Math: Sixth graders continued their study of ratios and rates this week. They began by learning more about constant speed and what it means to travel at different rates. From there, the class examined various situations and used mathematical reasoning to determine if they were happening at the same rate. To end the week, used tables to create and interpret equivalent ratios based on given real world situations.
Writing: In writing, the class continued editing and revising their personal narrative drafts. First, they focused on using semicolons to combine thoughts where a coordinating conjunction would otherwise have been used. From there, students who were finished with their final copy or were waiting for a teacher conference started working on a fantasy draft. As a class, we brainstormed elements of a fantasy fiction story. These elements included mythical creatures, fairy tales, talking animals, etc. Students also thought about finding ideas through turning daily, ordinary events into fantasy.
Reading: This week, students worked with an article about devices on Achieve3000. They also thought critically about flashbacks in a story. Specifically, students asked themselves how learning backstory can change their feelings about a particular character.
Science/Social Studies: Sixth grade scientists continued their exploration of the declining lobster population in Connecticut. They completed an activity to see if an ice cube would melt faster in salt or fresh water. Students were surprised to discover the results were the opposite of what they had predicted. This led to thoughtful conversations about water temperature and why that may have been true. In social studies, the class took their second states test and learned about Veterans Day.
Writing: In writing, the class continued editing and revising their personal narrative drafts. First, they focused on using semicolons to combine thoughts where a coordinating conjunction would otherwise have been used. From there, students who were finished with their final copy or were waiting for a teacher conference started working on a fantasy draft. As a class, we brainstormed elements of a fantasy fiction story. These elements included mythical creatures, fairy tales, talking animals, etc. Students also thought about finding ideas through turning daily, ordinary events into fantasy.
Reading: This week, students worked with an article about devices on Achieve3000. They also thought critically about flashbacks in a story. Specifically, students asked themselves how learning backstory can change their feelings about a particular character.
Science/Social Studies: Sixth grade scientists continued their exploration of the declining lobster population in Connecticut. They completed an activity to see if an ice cube would melt faster in salt or fresh water. Students were surprised to discover the results were the opposite of what they had predicted. This led to thoughtful conversations about water temperature and why that may have been true. In social studies, the class took their second states test and learned about Veterans Day.