Tuesday January 10th: Math, Reading, Mini book and Skating

We began the day practicing problem solving math questions like the ones that will be on the FSA test that the students all across B.C. will be taking in a week or two. The FSA questions test not just the ability to do math but to apply it logically in an organized way. Partial marks are given for each question where the students show their thinking. There are sample test questions on line at http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/assessment/fsa/sample_responses.htm

Many students could do the math but had trouble understanding what the real question being asked was or how to approach it logically. An example of a multi step question is: The hamster makes his wheel turn once every 2 seconds. How many times will it turn in 5 minutes. A) 10 times B) 50 times C) 150 times D) 300 times. The students have to know how to find the number of seconds in 5 min before they can figure out the answer. They will then have to divide the number of seconds by 2. The students will be able to use calculators. (The answer is [60 x 5 divided by 2= 300] = [ 300 / 2 = 150]) Even though we tell the students to eliminate the obvious wrong answers and think about the question after that, many of the students gave up when they ran into a multi step problem. The actual test is quite long and I worry that many will stop trying long before they finish. Mr. D will be taking the students to the lab to practice taking sample tests.

After recess we worked on our new mini-book idea. A book based on homonyms. Words that sound the same but have different meanings. We used the book Dear Deer by Gene Barretta as a model. The students really enjoyed the humor in homonyms and homophones and quickly got to work on their book ideas. Many students dedicated their books to their mummy, or their ant. One student dedicated her book to her aunt doe. 'R' put that this book was not to be red on the cover.... Very funny and a great way to learn about language.

After lunch the students worked on their mini books or read for 20 more minutes before we headed off to skating.

Skating was an interesting activity that many of our students have never had to opportunity to try. I think it was a positive experience for everyone as no one whined or tried to get off the ice early. See you all tomorrow.

For Friday Test: A homonym is ......