For the Flow of It
Can you think of the last time you lost track of time in your work? Your thoughts were clear, you were in the present moment, and then when you “snapped” out of it, you couldn’t believe what time it was and the amount of work you produced? FLOW! What we all hope for. Believe it or not, even our kids want it. How do they get it…PROJECTS!
I haven’t just been thinking about flow this week, but feeling it! I am knee-deep in projects right now! Between National Parks, Ted Talks, Rube Goldberg, and even tie-dye for community service, I look up at the clock and I am consistently perplexed how the time is up! It isn’t just me though! Your kiddos are in amazement when I tell them to leave! They refuse, quite honestly, asking why the time went so quickly. FLOW is why! During a project that instills inquiry and passion, our students set up for a flow state throughout the trimester. It can’t be all of the time, but when it happens, it feels like magic.
LD
Here’s a look at what is happening in each of the classes:
What’s happening in Science?
Sixth graders insulated shipping container homes this week! They applied what they have learned about conduction and radiation to design and engineer homes that are energy efficient. They tested their model by observing the temperature change for a period of time and comparing it to a control. They will have their models on display when they present their Ted Talks. The sixth grade has also been working diligently on their climate change presentations as well. They will begin presenting their work to the class next week!
What’s up in ELA?
This week in 6th grade, writers began a new novel study in Bridge to Terabithia. We compared and contrasted several settings in the novel, examining how they revealed or impacted the main character. We sharpened our close reading skills through diligent short answer work based on the novel as well. 6th grade grammatists looked closely at helping verbs in sentences this week, as well.
Next week, 6th graders continue a close reading of Bridge to Terabithia by unpacking foreshadowing and mood. They’ll even get an opportunity to build their very own imaginary world like Terabithia. Grammar will focus on imperative sentences and adverbs.
What’s going on in Math?
This week, students applied their learned knowledge of rates, ratios, and percentages to a challenge problem before taking their Unit 2 Test on Wednesday. After their test, they began exploring the meaning of division and quotients, before they will begin creating diagrams to solve different fraction division problems with different grouping strategies next week!
What’s happening in Social Studies?
The sixth graders finished their early India unit by learning about the Gupta Empire and creating a diary entry on the empire. Students then moved into the unit assessment by completing a study guide and having a review day before the assessment itself.
Next week, the students will dive into early China! The students will begin by looking at the Huang Valley civilization before jumping into the early dynasties of china. Students will be asked to compare the early dynasties into venn diagrams. This will lead into the students learning about the different belief systems of early China.
Important Dates:
October 31 – Halloween Carnival (½ Day)
November 1 – Teacher Work Day (No School)
