Pet Rocks

For several weeks, the kids have been great geologists. They've identified properties, described rocks and minerals, and tested for minerals. They've done the Scratch and Vinegar Tests. They've discovered the difference between rocks and minerals.

And today... They got a pet rock.

We started off the adoption process by reading the story Everybody Needs A Rock by Byrd Baylor. Then the kids were given rocks--plain, old boring rocks.

Which, of course, needed decorated. So all of third grade got to paint their rocks. And add glitter. And "sparklies." And googly eyes. 

Such a fun way to end a week. 

And to start a mystery next week... But more on that later!

Back to School Night

Thanks to everyone who was able to attend Back to School Night on Thursday! Linked below is the presentation I shared. Have a great weekend!

Back to School Night presentation

Mock Rocks

This week we started our first IB Unit:  Where in the World Is… This unit covers both geology and geography.

We began with an experiment called Mock Rocks, where pairs of kids "mined" through their fake rocks to discover shells, smaller rocks, food coloring, sand, and salt. We learned that minerals are the same material all the way through, and that rocks are a combination of minerals.

Here are pictures from our work this week…

Part 1:  Observing the Mock Rock

Part 2:  Mining the Mock Rock and Discovering the Minerals

Part 3:  Discovering the Salt

We learned that rocks are made of different minerals. Rocks can be broken down into smaller ingredients but minerals can't.

Essential Agreements

On Wednesday, our class developed our Essential Agreements. The kids did a great job thinking about how they should behave to be the best learner and classmate possible.

*Respect each other's space.

*Treat others the way you want to be treated.

*Listen to the teachers.

*Always tell the truth.

*Follow directions the first time.

Welcome to 3rd Grade!

We've made it through the first few days! We've done lots of "getting to know you" activities, procedures practice, and reconnecting with friends. As the week goes on, we'll also begin assessments so I can start tailoring activities to individual needs.

Here's a tour of our classroom…

Our Classroom Library

Computers and Weekly Learning Goals

Small Group Area

Whole Class Meeting Area

Just a few reminders:
*If you haven't brought in school supplies, please wrap that up by Monday of next week. Absolutely necessary are the binder, 3 folders, 2 spiral notebooks, 1 composition book, and crayons. If there's any problems getting those together, please do let me know.
*Send in a healthy snack daily for your child, if desired. Lunchtime is an hour later than last year and it's a long morning! Water bottles are welcome too.
*Forms that need to be returned:  Quick Contacts, Parent Homework, Criminal Background Check (if you want to volunteer), Breakfast Permission
*Homework will begin next week. Look for more detailed information in that newsletter.

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I'm so pleased to be working with you this year! Please don't hesitate to contact me with questions, concerns, and successes. I'm looking forward to a wonderful year!