Monday PE | Tuesday O&A to present research to CWS | Wednesday ART | Thursday ELC | Friday Art |
- May 20th--Start of Math state testing
- May 21st - Present research @ Clean Water Services (12:30-1:30). * No volunteers needed, but we would love parents to attend! The presentation will take place at Jackson Bottom Wetlands, in the building next to the Education Center. It is a drop-in event: see Merlins anytime between 1:00-1:30.
- May 27th - No school, Memorial Day
- May 30th - Celebration of Learning, 5:00-6:30
Homework
Students will have reading, spelling and math this week. The final draft of the research paper will be due Friday the 24th.
We enjoyed learning about the powerful Roman Empire this week and the complicated story of Julius Casear, Cleopatra, Marc Antony and Octavian. Also, we looked at how ideas spread from civilization to civilization through cultural diffusion (secret word).
Ask, what challenges got in the way of your civilization's effort to trade for new ideas?
Talk about the many things that are still lasting today from the Roman Empire.
Extend the learning to find a civilization to study over the summer.
Literacy
Students are diligently working on their research paper. We've covered (in depth, again) topic sentences, thesis and so-what sentences. While most kids can explain their purpose, being able to write an articulate topic sentence, thesis and so-what sentence is a whole other challenge. With their rough drafts near complete, students will use next week to smooth their writing out and create a work cited page. I've appreciated that kids have been invested in their literature about ancient civilizations too--being able to read a story about a civilization in depth.
Ask, what is the hardest skill for you to do in the research paper.
Talk about what they are learning about a civilization through their literature circle book.
Extend the learning to pick a research project for the summer.
6th Grade Math
I'm impressed at how well the 6th graders have been able to comprehend our fast look at algebra. We were able to get to solving equations this week (show your lines) and even how graphing comes into play with algebra. There will be some math homework next week, even with state testing.
Ask, how do you solve for x when 4x+3=19
Talk about how points are graphed on a coordinate plane.
Extend the learning to create a coordinate grid of your room or house.
5th Grade Math
Fifth graders, make sure to get your tests signed and retakes done if you haven't. This past week was a mish-mash! We finished test-taking and worked hard to correct errors and complete retakes. We also had some project work time for our end-of-year challenge: to develop the most original proposal for a new Forest Grove Farmer's Market food truck. Finally, we talked state testing. Tips? Read carefully, breathe deeply, use paper to sketch out answers, and do your best.
Ask, what is the inspiration for your food truck? What math skills has it helped you practice?
Talk about test-taking tips for math. How can you be strategic with multiple choice?
Extend the learning by visiting the FG farmer's market and doing some food truck research.
*Also, special note to 5th grade families. On June 3rd, Vanessa will be leading the discussion and lesson on puberty for all 5th graders. Please contact me with questions or concerns.