Update Time!

This was sent earlier today via email:

Hi, everyone!  I thought it was time for a bit of an update from our classroom.  I have been at home sick for the better part of this week and I will be in Saskatoon for a conference on technology in education for Monday and Tuesday.  I am grateful to have an expert sub in Joan McCusker, who is stepping in for me.  Here are some highlights of recent days in Grade 6:

• Math: We have started our unit on Data Analysis and Probability.  Right now we are practicing interpreting and drawing graphs.
• Language Arts:  We are working hard on developing our persuasive writing skills.  We have read various examples of persuasive writing and students are now developing their own pieces, titled our "Passion Projects".  Each student is choosing their own topic, based on the prompt "________ just isn't right".  I am really excited to see what the students develop, and what actions they may take as a result of their passion projects.  You can support them by helping revise and edit their writing online (they just need to share their document with you on iGo).  
• Science: We are midway through our study of Electricity.  In this portion, we are looking at the environmental impacts of electricity and how we can reduce our impact on the Earth.  Students will be working on inquiry projects in the next week or so.  Terms such as renewable/non-renewable resources, sustainability, global warming, carbon footprint and green energy should become familiar in the next couple of weeks.  I am also reading the book "City of Ember" aloud to students.  It is a great fit for this particular study of electricity.
• Art: It has been a treat to watch students develop their artwork through their "Doodle Pads".  They are due today.  They have created many unique pieces with great enthusiasm!  We have studied the elements of art throughout this mini-unit.  
• Phys. Ed.: We have been developing our badminton skills in recent lessons.  I hope to plan a Grade 6 Badminton Tournament in May to celebrate.  It will be a fun after-school event for Grade 6 students only.  I will let you know when I settle on a date.

That's all for today!  If you have any questions or concerns, as always, please do not hesitate to send an email my way.  I continue to enjoy and take delight in teaching this group of students.  It is hard to believe we have less than two months in our year!  

Here's to a great finish!