We have new iPads! Here we are exploring some of the new apps available to show what we know in innovative ways. The 4th graders and I are so excited to show learning in new and creative ways. Stay tuned...
Book report oral presentations gave the students the opportunity to teach us about the person they chose to read about for the second trimester book report. Each student was prepared and passionate about the presentation. Although there was some nervous energy flowing, every 4th grader bravely stood in from of his/her peers and spoke loud and proud. Public speaking isn't easy for anyone but the more opportunities the students have the more confident and empowered they become. Thanks for practicing at home!
Science energy labs ~ STEM in the 4th grade
The 4th graders really enjoyed our day dedicated to building chain reaction machines during our study of energy and how it is stored and transferred. This lesson built on the previous lesson when the students built ramps. The day was full of countless attempts at problem solving with both successful and not so successful engineering design. It was a roomful of engaging discussions, sharing of ideas and encouragement. It was loud and busy. I loved it!
In our next lesson in our study of energy, I introduced electricity as a form of energy. Students learned energy is stored in batteries, how it flows through conductive materials and then how to make a LED flashlight. More problem solving and engineering design skills were put to the test. It took many tries for some students to come up with a working flashlight as they investigated how electrical energy travels. At home, students could continue their investigation of how electrical energy works by taking apart items that use batteries to look inside at design. 4th graders could also search for devices plugged into electrical outlets. How many? Our energy studies are coming to a close at the end of this trimester as we will move onto the biological study of our human bodies.
Next week, students will chose a National Park to research and write an informational report about. Most of the research and writing will be done in class. Please ask your 4th grader to tell you about his/her research as a way to process the information and deepen comprehension. This coming week, I encourage you and your 4th grader to plan a trip to the public library or local book store for books on the National Parks!
Thank you for attending the Oregon Trail Overnight meeting on Thursday night. I still need paperwork from many families. Please send in tomorrow! The 4th grader will begin diving deep into the journey of the early pioneers of Oregon who made the incredible journey across the west on the Oregon Trail.
For your calendar:
April 10-11th ~ Oregon Trail Overnight. Please plan to pick up your 4th grader on Wednesday, April 11th when we get back at 1:30 in the afternoon.
April 20th ~ Go West! musical at 1:30 pm in the Parish Hall
April 24th ~ Field trip to Fort Vancouver. Let me know if you would like to chaperone!
May 10th and May 24th ~ 4th grade leads all school Mass. Join us!
God Bless,
Jenn
