November 16th Update

Today we began by talking about the simple machine called the inclined plane! We involved some physics and math as we looked at the concepts of acceleration and velocity, and talked about how distance=rate x time. Tomorrow, we will be doing an experiment using inclined planes and hot wheel cars, racing them to determine their rate of speed and velocity over time. We will need to use past math skills of mean/average in order to find our data. We will also learn how to find the rate by using a stop watch and marking the distance traveled each second by the cars. Students were to complete their questions on acceleration for homework if not done already.

I reminded students that since we do not use textbooks, it is important to pay attention to the material I hand out in class and keep it safe in their binders. When we do projects, they can use this material directly to make their projects more interesting and add to their thinking. Also, part of being in the MACC program means we look at the curriculum with greater depth and complexity. Some of this depends on students taking the time to be deeper thinkers and to truly try and answer questions posed during class. It also means they should pay attention to adding detail on questions, so I can also hear or see their thinking! Thank you to everyone who is doing their best to be a THINKER in our class!

We also spent time this morning talking about our TED TALK project. I handed out a guideline sheet for writing a five paragraph essay, because really, a speech is like doing a five paragraph essay, with an introduction, supporting paragraphs, and a conclusion. Today, our goal was to write a solid thesis statement to express our opinion. In a speech for TED, we are not just doing a report on a topic, we are talking in a persuasive style. For example: I think art is an important part of the curriculum because it teaches fine-motor skills needed for future work, it allows students to learn things that could assist them in the many careers that need the arts, and it provides an outlet for self-expression and stress reduction. Students were asked to express an opinion and then follow it by three supporting ideas. Each of the three supporting ideas will become a paragraph in their essay. Ask your child to share their idea with you!

To further investigate how technology has an impact on our lives, students read from a variety of research books on different types of machines in communications, entertainment, transportation, medicine, and more. They looked for specific machines that have had an impact on our lives and took notes as needed. We also had a journal topic today: What would happen in your life if you did not have any technology (digital technology and electricity) from the time you wake up to the time you go to bed? I asked them to finish this one page entry for Monday.

As a reminder, some students have not been bringing their journals back to go in the green journal box, which means they may not receive marks for that work. Please look and make sure you have turned yours in!

To finish the day, we had PE and then read the book The Dot and did an art activity related to LINE and PERSPECTIVE — not the element of perspective, but being open to another person’s perspective. Each student drew six squiggles in their art book and other students came to change those lines into new things. This is a great perspective game to play when you are bored and waiting somewhere, as I explained to the students.

Please bring library books tomorrow for book exchange!

See the green notice regarding gift card fundraising for the school.

Caribou Math participants, tonight is the last night to purchase a code so you will be ready for the competition this week. The test runs on Wednesday and Thursday, and we will likely be doing it Thursday morning. Also be aware we will be going to the Young People’s Concert that afternoon.

Have a good night!