In math, we wrapped up our study of Geometry before break. Students used what they had practiced and learned about 3D drawings and calculating area when they drew the plans for the modular or temporary Stratton building. The array model is a key concept for students developing ideas about addition and multiplication. We will continue to use this model throughout the year. January 4th, we will begin a new unit that focuses on subtraction with unknown changes, breaking apart numbers by place value to add and subtract mentally, practice addition and subtraction facts using what we know about doubles and odd and even numbers. I believe, the most important way to support your student at home is to listen to their thinking and share your own thinking. Validating a student's ideas is empowering and creates an environment for deeper learning. I enjoyed talking math at conferences and am always available to continue the discussion. For extra math fact practice, keep playing the math games using the cards I sent home or any deck of cards. Make up your own versions and play board games. They make you think! I also have links to some online games here.
You may have heard we spent some time with Code.org. Programming is a great way to get the students thinking critically and problem solving. As students solved puzzles given to them on this website they also collaborated with each other and showed great perseverance. We have not set up individual accounts at school, however, you may easily do this from the site at home! This is the same site students participating in the before school coding program are using.
Reading, writing and spelling are all connected! Research says, the more you read the better you spell and write. That is why we have a daily expectation for students to read anything and everything they can! The Museum of Science field trip was an opportunity to do this. At every exhibit there were directions, facts and questions for students to read and contemplate. Thank you to all the chaperones that came and were able to encourage student exploration and learning. Also, our current opinion writing unit focuses on writing persuasive letters to each other about the books we are reading! I am wondering if you are being persuaded at home. Are you hearing your child say because, I think or this makes me think? If not, try using this language more and get into a discussion about your own opinions. One of the most important ideas we have been practicing is that it is okay to 'agree to disagree' about our opinions too! we are using similar language in our math discussions or "talks" as well. Students are asked to say "I agree, I disagree and I'm confused," as they talk about their problem solving thinking.
Since I mention spelling, I will give some of my opinions...I often wonder about the advantages of spelling tests and rote memorization. I think, this is a great strategy for many and under certain circumstances; however, I also believe it can be frustrating and defeating for students who do not learn, easily, this way. That is why I give the tests, but focus on using our environment. In our classroom, we have many charts and word walls for students to reference during their writing. I tell them I expect them to spell or revise their spelling using these resources. In addition, they are expected to sound it out using the spelling rules we have been practicing during word work activities. Currently this includes, breaking up words into syllables/chunks and prefix and suffix work. I feel if students feel confident in using resources, they will not focus on perfect spelling as a measure of success. What do you think?
In Social Studies, we toured the icy terrane of Antarctica using Google Earth. We researched information in books and watched videos to gather information. Finally, we sent postcards to Jean Pennycook, an educator studying penguins, in Antarctica. She will postmark them and send them back to us in a couple of months.
In Science, we are finishing up our last investigation of Pebbles, Sand and Silt. Just a quick reminder that you can sign into our student page and explore more at home. The username and password are both Stratton7. We have read most of the mentor text, done experiments and watched videos. Students brought the clay beads they made home just before the winter break. It is amazing to explore the environment around the school and find so many uses for these earth materials. We will look more closely at soil and water in January.
Finally, I would like to thank everyone for the generous class gift and all the special treats and personal notes and cards. I am very fortunate to be part of this wonderful community!