Math: We compared, contrasted, and created bar and line graphs in class today. After watching a short video on data collection, organization, and understanding we discussed which graphs are better suited for particular types of data. For example, how a line graph is an excellent method for depicting data as it occurs over time. Tonight, they are to complete their line graph worksheet in preparation for tomorrow's quiz.

Language Arts: Each group participated in a small group activity today. Below is description of what each group accomplished:

JGB: We reviewed last week's feedback prior to holding our shared inquiry discussion. Many of the students chose to hang last week's JGB packet on our Braggin' Dragon board in the hallway. However, to keep you up to date with the feedback, the importance of supporting thoughts with textual examples continues to be our top priority. With that said, our discussion today had much more agreement/disagreement using the text to support the variety of opinions...dynamic environment to say the least!

The Missing Pet Mystery: We read the story and discussed the events by looking at three parts of the story: beginning, middle, and end. They completed this task in their RRJs.

The two novel groups: We came together and reviewed the feedback thus far in their RRJs. We developed a clear understanding of what the expectations are in third grade and emphasized the importance of using feedback to improve the quality of their written work going forward.

This afternoon we had a representative from a local organization come and speak to us about the upcoming homeless walk next week. More importantly, the she shared with us some insights about what the notion of "homeless" actually means. After developing a list a ideas that describe homelessness, each student composed a poem and many chose to read them in front of the class. If you have not donated any money towards this great cause, tomorrow is the last day to send it in...thanks.

On a side, the PTA newsletter has a critically important piece on Spanish classes. It seems our low enrollment may prevent some leveled classes from not taking place. If you have an interest, please have your student ask me for a form or visit www.fles.org for more information.

Spelling is due tomorrow!

My apologies for not updating the blog yesterday - I had a meeting until 5:00 and decided to get home to the family...

Math: We took a formative assessment to determine our understanding of data analysis and bar graphs. Overall we did pretty well on it - so, going forward we are shifting our immediate focus on creating bar and line graphs. We will continue to sprinkle in opportunities for older concepts and practice calculating mean, median, mode, and range using real life data over the next couple weeks.

Homework:

Everyone is to complete the bar graph worksheet tonight.

Language Arts: We jumped right into small groups today so here goes...

JGB: Discussed how to interpret words by exploring the term "noble." Our shared inquiry discussion will take place tomorrow so they should be prepared with their book, packet, and brain!

Wolf Talk: We read and discussed the story. I lightened the load for the assignment - illustrate a picture pertaining to the book and compose a caption (supports our text features content).

The third group is split into two for the time being...

Desert Treasures: A fictional story that serves as a comparative piece with the informational text, Life in the Desert from the last two days. They were to independently read chapter one at their desk.

The One in the Middle...: A short novel where we will discuss the structural elements through the lens of beginning, middle, and end.

Homework:

All reading groups have the night off! Make sure the spelling is finished by Friday.

Open House - 2007

Thank you to the parents who took the time to attend our annual open house today! I hope it was time well spent...

Math: Today's lesson revolved around the 4th grade, data analysis content since that seemed to be the biggest area of need on last week's quiz. We watched a short video clip to help paint the picture of mean, median, mode, and range since last week we merely discussed it in the context of paper/pencil tasks. Following the clip, we used calculators to tackle a word problem involving data analysis; however, it was when I asked them to put the calculator down and use manipulatives (objects) to show me their thinking where we had the most difficulty. This dilemma is typical of what I see from year to year: quick with the computation but lacking mathematical proficiency to adapt to unfamiliar scenarios. Clearly, this will be the basis of our plan moving forward...Homework is simply to review last week's quiz.

Language Arts: We explored maps in partners to identify a variety of text features and describe what we've learned from these particular features.

Small Groups:

JGB - We began The Ugly Duckling and completed a text opener. They should reread at least some of the story for homework.

Can Kids Save the Earth - We read the text and generated a list of examples of cause and effect. They should continue this in their RRJs tonight.

How News Travels - We read the story in preparation of answering the 4 questions located in the back of the text. This should be completed in their RRJs.

FYI: Spelling is due this Friday!