This Week...

November 14- November 18, 2016

Reading:  This week, we focused on the compare/contrast and description text structures that are often found in nonfiction texts.  At the beginning of the week, students read an article about chimpanzees and humans.  They used key words and phrases to find similarities and differences between the two.  The information was recorded in a Venn diagram.  Students also worked on finding the main idea and details in an article that had a description text structure.  They used the headings, topic sentences, and ending sentences to determine the big idea and supporting details.  Reading Logs are due Monday, November 28.  (200 minutes)

Math:  We practiced how to use multiplication and division fact triangles to make fact families.  There were many tips and tricks that we practiced in order to start learning our facts.  Students reviewed how to solve multiplication and division number stories.  Our unit 4 test will be on Friday, December 2.

Social Studies:  At the beginning of the week, we started the Midwest unit!  Students learned where the states and capitals are located.  A letter went home this week detailing the expectations for learning this information.  We also read about the landscape of the Midwest.  We discovered that the land was once covered with glaciers, which later formed many of our lakes.  We also focused on Native American life in the early 1800s and how the buffalo was vital to their survival.  Lewis and Clark’s expedition in the Louisiana territory was discussed.  Students also began researching a state in the Midwest using various print and electronic resources!

Writing:  Students practiced writing special letters about the Thanksgiving season.  Just a reminder, the November writing words test will be on November 29.  This test will include October and November words.  In grammar, students worked on combining sentences with similar subjects or predicates.

Spelling:  Students took their week 11 spelling test.

Miscellaneous:  Progress reports were sent home today.  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, November 28.  I hope you all have an enjoyable and relaxing Thanksgiving break!  As always, please contact me if you have any questions…enjoy!