Monday & Tuesday

Science - Students continued to work on their projects; they are due on Wednesday.  On Monday, Ms. Karably led a lab that showed students chemical changes by using vinegar and steel wool.


ELA - Students met with their book clubs and finished their plot diagram.  They have until next Tuesday to complete all parts of the project.


Social Studies -- I'm giving students who scored a 1 or a 2 on their short-answer WWI assessment another chance to take that test this Friday.  Students who received 4s lead small group discussions based on the content of that test and students also recopied down the notes.  I advised students to read over the notes for at least 10-15 minutes every night so they can familiarize themselves with the material.  Students who received 3s will also have the opportunity (if they choose) to retake the test to try for a 4.  



Math - We started learning about circles, Pi, the different lines in a circle (diameter, chord, radius) this week.  Today students calculated the circumference of circles and it was difficult for many because they don't have a solid foundation in their multiplication facts.  ...and that leads me to my next point...

Soapbox Moment

The vast majority of my students, regardless of math level, need to become more proficient in their basic math facts (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division - 0-12)  Their future success in math largely relies on having these fundamentals.
The next time you are at WalMart, Target, or other applicable retailer please buy your child a set of multiplication facts so they can practice for 10 minutes at home each night. Math will be a lot less frustrating if they have this skill down.