I could think of lots of other “p” words for this time of year – peace, patience, and puffed up (post-thanksgiving AND winter coats). In the short 2.5 weeks we have between now and Winter Break, these words are in the forefront of our brains. Our Cooper Kids continue to amaze me in their ability to maintain their strive to learn and grow. Feeling so thankful and lucky to be surrounded by such wonderful humans.


AG




Here’s a look at what is happening in each of the classes:



What’s happening in Science?
Sixth graders learned about carrying capacity and how resource availability impacts not only the human population growth, but other species as well. They considered how food, water, shelter, and mate availability can cause a population to grow or decline. The sixth graders also finished up their keystone species projects. Lastly, the sixth graders also started thinking about animal homes and how they can be used as inspiration for our own home designs. They will continue to think about nature’s solutions as they continue their biomimicry unit.
What’s up in ELA?

6th grade writers began developing thematic essays this week. Examining a previously studied novel of their choice, they developed a claim about what the theme was and why. Writers flash drafted essays, focusing on succinct and clear thesis statements to which they continuously connected their evidence and explanations.

Next week, 6th grade writers will rewrite, revise, and edit their essays for a final grade. Writers will proudly publish their pieces and share their thematic analyses with their peers.

What’s going on in Math?
This week 6th graders began working with one-variable equations and different ways of representing them (tape diagrams, hanger diagrams, pictures, etc.), as well as learning to balance equations. Next week, they will study equivalent expressions and use the distributive property to assist them in solving equations.

What’s happening in Social Studies?
This week, the sixth graders focused on the creation of their argumentative research papers. Students were asked which city-state (Athens or Sparta) would they rather live in. Then, in order to challenge the students, they were assigned to create an argumentative paper on why the opposite city-state was better.

Next week, the students will turn in their research papers before moving on with Ancient Greece. Students will dive into the society and economic expansion of Ancient Greece before learning about their beliefs and art. Students will then begin their research projects on an Ancient Greek God or Goddess.

Important Dates:
December 19 – PJ Day (½ day)
December 20 – January 3: Winter Break