This Week...

April 3-April 7, 2017

Reading:  This week, we completed our force and motion reading unit!  Students also took their unit assessment.  At the end of the week, they read a Time for Kids article about the future of flying cars.  Students activated their prior knowledge and developed questions about this new invention.  We discussed the pros and cons, including the reasons behind developing this type of transportation. Reading Logs are due Monday, April 10.  (200 minutes)

Math:  This week, students reviewed key concepts from unit 8.  They created “fraction sundaes”, where they worked in pairs to develop equivalent fractions for ice cream scoops.  We also reviewed number lines, parts of a set, mixed numbers, and improper fractions.  Today, students took their unit 8 test.  Next week, we will begin unit 9! **If applicable: for students still on addition and subtraction, fact tests and graphs are due Monday, April 10.

Science:  Static electricity was our focus this week!  Students learned that when they rub a balloon with a wool cloth, it produces an electrical charge.  This electrical charge produced a force called static electricity.  Students investigated with the balloons and observed how they interacted with other materials in the classroom.  Some of the objects were attracted, while others repelled.  We will be having our forces unit test on Wednesday, April 12.  Flashcards will be going home today that students can use to help them study.

Writing:  We began unit 3 in our WEX program!  Students enjoyed learning about how to develop a fictional character.  By analyzing photographs, students described what their character would be thinking, feeling, and saying in various settings.  April writing words went home this week.  In grammar, we focused on subject and object pronouns.

Spelling:  We had our week 26 spelling test.

Miscellaneous:  Welcome back!  I hope you all had an enjoyable spring break.  We had a fabulous time at the Elgin Symphony Orchestra on Wednesday.  Students learned about all the instruments as well as the conductors and composers.  Our class also enjoyed a wonderful Art Appreciation session about French tapestries from Blake’s mom!  Just a reminder that STEAM Night donations would be greatly appreciated.  We are in need of paper towel rolls, toilet paper rolls and newspaper.  If you are able to send in these items, please drop them off in the office for Laurie Wasik, Advanced Learning Facilitator.  Thank you!  Please let me know if you have any questions…have a nice weekend!