, Quoted Words, and Word Gaps), we are forced (in a good way) to slow WAY down and really consider what the information means and what the author is wanting to convey. It also takes away the "read to memorize." Memorizing facts about the article tends to be temporary. If they really interact and think about the text, they will remember in a deeper, clearer way.
We've reviewed the fiction signposts (Again and Again, Contrasts and Contradictions, Words of the Wiser, Aha Moment, Memory Moment, Tough Questions) and summary (CSERT), These signposts are different in that they point us right to the character and the struggle that creates the theme of the book.
Finally, we have covered Poetry Annotations -- looking at rhythm, rhyme, figurative language and literary devices. These help us interpret, and get straight to the poem's meaning.
Phew! The challenge right now for some of us, is distinguishing what kind of text we are reading so that the correct signposts are used. It's going to take time and practice, but we'll get it!
In writing, we've been incorporating our novels to compose unique responses. They are working on versions of patterned books using the information we are enjoying together in the living room.
In math, 4th graders have been converting with measurement this week. We used customary units of length, weight, and liquid volume to convert from inches to yards, ounces to pounds, and liters to milliliters.
Our 3rd graders made robots out of graph paper. They were given the area and perimeter and then used graph paper to make their rectangles for the body, legs,and arms.
The 2nd graders enjoyed using a ruler to measure 1 inch and 12 inch items around the classroom. They also practiced choosing the correct tool when measuring length. All three classes ended the week completing Sunshine math.
Third grade has been applying their knowledge of nonfiction signposts in social studies with some online text about the State Capitol. Next week, we'll get to see their hard work come together when they create their own virtual tour!
Second grade has been learning about the seasons and the reason behind them. They've created surveys, charts, and graphs to show how the seasons affect us.
We ended our week with a Popsicle Party, resulting from students' donations of their own credits. It was a great opportunity for them to contribute to the "greater good" and experience the good feeling that philanthropy (and popsicles on a sunny day) bring.
SBLC Trio
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