Placing fractions on a number line

Students learned how to compare fractions and place the fractions on a number line from least to greatest. 

Terrific Theories

In class we have been working on building theories about our characters. Students have learned to really dig deeper below the surface to build ideas. We have spent lessons identifying characters traits and then asking...Why are they like this? What do I see by their actions and words? What patterns have I noticed about my character?

These questions have helped students build great theories. They have been pushing themselves to really ask WHY and think hard about the choices their characters make. This is a very hard concept for students as it involves them to think actively synthesize information they are reading. We also have discussed the importance of using text support and constantly think back to prior events as support for their theories.

This week we will push their minds a little farther and build predictions based on theories as well as predict how the story will unfold based on what we know about story structure.

Powerful Persuasion

       We have begun writing persuasive essays in class. Students have learned about the basic format of a persuasive essay. We spent  a few days brainstorming meaningful topics at home, school, and in the world. Students then used a graphic organizer to write their thesis/claim and develop at least 3 STRONG reasons. ("Because I said" so was not an option.)

Next, they were to think of supportive detail for each reason. These could be life examples, details, or experiences they have had or witnessed others going through.  We are also talking about addressing the counterargument that our audience would most likely reply with. Students  had to embed transions for each new paragraph as well as throughout their reason paragraphs. Not only this, but they wrote engaging introductions and will be working on their conclusion in the next few days.

Below is an online tutorial that allows students to practice writing a persuasive essay.

Write My Own Persuasive Essay

New Structures

In Writer's Workshop we have begun informational writing. This week students have been busy taking notes and listing all they know about their topic. One topic we discussed in class this week was text structure. Students learned there are many ways to organize information. We discussed several types of structures and the signal words to look for that let us know which structure it is.

Problem/Solution
Cause/Effect
Chronological
Sequence
Pros/Cons
Compare/Contrast

Next, students tried an example of each structure and added it into their report. Knowing how to identify text structure is also a standard for reading. Below are a few practice quizzes for identifying text structure. Enjoy and keep practicing!

What is the Structure?
Practice 2
Hoop Shooting Game
Who Wants to be a Millionaire?
 
*When you play any of these games, write the word BANANA in your planner so Ms. Evanko knows you have been practicing your skills to earn a special treat!

Science and Social Studies Books Online

I know many of you have had some issues getting on the websites for the science and social studies books.  I hope that having the direct link will help!

Science and Social Studies eBooks

 Follow the links below to access the sites. Keep stretching your brain and be a learner for life!

Science eBooks

Social Studies eBooks

Science:

Username:  scienceguestSS

Password:  grade3

Social Studies:

username: ssguest3

password: grade3

The Carnival is Coming!

 The annual Chets Creek Carnival will be Friday,  October 23rd. It will be from 6-9 starting with trick-or-treating in the hallways at 6. Teachers will be passing out candy and we love seeing familiar faces. Each classroom also runs a booth for games or food. Our class will be working the "Ring Toss'. We need parents to help operate the booth throughout the night. Shifts can be in 30 minute increments.  If you would be willing to work a 30 minute or an hours shift, please write a note in your child's planner so we can sign you up.

 We look forward to seeing you at the carnival!

Enjoy Scholastic Books!

If you are looking to add some new books to your child's library at home, look no farther! You can order Scholastic Books all year  long online in the convenience of your own home. No more trips to the bookstore. They are shipped right to me and students LOVE when it is book delivery day.  Not only this, but when you online the class gets coupons for free books as well. Your order is not only helping your child's reading life, but the students in our class. 

All you need to do is go online to Scholastic Books and enter our class code: GLLBL. Then, begin shopping! I get a notification an order has been placed and send it off for you.  Please consider this great opportunity to expose children to the books and topics they are interested in reading about. You can preorder the new Diary of a Wimpy Kid book right now until October 19th and receive it on its release date of Nov. 3rd.

Happy shopping and reading!