Into December we go!

The days are getting shorter, the air is getting colder, and Christmas is on it's way.  This year is really flying by! 
We are beginning a new unit today in math.  In this unit, we will be learning about 3-D objects such as cubes, spheres, cylinders, prisms and pyramids.
The learning goals for this unit are to

• Describe, compare and sort 3-D solids according to their attributes, such as whether they roll or stack, or have curved or flat surfaces.
• Use 3-D solids in constructions
• Make skeletons to represent 3-D solids
• Use language such as pyramid, prism, face and edge to describe solids

You can help your child achieve thes goals by doing some of the following activities

• With your child, hunt for objects that are examples of cubes, rectangular prisms, triangular prisms, and pyramids.  Have your child choose two objects and tell how they are the same and how they are different.
• Gather boxes, paper-towel rolls and funnels.  With your child, take turns building different structures(for example, a tall tower or a structure using at least six objects).  Think aloud as your work so your child can listen to how you problem solve
• Have your child work with modelling clay to practise making various solids.  Ask your child how many faces, edges, and corners your child sees for each solid
• Invite your child to help put away groceries.  Talk about why you place particular packages or supplies together.

Modelling Clay Recipe
2 scoops flour (500 mL)
1 scoop salt (250 mL)
1 scoop water (250 mL)
*Combine flour and salt in a large bowl
*Add a little water at a time, mixing as you pour to form a ball.
*Knead for 7-10 minutes until dough has a smooth, firm consistency
*Add small amounts of water if necessary

Keep clay in a plastic bag to prevent drying.  When ready to use, flour hands and work space to keep the dough from sticking.  Form into desired shapes.  Join pieces together by moistening both surfaces with water and pressing together.  Let air dry for 48 hours or longer if pieces are thick.

We have been sharing our adventures with Flat Stanley. Thank you so much to all of our families for helping out with this. 
We are now beginning research projects in Social Studies.  Now that we know more about the holidays that we celebrate, it's time to learn about some other holidays around the world.  The students will be learning about Hanukkah, Diwali, Chinese New Year and Kwanzaa.  It should be a fun trip around the world without even leaving our classroom!