Week of Oct. 14

Last week the fifth grade classes finished our work with connecting models and strategies for multiplication and started to look at division concepts.  Over the course of the next week we will work on moving toward efficiency and flexibility in solving division situations, as well as work with remainders in division while problem solving.  Some fifth grade groups will also begin to use the distributive property and solve division tasks using addition of fractions.

The sixth grade classes have been comparing mathematical situations using fractions and ratios, with a focus on comparing a part to a whole and a part to a part.  Next week we will extend our understanding to include rates.  A great conversation to have with your child in the grocery store will be to compare prices using the unit rate ($ per pound, $ per gallon, etc.) listed on the sticker on the shelf as an application of rates in the real world.  I have also included a game on the sidebar using ratios that some might be interested in playing as practice/ review.  

A great resource to use for multiplication fact practice is the sum sense  multiplication game on the right hand side.  This game digs a little deeper than simple fact recall.  Challenge your child to work with more problems in less time.  

Be sure to have your child check out his/ her Powerschool account at home for any missing work.    I am following up with students at school on missing work, though having students access this resource on their own can allow them to take more ownership of their learning.  I won't be accepting work once it becomes over a week late.  Powerschool can be accessed through the CBMS website on the student drop-down screen.  If you don't know your child's password check with the CBMS office.

As always, if you have any questions feel to email.