Next Week: We will begin our new unit on fractions. This week, we are focusing on representing decimals, using models and explaining the relationship between decimals and fractions. We will also explore representing a fraction and a mixed number as a sum of fractions and decomposing a fraction into smaller fractions with the same denominator.   

Texas Standards Covered:

4.2G Relate decimals to fractions that name tenths and hundredths. 4.3A Represent a fraction a/b as a sum of fractions 1/b, where a and b are whole numbers and b > 0, including when a > b. 4.3B Decompose a fraction in more than one way into a sum of fractions with the same denominator using concrete and pictorial models and recording results with symbolic representations.     

This Week : We covered solutions. Solutions are a type of mixture where the matter is spread out evenly (mixtures = fruit salad, while solutions = iced tea). We explored and experimented with different types of solutions and how to create and separate them into their parts. Vocabulary words we worked with are "mixtures, solutions, dissolve, filter, and separate". 

Next Week : We will learn about the conservation of matter and mass in mixtures/solutions. Matter cannot be created of destroyed, therefore the mass of all matter that is added to mixtures will remain in the mixture unless action is taken to remove it. We have a learning game planned to show that mass is retained even in solutions (Thursday).

This Week : We explored and discussed Native American culture by region (including pottery, homes, leaders), their governmental systems, major economic/trade factors, and used diagrams to compare and contrast our findings. 

Next Week : We will discuss the influence of European settlers on Native American Life and Culture. We will talk about major changes that happened to Native Americans in the wake of westward expansion.