Hi parents,
We had a bit of a rough day today, I'm not sure what was going on, but it felt like we took a big step backwards....
We're chipping away at the book in a box paragraphs, and while some students are still giving it their best effort, a lot of the class seems to have checked out. It is really disheartening when students spend 10+ minutes waiting for my feedback, only to submit their work with no capitalization or periods!! This is the kind of thing we have talked endlessly about and I know they are completely capable of at least attempting to write using sentences. I talked to the class about being more independent and genuinely giving work their best efforts. We've had a lot of those conversations lately (and it seemed to work on Friday!) but unfortunately now we have to start giving up the 'fun', choice-driven blocks of the day (Daily LA, Work Period, etc.) and going back to a more structured approach. C'est la vie!
Now for the positives. Things are going well in math. The Grade 4s are beginning to move onto Long Division using only the standard algorithm, although of course the Stamp Game is still available whenever needed. The Grade 3's did a great job with some challenging division word problems.
In social studies, we researched Ukraine. This was another disheartening activity as over the course of 40 minutes, many students had less than 4 jot notes written. Still, we were able to combine those notes into a decently comprehensive page that we co-created as a class, and I think the students did walk away with a lot more knowledge than they had previously.
We ended our day with Music.
Looking forward to making Pysanky Eggs on Friday! Please remember to send a few eggs in a safe container!
Zac
Thursday, April 10, 6:00pm - You're Invited to Attend Parent Council!
The Grade 3/4 team will be presenting about the work we've done lately. I will be presenting about our Ever Active Schools Residency. Hope to see you there!