Pinch, No Smiling

In our math unit on fractions and decimals we learned that mixed numbers and improper fractions show  more than a whole. Students used pattern blocks (triangles, trapezoids, and rhombuses) to represent a whole (hexagons). They wrote improper fractions and mixed numbers to represent the number of blocks they had.

In language, students worked on list 23 spelling words  and reviewed spelling words from lists 19 - 23.

In our speech work we learned that an introduction needs a lead and a topic sentence. Students learned that the aim of their lead is to get the audience's attention. We learned that leads can ask a question, state a unusual or amazing fact, include a quote, be anecdotal, state a statistic related to their topic, or be a descriptive segment. Students chose the kind of lead they wanted for their introduction. They followed the lead with a topic sentence that tells the audience what the main ideas of their paragraphs are. Students worked on their introductions in class. Revised introductions are due tomorrow.

We continued with our inquiry unit on Pioneers. We took up the work that students worked on independently or in a group yesterday to discover who the first pioneers were and why and how they came to America. Students shared their thoughts. They used their learning to add to their KWL charts. Students contributed pioneer-related words to add to our class chart of A-Z of pioneer words. Today's challenge was for students to discover by reading how pioneers cleared the land. They could choose to work independently or in a group to complete this work. When they were done, they were challenged to complete on page of their own A-Z booklet. We ended our pioneer time learning about parlour games. Students who volunteered to got to play a game called "Pinch, No Smiling". Ask your child to explain how this game works to you.

 

Students attended French and gym class today.

Homework & Reminders

·         Review list 23 spelling words

·         MMS p. 124 & 125

·         Complete revised speech introduction for tomorrow

·         Read chapter  6 of Little House in the Big Woods and complete reader response page for Thursday

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

·         Trip forms

·         Tomorrow is Casual Day

·         Spelling test on Friday

·         Support the grade 2 fundraiser by purchasing their crafts on sale from $0.50 to $2 starting tomorrow - proceeds will be donated to World Vision