Math
Last Friday we took the Chapter 5 test (Factors, Multiples, and Patterns). The tests were given back today for you viewing pleasure.
On Tuesday we begin our first unit introducing fractions: Fraction Equivalence and Comparison. This unit builds on the students' previous knowledge from Chapter 5 and learning how to find equivalent fractions, reduce fractions into simplest form, find common denominators, and comparing and ordering fractions. This week we will cover:
- Tuesday - Identifying Equivalent Fractions (Kahn Academy video)
- Wednesday - Creating Equivalent Fractions
- Thursday - Reducing/Simplifying Fractions (Kahn Academy video)
- Friday - Review and quiz
Science
Last week we started our Rock Cycle Unit in Science and we are off to an awesome start. We have already created Sedimentary Rock edible sundaes (last week), observed different types of rocks in the cycle (sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous), and will begin to study erosion this week with a cool experiment simulating how water can erode rock!
Language Arts
Word Study
This week we took our List 15 quiz on Monday and will begin List 16 on Tuesday. Due to the hectic nature of next week, this will be our final list before Winter Break. The words this week focus on the /g/ and /dg/ sounds and spelling patterns. PLEASE, try to have your student practice these words occasionally throughout the week for the test on Monday, December 19th! The words can be found here.
Reading
Last week we began our Nonfiction Unit; beginning our focus on the variety of text features. This week we turn our attention to Text Structures: ways an author organizes the information in a book (cause/effect, sequence, problem/solution, description, and compare/contrast). We will focus on cause/effect and sequence this week specifically.
Writing
We just finished-up our most recent persuasive essay based on the controversial topic of whether chocolate milk should be banned from school cafeterias. The debate was fierce and you will be able to see the fruits of our labor this week when the graded essay comes home.
This week we will delve into the realm of comparison/contrast essays once again. Since we have just finished reading the book WONDER, we will be comparing the theme and actions of the characters to a few books with similar themes.
I hoe you have a wonderful week! If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. Thanks, and stay warm!
