Hello!

We have embarked on our Geography studies. We are starting with cartography and types of maps.  We are exploring how map making has evolved and are learning about how maps can influence people.  Just as writers write with a purpose, maps are also created for specific purposes.  We learned how some maps have been created to make leaders look good - like in Ancient Rome.  We also are exploring the shape of maps and the scientific tools that help create those maps.   

This month we are wrapping up our studies of the Fundamental Needs of Humans. Students have been working on their group posters and presentations about the Fundamental Needs of Early Humans. We have been exploring the impact others have on our existence on this planet over time. Students are asking thoughtful questions and trying to make sense of what our "Human Story" is all about.

 

We will begin exploring the geography of our planet and the structure of Earth. We will be learning about physical geography and cartography. I have lots of hands on activities planned with lots of healthy conversations.Sometimes students bring up topics of a personal nature in class. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if your student has specific concerns or you need clarification about anything that gets brought up. I am happy to clarify what we are doing in Social Studies. Often just a simple explanation is all that is required.  So please reach out to me first. I will do my best to respond.

 

One of the best activities we did at the beginning of the year was play the game "Telephone". We sat in a circle and I shared a sentence with a student. The whispered sentence got shared around the circle 26 times. It was incredible how much that information changed as it passed from one student to a next.  We demonstrated how important communication is. Much of history gets handed down orally.  We talked about how many stories could have been exaggerated or changed through time. Try playing telephone at your next family gathering and see how a simple sentences can change as it is whispered from one to another. It can be very entertaining.  However, I am trying to show students that the history of humans in the beginning was passed down orally and we have to look for evidence from anthropologists and other social scientists to piece the story together. Critical thinking skills are being strengthenf through these activities and discussions.

 

On 9/11, we focused on remembering our first responders and the unity that was felt in the USA after that day. For many of us, that day is marked by what we were doing at the time.  25 years ago for our 5th graders is history. We had some fabulous conversations about what it meant to be American that tragic day.  Students shared their family stories and this is how history gets passed down from generation to generation.  

 

I love teaching students about their part in the human journey. If you ever have any questions about what we are doing, do not hesitate to reach out. 

Hello families of students who attended  Outdoor Ed at Keystone Science School!  We had an amazing experience watching your children grow these past few days. The setting and programming was excellent. I am sure your science campers are exhausted. We collected items as we left that did not make into bags. Please encourage your camper to check out the table in the pod to look for any items. Hoping tomorrow the items will all make it home.

It was such an honor to accompany your child to the Keystone Science School! Your children are wonderful and I hope they share all of their memories with you!

Ms.Muftic

Hello!

 

I am thrilled to be taking your fifth graders on an academic  journey of social studies this year.  Currently, we are learning about the daily life of early humans and the fundamental needs of humans on Earth. Students are exploring how their daily lives are similar and different to those of early humans. 

 

Students started the year exploring how we are all connected.  This curriculum integrates scientific theory and anthropology.  Students also identify what it means to belong to a community and how they all are an important part of human society.  I call this journey: The Human Story. We all are human and through exploring geography, history, civics, and economics we have a deeper understanding of our fellow humans globally and locally. Most of the work will be written in their composition notebooks in class.  There will also be hands-on projects, as well as research projects throughout the year. 

 

In the 3rd quarter, we will be taking part in the Young Ameritowne experience where students get to run a town for a day.  We will be talking about this more at the parent engagement night this Wednesday August 26 6:30-7:30pm in the 5/6 pod. I will keep you updated through this class page. Information about young Ameritowne

 

I look forward to working with your fifth grader this year.