Lincoln School Newsletter

In Math, the Sixth Graders are learning how to find the area of triangles, quadrilaterals, and polygons. The students are learning that a shape can be composed or decomposed into familiar shapes. For example, a parallelogram is composed of a triangle and a trapezoid or two identical triangles. Your child will find areas in real-world application problems. The students are also learning about three-dimensional figures like prisms and pyramids. They will represent these three-dimensional figures using nets and then use the nets to find surface areas. They will also find the volume of rectangular prisms with fractional edge lengths. We are working on applying these techniques in the context of solving real-world and mathematical problems.

In Science, the students worked together to create the layers of the Earth. They also labeled and modeled diagrams of the inner core, outer core, mantle, and crust. The students worked together to research facts about each layer. These were their findings:

• The inner core is like a huge metal ball made of iron and nickel. It is over 9,000° F, and it is over 750 miles thick!

• The outer core is a liquid layer of iron, nickel, sulfur, and oxygen that is 8,000-10,000 ° F. It is over 1,300 miles thick!

• The crust is the solid outer layer and is made up of both oceanic and continental crust.

• The mantle is composed of the lithosphere, asthenosphere, and mesosphere. Convection currents in the mantle cause the Earth’s plates to move. It is 1,800 miles thick! Rocks are partially melted and move very slowly.

In Social Studies, we have been exploring why the Articles of Confederation were unsuccessful as a form of government. During the early years of our nation, there were many moments when it seemed the United States might not survive. However, through compromise and determination, the framers were able to establish the system of government we have today.

In Writing, the students have mastered the structure of a research simulation and are now independently planning their argumentative essays. They have developed strong opinions on topics such as healthier school lunches, banning state tests, and increasing space/equipment for recess. The students have been working diligently to research three argument points, gathering supporting facts to strengthen their claims, as well as a counter-argument and rebuttal. They have also drafted introductions with strong thesis statements and structured body paragraphs using effective transition words. In Reading, we are diving into our fiction unit. We've explored key literary elements such as theme, the role of setting in historical fiction, conflict, and how to map a story using a story mountain. Some of our read-aloud selections include Grandmama’s Pride, Just a Dream, and The Circuit: Stories from the Life of a Migrant Child. The students are applying the skills they learn during read-alouds and lessons to their book clubs. I’m incredibly proud of their progress in both reading and writing! Please continue to encourage 15 minutes of i-Ready practice and 30 minutes of reading each day.

The students have been working hard and challenging themselves to be the best they can be this month. They are actively participating in lessons and discussions which contributes to a positive learning environment. This encourages them to explore and collaborate with their classmates to apply lessons to their daily lives.

In Science, we are discussing Human Impact on our Earth and the Food Chain. The students worked collaboratively in groups to explore these topics through class and digital labs. They completed our Pollution Solutions Projects to advocate ways that we can help our planet and the environment around us! We also explored the importance of our observations and how we can use them in our everyday lives. The students are encouraged to engage in hands-on activities and apply lessons learned to their own experiences.

In Math, the students have been working on fractions and decimals! They are preparing to take on new projects and challenges that directly relate to their daily lives, like our budgeting challenge. During this activity, the students work in groups to grocery shop on a budget and even create a menu for a dinner party! We use a variety of assistive technology and manipulatives to create hands-on activities within the classroom. Some of these activities include Generation Genius, Blooket, IXL, flashcards, and unit cubes! The students are enjoying playing various games which help concept mastery. They continue to work hard on their daily lessons. I am so proud of them and all of their hard work so far, and I look forward to what the rest of the year will bring!

In celebration of Black History Month, our students took part in a daily research activity, exploring a different influential figure from Black History each morning. This allowed them the opportunity to independently gather information, while also encouraging curiosity and questions during class discussions. At the same time, they delved into the history of Spanish colonization and the formation of New Spain, broadening their understanding of global history. As we transition into March, we continue to honor Women's History Month, emphasizing the significance of the contributions of important women throughout history.

The Fifth Graders kicked off March by diving into novels for their “Book Clubs.” In their groups, they take notes on characters, their traits, the setting, and write one sentence summaries for each chapter. It’s incredible to listen to their engaging and thoughtful discussions about the books! The students have shared that they enjoy reading in groups because it allows them to hear their peers’ interpretations, gain different perspectives on the text and plot, and—most importantly—have fun! Our Fifth Grade Read-A-Thon teams are fully embracing the challenge with enthusiasm. Our teams are working hard at reaching their goals. Graphic novels seem to be the favorites of many, with the I Survived series, Wings of Fire series, and Percy Jackson series in the mix. Both classes have been fortunate to have some amazing guest readers for Read Across America Week, including Sixth Graders Emily Moto, Kirya Ghobrial, Ellie Iskaros, Lelsis Garcia, as well as Ariel from the Ridgefield Park Public Library, and Ms. Fares. Some of the book highlights include The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad, The Butterfly by Patricia Polacco, and The Bracelet by Yoshiko Uchida. We are also thrilled to have our student teacher from Fairleigh Dickinson University, Ms. Ayala, join us to read Malala: A Brave Girl from Pakistan and Iqbal: A Brave Boy from Pakistan by Jeanette Winter. To cap off the week, both classes visited the First Grade to share books with their reading buddies.

In Writing, the students wrote short summaries for each of their readings. After completing their first guided opinion essay, they will choose a topic and apply the writing strategies and skills they've learned throughout the process. Mrs. Suarez, Ms. Domke, Mrs. Sklar, and both classes would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all of the guest readers who helped make Read Across America Week such a memorable experience!

📚 Reading

We wrapped up February with an exciting Black History Month project! The students researched influential Black historical figures, wrote biography reports, and designed creative cereal boxes featuring facts, timelines, and unique cereal names. We finished off the project by completing a gallery walk. The students walked around and viewed each other's projects while writing down things that they learned about different historical figures. We also explored a variety of books about inspiring individuals who have shaped history. As we kick off Read Across America Month, we encourage all students to read at home daily and log their reading time on the Read-A-Thon website. The students are excited to dive into books and earn prizes along the way! Thank you for your support in fostering a love of reading and learning!

🌎 Social Studies

In Social Studies, we are continuing our Geography unit. The students put their critical thinking skills to the test by creating "survival plans" for different environments around the world. From deserts to rainforests, they researched and presented slideshows on how to adapt and thrive in various regions.The students learned so much about different environments. We are now moving onto the regions of New Jersey.

🔢 Math

We are ending Topic 9, which was focused on adding and subtracting fractions. The students learned to add and subtract fractions with like denominators. It is important that they use equivalent fractions and properties of operations to add and subtract mixed numbers. In Topic 10, we will be focusing on multiplying fractions. The students will also learn to multiply fractions with whole numbers.

🔬 Science

The students are learning about Earth’s Features in Topic 4. They will read maps to identify and compare Earth’s surface features. This topic will also help students identify patterns on Earth’s surface. They will learn how rocks and soil are formed and how to identify the properties of minerals. The students will also be learning about Earth’s Natural Hazards and how volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis can impact people. They will be able to describe how weather hazards can affect humans and what are some solutions to reduce their impact.

The boys in Room 14 are tired of the winter weather and are looking forward to the springtime! In our Biography/Autobiography unit, we are in the middle of reading about Jane Goodall's life and career. The class has loved learning about her achievements and her work with animals! In tandem with our unit, the boys have made their own biography presentations about important historical and modern figures. Meanwhile in Math class, we are working hard on multi-digit multiplication and we are practicing showing our work!