This Week...

October 6- October 9, 2014

Reading:  Students read various articles about plant characteristics and soil.  They utilized main idea and detail charts to sort through important information.  They learned that plants have various physical characteristics that help them survive in their environment.  At the end of the week, students did a close read of two plant poems.  They took notes in the margins and underlined interesting phrases.  Analyzing figurative language, such as similes, was also discussed.  Utilizing and understanding how nonfiction text features (captions, charts, bold words, etc.) help a reader continues to be a focus in class. Reading Logs are due Tuesday, October 14.  (100 minutes)

Math:  Students reviewed and practiced the main concepts from unit 2.  We took our unit 2 test at the end of the week and we will begin unit 3 on Tuesday!  A family letter will be going home detailing the upcoming measurement topics.  We also started using Dreambox online to focus on specific math skills and topics.  Students brought home an informational letter on Wednesday that has their log-in information.

Social Studies:  Students had the opportunity to create their own science experiments based on an “I Wonder” statement.  They created questions, made a plan, and took observations.  Through this process, the students learned that they are scientists!  We also discussed characteristics of soil, which included terms such as loam, humus, and nutrients.

Writing:  Students learned how to incorporate “strong verbs” in their writing.  They continued to work on “showing” instead of “telling”.  In grammar, we reviewed key concepts from unit 1.

Spelling/Cursive:  Students took their unit 1 review spelling test.  Next week, normal spelling lists and homework will resume.  In cursive this week, students practiced the letters “c” and “d”.

Miscellaneous:  October book orders went home this week and are due on October 30.  I am also excited to announce that we sent our Flat Stanleys on their way!  We look forward to hearing about their exciting adventures across the United States!  Thank you to all the families and friends who are helping support us in this project!  Just a reminder, there will be no school for students on Friday (School Improvement Day) or Monday (Columbus Day).  Enjoy the long weekend!  As always, please let me know if you have any questions!