FRIDAY!

WOW...what a week! I don't even know where to begin...

Math
We finished up our data collection and probability this week...we discussed the likelihood of an event occurring...and we used fractions to show the outcome...or probable result. We used number cubes, spinners, and file cards with numbers written on them. Yesterday the kids completed an assessment where they had to apply all of the parts of this unit to complete the task. They were allowed to use their math spiral as a resource as they decided which tables of information needed which kinds of graphs. They then had to graph two of the sets of data to show that they know all of the important parts of a graph. They will get these assessments back by Tuesday of next week. We will be entering into the multiplication and division units next. Please have your child practicing facts...the better they know their facts, the easier the unit will be for them.

Language Arts
Each student has picked a president or first lady to portray in our upcoming Hall of Presidents and First Ladies...the kids have begun reading the books and taking notes. We will be working to determine which information is important, using that info for a timeline, and then taking all of the information to create a student written biography. We ask that if your child comes home with their biography to read and take notes at home, please do not help them with this task. We want this project to be completed independently. Thank you.

I'm pleased to announce that almost everyone has finished publishing their "Dinorella stories" ...so I can now take them home and begin the very long job of scoring them!! :-) I can't wait for you to read them!

Social Studies
This unit on Political Science is full of wonderful vocabulary and learning! The kids have read about local, state, and national government. Today's reading selection was about the three branches of the national government and the duties of each one...the kids created a three column chart to write down facts about each one...they will answer questions pertaining to the three branches next week.

Speaking of next week...the kids will be participating in some Reader's Theater activities...we have some fun fall themed "plays" that the kids will be doing...we'll be focusing on their expression and fluency, not the actual acting out of plays...that we leave for the Spring...and happens to be one of my favorite units!

REMINDER...Science Fair Projects are due Monday!! I have spoken to a few of you that asked to use the Thanksgiving break to finish your projects...so I will expect them to arrive at school on Monday, December 1st. But otherwise, we're looking forward to seeing and hearing about the 13 other projects this Monday! (I need to get busy with Jake!!)

FYI...One last thing...I spoke with the kids today about the expectations of this program. I want them to know that yes, they're a part of this program because they're smart, but also because they are capable of work that is above average...and that I expect to see that above average work... that if the paper says "at least three facts", they should be giving at least four facts...they should always strive to do their very best work...very thorough work...and I'm going to be pushing them to do so...just thought you should know! :-)

I hope you have a wonderful weekend with your families.