Week in Review: January 30 - February 3

Reflecting back on the week the word I would choose to best describe it would be efficient.  Everyone used their time to their best advantage, and the amount of time spent having to back track and repeat directions was minimal - consequently it was a very productive week, even with the one day off in the middle!  It is great to see everyone practicing what we always "preach" in class, that ability to hunker down and get the work done when we are suppose to.  We work hard and we play hard, which is always a great combination!

Curriculum wise this week...

In Math we continue to build that fluency and accuracy with multi-digit multiplication.  This week we had several more students gain mastery of the instructed concept and were excited to tackle some of the more challenging extension question - 5-6 digits.  Our unit quiz on this concept is scheduled for next week.  Continue to use the Google doc sites to practice and reinforce the needed skills.

In Language Arts we continue to talk about the development of expressive writing and reading as a meaning of generating mental imagery.  In talking to the students about their writing we talk about how their stories can and should give the reader specific information - what do things look like?  What size, shape, colour?  What are things made of?  Where would you find these things? How can you use them?  How do they make you feel? Is there anything in the background?  Any sounds you might be able to hear?  What else does the reader need to know?  
Our creative writing continues to improve and with continued focus on our audience and expanding our ideas it'll only better.

In Science we wrapped up the last few activities in our Wheels and Levers: Simple Machines unit, and then set about prepping and reviewing for the unit exam.  If the first batch of test scores is any indication, everyone took some time to review their study guides as most are doing quite well on the exam.  Our next unit commencing next week, Building Machines that Move, builds upon the knowledge gained in this unit.  Again there will be a mix of pencil/paper tasks and hands-on construction projects.

In Health this week we had the opportunity to use some of the new physical literacy equipment that arrived at the school.  The equipment was a lot of fun and it allowed us to get even more creative in how we can incorporate physical activity into all subjects areas versus simply getting active in phys. ed class.  By getting the students up and moving during math class, for example, we not only give everyone a bit of a mental break but also get the benefits of increased energy, greater focus, and typically increased positive emotions - which are all good things when we transition back into the curricular activities.

Our Class Events Calendar

Tuesday, February 7 - Math Unit Quiz: Multi-digit Multiplication

Wednesday, February 8 - Winter Carnival Day

Wednesday, February 8 - WHPS Ski Club trip @ Rabbit Hill Snow Resort

Thursday, February 9 - Teacher Conference: No School

Friday, February 10 -  Teacher Conference: No School

Monday, February 20 - Family Day: No School

Wednesday, February 22 - PINK SHIRT Day: Anti-Bullying Awareness Day

Friday, February 24 - WHPS Ski Club trip @ Rabbit Hill Snow Resort