Science: Human Organ Systems

At long last, we are wrapping up social studies and moving into science with great enthusiasm!  Our new science unit Understanding Life Systems: Human Organ Systems will begin later this week.  Here are the big ideas:

• organ systems are components of a larger system (the body) and, as such, work together and affect one another.
• organ structures are linked to their functions.
• systems in the human body work together to meet our basic needs.
• choices we make affect our organ systems and, in turn, our overall health.

We will be using a hands-on approach at times, as students construct a human body and make a model of an organ system.

Unit 3 Geometry

We are starting a new math unit on geometry.  Through daily activities, we will explore different two-dimensional figures.  We will investigate the characteristics of different figures, and explore relationships between vertices (corners), side length, and angle measurement of these figures.

Learning Goals:

• sort and name polygons by sides and angles.
• measure, name, and construct angles.
• construct triangles, given side and angle measures.
• identify and construct nets of solids.

Ideas for Home Extension:

• look for boxes in the recycling box and carefully take them apart to see how they are constructed.
• explore your home for angles that are greater and less than a right angle.

Based on Math Makes Sense, Grade 5

Unit 1 Number Patterns Final Assessment

On Friday, October 24, (or later depending on Musical Theatre interruptions) 5B students will show what they have learned in Unit 1 Number Patterns.

Students should review and practice:

• extending number and modelled patterns
• using an input/output box to organize number patterns 
• indicating the pattern rule for number and modelled patterns
• determining the missing term in a number pattern
• identifying growing, shrinking, alternating and increasing pattern rules
• solving word problems using number patterns

Students will be reminded to bring home the textbook, study guide, and red math duo-tang to review and practice.  I will be supporting students during math time and at recess as required in preparation for the test.

Spelling in Grade 5

Ever wonder if spelling is explicitly taught in Grade 5?  It most certainly is.  We use a developmental program called "Words Their Way".  I really believe in this programme because it is designed to zero in and target word patterns at the child's exact level.  The programme is multi-levelled and the patterns become more complex as the year goes on. I run several different spelling groups and students are required to work on their word lists three times a week.  Students have a word work menu with practice activities.  They sort and re-sort the words and learn that the English language is made up of many rules and patterns.  The programme highlights words that follow patterns and words that do not follow patterns.  I will attach some photos of our word work from last week in the next day or two for you to see.  Students enjoy this time as they work at their own pace and at their own level.  I will be reassessing their spelling mid-year to see growth.

New Math Unit: Number Patterns

Unit 2 tests were returned to all students today and sent home.  Parents, please look at the assessment, sign it, and return it to me for my files.  

Today, we started a new unit titled "Number Patterns".  Patterns surround us - they are on walls, in art, on clothes, and in nature.  Patterns help us make sense of the world we live in and allow us to pose and solve problems.

Patterns occur regularly in mathematics and can be represented by numbers, words, pictures, and models.  As we learn to identify, extend, and create patterns, we develop powerful skills that will help us make sense of mathematics.

The following expectations will be covered:

• find a pattern rule for number patterns.
• identify, extend, and create patterns.
• describe and model patterns.
• use patterns to pose and solve problems.
• use patterns in a table to make predictions.

Unit 2 Whole Numbers Final Assessment

On Friday, October 10th, 5B students will show what they have learned in Unit 2 Whole Numbers.

Students are required to practice and review the following concepts:

• standard, word, and expanded form to the hundred thousands place (example: 356 783)
• addition and subtraction of 4-digit numbers with regrouping and using mental math strategies
• multiplication of 2-digit numbers in standard form and using mental math strategies
• division of 3-digit numbers (dividend) by 1-digit numbers (divisor)
• word problems involving multiplication and division

Students will be reminded to bring home the textbook, study guide, and red math duo-tang to review and practice.  I will be supporting students during math time and at recess as required in preparation for the test.

Beginning of October

Happy weekend families!  

I am excited to share my brand new class blog with you today.  I will be using this blog to communicate with you throughout the year.  Please check it regularly.
Last night, we welcomed parents to our Grade 5 Curriculum Night.  Thank you to those parents that took the time to join us for a session.  I have sent home the Curriculum Night Package for those of you that could not make it.

Here is a snapshot of 5B's on-going learning.

In Literacy, we are:

• identifying goals as readers and increasing our reading stamina
• learning to pre-write using a colour coded web
• utilizing our web to compose a well-organized paragraph
• examining the rights of a child and discussing the qualities of a good life orally as a whole group
• differentiating between a developing country and a developed country

In Mathematics, we are:

• reviewing and obtaining strategies for our multiplication tables to 12 x 12
• reviewing the many steps to successful long division
• using mental math to find products and quotients
• learning short division next week

***Unit Test: October 8 or later

In Government and Citizenship, we are:

• analyzing current events in Canada and the world
• determining significance for Canadian citizens and the responsibilities of our government

Ms. Armstrong