Headlines - December 10, 2010

This week the 5th graders took their first of three trips down to the Middle School science classroom to learn some science and get acquainted with Tr. Bailey. However, parts of class did not seem like science. After meeting the animals and participating in an activity on observation skills, students were given a paper cube with sides that had different colors, names, and numbers. Their task was to figure out what color, name and numbers would be found on the bottom without lifting the cube. Based on the colors observed, it was relatively easy to determine the bottom would be purple. However, the pattern to the name and numbers was a little more obscure. Students worked intently developing, testing and rejecting competing solutions to the puzzle. Breakthroughs were made when the scientists realized they could share information and discuss possibilities. It is unclear whether any one group got the complete answer but the activity was a complete success. A student wrote later in a journal entry “It was hard but we had so much fun doing that”.

The students had just participated in inquiry-based learning. They were using their observation, communication and reasoning skills to problem solve. Inquiry-based learning actively involves students in the exploration of the content. Activities and assignments are designed for students to solve problems, increasing student motivation. Inquiry activities in the classroom actively involve students in the learning process and give them the opportunity to learn the content and concepts by exploring questions and developing solutions. Inquiry-based learning gives students more opportunity to reflect on their own learning, and become better critical thinkers.

While spending time figuring out what the bottom of a cube looks like may not be essential, the mental gymnastics that were involved in the exercise develop each student’s skills for later assignments. I can’t wait to hear what Bailey has in store for them next week.

In the News:
Students from Teacher Nick’s class had an opportunity today to talk with members of the media who visited the school to learn more about the 4th Grade Pennies for Peace service project. A journalist from the Centre County Gazette interviewed the students about their work and the different subject areas used in the project. Channel 6 (WJAC – Centre County Report) captured some footage and spoke with the students as well. It is expected this will air on the 5:00 and/ or 6:00 news. The students handled themselves with maturity and ease as they very clearly articulated details about their work. Both journalists commented on their maturity and skill. Unfortunately, none of the banks we invited attended this morning’s media event as it sometimes goes, so teacher Dan and I who both had empty pockets to begin with, are picking through our desk drawers for some spare change!

Announcements

Peace Choir Sings – The Peace Choir still has a few more dates lined up this season. We hope that everyone gets the opportunity to enjoy a performance this year.

Toys for Tots Ramada Inn Saturday, Dec.11 8:10-9:45 pm

School Holiday Sing School Tuesday, Dec. 21 1:45 pm

School Pictures – We took pictures of the K/1, 4th and 5th grade classrooms this week. The 2/3 are slated for Tuesday, the middle school is Wednesday and make ups are on Friday.

Toys for Tots Gift Wrapping – The after school program will be taking all interested 4th – 8th grade student volunteers to help wrap presents for Toys for Tots on Tuesday the 14th. Teachers Bailey, Nick and Diane will drive participating students over to the Penn Stater at about 3:30 and wrap until about 5:00 pm, then return students to the school to be picked up. Please look for signup sheet in today’s Friday folder.

Pizza Friday- Pizza is on the menu for next Friday the 17th. If you have not already ordered for your child and would like to, please contact Diane.

Free Winter Play Days – On Saturdays, Jan 22nd, February 19th and March 19th, from 9:30 to 11:30 AM The Friends School is hosting Saturday Play Days for children from 3-7 years old. The school‘s Community Room and a K/1 classroom will be open for supervised active and imaginative play. This is a great opportunity to bring a friend to the school and enjoy a morning out of the cold. Refreshments and snacks will be served. All are welcome. Please contact the school at (814) 237-8386.

Have a great weekend

Dan