Welcome Back!!!

Announcements:

• One student from each class was selected as a student leader to attend the My World Conference (this year's theme is Sustainability)
• Students who missed this week are encouraged to try to solve the two Math Talks posted below and fill in the Math talks template posted below for each problem

Math:

Students jumped right back into Math routines on Thursday. We began by warming up with Fractions word problems. 

Math Talks were also introduced for the first time on Thursday. These activities allow students to develop their ability to explain their thinking when problem solving in a safe setting where there is no right or wrong way to reach a solution. They inspire an open-mindedness towards Math thinking and help students build confidence in their Math understanding.

The class Math Talks will be regularly added to the attached presentation. You can already view the two questions from last week. 

The problem in the picture on the right is the Day 2 Math Talk: "What percentage (and/or fraction) of the square is red?"

Students were encouraged to write or draw as much of their problem solving as possible in the Math Talks template attached. In order to solve this problem they need to figure out how to make equal parts to compare the different colored shaped. After a period of independent problem solving, they then have the opportunity to listen to their peers' thinking. If this helps enhance their understanding they are welcome to add to their solution. There are many "right" ways to reach a solution and the three selected students each day may approach their solutions in unique ways. This process will hopefully expand each student's problem solving strategies and communication skills.

Students will receive a mark for Stem 5 for Math Talks based on the effectiveness of their communication. Students can receive a 4 for expressing their ideas clearly, using Math vocabulary and concepts, whether or not their solution is completely correct.

We also reviewed their Fractions Assessment from before the break and students were given the opportunity to ask questions and correct any misconceptions they had. 

Science:

Students reviewed Planet Earth Unit Science concepts from before the break and identified concepts and terminology that remain unfamiliar. 

We also discussed the tests used to identify minerals including colour, streak, breakage (cleavage or fracture), hardness (Mohs Scale) and Lustre. We will review these terms on Monday before we have the opportunity to do the Minerals Lab. This is a very fun and challenging hands-on activity that will last both periods on Monday. 

Students who missed class or would like to be extra prepared for the lab are encouraged to learn about mineral testing. Note: This video shows many of the tests we will be using, although there are some differences between the methods used in the video and those used in class. It is still a good introduction to the various mineral tests.

Question of the day: Why is colour alone an inadequate test to determine the type of mineral?