Reading: We finished Number the Stars this week! The kids had mixed feelings about the very happy, while also very sad, ending. But all of them agreed it was one of their favorite books. I can't stress enough what a mature, sensitive, thoughtful job they did with reading this beautiful story. Not only did they show sophistication in their ability to discuss the plot, characters, and interesting story-telling, but they treated the delicate subject of the Holocaust with respect and appropriate curiosity. I really recommend talking to them about the book. Ask them about the climax of the book (Annemarie running through the forest to bring her uncle a basket). Ask them how Lowry paralleled the tale of Little Red Riding Hood with this scene. Ask them about Annemarie being brave, and whether or not it can help NOT to know the truth in order to be brave. Ask them about how the author waited to reveal the truth about Lise's death until the very end, and whether they thought the author should have killed Peter or not.
Writing: We started working on our Weebly's for our Columbian Exposition chapter books. I have high hopes for great products; the process has been so fun I am hopeful it will be reflected in their creative websites! Ask your kids about their essays for Chapter 4. What thesis are they trying to defend? What's their evidence?
4th Grade Math: Next week we'll review the first half of our fractions unit and test on the skills we've covered so far. The kids are struggling a bit with how to compare fractions with different denominators. We will likely spend an extra day reviewing this. Ask your kids to compare fractions, like 5/7 and 11/14.
Social Studies: Our 4th grade mall was a HUGE success! Every business in 303 made profit! I was really proud of them as they marketed and sold their products, analyzed their business tactics, and revised them for day 2. The whole school loved the great work they did! Definitely ask your kids all about the mall! How did they feel trying to sell their products? Did things go smoothly the whole time or where there bumps? What would they do differently next time.
Science: Our class is studying life science with Mr. Lukehart for third trimester. Ask your scientists about their classes with Mr. Lukehart.
Miscellaneous:
- Our penal picnic is on Tuesday. Kids need to pack a lunch and drink; we will be walking to Taylor park to meet our friends.
- Whittier's Food and Dollar Drive in support of the OPRF Food Pantry is going on now! Please bring in canned goods, noodles, peanut butter, other non-perishable foods or money. Cash donations actually have the biggest impact since our Food Pantry is able to buy 3 healthy meals for $1.00!! We have EXTENDED the collection until MONDAY, MAY 21! Your donations will be a big help to people in need. We greatly appreciate the support. Thanks so much!The Third Grade Team
