Reading: We began our 4th grade reading journey by establishing routines and setting expectations for independent reading. I've had the pleasure of reading with several students already and look forward to continuing my reading conferences next week. We also set the routine of sharing reading successes at the end of our reading time; it's a great way to check in with one another and to celebrate the hard work accomplished by all. Next week we'll begin our first class novel, Shiloh. Most of this will be read by me during class while the kids read along in their own copies of the book. They'll be able to take their books home with them to respond to the chapters. We'll use the book to further develop an understanding of setting, characters, and the way a plot is structured. I'm really excited for it!
Writing: Our writers started the year by decorating their notebook covers to personalize their notebooks and make them more creative. We read a few short stories to inspire us as writers, and started to build a list of topics we might want to write about this year. We also set up routines and had our first writers share! The kids are already very enthusiastic about some of the creative choices they'll get to make this year, and they've given our writing time a focused and energetic effort.
4th Grade Math: This week we started math on Wednesday but had a very short class on Thursday. We talked all about numbers and how numbers can explain who we are. We made posters to decorate our hall that explain who we are. We can't wait for you to see them on Curriculum Night on September 11.
Science: Today we talked about our first science unit, Land and Water. We set up our notebooks and talked about the scientific method. We can't wait to start our unit next week. It will be rooted mostly in experiments as how learn about they'll the Land and Water concepts, supplemented by some great readings, videos, 'lectures,' and discussions. It's an awesome unit!
Social Studies: This year we will be working on the regions of the United States and current events. We talked a little about continents our first day and worked our way to the United States. The students worked in groups to fill out blank United States maps to share what they know. On Tuesday we will share these maps and start our current events.
Miscellaneous
- If you're looking for a fun, low-stress way to get involved, please consider volunteering at the Whittier Library! Volunteers come in for about an hour per week to help students check out, locate books, and shelve returned books. If you're interested, please contact our librarian, Laurie Conley, at lconley@op97.org or stop by the library. You will be MUCH appreciated! Thanks!
