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.

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