The Grillo Gazette
April 2015
Motion & Design
Scientists began their next unit, motion and design. We discovered who Isaac Newton was, and began exploring his three laws of motion. Throughout the unit students will be working in groups to build model vehicles using “Kinnects”. Their first challenge was to build a vehicle in 20 minutes or less that will move at least 100cm (39 inches). Engineers also constructed a vehicle by following a two-view technical drawing. They identified details that are important in technical drawings and compared their own vehicle drawings with a technical drawing.
Engineers now use science and math to plan, design, and construct products. They recognize the importance of sketching their plans before they build and making detailed records of their products after building them; either by drawing them or using computer graphics so the products can be studied and improved.
Math
Mathematicians began exploring reflections of two-dimensional figures. Using transparent mirrors, we identified lines of reflection, symmetric figures and congruent polygons. 4G explored the connection between reflection and line symmetry. We found lines of symmetry in pictures and challenged ourselves to determine symmetric lines in polygons.
Writers Workshop
Economics
Readers Workshop
Lights, camera, action! Actors developed their fluency, expression, vocabulary and voice inflection by performing a readers theater play. Class favorites such as, The True Story of the Three Little Pigs, First Stop: Ellis Island, The B.F.G., My Rotten, Redheaded Older Brother and Helen Keller were adapted into brief skits. Students performed for our 2nd grade buddies!
Up & Coming
4/21 Dine out for Tatem
Be on the lookout for a mystery guest...
4/22 Earth Day Trip
Please make sure your child wears comfortable shoes & has packed a "trash free" lunch
4/25 Tatem Fair
Ms. Grillo will be painting nails from 12:00-1:00