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Saturday, April 29, 2017

Sharing Our Lives

One of the most powerful units of fifth grade is our memoir writing unit.  Students have read numerous examples of different types of memoirs ranging from poetry to prose, sad to happy, from experiences dealing with families to experiences dealing with friends.  Each student has already written one memoir and is now raising the level of their thinking and writing a second.  I have enjoyed reading about the times in their lives that have mattered to them and helped them realize some new learning or aspect about who they are as a person.

Yesterday we had the pleasure of hearing an expository memoir that Mekhila wrote about her experiences since being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes.  The class listened intently and responded with connections and questions, which helped us learn from each other and about each other.  This is the purpose of memoir writing; to help us grow as individuals but also grow more connected to others around us everyday.

I can't wait to hear more of our stories!

Thursday, April 20, 2017

Learning in Action

This class of students amazes me.  They are so enthusiastic about their learning, and they make it really fun to come to school!  It is not unusual for them to go above and beyond the classroom expectations to pursue their passions or extend themselves in caring for others.  It's inspiring!  

We had several members of our class participate in the science fair and Max and Shaan even qualified for the Greater St. Louis Science Fair!  We certainly had a great time learning from our resident scientists when they presented their projects to the class.  What a great way to pursue your learning!


Our very own Kipp was just honored in Jefferson City for this third place Law Day Essay this week!  I was so impressed by the number of students who chose to write essays to enter in the contest!  I have never had students extend themselves like this and it was exciting to read their thinking about fairness.  Well done, Kipp!


The students have been incredibly thoughtful about our most recent mentor text for our fantasy unit, The Thief of Always by Clive Barker.  In fact, they've begun taking notes on their desks about all of their thinking while I read aloud.  Their notes were so interesting; including questions, ideas about themes, character details, and even drawings.  I had to take some pictures so you could see.  


Finally, we have launched into a final project for our discovery time: Discovery City.  In this project, students are working in teams to plan cities using math skills from geometry.  We began phase one this week.  I can't wait to see what they design!  

I am confident that all of their hard work and imagination will help them pursue even more learning beyond their time here at Captain.  It is always a special treat for me to hear how my former students are changing the world around them with their ideas.  I'm sure this group will have much to share!  :)