Amana Fifth Grade Newsletter Update
Friday, September 6, 2019
News from Ms. Hess
This week in math we learned many math games that will be used to help practice our mathematical thinking during our math workshop next week. Next week we will begin our first unit in math focusing on place value and multiplication. We will use a math workshop model to play games, use technology (IXL) and small group instruction to clear up any confusion with subtraction of whole numbers. An IXL (website for practicing math) sheet has been sent home in your child's Friday folder with information on using the site at home.
In literacy, we discussed using a strategy called Stop, Think, and Respond. Readers notice when things are confusing and jot down their thinking to discuss it with the teacher or another reader.
Our band instructor, Mr. Flaherty, joined us on Tuesday and Friday to introduce the instruments available to 5th graders. Everyone was able to give each instrument a trial run. Ask your child what they liked and why! Please see the information letter in the email attachment and the paper sign up sheet in your child's Friday Folder. The sooner we know who is interested, the sooner we can match kids with instruments and begin making music! If your child does have an instrument next week, they are welcome to bring it into school on Tuesday or Friday for some time with Mr. Flaherty.
The Walking Classroom will make its debut next week. Our very generous PTO purchased The Walking Classroom three years ago for our kids. Each child uses an MP3 player with pre-loaded lessons that align directly with our science, literacy, and social studies standards. This means that our class gets to learn while walking around the beautiful place we call home. We will learn that research has proven that cognitive function improves dramatically when aerobic exercise occurs. We will plan to do at least one Walking Classroom lesson a week for the year. Next week's topics include Greek and Latin roots, as well as idioms! See the link below to learn more.
Binder of Awesome!!! Look forward to seeing this again on Friday, September 27.
Learning Goals This Week:
Math: I can multiply 2 digit times 1 one-digit numbers using the standard algorithm.
Writing: I can generate lists as a prewriting strategy. I can write a friendly letter.
Science: I can make, record, and communicate my observations.
Materials Needed
Food scraps (coffee grounds, a used tea bag, eggshells, peelings from vegetables), dry twigs, and dry leaves are needed for our redworm habitats next Tuesday. Please have your child bring a small amount on Tuesday if they'd like.