Learning Update

These last few weeks have been full of great learning opportunities.  Here is a quick view of what we have been studying.

Reading:
We ended unit five in Reach for Reading and will begin unit six after break. Our next unit is called "The Wild West".  This social studies-based unit will focus on identifying cause and effect, identifying the author's purpose and will review over determining the theme of a selection.

Math:
We recently finished our unit on order of operations, exponents, and negative numbers.  Our next unit of study covers algebraic expressions.  Our text uses pan balance problems to help students understand how to balance an equation.  These concrete examples give your child a strong foundation in basic algebra principles.  

Science: 
Science is back up and running.  In preparation of our upcoming field trip to the CHS Planetarium, students are learning about our Solar System and how Earth's position, tilt, and rotation affect our seasons and calendar.  Currently, students are working on a planet travel brochure and small model of their planet.  

Social Studies: 
We have veered away from our TCI book a bit to really dig into the Bill of Rights.  Students have analyzed, debated, and paraphrased this important document.  There has been a heavy focus on amendments I, II, IV.  We will have an open book test this Weds.  After break we will continue our study of government and delve into economics as well.

Writing:
I hope your child shared with you their amazing argument essays.  I am extremely proud of the progress they've made as writers.    After break we will conclude writer's workshop with a memoir unit.  Students will study examples of memoir and then reflect back on their time here at CE.  Writing a memoir is a perfect way to end their career here at CE.

Mrs. L

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