Mrs. Garlow's Classroom Blog

Math

We have started our new math unit where students are comparing age differences and exploring and representing strategies for addition and subtraction through the context of timelines using the open number line.  Students began their investigation with characters from a storybook. 

If you have not already done so, please bring in the math form with the years family members were born.  Your child will need this information to start exploring concepts of addition and subtraction in a meaningful and engaging way.  

On a separate note, two math packages came home this evening highlighting some of the work that was done in class.  While other work completed over the unit such as performance tasks, math posters with partners, investigation of problems, and conversations were not included in the take home package, they are also used to assess student work.  Please review with your child, sign, and kindly return it.

Below are a string of related questions/problems designed to explore and highlight math concepts.  These were all solved through mental math and children's strategies were recorded on an open number line.  Students have a discussion around different strategies and which ones are more efficient during the minilesson.

Bruce Spruce Author Celebration

Earlier this week, students celebrated the winner for the Blue Spruce.  The winner this year was the story Barnaby Never Forgets by Pierre Collet-Derby.  The chosen story was read to us by Ms. Jeremic.

Author Visit

Next Tuesday author Deborah Kerbel, the author of the Blue Spruce nominated book Sun Dog will visit Rick Hansen P.S. to do an interactive talk.  To learn more about Deborah Kerbel go to her website.

Swim to Survive

Just a reminder that we will be starting our Swim to Survive program next Friday.  This program provides training to ensure that children will learn basic survival skills.  We will be travelling to the Aurora Family Leisure Complex for our lessons.  Please remember to pack a separate bag with a towel, undergarment, a plastic bag to store wet clothes.  To expedite the process, please have your child arrive at school with their bathing suits under their clothes.  If you have any questions, please fell free to contact me.

No School

Just a reminder to all families that there will be no school on Friday and next Monday.  Happy Easter!

Mrs. Garlow's Classroom Blog

Science

This week in science we conducted various experiments that explored force.  We launched balloon rockets across the classroom and also across the length of our front foyer.  Students tested out their hypothesis with various shapes and sizes of balloons.  We timed how long it took for the balloon to deflate, measured the distance travelled, and compared the results with the different sized balloons.

Math

In math we have started our unit on patterning.  Students have been identifying and describing attributes, finding the core, and extending patterns.  Below are some examples of patterns created by students with at least 2 changing attributes. 

shape and colour

 shape, colour, height, thickness, size

Social Studies

Students have been working on constructing their understanding about living and working in Ontario.  We learned about the 3 different landform regions in Ontario and how these differences and the environment impact the way people live their lives.  Students also recognize how we have benefitted from the knowledge shared by the First Peoples of this land such as agriculture, using the natural resources in the environment to survive, recreational activities, and modes of transportation.  We have been co-creating our learning scroll as we develop our understanding through the unit.

Literacy

Students have been busy all week finishing and revising their expository books.  Next week, they will begin editing their written work and conferring with their peers.  Once students have completed their books, we will be inviting families into the classroom so they can show off their expert topics with you!