Math Problem Solving, Andy Acid and a New Friend

Today we welcomed our newest classmate.  She is going to be a great addition to our group!

This morning, I introduced the boys and girls to our math programs.  We began by working together in the Problem Solver series.  This program breaks down and targets one of ten strategies for solving math problems in each of its lessons.  This week's focus was on the strategy, “Use Logical Reasoning.”  The students worked well together to identify each clue and to solve the problem.  

Next, I introduced them to the TOPS (Techniques in Problem Solving) Math program.  TOPS is a challenging, individualized program that allows students to progress at their own pace.  As the students learn each of the 10 Problem Solver strategies, they will build their personal "toolbox" of skills and be better equipped to solve their TOPS Math cards.  Your child will have an opportunity to show you their TOPS Math work at our Oct. 2nd, SAGE Open House.

Today the students met our 2nd Quirkle Scientist, Andy Acid.

As a part of our experiment, the students used litmus paper to test lemon juice and a baking soda water solution to see if they were an acid or base.  

We moved through the scientific process, recording our hypothesis, observations and conclusions.  We also had an opportunity to discuss what a chemical reaction is.  

Anastasia shared that sometimes her stomach hurts after she eats.  She called it a "tummy bubble."  This was a perfect real world problem that could be explained by the carbon dioxide created during the chemical reaction between the baking soda and lemon juice.

Next, we reviewed our procedures for using our Exploratory centers and how to keep our Exploratory learning contract up to date.  The students rotated between their center tasks and typing last week's rough draft of their, "Take a Closer Look at Me Poem."  They did a great job on both!  The poems will be on display at our fall Open House.

Rotation D, Our 2nd Week of Exploratory on PhotoPeach

Next we spent time discussing our classroom rules:

1. There is no such thing as a dumb question or answer. 
2. This is a safe place to try new things.
3. It’s okay to say, “I don’t know.”
4. If you don’t understand, ask.
5. If you still don’t understand, ask again.
6. Be respectful of other peoples’ feelings and ideas.
7. It’s okay to disagree– try explaining your ideas.
8. It’s okay to be yourself, originality is in!
9. None of us are perfect.
10. This is a safe place to make mistakes- jump in a give it a try!

I am confident the boys and girls will find success with these rules.

At the end of our day, we looked at some of the comments that have been posted by our Quadblogging friends.  This week, our blog is the focus for our group.  The classes from Gisborne, New Zealand, Formby, England and Norwich, England are stopping by our blog to see what we are learning and to leave a comment or two (or five or six!)  

The D day students addressed the comment from our new friends, Miss Grant & the boys and girls at St. Luke's School.  Each day, our different classes will read and respond to the comments left on our blog by our Quadbogging friends.  Take a moment to read some of their comments on It's Our Turn.  If you and your child have a little time, go and visit each of their blogs.  They would love your complimentary comments too.

Have a great week!