Donning Our Research Caps

We are excited to be collaborating with Ms. Heindel as we are researching animals.  The students focus question for research is: Would my animal be a good fit for a zoo?

In order to properly answer this question, students thought of questions they needed to have answered about the animal they chose to research and how their life would be in captivity.  Our class brainstormed some questions about habitat, food, predator/prey, transportation, etc.. We then headed to the LMC and google-chatted with one of the Zoo Keepers from the Henry Vilas Zoo.  He graciously answered our questions and shared insights into how decision are made to either acquire a new animal or get rid of an existing animal.

After our informative discussion, we came up with four areas to research.  Students have been using books, encyclopedias and websites to take notes.  Next week students will be taking their notes and writing an eBook about their animal. The conclusion will require them to make a decision if they think their animal will be a good fit for the zoo.  The books will be introduced here on the blog when they are complete!

Math - Fractions, Area and Perimeter

During math workshop we have been exploring 3 different areas: fraction concepts, perimeter and area.  The area model is a great natural progression from our work with multiplication.  Students have worked hard with these difficult concepts.

Any time you can reinforce fractional concepts at home (for example with cooking) would be helpful.   Also, Thank You for helping with math fact work.  This is helping students become more fluent with their basic facts.

Music Concert

Thank you Ms. Chusid for such a wonderful music concert.  We had great attendance and the students sang their hearts out.  Here is a sample of one of the songs the third graders performed.

Upcoming Events

• Friday is Valentine's day and we will be having a classroom party.  Please see the note sent home last week listing healthier options for our party.  A class list was sent home, too.
• Reminder: we have added 6 minutes to each day so Monday we get out at 1:06 and the rest of the days we get out at 2:38.
• Friday, February 21, no school due to Staff Development day.