We're really moving along this week, easing into new routines and getting used to new responsibilities in class. I have reminded students once again to make sure they check their schedules at home to know what they are responsible for each day, since it makes things move so much more smoothly.
First off, a bit of fun as we head in to fall. My wife posted this on her blog this morning, and I had to repost. The original can be found at modelcitizensvintage.blogspot.com, and here is the video:
Ah, the Swedish Chef. Never gets old.
Back to real things! We are having our math test on Friday, not Thursday. This will allow time on Thursday for a practice quiz (in the same format as the "real" test on Friday). I am happy with students' progress, and I stressed to them today that their best means of studying is to PRACTICEPRACTICEPRACTICE. This can be done by re-doing questions on their review sheets, visiting sites that I have posted for them to visit in the past few weeks, or having a family member write out other example questions for them to solve.
Students were split into groups of 3-5 today to begin working on their project that will draw our unit on the Beothuk and early Newfoundland colonization to a close. Students were given a medium to use (Video, diorama, written text, etc.) and were asked to think it over at home tomorrow and come back with some ideas on Thursday. They will be given ample time to complete these projects in school over the next 2 weeks, but several students have already asked to work on them at home.
We had lots of fun in Art class today. I taught students a few doodling techniques that reflect some mathematical theories related to patterns, graphing and other concepts. Perhaps your child can show you the theory of what we did, and if not here is a video that has a humorous explanation of some of the techniques.
The class is full of energy these days, so I have had to ask them to remember our rules about taking turns and taking care of our own business first. I am excited to see the enthusiasm, but feel free to reiterate my desire to have students stay in control of themselves at all times and focus on the task at hand.
On another fun note, we will be having our 2011-2012 NHL fantasy draft tomorrow. This was a great way to get students interested in numbers, data management, and a variety of other topics last year. This year we are using an online pool that will reduce the amount of work involved, as well as smaller rosters. We will use this data for a variety of things in class throughout the year, and many students enjoy the competitive spirit of the activity. Even if students are not interested in hockey, I will help them pick a team and they will be able to follow along throughout the year. Mme Curtis' class will also be participating in a similar pool. Today I sent home a cheat sheet for students to look over if they are interested. These are pre-draft rankings to help students think about who they would like to pick.
Enough for today! Havve a great evening and let me know if you have any questions. Keep an eye on KidBlog tomorrow afternoon!
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