Week in Review: February 2-6

This week in science / social studies, we studied various landforms and then begun delving into our exploration of how soil is formed. Next week, we will use the soil samples you have been sending in to explore different types of soil. If you have not sent in a baggie yet of soil, please gather some this weekend and send it in on Monday so that every student will have their own sample to work with. I appreciate your support as we do these  hands on learning activities! On Friday, we turned our focus back to our Plastic PBL and worked alongside Mrs. Swyers' class to create mind maps of our thinking so far. Some great ideas were shared!

In math, we have quickly wrapped up our next multiplication unit where we focused on the 6s and 9s, as well as solving multi-step problems. We went over the test review in class on Friday, and I am sending them home with the kids so they can look over during the weekend. The test will be on Monday. We had a friendly competition of boys versus girls for the math review, and the boys won by one point, it was a close battle! Next, we move into 2D and 3D shapes, and area and perimeter. I have lots of fun hands on learning planned for those!

The girls hard at work on the math review.

The math review winners working hard to show their strategies!

In language arts, we have read several biographies (shorter picture books) as a class. Students have also read one with a partner, and are working in book clubs to read several shorter books about a historical figure of their choice. Rather than focusing on details such as birthday, date of death, and specific accomplishments, I am encouraging students to see the bigger picture of a person's life. We are using a strategy called Head, Heart, Hands and Feet where we learn about about a person's big dreams and ideas (what's in their head), what they love to do and are passionate about (what's in their heart), and the actions/steps they take to realize those dreams and passions (their hands and feet).

Next week will be a busy week with spring photos on Tuesday morning, a district wide writing assessment on Wednesday, a guest speaker for our PBL on Thursday, and a spirit assembly and Valentine's Day part on Friday. Have a great weekend, and enjoy the beautiful weather we are supposed to have!