Oct. 17-21

In math this week students worked on some extension activities involving number sense, including exponents for the grade 6's and integers for both grades. Students took home their test on number sense, which we took up on Thursday. We also started a unit on patterning, and used different strategies to solve open ended patterning problems.

In writing we continued our work on narrative texts. Students have been exposed to several examples of narratives in order to develop an understanding of the key features, or characteristics, of narrative writing. Students began to plan their own narrative using a story map, or outline. In oral communication, several students delivered their book chat, and the remainder of the class will present next week. In addition, students handed in their reading letters to me, which are about the book that they are currently reading at school and at home. Finally, we began literature circles this week! Each student is part of a literature circle group, which is like a book club. Groups will meet every Tuesday and Thursday to discuss their book. Students are expected to keep up with the group's reading goals, and to be prepared for each meeting by completing their role sheet.

 In social studies the grade fives finished their Webquest on issues in Canada, including child poverty, The Far North Act, and Great Lakes management. Some students even chose another topic to explore as an extension. The grade sixes joined Mr. Siefert to learn about Canada's Interactions within the Global Community

In phys. ed. we began a unit on striking and hitting. Students worked on throwing, catching, and batting. Perhaps the funniest moment of phys. ed. this week was Mr. Hunter witnessing our batting practice, using badminton racquets and bean bags. We also played a couple of great games of soccer baseball.

In art students finished their one point perspective drawings that included a horizon line and a vanishing point. We had a gallery walk to celebrate our accomplishments and students evaluated their own work.

 Important Upcoming Dates:
Tues, Oct. 25: visiting author at 10:35, literature circle meeting #1
Wed. Oct. 26th: Halloween Hullaballoo
Thurs., Oct. 27 homework due, literature circle meeting #2

Homework:

1) Complete the math work on patterning.
2) Read your literature circle book, only up to the point that your group decided on. Don't read ahead! Complete your role sheet for Tuesday's meeting.
3) Begin to work on your literature circle culminating task. Remember that this will be due on Nov. 10. On that day you will share your work with the class and reflect on how it helped you grow as a reader.