Math and iPads

We enjoyed reading lots of Oliver Jeffers books today!  Thanks to those of you who were able to share some from your home libraries.  We really enjoyed all of the stories.

In math today, we worked on the concept of "before and after".  We did two different activities.  One involved rolling a die and printing the number (either in numerals or in dots) and then printing the number that comes before the number on the die and the number after.  The kids worked together in pairs and did a fantastic job!

The other half of the class also worked in pairs on a similar concept.  They had strips of number sequences with missing numbers that they had to fill in using a number card.  For example, their strip might have 5 __ 7 __ 9 and the partners would have to find the 6 and the 8 number cards and put them in the right spot.  Again, really great work!

After a bit of time, the kids switched activities so that everyone had a chance at both activities.  We will be practicing this concept more and more as the days go on.

We were very lucky to have a visit from Mr. Clark today.  He teaches grade 5 here at Brooksbank and is also our resident tech expert.  He came in and taught us about the iPads.  We went over some general "care" information (how to hold an iPad, how to move around the room while holding an iPad etc.) and then he taught us how to search for pictures.  We first searched for "snow" and then looked at the images that Google found for us.  We learned how to navigate around the images.  Then we searched "cat" to practice our new skills.  We also showed Mr. Clark that we already know how to "swipe" all of the applications closed when we are finished.  

As you have noticed, December is a very busy time at school, with so many fun events coming up!  I know you've been receiving information about the Christmas Concert and the Jingle Mingle.  Please check here tomorrow for information about what your child should wear on the night of the concert.

I'm looking for some help with our Jingle Walk.  This takes place on Dec. 11 and Dec. 14.  On the 11th, we will be walking around the neighborhood delivering brochures explaining the Jingle Walk (we are asking people in our community to look through their food cupboards and see if they can spare any items for people in need.  Then on the 14th, we go back to the same homes and pick up any items that people have left at their door.  I would really appreciate having 3 or 4 parents who could walk with us both days.  Also, on the 14th, I will need a parent to drive alongside us to collect the food that we pick up.  If you are able to help out on either or both of these days, please let me know via email.  Also, please let me know if you are able to drive on the 14th.

I'm going to update the calendar outside the classroom door.  Please check it out and let me know if you have any questions.

thanks!