Today was the first rain and with it came the wet shoes, clothing and hair. I have suggested that students need to keep a change of t-shirt and shoes in the class cloakroom when the weather becomes more Fall like just to ensure they are not sitting in dampness all afternoon. (sssshhh but it can also get a little 'smelly' when there are 29 of them!!)
I followed up with a math puzzler this morning which I tried on Tuesday but ran out of time- the puzzle requests students to place numbers in a triangle so that all the sides are equal using only the numbers 1-6- they did a good job and we found a number of solutions. The whole push of the new math curriculum is for students to learn that there are many answers to a given problem not just one. It encourages them to keep thinking and finding other methods or combinations.
We completed the reading/language section of the CAT tests this morning- some needed a bit more time this afternoon which wasn't a problem because I had help from a teacher called Ms. Sahota who was able to take a small group and complete the tests with the students in a small group setting.
I tried a math activity which I expected would be a bit of an experiment for the students. I took all the personal information out of the learning styles inventory which we did last week and I gave students the data only. In groups of four I asked them to classify first what information they would like to display from the data and then agree on how it should or could be displayed.
All gave it a pretty good shot but the expected difficulties did arise. We discussed what the difficulties were for each group before lunch - how to come to a group consensus about information wanted from the data?, who takes the lead?, who sits back and doesn't do much?, what display method is best for the information your group wants?, how many students have difficulty staying on task? etc.
When we do this activity properly (today was a 'dry-run') each group member will be in charge of a certain role within the group and I will provide the method of data display more clearly and provide the necessary resources to do it. Today I wanted to attempt to show the students that working collaboratively and effectively in a group is more structured than it looks.
The fruit and veg program provided some yummy blueberries today.
We had some issues as a class during reading time- namely many were unable to manage even 15 minutes of quiet. Later in the afternoon we discussed in a kooshball game what was happening in the class that was getting frustrating for individuals. Lots of honest points were made and I was encouraged that the students voiced their concerns about the socializing and chatting, the drama and showboating that tend to make things more difficult to get through and the need for safety - keeping hands to yourself for example.
Science texts were issued and an introductory presentation on the three units of curriculum were made. 1. Ecosystems-Diversity of life 2. Chemistry 3. Earth's Crust-Extreme Environments.
We took a vote to decide which unit the students would like to start with. We will complete the vote tomorrow when hopefully we have a full class. The top two are Chemistry &/or Earth's Crust.
Art time completed the day.
I have requested that French title pages be completed for tomorrow. Most CD covers are in and are fabulously diverse and creative :) Thank-you.
Homework
Ensure you are completed chapter three in the novel (assignment tomorrow)
Complete CD cover and French title page
Reading material for DEAR time
2 parent handouts were distributed: another N1H1 info. sheet from Vancouver Coastal Health and a School Newsletter.
Payment for planners and Camp Summit are still being collected. Thanks.
Enjoy your evening. Reminder that Thursday has music in the am and P.Ed. in the pm- be prepared.
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