The Bissinger Beacon
May 2018
Reading
4B readers can explain the message of a work of fiction as its theme by using the summarize strategy to check understanding. We read closely and charted an author's word choice to infer tone and the author's point of view. Readers are pros at questioning text details to identify author's purpose. We discussed diagrams, labels, and captions within a magazine article. Students are able to use nonfiction text features in order to monitor our own comprehension of the text.
Math
Math stars explored U.S. customary units of weight and converted tons to pounds and pounds to ounces. We reviewed the properties of acute, right, obtuse and reflex angles before using half-circle protractors to measure. We have also been focusing on multiplying mixed numbers by whole numbers, fractions by whole numbers and multi-step division number stories.
Writer's Workshop
Informational writers understand that writers use strategies they've learned in the past and apply them to new situations, working with more independence and skill each time.
We completed research for an informational chapter about a focus topic within the American Revolution. Ask your child if they are writing about The Boston Massacre, The Battle of Trenton, the Boston Tea Party, Betsy Ross or another topic! 4B authors also understand that writers improve their writing by adding details. We know that history writers try to include details that help readers picture what happened long ago. We mastered elaboration by studying a famous writer on historical fiction, Jean Fritz. Stong history writers also think about the three most important story elements: character, setting, and conflict.
Science
Midwest Float Project
4B has been studying the Midwest! Be sure your child shared about our Midwest Float Project which was sent home 5/14. :) We are excited to complete our project in class!
In celebration of the great research 4B completed they will get the chance to visually show off the rich heritage and symbols of their Midwestern Region. Students will design model state floats as a project to wrap up the Midwest Region.
For instance, a float of Florida might feature pictures or paper models of oranges, palm trees, alligators and some state symbols.
Construction Specifics – Please Bring in Supplies by Friday, May 25th.
-Students start with a box (cereal or shoe boxes work well)
-Cover the box with colored paper (use state colors, if you can)
-Add your state’s information (see below for more information)
-Use your imagination in making it as attractive as possible
-Try to use a variety of materials
-Students do NOT have to spend lots of money on materials nor buy figurines, look around your house, try to use what you already have.
Project Specifics:
state Flag
state nickname (such as The Sunshine State or The Golden State)
state colors
famous landmarks, attractions, events, key products, or industries. Basically, what stands out for this state? (**We will be researching this information in class)
symbols such as the state tree, flower, emblem, song etc.
a title index card with your name
name of state must be prominently displayed
an informative paragraph (introduction sentence, detail sentences, closing sentence) that explains the design and details of the float (how you made it and with what). This can be written or typed.
The power of including others! :)
Up & Coming
5/28 Memorial Day
6/13 Field Day
6/15 Last Day of School, RC's available on Genesis