AC Fourth Grade

Week of March 2nd


This week began with some work on ethical decision making around interrupting and practicing math facts. While working through these scenarios, students came up with a useful chart describing times that it is appropriate to interrupt and times it is not. For example, when one person speaks out, often it snowballs into others talking out leading to a chaotic mess. However, if someone was speaking inappropriately, it would be a good time to interrupt them and let them know to stop. In addition, we talked about math facts and why we should even learn them. Many students felt they were necessary as a life skill, but struggled to give examples of when they would use this skill outside of their job (if they were a cashier only). It would be beneficial to speak out loud about times you are using math in your everyday lives to show students that it is in fact necessary on a daily basis.
This week students began interviewing small businesses for their design thinking project. The two groups that went out this week did a wonderful job. Once all businesses are interviewed, we will be writing a persuasive essay describing why some of these smaller businesses should be considered when voting for the “Top 20 Places to Take Kids in Rochester”.

Students continued reading their new book club books this week. They did a wonderful job talking with one another about their books. Many students have had a blast acting out different chapters to aid in their comprehension of the stories they are reading.

The math concept of area and perimeter was challenged this week using a roll of toilet paper. Students worked with a partner to make the largest area and longest perimeter they could. It is apparent that they still struggle with this concept when presented out of a worksheet context. After we review the skill, we will try another project to enhance their learning about this.

Next week we will begin the discussion for Entrepreneur Day. Expect some information to be coming home with your kids next Monday!