Month: September 2019

Today was a BIG day for our brains. After adding another list of words to our word work journal, we readied our brains for some rigorous reading.

As we get closer to crafting scenes in which our problem solver solves problems, we took time to analyze and annotate examples of strong sensory-laden settings excerpted from Chu Ju’s House by Gloria Whelan. Working in pairs, students read through a sample of text and used an Icon Glossary created by Gretchen Bernabei. Students then, independently, did a quick sketch of the scene to see how vividly the author had painted a picture in their minds.Partners then compared their sketches, noticing, despite reviewing the scene together, they had envisioned different details.

Icon Glossary

As we prepare to draft, it is our responsibility as writers to craft scenes that enable our readers to envision clearly.

Walls and Talls

With our brains warmed up, we then worked in groups to compare and order a set of cards featuring 64 of China’s tallest buildings. Using understanding of place value and number comparison strategies, students collaborated and communicated to completed the task. Once the cards were organized, students reflected on the problem solving process and the learner profile traits needed for the task. Finally, students embraced the final challenge of determining which combination of buildings would be closest to the length of the Great Wall of China.

As part of our mystery-making mission, students used some more multiple sources today to identify a city for their setting and research and record important facts that could be incorporated into their writing. Using our Chromebooks and laptops, students conducted targeted searches and shared information and ideas with one another. While there was tremendous level of excitement at the outset, students became increasingly serious and focused throughout the process, gathering a wide variety of vivid and valuable details to weave into their story.

Thank you, Parents, for venturing out this evening to learn more about life and learning in our classroom. Thank you, too, for taking time prior to the presentation to write a bucket-filler for your scholar. I know they will be thrilled to read your words of love and encouragement in the morning.

(Photo Credit: Paula Baxter)

For those parents who were unable to attend Back-to-School-Night, please  look through the evening’s presentation using the following link:

Back-to-School Night 2019-2020

Know it is an absolute joy and privilege to learn with, from, and about your scholar each and every day!