Classroom Update

Good morning,

I apologize for not making an update over the course of the also couple of weeks. I was successfully able to meet with all parents! I really appreciate your time and commitment for these meetings. I truly believe your child's education is a dual partnership between home and school and parent communication is vital. Thank you for giving me more insight with your child so I can better meet their needs this year.

Here are the skills we are currently working on in class.

Reader's Workshop 

This week we have been focusing on finding the theme in a narrative text. This can be a difficult skill and is one we will work on all year long. Conversations about the books your child is reading at home can help facilitate the development of this skill. Next week, we will begin focusing on the story elements of narrative text.

Writer's Workshop  

We have published writers in room 114! The kids have all completed final copies of their realistic fiction pieces. We made copies to post in the hallway after they shared with their classmates, but the copies were also sent home. Please be sure to ask your child to share their writing with you! I am so proud of what the accomplished.

We are in the works of developing an understanding of the next genre we will be working on. Students will be writing personal persuasive essays. We will work hard on developing the format of a five paragraph essay and using strong evidence to support our thoughts and opinions. They have already brainstormed some excellent ideas!

Math 

In math, we have started our multiplication study for the year. As we visit other skills and refine skills learned in third grade, our strong focus this year will be multiplication. Please help support your child at home by encouraging them to focus on multiplication facts at home. We will start timed tests after returning from winter break in January. Extra focus at home will be very beneficial for the students with their accuracy and fluency.

Science 

We have tested over the scientific method and goals will be coming home with the students on Monday. We will continue to work on the scientific method all year through scientific investigations. It is important to have a common vocabulary we can refer to through conversations.

Social Studies

We will begin a new social studies unit next week in preparation for our upcoming field trip to Jefferson City. Students will review the three branches of government, their roles as citizens, as well as features of our state capital.

McTeacher Night

Please make plans to attend our McTeacher Night this coming Tuesday night, October 7th between 4-8 pm at the Grain Valley McDonald's. There are several teachers willing to get a pie in their face if they receive the most tips. It is always an enjoyable night and I hope to see you there!