November 5 Update!

We started the day by discussing the machines we see all around us, starting with the kitchen! We identified the simple machines and then looked at several different kitchen tools to see what simple machines we could identify, including the wedge, pulley, inclined plane, lever, screw and wheel and axle. When identifying simple machines, we paid attention to the purpose of the tool we were looking at and identified how it makes work easier. By doing this, it made it easier to see which of the simple machines was involved. We also read a series of National Geographic books talking about different kinds of machines in the home, in sports, in health, and in construction, so we could further identify simple machines and understand how they work. For homework, students were asked to look at different versions of a can opener and “think like an engineer,” explaining why they think an engineer would have made that particular design for the machine.

After recess, we continued working on our surveys for the math assessment. Many are done with their surveys and are in the process of collecting the data from class members, parents or anyone else they care to survey! Next step is to use the rubric and make a graph for the data, identify the mean/median/range/mode of the data, and write an explanation about their data analysis. As a side benefit, students have been learning how to troubleshoot using an online application, how to use shortcut keys on the PC such as ctrl-V and ctrl-C, how to be clear in writing survey questions such that all can understand, and how to interact with people when taking a survey (for example, not leaning over them or making comments while they take the survey so as not to influence the person being surveyed.) The room was full of excited energy as they completed the project.

After music, students began work on an artistic presentation for our special assembly next November 10th for Remembrance Day. We looked up pictures of red poppies using our iPads and then drew large, zoomed in pictures of the flowers on 12×17 paper. Then, we went over the pencil with charcoal and used kleenex to help blend the black into the white space of our flowers. Tomorrow, those who are finished will be painting around the flowers using red, acrylic paint to emphasize the flowers using a bright colour and positive/negative use of space. We will hold these up and present them as part of the assembly. We also will make a wreath to be presented by two class members, and Emma and Shelley, from the Intermediate Choir at Suncrest, will be singing. I look forward to this solemn and important assembly.

Mr. P from Suncrest also came in today to announce there is a Chess Club that will meet at lunch on Fridays, probably starting next week. Stay tuned for announcements! Also coming up is a Diwali Celebration with the school and a notice went home explaining this. Finally, we are looking forward to the Young People’s Concerts coming up the week after next.

Have a great night!