Learning Teams

We have had a fantastic time this week. This week, we started a new ongoing activity called Learning Teams.  All of us are divided up into teams. Each week, we have goals that we strive to meet by each Friday.  We all got to create a team name and logo that we display on the classroom wall.

We can earn team points each for various activities such as class participation, following class procedures, completing homework,cooperative team work, etc. THESE POINTS ARE NOT FOR A GRADE.  They only count for the team towards earning a cool prize or special activity each Friday, if we meet our goal for that week.  

At the end of the grading period, any teams that earn Super Team status (a goal set at the beginning on the nine weeks) will earn a fun activity such as a popcorn and movie, ice cream sundaes, or outside activities.  Individuals can also earn individual points by being a good citizen or making good grades on tests.  These points can be spent by shopping in the "Ramsay General Store" or purchasing a classroom pass. 

This is an activity that helps us manage our point budget, set goals, and work together as a team which are all important life skills.

Math Family Letter for Unit 1 Investigation 1.4

Below you will see the Family Letters that accompany our Math Investigations which explains the types of  learning activities in which we have been engaged. I hope that you find this helpful as we transition to this new math program.

Math Family Letter for Unit 1 Investigation 1.3

Below you will see the Family Letters that accompany our Math Investigations which explains the types of  learning activities in which we have been engaged. I hope that you find this helpful as we transition to this new math program.

Spaghetti and Marshmallows: Our 1st Day Challenge

In order to build a community of learners who listen to one another, work collaboratively to problem solve and who respect one another, we completed a challenge. Our challenge was to take 20 pieces of uncooked spaghetti, 1 jumbo marshmallow, 1 yard of masking tape, and 1 yard of string to construct the tallest tower that could hold the marshmallow on top and still stand upright. We had 18 minutes to complete this task with our teams. Check out the photos below to see how well we did.

The tallest tower was 14 1/2 inches tall. All of us did a great job working together and communicating with one another. We all agree that this is going to be one amazing year. We can't wait for our next challenge.

Welcome to 5th Grade!

The time has finally come for us to begin our adventure together. I have been anticipating this moment all summer as I plan and prepare for the launch of our year of extreme learning. Our class is not a traditional class. Much of the class time is spent with my learners working with peers in class and from around the world. Technology is embedded to support each student's individual learning goal.

Be sure to check this blog regularly as we will update it with photos, successful 5th grade tips and strategies, important events, and exciting projects in which we will be engaged all year.You can sign up to receive updates by email (look to right side if this page) if that is what is most convenient for you.

Another way that we can stay in touch is through our class Twitter feed (@RamsaysClass). We will be tweeting about the exciting things that happen throughout the day. We will be tweeting photos and links to some of our exciting projects. This way you can join in our class happenings.

If you were unable to attend our Meet and Greet, please take just a minute to complete this survey so that we can strengthen our Home-School connection. I know that by working together we can make this the most successful year possible for your learner.

Who's ready for our extreme year of learning?