Mrs Gilboa's 5th Grade Class

Knitting club

2010-12-15T19:48:00.001-08:00

We started a little knitting club this week during recess. Participation is completely voluntary. If your child is interested, they'll need a couple of needles and some yarn. The girls seem determined to learn the trade, and I am there to teach. We might even end up with a scarf or two by the end of winter....

Regal Ranch - A Day of Fun!

2010-05-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

Field day Pictures

2010-05-13T17:46:00.000-07:00

This was definitely a memorable field day....

Big THANKS to all the parents that sent snacks, and to the parents that supported the kids throughout the day. Special thanks to Ilene and Megan Flora that were there at every break offering refreshments and taking care of all of our needs. We got lots of compliments for the T-shirts, and I think we can safely say we won that one! These are some pictures I took - Enjoy.

23rd Annual ART Car Parade

2010-05-08T08:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we got a taste of the Art Car Parade as they came down Braes and stopped long enough for us to enjoy and admire. This unique parade is an annual Houston event. If you would like to take part in this wonderful event, make sure to go to Allen Parkway between Taft and Bagby street today, May 8Th at 1:00.

Science All day....

2010-04-21T17:26:00.000-07:00

As you can see we are busy this week getting ready for the Science TAKS. We learned to read and compare information provided on nutritional labels. We defined and explored science vocabulary such as transparent, translucent, and opaque using milk, cranberry juice, water and a flashlight. We learned to use the triple beam balance, and estimated mass of different items. Today we used Renzulli learning on line to explore pollen city. The kids became virtual pollinators (bees) and embarked on an interesting journey. Tomorrow, we'll exlore condensation, and different adaptations that allow organisms to survive.

We are Back!

2010-04-16T18:16:00.000-07:00

I was so happy to see the kids earlier today, and learn all about their wonderful experience at camp Cullen. I hope this weekend will allow much needed rest for all of us and that they'll come ready to work on Monday. Please help you child create an email account and a blog account so that we can start working on our Exhibition on Monday.

Brazos Bend State Park - Camp Twain

2010-04-16T18:06:00.001-07:00

We had so much fun at Brazos Bend State Park! We learned all about adaptations of the native species that call Brazos bend state park, HOME. We collected data for an alligator census, and learned how to estimate alligator size. We Observed birds, and learned that since the birds at Brazos bend have to share this ecosystem, and compete for the same resources, they have developed special adaptations that allow them to survive. We looked, and compered their leg size, and the shape of their beaks. At the nature center we touched a baby alligator and learned about adaptations that allow it to survive in the wild.

The wheels on the bus...

2010-04-14T04:25:00.000-07:00

We arrived at Camp Cullen at about 11:00 and were very impressed with the faculty and facilities. After checking them in and making sure all the medications were accounted for, the children unloaded and were taken off to enjoy the wilderness. Everyone was excited, no tears in sight, and they were ready to have fun. I am sure they will come back on Friday with many stories to share. The children that are staying will receive instruction during the day on a rotation basis from the fifth grade teachers on Wednesday and go on a field trip to Brazos bend park on Thursday. Friday they will be assigned as classroom helpers to another teacher while we venture back to Camp Cullen to pick up the other children.

Live Barn Owl Nest Box Cam - San Marcos, CA

2010-03-26T08:47:00.000-07:00

Visit the link below to enjoy this live feed of a wild female barn owl named Molly. The owl box is located 15 feet off the ground. Expecting owlets mid March. The male(McGee) has a white chest and face. He usually shows up after dark but has spent an entire day with the female. Full screen viewing is disabled, it's way too blurry and takes up too much data. I hope you enjoy the cams

http://www.sportsmansparadiseonline.com/Live_Owl_Nest_Box_Cam.html

Another one we have been enjoying in class is the Eagle cam

http://www.wvec.com/marketplace/microsite-content/eagle-cam.html

Sound

2010-03-10T18:20:00.000-08:00

Our science investigations this week focused on Sound exploration. Different groups explored different aspect of the topic, and were later asked to present to the class. The students became experts in their field, and had to design a demonstration to explain their concept. One group delved into What is sound, another into how we hear (or ear anatomy), then we learned about high and low pitch, loudness.... and the relationship between sound and different surfaces. Guitars were made out of a science book, pencils, and rubber bands, little drums from toilet paper rolls and balloons, rice was jumping inside a balloon, and salt crystal were dancing as the kids yelled at them.... It was definitely not a quite week.

Historical Figures - Wax Museum

2010-03-10T18:07:00.000-08:00

As the Government Planner is coming to a close, we have been learning about people that have influenced our United States government in many different and important ways. The focus of this assignment was exploring their beliefs and values as a cause for their historical actions. The kids researched and became very knowledgeable about their historical figure. They did a great job depicting these important historical figures and delivering their presentations. It was nice to see how some of these historical figures are connected throughout history and the beliefs they share.

Our Young Inventors - Our Future...

2010-03-06T10:35:00.000-08:00

On Friday afternoon we shared our inventions in class. The enthusiastic young inventors presented their ideas and captivated the audience for about 2 hours. I was very impressed with the inventors' creativity and the audience's critical evaluations. Ideas span from math games, to alternative energy applications. It was an inspiring showcase of tomorrow's world citizens.

You are invited to view all inventions as they are displayed in the 5Th grade hall, and judge for yourself. All I know is that I have a tough task ahead and it will be very hard to pick the top three.....

How Does Heat Move????

2010-03-06T10:33:00.001-08:00

In our science investigation last week we looked at different ways heat moves, or the way heat transfers between substances having different temperatures. In the first experiment, we used food coloring to demonstrate how the kinetic energy of the molecules in the warmer water is greater than the kinetic energy of the molecules in the cold water. By coloring the water having different temperatures, we were able to compare how fast the dye spread throughout each beaker. This demonstrated that in warmer water molecules move faster than in cooler water. Therefore, this illustrated that warm water contain more heat than the cold water.In the second experiment, using the scientific method we designed an experiment to demonstrate heat conduction. Using two water containing vessels of different size, such as the old cans above, we placed the small can, containing ice water, inside the bigger can containing hot water. Students had measured and recorded temperature readings every two minutes, and those were plotted versus time on a graph. The results showed that over time the temperature of the water in the cold can had risen, while the temperature of the water in the hot can had fallen. Eventually the two reached an equilibrium temerature. From this, we concluded that heat moves from hot objects to cold ones.

Valentine's Ice Cream Party

2010-02-26T19:18:00.000-08:00

Our Valentine's ice cream party was a great hit! Big thanks to Fiona Dunnet and Ilene Flora for organizing and serving ice cream. And to all of you for sending ice cream, paper goods, different toppings and as always making it happen - Thanks!

All about me project

2010-02-26T19:02:00.000-08:00

To learn more about character traits we read the book City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau. Students worked in groups to read and analyze characters, motives and conflicts and then prepared different presentations. The products were very diverse and creative. They ranged from an "All about Looper" game, Looper rap song, posters, journey diary, and even some dramatic plays.

MOLU was at Twain

2010-02-05T15:34:00.000-08:00

We had a very special hands-on activity today. The M.O.L.U, or Mobile Off shore Learning Unit, was set up in the 5th grade hall. This unit had 24 different learning activities/experiences. Students received a “MOLU PASS” with questions that correlated to the different activities, and had to complete it during their rotation. If you would like to learn more about it, visit the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum in Galveston.

Bake Sale Success

2010-01-30T17:07:00.000-08:00

Our bake sale benefiting Haiti was a huge success! We were able to raise $280 in four hours of hard work and lots of fun. This would not have been possible without all your help, baking efforts, and generosity. But, most of all this was made possible because of the kids' passion to help people in need and the idea to take ACTION.

Spelling Bee

2010-01-29T17:40:00.000-08:00

I am very proud to announce that both of our classroom spelling Bee representatives, Madeline and Brooke, made it to the final four in the longest spelling Bee ever recorded in the history of Mark Twain Elementary.... All of our contestants this year were very committed, studied hard and showed great spelling abilities. Therefore, after a while Mrs. Gee run out of words. We will have to reconvene in about a week and compete again ;) I'll keep you posted.

Reading Buddies

2010-01-22T08:08:00.001-08:00

A couple of weeks ago some of us started visiting Mrs. Muftah's class, while the others are going to Mrs. Blakslee's class. Our reading buddies are very excited to see us every time we come and read with them. Being a mentor, and a role model for these kindergarten children has definitely enhanced our 5Th grade experience.

Mixtures vs. Solutions

2010-01-19T17:24:00.001-08:00

In our science lab today we compared Mixtures and solutions. We learned that a mixture is a combination of 2 or more substances that are not chemically combined, while solutions are homogeneous mixtures that are evenly mixed. First we mixed crystal light and water to make our solution (ice tea drink). Then we mixed, Cheerios, raisins, Marshmallows, and M&M's in a big bowl. Each student was served one cup of our snack mix and was asked to count the different food items. Our solution was evenly mixed, or homogeneous and no particles were detected. However our mixture was not evenly mixed and each student got a different number of food particles.... There was a sad marshmallow in Jake's cup, and only 4 M&M's in Annabelle's, While Zack had 26....

Matter - What's the matter?

2010-01-16T04:27:00.000-08:00

This week in our science lab, we learned all about properties of matter. We became knowledgeable about particle size, solubility, magnetism, density, and buoyancy. Our task was to separate a mixture of Sand, Gravel, Cork, Iron Filings, Aluminum, paper clips and Salt. Using what we know about the unique characteristics of the different substances, the students designed and carried an experiment. The goal was the give Mrs. Daniel every item back in its original state and container including the salt.

Knitting Knews....

2010-01-16T04:09:00.000-08:00

This week we started our much anticipated knitting club. With a lot of hard work, commitment, and definitely some frustration.... we embarked on our knitting journey. Someone once said, “The way to learn to do things is to do things. The way to learn a trade is to work at it. Success teaches how to succeed. Begin with the determination to succeed, and the work is half done already." I hope we'll have a scarf by summer.....

My Organism

2010-01-12T18:03:00.001-08:00

As a summative activity for the Biodiversity Planner students were asked to create an imaginary organism and describe its special features, behavioral and structural adaptations that help it survive in the Biome of their choice. Student's acquired knowledge as well as creativity were tested. Today we had our gallery walk. We learned about the Birdzilla, the Flyger, the Rootler, the Rosie Posies, and many other creatures of their imagination. We learned why Flygers fly? and Dandelions have whiskers..... Here are some of the creatures for you to enjoy.

The Road to The Revolutionary War in pictures

2010-01-12T17:29:00.000-08:00

In learning about the Revolutionary War the students were divided into three groups; One group researched and documented the 10 most fascinating people of this time period. The second group documented the events in pictures (illustrators), and the third summarized the events (writers). Today we constructed this time line as we reviewed the events leading to the revolutionary war.

Palace Lanes

2010-01-09T07:35:00.000-08:00

What a great way to celebrate the new year, and continue building our classroom community. It was a pleasure seeing the kids play and enjoy themselves. I truly believe that we are growing closer every day and are coming together as a strong community built on Respect, Cooperation and Commitment (the 3 attitude we agreed on at the begining of the school year). As we step into the second part of the year, we need to keep our strength, and positive attitude. I would like to thank all of you for accommodating this last minute get together, arranging carpool, chaperoning, and sharing your kids with me after school hours.

Knitting 101

2009-12-22T14:16:00.000-08:00

Call for all girly girl to report for duty.

What: Knitting club

When: Recess

Where: Mark Twain Pavilion

Your knitting basket awaits, all you need is yarn of your choice, and size 7-8 needles (for flower pins), or size 10 (for scarf).

Available at Michaels after Christmas sale.

YMCA Angel

2009-12-20T16:16:00.000-08:00

Each year the Weekley Family YMCA supports a program called Weekley Holiday Giving Program. This is an Outreach Program that gives families and children gifts so everyone has a happy holiday. This year our class sponsored an 11 year old boy.

Thanks to your generous donations we were able to purchase a bike, a helmet, and many items off of his wish list. Carlo and Michael took it to the YMCA after school on Wednesday. Big thanks to Ilene Flora for organizing it all, and to all of you for donating money and/or items and making it happen.

Holiday Party

2009-12-18T16:36:00.000-08:00

Our holiday party was great!!!! We started with pizza for lunch, holiday Crafts, talent show, dreidel game and a musical book exchange. I would like to thank all of you that made it happen. Ilene Flora, the best room mom ever for organizing it all. Big thanks to all of you that sent goodies and were there to provide support and help.

Health Science Museum

2009-12-12T15:12:00.000-08:00

Our first field trip this year was to the Health Science Museum. We started with lunch at Miller park, it was very cold but we survived.... This trip couldn't have come at a better time, as the biodiversity planner is coming to a close. We saw a cow eye dissection, and learned about special structural adaptation animals have to fit in their environment. We also saw a 4D movie called, Planet You. This movie was about bacteria, and viruses invasion of the human body. The 4D experience was interesting..... Last, I would like to Thank Mrs. Butler for coming with us on the trip.

I am thankful for.....

2009-11-28T06:44:00.000-08:00

Some of the kids wanted to share what they were thankful for - Enjoy ;)

Box Tops for Education

2009-11-28T06:27:00.000-08:00

Please remember to clip Box Tops. It is a great way to support our schools. Last year our school earned over $1200 with this easy fundraiser. The class with the most Boxtops wins a pizza party. I will start collecting them in class Monday.

Moon Phases

2009-10-22T15:53:00.000-07:00

Using Oreo cookies, or "learning" cookies we modeled the different phases of the moon.

Mother Earth - Our Home

2009-10-21T16:32:00.000-07:00

During Science lesson today we observed a hard boiled egg and compared it to our planet Earth. The shell, as the crust, the egg white as the mantle, and the Yolk as the core. Later on we researched the characteristics of the moon. Using Venn diagrams we organized our knowledge about how the two compare. While presenting, the students shared their WOW moments and fun facts they came across as they researched the topic. Brooke, Maddy and Caitlan inquired as to what will happen if the moon left its orbit and disappeared into space...

How likely is that....

2009-10-20T15:30:00.000-07:00

Today during our math lesson we predicted the likelihood of some chance events. For example; how likely is it to rain today? how likely is it to get homework tonight? and how likely is it that we'll see a pig fly during recess??? Using the probability meter vocabulary; certain, extremely likely, 50/50 chance, unlikely, extremely unlikely and impossible we described different situations.

Later on we made a prediction as to how likely is it that thumbtacks land face down. Then we carried an experiment to test our prediction. calculated the probability and posted it on our probability meter.

Estimating Reaction Time

2009-10-17T14:16:00.000-07:00

This week in math we estimated our reaction time and practiced using statistical landmarks to describe experimental data. After collecting our right hand and left hand reaction time data, we found the Maximum, minimum, range, mode, median and mean (average).

Artifact Bag Activity

2009-09-26T10:13:00.000-07:00

It was great learning all about each and every child's personal history this week. The kids seemed to have learned a lot about where they were from and about their ancestors. We now realize and appreciate that at some point in time each and everyone of us had an ancestor that have migrated here from different places in the world.... I hope you have enjoyed this personal journey as well.

Chew on This... and the Scietific Method

2009-09-24T17:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we investigated what happens to the mass of gum after we chew on it. Applying all that we have learned about the scientific method in the past few weeks the kids came up with their own hypothesis, or educated guess. Then they designed, and carried an experiment to prove just that. We were all able to collect data, organize it in a chart and later on draw conclusions. If you would like to find out what happens to the mass of gum talk to your child about it - they are experts now....

Progress Report

2009-09-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

Progress reports, and graded work binders went home yesterday.
You have been given two copies; one copy is for your record, the other needs to be signed and returned to school.
Please note that you can find your student ID number at the top. This number can be used to access your student grade record on parent connection of GradeSpeed. More information on GradeSpeed will be given soon in a parent meeting.
Please don't hesitate to contact me if you wish to discuss your child's academic progress.

What to expect in the next few weeks....

2009-09-03T18:12:00.000-07:00

Math - We started our year reviewing the Number Theory using our Everyday Math curriculum. In this unit we will explore the following:

Rectangular Arrays
Place Value
Factors
Divisibility
Prime and Composite numbers
Square Numbers
factor string and prime factorization
Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication of Whole Numbers and Decimals

Please Practice multiplication/division flashcards with your child. The goal is to recall 60 facts in 60 seconds. If your child has mastered these basic facts, then add a zero or two or three to the numbers on the flashcards!

Science - Nature of science

Historical contributions of scientists

Lab Safety

Scientific Method

Science Tools

Our first planner this year delves into the following central idea:

Migration leads to cultural transformation that affects personal histories.

We will inquire into:

Factors and consequences of migration
Historical perspectives of ancestral migration
Cultural exchanges of migration

We will be reading from the Social Studies textbook as well as some literature, both fiction and non-fiction, to learn about the different migration periods in history and to give us a glimpse of the different perspectives.

Language Art - We will enrich our vocabulary skills using the Word Explorer book. The students will be presented with a new lesson every Monday, and will be tested every Friday. Daily language reviews as well as English workbook will be used to review our grammar skills.

Reader's Notebook - In the weeks that we do not have LDC I expect the kids to read a minimum of 30 minutes a day as part of their homework. They can choose any chapter book and are required to write me letters (one a week), telling me all about their reading experience. There is a list of suggested letter topics in their reader's notebook. It is my hope that with time students will write naturally and be able to reflect on their reading with greater ease. I will pick up the reader's notebooks every other Friday.

Arithmetic by Mrs. Gilboa's Class

2009-08-28T19:13:00.000-07:00

Arithmetic is fun! I love it because it is math. It is like a spider that can bite you, but eats annoying bugs.
Arithmetic is like the water cycle. It rains out of my head when I need it most. It evaporates, and clouds my brain when I don’t need it.
Arithmetic is frustrating at first, but once you are done you are satisfied.
Arithmetic is good because it is funny. Learning makes me happy.
Arithmetic is like a busy ant.
Arithmetic is just a fancy word for Math.
Arithmetic is like a monkey jumping around everywhere inside my mind.
Arithmetic is a good tool for everyday life.
Arithmetic is numbers, and that makes me love it even more.
Arithmetic is a thinking helper.
Arithmetic is like a mean cat. It looks cute on the outside , but when it attacks it is bad.
Arithmetic is like a race of numbers in my head with the number one in the first place and no number comes in last.
Arithmetic is like music to my ears. You either like it or hate it.
Most of it is sort of fun.
Arithmetic is like a bee; it can sting you but also help earth grow...
I don't like math, but I think who ever invented it did an excellent job!
Arithmetic is a superhero, but also a villain. The procedure is incredibly frustrating but when you solve it you're filled with Satisfaction.

Each line in this poem was written by one of my students. Try to guess which one was written by your child......

Building a community

2009-08-28T18:56:00.000-07:00

Our focus this week was building our classroom community. We got to know each other and established our classroom rules. We decided that we should RESPECT ourselves, and one another. We should APPRECIATE the world we live in, stay COMMITTED to our goals, always COOPERATE and keep our CREATIVITY flowing..... We built newspaper bridges and discovered the importance of team work.

School supplies (In addition to 5th grade packet)

2009-08-15T06:24:00.000-07:00

Clip board
Box of Kleenex
Two 2 inch binders
4 composition notebooks (no spirals please)
2 red pens
Flash drive (2 GB flash drive sold at the school store)