Enthusiasm and energy were high today in Target!  It was pretty interesting to see the unique ways the kids responded to to the Preamble Challenge.  That's why they need to come to Target-they're just wired differently! 

Convergent thinking:
We gave our Salad Bar logic puzzle our best try, but most need more time and perhaps a few hints to get past some obstacles.  We'll try it again next class.

Algebraic Thinking:
We made excellent progress in Hands-On-Equations today with both groups moving forward to a new lesson.  While the word problems were a bit tough at first, once the format is familiar, the algebraic part is pretty easy.  That's great!

Affective:
We watched a couple of interesting mindfulness videos on GoZen today:
Anxiety and Gratitude.  
Relationships/Connections/Research
The kids did a great job collaborating on their group posters to share what they learned about their game topic from their research.  We were impressed by the posters and the participation during the presentations.  Good work!

We read another chapter of the The Gollywhopper Games and did some analytical and evaluative thinking in our discussion groups.  Gil was faced with a tempting offer and a tough decision.  Next class, we have a SUPER big surprise planned.  The kids will LOVE it!

HW:  Edmodo-Teamwork Quote Analysis


Enjoy the Fall Break!
Dr. Kraeger

Today was a day of moving ahead in all subjects!  

Algebraic Thinking:
We reached our goal of reviewing previous Hands On Equations lessons with excellent mastery!  We've built on that by applying the knowledge to the corresponding word problems.  That is great progress!  Double sessions are paying off!

Convergent thinking:
We tried a new puzzle called "Quizzlers".  This is a puzzle based on a quote from a famous person.  The kids have to use convergent thinking and knowledge of words and phrases to solve the puzzle.  They did very well!

Focus Study-Games
The kids finished their research about games and created a plan for presenting their information to the group.  They will collaborate to create one poster and share their knowledge with the other groups.

We also had a great time participating in our own mini "Gollywhopper Games" in the computer lab.  The kids had a mini challenge with four questions about the novel.  Correct answers will be revealed on Edmodo.  

Affective:
We practiced our mindfulness with this video: Mindful Listening

HW: Edmodo-Analyze the Comic

Until next week,
Dr. Kraeger

We had a busy day of learning!  Here's the recap:
Algebraic Thinking:
Our double sessions are working as we're solving more algebra equations correctly with ease!  That's wonderful news!  Keep up the good work, kids!

Convergent Thinking:
More brain busting good work with solving logic puzzles.  They"re getting easier and easier!  That means our convergent thinking skills are ready for more challenging work!

Affective:
We continued our work on goal setting with our "Seize the Day" video.  The kids liked the video so much that after the first few stanzas, they were all singing along.  That was so much fun!

Later, we continued our mindfulness practice with this video.  Try it at home!

Focus Study:
Our study of GAMES continued with a BrainPop Video on Game Theory.  Ask your kiddo about game theory in everyday life!  Next it was on to the computer lab for some jigsaw learning, as we were searching for information about 3 different topics: Purpose of Games, History of Games, and Games in other Countries.  
We also read a bit more of our novel, The Gollywhopper Games.  Ask your child what game show I made it to the final round of tryouts.  

HW: Edmodo-Create a comic strip about a scene from chapter 6 or 7 of our book.  

Until next week,
Dr. Kraeger

One of our favorite 5th Grade Target friends is hitting the trail for Texas with her family.  Sky will be moving on to new adventures in Texas.  We'll miss her so much, but she's promised to stay in touch through Edmodo!  Sky, your future is as limitless as the blue sky itself!  We wish you the best in the Lonestar State!