5th graders are currently engaged in the second unit of the math curriculum - Data Collecting and Interpreting Probability. Last week, we watched a fun Bill Nye movie exploring probability. We've conducted two probability tests and worked to interpret the results. The math draws on skills in calculating the range, mean, median, and mode within a data set. Students also need to perform calculations that hinge on correct interpretation of place value. Tonight's math homework is something of a puzzle. A number of calculations need to be made. Place value is the emphasized principle. While the puzzles are tricky, each follows a pattern that is explained in the written directions. If your child is confused, please read through the directions with him or her. It is appropriate for your child to use a calculator.
In science, we are actively making newspaper bridges. We're reading from David Macaulay's book Building Big and learning about the forces of tension and compression. By the middle of next week, we'll test our newspaper bridges for strength. Watch for blog posts and video clips!
In English, we've nearly finished reading My Side of the Mountain. Students have been using laptops at school to revise individual written responses to the reading. Each student has a nearly completed a second draft of a critical essay tracing the main character's development and decisions.
Tomorrow, we're off to hike Mt. Monadnock. This is an exciting opportunity and a first for fifth graders. The weather should be perfect. To be prepared, students must have comfortable clothes and shoes to hike in. Students must also have warm pants, a coat, a hat and gloves or mittens. These latter items should be carried in a pack along with a lunch and adequate beverage. I recommend packing a relatively light fleece jacket and a light rain coat rather than a heavy parka. The combination provides some flexibility in layering for warmth. We'll leave TGS (8:35) in cars if we have enough seating or we'll travel by school bus. We'll return to TGS by 3:00.
Students should pack a snack in a separate bag so as to have easy access during the drive to the trailhead.
If you need to contact me during the day, my cell number is (413) 230-4897
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