Math - Data Management is fun!

Our entry lessons on Data Management was a lot of fun - discussing the scenario given, surveying classmates, presenting the findings, discussing the importance of surveying a sample from a large population, representing the data and analyzing it.

Before teaching the traditional algorithm of “dividing the sum of the numbers by the number of numbers in the set”, students were provided with many concrete opportunities  to calculate the mean. Hands-on activities allow them to develop a deeper understanding of the value of the mean and its relationship to the other numbers in the set. 

Testing the Bridges

How did the bridges stand up to the 500 grams challenge? Take a look!

What better way to test a structure after 500 grams was simply way too easy? Sit on it! Here is the Beam Bridge undergoing a serious challenge :-) Yes, I sat on it as well and another teacher and it's still standing!!!!

Science Bridge Challenge Part 3

Beam Bridge

More bridges .....

Truss Bridge

Science Bridge Challenge Part 2

More pictures .....

Suspension Bridge

Cantilever Bridge

Science Bridge Challenge

Continuing with our unit on Forces acting on Structures and Mechanisms, my students engaged in interactive activities that allowed them to be able to:

- identify internal forces acting on a structure (e.g., compression [squeezing], tension [stretching]), and describe their effects on the structure
- identify external forces acting on a structure (e.g., the weight of people and furniture in a classroom, wind blowing on a bridge etc.)
- use technological problem-solving skills to build and test a frame structure ( a bridge) that will withstand the application of an external force (500 grams).

Here are the pictures. I'm sure you'll agree they did an AMAZING job!

Arch Bridge

Our Thankful Tree

Bonne Année! Happy New Year!

On the first day back from the Winter Break, my students came back buzzing  with excitement about the many wonderful experiences they had during the holidays - the food, the gifts, the money, visits to loved ones etc. The best thing, however, is that they all showed a deep awareness of how privileged and fortunate they are to have had these experiences. Explicitly reminding and teaching children about gratitude is important. Learning to develop a grateful mindset gives life a new meaning and appreciation. It creates a certain stillness, peace and joy that cannot be robbed no matter the circumstances.The Thankful Tree in our classroom will serve as a constant reminder throughout the year of all our many blessings.

For 2015, I wish everyone a purpose-driven life steered by gratitude. In all things, be THANKFUL!

Our Thankful Tree :-)

“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” 
― Eckhart Tolle, A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose

“Those who have the ability to be grateful are the ones who have the ability to achieve greatness.” 
― Steve Maraboli, Life, the Truth, and Being Free

Class Christmas Concert

Here are a few pictures from our class Christmas Concert. Like all presentations, this was entirely student-led. All I did was sit back and enjoy the show :-)

Great job everyone!

Some of my boys singing "Let it go"