Hello everyone!

This week, we are diving head first into our new exploration: space!

We started reading our new book, Georges Secret Key to the Universe. The students are loving how funny the story is. We are using the story to give us new words to put on our word window. We’ve added six so far.

We are starting our exploration by focusing on the moon. The class read a Super Science article explaining how NASA is planning on going back the the moon and building a space station there. They also read an excerpt from Neil Armstrong’s speech from when he first landed on the moon. From his description, we learned that the moon is very similar to a desert. We also learned about the phases of the moon and how they occur. We did a simulation to show us this. The students were split up into pairs and each pair got a flashlight and a styrofoam ball on a stick. One student held the flashlight, and the other held the ball over their head while they rotated in a circle. By doing this, they were able to see each of the phases of the moon. The students loved seeing their little moons change shape before their eyes!

For Mindset Math this week, we focused on graphs again. This week we focused on bar graphs. The students were tasked with measuring objects around the room with the objects of their choice, such as markers, water bottles, or pencils. They then used a bar graph to show the measurements of the objects they chose. Once they had their graphs made, they converted their measurements to standard units. Since they had some measurements that were not whole units, we took the opportunity to learn how to multiply by a decimal.

We also did work comparing fractions. The students were given puzzle pieces with different fractions on them, along with greater than and less than signs. The students had to work together to determine which fractions were greater than others. While it was a large challenge, the class was up to the task. They were so proud of themselves once they finished!

We’re also continuing to rehearse our Ashes of Roses play. We have started working on our blocking for each of our scenes. The play is starting to come together nicely. They class can’t wait to perform!

Looking ahead: There is no school on Monday, January 20th. We will be going to the library later in the week. We will have our regular bank day on Friday. Please remember to send your student with no more than $10. Sending change is great for students to practice counting money!

Enjoy the long weekend!