I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday! The winter holidays will soon be upon us, so I hope your children are gearing up for a whirlwind 3 weeks before our Winter Break! We were so proud to have won the WalkAround trophy for most money raised in the 4th and 5th grade classes - thank you for your great support of our school and your children! Here are some of the things we are working on:
In language arts, we are almost at an end to our "Nanowrimo" novel-writing experiences! Most of the students have had alot of fun writing their novels and improving their writing skills. During the month of December, we will work on revising and editing our novels before they are published. Hopefully, all students will be able to reach their word count goals! We will have a special party next week to celebrate our long, hard work in completing the novels! Over the next few weeks, we will be reading selections from our reading textbook and also working on summary writing.
In math, students are speeding through our math curriculum. I am very lucky to have such a bright group of children who learn so quickly and are able to master new concepts easily. For the fifth graders, we are now working on decimals (multiplication and division) while the 4th graders are working on long division with 3-digit dividends. Interspersed with these lessons, we also work on problem-solving tasks (MARS, Problem of the Month). Next Saturday, Mrs. Kamath and I will attend a math conference down in Monterey in order to refresh our own math repertory. We hope to use some of the lessons from the conference with our students the following week!
We will embark this week on a new Science Unit for 4th grade - The Solid Earth- which reviews rocks and minerals and properties of the earth. 5th graders will begin "The Water Planet" which will include astronomy, the planets, and other concepts. On Friday, 4th grader will bring home their science notebook from our first unit "Environments", so be sure to put it somewhere safe so that they can review it in 5th grade before the STAR science test, which covers science concepts studied in both 4th and 5th grade.
The Holiday book fair will run all week long in our GLC - students will be allowed to shop at recess and lunch time. If you send money to school with your child, be sure they keep it some where safe so that they don't lose the money. The book fair will also be held next Sat., 12/3 for adult holiday shoppers!
Finally, we have begun a pen pal correspondence with high school students from Lynbrook - the class was very excited to receive their first letters from their new pen pals this month! We have almost completed our response letters and will be sending them off this week. We hope to meet our pen pals at the end of the school year as well!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Week of November 7
Room 17 is off to a quick start on their novels that they are writing during the month of November. The entire concept is part of "National Novel Writing Month", or NaNoWriMo for short. Students have done alot of work planning their characters, settings, and plots. We spend at least twenty minutes every school day working on our novels - students are also encouraged to write at home. Each student has set a word count goal for November - ask them about their goal! In addition to working on their novels, students are working on writing summaries over the next few weeks.
Having finished out last class novel, "From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler", students will now read selections from our textbooks until Thanksgiving. Our next class novel will be "The Watsons Take Birmingham", which is an historical fiction book.
In science, we are now working on our Drug Education Unit which places a great deal of emphasis on students setting goals for themselves and learning to avoid situations involving drugs, along with making the best choices for meeting their goals. After the Thanksgiving break, we will start a new science unit, "The Solid Earth" which is all about rocks and minerals.
In social studies, 4th graders are working on a Native American project in small groups - they have each been assigned a California tribe to research and create a poster which illustrates all aspects of the tribe's lifestyle. This project is due Monday, Dec. 5.
In math, 4th graders are learning how to multiply numbers by double digits and use division as an inverse operation. 5th graders are learning how to multiply and divide fractions. Please practice these skills at home with them also.
Just a reminder - students are expected to practice online with Spelling City for the weekly words at least 30 minutes per week. I am able to track online which students are completing their weekly activities, and will be talking to students who are not completing all their online activities each week.
Just a reminder - there is no school on November 11 - Veteran's Day!
I
Having finished out last class novel, "From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler", students will now read selections from our textbooks until Thanksgiving. Our next class novel will be "The Watsons Take Birmingham", which is an historical fiction book.
In science, we are now working on our Drug Education Unit which places a great deal of emphasis on students setting goals for themselves and learning to avoid situations involving drugs, along with making the best choices for meeting their goals. After the Thanksgiving break, we will start a new science unit, "The Solid Earth" which is all about rocks and minerals.
In social studies, 4th graders are working on a Native American project in small groups - they have each been assigned a California tribe to research and create a poster which illustrates all aspects of the tribe's lifestyle. This project is due Monday, Dec. 5.
In math, 4th graders are learning how to multiply numbers by double digits and use division as an inverse operation. 5th graders are learning how to multiply and divide fractions. Please practice these skills at home with them also.
Just a reminder - students are expected to practice online with Spelling City for the weekly words at least 30 minutes per week. I am able to track online which students are completing their weekly activities, and will be talking to students who are not completing all their online activities each week.
Just a reminder - there is no school on November 11 - Veteran's Day!
I
Monday, October 31, 2011
Week of November 1
We had a terribly busy week last week culminating in a wonderful Halloween parade and party! This is probably the most "look -forwarded-to" event of the school year! Students dressed up in some great costumes (I was "Dorothy" from the Wizard of Oz!).
You have probably been hearing your child use the acronym "NaNoWriMo" over the past week or two - it stands for National Novel Writing Month! As I mentioned at Back to School night, we are starting our goal of writing a novel in class (and at home) during the month of November. We have been learning about many writing techniques and helpful hints, and our pens and pencils are ready to start writing! Often times in the upcoming month your child will have Language Arts homework which consists of only working on their novel. They have already done a pre-write for the plot and characters, so they are ready to go! I will be monitoring the writing process as we go along, and asking to review excerpts from their novels. In addition, I will be writing my own novel along with them! Please supply plenty of encouragement and helpful advice to them as we embark together upon this great writing adventure - it will be challenging but alot of fun, too!
In math, we are just beginning Unit 5 which involves multiplication by 1-digit and 2 digit numbers for fourth graders, and multiplication and division of fractions for the fifth graders. Both groups did very well in Unit 4, and those tests have been sent home. Please let me know if your child is struggling with any of these new concepts that they will be learning.
We are completing our science kit, "Environments" this week - students will take their final test on Weds,11/2 and turn in their science notebooks. Their grade will be based on both their quizzes/ tests as well as the completeness of their science notebook. Next, we will start our "Too Good for Drugs" unit where we will be learning about legal and illegal drugs, and how they can choose to find healthier and safer alternatives to these practices. Please talk to your child at home about drugs - it is never too early to begin!
Remember - there is no school on Friday, November 11 due to Veteran's Day and we will have the entire week of Nov. 21 off as well. More to come later.....
You have probably been hearing your child use the acronym "NaNoWriMo" over the past week or two - it stands for National Novel Writing Month! As I mentioned at Back to School night, we are starting our goal of writing a novel in class (and at home) during the month of November. We have been learning about many writing techniques and helpful hints, and our pens and pencils are ready to start writing! Often times in the upcoming month your child will have Language Arts homework which consists of only working on their novel. They have already done a pre-write for the plot and characters, so they are ready to go! I will be monitoring the writing process as we go along, and asking to review excerpts from their novels. In addition, I will be writing my own novel along with them! Please supply plenty of encouragement and helpful advice to them as we embark together upon this great writing adventure - it will be challenging but alot of fun, too!
In math, we are just beginning Unit 5 which involves multiplication by 1-digit and 2 digit numbers for fourth graders, and multiplication and division of fractions for the fifth graders. Both groups did very well in Unit 4, and those tests have been sent home. Please let me know if your child is struggling with any of these new concepts that they will be learning.
We are completing our science kit, "Environments" this week - students will take their final test on Weds,11/2 and turn in their science notebooks. Their grade will be based on both their quizzes/ tests as well as the completeness of their science notebook. Next, we will start our "Too Good for Drugs" unit where we will be learning about legal and illegal drugs, and how they can choose to find healthier and safer alternatives to these practices. Please talk to your child at home about drugs - it is never too early to begin!
Remember - there is no school on Friday, November 11 due to Veteran's Day and we will have the entire week of Nov. 21 off as well. More to come later.....
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Update for Week of Oct. 17
Parents,
Thank you for attending the parent teacher conference this past week with your child - it was nice to meet with you one-on-one and discuss the goals that you and your child have for this school year - we have an amazing class!
We have several upcoming events to be aware of - on Tuesday, Oct. 18 is Student Picture Day - if you would like to purchase pictures, please be sure to send back the envelope that came in last week's Friday folder with a check. Pictures are taken of all Dilworth students who are present that day.
Friday, Oct. 28 will be our annual Halloween parade and class party - we are looking for parents who would like to plan and coordinate the party with other parents in the class. If you are interested, please let me know ASAP and I will contact you with further information.
Starting the week of Oct. 24, we will undertake a major project - my students will participate in "Nanowrimo" which is a novel-writing project in which students will eventually write a complete novel and have it published! This week will be the start of the brain-storming process and book discussions about the author's craft and how a novel is structured. They will have to work on this novel at home as well, and I will send home further directions next week.
Just a reminder - October book orders (paper or online) are due on Friday, Oct. 21! Have a great week!
Thank you for attending the parent teacher conference this past week with your child - it was nice to meet with you one-on-one and discuss the goals that you and your child have for this school year - we have an amazing class!
We have several upcoming events to be aware of - on Tuesday, Oct. 18 is Student Picture Day - if you would like to purchase pictures, please be sure to send back the envelope that came in last week's Friday folder with a check. Pictures are taken of all Dilworth students who are present that day.
Friday, Oct. 28 will be our annual Halloween parade and class party - we are looking for parents who would like to plan and coordinate the party with other parents in the class. If you are interested, please let me know ASAP and I will contact you with further information.
Starting the week of Oct. 24, we will undertake a major project - my students will participate in "Nanowrimo" which is a novel-writing project in which students will eventually write a complete novel and have it published! This week will be the start of the brain-storming process and book discussions about the author's craft and how a novel is structured. They will have to work on this novel at home as well, and I will send home further directions next week.
Just a reminder - October book orders (paper or online) are due on Friday, Oct. 21! Have a great week!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Week of October 3
Conferences begin this Thursday, Oct. 6 and continue through Friday, Oct. 14. Please make an effort to be on time for your appointment - we are very tightly scheduled throughout the conference period. Just a reminder - school will be dismissed at 1:00 PM on conference days, although students will eat lunch here between 12:00 and 12:30 during those days. I'm looking forward to meeting all of you and your students to review their goals for this year!
Many thanks to all the parents and students who showed up for WalkAround on Saturday! It was a perfect day for walking, and many of our students brought out their walking shoes! Several students walked over 100 laps in the 5 hour long walk, which was a mighty accomplishment! Woo hoo! Now, to see if we reached our goal to get a classroom trophy - stay tuned!
There has been some confusion about the 4th grade field trips that I wanted to clear up - on most field trips, I must split our fourth grade group in half and one group of 9 goes with Mrs. Horner's class and the other group of 9 goes with Miss To's class. Half of us went on the field trip to Deer Hollow Farm last Thursday, while the other half will go on Oct. 20. I hope that this clears up any misunderstandings.
This week we will begin reading a new class novel "The Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" - this book won the Newbery Medal 25 years ago, and is still widely considered to be a great book for 4th - 5th graders. We have many comprehension and vocabulary activities planned for this unit, and students will be allowed to bring the book home as necessary.
In math, 4th graders will finish Unit 2 in our book and begin Unit 3 this week, which centers on multiplication/division facts and strategies. 5th graders are already working on Unit 3, which involves algebraic equations and other concepts. We have also been working on a "Problem of the Month" where students are trying to figure out a staircase problem using triangular numbers - very challenging! A pre-test will be given to 4th graders this week on Unit 3, in order to determine who is on independent contract for this unit.
In science, 5th graders continue to learn about the systems in the human body and 4th graders are learning about food chains and webs. Both science and social studies will be put on hold over the next 10 days during conferences.
Many thanks to all the parents and students who showed up for WalkAround on Saturday! It was a perfect day for walking, and many of our students brought out their walking shoes! Several students walked over 100 laps in the 5 hour long walk, which was a mighty accomplishment! Woo hoo! Now, to see if we reached our goal to get a classroom trophy - stay tuned!
There has been some confusion about the 4th grade field trips that I wanted to clear up - on most field trips, I must split our fourth grade group in half and one group of 9 goes with Mrs. Horner's class and the other group of 9 goes with Miss To's class. Half of us went on the field trip to Deer Hollow Farm last Thursday, while the other half will go on Oct. 20. I hope that this clears up any misunderstandings.
This week we will begin reading a new class novel "The Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" - this book won the Newbery Medal 25 years ago, and is still widely considered to be a great book for 4th - 5th graders. We have many comprehension and vocabulary activities planned for this unit, and students will be allowed to bring the book home as necessary.
In math, 4th graders will finish Unit 2 in our book and begin Unit 3 this week, which centers on multiplication/division facts and strategies. 5th graders are already working on Unit 3, which involves algebraic equations and other concepts. We have also been working on a "Problem of the Month" where students are trying to figure out a staircase problem using triangular numbers - very challenging! A pre-test will be given to 4th graders this week on Unit 3, in order to determine who is on independent contract for this unit.
In science, 5th graders continue to learn about the systems in the human body and 4th graders are learning about food chains and webs. Both science and social studies will be put on hold over the next 10 days during conferences.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
As we embark upon the last week of September, we will be very busy in Room 17! First, here are some highlights from last week:
* Students took math tests on Friday (Unit 2 test for 5th graders, Ch. 4 test for 4th graders) We will now start a unit on algebraic expressions and equations.
* Students read selections from our reading textbook, engaged in comprehension activities, and took a comprehension quiz.
* In science, 4th graders continued their study of environments by investigating isopod behavior, and took a quiz on the first section of our unit. 5th graders continue their study of the human body, focusing on digestive systems.
* In social studies, both 4th and 5th grade classes are studying geographic regions and map skills - 4th graders are working on a map project where they design their own island and include all the features found on a map. Unit 1 test for fourth graders will be on Thursday, 9/29.
WALKAROUND IS ALMOST HERE! You can feel the excitement building in Room 17 as students prepare to walk many laps next Saturday, October 1! Just a reminder - WalkAround goes from 1 PM - 6PM this year in order to accommodate families who have weekend classes on Saturday morning or sports activities. Our goal is to have EVERY student attend and reach our contribution goal of $225 per family! Remember - the money will go toward replacing outdated computers in our student technology lab! See you there!
Field Trips - I wanted to clarify how field trips are arranged - we take field trips by grade level. Typically, 5th graders will go with the 5th grade classes on their field trips while I stay with the 4th graders at school. Also, 4th graders will be split into 2 groups of 9 each and will attend 4th grade field trips with Mrs. Horner's and Mrs. Fosco's classes. This arrangement will allow me to stay at school with the other grade level group, unless I request a substitute teacher for that day.
* Students took math tests on Friday (Unit 2 test for 5th graders, Ch. 4 test for 4th graders) We will now start a unit on algebraic expressions and equations.
* Students read selections from our reading textbook, engaged in comprehension activities, and took a comprehension quiz.
* In science, 4th graders continued their study of environments by investigating isopod behavior, and took a quiz on the first section of our unit. 5th graders continue their study of the human body, focusing on digestive systems.
* In social studies, both 4th and 5th grade classes are studying geographic regions and map skills - 4th graders are working on a map project where they design their own island and include all the features found on a map. Unit 1 test for fourth graders will be on Thursday, 9/29.
WALKAROUND IS ALMOST HERE! You can feel the excitement building in Room 17 as students prepare to walk many laps next Saturday, October 1! Just a reminder - WalkAround goes from 1 PM - 6PM this year in order to accommodate families who have weekend classes on Saturday morning or sports activities. Our goal is to have EVERY student attend and reach our contribution goal of $225 per family! Remember - the money will go toward replacing outdated computers in our student technology lab! See you there!
Field Trips - I wanted to clarify how field trips are arranged - we take field trips by grade level. Typically, 5th graders will go with the 5th grade classes on their field trips while I stay with the 4th graders at school. Also, 4th graders will be split into 2 groups of 9 each and will attend 4th grade field trips with Mrs. Horner's and Mrs. Fosco's classes. This arrangement will allow me to stay at school with the other grade level group, unless I request a substitute teacher for that day.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Update for Week of Sept. 6
We had a great time in Room 17 last week! Thank you to all the parents who attended my presentation during "Back to School Night" - it was great to see all your friendly faces! I hope that I was able to provide you with a better understanding about the mechanics of a combination class and all the wonderful things we have planned for this year!
During our short week coming up, we will begin writing personal narratives and go through the various processes of pre-writing, editing, and revising before publishing our final drafts. This process will take about three weeks. We are also finishing up Unit 1 in math for both 4th and 5 graders - the Unit 1 test will be later this week. Students will also start bringing home their reading response logs which they should record their responses in from their nightly reading at home. Specific directions on how to complete these responses is pasted into the front of the response logs. Logs are due every 2 weeks for review by me, and I also check for proper grammar and sentence usage in the response logs. Response to literature is an important genre for both 4th and 5th grade standards, so this activity will give them much practice in this area!
I will be getting back to all parents who kindly offered to volunteer in our class during the upcoming week - I appreciate your willingness to help out the class! Have a wonderful week!
During our short week coming up, we will begin writing personal narratives and go through the various processes of pre-writing, editing, and revising before publishing our final drafts. This process will take about three weeks. We are also finishing up Unit 1 in math for both 4th and 5 graders - the Unit 1 test will be later this week. Students will also start bringing home their reading response logs which they should record their responses in from their nightly reading at home. Specific directions on how to complete these responses is pasted into the front of the response logs. Logs are due every 2 weeks for review by me, and I also check for proper grammar and sentence usage in the response logs. Response to literature is an important genre for both 4th and 5th grade standards, so this activity will give them much practice in this area!
I will be getting back to all parents who kindly offered to volunteer in our class during the upcoming week - I appreciate your willingness to help out the class! Have a wonderful week!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
We have completed our first full week of school! Students have already shifted into full gear "learning mode" as we begin all of our curriculum areas. Please note that students will be using our "Spelling City" computer program this year in lieu of the normal paper spelling homework. They are required to spend 30 minutes per week studying their words using interactive games on the site, and taking a practice test on the site. I then test with a spelling dictation quiz each Friday. I have been using Spelling City for several years, and I find that students learn their words more readily when they're having fun doing it!
Please remember that Wednesday, Aug. 31 is "Back to School" Night! My presentation will take place in Room 17 from 6:15 to 7:00 PM - there will then be a short teacher introduction in the GLC. I hope you are all planning to attend - please remember that on parents are invited to come to this event. I will review with you the curriculum highlights for this year, as well as talk to you about any questions or concerns that you might have about our class.
Scholastic Book orders went home on Friday - please remember that with parent online ordering, our class gets one free book per order! All orders, both online and paper, are due on Friday, Sept. 2. Please also make a point of jotting down our WalkAround date for this year, which is Saturday, Oct. 1! Many parent volunteers are still needed for this big fundraising event, so please give a few hours of your time to this important cause! Have a great week!
Please remember that Wednesday, Aug. 31 is "Back to School" Night! My presentation will take place in Room 17 from 6:15 to 7:00 PM - there will then be a short teacher introduction in the GLC. I hope you are all planning to attend - please remember that on parents are invited to come to this event. I will review with you the curriculum highlights for this year, as well as talk to you about any questions or concerns that you might have about our class.
Scholastic Book orders went home on Friday - please remember that with parent online ordering, our class gets one free book per order! All orders, both online and paper, are due on Friday, Sept. 2. Please also make a point of jotting down our WalkAround date for this year, which is Saturday, Oct. 1! Many parent volunteers are still needed for this big fundraising event, so please give a few hours of your time to this important cause! Have a great week!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Welcome to Room 17!
It is with great pleasure that I welcome your child to our combination 4/5 class for the upcoming school year! We will undertake many adventures together, and I look forward to great learning experiences and good times. Having previously taught several combination classes, I personally feel that multi-age classrooms are a blessing in disguise - older students gain a greater sense of responsibility by helping out the younger students in facilitating their educational experience, and younger students take become more responsible for their own goals and behavior with older students as their role models. I will look forward to explaining my philosophy in greater detail at our Back to School Night on Wednesday, Aug. 31 at 6:15 PM. Be sure to save the date!
Today, your child brought home a package with important information to review and complete. Several items should be completed, signed, and returned to school. Those documents include: your child's enrollment card, technology usage agreement, and district agreement (which is part of the District information pamphlet). Please return these in your child's Friday folder on Monday. If your child will be getting hot lunch, and there were no funds left over in their account from last year, please send in the blue hot lunch envelope with a check for their lunch accounts.
I will update this page once a week during the school year with news and upcoming events, so please bookmark it on your computer and check it often. I will also send out e-mail updates for any important announcements and upcoming events. In an effort to go paperless, there will be no monthly newsletters sent home, so please check this page frequently.
Please do not hestitate to contact me by phone, although e-mail is checked more frequently and typically receives quicker responses. This information was in my "Welcome Back" letter sent home with the first day of school packet. I am looking forward to a warm and rewarding relationship with your student this year....the best is yet to come!
Today, your child brought home a package with important information to review and complete. Several items should be completed, signed, and returned to school. Those documents include: your child's enrollment card, technology usage agreement, and district agreement (which is part of the District information pamphlet). Please return these in your child's Friday folder on Monday. If your child will be getting hot lunch, and there were no funds left over in their account from last year, please send in the blue hot lunch envelope with a check for their lunch accounts.
I will update this page once a week during the school year with news and upcoming events, so please bookmark it on your computer and check it often. I will also send out e-mail updates for any important announcements and upcoming events. In an effort to go paperless, there will be no monthly newsletters sent home, so please check this page frequently.
Please do not hestitate to contact me by phone, although e-mail is checked more frequently and typically receives quicker responses. This information was in my "Welcome Back" letter sent home with the first day of school packet. I am looking forward to a warm and rewarding relationship with your student this year....the best is yet to come!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Week of May 9
It is hard to believe there is only 4 more weeks left in the school year, and we still have so much left to do! Students are looking forward to showing their parents much of their writing, art, and other classroom accomplishments next week at our Open House on Thursday, May 19 from 6:00 to 7:00 PM. We hope to see all parents at this yearly showcase of student work!
Other news:
* Please return the blue form sent home last week which states that your child will be returning to Dilworth next August. If we do not receive the form, we will assume that your child will not attend our school next year. All forms should be turned in no later than Friday, May 13.
* Our field trip to the Daniels Nature Center at the Russian Ridge Open Space in the Santa Cruz Mountains will be this Tuesday, May 10. A beautiful day is forecast, so make sure your child brings a "no-garbage lunch" and drink, wears a hat and/or sunscreen, and wears appropriate shoes for hiking. Most importantly, please make sure your child arrives at school NO LATER than 8:10 AM - Morning Enrichment students will be released early to accommodate our departure time.
* We are going through some of the math concepts in greater depth that we covered quickly in order to prepare for the STAR test. Last week we covered statistics and graphs, and this week we will study our probability chapter. The next test will be on Tuesday, May 15.
* Students are enjoying creating their own poetry portfolios in class - this week we will have the portable technology lab in our room all week so that students can type up their poems and have their portfolios ready for Open House!
* In Social Studies, we have started Unit 4, which reviews the many changes which took place in California after the Gold Rush and our statehood. Students are also working on time lines where they must select the ten most important events in California history!
* In Science, we are continuing to learn about food chains and food webs. We recently received goldfish and snails in our class, so we now have "aquariums" instead of "terrariums"! Investi-gation 3 Quiz was postponed from last week and will now be on Weds., 5/11 instead.
Other news:
* Please return the blue form sent home last week which states that your child will be returning to Dilworth next August. If we do not receive the form, we will assume that your child will not attend our school next year. All forms should be turned in no later than Friday, May 13.
* Our field trip to the Daniels Nature Center at the Russian Ridge Open Space in the Santa Cruz Mountains will be this Tuesday, May 10. A beautiful day is forecast, so make sure your child brings a "no-garbage lunch" and drink, wears a hat and/or sunscreen, and wears appropriate shoes for hiking. Most importantly, please make sure your child arrives at school NO LATER than 8:10 AM - Morning Enrichment students will be released early to accommodate our departure time.
* We are going through some of the math concepts in greater depth that we covered quickly in order to prepare for the STAR test. Last week we covered statistics and graphs, and this week we will study our probability chapter. The next test will be on Tuesday, May 15.
* Students are enjoying creating their own poetry portfolios in class - this week we will have the portable technology lab in our room all week so that students can type up their poems and have their portfolios ready for Open House!
* In Social Studies, we have started Unit 4, which reviews the many changes which took place in California after the Gold Rush and our statehood. Students are also working on time lines where they must select the ten most important events in California history!
* In Science, we are continuing to learn about food chains and food webs. We recently received goldfish and snails in our class, so we now have "aquariums" instead of "terrariums"! Investi-gation 3 Quiz was postponed from last week and will now be on Weds., 5/11 instead.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Week of May 2
Fourth grade is finished with the STAR testing this year! Students worked hard on the test last week, and are taking a much-deserved breather! However, we still have plenty to keep us busy in the upcoming weeks - here is an update:
* We have started working on our poetry portfolios, which we are hoping to have published in time for Open House on May 19! We are studying different genres of poetry and writing our own poems, including haiku, limericks, free verse, and others. We are even creating some "silly" poems! We will also be writing "letters to the editor" as an introduction to persuasive writing which we will study in greater detail next year in fifth grade.
* Our field trip to the Open Space Preserve in the Santa Cruz Mountains is next Tuesday, May 10. Students will need to arrive at school by 8:10 AM on that day because of an early departure tim that is scheduled. Please be sure to send your child with sunscreen, a hat, good walking shoes, and a "no-garbage" lunch that day!
* We are continuing our science unit "Environments" and are learning about food chains and food webs. We will next be studying gold fish to see how they adapt to our classroom "environments", and also learn about the "range of tolerance" for green plants when watered with salt water instead of fresh water.
* We finished our "Saturday Night projects" with student groups giving their presentations - they all did a great job! Next in Social Studies we will learn about the growth of California after the Gold Rush, including the building of the Transcontinental Railroad and its impact on the immigration of many people to the Golden State.
* It is allergy season! We are in need of tissue box donations currently, and any help you can give us is appreciated!
* Finally, remember that Open House will be held on Thursday, May 19 from 6:00 - 7:00 PM - this is your chance to visit our classroom and see some of the many projects that your child has worked on during the school year.
*
* We have started working on our poetry portfolios, which we are hoping to have published in time for Open House on May 19! We are studying different genres of poetry and writing our own poems, including haiku, limericks, free verse, and others. We are even creating some "silly" poems! We will also be writing "letters to the editor" as an introduction to persuasive writing which we will study in greater detail next year in fifth grade.
* Our field trip to the Open Space Preserve in the Santa Cruz Mountains is next Tuesday, May 10. Students will need to arrive at school by 8:10 AM on that day because of an early departure tim that is scheduled. Please be sure to send your child with sunscreen, a hat, good walking shoes, and a "no-garbage" lunch that day!
* We are continuing our science unit "Environments" and are learning about food chains and food webs. We will next be studying gold fish to see how they adapt to our classroom "environments", and also learn about the "range of tolerance" for green plants when watered with salt water instead of fresh water.
* We finished our "Saturday Night projects" with student groups giving their presentations - they all did a great job! Next in Social Studies we will learn about the growth of California after the Gold Rush, including the building of the Transcontinental Railroad and its impact on the immigration of many people to the Golden State.
* It is allergy season! We are in need of tissue box donations currently, and any help you can give us is appreciated!
* Finally, remember that Open House will be held on Thursday, May 19 from 6:00 - 7:00 PM - this is your chance to visit our classroom and see some of the many projects that your child has worked on during the school year.
*
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Latest Update from Room 17
As we start our spring break week, here are a few updates:
Gold Rush Day was a huge success! Many parents came to see our fourth grade musical, "Oh California" last Wednesday. Students enjoyed our wonderful Gold Rush luncheon, which was lovingly prepared by our fantastic parent volunteers! Thank you for helping to make this such a great day for all our fourth grade students!
STAR testing will begin on Tuesday, April 26. Although we have done some preparation in class, including taking practice tests, you can help you child to be successful on this test in several ways:
* Review any math chapters that your child needs to review to solidify their understanding.
* Use the STAR "released questions" (link is to the right) to help your child prepare for the test.
* Make sure your child gets plenty of sleep each night during the testing period.
* Have them eat a healthy breakfast each day before coming to school.
* Please make sure that your child arrives at school on time each day.
* Minimize their stress by emphasizing that effort, not perfect scores, is the expectation.
We finished Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson this week, and students took their final comprehension test on Thursday. Our next class book will be Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes, a lovely story about the power of optimism and persistence in our lives.
In science, we had a great time observing the changes in our terrariums as part of our "Environments" unit. Next, we will learn about food webs, food chains, and adaptations. Students will also be assigned project on Earth's biomes that will be done as a Powerpoint presentation.
Students have been working hard on their "Saturday Night" projects in Social Studies. Although we finished most of the project in class, they may need to complete it during their spring break. Projects are due next Monday, April 25.
Have a great spring break!
Gold Rush Day was a huge success! Many parents came to see our fourth grade musical, "Oh California" last Wednesday. Students enjoyed our wonderful Gold Rush luncheon, which was lovingly prepared by our fantastic parent volunteers! Thank you for helping to make this such a great day for all our fourth grade students!
STAR testing will begin on Tuesday, April 26. Although we have done some preparation in class, including taking practice tests, you can help you child to be successful on this test in several ways:
* Review any math chapters that your child needs to review to solidify their understanding.
* Use the STAR "released questions" (link is to the right) to help your child prepare for the test.
* Make sure your child gets plenty of sleep each night during the testing period.
* Have them eat a healthy breakfast each day before coming to school.
* Please make sure that your child arrives at school on time each day.
* Minimize their stress by emphasizing that effort, not perfect scores, is the expectation.
We finished Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson this week, and students took their final comprehension test on Thursday. Our next class book will be Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes, a lovely story about the power of optimism and persistence in our lives.
In science, we had a great time observing the changes in our terrariums as part of our "Environments" unit. Next, we will learn about food webs, food chains, and adaptations. Students will also be assigned project on Earth's biomes that will be done as a Powerpoint presentation.
Students have been working hard on their "Saturday Night" projects in Social Studies. Although we finished most of the project in class, they may need to complete it during their spring break. Projects are due next Monday, April 25.
Have a great spring break!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Week of April 11
As we approach our spring break next week, there is so much happening in Room 17!
Gold Rush Day is tomorrow! Students will perform in their fourth grade musical, "Oh, California", singing traditional 49'er songs! After their concert, they will participate in various Gold Rush activities, do some Gold Rush Dancing, and have a 49'er style lunch! The students are really looking forward to having an action-packed and fun-filled day!
STAR testing is coming after spring break! We have already begun to take some practice tests in class in preparation for the testing which will begin on Tuesday, April 26 and end on Friday, April 29 for fourth grade. The most important thing for your child is to remind them that it is just one of many tests they have taken all year, and do everything to ensure this is a "stress-less" experience for them! If you would like to see the released questions from previous years' STAR tests, please click on the link to the right.
Also, if your child needs some review in certain math concepts, please take the time over spring break to re-introduce some concepts previously taught this year, such as fractions, algebraic concepts, and multiplication/division.
Ah -choo!! Is your child sneezing with runny eyes and bloody noses? They are probably experiencing the effects of a severe allergy season this spring due to all the late spring rains. We have almost run out of tissues, so we would appreciate any donations to the class of this item!
Students are working on a "Saturday Night" project as part of our Gold Rush Unit. Some students are working alone, while others are working in small groups (their choices). Please ask your child during the break if they need your assistance in building or supplying any materials for their project. It is due on Monday, 4/25.
Have a wonderful spring break with your family - only six more weeks of school!
Gold Rush Day is tomorrow! Students will perform in their fourth grade musical, "Oh, California", singing traditional 49'er songs! After their concert, they will participate in various Gold Rush activities, do some Gold Rush Dancing, and have a 49'er style lunch! The students are really looking forward to having an action-packed and fun-filled day!
STAR testing is coming after spring break! We have already begun to take some practice tests in class in preparation for the testing which will begin on Tuesday, April 26 and end on Friday, April 29 for fourth grade. The most important thing for your child is to remind them that it is just one of many tests they have taken all year, and do everything to ensure this is a "stress-less" experience for them! If you would like to see the released questions from previous years' STAR tests, please click on the link to the right.
Also, if your child needs some review in certain math concepts, please take the time over spring break to re-introduce some concepts previously taught this year, such as fractions, algebraic concepts, and multiplication/division.
Ah -choo!! Is your child sneezing with runny eyes and bloody noses? They are probably experiencing the effects of a severe allergy season this spring due to all the late spring rains. We have almost run out of tissues, so we would appreciate any donations to the class of this item!
Students are working on a "Saturday Night" project as part of our Gold Rush Unit. Some students are working alone, while others are working in small groups (their choices). Please ask your child during the break if they need your assistance in building or supplying any materials for their project. It is due on Monday, 4/25.
Have a wonderful spring break with your family - only six more weeks of school!
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Week of April 4
Spring has sprung in Room 17! Some of us came down with a bad case of "spring fever" last week with our sunny, warm weather! The weather has been great for growing and observing the plants in our terrariums - in a few weeks, students will transplant them to our school garden!
In the next 2 weeks before spring break, we will be reviewing some of the "released" test questions in preparation for the STAR test which starts on April 26. Please check the link to the right which allows you to access this information directly from the Calif. Dept. of Education.
We are speeding through our math chapters - the focus is on geometric concepts right now, including identification of plane figures, solid figures, and perimeter and area measurement. We are attempting to touch at least briefly on all 4th grade math standards - we will cover some of these concepts in more depth after the STAR test.
Gold Rush Day - you received a flyer for our upcoming "Gold Rush Day" on Weds., April 13. We are asking all 4th grade parents to donate $5 (cash only) to the Gold Rush luncheon, and we are seeking parent volunteers to prepare and serve the luncheon. Please fill out the information on the flyer and return it to your child's class no later than Friday, 4/8.
In the next 2 weeks before spring break, we will be reviewing some of the "released" test questions in preparation for the STAR test which starts on April 26. Please check the link to the right which allows you to access this information directly from the Calif. Dept. of Education.
We are speeding through our math chapters - the focus is on geometric concepts right now, including identification of plane figures, solid figures, and perimeter and area measurement. We are attempting to touch at least briefly on all 4th grade math standards - we will cover some of these concepts in more depth after the STAR test.
Gold Rush Day - you received a flyer for our upcoming "Gold Rush Day" on Weds., April 13. We are asking all 4th grade parents to donate $5 (cash only) to the Gold Rush luncheon, and we are seeking parent volunteers to prepare and serve the luncheon. Please fill out the information on the flyer and return it to your child's class no later than Friday, 4/8.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Update for Week of March 28
Thank you, parents! Our class had over 90% participation rate in the school survey! Our students are excited because we qualified for an ice cream party! Obviously, we also appreciate your input on what our school does well, and ways that we could improve!
Our field trip to Hidden Villa will be on Wednesday, 3/30. Please take a few moments to review the "No Garbage Lunch" that was sent home in Friday folders last week. We discourage things such as "lunchables" since everything that is not eaten must be packed out when we leave - no garbage or recycling cans there! It is projected to be a warm and sunny day (finally!), so hats and sunscreen are encouraged.
We will send home "Gold Rush volunteer" forms in this week's Friday folder - we need parents to help out in the following areas: videotaping activities, preparing and serving our Gold Rush lunch, and helping out in the classrooms. We also ask each parent to donate $5 toward the cost of the lunch and other needed items. This is one of 4th grade's "big events", so we appreciate your help!
Our field trip to Hidden Villa will be on Wednesday, 3/30. Please take a few moments to review the "No Garbage Lunch" that was sent home in Friday folders last week. We discourage things such as "lunchables" since everything that is not eaten must be packed out when we leave - no garbage or recycling cans there! It is projected to be a warm and sunny day (finally!), so hats and sunscreen are encouraged.
We will send home "Gold Rush volunteer" forms in this week's Friday folder - we need parents to help out in the following areas: videotaping activities, preparing and serving our Gold Rush lunch, and helping out in the classrooms. We also ask each parent to donate $5 toward the cost of the lunch and other needed items. This is one of 4th grade's "big events", so we appreciate your help!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Parent Survey Reminder!!
There are just 4 more days left to take the parent online survey! Our class will receive an ice cream party if at least 85% of our families take the survey. Remember, you should complete a different survey for every child who attends Dilworth. Our class is getting closer to our goal, but we are still asking everyone to take ten minutes to let us know how we are doing as a school and a class! Thank you!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Week of March 15
Our shorter week was packed with many activities and educational experiences! Just a few highlights:
*Report Cards went home today - please review the report card with your child and let me know if you have any concerns. Please sign the envelope and return that to school in their Friday folder on Monday- enclose a note if you would like to meet with me regarding any questions/concerns.
* Our class started a donation drive for the people of Japan - it is called "Socks for Japan" - we are hoping to get many contributions from you and your children for clean, white (new) socks for both adults and children. Almost 500,000 Japanese people are homeless in the midst of a cold winter. We will collect all the socks and ship them to Japan with caring letters to let them know we are thinking of them!
* We started our new science unit this week - "Environments". Students took the pre-test for this unit and we formed our science groups. This is a great unit to have in the spring because we must grow plants and care for isopods and goldfish! We have two field trips which will enrich and support the science material, including one to Hidden Villa in 2 weeks, and another to the Open Space Preserve at Russian Ridge in May.
* Scholastic book catalogues were sent home today and orders (either online or paper) are due by Friday, March 25. As a reminder, your child was given a coupon(letter) for a free book worth $5.00 or less during the holidays. Please encourage him/her to use this coupon with this order or the next one in late April, which will be our last order for the school year.
*Report Cards went home today - please review the report card with your child and let me know if you have any concerns. Please sign the envelope and return that to school in their Friday folder on Monday- enclose a note if you would like to meet with me regarding any questions/concerns.
* Our class started a donation drive for the people of Japan - it is called "Socks for Japan" - we are hoping to get many contributions from you and your children for clean, white (new) socks for both adults and children. Almost 500,000 Japanese people are homeless in the midst of a cold winter. We will collect all the socks and ship them to Japan with caring letters to let them know we are thinking of them!
* We started our new science unit this week - "Environments". Students took the pre-test for this unit and we formed our science groups. This is a great unit to have in the spring because we must grow plants and care for isopods and goldfish! We have two field trips which will enrich and support the science material, including one to Hidden Villa in 2 weeks, and another to the Open Space Preserve at Russian Ridge in May.
* Scholastic book catalogues were sent home today and orders (either online or paper) are due by Friday, March 25. As a reminder, your child was given a coupon(letter) for a free book worth $5.00 or less during the holidays. Please encourage him/her to use this coupon with this order or the next one in late April, which will be our last order for the school year.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Update for Past Week
* We had an action-packed week in our class! Our field trip to History San Jose on Friday took students into the past to explore the immigration stories of different ethnic groups who make up San Jose's rich cultural heritage. We learned about different immigrant groups such as the Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese and Mexican people who have such strong cultural ties to the San Jose community.
* Don't forget to move your clocks forward one hour on Saturday night as we return to Daylight Savings time! It is important to gradually "wean" your children into the time change, especially if they have trouble getting up in the morning. Try getting them to bed a half hour earlier on Sunday night, and then another half hour earlier on Monday night. Remember, there is no school on Monday, so it gives them an extra day to adjust to the new time!
* Our annual Parent Survey is posted online on the Dilworth home page - if you have not already taken the survey, please take a few minutes to do so in the next 2 weeks. Your input as parents is important to us! Tell us what we do well, and what we could do better! Our class will also receive an ice cream party if at least 85% of our parents take the survey.
* Report Cards will be sent home next Friday - please review them with your child, note areas of improvement and those that need extra work, and return the signed report card envelope to school next Monday.
* Don't forget to move your clocks forward one hour on Saturday night as we return to Daylight Savings time! It is important to gradually "wean" your children into the time change, especially if they have trouble getting up in the morning. Try getting them to bed a half hour earlier on Sunday night, and then another half hour earlier on Monday night. Remember, there is no school on Monday, so it gives them an extra day to adjust to the new time!
* Our annual Parent Survey is posted online on the Dilworth home page - if you have not already taken the survey, please take a few minutes to do so in the next 2 weeks. Your input as parents is important to us! Tell us what we do well, and what we could do better! Our class will also receive an ice cream party if at least 85% of our parents take the survey.
* Report Cards will be sent home next Friday - please review them with your child, note areas of improvement and those that need extra work, and return the signed report card envelope to school next Monday.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Update for Week of March 7
Dear Parents,
Just a few updates for this week:
* Our field trip to Kelley Park for "Immigration Experience" is on Friday. Thank you to parents who signed up to be chaperones. Just a reminder...if you offered to be a chaperone when sending back the field trip permission slip, please try to keep your commitment. I had three out of five chaperones tell me they couldn't make this trip for various reasons. If you have a job outside of the home that requires you to be available for meetings, etc. most of the time, it would probably be best if you didn't volunteer. If you volunteered for the Hidden Villa trip on March 30, and can't make it, please let me know at least 2 weeks in advance.
* Dilworth is looking for a new Home and School Club President for the 2011-2012 school year. If you are interested in learning more about this great opportunity to become more involved in your child's school, please contact Ms. Matala to get more information about the duties involved in this position. Our Home and School Club does some great things for Dilworth!
Just a few updates for this week:
* Our field trip to Kelley Park for "Immigration Experience" is on Friday. Thank you to parents who signed up to be chaperones. Just a reminder...if you offered to be a chaperone when sending back the field trip permission slip, please try to keep your commitment. I had three out of five chaperones tell me they couldn't make this trip for various reasons. If you have a job outside of the home that requires you to be available for meetings, etc. most of the time, it would probably be best if you didn't volunteer. If you volunteered for the Hidden Villa trip on March 30, and can't make it, please let me know at least 2 weeks in advance.
* Dilworth is looking for a new Home and School Club President for the 2011-2012 school year. If you are interested in learning more about this great opportunity to become more involved in your child's school, please contact Ms. Matala to get more information about the duties involved in this position. Our Home and School Club does some great things for Dilworth!
Friday, March 4, 2011
Upcoming Week in Room 17!
It has been a great week in Room 17 - students did a wonderful job on their STAR writing tests and we began literature circles for "The Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson".
Here are some upcoming events or announcements:
* WE NEED BOXES OF FACIAL TISSUES! There has been alot of colds in the class lately, with much sneezing and nose-blowing! We have run out of tissues and would greatly appreciate your donations of tissue boxes to our class! We are also in need of more glue sticks - any donations are appreciated!
* Our annual Parent Survey began today and will run through March 25! Please go to the Dilworth Home Page (like you do when you read the paperless Dispatch) and the link to the survey is on the top of the page. We are hoping most parents will participate - it should only take about 10-15 minutes of your time. We take your feedback seriously, so let us know what we're doing well and areas where we need to improve!
* We will be going on our field trip next Friday to History San Jose - this will be an all day field trip and students will need sack lunches and drinks. You may also want to apply sunscreen in the morning as they will be outside for much of the day.
* We have resumed our Drug Education program "Too Good for Drugs" - look for "home workouts" from your child to encourage you to discuss these important issues with them. It's never too early to start having these important conversations!
* Just a reminder - report cards for the second trimester will be sent home on Friday, March 18. Be sure to read the report card carefully - keep the report card, and send the envelope back to school with your signature.
* Remember that Monday, March 14 is Staff Learning Day - no school!
Here are some upcoming events or announcements:
* WE NEED BOXES OF FACIAL TISSUES! There has been alot of colds in the class lately, with much sneezing and nose-blowing! We have run out of tissues and would greatly appreciate your donations of tissue boxes to our class! We are also in need of more glue sticks - any donations are appreciated!
* Our annual Parent Survey began today and will run through March 25! Please go to the Dilworth Home Page (like you do when you read the paperless Dispatch) and the link to the survey is on the top of the page. We are hoping most parents will participate - it should only take about 10-15 minutes of your time. We take your feedback seriously, so let us know what we're doing well and areas where we need to improve!
* We will be going on our field trip next Friday to History San Jose - this will be an all day field trip and students will need sack lunches and drinks. You may also want to apply sunscreen in the morning as they will be outside for much of the day.
* We have resumed our Drug Education program "Too Good for Drugs" - look for "home workouts" from your child to encourage you to discuss these important issues with them. It's never too early to start having these important conversations!
* Just a reminder - report cards for the second trimester will be sent home on Friday, March 18. Be sure to read the report card carefully - keep the report card, and send the envelope back to school with your signature.
* Remember that Monday, March 14 is Staff Learning Day - no school!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
STAR Test Writing Update!
After several months of preparation, the day finally arrived for our STAR writing test. Our students did a GREAT JOB of focusing on the writing prompt (a summary), creating pre-writes to organize their ideas, and putting forth their BEST EFFORTS to write a good summary! We had a popsicle party in the afternoon to celebrate a job well done! The score from this test will be included on the STAR assessment report you receive next August, along with the other STAR scores for the tests we will take in late April.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Week of February 28
Welcome Back! I hope everyone had a wonderful February break week, and your children are ready to engage in lots for learning over the next two months! Here are some updates and reminders for this week:
* The STAR writing assessment will be administered to ALL Dilworth fourth graders tomorrow (March 1). The students have worked very hard to prepare for this assessment - we have worked on essays or summaries for all three genres of writing: response to literature, summary, or narrative. Tomorrow, students will write an essay on ONE of those genres. Our school does not get the essays back from the state after they have been scored - your child's assessment score will appear on the STAR assessment report sent to you next August.
* Report cards will come home for the second trimester on Friday, March 18. Please be sure to discuss the report card with your child - ask them which areas they feel they are meeting their goals, and which areas need additional work. Please be sure to sign the report card envelope and return it to school. You may keep the actual report card.
* Students did a great job in their science notebooks for the "Magnetism and Electricity" science unit. The notebooks will be sent home this Friday. Please keep these in a safe place, as they can also be used next year to prepare for the STAR science test administered in fifth grade, which covers concepts taught in both 4th and 5th grade.
* We have started our Gold Rush unit, which will include a simulation of the Gold Rush which students will complete in "mining groups". This unit will culminate in our Gold Rush luncheon to be held on Weds., April 13.
* We will start on our class novel "The Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson" now that we have finished preparation for the STAR writing test. Students will work in small literature circles to discuss the assigned readings and help each other with comprehension skills.
* The STAR writing assessment will be administered to ALL Dilworth fourth graders tomorrow (March 1). The students have worked very hard to prepare for this assessment - we have worked on essays or summaries for all three genres of writing: response to literature, summary, or narrative. Tomorrow, students will write an essay on ONE of those genres. Our school does not get the essays back from the state after they have been scored - your child's assessment score will appear on the STAR assessment report sent to you next August.
* Report cards will come home for the second trimester on Friday, March 18. Please be sure to discuss the report card with your child - ask them which areas they feel they are meeting their goals, and which areas need additional work. Please be sure to sign the report card envelope and return it to school. You may keep the actual report card.
* Students did a great job in their science notebooks for the "Magnetism and Electricity" science unit. The notebooks will be sent home this Friday. Please keep these in a safe place, as they can also be used next year to prepare for the STAR science test administered in fifth grade, which covers concepts taught in both 4th and 5th grade.
* We have started our Gold Rush unit, which will include a simulation of the Gold Rush which students will complete in "mining groups". This unit will culminate in our Gold Rush luncheon to be held on Weds., April 13.
* We will start on our class novel "The Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson" now that we have finished preparation for the STAR writing test. Students will work in small literature circles to discuss the assigned readings and help each other with comprehension skills.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Updates for Week of February 14!
As we move into the last week before our February President's Break, here are some updates:
* Great Schools Week is here!! You should have found the "golden ticket" for discounts galore in your child's Friday folder last week. Please bring this "ticket" with you when you go shopping so that CUSD can be credited for all the funds that area businesses are giving back to the district. This is a great opportunity to help your childrens' schools while going out for dinner, shopping for groceries, or any of your other shopping needs! If you need more information, or another "golden ticket", please go to www.ceefcares.com
* We are finishing up our fictional narratives that were started last week. Students will receive a grade on these narratives based on the rubric supplied on the California "Star" writing test site. During our week long break, please have your child continue to write using prompts that will be sent home. Our STAR writing test will take place on Tuesday, March 1 with the make-up test on Weds., March. 2.
* We are having our class group pictures taken on Tuesday, Feb. 15! If you would like to get a picture of your child taken with our classmates, please send the picture envelope back with a check by Tuesday morning.
* If your child is interested in getting a copy of "Wrush", the book that was featured in last week's assembly, please send the form from their Friday folders back with a check for $10 NO LATER than Tuesday. Any late orders will be returned to you.
* Great Schools Week is here!! You should have found the "golden ticket" for discounts galore in your child's Friday folder last week. Please bring this "ticket" with you when you go shopping so that CUSD can be credited for all the funds that area businesses are giving back to the district. This is a great opportunity to help your childrens' schools while going out for dinner, shopping for groceries, or any of your other shopping needs! If you need more information, or another "golden ticket", please go to www.ceefcares.com
* We are finishing up our fictional narratives that were started last week. Students will receive a grade on these narratives based on the rubric supplied on the California "Star" writing test site. During our week long break, please have your child continue to write using prompts that will be sent home. Our STAR writing test will take place on Tuesday, March 1 with the make-up test on Weds., March. 2.
* We are having our class group pictures taken on Tuesday, Feb. 15! If you would like to get a picture of your child taken with our classmates, please send the picture envelope back with a check by Tuesday morning.
* If your child is interested in getting a copy of "Wrush", the book that was featured in last week's assembly, please send the form from their Friday folders back with a check for $10 NO LATER than Tuesday. Any late orders will be returned to you.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Update for Week of Feb. 8
Here is the latest news for Room 17:
* Great ready for our district-wide fundraiser next week (Feb. 14-18) - "Great Schools" Week, sponsored by CEEF/TFIN, will feature over 50 community businesses who have offered to donate a portion of all of their proceeds for the week to CUSD schools. We are encouraging all CUSD families to shop at these area businesses and help our schools continue to maintain the high standards of education we have always provided. Check out this web link for the list of businesses which are participating, and look for your "golden ticket" in your child's Friday folder this week!
www.ceefcares.com
* Room 17 will have a Valentine's Day party next Monday, Feb. 14 from 2:00 to 3:00 PM. A flyer was sent home last week with a list of all students' names in the class. A sign-up list will be posted tomorrow for donations of food/drinks/paper products. We will also need a few parent volunteers!
* Many parents have asked for assistance in helping to prepare their child for the upcoming STAR writing test on March 1 - here is a link to the site at the CA. Dept. of Education that contains information about the assessment as well as previous years' tests. Scroll down to "California Writing Test Resources" on this page.
http://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/tg/sr/resources.asp
* In math, we have started learning fractions - this unit will continue after the President's Week break. Fractions can be a challenging concept for many children - we will place greater emphasis on equivalent fractions, adding/subtracting fractions, mixed numbers, and improper fractions.
* In Language Arts, we continue to practice for the STAR Writing test - students are also learning about word roots, suffixes, and prefixes. We are creating "vocabulary trees" finding root words in combination with other prefixes/ suffixes.
* We will finish Unit 2 of Social Studies and take our test on Thursday - Unit 3 will begin our study of the California Gold Rush and statehood. Our "Gold Rush Day" will take place on April 13 for all fourth grade students.
* Next week we will complete our science unit, "Electricity and Magnetism" - our final test will be on Thursday, Feb. 17. Students have enjoyed many interesting hands-on experiments and "sparked" their curiosity through the study of circuits, magnets, and motors.
* Great ready for our district-wide fundraiser next week (Feb. 14-18) - "Great Schools" Week, sponsored by CEEF/TFIN, will feature over 50 community businesses who have offered to donate a portion of all of their proceeds for the week to CUSD schools. We are encouraging all CUSD families to shop at these area businesses and help our schools continue to maintain the high standards of education we have always provided. Check out this web link for the list of businesses which are participating, and look for your "golden ticket" in your child's Friday folder this week!
www.ceefcares.com
* Room 17 will have a Valentine's Day party next Monday, Feb. 14 from 2:00 to 3:00 PM. A flyer was sent home last week with a list of all students' names in the class. A sign-up list will be posted tomorrow for donations of food/drinks/paper products. We will also need a few parent volunteers!
* Many parents have asked for assistance in helping to prepare their child for the upcoming STAR writing test on March 1 - here is a link to the site at the CA. Dept. of Education that contains information about the assessment as well as previous years' tests. Scroll down to "California Writing Test Resources" on this page.
http://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/tg/sr/resources.asp
* In math, we have started learning fractions - this unit will continue after the President's Week break. Fractions can be a challenging concept for many children - we will place greater emphasis on equivalent fractions, adding/subtracting fractions, mixed numbers, and improper fractions.
* In Language Arts, we continue to practice for the STAR Writing test - students are also learning about word roots, suffixes, and prefixes. We are creating "vocabulary trees" finding root words in combination with other prefixes/ suffixes.
* We will finish Unit 2 of Social Studies and take our test on Thursday - Unit 3 will begin our study of the California Gold Rush and statehood. Our "Gold Rush Day" will take place on April 13 for all fourth grade students.
* Next week we will complete our science unit, "Electricity and Magnetism" - our final test will be on Thursday, Feb. 17. Students have enjoyed many interesting hands-on experiments and "sparked" their curiosity through the study of circuits, magnets, and motors.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Review for Week of Jan. 24
Here is an update for last week:
* Students presented their Reader's Theatre performance of "Sojourner Truth" to three of our 3rd grade classes - they did a wonderful job practicing their parts and developing their oral speaking skills!
* We have been practicing "Response to Literature" writing in preparation for the STAR Writing test on Tuesday, March 1. Later this week, we will start writing fictional narratives in preparation for the upcoming assessment.
* Students enjoyed our field trip to Intel Museum last Monday, which gave them the opportunity to learn more about electricity, magnetism, and semiconductors! They also built different circuits in a lab designed by Intel for hands-on experiences!
* We will begin reading our next class novel, "The Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson", which coincides with the Lunar New Year - students will love this story of a young Chinese immigrant family who moves to New York in 1947 and the interesting experiences of their young daughter Shirley!
* Remember that your child should spend AT LEAST 30 minutes per week practicing their spelling words on "Spelling City" - in addition to the spelling games, they should take the practice test the day before our quiz on Friday!
* Students presented their Reader's Theatre performance of "Sojourner Truth" to three of our 3rd grade classes - they did a wonderful job practicing their parts and developing their oral speaking skills!
* We have been practicing "Response to Literature" writing in preparation for the STAR Writing test on Tuesday, March 1. Later this week, we will start writing fictional narratives in preparation for the upcoming assessment.
* Students enjoyed our field trip to Intel Museum last Monday, which gave them the opportunity to learn more about electricity, magnetism, and semiconductors! They also built different circuits in a lab designed by Intel for hands-on experiences!
* We will begin reading our next class novel, "The Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson", which coincides with the Lunar New Year - students will love this story of a young Chinese immigrant family who moves to New York in 1947 and the interesting experiences of their young daughter Shirley!
* Remember that your child should spend AT LEAST 30 minutes per week practicing their spelling words on "Spelling City" - in addition to the spelling games, they should take the practice test the day before our quiz on Friday!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Review for Week of Jan. 18!
We had a short week, but it was chock full of activities - here is an update:
* Today (1/24) our class visited the Intel Museum, which is located at Intel Corp. headquarters in Santa Clara. Students learned all about semiconductors, transistors, and circuits! Our field trip included a hands-on workshop where students built some great devices with special circuit components. All students got a free Intel pen with a special circuit that lights up the top of the pen when writing!
* Students have been busy practicing for their Reader's Theatre presentations of "Sojourner Truth" later this week. Each group of 11 students will present to a different third grade class. This give students an opportunity to perform in front of others in a less stressful, casual environment.
* Don't forget that tomorrow night is "Step Up to Writing" Night for parents only in the Dilworth GLC. I will be presenting the 4th/5th grade writing information. We had a tremendous response from parents who are planning to attend, so if sent in your RSVP before last week, I'll look forward to seeing you there!
* Just a reminder - if your child received a mid-trimester progress report, please read, sign, and return a copy to me by Friday. The purpose of this report is to let you know if your child needs to improve in certain academic and social skills before the next report card comes home in late March. Let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.
* We are doing LOTS of writing in class in preparation for the STAR Writing test on Tuesday, March 1. Right now we are working on "Response to Literature", one of three possible genres that might appear on the test. Next, we will work on a fictional narrative before the February break.
* Today (1/24) our class visited the Intel Museum, which is located at Intel Corp. headquarters in Santa Clara. Students learned all about semiconductors, transistors, and circuits! Our field trip included a hands-on workshop where students built some great devices with special circuit components. All students got a free Intel pen with a special circuit that lights up the top of the pen when writing!
* Students have been busy practicing for their Reader's Theatre presentations of "Sojourner Truth" later this week. Each group of 11 students will present to a different third grade class. This give students an opportunity to perform in front of others in a less stressful, casual environment.
* Don't forget that tomorrow night is "Step Up to Writing" Night for parents only in the Dilworth GLC. I will be presenting the 4th/5th grade writing information. We had a tremendous response from parents who are planning to attend, so if sent in your RSVP before last week, I'll look forward to seeing you there!
* Just a reminder - if your child received a mid-trimester progress report, please read, sign, and return a copy to me by Friday. The purpose of this report is to let you know if your child needs to improve in certain academic and social skills before the next report card comes home in late March. Let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.
* We are doing LOTS of writing in class in preparation for the STAR Writing test on Tuesday, March 1. Right now we are working on "Response to Literature", one of three possible genres that might appear on the test. Next, we will work on a fictional narrative before the February break.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Review for Week of Jan. 10!
Please read the following updates for the week of Jan. 10:
* We had several assemblies last week, including "Stranger/Danger" and a picture book author presentation. I hope you were able to sit down and talk with your child about being approached by strangers, and the procedures they should follow. Remember - at this age level, all students should know their parent's cell phone # and home address!!
* Just a reminder - if your child is celebrating a birthday and wants to bring in treats, please consider "healthy treats" as an option to "sweet treats"! (no nuts, please!) Also, if your child is planning a birthday party, they may only pass out invitations at recess or lunch to their friends - we want to avoid "hurt feelings" if possible. Also, consider mailing out the invitations rather than "passing them out" at school.
* Mid-trimester progress reports will be sent home in Friday folders on Friday, Jan. 21. These are sent home only if your child is not meeting standards in curriculum areas or behavioral standards. Please read it, discuss with your child, and have it signed and returned in their Friday folder next week.
* Book orders (paper or online) are due on January 21 also - if your child is planning to use the "free book" letter that I gave them as a holiday gift, they should bring it to school, noting the name, catalogue, and book#. I will order it for them.
* For our field trip on January 24, please make SURE your child arrives at school no later than 8:20 AM! We will be leaving Dilworth promptly at 8:30 AM, so students need time to put their backpacks in class, etc. Parents who are going on the field trip - please come to Room 17 at 8:20 also.
* We had several assemblies last week, including "Stranger/Danger" and a picture book author presentation. I hope you were able to sit down and talk with your child about being approached by strangers, and the procedures they should follow. Remember - at this age level, all students should know their parent's cell phone # and home address!!
* Just a reminder - if your child is celebrating a birthday and wants to bring in treats, please consider "healthy treats" as an option to "sweet treats"! (no nuts, please!) Also, if your child is planning a birthday party, they may only pass out invitations at recess or lunch to their friends - we want to avoid "hurt feelings" if possible. Also, consider mailing out the invitations rather than "passing them out" at school.
* Mid-trimester progress reports will be sent home in Friday folders on Friday, Jan. 21. These are sent home only if your child is not meeting standards in curriculum areas or behavioral standards. Please read it, discuss with your child, and have it signed and returned in their Friday folder next week.
* Book orders (paper or online) are due on January 21 also - if your child is planning to use the "free book" letter that I gave them as a holiday gift, they should bring it to school, noting the name, catalogue, and book#. I will order it for them.
* For our field trip on January 24, please make SURE your child arrives at school no later than 8:20 AM! We will be leaving Dilworth promptly at 8:30 AM, so students need time to put their backpacks in class, etc. Parents who are going on the field trip - please come to Room 17 at 8:20 also.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Review for Week of Jan.3!
As we settle into our second week of the New Year, students are gradually adapting to "full time school" again! During these first weeks of January, when the daytime light is so short, you may find that your children are not so eager to "rise and shine" early in the morning! Please help them re-adjust to their "school schedule" by enforcing earlier bed times to ensure they get plenty of sleep and are ready to arrive at school no later than 8:25 AM!
Some highlights from last week:
Geography Bee news: About half of our class decided to participate in our classroom "Bee" last Wednesday - I was so impressed by their knowledge of geography! After completing seven "rounds" of questions, and a "tie-breaker", our two finalists for the School Geography Bee emerged: Shaunak B. and Mahima S. They will both participate in the Final Bee on Weds., Jan. 12 with the finalists from the other upper grade classes. Good luck to both of them!
Books and Beyond: Our annual "Books and Beyond" program began this week, and I have encouraged all students to "go for their goals" to reach the 3500 page goal of the program by April 15. They should have their "log sheets" in their backpacks so that they can record everything they read at home and in school. You should sign each log sheet once they are full. They may also record books that are read TO THEM! So, take a trip with your child to the local library once a week and help to promote a lifelong love of reading!
Science : Last week, we had a long discussion about "energy-saving" light bulbs! Students learned the difference between the old "incandescent" bulbs, and our newer energy-efficient "fluorescent" bulbs. Did you know that in 2011 our state will no longer manufacture or sell any of the "old" bulbs? California continues to lead the country with respect to "energy saving" legislation. Challenge your child to think of ways that YOUR home can become more energy-efficient! View web site "Energy Quest" posted on the right side with "Science Links".
Reading Response Logs: I am very impressed by the gradual improvement that most students have made in responding in their logs each weekday evening. Remember - encourage them to make more connections with the text and not just "summarize" what they have read. I review each student's log on a bi-weekly schedule. Next Friday, I will collect all reading logs for students whose class numbers are #1-16.
Some highlights from last week:
Geography Bee news: About half of our class decided to participate in our classroom "Bee" last Wednesday - I was so impressed by their knowledge of geography! After completing seven "rounds" of questions, and a "tie-breaker", our two finalists for the School Geography Bee emerged: Shaunak B. and Mahima S. They will both participate in the Final Bee on Weds., Jan. 12 with the finalists from the other upper grade classes. Good luck to both of them!
Books and Beyond: Our annual "Books and Beyond" program began this week, and I have encouraged all students to "go for their goals" to reach the 3500 page goal of the program by April 15. They should have their "log sheets" in their backpacks so that they can record everything they read at home and in school. You should sign each log sheet once they are full. They may also record books that are read TO THEM! So, take a trip with your child to the local library once a week and help to promote a lifelong love of reading!
Science : Last week, we had a long discussion about "energy-saving" light bulbs! Students learned the difference between the old "incandescent" bulbs, and our newer energy-efficient "fluorescent" bulbs. Did you know that in 2011 our state will no longer manufacture or sell any of the "old" bulbs? California continues to lead the country with respect to "energy saving" legislation. Challenge your child to think of ways that YOUR home can become more energy-efficient! View web site "Energy Quest" posted on the right side with "Science Links".
Reading Response Logs: I am very impressed by the gradual improvement that most students have made in responding in their logs each weekday evening. Remember - encourage them to make more connections with the text and not just "summarize" what they have read. I review each student's log on a bi-weekly schedule. Next Friday, I will collect all reading logs for students whose class numbers are #1-16.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year! I hope that you and your families had a wonderful winter break, and that your students are recharged and ready to resume their studies! We have many events coming up in the next month, so it will be a busy time! Here are some of the highlights from December:
* Math - We completed Chapter 10 (multiplication/estimation and algebraic concepts) and will start on Ch. 11 (multiplication by double digits) on Monday, Jan. 3. This unit is a bit more challenging for students as we try to learn about this form of multiplication through different methods, including area rectangles and the distributive property. Many students find the "traditional" algorithm method more prone to errors, so we teach these other methods in order to give students other ways to "break down the numbers" in their heads! Ask your child to show you another way to multiply other than using the algorithm method!
* Language Arts - We have begun corresponding with our Lynbrook "pen pals" - students received their first pen pal letters in December, and sent holiday greetings back to the Lynbrook students before our break. We hope to meet our "pen pals" in person at the Year End Picnic at Murdoch Park! We have also been reading stories from our reading textbook, focusing on comprehension and reading response strategies. I also enjoy reading the "response logs" that your child completes each day after their 30 minutes of reading. We will start preparing more intensively for the STAR fourth grade writing test, which will be administered on Tues., March 1 - right after our February break.
* Science - we have finished the "magnetism" portion of our science unit, and the students really enjoyed our hands-on activities! We are now proceeding with electricity, and learning about different kinds of circuits. Our upcoming field trip to Intel Museum on Mon., Jan. 24 will allow the students to learn all about how electricity and conductivity are essential in computer technology! We will also have a "hands-on" lab where students will build their own circuits!
* Social Studies - students have learned about the Mission period in California History through a variety of methods including videos, Tech Lab research, and library books. Students will work in groups to design their own "mission" using the information we have learned about the 21 California missions! Also, we will practice this week for our classroom "Geo Bee" on Weds., Jan. 5. Although this is a "voluntary" participation event, I hope many of my students will choose to challenge themselves in this event!
*Technology - I am asking students to begin a new project in the Tech Lab this week, which will continue throughout the year. They will pick one subject each week to write about after we have had discussions in class. I am also hoping this will help them to continue improving their keyboarding skills! You will be able to view their completed "logs" in the Tech Lab at Open House in May!
* Second Session Morning Enrichment Program - please note that if your child is enrolled in the morning enrichment program that starts next week, they are expected to arrive at school NO LATER than 7:45 AM! So, get those alarm clocks set for an earlier wake-up time!
* Math - We completed Chapter 10 (multiplication/estimation and algebraic concepts) and will start on Ch. 11 (multiplication by double digits) on Monday, Jan. 3. This unit is a bit more challenging for students as we try to learn about this form of multiplication through different methods, including area rectangles and the distributive property. Many students find the "traditional" algorithm method more prone to errors, so we teach these other methods in order to give students other ways to "break down the numbers" in their heads! Ask your child to show you another way to multiply other than using the algorithm method!
* Language Arts - We have begun corresponding with our Lynbrook "pen pals" - students received their first pen pal letters in December, and sent holiday greetings back to the Lynbrook students before our break. We hope to meet our "pen pals" in person at the Year End Picnic at Murdoch Park! We have also been reading stories from our reading textbook, focusing on comprehension and reading response strategies. I also enjoy reading the "response logs" that your child completes each day after their 30 minutes of reading. We will start preparing more intensively for the STAR fourth grade writing test, which will be administered on Tues., March 1 - right after our February break.
* Science - we have finished the "magnetism" portion of our science unit, and the students really enjoyed our hands-on activities! We are now proceeding with electricity, and learning about different kinds of circuits. Our upcoming field trip to Intel Museum on Mon., Jan. 24 will allow the students to learn all about how electricity and conductivity are essential in computer technology! We will also have a "hands-on" lab where students will build their own circuits!
* Social Studies - students have learned about the Mission period in California History through a variety of methods including videos, Tech Lab research, and library books. Students will work in groups to design their own "mission" using the information we have learned about the 21 California missions! Also, we will practice this week for our classroom "Geo Bee" on Weds., Jan. 5. Although this is a "voluntary" participation event, I hope many of my students will choose to challenge themselves in this event!
*Technology - I am asking students to begin a new project in the Tech Lab this week, which will continue throughout the year. They will pick one subject each week to write about after we have had discussions in class. I am also hoping this will help them to continue improving their keyboarding skills! You will be able to view their completed "logs" in the Tech Lab at Open House in May!
* Second Session Morning Enrichment Program - please note that if your child is enrolled in the morning enrichment program that starts next week, they are expected to arrive at school NO LATER than 7:45 AM! So, get those alarm clocks set for an earlier wake-up time!
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