Social Studies:
Groups of students collaborated to study and create large transparent maps of North America. After the North American climate, elevation, rain fall, bodies of water, resources, political, and population maps were made, the children were charged with strategically layering the maps. The purpose of layering the maps was for the children to develop theories as to why population develops in certain regions based on a variety of factors like climate, water, and elevation. While layering the maps the children experienced powerful "ah ha" moments. Afterwards they were able to write thoughtfully about their theories.
Science:
We recently began our Simple Machines unit of study. The children will be introduced to each simple machine. They will be given opportunities to experiment with the machines to experience how simple machines help us do work by trading distance for effort.
While the children are learning about simple machines in school, they are working on their Better Idea Institute projects at home. As the children work to develop a muscle powered tool to solve a problem, they should be recording the invention process in their Inventor's Logs.
Language Arts:
In reading we are learning how to determine importance while reading informational texts. Part of this study is to learn how to identify text structure and use note-taking strategies that match the structure of the text. The class became particularly excited about reading the "Who Would Win" series by Jerry Polatta. We used our love for this series to stimuate authentic opinion wrtiting. After reading, discussing, and debating, Each student chose the animal that they believed was more powerful, the giant quid, or the sperm whale. The researched-based opinion writing that each child created was both passionate and persuassive.
Math:
Three months ago, the students could not believe that they would be able multiply and divide large numbers. Well, it's official every student in our class can effectively multiply and divide! Encourage your child to share with you the new strategies that they have learned for performing multi-digit multiplication and subtraction. Next, we will be learning to identify, measure, and draw angles.
