The energy in the classroom this week was somewhat frenetic, and at times overwhelming for the adults with so much going on. During times like these, I often hear my mentor trainers in the back of my mind, telling me to let go, to stop, sit down, and observe. As adults in the classroom with our lesson plans and our calendars, we get too "in our heads"... focused on what we perceive as problems or issues that we need to solve. After a time, confirmation bias takes over, and suddenly problems and undone tasks are all we see. So, begrudgingly (letting go is hard sometimes) I followed my own advice, let go of my desired outcomes, and just watched, from a more detached perspective. As is always the case, the magic quickly revealed itself. I'm happy to share some of it here with you.
Math:
This student challenged himself with his first checkerboard work of the year
An older child helping a younger one with golden bead addition
Reviewing the 10 cubed chain
A third-grader doing computations using Dot Game, next to a first-year working on her spelling.
45 layout
Doubling addends with the addition strip board
Quick review on fractions
This student asked for help after repeatedly re-doing a problem and not getting the correct answer. We discovered he was transposing digits and made a small counting mistake. Problem solved.
Finding new ways to use a familiar material
Third grade memorization of math facts has begun
Stamp Game addition practice
Geometry:
Learning about polygons with Box of Sticks material and the Geometric Cabinet
Reviewing the concepts of equivalence, similarity, and congruence with the constructive triangles
Checking her work with compound words using the control chart
Language:
Spelling quizzes and new lists
Practicing alphabetical order
Working with CVC syllables to create multisyllabic words. Photos from a student's Sun Celebration are in the background!
We are working on writing letters of encouragement for Helene Survivors.
Geography:
Map making
Learning about Natural Disasters
Flag research
Botany:
Lots of students studying the stem this week.
Mindfulness, art, music, and peace
The color wheel
The Roman Arch
Music with Ms. Kathleen
Beginning the Friday Community Peace Meeting with the Pledge to the Earth
Bird Watching in the Outdoor Classroom
Yoga with friends
Introducing the children to our new DGS friend, A Groundhog (or some sort of Marmot) who I caught red-handed chowing down in the compost bin
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