Unit 8: Fractions Practice Test

The boys and girls will have their Fractions test on Thursday May 9.  I have created a practice test that will assist them in preparing for the actual test. 

A study guide is coming home with students on Monday.  

You can download the Practice Test by clicking here.

How to find a fraction of a set

In Math, we're learning all about how to find a fraction of a number or set. We've talked about how we're passed the stage where we're dividing shapes into fractions. This is a video I made a few years ago and it can be viewed by students to help them practice or review their skills at home. Students are invited to follow up with me with any questions they might have about finding a fraction of a set. 

At the end of the video, there is a quiz. A printable version of the quiz can be found here.

When students know how to find a fraction of a number or set, they can solve all kinds of higher order thinking problems. I also like teaching the concept this way because it helps students to see the connection between fractions and division. The more we find ways to connect concepts for children, it's only natural that their confidence soars and as for their problem solving abilities, well, they do the same! 

The Easter Story

Last week we read The Easter Story by Carol Heyer.  Students were asked to retell the story on the poster pictured below. Since they've learned all about captions from their study of non-fiction texts, the expectation was that their retell would not simply be a description of the pictures, but instead use those graphics as cues to support their writing.  

We brainstormed a list of "no-excuse" words and then they were off! Many boys and girls quickly realized that this was a harder task than they anticipated! It's so easy to just write a description of each picture, but that doesn't tell the story does it?  

Here's the list of no-excuse words we came up with. We've added to it as we go. 

It's now Tuesday and I've conferenced with each child, and I'm thrilled to report we are well on our way to 22 versions of the Easter story! Their work is beautiful, well-written and shows an attention to detail in every aspect.  

Marcus did a fantastic job on his story! He's included all the key details
and made sure his no-excuse words are spelled correctly!

Sometimes during our conferences, we make quick corrections together! 

I know some  might not fuss about spelling, neatness or punctuation, but I still think there's a place for it in this digital world. I think presentation is important. I wouldn't hire a wedding-planner that didn't care to get names right on the invitations, nor would I want someone painting my living room without using drop-sheets and tape.  Attention to detail matters and since my students are not planning nuptials or painting homes, a focus on things like conventions, neat printing and "in the line" coloring is a good place to start.
  

Coming along beautifully Alex! 

We used our new skin-color markers to get our faces "just right"! 

Our Calendar Folders

As part of our measurement unit, the boys and girls are solving problems related to the calendar.  They started creating their own learning resource called their "Calendar Folder" recently and it's been both fun and highly effective! 

I can't remember where I read it, and I really wish I could, but a fancy education-person said that when students create their own learning resources, the learning is more meaningful and the concepts are better retained.  

Something I have observed that really makes me proud, is how my students' organizational and fine motor skills have developed over the course of the last few months.  These file-folder projects provide students with an opportunity to practice more than just their math skills, and it's really exciting to see the growth that has taken place.  

These photos are from 2017. I haven't taken any from this year yet!