WWF Book Launch

Author, CarolAnne Black is in the library right now, reading from her new book "Oli's Ocean Adventures".  This book launch is sponsored by WWF, due to its ocean centered message.  Ask your child what they think the main idea or message of the book is.

Persuasive Writing Tips

In class we have been exploring the structure of persuasive writing for a while now.  We have looked at specific language that can help build your persuasive argument, and at the overall structure of a persuasive piece of writing.  The following video is one that we will be looking at tomorrow, in relation to the topic of persuasive writing.  It is a simplified version of what we are doing - but it is a fun way to remember the pieces of a persuasive argument.  Now I just need to get a bag of Oreos for the class....:)

Space Connections for Gr 6

Here is a link for today's grade 6 activity.

http://www.nasa.gov/audience/forkids/kidsclub/flash/games/levelfour/KC_Spinoffs_Hidden_Pictures.html#.VlSlQ9KrS1t

Math Factors Game

Many of our students struggle with number families.  Try out the game at the link below.  Pick a factor that you are comfortable with to start off (try 5) and use the back and forth arrow buttons to catch the multiples as the police car comes up to them on the road.  Catch as many as you can, and then try a new factor.  Have fun!

http://hotmath.com/hotmath_help/games/numbercop/numbercop_hotmath.swf

Parliament Hill Trip

Today's trip to Parliament Hill was a big hit will all who attended.  The students represented themselves, and the community, very well.  We took the OC  from Westboro Station, to the Slater/Metcalf stop, and walked up to the hill.  After moving through security, we were ushered into the Senate chamber, where our class was given the opportunity to sit in the Senator's seats!  Everyone was very much impressed with this.  Mina and Simon were taken out to meet the Usher of the Black Rod, and be part of the procession, who paraded in to start the event, much like what happens when the Senate starts up each session.  We heard Senator's Munson and Mercer speak about the cause of youth around the world, and specifically discuss issues where youth are not as lucky as our children at Churchill.  They talked about refugees, and the need to welcome these people into our country, city, schools, and even homes in order to ensure a strong, diverse, and successful country in the future.  We had a few guests perform and interact with the groups.  Then we moved out of the chamber and got onto our tour of Parliament.  

We participated in a workshop where the students took on the roles of MP's and Senators, and they tried to pass a bill through government (ask your child what the proposed legislation was about).  Thomas played the role of the PM, and his part was able to get majority votes needed to pass their bill.  Finally, we did a quick walking tour of some of the statues outside the East Block before hitting the bus ride back.  It was a long, and eventful day, but also rewarding for us all.  Check out some of the pics from our trip.  Special thanks to all the volunteers who made it possible, Sonia, Steve, Karen, Sarah, and Nanda!