*LITERACY BLOCK: Whole Group Reading, Writing. & Accelerated Reading Time*
READING -Novels, non-fiction texts & additional reading materials -Alternate between whole group and small group -Reading is chosen at appropriate level -Explored in-depth -Variety of genres -Focus on key vocabulary -Writing integration -Focus on key reading skills -Daily 5 Type Centers & Book Clubs
WHOLE GROUP READING -Skill Centers: -Practice of literacy skills such as inferencing, summarizing, context clues, main idea, text structure, poetry, reference skills, perspective, figurative language, theme, etc. -Vocabulary recognition -Grammar -Comprehension skills -Non-fiction text features
WRITING -Narrative, Expository, & Persuasive writing -Through Common Core Standards, big push to write about what you’re reading; summarization skills, writing in paragraph format -Pulling from multiple sources to provide evidence to support your opinion
*MATH*
Math Big Idea -Using Mathematics as a way to approach challenges through investigating, reasoning, visualizing, and problem solving 5 Major Math Units -Geometry -Number Sense (includes fractions) -Measurement Concepts -Algebraic Concepts -Data Analysis *Problem Solving (applied through all units) Materials -Use a variety of materials including McGraw Hill (new district curriculum), math activities, manipulatives, dry erase boards, problem solving problems, math games, math centers, etc. Homework & Grading -Daily homework is given to practice skills learned Monday-Thursday -“Check-ups” used as an assessment to check student’s understanding Multiplication Facts -Students will practice multiplication facts each week after concepts are learned Problem Solving -Each Friday, we will focus on a strategy to better understand and solve problems. -Is also immersed in every unit. -Practice explaining mathematics in words (used on Illinois Standardized state testing) -Promotes thorough understanding of concepts learned
*SCIENCE*
Science Big Ideas -Understand inquiry process related to Life, Physical, Earth Science (3 areas of Science) -Learn importance of scientific knowledge and its application in everyday life Materials -Use of a variety of materials including Pearson textbooks, experimental procedures, activity-based supplies, technology, experiments, & seasonal STEM activities -Participate in hands-on activities in order for students to better understand concepts Grading -Tests-what to study will be clearly presented with a study guide -Projects and interactive science centers -Class work/Group Work
*Social Studies* Social Studies Big Ideas -Political Science, Economics, History, Geography, and Social Science Materials -Use of a variety of materials including textbooks, technology, individual/group research, etc. -Participate in hands-on activities in order for students to better understand community and city concepts Grading -Chicago Skyline Building Project -Class work -Group projects -Field Trip