Today was one of those days that as a teacher, I think, WHAT WAS I THINKING? Sometimes, things look so much better on paper than they do in real life. Planning for a fifth grade, early release, NO planning/specialist-hey we have a writing assessment, assembly and art docent day? That can make everyone a little cranky, wired, and tired. Oh, and wasn't Halloween a few days ago?
The assembly was fabulous. The students are pressed to think about bullying in a new way--as a bystander to someone else's bullying. It was a good lesson especially as we are going into November for conferences, student council elections, and the holidays. It seems to me, as students get comfortable in their classes, they sometimes forget what it feels like to be the one picked on. I hope todays assembly really hit home for the kiddos to stand up and be the leaders I know they are. I am always impressed with the honesty and integrity of our homeroom.
The art? I am very lucky to have a great art docent. Today, the students learned about "surreal" art and in the impressionist format of Rene Magritte. They drew, and watercolored pictures in a similar format. Rene's most famous painting is the following:
As a lover of art, the students did such a fabulous job taking the idea and making it their own. I am again, thankful for our wonderful art docent, Mrs. Ward.
This week was capped off with a writing assessment and writing conferences to confirm writing goals. It seems that the whirlwind associated with testing always makes me a little crazy. BUT I have to say, I have graded one class set of writing papers and I have NEVER been so impressed with the introductions of papers. The students really have taken to heart a grabber and thesis statement. I didn't know whether to clap with joy or just down play in the event it was a one time event! I hope HOPE that they continue with the fabulous writing because this teacher was IMPRESSED!
We continue to do exciting things in class--reading our book, The Oracles of Delhi Keep and learning about the colonization of early America. We will press on and start learning more specifics of Colonial Boston and create our Frieze and identify ourselves as characters in our Boston adventure!
Fifth grade has so many fab things coming up. I am glad you follow along and support our classroom! It is NEVER a boring day in C-2.
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