Manifest Destiny!

Pioneer Personalities

Westward Ho!
Last week we chose our pioneer names. Introduce yourself to the wagon train. Tell your name, age, gender and your role in the family. Use your knowledge from our research and Hattie Campbell's Diary to tell about your responsibilities on the trail. 

Visiting Author - Jason Chin

Next week we have the unique opportunity to meet the amazing author and illustrator, Jason Chin! We have read Coral Reefs and have other books in our classroom. Think about what you've learned about his writing and illustrations. If you could ask Jason Chin a question, what would it be? Which of his research topics is most interesting for you? (Gravity, Coral Reefs, Redwoords, the water cycle, Galapagos Islands) 

Westward Expansion

We have been building background knowledge for our Westward Expansion Unit. We've learned about the Lewis and Clark Expedition. In library, we learned some information about supplies needed to take the six month journey west. What are at least two wonders you would like to investigate further? Please read each other's comments and try not to repeat posts.

International Fair - Travel Log

We've returned from our travels to South Korea and Denmark! View photos here!
As you reflect think: what did you hear, see and do? What was your favorite experience in South Korea? What was your favorite experience in Denmark? Please share new learning with us! What surprised you? If you could go back to one country, which would it be?

The One and Only Ivan

The One and Only Ivan

Ivan the Silverback has been in his domain separated from his kind for years. He has made friends with Bob, Stella, Julia and precious baby elephant Ruby.

Please write a few sentences about your thoughts on this book so far. What do you think? Which character is your favorite? Why? What character traits make him or her interesting to you? What big ideas or themes do you recognize in the book so far?

Realistic Fiction - Problem Share

Writers, we have all been working on plotting out our stories on story mountains. As we know, the event at the top of the mountain is when the problem is at its worst or most challenging point. Please share your mountain tops with us! What is the most intense part of your story...the problem at its worst!

Character Traits

     We have been getting to know the characters in our books by studying their words and actions. We can notice patterns of how the character acts to come up with a big idea or theory about his or her character. In Writing Workshop, we are developing a character map for a realistic fiction character. We are mapping out physical traits and character traits. Please share about a character you are developing in Writing Workshop. Who is the main character in your realistic fiction story? What are his or her character traits? Will your character change across the story?