We had a short Target Day because I was proctoring the GR3 IOWA test this morning.  The kids made the most of their time in Target!

Novel Study:
We read Chapter 16 in our book, "What a Difference a Day Makes" to find out about the results of the Sputnik launch and the end of West Computing.  

Unit Study:
We read a few articles about NASA in the news.  One was about the launch of a rocket called the "SS Katherine Johnson".  Another was about one of the first African American astronauts.  The final article was about the youngest ever astronaut, a 29 year old physician's assistant that will act as the Mission Medic. 

Stations:
We used our convergent thinking skills to solve a Fallen Phrase puzzle with a quote from Katherine Johnson.  The kids did a fantastic job, especially in collaborating to get it solved!  They used their divergent thinking to create solutions to various tasks in "Star Bright".  I love their creativity!

HW: Finish Starbright and Fallen Phrase puzzle if not already done.

Until next time,
​Dr. Kraeger 

It was a wild ride on Target Day!

Unit Study:
We viewed the Sways created by our collaborative groups to learn more about the Cold War, the Space Race, and the Civil Rights Movement.  The kids thought that each group did a great job including valuable information to share understanding.  Nice work!  Then, we discussed connections between the three events.  

Novel Study:
We read a Hidden Figures picture book focusing on the Space Race.  Then we read another chapter of our Hidden Figures novel.

Algebraic Thinking:
We used our critical thinking skills and our creativity to solve problems which helped us make our Valentine Glyph.  They turned out beautiful!

We ended our day with an opportunity for kids who had finished all their work to play Kahoot games.  Those who had work to complete had the opportunity to catch up on missing assignments.

No homework-Enjoy your February Break!

Until next time,
​Dr. Kraeger

What a wonderful day to end our week!  The kids were geared up and ready to learn all day in Target!

Affective Skills:
We discussed criticism and the difference between Constructive Feedback and hurtful Criticism.  The kids really noticed the difference after watching some Simon Cowell criticism moments from American Idol.  Ouch!  So rough!

Unit Study:
We spent time completing our research on Space Race, Cold War and Civil Rights Movement.  The kids are collaborating on shared Sway presentations.  I love the way they're helping each other and using constructive feedback to make their presentations better.

Stations:
We used our divergent thinking skills to transform a heart.  Oh my, these kids are incredibly creative!!!  Take a look at their wonderful work!
They also stretched their convergent thinking with a choice of logic puzzles to complete, either a grid style or a Perplexor.  They did a great job!

Novel Study:
We read a few more chapters in Hidden Figures.  The kids learned about a new "Hidden Figure" today and how she helped in the Space Race!

HW:  Seesaw Novel Study Question

Until next time,
​Dr. Kraeger