Dear Third Grade Families,
Last week, Third Grade students began to learn about the ways we measure dry goods. We looked at pint and quart containers used when buying berries or fruit at a farmer's market. Then we talked about how fruits and vegetables at the grocery store are usually sold in pounds and discussed how that is a more accurate way to purchase what you need versus counting single items since they can be smaller or larger. We continued to work on writing out charts to show the conversion of units of measurement. The students worked on math equations to figure out how many ounces are in the different units, starting with a tablespoon. This has been a very hands-on block, and we have all greatly enjoyed being able to see and feel the difference in measurements. The class also listened to a story about the “Land of Gallon.” The story was told, and pictures were drawn on the board to show how many quarts are in a gallon, how many pints are in a quart, and how many cups are in a pint.
We also finished our cookbooks this past week! Thank you for working with your students at home to find and write down their favorite recipes. They made covers, decorated them, and bound their books with all the recipes inside. This week, Third Grade will finish the Measurement block with weight (ounces, pounds, tons.) The class will estimate how much we think things weigh and then use a kitchen scale to weigh them. We will also talk about how large objects, such as cars and large animals, are weighed.
In addition to our Math Block, the students continue to journal twice a week, working on using verbs, adverbs, and adjectives to “paint” a picture when they are writing. They are writing more and more, and their entries are entertaining, delightful, and imaginative.
Friday was Akasha’s last day at The Garden School, so she had the honor of choosing our weekly recipe. She chose chicken noodle soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. The class enjoyed chopping, measuring, and making a delicious and tasty soup that we all had the chance to share together as we wished Akasha a happy transition to her new home in the Midwest.
Announcements and Reminders:
The first Community Work Day of the Spring Semester is on Saturday, February 3rd, from 10:00 - 12:00. Please come if you are able, and add to your volunteer hours! Children are welcome, and there are typically both indoor and outdoor tasks available.
Please also plan to join us for the All School Meeting following the work day at 12:30. A soup lunch will be served at noon, and the meeting should be around an hour to an hour and a half long. The meeting is a grownups-only event.
Teacher Conferences are just around the corner! This Spring semester, they will be held on Thursday, February 8th (half day) and Friday, February 9th (no school). Please sign up for your child’s conference here.
Upcoming Events:
2/3 First Grade Risers Informational Meeting - 11:15 a.m.
2/3 Community Work Day 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
2/3 All School Meeting 12:30 p.m.
2/8 Half Day - Parent Conferences
2/9 No School - Parent Conferences
2/19-2/23- Mid-Winter Break (No School)
2/26- Teacher Inservice (No School)
With Gratitude,
Paulyna
