This past week started with rainstorms that had us snuggly settled inside the building for the first two days. We used this time to finish up a drawing and summary for our final Native American creation story. We also began our new math block with a focus on all four processes each day, using various equations. Students worked on the equations independently or with a partner as needed for support. As a class, we then solved each equation and reviewed the process or processes that can be used. Solving equations is taught in multiple ways, rather than one specific method, allowing students to understand that there is a variety of options available.
Besides the four processes review, our last math block of the third-grade class focuses on a specific review of multiplication and division facts, a dive into multi-digit multiplication, and an introduction to long division, which we will study in-depth in fourth grade. As mentioned above, our day starts with practice equations for all four processes that we then review together. We also learned a fun math trick for our nine’s times table aside from beginning to look at our twelve’s tables more closely. This week, we will settle into reviewing each multiplication table pictorially along with using a new, fun, and helpful manipulative the students will make. As we continue, we will learn the rules/tips/tricks for each table for multiplication.
Our school auction, Hope Blooms, was a wonderful experience for all involved. Thank you to all of you for donating, participating, and helping to make it a success both in-person and online!
Happy Mother’s Day to all! <3
With gratitude,
Melissa
