Ms. Braat's Fantastic Fives

  Dec 15-19 Learning Outcomes Science  Students investigate the particle model of matter in relation to the physical properties of solids, liquids, and gases.  What Did  Students Do? In Grade 5 science, our students have been learning about matter and how materials can change under different conditions. To explore these ideas in a hands-on way, students conducted a borax crystal experiment that demonstrated how a liquid solution can change into solid crystals. During the experiment, I dissolved borax powder into hot water, creating a liquid solution. As the solution cooled and sat undisturbed, students observed crystals slowly forming on their ornaments. This allowed students to see that even though the borax seemed to disappear at first, it was still present in the liquid. Over time, the particles rearranged and formed solid crystals. Students discussed how the properties of the material changed throughout the process. The solution began as a clear liquid that could...

  Dec 1-5 Learning Outcomes Writing Communicate a clear position supported by relevant evidence.   What Did  Students Do? Students applied this skill directly to our novel study of  The Rover’s Story . As they read, they formed opinions about the characters, themes, and events, using the book as a springboard for deeper thinking and meaningful writing. Each student selected a topic connected to the novel and spent time  brainstorming ideas . Using a  graphic organizer , they planned their writing by generating clear reasons supported by  specific evidence , including personal connections and examples from the text. Students practiced using  transition words  to strengthen the flow of their writing and help their ideas connect smoothly. Throughout the week, the class reflected on our writing criteria and worked toward meeting each part with clarity, purpose, and confidence. Their thoughtful opinions and text-based evidence showe...

  Nov 24-28 Learning Outcomes Social Studies  In what ways might the ancient world have relevance today? What Did  Students Do? This week, our Grade 5 class has been diving into a comparison:  How do the needs of people living in modern-day Calgary compare to the needs of people who lived in Ancient Mesopotamia? Even though these two societies are thousands of years apart, both had to find ways to meet the same basic human needs. As part of our Social Studies unit, students are now creating posters to clearly show the similarities and differences between these two communities. Ask Your Child - Rounding and estimating  - Social studies poster  - Word work: doubling spelling rule  Upcoming Events - Dec 1st - Dance Residency Begins - Dec 1st - Student Voice drop in @ lunch  - Dec 8th - Fun lunch - Dec 16th - Grade 5 Chen Winter Concert  - Dec 19th - Last day of school before Winter Break   

    Nov 17-21 Learning Outcomes English Language Arts Revision includes adding or removing words or phrases to ensure writing is clear. What Did  Students Do? This Week in Grade 5: Becoming Stronger Writers This week, our class focused on building stronger writing skills by learning the difference between  sentence fragments  and  complete sentences . Students explored how a complete sentence needs both a  subject  and a  verb , and how fragments are missing one of those important pieces. We practiced identifying fragments and complete sentences verbally, helping students explain their thinking out loud. Then, in small groups, students worked together to  sort examples  into the correct categories. After thoughtful discussions and teamwork, each group  presented their decisions  and explained their reasoning to the class. Students also worked individually to  edit and revise sentence fragments , using what they learne...

Nov 10-14 Learning Outcomes Social Studies  In what ways might the ancient world have relevance today? What Did  Students Do? This week students wrapped up their hands-on engineering project connected to the Social Studies outcome: “In what ways might the ancient world have relevance today?” After completing their own water-transport structures, students spent time reflecting on their designs and the improvements they would make after learning more about ancient aqueducts. Through our study of Roman aqueducts and other early engineering systems, students discovered how carefully planned arches, gradients, and channels allowed ancient civilizations to move water efficiently over long distances. With this new understanding, they revisited their own structures and identified specific ways they could strengthen and refine their designs. Many students noted that adding support, adjusting the slope, or creating a more secure water pathway would help their structures move water more...

       Nov 3-7 Learning Outcomes Literacy  Write to inform, explain, describe, or report for a variety of purposes and audiences. What Did  Students Do? This week, our class spent time learning about the importance of  Remembrance Day  and what it means to remember those who have served and continue to serve our country. We discussed  why we wear poppies  and explored the powerful symbolism behind this small but meaningful flower. Students listened to stories about Remembrance Day, then shared thoughtful reflections and personal understandings about what remembrance means to them. To express their learning creatively, students  designed beautiful poppy art  pieces and  wrote about the poppy and remembrance  in their own words. Their artwork and writing showed empathy, gratitude, and a deep sense of respect for the sacrifices made by others. It was a meaningful series of tasks to learn, reflect, and create as we prepar...