I plan to pack as much in as possible before break and the class has agreed to take on the challenge. I love it!
New notes:
Hour of Code: Our QAE Technology committee worked to put together an hour long coding workshop, which coincides with Computer Science Education Week. Our session will take place on Wed. morning from 9:30-10:30. I am excited for the students to partake in this opportunity! Check out the inspiring video.
QAE Holiday gift drive: Following the tradition from the past few years, the Holiday Donation Drive will be for Treehouse. Treehouse serves foster youth and their caregivers in King County and has been doing so since 1988. The holidays are especially tough for foster children, so this drive is essential to Treehouse’s mission, which is to secure the essential education, basic material needs, and social experiences for foster kids.
Yoga: Ms. Skoog organized a Tuesday morning yoga session each week called "Mindful Mornings". If your student wants to attend they can go to the gym at 9:05 (portable). Please remind them it is a peaceful and quiet event.
Photos: Stop by the "photo gallery" on my website for updated shots of your students in action. I add photos on a weekly basis!
Homework: I made a last minute chance on homework this week and decided not to send it home tonight! Instead, I asked students to teach you a new division strategy called Multiplying Up (see blog for strategy).
- Other options if time permits:
- Typing programs (see the QAE library resources page for options)
- Quick math facts app (multi. or division)
Homework Club Reminder:
The upstairs Treehouse teachers have decided to host a homework club! We would like to create a calm environment for students to get help. One of us will be available Mon., Tues. Thurs. and Fri. (not Wed. due to regular meetings). We have middle school students volunteering to help on Tues. and Thurs. as well. Perhaps this time will eliminate struggles before bedtime, confusion about how to do the work and losing or leaving a piece of work in random places! This will take place from 3:35 - 4:30. No need to sign up, just tell your kids to show up!
Reader's workshop:
Literature circles are still taking place. It is so much fun to hear students read out loud, hold mature discussions and ask intriguing questions.
Soon I will be sending home sample prompt questions that you can use with your students during independent reading. Remember, we are focusing on diving deep into our books and holding discussions that are meaningful (connections to history, and social or political issues).
Writer's workshop:
Most students have began publishing their realistic fiction writing, which means we will plan for a celebration before winter break. I would love to have parents come and listen to them read in groups. I will keep you posted on the day and time.
Food Chemistry:
Last week students made observations on simple foods. They also looked closely at the food groups and determined if they ate a balanced diet. This week they will be testing various liquids. Students are very excited to become scientists and are taking the unit seriously so far!
The topic for the next two weeks is division with a focus on various strategies. In an attempt to simplify yet get students thinking deeper they are learning about the "Multiplying Up" strategy. Remember, its not just about memorizing algorithms, it's about thinking deeper with a greater understanding of the concept. Ask your student to teach you!
The final vote was cast and our class will be getting a class pet! I am a tad nervous about a leopard gecko but the students are more than willing to take on the responsibility by planning the details. They generated a list of questions and things we need to know. They began the process of planning out the details of rules, care and expenses.