Ms. Braat's Fantastic Fives

  Jan 19 - 23 Learning Outcomes Science  Understandings of the living world, Earth, and space are deepened by investigating natural systems and their interactions. What Did  Students Do? This week in our Grade 5 science class, we began an exciting new unit on  space . To introduce the topic, students worked in small groups using chart paper to record what they already  know  about space and what they  wonder  about space. This activity encouraged students to share prior knowledge, ask thoughtful questions, and build curiosity about the universe. Recording their thinking helped students see how much they already know and identify questions they are eager to explore. This introductory activity set a strong foundation for our space unit and sparked excitement for the learning ahead! Ask your Child - What did they learn in our introduction to our space unit - Their preferred method of answering 3 by 2 digit multiplication questions - What would be a g...

Jan 26 - 30 Learning Outcomes Science  Understandings of the living world, Earth, and space are deepened by investigating natural systems and their interactions. What Did  Students Do? This week in our Grade 5 science class, we began an exciting new unit on space . To introduce the topic, students worked in small groups using chart paper to record what they already know about space and what they wonder about space. This activity encouraged students to share prior knowledge, ask thoughtful questions, and build curiosity about the universe. Recording their thinking helped students see how much they already know and identify questions they are eager to explore. This introductory activity set a strong foundation for our space unit and sparked excitement for the learning ahead! Ask your Child - What did they learn in our introduction to our space unit - Their preferred method of answering 3 by 2 digit multiplication questions - What would be a good book idea for our class publis...

  Jan 5th-9th 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? This week in our Grade 5 classroom, students have been combining their science and literacy learning by researching matter and the three states of matter . Students began by reading an informational book on Epic about solids, liquids, and gases. While reading, they practiced identifying important information and recording key facts using organized notes, focusing on vocabulary and properties rather than full sentences. After gathering their information, students worked collaboratively in groups to apply their learning by creating a slideshow presentation . Each group used their notes to explain the differences between solids, liquids, and gases, including their properties and real-life examples. This activity encouraged students to communicate scientific ideas clearly, work together ...

   Dec 15-19 Learning Outcomes Math Students relate location to a position on a grid What Did  Students Do? This week, students explored  coordinate grids , a Grade 5 math concept in the Alberta curriculum. They learned how coordinates are used to describe a specific location on a grid and how each point is written as an ordered pair. Students were introduced to the  x-axis  (horizontal) and  y-axis  (vertical) and practiced identifying and plotting coordinates accurately. To make learning engaging and hands-on, students played  Battleship , which helped them apply their understanding of coordinates in a fun and interactive way. Students also practiced using  directional language  such as  up, down, left,  and  right  to plot a path on a  treasure map . This activity strengthened their understanding of movement on a grid and helped connect math vocabulary to real-world problem solving. It was an exciting wee...

  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...