Class Update

Today was uneventful but very busy. We started the day with a morning work assignment from the science textbook. It was the chapter review for the ecosystems unit. In Reading Workshop we completed attribute charts for three of the Chris Van Allsburg books read in class. Each chart is one part of a matrix that will show the similarities and differences we notice in Mr. Van Allsburg’s works. The competed matrix will also help students in the completion of the final assessment for the unit.

In Math today we worked in small groups for an algebra mini-lesson. We learned the basic differences between an algebraic expression and an equation. We also learned that expressions can be simplified.

We practiced our Algebra skills by completing some problems in Math Journal volume two. These were “What’s My Rule” puzzles and some linear equations with fractions. We will continue to solve these kinds of problems throughout the unit so students will need to practice this skill often. For homework, students are to write their own “What’s My Rule” problems. The first problem should be easy to solve. The next two should be of medium difficulty and the last one should be hard by student standards. Here is an example:

Rule: +2

We ended the day with independent work and research for our class ecosystems project.

Lots of information was sent home today. Please check your child’s book bag for today’s flyers.