Dec. 18-22

In math this week, we continued to study data management. Students wrote a quiz on Wednesday, which will be returned after the break. We began a new unit on geometry by doing a tangram puzzle. Students persisted for up to an hour to complete the puzzle!

In social studies the grade 5's presented their their rant on a Canadian social or environmental issue, and we began a science unit on the human body. Students learned the names of bones in the human skeleton, as well as facts about the human body.The grade 6's watched a video on biodiversity with Mr. Siefert.

In language, students submitted and shared their second independent writing. Students also wrote a quiz on the correct use of pronouns, correcting run-on sentences, and the use of apostrophes. That quiz went home on Wednesday to be signed and returned. 

We also watched a couple of great Ted Talks about success. Students discovered that two key factors in success are self-discipline, and "grit." Here are the links to those Ted Talks:

https://www.ted.com/talks/joachim_de_posada_says_don_t_eat_the_marshmallow_yet

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H14bBuluwB8

Finally, students practised and presented two plays this week. One was The Gift of the Magi. The other was A Christmas Carol. Students did a great job of collaborating and presenting their plays!

Homework: 

There will be no homework folder homework over the break. I encourage everyone to keep reading daily, though!

Important Dates:

Monday, Jan 8: school resumes!

Dec. 11-15

In math this week, we continued to study data management.  We reviewed how to calculate the average of data, finding the mean, median and mode. Students also learned how to organize data using a stem and leaf plot. Finally, students learned how graphs can be manipulated to display data in a biased manner, and why data is sometimes displayed in a biased way.

 In social studies the grade 5's presented their their rant on a Canadian social or environmental issue. The grade 6's watched a video on biodiversity with Mr. Siefert. 

In language, students continued to work on their second independent writing, and we also continued to look at the text form of persuasive writing. Students are learning how to form an argument using a main idea, and supporting points. Students also learned how to correct run-on sentences, and how to use apostrophes properly. There will be a quiz next week on grammar that will include the correct use of pronouns, correcting run-on sentences, and the use of apostrophes.

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
2) Practise the 2-9 times tables. 

3) Complete the homework folder work on math, spelling and reading. (due next Thursday)
4) Check out Ms. Hall's French website and bookmark it.  www.tinyurl.com/mshallfrench

Important Dates:

 

Tuesday, Dec. 19: secret Santa gift exchange
Wednesday, Dec. 20: grammar quiz
Thursday, Dec. 21: math quiz on data management, homework due
Friday, Dec. 22: independent writing due

Dec. 4-8

In math this week, we continued a new unit on data management. . We reviewed line graphs, scatter plots and pie graphs.  Students also learned how to calculate the average of data, finding the mean, median and mode.

In social studies the grade 5's worked on their rant on a Canadian social or environmental issue.  The grade 6's watched a video on biodiversity.  

In language, students evaluated their posters to advertise a healthy product. Students continued to work on their second independent writing, and we also began to  look at the text form of persuasive writing. Students are learning how to form an argument using a main idea, and supporting points.

 

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
2) Practise the 2-8 times tables. 

3) Complete the homework folder work on math, spelling and reading. (due next Thursday)
4) Check out Ms. Hall's French website and bookmark it.  www.tinyurl.com/mshallfrench

Important Dates:

 

Monday, Dec. 11: red and green day
Tuesday, Dec. 12: twins day; Rosedale concert at Jarvis Collegiate, 6:30PM
Wednesday, Dec. 13: backwards day
Thursday, Dec. 14: homework due, crazy hair day, crazy hat day
Friday, Dec. 15: pajama day

Nov. 20-24

In math this week, students learned how to solve algebraic equations using various strategies.  They wrote a quiz, which was returned today. That quiz needs to be corrected and signed, then returned by Monday. Next week we will start a new unit on data management.

In language, students continued to work on their commercial script. A company, "The Director's Cut" joined us on Friday to help the students film and edit their commercials. Those commercials will be available to view shortly! Students also worked on posters to advertise a healthy product. Both these projects tie together media literacy with health. 

In social studies the grade 5's began to write their rant on a Canadian social or environmental issue. The grade 6's are finishing their unit on Canada and its global connections.  

In phys. ed. students worked on various skills, including throwing and catching using lacrosse sticks. Many thanks to the parent council for the new equipment!

Finally, students had two presentations this week. This first was a Prologue dramatic performance. The second was a presentation by firefighters about fire safety. This week we have to say good-bye to our student teacher, Ms. Brown. She will be missed!

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
2) Practise the 2-7 times tables. 

3) Complete the homework folder work on math, cursive writing, spelling and reading. (due next Thursday)

Important Dates:

Monday Nov. 27th: boys' volleyball tournament at Blake PS 

Tuesday, Nov. 28th: Parent Council meeting PM

Wednesday, Nov. 29th: reading quiz

Thursday Nov. 30th: homework due

Friday, Dec. 1st: PA day (no school)

Nov. 13-17

In math this week, students learned about variables, and how to solve algebraic equations using various strategies.  There will be a short quiz on algebra next week, that will include a review of finding patterning rules, as well as long multiplication and long division.

In language students finished their announcement writing task. They also had their summarizing quiz returned with feedback. Students have begun to work on two projects related to our inquiry on health. The first is a script for a commercial. The company, "Director's Cut" will join us next Friday to help the students film and edit their commercials. Students have also begun posters on a healthy product. Both these projects tie together media literacy with health. 

In social studies the grade 5's continued to work on their research for their rant. The grade 6's will present information about their NGO in a Dragon's Den presentation to Mr. Siefert.

Finally, students prepared for and lead their student-led interviews. I was very impressed with the level of the students' self reflections!

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
2) Practise the 2-7 times tables. 

3) Complete the homework folder work on math, cursive writing and reading. (due next Thursday)

Important Dates:

 

Wed., Nov. 22nd: math quiz, Prologue performance

Thurs., Nov. 23rd: girls' basketball tournament

Fri., Nov. 24th: Director's Cut commercial filming and editing workshop

Monday Nov. 27th: boys' volleyball tournament at Blake PS 

Nov. 6-10

In math this week, we continued our unit on patterning. Students learned how to identify and extend patterns, as well as how to write pattern rules. Students wrote a quiz on patterning on Friday, which will be returned next week. Students will study algebra next week.

In language we  continued with our announcement writing task. Students will write an announcement about their findings from the Report Card on the Health of Canadian Children. Students worked on their rough drafts this week. Students learned how to write a good hook, and we reviewed the success criteria for the announcement. They also continued to work on the skill of summarizing, and wrote a quiz on summaraizing. 

In social studies the grade 5's began a new project, researching a Canadian issue and writing a rant. The grade 6's learned about NGO's from Mr. Siefert.

Our student teacher, Ms. Brown, worked with the students in phys. ed., reading, drama and art. The students focused on overhead and forearm passing as well as spiking in volleyball. Ms.Brown worked with the students in understanding how to make healthy eating choices and the influences of media/advertising through small plays. The students have begun brainstorming to create their own advertisement for a healthy choice.

Finally, students continued to prepare for their student-led interviews. Students reflected on their strengths, areas for development and strategies for improvement.

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
2) Practise the 7 times tables. 

3) Complete the homework folder work on spelling, cursive writing and reading. (due next Thursday)

Important Dates:

 

Monday, Nov. 13th: progress reports go home

Tuesday, Nov. 14-17: interviews
 

Oct. 30- Nov. 3

It's been a busy and exciting week in room 9! The week began with a focus on Halloween, of course. Thank you again to all room 9 parents who sent in treats to help make our party special. 

In math this week, we continued our unit on patterning. Students learned how to identify and extend patterns, as well as how to write pattern rules. We will continue to work on patterning next week. There will be a quiz on patterning on Friday.

In language we  continued with our announcement writing task. Students will write an announcement about their findings from the Report Card on the Health of Canadian Children. Students worked on their rough drafts this week. Students learned how to write a good hook, and we reviewed the success criteria for the announcement. They also continued to work on the skill of summarizing. 

In social studies the grade 5's wrote quiz on Canadian government, which was assessed and returned on Friday. That quiz needs to be signed and returned. We will begin a new project, researching a Canadian issue and writing a rant. The grade 6's learned about NGO's from Mr. Siefert and Noah's dad as a guest speaker!

Our student teacher, Ms. Brown, worked with the students in phys. ed., reading and drama. She taught them a new cooperative game, speedball, and worked inside on volleyball skills.  In drama the students created a tableaux in a group about Remembrance Day.

Finally, students began to prepare for their student-led interviews. Students reflected on their strengths, areas for development and strategies for improvement. We had a community circle about students' feelings about the interview. The common feeling was that of being nervous. Hopefully after some preparation and practise they will feel more comfortable!

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
2) Practise the 2-6 times tables. 

3) Complete the homework folder work on math, spelling, cursive writing and reading. (due next Thursday)

Important Dates:

Thurs., Nov. 8th: reading quiz on summarizing 

Friday, Nov. 9th: math quiz on patterning

Monday, Nov. 13th: progress reports go home

Tuesday, Nov. 14-17: interviews
 

In math this week, we continued our unit on patterning. Students learned how to identify and extend patterns, as well as how to write pattern rules. We will continue to work on patterning next week.

In language students' independent writing pieces were handed back. These need to be signed and returned, please. I was really impressed with the amount of work that went into the writing! We also continued with our read aloud of the novel, Wonder. We also continued with our announcement writing task. Students will write an announcement about their findings from the Report Card on the Health of Canadian Children. Students began their outline this week. Next week we'll look at how to write a good hook, and will do some shared writing, before they begin their own rough drafts.

In art students continued to work on a multi-media still life of pumpkins. They're using glue lines to create texture and emphasis on line in their work. In phys. ed. students played lead-up football games, like continuous bordenball, and we also began to practise volleyball skills.

In social studies the grade 5's continued to learn about Canadian government, while the grade 6's studied Canada within a global context.

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
2) Practise the 2-5 times tables. 

3) Complete the homework folder work on math, spelling and reading. (due next Thursday)

Important Dates:

Monday, Oct. 30: math retest on number sense
Tues, Oct. 31: Halloween parade 1PM, gr. 5 social studies quiz

 

Oct. 16-20

The winning streak continued with Rosedale sports teams this week! Congratulations to the flag football and girls' and boys' soccer teams for moving on the championships next week!

In math this week, students wrote a quiz on number sense. That quiz went home on Wednesday to be signed and corrected. We took it up in class on Thursday. I will continue to hold review sessions after school for anyone who would like to attend. There will be a retest on the same skills on Oct. 30th. We started our next unit, which is patterning, on Thursday.

In language students evaluated their own independent writing pieces and handed them in. We also continued with our read aloud of the novel, Wonder. We also took up the CASI test, and looked at grade 5 and 6 writing exemplars. Both these activities helped students to understand what they're aiming for. I explained that, "it's hard to hit a target that you can't see." I'm hoping that after looking at level 3 and 4 exemplars, students better understand how to hit that target. We also started a new writing task. Students will write an announcement about their findings from the Report Card on the Health of Canadian Children. We looked at a model text, annotated it (highlighted its key features), and created success criteria together. 

In art students continued to work on a multi-media still life of pumpkins. They're using glue lines to create texture and emphasis on line in their work. In phys. ed. students played lead-up football games, including, "Ultimate Chicken," and "Continuous Bordenball." I was very pleased to hear students who believed that they, "didn't like football," or "weren't good at football," both playing and enjoying these games!

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
2) Practise the 2-5 times tables. 

3) Complete the homework folder work on math, spelling and reading. (due next Thursday)

Important Dates:

Oct. 25: Halloween Hullaballoo

Oct. 9-13

This week was a very busy week, with so many sports teams out of the building! Congratulations to all participants in flag football, soccer and cross country! 

In math this week, grade 5 students learned how to multiply multiples of 10, which is an important mental math skill. They also learned how to estimate quotients, by using friendly numbers. Grade 6's learned how to solve problems using the order of operations. They're using the mnemonic device, "BEDMAS" to help remember the order. There will be a quiz on number sense on Monday, then we'll move on to patterning.

In language students continued to work on their independent writing pieces. We also continued with our read aloud of the novel, Wonder. Next week we will take up the CASI test, so please ensure that it has been signed and returned.

In art students began to work on a multi-media still life of pumpkins. They're using glue lines to create texture and emphasis on line in their work. Next week students will use watercolour techniques to paint their pieces.

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
2) Practise the 2-5 times tables. 

3) Complete the homework folder work on math, spelling and reading. (due next Thursday)

4) Complete the final draft of independent writing if it's not already complete. 

Important Dates:

Monday, Oct. 16: math quiz, independent writing due
Oct. 25: Halloween Hullaballoo

Oct. 2-6

In math this week, students continued to practise long multiplication, and also learned how to do long division. You can support your child with these concepts by having them practise at home, and by working on memorizing the times tables. Long multiplication and division become very difficult if students don't know their times tables. 

In language students learned the editing symbols that are used when editing their own and others' work. We also read an infographic entitled, "Who's Hungry?" It explained who is using food banks in the city and why. We discovered that many Torontonians have to choose between paying rent or eating, hence the need for the food bank. Students also continued to work on their independent writing pieces. I've been very impressed with the students' engagement in writing pieces of their own choosing!

We continued our  inquiry on "What does it mean to be healthy?" We  continued to discuss the report card on the health of Canadian children. Students worked in groups to create summaries to post in the hall for the other students in Rosedale to read. Students will begin to work on writing an announcement based on their learning.

Finally, we finished our food drive here at Rosedale. Grade 5's and 6's helped create the boxes for the drive, and read  announcements. Thank you for sending in food items for our drive!

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
 There will be no homework folder this week, as it is a holiday weekend. Students are encouraged to continue to practise their times tables.

Important Dates:


Oct. 25: Halloween Hullaballoo

Sept. 25-29

We've had a busy and exciting week! The students enjoyed their overnight trip to the Island School. Highlights included biking around the island, learning survival skills and creating art from objects in nature, in the style of Andy Goldsworthy.

When we returned, students learned how to do long multiplication, using the traditional method. Next week we'll look at lattice multiplication, which is a different strategy. We'll also practise long division.

We continued our  inquiry on "What does it mean to be healthy?" We finished the meditation program on calm.com, called "7 days of calm." I've encouraged students to continue to use the website as needed, either in class with headphones or at home. We'll continue to use it from time to time as a whole class. We also continued to discuss the report card on the health of Canadian children. Students are working in groups to create summaries to post in the hall for the other students in Rosedale to read.

In language we talked more about Terry Fox and created an anchor chart entitled, "What lesson did you learn from Terry Fox's life?" Students learned to "never give up," and to think about Terry when things seem hard! We also participated in Orange Shirt day. We read the book, "I am Not a Number," and discussed Canada's sad history of residential schools.

Finally, we began a food drive here at Rosedale. Grade 5's and 6's helped create the boxes for the drive, and will be reading announcements. Please send in non-perishable food items before next Thursday, when our food drive ends.

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
2) Read the text about Rick Hansen and answer the questions.
3) Complete the math work on long multiplication.

Important Dates:

Mon., Oct. 2: grade 6 parent meeting for Halloween Hullaballoo
Tues., Oct. 3: cross country meet
Wed., Oct. 4: Curriculum night
Oct. 25: Halloween Hullaballoo

We've had another great week in room 9! In math students practised how to write large numbers in standard form, words and expanded form. We also reviewed how to add and subtract large numbers, as well as how to solve problems involving those operations. On Friday students worked on a problem involving large numbers and estimation: "If you blink about 16 times a minute, about how long would it take to blink 100 000 times? 1 000 000 times? Justify your answer and show your work." Students shared their work and thinking using a document camera and we discussed different strategies to solve this problem.

We continued our  inquiry on "What does it mean to be healthy?" We continued the meditation program on calm.com, called "7 days of calm." We also read a report card on the health of Canadian children. Students predicted the marks that Canadian children would get in areas like "physical activity" and "sleep." Students then read the report and made comments on each area. They were shocked to find out some of the results. Please ask your child about it! Students also finished and evaluated  their "The Best Part of Me" project. We did a gallery walk and expressed appreciation for each others' work.

We began social studies this week. Mr. Siefert will teach the grade 6's science, while I teach the grade 5's. The grade 6's are learning about Canada's Global Connections to the World, while the grade 5's are learning about Canadian Government.

Finally, we talked about Terry Fox and watched a Heritage Minute about Terry. Students read a short passage about Terry Fox and answered some questions about his life. We also participated with our reading buddies in the Terry Fox walk.

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
 There will be no homework folder this week, due to our trip to the Island School.

Important Dates:

Mon Sept. 25-27: Island School trip
Wed., Oct. 4: Curriculum night
Oct. 25: Halloween Hullaballoo

Sept. 11-15

We've had another great week in room 9 of getting to know each other and learning! In math this week we continued to use the YouCubed series of inspirational math lessons from Stanford University. Students learned important math lessons, like, "Believe in Yourself," and "Mistakes are Powerful," as they worked through some challenging problems. If you would like to see the videos that we watched, here is the link: https://www.youcubed.org/week-of-inspirational-math-2/. Students also learned about place value, and can now write large numbers in standard form, words and expanded form.

We began our first inquiry on "What does it mean to be healthy?" Students brainstormed in groups, and we discussed some aspects of being healthy, like getting enough sleep. We also began a meditation program on calm.com, called "7 days of calm." Check out that website for more great mediation activities.

On the theme of being healthy, we discussed mental health as well. In language we read the book, "The Best Part of Me." Student then chose some part of themselves that they like and wrote a poem about why they liked it. Students also took close up pictures of themselves. That work will be displayed in the hall.  We also reviewed the writing process, as well as how to revise and edit our own and others' work. In addition, students wrote the CASI test, which is a standardized reading test.

Finally, in phys. ed. we also worked on collaborative skills through games. The students learned that a significant part of their phys. ed. mark comes from cooperation skills, participating actively and from participating safely. We read the success criteria for these skills that are posted them in the gym as a reminder. The other part of the students' marks for phys. ed. comes from movement skills, such as throwing, which will be taught throughout the year.

Homework:
1) Read daily for at least 20-30 minutes.
2) Practise your 3 times tables. We will continue "Mad math minutes" next week, focusing on the 3 times tables.
3) Complete the math work on place value.
4) Read the article, " Not Your Typical School Cafeteria" and answer the questions.

Important Dates:
Sept. 19: picture day
Mon Sept. 25-27: Island School trip
Wed., Oct. 4: Curriculum night

Sept. 5-8

In room 9 we've had a great first week of getting to know each other and establishing class norms and routines! I've enjoyed getting to know all my students and their unique strengths and interests.

On our first day, students learned the Tribes Community Agreements, which are:
1) Attentive Listening
2) Mutual Respect
3) Appreciation, No Put-Downs
4) The Right to Participate
5) Safety First
I find that using these agreements is a powerful tool to help create a positive and safe atmosphere within the class.

This week the students also wrote letters to their future selves, which they will get back to read at the end of June. Students made predictions about the year, and asked questions to their future selves. In addition, we had a funeral for our "I Can'ts", putting to rest our feelings that we can't do certain things, and changing those statements to, "I am learning to."

We also began our work on independent reading and math this week, and established norms and routines. I emphasize quiet during independent reading periods so that everyone can think, as reading is thinking! I also emphasize collaboration during math, so that students can learn from each other as well as from me. We began the youcubed "Week of Inspirational Math." We watched a short video about an important aspect of learning math, then worked on a math activity that helped students practise that skill. Students learned that there are many strategies for learning math, including teamwork, and that math is not about speed, but about deep thinking.

Finally, three permission forms went home on Friday. The first is for Kiss N Go volunteering, the second is for the cross country team. The last is for the Island School trip. I ask that all the forms be returned ASAP, and I do apologize for the many, many forms this week!



Homework:

 1) Read for 20-30 minutes daily. This will be daily homework all year long. Homework folders will begin next week.

Important Dates:
Friday, Sept. 15: celebrating summer birthdays
Sept. 25-27: Island School trip
Oct. 4: Curriculum Night

Welcome to the 2017-2018 School Year!

Welcome to room 9's blog, and another school year! Please take a minute to enter your email address on the right, under the title, " Subscribe via email." This will allow blog updates to automatically be sent to your email address. I try my best to update this blog at the end of each week. I will include a recap of the learning that week, as well as important upcoming dates and homework. I find that it's a great way for students to stay organized and for parents to know what is happening in the classroom. I look forward to a wonderful year of learning and growing!

June 12-16

This week in math students worked on solving problems involving probability, as well as designing probability games. We will also focus on reviewing the math curriculum over the last remaining days. 

In language and social studies students learned about First Nations issues, including the impact of the Indian Act. We read and discussed an article entitled, "Many Indiginous people see little reason to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday," from the Toronto Star. Students learned why some Indiginous people feel this way and connected past events to today's current situation. We also watched several Heritage Minutes and discussed the main idea of each.

In art we began a project entitled, "My Canadian Landscape," which we'll be working on next week. Students analyzed famous Canadian art works, focusing on the use of rhythm, which they will use in their own painting. 

In dance and phys. ed. students are working in a group on a routine set to music. They will present those routines next week.

Important Upcoming Dates:
Tuesday, June 20: play day AM

Thursday, June 22: grad trip for grade 6's

Monday, June 26: grade 6 grad

Thursday, June 29: last day of school (always a bitter sweet day) :-)

Homework:
There will be no homework for the remainder of the year. The students have worked hard this year! I encourage everyone to keep reading, and to enjoy some great books over the summer. 

May 29- June 2

This week the grade 6's wrote the EQAO test. Congratulations to all the 6's on their hard work! The results of those tests will be sent to parents in the fall.

The grade 5's worked on solving probability problems. They also learned about Canada's First Nations groups in social studies. Finally, they worked on an art project that involved painting an expressive portrait.

Important Upcoming Dates:
Monday, June 5: social studies project due; field trip for grade 6's attending Deer Park
Wed, June 7th: track and field South Conference finals; field trip to Jesse Ketchum for 6's attending
Thurs., June 8th: math quiz on probability
Friday, June 9th: PA day

Homework:
Complete your social studies project. Remember that your presentation needs to include a short summary plus your diary entry.

May 22-26

In math this week students learned how to solve problems that involve probability. Grade 6 students also wrote some review practice tests for this week's EQAO. We will continue to study probability this week and next.

In language students wrote a writing test. Students then looked at exemplar answers in groups and evaluated them. Students also explained why the pieces, leveled 1, 2, 3 and 4 were given those marks. Finally, students evaluated and commented on how to improve their own piece of writing. Check out our great thinking and writing on the bulletin board in the hall outside room 9. Students also continue to work on their social studies project.

In science grade fives continued their project on energy. They are designing and building a toy, device or product that transforms energy. They will then create a TV commercial to sell it. Those projects will be presented next week. Grade sixes are learning about electricity and are working on a similar project.

In health, phys. ed. and dance students began to work in groups to create a dance to a piece of music of their choice.

Important Upcoming Dates:

May 30, 31 and June 1: grade 6's write EQAO morning and afternoon


Homework:

There is no homework this week, due to EQAO testing.

May 15-19

In math this week we continued our unit on measurement. Students learned about perimeter, area and volume. The grade 6's also learned about surface area. There will be a quiz next Wednesday on those concepts.

In language students continued to research and write paragraphs for their social studies project. We had a lesson on what a bibliography is and how to create one. Students will make a bibliography for their social studies project. In addition, we looked at exemplar answers for reading questions from the homework. Students evaluated their own answers and reflected on how to improve their work. Students also wrote a reading quiz which will be returned next week.

In science grade fives continued their project on energy. They are designing and building a toy, device or product that transforms energy. They will then create a TV commercial to sell it. Those projects will be presented next week. Grade sixes are learning about electricity and are working on a similar project.

In health and phys. ed. we continued our unit on soccer. In dance we watched a video on the history of dance. Students will be put into groups to create a dance over the next few weeks.

Important Upcoming Dates:

Wednesday, May 24: math quiz on measurement
Thursday, May 25: homework due
May 30, 31 and June 1: grade 6's write EQAO morning and afternoon


Homework:

Read for at least 20 minutes every day
Practise the 8 and 9 times tables.
grade 5's: Complete the math "Exploring Rectangles."
grade 6's: Complete the measurement section of the Ontario Curriculum Review. (p. 9-12)
** I suggest that students complete the math homework before the math test, as it will be a good review. **

In math this week we continued our unit on measurement. Students wrote a quiz on linear measurement, capacity and mass. Students have seen their marks but the tests haven't been sent home yet, as a couple of students have yet to write the quiz. It will be sent home as soon as those students have finished. We will continue to learn about measurement, and will explore perimeter, area and volume next. 

In language students continued to research and write paragraphs for their social studies project. We also looked at example diary entries and students have begun to write those as well. 

 In science grade fives continued their project on energy. They are designing and building a toy, device or product that transforms energy. They will then create a TV commercial to sell it.  Grade sixes are learning about electricity and are working on a similar project.

 In health and phys. ed. students corrected their puberty test, and those tests went home to be signed. We also continued our unit on soccer. 

  Important Upcoming Dates:

Thursday, May 18: homework dueMay 30, 31 and June 1: grade 6's write EQAO morning and afternoon


  Homework:

Read for at least 20 minutes every day.
Practise the 7 and 8  times tables.
grade 5's:  Complete the homework package sent home, which includes: math work on peimeter, article writing and a reading text with questions
grade 6's: Math mulitiple choice #2 and #3, and Article Writing in Ontario Curriculum Review, as well as read "Spring Sweetness" and answer the questions. 
  

May 1-5

In math this week we started a new unit on measurement. Students learned the mnemonic device, "King Henry Doesn't Usually Drink Chocolate Milk," to help them with metric conversions. Students solved problems involving linear measurement and mass. Next week we will learn about capacity and the relationship between capacity and volume. There will be a math quiz on metric conversions next Thursday.

In language students wrote a CASI reading quiz. Those tests will be returned and taken up on Monday. Please ask your child what mark he/she received on this test. I can't send the CASI home, as it's a standardized test.   Furthermore, students began to research for their social studies project, and learned how to write an effective topic sentence.

 In science grade fives continued their project on energy. They are designing and building a toy, device or product that transforms energy. They will then create a TV commercial to sell it. Grade fives also had a Scientists in the School workshop on matter. Grade sixes are learning about electricity and are working on a similar project.

 In health and phys. ed. students wrote a quiz on the puberty unit. We also continued to play pickleball in phys. ed. class.

  Important Upcoming Dates:


 Tuesday, May 9: track and field at Birchmount for track team
Wed., May 10: school panoramic picture
Thursday, May 11: homework due, math quiz

  Homework:

Read for at least 20 minutes every day.
Practise the 7 and 8  times tables.
both grades:  Complete the homework package sent home, which includes: relating units of mass, a reading passage with questions and a letter writing activity.
grade 6's: p. 27-29 in the Ontario Curriculum Review

  

April 24-28

In math this week students solved problems involving transformational geometry and sketching 3-D figures. Students wrote a math quiz on Friday that will go home on Monday to be signed. Our next unit is measurement.

In language students wrote a reading quiz that will go home on Friday to be signed and returned. We also worked on the correct use of pronouns. Students were introduced to a new language/ social studies project involving expository writing and research.

 In science grade fives continued their project on energy. They are designing and building a toy, device or product that transforms energy. They will then create a TV commercial to sell it. Grade sixes are learning about electricity and will work on a similar project.

In phys. ed. we continued to practise track and field skills and began a new unit on soccer. We will go back and forth between soccer and pickleball over the next few weeks.

  Important Upcoming Dates:

Thursday, May 4: homework due
Tuesday, May 9: track and field at Birchmount for track team

  Homework:

Read for at least 20 minutes every day.
Practise the 6 and 7 times tables.
 Complete the homework package sent home, which includes: a geometry review, a reading passage with questions and a writing activity.
grade 6's: p. 13-17, p. 70-73, p. 83-84 in Ontario Curriculum Review

  

April 18-21

In math this week students solved problems involving transformations. Denise Colby, our area's learning coach, came into our math class on Tuesday to show students how to use an app called, "Explain Everything." They used it to explain their thinking when solving a math transformation problem. We also worked on drawing different views of 3-D structures, including top, front and side views. Students learned how to draw 3-D figures using isometric dot paper. They will practise this skill for homework this week.

In language students presented their persuasive speeches. I was so impressed with the quality of their writing, as well as how much their presentation skills have improved this year!

In science grade fives began a new project on energy. They will design and build a toy, device or product that transforms energy. They will then create a TV commercial to sell it. Grade sixes are learning about electricity and will work on a similar project.

In phys. ed. we continued to practise track and field skills. Students also learned about the sport of pickleball and had a chance to start using pickleball equipment to rally with each other.

 Important Upcoming Dates:

 Monday, April 24: school track and field day
Thursday, April 27: homework due

 Homework:

Read for at least 20 minutes every day.
Practise the 6 and 7 times tables.
Complete the homework package sent home, which includes: isometric drawings for math, the correct use of pronouns, and writing a persuasive paragraph, using an opinion that you don't believe is true.
 

April 10-13

In math this week students solved problems involving transformations. These include translations, reflections and rotations. Students also wrote the math contest on Wednesday and had a financial literacy workshop on Thursday.

In language students continued to write and practise their persuasive speech. Speeches will be presented next week. We also read and compared 2 different texts related to The Day of Pink.

 In science grade fives presented their projects on a natural disaster, with a corresponding design and build project. They also began a new unit on energy. Grade sixes are learning about electricity.

In phys. ed. we started a new unit on track and field. We learned about and practised sprinting, jumps and relay.  In dance we started to create a group dance with the theme of acceptance. Finally, we attended Panfest, during which all the grade 4, 5 and 6 students performed and listened to other performances.

 Important Upcoming Dates:
 Tues- Thursday (April 18-20); students delivering speeches
Monday, April 24: school track and field day

 Homework:
There is no homework over the long weekend, however, it would be a good idea to do the following:
 Read for at least 20 minutes every day.
Practise the 6 and 7 times tables.
Practise your speech!

April 3-7

In math this week students solved problems involving rates and ratios. Next week we will work on problems involving transformations. These will include translations, reflections and rotations. Next week the students will also write the math contest on Wednesday.

In language students continued to write and practise their persuasive speech. Speeches will be presented the week after the Easter long weekend.

In science grade fives presented their projects on a natural disaster, with a corresponding design and build project. Grade sixes are learning about electricity.

In phys. ed. we wrapped up a unit on badminton. In art students created posters to advertise Mental Health week, and some students submitted their posters to a TDSB contest. Finally, we attended a full day workshop on hip hop at Harbourfront. Students learned about the different elements of hip hop, including break dance.

Important Upcoming Dates
Tuesday, April 11: Panfest
Wednesday, April 12: math contest
Thursday, April 13: homework due, financial literacy workshop

Homework:
Read for at least 20 minutes every day.
Practice the 6 and 7 times tables.
Gr. 6's: complete p. 47 and 85-87 in the EQAO booklet, as well as math on ratios.
Gr. 5's: p. 47 and 85-87 and math on rates

In math this week students solved problems involving decimals, including multiplying decimals by 0.1,. 0.01 and 0.001, as well as dividing decimal numbers. Students wrote a quiz on Friday, which went home the same day to be corrected and signed. Next week we will look at rates and ratios, then move onto our second unit of geometry.

In language we watched several persuasive speeches and rants. Together we co-created the success criteria for a speech or rant. Students created their outline for their speech or rant using a template.



In science the grade fives presented their projects on natural disasters and the structural features that are used to withstand them.  The grade sixes are delving into electricity.


In phys. ed. we continued our unit on badminton. In art students are creating posters with the topic of mental health. Some students will enter their posters in a TDSB poster contest! Finally, we went to the Kiwanis festival where the grade sixes and some of the grade fives competed and won gold!

Important Upcoming Dates:
Tues., April 4: practice for the math contest
Wed., April 5: field trip to Harbourfront for hip hop
Thurs., April 6: homework due
Wed., April 12: math contest


 Homework

Grade 6's: EQAO booklet p. 18-20, P. 43&44, p. 66-69
Grade 5's: making change math work, grammar work, Reading Text #5
both grades: - read for at least 20 minutes daily, and practise the 6 and 7 times tables

In math this week students solved problems involving decimals, including multiplying decimals by 10, 100, and 1000, as well as multiplying decimal numbers by decimal numbers. There will be a quiz on decimals, fractions and percent next Friday.


In language students we had a celebration of our iMovie trailers. We watched each others' and had a room 9 Oscar party. Students voted for the best trailer as well as best actor and actress, best writing and best editing. Congratulations to all the groups on fantastic trailers! We also began to brainstorm possible topics for persuasive speeches or rants.


In science the grade fives continued a research/ design and make project on natural disasters and the structural features that are used to withstand them.  The grade sixes are delving into a unit on space. The highlight of science this week was our trip to the Science Centre. Many thanks to our parents, Karen, Teresa and Bryce, who came with us!

In phys. ed. we began a new unit on badminton. In art we learned the correct proportions for drawing a human face and practiced those skills.


Important Upcoming Dates:

Wed., March 29: Kiwanis festival
Thurs., March 30: homework due
Friday, March 31: math quiz
Wednesday, April 5: Harbourfront hip hop workshop field trip


 Homework

Grade 6's: EQAO booklet p. 4-8, 38-39, 61-65
Grade 5's: multiplying and dividing by 10, 100, 1000 and 10000, grammar work, Reading Text #4
both grades: - read for at least 20 minutes daily, and practise the 6 times tables

In math this week students solved problems involving decimals and learned how to convert fractions to decimals. Students also learned how to calculate percent, and how it relates to decimals to fractions.

In language students finished their iMovie trailer, and attached their trailer to their poster using an app called Aurasma. Students and parents can view the trailers by holding a device up to the posters. Their iMovie trailer will magically play! Students also completed their persuasive essays. 

In science the grade fives continued a research/ design and make project on natural disasters and the structural features that are used to withstand them.  The grade sixes are delving into a unit on space In phys. ed. we continued our new unit on gymnastics. Students presented gymnastics routines, which they created and performed to music. In health we continued to talk about human sexuality, focusing on puberty.

   Important Upcoming Dates:March 13-17 March Break
Thurs, March 23: Science Centre trip
Wed., March 29: Kiwanis festival

 Homework

There will be no homework over the March break. Enjoy your time together!

Feb. 28-Mar. 3

In math this week students solved problems involving fractions, and also wrote a quiz on fractions. That quiz went home to be signed and corrected for Monday. Next week we will move onto learning about decimal numbers, and how they relate to fractions. 

In language students continued to work on their imovie trailer. We also continued to write persuasive essays. 

In science the grade fives continued a research/ design and make project on natural disasters and the structural features that are used to withstand them. They also participated in Scientists in the School on Friday. The grade sixes are delving into a unit on space In phys. ed. we continued our new unit on gymnastics. Students are now in groups and are working on gymnastics routines, which they will present to music. In health we started to talk about human sexuality, focusing on puberty.

   Important Upcoming Dates:
Monday, March 6: math tests due back, signed and corrected
Thursday, March 9: homework due

 Homework

1) Continue to read independently for at least 20-30 min. per day. 
2) An EQAO practice booklet has been given to each grade 6 student. This week they will complete the data management review, complete "Fact and Option" as well as "Combining Sentences." They will also read the media text "Digital Fusion" and answer the questions. Grade 5's will read those same texts, and will complete the math work on fractions. 

Feb. 20-24

In math this week students solved problems involving fractions. There will be a quiz on fractions next week that will include converting mixed fractions to improper fractions, and vice versa. It will also include expanding and reducing fractions, and comparing and ordering fractions. After that we will move onto learning about decimal numbers, and how they relate to fractions. 

In language students started to fil their imovie trailer. We also began to learn about and write persuasive essays. We began by annotating persuasive essays. Students then created their own outline, using a graphic organizer. We will continue to work on rough drafts and edting of those essays next week. 

In science the grade fives continued a research/ design and make project on natural disasters and the structural features that are used to withstand them. The grade sixes are delving into a unit on space In phys. ed. we continued our new unit on gymnastics. Students are now in groups and are working on gymnastics routines, which they will present to music. In health we started to talk about human sexuality, focusing on puberty. 

   Important Upcoming Dates:

Wed, March 1: math quiz on fractions
Friday, March 3: scientists in the school for grade 5's

 Homework

1) Continue to read independently for at least 20-30 min. per day. 

Feb. 6-10

In math this week students wrote a patterning and algebra quiz, which went home on Friday to get signed. We started a new number sense unit on fractions. Students reviewed concepts from grades 4 and 5, and also learned how to create equivalent fractions by reducing or expanding fractions.

In language students created a poster for their literature circle book. I asked students to imagine that their book was made into a movie. What would the poster to advertise the movie look like? They also started to brainstorm a plan for an imovie trailer, which they will plan and film in groups.

In science the grade fives learned about the different types of forces. They began a research/ design and make project on natural disasters and the structural features that are used to withstand them. The grade sixes are delving into a unit on space In phys. ed. we continued our new unit on gymnastics. Students are now in groups and are working on gymnastics routines, which they will present to music. In health we continued to talk about healthy relationships, including how to deal with peer pressure and how to resolve conflict.

   Important Upcoming Dates:

Feb. 13-16: Ottawa trip!
Feb. 17: PA day
Feb. 20: Family Day

 Homework

There will be no homework this week. Students are encouraged to bring a book on the Ottawa trip so that they can read during downtime and before bed. 

In math this week students solved patterning problems that involved geometry and rates. We will have a patterning and algebra quiz on Monday, then begin a new unit on fractions and decimals.

In language we continued with literature circles; students met twice in their groups to discuss the book that they're reading. We also had a workshop on Shakespeare, which was a fun introduction to understanding and appreciating his work. Additionally, students finished presenting their health/media/oral communication project on alcohol or drugs.

 In science the grade fives  presented their power point on a topic related to human health. The grade fives also had a Scientists in the School workshop on forces and structures. The grade sixes presented their power points on biodiversity. In phys. ed. we continued our new unit on gymnastics. In health we began to talk about healthy relationships, including how to deal with peer pressure and how to resolve conflict.

   Important Upcoming Dates:
Monday, Feb. 6: math quiz on patterning and algebra, boys' basketball tournament
Thursday, Feb. 9: homework due, girls' volleyball tournament
Feb. 13-16: Ottawa trip
Feb. 17: PA day
Feb. 20: Family Day

 Homework

1) Read the text, "Making a Difference," and answer the questions.
2) Complete the math work distance, speed and time.
3) Read your own book for at least 20 minutes each day.
4) Write and practise your book chat if you haven't presented yet.

In math this week students solved problems involving algebra, solving for unknown variables. They also solved patterning problems that involve geometry. We will continue with patterning and algebra next week.

In language we continued with literature circles; students met twice in their groups to discuss the book that they're reading. Students also finished their January independent writing and submitted it. Additionally, students worked on and presented their health/media/oral communication project on alcohol or drugs.

 In science the grade fives are researching a topic related to human health and creating a power point. Many students presented their power points, which were very well done! The grade sixes had scientists in the school and learned about biodiversity. They will present their power points on Tuesday. In phys. ed. we began a new unit on gymnastics.

  Important Upcoming Dates:
Monday, Jan. 30th: finishing health presentations
Tuesday, Jan. 31st:  literature circle meeting #6
Thursday, Feb. 2: homework due, Shakespeare workshop AM
Friday, Feb. 3: Scientists in the School- grade 5's from r. 8 and 9, last literature circle meeting
Feb. 6: boys' basketball tournament
Feb. 9: girls' basketball tournament
Feb. 13-16: Ottawa trip
Feb. 17: PA day
Feb. 20: Family Day

 Homework

1) Read your literature circle book and complete your role sheets for each meeting.
2) Complete the math work patterning.
3) Read the poem, "Action Earth" and answer the questions.
4) Write and practise your book chat.