Math: In math, sixth graders continued their study of expressions and equations this week. First, they applied their knowledge of this topic to a review of percents. Students solved percent problems by writing and solving equations. From there, the class used tape diagrams to determine which expressions are equivalent and which are simply sometimes equal. Next, they spent a few days learning about the distributive property and how it can assist mathematicians with making computations in their head.
Writing: In writing, students continued to work on literary essays. To start, they finished carefully crafting their body paragraphs using specific evidence and quotes from the text. Next, the class worked to end their essays in a meaningful way, leaving readers with a final thought to consider. From there, they used a checklist to begin editing and revising. Students worked with two sections at a time to ensure they were truly engaged in the process.
Reading: Sixth graders began the week by expanding their vocabulary through an article about the artifacts Columbus left behind in Puerto Rico on Achieve3000. From there, they continued to read like a fan. They used a new mentor text by Patricia Polacco called Pink and Say which takes place during the Civil War. Students had thoughtful, in depth discussions about how authors craft their settings and the impact that settings have on a text. To end the week, sixth graders compared and contrasted Pink and Say with other Patricia Polacco books.
Science/Social Studies: Sixth grade scientists analyzed weather maps this week. They learned about the different types of fronts and high/low pressure systems. In social studies, students began a study of Europe by labeling a map of the continent.