This Week...

April 14- April 17, 2014

Reading:  Students practiced identifying cause & effect relationships.  They read Beatrice’s Goat, the main selection for the week, which discussed the Heifer International charity organization.  Students also read an editorial, learning that although it contains some facts, it also includes the editor’s opinions.  They continued to figure out important vocabulary words by using context clues. Reading Logs are due Monday, April 21. (100 minutes)

Math:  Equivalent fractions were a main focus for the week!  Students learned to create equivalent fractions by multiplying the numerator and denominator by the same number.  Fractional parts of a number line were also investigated.  Xtra Math practice is due Monday, April 21. (3 sessions)  If applicable: for students still on addition and subtraction, fact tests and graphs are due Monday, April 21.

Science:  The moon was our main focus for the week!  Although the weather made it a difficult to observe the moon at times, we were able to engage in rich discussions about the moon’s movement, its composition, and its phases.  Many students were also fortunate to see the lunar eclipse this week!  We discussed why the “blood moon” was visible and how it is created.  We also spent a few days in the LMC researching our planets!  Students found important facts that answered the essential question (What makes your planet unique?).  Once they found all their research, students worked in groups to form categories for the facts.  Some categories included weather, size, location, and atmosphere.

Writing:  In WEX, students identified nouns and verbs within their writing.  We also read The Secret Shortcut and identified parts of the story’s structure: introduction, problem, rising actions, climax, and resolution.  In grammar, we focused on object and subject pronouns.

Cursive/Spelling:  Today, we took our week 26 spelling test.  Students continued to work on finishing their uppercase cursive packets.

Miscellaneous:  Since the Chicago area weather is always changing, please be sure your child has appropriate attire for outdoor recess…thank you!  April book orders are due on Friday, April 25.  Just a reminder, there will not be school tomorrow due to the holiday.  Please let me know if you have any questions.  I hope everyone has a wonderful 3-day weekend!