Dear Fifth-Grade Families,
It was wonderful to meet and talk together during our parent-teacher conferences. Sharing your children’s progress and viewing their work is always inspiring!
This past week we finished our second geometry block. We discussed Pythagoras and his theorem, learned about square numbers, and explored some fun and exciting number concepts. In our Grammar lesson, we reviewed verbs (action, linking, and helping) and talked more about subjects and predicates. To celebrate Valentine’s day, the students charted points on a graph using Cartesian art, made Valentine’s cards for their families, and enjoyed brownies. In celebration of Black history month, we have been learning about Black inventors throughout history, including Lyda Newman, who created and introduced hair care products and brushes specifically for Black hair, and Charles Drew, who figured out how to preserve blood and began the concept of blood banks both in England and in America.
When we return, we will begin our unit on Ancient Greece. The class has been reading aloud the book Black Ships Before Troy, by Rosemary Sutcliff, based on the Iliad. In addition to being rich with language and imagery, this story has given them an introduction to the Greek gods and an understanding of the time period and culture. Once we finish reading the book, we will begin The Odyssey, also by Rosemary Sutcliff.
Have a wonderful mid-winter break. Please remember, school resumes on Tuesday, February 28th.
Reminders:
2/20-2/24: Mid-Winter Break (No School)
2/27: Teacher In-Service (No School)
3/11: Community Work Day
3/31 Half Day - Grandfriend’s Tea
4/3-4/7 Spring Break (No School)
With gratitude,
Melissa
