We had a wonderful day of learning today!  We started with a Webquest about Cryptography where we learned the difference between a code and a cipher.  There are also some great links about Morse Code and CIA-Extra Challenging Codes to Break.  

We had a ton of fun learning a new logical thinking game called "Set" and rounded out our math time with some Halloween Cryptogram puzzles.

Later, we read more of our novel and worked on some critical thinking questions from the reading.

HW:  Finish the Cryptogram puzzles
Until next week,
Dr. Kraeger​​
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We had a busy day today!  We finished our mystery stories, created more on our October F2OE, and tackled some logic puzzles today.  We also started some very challenging "Math Muddlers" that we'll work more on next week.

We researched forensic science and DNA evidence using a webquest.  Later, we used that knowledge to help us solve "The Backpack Mystery"  The kids were very excited to read the case, identify clues, and analyze some DNA evidence to determine who was the thief!  

We finished up our day with a Kahoot! session of critical thinking questions about our novel.  The kids are getting to be pros using their devices to access Kahoot!

HW:  Watch the Mini Mystery on Edmodo

Until next week,
​Dr. Kraeger

We had a great day filled with problem solving of all sorts!

​We started off with a HARD logic puzzle about missing candy and a Perplexor puzzle.  Then we choose 2 creativity tasks to complete.  Our final station was finding challenging words from our novel to use in creating a word search.

We continued our study of fingerprints this week with a "Safecracking Mystery".  The kids analyzed the fingerprints of 5 suspects to determine the type and pattern of their prints.  Then they had to evaluate which one might match those found on the safe.  It lead to some good discussion and careful revision of work, when errors were discovered.

Our math lesson was filled with AMAZING problem solving!  The kids used great strategies to quickly and accurately solve all of the problems.

After lunch, we worked on our mindfulness practice with Hot Air Balloon Ride.  The kids really enjoy a few minutes of this relaxing and calming video.  

Our mystery story writing continued with some exciting events, great clues, and puzzling solutions!  Many are finished writing and are typing their stories or working on illustrations.  I can't wait to read them all!

Finally, we finished up with more from Mixed-Up Files.  We read about how the kids washed their clothes in the laundromat and they all turned gray and dingy.  We also learned that Michelangelo was famous in his lifetime.  The kids really enjoyed using Kahoot!  to answer critical thinking questions as we read the chapter.  TONS of fun!

HW:  Edmodo

Check out the photos below.
Until next week,
Dr. Kraeger

We started our day with some research on the history and use of fingerprints.  The kids enjoyed the challenge of finding details about how and why the police use fingerprints.  

We worked on our convergent thinking skills by working on a mystery logic puzzle and a hands-on activity called Versa-tiles.  We also used critical thinking skills to answer questions about our novel.

We worked hard on our algebraic and critical thinking skills during math today with problems involving patterns, lines of symmetry, combinations, and measurement.  One of the kids said, "This was HARD today, but a lot of fun!"
Later, we worked on forensic science with a fingerprint lab activity.  The kids learned how to create a clean print, and we also discussed the different ways police can collect fingerprints.  The kids created their own fingerprint diagram, and then identified the type of each print.   

HW:  Edmodo Question
Until next time,
​Dr. Kraeger