We are moving right along in fifth grade! Our class continues to work hard, and enjoys learning new concepts together! These last few weeks have truly been a pleasure!
Here's What Happened Last Week:
MATH:
In math last week we finished up Unit 1, Number Concepts. Students learned how to find the prime factorization of numbers and examined exponential notation. We reviewed the major concepts from the unit and documented our study habits in preparation for last Friday's test. We will spend time today reflected on our progress.
READING WORKSHOP:
Literacy last week focused on the power of conversation. Students learned that readers come together to have conversations in order to both share thinking and grow ideas together. We developed and implemented a protocol to follow during our conversations, and learned how to use a repertoire of strategies to begin conversations. In addition, students used different conversational moves, like asking questions and using textual evidence, to develop, support, and defend an idea about a text.
This week's texts:
My Life in Dog Years (A class favorite!)
A Day's Work
WRITERS' WORKSHOP:
Our WEX focus last week was on focus! Students practiced focusing on a moment and focusing on perspective.
SOCIAL SCIENCE:
Our exciting exploration of self-selected American Revolution topics continued last week! Once again we spent our time researching topics, asking questions and documenting findings via note-taking, reflecting on progress, and eliciting peer feedback.
I have to say, I found myself mesmerized many times throughout the week. Their excitement for learning was contagious! At times the classroom was utterly silent, with fifth graders completely engaged in their research...the only sounds to be heard were keyboards tapping and book pages turning. At other times students were literally running up to one another to share an interesting fact, show an important picture, or even lend a helping hand.
Many students are already creating their final presentations to be shared with the class near the end of the week! I can't stress enough how amazed I have been with the excitement for learning during our social science time! We are all eagerly awaiting final presentations this week!
THIS WEEK'S HIGHLIGHTS:
MATH:
In math this week, we will begin Unit 2: Estimation and Computation. Students will review addition and subtraction of whole and decimals numbers. We will also conduct two exciting experiments to collect data.
READING WORKSHOP:
Our Launching Unit Mini-Lessons will begin this week! Students will be busy studying themselves as readers, participating in book and partner talks, and examining the elements of a story.
WRITERS' WORKSHOP:
We will continue to practice the skill of focus this week in WEX. Students will focus on objects, settings, and sound.
SOCIAL SCIENCE:
Our American Revolution exploration will continue this week as we finalize our research and notes. Students will prepare and present final presentations!
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Thursday, 10/6....................................................Historical Re-Enactment Field Trip @12-2:30
(more information coming soon...)
Friday, 10/7..............................................................No School (SIP DAY)
Monday, 10/10.........................................................No School (Columbus Day)