Math
The kids took the multiplication facts test again today...ask your child if they showed improvement from last time...please remind your child to practice these facts...they can use flash cards, recite them orally, or play one of the many games available on the computer! We have spent the last two weeks on our multiplication unit...estimating, solving three digit x one digit algorithms, listing factors, multiples, and learning the properties...next week we will be turning our focus to DIVISION...the two are so closely tied, it only makes sense! The students will be completing an investigation at home making sure to include all important parts of an investigation...more to come on that!
Language Arts
We have read SO many Cinderella tales!! Everytime I turn around we find another one...the latest version we read was a Native American Cinderella titled Sootface...John B. found that one at the library and we read it together on Monday. All of the versions we've shared and the work we've done with the fairy tales has led us to where we are now...writing our own "Ella" tales!! Wait until you read them! The students are all at different stages in their writing...they first brainstormed characters and objects that match their particular "Ella", they then mapped the story on a graphic organizer...this organizer helps the kids see the rising action, the turning point, and the falling action...and then the rough draft...some kids are well on their way, others will begin their rough drafts on Monday. Each student will do a peer revision and will meet with me, before a final draft is done in the computer lab. Wait until you read them!!
We are turning our focus next week to FOLK TALES...we will get to know Anansi the Spider very well over the next week...discussing how trickery is a main element in folk tales, just as magic is a main element in fairy tales!
SCIENCE
YAH!! We're ready to begin our first science unit of the year "Chemical Tests"...the kids will LOVE this unit...they will be working in teams to do different tests on "mystery powders" in order to draw conclusions about what each powder really is. I also LOVE this unit...we work on many different science indicators during this unit...students see that keeping records is a very important part of the scientific process! More to come about this fun unit.
$ for Ms. Gallo
I know it's a busy time of year, but if you could please send the $3 into Mrs. Gallo for her planning of the Fall Festival Party, I would greatly appreciate it!! Put it in an envelope with your child's name on it and attention to Mrs. Gallo. THANKS!!
Parent Volunteers NEEDED!!
So...here are two opportunities...
1. ESSL field trip...Tuesday, October 27...slip will come home this Monday...we'll leave around 9:10am and get back around 11:15am.
2. Friday, October 30...Pumpkin Math 8:30-10...I need at least four parents...I have two right now...each parent needs to bring a medium sized pumpkin and a few easy supplies...please email me if you are interested/able.
I hope you have a great weekend...stay dry!!
