Fourth Grade
ELA
Our 4th graders continued their new novel, “Ancestors Approved.” Ancestors Approved is a bustling anthology of 16 short stories framed by opening and closing poems all connected to the annual intertribal powwow in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Readers are immersed in the sights, sounds, energy, and emotions of a powwow experience as diverse Native protagonists prepare for, travel to, and converge on the event for a variety of reasons: They’re experienced or novice powwow dancers; vendors’ kids helping to sell the “World’s Best Fry Bread” or corn soup or jewelry on the powwow circuit; one is a wryly resigned traveler with a lively group of Choctaw Elders; another is staying with his cousin while his professor parents speak at the university.
This week, 4th graders continued their exploration of the theme, focusing specifically on the genre of drama. They analyzed how themes are conveyed through characters’ actions and dialogue within dramatic texts. Additionally, the students were introduced to hyperboles, identifying and creating examples to deepen their understanding of this figurative language. Literacy centers provided engaging opportunities for students to practice these concepts, encouraging collaboration, creativity, and independent learning.
Social Studies
Fourth graders engaged in an exciting project to deepen their understanding of Native American tribes. Students conducted research on a chosen tribe, creating detailed Google Slides presentations that covered key aspects such as location, clothing, shelter, food, art, customs, and other fascinating facts. To bring their learning to life, students also designed dioramas that visually represented their tribe, incorporating the same rich details from their presentations. This hands-on activity fostered creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for Native American cultures.
Math
Our 4th grade mathematicians are continuing to work through Unit 3. This week they worked on building multiple towers. Multiple towers help students explore mathematical concepts like multiplication, patterns, and addition. They learned the effect of multiplying by a multiple of 10. Students also looked for various patterns and used known multiples of a number to find other multiples of that number.
In 4th-grade math, learning about multiple towers can help students practice skills like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, while also encouraging logical thinking, pattern recognition, and problem-solving.
Fifth Grade
Math:
In math, our 5th grade students are deepening their understanding of fractions by identifying fractional parts of a whole or group, finding equivalent fractions, and representing them on different-sized rectangles. They are using reasoning about relationships and representations to compare fractions and justify their order. Through activities like comparing values to benchmarks such as 0, 1/2, and 1, and placing fractions on number lines or grids, students are developing strategies to accurately compare and determine the order of fractions. These lessons emphasize critical thinking and practical application of fraction concepts.
In language arts, 5th grade readers and writers are developing their reading and writing skills through expository texts and structured writing activities. They are rereading anchor texts to analyze and reflect on key ideas, using evidence from informational texts to complete guided activities. In writing, students are analyzing rubrics and exemplary student models to understand the expectations for expository writing. They also are exploring print and graphic features by identifying specific elements within paired readings and responding to comprehension questions. These activities enhance their ability to critically engage with texts and improve their writing structure and content.
Social Studies:
In Social Studies, the 5th grade historians are engaging in two meaningful explorations: the impact of technological innovation and the significance of cultural heritage. Through their "Shark Tank" presentations, students showcased their creative inventions, explaining how their designs can positively influence people's lives. Simultaneously, they are learning about Taino mythology and culture in honor of Native American Heritage Month. They explored key figures and themes in Taino myths, creating stories or illustrations inspired by these elements to deepen their understanding of cultural values. Additionally, students examined the social and economic impacts of the Transcontinental Railroad by analyzing archival documents and discussing its effects on diverse groups, the environment, and the economy.
Peer Leadership
What a fantastic initiative! It's wonderful to hear about the collaboration between the Wallace PTO and the Peer Leaders for such a meaningful cause. A big shoutout to Ms. Vega for her guidance and to everyone involved in making the Thanksgiving Food Drive a success. The impact of these efforts will surely bring warmth and support to those at the Hoboken Homeless Shelter.
Kudos to the whole team for spreading kindness this Thanksgiving season!
Martin Shannon, Principal
Email: Martin.Shannon@Hoboken.k12.nj.us
Website: Hoboken.k12.nj.us
Location: 1100 Willow Avenue, Hoboken, NJ, USA
Phone: 201-356-3654
Twitter: @WildcatsWallace