Coming Soon
Our next big mathematics endeavor will be in the area of Algebra - that's right, Algebra.
Students did so well with Geometry, I want to manipulate some concepts and numbers to solve problems using algebra. Through the use of direct instruction, cubes, and other objects, students will extend patterns, make tables, organize lists, and perhaps even write some equations. They are excited to know that many of the ideas that have been forth recently have been extensions of basic math - reasons to learn simple equations, applications for basic operations - and not more of the same.
That's not to say we're not still working on the basics. This quarter our multiplication methods have focused on music, and I am convinced that these students are finally catching on to the idea that Math will be more fun when they have memorized the equations. Keep working on it.
Now Showing
Westward Expansion in the United States began long before Lewis and Clark explored their way from St. Louis to the Pacific Ocean, but the settling of the West boomed following their return and reports. Manifest Destiny turned the dreams of Easterners and into reality, as they set out in covered wagons, on foot, on horseback, and pulling carts by hand. Of course, that meant clearing the way of any native people who might already live in the areas.
As we embark on our own journey of discovery in the next few weeks, we will learn more about the Westward Expansion of the United States. We will cover such topics as the Trail of Tears, the Pony Express, and the Santa Fe, the Oregon, and the California Trails. These national expansion topics suit Missouri history well, as they all began or crossed our state and are memorialized by the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
Sneak Preview
It may be early, but we are ready to say goodbye to winter. As the trees bud and the flowers sprout, you may find some of nature's springtime beauty entering our classroom, as well. Known simply as Hoggatt State Park, this newest addition to the Missouri State Park system is located right in our classroom, along with its unique educational youth program, Camp Teachittome.
Students will soon aid in the clearing of trails through a forested area, identifying the indigenous trees and wildlife, and learning about the diverse ecosystems that exist in our part of the world. Working beneath the green canopy of the forest, students will also utilize the setting as an educational venue in which science, math, social studies, and communication are gracefully tinted with the exuberant colors and distinctive sounds of the majestic Ozark wilderness.
