April 4th, 2017

In Math today, we have begun dividing 3-digit by 1-digit numbers. Today we looked at two strategies: modelling (or drawing) and a subtraction strategy. Take a look at the examples below:

When using a modelling (or drawing) strategy, students first number the number with base-ten blocks. Then, split this whole number into equal, smaller groups. In this case, we modelled 125 and divided it into 3 equal groups. Because you can't split just one hundreds flat into 3, you need to change it into ten tens rods. Continue to convert larger units to smaller units where necessary and dividing numbers into three equal groups. Eventually, each group will have 41 represented, with two blocks remaining. This is the remainder. So, the answer to 125 / 3 = 41 R2.

When using a subtraction strategy, students can use their multiplication tables to assist them. Since we are dividing by 3, I will use the 3x tables. Now, we want to see how many times it is possible to subtract 3 from 125. Remember, division is just repeated subtraction! Start with the largest number possible. In this case, we subtracted 36. This is the same as subtracting 3 twelve times (because 12 x 3 = 36). Record the 12 and continue. We subtracted 36 again (subtracted 3 twelve more times), then we subtracted 30 (subtracted 3 ten times), and finally we subtracted 21 (subtracted 3 seven times). To find out how many times we can subtract 3 from 125 altogether, add 12 + 12 + 10 + 7. You will find that 125 / 3 = 41 R2. Again, we cannot get all the way to zero, we have a remainder. Remember, the remainder is always SMALLER than the divisor! In this case 2 is smaller than 3, so we know we have gone far enough. 

In Social Studies today, students discussed how First Nations peoples share their history through story and art. Specifically, we looked at Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park in southern Alberta:
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Students considered the question asked in the video, "What story would you want to tell? What will you want to be remembered for?" and created their own pictograph to tell a story about themselves. 

We had an assembly today to honor Mr. Thorne's dedication and commitment to Timberlea Public School. As many of you know he was the principal there from 2008-2016. Long serving principals at Timberlea have their photo added to the "Hall of Memory." Today Mr. Thorne was presented with his engraved photo that will be hung in Timberlea school, now that he has left to lead all of us at Christina Gordon (which we are obviously thrilled about). Mr. Thorne is a wonderful principal. It was has been my pleasure to work under him both as a student-teacher and a classroom teacher, and it was his encouragement and suggestion that lead me to many of the jobs that I love best such as Tech & Trades, Science Fair, Mindfulness, Mentorship, etc. I am very glad and excited to be working for him again. 

We also had a fire drill today. It went very well. Thank you for helping to lead the class Aayan so that we could follow the best practice of "teacher first, teacher last;" I assess the situation and check for hazards, but then I remain to make sure every student has left. Well done everyone! Sorry your shoes got wet. 

Students are also bringing home a poetry assignment today, asking students to choose one of two options of sharing the skills and knowledge gained in our poetry unit. Please take time to review this assignment with them this evening. They will have until May 2 to complete the project, as well as class time to work on it. 

Agenda
Language Arts:
- Read 20 minutes
- Poetry Project (May 2nd)

Math:
- Practice 12x, 5x, 10x, 7x, or 11x tables

Health:
- PEAK Basketball (Thursday) 

Science:
- WBRSF (April 29th @ Shell Place at MacDonald Island)

Tech & Trades Academy - Mondays (3:00-4:00 pm)
Grade 5/6 Guitar Club - Thursdays (2:45-3:45 pm)
CG Recyclers - Day 1 (lunch recess) and Day 4 (lunch)
Snack Shack - Friday ($2) 
Yearbooks - On Sale Now (see poster below)  
CG Registration Forms - due ASAP
Growing Smiles Fundraisers - due April 26th
Talent Show - Friday, 1:00 pm (Timberlea gymnasium)