October 15, 2010      Good evening, parents of Grade 5 and Grade 6 students.  We have had a very week in the Math classrooms as work was done on numbers as we started our Unit 2 on Understanding Numbers.  Students in Grade 5 used their knowledge of patterns to learn about 1 million. We looked at the standard form of numbers along with both written and expanded form. They played games using cards and worked at making six digit numbers while being mindful of place value.  Re-introduction of base ten was used to reinforce numbers.  The Grade 6 worked on finding prime numbers, using the hundreds chart.  They learned about common multiples and how to find them using a number line or hundreds chart.  Some of the more challenging problems required a calculator.  This is not always encouraged but there are times that it is necessary.  We read articles using the Guiness Book of Records.  It is recommended that searching the internet for data relating to sport scores, populations or money, would be a way to connect the home to child.  The Grade 6 had a great trip to McAllister's Farm where they received information on the life of trees and the importance of having enough snow to cover the base of the trees.  We were treated to apples,and hot chocolate.  There was a BBQ for those whp wanted to eat out.  Students were also treated to a walk throuh the haunted house.  All was Fun!! Children enjoyed a hay drive around the farm.  Lots of pictures were taken and it is hoped that they will be out on the web, shortly.  The kids were a great bunch of enthuisists. Have a great weekend and we will catch up again next week.   Youth is like spring, an over praised season more remarkable for biting winds than genial breezes.  Autumn is the mellower season, and what we lose in flowers we more than gain in fruits.  ~Samuel Butler