Dear Fourth and Fifth Grade Families,
The students and I were excited to get back into our rhythm and finish up the Fractions Block. To round out this first Math Block, students learned about fractions, factors, prime and composite numbers, and refreshed multiplication and division facts. A highlight of the week was completing a Sieve of Eratosthenes. From a large 100s chart on the board, the students went number by number, from 2 to 10, skip counting, noticing patterns, and thinking and wondering about why and how the chart would look at the end. This was an engaging and fun activity, as the magic of numbers came to life. The students completed journal entries on Soft Rain, depicting their favorite and most poignant moments from the novel. Time was spent pondering the life of the Cherokee people then and learning about celebrating the differences that make us all unique individuals.
The block was finished with wonderful presentations by the students. One group created a fun fractions game that the entire class had a chance to play. Another group entertained us with a lively puppet show about numbers. We were serenaded by a beautiful song written and sung by another group. Two students wrote and retold a story about fractions, while the last group wrote and acted out a fun skit. These block projects have allowed the students to show creativity, retention, imagination, and social skills as they learn to work together.
This week, we began a new block-Human and Animal. We began by looking at the human form: head, torso, and limbs. The students spent time thinking about and pondering the importance of these parts that make us human and set us apart from our animal friends. The students had an opportunity to sketch and model the human form out of clay.
I look forward to seeing you all on Thursday and Friday for conferences.
Announcements and Reminders for Fourth & Fifth Grade:
PLEASE remember to sign up for Kingdom of Halloween volunteer spots. This year, 4/5th grade will be working at the Troll Booth(s). Please sign up for a spot to allow us to cover the booth and to ensure that everyone is able to enjoy the festival! Sign up HERE!
Reminder that Thursday and Friday are parent/teacher conferences. Please remember that there is NO school on Friday.
Please send in two full water bottles daily. The children get very warm with all the speech and movement work they do in addition to recess.
Layers, layers, layers! They will continue to keep your child comfortable regardless of the weather/temperature range of the day.
Our entire class is beginning to train for the Fifth Grade Pentathlon in April. Each morning, during circle, the students will jog/run laps around the forest. Please make sure your child has enough water and is wearing appropriate shoes for this activity.
With Gratitude,
Ki Paulyna
