Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Math Switch- Unit 4


February 7, 2012
Dear Fourth Grade Families,

We started our fourth math unit yesterday Monday, February 6th.  This unit will include content addressing geometry and measurement of area and perimeter. However, the main focus will be multi-digit multiplication.  Students have completed a pre-assessment on the skills that will be presented in this unit.  Our team has used this data to create four classes, organized so that each student can work successfully at their rate and level.  All four classes will be covering the fourth grade standards for this unit. Similar to our last unit, our roles and pacing as teachers is based on the results of the pre-assessments. 

Mrs. Caton’s class will continue to work at an accelerated pace, reviewing Bridges content as needed. The students in this class have demonstrated mastery of most multi-digit multiplication skills.  Therefore, M3 (Mentoring Mathematical Minds) curriculum will be used to extend their geometrical skills and understanding.

Ms. Brown’s class will continue to work at an accelerated pace, as appropriate.  Students in this class demonstrated a strong understanding of Bridges content for this unit.  When mastery of skills and concepts is shown through class assignments and homework, extensions will be provided.  Opportunities for deeper understanding of geometrical concepts may also be explored.

Mrs. Hunting-Knight and Mr. Langton’s (student-teacher) class will be working at a standard 4th grade level pace.  Students will explore the Bridges content through use of manipulatives, sketches, and algorithms.  Extensions and modifications will be provided as needed, based on classroom performance.

Miss Levin and Mrs. Robinson’s (Alameda’s Math Specialist) class will be exploring the Bridges content through the use of manipulatives, sketches, and algorithms.  Students have shown a need for classroom pacing that allows more time to review and practice newly acquired skills.  Extensions and modifications will be provided as needed, based on classroom performance.

The purpose of organizing math classes in this manner is to best meet each student’s needs in regards to the concepts and skills in each unit. Please feel free to contact your child’s classroom teacher with any specific questions or concerns you may have. Below you will find all fourth grade teachers’ email addresses for your convenience throughout the unit.


Sincerely,
The Fourth Grade Team

Kimberly Hunting-Knight                        Abby Levin                       
khunting@pps.net                                    alevin@pps.net

Christy Caton                                                Julie Brown
ccaton@pps.net                                     jbrown@pps.net

 

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