Last week we had some fun in math while learning how to find the median of a number. First we learned the steps of putting a set of numbers in order from least to greatest, and then identified the median by finding the middle number. Then we went to the rug to throw some bean bags. We used the data we got from each group of students to find the median number.
I'm so excited that we are back together in the classroom again! In 3rd quarter we start our science units! We began with learning about the scientific method. We discussed the steps of asking a question, form a hypothesis or prediction about what we think will happen, carrying out the experiment and making observations, and reporting the final results.
In our first experiment we asked the question, "How can we keep a banana fresher longer?" We tried three different ways. We wrapped plastic wrap around one of the stems, another was put in a brown paper bag, and a third was put in the fridge. Each student made a hypothesis about which banana would remain the freshest, or if it would even make a difference. We recorded our observations throughout the week. We found not much difference between the banana with plastic wrap around the stem and the one in the bag. They both developed small brown spots throughout the week. The banana in the fridge became browner overall in the fridge, but not necessarily spotted. Once we peeled them, we found them to be similar. The banana in the fridge did have a brown spot though. Ultimately, the class decided that the banana with the plastic wrap around the stem remained the freshest. The class felt as though all 3 bananas were still edible.
We recently learned about symmetry in math class. We looked at some images of actual snowflakes and noted the beautiful symmetry in snowflakes. Then we tried our hand at drawing our own while trying to maintain lines of symmetry in our designs. They turned out beautiful!
The 2nd graders were very excited to have their holiday party today! They requested to watch Christmas Chronicles 2, and I think the snacks were their favorite part! Wishing everyone a happy and healthy holiday season!
When December comes each year I cannot wait to get out our mailbox and start writing letters! It is so fun for the students to send out mail and receive mail. This also gives the students a very authentic purpose for their writing, and they begin writing up a storm! After the students finish a letter, they sign up for a conference. I read over every letter that goes into our mailbox. The students have learned to include a date, greeting, at least 4 sentences in the body of the letter, and end with a closing and signature. This conference time allows me to help students fix up small mistakes and discuss the spelling of new words. We'll all be sad when it's time to put our mailbox away!
We've been taking some time in our school day to make a few holiday crafts to enjoy the holiday spirit. The students worked on these cute holiday reindeer in the last few days. This is a guided drawing project, but I love how they all turn out a little different from each other!
For our second banana bingo celebration, the students voted on Comfy Cozy Day. The students wore comfy clothes and brought in blankets and stuffed animals to make their learning more cozy throughout the day. It was a perfect way to go into our nice Thanksgiving break. I hope everyone has been able to enjoy time with family over this break.
