Irving-April 15th and 17th

Daniel has been calculating his scale model dimensions for the last several weeks. After selecting a blue print for a home design, he used a 1/24 scale factor to determine the dimensions for his model. This week he began constructing his home model. It is great to see his determination and math skills come together!

Audrey completed her tri-fold and had a chance to practice presenting her project, "The Science behind Emotion". She had peers and teachers act as 20% fair audience members so she could answer questions and describe her research. With the feedback she received she made a few modifications and found out where she needed to continue her research in order to answer all questions that come her way next Thursday.

Mason has been working to plan a series of lessons and activities about technology. With Forward testing we have had trouble scheduling lesson times with his peers. Today we problem solved and he decided he would create a Google Classroom series of lessons so that students could take part whenever they were able. He enlisted Gianna to video him and recorded 3 videos. One introducing himself, one introducing the topic, and one explaining the first activity. He worked on posting announcements and assignments on his Google Classroom page and invited peers to join the "class".

Anvesha completed her question cards and answer key today. Before moving on to her final board game she decided to sketch it first so she would have a guide. She will share her game and her process at the 20% Fair next Thursday.

Aidan began creating his tri-fold. He has designed 5 Kahoot quizzes and held 3 of his Kahoot club sessions so far. His club members have loved the chance to practice math skills in a fun environment. Aidan's leadership through this process has been commendable.

Chess Club members continue to develop strategy and strengthen their games. In the next two weeks we will hold our Irving tournament to determine the finalists that will represent our school at the WAWM District Chess Tournament on May 17th. Today students focused on working to threaten their opponents' pieces and make intentional moves. They are also working to develop the ability to secure a check mate.

3rd Grade math students continue their Geometry and Art PBL unit. For our shared lesson we created different quadrilaterals and identified their attributes. During project work students continued to explore the work of different artists that utilize geometric figures in their art. Several students have identified the artists that they will research and use as inspiration in the art they create. Serpahina and Autumn are both going to study Victor Vasarely while Grant and Majerle will be building their knowledge about Piet Mondrian. Jason and Lilith are interested in a number of artists and will make their selection next week.

The 3rd Grade reading group at Irving shifted gears and started a novel study with the book, The Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, by E.L. Konigsburg. This book focuses on a pair of siblings that run away to live at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and end up entangled in a mystery. Today we read the first chapter aloud. Students then had the opportunity to take a virtual tour of the Met using the Met 360 project (see video below). I am working to make the students' iPad experience as interactive as what is seen below (we ran into some technical difficulties but they were still able to view). They also had a map of the museum where we used a color code to determine areas we loved, were interested in learning more about, and were lower on our priority list. Next week we will share our maps, discuss the 2nd Chapter, and do some supplemental research on the history of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

NOTE EDIT: to experience 3-D it needs to be viewed on youtube (students don't have access to that). Here is the link to use with a phone iPad-you can move the device around to view different parts of the museum! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTsqUNGFYlM&disable_polymer=true

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTsqUNGFYlM

Our District 20% Fair happens next week, Thursday, for participating 4th and 5th Graders. The event takes place at FLW from 5:30-7. Students were challenged to create, design, and complete a project that reflected their strengths and/or interests. 20% time is a concept utilized by companies such as 3M and Google to increase innovation and motivation amongst employees. The 20% Fair gives students a chance to share their work and learning with a larger audience than their class or even their school. All families and school staff are invited to attend!

Families with 20% Fair students they're enthusiastic and driven to get their displays finalized-they are welcome to bring them home if they wish. Students will be responsible for bringing their display to FLW next Thursday. I will transport iPads but all other display items should be brought to the event by students (as stated in letter/RSVP note sent home). Let me know if you have any questions!

Have a great rest of your week Irving families and teachers!