For the first part of our session, all the children were engaged in a rule making session to generate a list of rules for the students and teachers in the school. Then, Gwendolyn learned about the structure and function of the three branches of government. We talked about and created a hanging mobile organizing the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

Gwendolyn completed an introduction to Florida history today. We watched videos, listened to songs, conducted internet research, brainstormed questions and ideas, and wrote about the following topics: state symbols, landmarks, weather, industry, and cultures. She took a tour of the estudiesweekly website and learned about the various lessons and activities.

Ancient World time lines: Will was introduced to the time lines of the ancient world starting from 5000 BC to AD. From the Babylonian Empire to Rome. From nomads to developed civilizations in the fertile land (Mesopotamia) between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers where civilizations began establishing government, written language, and cultures. Will asked good questions and discussed the topic with understanding. Great job Will.

Gwendolyn and I talked about her specific interests in Social Studies, as well as her previous experiences in the subject. We then brainstormed what she wants to learn about, including the products she would like to create. As we talked about the meaning and purpose of studying Social Studies, she mentioned that she believes that there are things that men can do that women cannot do. I asked to elaborate on this topic, so we created a chart of things that she thinks men do that women cannot. Her ideas included playing in the NBA, MLB, and PGA. We then used the internet to research a bit on the WNBA and the LPGA, and discovered that the rules and equipment are the same as the men's leagues. Part of our discussion became an investigation of perceptions, and how perceptions are developed as a person sees the world through their lived experiences. And how history (Social Studies) and other topics are perceived differently by different people. We discussed these issues, of course, using 4th grade examples and language. We then began to talk about Native Americans, which is one aspect of Florida History, which is at the center of the 4th grade Social Studies curriculum.

Gwendolyn was not at school today.

Today, Marina watched the Studies Weekly program on "Summer Vacation," since it was her very last session of the year. It called for a Summer Vacation Booklet, which she made using pictures she printed, cut, and pasted. She added sentences, and we edited them a bit, making sure the I's were capitalized, and summer was spelled correctly. She enjoyed the project. Have a great summer break, Marina!

Today Gwendolyn worked on the property card for her Kentucky Monopoly game. She should be able to complete her game next class!

Today, Marina and I reviewed the Studies Weekly section on Florida's Landmarks. She completed the tests and activities. She did very well.

It was a pleasure meeting with Marina today. We used the Studies Weekly lesson on "Volunteers," which focuses on "making a difference in the world" through care for the earth and each other. We looked into 10 different jobs that serve our community. Marina told me she's most interested in veterinary science and marine biology. She answered the review questions with 100% accuracy, and wrote her answers to discussion questions. Well done.

Student was absent for session.