We've had great week of learning in room 9. In math this week students learned how to multiply 2 and 3 digit numbers. We reviewed the traditional method of multiplication, and I taught the class how to multiply using the place value method as well as lattice multiplication. Students can choose whichever method they prefer to solve multiplication problems.

In language we took up the CASI reading test. Students put their marks in their agendas. We also looked at level 1, 2, 3, and 4 exemplar answers in order to determine how to improve our reading responses. We also continued our  read aloud of the novel George. Take a minute to ask your child to retell what has happened so far in the story. Students continued to work on their independent writing, which is due this week. Students also began to write their reading letters to me. These will be written weekly about a book that they are currently reading. Finally, we  began a unit on narrative texts. We did a shared reading of a narrative and annotated the text together, finding the key features of a narrative.

 In social studies the grade fives from Mr. Siefert's room joined the grade fives in room 9 to continue our unit on Canadian Government. The grade fives learned about the different levels of government in Canada. The grade sixes joined Mr. Siefert to learn about Canada's Interactions within the Global Community. They watched a video about NATO, NAFTA and the UN, and learned the roles of each.

 In phys. ed. we began a unit on football, and learned how to throw and catch a football properly. We also started a health unit on substance abuse. Students developed questions about the unit that they would like answered throughout the unit. In art we began a unit on one point perspective. In drama we began to explore how to do tableaux and how to use the creative process to improve our work.

On Thursday we took up homework and celebrated Terry Fox. We watched a short video on Terry and talked in community circle about who we will run for during the Terry Fox run.

 Finally, we continued our action research this week around mindfulness. The students in room 9 are participating in a 7 day program on mindfulness. We've completed 6 days now. Although it's still a challenge, it's getting easier for us to slow down and focus for a few minutes each day.

Come to think of it, we've been really busy!

 Important Upcoming Dates
Thursday, Oct. 6: homework folder due
Friday, Oct. 7: PA day
Monday, Oct. 10: Thanksgiving
 Wed. Oct. 26th: Halloween Hullaballoo

Homework:
1) Read for 20-30 minutes each day.
2) Complete the math work on multiplication.
Extension, which is optional:  Create your own math problem that involves multiplication to share with the class.
3) Read the narrative text, "Lost." Answer the questions and annotate the text.
4) Practise your 4 times tables.