Writing and Project-Based Learning

In March, students explored poetry in a fun and engaging way. They read, listened to, and talked about simple poems before writing their own. As they wrote, they practiced important poetry skills like using short lines, stanzas, repetition, descriptive (sensory) words, sound words, comparisons, precise vocabulary, and rhyme. They also learned how poets choose words to create vivid images and strong feelings for the reader. Through both guided lessons and independent writing time, students grew in confidence as poets. To connect their learning across subjects, they also learned about the American poet Maya Angelou and discussed how her work expresses powerful ideas and emotions.

In PBL, students learned about influential women, including artists Bronwyn Bancroft and Alma Woodsey Thomas. They explored each artist’s unique style and specialties, such as the use of bold patterns, vibrant colors, and storytelling through art. Students discussed how these artists expressed their identities, cultures, and experiences through their work.

Math

In math, students learned how to represent 3-digit numbers in a variety of ways, including expanded form, base-ten blocks, place value charts, and number lines. These strategies helped them build a strong understanding of place value. Students also practiced adding and subtracting numbers within 1,000, using different methods to solve problems and explain their thinking. Through hands-on activities and problem-solving, they developed confidence and accuracy in their math skills.

Social Emotional Learning

Our learning goal for March was to help students understand situations from different perspectives and consider how others may feel and think. Students practiced recognizing and restating a problem in their own words, which supported their communication and problem-solving skills. They also worked together to look at the same situation from different points of view, noticing how people can see and interpret things in different ways.

We discussed how our perspectives are shaped by our backgrounds and cultures, and how these differences can influence the solutions we come up with. This learning helped students build empathy and develop a greater awareness and respect for others’ thoughts and feelings.

Ballroom Basix Program

Our students have been having a wonderful time during Ballroom Basix! They are having lots of fun learning new dance movements and discovering how enjoyable dance can be. It’s been great to see their energy, teamwork, and excitement in each class.

So far, we have learned three different dances from around the world:
1. Merengue from Puerto Rico
2. Ballroom dance from Texas
3. Tango from Argentina

Students are doing a fantastic job practicing the steps and putting the movements together by the end of each class. We are so proud of their effort and enthusiasm!

Other Spirit Day and Activity