Language
Lately in the upper elementary, spelling has been a big part of our work cycle. Most of our spelling words are chosen from the 5th & 6th grade spelling lists. Not all of our language curriculum composes of spelling, though. Cursive and grammar are also big parts of our language cycle. We’ve mainly been working on different types of pronouns, and we have been practicing correct grammar in our own sentences, too. As for cursive, we have been writing on printed poems by various authors such as Robert Louis Stevenson and Leland B. Jacobs. Reading is also a big of the UE. We choose different genres and pick a book from that genre for what we call our “book club.” The genre we picked most recently is mystery.
Spanish and Music
The last few weeks have been a busy time for music in the upper elementary. We have recently attained a new music teacher; Violet Vonder Haar. In music class we have written two songs; “billy the traveling wrench” and “No Guacamole.” Our spanish teacher, Lina Trigos, went on a work trip to Mexico, so for a time we were learning Español from Holly. we have been working on conjugating verbs.
Math
After we reviewed multiplication, we started equations involved with money. We have been working on all sorts of math, including test tube and abstract division. We have also been working on arithmetic flashcards. Later this month we will be working on fractions and proportions.
History, Science, and Geography
For the past couple of weeks we have been studying the Vietnam War,the first thanks giving, and primary and secondary sources. we have also been studying World War 1 and the “radio days” web quest. The radio days web quest requires us to work in groups as we research the impact of radio on the lives of people during the 1930’s and 1940’s. We just finished zoology lessons from the “Tree of Life” book. We have begun learning how to give a sincere apology. We have finished reviewing the 50 states.
Other News
We are sad to report that our beloved pet fish, King Leo III, is no longer with us. We had a lovely ceremony with a memorial poetry reading after the watery burial. You will be missed King Leo.