Fractionistas!!!

Last week, we geared up and started learning a lot about fractions. Not only can we identify them now, but we can also compare, order and find the missing number to an equivalent fraction! That's pretty HUGE!

Here are some pictures of an activity we did using pattern blocks.

The Assignment:
Build a triangle that is 1/3 green and 2/3 red.
Build a triangle that is 2/3 red, 1/9 green and 2/9 blue.
Build a parallelogram that is 3/4 blue and 1/4 green.
Build a parallelogram that is 2/3 blue and 1/3 green.
Build a trapezoid that is 1/2 red and 1/2 blue.

The students were put into groups and they had to figure out which pattern blocks to use given the following fractions (which was pretty tricky). Once they found the correct blocks, they had to make an assigned shape. They are so competitive and everyone wanted to find the answer first! This could be because the first to have the correct answer got to go to the overhead and share their findings with the class. Lot's of thinkers in this group ;)

Gazette Memo Jan. 11-15

I am very impressed with my class’s research skills. They worked diligently last week gathering information they need for their Power Point slides this week!! We will be saving this writing assignment on floppy disks (which I do not have enough of for the entire class). If you happen to have any at home that you are not using, please send one to school with your child. They will return it when they finish!
This week (Wed-Fri), the 3rd grade will be taking the CogAT test. This is an IQ test measuring abilities in reasoning and problem solving, using verbal, quantitative, and nonverbal (spatial) symbols. Please make sure your child gets enough sleep throughout the week so they can do well on this assessment. These scores will go in their cumulative records.
On the EOG’s, fractions is a MAJOR portion on the math test. I am not supposed to start teaching fractions until the last quarter (right before the EOG). I would rather begin now, just as we started multiplication early, so my class will feel successful when they come across these problems in the future. I will use averages on quizzes and tests in their 2nd and 3rd quarter grades.
I hope you all have an enjoyable week…and please let me know if you ever have any questions. I am here not only for my students, but for you too!!!

Objectives this week:
*Math- strategies for multiplication (lattice) and division (forgiveness method), multi-step word problems, fractions (identifying equivalent and reducing)
*Reading- cause and effect, drawing conclusions, compare and contrast nonfiction, words with prefixes &/or suffixes, vocabulary.
*Writing-Informational Writing about a chosen constellation (Power Point Presentation).
*Science- we will complete the study guide on Monday. The Solar System Assessment will be given on Tuesday.

Vocabulary Words Jan 11-15

*Must be able to match words and definitions by Friday
1. humble- not proud or arrogant
2. patriotic- expressing love for one’s country
3. energetic- having a lot of energy
4. dainty- something delicious to the taste
5. daring- bold or courageous

Spelling Words Jan 11-15

*Prefixes and Suffixes (locating base words)
Click here to study!

1. useless
2. unhelpful
3. graceful
4. disorder
5. redo
6. unlike
7. discolor
8. tasteless
9. fearless
10. replace
11. disappearing
12. unwind
13. discovering
14. doubtful
15. wording

*You can't print off a fun game to play at home by clicking here.

What is LATTICE multiplication?!?!

It is tons of fun and the class gets really excited when we work on multi-digit multiplication. You can click here to see an example.

Vocabulary Words Jan 4-8

*Your child must be able to match words and definitions by Friday

1. resourceful- capable of handling difficult situations.

2. conceited- having a high opinion of oneself.

3. humorous- funny or amusing.

4. gullible- easily tricked.

5. considerate- thoughtful towards other people.

Gazette Memo Jan. 4-8

What a super relaxing, long break! I hope everyone was able to spend quality time with family and friends.

We are jumping right back into the swing of things this week. I do want to let you know that every day, from now on, we will be doing some sort of EOG practice/test taking strategy skill. I like to start slowly so my kids do not become overwhelmed as easily.

Homework will remain the same for consistency purposes. This is how homework will look from now on. I will NOT be able to print out homework agendas…since copies are running low.

*This will be posted on our website!!!

EVERYDAY:

*Read 20 minutes and complete a reading response.

*Spelling Tic-Tac-Toe Activity

*Study Vocabulary Words

MONDAY & WEDNESDAY

*Math Assignment

TUESDAY & THURSDAY

*Reading Assignment

Objectives this week:

*Math- strategies for multiplication and division (repeated addition/subtraction, fact families, grouping, arrays, commutative property), begin multiplication 2 digit by 2 digit (lattice…a little different than how we were taught…check out our website)

*Reading- cause and effect, drawing conclusions, compare and contrast nonfiction, words with prefixes &/or suffixes, vocabulary.

*Writing-Informational Writing about a chosen constellation.

*Science- objects in the sky have patterns of movement (focus on constellations). Observe that patterns of stars in the sky stay the same, although they appear to move across the sky nightly.