Thursday, 31 January

We started the day with a little cursive writing.  The exercise is useful for three purposes: 1) to practice our cursive writing; 2) to practice the components of a good paragraph, especially the topic sentence and closer; and, 3) to act as a springboard for discussion on the topic covered that day.  After writing, we read Scroll 14 from the Ostia novel.  We also wrote a one-sentence summary (topic sentence) of the chapter.  Next came band.

Test Question

Test Question

After recess we read for 10 minutes and then started math.  I returned the mid-unit math tests that we did yesterday.  We debriefed a few questions and then did the intro to the next lesson that looks at comparing percent with fractions.  There is no math homework.

After lunch we watched and discussed more of yesterday's documentary on the threat to our water supply.  We then participated in personal research towards our Egypt inquiry projects.  Some students took a long time to get settled.  I know that this is new, but we will have limited class time so we need to transition more quickly.  By the end of the session there was a quiet hum in the room as people worked - let's try to achieve that more quickly tomorrow.  We ended the day with basketball in the gym.  Now that we know the skills drills, things are going well: thanks for being good about holding the balls during instructions.

1. Tomorrow is our first p.e. class with Nicky, our yoga instructor.  Please wear comfortable clothes to school, or bring clothes to change into.  I've booked two 30 minute sessions to start, but we can see how it goes in terms of requesting more sessions.  We have limited school funds.  Would parents be willing to pay $2 per student per additional session.  Please comment below or e-mail me to let me know.

2. IMPORTANT MEETING: Tuesday 19 FEB: AT 6:30 P.M.
I'd like to hold a parent info meeting to discuss the winter snowshoe trips to Bachelor Cabin in Tetrahedron Provincial Park (near Tuwanek).  I will be asking for drivers - some will need 4-wheel drive vehicles.  I'll be sending a notice home shortly.