Anyone Up For An American Revolutionary War Debate? We are!

     

Our Fourth Grade scholars were diligently preparing for a class debate between the Patriots and Loyalists this week! Our classroom was setup to feel just like Independence Hall in 1776. The Loyalists were seated across the room from the Patriots. The debate began as each delegate stood in front of the opposing side to voice their argument. Their rebuttals were heartfelt and persuasive. What a thrill it was to hear them develop their counterarguments and stick to their convictions. In order to have a successful debate, timing, confidence and concrete information are key components. Each historian researched their topic on their iPad and read countless classroom books on the American Revolutionary War. Students practiced in pairs to prepare for the debate. The process of debating enhances a student’s public speaking skills, critical thinking skills, note taking skills, analytical and research skills. Ask your child which side of the debate they were on! You might be surprised.

    

 

 

Do You Know Your Multiplication Strategies? Fourth Graders Do!

Fourth Grade mathematicians have been learning different multiplication strategies to help them master problems. Students have learned partial products, partitioned rectangles and the lattice method. Students showed their mastery on the Unit 4 test by multiplying two-digit by two-digit numbers and explaining the process in words. Over break, students can practice their basic multiplication facts using their Rocket Math folders. Ask your child to demonstrate one of the multiplication strategies they have learned.

 

How Many Bones Are In The Human Body? 206 or 300?

Our students were tasked with creating a model of a human skeleton using paper cutouts and pins to connect each joint. This appeared easy at first, but things are not always what they seem. Fourth Graders needed to take a closer look at each bone to make sure they fit properly. Our scientists were then able to appreciate the full skeletal frame. One of the more challenging exercises of the human body unit, was having each student perform normal tasks such as writing, tying their shoes, coloring and zipping up coats while their thumbs were taped to their index finger. Our class had a wonderful time trying clever ways to perform each task without the use of two phalanges. Ask your child how many bones are in the human body and to name a bone.

      

 

Important Dates:

Winter Break: December 22nd-January 3rd (School resumes on January 4th)