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Science and Social Studies =[|MCPSS Science Link]= Our class uses the Houghton Mifflin Science book as an aide. Mobile County provides benchmark science tests. As inquiring scientists, we explore our Alabama Course of Study topics in many different ways. At the beginning of a unit, pre-assessments are conducted through a KWL chart, questionnaire, or Powerpoint. I need to know everyone's background knowledge so that I may scaffold each student's learning. We brainstorm and ask questions. Students may practice strategies such as "Think-Pair-Share" or participate in Cooperative Learning activities. In Cooperative Learning, students learn to evaluate themselves and each other. They form & test hypotheses, record data, and evaluate what they have learned. They also generate questions and think of new ways to explore. Appropriate websites are posted to enrich learning. Students blog to synthesize new information. Language Arts is integrated through the incorporation of picture books, writing activities, and the completion of graphic organizers. The Smartboard provides modeling of Internet manuevering and interactive games. Alabama Power provides science kits we borrow to supplement our units of study. Students attend Science Lab with Mrs. Cromer for 30 minutes once a week. Parents and members of our community are encouraged to assist in our units of study. =[|MCPSS Social Studies Link]=

Social Studies is a collaborative effort. Our class pairs with other classes across the nation and around the world to work together. Language Arts is integrated as we blog, edit wikis, compose letters, and video tape messages to our neighbors. A couple of years ago, we had penpals from Australia. We learned about creating a compost from them. We learn from each other. Collaborative efforts are arranged through [|globalschoolnet.org] and [|epals.com]. In the past, we also were collaborating on an Autumn Wiki with several schools across the nation. We also participated in a pen pal activity generating from Indiana called "Tyrone Tiger Travels America". [|Tyrone Tiger] In the past, we collaborated on a weather wiki : Wild and Wondrous Weather. In 2011-2012, we used [|distance learning] equipment to connect to the Milwaukee Public Museum to connect with a live docent whom differentiated between moths and butterflies. We also participated in a nation-wide fundraising for Alex's Lemonade Stand to benefit juvenile cancer.