What's up in math and science?

I apologize that you haven't heard from me in awhile...

We have been busy working on a lot of great stuff at school.

Science -- We recently wrapped up our unit on Variables in science, and have been using the time between units to focus on using the RACE strategy for answering questions and writing responses in a clear and complete way. Students are practicing with a variety of high-interest articles, and using it mostly for science responses at this point, but it is a strategy that can be used when answering questions in many contexts. Students are asked to Restate the question in their answer, Answer it, Cite where the evidence came from, and Elaborate or Extend their answers to provide more information. The math and science teachers at Creek worked together to create a rubric that would help students understand what a quality RACE answer looks like, and as a method for students and teachers to assess responses. After much teacher modeling and guided practice, students have begun using the strategy to answer questions with partners, and practicing using the rubric to self-score. On a science assessment completed this week I noticed a huge increase in the quality of written responses. Our learning is making a big difference!

Math -- In math students have been working on geometry. They have been busy using protractors to measure angles, compasses to draw circles and construct congruent line segments, and identifying polygons by their attributes. Here are some key vocabulary terms and concepts:

congruent - same size and shape
vertex- point at which the rays of an angle meet
adjacent angles - share a common side, and a common vertex (add up to 180 degrees)
vertical or opposite angles - share a common vertex, but no common sides (vertical angles are congruent)
equilateral triangle - all sides and angles are congruent
isosceles triangle - at least two sides and angles are congruent
scalene triangle - no congruent sides or angles

• The sum of the angles in a triangle equal 180 degrees.
• The sum of the angles on a straight line equal 180 degrees.
• There are 360 degrees in a circle.

** Ask your child about the adjacent angle apartment story, and the vertical angle mouse story. :)

Writing -- In Mrs. Johnson's homeroom, we have been working on developing expository writing skills. Students have been practicing planning, writing engaging leads and topic sentences, and using strong word choice. At this point students have written a rough draft on a self-selected topic. Next week we will be working on revising and editing before typing a published copy.