This Week...

April 28- May 2, 2014

Reading:  Creating and confirming predictions was our target skill for the week.  Students learned how active readers make predictions and check back to their original predictions in order to comprehend the story.  They also explored figurative language through our main selection: The Printer.  Students learned how authors use figurative language to emphasize a point. Reading Logs are due Monday, May 5. (100 minutes)

Math:  Students took their unit 8 test on Wednesday.  Later in the week, students dove right into unit 9!  They solved various story problems that required multiplication and division fact extensions.  The family letter for unit 9 went home today.  Please remind your child to be practicing their basic multiplication facts, as they are vital in this new unit.  Thank you for your support! Xtra Math practice is due Monday, May 5. (3 sessions)  If applicable: for students still on addition and subtraction, fact tests and graphs are due Monday, May 5.

Science:  Students took their moon quiz on Monday.  They also viewed their solar system videos, which demonstrated their planet research.  The students really enjoyed learning more about each planet and voting for their favorites.  The videos are posted on our blog!  On Tuesday, we will be having our SOLARS award ceremony, where students will learn which planet won each category.  Students may dress up in formal attire if they wish.  We also started our Chicago unit!  Students learned what the symbols on the Chicago flag stand for and why it’s an important part of our city’s history.

Writing:  In WEX, students wrote their turning points and resolutions for their short fiction pieces.  Students used strong verbs and showing details to help their character solve his/her problem.  They also wrapped up their stories with a conclusion.  Next week, we will work on completing various revision assignments to further develop the stories.  In grammar, we focused on subject pronouns and verb agreement.

Cursive/Spelling:  Today, we took our week 28 spelling test.  Students continued to work on finishing their uppercase cursive packets.

Miscellaneous:  Just a reminder, field trip forms for our upcoming Chicago field trip are due next week.  As the weather continues to change, please be sure your child has appropriate attire for outdoor recess…thank you!  As always, please let me know if you have any questions.  Have a wonderful weekend!