Visible Thinking Ecosystems

We are placing an emphasis on the thinking process, on "making thinking visible" throughout our curriculum at Saint David's.

A poignant example of this was evident in a fifth grade science lab this morning where the boys were found exploring ecosystems.

Today's lab opened with the boys' teacher leading them in a discussion that addressed questions about ecosystems. They were encouraged to verbalize their thinking and to record their ideas.

The lab itself involved introducing animals (snails and goldfish) to the aquariums that the boys had already built.

After the boys carefully transferred the animals into their aquariums, they observed and recorded (drew) what they saw, noting the movement patterns of the animals.

Asking boys to document their thinking while being actively engaged in a project in this way helps to spark ideas, unmask connections and deepen understanding of the scientific concepts being studied.

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This morning our fifth graders continued a great year-end tradition at Saint David's, The Fifth Grade Musical. The boys performed Oliver! and they were fantastic, providing impressive performances and demonstrating great vocal ability. They have been mastering the dialogue and musical numbers for weeks, and clearly gave it their all. Congratulations to the cast on a job well done, and to their Producers/Teachers James Hubbard and Jamie MacNeille, Director Phyllis Clark, Musical Conductor Jeff Moore, and the Parent Committee of Cynthia Chapman, Susan Kissane, Tara Neumann, Joyce Restituto, and Ann Roberts. Musical theater is alive and well at Saint David's!

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