Classroom Update: September 26, 2014

In English Language Arts, we continued to look for evidence in literary texts. For example, we made predictions about Judy Blume’s Freckle Juice and supported them with evidence. We also practiced our weekly word study routines. Those routines are detailed here: http://hughes227.blogspot.com/p/word-study.html. We will begin assigning word study homework next week.

In writing, we continued to write our personal narrative stories. We have been emphasizing the importance of drafting and revising. We read Dr. Seuss’ Hooray for Diffendoofer Day! to exemplify the power of revision. An appendix to the story details the many drafts and revisions that the story underwent before its final copy was published. We learned that even famous authors like Dr. Seuss alter their stories to tell them in a more effective way. 

In math, we practiced placing numbers on a number line, pushing us to think about the relative sizes of numbers. We also identified the amount of hundreds in addition expressions. One way we did this was through playing the game “Go Collecting.”

 

This week, we played games to review the content that was covered during our first social studies unit. For example, we played a game of Jeopardy to review what we have learned about mapping, New England, Massachusetts, and Arlington.  In addition, we also played concentration to review facts about Massachusetts cities and landmarks.

Across the subject areas, we have been working on building “grit” and perseverance. We have adopted the following acronym for grit:

Give It Your All

Redo If Necessary

Invent Solutions

Take Time to do it right

One way we have shown grit is by revisiting and making corrections to English Language Arts, math, and spelling assignments. We also came up with a number of solution methods during a math problem solving workshop. Students began to solve a challenge problem entitled “Eating Grapes,” using math manipulatives, tables, and equations.

Students who are enrolled in instrumental music lessons had their first lesson this week. Weekly lessons will be on Tuesdays from 10:20-11. I will remind students when it is time for their lesson on Tuesdays. It is expected that students make up any regular classwork that is missed during this time. Schedule permitting, I will usually set aside time within the school day for students who go to instruments to work on catch-up assignments. 

Lastly, here is a new optional homework math challenge, due on October 6:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8-gXqit3js-a0tNcVFXQzQxb3ktRzlPcUpPdkJ4UU5qVzEw/view?usp=sharing