May 10th Update

Math

We are learning about geometry. Here are the learning goals for Grade 2 and 3 students:

Grade 2

• identify two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional figures and sort and classify them by their geometric properties; 

• compose and decompose two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional figures (create models and skeletons of 3D solids, create a 2D hexagon using triangles)

• describe and represent the relative locations of objects, and represent objects on a map

Grade 3

• compare two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional figures and sort them by their geometric properties; 

• describe relationships between two-dimensional shapes, and between two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional figures;

 • identify and describe the locations and movements of shapes and objects

We began our learning by investigating shapes that are congruent. Congruent means exact same size and shape. As a class we folded a piece of paper and drew half of a heart on it. When we unfolded the paper we saw the heart shape. We cut the heart exactly in half and noticed that the two halves were the exact same size and shape. They were congruent. 

From this we began to learn about symmetry. The line in the middle of the heart that separates it into two congruent parts is also a line of symmetry. We had some fun creating symmetrical images using pattern blocks and tiles. In one activity students had 20 seconds to create an imagine on one side of the line of symmetry using pattern blocks. They then milled around the room to music and when the music stopped they had to build the other half of a classmate's picture to make it symmetrical. 

 

 

Once students understood the concept of symmetry, we applied it to investigate how many lines of symmetry different 2D shapes have. Students used cut out shapes and folded them to find lines of symmetry. There were many observations and questions. We discovered:

a square has 4 lines of symmetry 

If a hexagon has sides that are an equal length it has 6 lines of symmetry

....and after much debate and perseverance it was discovered that a parallelogram doesn't have any lines of  symmetry but a rhombus has 2. 

This week we have been learning about 3D solids. Students have learned how to identify, describe, and compare a variety of 3D solids. They have built 3D solids from nets, and also created them with toothpicks and candies. 

 

 

Students are encouraged to use geometry vocabulary when describing, comparing and sorting 3D solids. Today we practiced using geometry vocabulary by writing riddles about 3D solids. Students used actual wooden 3D solids to be able to physically feel and count vertices, faces, and edges.

 For example, one student wrote: I have 5 Faces, 8 Edges, and 5 Vertices. Who Am I? The answer is a square-based pyramid. 

We can describe solids by:

-prism or pyramid

-number of faces

-number of edges

-number of vertices

-if it can roll,

-if it has two congruent bases

Here is an example how how a Grade 3 student compared a cube to a rectangular prism today:

 Next week we will spend some more time sorting and comparing 3D solids. Later we will sort, compare, and describe 2D shapes.

 We will also spend some time in the afternoon learning about probability. We will focus on using probability words to describe the likelihood of events occurring (impossible, unlikely, very likely, certain). We will also learn how to predict outcomes in probability experiments, and determine if a game is fair or unfair.

Science

In science the Grade 2 students have been learning about air and water, while the Grade 3 students have been learning all about soil. Here are the big ideas for each grade:

Grade 2:

Air and water are a major part of the environment. 

Living things need air and water to survive.

Changes to air and water affect living things and the environment. 

Our actions affect the quality of air and water, and its ability to sustain life. 

The overall curriculum expectations for Grade 2 are:

1. assess ways in which the actions of humans have an impact on the quality of air and water, and ways in which the quality of air and water has an impact on living things;

2. investigate the characteristics of air and water and the visible/invisible effects of and changes to air and/or water in the environment;

3. demonstrate an understanding of the ways in which air and water are used by living things to help them meet their basic needs.

Grade 3:

Soil is made up of living and non-living things. 

The composition, characteristics, and condition of soil determine its capacity to sustain life.

Soil is an essential source of life and nutrients for many living things. 

Living things, including humans, interact with soils and can cause positive or negative changes. 

The overall curriculum expectations for Grade 3 are:

1. assess the impact of soils on society and the environment, and of society and the environment on soils;

2. investigate the composition and characteristics of different soils;

3. demonstrate an understanding of the composition of soils, the types of soils, and the relationship between soils and other living things

To begin our learning in these areas students in both grades planted tomato seeds in our classroom greenhouse. We have been observing these seedlings grow, and asking many questions (why have some seeds not sprouted? why do some grow faster than others? why is it always damp inside the greenhouse? How come we don't need to water inside the greenhouse very much?)





As is often in science, both grades have done experiments! Grade 2 students have explored the air bubble in a cup submerged in water, how air becomes trapped in a sponge, and the water vapor that comes out of a kettle. 

 Grade 3 students spent time collecting soil samples around the school yard and examining them. They have learned that there are different types of soil in our environment. Each type of soil collected was put into a large mason jar and shook up. Once the soil settled the layers could be seen!



We are waiting for a nice warm day, to dig up the pumpkin that we planted in the fall! It will be interesting to see what has happened to it over the winter.

In the coming weeks we will explore how humans impact air and water and soil, and what can be done to reduce harmful effects. Later we will move into our final science units about growth and changes in animals and plants.

Literacy

Most students have completed their final opinion paragraph. The next step is to edit and make revisions using a checklist:

 Once edits and changes have been made students will work on typing up a good copy of their opinion paragraph.

We have been reading a variety of non-fiction texts as a class mostly connected to science. We are also reading another adventure type story together titled the Wild Robot. Students read with Mrs. Gibbs on a regular basis, sometimes with a group, and sometimes one-on-one. During this time the teacher and student discuss different reading strategies, and goals. It is important that students continue to read at home everyday.

Additional Information

EQAO

The EQAO assessment for Grade 3s begins on May 22nd. Students will write the test during the morning block for 6 days. While we have been preparing for this assessment throughout the year (incorporating EQAO style questions in assessments, using some EQAO reading selections, and vocabulary) next week Mrs. Gibbs will spend some extra time with the Grade 3s during literacy to work on some of the practise questions that can be found here 

so....what will the Grade 2s do?

Next week the Grade 2 students will be working on a passion project during literacy. They will come up with a topic that they are passionate about. It can be anything!! They will then create 5 questions to guide their research. For research students will use non-fiction books, as well as the Encyclopedias online.  Once they have found their information, they will create a google slide to share it with the class. 

JUMP ROPE

Jump Rope for Heart is a fundraiser that our school has supported since it opened. Yesterday the whole school attended an assembly lead by a representative from Jump Rope for Heart. They learned why heart health is important, and how to keep your heart healthy. They also learned how the Jump Rope society supports individuals and families in need. Today students brought home pledge forms. Our school goal is to raise $3000. Students who raise $25 dollars receive a prize! Your support is greatly appreciated. Our school Jump Rope for Heart date is June 12th. 

CLOTHING DRIVE CONTINUES 

Grade 8 students are still collecting clothing for their clothing drive. Please send in any unwanted clothing in good condition.

GARDEN PARTY

Our school has a community garden that continues to grow. It is organized and taken care of by the school's Garden Club. It would not be successful without the help and support from members of the community as well. Over the past few years families have signed up to water over the summer. The fruits and vegetables that grow in the garden are available for anyone in our community to harvest and enjoy!

The annual Garden Club Planting Party is on Thursday May 30th this year beginning at 5:30 pm. If you are available and would like to help please join us! If possible please bring your own gardening tools.