Some of Mrs. DeYoung's groups at Lakeview are answering essay questions about a passage they read. They are stating their key idea, giving evidence from the text for their opinion, and explaining the significance or interpreting the evidence. Students are focusing on critical thinking and use graphic organizers to express ideas and plan paragraphs. This is challenging for many students since writing essays involves comprehension, abstract reasoning, expression, organization, and composition.
Groups at Prairieview continue to practice using clear speech while playing games or discussing current events. Fourth and fifth graders talked about the voting process or answered questions about a reading selection. Like the older children, they are learning to give reasons for their answers and explain their ideas.
