Harnessing the power of a supermoon

The energy in the classroom this week was somewhat frenetic, and at times overwhelming for the adults with so much going on. During times like these, I often hear my mentor trainers in the back of my mind, telling me to let go, to stop, sit down, and observe. As adults in the classroom with our lesson plans and our calendars, we get too "in our heads"... focused on what we perceive as problems or issues that we need to solve. After a time, confirmation bias takes over, and suddenly problems and undone tasks are all we see. So, begrudgingly (letting go is hard sometimes) I followed my own advice, let go of my desired outcomes, and just watched, from a more detached perspective. As is always the case, the magic quickly revealed itself. I'm happy to share some of it here with you.

Math:

This student challenged himself with his first checkerboard work of the year

An older child helping a younger one with golden bead addition

Reviewing the 10 cubed chain

A third-grader doing computations using Dot Game, next to a first-year working on her spelling.

45 layout

Doubling addends with the addition strip board

Quick review on fractions

This student asked for help after repeatedly re-doing a problem and not getting the correct answer. We discovered he was transposing digits and made a small counting mistake. Problem solved.

Finding new ways to use a familiar material

Third grade memorization of math facts has begun

Stamp Game addition practice

Geometry:

Learning about polygons with Box of Sticks material and the Geometric Cabinet

Reviewing the concepts of equivalence, similarity, and congruence with the constructive triangles

Checking her work with compound words using the control chart

Language:

Spelling quizzes and new lists

Practicing alphabetical order

Working with CVC syllables to create multisyllabic words. Photos from a student's Sun Celebration are in the background!

We are working on writing letters of encouragement for Helene Survivors.

Geography:

Map making

Learning about Natural Disasters

Flag research

Botany:

Lots of students studying the stem this week.

Mindfulness, art, music, and peace

The color wheel

The Roman Arch

Music with Ms. Kathleen

Beginning the Friday Community Peace Meeting with the Pledge to the Earth

Bird Watching in the Outdoor Classroom

Yoga with friends

Introducing the children to our new DGS friend, A Groundhog (or some sort of Marmot) who I caught red-handed chowing down in the compost bin