ELA: Here are the books we will be reading throughout the year in ELA. The summaries provided are listed in no particular order.
Iqbal by Francesco D’Adamo, Ann Leonori (Translator)
Summary: Iqbal, a young boy sold into slavery at a carpet factory, brings hope and courage to the other children who are overworked and mistreated. As Iqbal reveals the truth about their grim situation and inspires them to dream of freedom, he becomes a beacon of change. This moving story, narrated by Fatima, a young Pakistani girl, is a fictionalized account of the real-life hero, Iqbal Masih.
Sweetgrass Basket by Marlene Carvell
Summary: Through lyrical prose poetry and alternating perspectives, Sweetgrass Basket tells the story of Mohawk sisters Mattie and Sarah, who are sent to a harsh off-reservation school after their mother's death. The novel captures their struggle to maintain their cultural identity and familial bonds amidst the oppressive environment of the school. Based on true experiences, it offers a poignant look at the history of Native American children.
The Schwa Was Here by Neal Shusterman
Summary: Antsy Bonano discovers that the "Schwa," a boy so unnoticeable he’s almost invisible, can be used to his advantage in various schemes. As Antsy exploits the Schwa’s invisibility for personal gain, he learns important lessons about friendship and the impact of being overlooked. The story blends humor and heart as Antsy grapples with the consequences of his actions.
The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt
Summary: During the 1967–68 school year, seventh-grader Holling Hoodhood faces a series of challenges while spending Wednesdays with his teacher, Mrs. Baker. Forced to read Shakespeare and deal with personal and family issues, Holling grows through his experiences. This Newbery Honor-winning novel offers a witty and heartfelt exploration of adolescence against the backdrop of historical events.
Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan
Summary: Esperanza Ortega’s life is upended when she and her mother flee their affluent Mexican ranch for a farm labor camp in California during the Great Depression. As Esperanza confronts the harsh realities of her new life, she must summon inner strength to overcome prejudice and hardship, striving to build a better future for herself and her mother.
Peak by Roland Smith
Summary: After a daring climb of a New York City skyscraper lands fourteen-year-old Peak Marcello in trouble, he is given the option to live with his estranged father in Thailand or face juvenile detention. His father, who runs a climbing company, pushes Peak to attempt a record-breaking ascent of Everest. The novel chronicles Peak’s gripping and dangerous journey as he faces the ultimate challenge and uncovers deeper truths about himself.
Math : Over the course of the three trimesters, our math curriculum will cover a broad spectrum of topics designed to build a solid foundation for your child’s future studies. This year, students will explore:
Greatest Common Factors (GCF) and Least Common Multiples (LCM): Understanding how to find the GCF and LCM will help students simplify fractions and solve problems involving multiple numbers.
Exponents: We’ll delve into the concept of exponents to help students grasp the power of numbers and their applications in various mathematical contexts.
Number Systems: Students will explore different number systems, including whole numbers, integers, rational numbers, and irrational numbers, enhancing their numerical literacy.
Algebraic Expressions and Equations: We will introduce and work with algebraic expressions and equations, laying the groundwork for solving more complex problems in the future.
Inequalities: Students will learn how to solve and interpret inequalities, an essential skill for comparing values and solving real-world problems.
Ratios and Percents: Our focus will include understanding ratios and converting between ratios, fractions, and percents, crucial for tackling percentage problems and proportional reasoning.
Geometry: We will cover basic geometric concepts, including shapes, angles, and their properties, which are fundamental for spatial reasoning.
Statistics: Students will learn to collect, analyze, and interpret data, developing skills to understand and use statistics in various contexts.
Science: This year in science, students will explore a variety of topics using the Twig Science Textbook. Our curriculum includes life science, earth and space science, and physical science. Throughout the year, students will engage in scientific inquiry through hands-on labs, investigations, station activities, and assessments, which will help deepen their understanding of these key scientific concepts.