Math:
This week the Marionettes tackled subtracting integers with models. We learned how to take away counters in subtraction problems on Tuesday. Wednesday they completed a solve and color to practice. Once they were done they created their own integer subtraction equation and made a poster to model their equation. One Thursday we played speed dating. Each student was given a problem to become experts in. Next they partnered up to trade problems and try to model and solve their partner’s problem. After that everyone switched partners and repeated the process.
Da Saplings worked on solving proportions using cross multiplication this week. They completed algebraic problems and real world word problems.
The Vroomshrooms started graphing linear equations. They learned how to graph using two methods. The first was slope-intercept form and the second was by finding x and y intercepts. Thursday the completed a short lesson over graphing vertical and horizontal lines then worked to finish any incomplete work from the week
ELA:
New quarter, new theme! Since we’ll spend the next few weeks learning about chemistry, we are focusing on science fiction and short stories. We took notes to outline the characteristics of both genres then jumped right into an author study about Rod Serling, creator and narrator of “The Twilight Zone.”
Because this is AHB, we got to spend time going down precious rabbit holes, making all sorts of connections! This week’s holes included… In the olden days TV was black and white and there were only four channels! People were living with a lot of paranoia during the Cold War. Yes, people did actually smoke all over the place, including hospitals. Here is what a fallout shelter looked like. Naturally we had to watch a trailer for the original ”Planet of the Apes” because Rod Serling co-wrote it.
Finally, we watched an episode of “The Twilight Zone.” After watching, partners analyzed it and decided the show qualifies as both science fiction and a short story. They also figured out the social issue at the center of the story and the theme (psst! Segregation). We might just have a few new Twilight Zone fans!
Theme:
Our second quarter kicked off with great chemistry! Our focus on science started with reviewing the Scientific Method. We outlined the ste;s and described the expectations of the process in order to begin choosing the topics for the Science Fair in November. Students listed ideas and created the testable questions to investigate.
Our Experiment Wednesday was a practice run through the scientific method. Students started with formulating questions about Solutes and Solvents. They predicted results through their hypothesis, and conducted their experiments, practicing their observations to gather their qualitative and quantitative data. They experimented with the dissolving rate of sugar cubes in different temperatures of water. Getting past some setbacks, including the hot water melting some cups, data was gathered, measured and reported.
Thursday brought a visit from Dr. Carl Kessel, PhD in chemistry and scientist, and grandfather to Delta student Sam Dedoro. His presentation gave students insights into careers in the chemistry industry and the specialized projects he worked on during his time with big companies like 3M in California. Students were inspired to ask about the industry and thrilled to see examples of chemical projects.
At top left, Vroomshroom scientists keep a close eye on the dissolution of the solute during the sugar cube experiment. At top right, timing the experiment gave students quantitative data to compare. Above, Saplings work to calculate their experimental data.
Dr. Carl Kessel, PhD, displays a microscopic picture of a silicon chip during his visit with the Delta class. Below, Dr. Kessel discusses the various options in scientific fields.
The Marionettes on their speed dates modeling integer addition and subtraction.
Top: Student partners evaluate “The Twilight Zone” for elements of science fiction and short story. Bottom: The Marionettes watch “The Twilight Zone.”
