Parents are always asking how they can help their child at home. Usually, the answer from teachers is "Read, read, read!". Well, today I have a couple new things that you can do to help your child!
In math, we are beginning to work on multiplication. Grade 4s need to know their times tables up to 9x9, and grade 5s will be working on multiplying by double digits. Times tables are one of the few things for which rote learning actually works! While you're in the car, quiz your child on their times tables. At the grocery store, ask them how many juice boxes you'll be buying if you buy 3 packs of 4 boxes! Knowing their times tables cold is an essential skill.
In writing, both in English and in French, we are working on justifying and supporting opinion. You can help by asking your child their opinion about something - even something as simple as if they liked what they had for dinner that evening - and having them explain why they have taken that position. I like to use the analogy of a chair - the most sturdy chairs have 4 legs; and the best supported opinions have 4 proofs.
Because of the snow day on Monday, Winter Electives have been pushed back a week, so we will begin this Monday, January 30th.
English Book Reports are due on Wednesday, February 1st! (Usually they are due on the last school day of the month, but I made a mistake so I left it like that - lucky creatures!)
