Students, today, read an article about how two archeologists rediscovered the ancient Mayan secrets to farming in high country, easily susceptible to killing frost. The scientists discovered a long, abandoned series of canals were once filled with water and knowing that water retains heat longer than air and soil, together, the Indians managed to secure their crops from falling victim to the frost. The method has been resurrected and now, farmers of the area are growing and securing their crops to feed their villages.
My students used Mrs. Fry's "Read Naturally" process, to find the main idea and supporting facts to this story. They underlined the passages that contained the main idea and those supporting facts. Then, using Mrs. Pulizzi's 4-square graphic organizer, assembled that information into a coherent summary.
A few students grumbled and griped and did not want to use a graphic organizer until I told them that as a professional writer, I still use graphic organizers.
I can't wait to see the summaries.
Social Studies
I teach a 9-week curriculum on the Bill of Rights. Today, the munchkins worked together to make those Amendments more kid friendly. We will use the kid-friendly versions to play a game, tomorrow, if they finish. I set-up five scenarios. The teams that figure out the amendments that are violated with these scenarios win lollipops. -- I know, but, its the last class of the day and by the time they get home, the sugar rush should have subsided. Either that, or parents can see what we get at school when their kiddoes come to school with candy.
Have a great night.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment