Sunday, January 17, 2016

Fraction Fun, Living and Nonliving, and MLK

Hello Everyone!
I hope you are staying warm during this chilly weekend! Some of you are having downright COLD weather.  Brrr!  And my thoughts and prayers are going out to families affected by tornadoes in one of my old stomping grounds...Florida!  This has already been a crazy year weather-wise. Stay safe and check in on each other!!

In school this week, we had some fun with fractions.  I always like to start off a unit on fractions with some lessons on symmetry and equal parts.  The magical look of paint and folded paper always amazes the kids and creates wonderful symmetry.




Then teaching the kids how to fold a coffee filter into equal parts and creating beautiful snowflakes!










Then showing them how to build symmetry in another way!


Then finally getting into the vocabulary and authentic use of  edible fractions using graham crackers!



We will continue with fractions next week.  I will add a little bit about determining fractions of a set.  Our first graders do not need to know this, but It really is a natural succession to what we did this past week. I added a bit more to the faction unit I shared last week, so If you would like, please download again to pick up the new stuff.





In science we finished up our unit on living and non living.
After exploring through technology the characteristics of living things vs nonliving things, we got to create a fun little non living pet.  





Pet Rocks are going to be so easy to take care of!!


In culmination we explored the differences between three things that looked alike! Gummy Worms, Rubber Worms, and Live Night Crawlers!





The kids made some great observations and discoveries!!!


Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was also a focus this past week.  I love helping kids understand the character traits of some of our most beloved leaders.  I think it's also important for them to understand how the life of one can influence the lives of many.  


Not by the color of our skin...

But by the content of our character!






Phew!! I know that was a lot of sharing, but we covered some wonder-filled topics this past week, and I am hoping my kids took advantage of the "hand to head to heart" lessons and truly have stored them in their hearts and use them often.
My little won't be at school tomorrow (They have off for MLK Day), but teachers have to report. I hope to enjoy some team time and good planning for the next few weeks!! We don't get enough of that quality time together! 
Have a great rest of the weekend!  
Don't forget to leave a comment!! 
Can you use any of these ideas?
 Is there something you would like to see? 
Anything you are wondering about?
Just ask!
Till next time!!
Joyfully!
Nancy
























No comments:

Post a Comment

This blog is for fellow educators, parents, and friends! I love reading and learning from your comments! Please share your thoughts!