This Week...

February 9- February 13, 2015

Reading:  This week, we focused on a Time for Kids article entitled, “Washington Weed Whackers”.  Students learned about the alien species, spartina, which was destroying the ecosystem of the west coast.  In this article, students practiced the compare/contrast skill.  They also worked on going back to the text to find support for claims.  Reading Logs are due Tuesday, February 17.  (100 minutes)

Math:  Students practiced reading fractions and using pictures to represent them.  We also learned about probability, or the likelihood of something occurring.  Students practiced writing probability in fraction form.  Extended responses were also practiced.  Students did a wonderful job sharing various strategies with classmates and explaining their thinking through writing.  Students explored drawing pictures and number models to solve problems.      Xtra Math practice is due Tuesday, February 17. (3 sessions)

Science:  We spent the week reviewing key concepts from our light unit.  Students took their light test on Thursday.  Next week, we will begin our next social studies unit: Illinois!

Writing:  In writing, students learned the importance of correctly sequencing events.  They also found moments where Maria Isabel solved a problem.  Students found key details from the text to describe the moments leading up to the solution, the solution itself, and the effects of the solution.  In grammar, students identified correct helping verbs in the past and present tenses.

Spelling/Cursive:  Today, we had our week 21 test.  In cursive, students wrote the uppercase “Z” and “V”.

Miscellaneous:  Thank you to everyone who made our Valentine’s Day party possible!  The students really enjoyed the celebration!  The West states and capitals information went home this week.  Students will have about a month to learn this region.  Before spring break, we will have a test over the West.  Just a reminder, students do not have school on Monday due to President’s Day.  Enjoy the 3-day weekend and I’ll see you back on the 17th!