Timelines 2015/16


Timelines

Math
The Math strands are taught in each semester.  This is called spiral teaching.  With each term the level of difficulty increases until, by the end of 3rd term, grade level outcomes have been met.  This results in continual reviewing.  Students are more successful and confident.  The Math strands are: a) Patterning and Algebra, b) Number Sense, c) Geometry and Spatial Sense, d) Measurement, e) Data Management, f) Problem Solving, and g) Mental Math.  Students who are struggling with an outcome will be given opportunities for extra practice.  Students who are meeting outcomes will have the opportunity for Math enrichment.

Science
I would like to begin with this year’s studies with Habitats and Adaptations.  As the seasons change we will come back to this unit to learn how Canadian animals adapt.  The experimental units of Light and Sound will be next, followed by Rocks and Minerals.  In addition, we will track the weather and temperature and integrate this data with graphing in Math.

Social Studies
We will first look at the world and Canada’s geographic place on the globe.  This reinforces previously learned mapping skills and introduces many new geographic terms.  Next we will look at the physical regions of Canada and how they influence the way Canadians live.  We will then learn about Canada’s North old and new with an accent on the newest territory, Nunavut.  We end with an exploration of Canada’s early settlers and their contribution to Canada’s development.  We also learn about Canada’s government.

French
French is taught by theme.  First we review previously learned vocabulary.  We study weather next to integrate with Science.  We take a look at the parts of the body and simple clothing for the seasons.  Our home is the next unit and we end with a unit on nourishing snacks.

Language Arts
The students have already been exposed to the idea of Daily Five.  We will review the structure and practice throughout September.  They should be able to move to a modified Daily Five by October.  Then I will begin to introduce the CAFÉ terms.  During Daily Five we will a) read to self, b) read to someone, and c) word work.
The writing part of Daily Five will be done separately as will listening to someone read. 
I like to have a read aloud book going at all times.  I often stop and self-talk to model what a good reader does.  It also helps to strengthen their understanding of the CAFÉ categories.

Our reading will be developed through themes.  We will start with Getting to Know Each Other.  I use Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, as it is full of humor and characterization.  Next we do a unit on legends, myths and fables.  There are a lot of comparisons that we can make as well as critical thinking.  The students will be writing their own legends.  After this we will integrate Language Arts and Social Studies to study the North.  This unit is rich with myths and legends and children love the animal studies.  This unit also integrates the concepts learned in Habitats and Adaptations.  This should take us to third term. I generally choose a theme in which the children have shown an interest.

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