Hiccups and Inventing

We learned about a strategy called "working backwards" in our math lesson today. We examined figures that had moved to a new position using 2 or 3 different transformations. Students were challenged to find and record the "in-between" figures. They used tracing paper to copy the figure and find its transformations.

We did not do an arithmetic lesson today, to allow time for students to begin working on their speeches in class. Students took jot notes of what they already know about their topic. Some had the opportunity to get onto the ThinkPads to do further research. Students will be focussing on research and jot notes for the next couple of days. Each day, they will show me new jot notes they have recorded.

In our forces unit, students continued to work on their forces projects. Most who have chosen a building project have started their building. Some have run into challenges while building while others have run into problems while testing. This is all part of the inventing process. Students are expected to show initiative and problem-solving skills. Some may be looking for additional materials tonight.

In language, students worked on list 21 spelling words. We continued learning about verbs. Today we learned that verb phrases are action or state of being verbs in a sentence with helping verbs. Ask your child how they can tell if a verb phrase is an action verb phrase or a state-of-being verb phrase.

Students attended French, art,  and gym class today.

Homework & Reminders

·         Review list 21 spelling words

·         MMS Study in preparation for the unit test on Friday

·         Research and make jot notes on your speech topic

·         Read chapter 2 of Little House in the Big Woods and complete reader response page for Tomorrow

·         Mark Saturday, February 22, on your calendars as the SJA Annual Gala - Gala tickets are for sale now ($65/adult & $10/child)  - prices go up to $75 for adults tomorrow

·         Scholastic orders are coming home today. Order forms are due on Friday, Jan. 17

·         Bring in supplies you need for your forces project