In writing, the students are drafting and revising their informational books. Ask to see their informational writing checklist if you'd like to see what their writing should entail.
In reading, the students enjoyed watching this flocabulary video today: https://www.flocabulary.com/fivethings/ (Not as cool as the water cycle song....I know) Throughout the week, we will be identifying story elements of various fictional texts and recognizing how the elements help readers understand the details in a story or drama.
In social studies, we are looking into how the Declaration of Independence was actually written in response to tyranny, and the abuse of power. The students will be given a "cheat sheet" on the parts of the Declaration, and will even be given the opportunity to write their own version!
In science, we are reviewing weather instruments and the difference between weather and climate. Please quiz your students at home! We will be finishing our unit this week by studying weather maps including high and low pressure, warm front, cold front, occluded front, and trough. Check out this interactive website: [ http://www.edheads.org/activities/weather/ ]weather . The students will get a study guide either at the end of this week or on Monday. The test will likely be Wednesday of next week.
In math, we will continue practicing measuring angles with protractors. If your child wants to bring a protractor from home, that's fine! I am really focusing on precision with the students! It's so very important! Please continue to study the vocabulary from previous weeks. Looking ahead, we will be moving to lines of symmetry, characteristics of different quadrilaterals, and also additive angles (learnzillion codes LZ3270, LZ3253, LZ3254, LZ3402, and LZ3403).
End of Term Learning Celebration!
Please join us next Friday, December 19th at 12:30 for a celebration of our learning this term. We will have a presentation of the IB unit, a gallery walk of student work, and a little music for entertainment!
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Monday, December 1, 2014
Update for Week of 12/11/14
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving break! The wedding was perfect! Thank you for all of the well wishes! I am attaching a sneak peak that the photographer shared with me. I cannot believe it is already December! Here's our weekly update:
In English-language arts, we will be drafting our informational mini-books. The students have been given ample time and resources to research topics. The students will be meeting in focus groups to discuss their topics, and they will also be working on chapters 1 and 2. Ask to see your child's notes and Naomi's piece (a 4th grader's work/sample piece)!
In social studies, we are reading about different perspectives of the American Revolution. We will be identifying the main idea and supporting details of these texts.
In math, we'll continue our geometry unit. Students have made flashcards for the vocabulary. However, they will need to be able to identify the two-dimensional figures within shapes and pictures. Vocabulary: point, line, line segment, ray, right angle, acute angle, obtuse angle, perpendicular lines, and parallel lines. Copy and paste these quick codes in the search box at learnzillion.com: LZ3916, LZ3917, LZ3918, LZ3919, LZ3920, LZ2346, LZ2395, LZ2313, LZ2416, LZ2521.
In science, we will finish our cloud brochures and then move on to weather instruments: barometer, thermometer, rain gauge, wind vane, and anemometer. Check out this cool website: [ http://www.weatherwizkids.com/index.htm ]Weather Wiz Kids Choose topics on the left-hand side for specific information.
Map Testing Begins This Week! We will have our tests Tuesday-Thursday at 1:25 p.m.
12/2 Math
12/3 Reading
12/4 Language Arts
In English-language arts, we will be drafting our informational mini-books. The students have been given ample time and resources to research topics. The students will be meeting in focus groups to discuss their topics, and they will also be working on chapters 1 and 2. Ask to see your child's notes and Naomi's piece (a 4th grader's work/sample piece)!
In social studies, we are reading about different perspectives of the American Revolution. We will be identifying the main idea and supporting details of these texts.
In math, we'll continue our geometry unit. Students have made flashcards for the vocabulary. However, they will need to be able to identify the two-dimensional figures within shapes and pictures. Vocabulary: point, line, line segment, ray, right angle, acute angle, obtuse angle, perpendicular lines, and parallel lines. Copy and paste these quick codes in the search box at learnzillion.com: LZ3916, LZ3917, LZ3918, LZ3919, LZ3920, LZ2346, LZ2395, LZ2313, LZ2416, LZ2521.
In science, we will finish our cloud brochures and then move on to weather instruments: barometer, thermometer, rain gauge, wind vane, and anemometer. Check out this cool website: [ http://www.weatherwizkids.com/index.htm ]Weather Wiz Kids Choose topics on the left-hand side for specific information.
Map Testing Begins This Week! We will have our tests Tuesday-Thursday at 1:25 p.m.
12/2 Math
12/3 Reading
12/4 Language Arts
Monday, November 17, 2014
Update for week of 11/17/14
I am incredibly grateful to be surrounded by such a loving, considerate group of parents and students. Friday's surprise wedding shower was amazing! Thank you for sharing your children with me.
Announcements:
Students are working hard to prepare for their presentations at our annual Literary Café on Tuesday, Nov. 18 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. We want each child to have his or her moment to shine and then to celebrate afterward!
Report cards, student work, CoGat scores, and book fair wish lists are coming home today in the communication folders.
In reading, we are working on making inferences (using background knowledge and context clues) based on texts that we are reading. The students will also be using evidence based terms to explain their own inferences of various texts. I will have the students place a picture of the "evidence based terms" anchor chart in the classroom into their Edmodo backpacks so they can share this with you!
In writing/social studies, the students are taking notes/researching in preparation for drafting their first informational book. All of the students' topics are based on events that led to or occurred during the American Revolution. Feel free to allow research to take place at home. The students are loving this unit!
In science, we are studying the water cycle and making sure we use specific vocabulary: evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. We are singing a great song in class that pretty much sums up what they need to know (and adds a little fun!). [ http://www.schooltube.com/video/8befaab71cafac5a3bb7/ ]Cool Water Cycle Song
The students have a copy of the lyrics. Later in the week, we'll learn about different types of precipitation, different types of clouds, and how certain sky conditions indicate certain weather. Writing Connection: The students will be creating informational pieces in science after the break.
In math, we're wrapping up our unit on metric measurement conversions and will have the test tomorrow. After that, we'll start our geometry unit. Key vocabulary/topics to get us started; point, line, line segment, ray, right angle, acute angle, obtuse angle, perpendicular lines, and parallel lines.
Please continue to practice division at home! We are going to work hard throughout the rest of the year to master multiplication and division, but a little bit of practice at home will go a long way (even if your child got a 3 on his or her report card - practice at home will help him or her maintain that skill)!
Have a great week! Thanks for reading! -Ms. Ary
Announcements:
Students are working hard to prepare for their presentations at our annual Literary Café on Tuesday, Nov. 18 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. We want each child to have his or her moment to shine and then to celebrate afterward!
Report cards, student work, CoGat scores, and book fair wish lists are coming home today in the communication folders.
In reading, we are working on making inferences (using background knowledge and context clues) based on texts that we are reading. The students will also be using evidence based terms to explain their own inferences of various texts. I will have the students place a picture of the "evidence based terms" anchor chart in the classroom into their Edmodo backpacks so they can share this with you!
In writing/social studies, the students are taking notes/researching in preparation for drafting their first informational book. All of the students' topics are based on events that led to or occurred during the American Revolution. Feel free to allow research to take place at home. The students are loving this unit!
In science, we are studying the water cycle and making sure we use specific vocabulary: evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. We are singing a great song in class that pretty much sums up what they need to know (and adds a little fun!). [ http://www.schooltube.com/video/8befaab71cafac5a3bb7/ ]Cool Water Cycle Song
The students have a copy of the lyrics. Later in the week, we'll learn about different types of precipitation, different types of clouds, and how certain sky conditions indicate certain weather. Writing Connection: The students will be creating informational pieces in science after the break.
In math, we're wrapping up our unit on metric measurement conversions and will have the test tomorrow. After that, we'll start our geometry unit. Key vocabulary/topics to get us started; point, line, line segment, ray, right angle, acute angle, obtuse angle, perpendicular lines, and parallel lines.
Please continue to practice division at home! We are going to work hard throughout the rest of the year to master multiplication and division, but a little bit of practice at home will go a long way (even if your child got a 3 on his or her report card - practice at home will help him or her maintain that skill)!
Have a great week! Thanks for reading! -Ms. Ary
Monday, November 10, 2014
Update for Week of 11/10/14
Hope you had a nice weekend! Check out some of the fun things that we will be learning on the AVE:
In writing, the students will be choosing a topic for their first informational piece, a historical information mini-book. We will be looking at examples to study the work of other authors. This group is full of eloquent speakers, yet some are better communicators during class discussions than on paper. We are working on "writing how you speak!"
In reading, we are reading Basket Moon by Mary Lyn Ray. With this, the students are learning how to use questioning to make sense of the text.
In social studies, we are kicking off our unit on the causes, events, and results of the American Revolution. Last week, I told the students that Mr. Roaden was considering a pencil tax ($1/lost pencil). You should have seen some of the notes that the students wrote to him! During the week, I'm going to let them all in on the secret that he is definitely not enforcing a pencil tax, yet they are probably feeling very similar to how the colonists reacted under the rule of King George III. This unit is very fun!
In science, we are studying how water changes states from solid to liquid to gas and the temperatures at which those changes happen. We will also investigate how clouds are formed. We're doing some really fun activities! The students are observing, drawing, and taking notes. Check their science journals and/or have them log in to Edmodo and view what they've put in their "back packs."
In math, we are continuing our unit on metric measurement conversions. Right now we are focusing on cm, m, and km. Please be sure to check in with your child and look at the stuff we've done in class. They will have homework this week! Big areas of focus: converting, adding and subtracting (which may require converting beforehand), and solving word problems involving measurements. The students are using tape diagrams to model the word problems. This is new for them, so they'll need to use some good think time and will maybe even need to talk through the problems out loud. Each of these areas of focus will be on the homework. After students have had lots of practice with the length measurements, we'll move quickly through grams/kilograms and liters/milliliters.
Please be sure to have conversations with your child about the work being done in the class. This can be a great way to evaluate how your child is doing. Checking in to see their math homework is also a great way to see what we're doing and how your child is doing with it... even if your child does it at his or her after school care. Ask them to see it! I want them to be proud to show you!
Don't forget that thelearningodyssey.com is a great tool for extra practice in math and reading! The activities are directly linked to your child's MAP data. Login information should be in your child's agenda.
School Announcements:
*The Book Fair will be open Friday, November 14th through Friday, November 21st.
*Literary Cafe flyers went home last week.
Community Event:
The CDLS 5k race is coming up on DECEMBER 6th! It is a
fun race through Medlock Park and all money raised goes to the CDLS
(Cornelia de Lange) Foundation. Please pass the word.
Thanks for reading! Have a great week!
In writing, the students will be choosing a topic for their first informational piece, a historical information mini-book. We will be looking at examples to study the work of other authors. This group is full of eloquent speakers, yet some are better communicators during class discussions than on paper. We are working on "writing how you speak!"
In reading, we are reading Basket Moon by Mary Lyn Ray. With this, the students are learning how to use questioning to make sense of the text.
In social studies, we are kicking off our unit on the causes, events, and results of the American Revolution. Last week, I told the students that Mr. Roaden was considering a pencil tax ($1/lost pencil). You should have seen some of the notes that the students wrote to him! During the week, I'm going to let them all in on the secret that he is definitely not enforcing a pencil tax, yet they are probably feeling very similar to how the colonists reacted under the rule of King George III. This unit is very fun!
In science, we are studying how water changes states from solid to liquid to gas and the temperatures at which those changes happen. We will also investigate how clouds are formed. We're doing some really fun activities! The students are observing, drawing, and taking notes. Check their science journals and/or have them log in to Edmodo and view what they've put in their "back packs."
In math, we are continuing our unit on metric measurement conversions. Right now we are focusing on cm, m, and km. Please be sure to check in with your child and look at the stuff we've done in class. They will have homework this week! Big areas of focus: converting, adding and subtracting (which may require converting beforehand), and solving word problems involving measurements. The students are using tape diagrams to model the word problems. This is new for them, so they'll need to use some good think time and will maybe even need to talk through the problems out loud. Each of these areas of focus will be on the homework. After students have had lots of practice with the length measurements, we'll move quickly through grams/kilograms and liters/milliliters.
Please be sure to have conversations with your child about the work being done in the class. This can be a great way to evaluate how your child is doing. Checking in to see their math homework is also a great way to see what we're doing and how your child is doing with it... even if your child does it at his or her after school care. Ask them to see it! I want them to be proud to show you!
Don't forget that thelearningodyssey.com is a great tool for extra practice in math and reading! The activities are directly linked to your child's MAP data. Login information should be in your child's agenda.
School Announcements:
*The Book Fair will be open Friday, November 14th through Friday, November 21st.
*Literary Cafe flyers went home last week.
Community Event:
The CDLS 5k race is coming up on DECEMBER 6th! It is a
fun race through Medlock Park and all money raised goes to the CDLS
(Cornelia de Lange) Foundation. Please pass the word.
Thanks for reading! Have a great week!
Monday, November 3, 2014
Field Trip to Adair Park
Last Wednesday we took a walking field trip to Adair Park! The Dekalb Historical Society put on fabulous activities where the students were able to take a trip down history lane! We got to "meet" Harriet Tubman, a colonist, a Native American, Benjamin Franklin Stanton, Mary Gay, and many other prominent historical figures. Here are a few photos from our fun experience! Thank you to all of the volunteers that joined us. -Ms. Ary
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Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Visit to the Zoo!
THANK YOU to all of the volunteers that helped make our trip to the zoo a success! I am so grateful for such a supportive group of parents! Check out some of the fun sites that we visited below:
Monday, August 18, 2014
Update for Week of August 18th
I hope everyone had a great weekend! Be sure to check your child's communication folder tonight! At the beginning of the year, we have multiple papers going home! Specifically, please look for the field trip form and author visit book order form. This Friday at 6:00 is the F.AVE School Picnic! We will have food trucks this year that will donate a portion of their profits to our PTO. We hope to see you there! Please make sure you have signed up for the school eblast! Our Falcon Flyer Newsletter is sent via email each week. Very important communication is included that is not sent home as a paper copy. You can also find the Falcon Flyer on our school website.
Here are the details of our week:
MAP TESTING BEGINS THIS WEEK!
Thursday: Math at 8:00 a.m.
Friday: Reading at 8:00 a.m.
Monday: Language Arts at 8:00 a.m.
In reading, we are going to begin discussing expository text features. Students will be exposed to various non-fiction texts. Your child should be reading at least 30 minutes each night!
In writing, the students will continue to add to their writing territories. Most students have filled up the first 3 pages of their writing journals with all of the things they love and hate. I love seeing the students' personalities shine during this task! Over the next few days, the students will be choosing a small moment to zoom in on and write about.
In social studies, the students will continue researching six of the Native American tribes: Kwakiutl, Nez Perce, Inuit, Hopi, Seminole, and Pawnee.
In math, we will compare numbers using >, <, and =. We will also practice writing numbers in standard form, word form, and expanded form. These are skills the students already have under their belts! We're just moving to higher numbers. As you help you children at home, please encourage them to use the strategies they already know. You'd be surprised how many of them don't realize that they simply have to apply their prior knowledge to higher place values. When they do, they have a big "Aha!" moment!
In science, we will continue our work with ecosystems, specifically moving into the flow of energy through food webs. We will be using specific vocabulary, so be looking for those words in their science journals! We are also starting to use Science Techbook. To get there, go to discoveryeducation.com. Your child's username is his or her first initial, last name, lunch number (i.e. jdoe9876) and everyone's password is fave101. Feel free to explore what Techbook has to offer!
-Ms. Ary
Here are the details of our week:
MAP TESTING BEGINS THIS WEEK!
Thursday: Math at 8:00 a.m.
Friday: Reading at 8:00 a.m.
Monday: Language Arts at 8:00 a.m.
In reading, we are going to begin discussing expository text features. Students will be exposed to various non-fiction texts. Your child should be reading at least 30 minutes each night!
In writing, the students will continue to add to their writing territories. Most students have filled up the first 3 pages of their writing journals with all of the things they love and hate. I love seeing the students' personalities shine during this task! Over the next few days, the students will be choosing a small moment to zoom in on and write about.
In social studies, the students will continue researching six of the Native American tribes: Kwakiutl, Nez Perce, Inuit, Hopi, Seminole, and Pawnee.
In math, we will compare numbers using >, <, and =. We will also practice writing numbers in standard form, word form, and expanded form. These are skills the students already have under their belts! We're just moving to higher numbers. As you help you children at home, please encourage them to use the strategies they already know. You'd be surprised how many of them don't realize that they simply have to apply their prior knowledge to higher place values. When they do, they have a big "Aha!" moment!
In science, we will continue our work with ecosystems, specifically moving into the flow of energy through food webs. We will be using specific vocabulary, so be looking for those words in their science journals! We are also starting to use Science Techbook. To get there, go to discoveryeducation.com. Your child's username is his or her first initial, last name, lunch number (i.e. jdoe9876) and everyone's password is fave101. Feel free to explore what Techbook has to offer!
-Ms. Ary
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Native Americans Research
Below is a link to a fascinating PowerPoint about the Native American tribes that we are studying this term. Students, you are going to use this to complete your Native American research activity. Good luck! -Ms. Ary
2. Click the + sign next to 4th grade.
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Week 1 is in the books!
We have officially completed week 1! This past week, the students enjoyed learning about the traits that it takes to become an internationally minded student. We also learned some interesting facts about one another and established classroom agreements.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Welcome to 4th Grade!
Hello all!
I am very excited to begin my fourth year teaching 4th grade. This
blog along with my weekly email updates will keep you feeling informed
and prepared. I will be teaching reading, writing, and social studies
while Mrs. Jennifer Broman-Fulks teaches both math and science. As a
team, we use flexible grouping strategies for instruction. Students are
grouped and regrouped according to specific goals, activities, and
individual needs. We encourage a lot of independence in the 4th grade.
It can be both a challenging and invigorating year for both students and
parents as they acquaint themselves to a new school, new curriculum,
and lots of new friends! We look forward to meeting you all and making
this transition as seamless as possible.
During the first week of school, you can expect the homeroom
classes to work together to formulate and agree upon a set of classroom
agreements, students will work alongside one another in pairs, whole
group settings, and even individually. A few curriculum sequences will
begin, and the students will become aquainted with their peers as well
as the school.
I hope to see you at the meet and greet taking place on August 1st from 3-4. See you in room 312!
Sarah Ary
sary@csdecatur.net
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Welcome to the blogging world!
How is your summer going? I have been busy enjoying this beautiful weather, soaking up the sun with my family down in Florida, and planning for my upcoming wedding in November! I look forward to meeting each of my students in August. To cure the summertime blues, feel free to visit any of the interactive websites below:
Want to write a silly story? http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/story-starters/
Create a word cloud! http://www.wordle.net/create
Multi-player spelling bee! http://www.arcademicskillbuilders.com/games/spelling-bees/spelling-bees.html
Word Mayhem. http://members.learningplanet.com/act/wordmayhem/free.asp
Multiplication Practice. http://www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise/game/ma13tabl-game-tables-grid-find
Division Game. http://www.arcademicskillbuilders.com/games/drag_race/drag_race.html
Have a fantastic week! See you in August! :) Ms. Ary
Want to write a silly story? http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/story-starters/
Create a word cloud! http://www.wordle.net/create
Multi-player spelling bee! http://www.arcademicskillbuilders.com/games/spelling-bees/spelling-bees.html
Word Mayhem. http://members.learningplanet.com/act/wordmayhem/free.asp
Multiplication Practice. http://www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise/game/ma13tabl-game-tables-grid-find
Division Game. http://www.arcademicskillbuilders.com/games/drag_race/drag_race.html
Have a fantastic week! See you in August! :) Ms. Ary
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Summer Is Near!
Important Reminders:
Thursday, May 29th from 9:00-10:00 will be our end of the year celebration! Please join us for doughnuts & a short awards ceremony!
What a great year it has been!
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Week of 3/31 Update
Good afternoon,
I hope you are all off to a great week! I cannot believe we are already in the last week of the term! Where has the time gone?! Please join us this Friday, April 4th from 1:00-2:15 to celebrate all that we have learned this term! The students will be presenting a simple machine that they have invented. I'm excited to see what they have come up with!
In language arts, there will be no spelling homework this week! We are busy finishing up our informational writing pieces & publishing them! The students blew me away with their time management & researching skills. We have become experts using World Book Online and Nettrekker. We are so lucky to have great online resources provided by the school. Reading contracts are due April 3rd. The students are finishing those at school by making an Imovie trailer based on one of the books they read during the last six weeks. At this point, each student should have read 1 autobiography, 2 fiction, and 1 non-fiction books during the last six weeks.
In social studies, we are discussing important inventions during the time of westward expansion. Tonight the students will be studying in place of reading for their assessment on Wednesday and Thursday. The students have Chapters 13 & 14 "Gallopade" to study tonight. This is a resource that we use to review. Tomorrow I will be giving out a study guide! The students are well prepared for the assessment and they will be given ample time to complete it.
In science, we are finishing up our force and motion unit with our study of simple machines. We will take the test on Wednesday and Thursday. During our review, we're creating projects that connect to our IB unit. Please know: if your child comes home saying he or she needs some crazy materials for science, you CAN tell them no! Some of them have some pretty lofty ideas, and I've tried to make sure I double checked each group to approve their materials. Some of them are insistent that they can do parts of it at home. That is fine, although I do not want them to build the whole project at home. It really is more of a class project, especially because it's a group project.
In math, we're finishing our unit on measurement and line plots. We've already taken part of the final assessment a few weeks ago (Metric), and we'll take the Customary test this week. We'll do area and perimeter later this week. I'll send some learnzillion codes when we get to those.
Apologies for the INFORMATION OVERLOAD! Have a great week. -Miss Ary
I hope you are all off to a great week! I cannot believe we are already in the last week of the term! Where has the time gone?! Please join us this Friday, April 4th from 1:00-2:15 to celebrate all that we have learned this term! The students will be presenting a simple machine that they have invented. I'm excited to see what they have come up with!
In language arts, there will be no spelling homework this week! We are busy finishing up our informational writing pieces & publishing them! The students blew me away with their time management & researching skills. We have become experts using World Book Online and Nettrekker. We are so lucky to have great online resources provided by the school. Reading contracts are due April 3rd. The students are finishing those at school by making an Imovie trailer based on one of the books they read during the last six weeks. At this point, each student should have read 1 autobiography, 2 fiction, and 1 non-fiction books during the last six weeks.
In social studies, we are discussing important inventions during the time of westward expansion. Tonight the students will be studying in place of reading for their assessment on Wednesday and Thursday. The students have Chapters 13 & 14 "Gallopade" to study tonight. This is a resource that we use to review. Tomorrow I will be giving out a study guide! The students are well prepared for the assessment and they will be given ample time to complete it.
In science, we are finishing up our force and motion unit with our study of simple machines. We will take the test on Wednesday and Thursday. During our review, we're creating projects that connect to our IB unit. Please know: if your child comes home saying he or she needs some crazy materials for science, you CAN tell them no! Some of them have some pretty lofty ideas, and I've tried to make sure I double checked each group to approve their materials. Some of them are insistent that they can do parts of it at home. That is fine, although I do not want them to build the whole project at home. It really is more of a class project, especially because it's a group project.
In math, we're finishing our unit on measurement and line plots. We've already taken part of the final assessment a few weeks ago (Metric), and we'll take the Customary test this week. We'll do area and perimeter later this week. I'll send some learnzillion codes when we get to those.
Apologies for the INFORMATION OVERLOAD! Have a great week. -Miss Ary
Monday, March 24, 2014
Week of 3/24/14 Update
I hope everyone got the chance to enjoy the beautiful weather on Saturday! Our CRCT window is April 23-29. We will be taking the MAP test in the weeks after CRCT. I will keep you posted as I know the dates!
This week I am allowing students a substantial amount of time to continue researching and drafting their informational texts. The students were asked to choose a movement and discuss the driving forces behind its existence. It has been so refreshing to see the students enjoy the researching process & identify the driving forces behind their movement. Some topics include: The Gold Rush, Locks of Love, Beads of Courage, Elephant Poaching, and many more!
Here is the checklist that I will be introducing later in the week:
Informational Writing Checklist
Central Idea: Behind every movement is a force that causes it.
*I have accurately used headings and subheadings to organize information throughout the text. _____
*I have used a variety of text features (glossary, table of contents, labels, pictures with captions, bolded text, etc.) _____
*I have used specific vocabulary to teach my reader everything I know about that heading or subheading. _____
*I have used correct spelling and used a dictionary when necessary. _____
*I have used correct capitalization and punctuation. _____
*I have a resource/bibliography page. _____
You can support at home by assisting with the editing/revising process. Please ask to see their writing journals! In social studies, we are discussing the Oregon Trail as well as some of the inventions during the time of westward expansion such as the steamboat, steam locomotive,and cotton gin.
In math, we're continuing converting units of measurement for length, weight, capacity, and time. We are also going to be integrating line plots into our extra thirty minutes each day. Check out http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/math/measurement/converts-units-time.htm and http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/math/data-analysis/line-plots.htm.
In science, we're studying simple machines. Check out http://www.edheads.org/activities/simple-machines/ and http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/science/forces-and-motion/simple-machines.htm.
Have a great week! -Miss Ary
This week I am allowing students a substantial amount of time to continue researching and drafting their informational texts. The students were asked to choose a movement and discuss the driving forces behind its existence. It has been so refreshing to see the students enjoy the researching process & identify the driving forces behind their movement. Some topics include: The Gold Rush, Locks of Love, Beads of Courage, Elephant Poaching, and many more!
Here is the checklist that I will be introducing later in the week:
Informational Writing Checklist
Central Idea: Behind every movement is a force that causes it.
*I have accurately used headings and subheadings to organize information throughout the text. _____
*I have used a variety of text features (glossary, table of contents, labels, pictures with captions, bolded text, etc.) _____
*I have used specific vocabulary to teach my reader everything I know about that heading or subheading. _____
*I have used correct spelling and used a dictionary when necessary. _____
*I have used correct capitalization and punctuation. _____
*I have a resource/bibliography page. _____
You can support at home by assisting with the editing/revising process. Please ask to see their writing journals! In social studies, we are discussing the Oregon Trail as well as some of the inventions during the time of westward expansion such as the steamboat, steam locomotive,and cotton gin.
In math, we're continuing converting units of measurement for length, weight, capacity, and time. We are also going to be integrating line plots into our extra thirty minutes each day. Check out http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/math/measurement/converts-units-time.htm and http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/math/data-analysis/line-plots.htm.
In science, we're studying simple machines. Check out http://www.edheads.org/activities/simple-machines/ and http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/science/forces-and-motion/simple-machines.htm.
Have a great week! -Miss Ary
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
CRCT Prep
Check back weekly for the LATEST and GREATEST CRCT prep tools!
*Official CRCT Study Guide*
https://www.gadoe.org/Curriculum-Instruction-and-Assessment/Assessment/Pages/CRCT-Study-Guides.aspx
Practicing Parts of Speech
http://www.funbrain.com/grammar/index.html
Spelling
http://www.funbrain.com/whichword/
Homophones
http://www.learninggamesforkids.com/vocabulary-games/homophones-games/homophones-game.html
*Official CRCT Study Guide*
https://www.gadoe.org/Curriculum-Instruction-and-Assessment/Assessment/Pages/CRCT-Study-Guides.aspx
Practicing Parts of Speech
http://www.funbrain.com/grammar/index.html
Spelling
http://www.funbrain.com/whichword/
Homophones
http://www.learninggamesforkids.com/vocabulary-games/homophones-games/homophones-game.html
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Update for Week of 3/17/14
It was great seeing so many of you at the Tour deCatur! It was a beautiful day! We hope everyone had a great weekend.
*Yearbook orders are due tomorrow!
*The F.AVE online auction is live! Go to http://auctions.readysetauction.com/the45academyatfiftha/
& type in the password fave2014
We'd love for students in our classes to win our items, but of course, you and your child should bid on the items you're most interested in! There are so many amazing items to choose from!
Our items:
• Miss Ary's item: Pizza Party with Miss Ary
• Mrs. Broman-Fulks's item: Stone Mountain Hike (there are a few of these but look for the title "Stone Mountain Hike)"
• Mrs. Cassan's item: Rock the Rock! (Ms. Cassan and Mrs. Broman-Fulks will try to do theirs together so there could be 4 students total!)
• Mrs. Bowden's item: Breakfast Club
• Ms. Theisen's item: Steppin' Out with Semones and Theisen
From Miss Ary:
In English-Language Arts, we are busy researching for our informational books. This week the students will be choosing chapter titles, and learning that when you take notes, you explain things to yourself so that you can explain them to someone else. You can support your child at home by checking in with them, taking a look at the notes/research that they have gathered inside of their writing journals, and assisting them with any researching they would like to complete at home.
In social studies, we will continue studying the Lewis and Clark expedition, and the acquisitions of Texas (the Alamo and independence). Some of the most beneficial videos on brainpop include: westward expansion, lewis and clark, & the Mexican-American War.
www.brainpop.com
username: decaturga
password: decatur
*Be on the lookout for a few of our latest formative quizzes in the communication folders next week!
From Mrs. Broman-Fulks:
In math, we'll continue our unit on converting units of measurement. We'll finish metric units and begin U.S. Customary units for length, weight, capacity, and time.
Resources:
• learnzillion.com quick codes LZ2316, LZ2317.
• http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/math/measurement/converts-units-time.htm
• Review codes: LZ2631, LZ2498, LZ2571
In science, we'll finish our study of force and will maybe begin simple machines later this week. Simple Machines Info: http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/science/forces-and-motion/simple-machines.htm
From the Spanish Department: Please make sure your student does readings B and C from Episode 5 on Edmodo. These readings were assigned as soon as your child began episode 5 and they are due March 28! www.edmodo.com *Usernames and passwords are the student's responsibility & these should be written inside of their agenda
*Yearbook orders are due tomorrow!
*The F.AVE online auction is live! Go to http://auctions.readysetauction.com/the45academyatfiftha/
& type in the password fave2014
We'd love for students in our classes to win our items, but of course, you and your child should bid on the items you're most interested in! There are so many amazing items to choose from!
Our items:
• Miss Ary's item: Pizza Party with Miss Ary
• Mrs. Broman-Fulks's item: Stone Mountain Hike (there are a few of these but look for the title "Stone Mountain Hike)"
• Mrs. Cassan's item: Rock the Rock! (Ms. Cassan and Mrs. Broman-Fulks will try to do theirs together so there could be 4 students total!)
• Mrs. Bowden's item: Breakfast Club
• Ms. Theisen's item: Steppin' Out with Semones and Theisen
From Miss Ary:
In English-Language Arts, we are busy researching for our informational books. This week the students will be choosing chapter titles, and learning that when you take notes, you explain things to yourself so that you can explain them to someone else. You can support your child at home by checking in with them, taking a look at the notes/research that they have gathered inside of their writing journals, and assisting them with any researching they would like to complete at home.
In social studies, we will continue studying the Lewis and Clark expedition, and the acquisitions of Texas (the Alamo and independence). Some of the most beneficial videos on brainpop include: westward expansion, lewis and clark, & the Mexican-American War.
www.brainpop.com
username: decaturga
password: decatur
*Be on the lookout for a few of our latest formative quizzes in the communication folders next week!
From Mrs. Broman-Fulks:
In math, we'll continue our unit on converting units of measurement. We'll finish metric units and begin U.S. Customary units for length, weight, capacity, and time.
Resources:
• learnzillion.com quick codes LZ2316, LZ2317.
• http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/math/measurement/converts-units-time.htm
• Review codes: LZ2631, LZ2498, LZ2571
In science, we'll finish our study of force and will maybe begin simple machines later this week. Simple Machines Info: http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/science/forces-and-motion/simple-machines.htm
From the Spanish Department: Please make sure your student does readings B and C from Episode 5 on Edmodo. These readings were assigned as soon as your child began episode 5 and they are due March 28! www.edmodo.com *Usernames and passwords are the student's responsibility & these should be written inside of their agenda
Friday, March 14, 2014
RESEARCH RESOURCES DAY 1:IN CLASS ASSIGNMENT
Check out the following resources below during your first day of note-taking. I spent quite some time selecting these sites so they should be filled with valuable info. Remember to use your note-taking skills. The will be the most difficult part of the writing process.
*Your first chapter will probably begin with: "What is (insert your movement/topic here)?" so look for the "WHAT? WHY? WHO?" during your first time researching. Good luck!
SMARTIES
Gold
Rush
Robin, Gromyko, Ben H.
www.brainpop.com
Fur
Trading
Phyrliss, Nate
www.brainpop.com
Elephant
Poaching
Devien
Adina
Jonah
Endangered
Lions
Ava P.
Hunter
Important
People from the Civil Rights Movement
Jada
Danielle
Kanysilie
Lauren
The
Apartide
Calvin
White
Rhinos
Bennie
Saving
Congo’s Gorillas
Myra
Recycling
in Decatur
Flynn
Why did
Native Americans write myths?
Griffin
Beads
of Hope
Sofia
Locks
of Love
Isaiah
Ava T.
Trail
of Tears
Aiden
Joe P.
RULERS
Government
Shutdown
Sage
Salvation
Army
Camden
2021
Mars Mission
Thomas
Anti
Globalization
Yusha
Coalition
to Unchain Dogs
Sula
Louisiana
Purchase
Parker
The
Bullying Project
Morgan Roach
Declaration
of Independence
Ben S.
The
Ozone Layer/Atmosphere
Lily
Science techbook
PETA:
Endangered CATS
Tatum
American
Revolution
Eli
*See links on Edmodo
Raising
minimum wage
Quinn & Kelly & Luca
Louisiana
Purchase
Kagan & Ford
MLB
Integration
Mekhi
Biography of Jackie Robinson by Kenneth Rudeen
http://www.historytoday.com/william-rubinstein/jackie-robinson-and-integration-major-league-baseball
Alley
Cat Allies
Grace
Global
Warming
Charles
Pennies
for Patients
Keiko
Boycott
for Grapes
Francesca
library.thinkquest.org/26504/History.html
Military
Lyle
Wounded Warrior Project
Joey
Ending Obesity
Connor
Locks of Love
Dorsey
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Term 5 Is Here!
Term 5 Update
Title: A World In Motion
Theme: Where We Are In Place and Time
Central Idea: Behind every movement is a force that causes it.
Lines of Inquiry:
(Form) The various meanings of force
(Function) Movement as a result of force
(Causation) Impact of movement on people, land, and developments
In social studies, we will begin describing territorial expansion, specifically discussing the Louisiana Purchase. I will be assessing the students' understanding of what motivated prominent historical figures to move west. Reading will be integrated into social studies this week with close reading strategies & exposure to various non-fiction texts. You can check out the importance of close reading here: http://www.learninga-z.com/commoncore/close-reading.html
In writing, we are back to informational this term! The students will be looking at their most recent written informational piece and deciding what types of things they could have done differently. I will also be showing them examples of a 1, 2, 3, and 4 so that they understand what their expectations are.
In math, we're beginning our unit on measurement. Students are required to convert within the same system of measurement. For example, they should know that 3,000 meters equal 3 kilometers. They will also be asked to add, subtract, multiply, and divide to solve problems involving measurements. They standards do not actually require them to measure anything, but it's always a good idea for you build that into discussions or activities as you're cooking, playing, driving, etc. Please ask to see their math journals! They will have homework 3 nights this week.
Go to www.learnzillion.com for review codes: LZ2571, LZ2460.
In science, we're starting our unit on force and motion. We'll begin learning about what force is all about, and then we'll study Newton's Laws. We have some really fun activities planned, so hopefully your child will come home telling you all about them!
As always, please contact me with any questions! -Miss Ary
Title: A World In Motion
Theme: Where We Are In Place and Time
Central Idea: Behind every movement is a force that causes it.
Lines of Inquiry:
(Form) The various meanings of force
(Function) Movement as a result of force
(Causation) Impact of movement on people, land, and developments
In social studies, we will begin describing territorial expansion, specifically discussing the Louisiana Purchase. I will be assessing the students' understanding of what motivated prominent historical figures to move west. Reading will be integrated into social studies this week with close reading strategies & exposure to various non-fiction texts. You can check out the importance of close reading here: http://www.learninga-z.com/commoncore/close-reading.html
In writing, we are back to informational this term! The students will be looking at their most recent written informational piece and deciding what types of things they could have done differently. I will also be showing them examples of a 1, 2, 3, and 4 so that they understand what their expectations are.
In math, we're beginning our unit on measurement. Students are required to convert within the same system of measurement. For example, they should know that 3,000 meters equal 3 kilometers. They will also be asked to add, subtract, multiply, and divide to solve problems involving measurements. They standards do not actually require them to measure anything, but it's always a good idea for you build that into discussions or activities as you're cooking, playing, driving, etc. Please ask to see their math journals! They will have homework 3 nights this week.
Go to www.learnzillion.com for review codes: LZ2571, LZ2460.
In science, we're starting our unit on force and motion. We'll begin learning about what force is all about, and then we'll study Newton's Laws. We have some really fun activities planned, so hopefully your child will come home telling you all about them!
As always, please contact me with any questions! -Miss Ary
Monday, February 17, 2014
Winter Break!
Welcome! I've taken some time off of the blogging world because of our crazy schedule. While I love some cold weather, this snow and ice is just too much for this southern gal! I feel very out of touch & out of the loop because of having so much time off. Luckily, technology helps us connect and communicate even on our days off! I hope you and your child will find some of these resources helpful over the next couple of days! -Miss Ary
Writing:
Log onto www.edmodo.com and read some of the narratives that your classmates have uploaded! These realistic fiction stories are amazing!
Reading:
Need to find a great book to read over the break? Here is one resource I use to find the latest and greatest authors for 4th graders: http://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/4th-grade
Science:
Here is an informational site about weather fronts:http://www.weatherwizkids.com/weather-forecasting.htm
An awesome game about fronts: http://www.edheads.org/activities/weather/
Who doesn't want to listen to the weather cycle song? (Mrs. Broman-Fulks owes me a dollar every time this gets stuck in my head!) http://www.schooltube.com/video/8befaab71cafac5a3bb7/
One of my favorite resources is always study jams. The site finds fun and innovative ways to teach specifics on science related topics: http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/science/index.htm
Math:
Decimals & Percents Preview: http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/math/decimals-percents/place-value-decimals.htm
Social Studies:
Let's not forget about the timeline we began last term! Be sure and check out some of the most recent topics that we covered on www.brainpop.com
Some informational videos include: James Madison, Constitutional Convention, & Three branches
General sites:
Click here for ipad compatible math games!
www.learnzillion.com
www.discoveryeducation.com
Have a wonderful winter break! I look forward to seeing everyone on Monday!
Writing:
Log onto www.edmodo.com and read some of the narratives that your classmates have uploaded! These realistic fiction stories are amazing!
Reading:
Need to find a great book to read over the break? Here is one resource I use to find the latest and greatest authors for 4th graders: http://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/4th-grade
Science:
Here is an informational site about weather fronts:http://www.weatherwizkids.com/weather-forecasting.htm
An awesome game about fronts: http://www.edheads.org/activities/weather/
Who doesn't want to listen to the weather cycle song? (Mrs. Broman-Fulks owes me a dollar every time this gets stuck in my head!) http://www.schooltube.com/video/8befaab71cafac5a3bb7/
One of my favorite resources is always study jams. The site finds fun and innovative ways to teach specifics on science related topics: http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/science/index.htm
Math:
Decimals & Percents Preview: http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/math/decimals-percents/place-value-decimals.htm
Social Studies:
Let's not forget about the timeline we began last term! Be sure and check out some of the most recent topics that we covered on www.brainpop.com
Some informational videos include: James Madison, Constitutional Convention, & Three branches
General sites:
Click here for ipad compatible math games!
www.learnzillion.com
www.discoveryeducation.com
Have a wonderful winter break! I look forward to seeing everyone on Monday!
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Happy New Year!
I am excited for all that 2014 holds! It is so nice to be back in a routine & to see the students!
Update on Curriculum:
In reading, we are comparing and analyzing myths. The students are really excited about this! Greek mythology is fascinating and fun for all types of learners. You can extend on this at home by asking the students who they are learning about and what types of allusions we still talk about today!
In writing, we are working on a fictional narrative. Specifically, the students will be learning how to make their characters more believable by giving them human attributes. Also, the students will continue to add dialogue and description to each of their sections.
In social studies, we will be looking into what happened after Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. In the classroom, I have posted a historical timeline to assist with the students' understanding of what happened and when it occurred. Over the next two weeks, we will be studying the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.
In math, we're starting to multiply fractions by whole numbers. We're going to do a lot of modeling - using manipulatives and creating drawings. Check their math journals! Next week, I'll send some links to Learnzillion videos that will help them review.
In science, we're beginning our unit on weather! We'll start by learning 5 weather instruments. Check their science journals for information and their science folders for printouts.
In math, we're starting to multiply fractions by whole numbers. We're going to do a lot of modeling - using manipulatives and creating drawings. Check their math journals! Next week, I'll send some links to Learnzillion videos that will help them review.
In science, we're beginning our unit on weather! We'll start by learning 5 weather instruments. Check their science journals for information and their science folders for printouts.
Announcements:
We are quickly running out of classroom supplies!
-
Pencils
-
Erasers
-
Kleenex
-
Composition
Notebook (for math)
Some children may need
their folders (plastic pocket folders) or composition notebooks replaced. Just
check with your child to see if that is the case. Your child may also need new earbuds. These break so easily
that some have found the cheaper the better. We will place earbuds in a plastic bag with your child’s
name on it once they bring them to school.
Your child now may
choose to have his or her own personal supplies in a small pencil pouch. The
students are now transporting their items in their own bookbags between
classes. Your child may prefer to have his or her own pencils, highlighter, and
erasers in a small pouch. This pouch can be kept in each child’s cubby or
bookbag. Any items you would like to be personal please place in the pencil
pouch. All other items will be deemed communal.
Have a great week! -Miss Ary
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