Jackie Robinson: Breaking Baseball's Barriers

http://united-five.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/jackieRobinson.jpg

Fifth graders are very interested in social justice and the difference between right and wrong. Earlier this year, as part of our Reach for Reading curriculum, we learned about the significant contributions of Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Frederick Douglass, Cesar Chavez and others. We have had discussions about how one individual can make a difference. Today, students were thrilled to participate in a Reader's Theater play about baseball legend Jackie Robinson. Students learned that Robinson had a positive impact on much more than just sports. Here are some of their responses to the question:

What do you think was Jackie Robinson's greatest strength?

I think Jackie Robinson's greatest strength was his confidence. One reason is because he was so brave to play in the major leagues even though he was a black person. Also, he had to live with all of the protests and anger that people were giving to him. Another reason is at the end of the play Jackie says he might retire soon so he can open doors for people in all areas of life. This shows confidence too. Those were a few reasons why Jackie Robinson was confident.

by Ava L.

I think Jackie Robinson's greatest strength was his courage. I think that was his greatest strength because he knew that if joined the Brooklyn Dodgers, people might do horrible things to him, Even though he knew that would happen to him, he didn't give up. Over time people got used to him and other black baseball players playing baseball. That is why I think that Jackie Robinson's greatest strength was his courage.

by Philipe R.

I think Jackie Robinson's greatest strength was making a difference in the world. I think this because when I read a play him, I learned that if he didn't join the Brooklyn Dodgers, African Americans wouldn't be able to play Major League Baseball. Jackie Robinson believed that all people are equal and he made a difference. I think that is his greatest strength.
by Leanna K.

I think that Jackie Robinson's greatest strength was his perseverance. I believe this because when things got hard, he would still keep on trying to accomplish his goal. Players even said they would strike if Robinson was allowed to play, Major League Baseball, but that didn't stop him. That's why he is remembered today for his courage and perseverance.
by Coralle F.

Water Conservation

WATER’S FUTURE?

   

By Maris B. and Abby P.

  

       Hi! Have you heard that Earth's water could be in TROUBLE?

This could be bad since all plants and animals depend on water to survive

Even though water can be renewed through the water cycle, it must be clean for it to be worthwhile.We need to keep what isn't already polluted maintained and unharmed.  After all, only 1 percent of Earth's water remains safe to consume. What few know is that our most often used substance is water. Think of how many ways you use water each day! And, think of how many animals live in watery habitats!

       How can kids like you and me help save our water? For one thing, we can take shorter showers. Another thing we can do is turn off the faucet when we are not using it. You should ask your parents about getting a flow stopping shower attachment piece. This will go to the temperature you want your shower to be, and then stop the flow of the shower until you hop in and pull the string. Water conservation is all about using water wisely. What ways can you think of to conserve water?

Now for some fun facts!

1. In Africa, some areas have merry-go-rounds that pump water for everyday use.
2. In some areas, adults send their kids to get that day's supply of water.

Thank you for reading this blog post, and remember EVERY DROP COUNTS!

Hooray for Recess!

   Two Recesses Are Better Than One!

 By Libby and Lowri    

We strongly believe that elementary school students should have not only one recess but two. We have based our opinion on several reasons. Just dive into our article to find out why kids need so much time to play on the playground, run around on the field, and chat with their friends!

Our first reason is that throughout the day a lot of children like us get very anxious and begin to lose focus. Many students wonder how to get out of class, such as fake a bathroom break. If we had more time outside we would have more time to release our crazy energy!

Although there may be a  risk of injuries out at recess, if  you have Terrific  and Focused monitors, that risk is thrown out the window! We believe this because according to scholastic.com  “61% of school injuries are caused on playgrounds without undivided supervision”.

Not only do many websites we have read think that children our age should have two recesses, but many experts agree that playing helps children learn. Many teachers, students, and parents also think that it is very important for kids just like us to have two recess breaks instead of one.

As you can clearly see there are many reasons that children deserve at least 45 minutes out of a 6 hour school day to play, get exercise, and socialize with their besties. What do you think?