This week, we are learning how to write fractions (tenths and hundredths) as decimals and vice versa. We will also learn how to compare decimals, order decimals, and add fractions (tenths and hundredths) by turning them into decimals and by expressing tenths as hundredths through comparisons. All of this decimal talk will also lead to a better understanding of how to write money amounts in different ways. | In Science, we have been studying plant life cycles as well as plant adaptations. Students are finishing their plant research projects, in which they are identifying special plant adaptations. In addition to our plant discussion, we have begun discussing animal classifications, including the differences between invertebrates and vertebrates. Students will begin an animal research project in which they will identify animal life cycles, inherited traits of animals versus environmental factors that may affect animals, and discover how animal uses their senses to survive.  |
Through an analysis of several different types of print and media (short video clips), we will begin diving deeper and deeper into the process of writing literary essays. Students will discuss how to write claims/thesis statements about text (just as we did with our opinion essays) as well as how to identify examples from the text and their own lives (original thoughts) in order to support claims/thesis statements. We will continue the process of writing literary essays by learning how to include micro-stories and detailed analyses in our essays.  |  In our study of government, we are learning about powers that were given to state and federal governments under the Constitution (three branches of government). Students will begin creating infographics to represent the separation of powers as well as continue their group assignment of creating laws (legislative), deciding what laws mean (judicial), and practicing the process of enforcing laws/vetoing and passing laws (executive). Students will also use all that we have learned about our nation's government to write an essay explaining and analyzing the phrase: "life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness." |
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