Lesson 2 Plate Tectonics – We learned that the combination of Wegener’s evidence along with Hess’ echo technology discovering seafloor spreading confirmed the existence of Pagaea. Then we learned why the Earth doesn’t grow in size with seafloor spreading due to submerging tectonic plates.
Reading Comprehension Spelling Literature Grammar Handwriting Wordly Wise
Lesson Outline
We checked his spelling homework, and I had him rewrite his story because he did not do a neat job. He did a really good job in rewriting his story, because he was much more conscientious with his printing. He took the spelling test and made a 100%. He copied down his new spelling words into his spelling notebook. We worked on his diorama book report. It is starting to take shape. He has some very good ideas on how to make his diorama look realistic.
Mercer and I reviewed the concept of onomatopoeia and he was prompted to describe or mimic different sounds when challenged, and create sentences using onomatopoeic words. It was a fun activity and we watched a video explaining onomatopoeia using every single letter of the alphabet. Mercer wondered what would be given for certain letters, such as V (vroom) and questioned if revved was a word. He integrates visual and auditory information well and is able to synthesize information and apply it. The video served to refresh, reinforce, and consolidate skills. Mercer then researched some of the highest and most dangerous summits in the world. Mercer is always very interested in exotic locales and geographic anomalies.
Reading Comprehension Spelling Literature Wordly Wise Grammar Handwriting
Lesson Outline
We reviewed his spelling words, their meanings, and his homework assignment for tonight. We continued working on his book report diorama. He collected some twigs, berries, shells and sand from the playground to make the diorama more realistic. He erected the long house and prepared the area for the fire pit. He wrote a summary for chapter 5 of, "The Indian in the Cupboard."
Lesson 3 Mountain Building – We learned of the movement of Earth’s tectonic plates is responsible for the formation of mountains. We discovered that mountains can originate from a level surface that has rocks that are folded upward. Rocks can be pulled apart by the movement of tectonic plates too. When rocks are placed under stress they deform or change their shape which is called deformation.
Assignment: Complete active reading prompts in science workbook.
Mercer enjoyed playing outdoors with his peers the first half of the session. When we returned indoors, we discussed different animals and sounds in the environment that produce sounds with which words are constructed. Mercer understood the 'buzz' of a bee or mosquito, and the 'sizzle' of steak. He also cited several words commonly used in comic books and realized that there are many words in the English language that are formed from sounds associated for what they are named. I was very happy that Mercer's glasses were found. We enoucraged him to consider leaving a pair at school, but he left wearing them both.
