This Week...

May 11- May 15, 2015

Reading:  This week, we focused on problem and solution.  Students applied the skill in various fables and fairytales.  After determining the problem, they looked for actions in the text that eventually led to a solution.  In the TFK article, “An American Hero Flies Again”, students determined John Glenn’s problem about wanting to go into space at the age of 77 and how he proved to NASA that he was healthy enough to participate in the mission. Reading Logs are due Monday, May 18.  (100 minutes)

Math:  Students spent the week reviewing key concepts from unit 9.  Factors, the partial products algorithm, and lattice were practiced through various activities.  Students took the unit 9 test on Thursday.  Xtra Math practice is due Monday, May 18. (3 sessions)  **If students are on double-digit multiplication fact tests, they are not required to do the Xtra math sessions.

Social Studies:  Students analyzed and discussed pictures of artifacts that were found in the city after the Great Chicago Fire.  We also read a narrative account from a Great Chicago Fire survivor.  After reading and discussing the impact of the fire, students wrote letters from a survivor’s perspective.  They were able to include key information about how the tragedy changed the city of Chicago.  On Thursday, students took their South test, the last states and capitals test of the year.

Writing:  In WEX, students wrote their turning points and resolutions for their short fiction pieces.  Students used strong verbs, dialogue, and showing details to help their character solve his/her problem.  They also wrapped up their stories with a conclusion.  Next week, we will work on completing various revision assignments to further develop the stories.  In grammar, we focused on adverbs.

Spelling/Cursive:  Today, we took our week 33 spelling test.  Students wrote the letters “R” and “B” in their cursive packets.

Miscellaneous:  This week, students finished taking the last three PARCC tests.  On Thursday, they enjoyed a Junior Achievement presentation.  Students learned about city zones, the role of taxes, key banking points, and how to run a business.  Our final writing words test of the year will be on Thursday, May 21.  This test will be cumulative.  If you need extra copies of old lists, please let me know.  Have a wonderful weekend!