Thursday, June 3, 2010

Math Scavenger Hunt

The mathematicians rounded out the year by learning how to use the digital cameras and then going on a math scavenger hunt around Calvert!
On the first day of this project, Mrs. Delorbe's math class and I gathered together to learn about how to use the cameras. We worked in groups of two and practiced taking photos around the room. We learned about how to hold the camera (putting the camera string around our wrist), as well as how to view previous pictures taken.

Mrs. Frederick came over from the middle school and instructed us how to use the cameras. Below are pictures of some math friends being creative!


On day two, groups of four or five friends were paired with an adult faculty or staff member and given a camera along with a list of measurement tools. Some examples of items to find on the hunt included "An object 10 paperclips long", "An object as high as your waist", as well as "An object as wide as your fist". There were ten items total on the list. Some friends walked through the hallways, into Kiddie Calvert, and over to the middle school to hunt for items on their list and then document them with a photograph. WOW! I was impressed by the teamwork and creativity on part of all of the students (and adults) involved. Nice job!
On days three and four, each group presented their photos in front of the class with help from the projector. Each team member took a turn using the pointer and describing the objects they photographed, as well as where they found each item.

What a positive way to end the year! I am proud of your hard work, math friends! Keep practicing your skills this summer!

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Temperature


The mathematicians have been extending their knowledge of measurement by using thermometers to read the temperature of various containers of water. One container was filled with water in its solid form (ice), another was warmed in the microwave, and the last container was luke warm water taken from the sink.
The students and I discussed the definition of temperature- how hot or how cold something is. We learned about the two ways to record temperature- in degrees Celcius and degrees Farenheit. Then we worked in groups to read the thermometers. Good work!

Monday, May 10, 2010

Mr. McAllister visits 6D!



Mr. McAllister visited 6D a few weeks ago. He read us FANCY NANCY AND THE POSH PUPPY and WHAT A BIG TODDLA! We enjoyed this time with you (and your Maine accent!). Come back for a visit anytime!

Anacondas!


6D has been learning about anacondas, a snake which can be found in the Amazon Rainforest in South America. It took us several days to paint our snakes and decorate each with pom poms and googly eyes. They each look a little bit different! 6D is also hard at work practicing their lines for the geography play later this month. Nice job, 6D!

Measurement


The mathematicians have been learning the following measuring words in math: inches, feet, and yards. For this project we used big paper to draw an outline of a math friend. We were sure to carefully trace with a pencil. Then we used a ruler to measure the following areas on their body: their smile, foot, ankle, pinky finger, hand, nose, and their ear. Once the measurements were taken, the friend wrote each measurement on their body outline. It was fun working in partners and learning about our friends!

Bubble Party


Our favorite student teacher, Miss Starapoli, said goodbye to 6D a few weeks ago. She had been visiting every Thursday morning. She brought in a special treat for every student as a farewell gift- bubbles! The weather was so beautiful so we decided to go outside and have a bubble party! Some comments made at this time by some 6D friends were:
"Bubbles make you happy."
"Blowing bubbles is the best part of this day!"
"You can't blow bubbles and be sad at the same time."
What a treat! Thank you, Miss Starapoli! We hope you have a great summer!


Baltimore Symphony Orchestra


The Pilot and 6th Age classes visited the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra at the Meyerhoff in Baltimore for a fabulous production at the end of April. The students enjoyed listening to a variety of songs and learning about the orchestra and instruments. Thank you, Calvert, for a wonderful morning!