Ancient Egypt

Our very, very busy day started with story writing. Students read about the characteristics of adventure story writing.  They then read a sample of an adventure story. Students then brainstormed topic ideas for their own adventure story.

We began a new math unit today – Geometry. We reviewed the learning goals for this unit and some work from previous grades, such as right, acute, and obtuse angles. Students learned about straight and reflex angles. We reviewed how to use a protractor to measure angles. The tricky part was measuring reflex angles. Ask your child for two different ways this could be done. We also learned how to use a protractor to construct an angle. We did not have much class left once we practiced these skills. Students are asked to complete practice work on p. 84 & 85 of the MMS textbook.

We began working on our new inquiry unit – Ancient Civilizations. Students were introduced to the central idea, lines of inquiry, and concepts for this unit.

Central Idea: Early civilizations have shaped how the modern world is today.
Lines of Inquiry: characteristics of different ancient civilizations, physical and social aspects of ancient civilization living, the contributions that ancient civilizations have made toward contemporary societies
Concepts: Form and Change
We discussed what needs to be accomplished in the next 6 weeks, including the final project.
We will be focusing on developing research and collaborative skills throughout this unit. Before we began working, students shared what they already know about our first ancient civilization – Egypt, as well as what they would like to know. Students were partnered up and began working with their partner to read a non-fiction text about Egypt and begin making jot notes about what they discover. Students will also be creating 2 artefact cards for each civilization. Students will continue this work all week. In addition, they are asked to complete activity pages 12 & 13 on Egypt for homework.

We began working on this term’s novel. The Lighting Thief is written by Rick Riordan and compliments what we will be learning about ancient Greece and Rome. Students received their books and response sheets. They had 20 minutes of class time to read chapter 1 and complete the reading response they have been assigned today. Students who did not get done in class are asked to complete this work at home. Students will be meeting in groups to discuss chapter 1 tomorrow.

I met with about 1/3 of the class to discuss their electric car progress. These students may continue working on their cars. I hope to have met with everyone by Wednesday. Students are asked to complete test 2 by Monday, October 26, at which point we will have conferences again to check on and discuss progress.

Grade 6s attended Art and Gym class this morning.

Homework & Reminders

·         Science Fair: Keep working on your electric car if we met today. Have test 2 done by Monday, October 26
·         MMS p. 84 & 85
·         Egypt activity pages 12 & 13
·         The Lightning Thief: Finish reading chapter 1 and complete your literature circle response for tomorrow’s discussion
·         Think about ways to look like an ancient Egyptian on Friday, October 23
·         Remember to return Picture Day Forms
·         Friday, October 23 – SJA Parent Guild Movie Night
·         Tuesday, October 27 – Picture Day
·         Wednesday, October 28 – Casual Day
·         Friday, October 30 – Halloween Spirit Day