Math: We compared parts of a whole to parts of a group/set. In addition, we worked with cuisenaire rods to further develop the concept of equivalent fractions and improper fractions/mixed numbers. Tonight's homework is to complete the reteach and practice pages while the problem solving/challenge sheet is an optional challenge.

Language Arts: Beginning today and running up until Spring Break, I have three groups reading a historical novel, Sarah, Plain and Tall. As you will see, what I do with each group is very different so the differentiation will continue despite the common text...I will continue to refer to the groups as Carl's/Sword/JGB.

Carl's High Jump - We shared last night's comparison of Carl's and the DES field days. We also decided to read Sarah, Plain and Tall as a group. After reading chapter one, we explored the characters in the story so far to help piece together how everyone is related. I expect this to be our only book until Spring Break. They should reread the day's chapter every night in addition to any RRJ work (RRJ will not be nightly).

Sword... - We finished story maps and began reading Sarah, Plain and Tall in group. This group discussed chapter one a bit differently than the other groups. We actually explored Sarah a bit more in depth while determining the different meanings of plain and plane with dictionaries. Tonight's homework is to reread chapter one and complete the character organizer.

JGB - We reread chapter one aloud and shared summaries from yesterday. We also discussed the point of view in the story (first person) and speculated how the kids might have been feeling towards the end of the chapter. Tonight they should complete their comprehension page in addition to rereading chapter two.

W&M - We reread chapter 3 aloud and discussed why a "flashback" occurred after grandpa's picture was taken. This led us to a discussion as how often times we look like our parents when they were kids...I saw a lot of light bulbs going off the more we broke down the chapter! As a peer group, they completed a literature web of the story so far... They can reread chapters 3 and 4 tonight if they have time.