Early Release Form for Friday, May 8:

Link

Math

We were busy making connections between different ways to represent a problem in math. We've been focusing on making these connections to strengthen our understanding of multiplying a whole number by a decimals.

We began with the problem: 5 x 0.35  (five groups of 0.35)

We modeled our thinking on a hundredths grid:

We then modeled our math thinking using an open number line. Students were prompted to begin looking for connections between the hundredths grid and open number line. Check out these examples!  One student took 5 jumps of 0.35, while the other decomposed 0.35 and took 5 jumps of 0.30 and 5 jumps of 0.05. Great strategies!

Then we gave the area model a try. Continuing to make a lot of connections!

And, last but not least, an equation. This is the trickiest for the kids. We are beginning to apply the Distributive Property as one of our strategies, something that will be really important in middle school.

Wow! Such amazing work!  Students were then given the task to show these four math representations for the next problem: 3 x 0.32

Check out the group of one group! They decided to each be responsible for one representation: hundredths grid, equation, open number line, and area model.

Webbing Events that Led up the the Civil War

We worked collaboratively on chart paper to map some of the events leading up to the Civil War. Six posters were placed around the room, and student groups traveled between posters adding information that they felt was the most important. 

After the students visited all posters, new groups were made, and these groups summarized the key ideas. The class did an outstanding job!

Early Release Form for February 13 Early Release Date

Our next early release is quickly approaching! Here is the link to the early release form for February 13. It is due by this Friday, February 6.

Early Release Form for February 13

Thank you for helping us get your child where he or she belongs!

Math Lesson for 1/27/15

Video #1:
Make sure you have a slate, marker and plastic sleeve with the number line in it ready to go.



Video #2:
Strategy #1: Improper Fractions



Video #3:
Strategy #2: Mixed Numbers

Using the Multiplication Table to Subtract Fractions

It is sometimes challenging to keep all of the math strategies we have available straight. This is one way to subtract fractions with unlike denominators.

First Field Trip - Low Ropes Course & Disc Golf

We had a fantastic (and exhausting) walking field trip to the Low Ropes Course at the high school, followed by disc golf at Lime Kiln Park. 4th and 5th graders were separated into 6 groups where they participating in teambuilding activities that focused on communication, problem solving, cooperation, leadership, and positive risk taking.

While all the teachers involved were at different activities, I was able to capture some pictures at the Mohawk Walk. It was a fun challenge and it was great to hear students sharing strategies, and encouraging each other.

Following our teambuilding adventures we walked over to Lime Kiln Park for lunch and a game of Disc Golf. Mr. Huber has been playing Disc Golf with the 4th and 5th graders in physical education, so this was a fun way to put their new skills to the test!