Earth Changes and Fractions

Dear Families,

We have begun our new math unit on fractions. The students started this unit by exploring the connection between fractions and division. Then they created their own fraction tiles and explored fractions that are equivalent to one whole and one half. Students focused on iterating to solve for unknown fraction amounts and identifying parts and wholes respectively. They have also been exploring measurement with fractions and representing them on a number line. Looking ahead- students will be exploring fractions as part of a set of something and later on they will revisit fractions of an area using the Geo-boards. Students are continuing to practice their multiplication facts through their Math Menu work or their fact practice at the end of the day.

We have also started our new science unit on Earth Changes. Our focus is on weathering, erosion and deposition as well as fast and slow changes. The students are currently working in pairs to research how either wind, water or living things change Earth's surface through weathering, erosion and deposition. They are creating a 3-5 slide presentation on their focus area which they will present to the class next week. Looking ahead-students will be conducting experiments with stream tables to explore how factors like slope, speed of water and soil substance are impacted during erosion.

Announcements:
* Students are welcome to make friendship cards to bring in next Thursday for Valentine's Day if they would like. It is completely optional. We will pass them out at snack time.
* Our second skating day with our entire house team will be on Tuesday, February 19, 2019. We will be skating from 10:00-10:55.

Welcome Back and Thank you!

I hope that everyone had a relaxing and enjoyable holiday break. The students were all buzzing this morning having lots of news to share with each other. Thank you for your generosity before break. My family and I thoroughly enjoyed the many tasty treats. Sending along a HUGE thank you from my family to yours!

This week in math we are going to review multi-digit multiplication using the area model and do a brief introduction to division and the idea of remainders. We officially wrapped up Unit 2 on this topic before break but I am using these few days back to reteach any areas of confusion. Students will be bringing home some math work this week for you to see. In social studies we are finishing up our study of Vermont history with Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys. 

Looking ahead, we will be starting our unit on fractions and our new science unit will study the Earth with a particular focus on changes in and on Earth's surface.

-Mrs. Hopper