April 25-29

It was a very busy week for the 4th grade, and one focused primarily  
on Projects. On Thursday the three groups made their presentations,  
covering such topics as the Rio San Juan conflict, Libya, and Global  
Warming. The groups presented by using posters and in some cases,  
skits. While gaining substantive knowledge of their chosen topic,  
students also learned presentation techniques.

The 4th grade group also turned in its homework (to read an excerpt  
summary on Costa Rican foreign policy and either define 5 words or  
prescribe a role in the world for Costa Rica) and received the Exam  
Review Guide. Students will have a week of in-class time to discuss  
concepts and information gained through the trimester.

Finally, on Fantasy Day Friday, on the wedding day of Prince William  
(and with the teacher wearing a crown), classes discussed the concept  
of Constitutional Monarchy. The teacher noted that many countries were  
still under the British Monarchy while at the same time having their  
own democratic systems. Also noted was the fact that there are a  
handful of "true" monarchies in which the king has tremendous--if not  
unchecked--powers.

With the names of countries among the two groups (Constitutional  
Monarchies and "True" Monarchies) written on the board, students  
identified these places in their book maps on p. 271.