Week of 2/8-2/12

5D Families and Friends,

We got right back into the swing of things after our two snow days!  Here are some things we did this week...

• In math, we continued multiplying fractions through area models as well as the standard algorithm.  Students attempted cross reducing to get their products into simplest form even faster.  We did a Kahoot this week on this concept.  Next week we will be dividing fractions. We'll take the unit 5 assessment at the end of next week.  We also had three teachers from Exeter come visit to see our Math Workshop in action.
• In our literacy block, we've done a little prep for our Smarter Balanced testing coming up in mid-April.  Together we read a poem and then paired up to answer questions about the poem where some really great conversations happened.  We then read a literary essay and as partners highlighted similarities and differences between the two.  Next week the students will continue with this.
• In Science, the students experienced what it is like to be a Design Engineer through four stations. They sketched, marked/cut, joined and reinforced all kinds of recyclable materials.  In their groups, they have started a design specification for their Shark Tank idea.
• Next Friday the Museum of Science will be presenting to the 5th graders on the states of matter!

A few nuts and bolts...

Next week we celebrate Read Across America week.  We have themes for each day.

Monday- Fox in Socks Day (wear crazy socks)

Tuesday- Cat in the Hat Day (wear a favorite hat)

Wednesday- Wacky Wednesday (mismatch clothing)

Thursday- Favorite Book Character Day

Friday- Curl up and Read Day (Bring a pillow/stuffed animal to curl up and read)

We, along with 5H will have a "Shark Tank" competition on Friday 2/19 in the afternoon from about 1:20-2:45. We will be on the stage in the cafeteria.  Ten teams will present their redesign/engineered product in a presentation much like the show.  More details to come as we iron out the details. All parents are welcome to attend!

Students need snow pants, boots etc next Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Can you believe we only have five school days until February vacation?  Wow!  I hope you all enjoy your weekends.  To those of you who are going to their final "Father-Daughter Dance" (sniff, sniff) ... I hope you treasure every memory. :)

Until Monday...

Shannon