Last Day of School

I began the year warning the grade 3 & 4 students that the year would fly by. Today, they were a bit stunned to realise that the year really was over and boy, did it fly by. We have covered a great amount of work and students grown together as a group, forming deep friendships. We said very sad farewells to a few students leaving us, and we hope they will stay in touch, and even possibly join our school again in the future.
Much of our last day was spent in the last convocation where many, many, many awards were handed out. Well done to Meena, Alex, and Julia for receiving the first 3 placements in the Science Fair. We also learned that Zeta won the House Cup. Well done to all houses for the efforts in trying for the House Cup!
Have a wonderful summer everyone. Keep reading, writing, and finish up the Arithmetic book.
See you in the fall.

Park Play

We had an awesome day! Students began the day playing Cops & Robbers and the girls vs. boys dodge ball. The first person out was Mrs. Haag! Students enjoyed their last gym lesson with Ms. Lopez.
Back in class, students worked on making a card for their reading buddies, encouraging them to keep reading over the summer. Students then met up with their SK reading buddies for their last reading time together this year.
Students had fun playing French Bingo with Mme. Stella.
We were off to the park next, where students played tennis, soccer, and on the play structure. It was sad to leave but on the bright side, getting back to school meant we got to enjoy all the treats students brought in to share.
Look out for report cards, class photos, SJA student newspaper, and Summer Programs at the Library Info. package all coming home today.

Reminders:

• Wear house colours tomorrow
• Early dismissal at 11:30
• After-care runs till 4:00

Portfolios

We began our day working on portfolios and got the job done. Portfolios belonging to returning students will stay at school. Students that are not returnung to SJA are bringing their portfolios home today.
We completed our last lesson on Healthy Living today. Students designed a survey to help them discover the nutrition and activity habits of our school community. They then went around the school surveying fellow students.
We took time in class to finish off our language books. We did not complete our Arithmetic books. Students are asked to do 2 pages a day over the summer to ensure that retain the skills they have worked on this year and to be ready to work at the next level in September.
We also took time for students to sign autographs in each other's class picture. The students had a lot of fun doing this activity.
Part of our day was used to prepare for graduation tonight. Remember to dress smart casual and be at the school for 7 pm.
Students are bringing home all their shoes, books, stationery, and gym clothes.
 Tomorrow is going to be a fun day. We will play games in the morning and have the last session with our reading buddies. After lunch we will head off the park. Students are asked to come dressed to spend a day outdoors with hats and sunblock, extra water and a snack to share with their friends.

Reminders:

• Meet  at 6: 45 pm in our class for tonight's graduation ceremony, dress in full uniform or smart casual
• Wear soccer jersey's tomorrow or the colours of your favourite team
• Dress for an afternoon at the park tomorrow and bring a treat/snack to share with friends
• Friday's pick up time is at 11:30 and after care ends at 4 p.m.

Spelling Bee

What a marathon this morning's spelling bee was! Despite making the bee more challenging, students still performed very well. Congratulations to all who particpated and those who cheered them on. The final positions were as follows:

Grade 3
First Place - Rachel
Second Place - Adam
Third Place - Lukas

Grade 4
First Place - Alex
Second Place - Kunsh
Third Place - Lara

Students spent the rest of the day working on their portfolios and teaching a totally fit gym lesson to younger students in our school. They quickly learned that they need to be very prepared and have eyes in the backs of their heads. ; )
Students attended French class today.

Reminders:

• Tomorrow is Casual Day
• Graduation is at 7 pm tomorrow night - dress smart casual

Designing a Total Fitness Workout

We spent much of our time on our inquiry unit today. Students finished up creating their posters promoting healthy food choices. They were then introduced to the final task for this unit. Students have been challenged to design a gym class for younger students that is fun and includes cardiovascular, flexibility, and strength activities. They spent time researching activities and planning their lesson. They then pitched their lesson to me and made changes that were suggested. Tomorrow the students will become teachers when they implement their lesson to younger grades.
Students attended a music lesson today.
In math, grade 3s completed their math assessment piece for the year. Grade 4s wrote their unit test on probability.
We ended the day working on language review. Students also used extra time to continue working on their gym lesson for tomorrow.

Homework & Reminders

• Language p. 157 - 160
• The spelling bee takes place tomorrow at 9 am. Families are welcome to attend
• Wednesday is Casual Day and Graduation. Arrive for 7 pm for graduation. Dress smart casual
• Thursday is Soccer-Shirt Day. Report cards go home on this day
• Friday is the final and half day of school. Dismissal is at 11:30. Please note that after care ends at 4 pm on this day

Being Reflective

At our convoction this morning, students were recognised for displaying learner profile attributes. Congratulations to Alex, Braeden, and Adam for being internationally-minded students.
This morning we took time to reflect on all the learning that has taken place this term.  Students wrote draft and good copies for their report cards.
Students continued working on language, reviewing concepts we learned about in the first term.
Students attended gym and French class today.
In math, grade 3s wrote an assessment piece to show what they have learned this year. Grade 4s worked on reviewing probability concepts to prepare for this Monday's unit test on probability.
We ended the day with our in-class spelling bee. The following students will be going on to the school competition next Tuesday, June 11:
Adam, Abel, Braeden, Rachel, Lukas
Kunsh, Alex, Shannon, Lara, Ghazi

Homework & Reminders:

• MMS 4 - Study for Monday's unit test
• Language p. 153 - 156

Food Commercials

We began our inquiry into healthy living by viewing breakfast and food commercials that are designed to appeal to children. After viewing the commercials we discussed the strategies used by advertisers to appeal to children and whether the cereal was a nutritious meal as claimed. We also watched a documentary discussing the links bewteen childhood obesity and the number of hours of food commercials watched. We heard about Canadian advertising regulations that are in place preventing advertisers from exploiting the vulnerability of children. We also learned that advertisers now focus on the parents of children instead when it comes to food for children. Children used class time to fill in their activity logs.
In language, we practised creative writing and correctly using words such as himself, themsleves, its and it's. Students who did not get their work done in class are bringing their language books home.
We ran through our Arts' Night performance twice. Students missed their French class because of rehearsal, but still got to attend gym class.
We ended the day working on math. Grade 3s inverstigated the fairness of games, Grade 4s used tree diagrams as a strategy to solve word problems involving probability.

Homework & Reminders:

• Language p. 141 - 144
• Prepare for Friday's Spelling Bee
• Keep working on your activity log
• MMS 3 p. 194 & 195
• Bring in your Mood Machine to display for Arts' Night 
• Tomorrow is the grade 5/6 Exhibition at 6 p.m. and Arts' Night (arrive 6: 45 for 7: 00 p.m.)

Favourite Physical Activities

Students began their week by attending music. Back in class they continued working on creative writing and on correctly using the homonyms there, their, and they're.
We continued working on our healthy living inquiry unit. Students remembered that to be totaly fit they need to do cardiovascular, flexibility, and strength activities. Students understand why each of these kinds of activities are important for their health. They generated a list of their 10 favourite activities and then analysed what kinds of activities they are. Studnets reflected on the kinds of changes they need to make in their physical activity habits and the consequences on changing or not changing their habits. Students are further going to monitor their activity levels by keeping an activity log for 3 days beginning today.
Students attended gym and French class today.
In math, grade 3s practised using working backwards as a strategy to solve problems. Grade 4s used coloured spinners to identify outcomes and predict results.
We ended the day preparing for our Arts Night Performance.


Homework & Reminders:

• MMS 3 - Study for Thursday's unit test on Probability
• MMS 4 p. 182 & 183
• Prepare for Friday's spelling bee contest
• Language p. 137 -140
• Arts' Night is at 7 p.m. this Wednesday (Arrive at 6: 45 p.m.)

Science Fair and Track & Field

What a busy day we had. Science fair judging began at 9 am sharp. Students were respectful of each other while judging took place. Back in class we kept busy working on arithmetic and language. In arithmetic students reviewed polygons and in language students learned how to diagram a sentence. Families then began visiting our science fair, and students spent time talking to families about their projects.
After science fair, we packed up and headed to the park for Track & Field. It was blistering hot day, and we spent as much time as we could in the shade between events.
Students had an awesome time today!

Homework & Reminders:

Arithmetic p. 203 & 204
Language p. 133 - 136

Getting Ready for Science Fair

This morning we had a special treat. One of Ms. Chin's student groups practiced presenting their exhibition project to our class. Her students benefitted from the practice of presenting to a real audience, and our class benefitted from seeing what they will be expected to do when it is their turn to do exhibition.
Once back in class, students wrote their last spelling test of the year and worked on arithemtic speed drills. They then wrote their language test on parts of speech. Students had time in class to finish off their science fair boards and work on their 3 minute presentations.
Students attended gym and French class today.
In math, grade 3s continued conducting probability experiments and predicting the results. Grade 4s began a probability unit. We discussed the language of probability, such as certain, impossible, probable, improbable, unlikely, and likely. Ask your child to describe scenarios that fit these terms.
We ended the day setting up the science fair display area. Parents and families that would like to view the projects and talk to students about the science fair are welcome to visit the fair between 11:30 and 12:15 tomorrow. Grade 4s students are asked to wear their winter uniform for their science fair presentations tomorrow. Grade 3 students may wear their summer uniforms.
Tomorrow is also Track and Field Day. Students will change for Track and Field after the science fair is over. Parents are welcome to attend the Track & Field events

Homework & Reminders:

• MMS 4 p. 180 & 181
• Sign all tests coming home today
• Grade 4s work on your 3 minute (max.) presentation for the science fair tomorrow
• Grade 4s wear winter uniform to school and grade 3s wear summer uniform to school tomorrow
• Bring hat and water for Track and Field tomorrow 

Review & Practice

We spent a lot of our morning time making sure all our language on the parts of speech was complete and corrected in preparation for tomorrow's test. Language books are coming home today for those families who would like to review the pages with their children.
Students worked on list words and arithmetic. In arithmetic they practiced subtracting fractions where the denominators are the same.
Students attended music, gym, and French class today.
In math, grade 3s continued exploring the likelihood of different outcomes and started conducting probability experiments and predicting the results. Grade 4s wrote their patterns in number and geometry unit test.
We ended the day working on our Arts' Night presentation.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling test is tomorrow
• MMS 3 p. 192 & 193
• Arithmetic p. 201 & 202
• Language - Review p. 118 - 132 for tomorrow's test
• Bring in science fair projects tomorrow

Cooperation

Grade 3 students made great progress with their science fair project this morning. We printed all our information out, cut it, framed it, and pasted it onto the display board. Students are reminded to bring in their science fair boards on Thursday.
Students worked on spelling words and verbs, subjects, and nouns in language. In arithmetic they learned to add fractions where the denominator is the same. We used 3 different strategies to solve these problems and the students feel very confident about this work.
Students attended gym and French class today.
We worked on our Arts' Night presentation. This practice is giving lots of opportunity for students to work cooperatively with others as they are responsible for choreographing their dance steps.
In math, grade 3s explored the liklihood of different outcomes. Grade 4s continued reviewing patterns in number and geometry in preparation for tomorrow's unit test.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 3 p. 190 & 191
• MMS 4 - Study for tomorrow's test
• Arithmetic p. 199 & 200
• Yearbook letters are coming home today
• Scholastic order forms are coming home today - this is the last order of the year
• Tomorrow is Casual Day
• All science fair projects must be at school on Thursday

Total Fitness

We reviewed why we should bother being active for our inquiry into healthy living this morning. Students generated excellent reasons to stay active. We continued reading Bobbie Kalman's book Active Kids and learned that for total fitness we should ensure we do 3 kinds of exercise. Ask your child to tell you what these 3 kinds of exercise are.
Students worked on list 35 spelling words, verbs in language and dividing with 9 as a divisor in arithmetic.
Students attended gym, music and French class today.
In math, grade 3s began a new unit on probablility. They learned about mathematical language they should use to describe probability. Grade 4s spent their math time reviewing patterns in number and geometry in preparation for Wednesday's unit test.
We ended the day working on our science fair projects and preparing for Friday's science fair.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 3 p. 188 & 189
• MMS 4 p. 178 & 179
• Arithmetic p. 197 & 198
• Wednesday is Casual Day
• MMS 4 unit test on Wednesday
• Language and spelling tests on Thursday
• Science Fair and Track and Field on Friday

How Fit are You?

As part of our inquiry unit, students were asked if they thought they were active or fit. Students found their resting heart rates and then were challenged to complete a fitness test. Parts of the test included running or walking a mile in under 10 minutes, doing 1 pull up, running up a flight of stairs, doing 40 abdominal crunches in a minute, and being able to touch their toes when their legs are stretched out in front of them. Students measured their heart rates while doing all the activities and all noticed a difference.
Students worked on spelling and language. In language they read sentences where there was more than one subject and identified all the subjects in a sentence. They also learned about verbs and identified verbs in a sentence. Ask your child what a verb is and to compose a sentence with more than one subject and then identify the verb in the sentence. Students also worked on arithmetic review work.
Students attended gym and French class today.
In math, grade 3s wrote their unit test to show what they learned in their patterning unit. Grade 4s practised dividing a 3-digit number by a 1-digit number.
We ended the day checking on science fair progress and working on our Arts' Night performance.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 4 p. 176 & 177
• Arithmetic p. 195 & 196
• Lunch letters are coming home today 

A Guest Visitor

The children had a surprise visitor for our inquiry unit this morning. Mrs. Glaucia Padovan, a nutritionist, shared a slide show with the class on the food groups, numbers of servings, and nutrition. She clealry explained the difference between ingredients and nutrients. The children heard many tips to help them make healthier food choices. Ask your child to tell you what they learned.
Students worked on spelling list 34 and language. In language we reviewed nouns and the subject of a sentence. We also discussed verbs and adjectives so as to help students better identify nouns.
Students completed arithmetic practice where they learned about measuring temperature in degrees Celsius and degrees Fahrenheit. Ask you child to tell you about important temperature benchmarks such as the boiling and freezing points of water as well as the normal body temperature for people.
Students attended gym, French, and music class today.
In math, grade 3s continued reviewing patterns in preparation for tomorrow's unit test. Grade 4s used patterns in drawings and tables as a strategy to solve word problems. They also practiced division where there is a pattern in the remainder.
We ended the day with students completing work from the day and grade 4s sharing their science fair progress with me.

Homework & Reminders

• Spelling p. 139 if you did not get done in class
• MMS 3  - Study for tomorrow's unit test
• MMS 4 p. 174 & 175
• Arithmetic p. 193 & 194
• Get your French test signed

Nutrition Labels

We focused on learning to read and interpret nutrtition labels in our inquiry unit this morning. Students viewed samples of nutrition labels and identified grams and % daily value of core nutrients found in a serving of food. They compared labels with repsect to fat, sodium, and fibre and decided which food would be a healthier choice. Students were given food samples and challenged to find the highest and lowest nutrient amounts for fats, crabohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
In spelling, students worked on list 34 words. They also recieved a letter about this year's spelling bee and words to study for the in-class elimination round. In language we learned that a subject tells who or what a sentence is about. Students understand that subjects are often nouns. The practised identifying the subject, proper nouns and common nouns in sentences.
Students attended gym and French class today.
In math, grade 3s did review work to prepare for Thursday's test on patterns. Grade 4s used tables, blocks, and pictures to record changing-step growing patterns.
I met with grade 4 students to check on their science fair progress today. Students who have not already done so are asked to bring in their results tomorrow. Grade 3 staudents have started typing up our hypothesis and background research.
We ended the day working on our Arts' Night presentation. Students are being given the freedom and responsibility to plan this performance. It is an opportunity to express creativity and cooperation as they work with one another.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• Spelling Bee
• MMS 3 - Study for Thursday's test
• MMS 4 p. 172 & 173

Nutrients

We worked on discovering what nutrients were and why we need them in our inquiry into healthy living this morning. Students used their research skills to create a mind map of the 6 nutrients, how much energy they give us, what they do for us, and examples of food we can find them in. Students worked with a partner to accomplish this task and made great progress.
Students wrote their list 33 spelling test today. This test and a number of others are coming home today. Please review all tests with your child over the weekend.
Students attended gym and French class today.
Students worked on finding 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, 1/5, 1/6, 1/7, and 1/8 of a set in arithmetic today. They are becoming so good at this skill that it was unnecessary to teach a full lesson to them about this concept.
In math, grade 3s identified, created, and extended patterns on grids. Grade 4s learned about growing patterns in figures. They used pictures and tables to show their thinking and solve problems.
We ended the day with the grade 3s conducting their testing for the science fair. We got to to this activity outside on a gorgeous day! The children got a bit of sugar by finishing off the leftover pop from our experiment.

Homework & Reminders:

• MMS 3 p. 186 & 187
• MMS 4 p. 170 & 171
• Arithmetic p. 191 & 192
• Sign and review all tests coming home today
• Grade 4s: Keep working on your science fair project

Self-Esteem

We continued our inquiry into healthy living today by wondering how our self-esteem and body image affect our health. Students considered how heredity influences our body shape. Students were encouraged to be kind in their opinions of themselves, realising that everyone is unique. They brainstormed their own characteristics in terms of skills and abilities. The reflected on personal traits they would never change and one ability they would like to develop.
In arithmetic, students practiced finding one third of a set.
They attended gym, music and French class today.
In math, grade 3s created patterns in which 3 attributes change. Grade 4s used patterns to multiply a 2 digit number by a 1-digit number.
We ended the day checking on science fair progress. Grade 3s need to remember to bring in all materials so we can begin testing. We also began working on parts of speech in language. Ask your child to explain what a noun is.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling test tomorrow
• MMS 3 p. 184 & 185
• MMS 4 p. 166 & 167
• Arithmetic p. 189 & 190

Keep working on your music project

Yoga at St. Jude's

St. Jude's Academy and Blossom Yoga have joined to offer an exciting Yoga after school program on Mondays and Wednesdays.  To get more information about Blossom Yoga's program, please visit the following blog: http://blossomyogakids.blogspot.ca/  

Important Dates: 

Information Session for Parents: May 16 and 21 between 3:45pm-5:00pm in Grade 2 classroom;  come meet the instructor and get your questions answered

Classes Start: May 22nd, 2013

The Perfect Classroom

We began our day with our inquiry into healthy living. Today we discussed good and bad food triggers. Students analysed reasons they have for eating and classified good triggers and then came up with activities they could replace bad food triggers with. Ask your child to describe some of the food triggers we discussed in class, especially good food triggers. The children made a journal entry to describe their current eating patterns and their goals to make healthier food choices.
We began working on writing magazine articles in language. Students were introduced to this text form, and then prompted to write a article explaining what their perfect classroom is like. They brainstormed ideas before the began. They were eager to share their writing with the class.
Students attended gym class today.
In math, grade 3s created patterns with pattern blocks and attribute blocks where two attributes change. Grade 4s began a new unit on patterns in number and geometry. They reviewed concepts they learned in grade 3 and then created and extended repeating patterns.
We ended the day working on arithmetic, where students worked to find the fraction of a set.

Julia and Shannon have both shown action at home. Julia has been classifying her meals into the 4 food groups. Shannon used what she learned about PowerPoint during our How We Organise Ourselves unit to create a PowerPoint for her mom on Mother's Day. Well done girls!

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 3 p. 182 & 183
• MMS 4 p. 164 & 165
• Arithmetic p. 187 & 188
• Music - write 300 words about your favourite classical composer and bring in a piece of music to share - for May 22

Food Triggers

We began our week with a continuation of our inquiry into healthy living. Today we discussed factors that what influence our food choices, the reasons why we eat, special occasions associated with particular foods and our favourite foods. By the end of our lesson we were longing for some of the delicious foods we had discussed.
Students worked on spelling and agendas. This week's English and French spelling tests will be on Thursday as Friday is  professional development day for teachers. Students attended gym, music, and French class.
In math, grade 4s wrote their unit test on length, perimeter, and area. Grade 3s worked on strategies that they can use to solve problems with number patterns.
We ended the day with students writing their language test and meeting with me to let me know about their science fair progress.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling List 33
• Spelling test on Thursday
• Music project - Write approximately 300 words about your favourite classical composer. Find music to play (CD, piano, violin, guitar, iPod, etc)
• Friday is a PD Day for teachers - there is no school for students

French Cafe

Students were very excited for French Cafe today. Despite the excitement, they managed to focus and get some math and language done. Grade 4s continued working on review work in preparation for Monday's  unit test on length, perimeter, and area. Grade 3s worked on arithmetic practice. Both grades worked on language, reviewing word usage.
We even managed another rehearsal for French Cafe before families arrived. The children did a great job and were happy to see such a great turn out from parents. Our school family is growing! Well done to all SJA students on their performance today and to Mme. Stella and her team - Ms. H, Mrs. Henein, and Mrs. Levterova.

Homework & Reminders:

• Language - study p. 97 - 117 for Monday's test
• MMS 4 - Review unit 9 for Monday's unit test

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Dress Rehearsal

Our day began with the grade 4s working on reviewing concepts they have learned about length, perimeter, and area to prepare for Monday's unit test. Grade 3s used pattern blocks to represent growing patterns. They continue to use tables to record their patterns and write pattern rules for patterns.
Students worked on arithmetic practice, grammar, and wrote a spelling test. Tests are not coming home today. Students are bringing their language books home today as many have corrections to do from pages 97 - 115. Monday's test will cover pages 97 to 117. Please ensure your child returns their language book tomorrow as we will complete pages 116 & 117 in class tomorrow.
Due to our French Cafe dress rehearsal we did not work on our inquiry unit today.
We ended the day with students writing their map work retest.

Homework & Reminders:

• MMS 3 p. 180 & 181
• MMS 4 Study for Monday's unit test
• Arithmetic p. 185 & 186
• Language - correct p. 97 - 115
• Carrassauga letter
• French Cafe is tomorrow!

Healthy Choices

We began our day with math. Grade 4s worked on finding as many possible rectangular figures that all have the same areas. We used small congruent squares to represent a square metre and in an organised way made many different rectangles. Students recorded their work in charts and on grid paper. Grade 3s also worked in charts today. They used charts to record and extend number patterns and solve word problems. They continued writing pattern rules for each column of their charts.
Students worked on spelling, arithmetic and language work independently.
In our inquiry, Who We Are, into healthy living, students took time to examine their food diary and compare what they ate yesterday to the recommended servings in Canada's Food Guide. We had valuable discussions on the importance of making healthy food choices and the implications of unhealthy food choices on our bodies.
We ended the day with grade 3s working on science fair. We completed the write up of our experimental procedure today and are getting closer to catching up to the grade 4s. Students were also informed about a change in dates for the science fair. The new date is at May 31, which is the same day as our Track and Field event. The grade 4s are thankful for the extra time to work on their projects. The grade 4s used the time at the end of the day to complete their classwork and get as much homework done as they could.
Map work tests are coming home today. Some students have to write a retest tomorrow. Other students are choosing to write a retest if they would like to improve their score.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling list 32 - test is tomorrow
• MMS 3 p. 178 & 179
• MMS 4 p. 162 & 163
• Arithmetic p. 183 & 184
• Study for map work retest if applicable

How Much is a Serving?

Our day began with the grade 4s working on math. They used a geoboard to create as many different rectangular figures with a perimeter of 22 m. The goal was to find all possibilities and then choose the figure with the greatest area. The children worked with a partner to accomplish this task and recorded their work in a chart and on gird paper. Grade 3s began a new unit on patterns in number and geometry. They looked at number patterns, identified and extended the pattern and then wrote a pattern rule to describe the pattern. There were some tricky patterns that required careful thinking.
Both grades worked on spelling, arithmetic, and language work, and then wrote their map work test.
For our inquiry into healthy living, students took time to carefully examine Canada's Food Guide to understand how much food from each food group is regarded as one serving. Students took time to record what they had eaten at school today into their - "What Did I Eat" chart.
We ended the day working on our science fair projects. Grade 3s are beginning to collect the materials we need for our project. Most grade 4s took this time to read.
Students attended French Cafe rehearsal and gym today.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling list 32 - test is on Thursday
• MMS 3 p. 176 & 177
• MMS 4 p. 160 & 161
• Arithmetic p. 181 & 182
• Complete the "What Did I Eat" worksheet today
• Sign tests coming home today (arithmetic for everybody & MMS unit test for grade 3s)
• MMS 4 unit test on Monday
• Language test on Monday

Personal Food Guides

Due to French Cafe rehearsals, our daily schedule will be different this week. Grade 3s began the day writing their unit test on length, perimeter, and area. Grade 4s reviewed what area means. They were then challenged to work as a group and find the area of a portion of the gym floor using square metres we had constructed out of paper. The students have a very good understanding of how big an square metre is after this exercise, and that its not possible to draw large areas to size. Students found large areas from models by counting squares or by using the formula for area.
Students worked on reviewing this week's spelling list, arithmetic work, and language where we continue focusing on grammar. Please note that due French Cafe on Friday, we will be writing our spelling test on Thursday this week.
Students attended French and gym class today.
For our inquiry unit, Who We Are, we spent time recording what we know and questions we have. Students shared their ideas with the class. We have really interesting questions about nutrition, physical activity, and dehydration that we would like answered by the end of the unit.We reviewed the 4 four groups and students began working on a personal food guide. They are generating examples of the minimum number of servings that a child their age should be consuming from each food group. They are also bringing home another assignment that they will be working on all day tomorrow. They will need to record everything they eat tomorrow. If they are not sure how many servings it counts as, they should just record the meal, and we will work together on Wednesday to figure out the servings.
We ended the day working on our science fair projects. Grade 4s had an hour to work on their individual projects. Grade 3s tried to complete all their background research as we are behind on our science fair schedule.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling list 32
• MMS 4 p. 158 & 159
• Arithmetic p. 170 & 180
• What Did I Eat Yesterday(on Tuesday)? Worksheet to be worked on all day tomorrow
• Map work test on provinces, territories, capital cities, legends, regions is tomorrow
• Spelling test on Thursday
• French Cafe on Friday

Healthy Snacks

We had an exciting convocation this morning. Ms. Farmer's afternoon dance class performed a dance for us whic the students enjoyed. Students have begun wearing the SJA house t-shirts and hoodies making the school a colourful place. Students played a house game where they had to try score a goal against Mr. Burt. Well done to Ms. Chin for winning this game for KIP.
In class, we worked on our Who We Are inquiry unit. Students reviewed Canada's Food Guide , the food groups, and examples of foods from each group. They then worked on brainstorming what foods would make healthy snacks. Remember to work on the Ethic Food Project if you haven't already as it is due on Monday.
Students wrote an arithmetic and spelling test today. Spelling tests are coming home today. Students attended gym, French, and Reading Buddies today.
Students are bringing home their O Canada Duo-tangs today as they need to complete and study their map work page. They will be writing a map work test on Tuesday. The test will cover the provinces, territories, capital cities, and legends. There may be bonus questions about Canada's regions too.
In math, grade 3s continued reviewing length, perimeter, and area in preparation for Monday's test. Grade 4s used a 1-cm grid to estimate and measure an area in square centimetres.

Homework & Reminders:

• Review, correct, and sign spelling tests coming home today
• MMS 3 Study length, perimeter, and area
• MMS 4 p. 156 & 157
• Complete the Ethnic Food Project for Monday
• Look out for piano, karate, dance, and aftercare letters coming home today

Have a wonderful weekend everone!

Serving Sizes

Students had a fun lesson on healthy living today. Mr. Burt brought his breakfast into class and the students commented on when his serving size was correct or too large. Students discussed how eating too much or too little affects us. Students practiced writing how many servings a portion counted as according to Canada's Food Guide as well as which food group the food belonged to. The children had some really good questions, such as " Is there any food that it's okay to have too much of?" and "Why is peanut butter with the meat group?" Remember to make time to complete the Ethnic Food Project by Monday.
Students worked on reviewing spelling words and reviewing arithmetic work. In language they continued writing sentences with a focus on correct grammar using words that need helping words.
Students attended gym and French class today.
We worked on our 3-D map of Canada today, this time adding a legend and title to our maps. Students had fun working with play dough again as our legend had to be 3-D too.
We ended the day working on math. Grade 3s worked on reviewing concepts in their length, perimeter, and area unit in preparation for their unit test which will be on Monday. Grade 4s used a 1-cm grid to measure area in square centimetres.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 3 Study for Monday's test
• MMS 4 p. 154 & 155
• Arithmetic p. 177 & 178
• Work on Ethnic Food Project - due on Monday
• Look our for a letter about SJA House Hoodies coming home today
• Tomorrow is the last day of the bake sale
• Scholastic orders are due tomorrow

Rice!

Students enjoyed a reading of Everyone Cooks with Rice. They heard the many ways different culures prepare and enjoy this grain. Students then reflected on and shared the ways that their families' cook and enjoy rice. It was a yummy-sounding discussion. Students have an Ethnic Food Project coming home today. Look out for the letter and package in your child's backpack. The project is due back at school on Monday, May 6.
Students continued reviewing list 31 spelling words, and practicing how to write a fraction of a group in arithmetic. In language, we have begun working on word usage with words that do and do not need a helping word. Ask your child to explain what a helping word is and what words do and do not need a helping word.
Students attended gym and French class today.
We ended the day working on math. Grade 3s worked on using a model as a strategy to solve word problems. Grade 4s reviewed what they know about area and used congruent squares to estimate and find area in square units.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 4 p. 152 & 153
• Language p. 102 & 103
• Arithmetic p. 175 & 176

Breakfast

Our inquiry, Who We Are, on nutrition and fitness, led to a discussion on the importance of breakfast. Students discussed when and what they eat for breakfast. They shared what they know about the benefits of eating a healthy breakfast, and the consequences on skipping breakfast. We also discussed what happens when we eat a meal high in sugar. Ask your child to tell you what they learned today.
Students reviewed list 31 spelling words, and worked on representing fractions in their arithmetic practice work. They continued developing dictionary skills in language.
Because we had a whole-school run through of our French Cafe performance, students did not attend regular French class with Mme. Stella today. We used this time to wrap up some of our O Canada unit, including reviewing (for the grade 4s) and learning the names of the provinces, territories, and capital cities. Students will be writing a map work test next week.
In math, grade 3s continued working with perimeter and area, and they showed that different figures may have the same perimeter and figure. Grade 4s worked on finding the perimeter of figures in metres and kilometres.

Homework & Reimnders:

• Spelling list 31
• MMS 3 p. 174 & 175
• MMS 4 p. 148 & 149
• Arithmetic p. 173 & 174
• Language p. 100 & 101
• SJA Dance tonight from 6:30 - 8:00
•  Bake sale continues all week

Who We Are

Today we began our last inquiry unit, Who We Are. In this unit we will be focusing on fitness and nutrition. Today's lesson was centered on defining fast food as well discussing a healthy and unhealthy meal. Students worked with a partner to draw and share a healthy and unhealthy meal.
Students attended gym and French class today.
They also worked on this week's spelling words, list 31, and arithmetic. In arithmetic they learned that the order of factors does not change the product. The solved equations involving multiplication with parentheses and three factors. They know that parentheses must be solved first in an equation.
In language, students started dictionary work. They know that they use their alphabetical skills and guide words to find words in a dictionary.
In math, grade 3s counted squares on a grid to find area. Grade 4s reviewed perimeter as the distance around an object. They then measured figures and calculated perimeter.
Some students are missing balzers and gym sweaters. Please check the labels of items your children bring home to ensure that have not brought home someone else's clothing.

Homework & Reminders

• Spelling
• MMS 3 p. 173 & 173
• MMS 4 p. 148 & 149
• Arithmetic p. 171 & 172
• SJA Dance is on tomorrow from 6:30 - 8:00
• The grade 7 & 8 Bake Sale is on each day this week at first recess. Items cost between $1 and $10

Unit Reflections

Our day began with a house game with a view on getting ready for our annual track and field event taking place on Friday, May 31. Students from Ms. Ms' class participated in a standing long-jump event and well done to Theta for winning the event.
In class, we reflected on all we have learned about in our inquiry unit How We Organise Ourselves. Students worked with a partner to record all they have learned. They shared their knowledge with the class, and then added their records to our KWL chart. We also spent time reflecting on how Ted Harrison's art makes us feel. Students then spent time appreciating and reflecting each other's artwork.
Students attended gym and French class today. We also spent much enjoyed time with our SK reading buddies.
In math, grade 3s counted congruent square units to find area. Grade 4s described the relationships among metres, decimetres, centimetres, and millimetres.
We ended the day continuing our unit reflections, completing our report writing, and working on our science fair projects.
Look out for a French Cafe letter coming home today.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Homework & Reminders:

• MMS 3 p. 170 & 171
• MMS 4 p. 146 & 147
• Sign arithmetic and spelling tests coming home today
• French Cafe letter

More Painting

Our day began with math lessons. Grade 3s found the area of a figure by counting congruent non-standard units, like a squares. Grade 4s practised drawing pictures as a strategy to solve problems involving linear dimensions. Both grades reviewed list 28 and 29 spelling words and write an arithmetic test.
In our inquiry unit we continued painting landforms, vegetation, and/or animals that represent Canadian regions. The paintings are on display outside our classroom. Take a moment to appreciate the artistic talents of the grade 3 and 4 students the next time you are in the building. Students also worked on finishing their first report draft comparing Canada's regions.
Students attended gum and French class today.

Homework and Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 3 168 & 169 

Painting

Our day began with a math lesson. Grade 4s estimated and measured lengths in decimetres. Grade 3s continued making figures of sports figures. Be sure to keep an eye out for them while you are in the building this week.
Students reviewed list 26 and 29 list words today and completed arithmetic review work. They also worked on writing a report comparing two Canadian regions.
For our inquiry today, we continued with our representation of Canadian regions with inspiration form the Group of Seven. Students have made good progress with their painting.
We ended the day with working on preparation for French cafe.

Homework and Reminders:

• MMS 4 p. 144 & 145
• Arithmetic p. 169 & 170

Group of Seven

Today our day began with math. Grade 3s reviewed concepts they learned about in yesterday's lesson. They also had fun making life-size figures of famous sports personalities to help them appreciate their height. Grade 4s estimated and measured lengths in millimetres.
Students reviewed spelling lists 25 & 29 today. In arithmetic, they solved equations involving regrouping of addends. In language, they continued writing a report comparing different Canadian regions.
Next up was our inquiry unit. Today we reflected on how art is organised by the style of  artists. We focused on a group of artists that were at first unpopular for their technique - the Group of Seven.Students viewed and appreciated works by Ted Harrison and how they could identify the Canadian regions depicted in his work. Students then took time paging through many books in our classroom and chose a photograph of a Canadian landscape to paint in the style of the Group of Seven.
Students attended gym and French class today.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 4 p. 142 & 143
• Arithmetic p. 167 & 168
• Grade 4s: Variables and Hypothesis worksheet is due tomorrow
• Tomorrow is Casual Day
• French Cafe is on May 10. All are welcome - please RSVP to Mrs. Brasil by May 3
• Dance - Ms Elliott's students are putting on a dance next week, April 30, from 6: 30 - 8:00. The cost is $2.50. Grade 4s may attend. Proceeds will go towards Sick Kids Hospital
• Bake Sale. Ms. Elliott's class is also putting on a bake sale all next week. Items will cots between $1 to $10. Proceeds will go toward helping fund their trip to Quebec.

PowerPoint Presentations

How We Organise Ourselves was the first order of the day. Students shared their PowerPoint slide shows with the class. Students had the opportunity to ask and answer questions about their presentations.
Students worked on list 29 spelling words and arithmetic practice. In arithmetic, students learned that when solving a problem they need to always solve brackets first, multiplication second, and finally do addition and subtraction.
We worked on writing today. Students reviewed report writing. They chose 2 Canadian regions to compare and write about.
Students attended gym, French, and music class.
We ended the day working on math. Grade 3s measured perimeter in metres. Grade 4s began a new math unit about measurement. We will focus on length, perimeter, and area in this unit. Students reviewed what they learned about measurement in grade 3. They also estimated and measured perimeter in centimetres and metres. Grade 4s reviewed the fractions and decimals test they wrote on Friday. Students will be writing a retest tomorrow.

Homework and Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 3 p. 166 & 167
• MMS 4 Study for retest and do p. 140, 141
• Arithmetic p. 165 & 166
• Corrected lunch letters are coming home today
• Review, sign, and return math (grade 4s), arithmetic, and language tests coming home today
• Wednesday is Casual Day

Earth Day

The morning was dedicated to Earth Day games, activities, and a viewing of Dr. Seuss' Lorax. From the sounds coming from the gym, students had a lot of fun. Teachers had in-school professional development, as we strive to incorporate more inquiry into our teaching methods.
The afternoon was shared between math and our UOI. Grade 3s practiced finding the perimeter of a figure in centimetres and metres. Grade 4s wrote their Fractions and Decimals unit test. We ended the day working on our PowerPoint slide shows about Canada's provinces and territories.

Homework & Reminders:

• MMS 3 p. 164 & 165
• Grade 4s need to submit a 3-5 paragraph research paper on their science fair topic by Monday

Pyjama Day

Students were very excited to be wearing their pyjama's to school today. This was the opposite of what I was expecting, thinking I would have sleepy children on my hands, trying to sneak in naps.
Students worked on their PowerPoint projects to show what they have learned about how Canada is organised.
Students wrote a language test, an arithmetic test, and worked on this week's spelling words.
They attended gym, French, and drama class.
In math, grade 3 students worked to understand when a kilometer is used to measure distance. Grade 4s continued reviewing fractions and decimals.
Grade 3 students worked together to begin the background research for their science fair project. Grade 4s had time in class to read the sources they have collected for their individual projects.

Homework & Reminders:

• Due to Earth Day activities tomorrow, this week's spelling test is canceled
• MMS 3 p. 162 & 163
• MMS 4 - Study fractions and decimals
• Grade 4s work on your background research
• Wear green, blue, and brown for Earth Day tomorrow

Math Competition

Our day began with the writing of the Mathematica Centrum competition. Students had 45 minutes to write the test. They also worked on identifying their reading habits, strengths, and goals. Students spent time reviewing list 28 spelling words and reviewing word usage for tomorrow's language test.
Students attended gym, music, and French class today.
In math, grade 3s used meters to measure length, width, and height. Grade 4s worked on reviewing fractions and decimals in preparation for Friday's test.
We ended the day with students either working on their background research for their science fair project or working on their PowerPoint Presentation for our How We Organise Ourselves inquiry unit.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 3 p. 160 & 161
• MMS 4  Study fractions and decimals
• Language - study p. 86 - 96
• Work on background research for the science fair
• Tomorrow is Pyjama Day - bring a loonie if you would like to participate and support the SJA Student Council

Summative Task

Students were introduced to the summative task for our How We Organise Ourselves inquiry unit. They will be working in pairs to prepare a PowerPoint presentation of a trip through 2 of Canada's provinces and/or territories. They will use the research that they have accumulated over the past few weeks to answer all 3 lines of inquiry for this unit. They will use features of PowerPoint and the Internet to collect imagesto enhance their presentation. Today, Mr. Burt gave the students a short tutorial on how to use Microsoft PowerPoint. Students then paired up and chose their province and or territory. Some groups got time to work on the Think Pads today.
Students who did not get computer time today worked on this week's spelling list and arithmetic practice. Students are meeting with me daily to report their science fair progress. If you haven't made a trip to the library to collect resources yet, please try prioritise this, as research papers are due this Monday, and students are receiving time in class daily to conduct their background research.
Students attended gym, French, and drama class.
In language, students practiced using to, too, and two correctly in sentences.
In math, grade 3s reviewed what they learned about length, perimeter, and area in grade 2.  They also used centimeters to measure length, width, and height. Grade 4s used their knowledge of adding and subtracting decimals to add and subtract money amounts.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 3 p. 158 & 159, review, sign, and return fractions test coming home today
• MMS 4 p. 138 & 139
• Arithmetic p. 163 & 164
• Grade 4s - keep working on your science fair background research
• Support SJA's Student Council by donating $1 and wearing Pyjamas on Thursday

Resources and Industries in Canada

Our day began with our unit of inquiry, How We Organise Ourselves.We watched a DVD titled Industries and Resources. This DVD informed us about how landforms in Canada are associated with resources. Resources allow for industries to develop in a region. This means jobs for people. Employed people need services, which in turn means more jobs for people. Students have a better understanding of how resources impact a region's economy. We also watched another DVD titled, Bouctouche, Jobs & Industry: The Amazing Map Game Show. We saw how the resources in Bouctouche, New Brunswick, allowed for specific industries, jobs, and a way of life for people.
Students attended gym, music, and French class today.
They worked on this week's spelling list (#28) and arithmetic practice.
In math, grade 3s wrote their unit test on fractions. Grade 4s worked on solving problems involving subtracting decimals. They did this by estimating, using place-value charts, using Base Ten Blocks and mental math.
We ended the day working on our Science Fair Projects and Language. Grade 4s have begun conducting their background research. They are reading the books that they found in the library over the weekend. Grade 3s have selected a topic for the science fair, but they need to decide what key words will be used in a search to find written sources for our Background Research. In language, we worked on the word usage with the words sit, sat, and set.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling list 28
• MMS 4 p. 136 & 137
• Arithmetic p. 161 & 162
• Language p. 92 & 93
• Grade 4s - Work on your background research
• Language test on Thursday
• Grade 4 unit tests on Fractions on Friday
• Earth Spirit Day on Friday - wear blue, brown, green

To continue our inquiry into how Canada is organised, we watched a DVD titled Canada's Landform Regions. The grade 3s and 4s continue to be amazed at the beauty and diversity of our country!
They wrote this week's spelling test and worked on arithmetic practice work. Students also worked on word usage in language.
Students attended gym and French class today.
In math, grade 3s continued with review work for their fractions test which has been postponed till Monday. Grade 4s worked on estimating and adding decimals.
We ended the day working on science fair. Grade 4s met individually with me to discuss their project proposal. Grade 3s met to vote on their project topic. The grade 3s now have to figure out how to turn their topic into a question that can be tested safely and fairly.

Homework & Reminders

• Correct and sign spelling tests
• MMS 3 - Study fractions for Monday's test
• MMS 4 p. 134 & 135
• Grade 4s need to find 3 sources for their research paper this weekend. Bring the sources to school on Monday as time will be allocated for reading on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday

 

Canada

Today we began watching DVDs that teach Canada's history, geography, resources, industries, services, and cultures. The DVD we began viewing today is titled Canada for Children: The Geography of Canada. The children were amazed at some of the beautiful footage of our country's landscape and the amazing creatures that live in our country! It was fun using a DVD as a source for researching how Canada is organised, but it is hard to stop watching to take notes. This is a useful skill for students to develop.
Students spent time reviewing this week's spelling list words and working on arithmetic practice.
Students attended gym, drama, and French class today.
In language, we worked on correctly using a, an, can, and may in our conversations and writing.
In math, grade 3s worked on reviewing yesterday's lesson on fractions. The grade 4s practiced comparing and ordering decimals.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 3 Study fractions for the unit test
• MMS 4 132 & 133
• Arithmetic p, 157 & 158
• Grade 4s are to submit their science fair proposals tomorrow

Hundredths

In our inquiry How We Organise Ourselves, students had the last opportunity to use the All About Canada Series as a source of information to discover how our country is organised. Most children finished their work  well in time, an indication of how comfortable they are becoming with researching.
Students attended gym, music, and French class.
They continued working on this week's list words and today's arithmetic practice.
In math, grade 3s represented mixed numbers using concrete materials. Grade 4s continued learning about decimals. Today they learned how to write and represent hundredths as decimals, fractions, and pictures.
We discussed the following aspects of our science fair projects:

• how to record all work and thoughts in our science notebooks
• the steps of the scientific method
• and how to ask a question

We ended the day working on language. Students continued writing sentences in the sequence that they occurred.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 3 p. 156 & 157
• MMS 4 p. 130 & 131
• Arithmetic p. 155 & 156
• Read the Science duo tang and brainstorm science topics for the fair

Tenths and Decimals

Our morning began the same way as it has recently. The students are working on research skills as they discover how the regions in Canada are organised acccording to landforms, resources, industries, services,  and cultures. The students look very comfortable navigating a non-fiction text, flipping from the table of contents to the text to the index and to the glossary. They are getting daily practice at writing a bibliography too.
Grade 3s and 4s attended gym, drama and French class today.
In class, they worked on reviewing this week's spelling list words and wrote an arithmetic test.
In math, the grade 4s were introduced to decimals. They know the correct way to read tenth decimals and how to represent decimals in pictures and as fractions. The grade 4s were awesome at today's practice work!
In language, we are working on writing sentences in the correct order. Today students wrote sentences to describe how they brush their teeth in a 5 step sequence.
The class was introduced to the SJA Annual Science Fair for this year. Look out for letters coming home today. Grade 4s are bringing home their Science Fair Duo tangs and science notebooks. Please help your child to remember to return these to school each day. Grade 4s are encouraged to read as far as the Project Proposal Form as that page is due this Friday. Also, schedule some time to visit the library this weekend to help your child collect sources for their research.

Homework and Reminders

• Spelling
• MMS p. 128 & 129
• Read Science Fair information coming home today

Resources and Economies

Our day began with our inquiry into How We Organise Ourselves. The children completed their research on their 4th Canadian geographic region. We discussed what resources are and the distinction between renewable and non-renewable resources. The class does not clearly understand the distinction and we will continue on working towards greater understating this week. The children also shared what they had learned about economies and taxes this weekend. Continue talking to your child about these concepts.
The class attended gym, music, and French today.
In spelling, the class began working on list 27 spelling words. They also worked on arithmetic review work.
In math, grade 3s had a strategy lesson where they used working backward as a strategy to solve a problem. Grade 4s compared and ordered fractions. They used pattern blocks and pictures to help them.
We ended the day writing our language test. Extra time was used to work on arithmetic.

Homework and Reminders:

• Spelling
• Arithmetic p. 153 & 154
• MMS 4 p. 126 & 127
• Grade 3s write a unit test on fractions this Friday

Fractions

We began our day with a house game. Mr. Sawatsky was very generous with house points. Well done to Theta for doing lots of catching up.
We had a double dose of our inquiry How We Organise Ourselves. We spent the first and last hour of class time researching the geographic regions that divide our country. While they worked, the children reflected on their learning styles, and we discussed how the research skills they are currently developing will be beneficial for their lives. We also discussed what an economy is. The children have many ideas on this topic. They are coming home this weekend, expecting to discover more about what an economy is. Please help your child to understand this by making time to talk about it with them. We also discussed taxes. The children wondered about taxes, and whether everyone pays tax on everything. The suggestion was made that they look at a grocery receipt to see if their families pay tax on everything they purchase. Please help your child to develop their understanding on taxes.
The children wrote their list 26 spelling test and worked on arithmetic review work.
In math, the the grade 3s represented fractions using the fraction symbol. The grade 4s used improper fractions and mixed numbers to represent more than one.

Homework & Reminders:

• Arithmetic p. 151 & 152
• MMS 3 p. 154 & 155
• MMS 4 p. 124 & 125
• Study language for Monday's test
• Sign, correct and return spelling test
• Return report cards, portfolios, and student binders
•  Discuss taxes and economies with your family

Map Making

Our day began with a continuation of the research the children began for our How We Organise Ourselves inquiry unit. The children finished off researching their second Canadian region. Be sure to ask your child what they have learned.
Students attended gym, drama and French class today.
In spelling, students continued reviewing list 26 spelling words, They also worked in their arithmetic books where they reviewed Roman numerals.
In math, grade 3s represented equal groups of a set as fractions using concrete materials. Grade 4s  used fraction strips to explore equivalent fractions.
In language, the children made a map to show what they have learned about maps through our regions unit so far.

Homework and Reminders:

• Spelling
• Return report cards with the comments page completed if you haven't already done so
• Return portfolios and student binders
• Arithmetic p. 149 & 150
• MMS 3 p. 152 & 153
• MMS 4 p. 122 & 123
• Language test on Monday - review p. 77 - 85 in language books
• Scholastic orders are coming home today and are due on Monday

Research Skills

The children began their day with our inquiry unit, How We Organise Ourselves. The continued the lesson they began yesterday. They are working in groups to practise their research skills by using non-fiction text to discover more about Canada's 6 regions, such as the region's landforms, resources, industries, cultures and economies. Today each group shared some of what they learned during their research yesterday. They then chose a new region to research and started working on their new region. We have some interesting questions arising during today's lesson. What are New Foundland and New Brunswick called 'new'? (Or Nova Scotia for that matter?)
The children attended gym, music and French class today.
In spelling, students continued revising list 26 spelling words. We began working on arithmetic again today. Students are learning to write Roman numerals 13 to 30.
In math, the grade 3s learned to represent fractions as part of a set using concrete materials. The grade 4s did a strategy lesson, where the used modeling as a strategy to solve problems involving fractions.
We ended the day working on language. the children practiced writing thank-you letters and addressing envelopes. They will write a language test on Monday to show what they know.

Homework & Reminders:

• Please return report card comment pages if you haven't already. I will make a copy for our records and return them to you ASAP.
• Return student binders and portfolios
• MMS 3 p. 150 & 151
• Arithmetic p. 147 & 148

Fractions

Our Easter-Spirit Day began with an egg-and-spoon race as a house game. Well done to Kappa for being the overall winners. Students recognised as being thinkers received their awards this morning during convocation.
For our inquiry into how our country organises itself, we spent time working on our 3-D maps of Canada, adding the Arctic and Canadian Shield regions. We also read from the book All About Canada to become more knowledgeable about our country.
The children attended gym, drama, and French class today. They wrote this week's spelling test and worked on arithmetic speed drills.
In math, grade 3s continued learning about fractions. They learned that sharing equally is an important part of understanding fractions. They practiced dividing whole figures into equal parts and naming the fraction parts. The grade 4s completed the lesson they started yesterday, where they found the fraction of a set using objects and pictures.
We ended the day listening to Zain present his Mood Machine project.

Homework and Reminders:

• Sign and return spelling test
• Report cards, portfolios, and student binders are coming home today - please take time to review all 3 documents, complete the comments page of the report card and return to school on Monday. I will make a copy of the comments page and then send the report cards back home.
• MMS 3 p. 146 & 147
• MMS 4 p. 120 & 121
• Look out for the SJA student newspaper coming home today 
• Some children will be receiving child-care statements today

Have a wonderful long weekend everyone!

Regions of Canada

We continued our inquiry into how Canada is organised. Today the children reviewed the 6 regions we learned about yesterday as well as the landforms associated with each regions. They then used their knowledge and play dough to construct a 3-D map of Canada. The moulded the play dough into high jagged mountains in the Cordilleras and lower rounded mountains in the Appalachians. They used yellow peas to represent the Interior Lowlands and green peas to represent the lowlands. The children had a lot of fun with this activity. We will continue working on our 3-D maps tomorrow and as we learn more about Canada through this unit.
The children attended gym, music and French class today.
In math, the grade 3s wrote their Mathematica Competition practice test. They then began a new unit on fractions. They reviewed what they learned about fractions in grade 2. Grade 4s continued working on fractions. Today they learned how to find the fraction of a set.
We ended the day working on language. The children continued writing friendly letters and reviewing plurals and friendly letters.


Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• Wear pastel colours for tomorrow's Easter-Spirit Day

The Physical Regions of Canada

In our inquiry we reviewed what we had learned about Canada yesterday and started tackling one of our big questions, "What are the regions of Canada?" The children saw beautiful photographs from all over Canada. They described landforms they observed in the photographs. They were then introduced to the 6 geographical regions of Canada. The class then made mountains, plains, snow, rock, and lowlands to add to our big classroom map of Canada's regions. Ask your child to name the 6 regions and to describe some of the landforms found in each region.
The children attended gym and French class today.
In math, the grade 4s continued learning about fractions. We focused on fraction benchmarks in today's lesson. The children compared fractions such as 2/3, 3/8, 7/8, 1/6, 5/6, and 1/8 to 0, 1/2, and 1. The grade 3s  continued writing their assessment piece.
We ended the day reviewing and writing friendly letters. We took time to review punctuation and spelling list 25.

Homework & Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 4 p. 118 & 119
• Tomorrow is Casual Day
• Polo shirts may be worn after the Easter weekend

Back to School

We began our third term with a realisation of of how little school there is left before summer holidays. The children understand that they need to stay focused in order to complete the remaining part of our program before the holidays.
We began a new inquiry unit today. This unit falls under the transdisiplinary theme How we organise ourselves. The central idea and lines of inquiry have tricky words that we do not understand yet. The children began the unit sharing what they know about our country Canada and how it is organised. They shared that Canada is the second largest country in the world and that our capital is Ottawa. The children shared questions they have about how Canada is organised. They want to know what regions are, how many provinces and territories there are, and what economics and cultural influences there are in Canada?
The children attended gym, music and French class today.
We began work on spelling list 25. This week's spelling test will take place on Thursday as Friday is a public holiday.
In math, the grade 3s worked on an assessment piece that shows what they have learned so far this year. The grade 4s began a new unit on Fractions and Decimals. They reviewed fractions and the vocabulary associated with fractions. Ask your child to explain what a numerator and denominator are. The used coloured squares to construct a quilt, recorded the quilt and then used fractions to describe the parts of the quilt. They answered practice questions to show their understanding of fractions.
We ended the day working on language. We reviewed parts of a friendly letter and punctuation. Children who completed their work got time to read in class.

Homework and Reminders:

• Spelling list 25
• Sign and correct spelling list 24
• MMS 4 p. 116, 117
• Map work - label Canada in the World and Canada in North America maps. Colour Canada in red pencil

Spirit Day

Our day began with convocation, where all the children participated in a race where they had to link hands and pass a rope along their line by stepping through the rope but not letting go of each other's hands. The race was very close with Kappa coming in first and Theta coming in second. We did it again with a team of only six people where the stakes were much higher. Well done again to Kappa for first place and Theta for second place.
Back in class, we set up the small gym room for our special reading buddy time. We put out a couch, bean bags, and carpets and then placed our mood machines between the furniture. We went to pick up our reading buddies from their class and took them to a very cosy looking room.  The mood machines definitely did the job of creating a mood in the room. This activity was also a good way of testing whether the mood machine's light was bright enough to read by. This time was enjoyed by everyone.
Back in class, we spent time reflecting on what we have learned about sound. The children worked with a partner to record what they have learned. Pairs of students took turns presenting their ideas to the class. These ideas were then added to our KWL chart on sound. Next the children discussed and recorded what their favourite part of the light and sound unit was and how they showed that they were inquirers.
We then worked on spelling and language tests.
The children attended gym and French class today. 
We ended the day working on art and light. They children brought in fruit to make a still life display. We used pastels, crayons, and colouring pencils to depict our study of the fruit display. We reflected on how light enabled us to see the fruit and how colour of each fruit was the colour that was reflected into our eyes.

Reminders:

• Child Care Statements coming home today (sorry - I forgot to send them home yesterday)
• Lunch Forms are coming home today
• School receipts are coming home with some students today

Have a wonderful March Break everyone!

Mood Machines

What an exciting day! The children spent most of the day showing their Mood Machines, while describing their building procedure and problem solving process, as well as how they applied about what they learned about light during our inquiry..
The children attended gym, drama and French class.
In math, the grade 3s wrote their motion geometry unit test. The grade 4s wrote an assessment piece piece to show their knowledge on concepts we will be learning about next term.
We ended the day with more Mood Machine Show and Share.

Homework and Reminders: 

• Spelling lists 19-23
• Study language p. 60 - 76
• Child Care Statements are coming home today
• Remember that tomorrow is St/ Patrick's Spirit Day - wear green and white

Telephones

In our sound inquiry, we reviewed what we did in yesterday's lesson. The children enjoyed hearing all the different sounds our instruments made. Today we wondered if we could make a telephone system using what we know about sound and the materials in the classroom. The children were confident they could accomplish this task. They had lots of fun testing out their telephones. Some pairs even had crossed lines and could hear each others' messages.
In language we reviewed contractions, synonyms, antonyms, and homonyms in preparation for Friday's language test.
The children attended gym, music and French class today.
In math, grade 3s reviewed motion geometry concepts for tomorrow's test, and grade 4s wrote their transformational geometry unit test.
We ended the day working on report card comments, filing away completed units, and independent reading.

Homework and Reminders:

• MMS 3 Study Motion Geometry unit
• Study language p. 60-76
• Mood Machine: Complete Lights in your community p. 16, Bring in your Mood machine tomorrow as well as the written package you have completed

Shapes and Sounds

In our inquiry into sound, we wondered if the shape of an instrument affects its sound? The children were challenged to share their knowledge of who Alexander Graham bell was and what made him famous? The children shared and recorded their ideas of how shape may affect sound.  They then used string, water, and various-shaped and sized to discover if and how shape affects sound. Ask your child to tell you what they discovered today?
In spelling, the children finished off their review work of spelling lists 19 to 23 and completed their agendas. The attended gym, drama, and french class today.
In math, the grade 4s continued working on their review work in preparation for tomorrow's unit test. The grade 4s explored symmetry of figures. They used Miras to see if the figure and it's reflection coincide to check for lines of symmetry.
In language we reviewed synonyms and antonyms. The children shared their ideas of what homonyms are. They checked the definition of homonyms to check if their ideas were correct. They practiced writing homonyms to show their understanding. We ended the day with the children reflecting on what they have learned this term.

Homework & Reminders

• Review spelling lists 19 -23
• MMS 3 p. 144-145
• MMS 4 Study for tomorrow's unit test
• Mood Machine - Reflection p. 15

Strings and Pitch

We began our day with language. We learned that synonyms are words that have the same or similar meanings. The children practised matching and writing synonyms. The also worked on reviewing spelling lists 19, 20 and 21. This week's spelling test will cover lists 19 to 23. The also wrote an arithmetic test and worked on their agendas.
They attended gym, music and French class today.
In math, grade 4s reviewed concepts we have learned in transformational geometry in preparation for Wednesday's unit test. Grade 3s worked on motion geometry. They learned that a reflection is when the image is flipped over a mirror line. The figure and its image are congruent, the same distance from the mirror line and face opposite directions.
We ended the day with our inquiry into sound. Today we wondered how we could improve the pitch of the strings on the guitar we built. We examined 3 stringed instruments, the guitar, violin and ukulele. The children noted the relationships between the thickness, length and tension of the strings and the pitch the strings produced. They used this information to record how they could improve the pitches of the strings on the guitars they built last week.

Homework and Reminders

• Spelling lists 19 - 23
• MMS 3 p. 142, 143, Test on Thursday
• MMS 4 - Study Transformational Geometry unit, test on Wednesday
• Mood Machines-Complete How it Works, p. 14, Machines due Thursday
• Spelling and language tests on Friday
• Friday is Spirit Day - wear green and white

Guitar Building

We began our day working on building guitars out of materials that we had collected. Some children even managed to make changes to their strings (rubber bands) so that they produced different pitches. The children took time to record their work as a drawing and to reflect on how they could improve their design.
The children attended gym  and French class today.
They wrote their list 23 spelling test. Tests are coming home today. Please take time to review the test with your child, sign it, and return it to school on Monday. They also worked on speed drills today.
In math, the grade 3s learned about rotations. They used a clock face to help them understand that when a figure rotates, it's image is congruent but may move to a new position in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around a turn centre, similar to the hands of an analog clock. The grade 4s practised a strategy called "working backwards" to solve word problems. The children can apply this strategy to problems in many walks of life.
We ended the day with a slice of history. The children learned about the Dutch in the New World. Ask your child to tell you about this time in history.
Right at the end of the day, we had a convocation where we heard the results of the Oral Competition. Congratulations to Braeden for first place, Carter for second place, Rachel for third place, and Abel for fourth place in the grade 3 poetry competition. Congratulations to Lara for first place, Shannon for second place, and Kunsh for third place in the grade 4 expository speech competition.

Homework and Reminders:

• Sign and return spelling tests coming home today
• MMS 3 p. 140, 141
• MMS 4 Study for Wednesday's unit test on Transformational Geometry
• Mood machine - test, revise, and retest your mood machine. Complete p. 12 & 13 of your package

Oral Competition

Today was the day of our annual SJA Oral Competition. We spent much of our morning as an audience for the finalists from JK to grade 8 who presented their poems and speeches. Well done to all for their presentations and to the audience for being respectful while listening to others. We look forward to hearing the results tomorrow.
The children attended drama class with Mrs. Henein and French class with Mme. Stella.
In math, the grade 3s practiced drawing pictures as a strategy to solve problems. The grade 4s used transformations to create a pattern in a line or over an area. They are using math vocabulary to describe their transformations.
We ended the day working on grammar and arithmetic practice.

Homework & Reminders:

• Review English and French spelling lists for tomorrow's tests
• MMS 4 p. 114, 115
• Arithmetic p. 145,146
• Mood Machine - Build and test your machine

Making Guitars

In our inquiry into sound, we took time to review our last two lessons. The students discussed their results and came to the conclusions that the longer the object is that vibrates, the lower the pitch and the shorter the object that vibrates, the higher the pitch.
Today, we wondered how we can make a guitar out of the materials we have collected. The students reviewed the inquiry process for a task such as this. They are using science books about sound and pictures of guitars as resources for building ideas. They began working on building their guitars today.
Students attended gym, music and French class today.
In math, grade 4s used Microsoft Office Word to make transformations. They experienced the frustrations and successes of doing something new with computer software. They used the program to format a grid, select and copy figures, colour the figure and then transform the figure using rotations and reflections. The grade 3s learned how to slide a figure along a grid using Pattern Blocks.
We ended the day working on grammar and arithmetic practice.

Homework and Reminders

• Review spelling list for Friday's test
• MMS 3 p. 138, 139
• Arithmetic p. 143, 144
• Mood Machine - build and test your machine
• The SJA annual Oral Competition begins at 9 am tomorrow. Parents are welcome to attend

Pop Music

Our inquiry into sound centered around the question, "How does the amount of water in a container affect its pitch?" We used 6 empty pop bottles and poured incrementally increasing amounts of water into each. The children made predictions about which would have the highest pitch if we used the bottles as a percussion instrument. The children discussed what would vibrate and cause a sound when the bottles were struck. They carried out the test and recorded their observations. They then repeated this process, but this time the bottles were used as a wind instrument. Ask your child what they learned today.
The children attended gym and French class today.
They worked on spelling list 23 in preparation for Friday's spelling test. In arithmetic, they continued working to solve measurement problems. A number of children completed all their arithmetic in class - well done!
In math, grade 4s parctised making and recording rotations using Pattern Blocks. Ask them to explain how they know that a figure and its image are rotated. They also learned that translations, reflections, and rotations are called transformations. Grade 3s began a new unit on motion geometry. They practised using coordinates to describe locations on a grid and moving items on a grid.
We ended the day practicing our grammar and reading. The children learned the rules for the correct way to use is and are.

Here are some pictures of the grade 4s exploring mass and estimation of mass.

Homework and Reminders:

• Spelling
• MMS 3 p. 136, 137
• MMS 4 p. 112, 113
• Arithmetic p. 141, 142
• Mood Machine - work on building the machine
• Bring in a clean 500 mL cottage cheese container and/or a 1 L yogurt container for tomorrow's science lesson
• Grade 3s,, get your measurement unit test signed
• Grade 4s, get your measurement unit problem signed
• Scholastic order forms are coming home today for those who would like to order - orders are due Friday
• Tomorrow is Casual Day

Vibrations and Pitch

We began our day continuing with our inquiry into sound. Today we wondered if vibrations affect the pitch of a sound? The children made their hypotheses to answer this question. They were then supplied with materials and had to design an investigation to test their hypothesis. The children shared the ideas they had for their test design with the class. They explained how they ensured the test was fair and what they would measure. They used a table to record their data - both qualitatively and quantitatively. Tomorrow the children, will share with the class if their data supports their hypothesis.
Grade 3s and 4s attended gym, music and French class today.
They worked on list 23 spelling words and agendas.
In math, the grade 3s wrote their unit test on measurement. The grade 4s continued with their unit on transformational geometry. They reviewed what a line of symmetry is. Ask your child to explain symmetry to you. Check to see if they use the term coincide in their explanation.
We ended the day working on language and arithmetic. In language we reviewed contractions. The children showed their understanding of contractions by writing and identifying contractions. In arithmetic they practiced their 8 times multiplication table.

Homework & Reminders

• Spelling - List 23 & Francais spelling
• MMS 4 p. 110, 111
• Arithmetic p. 139, 140
• Mood Machine - start building your machine
• Bring in a clean 500 mL cottage cheese container and/or 1 L yogurt container 
• Wednesday is Casual Day
• Thursday is the Oral Competition at 9 am. Parents are welcome to attend

Speech Competition

Much of our morning was taken up by drama rehearsals and the speech competition. We joined Ms. Chin's class in the small gym so that students could experience saying their speeches from the stage. It was a tough decision again, as the grade 4s did a great job and writing and presenting their first expository speech. Well done to all. Congratulations to Lara, Shannon and Kunsh for being selected to go onto the final competition next week Thursday.
We did manage to get some work done in class. The children wrote this week spelling test, and worked on arithmetic speed drills. Unfortunately I did not have enough time to mark the spelling tests in class today. They will come home on Monday.
In math, the grade 3s continue to review measurement concepts in preparation for next Monday's test. The grade 4s explored reflections using geoboards, geobands and mirrors.
We ended the day with finishing off a history lesson lesson we began awhile back on the first Thanksgiving.

Homework and Reminders

• MMS 3 study measurement unit for Monday's unit test
• MMS 4 p. 108, 109
• Bring in a empty, clean 500 mL cottage cheese and/or 1 L yogurt container (or a container of similar size) for next week's inquiry into sound
• See everyone at the Gala on Sunday

The Human Ear

The children reported their findings on sound in space. We agreed that we had to specify whether a person was in a spaceship or outside a spaceship, and if they were outside the spaceship, were they inside or outside their space suit. And.. if they were outside their spacesuit they would be dead by freezing and other grizzly descriptions best left in the classroom. But, if hypothetically, we could be outside the spaceship and suit and still be alive, the class agreed we could not hear sound. What sticklers for detail!
Today we wondered how humans hear. The children shared what they already know about human hearing. The knew that there is an ear drum involved in hearing and that nerves are responsible for getting messages to the brain, and that finally the brain interprets the signals. The children were then challenged to do some independent reading to discover more about human hearing. They learned some interesting new vocabulary such as cochlea and semicircular canals. They also drew pictures of the outer, middle and inner ear. They were grossed out to find out about the thousands of hairs we all have in our cochleas. Ask your child to describe how human hearing works to you.
Students are asked to bring in a  500 mL cottage cheese container and 1 L yogurt container (or other containers similar in size) for next week's inquiry into sound.
The children attended drama class next.
After drama, the children completed the arithmetic test they began yesterday and then spent time working on this week's spelling list.
After French class, the grade 3s did review work to prepare for the measurement test they will be writing on Monday, February 25. The grade 4s learned about translations and how to justify a movement as a translation and describe the translation in two moves.
We ended the day with the grade 4s rehearsing their speeches and the grade 3s finishing off their spelling work.

Homework & Reminders

• English and French spelling tests tomorrow
• MMS 3 - Study for Monday's math test
• MMS 4 p. 106, 107
• Memorise speeches
• Mood Machine - start collecting materials
• Photo permission forms that should have been in the reregistration packages are coming home today
• Bring in a clean 500 mL cottage cheese container and 1 L yogurt container (or other container of similar size) for next week's sound lesson 

What a Kazoo!

Our inquiry into sound was a very noisy one this morning. The children discovered through reading, that sound is a form of energy. They made connections between light and sound - they are both forms of energy and both travel in waves. The children wondered if sound  also travels in a straight line like light? We are trying to think of a way to test this question. They learned that sound travels through matter (gas, liquid and solid). What about space? Can sounds be heard in space? The children will be reporting their findings tomorrow.
Using their knowledge of vibrations causing sounds, the children made a kazoo. They tested their kazoos in class for LOUDNESS and softness. They could feel the tissue paper vibrating as the blew into the kazoo. We ended our lesson with an enthusiastic class performance of O' Canada on the kazoo. The kazoos are coming home today so families can enjoy some of the noise too ;-).
 The children had drama instead of gym today to help them get prepared for our Gala this Sunday.
In arithmetic, the class wrote a test, but due to the extended drama time we did not get done. The children will be given more time in class tomorrow to finish the test up.
Next up was music and then French class.
In math, the grade 3s are still exploring mass, the units of mass, and instruments used to measure mass. The grade 4s began a new math unit on transformational geometry. Today they made a map while working alone or with a partner. They then had to come with a system to locate the places and features on their maps. Every one used a coordinate system on their maps. We spent the rest of our lesson using coordinates to locate places on grids.
We ended the day with the grade 3 poetry contest. I am glad that Ms. Lopez came to help with the judging because the grade 3s were awesome. What a tough job having to choose between this group of children. Congratulations to all for your enthusiasm and commitment. The following children have been selected to move on to the final competition - Rachel, Braeden, Carter, and Abel. The grade 4s had some time at the end of the day to work on memorising their speeches.
A few children have shown me the plans for their Mood Machines and have received my feedback on their ideas so far. Today's homework is to compile a list of all the materials you will need to build the Mood Machine.

Homework & Reminders

• Can you hear sound in space?
• spelling
• MMS 3 p. 134, 135
• MMS 4 p. 104, 105
• Memorise those speeches
• Mood Machine - complete p. 11 (materials list)
• lunch forms are coming home today
• There will be a Francais spelling test on Friday

What Causes Sound?

Students wrote their test on light first thing in the morning. Tests are coming home today. Please review the test with your child, sign it and return it to school. Students should keep working on their mood machines. They need to complete p. 9 and 10 (restating the problem and planning) by tomorrow.
We continued with our inquiry into sound and we wondered what causes sound. The children recorded many possible reasons that cause sound. They then used a tuning fork to discover what indeed does cause sound. Ask your child to describe the investigations they conducted with a tuning fork, salt grains, and water. At the conclusion, all were in agreement that tiny movements (vibrations) cause sound.
We continued working on review work in arithmetic. We also began spelling list 22 today.
The children attended gym and drama class today.
The class had an extended drama class today to prepare them for the Gala event happening this Sunday.
In math, grade 3s learned about mass and the units we use to measure mass. Grade 4s tackled a unit problem to show the skills and understandings they have gained in our measurement unit. Grade 4s are also bringing home their Measurement Unit test. Please review the test with your child and then sign and return the test.
We ended the day working on speeches and poems. We got to hear the remainder of the grade 4s speeches and all the grade 3 poems today. Grade 4s now need to focus on memorising their speeches. Grade 4s have an additional day to practice as the in-class competition has been moved to Friday. The grade s in-class competition takes place tomorrow. All the best grade 3s!

Homework & Reminders

• Sign and return science tests
• Spelling list 22
• MMS 3 p. 132, 133
• Arithmetic p. 137 & 138
• Keep working on poems and speeches
• MMS 4 - sign and return test
• Mood Machine -complete p. 9 & 10