Today we started the day with graphing the daily high and low temperatures. We then solved another challenging math problem that needed us to use our problem solving strategies.
If apples cost $3 for a bag of 10, a package of 8 cheese pieces costs $4 and juice boxes are 3 for $1.50 what will it cost for a class party if there are 16 kids in the class. Are there any leftovers?
We are learning to draw sketches to help solve problems, look for important information and check to see what is the question asking. Here many students were able to find the prices of most of the items and were able to use several strategies. The adding of the juice was tricky but most got it. There were several creative solutions.
After recess we completed our Math activities focusing on temperature, numeracy, moving on a grid and completing patterns.
After recess we had DPA with Mr. Brutto...the stair climbing was a good energy burner!!
When we came back to class we read the story "Cleversticks." Tomorrow we will read it again and have to write a response for evaluation for our final pathway. Then Emmanuel came to class for Roots of Empathy. He talked about all the things that we can do now that we couldn't do when we were babies. We also talked about the important things about ourselves! Then we wrote a letter to Teagan telling us what makes us special. I hope she likes them when she can read them.
After recess this afternoon, we went to the computer lab. and used "link to learning" and search engines to find information on the science topics being covered. Gr.2 Solids and Liquids, Gr.3 Structures and Stability.
HOMEWORK: Reading Response.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Wednesday April 27 Day 5
We started off the day in the Library with Mr.Brutto.
When we returned to class we graphed the temperature, and looked closely at what that might look like on a thermometer. We also talked about how temperature can help you choose what to wear. I like this response, " I don't worry about that, my mom tells me what to put on." I hope I can spare parents some time in choosing clothes sooner rather than later. We then worked on solving a challenging Math word problem that required them to combine alot of previous Math knowledge. I have some GREAT problem solvers in the class. I am pleased.
After recess, we did our Math groups. We focused on Numeracy, Measurement ( temp), moving on a grid and coordinates, patterning.
After lunch, we had a discussion about being nice to each other. There were some instances of people being excluded from groups at recess, some instances of kicking, and others of just saying unfriendly things to one another. Once that was over, we enjoyed the performance, "Girl in Da 'Hood." We were all impressed with the only cast member from our class Samantha's dancing and singing as a member of the forest. Well done Samantha. When we came back we completed a response to the performance. What was their favourite character and favourite part of the play?
After recess was suppose to be visit to the Computer Lab. but there were once again some issues at recess, and not listening to instructions so that was cancelled and we will try again tomorrow. So we completed work on Spelling or rewriting our Journal responses from Tuesday.
HOMEWORK: Spelling due tomorrow.
Read.
When we returned to class we graphed the temperature, and looked closely at what that might look like on a thermometer. We also talked about how temperature can help you choose what to wear. I like this response, " I don't worry about that, my mom tells me what to put on." I hope I can spare parents some time in choosing clothes sooner rather than later. We then worked on solving a challenging Math word problem that required them to combine alot of previous Math knowledge. I have some GREAT problem solvers in the class. I am pleased.
After recess, we did our Math groups. We focused on Numeracy, Measurement ( temp), moving on a grid and coordinates, patterning.
After lunch, we had a discussion about being nice to each other. There were some instances of people being excluded from groups at recess, some instances of kicking, and others of just saying unfriendly things to one another. Once that was over, we enjoyed the performance, "Girl in Da 'Hood." We were all impressed with the only cast member from our class Samantha's dancing and singing as a member of the forest. Well done Samantha. When we came back we completed a response to the performance. What was their favourite character and favourite part of the play?
After recess was suppose to be visit to the Computer Lab. but there were once again some issues at recess, and not listening to instructions so that was cancelled and we will try again tomorrow. So we completed work on Spelling or rewriting our Journal responses from Tuesday.
HOMEWORK: Spelling due tomorrow.
Read.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Tuesday April 26 Day 4
I hope everyone had an enjoyable long weekend.
We started off the day by recording the temperature on our temperature graphs. We then went straight into writing in our Journals. We had three topics to choose from: A) The best part of my weekend was... B) The nicest thing I ever did was.... C) A time when a friend disappointed me was.... Since I gave the topic sentence I was really looking for some good, descriptive supporting details in their paragraphs. The paragraphs will be editted with feedback and the students will make the suggested improvements to meet the success criteria for this activity. We then had Gym with Mr. Costa.
After recess, we did Math groups. One group focused on the basic operations of 2-digit addition and subtraction, multipication and division. One group looked at temperature and thermometers, one group completed work on moving on a grid, and the final group did some work on patterning. We will be looking at growing patterns and using tables in the coming weeks.
After lunch we read another chapter from Shipwrecked. The chapter today was very exciting. The assistant captian left the six kids on the boat alone and he took the raft. The boat is sinking slowly and they don't know where they are going. Lyssa is trying to get the engine started and has to work on an engine that is submerged in water. The get the boat going, but the fumes from the engine in the engine room ignite and causes an explosion. Three of the crew members are blown into the water and 3 remain on a burning boat. What will happen? Do they stay on the boat to stay floating or jump into the vast ocean?
We then completed some unfinished Literacy activities from last week. We are getting to the final stages of our scripts and some students have begun to make their product packages. Hopefully we will get the commercials shot by the end of the week. After our script work, we did some response to some stories focusing on character traits, and some completed the penmanship activity of copying a poem and illustrating it.
After recess we did our Spelling test for Lesson 28, which many students got 100% ( yay). We then started working on Lesson 29. Spelling is to be completed by Thursday morning. Doing a little bit each night for homework is a good way to get it done, or do it all at once and hand it in early. Several students are NOT completing their lessons completely or on time!
REMINDER: Tomorrow night is the performance of "Girl in da 'Hood"
HOMEWORK: Read.
Spelling Lesson 29 ( one or two pages)
We started off the day by recording the temperature on our temperature graphs. We then went straight into writing in our Journals. We had three topics to choose from: A) The best part of my weekend was... B) The nicest thing I ever did was.... C) A time when a friend disappointed me was.... Since I gave the topic sentence I was really looking for some good, descriptive supporting details in their paragraphs. The paragraphs will be editted with feedback and the students will make the suggested improvements to meet the success criteria for this activity. We then had Gym with Mr. Costa.
After recess, we did Math groups. One group focused on the basic operations of 2-digit addition and subtraction, multipication and division. One group looked at temperature and thermometers, one group completed work on moving on a grid, and the final group did some work on patterning. We will be looking at growing patterns and using tables in the coming weeks.
After lunch we read another chapter from Shipwrecked. The chapter today was very exciting. The assistant captian left the six kids on the boat alone and he took the raft. The boat is sinking slowly and they don't know where they are going. Lyssa is trying to get the engine started and has to work on an engine that is submerged in water. The get the boat going, but the fumes from the engine in the engine room ignite and causes an explosion. Three of the crew members are blown into the water and 3 remain on a burning boat. What will happen? Do they stay on the boat to stay floating or jump into the vast ocean?
We then completed some unfinished Literacy activities from last week. We are getting to the final stages of our scripts and some students have begun to make their product packages. Hopefully we will get the commercials shot by the end of the week. After our script work, we did some response to some stories focusing on character traits, and some completed the penmanship activity of copying a poem and illustrating it.
After recess we did our Spelling test for Lesson 28, which many students got 100% ( yay). We then started working on Lesson 29. Spelling is to be completed by Thursday morning. Doing a little bit each night for homework is a good way to get it done, or do it all at once and hand it in early. Several students are NOT completing their lessons completely or on time!
REMINDER: Tomorrow night is the performance of "Girl in da 'Hood"
HOMEWORK: Read.
Spelling Lesson 29 ( one or two pages)
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Wednesday April 20 Day 2
We started of the day in the Gym. Right after we left the gym we went for dental screening. A note will be given to your child if necessary. When we got back to class we read from "Shipwrecked." The crew is now in the water and the captain was thrown overboard and lost at sea. The crew has had to get rid of any extra items that are not considered of absolute importance. Only things needed to said, wear or eat are allowed. The boat is broken, and everything is in disarray. There is going to have to be some good problem solving happening if they are to survive.
After recess, we did a review of capacity and mass. We looked at different sized containers and compared them to a standard litre. We decided if it was more, less or about a litre. We then used our knowledge of fractions to tell if a container was half, quarter or three quarters full. We did similar activities with mass. Comparing items to a kilogram. We completed a worksheet on both topics.
After lunch we read the story "Grandpa's Visit." We talked about the main idea. In this story, we learned that spending time with your family is more fun than spending money on things. We then completed a response that looked at character traits. In this sheet, we looked closely at the Grandfather. We said he was wise, loving, positive, and caring. Students had to chose one of those traits and find examples from the story that showed this trait. They then had to explain why this would be an important trait for them to have.
Last period we watched a video on "Structures." What makes structures strong, and stable? It relates to the Gr. 2 curriculum as well, because we are looking at matter and materials. What something is made of and what it is for determine its shape and strength.
HOMEWORK: Spelling Lesson 28... must be completed!
Read.
After recess, we did a review of capacity and mass. We looked at different sized containers and compared them to a standard litre. We decided if it was more, less or about a litre. We then used our knowledge of fractions to tell if a container was half, quarter or three quarters full. We did similar activities with mass. Comparing items to a kilogram. We completed a worksheet on both topics.
After lunch we read the story "Grandpa's Visit." We talked about the main idea. In this story, we learned that spending time with your family is more fun than spending money on things. We then completed a response that looked at character traits. In this sheet, we looked closely at the Grandfather. We said he was wise, loving, positive, and caring. Students had to chose one of those traits and find examples from the story that showed this trait. They then had to explain why this would be an important trait for them to have.
Last period we watched a video on "Structures." What makes structures strong, and stable? It relates to the Gr. 2 curriculum as well, because we are looking at matter and materials. What something is made of and what it is for determine its shape and strength.
HOMEWORK: Spelling Lesson 28... must be completed!
Read.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Monday April 18 Day 5
Today we started off with a visit to the library.
When we returned to class we graphed the daily high and low temperatures. After that was completed
we did a Math review. We have been completing work in several strands and today we did a check up on fractions, time, symmetry and graphing. In general, most students understand fractions as part of a whole, but some students are struggling with fractions of a group. I think we need to spend a little more time understanding telling time and where the big and little hands are placed. The class is really strong with symmetry and most students understand the different graphs.
After recess, some students still needed time to finish the review sheets, while others were able to work on their journal.
After lunch we did a response to a familiar story. We reread the story "Viola Desmond Won't Be Budged."
Last time we did a response we wrote about our feelings and about the main idea. This time before we read the story we talked about character traits. We reviewed inner and outer characteristics and we focused on inner characteristics of people and how they are different than feelings that happen in response to different situations. So, someone can be shy, and may feel happy or angry or jealous. Someone can be outgoing and feel differently. We then reviewed different character traits that a character might possess.
( intelligent, funny, silly, brave, confident, unpleasant, hard worker, etc.)
After everyone had completed there response, we worked on one together so show what a high level response should have included. We will be doing more work on character traits in next couple weeks.
With the remaining 15 min. before heading to recess, we read, "Shipwrecked". In this chapter, a terrible storm is happening at the boat is being tossed around among the 30ft. waves. On crew member, J.J. did something he shouldn't have done and the boat was capsized and some people are now in the ocean.
After recess, we had our Spelling test for lesson 27. Students then had time to work on lesson 28.
HOMEWORK: Journal ( some students completed their work so they didn't have to take it home)
Read.
Spelling 28( optional, but they may want to get a head start)
When we returned to class we graphed the daily high and low temperatures. After that was completed
we did a Math review. We have been completing work in several strands and today we did a check up on fractions, time, symmetry and graphing. In general, most students understand fractions as part of a whole, but some students are struggling with fractions of a group. I think we need to spend a little more time understanding telling time and where the big and little hands are placed. The class is really strong with symmetry and most students understand the different graphs.
After recess, some students still needed time to finish the review sheets, while others were able to work on their journal.
After lunch we did a response to a familiar story. We reread the story "Viola Desmond Won't Be Budged."
Last time we did a response we wrote about our feelings and about the main idea. This time before we read the story we talked about character traits. We reviewed inner and outer characteristics and we focused on inner characteristics of people and how they are different than feelings that happen in response to different situations. So, someone can be shy, and may feel happy or angry or jealous. Someone can be outgoing and feel differently. We then reviewed different character traits that a character might possess.
( intelligent, funny, silly, brave, confident, unpleasant, hard worker, etc.)
After everyone had completed there response, we worked on one together so show what a high level response should have included. We will be doing more work on character traits in next couple weeks.
With the remaining 15 min. before heading to recess, we read, "Shipwrecked". In this chapter, a terrible storm is happening at the boat is being tossed around among the 30ft. waves. On crew member, J.J. did something he shouldn't have done and the boat was capsized and some people are now in the ocean.
After recess, we had our Spelling test for lesson 27. Students then had time to work on lesson 28.
HOMEWORK: Journal ( some students completed their work so they didn't have to take it home)
Read.
Spelling 28( optional, but they may want to get a head start)
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Thursday April 14 Day 3
We started off the day by completing our nursery rhymes for Baby Teagan. We did a rough copy and tried to complete our good copies before heading off to DPA?Drama with Ms. Leung.
After recess we did our Math activities. We focused on mass/weight, capacity, symmetry and others worked on number skills on the whiteboard.
After lunch we discussed what we were actually learning by making commercials. These are our learning goals. We talked about how this activity teaches things from several different subjects. It teaches how to use the persuasive writing we learned earlier this year in a different way. We will learn the form of a script. It will reinforce the healthy living and safety ideas we are learning in health. It will also use our media literacy skills when we focus on what shots to use in our commericial and also help us produce a piece of media text as a final product. It also encourages us to use teamwork, and take advantage of the different skills that each person brings to the group. We then talked about the success criteria for this activity. As a class, we decided what we all need to do succeed in this activity. What will being successful in this activity look like?
We then read two chapters of Shipwrecked before recess. Now that they are sailing we are learning lots of sailing terms. We see that Radford ( or Rat-ford) as the kids call him, does not really enjoy the company of children very much. We learn a little bit more about the characters. It also becomes very wavy and many of the new crew members are getting seasick.
After recess we worked in our Literacy Groups. I read with one group, some did penmanship, some completed the Grammar work, and others read nonfiction text on Matter.
HOMEWORK: Grade 3: Symmetry sheet and pg. 295- 296 in Math text.
Grade 2 Spelling if not done.. and Reading Response.
After recess we did our Math activities. We focused on mass/weight, capacity, symmetry and others worked on number skills on the whiteboard.
After lunch we discussed what we were actually learning by making commercials. These are our learning goals. We talked about how this activity teaches things from several different subjects. It teaches how to use the persuasive writing we learned earlier this year in a different way. We will learn the form of a script. It will reinforce the healthy living and safety ideas we are learning in health. It will also use our media literacy skills when we focus on what shots to use in our commericial and also help us produce a piece of media text as a final product. It also encourages us to use teamwork, and take advantage of the different skills that each person brings to the group. We then talked about the success criteria for this activity. As a class, we decided what we all need to do succeed in this activity. What will being successful in this activity look like?
We then read two chapters of Shipwrecked before recess. Now that they are sailing we are learning lots of sailing terms. We see that Radford ( or Rat-ford) as the kids call him, does not really enjoy the company of children very much. We learn a little bit more about the characters. It also becomes very wavy and many of the new crew members are getting seasick.
After recess we worked in our Literacy Groups. I read with one group, some did penmanship, some completed the Grammar work, and others read nonfiction text on Matter.
HOMEWORK: Grade 3: Symmetry sheet and pg. 295- 296 in Math text.
Grade 2 Spelling if not done.. and Reading Response.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
It was PINK DAY today. In support of Anti-bullying and Discrimination many students wore pink. We started the day off in the gym. When we returned we read the morning message and discussed several issues around bullying. We talked about diversity, equity and equality and how they are different. We also talked about the different ways that people are discriminated against. We talked about racism, sexism, agism, homophobia, ableism anti-semitism as just a few of the ways that people discriminate or bully others.
We looked at graphs of bullying in Canada and found that mostly boys bully and are victims of bullying but girls are not far behind them. We noticed in the graphs that Grade 9 is a time when bullying peaks and then hopefully goes down by Grade 12. We had a very good discussion and of course the overall message was don't bully for any reason.
After recess we did Math groups. One group practiced their subtraction skills on the whiteboard, one group found the capacity of different containers, one group did a symmetry worksheet and the final group estimated and measured the mass of a variety of objects on a balance scale.
After lunch we did Literacy Activities. I read with one group, one group did grammar focusing on verbs, another penmanship and the final group read nonfiction texts on matter, and made simple jot notes.
We then made ourselves into groups of 3 for the production of our commercials. We discussed "pitching" our products. In our groups, each person was to pitch their product to their group and then come to an agreement on which product they would like to make a commercial for. Now we can move on to storyboards and scripts before shooting the actual commercials.
We then read another chapter of Shipwrecked. The crew has finally set said on their boat and is learning that working on a boat is not all fun and games.
After recess, the Grade 2's did a science activity where we tried to answer the question, "Can you pour a solid?" We tried pouring linking cubes and sand but realized that the solids do not take up all the space in a container even if the pieces of the solid are really small. We tested this by adding water to a full container of water, and adding water water to a fully container of sand. We then talked about how different liquids sometimes don't stay mixed when put together. The Grade 3's had time to finish Spelling so there would be less homework tonight.
HOMEWORK: complete Spelling Lesson 27.
Read.
We looked at graphs of bullying in Canada and found that mostly boys bully and are victims of bullying but girls are not far behind them. We noticed in the graphs that Grade 9 is a time when bullying peaks and then hopefully goes down by Grade 12. We had a very good discussion and of course the overall message was don't bully for any reason.
After recess we did Math groups. One group practiced their subtraction skills on the whiteboard, one group found the capacity of different containers, one group did a symmetry worksheet and the final group estimated and measured the mass of a variety of objects on a balance scale.
After lunch we did Literacy Activities. I read with one group, one group did grammar focusing on verbs, another penmanship and the final group read nonfiction texts on matter, and made simple jot notes.
We then made ourselves into groups of 3 for the production of our commercials. We discussed "pitching" our products. In our groups, each person was to pitch their product to their group and then come to an agreement on which product they would like to make a commercial for. Now we can move on to storyboards and scripts before shooting the actual commercials.
We then read another chapter of Shipwrecked. The crew has finally set said on their boat and is learning that working on a boat is not all fun and games.
After recess, the Grade 2's did a science activity where we tried to answer the question, "Can you pour a solid?" We tried pouring linking cubes and sand but realized that the solids do not take up all the space in a container even if the pieces of the solid are really small. We tested this by adding water to a full container of water, and adding water water to a fully container of sand. We then talked about how different liquids sometimes don't stay mixed when put together. The Grade 3's had time to finish Spelling so there would be less homework tonight.
HOMEWORK: complete Spelling Lesson 27.
Read.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Tuesday April 12 Day 1
I was absent yesterday and came back to a long list of things that the class was having trouble with. So first thing today, I spoke about how disappointed I was, when usually I get a note that everything was great. I guess there are some things we need to work on...and YES, lining up is one of them.
Today we started of with the morning message and then we went to write in our Journals. The topic was to tell of a time when you tricked someone. I once again was focusing on having a topic sentence and then giving really desriptive supporting details to make the paragraph interesting. I was also looking for a summary sentence for this paragraph. I checked some but as I class I sent them home to have a really good look at their writing to make it better. I am trying to get the class to revisit their writing as a habit. Many write it complete it, and don't go back and look for small errors in spelling, punctuation or missing words.
I then introduced two new measurment topics, mass/weight and capacity. We talked about the words and what they mean and we wrote the definitions, wrote the units used to measure mass/weight ( mg, g, kg) and capacitiy ( ml, L) and also talked about the tools used to measure. It is important to be familiar with both mass and weight, but I will be asking students to "weigh" objects. Scales for mass, and measuring spoons, measuring cups, graduated cylinders for capacity. A great way to build an understanding of these concepts is to have your children play and experiment with measuring utensils at home either in the tub or helping cooking a recipe.
After recess, we completed the Math review that was handed out yesterday.
Here is a great link to practice lots of concepts we have covered in Math.
http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/maths/measures/capacity.html#Capacity
After lunch we had our DPA and when we returned to class we did our Literacy activities. I gave a brief lesson on how to write important information from a nonfiction text. I then, worked with one group reading a story, while one group did penmanship, one group worked on Grammar and the final group read non-ficiton books on Matter and took jot notes about important things they read.
We then read more from the novel "Shipwrecked". Today we were introduced to 3 more people that are on the Charting New Course boat for "troubled" kids. The character that our attention most was J.J. the son of a very rich Hollywood actor who was very upset he had to leave his laptop and cellphone behind to be part of the crew.
After recess we did some science. We talked about how when something is a solid, if you add a force you can change it. In our example we were using paper. When I pulled it, it ripped and when I pushed it, it crumpled into a ball. I then asked the question.. " Can you change paper in different ways to hold a stack of books? If so, how? We then made a hypothesis from this question. I then folded several pieces of paper in different ways. I made rectangular prism, a triangular prism and also a cylinder. The students had to make a prediction as to which shape, if any, would hold the most books and why they thought that.
We found that the cylinder could hold 12 books, the triangle could hold 4 and the rectangle could hold 6. We had to quit the experiment before debriefing, because too many students were not following the expectations. We will try again tomorrow to follow up on why the cylinder is stronger.
HOMEWORK: Journal: complete response and revise to make it better.
" A time a tricked someone..."
Spelling Lesson 27 ( optional)
Read.
Today we started of with the morning message and then we went to write in our Journals. The topic was to tell of a time when you tricked someone. I once again was focusing on having a topic sentence and then giving really desriptive supporting details to make the paragraph interesting. I was also looking for a summary sentence for this paragraph. I checked some but as I class I sent them home to have a really good look at their writing to make it better. I am trying to get the class to revisit their writing as a habit. Many write it complete it, and don't go back and look for small errors in spelling, punctuation or missing words.
I then introduced two new measurment topics, mass/weight and capacity. We talked about the words and what they mean and we wrote the definitions, wrote the units used to measure mass/weight ( mg, g, kg) and capacitiy ( ml, L) and also talked about the tools used to measure. It is important to be familiar with both mass and weight, but I will be asking students to "weigh" objects. Scales for mass, and measuring spoons, measuring cups, graduated cylinders for capacity. A great way to build an understanding of these concepts is to have your children play and experiment with measuring utensils at home either in the tub or helping cooking a recipe.
After recess, we completed the Math review that was handed out yesterday.
Here is a great link to practice lots of concepts we have covered in Math.
http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/maths/measures/capacity.html#Capacity
After lunch we had our DPA and when we returned to class we did our Literacy activities. I gave a brief lesson on how to write important information from a nonfiction text. I then, worked with one group reading a story, while one group did penmanship, one group worked on Grammar and the final group read non-ficiton books on Matter and took jot notes about important things they read.
We then read more from the novel "Shipwrecked". Today we were introduced to 3 more people that are on the Charting New Course boat for "troubled" kids. The character that our attention most was J.J. the son of a very rich Hollywood actor who was very upset he had to leave his laptop and cellphone behind to be part of the crew.
After recess we did some science. We talked about how when something is a solid, if you add a force you can change it. In our example we were using paper. When I pulled it, it ripped and when I pushed it, it crumpled into a ball. I then asked the question.. " Can you change paper in different ways to hold a stack of books? If so, how? We then made a hypothesis from this question. I then folded several pieces of paper in different ways. I made rectangular prism, a triangular prism and also a cylinder. The students had to make a prediction as to which shape, if any, would hold the most books and why they thought that.
We found that the cylinder could hold 12 books, the triangle could hold 4 and the rectangle could hold 6. We had to quit the experiment before debriefing, because too many students were not following the expectations. We will try again tomorrow to follow up on why the cylinder is stronger.
HOMEWORK: Journal: complete response and revise to make it better.
" A time a tricked someone..."
Spelling Lesson 27 ( optional)
Read.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Friday April 8 Day 4
Today we did our usual graphing of temperature and reading the morning message. Today in the message we watched two videos. One was from Chris Spence talking about Pink Day and why we are wearing pink.
The other video was one of a flash-mob that did a dance in a mall all wearing pink t-shirts with the words "Acceptance" written across the front. They were dancing to "Just the Way You Are" by Bruno Mars.
Afterwards, we did a written response similar to those we do after reading. We had to identify the main idea, how we felt during the video, and connections we had.
We then went to Gym with Mr. Costa.
After recess, we were invited to the Grade 5 and Grade 6 classes to interact with students who were in character as famous explorers or people from ancient civilizations. It was very interesting and we learned lots of interesting facts in a very short time.
After lunch we started using our camera skills to shoot video. We learned some basic camera shots.
The pan, still shot, zoom in, and zoom out. We then talked about when you are going to put something on video it is always good to have a plan and practice what you are doing. So, we looked at storyboards.
We then divided ourselves into groups. To experiment with the camera and storyboards, they were asked to demonstrate a math concept on video. First make a storyboard, then shoot the video. A couple examples are below. See how closely the storyboards match the video. They did a great job for their first time. In addition to learning how to use the cameras, we learned how important it is to have a quiet room in which to shoot the videos.
Video #1 Camera : Hannah
Video #2 Camera: Stone
Special thanks to Zane for assisting in uploading videos from the cameras to the classroom computer.
After recess, we did some independent reading or drawing and cleaned up our desks,
HOMEWORK: Study Lesson 26.
Read.
Review addition and subtraction.
The other video was one of a flash-mob that did a dance in a mall all wearing pink t-shirts with the words "Acceptance" written across the front. They were dancing to "Just the Way You Are" by Bruno Mars.
Afterwards, we did a written response similar to those we do after reading. We had to identify the main idea, how we felt during the video, and connections we had.
We then went to Gym with Mr. Costa.
After recess, we were invited to the Grade 5 and Grade 6 classes to interact with students who were in character as famous explorers or people from ancient civilizations. It was very interesting and we learned lots of interesting facts in a very short time.
After lunch we started using our camera skills to shoot video. We learned some basic camera shots.
The pan, still shot, zoom in, and zoom out. We then talked about when you are going to put something on video it is always good to have a plan and practice what you are doing. So, we looked at storyboards.
We then divided ourselves into groups. To experiment with the camera and storyboards, they were asked to demonstrate a math concept on video. First make a storyboard, then shoot the video. A couple examples are below. See how closely the storyboards match the video. They did a great job for their first time. In addition to learning how to use the cameras, we learned how important it is to have a quiet room in which to shoot the videos.
 |
| Charli , Hannah and Zane are going to explain measurment. |
 |
| Kyral, Samantha, Olivia and Stone are going to explain time. |
Video #1 Camera : Hannah
Video #2 Camera: Stone
Special thanks to Zane for assisting in uploading videos from the cameras to the classroom computer.
After recess, we did some independent reading or drawing and cleaned up our desks,
HOMEWORK: Study Lesson 26.
Read.
Review addition and subtraction.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Thursday April 7 Day 3
Today we graphed the morning temperature and we moved the whiteboard and editted the morning message. After the message we solved another math problem in groups. It went much better today. Today, we had the problem of trying to arrange 5 square tables in as many ways as possible. We then looked to see how many people could sit at each arrangement. This was a way of looking at how perimeter can change while the area of a shape stays the same. Once again, this activity reviewed a concept covered last term, and the focus was working together as a group. Many groups got all 12 possible arrangements.
After recess we looked at symmetry. Today we did designs with 2 lines of symmetry. We used different materials and worked together to make symmetrical designs. I taped perpendicular symmetry lines on the carpet. Each group got to choose the material they would like to build with. You can see the excellent work completed below and the different materials used. Every group did it!!
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| Jewel and Thanasi built with Cuisinare rods. |
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| Jasper and Jonah built upwards in their symmetrical structure. |
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| Ella and Charlie used pieces of different materials in their design. |
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| Onika and Letizia used popsicle sticks. |
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| Samantha and Olivia created an intricate snowflake and even created a signature for their work! |
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| Jack and Ezra used pattern blocks with some popsicle sticks for variety to create this "spider". |
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| Hannah, Stone and their special guest used pattern blocks. |
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| James and Kyral also used pattern blocks that followed the symmetry lines closely. |
After lunch we got to start our Media/Health project. We are going to make commercials, but before that we have to create products to sell. Each student was to create a healthy food product, or safety product that they would like to sell in their commericial. They need to state their intended market, what makes their product special and what makes it healthy or safe. Each group will then decide which product they will use in their commercials.
Emmanuel came today for Roots of Empathy. He read a story and we then began to create nursury rhymes for Baby Teagan.
After recess this afternoon, we did our midpoint check-in for our latest pathyway which is focusing on reading comprehension and big ideas. I read the story "Viola Desmond Won't Be Budged." Students had to state the main idea, and how the story made them feel. They also had to make connections to texts, self or world and explain why. This story was about a Viola Desmond, a black women from Halifax in 1946, that was sent to jail because she refused to leave her movie theatre seat. At that time, blacks and whites were segregated and eventhough she paid for a main floor seat, she was asked to move to balcony seats. She was charged and sent to jail for her actions. This news spread through Nova Scotia and the black community protested. Viola Desmond was a hero of her time because she stood up for what she believed in.
HOMEWORK: Complete Spelling if not done.
Read.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Wednesday April 6 Day 2
I was attending a workshop yesterday so I was not in class. The students had a supply teacher. I am glad to report there were no major incidents.
Today we started our day off in the gym. When we returned to class we completed the morning message and we graphed the temperature for the last three days. We then looked at our Journal responses about the biggest problem in the class and solutions to that problem using the ELMO. Our focus was looking at supporting details. So as a class we read and critiqued our responses based on whether or not they had good supporting details. We ignored spelling, punctuation and penmanship concerns. The top three problems discussed were too much noise and talking ( I agree), to much walking around ( I agree) and people not putting things back where they belong. I am hoping we can fix these problems.
After recess, we worked on Literacy Groups. We are each reading a story at our level and we are reviewing the elements of the story, writing a critical response ( I do/don't like the text....), retelling and we are also looking for the main idea and making connections.
After recess we solved the following problem in small groups. " Mystic Pizza cuts pizzas into four equal pieces. If Area 203 wants to have a pizza party how many pizzas will they need to order? Is there any left over pizza? If one pizza costs $12, is $40 enough money to pay for the party?" This activity was about working together, listening to others strategies and then solving the problem. Most groups solved the problem, and use different strategies to do so. The groups that didn't argue about and practiced using purposeful talk solved the problems quickly and accurately.... ( isn't that interesting?)
It took a while to settle after we reviewed every groups answer so instead of beginning a new Math activity we began to read the book "Shipwrecked" by Gordan Korman. It is quite interesting so far as we find out that the main character, Luke, has been put on a ship for deliquent kids because he committed a crime.
After recess, once again it took twenty minutes for the class to settle and get focused. Once the lesson started, there were several interuptions and time was running out to complete the activity properly so I had to send students to their desks. I asked them to write about how they are suppose to come in and settle and what they are to be like on the carpet. If they did not complete the work, they were to complete it at home, and get it signed by their parents. I suggested that this be at least 15- 20 lines!!
HOMEWORK: Spelling Lesson 26 due.
Proper listening response. Signed and returned.
Today we started our day off in the gym. When we returned to class we completed the morning message and we graphed the temperature for the last three days. We then looked at our Journal responses about the biggest problem in the class and solutions to that problem using the ELMO. Our focus was looking at supporting details. So as a class we read and critiqued our responses based on whether or not they had good supporting details. We ignored spelling, punctuation and penmanship concerns. The top three problems discussed were too much noise and talking ( I agree), to much walking around ( I agree) and people not putting things back where they belong. I am hoping we can fix these problems.
After recess, we worked on Literacy Groups. We are each reading a story at our level and we are reviewing the elements of the story, writing a critical response ( I do/don't like the text....), retelling and we are also looking for the main idea and making connections.
After recess we solved the following problem in small groups. " Mystic Pizza cuts pizzas into four equal pieces. If Area 203 wants to have a pizza party how many pizzas will they need to order? Is there any left over pizza? If one pizza costs $12, is $40 enough money to pay for the party?" This activity was about working together, listening to others strategies and then solving the problem. Most groups solved the problem, and use different strategies to do so. The groups that didn't argue about and practiced using purposeful talk solved the problems quickly and accurately.... ( isn't that interesting?)
It took a while to settle after we reviewed every groups answer so instead of beginning a new Math activity we began to read the book "Shipwrecked" by Gordan Korman. It is quite interesting so far as we find out that the main character, Luke, has been put on a ship for deliquent kids because he committed a crime.
After recess, once again it took twenty minutes for the class to settle and get focused. Once the lesson started, there were several interuptions and time was running out to complete the activity properly so I had to send students to their desks. I asked them to write about how they are suppose to come in and settle and what they are to be like on the carpet. If they did not complete the work, they were to complete it at home, and get it signed by their parents. I suggested that this be at least 15- 20 lines!!
HOMEWORK: Spelling Lesson 26 due.
Proper listening response. Signed and returned.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Monday April 4 Day 5
We started out the day in the library. When we came back to class we read the morning message and we then started working on our Journals. The topic today was " What do you think the biggest problem in our class is?" Many students said there was too much talking and it is too noisy. So, we still need to work on this if so many students feel this way. During our Journal writing the Superintendent came in with Mr. Duwyn and Mr. Costa and they talked to some students and looked at the class and some of our work.
After recess we did a reading activity. Each group was given a different story to read. We did a pre reading worksheet, and also read the story to ourselves or with me to see if the book was at the appropriate level.
After lunch we did Math. We learned about circle graphs or pie charts. We talked about how they give information and how we can use the fraction language we know to describe what the graphs show. We then did a worksheet where we had to write information from a graph, or make a pie graph from the information. eg.) half of the students like language activities and half like math activities. Draw a circle graph. We made sure there was a title and labels/key. We then divided into our Math groups to complete our activity cards on Time and Money.
After recess we had a spelling test and began to work on Lesson 26.
MRSINGBEIL BLOGSPOT PREMIERE VIDEO RELEASE:
Here is the link to the video we made to celebrate Black History Month. Enjoy.
Thanks again to Paula Johnson and Tony Young for putting this together for us.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVzIoygMwck
HOMEWORK: Reading Response.
After recess we did a reading activity. Each group was given a different story to read. We did a pre reading worksheet, and also read the story to ourselves or with me to see if the book was at the appropriate level.
After lunch we did Math. We learned about circle graphs or pie charts. We talked about how they give information and how we can use the fraction language we know to describe what the graphs show. We then did a worksheet where we had to write information from a graph, or make a pie graph from the information. eg.) half of the students like language activities and half like math activities. Draw a circle graph. We made sure there was a title and labels/key. We then divided into our Math groups to complete our activity cards on Time and Money.
After recess we had a spelling test and began to work on Lesson 26.
MRSINGBEIL BLOGSPOT PREMIERE VIDEO RELEASE:
Here is the link to the video we made to celebrate Black History Month. Enjoy.
Thanks again to Paula Johnson and Tony Young for putting this together for us.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVzIoygMwck
HOMEWORK: Reading Response.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Friday April 1 Day 4
We started off the day by reading the morning message that was written upside down... was challenging but we did it. Happy April Fool's Day! We then created our April Temperature Graphs. This is the eighth time we have done this and they are getting neater, more accurate and I need to give less support each time. We reviewed what a graph needed and listed the success criteria.
We then went to Gym for some badminton with Mr. Costa.
After recess, we completed our graphs if we were not done. With the remaining time we had a quick review of time, money and fractions by doing a pop quiz. Seems like we need to come back to money again, especially making change.
During lunch today was the Humewood AllStars playing the teachers in a floor hockey. It was a great game. The spectators were fantastic and in the end, the teachers defeated the All Stars.
After lunch we did art... or was it Math? We completed the artwork/ math work we started last week.
We painted our 32 equal pieces different colours. Today students had to colour their boxes using fractions. They could colour half, quarters, eighths etc. In addition they were asked to cut symmetrical shapes and place them in the boxes as well. We then folded our paper into quarters, taped the ends together and made our 2d art into a 3d shape. They look fantastic on the wall. So colourful!!
HOMEWORK: Study Spelling Lesson 25.
Read.
We then went to Gym for some badminton with Mr. Costa.
After recess, we completed our graphs if we were not done. With the remaining time we had a quick review of time, money and fractions by doing a pop quiz. Seems like we need to come back to money again, especially making change.
During lunch today was the Humewood AllStars playing the teachers in a floor hockey. It was a great game. The spectators were fantastic and in the end, the teachers defeated the All Stars.
After lunch we did art... or was it Math? We completed the artwork/ math work we started last week.
HOMEWORK: Study Spelling Lesson 25.
Read.
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