Weekly Update

Although these past two weeks have been short, it has been full of lots of new learning here in RM 21!

Math: Students are using the area model to multiply larger numbers. We then transitioned to a more efficient strategy to multiply, called "windows", in which students find partial products and then add them together. Students will take their multiplication assessment next week.

Reader's Workshop:
We have now begun a new interactive read aloud, Little Dog, Lost by Marion Dane Bauer a novel written in a poem structure. We will focus in on reviewing skills as well as introducing students to new elements of author's craft.

Sharing books we love!

Social Studies: We have completed our study of our neighbors to the south, Mexico! Thank you to Mrs. Keenan who came in to help us learn about an important women from Mexico, Frida Kahlo. Students decorated their own alebrijes or "spirit animals" after discussing this part of the Mexican art culture.

Science:We are well into our unit focused on earth science concepts. We began the unit by investigating volcanoes around the world. Students looked for and generalized patterns in which volcanoes occur on earth, discovering the existence of the "ring of fire".

Then students participated in a hands-on explorations to determine which kinds of volcanoes produce thick and thin lava. This helped students to understand how different types of volcanoes erupt and their impact on the landscape.

Writer's Workshop:
Students worked hard this month to develop narrative stories and these past two weeks we have moved on to the editing process. We are focusing on some new grammar and mechanic skills that students can apply to their writing.


Important Dates:
Tuesday 11/20: Thanksgiving Speeches
Tuesday 11/20: Multiplication Assessment