Writer's Workshop
We've started a new unit of study: Persuasive Essays! We learned that an essay must have a thesis, or strong opinion. It also has to include reasons that support the thesis. Essays are written in first person, and we plan them using a box & bullets. An essay usually has 5 paragraphs, and it's important that the author is passionate about the topic. This week, we wrote an essay about a person that is inspirational to us.
Reader's Workshop
In Reading, we've been studying Informational Text. Informational Text, A.K.A. nonfiction, gives us true facts and teaches us new information. Informational Text includes a variety of features like labeling, photographs & captions, cut-aways, special bring (bold, italics, highlighted), and more. We also practiced finding the main idea of a section of Informational Text. We recorded the main idea along with three supporting details. This format reminded us of our essay box a bullets (a thesis & three supporting reasons).
Math
We have been studying multiplication for quite some time, and students are really getting good! Thank you for continuing to help your child practice his/her facts at home. This is making 2 by 1 and 2 by 2 digit multiplication a cinch. Parents, I also have to compliment your bravery and willingness to learn new methods of multiplication. Most of learned math in a very different way 20+ years ago, and I appreciate you understanding the importance of our young ones understanding the process of multiplication.
Social Studies
Students have been learning about Missouri's culture. We discovered that jazz music is an important part of our state's history as many jazz musicians got their start in Kansas City and in St. Louis. Missouri also boasts many visual artists, people who create jewelry, sculptures, paintings, and other art we can see. Many writers are a part of MO's literature, including Laura Ingalls Wilder, Mark Twain, and T.S. Elliot. We also celebrate sports & recreation. Many of us love watching football, baseball, and hockey, and Missouri offers many outdoor activities for us to do.
