Merry Christmas!

Good afternoon everyone!

This will be my last blog post for 2014.  I want to thank everyone for all the goodies that were sent in as well as the kind gifts.  I think the students had a good time.

In your child's folder you will find their graded papers for this week.  I would still like the top sheet when they return from break.  This pile is very important since it includes many common core assessments that were taken this week in reading and math.  Please look through them carefully.

Also, you will find a reading packet and math packet for your child to complete over the break.  This packet was required by the administration.  While students won't be in trouble if they don't complete it, it is good practice for the PARRC test. I will also be giving bonus tickets for the prize box for students who complete them properly.

Again, I want to thank everyone for your support and help this year.  I hope you have a blessed Christmas and New Years!

One More Day!

Good Afternoon, everyone!

Tonight's Homework is simple:  Study for spelling and GROW.  :-)

I spent most of the day working on division.  After 4 days of teaching several different strategies, only a handful of students were able to pass the quiz today.  Part of the problem is that, again, almost half of the class didn't do their division homework.  Because of this, I find myself reteaching the same thing every day.  Unfortunately, I have come to the point where I have to say it is what it is.  Break is here and when we return from break, we have to hit the ground running with fractions.  I spent an extra 90 min with the students still struggling today during technology and PE.  The light seems to be going on for many of them.  So . . . some students are finishing the quiz we worked on in school for homework tonight.  We will be having a unit test tomorrow covering multiplication AND division.  It might be a good idea to review a little tonight anyway, even if they finished their work in school.  I appreciate your help on this.

Tomorrow:

• Students are allowed to wear a green top with their uniform bottoms.  We will be beginning the Color Wars when we return from break, and room 403 is on the green team.  Color Wars is a community building exercise where teams made up of students and staff members compete in different areas to win points.  As I said, we are green.  Go GREEN!!!  
• Next, we will be watching the first Narnia movie.  Students are allowed to bring a treat to pass out.  I ask that the treats are already individually wrapped and ready to pass out.  For example, I don't want 3 big bags of chips that I have to pour onto a napkin for the students.  This has to happen before lunch, so much of the stuff will be brought home.  (I'm not going to allow them eat too much junk before lunch.  :-)  )  
• I will not be assigning homework over the break, but the administration has requested that we send home some PARRC review material.  Therefore, the fourth grade has decided to send home a Reading practice test and a Math practice test.  While it is not required, we greatly encourage students to try it.  I will be giving tickets for the prize box for completed packets.  This will be a good sample of what is coming in March and April.  

I think that's it for now.  Text me on the Dojo if you have any questions.

Wednesday, December 17

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Spelling:  Unit 16 workbook pages
• Math: TP 13-4 (Students may choose any strategy, but they must show it!)  Below are two examples of the Partial Quotients strategy I taught today. 

Happy Tuesday!

Good afternoon!

Well, today was our Winter Celebration Assembly and it was a great success!  Thank you to all the parents that attended!

Tonight's Homework:

• Math: #1-8 of lesson 13.6 in the workbook.  Students must show their work and check each problem.  

Students are also putting the finishing touches on Christmas cards for my mom.  In case you haven't heard, my mom has been volunteering on Wednesdays in the classroom.  She helps me out immensely by grading, copying, filing, etc.  She also gets to hear many of the students read aloud to her.  I'm going to surprise her tomorrow with a small token of our appreciation and cards from the students.

And don't forget, Friday is our celebration before the Christmas Break.  We will be watching the first Narnia movie.  Students will be allowed to bring treats to pass out.  Don't worry, though!  Since this must occur before lunch, I will not be allowing the students to fill themselves with candy and cookies.  :-)  I will probably allow them to eat just a couple of things that are passed out and save the rest in a big ziploc bag for home.

I think that's it for now.  Have a great day!

Happy Monday!

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Math:  Choose 10 problems from lesson 13-4 and show work.
• Spelling:  Unit 16 spelling sentences

Tomorrow is our Winter Assembly.  I haven't been told what time it will take place yet.  If you would like to come, just call the office, and they will let you know.

Have a great afternoon!

Thursday, December 11

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Math:  Multiplication Comparisons wkst 2 and 3
• Study for Spelling and GROW

Also, don't forget that tomorrow is a half day.  Students will be dismissed at 11:15 AM.

Have a great afternoon!

Wednesday, December 10

Happy Wednesday, everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Math:  Wkbk. lesson 11-4  (Again students may choose any 10 problems.  This time students may use any of the three strategies used in class:  Area Model, Take Apart, or the algorithm.  They must show their work for each problem.)
• Spelling pages were completed in class today while I was at a meeting.  Therefore, students can work on Study Island and/or Compass Learning Reading.

I think that's all for now.  Have a great afternoon.

Tuesday, December 9

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Math:  Workbook Lesson 11.3  (Students need to only choose 10 problems.  They may do more if they would like.)  They MUST use the area model to show for their work.  I know I don't say this very often, but please do not show them the algorithm yet.  Below is an example of the area model, and they have several in their notebooks.  

That's all the homework I'm assigning tonight.  They can work on Study Island or Compass Learning, as well as get an early start on their spelling.

Monday, December 8

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Spelling:  Unit 15 sentences
• Math: Workbook lesson 11-2  (Students only need to do the middle section, and they MUST show their work on the piece of paper in their workbooks.)

Some students have a second math page entitled, "Equal Groups".  This was their bell work this morning.  Most students finished, but the ones who did not have to finish this at home.

Thanks for everything!

Happy Friday!

Hi everyone!

Students were not given any homework for the week end.  However, there are a few students who have some late homework to finish up.  Also, I still need several progress reports back.  If you have yours at home and want to keep it, just jot me a note saying that you saw it.  I just need to know that you have seen your child's grades so far.

There were also a few students who didn't do so well on a multiplication quiz we took today.  I am giving them a chance to correct their mistakes over the week end.  They will retake the quiz for a better grade on Monday.  If this is your child, the quiz should be in their folder.

Finally:

COLOR WARS will be starting after break!!!  The school, including students and staff, have all been divided into color groups.  Room 3 is on the GREEN TEAM!!!!!!!   Dr. Nelson is also on the green team and has issued a challenge.  There will be a raffle for the members of the green team.  To get
your name in the raffle, 10 hours of Study Island and 10 hours of Compass Learning must be completed by December 19.  Let's go, Green!!!

Have a great week end!

Thursday, December 4

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Math: TP 10-1 (They were able to do most of this in class.)
• Study for Spelling and Grow

I want to brag on room 3 a little.  :-)  We took the math portion of our MAP test today, and the students did amazing!  I was so proud of them!  Nobody went down in their scores.  They worked hard and it paid off!  Good job, Room 3!

And thanks to all of you parents and guardians that help out so much.  You are definitely appreciated!

Have a great afternoon!

Wednesday, December 3

Good Afternoon!

Tonight's Homework:

• Spelling: Unit 14 workbook pages
• Math: Workbook Lesson 10-1 (Students must finish the whole page and show work on another sheet of paper.  If no work is shown, the assignment will be considered late.)

Please don't forget to send back your child's progress report if you haven't done so already.

Tomorrow is the Math portion of the MAP test.  However we will be taking it later, so we won't be so rushed in the morning.  I was pleased with the progress our students are making in reading and look forward to seeing the progress in math.  I will send home the final results with the second quarter report card.  You can compare these results to the goal setting sheet you received at conferences.  If you have any questions about your child's results, I would be more than happy to meet with you.

Thanks for everything and have a great afternoon!

Happy Tuesday!

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework

• Math:  Estimating worksheet 55 (students must show the estimating)
• Reading: 20-30 min on Compass Learning

I want to commend all the students for their hard work on the MAP test today.  I was very pleased with most of their progress.  Thursday will be the Math portion.

Also, if you haven't signed the progress report and sent it back to school, please do so as soon as possible.  I just want to make sure that everyone has seen their child's progress so far for the second quarter.  If you lost the sheet or want to keep it, just write a note in their agenda book that you saw the report.  Thanks!

Have a great evening!

Welcome Back!

Hi everyone!  I hope you had a blessed holiday spending time with family and friends.

Tonight's Homework:

• Spelling:  Unit 14 sentences
• Math: Text page 214 (sets A, B, and C only)  Students only have to do the even numbered problems, but if you would like them to do all, that's fine.  :-)

Very Important Information
Tomorrow, we take the winter benchmark test for MAP.  The reading portion begins at 8:00 AM.  Please try to have your child here on time.  Actually, as close to 7:45 would be the best.  Thanks!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hi everyone!

I did not assign homework over the holiday.  If your child has homework to complete, it is because it was something that is late.  However, some students did ask for homework, so I gave them a couple of Thanksgiving math papers to review coordinates and subtraction.  Neither is actual homework.  If they don't do it, that's fine.

The principal has asked that the students make sure to spend some time on Study Island and Compass Learning.  I would also like to remind the students that November Book It! ends on Sunday.  They can bring back their calendars on Monday.  I will have the December calendars then.

The most important thing is that Progress Reports are coming home today.  Please sign them and have your child return them on Monday.

Thanks for everything and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Friday, November 21

Hi everyone!

I have not assigned any homework for the week end.  Please remember to have your child read for Book-It! and Robin's Readers.  Also, I would love for each student to do at least an hour of Compass Learning math or reading over the week end.  (Maybe a half hour each for Saturday and Sunday? )

Thanks and have a great week end!

Thursday, November 20

Tonight's Homework

• Math: TP 9-3
• Study for Spelling and GROW

Important Dates to Remember:

• Tomorrow, November 21, is the Fourth Grade Spelling Bee.  It takes place at 9:00 in the Commons if you would like to attend.
• Next week there will be no school Wednesday - Friday due to the Thanksgiving holiday.  Also, because of the short week, there will be no GROW or spelling.

Wednesday, November 19

Tonight's Homework

• Math: TP 9-1
• Spelling:  Unit 13 Workbook pages

Can you believe that we are half way through the second quarter?!  I want to remind you that there are only two days of school next week.  Also, progress reports will be coming home on Tuesday.

Tuesday, November 18

Tonight's Homework

• Reading: "Racing a Tornado"
• Math:  Students may choose one side of the multiplication review.  They may do both sides if desired.

Monday, November 17

Tonight's Homework

• Spelling:  Unit 13 sentences
• Math: TP 8-3

Believe it or not, we have a full week of school.  :-)  Also, progress reports will be coming home next week.  My grades will be due on Friday, so anything missing after that point will be reflected as a zero in Power School.

Thanks for everything!

Friday, November 14

Hi everyone!

Homework is a little different today.  Students will have different homework assignments depending on their work in class.  Some students were able to finish everything.  Others were not.  Please check their agenda books to see exactly what your child has to do this week end:

Science:  Vertebrates Crossword Puzzle

Reading: "The Golden Fish" comprehension packet

Math: TP 8-6 (This was only assigned to those students who got too many wrong on the workbook page.)

Thursday, November 13

Tonight's Homework:

• Math:  TP 8-4
• Study for Spelling and GROW quiz

Don't forget, if you are looking for something for your child to do, get them on Compass Learning.  :-)  That would be the biggest help since it targets areas where this is a gap.

I want to thank everyone again for your support this year.  I really appreciate your help.

Wednesday, November 12

Tonight's Homework:

• Spelling:  Unit 12 workbook pages (Not the Writer's Workshop)
• Math:  TP 8-2

Monday, November 10

Tonight's Homework:

• Spelling Sentences: Unit 12
• Math: TP 8-1

Thank you so much to everyone who came out for conferences last week!  I enjoyed meeting with all of you.  Don't forget, if you ever have any questions or concerns to please communicate with me.

Tomorrow is Veteran's Day which means there is no school.  Please make sure your child completes their homework.

Thanks for everything!

Conference Time!

Hi everyone!

I want you to know that I did not assign any homework for the long week end.  I am asking that you have your child do at least 30 min of Compass Learning and 30 min. of Study Island over the week end.  I am also expecting each child to read, read, read!!  :-)

I look forward to meeting with you tonight and tomorrow.  Parent/Teacher conferences are always one of my favorite times of the year.  As you know, communication is very important to me.  Again I ask that you try to be on time for your appointment.  The time is very short and other parents will be waiting.  At the conference, expect to receive a folder filled with ISAT scores from last year, MAP test scores from this fall, the report card, work samples, and other important information.  Unfortunately, we will not have time to go over everything, but if you have any questions after looking through it, you can always schedule another meeting.

Thanks for everything you have done to support me this year.  I have definitely felt the help.  :-)  See you soon!

Fall Fest Fun!

Hi everyone!

Since the fall fest is today after school, I only assigned Spelling for homework.  Students need to complete the workbook pages for Unit 11 and study for the test.

If you really want them to have math practice, have them do 30 min on Compass Learning.  That would be great!

Reminders:

• The Fall Fest starts today at 4 PM and ends at 6 PM.  Students must be accompanied by an adult family member.  
• Parent/Teacher Conferences begin tomorrow evening.  Please make sure to stick to your assigned time.  If you are late, I cannot guarantee that I will be able to meet with you.  Feel free to text me on the Dojo or call the school office if you will be late or won't be able to make your appointment.  Thanks!
• There is no school on Friday due to Parent/Teacher Conferences.

Happy Friday!

Hi everyone!

I did not assign any homework for the week end.  :-D  The only students who have homework are those who have to make corrections on their Social Studies or finish their science from yesterday.  (That's only 3 or 4 students.)

Since there is no homework, have your child work on Compass Learning or Study Island this week end.

Thanks!  Have a good week end!

Thursday, October 30

Good afternoon, everyone!

Because of a training I needed to attend, students had a guest teacher today.  However, I was in the building just a few doors down.  That means behavior was a little better than last week.  :-)

Homework tonight should include:

• Math: TP 7-5
• Reading: Ms. Gerson's Homerun
• Study for Spelling and GROW

Tomorrow is our end of the month PBIS celebration.  Students who have earned it will be watching a movie.  I will be providing a small snack for those able to participate.  Please do not send any candy or snacks.  Thanks!

Wednesday, October 29

Tonight's Homework

• Math:  workbook 7-2
• Reading: Character Activity

Also, students can be working on Compass Learning and/or Study Island at home.  I have put in assignments in Study Island that need to be completed.  They have some time at school, but not everyday.

And don't forget about Book-It!  Friday is the end of October.  Students can turn in their October calendars on Monday for their free pizza slip.  I will give them November calendars on Monday.

Tuesday, October 28

Tonight's Homework:

Math:  TP 7-4
Spelling: workbook pages 63-64

Tomorrow is GymJam/Cool Nerd Day.  Students must dress in uniform, but they can "jazz" it up to be the cool nerd.  They'll also have an opportunity to dance and have a gymjam during their PE time.

Monday, October 27

Tonight's Homework:

• Spelling: Unit 10 sentences
• Math: TP 7.3  (Make sure they use sentences to explain the final question.)
• Science: Comprehension "How Do You Grow?"  (This was not supposed to be homework.  Students had over 40 min in class to complete this.)

Tomorrow is red t-shirt/crazy hat day.  Students were given a pass today if they are able to participate. No pass=no participation.

I think that's it for now.  Have a great night!

Wednesday, October 22

Tonight's Homework:

• Math: TP 7-3
• Reading: Author's Purpose Practice page

Don't Forget

Spirit Wear orders are due on Friday.  

The end of the first quarter is today.  

Finally:  Just to let you know, I will not be in school tomorrow.  I am fighting laryngitis and a sinus infection, so I think it will be better to get some rest.  Then I can be 100% for my kids.  :-)  I am very proud of them today and how much they helped me and made sure I was ok.  Thanks everyone!  

Tuesday, October 21

Tonight's Homework:

• Math:  Multiplication Arrays (They must do the bottom of the paper as well.)
• Reading: wkst 93

Also, don't forget about Book-It!  All students need to do is read 20 min each day.

That's it for now.  Have a good afternoon.

Monday, October20

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Spelling:  Unit 9 sentences (Remember, students only need to do 10 sentences.  Every word must be spelled correctly and the sentence must show the word in context.)
• Math: We will begin multiplication tomorrow, so students have a facts practice page tonight.

 I heard the Lupus walk was a wonderful success!  Thanks to all who participated and helped out!

Don't Forget
Friday papers are coming home today since I wasn't here on Friday.  Please sign the top sheet like normal and send it back to school.

The first quarter ends on Wednesday.  I'll be sending home reminders of your conference times either Friday or Monday.  Also, any missing homework past Wednesday will just be a zero.

Spirit Wear is on sale.  Order forms came home last week.

And finally, don't forget to have your child read for Book-It! and Robin's Readers.  After reading for 20 min, they can color in that day on their calendar.  When a book has been completed, it can be recorded on their Robin's Readers paper that came home a little over a week ago.

Thanks!!!

Lupus Walk is Tomorrow!

Hi everyone!

Because of our field trip, the only homework students have is to study for their spelling test.

We have many announcements now, so here goes:

• Tomorrow is the Lupus Walk.  The school would like every child who can to participate.  Therefore, permission slips were sent home with those who have not yet brought one back.  No donation is needed to be able to walk.  Just sign it and return it.  
• Tomorrow is also a half day.  Students will be dismissed at 11:15.  
• Also, tomorrow, I will be out of the district at a math seminar.  I hate to be gone on such an important day, but it could not be helped.  Please discuss with your child the importance of behaving even when the teacher is not there.  :-)  
• Finally, since I will not be here tomorrow, I sent next week's calendar home today.  Friday papers will come home on Monday.

I think that's it. . . . Oh wait!!   Book orders are due on Monday.  Now, I'm done.  Have a great week end, everyone!

Wednesday, October 15

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Math:  Worksheet 53  (And I do want them to follow ALL of the directions, including the bonus box on the bottom.)
• Spelling:  Unit 8 workbook pages

Don't Forget
Tomorrow is our field trip to see Mulan, JR.  It is very important that your child be on time if at all possible tomorrow.  We will begin loading the buses before 8:30.  A thank you goes out to our wonderful parents who have agreed to chaperone.  :-)

Have a great evening!

Tuesday, October 14

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Math: Pages 88-89 in textbook  (#4-33)  They had 20 min to start in class.  Work must be shown for adding, subtracting, and estimating.
• Spelling:  Unit 8 sentences  (Remember, sentences must show the context of the word chosen.)

Other news:

1. Book-It! has begun.  Make sure your child is coloring in their calendar each day when they finish reading their 20 min.  When they finish a book, they can add it to their book log for the "Robin's Readers".  These were given out last week.  Students must read at least 10 books by January 3, 2015.  
2. The field trip to see Mulan Jr. is on Thursday.  Students must dress in regular school clothes following the District 160 dress code.  They do not need to bring any money or other items.  The busses will be PULLING OUT at 8:30 am, so it is very important that your child be on time to school.
3. The Lupus Walk is Friday.  Students can bring in money and permission slips tomorrow, but they will not receive their t-shirts until Friday instead of Thursday.  
4. Friday is also a half day.  Students will be dismissed at 11:15.  

There's a lot going on this week.  :-)  Thanks for your help!

Fabulous Friday!

Hi everyone!

I have not given any written homework!  :-)

However, Book-It! calendars went home today.  To earn a certificate for a free personal pan pizza, students must read 20 min a day.  So that is what I am asking for this week end.  Let's get these kids used to sitting down for more than 5 min and reading!  :-)  All they have to do is color in the calendar each day they read.

They can also get on Compass Learning this week end.

Don't forget there is no school on Monday.  Have a great holiday week end!

Thursday, October 9

Tonight's Homework:

• Math: Make corrections on subtraction assignment
• Reading: Long O practice page (to practice their spelling skill)
• Study for GROW and Spelling

Also, don't forget that tomorrow is the final day to turn in forms for the Lupus Walk.

Thanks!

Wednesday, October 8

Hi everyone!  Sorry this is a little late getting up today.

Tonight's Homework:
Math: TP 4-3 (Students must show work for each subtraction problem on another sheet of paper.)
Reading: 30 min on Compass Learning (If you have no computer available, please write me a quick little note on the homework slip.  Thanks!)

That's it for tonight.  Have a good evening!

New Experiences!

Good afternoon, everyone!

Today many students had a new experience while practicing our Word of the Day: Symphony.

I played an example of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in class.The students kept asking for more!  They were introduced to Mozart's 39th Symphony, Beethoven's 5th Symphony, and John Williams conducting a symphony of the Star Wars theme.  Many students now want to learn how to play instruments such as the violin, harp, flute, and trombone.  One even wants to learn how to be the conductor!  It was a great discussion and conversation that I hope continues at home.

Math on the other hand was an up and down experience.  First down, then up.  :-)  Now that we are on our addition and subtraction unit, students were told to show their work on their homework.  Only 10 students did that.  :-(  I wanted to see if students knew how to carry.  I am also seeing that students still do not want to use good sentences to answer the extended response.  I am looking for more than one sentence.  Usually that ONE sentence includes the answer but no explanation on how they got the answer.  Please, please, please, help me!  Close to 50% of the PARCC (formally ISAT) math test will involve writing. I really need my students to start following my directions and explain their answers.  There are only a few who even give it a fair try.  Again, their sentences should include not just their answer, but how they got they answer.  However, on the upside, after a short review on subtraction, I told the students that I will be giving them one of two different assignments.  Some will get worksheet 9, while others will get worksheet 93.  I was pleasantly surprised when a good majority of the students asked if they could do both!  I do appreciate that initiative.

So . . . . Tonight's Homework
Spelling: Unit 7 workbook pages 45 and 46
Math: Worksheet 9 or Worksheet 93  (Remember, if they have both, it's because they asked for it. . . . and no extended response tonight.  Yeah!)

Thanks for your patience and understanding!

Marvelous Monday!

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Math: TP 3-4 (This involves adding with regrouping.  Please make sure work is shown on another sheet of paper neatly.)
• Spelling:  Unit 7 sentences

Dress Code Reminder
As days cool off, the classroom might feel cool to some of the students.  Students are not supposed to wear coats or jackets in the classroom.  Please remember that the dress code specifies navy blue or white cardigan or vest sweaters only.  Hoodies are not allowed.  Also, students may wear a shirt under their uniform top, but it is supposed to be white.  Thank you so much for your cooperation.

Have a great afternoon!

Fabulous Friday!!!

Hi everyone!

Well, we made it through another week!

I did not assign any homework for the week end.  I would like students to get on Study Island and complete the pretests if they haven't done so already.  Also, if they have finished that, then they can read for 20 min each day this week end.

There are 3 students who do need to finish Social Studies wkst 27 and a few that need to finish a math worksheet on variables.  This will be written on their homework slips.

As always, if you have any questions, feel free to contact me on the Dojo or through email.  Have a wonderful week end!

Thursday, October 2

Good afternoon, everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Math: TP 3-3  (With the last question answered using complete sentences.)
• Study for Spelling and GROW quiz

I think that's it.  :-)  Have a good evening!

Wednesday, October 1

I can't believe it is October already!

Tonight's homework:

• Math: TP 3-2  (We had a long talk about the quality of the homework turned in.  Students are not to write and do scratch work around the edges.  They know that if they have to do any work, it should be on another sheet of paper. . . .They can put it on the same paper they use to answer #8.)
• Spelling: Workbook pages 39-41

That's it for now.  Everything else seems to be running pretty smoothly right now.  Have a great afternoon!

Tuesday, September 30

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

• Math: TP 3-1  (Please make sure work is done on another sheet of paper along with the sentences for problem #8.)
• Reading: Summarizing practice

That's it for now.  Short and sweet.  :-)  Have a good evening!

Monday Madness!

Hi everyone!

I hope you had an enjoyable and relaxing week end.  Thank you to all of you that sent back the progress reports today.  I appreciate it.  If you haven't signed it yet, please do and send it back. I do need it separate from the top sheet.  That is my evidence that I am communicating with you about your child's progress.

Tonight's Homework:

• Spelling:  Unit 6 sentences (the first workbook page was completed in class)
• Reading: Summarizing worksheet (both sides)
• Math: Practice 3-2  (They had a good amount of time to begin this in class.  Most should be almost done.)

Also, don't forget about the Lupus walk on October 17.  Notes were sent home on Friday giving information about this.  If you would like your child to participate, please fill out the form that should be in your child's folder and send it back with the correct amount of money.

Thanks for your help and support!

Happy Friday!

Hi everyone!

I did not assign any homework for the week end!  We had a great day and the class worked very hard.
However, since there is no homework, I would like each child to read for at least 20 - 30 minutes each day this week end.  :-)

Progress Reports are stapled in the Friday papers.  Please sign it and return it with the top sheet on Monday.

Finally, Monday is the final day to turn in field trip money and permission slips.

Have a wonderful week end!

Thursday, September 25

Tonight's Homework:
Math: Page 32 (Sets A, B, and C)  Students were given 30 min. in class to finish this.
Reading: Summarizing wkst 29
Study for spelling and GROW.  (Spelling workbook pages should have been completed in class.)

Other notes:
Field trip permission slips and money are due by Monday.  I have enough chaperones.  Thank you to everyone for responding.

Progress reports will be stapled in the Friday papers tomorrow.

Have a great afternoon, everyone!

Wednesday, September 24

Good afternoon!

Tonight's Homework
Math:  TP 2-3  (Please make sure students use sentences to explain how they rounded on the extended response.  I expect them to use the place value terminology we have been using in class.)
Reading: Read "Fad-tastic Fads" aloud to at least one person.  If possible, more than one person.  Please initial so they can earn a bonus ticket for the prize box.

We have been working on spelling in class, so I am not assigning the workbook pages.  Students should be close to finishing them.  Of course students may work ahead.

Field Trip Update
I want to thank the family members who signed up as chaperones.  Thank you so much for your willingness to help out.

I think that's it for now.  Thanks!

Tuesday, September 23

Hi Everyone!

Tonight's Homework:
Math: Rounding Number #2
Reading: "Fad-tastic Fads" (Main Idea Practice)

I did not officially assign spelling. That will come tomorrow, but students can work ahead.

Field Trip!!
Our first field trip of the year is coming up on October 16th.  We will be going to see a production of Mulan, Jr..  What makes this field trip even more special is the fact that one of Meadowview's 4th grade students from Room 4 will be in the cast!  The cost is $10, and I am looking for 2 chaperones from this class.  Unfortunately, the chaperone's will also need to pay.  The $10 covers the cost of the
ticket and transportation on the bus.  If you would like to chaperone, please indicate so on the permission slip.  I can only use the first 2 adults that sign up. We are asking that field trip permission slips and money be returned as soon as possible but no later than Monday, September 25th.   If a student is not paid by Monday they will not be able to attend.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me on the Dojo or email.  Thanks and have a great afternoon!

Happy Monday!

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:
Spelling: Unit 5 - Choose 10 words and use them in complete sentences.  Make sure the sentences make it clear what the word means.
Math: Rounding Numbers worksheet
Reading: Finish Main Idea packet (We did the first page together along with several other examples in class.  Please ask your children to tell you what the topic of the paragraph is before they find the main idea. That will help them.)

Last Friday, your log in information for Power School was sent home.  You can log in at any time to see your child's grades and progress.  I try to update the grades over the weekends.

Progress Reports come home this Friday.

I think that's all for now.  Have a great afternoon!

It's the Week end!

Happy Friday everyone!

This week end, the only thing students need to do is finish their rounding problems in their workbook for lesson 2-3.  We worked on this in class, and I shared a new strategy of drawing a number line.  Students should have several examples in their notebook.  They only have to finish through #15, and I did #1-7 with them as examples.  I just don't want them to forget it, that's why I'm asking them to do the final problems over the week end.  Why don't you ask them to teach you our number line?  :-)

The only other thing is the top sheet.  Their graded papers for the week are in their folder.  Because it was a half day, I did not have a chance to grade their tests from today.  They will come home next week.  Please review their papers and sign the top sheet.

Thanks for everything and have a great week end!

Thursday, September 18

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:
Math: TP 2-2
Social Studies: Study for GROW
Spelling: Study for Unit 4 test


I didn't assign anything but math on purpose.  I really want students to study for GROW.  Progress Reports are coming out next week, and this will be the final GROW quiz that will be recorded before that happens.  We made flash cards this week so they can study easier.

Also, don't forget that tomorrow is a half day.  Students will be dismissed at 11:15.

Wednesday, September 17

Good afternoon, everyone!

Tonight's Homework:
Math: TP 2-1 (Please make sure students follow directions and use sentences on the extended response.)
Spelling: Wkbk pages 33 and 34

Reminders:

• The Book Fair is still going on until Friday.
• Friday is a half day.  Students will be dismissed at 11:15 am.

Tuesday, September 16

Good afternoon!

Tonight's Homework:
Math: Counting Money worksheet
Reading: Main Idea Worksheet

We are doing spelling a little differently this week.  Yesterday, students wrote sentences for 10 of the words.  Tonight, I did not assign anything.  Tomorrow, I will assign the 2nd and 3rd pages in Unit 4.  I did tell the students they could work ahead if they would like tonight.

I think that's all for now.  The Book Fair is still going on, so if you would like to send money, go ahead.

Thanks for everything!

Picture Day!

Hi everyone!  Your children looked great for picture day! I can't wait to see all of the beautiful pictures!

Tonight's Homework:
Math: Counting Money worksheet  (Both sides)
Spelling:  Choose 10 words and use them in complete sentences.  Please make sure the sentences show the meaning of the word.


The book fair is still going on.  Students can bring money to shop any day this week.

Have a great afternoon!

Happy Friday!

Good afternoon, everyone!

It was absolutely my intention to give no homework this week end.  However, again, we are having such difficulty following directions that we couldn't finish our math review.  It was 18 questions, and students had over 30 min. in class.  All they had to do was write the answers to the place value questions.  Students must finish whatever they did not finish in class.  This is page 17 (#2-19).

Other than that, please sign the top sheet on the Friday papers.  Some students need you to sign a test that is in their packet as well.

Other information:

• Monday is Picture Day.  Students may dress out of uniform.
• Monday also starts the book fair.  I do not know at this time what day will be our day to shop. If you would like to send money in a sealed envelope, I'll lock it in the cabinet overnight.  

I think that's it.  Have a great week end!

Thursday, September 11

Tonight's Homework:

Study for Spelling and GROW
Finish Spelling workbook pages
Math: TP 1-6  (PLEASE help me by making sure your child answers #6 using complete sentences on another sheet of paper.  This is something they must do on the PARRC (formerly ISAT) exam in great detail.  I am trying to get them started with just 2 or 3 sentence answers.  Thank You!)

Thanks for everything!

Wednesday, September 10

Hi everyone!

Tonight's Homework:
Math:  TP 1-5  (TP stands for Test Practice.  This worksheet contains problems very similar to what students will see on the PARRC exam (formerly ISAT).  You will be seeing this type of Math homework more often now.  It is very short, but the last problem is always an extended response.  It must be answered using complete sentences.  Students will always have to explain something.  I also like this done on another sheet of paper since the paper doesn't give them much room.
Reading: "Octopus"

I think that's all for now. Have a great afternoon!

Tuesday, Sept. 9

Good afternoon, everyone!

Tonight's Homework:

Math:  Workbook 1-5 (#1-15 only)  Students should be able to show you what 1-5 means.
Reading:  Main Idea practice worksheet

Thanks for helping me out with the homework slips.  We had a much better experience with homework collection today.

Students have their Picture Day order forms in their folder.

Have a great afternoon!

Happy Monday!

Hi everyone and welcome back to school after a nice relaxing weekend.  :-)

Tonight's homework:
Math: Expanded Form Worksheet
Reading: Sea Horses

 
I need your help!

Until we get our agenda books, I am requiring students to fill out a homework slip.  This way you will know exactly what your child must do for homework.  We fill this slip out together EVERY afternoon.  I have an example on the board for the students to follow.  Even though students had no homework over the week end, I still wanted them to do two things:  Get their topsheet on their Friday papers signed and read a short passage aloud.  Both of these were listed on the homework slip.  This is where I need your help:

1. Please don't sign the homework slip if everything is not completed.  Your signature on the homework slip communicates to me that you have checked to make sure everything is done that is listed.  If they don't do something, let them take the consequences.
2. If everything IS completed, please sign the homework slip.  :-)  They lose points on the Dojo and receive no check on the homework completion chart if they don't get the slip signed.  

Thanks for your help in this.  I am trying to train the students to be organized and keep track of their things.  If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.  Our phones are up and running again.  :-)

It's Hot!!

Whew!  Was it hot in our classroom today!  I tried to take it a little easier because we were all just

having a hard time focusing because of the heat.  Today, we reviewed over our reading homework from last night.  We also reviewed our place value by going over a worksheet with similar questions to what they will see on the PARCC exam this year.  (formally ISAT)  I discovered that we still need to review expanded form, which is what we will do Monday.

I also discovered how much work we need to do on reading and following directions.  The math review page had 7 questions:  4 multiple choice, 2 short answer, and 1 extended response.  I reviewed each of the questions extensively, especially, #6 and 7 which both had 2 parts.  After 90 minutes, only three students were able to complete the 7 questions correctly.  The biggest problem was not the skill.  As I said, expanded form was a little tricky, but everything else was fine.  The biggest problem was the fact that #6 was to be written in standard form AND expanded form. Most students did one or the other but not both.  This was AFTER I had explained, underlined the important parts, and reminded them twice.  #7 was the same way.  It required the students to also use sentences.  I made it very clear, even writing it down and leaving it on the board, that they were to answer the questions on another sheet of paper.  However, a majority of the students still tried to answer the question on the little lines given and only answered part of it.

As you can see, I was a little upset.  This is just one example.  This scenario is played out several times a day with all different types of instructions.  (Some as simple as put your book away.) But, we are going to work on this.  :-)

Right now, we are all going to go home and relax this week end.  I allowed them to finish the math page in class. (Actually, I had to finish it with several of the students.)  The only thing I am asking them to do is read their reading passage from last night out loud to someone at home.  If you listen, you can initial the paper, just like last time.  They will get a ticket for the prize box for every set of initials.

Thanks again to everyone who came out for Open House last night.  If you were unable to come out, please look for your child's Friday papers in their folder.  You can sign the top sheet and send it back with your child on Monday.

Thanks for listening to my rant!  :-)  Have a great week end!

Open House!

Hi everyone!

Open House is tonight!  I hope to see everyone there.  It will begin in the gym at 6:00.  After a short presentation, you will have time to visit the classrooms.  I will be giving a short presentation in the classroom as well.   And don't forget . . . this is your opportunity to sign up for your preferred parent/teacher conference time.  :-)

Tonight's homework:
Reading: Finish questions for "Lucy".  Students had about 20 min. to begin this in class.
Study for Spelling and GROW

If your child has math to finish, please be aware that everyone else finished it in class.  With Open House tonight, I did not want to give too much homework.

Thanks!

Wednesday, September 3

Good afternoon, everyone!

Tonight's Homework:
Math: Common Core Review Week 4
Social Studies: Study GROW

Students have homework slips filled out with everything that they owe me.  Some students still have some proofreading to do on their goals paragraph.  Also, there are a few students who have a long vowel practice sheet.  Please sign the homework slip and send it back to me each day.  Students get points on the Dojo for returning it.

I hope to see you all at Open House tomorrow.  This is very important.  Besides seeing your child's classroom, you will also get to sign up for your most convenient time for Parent/Teacher Conferences in November.  I have a short presentation that I will be giving, and you may even have a chance to play on the technology a little.  :-)  It begins at 6:00 PM in the gym.  Look for a flyer in your child's folder.

Have a great afternoon!

Tuesday, September 2

Welcome back after a long week end!

Tonight's Homework:

Math: Place Value worksheet
English:  Some students are still editing their 6-sentence paragraph
Reading:  Some students have comprehension questions to answer for the passage "Mission Beach, San Diego"

Students can also get a head start on spelling workbook pages and studying for GROW.

I have begun to implement a homework slip policy.  We will be writing our homework down together every afternoon.  Please make sure everything on the slip is completed and then sign the slip.  Students will get Dojo points given and taken away for the homework slip.

Thanks!

It's Friday!!

Hi everyone!

Well, we made it through our first full week of school!  Whew!!  We've gone over rules, procedures, routines, etc.  While we will still be reviewing those things, it's time to move on to our regular schedule.

I did not intend to give homework over the week end, but let me tell you what happened.

We have been working on a short paragraph explaining our goals for 4th grade.  We worked through it step by step together.  We planned our writing using a graphic organizer together.  We wrote a topic sentence together.  I modeled 3 separate paragraphs which included 4 sentences for the details (from their graphic organizer) and one conclusion sentence.  (They were allowed to copy my conclusion sentence.)  So, for two days we worked on writing those sentences that formed the body of the paragraph which remember, only amounted to four sentences.  After two days, only 1 person was able to write 4 complete sentences.  A couple were close.  (Remember I modeled this at least 3 times and proofread all their papers trying to help them.)  These paragraphs are for our project for Open House, which is Thursday.  I got a little upset because it should not be this difficult to write four complete sentences. Therefore, I told them to take them home and bring me a final copy on Tuesday.  I'm sorry to have to do this, but I need your help to proofread your child's paragraph.  The final copy should be neat and clean, ready to hang up.  They can type it if they would like to.

Also, I graded a math assignment they did for homework 2 nights ago.  I gave the option to make corrections to earn some points back.    This is why some students may have a math paper in their folder.  If it's corrected with a signature, they can earn the points back.  If it's not, they will keep the grade they have.

Finally, there are just a few graded papers in their folder including the tests they took today.  The weekly calendar is on top along with a small slip of paper I call a topsheet.  All I need for you to do is review the grades, talk with your child if needed, and then sign the small slip of paper and send it back.  I do not need the graded papers back.  Since school just started, and I have only just begun to collect grades, there are not many.  In the future, this pile will be bigger.

Thanks for all your help!  Have a good holiday!

Study!!

Good afternoon, everyone!

Tonight students have one thing to focus on:  STUDYING!

They have their first 2 tests tomorrow:  Spelling and GROW.  We reviewed GROW in class today and there was some trouble.  Please make sure your child knows those answers.  They cannot use their notebook on the quiz.

Also, students must finish ALL the pages in Unit 1 including the enrichment pages.

Other than that I did not assign any other homework.  I want students to do well on their first tests.  If you want more, they can read and go on Compass Learning.

Thanks!

Congratulations JRW!!!!!!!!

Hi everyone!

Today the class received a special privilege.  We were allowed to watch a portion of the JRW pep rally at Jackie Robinson Field.  They were able to see Mayor Emmanuel, Gov. Quinn, and many other elected officials congratulate the US Little League Champions.

Tonight's Homework:
Math: Common Core Review Week 3 (We will go over this together in class tomorrow.)
Reading:  Students must practice their fluency by reading "In Your Closet" outloud to someone at home.  If you listen to them read, please initial their paper.  They may read the passage to as many people as they want (including over the phone).  Every one who listens should initial their paper.  Students are going to receive a ticket for the prize box for every set of initials on their paper.  They are on the HONOR SYSYTEM!!  :-)  The number of initials represents how many times they read the passage out loud.  The only way to become a better reader is to . . . . READ.  Thanks for your help.

I think that's it for now.  If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to call or text me on the dojo.  Have a great afternoon!

Tuesday, August 26

Good afternoon, everyone!

Tonight's homework:
Math: Common Core Practice Week 2 (This is the assessment that comes after the practice.  It is only 10 questions and we have reviewed over the homework together.)

Also, I made sure that each student has their spelling and GROW notebook tonight.  Since all they have is math, they can get a head start studying.


Extras

• I noticed that there are still a few students without notebooks and folders.  It will be very helpful if they can have at least those 2 things as soon as possible.   Papers are going home, and I like them to stay as neat as possible.  
• Cold season will be on us sooner than we think and every box of kleenex will help.  If you haven't sent at least one box, it would be great if you could.  The school does not supply this and the only other option is the paper towel. (The same is true for hand sanitizer.) Any help here would be greatly appreciated.  :-)
• Dojo!!!!  I love my Class Dojo!  If you haven't had a chance to sign up and set up your account, don't forget.  I have been able to text and message parents during school to take care of things right away and nip certain behaviors in the bud.  Also, when students know their parents are checking, it encourages them to do the right thing.  ;-)  
• Finally, we are celebrating with US Little League Champions tomorrow!  If your child has a gold or yellow shirt, they are allowed to wear it with their uniform bottoms. We may even get to watch a little of the parade.  Congratulations, Jackie Robinson!!  

I think that's all for now.  Check back tomorrow for more news.  Have a great afternoon!

Welcome Back to School!

Welcome back to school everyone!  I am so excited to begin a new year with you!  By the time you read this, you should have received a few things from your child giving you information for our classroom.  Let me review just a couple of important things:

1. For discipline and classroom management, I use an online system called ClassDojo.  Each child in my classroom receives points for following my expectations and loses points when they don't follow my expectations. You should have received information on how to log in from home to see your child's behavior and homework successes. You may log in as often as you want to see your child's information.  You will also receive a weekly behavior report regarding your child.  A new feature added this year is messaging.  You can message me very easily using Classdojo.  Finally, your child will also receive log-in information so they can change their avatar and see their successes as well.  
2. Every Friday, starting next week, I will send home all the graded papers from that week.  Please notice the small sheet on top that asks you to go through the papers with your child.  This must be signed and returned every Monday. 
3. Finally, communication is very important to me.  I have an open door policy in my classroom.  You are welcome anytime to come observe the class.  If you would like to speak to me, you can email me at terri.evans@cch160.org or call me at 708-957-6220 x2003 to make an appointment. 

Come back to this blog daily to find out current homework assignments, upcoming calendar items, or any other important information.  I look forward to working with you this year.  :-)

Happy Monday!

Good afternoon, everyone!


Tonight's homework:
Reading:  "The Goose that Laid the Golden Eggs" packet (students had over 30 min to begin this in class)
Math: Common Core Review Week 2 (students must show work for problems that require it)
Spelling: Unit 1 workbook pages are not due until Friday

GROW
Students got their first 4 questions today.  As I said on the calendar I sent home on Friday, students will be given 8 geography review questions in their social studies notebook each week.  (4 on Monday, 4 on Tuesday)  We will go over them together in class.  They must study these questions and take a quiz on Friday.  They will NOT be able to use their notebooks on the quiz.  So, now they have the first 4 questions.  They can begin studying them through out the week.  I highly recommend that they not wait until Thursday to study.  I use GROW to help with geography but also to teach the students study skills.  They may make flash cards, have someone quiz them, etc.

Class Dojo 
I want to thank the 11 parents who have signed up for their account on the dojo.  If you need another copy of your code, please let me know.  This is one of the best websites I have ever used in the classroom and is very beneficial for keeping up with your child's behaviors.  After signing up for a free account, you will be able to access your child's dojo at any point and see how successful they have been.

I think that's all for now.  Have a great afternoon and stay safe!