Learning Objectives - Week 6

Reading:

I can problem solve when what I'm reading doesn't make sense.

-How does what I already know help me to understand what I'm reading.
-Connections: text to text, text to self, text to world
 
Writing:

I can use mentor texts as models for my writing.

I can set writing goals.
Social Studies:

I can apply what I've learned about the regions of Texas to understand the impact of geography on different American Indian groups in Texas.

This week:  

• Reading log - Read 20 minutes each night (checked on Monday)
• Cursive practice homework - Due on Friday
• Words Their Way Spelling words - Practice on SpellingCity App or Spelling City - Test on Friday
• Monday - Scholars will sort their words and receive practice lists. 
• Friday - Test will include 10 words from the practice list and 4 mystery words that follow the spelling pattern.
• Students will sort their words into categories as part of the test.

The Big Dig!

We are truly humbled by the generosity and hard work that went into planning, funding, and installing Cannon's new outdoor learning garden. In the morning, our fourth grade scholars participated in creating a feature for the garden using keys, and in the afternoon, they got their hands dirty by planting a variety of seeds and plants, including mustard, blue kale, collard greens, broccoli, carrots, and peas! Thank you to all who were able to volunteer and participate in the Big Dig! We are so excited to see the growth of our scholars as they create meaningful connections with our 'Real School Garden.'

Grapevine Wastewater Treatment Plant

Today, scholars toured the Grapevine Wastewater Treatment Plant. They learned all about the chemical and filtration methods used to treat the water! At this plant, 4.5 million gallons for drinking water are treated per day. They manage two to three plants, seven filters, and four water towers that they fill up twice per day to deliver a safe and adequate supply of drinking water to Grapevine. Check out Ms. Eichinger and my pictures from our scholars touring the plant!

Lake Water Treatment

At the Grapevine and TRA water treatment plants, the lake water goes through several treatment processes where chemicals such as chlorine, ozone, alum, fluoride, caustic soda, ammonia, potassium permanganate and polymer are added to purify the water. After the water is purified, it is pumped into your homes through more than 280 miles of distribution pipelines.

Source: 2011 City of Grapevine Annual Drinking Water Quality Report

Mind Mission: Canyon Crossing

Scholars have been working to complete a design challenge that takes place in the High Plains of Texas. They did a fantastic job problem solving as a team and coming up with creative solutions to complete their mission!

Mission: Oh, no! A cow is stranded on the wrong side of the canyon. Can you build a bridge to help the cow come home to the ranch? It must be able to support the weight of a cow. Use a book for the cow.  

Materials: 8 craft sticks, 2 feet of tape, 6 notecards, 10 paper clips, 8 rubber bands, 8 straws

Scholars were scored on the length of the bridge (up to 20 points), if the bridge would support the weight of their cow (one book), if the bridge stood freely, and positive teamwork. They also completed a reflection on their structure design and use of materials.