Wednesday, 25 January 2012

Spelling Words January 23

Working With Bar Graphs - Focus on Scale

Hi Everyone,

Here is the bar graph we created in class today.  In grade three, students would have created a bar graph similar to this, but in grade four we are discussing the idea of selecting an appropriate scale.  This is an incomplete graph in this picture, and we will be working with it again tomorrow.

Wednesday, 18 January 2012

Writing Work Coming Home Tonight

Hello Parents,

Last week in Language Arts, each student generated four different ideas for a story using four different graphic organizers.  Each graphic organizer had pros and cons, and depending on the prewriting habits, and the style of writing of each student, each student likely prefers one over the others.

                This week, students chose one of the ideas to begin developing their stories.  With a focus on effective introductions, we looked at strategies for engaging the audience while accomplishing specific narrative goals.  The goals we focused on were: introduce the main character, show the audience the setting, and establish the mood.  Once this is complete, the author is in a good position to set the stage for the problem/conflict, and it will also add relevance to the solution later in the story.  Students will be bringing home their sample graphic organizers, and the draft of their introduction.   It would be valuable if the students had an opportunity to discuss their ideas about the characters, setting, problem and solution with you.  As well, since we are using the graphic organizers every day as a tool to support the writing process, please help to ensure the folder is returned to school the next day.

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me.
Mr. Carr