We have been practicing using a variety of methods for multiplication.

We have been focussing on Number Sense for the past few weeks again.  This time, we are focusing on addtion, subtraction, multiplication and disvision.  For each operation, we will practice the skills in a variety of ways and explore multiple strategies for solving the problems.

Grade 5 Expectations:

• use a variety of mental strategies to solve addition, subtraction, multiplication and division problems involving whole numbers
  
• multiply 2 digit whole numbers by 2 digit whole numbers
  
• divide 3 digit whole numbers by 1 digit whole numbers
  
• solve problems involving multiplication and division of whole numbers
  
• use estimation when solving problems involving addition and subtraction of whole numbers
  
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• Grade 6 Expectations:
  
• identify prime and composite numbers
• use a variety of mental strategies to solve addition, subtraction, multiplication and division problems involving whole numbers
  
• solve problems involving multiplication and division of whole numbers (4 digit by 2 digit)
  
• use estimation when solving problems involving addition and subtraction of whole numbers
  


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Ee have been working with angles in math class.  We have practiced identifying angles as acute, obtuse, right, straight and reflex (gr. 6). We have also practiced measuring and drawing angles.

Grade 5 Expecations:
– distinguish among polygons, regular polygons and other 2 dimensional shapes

– measure and construct angles up to 90° and classify them as acute, right, obtuse, or straight angles;

Grade 6 Expectations
​– sort and classify quadrilaterals by geometric properties related to symmetry, angles, and sides, using Venn diagrams);

-Measure and construct angles up to 180° and classify them as acute, right, obtuse, or straight angles;

Our first area of focus was Representing Numbers. The curriculum expectations that we focused on were:

Grade 5:

• Represent numbers to hundred thousands in standard form and expanded form
• Use place value to compare and order numbers
• Clearly explain thinking, using mathematical language

Grade 6

• ​Represent numbers in the millions in standard form and expanded form
• Use place value to compare and order numbers
• Clearly explain thinking, using mathematical language

We used manipulatives, solved problems collaboratively and played games to practice these skills in a variety of ways.

Throughout the year, we will be beginning our math class with a routine known as Number Talks.  Students will solve addition, subtraction, multiplication and division  questions using a variety of mental math strategies.  We will build on these strategies throughout the year to strengthen our number sense skills and develop confidence in our mathematical thinking.  We have started with strategies for adding numbers mentally and I have been amazed at the wonderful strategies the students have been sharing!  In particular, we have been focusing on the strategies of "Making Tens" and "Using Friendly Numbers".  I look forward to building on these strategies in the coming weeks.
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