Newsletter May 6th 2011
Math – We are working on a mixed unit this week and have so far explored relationships between metric measurements, volume and capacity, and also geometric solids. We are working in study teams much like the middle school, which has been an interesting approach for the students. It is great to see the different responsibilities being shared rather than just one student taking ownership. The test for this unit will be the 16th.
Science – We have done one lesson in this science unit about the Sun. The weather just doesn’t seem to be cooperating with us. We will be studying the Moon next and are keeping our eyes peeled for the final space shuttle launch.
Social Studies – We started the Civil War simulation this week and the students seem to really enjoy it. It is great to see them get so wrapped up in their character and the decisions. We are learning that it was not easy being a soldier back then, morale could get so low that you deserted which Jack’s character did yesterday. So far they are all still alive though.
Reading – We continue with inference and discussed how we have been inferring all year in all our subjects without even knowing it. What a great realization for the students to make! I was pleased with literacy assessments and look forward to share them at the literacy meeting on the 16th.
Writing – Fairy tales are being written and most of them make sense, which is a great thing. The students are very aware of which elements they need to include for it to be recognized as a fairytale. We continue to do a lot of writing in social studies and science as well.
Special Notes –
* You can reach me by calling my voicemail at 829.9374. Please don’t hesitate to call me with any questions and/or concerns. Communication between us is REALLY important to the success of your child. Please don’t hesitate to call or email me!
* Wow, have I been appreciated. Yet I am not the one that deserves all of this praise; the students do! They have worked so hard and have been such incredible participants in this learning journey. Coming to school everyday is an absolute thrill and I love my job. To see how much I appreciate parents please see our classroom blog.
* Advanced math testing for next year will be next week sometime.
* The talent show auditions were incredible. We saw more than 50 acts and had to cut half of them, such a hard decision. Results come out next week.
* Innovation day is this Monday. I cannot wait to document the day. You are also more than welcome to stop by and see the kids at work if you have time. As always, our door is open. We will work all day except for recess time and PE.
* Please let me know if you would like to come on our final field trip, it is a great way to end the year.
* Please send in $2.50 with your child ASAP for the lumberjack breakfast so that I may pass it on to our volunteers. Also, your child should bring in a tin pie plate as well as a mug for the actual breakfast. Both should have their name on them.
* We have one last movie to watch, “Apollo 13”, to tie in with our Space and Moon exploration.
* I have some dates for you to put on your calendars: Innovation Day is May 9th all day, Talent Show is May 19th at 1:30 pm, Lumberjack Breakfast is May 25th 8:30 AM, No School Monday May 30th, Cave of the Mounds/Little Norway field trip is June 7th all day.
