Last week we had some incredible weather moments. The wind and the rain kept us inside a great deal more than we wanted or needed. During one of the most intense parts of the rainstorm we stopped everything we were doing, moved to the window, and simply observed the rain. One student suggested that we have a 'mindful moment', which we did. We practiced some mindful listening and were completely silent as we paid attention to the sounds around us. What a great way it was to slow down and appreciate nature.
In Grade 4, to celebrate our Brain Awareness Week, students researched an inquiry question of interest to them. They then researched this question using text and online resources, decided how they wanted to share their findings, and presented a final piece using a format of their choice to an audience of their choice. These projects were all very different but stemmed from our same Driving Question: How can we as Grade 4 students inquire into how the brain helps us live our lives? Here are two examples of the finished presentations. Emily and Claudia's Prezi about dreams and the brain. Marina's RSA animate about sleep and the brain. How does our brain help us live our lives everyday?This week April 8-12, 2013 is our Brain Awareness Week. We will be having assemblies and events throughout the week to learn more about the brain. In addition to our school wide events, the Grade 4 students will be completing a brain inquiry project about a question of interest to them. We look forward to an exciting week of learning. Be sure to ask your children about how the brain stretches and grows. The video below is from our Mad Science assembly which focussed on magic and how the brain makes connections. How does your brain grow and stretch?
When we solve problems in Grade 4 it is important to be able to explain the thinking behind our solutions. Today in class, while working collaboratively with a partner we prepared a ShowMe presentation to teach our solutions. We know that explaining our thinking and teaching others is the best way to stimulate our brains! Click to set custom HTML What are some ways you have used the iPad to show your learning?
Think of a problem you could create and share with the class. Remember you must solve it yourself first. |