Jun 17
Giant Marble Run
5th Grade Students Nick, Espen & Matt initiated the idea. Designs were drawn, materials purchased and plans were made to create a giant marble run coming from the ceiling to cross the room. Students in grades 2nd – 5th pitched in their engineering ideas as the marble run unfolded complete with tunnels, spirals, and curves. Students worked hard to perfect every inch of the track. They learned that success does not always come on the first go and that we learn from our mistakes. They learned that perseverance, cooperation, and hard work can turn out great results. The total cost? About $6.
Jun 3
Engineering Skills
Students in the Math Enrichment groups have been working on their engineering skills. Students were given 12 craft sticks, 12 feet of string, and 6 feet of tape. They task was to build a structure that would stand as high as possible while only touching the floor. Many groups relied on structures they had seen in real life. Others used created solutions to complete the task. All students did a wonderful job of working together to complete their task.
Jun 3
Creativity Crates
Students in the Creativity Enrichment group have been working on Creativity Crates. Students use these to keep all of their creations. They may use it for storing journals, stories, pictures, drawings, paintings, recordings or anything they would like to keep. Reflection on ones own creativity helps to grow ones creativity.
Jun 3
guest speaker Mr. Quinlan, the High School Speech Coach. Students learned
about the basics of debate. They learned the difference between a quarrel
and an argument. They learned the elements of an issue and the importance of
supporting evidence. After learning about the rules of debate the students
participated in their own debate. Be sure to ask about their arguments. Students became interested in Debate after discussions in their Reading
Enrichment group. Students learned that they could demonstrate and grow
their levels of comprehension about literature by engaging in debates about
the content and elements of the materials they were covering. We were able
to tap into this wonderful on-campus opportunity that addressed the need for
more information about their new area of interest. The students did a wonderful job of listening, asking thoughtful questions
and engaging in the activities.
Debate Workshop with the Centennial High School Speech Coach
A group of students in 5th Grade participated in a Mini Debate Workshop withguest speaker Mr. Quinlan, the High School Speech Coach. Students learned
about the basics of debate. They learned the difference between a quarrel
and an argument. They learned the elements of an issue and the importance of
supporting evidence. After learning about the rules of debate the students
participated in their own debate. Be sure to ask about their arguments. Students became interested in Debate after discussions in their Reading
Enrichment group. Students learned that they could demonstrate and grow
their levels of comprehension about literature by engaging in debates about
the content and elements of the materials they were covering. We were able
to tap into this wonderful on-campus opportunity that addressed the need for
more information about their new area of interest. The students did a wonderful job of listening, asking thoughtful questions
and engaging in the activities.
May 19
The BlueGRESS Blog
Students in the 5th Grade Discussion group have been working on an academic blog. Questions related to current classroom topics are posted for students to discuss and consider. Why is it called the BlueGRESS Blog? Blue is for Blue Heron, then Gifted Resource & Enrichment Student Services.
May 11
Open Box Time
2nd through 5th Grade students in discussion groups come to the Gifted Resource room to play critical thinking games, do research, and work on independent projects. The students created and distributed the monthly school newspaper during Open Box Time. These students are studying a common area of interest and often have discussions surrounding prior reading and research.
Apr 30
Norske Venner (Norwegain Friends)
Students in 1st through 5th grade having been learning what it is like to learn a new language. It has been fun to hear the students test out their language skills with the phrases and words they have learned in Norwegian. I have even heard some singing of the new Norwegian songs while passing in the halls. The students have done a wonderful job working with a new language.
Apr 30
11738
"The Feather Quill" Blue Heron's Writing Gallery on the National Gallery of Writing website
Check out writing pieces of 1st thru 5th grade students. http://www.galleryofwriting.org/galleries/gallery_pieces.php?galleryid=211738
Apr 30
5th Grade Charm Chain
Students in 5th Grade can earn a Charm Chain by doing various academic extensions. A charm can be earned in math by earning a perfect score on a Continental Math League meet, by composing music or participating in a musical competition, by doing a book summary of a book they have read, by earning a Presidential Fitness Award, or for other extensions that come up throughout the year. Several students have earned their charm chain and continue to do so. Way to go 5th Graders!
