Classroom News - Week 6

In the Classroom...

Reader's Workshop -
This week, readers will focus on reading closely and answering questions using explicit details from the texts. This is a great comprehension monitoring strategy as well as text taking strategy.

Writer's Workshop -
In writing, students are coming close to beginning the revision and editing phases of writing. This week, we will focus on sequencing and ensuring our stories have a clear beginning, middle, and end. We will use transitional words and phrases to help link events.

Math -
We will practice multi-digit addition and subtraction this week. We will learn a couple of different strategies in class that I encourage students to try. It is the Everyday Math philosophy for students to be exposed to multiple problem solving strategies so they can find and embrace one that works the best for them. Please encourage your child to attempt all strategies with the understanding that once they know how to use the strategies, they can choose the method that works best for them.

Science -
We are SCIENTISTS! This week, students will take their first shot at using the scientific inquiry process as they test out their hypotheses. We will use a chopped, peeled, and plain apples to test and see which apple looses the most water over a 5 day period. Students will help set up the experiment, collect data, and draw conclusions over the next week. I know they will be eager to share their results with you at home!

Mid-Terms

I apologize for not getting mid-term reports home on Friday. We were excited to have Mrs. Ratcliff, our long-term substitute for my maternity leave, visit the classroom. Reports will go home Monday afternoon in your child's Monday Mail Folder. Included with your child's mid-term is a list of skills we have worked on so far in reader's and writer's workshop. This will be an attachment you will see with mid-term reports and grade cards as we work to share with you specifically the skills in which your child is working on in class as well as their progress. 

The 4, 3, 2, 1 as indicated on the form reflects your child's progress. These means that as your child becomes more proficient in these skills, their level of understanding will improve. It is the ultimate goal for students to score a 3 in each area. A 4 reflects thinking above and beyond that which was presented in class. If you have questions, we can speak about this directly at our upcoming PT conferences. 

Have a great week!

Mrs. T