We shared our musical and mathematical skills and talents on Grandfriends Day. After the Temescalian’s performance singing and playing xylophones in the synagogue space next door, we returned to the classroom to share our favorite math games and banana bread we all had a hand in making.
For science we sprouted scarlet runner beans and sent the seedlings home in plantable pots for Thanksgiving Break. We have heard tales of how some of the plants are growing by leaps and bounds. If your child would like to try planting another seed there are more available in the classroom. We have also been observing cut celery regrowing in bowls of water. For Super Science and Art Julianne came into the classroom to teach us about photosynthesis and to show us artists that use this amazing process as their canvas. We are trying to make our own art with chia seeds that incorporates photosynthesis.
Lisa had many sous chefs on hand as the class came together to bake banana bread for Grandfriends Day. There is nothing like baking to integrate math and science and tastiness.
Talking turkey in math! In math we worked on figuring out the costs of different Thanksgiving ingredients. We encourage you to highlight the math in buying and preparing meals at home. Help your child get comfortable with coin sorting and counting, which lends itself to skip counting and multiplication.
We continue to learn about the situation at Standing Rock from Craig Merrick and we brainstormed ways we can help. We are collecting supplies for Craig to take with him to Standing Rock on December 9. Gear to help the Water Protectors withstand the freezing temperature are most appreciated, like hand warmers, insulated gloves, warm socks and hats, as well as insulated blankets. Canned food, first aid kits, and camping gear are also needed. We have a collection bin in the classroom and one that will soon be at the front desk. We are also discussing local connections as we learn more about the Ohlone and other native people of our area.
Stephen lead us in a fruitful conversation about sportsmanship, what it looks like, sounds like, and feels like. Next we will be coming up with action steps to make recess and outside activities even more inclusive, positive, and safe.
Other highlights from third grade . . .
We have a busy three weeks before Winter Break. Next Friday, December 9, we will be going on a field trip to the OAK Museum of CA to learn about the native people of California. Please return the permission slip and let us know if you would like to join us by this Friday. The last day before break we will have a celebration of learning first thing. Please mark your calendar and watch for an email with more information.
