This Week...

November 12- November 16, 2018

Reading:  Students learned that good readers access their prior knowledge, ask questions, and document their thinking.  While reading various nonfiction books, students recorded their thinking on KWL charts.  We also used various nonfiction text features to do some content area reading with our new social studies unit: The Midwest!  We read about the landscape of the Midwest.  We discovered that the land was once covered with glaciers, which later formed many of our lakes.  We also focused on Native American life in the early 1800s and how the buffalo was vital to their survival.  Lewis and Clark’s expedition in the Louisiana territory was discussed.  Reading Logs are due Monday, November 26.  (200 minutes)

Math:  We continued working on unit 6.  Students focused on their 6, 7, 8, and 9 multiplication facts.  They practiced using the “use a fact you already know” strategy.  Using arrays, number lines, multiple addition, and pictures was also practiced throughout the week.  The unit 6 test will be on Friday, November 30th.  A chapter review will be going home the week after Thanksgiving break.

Science:  At the beginning of the week, students took their weather unit test.  The rest of the week was spent designing, revising, and building weather tools that would be helpful during severe weather.  Students worked collaboratively to create their visions with various supplies.  Once all projects were completed, students had a chance to share their tools with classmates.  They did a wonderful job!  Thank you again to those who donated supplies…the students loved the opportunity to create and invent!

Writing:  Students shared their personal narratives with each other!  They also worked on developing a tiny moment with strong verbs and showing details.  In grammar, students focused on nouns.  They differentiated between common and proper nouns.

Word Study:  Students worked with words that had similar spelling patterns.  They focused on certain vowel sounds by dividing the words into onsets and rimes.  Then, they did a word making activity that asked them to follow the patterns.

Miscellaneous:  Students enjoyed participating in Crazy Hair Day!  Progress reports will be emailed home today.  Students will return to school on Monday, November 26th.  November book orders are also due on the 26th.  I hope you all have an enjoyable and relaxing Thanksgiving break!  Thank you for your support at home.  As always, please contact me if you have any questions…enjoy!