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Math Talks and Read Alouds

In Math, we have been discussing and working on problems related to 1 000 000. We are trying to make sense of large numbers (i.e. understanding magnitude).

The class has bought in amazingly well to the concept of Math Talks and respecting each others' understanding and strategies. The students have been listening to myself and each other to build upon their own understanding and they have been taking risks by sharing even if unsure of the correctness of their answer.

In Language, I have been reading a novel called "Dunk" by David Lubar. Reading an engaging book aloud to the class allows me to model how 'good readers' read and think about texts. I am able to provide mini-lessons and emphasize different reading strategies (e.g., making connections, visualizing) in order to help students better understand how to improve the quality of their reading responses when done independently.

It is very exciting to be part of rich discussions and observe meaningful dialogue between students.

Week One Complete

We survived the heat at the beginning of the week, engaged in a variety of back-to-school-back-into-the-routine-of-things activities, and made it to Friday!

Thanks 6-1 for being such a nice group of students to teach and get to know!

No homework this weekend, so enjoy your couple of days and we'll see each other again on Monday.

Take care :)

Great start, great students

Aside from the excruciating heat, it has been a great start to the school year. This is thanks in great part to the tremendous group of students in 6-1. They quickly listened to and followed closely to classroom and school expectations and as a result, we have already had many rich discussions.

They've demonstrated respectful behaviour towards their teachers, and especially towards one another. Ideas shared during different start-of-school activities have been on point and frequently insightful.

To cap off a great start... When I walked into the class following an outdoor duty today, the entire class were at their desks reading silently. I am one very proud teacher!

Summer break is over and school begins!

By now, many of you have learned that you will be in my class this year. I am very excited and looking forward to seeing you all again, building on what I already have learned about you as your hallway neighbour last year.

I've already been planning out the year, but look forward to your input to make your year in grade 6 exciting, beneficial, and memorable.

I hope that you are as energized for the year as I am!