This week was another wild and wonderful one in grade 6 and in 6B in specific!
We spent more time this week exploring and identifying the ways in which we can create amazing writing, by expanding our list of sentence starters to include the 'phrase' starter. This starter takes advantage of our old friend the preposition to create a bigger 'hook' for our sentence (draws our reader into what we are writing). Then we used this tool to create a composition about our favorite Christmas decoration or tree ornament. Working from memory, the kids were to describe their favorite ornament and why it was so special. I am looking forward to reading what they decided on! Meanwhile in reading we are working on wrapping up our medieval Christmas unit.
In social studies, Mr. Nardella continues to guide our group through the ins and outs of the provincial government. This week in particular we looked at the creation of a bill and the election process. We are all appreciative of the processes that go into ensuring our government works to represent the interests of the people of Alberta.
In science, we are finishing up on our Evidence and Investigation unit. In particular this week we covered fabric analysis, handwriting analysis and dye chromatography. I have also handed out a study sheet for the unit test next week to help guide the students in their preparation for the test.
In CE we had a great discussion around different stories to do with Jesus and the questions they raise in our heads. This lead to a great discussion talking about the Jewish identity and how anti-Semitism works and what it can lead to. I was very impressed with the level of thinking going on around this topic.
Finally, I wanted to make a quick note about the hampers and class gift exchange. The hampers are located in my room and I have sent home a complete list of the items we are collecting. As a class we divided up the list to ensure that we have some of everything coming in, and also to ensure that no one was bringing in more than could be afforded. However, if you desire to bring items, including gifts not on the list, above and beyond the amount your child volunteered for, you are welcome to do so, though it is not an obligation at all. While the gift exchange is something that the students wanted to do, and was organised by them. I did put a cap on the spending at $10, but I encouraged the kids to think about personal things they could do (baking, in particular, is always appreciated by others). Again, the intent of this is not to lay another financial burden on an already expensive time of year, but to have fun and continue to build community.
Have a great weekend and don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or comments.
