December 15th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-Students finished their persuasive letters.  Please send them with a stamp if they are mailing it outside of Lindbergh or their home.

Reading-Groups met.

Math-Students took the Chapter 10 test.

Mrs. Critchlow also came in for a lesson on time management.

We also had our Reward Party.

Homework:
Math-Correct test.

Writing-Bring a stamp if needed.

If you are bringing in any items for the holiday party, please remember to send them to school.  Thanks!

Have a great night!

December 14th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-Students published their persuasive letters.

Reading-We played a game to test our knowledge of the different types of figurative language.

Math-We wrote equations using variables and reviewed Chapter 10.

Homework:
Read!

Math-Study-Chapter 10 test tomorrow

Tomorrow is the Reward Party.  Students may bring an electronic if they'd like to.

Cookie dough pick-up is from 3:30-6:30 today only!  Everything that's left will be donated!

Have a great night!

December 13th

Writing-Students did a partner edit and began publishing their letters.

Reading-We learned about onomatopoeia and reviewed other types of figurative language.

Math-We multiplied with 3 and 4 digit numbers!

We also went over a TFK and learned about some cool inventions from the past year and worked on some holiday poetry.

Homework:
Math-WS 10.4-practice side-Chapter 10 test on Thursday

Science-Test tomorrow

Don't forget that cookie dough pick-up is from 3:30-6:30 tomorrow!

Partner editing in Writer's Workshop!

December 12th

I hope everyone had a good weekend!  Here's what we did today:

Writing-We began to edit our persuasive letters.  If students are writing to someone outside of the Lindbergh District or family, please send a stamp to school so we can mail the letter off in hopes of a response!

Reading-Students had a lesson from Mrs. Graef in the library and groups met.

Math-We learned two by one digit multiplication!

We also made a reindeer glyph using some Math skills!

Homework:
Reading-Read

Math-WS 10.3, Students may skip #13-18 or they may want to give it a try!  Chapter 10 test will be on Thursday.

Science-test Wednesday

Again, don't forget about the cookie dough pick up on Wednesday from 3:30-6:30.  A note was sent home regarding this today.  Have a great night!

December 9th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-We worked on adding transitions to our persuasive letters.  We also continued revising our leads.

Reading-Groups met.

Math-We estimated and then multiplied using basic facts and zeroes.

We also watched "All I Want for Christmas" and had some nachos and cheese to celebrate the great job we did with Adopt A Family.  Thank you to everyone who donated items and money!!

Homework:
Math-WS 10.2--practice side

Read! 

Science-test on Wednesday

**Miss Bergin will be returning Monday after having a bad virus for the past couple of weeks.  Some students are working on cards for her.  Please remind them to bring these to school on Monday.  Thanks!

**Just a reminder that next Wednesday is the Cookie Dough Pick-Up from 3:30-6:30.

Have a great weekend!

December 8th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-We discussed how to make good leads for our persuasive letters and worked on some revisions.

Reading-Students took December's Reading Tungsten.

Math-We began Chapter 10 by  learning how to mulitiply numbers with zeroes.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 finished up their contracts.  Groups 3/4 took their test.

Homework:
Math-WS 10.1

Word Study-3/4--contract due tomorrow

Tomorrow is the last day for Adopt a Family!!  We will be having a party to celebrate at the end of the day if we can bring in 70 more items to reach 225.  Please donate some food items or personal health items if you are able to do so.  Thanks!

Students may bring in an electronic for the party with parent permission.

Have a great night!

December 7th

We had a rushed day due to the Early Release, but here's what we squeezed in!

Math-Students took the December Tungsten.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 took their test while Groups 3/4 did a buddy check.

Reading-Students had time to work on their Reading journals or prepare for Group.

We also met with our buddies to make a holiday craft and play Christmas Bingo!

Homework:
Math-Correct test if needed

Reading-Cold Read due tomorrow

Word Study-1/2--contract due tomm.  3/4--test tomm.

Science-Test on 12/14

Two more days for ADOPT A FAMILY!!

Have a good night!

December 6th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-We began drafting our persuasive letters today, keeping in mind how to counter our audience's arguments and use flattery!

Reading-Students shared the Cause/Effect drawings they made last week.  We also began new groups and are all reading holiday stories!

Math-Students took the Chapter 9 test.

Homework:
Reading-Cold Read due Thursday.

Writing-Make sure to write in your Writer's Notebook.

Don't forget that this is the last week for Adopt a Family! 

Also, next Wednesday, the 14th, is the ONLY day to pick up the fundraising items (Cookie Dough).  You may come between 3:30 and 6:30.  Items will not be sent home with students.

I sent home a book order last week.  Please make sure to send these orders to school by Thursday if you would like to purchase anything.

Have a great night and don't forget that tomorrow is Early Release!

December 2nd

Here's what we did today:
Writing-We brainstormed ideas for three persuasive reasons we could include in our persuasive letter.

Reading-Students created a cause and effect drawing that shows different causes and effects.

Math-We worked on a holiday activity, but . . .  it's a surprise!

Word Study-Groups 1/2 worked on their contracts while Groups 3/4 did their word sort.

Homework:
Math-Study multiplication facts.  Chapter 9 test is Tuesday.

Word Study-Groups 1/2--test Wednesday, Groups 3/4--test Thursday

I hope to see many of you at the Winter Festival (I will be in the shopping area from 10-11) and at the Holiday concert on Sunday!

December 1st

Happy December!  Here's what we did today:

Writing-We brainstormed ideas for our persuasive letters.  We are focusing on thinking of things that we could realistically persuade someone to do.

Reading-We continued with cause and effect by watching a short BrainPop on the topic.  Students took a brief assessment as well so I can see how they are understanding this concept.

Math-We worked with input/output tables that have multiplication and division. 

Word Study-I met with Groups 1/2 for their word sort.  Groups 3/4 prepared their words for tomorrow's sort.

Homework:
Math-WS 9.6-practice side, all problems

Practice your lines for the show on Sunday! 

We will be visiting the Book Fair tomorrow!

Tomorrow is Wacky Hair Day for Adopt a Family-Bring $1 or more to participate.  It also Concord Spirit Day!

Have a good night!

November 30th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-Students finished up their reindeer applications.  Tomorrow we will begin writing persuasive letters.

Reading-We learned to ask "Why?" when looking for a cause and "What?" when looking for an effect.  We also reviewed some common words you might see in causes and effects such as "because, so" and "due to".

Math-We balanced equations that deal with multiplication and division.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 prepared their words for the sort while Groups 3/4 got their new lists.

Homework:
Math-WS 9.5, Practice side

*We visited the Book Fair and will be visiting again on Friday if students wish to bring money to purchase anything. 

Have a great night!

November 29th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-Students drafted their reindeer applications, filled out the formal application, and added antlers to a photo of themselves!  They have some very persuasive reasons for wanting to be a reindeer!

Reading-We began learning cause/effect.  We learned that you can have one cause with many effects and one effect with many causes.  We also saw how an effect can cause something else!  Having discussions at home about causes and effects would be a great way to reinforce the difference between these two concepts. 

Math-We learned a problem solving strategy that asks us to work backwards.  That is just one strategy to use and tonight's homework may require the use of different strategies.

Word Study-Groups 1 and 2 got their new words.

Homework:
Read and Write!

Math-WS 9.4-all problems--Show your work!

We are visiting the book fair tomorrow and Friday!

Don't forget Adopt a Family items!

Have a good night :)

November 28th

I hope everyone had a nice, relaxing Thanksgiving break!  We have a busy three weeks ahead of us before Winter Break!

Writing-We are now working on persuasive writing and are starting with a fun Reindeer Job Application!  Check out our hallway display later this week for these writings!

Reading-We visited the library to learn about the new downloadable E-Books!  Let me know if you have any questions about bringing electronic devices to school . . . it is encouraged!

Math-We discussed using variables when writing expressions and equations with multiplication and division.

Science-Students worked on circuits.

Homework:
Read and write!

Math-WS 9.3

Please don't forget about Adopt a Family.  It is personal products week! 

Students will be visiting the book fair on Wednesday and Friday.

Have a great night!

November 21st

Here's what we did today:
Writing-We finished publishing and will share tomorrow!

Reading-We made more inferences in a non-fiction text and groups met.

Math-We began Chapter 9 by writing expressions.

Word Study-All groups met for a buddy check and worked on their contracts.

Homework:
Reading-Read!

Word Study-Study for test (tomorrow) and finish contract.

Math-WS 9.1, correct test if needed

Don't forget items for Adopt a Family!  Have a good night!

Two more things . . .

Check out all our fabulous ducks!!

Please don't forget to bring in your order forms and money for the fundraiser on Monday.  That is the LAST day to hand anything in!  Thanks for your support!

November 18th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-Students are almost finished publishing their personal narratives!

Reading-We moved our focus on inferences to a non-fiction text on immigration.

Math-Students took the Chapter 8 test.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 worked on their contracts while Groups 3/4 did their word sorts.

Homework:
Read!  There is no Cold Read due to the short week next week.

Word Study-All groups will test and have their contract due on Tuesday.

Math-Continue to practice your multiplication facts each night!

Have a great weekend!

November 17th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-Students did a great job of working on publishing their personal narratives today.  They are adding covers, about the authors, and more!  I'm hoping to share these on Tuesday.

Reading-We made inferences in Amelia's Road about her actions by pulling out text from the book for support.

Math-Students prepared for the Chapter 8 test.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 met for their word sort while Groups 3/4 prepared for their sort. 

Homework:
Reading-Read

Math-Study for Chapter 8 test.

Word Study-All tests will be on Tuesday, 11/22.  Contracts are due that day as well.

Tomorrow is Jingle for Jammies!  Wear your pjs and bring change for Adopt a Family.  Have a great night!

New Math Links

At my technology training this afternoon, I learned how to apply static pages to the blog.  Check out the Math link above for links to numerous Math Websites!  I'll be adding more Math links and some reading ones as well!

November 16th

We tried to squeeze in as much as possible on this Early Release day . . .

Math-We learned about the identity, zero, commutative, and associative properties of multiplication.

We also met with our buddies to discuss peace and to play Thanksgiving Bingo.

The students also went to Science this afternoon.

Homework:
Reading-If you did not post or write on a sheet of paper your three part inference, please do that tonight.  (See yesterday's post for complete instructions.)

Math-WS 8.5, practice side-Chapter 8 Math test is Friday

Have a great night and Happy Birthday to Fetiol!

November 15th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-Students began publishing their personal narratives.  Some are typing, and others are writing them out.  Students will also have a choice in illustrating their narratives and adding "About the Author", summary, etc.

Reading-We re-read Amelia's Road and made some inferences about Amelia's feelings and also noted how her character changed throughout the story.  Groups met as well.

Social Studies-We read a TFK article about homework and students completed a bar graph that shows different opinions about homework.

Math-We learned about multiples and did some multiplication math centers.  Check out these links for great multiplication practice!

www.mathplayground.com/multiples.html

www.gamequarium.com/multiplication.html

http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/math.htm

http://multiplication.com/interactive_games.htm

www.brainormous.com

www.funbrain.com –scroll to the bottom and select math baseball or tic tac toe squares

http://www.coolmath4kids.com/times-tables/index.html

http://www.arcademicskillbuilders.com/

Word Study-Groups 3/4 got their words while Groups 1/2 prepared their words for tomorrow's sort.

Homework:
Math-WS 8.4, practice side

Reading- Please post a comment that includes an inference from your independent book.  You should have all three parts: lines from the book, inference, explanation.  See below for a chart we made in class as an example of what we've been working on with inferencing. 

Don't forget about Adopt-A-Family!  Thanks!

November 14th

I hope everyone had a great weekend!  Here's what we did today:
Reading-We read Amelia's Road to review story elements and make some inferences.

Writing-Students edited indpendently and most are ready to begin publishing their narratives.

Math-We learned a break apart strategy for multiplication, but know that the best way to multiply basic facts is to memorize them!  Keep practicing!

Word Study-Groups 1/2 got their new word lists today.

Homework:
Reading-Read-Cold Read due Thursday.

Math-WS 8.3, practice side--Chapter 8 test will be Friday

Please continue to support our cookie fundraiser and Adopt a Family.  We have a lot of good things going on right now!  Thanks!

November 10th

Here's what we did on this COLD day!

Writing-Students met with partners to revise their narratives.

Reading- We made some more inferences and met in groups.

Social Studies- We played a review game.

Math- We started Chapter 8 and learned how mulitplication and division are inverse operations.  We also did multiplication centers.  Students need to be practicing their facts EVERY night. 

Homework:

Read!

Math-WS 8.1, practice side

Social Studies-Chapter 2 packet due tomorrow, Chapter 2 test tomorrow

Please wear red, white and blue for our Veteran's Day Assembly tomorrow.

Please continue to bring in items for Adopt a  Family!

November 9th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-We discussed what to look for when editing such as spelling, capitals, ending punctuation marks, correct dialogue punctuation, correct use of to, two, and too, and run on sentences.

Reading-Students made inferences in a story using information from the text and visualizations.l

Social Studies-We worked on a study guide for the Chapter 2 test.

We also had a Junior Achievement lesson and played a game to practice income, expenses, and profit/losses.

Homework:
Read

Math-Correct test

Social Studies-Finish study guide

*Don't forget to bring in protein items for Adopt a Family.
*Check your child's backpack for information on a fundraiser we are doing selling yummy cookie dough!
*Next week, Mrs. Phillips' class will be having a fundraiser to raise money for solar flashlights to be sent to countries that need them.  They will be selling candy so bring your change!
*Book orders due Friday!

November 8th

Here's what we did today:
Writing-Students worked on copying their revised narratives to prepare for editing.

Reading-We continued to work on inferences and visualizing.

Math-Students took the Chapter 7 Test.

Grammar-We found quuotations in books and practiced writing dialogue.

Homework:
Reading-Some of the students reading minutes graphs were very unclear in terms of which point went with which day.  The intervals were a little off on some as well. I've asked students who scored 7/10 or less to redo these graphs.

Grammar-Finish the dialogue worksheet

Social Studies-Packet due Friday, Chapter 2 test on Friday

Have a good night!

November 7th

I hope everyone had a good weekend!

We began the Adopt a Family program this week and are focusing on Protein.  Good items to bring in include peanut butter, tuna, Spaghetti Os, Mac N' Cheese, etc.  Other items are also welcome such as paper products, canned ,goods, personal care items etc.  We will be having special weeks for these items later.

Tomorrow is Picture Re-takes!

Here's what we did today:
Writing-We added dialogue to our narratives and met with a partner to revise.

Reading-Students visited the library and also met in groups.

Social Studies-We discussed the difference between primary and secondary sources.

Math-We reviewed for the Chapter 7 test.

Word Study-We worked some more on dialogue.  New groups will start on Thursday.

Homework:
Reading/Math-Reading minute line graph is due tomorrow.  Cold read due Thursday.

Math-Chapter 7 test tomorrow.

Social Studies-Chapter 2 packet and test on Friday.

Have a good night!

November 4th

Happy Friday!  Here's what we did today:
Writing-Students met with a partner to revise their personal narratives.  We thought of questions to ask our partners when discussing the drafts.

Reading-We took the November Tungsten.

Social Studies-We discussed some of the entertainment in Missouri by listening to some Missouri jazz from Scott Joplin and Charlie Parker, looking at paintings by George Caleb Bingham and Thomas Hart Benton, and hearing about some Missouri authors and sports teams.

Math-We made conclusions about the data on graphs.

Word Study-Students took the same assessment I gave at the beginning of the year so that I can see if they've made progress in learning the spelling principles and if the groups need to be adjusted.

Homework:
Reading/Math-Line Graph of Reading Minutes due Tuesday

Math-WS 7.6--Chapter 7 test is Tuesday (Wednesday for LEAP kids)

Social Studies-Chapter 2 test is next Friday, the 11th

Have a good weekend!

November 3rd

Here's what we did today:
Writing-We continued revising our personal narratives.

Reading-Students made inferences in the poem "Grounded" and met in groups.

Social Studies-We began Chapter 2 by talking about the people that make up Missouri and their ethnic backgrounds, culture, and heritage.

Math-We learned when to use the following types of graphs: Line, Bar, Double-Bar, Circle, and Line Plot.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 finished up their contract while Groups 3/4 took their test.

We also had a counseling visit from Mrs. Critchlow.

Homework
Reading-Continue to record your reading minutes for your line graph.

Social Studies-The Chapter 2 packet was handed out.  It will be due next Friday and the test will be that day as well.  There are two extra credit options listed on the front page of the packet.  Students may hand these in the day of the test or earlier for up to five extra credit points added to their test.

Math-WS 7.5--Chapter 7 test is next Tuesday.


Have a good night!

November 2nd

What a crazy, fun day!

We had our field trip to the Magic House this morning and students had a great time working at their jobs, visiting the other places and making a budget.  Thanks so much to all the parent volunteers!

We also had another Junior Achievement lesson this afternoon and talked about profit, loss, and expenses.

We met with our 1st grade buddies this afternoon to make placements for Veteran's Day and to make a Haunted House Glyph!

We also found time for Math . . . Wow!  We learned about Circle Graphs.

Homework:
Math-WS 7.4--All

Reading-Read and record your minutes for your line graph (See yesterday's post for a reminder of this assignment.).

Spelling-1/2--Contract due tomorrow, 3/4--test tomorrow

Have a good night!

Pictures from the Fall Festival!



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Pumpkin Run!!

Costume Parade



Costume Parade











Halloween Word Games!



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Making Scary Coffins!

November 1st

Thank you to all the parents and grandparents who joined us for the festivities yesterday!  We had a great day!  I'm working on getting the pictures up, but am having some technical issues.  They should be up soon!

Here's what we did today:
Writing-Students looked for areas in their personal narratives that they could revise for sounds, tastes, and feels. 

Reading-Students met with a partner to make inferences in some new poems.  They are doing great at "reading between the lines" now!

Social Studies-We read a TFK about bats and students practiced taking notes.  They also answered some multiple choice questions about the article.

Math-As a class, we made a double bar graph of our favorite Halloween candy using stickers of our faces!  We also learned how to make line graphs.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 did a buddy check while Groups 3/4 worked on their contracts.

Homework:
Reading-Read!  I've asked students to make a line graph of their reading minutes this week.  They should record their minutes read each night in their planners and then make a line graph (They were given a sheet.) on Monday night.  This is due Tuesday, November 8.

Spelling-1/2--test tomorrow, contract due Thursday, 3/4--test Thursday, contract due Friday

Writing-Some students need to finish re-writing their narrative skipping lines.  This needs to be completed by Thursday.

Math-WS 7.3-all, See "Reading" for info. about the Reading Minutes Graph

Social Studies-Some students need to finish the questions about the article.

Tomorrow is our field trip to the Magic House!  We will be back at school in time for lunch so students may order a school lunch as normal if they choose to.  Have a good night!

Pajama Day!

Don't forget that tomorrow is Pajama Day so we can "Put Drugs to Bed". 

I will post pictures from our Fall Festival later this evening!

Have fun trick-or-treating and Happy Halloween!

October 27

Here's what we did today:
Reading-Students continued working on inferences . . . we're making progress!

Writing-Students met with a partner to get some revision ideas for their personal narratives.  They then began re-writing their drafts to allow space for revising.

Social Studies-We played a review game to prepare for the test on Monday.

Math-Students learned how to read a line graph.

We also had a Junior Acheivement lesson today and had our reward party.

Homework:
Math-WS 7.2

Social Studies-Test Monday-Chapter 1

Read and Write!

Reminders for Monday:
Students may BRING their costumes to school.  Please make sure to label the items with their names.  Our party if from 2-3.  Have a great weekend!

Reward Party tomorrow!

I forgot to mention to the students that tomorrow will be our October Reward Party.  If students have earned the party (they should know) they may bring an electronic if they'd like.  Other options are the board game room and the movie room. 

Economics Day!

We had a great day today learning about economics in preparation for our field trip.  The students rotated through all four fourth grade rooms.  Here's what they learned (in their own words!):

Mrs. Davis & Miss Bergin:
"We learned about what we need and what we want.  A want is something you want, but don't need.  A need is what you need to survive.  We also learned about goods and services.  A good is something that you can buy and a service is something you can't touch, but is something someone does for you.  We played Around the World to practice learning the difference between goods, services, wants, and needs."
~Fetiol & Madisson

Mrs. Gastreich:
"We made a wallet for the Magic House and we each got to decorate our wallet.  We need our wallet to put our money, library card and fishing license in the wallet.  We got bags to use with our wallet."
~Miranda & Cheyenne

Mrs. Bushman:
"We learned how to deposit checks into the bank and how the bank works.  We also learned about supply and demand and how to make decisions about what we buy."
~Gaurav & Nichole

Mrs. Phillips:
"We wrote letters to other students who will be at the Magic House.  We learned how to write and address letters."
~Jack & Carlie

Homework:
Social Studies-The Chapter 1 test has been moved to Monday in order to have a day for review.  I realize the Fall Festival is Monday, but we do have time for the test as well. 

Read and Write!

Have a good night!

October 25th

Sorry for the late post!  I was in a meeting this afternoon. 

Here's what went on today:
Writing-Students continued working on personal narratives and met with a partner to help them choose one of their drafts to publish.

Reading-We continued making inferences.  Students are making progress in realizing the difference between and inference and a prediction.

Social Studies-Students learned about latitude and longitude, as well as different resources in Missouri.

Math-We began Chapter 7 and worked on bar graphs and double bar graphs.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 worked on their contracts while Groups 3/4 did their word sort.

Homework:
Read and Write!

Math-WS 7.1

Social Studies-Chapter 1 packet due tomorrow, Chapter 1 test on Thursday

**Tomorrow students will be participating in an Economics Day where they will visit all the fourth grade classrooms to learn various economics concepts in preparation for our field trip next week.

Have a great night!

October 21st

I hope you had a fabulous Friday! Here's what we did today:

Reading: We spent some time filling out our job applications to prepare for the field trip.  Groups also met.

Writing: We continued discussing personal narratives by hearing an example about a girl telling a memory of a story her grandmother told her.

Social Studes:  Students completed their glogs and worked on the first page of their new packets.

Math: Reviewed Ch. 6 in small groups.

Word Study: Groups 3 and 4 got their lists while Groups 1 and 2 worked on their contracts.

Homework:
Read and Write
Math: Study for Ch. 6 Test on Monday and complete Downhill Data sheet for extra practice.
Social Studies: Packet due Wednesday 10/26 and Ch.1 Test Thursday 10/27.

Have a great weekend!

October 20th

Here's what we did today!

Writing: We worked on writing Veteran's letters for Veteran's Day.

Reading: Students made inferences while listening to poems in the book My Man Blue.

Social Studies: Students continued working on their Missouri Regions Glog in groups.

Math: We learned about pictographs and made one of our own.

Word Study: Groups 1 and 2 got their lists, Groups 3 and 4 will get their lists tomorrow.


Homework:

Read and Write

Math: Worksheet 6.6

Don't stay up too late watching the CARDINAL'S GAME!

October 19th

Here's what we did today:

Writing: We read aloud "Mirror" and brainstormed experiences that could be turned into personal narratives.

Reading:  Students read passages and made inferences online.

Junior Achievement: Students began thinking about what kind of business they would like to create.

Social Studies: Students learned how to create a glog using glogster to provide information on Missouri Regions.

Math: Students learned about comparing graphs using scale and interval.


Homework:

Read and Write

Math: Worksheet 6.5, Ch. 6 Test on Monday


Reading: Cold Read due tommorow

Look for Mrs. Davis while watching the Cardinals game!
**Be sure to turn in Pumpkin Run and Magic House Permission slips :)

October 18th

Hope everyone had a nice rainy day today!  Here's what we did:
Writing-We explored another personal narrative, "Learning Things the Hard Way", and discussed ways in which the author used description with the five senses.

Reading-We continued to discuss inferences in the book Hurricane.  We also made inferences about a little green bear!  We used information we could observe about the bear, as well as prior knowledge, to infer that the little green bear was lucky and was well-loved.

Math-Today we learned about line plots and how to find the range of data.

Grammar-Students identified verbs and adverbs from a passage.

Homework:

Read and Write

Math: Worksheet 6.3

Reading: Cold Read due Thursday

*Please continue to send in Pumpkin Run forms as well as Magic house forms and money ($3).  Thanks!

Monday, October 17th

I hope everyone had a great weekend! Here's what we did today.


Writing: Students visited the library and picked out new commitment books.

Reading: We talked about how an inference is formed from personal experience and information from a book.

Social Studies: We discussed Pangea and how it affected landforms in Missouri.

Math: Students learned mean, median and mode.  We used a calculator in class but for homework they can write out the division problem they would use to find the mean.

Grammar: Students made a chart with verbs and adverbs and identified them in a short story.

Homework:

Read and Write

Math: Worksheet 6.2

Make sure to send in Pumpkin Run and Magic House Permission slips and money :)

October 13th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-Students worked on identifying the main idea in a non-fiction passage.  Groups met as well.

Writing-We read Hot Rolls and students journaled about a breakfast memory.

Math-Students completed a survey of the class in order to learn about frequency and cumuluative frequency.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 finished up their contracts while Groups 3/4 took their test.

Homework:
Math-WS 6.1

Science-Test tomorrow

Wear Cardinal red tomorrow!  It is also a half day-dismissal at 11:40.

October 12th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We read through a non-fiction passage together called "Urban Jungle".  We then identified the main idea of each paragrah as well as some details.  Groups met as well.

Math-Students took the October Math Tungsten.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 took their test while Groups 3/4 did a buddy check.

We also began the Junior Achievement program.  We have a volunteer from UMSL who is coming in to teach five economics lessons to the students over the next couple of months.  Today the students discussed the difference between natural, capital, and human resources. 

Homework:
Math-Correct Chapter 5 test.  Each corrected question is worth 2 extra points due to the difficulty of the test.  I need these back tomorrow in order to adjust grades for the first quarter.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 contract is due tomorrow, Groups 3/4 test is tomorrow

Read and Write!

I will also still accept book orders tomorrow.  Have a good night and GO CARDS!!

October 11th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We read The Bat Boy and his Violin and discussed questioning/character conflict.

Writing-We read another memoir by Betsy Byers.  Students added sensory details to their personal narratives.

Math- Ch. 5 test

Time for Kids-We read an article about bullying and took a comprehension quiz.

Word Study-Groups 1 and 2 had a buddy check while groups 3 and 4 worked on their contracts.

Homework:
Read and write!

Math-Practice multiplication facts.

Science- Test Friday

Word Study-Groups 1 and 2 spelling test tomorrow.

Cold Reads due Thursday.

**Book orders are due tomorrow.  There are lots of good books, including a Mark Twain nominee, 11 Birthdays!

Stars of the Week . . . Cheyenne and Madisson!

I'm a little behind in posting our stars of the week, but here are our last two!

Monday, October 10th

I hope everyone had a great weekend! Here's what we did today.

Reading:  We discussed how to identify character conflict found in Chicken Sunday and independent reading books.

Writing: Students read A Snake Named Moon and discussed what the author Betsy Byers used to make her memoir interesting.  Students had a quick-write on interesting events.

Math:  Students worked on their study guides in small groups to prepare for tomorrow's test.
Word Study:  Groups 1 and 2 worked on their contracts while groups 3 and 4 sorted their words.

Homework:
Read and write
Math: Ch. 5 Test tomorrow
Science: Test Friday

Don't forget book orders are due Wednesday.  There are some really great books!

Schedule Change

I wanted to notify everyone about a schedule change.  Starting next week, Reading and Writing will be switched due to student pull out scheduling conflicts.  Our new schedule will be:
8:55-9:45--Block
9:45-10--Morning Meeting
10-10:50--Writing
10:50-11:50--Reading
11:50-12:35--Lunch/Recess
12:35-1--Read Aloud
1-1:30--Social Studies/Science
1:30-2:30--Math
2:30-3--Word Study

October 6th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-Students took the Reading Tungsten for October.

Writing-We introduced personal narratives by thinking about our memories.

Math-Students continued to work on elapsed time in centers.

Word Study-Groups 3 and 4 got their words while groups 1 and 2 prepared for their sort.

Homework-
Read, Writers notebook,

Math-worksheet 5.2 practice side all

Science-test 10/14

Remember to wear Concord Gear for Spirit Day!!!

October 5th

Here's what we did today!
Reading-We discussed the changes that characters made in Chicken Sunday.
Writing-We had a writers buffet to share our published pieces.  We will begin personal narratives tomorrow.
Math-We had centers to work on elapsed time.
Word Study-Groups 1 and 2 met and have their words, groups 3 and 4 will get their words tomorrow.

Homework:
Read and write!

Math-If you have access to the internet, please go to the online book at ehartcourtschool.com and work on practice problems from lesson 5.2 (students will complete a worksheet tomorrow night.

Go Cards!

October 4th

Here's what we did today:
Reading: We read Chicken Sunday by Patricia Polacco and discussed the story elements, specifically the main character.  We had a great discussion about how understanding a character's past can help to explain their choices in the present.

Writing-We read a funny poem today about cookies!  Students noted the rhyme scheme and used the word 'stanza' to describe the sections of the poem.

(I was out for training this afternoon, but here's what went on!)

Social Studies- (We don't switch for Science on Tuesdays because of LEAP.)  Students explored the newest Time for Kids issue.

Math-Students began chapter 5 on time.  They reviewed how to tell time in a few different ways on digital and analog clocks.

Word Study-Students continued to work on nouns and adjectives.  New word study groups start tomorrow.

Homework:
Math-WS 5.1, correct test

Read and Write!

Make sure to watch the Cardinals this afternoon!!  We need a big win!!

October 3rd

I hope everyone had a great weekend and enjoyed the beautiful weather!

Here's what we did today:
Reading-Students visited the library and Mrs. Graef gave a lesson on the library's databases.  We also met in groups.

Writing-Students finished publishing their first writing pieces and spent some time writing in their Writer's Notebooks.

Science-There will be a test next Friday, October 14th.

Math-We took the Chapter 4 test.

Word Study-We reviewed common and proper nouns and adjectives.

Homework:
Reading-READ!

Writing-Published copies due tomorrow (if not yet completed)

Math-Study multiplication

**On Thursday your child should have brought home a conference note.  Please check their file folders for this so I can arrange fall conferences.  Thanks!

September 29th

Here's what we did today:
We had a bit of a different schedule in order to get the states and capitals test in so this morning students took the test.  Spelling Groups 3 and 4 also took their word study test.  Students worked on publishing their writings and reading independently. 

This afternoon:
Math-We reviewed Chapter 4.

We also had our reward party for September for those students who earned it.  We start fresh on Monday!

Homework:
Math-Chapter 4 test on Monday

Spelling-Groups 3/4 contracts due on Monday

**Please make sure to check your child's file folder for some graded papers and a conference form.

Have a great three day weekend!

September 28th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-Today the students were paired up and given a notecard with a main idea sentence written on it.  Together, they wrote a paragraph using the main idea.  Students then identified the main ideas of everyone's paragraphs.  Groups also met.

Writing-Check the pictures below to see some pictures of the students working to finish their first pieces of published writing this year!

Math-We learned different strategies to solve word problems.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 took their test while Groups 3/4 did a buddy check.

Homework:
Word Study-1/2--Contract due tomorrow, 3/4--Test tomorrow

Math-WS 4.6, all problems--test is Monday

Social Studies-States and Capitals packet is due tomorrow.  States and Capitals test is tomorrow.  This test is VERY important!

Have a great night!

Publishing Authors!

Take a look at some pictures of us working hard to publish our first writing pieces!

September 27th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We read The Princess and the Pizza and talked about the story elements.  It is a fractured fairy tale so we also discussed how sometimes elements of certain genres can be changed around.  Groups met as well.

Writing-Students continued publishing their first writing piece.

Math-We learned how to balance equations.  We were also interrupted by a fire drill so the test on Chapter 4 will be Monday, not Thursday.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 did a buddy check and Groups 3/4 worked on their contract.

Homework:
Math-WS 4.5-all  Test on Monday.

Word Study-1/2--Test tomorrow, 3/4--Test Thursday

Social Studies-Study states and capitals!! 

Tomorrow is Picture Day so don't forget to send an order form with a check if you would like to purchase pictures. 

Have a great night!

Star of the Week . . . Gaurav!

Gaurav was our star of the week last week!  Here he is with the board about him and his pictures!

September 26th

I hope everyone had a great weekend!
Here's what we did today:
Reading-We visited the library and also met in groups.

Writing-We began publishing our first writing pieces.  Some students are typing and others are writing them out.  We talked about different parts of a book they may want to include such as a dedication page or an about the author page.

Math-We learned how to write rules for input/output tables using equations.

Word Study-I met with groups to complete another sort.

Homework:
READ!--There will not be a cold read this week.

Math-WS 4.4--Chapter 4 test will either be Thursday or Monday, depending on the students' understanding this week.

Word Study-1/2--test Wednesday, 3/4 --test Thursday

Social Studies-States and Capitals test is on Thursday!!

**Wednesday is picture day! 
**Friday is a professional development day so students should not attend school.

Have a great night!

September 22nd

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We met in groups today.  Mrs. Critchlow came in for a counseling lesson so we did not have a reading lesson today.

Writing-Students edited their drafts for spelling today and we had a lesson on how to use the guide words in a dictionary.

Math-We learned the three properties of addition: commutative, identity, associative.

We reviewed states and capitals during our word study time so I am pushing back the spelling tests and contract due dates as follows: Group 1/2--Test 9/28, Contract 9/29.  Group 3/4--Test 9/29, Contract 9/30.

Homework:
Math-WS 4.2, all problems

Social Studies-Study states and capitals!!

Read and write in your Writer's Notebooks.

**I will be out of town for my sister-in-law's wedding this weekend so I will not be here tomorrow.  Our sub is Mrs. Nikodem and Miss Bergin will teach as well.  I will be back on Monday.  Have a great weekend!

September 21

Reading-We read Thunder Cake today to look at the fictional story elements and to discuss main idea.  Groups also met.

Writing-We re-copied our revised drafts to prepare them for editing.

Math-Today we began Chapter 4 and learned about expressions and variables.  This can be tricky so your child may need some extra homework help tonight.  The re-teach side has great explanations!


Homework:
Reading-Cold read due tomorrow.

Writing-Finish copying draft.

Math-WS 4.1, correct and/or get test signed

Science-By Monday, students need to bring in a SMALL ziplock bag of rocks.

Social Studies-Study states and capitals.  Also, for extra credit students will have the opportunity to identify the location of the states.

Have a good night!

September 20th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We used an umbrella metaphor to talk about main idea and details in both fiction and non-fiction.  Groups also met.

Writing-We spent time discussing three particular types of leads: dialogue, action, setting.  Students chose a lead to begin the piece with.

Math-Students took the Chapter 3 Math test.  I will return these tomorrow.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 put their words in boxes while Groups 3/4 got their new lists.  All groups words are now on spellingcity.com.

We also did a Time for Kids today.  We don't switch for Science on Tuesdays because of LEAP. 

Homework:
Reading-Finish TFK if you need to.

Math-Practice multiplication facts.

Social Studies-States and capitals test is next Thursday!

Have a great night!

September 19th

I hope everyone had a great weekend!  Here's what we did today:
Reading-We visited the library and were introduced to this year's Mark Twain nominees.  We are reading one in class as a Read Aloud, Runaway Twin.  We also went over last week's cold read and I stressed the importance of:
                          ~Rephrasing the question in your answer.
                          ~Starting with a capital letter and ending with a period.
                          ~Going back in the text to find the answer and underlining where you found the answer.

Writing-We focused on revising the leads in our writing.

Science-Students visited Mrs. Gastreich today to start Science!

Math-We reviewed Chapter 3.

Word Study-I met with Groups 1 and 2 to give them their new list of words.  Groups 3 and 4 will get their words tomorrow.

Homework:
Reading-The new Cold Read is due Thursday.  Please see reminders above.

Writing-If students did not finish writing three new leads in class today, they need to do so tonight.

Math-Study for the Chapter 3 test.  Remember, go to http://www.eharcourtschool.com/.  (username-tfourth, password-pass)  Note: We do NOT do front end estimation.  If the directions say to do so, students may round to the largest place value position.

Social Studies-Continue to study states and capitals.  Test is next Thursday!

September 16th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We continued discussing thick questions.  Students also completed a short assessment on questioning in fiction and non-fiction.

Writing-Students spent some time writing in their Writer's Notebook as we began to enter our Tungsten answers.

Social Studies-We played a review game of states and capitals.  The test is in less than two weeks so students really need to start studying hard.  They will receive an alphabetical list of the 50 states and will have to write in the capitals.  There will not be a word bank.

Math-We learned when an exact answer vs. estimated answer is needed in word problems.


Homework:
Writing-If students haven't written in their Writer's Notebook at home yet, they need to do that this weekend.

Math-WS 3.6, all

Have a great weekend!

Fetiol-Star of the Week

I had a great week being the star of the week.  I got to be in the front of the line a lot and got to use reading buddies. I'm so sad that it's all over .

September 15th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-Students used sticky notes to write thick and thin questions from their commitment books.  Students are having difficulty writing thick questions that generate discussion because they are important to the book.  An example would be, "How would you feel if . . " or "What caused . . . ".  Ask your child to try some thick questions at home.  They can even be about a TV show you might watch together. 

Writing-We came up with better adjectives for words such as "good", "bad", and "said" and practiced using a thesaurus to find new words.

Social Studies-We learned more about the Southwest and worked on our packets. 

Word Study-We spent today on grammar and discussed nouns and adjectives.

Homework:
Read!

Grammar-Many students finished, but if not they need to finish the chart of nouns and adjectives we began in class.  They need to write on the chart, not in the book.  Only part A of page 1 needs to be completed.

Math-WS 3.4, evens

Social Studies-Packet due tomorrow!  Students who miss part of Social Studies due to Speech or Math Intervention, may have until Monday.  We are playing a states and capitals game tomorrow so make sure to study!

Have a great night!

September 14th

We had a quick day today!
Reading-We spent a little bit of time writing thick and thin questions from our independent books.

Math-We added and subtracted large numbers.  Students need to be very careful to borrow and regroup correctly.  I strongly encourage the use of graph paper to keep the numbers lined up correctly.

We also met with our buddies today to make cards for the heroes who are visiting on Friday.  See the pictures below!

Homework:
Math-A lot of students finished, but if not, they need to do WS 3.3.

Reading-Cold read is due tomorrow.

Social Studies-Study states and capitals.  Packet on regions due Friday.

September 13th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We read the folktale Something from Nothing and asked thin and thick questions as we read.  An important thing to remember is that just because the answer to a thick question cannot be found in the book, does not make it a thick question.  It must be a question which makes you think harder about the book such as "Why do you think the main character  . . . ." or  "How would you feel if . . . ".  Groups also met today.

Writing-Today we focused on revising our drafts by looking for areas where we could delete or add information.  We did this with a partner and then independently.

Social Studies-We began studying our final region, the Southwest.  We watched a video and then recorded the locations of the states and their capitals on our map and in our Passport books.

Math-We spent a lot of time going over last night's homework as it is a challenging strategy to learn.  We also used estimation to add and subtract.

Word Study-Groups 3 and 4 had time to finish up their contracts.  We will spend a couple days on grammar and will start new word study groups on Monday.

Homework:
Read!
Math-WS 3.2, all problems

Social Studies-Study states and capitals, Regions packet due on Friday

**Tomorrow is Early Release!!

September 12th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We visited the library today to renew, return and check out new books.  Miss Bergin and I also met with reading groups today to work on questioning.

Writing-We did a "pair share" today with a partner in the class to get some revision ideas.

Math-We began Chapter 3 and worked on some mental math strategies for adding and subtracting.  With the homework tonight, I am not as concerned with the method the students use, but with them trying to solve these problems mentally.  We learned two ways and I'd like to see them use at least one of these methods with the homework.  I've asked them to write out how they solved each problem (see opposite side of homework sheet for examples) on a separate sheet of paper and to make sure that sheet is handed in with their homework.

Social Studies-We discussed the features and landmarks of the West and students had time to work on the West worksheets.

Word Study-Groups 3 and 4 took their spelling test while Groups 1 and 2 finished up their contract.

Homework:
Word Study-Groups 3/4 contract is due tomorrow.

Math-WS 3.1--odds, all of MR

Social Studies-Regions packet is due on Friday.  Study states and capitals.

Have a great night!

Star of the Week . . . Madi!

Madi was our first star of the week this week!  Here is a picture of her with the board she decorated all about herself!

September 9th

We had a great day today!

Reading-We went over the first cold read and talked about how important it is to use RAP when answering the questions:R-Restate, A-Answer, P-Prove.

Writing-We looked at areas of our drafts where we could add details about the five senses and then did some more revising.

Social Studies-We watched a video on the west and learned those states and capitals.

Math-Students received their tests back and also took the September Math Tungsten.

Word Study-Groups 1 and 2 took their test while Groups 3 and 4 did a buddy check.

Homework:
Reading-Cold read due 9/15.  Read!

Math-Correct test if needed

Word Study-Group 1/2--contract due Monday, Groups 3/4--test Monday

Social Studies-Click here for an awesome website to review states and capitals.  Also, here is a fun cartoon with a song that will hopefully get stuck in your head about the states and capitals!

Enjoy your weekend!

September 8th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-Today we continued using the questioning technique to explore some more non-fiction.

Writing-Students worked on completing their drafts.

Social Studies-We discussed some of the features and landforms of the Mountain States.

Math-Students took the Chapter 2 test.

Word Study-Groups 1/2 did a buddy check to prepare for their test tomorrow.  I met with Group 4 to complete their word sort and group 3 worked on their contract.

Homework:
Reading-Read

Writing-Finish writing draft if you haven't already.

Spelling-Groups 1/2 test tomorrow

Math-Practice multiplcation facts.

Social Studies-Practice states and capitals.

Have a good night!

Cold Read!!

I forgot to mention in my earlier post that the first cold read, The Lion and the Mouse is due tomorrow!  Some students have already handed this in and may not have to worry about it tonight.

September 7th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We continued using a non-fiction book to write "I wonder" statements.  I also met with the other guided reading groups.

Writing-Students continued drafting their first piece of writing to publish.

Social Studies-Today we watched a video on the mountain states and recorded the states and capitals of this region in our Passport books.

Math-We reviewed for the Chapter 2 test.

Word Study-I met with Group 3 to do a word sort while Groups 1, 2, and 4 worked on their contract.  I will meet with Group 4 tomorrow.

Homework:
Read!

Math-Study Chapter 2!  Remember, you can use the online book to help!

Social Studies-Study states and capitals.

We also welcomed a new student, Miranda, to our class today!  We are happy to have her with us!

September 6th

I hope everyone had a great Labor Day weekend!  Here's what we did today:
Reading-We started a unit on questioning by reading part of a non-fiction book together.  We talked about things we "wonder" as we read.  I began meeting with some guided reading groups and will meet with the rest tomorrow.

Writing-Today we began choosing a piece from our Writer's Notebooks to publish.  We are drafting these on looseleaf paper so that we can take them through the writing process.

Math-We spent some time reviewing rounding and then created tables to organize numbers. 

Word Study-I met with Groups 1 and 2 to do their word sort while Groups 3 and 4 prepared their words for the sort they will do tomorrow.

Homework:
Read!

Spelling-Groups 1/2--test Friday, Groups 3/4--test Monday

Math-WS 2.3, Chapter 2 test on Thursday

Social Studies-Study states and capitals.  Test on the 29th.

**Book orders due tomorrow.

*There has been a change in our daily schedule.  We will now have Social Studies/Science from 1-1:30 and Math from 1:30-2:30 in order to accomodate some of the pull outs we have throughout the day.

Have a great night!

September 2nd

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We learned how to write a book recommendation so our friends can get ideas for good books to read.

Writing-Today we looked at a poem by Kenn Nesbitt on http://www.poetry4kids.com/.  We discussed how the poem is organized into stanzas and what the rhyming pattern is.  Students then chose a line or stanza of the poem and used it as a writing generator.  We will work on poetry most Fridays this year.

Math-We learned how to round numbers.  This is a difficult concept for many students and we will continue to work on it.  I am planning a Chapter 2 test next Thursday, the 8th.

Social Studies-We continued learning about the midwest.

Word Study-Groups 3 and 4 received their word list while Groups 1 and 2 prepared their words for the sorty we will do on Tuesday and worked on their contract.

Homework:
Read!

Math-WS 2.4--odd numbered problems and all of the Mixed Review

Social Studies-Work on states and capitals.  Remember, the test is September 29th.

Have a great 3 day weekend!

September 1st

Happy September!  Here's what we did today:
Reading-While we had counseling with Mrs. Critchlow for part of our Reading time today, we also created a class list of some ideas for what to include in the second paragraph of our Reading letters.

Writing-We learned a pre-writing strategy today where the students chose a sentence from their writing yesterday, wrote it at the top of the page and got some new ideas from it.  This is a great strategy if you are experiencing writer's block!

Math-Miss Bergin taught students how to order numbers by playing a fun game that you can see below!  We also used the clickers to order numbers. 

Social Studies-We began learning about the Midwest today!

Word Study-I met with groups 1 and 2 today to give them their first word list.  They also received a contract and wrote in a due date of September 12th.  The words will be on spellingcity shortly.

Homework:
Read!

Math-WS 2.2--Students must use a separate sheet to stack the numbers for easy comparison.

Social Studies-Keep working on the states and capitals.

*Tomorrow we will all wear Concord gear!  Have a great night!

August 31st

Happy last day of August! Here's what we did today:
Reading-We put a form in our Reading notebooks so that we can keep track of what we are reading throughout the year.  We also shared some of our second paragraphs from the reading letters.

Writing-We learned a bit about Allen Say, the author of the past two books we've read and discussed how sometimes we may remember things a little differently than they actually occured.  Students wrote about their memories.

Math-We began Chapter 2 by learning how to compare numbers.  Here's a picture of us playing a fun game in Math!

Social Studies-Students had some time to work on some worksheets about the NE and SE.  We'll start the MW tomorrow.

Word Study-We took a practice test today and groups will start tomorrow!  I also showed students how to access their spelling lists on spellingcity.com.

Homework:
Read!

Math-WS 2.1--Also, please correct your test.  Don't erase your original answer though!  I will award one point per corrected answer.  Some students need to get their tests signed.

Social Studies-Continue working on states and capitals.

*Students have a book order with them today that will be due next Wednesday.  There is a sheet on top explaining how you can also order books online and they will be delievered to our classroom.  Please let me know if you have any questions.

Have a great night!

August 30th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We wrote down our commitment book choices and put them on our desk so we remember the book we are focusing on right now.  This will help us from trying to start a new book every day or so.  We also shared some of our reading letters and learned how to write the second paragraph.

Writing-We read a book called Tea with Milk which was also written by Allen Say.  We learned that he wrote it about his parents.  Then we did a quick write about our lives and heard a great piece of writing from Abby.

Math-Students took the Chapter 1 test and worked very hard!  I will have these back to them tomorrow.

Social Studies-We talked about the important  features and landmarks of the Southeast like the Everglades and the great growing season they have.

Word Study-Students practiced giving each other a buddy check.

Homework:
Reading-Read!

Writing-I asked students to write a WN in at least one day of their planners to commit to writing in their Writer's Notebooks at home at least one evening.  Parents, ask your kids what they're writing about!  We have some great authors in the class!

Math-Because there is no worksheet tonight, students need to practice their multiplication facts tonight.

Social Studies-Study states and capitals of the NE and SE.  The test will be September 29th.  I gave students a packet to help them study.  I recommend filling it in shortly before the test as a study guide.  I will collect the packet the day of the test for participation points. 

Remember, tomorrow is gym so don't forget your tennis shoes!

Have a good night!

August 29th

I hope everyone had a great weekend!  Here's what we did today:
Reading-We learned how to compose the first paragraph of our Reading Letter.  The first paragraph should include the title, author, and a short summary of what they've read in their independent reading book.  Tomorrow we will learn how to write the second paragraph, which will include students' thoughts of their book.

Writing-We read a book called The Bicycle Man and talked about how we can get ideas from our own life and write about them.

Math-We did a practice test and went over to review for the Chapter 1 test tomorrow.

Social Studies-We watched a video on the Southeast and wrote down all the states and capitals of that region in our passport books.

Word Study-Students used the words they had put in boxes to sort our class names by how many letters are in each name.  We will finish up our practice group and begin word study groups on Thursday and Friday.

Homework:
Reading-Read!

Math-Study Chapter 1.  Here is the link to our online math book.  Username: tfourth  Password: pass  The students also stapeled all their ws's from the chapter together and have the practice test with them. 

Social Studies-At the end of September, students will be taking a test on the states and capitals.  They will be given a list of the states and will need to write down each state's capital, without a word bank.  As we go through each region, I encourage the students to make flashcards at home and learn them in groups so that they don't have to learn all 50 at once.

Have a great night! 

August 25th

Here's what we did today:
Reading-We compared fiction and non-fiction and talked about different types of each.  Ask your child what genre of book he or she is reading!

Writing-The students wrote about one of the unusual questions we thought about yesterday.

Math-We talked about what a benchmark is and thought of some examples.  We also used the clickers to review some of the concepts from earlier in the chapter.  There will be a Chapter 1 test on Tuesday.

Social Studies-We watched a short video on the Northeastern region of the US and filled in a map with the abbreviations for those states. 

Word Study-The students wrote our word list in boxes, cut them out, and are now ready for their first word sort.

Homework:
Reading-As always, read!

Math-WS 1.4

*A Highlights form should be in  your child's file folder.  Please return the form to school and we will get some fun things for our class.  If you don't wish to purchase a subscription, please check the NO box and sign.  You only need to fill out your personal information if you are purchasing a subscription.

*Unfortunately, I will be out tomorrow for medical reasons, but will be back on Monday.  Miss Bergin will teach in the morning and we have a wonderful sub, Mrs. Nikodem, coming in the afternoon. 

Have a great night and a great weekend!  Don't forget to like the class facebook page.  Click here to like the page.  Thanks!

August 24th

We had a great day today!  Here's what we did:
Reading-We discussed when it's a good idea to abandon a book and met again in groups to talk about our reading.

Writing-We learned about the author of Wizzil  and Gorky Rises and discussed his writing style.  We then wrote and answered some unusual questions to help give us some writing ideas.

Math-The students participated in stations today to review the place value concepts we've been learning about.  I'm anticipating a test on Chapter 1 next Tuesday.

Social Studies-We read a book called A River Ran Wild to discuss some of the geography themes.  I'm looking forward to assessing the United States maps the students worked on yesterday!

Word Study-We continued learning about some of the activites on the contract.  We are completing this contract together and it will not be graded.  We will begin Word Study groups next week.

Homework:
Reading-Read for 20 minutes or more.  Also, please post on the blog about a book you've abandoned before and why you abandoned it.

Writing-Write for at least 10 minutes.

Have a great night and I hope to see many parents at curriculum night tonight!

Curriculum Night

Just a reminder that tomorrow night is Curriculum Night.  Parents are invited to attend a town hall meeting with Dr. Stryjewski at 6.  At 6:30, classroom presentations will begin.  We are in Room 40.  For those new to the district, Curriculum Night is a chance for the teacher and parents to discuss the 4th grade curriculum and classroom expectations and happenings.  This evening is meant for adults so please refrain from bringing students along.  I hope to see you all tomorrow evening!   

August 22nd

I hope everyone had a great weekend!  Here's what we did today:
Reading-Students used the clickers to text in some things they think about as they read such as connections and evaluations.  They had some time to read independently and then discuss their thoughts with a partner.

Writing-We saw many great Writer's Notebooks today!  I encouraged the students to add directions throughout the year as they find more things to help them get writing ideas.

Math-After going over our homework, we moved on to place value through the hundred thousands and learned how to write numbers in standard, word, and expanded form. 

Social Studies-We watched a Brain Pop to learn about the continents, oceans and hemispheres.  Tomorrow students will begin creating a map of the US by referring to other maps in their text.
Homework:
Reading-Read for 20 minutes or more.

Math-WS 1.2  Students circled the numbers they are supposed to do as they don't have to do all of them.
           Remember, the book is online.  The username is 'tfourth' and the password is 'pass'.

*As a reminder, when you check your child's file folder at night, please don't remove the papers that are not in the take home or return to school folder.  We use the subject folders for papers that are needed in class throughout the week.  Thanks!

Have a great night and don't forget about Curriculum Night on Wednesday!