Literacy

This past week, we read and learned about the Navajo code talkers. During World War II, the code talkers played a crucial role in helping the U.S. Marines send coded messages using the complex and unwritten Navajo language. Using texts from RAZ Kids,  Newsela, and Epic, we practiced our skill of compiling information from multiple sources together in order to demonstrate a deep understanding about a specific topic. Throughout the readings, we are also working on explaining relationships and interactions, such as cause/effect and problem/solution, while using text evidence as support.


Writing

Students have begun working on a research project and oral presentation. Piggybacking off the previous reading we did on real life superheroes such as Richard Martin and Raoul Wallenberg, each student chose someone they felt embodies the qualities of a real life superhero. They will conduct research about this outstanding individual and give an oral presentation to the class explaining why they are a real-life superhero. This project incorporates many reading and writing targets for students.


Math

We are continuing to practice skills in the area of geometry in Unit 6. We explored the hierarchy of polygons, with an emphasis on triangles and quadrilaterals. Using academic language related to angles and sides, students have been classifying and describing shapes based on their attributes. This week, we have been reviewing and extending our thinking on the concept of volume, which was covered in Unit 1. 


Science & Social Studies

This week we finished a series of lessons within our matter unit about how to know when new substances are created. We ended with an investigation where students mixed substances such as water, vinegar, iodine, baking soda, salt, and alka-seltzer together in different combinations and observed whether new substances were formed! We looked for changes in color, temperature, and fizzing/bubbling to indicate when a chemical reaction had taken place. 


We will begin our final unit in social studies next week- the American Revolution!


Upcoming Events

  • Tuesday, April 14th- Early Release

  • Thursday, April 23rd- PTO Pizza Bingo

  • Friday, April 24th- Half Day Dismissal

  • Wednesday, April 29th & Thursday, April 30th- MAP Testing

  • Friday, May 1st- Field Trip- Twin Groves Musical


Friendly Reminders

  • *Please remind your student to charge his/her iPad and Logitech Crayon every night.

  • *Orchestra & Band Parents: Please make sure your students have their instrument on assigned days.

  • *Please remember to send your student with a healthy snack - nothing feeds the brain like a healthy snack!  

  • *Please continue to have your student practice their multiplication facts up to 12


Have a wonderful week!