This morning I sat alongside 602 as they started their fractions unit. Today the students spent time making fractions strips. This is a project that takes a tremendous amount of thought and precision. They will use these manipulatives throughout the unit. There was so much learned through the "construction process" - observations about patterns of fractions, representation of fractions, values of fractions, etc. It was wonderful to participate in such a kinesthetic activity early on a Monday morning.
We have added one more offering to our winter athletics program. There will be a Lab Runs Winter Conditioning/Training program. This is open to students who participated in the fall Lab Runs XC and/or the 7th and 8th graders who participated in Lab Runs Track and Field last spring. Students will be training together (mostly indoors) once a week and will be invited to participate in a couple of road races this winter. Running in the road races will take additional training and commitment outside the once a week practice. This program is great for runners not already in another winter sport that want to remain active and condition for the spring track season. There will be an informational meeting for students on January 12th at 12:15 in the auditorium. The winter running program would not of been possible without the hard work and enthusiasm of our team - students, coaches and parents. I love running and I am proud to say that we have a full school-year of running at Lab - this has been a dream for so many Labbies.
In related sports news, the girls' basketball team beat Clinton by nearly 20 points in last Thursday's game. Our gators looked impressive on the court. The defense was strong - allowing very few points and the offense scored a number of 3 pointers. The team this year is led by some talented 8th graders that are wonderful models of sportsmanship. It was also great to see such a great turnout of students, faculty and parents to cheer on our gators.
I hope that this finds everyone well.
Warmly,
Meg
