We got our day off to a logical start with a Versatiles activity working on algebraic and convergent thinking.  The kids were able to do really well on this.

Algebraic Thinking:
We worked in our groups again today to learn new ways of solving equations.  Our beginner group learned "Legal Moves", which is the key to solving equations!  Our middle group continued their work on solving equations, while our advanced group learned that "Stars" are the opposite of "Xs".  So, if one of them is negative, the other is positive.

Unit Study:
We continued our Survivor research using online sources, such as the Cobb Digital Library and Webpath Express.  
We also competed in another Challenge, "Face the Cookie" with our Tribes.  The kids had a blast trying to beat this challenge and eat the cookie!  Check out the photos--too funny!

Novel Study:
We read more of our Survival Novels.  This week we reflected about how we've used knowledge from books, movies, TV, or a family or friend to help us in a tough situation.  It was a good connection with our heroes in our Survival Novels.  Then we created transformations of either a hatchet, a spear, or a dolphin, depending upon the novel.

Affective Skills:
We continued our Mindfulness Practice with Mindful Breathing.  The discussion that followed about choosing to breath and relax, rather than get upset when things go wrong, was really good!

Don't forget, our Field Trip is the week we return from Fall Break, on October 3rd.  Please make sure your child is dressed for the weather.  Your child may bring lunch from home or get a sack lunch from the cafeteria.  We will be eating at the park.

HW:  None-Enjoy the Break!
Until next time,
​Dr. Kraeger

We had a VERY short day because of testing with Grades 1 and 3.  We definitely made the most of our time with our 4th Graders today!

Unit Study:
We met with Mrs. Phillips in the Media Center to learn about Biographies of Survivors in history.  Then, we each chose at least one Survivor to read about for our Survivor Research Project.  The kids will be working on the project at school, but will be doing the reading at home.  Most should have a book today.  All the kids should have a book checked out and have started reading it by next Wednesday.  This project will be ongoing for several weeks.

Convergent thinking:
We worked on logic puzzles and analogies to stretch both our convergent thinking and our critical thinking skills.  The kids did very well with the new analogy format.  

Affective Skills:
We continued our work on Group Dynamics with a lesson on Active Listening.  We had an especially good discussion following our viewing of a short video and notetaking about this topic.  One of the big points was to really listen, not just sit with your hand raised-waiting to share what you have to say.  It sounded like some of the kiddos really got the point on that!  Great job!

We also discussed our Field Trip to Red Top Mountain on October 3rd.  Look for the Permission Slip and more detailed information through Remind today!  Please return the Permission Slip and the donation in the Payment envelope within the next week or two.

HW:  Edomod-Thank you to a classmate!

Until next time,
​Dr. Kraeger