This Week...

March 20-March 23, 2017

Reading:  This week, we read a poetry book about forces.  Students learned to identify scientific concepts that were being described through the poets’ descriptive language.  They also focused on how the poets used italics, shape, and color to demonstrate science terms.  We also revisited a reference nonfiction book about roller coasters.  Students learned the importance of using the index and table of contents to locate important information.  We discussed how these tools can be a starting point for further research about a topic. Reading Logs are due Monday, April 3.  (200 minutes)

Math:  Students learned how to write improper fractions and mixed numbers.  They also focused on equivalent fractions, fraction number lines, and various fraction word problems.  They used fraction cards to compare fractions to ½.  Our unit 8 test will be on Friday, April 7.  A review guide will be going home after spring break. **If applicable: for students still on addition and subtraction, fact tests and graphs are due Monday, April 3.

Science:  Students worked in pairs to design and build a magnetic device that solved a problem of their choice.  They acted as engineers who used peer feedback to revise their original design.  After making changes, students retested their devices.  Then, they presented their devices to the class.  They explained how their device acted as a system and how each part was used.  We enjoyed seeing how students used magnets in a creative way!

Writing:  Students completed their final persuasive essay!  They developed their own ideas and used facts from a Time for Kids article about school bake sales.  Each student decided if schools should have bake sales.  Students looked at the pros and cons as they built their own cases.  The March writing words test was given on Tuesday.

Spelling:  We did not have spelling due to spring break starting on Friday.

Miscellaneous:  Students enjoyed celebrating Crazy Hair Day!  We loved seeing the creative hairstyles!  Also, author Peter Brown is coming to visit Dryden after spring break.  We are currently reading his book The Wild Robot in class.  Please feel free to visit the LMC link to learn more…http://drydenlmc.weebly.com/peter-brown-visit.html.  As always, please let me know if you have any questions.  I hope everyone has a relaxing spring break!