In Math, we used our mathematical reasoning skills to strengthen our problem solving strategies.  We gathered data from a variety of sources, used it to make graphs, and then analyzed the information from the graphs to solve problems.  We also enhanced our understanding of number sense by developing new strategies to add and subtract number facts using groups of ten.  We are currently using models, number sentences, games, and objects around us to understand the relationship between addition and multiplication.  We’ve discovered that multiplication is really just repeated addition.   As we move forward, we will begin to see the relationships between multiplication and division. Finally, as we covered each concept, we are beginning to explain our answers in words, writing, and mathematical equations.

In Language Arts, we read several variations of the Three Little Pigs.  We use our districts' before, during and after reading strategies to help us understand the elements of a story, including character, setting, and plot. We focused on the New York State Standards by analyzing relationships between the stories. We compared and contrasted the story elements by responding to the literature in writing.   As we developed our responses, we focused on using details from the story to support our answers. Additionally, we looked at the relationship between a question and our approach to locating the answer in the text.  We categorized questions as RIGHT THERE, THINK and SEARCH, and ON MY OWN and learned strategies to answer each type of question effectively.

In Writing, we focused on our new district writing outcomes.  We used a hamburger to help us remember that paragraphs need a topic sentence, juicy details, and a closing sentence.  We used this model to write an informational essay about butterflies, a persuasive paragraph to Mrs. Lapple, and in our daily writing journal.

In Social Studies, we continue to work on our Classroom Constitution. (It seems to be taking longer than the United States Constitution.) It is a great way to cover the New York State standards, which include civics, citizenship, and government.  We are beginning a unit about geography using maps to learn about the different continents.  This will lead to our understanding of different regions and cultures around the globe.

In Science, we finished our unit on the life cycle of butterfly.  It was exciting to watch the developments each day and witness several New York State Standards in action.   We saw this amazing insect transition from the larva (caterpillar) to the pupa (chrysalis).  We watched the adult butterfly emerge from the chrysalis, eat honey from our fingers with its proboscis, then lay hundreds of tiny blue eggs.   Finally, we observed the eggs hatch as the miniature caterpillars crawled out.  What a way to experience and enjoy science in action!

We are looking forward to the next few weeks before the winter holiday break.   We will review many of the concepts we’ve learned so far and cover many new topics as we prepare for our move to the new building.

MATH TIP:
Before children learn their multiplication facts they must be able to add quickly and accurately. You can help them at home by practicing addition facts; learning their doubles (2+2, 3+3, 4+4, …12+12); and skip counting by 2’s, 5’s, and 10’s. Use time in the car, waiting in lines, and bedtime to reinforce these skills.

Webpages created by Bob Schultz
updated 11/24/2002 by  Mr. Scully and B. Schultz