Algebraic Thinking:
We started off strong with a Hands On Equations lesson.  Our groups are learning about Convenient Zero with Cubes and Pawns/Stars.  These are challenging concepts, which are essential to understanding the foundations of solving algebraic equations.  Our beginner group is exploring using white pawns/stars in equations.

Unit Study:
Today was our last class to work on our Game Projects.  Whew!  They put in a TON of hard work!  Can't wait to see the finished products on our Game Day-December 12th!  If you need to look at the Rubrics for the Game Project, they are available on the Target Glog-5th Grade page.  

Stations:
We used our divergent thinking skills to create wonderful solutions to our November F2OE!  The kids also combined their divergent thinking and communication skills to select favorite quotes from our novel, Ungifted.  

Novel Study:
We shared a few more of our advice letters to characters in our book.  Then we read a couple of chapters to see what unfolds for our characters.

Remember that we will not have Target on December 5th because of Gifted Eligibility testing.  We'll see the kids on Thursday, December 12th for their Projects!

No homework!  Enjoy your Thanksgiving Break!
​Dr. Kraeger

We started our day using our convergent thinking skills to solve a Versatiles.  

Unit Study:
We conducted another Peer Coaching Session for more feedback.  The kids took this pretty seriously, offering really constructive feedback to help their partner improve game play.

Algebraic Thinking:
We continued our work with Hands On Equations today.  All groups are moving ahead nicely, mastering the current level and ready for more challenge next week.

​Novel Study:
We wrote advice letters to a character from our novel.  They were so creative, with excellent voice!  Then we challenged our critical thinking skills while reading a chapter and playing Kahoot!

Affective Skills:
We created Mission Statements today.  Check them out on our Mission Statement Padlet!  Great job kiddos!  
Then, we continued our Mindfulness Practice with 2 Minute Breathing.

HW:  Edmodo-Game Project Update

Until next time,
​Dr. Kraeger

We started off with a "Waker Upper" to get those convergent thinking skills moving!  

Algebraic Thinking:
We finally jumped back into Hands On Equations to work on our algebraic thinking skills.  The kids did really well, even though it's been a while!  They're ready to move along now!

Unit Study:
The kids worked on creating their games, while conferencing with Ms. Rhone and I to determine progress, next steps, and resolve any difficulties.  We have two class periods left to work before the Game Projects are due, the week of December 9th.

Affective Skills:
We continued our work with Mission Statements by watching a Jason Mraz video, "Have It All," to inspire us.  Next, we reflected on personality and character traits, skills, talents, and goals--also steps to reach those goals!

We continued our Mindfulness Practice with a reminder about how to handle stress or frustration with "Calm Down the Amygdala".  We had a great conversation about real life situations where this strategy might be helpful!

Novel Study:
We used our convergent thinking skills to solve a "Drop Quote" about our book.  Oh, you should have heard the grumbling when we started this puzzle!  They picked up steam and solved that puzzle!  
Later, we independently read a couple of chapters in the book. to prepare for creating our own "Cheating Investigation-Interview".  The results were so funny and very clever!

HW:  Edmodo-Game Project Update

Until next time,
Dr. Kraeger