Tuesday, January 28, 2020

Fractions are Everywhere!

Fractions, Fractions, Everywhere!
Walk into any intermediate classroom during math right now and you will see all things fractions! It's so interesting to see the progression from third grade, to fourth grade, to fifth grade.

In third grade they are learning how to use halves, thirds, and sixths to make a whole and have begun to compare fractions. They learn about equivalent fractions and learn that fractions can be greater than one. 
Fourth graders build on their fraction knowledge from third grade. They continue to compare fractions and extend the concept of equivalence by multiplying fractions. 

In fifth grade they are multiplying and dividing fractions. Mr. Meaney's class took to the snow last week to use an area model to multiply one-third by one-half. 

Students in the primary grades also learn about fractions. First graders learn to partition squares and rectangles into halves and quarters. Second graders build on that knowledge and are introduced to thirds. If you are really interested in the progression of fractions, here's a seven minute video that is actually pretty interesting! 

Supporting Others When They Struggle
This week we return to the Other People Matter Mindset, focusing on supporting other people when they struggle. According to Jeff Bryan, the Positivity Project co-founder, supporting others while they go through tough times is a critical piece of being human. There are many ways to help people when they are struggling. At this morning's P2 assembly Erin Engle, the founder of Griffin's Guardians, came to speak to the students about the organization that was started in memory of her son. Students were asked to bring in spare change over the next few weeks to raise funds for the Change for Hope Campaign which helps families with sick children in a variety of ways.

  
Weekend Power Packs
Through the generosity of our PTA, we are able to support 24 East Hill students with food each weekend. This is another way our community helps people in need of additional support. The PTA funds, and volunteers shop for and sort food each week for students who could use a little extra support. One of our Girl Scout Troops is doing a fundraiser to help out with this project. Students in each grade level were asked to bring in a certain item and deposit into the bin of their choice. Look who is winning!
Enrichment Day
Thank you for being so prompt in returning your forms. All of the classes are full! Enrichment Day will be held on Saturday, February 8 from 9:00 - 11:30. Please do not arrive early as the doors will not open until 9:00. Also, please be prompt in picking up your child(ren). It's going to be a great day!

Have a great rest of the week!

- Lisa