Friday, May 24, 2013

Forces of Nature

What a great day we had at the Franklin Institute!  We explored space, Planet Earth, electricity, hearts, and sports!  There is so much to see that some of us didn't even get to see it all!  The third graders were also treated to a special experiment about erosion.  We explored about how water erosion affects sand.  The students were given tools (popsicle sticks, felt) to help save a house from being flooded away.  Later in the day, we headed to the IMAX movie, titled Forces of Nature!  It showed us the destruction that volcanoes, earthquakes, and tornadoes cause. I hope your child got to tell you about the trip and that they enjoyed themselves.  As always, the Heights kids showed just how wonderful and well-behaved they are!  :-)

In other classroom news.....

We began Theme 11 in Literacy by Design.  This theme begins with facts about the planets, sun, and moon.  The first story taught us a lot.   We also read about the Hubble Telescope and tracked in online.  We just couldn't believe how fast the Hubble moves around the earth!  

The students also typed up a biography about a person they had researched the past few weeks.  I learned a lot of interesting facts about people that I didn't know before!  In spelling, we reviewed idioms and consonant blends.  The class read about Hank Aaron and all the problems he overcame.  We are going to write our own story about a person overcoming problems to become successful!

Please look at the tabs at the top of the page for reminders, as we have multiple special programs coming up in the next few weeks!

Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend.  I reminded your child about the true reason why we celebrate Memorial Day.  Don't forget to think about or even thank a soldier! :-)