On a different note, we are still working hard to reign in the talking that occurs in our classroom. We are hoping for your support in having a conversation with your child this weekend about the talking so we wanted to offer insight as to what exactly the problem is. What is unique about this class is that the disruptions, interruptions, and general noise is not out of malice or intentional disrespect, or even boredom or lack of understanding during class. Our kids, ALL of whom are sweet, gentle, smart kids that we LOVE(!), are really struggling to understand how to filter their thoughts. They talk to their table-mates during lessons; they blurt out and interrupt us during teaching lessons with opinions, questions, and even random comments; they interrupt other students while they are sharing; they talk in the hallways; and they talk during independent work time. Both of us experience this, and we've also received this feedback from all four specials teachers as well as the lunchroom staff. Because it is truly a majority, and not just a handful of students, we are blogging this week in hopes of your collaboration to help our kiddos understand that it is impacting our learning, what we are able to accomplish, and, ultimately, sacrificing some of the fun things that we have planned due to wasted time. We appreciate any time you may find to have a gentle but reflective conversation about their role as a learner and classmate in our 303 family.
Reading: We had some very positive experiences in reading this week with our reading partners. As I mentioned last week, these partners were created to develop a trusting relationship over the course of the year. They read together, offer feedback, brainstorm responses, and create work collaboratively. I am proud of the high-level of thinking they showed this week during these sessions. Ask your reader who his/ her partner is and what he/ she likes about working together. Ask your reader how Shiloh ended. Did they like it? What was one of the themes they pulled out of the story?
Writing: We had a very slow week of writing and therefore I had to extend their deadline. I mentioned that you'd be asked to read their drafts and offer feedback; please stay tuned for this homework assignment next week. We will edit on Monday and begin typing final pieces. Talk to your kids about their story. What is it about? What is the problem and solution? Describe the setting. What are their characters like? Then.... ask them if the answers they've given are actually IN the story they wrote!
Spelling: Each week students move up to the next list on the Spelling City Website. They should practice this list of words throughout the week by playing games on the website or by using the suggested activities listed on their yellow sheet (This sheet is taped into their take-home folder and also linked to our blog and our homework site. It also has a step-by-step overview of how to submit their test). After they've practiced, they take their test online. They must submit their passing spelling test (80%, or 12/15) by Friday by taking a screenshot of their test and emailing it to me. The kids record their week's list number in their assignment notebooks so they don't forget it! Ask your child to show you the Spelling City website where they access their list, play games, and take their test.
Math: This week we finished our metric unit. We worked on our study guide during class on Monday and corrected a few problems on Tuesday. On Wednesday we took the test! We then began our multiplication unit by learning the area and perimeter of a shape. We discussed the formula we need to use and found the area and perimeter of different shapes. Ask your child if the know the formula for area (LxW) or perimeter (L+W)x2
Social Studies: This week we had a short Social Studies time due to seeing the show Beauty and the Beast from Bravo. We did upload our assignment to Edmodo and we previewed what students know about the Northeast. Next week we will begin our research on the Northeast region.
Science: Our scientists began their research projects. Students have chosen (from our list) a land or water form in the United States to research. They will be using their iPads and books to do the research in class. Then they will make a presentation on their iPad. Ask your child what land/water form they are researching and how it is going!
Mystery Reader: We had a great time on Monday with Camden and Aidan's mom and grandparents! They read a choose your own adventure book which was a lot of fun.
Miscellaneous:
- Magic Show at Whittier! Please join us for an extra-special Family Night hosted by the School Improvement Team on Thursday, November 12th. Dinner will be served in the mini-gym at 5:30PM. At 6 PM, families are invited to see the award winning show, The Magic of the Spellbinder. All Whittier Families are invited RSVP: Please RSVP by Nov. 6th to give us an accurate count!
- Save the date for late January! One Book One School is back! Our PTO generously helps us coordinate this awesome whole-school novel each year and we'll be starting to take donations at the Book Fair during conferences. Please consider donating. More info to come about our book!
