Fourth grade math reviewed the order of operations in order to play Cover the Field. We reviewed the role parenthesis play in math.  Students played in pairs. Each pair received 3 regular dice and 1 9-sided die. They had to decide how to add two pairs of numbers in order to make a multiplication equation. Their goal was to cover as much of the graph paper they were given. While this seemed like an easy game, students soon learned it was not. They had to combine the numbers carefully so that their array would fit in the remaining spaces, they had to estimate, and they had to plan. Tomorrow they’ll play again, but with a slight change that will make the game both more difficult, but allow them to play for longer.

Third grade reading had an “easy” day as they were given time to read while they were with me. Tomorrow we’ll start discussing the role setting plays in a story and how changing the setting affect the rest of the story.

Most of second grade math continued to work on their beginning algebra assignments. One group was struggling so I pulled them back to my table, which we call the firepit. Sitting at the firepit, we walked through the problem with which they were struggling. The most important part of the conversation was reminding students that it’s smart to ask for help when you need it and that they’re likely to need it while they’re with me. A few students moved onto a more challenging aspect of the algebra by having to figure out the value of sea creatures in a grid rather than simple equations. That group said that was a lot of fun, but still didn’t like having to explain their thinking. A final group is working on solving mysteries called “Mathological Liar,” which requires them to use math clues to determine the culprit behind some crime.

Second grade came back for more during their reading time. We continued to talk about who they are. They were asked to write who they thought they were. Most students started to write a list rather than explaining why they might be one or two things. I asked them to take a break from their writing and asked them to help me write a paragraph about who I was. It was decided that I was the dungeon keeper, with white hair, who wears black when I give kids hard work. They’ll get back to work on their paragraphs tomorrow, hopefully adding more details.