Dec. 13-19

The students in room 21 have been working hard on a wide variety of activities. In math we've been studying geometry, including measuring angles, creating triangles and identifying shapes, based on various properties. In language the students have finished their literature circle novel and groups are now working on a dramatic presentation of a scene from their novel. The students have also finished rough drafts of their individual assignment. Final copies are due next week. In social studies we have been working on mapping. The grade 5's reviewed continents, oceans, provinces and capital cities before moving forward. Today we listened to the Stompin' Tom song "Capitals" to help solidify the information. Here's the Youtube link for that song to watch at home.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjgOQDUOGAg

Grade 6's have been working on learning lines of longitude and latitude and using the coordinate system. The students have also been working on a culminating science, social studies and language project, creating a pamplet after researching either a health topic in Canada (gr. 5) or an environmental issue in the world (gr. 6). In art we have been focusing on line, and will be moving on to the concept of rhythm in the new year. 

I also sent home information with the grade 6's today regarding grade 7 options, including extended French at Glen Ames and optional schools. I explained to the students today that the extended French program is a great program for those who are motivated to learn in French for half the day, and are comfortable with taking risks academically. At this age, students must be motivated to attend the program. The core English program at Glen Ames is also excellent, and I wouldn't disuade anyone from applying to either. I taught grade 8 core at Glen Ames for 5 years and thoroughly enjoyed my students and the program. This can be a difficult decision to make, but, ultimately, it's important that students have a voice in which program they attend. 

This week's homework is as follows:

Complete the final draft of the literature circle project, which is due on Wednesday, Dec. 18. The components are as follows: a persuasive paragraph, 5 quotes, explained and a new cover. Please refer to the assignment handout and rubric for more details. 

Best,
Bronwyn Davidson