Week March 14-17

Math:

This week we started chapter 1 on Patterns and equations. Students learned to fill input-output math tables following a given rule (ex. +3 or x2  or /5 ). They also practiced to find the mathematical rule when numbers in the table were given. We went a step further by doing the same exercises with a 2-step rule (ex. x3 + 2 ).

Science:

This week in ASTRONOMY we studied SEASONS in detail. Students learned about the ROTATION the Earth, its REVOLUTION (around the sun) and, most importantly, the EARTH`S TILT which is causing our seasons.

We also studied  the 6th and 7th planets of the solar system, 'Saturne' and 'Uranus'. Students completed their 'Giant Solar System Decoration Project' and we put it up on the wall in our classroom.

Week March 7-11

Math:

On Monday students wrote their TEST on chapter 5. For the rest of the week, they practiced more problem solving still involving fractions, decimal numbers, ratios and percents (see 'Problèmes - chap.5 ')  We will start chapter 1 on Patterns and Equations next week.  

Science:

This week in ASTRONOMY we studied CONSTELLATIONS more in detail (Ursa Major and Big Dipper, Ursa minor and Little Dipper, North Star, the 12 constellations from zodiac signs, and more...). We watched videos, took notes and built a STAR SEAKER in class.

We also studied  the 5th planet of the solar system, Jupiter. Students continued their 'Giant Solar System Decoration Project' on the side.

Week February 29 - March 4

Math:

This week we concluded our chap.5 with ratios. Students learned the meaning of a ratio (rapport) and practiced to solve problems using this concept. On Wednesday, the whole time was given for working on REVIEW exercises. The TEST on chapter 5 (fractions, decimals, ratios and percents) will be next Monday. 

                   

Science:

This week in ASTRONOMY we focused on the study of the 3rd and 4th planets of the solar system (starting from the sun), Earth and Mars. Students learned specific facts related to these planets, took notes, watched videos and saw images coming from 'Curiosity', the robot sent on Mars (for 3 years now).  We also continued our 'Giant Solar System Decoration Project' on the side.

We also studied more in detail  'light / lumière' (emitted or reflected), 'stars / étoiles' in general and our 'sun / soleil', defining their components and exploring their origin... 

Week February 22-26

Math:

This week we added a little more to last week`s conversions. We learned how to convert fractions that are not 'common', doing the long division in order to find the decimal form. We also learned how to transform a fraction and a decimal into a percentage and vice-versa (the triangle is now completed!). Students have started to memorize a few common fractions and their decimal / percent form.

                   

Science:

This week in ASTRONOMY we focused on the study of the first 2 planets of the solar system, Mercury and Venus. We also started our 'Giant Solar System Decoration Project' on the side.

We also researched and took notes on the meaning of 'astéroïde', 'comète', 'météore', 'constellation', etc.

Week February 16-19

Math:

This week we made the connection between fractions and decimal numbers. Students learned and practiced to transform a fraction into a decimal number and a decimal number into a fraction. 

We also identified points on a number line, using both fractions and decimal numbers.

Science:

This week we introduced our unit on ASTRONOMY!

First, we brainstormed ideas and vocabulary, watched videos and discussed topics and questions that we will study more in detail through the unit.

Students learned about our solar system and its 8 planets (Pluto is not considered a planet since 2006). They took notes and drew the solar system: Mercure, Venus, Terre, Mars / ceinture d`astéroïdes/ Jupiter, Saturne, Uranus, Neptune

Week February 8-10

Math:

This week (a short one!) we continued to work on improper fractions and mixed numbers. We practiced how to order them - having to convert in a the same form first. Exercises in the textbook were given as well as problems #6 and #7 (due next Wednesday- see VLC calendar for details). 

Science:

Proof and Investigation:
We had a great field trip at the Calgary Police Center on Monday. The YouthLink team received us really well and students enjoyed their experience. 

On Wednesday, students had their unit test on Proof and Investigation (multiple choices - questions chosen from previous Science PAT`s) 

Week February 2-5

Math:

This week we focused on improper fractions and mixed numbers. We learned how to convert from a form to the other. We also reinforced the connection between improper fractions and mixed numbers using drawings. Students practiced to convert those forms (both ways) and also worked on problem solving involving these concepts (textbook).  

Science:

Proof and Investigation:
In preparation to our field trip to the Police Interpretative Center (on Feb. 8th), we are doing a REVIEW of the unit by completing activities related to the study of a crime scene (prepared by the police Center). Students are filling their Police Notebook!

1) How can handwriting samples lead to an arrest?

2) How do we find our suspects? 

We concluded our unit on Proof and Investigation with a vocabulary review activity ('Letter from a detective'). Students were given a study guide in order to prepare for the UNIT TEST NEXT WEDNESDAY.