2nd/3rd: Week of Feb 24

Math –

Ms. Andrea’s math group is wrapping up their geometry unit by partitioning shapes into equal parts. This lead us into an introduction of fractions – primarily halves and fourths. We started with the basics, fairly sharing cookies, a sandwich and pizza. At the end of the week we learned the terms numerator and denominator and practiced counting sets objects, coloring a “special” # of them, and turning that into a fraction.

Ms. Kelly’s crew tackled the challenge of finding the area AND perimeter of rectilinear shapes with missing sides—no easy task, but they rose to the occasion! Their hard work and determination have been impressive. We’ll be wrapping up this unit before spring break, and I’m pretty sure they’ll be excited to cross the finish line! 😜

Reading –

Ms. Kelly’s spelling crew wrapped up our final long vowel—U! We explored the many patterns of this tricky vowel through word sorts, interactive games, and reading various texts. The kiddos have worked hard to master these patterns, and their confidence is growing with each new challenge!

Ms. Andrea’s spelling group reviewed the spelling rules learned this quarter! On Thursday the kiddos faced a pop quiz on roots and affixes, and they did great!!

Book clubs are in full swing, and we’ve been focusing on crafting thorough reading responses. Our readers are working hard to answer questions in complete sentences and are becoming experts at going back into the text to find supporting evidence. The progress they’ve made is impressive, and we’re excited to see their growth continue!

Writing –

Our Beta writers have been working hard to complete their Tall Tale rough drafts, and everyone has officially moved on to their final versions! We’re excited to share the special way we’ll be bringing these incredible stories to life—stay tuned!

Theme –

The Beta Pioneers made great progress on the trail this week, nearly crossing all of Idaho by Monday! We stopped at Fort Boise to stock up on much-needed supplies—mostly food. With some pioneers out of money, trading became essential to secure enough provisions to keep going.

On Tuesday, we took a break from our Oregon Trail journey to learn a classic pioneer pastime—Cat’s Cradle! It’s amazing what can be done with a simple loop of yarn and a partner to help you maneuver it. Some Betas became experts at the intricate string patterns, while others chose to work on their stitching or play with their covered wagons. It was a fun and relaxing afternoon!

By Wednesday and Thursday, we were back on the trail, traveling from Fort Boise to Walla Walla, Washington, and onward to Fall River, Oregon. Along the way, we had a couple of successful hunts, keeping our wagons well-stocked, though a few pioneers did catch an infectious disease (fortunately, they’re tough!). With just one more role-play session to go, we’re almost to our final destination—Oregon City!