This Week...

January 29- February 2, 2018

Reading:  We focused on how dialogue is used in fiction stories.  We learned that characters’ words can show us a lot about their personalities.  Making text-to-text connections was another main topic this week.  We read two different mysteries by the same author and compared them using the key story elements.  We had a great discussion about book series and how you can make connections between the same characters.  When you make these connections, they deepen your understanding of the story.   Reading Logs are due Monday, February 5.  (100 minutes)

Math:  We dove right into long division!  Students used their knowledge of basic facts to help them solve more complex problems.  They also used various strategies to solve division story problems.  Today, students completed a review guide for unit 8, which will be going home today.  The unit 8 test will be on Monday, February 5.

Social Studies:  We reviewed the key concepts from our Illinois unit and completed a review guide.  The Illinois test will be on Tuesday, February 6.  The Northeast states and capitals test will be Wednesday, February 7.  Next week, we will continue researching a famous person from Illinois in the LMC.

Writing:  Using sensory details to create a picture in the reader’s mind was our main focus this week.  Students brainstormed details for different experiences, including eating lunch in the cafeteria.  In grammar, students worked on choosing the correct form for present tense verbs.

Word Study:  This week, students worked on adding –er to words to show a certain type of person.  For example, students added –er to “paint” to show that a “painter” is someone who likes to paint.  We also learned about open-syllable words that have a long vowel sound in the first syllable.  Students completed a sort to show which syllable was stressed.

Miscellaneous:  We had a busy week full of exciting experiences!  Students enjoyed the book fair!  It was great to see everyone picking out some wonderful books.  On Thursday, Dryden hosted a fabulous family reading night!  Next Wednesday is Global Play Day.  Students are welcome to bring in games/activities to play with their classmates (no electronics, please).  Just a reminder, field trip forms for the Elgin Symphony Orchestra are due February 9.  Valentine’s Day boxes are due February 12.  Students can bring their valentines on the day of the Valentine’s Day party.  Our first CogAT test will be on Tuesday, February 6.   Finally, as the weather gets colder, please remind your child to bring hats and gloves to school.  Please let me know if you have any questions.  I hope you have a great weekend!