May Update
Iowa Eagles
Wow! Have you checked on the baby Eagles recently? They are huge . . . http://www.ustream.tv/decoraheagles
Math
We have started unit 8 – Fractions. The first few lessons were spent reviewing fractions and important vocabulary (equal, whole, numerator, denominator, and equivalent fractions). In class we have been building and creating with fractions. Recently the students created their own underwater scene that was full of fractions!
Science
Recently we have been learning about bird migration. The students enjoyed looking at books on the subject and reporting to me their observations from home. We have also been exploring simple machines and inventions. The students have had fun exploring simple machines using a new iPad app – TinkerBox HD. We have also been tinkering with physics using an iPad app called SimplePhysics. Students build on their knowledge of physics as they build more complex structures.
http://www.mikids.com/Smachines.htm
http://atlantis.coe.uh.edu/archive/science/science_lessons/scienceles1/finalhome.htm
Reading and Writing and Grammar
We recently completed our class novel - The World According to Humphrey. Students wrote a book report for the novel. The final product was a sandwich! Look for this to come home soon. I have also been taking some time to share with students some well know book series in the hopes it might inspire more reading: Series of Unfortunate Events, My Side of the Mountain series, and Judy Blume’s Fudge series.
Last week we wrote a letter to the President of the United States. Some students even wrote their letter in cursive! We are hoping we hear back from the White House.
Art
Last week we learned about the famous Norwegian artist Edvard Munch and his painting, The Scream! Students were amazed to learn that one sold at an auction for $119 million on Thursday. I also told them about the two times versions had been stolen from Norwegian museums. We concluded the lesson by recreating The Scream using crayons – the results were stunning!
