In Language Arts we are working on many objectives. We are wrapping up our study of non fiction text structure as we analyze the last two structure types used by authors. In addition, we will begin our study on drama by reading short plays. Some plays will be read independently, some as partners, and even a couple as a cast of characters. When reenacting a play, we will follow the readers' theater model which means no costumes or props. Students won't even memorize lines. They will read and study the characters ahead of time to determine voice, facial expressions, and body language needed to tell the story from a character's point of view.
The writing portion of language arts is still focused on paragraph writing using the various cubing strategies we have been practicing. We are preparing for our first expository piece of writing. We will all be writing to the same prompt, and I will tell you the prompt ahead of time so that you might be able to discuss it with your child and brainstorm some ideas first. In addition to the writing process, we are continuing a focus on prefixes and suffixes and their meanings. We are pulling in Greek and Latin roots as well. These studies help with vocabulary as well as spelling.
In social studies we have completed our study of the Native Americans in Texas. I'm waiting for a few more late arrivals of the infographic before we move forward. I will be offering an extension this week for students who would like to extend their learning in this area. Next focus will be European explorers in Texas.