Final Twenty Fifteen Friday

What a great start to the school year! I hope that 201 Families are on "break mode," and that you all enjoy the extra time with family and the more relaxed pace.   Today we took our Reading Test on Think Central. You can check the results online.  We also finished up our Southwest Travel Brochures.  They look fantastic and will soon be displayed in 201.

Kids are really excited about beginning our new Science unit on Animal Habitats, Ecosystems, and Adaptations.  Today they had time to select a research topic and do some preliminary research. In 2016, I will send home the official project paperwork. It will involve a research paper and a diorama. Don't worry, we will have time in class to do the research. I want to guide kids through the note taking and organization process. You will have plenty of time to work on this! Don't worry!

These weeks at home...

• Complete the Marshmallow Reading Challenge.  If we get 100% participation, we will celebrate with a warming "Hot Cocoa Read- In" in early January.  Please, feel free to add extra marshmallows. You can glue the extras to the the bottom of the mug or make "lift- a -flap" marshmallows. Decorate those mugs! The form is in the Green Folder. 
• Spend some time with your multiplication tables. Log on to Multiplication.com a click on the "quizzes."  http://www.multiplication.com/quiz/multiplication-self-correcting-quizzes
• Do some ST and /or Extra Math
• Learn how to sing "Winter Fantasy." It is one of my favorite holiday songs.  Click on the link to hear it.
• Lastly, 201 is scheduled to take the Winter MAPS Reading/L.A. test on Tuesday, January 5. We will take the Math the following week.

See you next year!

That's Divisible Thursday

Ask you child about divisibility rules.  They should have some pretty good notes!

This evening at home....

• Finish reading or rereading Chapter 12 in TLTWATW.
• Complete the Mood activity using chapter 12 ( not 14)
• Complete the Homework and Practice for lesson 5.2

Well Constructed Wednesday

Thank you parents, for making today's Gingerbread House activity such a success. Thank you so much for sending in the supplies and thanks to all who were so generous. Everyone was able to create a Gingerbread House today. They are works of art!

I will post pictures soon!

This evening at home...

• Read or reread Chapter 11 in TLTWATW.  Write a summary.  Make it "just right."
• Complete the Homework and Practice for lesson 5.1
• Results of the Chapter 4 math test are available on Think Central.  Please do corrections on a separate sheet of paper.

Time to Measure Tuesday

Right now kids are designing gingerbread models.  This involves quite a bit of measurement and trial and error. Next, we will place the candy in symmetrical patterns.Finally, we will write equations to calculate the candy that we need. Of course, we won't be following these blueprints exactly tomorrow.  These are our dream houses. Tomorrow's reality might not be quite so perfect!



This evening at home....

• Complete the Gingerbread Math sheet.
• Reread Earth Dragon Awakes and complete the "Analyze Text" questions.
• Read and record.
• Gingerbread supplies: make sure that you bring them in tomorrow.
• Volunteers, we will be ready to create at 8:30

Helpful supplies....

• Aluminium Foil
• plastic knives
• large paper plates

* We do NOT need any more powdered sugar.

Forever Writing Friday

Thank you Ken, for creating today's title.  I think that we may have this "indenting thing" down. Parents, you better be prepared for some heavy persuasion.  Your child has a way to save money and increase family fun time exponentially.  Will you be persuaded?


This weekend at home....

• Parents, please read the final draft "Penguin Paper." Please sign the paper and write a comment to your child! 
• Kids, please add finishing touches to the P. Paper. Add Penguins.
• Kids, get as far as you can in the Chapter Review. Finish the first 4 pages or finish it all.
• Read and record.

Kids, NO HOMEWORK PASSES allowed for this work. Sorry to yell, but it is too important!

Thankful Thursday

I am thankful for kids who are creative, thoughtful and kind. That's you, Team 201!

This evening at home....

• Complete the Analyze Text questions on the  "Answer/ Evidence" sheet.  Use Hurricanes to collect evidence. The evidence goes on the post it. The answer goes in the box.
• Complete the homework and practice for Lesson 4.12. We will take the chapter 4 test on Tuesday!
• Read and record

What's That Word Wednesday

Congratulations to 201's Spelling Bee representative, Thewfic! We will all be rooting for you in the school-wide Bee on Deceimber 17th. Honorable mentions go out to Jordan and Ian J.  It was a close call. Jordan waits in the wings as our Spelling Bee Alternate.  Kudos to all of those who participated today!

This evening at home...

• ST MATH! Each child should be approaching 30-35%.  Most kids are hovering in the 20% range. Please spend some time with Jiji at home.  We do spend time with Jiji during the week. If your child is below 15%, it may be an indicator of "off task" behavior. A boost at home will help get everyone on the right track.
• Complete the Go Math H and P for lesson 4.11
• Complete the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe graphic organizer.

Tantrum Tuesday

Long Division can have these side effects: tantrums, stress, even crying. Talk to your teacher if you are experiencing these symptoms, but don't stop trying.   Long division combined with messy handwriting will result in frustration and inaccuracy in most cases.  Please do not combine the two.  When dividing, keep a multiplication chart handy and ask yourself: Does McDonald's Serve Burgers?  Repeat.


So.....Long division crept in and took over our lives today.  Don't get mad, kids, get even. Learn your multiplication facts. Keep your notes handy. Think about what you are trying to accomplish is spitting up the number.   Kids, I am back to edit and revise again! This is what  every-day people who need to write in order to communicate, like your teacher, must do! Even when they are adults. Even when they are teachers! This sentence just isn't saying what I want it to say. Here is another attempt: Think about what you are trying to accomplish. What is the divisor? How many groups do I have? What makes the most sense?  Finally, stick with it. You will get it.  Don't let division be a bully.     Put that lid on your bucket and roll up those sleeves.


This evening at home....

• prepare for tomorrow's classroom Bee.
• Read, or reread chapter 9 in The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe.  In 7-10 sentences, summarize the chapter. Find 3 "rich" vocabulary words that you would like to share. Write the page number where you found them and describe how the word is used in the story.
• 4.10: Homework and Practice  

Need help starting your summary? Try one of these sentence tags on for size..

* In this chapter...

*This chapter is about.....

* Chapter 9 begins..

News....

• I have 3 volunteers for Gingerbread Math. Thank you to Kaliyah's mom, Maxwell's mom, and Ian J.'s mom. We have room for three more helpers next Wednesday.
• Great job on the homework last night!
• Thanks for signing the Reading Log each day. Kids should be reading for 20 or more each day.

Maximum Model Division With Regrouping Monday

Thank you Ian J., for sending this very appropriate title. It arrived via Edmodo this weekend. He was definitely thinking ahead!

So, we did model division with regrouping today.  We only got to a few problems, but your child should have good notes to help with the homework and practice this evening.

We also read Hurricanes in Journeys. This week we will be learning more about text and graphic features.  We will zoom in on suffixes -ment, -nent, -less and -ful, and we will do some independent/guided research on hurricanes.  We will not have a spelling test, but we will practice using the words from this week's list.  We will have have our usual L.A. test on Friday.

Today we discussed Empathy.  We talked about what it means to be empathetic. We compared empathy to sympathy. At Disney, we are in such a unique position. Disney families have the opportunity to meet and know people with different cultural, racial and religious backgrounds.  We talked about how exploring different points of views can help us understand one another. We talked about finding commonalities in spirit.   We talked about ways that we can productively discuss unfairness in the world.  We talked about being sensitive to other cultures that we may not fully understand. We talked about ways to build bridges to one another. We did a craft to help us remember how to plant and grow into empathetic adults.

This evening at home....

• Please sign the Chapter 3 Math test. Kids who scored below 85% should do corrections. Corrections must show all of the steps and should be done on a separate sheet of paper. They are due on Monday.
• Please look for and read the Gingerbread Math sheet. This special activity is a favorite! Read the sheet and you will know why!
• Reread Hurricanes and complete the graphic organizer " 6 Things."
• In the Readers Notebook, complete pp. 135 and 136.
• Do the Homework and Practice for lesson 4.9 in Go Math

Free Coding Friday

This weekend at home....

• finish the math classwork: circled problems only an the entire back page of the CLASSWORK
• Science Fusion packet: read and complete the activities
• Complete your reading log

That"s The NorTHEAST Thursday

THis morning we performed our NorTHeast raps and songs. We got it all on tape and will share the edited version wiTH parents soon. THat's a wrap for the NorTHeast!  Well done Team 201!

Today we also went over a few problems from last night's difficult homework.   There is a time to use the distributive property, and there is a time to just stick with D.M.S.B.. Most kids prefer division the "old fashioned" way.   Today's GoMath lesson focuses on using repeated subtraction and multiples to divide.

Jordan THinks THat I can't spell and is pointing out all of my mistakes. He is partially correct, but today, I am using some poetic license to drive the alliteration point home. So THere. It's Thursday. Strong observation, Jordan. THese kids know THat even teachers need to edit THeir writing! Thanks for looking out for me, Jordan!


THis evening at home....

• Do the Homework and Practice for Lesson 4.7 in Go Math
• Complete the Shade of Meaning color strips. There are two on the page.  Remember, the mild word goes on top.  Each word below increases in intensity. The words don't have to be exact synonyms, but they should have the same connotation. Use the graphic organizer or the thesaurus to help you.  If you don't know what the word means, don't use it. Better yet: learn this new word and then use it!
• Study for tomorrow's L.A./Reading test.
• Don't forget to read and record. Please get a signature!

Why Do We Take Apart Flowers Wednesday

We take apart flowers to learn about plant reproduction, of course. This is what we are about to begin.  It is almost lab time.  We had to work through some tough math problems today.   We also discussed Jose, practiced our NE Raps and spent some time with Jiji.


This evening at home....

• complete the Go Math homework and practice for 4.6
• Finish the Jose questions. Make sure to add details from the text. No details. No credit.
• Read for 20 minutes and complete the Reading Log
• Complete the Readers Notebook pages 115 and 116
• Cans!  Donate one!

Taking a Trip to Narnia/Towering Tuesday

These are two great suggestions from three great students. Thank you Lucy, Thom, and Hannah.

This evening at home...

• complete the Go Math homework for lesson 4.5. Remember to prove your answers. No credit for answers only.
• Jose Questions: Do the front and back of the first page.  Do the final vocabulary page. Leave the rest!  Make sure that your answers are complete. This means: sentences, examples and punctuation.
• Spelling Bee: Next week!  All will participate in the class Bee.
• Practice your NE Rap at home in front of the mirror.
• Log on to IXL Math. Bring your username and password back to school tomorrow. 

Make It Happen Monday

Today's blog title refers to Jose Limon, whose stubborn determination helped him rise to the top.  This is our first "regular" week in some time.  I hope that all are well rested and ready for a burst of learning to finish up 2015. Let's finish strong!  We will have a regular Language Arts test on Friday. This means spelling, vocabulary, grammar and comprehension.  All kids were given this week's word list.

This evening at home...

• complete the Homework and practice for Go Math lesson 4.4. 
• complete the Readers Notebook pages 109-112. Use the text to help you with the first two pages.  Details, people, details!
• do some ST Math. 

How to "Grab Bag"

 Hello Team 201, by the time you are reading this it will almost be time to play the Grab Bag game!  But first, did anyone get the answer to yesterday's question? Why was Mr. T melancholy?  What makes you melancholy?

I hope that thinking about being melancholy isn't making you so. Cheer up!  Here are the Grab Bag rules:

1. Teammate 1 picks the question
2. Teammate 2 reads the question and refers to the Question Guide for help---Everybody: get your books out. Think and search!
3. Teammate 3 answers the question. 
4. Teammate 4 compliments and coaches. Then, teammate 4 asks for group input.
5. Everybody records their own response on the colored strip. Put the strip in the Reading Notebook pocket.
6. Move the team mat clockwise one space. Repeat!

How should you label the answers? 

In the top right corner add the chapter and the question number.

For example, 3.2 means chapter 3, question 2.

Answer each "starred question," and don't forget to cite the text evidence!  Need some help? Use these sentence starters:

• This shows that...
• I think that....
• This proves that....
• I think this means....

Here is your "I can and I will" statement:

Can you cite evidence from the text to support your ideas? Can you make inferences based on evidence? Can you make judgements about characters based on their actions? YES YOU CAN!

Get into the book, and think outside of the wardrobe!

Melancholy Monday

I don't think that today's title really fits, but I like it!   What does melancholy mean? Why is Mr. Tumnus so very melancholy? Please be ready to answer this question tomorrow.

Parents, it was a busy day!  Never fear, I have the Gold Cards and will be checking them after school.

This evening at home...

• complete the homework and practice for lesson 4.3
• complete the Turkish Delight and the Good and Evil pages. 
• finish that Southeast Scrapbook!
• please make sure to bring TLTWATW to school tomorrow. We need it for the game!

Think Green Thursday

This evening at home....

• Complete the Vocabulary Floats: pick the 4 words that are the most difficult. Use this week's Journeys story.  Each float should contain: the word, a mini definition, and a sentence. You may use each part of the float!
• Reread Dear Mr. Winston. We will take a Vocabulary and Comprehension test tomorrow.
• Complete the Homework and Practice for lesson 4.1

Time to Reflect Tuesday

That's what your kids are doing right now.  We are reflecting on our behavior and work habits so that are we are prepared to have a productive conference tomorrow.I can't wait to see you all!

This evening at home...

• Complete the Science Packet that you began last night. Make sure to do all of the reading and activities? There might be a pop quiz on Thursday.
• Finish the Southeast questions.   The reading packet was handed out last week. It is also posted on Edmodo, as are the questions.  If you have already done some of these questions, you don't have to do them again. We will just staple the two sheets together. 
• Complete the Turkey Multiples page. You will write the first 10 multiples of each number. Write one multiple in each feather. Then, write the set of multiples on the line below the turkey. The last turkey is blank. Use a number of your choice.   Color, please.

On Thursday, we will begin Chapter 4. I hope that you know your multiplication facts!

Manipulator Monday

Today's story is narrated by a young girl with LOTS of excuses!  Dear Mr. Winston's Clara is neither genuine nor sincere!

This evening at home....

• Read pp. 103-107 in Science Fusion packet
• Complete a Fact Finder page based on the information
• Study for the Math test!
• Ask your child about the Conference Sheet. If you haven't signed up online, your child is coming home with a sheet today.

Sign Up: Parent Teacher Conferences

Hello 201 Families,

Ruby suggested that I post the link for Parent Teacher Conferences again. Good idea, Ruby. Thanks for the suggestion.  Please click on the link to sign up for a conference! If you have a conflict next Wednesday and can't make it, please let me know. We can schedule a conference on a different day or can arrange a phone conference.


Sign Up Here

Theater Thursday

Thank you, Ian J., for providing today's title. It is perfect!


This long weekend at home....

• Read The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe through page 34
• Complete the Esperanza Rising Play Review.
• Finish the Chapter 3 Review. Show your work!
• If you are not finished, please complete the Southeast Research.
• Order, Please. This page is due on Monday.
• Do ST Math. Please! I want victory!
• Remind your parents to sign up for a Report Card Conference! The link is available on this blog. Scroll down to see the post and link.

201 goes to the Book Fair on Monday!
Parent Teacher Conferences are on Wednesday. Please sign up!
I will stamp Gold Cards and collect all work on Monday. Thanks for your patience.

Click on the links for an  audio version of Esperanza Rising.  

Time To Talk Tuesday

Hello Parents and Students,

Please click on the link to schedule your Parent Teacher Conference.   Conferences will be held next Wednesday.  I am looking forward to meeting with you to discuss your child's progress and goals!  This is such an important day. Connecting with you helps me help your child!  If you can't make it to Disney next Wednesday, please contact me so that we can schedule a conference at an alternate time.

Here is the link:

Parent Teacher Conferences: Sign Up Here!

Tomorrow is field trip day!  We plan on leaving Disney as soon as the buses are ready for us.  All parent chaperones should in in the Pod by 8:45.   See you tomorrow!

Mixed Up Monday

Today begins the beginning of a mixed- up couple of weeks!  We do not have a Reading Test on Friday. Kids don't even have school on Friday. On Wednesday, we stay home in honor of Veteran's Day. On Thursday, we have our first field trip.  Next week, we have Parent Teacher Conferences on Wednesday, November 18th.  Are you confused yet?

Please continue to check this blog for Parent Teacher Conference time slots.  I hope to post a link this evening.


This evening at home...

• Finish publishing your Northeast Rap. Check the checklist on Edmodo to make sure that you are on track.
• Do the Homework and Practice for lesson 3.7 in Go Math.
• Read a book of your choice for 20 minutes or more.
• Use this book as the basis for the READING RESPONSE SHEET.  Complete any two sections.  
• Got internet? Do some ST Math!

Taking Things Literally Thursday

It's a good thing that we know our idioms, or we'd be walking on pins and needles all day!  Today we revisited similes and metaphors too.  We spend some more time on multiplication with regrouping because it is just that important.


This evening at home....

• complete the Homework and Practice for lesson 3.5
• do some ST Math
• reread Me and Uncle Romie. Complete ONE of the "Compare texts" activities.  

Field Trip money is due tomorrow!  We need to pay for the seats in advance.   If you are having a difficulty, please contact me so that we can try to make arrangements.

Thank you for bringing in the Kleenex, Max and Hannah!

Do you have a copy of The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe at home?  I would like to read this book with the class, but I only have 23 copies of the book. If you are able to borrow or buy a copy for your child, this would be great!

Amazon: The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe

I will soon be posting a link to Sign Up Genius so that we can schedule our Parent Teacher Conferences.  This usually works out well. I can't wait to meet with you!

When Pigs Fly Wednesday

Today Mason offered this idiom as an example of figurative language.  Thanks, Mason.   Yes, we discussed idioms today.  Your kids had some great ideas.  It's too bad that today isn't Thursday, because we could have used the title Throwback Math Thursday.  Many parents have already taught their kids how to do double digit multiplication the "old fashioned way."   Today we made it official.   We also had our pictures taken and made time for the Science Lab, where we explored mixtures.  We started our day with some rhyming. The Northeast Region Raps and Songs are coming together beautifully. Groups were able to offer their peers a few verses today.  We should be finished on Friday.


This evening at home....

• Complete the Idiom page, front and back.  Select one idiom for each spot. There are 4.  Here are some ideas: face the music, sly as a fox, ray of sunshine, cracked the case, cost an arm and a leg, pulling my leg, hit the sack, needle in a haystack.  Use one of these, or find your own.  Try to learn something new. No raining cats and dog, please.  
• Complete the following problems in Lesson 3.5 found on pages 173 and 174: 4,6,10,14,15,16,17,18,29.  You do NOT need to do the Homework and Practice.
• Study this week's vocabulary words. Check out the slide show on the Journeys Study Guides tab for lesson 8.

Please.....

• Bring in your trip money. It is due on Friday!
• If you are able to donate Kleenex, please do. We are down to scratchy paper towels. Ouch!

Tuesday Thoughts

Picture Day is tomorrow!
Field Trip forms and money are due Friday


This evening at home...
1, Math 3.4
2. Finish the Romie Questions
3. Use your notes and your science book to complete the cartoon on Solutions and Mixtures.  Make it informative and colorful.

Do Dat Dance...homework

On Monday we dance.  Each week Mrs. Smith assigns homework. It is due each Wednesday. Mrs. Smith comes to 201 to collect the assignments. Put this on your weekly calendar!  Students who do not turn in the work will receive a 0 in the gradebook.

Meaningful Mess Monday

Today we read one of my favorite pieces in Journeys.  Me and Uncle Romie is realistic fiction that was inspired by the life and work of artist Romaine Bearden.  We discussed point of view, perspective, and talked about how an artist's experiences may influence his or her art work.

We spent more time on double digit multiplication too.  Those boxes, combined with the partial products method, really make this skill easier!

Thanks to all of the offers for field trip help! We have Sydney's mom and Elizabeth's mom joining us this time.  Don't forget that all forms and fees are due on Friday!


This evening at home....

• complete pages 85-88 in the Readers Notebook
• Reread Me and Uncle Romie
• complete the homework and practice for Math lesson 3.3
• don't forget that Math Test corrections are due no later than Friday!
• don't forget that trip forms and fees are due no later than Friday. The cost is $10.oo.  If you don not have the form, please write a note that includes your signed permission and emergency contact information.

Finding the Clue Friday

Happy Halloween to all of the Team 201 Families!


This weekend at home...

• read for 40 minutes or more.  You can split up the sessions or do it all at once.
• explain to your parents that I have the Gold Cards.  
• finish the North East packet so that you will be ready to rap and write on Monday
• get your Math test signed. Corrections are due by Friday.
• get your field trip form signed. Money and forms are due on Friday.
• give your parents the note about the Picture Day change. Our new picture day is Wednesday.

 I am looking for two volunteers for our field trip on Thursday November 12.  I will accept the first two responses I get.  Feel free to send me an email or fill out the form and return it.

We will have out Pumpkin Gallery walk on Friday.  Thanks for your hard work on these amazing projects.  I can't wait to read the character essays!

Indentation Frustration Thursday

     Parents, I promised you that this Pumpkin Project would not involve a ton of extra homework. Today, I am trying to make good on that promise.  We worked really hard to create, edit and publish our Character Traits writing. We wrote "hook" sentences. We wrote closing statements. We polished our words and crossed our ts.   And, then it was time to indent. This put a large DENT in our progress.
     Kids, I am beginning a new paragraph. Notice how I have begun this paragraph on a new line. I measured about 5 spaces and then I began to write. This "space" at the beginning of a new paragraph is called indenting.  It tells the reader that a new topic is being introduced. All of the sentences that are in this paragraph are spaced together. The last sentence in the paragraph may extend all the way to the margin, or it may end in the middle of the line. Like this.
     See! This is the start of another new paragraph. I moved to a new line and indented. I made a dent in the writing to indicate that a new paragraph is beginning. Do you understand now? I hope so. Thanks for reading this.

This evening at home...

• finish the Pumpkin Paper.  Most students finished in class. I tried, parents. I really tried.
• get your Pumpkin ready and bring it to school
• complete the Decode the Message sheet.
• don't forget to study those spelling and vocabulary words. We have a test tomorrow!

News....

• The Chapter 2 Math test is going home today. Please see the note regarding corrections.   All corrections are due by next Friday.
• Tomorrow we celebrate Halloween. If you plan on sending a treat, please count them at home. Extra candy will not be returned. There are 31  students in 201.
• If you plan on bringing a costume, make sure that you wear a base layer so that you can change in the room.  Leave the extras at home: no look alike weapons or masks, please.

We have lots of fun activities planned for tomorrow. Our learning should be frightfully fun!

Why Round Wednesday?

...Because it makes life easier! That's why!


This evening at home....

• complete the homework and practice for Go Math lesson 3.2
• Finish the Text Dependent Questions that we did in class today. Use Coming Distractions in Journeys.
• complete the "Comprehension Lists" page. Use C.D. in Journeys.

Times Tuesday

Thanks for working on your times tables last night!
 This evening at home...

• complete Readers Notebook pages73-76.
• complete the Go Math Homework for Chapter 3 Lesson 1.  

News I Hope You Can Use

• I should have the Math Tests in your hands tomorrow. We went over some of the problems today.
• Yes, you may bring in the Pumpkin Project early.
• Did you get the  note about Halloween? Scroll back to last Friday's post for the 411.

Movie Making Monday

This week's text, Coming Distractions,  is all about the pictures. Moving pictures, that is. Movies, that is.   Our focus skill is "Fact and Opinion," which is a very tricky one. We are learning lots of new "moving making" lingo, and are getting a sense of the tricks and techniques that are used to capture our attention and keep us believing.  


This evening at home.....

• Complete the Multiplication Facts page.  Please check your child's work. This should be a quick exercise. Are there trouble spots? Make a note of them and get practicing!  Let's get fluent in multiplication.
• Answer the "Analyze Text" questions in Journeys. Use complete sentences and evidence from the text to support your ideas.
• The Pumpkins are due Friday. I can't wait to see them!

Frightening Friday

Today's title doesn't really reflect today's happenings.  We did read a picture book,  Even Monsters Need Haircuts.   We took our reading test and we got ready for Monday's Math test.  We have gone through EVERY problem on the Review Test, and kids should be coming home with work to show, equations, explanations, and correct answers.

This weekend at home....

• study for the Math Test!  
• please look at your child's Review Test with them. 
• don't forget that Character Pumpkins are due next Friday.  I can't wait to see your work!
• finish the the October Haiku so that is is ready to "pumpkin publish" on Monday. All students should have their October Poetry packets with them. Many have finished.
• do some ST Math. Try for 15 minutes this weekend. Great idea, Mason! 
• read!

Don't forget...

• Picture Day is November 6. Forms have been sent home.
• Bring your Character Inferences Sheet to school on Monday. There should only be two blank spaces. We will use this as the basis for our essay writing.
• We will do the Pumpkin Project Writing at school next week.
• I will need 2 parent volunteers next Friday morning. Send me an email if you would like to help create candy bags in the morning.
•  Halloween: Students will be able to bring a wrapped, peanut free treat on Friday. We will be preparing bags. I will send home a note about Halloween on Monday. Check this blog for updates.

Here are the Halloween Updates:

• On Friday, we will celebrate Halloween 7th period, at the end of the day. 
• Students may bring a costume to school.  Students will be permitted to change into a costume after lunch. Please wear a "base layer" so that you are able to change IN the classroom. We will not be sending students to the bathroom to change.
• Do not bring any accessories, toy weapons, face paint, or masks to school.
• If you bring candy to share, make sure to bring enough for everyone. There are 31 children in 201. 
• We will distribute all  of the candy that your child brings. So,if you buy a volume bag at Costco, please count out the candy you intend to share and send only this amount to school.  There will be a ton ( hyperbole) of candy here on Friday.  This will make my life so much easier. 
• If you do not celebrate Halloween and would rather that your child does not receive any candy, please let me know. You can send me a note on the Gold Card or email me.

Have a wonderful weekend! Enjoy these seasonal classics from the Muppets.

Confused About Condensation?

Don't be! I will be adding videos to this post to help you understand water's ever changing states. What is a physical property? How is matter measured? You tell me!

Thinking Thursday

This evening at home....

• finish the Window Vocabulary. Add color! Make them "window- ready."
• finish the Go Math Chapter 2 Review. We will go over it tomorrow. Our Chapter 2 Test will be Monday.
• do not worry about the spelling.  I know that the sheet did not get passed out, so I will not hold you responsible for the words.  In the future, note that you can find all of the weekly skills by clicking  on the Journeys Study Guides tab  that is on this blog. Here you will find the spelling and vocabulary words, the grammar skills and the comprehension focus skill.  The spelling words are also in the Readers Notebook. 

Water Displacement Wednesday

We are about to go to the Science Lab. We will conduct an experiment to learn about Water Displacement.  We will use this method to find the volume  of irregular shaped objects.  We know, of course, that we use length x width x height to find the volume of regular shaped objects.  Today we worked on using PEMDAS to tackle equations.  We also worked on building equations by matching the words in a problem to "math actions."


This evening at home....

• On page 188, Read the "Classroom Conversation" questions.
• Answer the questions on a separate sheet of paper. Use text evidence. This will help you reach for 100% on Friday's test. 
• Complete the homework and practice for lesson 2.12. We will be ready to test on Friday Monday.  I don't want to give two long tests in one day.
• Give the Picture Form to your parents. Picture Day is November 6th.

Time Flies Tuesday

This evening at home...

• make sure that your Invasion From Mars summary rewrite is finished. I will collect your reading notebook tomorrow.
• Complete two more " Character Inference" examples. Make sure to explain why you selected the trait.
• Finish Go Math 2.11 homework.
• Readers Notebook pp 67, 68 and 69.

Martian Monday

Today we listened to Invasion From Mars.  We imagined what it would be like to hear this radio play live. Check on Edmodo for links galore.  You can listen to the original broadcast, which was aired in 1938 and is based on the Orsen Wells novel, War of the Worlds.  The Edmodo link also contains links to grammar help, vocabulary and much, much more. Check it out!

Today we explored multiplication with regrouping. Most kids are pretty solid when it comes to multiplying a single digit and and double digit.  The problems arises when the words step in.  Most of today's problems with problems are about reading and planning.  Encourage your child to annotate. Identify the question. Find the necessary information. Make a plan to solve. Will I multiply and then subtract? Do I need to estimate? Is there extra information? Should I consult a chart?  Put those reading and thinking skills to work. The math is the easy part.

Many students have identified their " Multiplication Mastery" targets. One student shared that she needs help with the fours and higher. Another is stuck on the sevens.  Use the links in last week's posts to help your child practice and maintain fluency. Today's lesson was MUCH easier for the kids who know their facts!  Let's all shoot for "multiplication chart- free" by the end of the month.


This evening at home...

• complete the Homework and Practice for Lesson 2.10 in Go Math. We should be ready for the Chapter 2 test by the end of the week.  Plan for a test on Thursday or Friday.
• Complete three more "Character Inferences" for your Book Project.   After you add the evidence, include a statement such as:  This proves that _____ is _____ because, or, I think this shows that ______ because______.
• In the Readers Notebook, finish the Invasion From Mars Summary found on page 62.
• Complete pages 63 and 64 in the Readers Notebook.

Show your Chicago Cubs some love!  Flash Cubbies Spirit Day tomorrow!

* dress code rules apply

French Friday

Parlez- vous multiplication?  Do you speak Multiplication?  Let's get practicing. Please scroll down to see last night's late- night blog post. Click on the links to practice those skills.


Parents, I have the Gold Cards. Do not despair.  The papers are piling up, and Fridays are busy.  I will check the homework over the weekend. We will review Go Math lesson 2.9 on Monday and will work on 2.10 as well,  If you want to preview the lesson, click on the Math Coach link.

This weekend at home...

• Read the next text in Journeys: Invasion From  Mars.
• Practice you Multiplication Facts. You can practice online or make flash cards.  
• Make sure that you are thinking about your pumpkin project. We will begin the writing next week in class. Pumpkins are due on October 30th
• Have a terrific weekend!

Multiplication Matters

It really does!  It is time for Team 201 to get mathematically fit.  Kids who don't know their facts "like that" will be at a distinct disadvantage as we dive deeper into the curriculum. The upper grade teachers are begging the 4th grade teachers,    " Make those kids learn their facts!"

This needs to happen NOW, Team 201.  A select few are carrying the group when it comes to fact fluency. This is a language that we can all learn. It will take a bit of extra effort, but if we support one another, we will be ready to throw those desk charts in the trash!  Let's not really do that last part. Let's just learn how to speak Multiplication.

This is a great link.  I like it because it allows kids to build on their skills, one number at a time.  Feeling shaky? Start with the 2s and move forward.
Multiplication.com Self Correcting Online Quizes

On Friday, kids will receive their passwords and usernames for Mr. Nussbaum.com. We will all take part in the  Great Multiplication Challenge!  Let's get inspired by Mr. Lee.  If you know multiples, you know multiplication.

That's a Noun Thursday

Today we played a game on Brainpop to help us understand parts of speech. We were able to prove that Bravery is a noun. Brave would be a terrific adjective to use on your character inference sheet.


This evening at home....

• try to watch some of the videos that I posted yesterday. They won't come up at school. Ugh.
• complete the homework for lesson 2.9. The strategy is "draw a diagram." I expect to see diagrams and equations.
• complete the " Word Meaning" page, front and back. Select 4 of this week's vocabulary words. 
• Please finish today's comprehension work.   

Way To Go Wednesday

Team 201 students were reporters today.   Thanks for the inspiration, Ruby and Kaliyah!  These two friends are publishing a monthly newsletter.   I love this idea and I piggy- backed right on it.   Today kids read Tall Tales. We then worked on writing an article for the Tall Tale Times.  Our articles are filled with hyperbole and descriptive writing. Here are some of the headlines:

Storm Along with Stormalong- Hugh
Giant Baby Born in Bangor, Maine- Mahalet
Blue Ox Found in Minnesota- Nouran
Baby Ox to Big Ox- Giselle
Giant Baby Takes Down Three Navy Ships!- Henry


Today we also spent some more time on lesson 2.8.  Tonight's homework is review.

This evening at home...

• Finish up you Tall Tale: Proofread, check headings and captions, and add color.
• Finish your graphs. Make them neat.
• Complete the Math Review sheet.
• Complete four more character inferences. Give me details!!

Pecos Bill

Stormalong

Paul Bunyon

What did Delaware? Her New Jersey, of course! When my sister and I were younger, our parents used to sing a version of this song to us in the car. This tune is a bit different than the version I remember, but you'll get the general idea. Fun!     

Tall Tale Tuesday

Greetings Team 201 Families,
     Today's title is a reference to Stormalong.  We read this Tall Tale, retold by Mary Pope Osborne, in class today.   We discussed vocabulary and found figurative language a-plenty.  We must have identified billions of hyperbole. Hint. Hint.   Stormalong  is fitting right in with our next Social Studies unit.  Our U.S. Regions study begins this week and our first stop is the Northeast.  Stormalong begins and ends in New England.  We will talk about how this part of the region earned its name.  More on that tomorrow.


This evening at home.....

• Complete the Homework and Practice for lesson 2.8 in Go Math
• In the Readers Notebook, complete pagges 54, 55, and 56. You may rip out these pages.
• Work on the  Inferring Character Traits sheet. Complete the first three  entries.  You may use the same character for each entry, or, you may switch it up!  Use the "Character Trait List" to help you. Find evidence from the text that supports the inferred trait.  If you copy dialogue, you must explain how it supports the trait you selected.

Example:

Character:Harry
Inferred Trait: grateful  
On page 91: Harry is grateful for the love and attention that Mrs. Weasley gives                                   him.  When he eats dinner at their house, it is the first time that he has

 felt like he is part of a loving family.  Mrs. Weasley worries that                                                            Harry isn't eating enough and piles food on his plate. Harry is                                                                 grateful that someone cares enough to fuss over him.

** This Inferring Character Traits will be filled out little by little. Only do the assigned work! Of course, you must use the book that you have gotten approved for your project!

* Sorry about the formatting! I have tried to fix it several times.

Tricky Thursday

Today's math was kind of tricky.  Your child should be coming home with lots of sample problems to help with the homework.

We had a great time tin the Science Lab today. Ask you kids about those crazy gummy bears.


This evening at home...

• Read a book of your choice and write a review of the section you read tonight.  What is your favorite part. Why?  The review should show your best writing and should be about 7-10 sentences.
• Complete the Practice and Homework Math 2.7
• Have you selected your book for the project?  Please do!
• Don't forget that we have a Language Test tomorrow.

Wacky Wednesday

Will every Wednesday be wacky. It is a long way to the Science lab, lunch, recess, and Library on Wednesday.

Math Alert:
Today's classwork contains many multi-step problems.   This is not mental math. I expect kids to get active and think about each step carefully.  You can do it! Make labels!

This evening at home...

• Complete the homework for Math 2.6
• Complete pages 43, 44, and 45 in the Readers Notebook.
• Read and record on your log!

Theme Tuesday

Today we talked about how to determine a text's theme. We discussed the need to  examine characters' actions and then make inferences about their thoughts. We thought about different ways to speculate about the hidden message in a text.  Well done Team 201.  We will discuss the themes of theme tomorrow too.  We also talked about how texts can be filled with allusions to classic myths and tales.  We specifically discussed " the Midas Touch."  Kids had lots of prior knowledge about the myth, so it was easy to come to an understanding of the allusion.

This evening at home....

• If you haven't picked out a book for the Pumpkin Character Project, please do! You must have a book by Monday, or you won't be able to participate in class or homework.
• Complete the homework and practice for Go Math Lesson 2.5
• In Journeys, complete the "Analyze Text" questions that can be found throughout the passage. Please write in complete sentences and use evidence from the text.

Matter Matters Monday

This Monday we talked about what really matters: Matter.   We took some notes in our Science Notebooks and used Chapter 7 in Science Fusion to help us understand how to observe  matter's Physical Properties.  We also created a "foldable" inside our Science notebooks. This should help with this evening's homework.

In Math, we continue to work with Modeling Multiplication. Today, we used estimation to check products. We asked, "Is this answer reasonable?"  Encourage your child to identify the key numbers in the problem. Building an equation will bring us closer to the solution.


This evening at home....

• Look for the Pumpkin Book Project handout. We discussed this first book project today in class. Please work on finding a book to read for this project.  If you are reading a very long book, such as Harry Potter, you won't need to finish the book to do the project. No, you may not use Ivan. 
•  Complete the homework and practice for lesson 2.4 in Go Math
• Complete the Physical Properties of Matter square. We can cut them out tomorrow in school.  You may use a picture from a magazine and glue it in the center, print one from the internet, or draw a picture of your choice. Make sure to be as precise as possible in your description.
• Read and record

Of Note...

• Most kids remembered that I collected the Gold Cards on Friday and did not return them. You can fill in the weekend reading this evening. All kids are coming home with a Gold Card today.
• You are invited to the "Men and Women of Disney Breakfast tomorrow morning at 7:00 a.m.. Students are welcome, and must be accompanied by a parent.
• Weekly Study Guides went home today.
• I hope you had a chance to read and enjoy the Conversation dialogue writing that your child completed. They are wonderful. We will continue to share them throughout the week.  
• Our grammar focus this week is Fragment and Run On Sentences. Enjoy the videos!

Time is Ticking Thursday

This evening at home....

• Make sure that your Continents packet is finished. It is due tomorrow
• Complete the Homework and Practice for lesson 2.3 in Go Math
• Complete a rough draft of your Conversation writing.  We made a strong start today.  Remember, the writing focus is dialogue. Use those quotation marks. It is a conversation, not a story. Use the materials from class to help you.
• We have a Reading Test tomorrow. Study those Spelling and Vocab. words.

Great American Math Challenge

This just in....I have just come across Mr. Nussbaum's Great American Math Challenge.  Many kids in 201 report that they need some support when it comes to multiplication facts.  This is a skill that each student can and should master. Middle and High School teachers agree: speed is key.  Knowing the "facts-like-that"  provides an important mathematical base.  Don't wait any longer to start building!

Let's do this 201!

http://mrnussbaum.com/gamc/
Click on the link to begin the G.A.M.C..

Wacky Wednesday

Hello Team 201 Families!

 Students will be coming home with the Week 2 Reading Test tomorrow. I am still working on the Math tests. You will have them by the  end of the week.

Today we....

• spent some time getting ready for tomorrow's Continents Quiz
• practiced a Code Red drill.  201 did a fantastic job!
• worked on building models and equations to represent multiplication.
• worked on our individual reading goals in Espark.
• watched a quick Bill Nye video amount  about measurement tools. *Teachers need to edit their work too!
• went to the Science Lab and practiced using those tools.

This evening at home....

• complete Math 2.1 Homework and Practice
• complete the Reading Pages: Vocabulary and Fun Facts using My Library Is A Camel
• study for tomorrow's SS quiz.
• read and record.
• write your name on your new Gold Card and pledge to be 100% prepared this month.
• If you have time for ST Math, go for it. Kids, you know my goal! I want 201 to be #1 in the entire school.  We can do this!

Tomorrow we will....

• take our SS Quiz
• practice a Code Yellow Drill
• discuss Cause and Effect and discuss MLIAC
• write dialogues. We will create characters and write some conversation!
• work on more multiplication models and explore patterns in multiplication

Tuesday Thoughts

Today's post will be quick.....


This evening at home...

• select ONE of this week's vocabulary words and complete the Interview.  You MUST use complete sentences.  Try to make your writing colorful and interesting.
• complete pages 61 and 62 in Go Math Chapter 2.  Cut out the vocabulary cards and use them to help you.  Keep these clipped in a safe place!
• Study for Thursday's SS test.  Study guides went home yesterday. The test will be an exact replica of the study guide. So...study!
• complete pages 31,32, and 33 in the Readers Notebook

We are taking the MAPS Science test on Friday.  You can't study, so just come in rested and ready to try your best.

Mobile Library Monday

Today's title is related to the topic of this week's Journeys selection: My Librarian is a Camel.  We read this informational text today.  This evening, students will use the text to complete an activity in the Readers Notebook.  Kids, use your books!


This evening at home....

• Study for tomorrow's Go Math test.  All kids should have all of the correct answers and explanations on the Review/Practice test.  A great way to study is to complete the same problems subbing in different numbers.   Pay close attention to key words such as under, combined, how much more, the difference, in total.
• Reread selection of M.L.I.A.C. to help you complete pages 25-28 in the Readers Notebook
• Begin looking over this week's spelling and vocabulary words. If you want extra practice activities, look on the Journeys tab on the blog.  Select "Spelling Choice Board." You can also do these activities using the vocabulary words. I am NOT collecting Spelling/Vocab Tic Tac Toe. This is optional extra practice.
• Study for the Social Studies quiz that will take place on Thursday.   A study guide was sent home today.  Students have crossed out the terms city,and state.   On the test, students will be asked to label the map to show the location of  each term.  They will draw in the Equator and Prime Meridian. The rest of the terms can be shown with arrows, labels and lines.

Enjoy this video by Bill Nye. This week in the lab, we will use some of these "6 Tools of Science." Next week, we will move on to Unit 7 in Science Fusion and the study of Matter.

Full of Math Friday

Thanks for your help with today's title today, Jordan!

Today we....

• worked on our Continental Research
• went to Gym
• read Ivan
• took our Reading/LA test
• worked on the Chapter 1 Review
• spent some time with JiJi

This weekend at home....

• Please finish the entire Chapter 1 Review. Show all work!  Be ready to ask questions on Monday. We will test on Tuesday!
• Read at home for in an hour or more!
• All Continent Research Projects are due next Thursday, October 1.  Most kids are almost finished!  We will not be spending any more class time on this project. Make sure that......1. All sections are complete 2. Spelling is correct 3. Pictures are colored and contain informative captions. 4. Work is neat! 5. Landmarks include precise locations.
• We will have a S.S. Quiz next Thursday. Kids are expected to know the locations of the Continents and Oceans.

Thinking About Graphs Thursday

Today we worked on graphing data. Ask your kids about the x axis, the y axis, and about some of the decisions they need to make before creating a bar graph.  Kids can explore this cool site at home. It is chock full of information and offers lots of opportunity for learning.

Create A Graph


This evening at home...

• continue to read Ivan!
• complete the Go Math homework and practice for lesson 1.8.  Also complete or check your work on the problems we circled in class today.
• complete the following pages in the Journeys Reading Notebook: 18,21,22 and 23. Read the directions carefully on page 23. You will get it!
• study for the Reading/LA test tomorrow.

***We will be reviewing Chapter 1 in Math tomorrow and will be ready to test on Monday!  All students will come home with a corrected Chapter Review tomorrow that they can use as a study guide.

Wiz Kid Wednesday

Thank you Maxwell!  Maxwell's Marvelous  List of Appropriate Alliterations inspired today's title. Keep them coming 201!



Today we....

• opened with a bit of Math and a bit of Reading.
• moved on to our Continent research.   
• took the MAPS Math test
• went outside to practice our Bus Evacuation Drill.
• estimated and subtracted.
• did some Algebra.  We worked backwards to find the solutions.
• visited the Science Lab.  We did some graphing and made some "beautiful mistakes." Tomorrow we will fix them.

This evening at home....

• complete the second page, front and back, of the IVAN packet.  These pages are entitled " Glossary" and  "The One and Only Ivan Assignment #1."
• complete the Homework and Practice in Go Math lesson 1.8
• Read and Record: If you are behind in IVAN, make this your priority.  You need to reach page 99 A.S.A. P..   If you are on target in IVAN, read a book of your choice.

Total Blank Tuesday

Hey 201ers!

I need some help. Total Blank Tuesday just doesn't have to be. With 31 great minds at work, we should have a meaningful title for each day of the school year.  Here is how you can help: Make a list of alliterations can can work for each day of the week. Time Travel Tuesday, Tornado Tuesday?  Please help. I will keep the lists in a file near my desk.


This evening at home...

• show your parents/guardians your Gold Card. 
• show your parents/guardians your Math Quiz and the Winn Dixie test. Get it signed and return it to me.
• complete the "Similes and Metaphors" page in the Ivan packet. Now, look on the back. Do this page too.
• make sure you are  approaching page 100 in Ivan.
• complete Go Math Homework and Practice for Lesson 1.6. If classwork problems are circled, please complete them.

Please finish today's Math classwork!

Please do last night's homework. You know who you are. Parents, check the Gold Card to see your child's standing.

Math Quiz Monday

Hello Team 201 Families,

What a beautiful day!  Happy Monday! Those sentences are exclamatory.  That last one was declarative, as is this one.  I wonder when I will get to interrogative? Oh, I just did!  Do all of your homework tonight 201.  That one was imperative.  Tomorrow is Bucket Ticket Day.


This evening at home.....

• In the Ivan packet, complete the front and back of the  " Let's Get Acquainted" page.  Get specific.
• Math Homework Lesson 1.5
• Book Fair tomorrow!
• Read and record, please.

Book Fair Alert

Happy Sunday Team 201,

I hope that you all are enjoying this beautiful day!   We are scheduled to go to the Book Fair tomorrow.  I am trying to change this to a later day, but I am warning you just in case. I also posted this on Edmodo Friday, so some of you may have already gotten the message.

See you bright and early!

First Test Friday

Hi Team 201 Families!

We had our first Reading/ Language Arts test today.  They are scored, and I will get them entered and sent home A.S.A.P..  If your child did poorly on one of the sections, you may get a Parent Portal Alert.  Please remember that this is the first of many scores that will be entered.  Because there are so few grade entered, this one will really bring the average up or down.   Don't fret! We will look for trends and will be able to focus on areas that need the most help. The weekly test are entered by category: Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar and Decoding.   Seeing the scores in isolation will help us pinpoint targets and successes!


This weekend at home.....

• Please look over the  Go Math "Mid Chapter Checkpoint" together.  We corrected this homework together today and I looked over each one. 
• We will take a Quiz on the " Mid Chapter Checkpoint" concepts on Monday morning.
• Make sure that you have read to page 50 in Ivan.
• Read and record 1 or more times!

Help! We need Band Aids!

Back to School Basics: Welcome to Open House

Good Evening Team 201 Families,

Thanks for coming back to school this evening.  I hope that you will enjoy looking around our space. Do you have questions? I hope that I will be able to answer most of them this evening. Here are some possible topics to get us started:

• How can I use this blog?
• What is the Homework Policy?
• What are Homework expectations?
• What is the Gold Card?
• Where can I find the weekly Spelling and Vocabulary words?
• Tell us more about Edmodo assignments.
• Where can I find online resources?
• What about the snack?
• What is the best way to contact the teacher?

That's How You Round Thursday

Today we worked on Rounding. Students corrected last night's homework and learned from their errors. That's how we do it here in 201.  Another thing we do in 201 is use strategies to solve problems. If you don't get it, get active. Underline, write something down, do something! Chances are that you will be able to solve the problem if you start the problem. No blank spaces on homework, people!  You can do it!


This evening at home.....

• study for your Reading/spelling and vocab. test.
• Complete the "Plot/Summary" page.
• complete the Mid Chapter Checkpoint in Go Math
• read a book of your choice and record on your log.
• come to Open House! I will also be attending my daughter's Open House, so I will need to leave Disney at 6:45.   I hope that you will come to 201 first. 

World Map Wednesday

Hello 201 Families!

Today we....

• Used Edmodo links to begin our World Regions study.  We also learned a bit more about navigating on Edmodo.
• Switched the order of Math and Reading so that we could work on Math while we were fresh. We talked about why we use Estimation and how we round so that we can make life easier.
• Met in small groups to talk and do Math.
• Launched Esparks. We will be working on our individualized quests by next week.
• Read!  We discussed and compared the two selection in Journeys.
• Talked about Subjects and Predicates.
• Went to the Science Lab.
• Went to Library.

This evening at home....

• Don't forget that Owls are due on Friday
• Please use Because of Winn Dixie and Bookends to complete Side B of the Response to Reading Sheet.
• Complete the Homework for lesson 1.4 in Go Math. If the Lesson Pages are circled,  your child should also complete these pages.

Totally Connected Tuesday

Greeting 201 Families!

Today we...

• got to know our new ipads!
• connected on Edmodo. Our class network, EspritdeCorpsinFourTeam201 is up and running. We will complete our first learning assignment linked on Edmodo tomorrow.
• discussed the Edmodo Code of Conduct. Digital Citizenship is a 21st Century must.
• corrected our Math homework and worked on the problems in Lesson 1.3. We are comparing numbers.
• finished up our "Adjective Art." Thanks for the great idea Mrs. Varner!
• Used Science Fusion to discuss the Scientific Method.

This evening at home...

• complete the Homework and Practice for Lesson 2.3.  Select kids have been asked to complete today's classwork. Check your child's book and make sure the following problems are done: 15,16,17,18, 22
• read the Edmodo Code of Conduct. Please discuss, sign and return.
• use Winn Dixie to complete side  A of the double sided Thinking It Through Reading Response  sheet.

Team 201 Tips...

• Unfinished Math class work is not always homework. I will let you know!
• It is very warm in the Pod.  A water bottle is a good idea.
• Tomorrow we launch Esparks! 
• Thursday is Open House. I will be zipping out to attend my daughter's High School Open House at 6:45. Come to me first, if you can!  I can't wait to meet you all!

Making Progress Monday

201 is making awesome progress when is comes to learning classroom routines and structure. Thank you parents, for helping your child come to school ready to learn each day.  Our Gold Card signature rate is excellent!  Keep it up!


Today we......

• completed our morning Math and Language warm up
• read our first story in Journeys: Because of Winn Dixie
• introduced the week's spelling and vocabulary words
• went to Dance with Ms. Smith
• discussed and practiced working with Expanded Notation ( thanks Ian O.), Word Form, and Standard Form
• revisited the adjectives that evoke the mood, tone and feeling expressed in The One and Only Ivan,  focusing on similarities and differences

This evening at home....

• Reread Because of Winn Dixie in Journeys
• Complete the "Analyze Text" questions that are found throughout the text. These questions appear in a small box and are labeled "Analyze Text." Answer in complete sentences and use evidence from the text to support your ideas.
• Complete the Math homework for lesson 1.2. You do not need to finish the unfinished classwork tonight.
• Owls are due on Friday!
• We will have a Spelling/Grammar and Reading test on Friday. The study sheet can be found on the tab on this blog: Weekly Study Guides. Kids were also given hard copies.
• Please put September 17 on your calendar. Open House is at 6:00 p.m..  

First Week of Fourth Friday

We made it!  Congratulations Team 201!  It was a great week. Parents, I will post more later.  Here is the short list.


This weekend at home....

• Complete any morning work that may be unfinished. Parents, this is the sheet that reads "Day 1- Day 4" Many kids have already turned this in.
• Read and Record on your log. I am looking for a minimum of one reading session. Get a signature.
• Don't forget that the Owl is due next Friday.
• Come to school ready to work hard on Monday.
• Have a relaxing weekend. You deserve it!

Toothpaste Thursday

Today's title refers to our work in the Science Lab. We put the Scientific Method to the test.  Ask your child about the variables in today's experiment. There were too many of them!  It was another busy day in 201.

Today we....

• did a Language and Math warm up.
• discussed our first at home project: Whoooo Are You.  It is due on Friday, 9/18. All of the materials are in your child's green folder.
• cut out our "buckets" and posted them
• read The One and Only Ivan and had a short discussion
• went to Art with Mrs. Varner
• began Chapter 1 in Go Math. 
• went to the Science Lab
• are currently transitioning from lunch to recess
• will continue to work on lesson 1.1 in Go Math after lunch

This evening at home...

• Complete your daily reading in The One And Only Ivan. Read for 25 minutes or longer and record on your log. Get a signature.
• Complete the "Looks on a Book" page based on T.O.A.O.I. ( Get it?  That's an acronym! )
• Complete the Go Math  homework and practice pages for lesson 1.1. Students were asked to circle these pages in their book.
• Finish up the questions on today's Lab sheet. I will collect it tomorrow.
• Pick up your shoes and put them away. Don't leave them scattered in the house!  Do this before anyone asks you to do so.  

Wacky Wednesday

Thanks to Andrea for helping me create today's title. Today was a bit wacky.  We had some delays in taking the MAPS test, which threw us off schedule just a tad.  Later, I was sooo hungry that I apparently tried to time travel, walking us to lunch a full hour early!  We will end our day with Library, and we will definitely be in the Science Lab tomorrow.

Help!
Are you able to help in 201 tomorrow morning? I have several classroom and Pod jobs that need attention. Send me an email if you are able to spend some time here tomorrow. Thank you!

Today we....

• Began our morning routine. We did a little math, and we did a little reading. We learned how to organize our work space and homework so that we can start the day on the right foot!
• Took the MAPS test. This took up most of the morning.
• Created "Name Glyphs," using a code to communicate "us stuff."
• Read the first few pages of Jack Adrift: Fourth Grade Without a Clue, which is our first read aloud of the year.

This evening at home....

• Check your child's Gold Card. It may have a little note from me about a missing homework assignment! If this is the case, please sign to indicate that we are on the same page.
• Make sure that you have checked the book bag for important forms: CPS Code of Conduct, Lunch, Emergency, Media, Opt Out Communication
• Students, read the Teammate Top 10 List with care.
• Use the Graphic Organizer to show/write about one example for each tip. There are 10 Tips and there are 10 spaces.
• Complete the Bucket page for your table and teacher. Try to be specific!  
• Don't forget to bring a book to school each day.

Tomorrow we will.....

• Go to the Science Lab
• Get our new Math books: Place Value, here we come!
• Go to Art.
• Read and discuss!

Team 201 Tuesday

Welcome to Team 201!

 I am so happy to welcome a fresh batch of children and families to 4th grade. It was a busy day, filled with administrative work. I am working on learning names, getting kids to the correct spots after school, and establishing routines. Your child is coming home with notes and forms galore today!
Please take some time to read the green welcome letter. It contains lots of important information about rules, homework, and communication. I apologize, parents, that most of tonight's homework is yours. I know how long it takes to complete lunch, emergency, discipline and other forms. Thank you in advance for getting forms returned to me as soon as possible!



 This evening at home.....

• Read the green note and get familiar with the GOLD CARD. It comes home and is returned to school with signatures each day.
• Kindly complete my parent survey.
• Find the CPS Envelope and other Disney forms. Again, return them as soon as possible.
• Students: Read a book of your choice for 25 minutes or longer.  Record your pages on the Reading Log and get a signature.
• Students: Write one paragraph about what your read tonight.  Here are some questions that may help you get started. What was your favorite part? What do you think about the main character's actions? Do you have an opinion about what you read? Back it up with evidence.   Please make sure that your paper has a heading that includes your name, the date,  and the title of the book and author.
• Students: show your parent your writing and ask them to sign the gold card on today's date.

Important News

• Team 201 will take the Reading MAPS test tomorrow morning. This data will help me get a sense of where your child is right now and will help me individualize instruction.
• Today was not your average day! Don't worry, our regular academic routines will be in place by the end of the week.
• Lunch is served at 12:30
• Open House is September 24

Facilities

Monday: Dance

Tuesday: Music

Wednesday: Library

Thursday: Art

Friday: Gym

Please feel free to send me an email or to contact me with concerns or for a friendly hello. I look forward to meeting you all. I have a fantastic group of kids in front of me. I can already tell. Thanks for sending them my way.

Making the Most of the Month Monday

Greetings to former and future 4th Grade Families! You still have a month of summer. I hope that you all are enjoying the beautiful weather. I have just uploaded the most up-to-date Pod 200 Supply List. I know that it is difficult to read. Click on the image to enlarge. I can't wait to greet the new 4th grade students in September. Fifth Graders: don't forget about dear old Mrs. Ginn! Please stop by to say hello. I will be checking in on Edmodo this month to say hello and hear your summer stories.

Fanks For Flying Fabulously Though Fourth

Dear Team201 Students and Families,

Wow! It's the last day of school.  I am so proud of this group. You have worked hard. You have pushed to find your "best self," and you have succeeded!   I have really missed you all this week, and I hope that you are ending on a positive note today.  Please stay in touch!  

Parents, I do not assign summer work packets.  There are plenty of ways to keep those minds active over the summer.  I encourage all to sign up for the Ten Marks Summer Math program. Parents, it is easy to register.  Click on the Ten Marks tab above to get started.  Kids, you really need to keep reading this summer! Read on Myon. Read real books. Read magazines. Read every issue of Wild Times. Click above for the links.  Sign up for the CPL Summer Learning Challenge.  Go to the beach. Get sandy. Think about erosion. Read some more.

Click her for the Good Reads 5th grade book list.

5th Grade List

I will leave you with a few of my favorite videos. Enjoy, and be your best self!  Also, kids, please make your bed and put your shoes away, for goodness sakes!  

Time To Say Goodbye Tuesday

Too Sad Tuesday
Toodleloo Tuesday
Ta Ta Tuesday
Trying To Keep it Together Tuesday


Today was a tough one in many ways. I can't tell you how much I appreciate the kind words, cards, and sentiments.  The chocolate is nice too!  Thank you all for a fantastic year.  It has truly been a pleasure to work with your wonderful children.

A few notes.....

• Mrs. Hastings and Mrs. O'Hara will be taking over 201 duties.
• There will not be regular homework
• We will be finishing Chapters 12 and 13 in Math
• Students should continue to work on Myon this summer.   
• Parents, I encourage you to register for the Ten Marks Summer Slump Program.  See the tab above? Click on it to register.

There's My Animal Thursday

This title was often repeated today! We saw Matthew's Poison Dart Frog, Bella's Giraffe, Malaika's Polar Bear...and so many more!  The Brookfield Zoo is a wonderful place. We only wish that we'd had more time. Thanks to John's mom, Makaelyn's mom, Olivia's mom, and Matthew's mom for joining us.  Many hands make light work!  It was a great day.

Alert!!!!!
The due date for the Marble Maze paper has been extended to Monday.   You may bring it in tomorrow or on Monday. No penalties.  I can't wait to see all of the marble mazes on Monday.  The kids know that I won't be able to come to school tomorrow.  I will miss you.  Please be your best selves.  Malaika is going to teach you how to make a "Brookfield Zoo" fan.

We're Going To the Zoo Tomorrow Wednesday

Hi Team 201,

I will see you all bright and early in the morning.  Don't forget to bring a bag lunch and walking shoes!  We are going to have a great time tomorrow.  No cameras or electronic devices, please!

Median and Mode Monday

Sorry for the very late post, Team 201 Families!  Don't worry about tonight's homework. I know that there was some confusion, and I apologize that I was not able to respond to the posts on Edmodo earlier in the evening. I hope that most kids understood that they should finish the homework for today's Math lesson.


News....

• We have one more chaperone spot open.  Our trip to the Brookfield Zoo is this Thursday.  If you can attend, please send me an email.  There is no cost for chaperones.
• Thursday should be a great day.  There will be lots of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.  Bring a disposable lunch that you can carry and a bottle of water.  
• Marble Mazes paper reports are due on Friday.  The actual mazes are due June 8th. I can't wait to see them! 

Tons of Thoughts Thursday

Today's title team had lots of ideas. This one seems to fit.  Today we talked about tons, and pounds and ounces.  We also had tons of Think Central issues.

This evening at home....

• complete the homework for lesson 12.3 in Go Math
• read, or reread chapters 27-33. Stop at page 110.  Create an inventive chapter title for each of these chapters.   No one word titles.  Then, explain why you think this title is appropriate.  A strong sentence or two for each will do.

Why Does Grass Bend in the Wind Wednesday?

This is one of the questions that we attempted to answer in the Lab today.  Ask your child about this adaptation.  I hope that they mention strong roots and open meadows or fields. We also discussed how vines are adapted to living in a forest environment, where there is less light.  Ask and learn!

This evening at home...

• Complete Go Math lesson 12.2
• Compare texts in Journeys: select one
• Readers' Notebook pp 327 and 328
• Field Trip Money and Forms are absolutely, positively due tomorrow.  If there is an issue, please let me know a.s.a.p..  We want 100% attendance on this final trip. It is going to be a great day!

Totally Silent Tuesday

Totally Silent is what these kids were today from about 9:45-11:15.   We took our EOY Math MAPS test today!  We also talked Maniac, took an open book quiz on Part 1, worked on The Fun They Had, and had a mini- Math lesson.   Some kids were able to "hide" their butterflies around the room too.

This evening at home...

• complete pages 639-640 of Chapter 12 Go Math
• cut out the vocabulary cards and clip them or put them in your math vocab. bag.
• complete the Maniac review page.  Use your book!
• bring in your Trip form and money.

Filled With Math Friday

That's what today has been...math-filled. Special thanks to Sam for creating today's title.   We worked on metric conversions, used the anagram King Henry Usually Doesn't Drink Chocolate Milk, challenged ourselves with some very tricky, multi-step problems.  Team 201 really earned their recess!
  I love listening to your children read the poetry and hyperbole work that was assigned yesterday.  We will hear more after lunch.  I hope that all 201 families enjoy the long weekend. I will look forward to seeing you on Tuesday.


This weekend at home....

• read The Fun They had in Journeys.
• read for pleasure and record on your Gold Card.
• don't forget that online MAPS practice questions are available on Prepdog, Study Island, ST Math and Ten Marks.
• make your bed.
• do some dishes.
• clean your room.
• put your shoes away.
• do the above without any rolling of the eyes, muttering under the breath, or procrastination of any kind.
• smile, you are appreciated!

Enjoy this educational tidbit from They Might Be Giants.