Students began the new year with completing their summary statistics for our dreidel game investigation. Using actual data generated by playing the dreidel game is a wonderful way for the students to become familiar with the concept of probability, the chance of an event happening. The students looked at the number of ways the dreidel could land and the total number of outcomes. In their groups, they figured and represented the outcome of their investigation with a fraction and a percent. We had already figured the class outcome. In their summary statements, the students listed their group outcome and compared it to the class outcome. This is a great way to highlight the fact that a probability becomes more accurate with more data.

The class had another opportunity to practice statistics with our Toy Day. After listing all the toys brought in by the students, they worked in groups to determine how best to display the answer to the question, “What type of toys did our class bring for Toy Day?” Using chart paper, three of the groups chose to represent their information using a bar graph with one group using a circle graph.

We began our formal focus on long division in small groups with an emphasis on story problems to add meaning to the process. The division rap has helped students remember the 5-step algorithm. We’ll continue to practice long division along with lattice multiplication in the interim before we revisit the algorithms in our decimal study.

As you know, one of our cypress trees came down during a storm. I used this event as an opportunity for a practical use of long division. What is the average circumference of the top trunk of our fallen tree? The students in groups of two, measured the trunk of the tree in 4 different places and recorded their findings in inches. The groups figured the average circumference using long division and then the class worked together to find the class average. Their enthusiasm was delightful!

As with the third graders, my class had guest teacher, Rachael, invited by Kenza, visit to build on last year’s lesson involving the golden ratio. The students were challenged to create a more complex mandala incorporating measuring with centimeters, using compasses, bisecting angles, and persevering.

Many of the students enjoy taking the weekly facts quiz, some would love to do it every day! Helping your child master the multiplication facts through practice at home is key to their success. I would suggest playing the game Beat the Calculator with your child to foster mastery. The kids love the game and all know how to play it.

In addition, the students have been working independently in their geometry and algebra books; balancing equations with the task cards; and practicing their logic skills through the activities of Digits and Place, Logic Pattern, Place Value, and Geometry and Logic.

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