This Week...

November 18- November 22, 2013

Reading:  Students had the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of unit vocabulary and reading strategies in a variety of ways.  By responding to multiple choice questions and extended response prompts, students were able to show what they had learned from unit 2.  They also compared and analyzed three different texts about Venus flytraps.  Students found similarities and differences between the poem and articles.  They also determined the purpose of each text and provided evidence to support their reasoning.  We will begin unit 3 when we return from Thanksgiving break!  Reading Logs are due Monday, December 2.  (100 minutes)

Math:  At the beginning of the week, students analyzed map scales and found the distances between various U.S. landmarks.  Students also practiced reviewing major concepts from unit 4.  Using arrays and pictures, they represented various multiplication/division number stories.  Students took their unit 4 test today!  We will begin unit 5 after break. Xtra Math practice is due Monday, December 2. (at least 6 sessions)

Social Studies:  We discussed how kids grew up in the Midwest during the late 1800s.  Students wrote pioneer letters written from the perspective of a child living at that time.  We also had a great discussion about the Midwest economy.  We discovered that manufacturing and agriculture provide many jobs for people in the area.  Henry Ford and the assembly line were highlighted.  At the end of the week, students experienced the culture of the Midwest by reading about Mt. Rushmore, Cahokia, the Hmong people, and many other interesting topics.

Writing:  Students finished sharing their personal narratives with the class!  They also took their November writing words test.  Next month, there will not be a December list due to the shortened month.  We also investigated how figurative language can impact a writing piece by looking specifically at metaphors.  In grammar, students reviewed major concepts from unit 2:  common & proper nouns, possessive nouns, and sentence combinations with similar subjects & predicates.

Cursive/Spelling:  Today, we had our unit 2 review test.  After break, we will resume regular spelling and homework.  We will also review our uppercase cursive letters when we return.

Miscellaneous:  Today, we enjoyed a great Art Appreciation session from Shelby’s mom…thank you!  In addition, we learned important safety information from Officer Friendly today!  Progress reports were also sent home.  Please sign the front of the envelope and return the empty envelope to school.  I am looking forward to meeting with you at conferences next week!  Thank you for taking the time to discuss your child’s progress.  Students will return to school on Monday, December 2.  I hope you all have an enjoyable and relaxing Thanksgiving break!  As always, please contact me if you have any questions…enjoy!