  The quote above comes from a comic by Mark Anderson. We have been studying how to multiply whole numbers and fractions-including mixed numbers. This concept has combined a lot of other topics that we have discussed this year including repeated addition, multiplication, division, turning improper fractions into mixed numbers, and turning mixed numbers into improper fractions. Perhaps, it is taking us longer to master the concept of multiplying fractions and whole numbers because this has required the application of all of the conceptual knowledge mentioned above. We have been doing an intensive review of multiplying fractions and whole numbers. Per student agenda books, we originally had a test scheduled for today (Wednesday, Feb. 8th); however, we quickly realized after a review that we need more time to master these concepts. In an effort to give students ample time and strategies, the Chapter 9 Test will be rescheduled for next Tuesday, February 14th. |  In our study of plants and life cycles, we are discussing the differences between nonflowering and flowering plants as well as discovering/researching other plant adaptations. Students are currently working on a plant research project in which they are discovering special adaptations that their chosen plant may have. The final part of their research project involves creating a Virtual Plant Museum-putting special adaptations of five unique plants on display! I can't wait to share some of these "virtual" displays! : ) Our study of plants adaptations will then lead us into the study of animal adaptations.  |
| As we continue on our journey of understanding how to apply reading strategies in order to comprehend text, we will read several texts in order to become readers who are analytical thinkers and writers. Essentially, the writing will come into play because students are learning to read like writers (picking out intentional key vocabulary used by the author) and write like readers (be intentional in our own use of vocabulary and figurative language in order to prove a point about given text/ideas, etc). With that said, we have started reading the following text, Fox by Margaret Wild. We will continue focusing on explaining claims, finding and adding text and personal connections as sources of evidence, and synthesizing this information with original thoughts/generalizations about characters and events in stories. |  We have been studying the three branches of government and examining how these branches are a balanced system put in place because of the needs before and after the American Revolution. We will use the information above to discuss SC's role in the development of the new nation including the creation of the Bill of Rights and motivations for expeditions into Western Territories. |
| Writing: We are finishing the last few ideas of our Opinion Essays. Students have written thesis statements and supported those statements with explanations, examples, and connections. They have also written introductory and conclusion paragraphs in order to add variety, meaning, and organization to their essays. Here's an example of one student's completed essay:  | |