Post date: Sep 18, 2010 6:27:1 AM
Happy Friday and end of week 3!
There are at least three major things that I want to get into this time (Reader Profile, Science Experiments, and Ropes Course), each of which could be an entire email unto themselves. But in order to honor the namesake of these weekly newsletters, I'll leave the ropes course for a separate email (along with a link to video pieces I took) and I'll try to keep my hyperbolic ramblings to a minimum this time.
In English, the major assignment of the week was the "You as a Reader", or "Reader Profile" essay. On Monday morning I described the idea, gave some basic instructions to the students, read them a sample, and set them to work jotting down a few ideas. As with most assignments, there has been some class time provided for them to work independently as well as share ideas, but it is likely that some (but hopefully not most) of the work will have to be done outside of class. Although the guidelines ask for 5 to 7 paragraphs, the overall length is much less important than the overall quality. A few of the students have really given wings to this assignment and done some great writing and insightful reflection. From their existing notes (in their comp book) they should have already written a draft either on paper or word processed. By Monday I'll be asking them to have their product written onto the reading page or their sites and then to do/get some peer feedback on Monday. Perhaps you (parents) could ask to see how far your students have progressed in this series of tasks.
The science activities of the week revolved around experimental design and data collection. Almost all of the students have gotten one of their project proposals approved by me which gives them the go-ahead to start a materials list, procedure, and data collection plan with me next week. Most of the actual experiments will take place at/near home but I'm really looking forward to hearing how things went and how the data came out. The other science lessons of the week covered measurement, reading various scales, and showing them how/why to do dimensional analysis to convert units. I was very encouraged today during class to hear the "a-ha" moments descend upon some of the kids as they began to see the power, simplicity, and versatility of cross canceling units using equivalent ratios. Although the skill is quite mathy, it will be a well utilized skill for us in science all year (and hopefully beyond).
Last thing... (I just can't help it) The two main highlights of the week for me personally, were the Ropes Course and Open House night. They both drew me even closer to the wonderful people that make up DCS. Up in the beautiful and healthy redwood trees of Felton, I got to watch the kids challenge themselves, support each other, and deeply appreciate the experiences available to them. Tuesday evening was also a wonderful experience for me, even though I was nervous and only able to share just a few things with you regarding life in room 25.
Have fun this weekend and enjoy the lingering good weather.
Chris Heumann