Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
February 10, 2012
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
We’re excited to welcome student teacher, Ms. Chung, to our class. This
is her first placement and she’s already finished all of her course work
through the University of Phoenix. Ms. Chung will be with us until late March.
This week she has been observing the class procedures and getting to know the
kids. Next week she will take over math and add a subject or so each week.
Eventually she will take over all teaching. She will also attend some of our
up-coming conferences.
Valentine’s Day Reminders
The Elegant Luncheon is here! Food items can be brought to the classroom the
morning of Tuesday, February 14, or they can be dropped off at the room at
12:15, which is when we will be eating. PLEASE DO NOT DROP ITEMS OFF AT THE
OFFICE. THERE IS NO ROOM FOR STRORAGE EXCEPT IN THE CLASSROOM. ALL ITEMS
SHOULD BE DELIVERED TO ROOM 505. Each table is responsible for bringing all
the items they may need (ie, plates, utensils, food, beverages, etc.) They are
also encouraged to decorate their table (ie, flowers, table clothes, flameless
candles, etc.) and to dress nicely (ie. like for a wedding or going to
church). We do have PE that day, so I would recommend that students bring a
change of clothing.
There will be some time for students to pass out Valentine’s Day cards to
their classmates. While this is not mandatory, I do require that if your child
brings in a card for one person they bring one in for everyone. For your
convenience, I sent home a class list last week.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Last week students finished the 2nd Trimester Words of the Day. This
week students studied 8 WODs per night in preparation for the WOD Test on
Wednesday, February 15. Before completing our writing sample (see below), the
class discussed Bud, Not Buddy. We also looked at all of the “rules” that Bud
came up with in the book and talked about why he made the rule and how it
related to the book. Students continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember,
all reading goals can be found on our class website. If your child completed
projects this week, including Oral Presentations, you will find them in your
Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return them on Monday.
Social Studies: We finished Chapter 3: The Age of Exploration. This week we
read Lesson 3, a literature piece entitled I, Columbus My Journey. We also
read and discussed Lesson 4: Early Voyages of Exploration, which focused on a
few explorers who challenged Columbus’ declaration of finding Asia, and
Magellan’s voyage around the world. The Chapter 3 Study Guide was given out on
Thursday and is due Monday, February 13. The test is Tuesday, February 21.
President Report: Students spent 2 hours this week in the Computer Lab typing,
formatting, and printing out their individual sections for their President
Report. Students also had time on Friday to put together their report and work
on their Oral Presentation. If they have not already done so, on Monday,
February 13, students need to bring in all of their materials, including the
poster board, and a bit more class time will be given for students to put
together their report and practice their Oral Presentation.
Writing: Students completed a Response to Literature based on Bud, Not Buddy.
Students were given two 50-minutes sessions to complete this writing sample.
Math: We finished Unit 10: Fractions, Mixed Numbers, and Decimals. This week
students reviewed putting fractions in simplest form and converting decimals
to fractions and fractions to decimals in the tenths, hundredths, and
thousandths place values. Students took the Unit 10 Test, which you will find
in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return this on Monday. This
week we completed Lesson 16 in Hands-On Equations. Students used “legal moves”
to solve for the value of X and * in problems such as 3* + X + 2 = 2X + 10. FUN!
Science: We continue Chapter 7: Types of Matter. This week we read and
discussed Lesson 2: Elements, which focused on the common elements that make
up our atmosphere, crust, and water. We also learned which elements are the
most common in living things.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 154
- 157. This assignment is due next Wednesday, February 15.
Science Lab: Students talked about the different properties of matter.
2nd Step: We continued Unit II: Impulse Control and Problem Solving. This week
students completed Lesson 6, which focused on how to resist the impulse to
steal. Students were able to role play several situations and we had some
great discussions.
Computer Lab: Students continue to work in Excel. This week they entered data
and learned how to use the “auto sum” and “average” buttons.
3rd Grade Buddies: We met with our buddies and read this month’s Book of the
Month, Melissa Parkington’s Beautiful, Beautiful Hair, by Pat Brisson. This
book was about a young girl who had beautiful hair, but wanted to be special
because of something she did. After trying to find that something, she decided
that she would be special because she would be kind to everyone and went on a
mission doing acts of kindness. After reading the book students drew pictures
of acts of kindness that they had done and acts of kindness that they could do
in the future.
Dates to Remember:
Feb. 13 Social Studies Chapter 3 Study Guide due
Feb. 14 Read-A-Thon begins
Donuts with a Loved One 7:45 a.m. in the MPR
Elegant Luncheon 12:15 Room 505
Feb. 15 2nd Trimester WOD Test
Feb. 16 President Report due
President Report Oral Presentations
Feb. 17 School Recess Day – NO SCHOOL
Feb. 20 President’s Day – NO SCHOOL
Feb. 21 Social Studies Chapter 3 Test
Feb. 25 Ed Fund Auction
March 1 Yearbook Orders /$$ due by today!
March 2 Read-A-Thon ends
End of 2nd Trimester
March 8 Teacher Work Day – NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
NOTE: I will use this day to begin conferences.
March 9 School Recess Day – NO SCHOOL
March 12- Conference Week – 12:00 dismissal
March 16
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
February 3, 2012
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. In 5th grade, that means the Elegant
Luncheon is just about here. Table groups met this week to discuss what items
they will bring for the upcoming event. If you have not signed your child’s
sign-up sheet, please ask them about it. I don’t want it to be sprung on you
the night before. Food items can be brought to the classroom the morning of
Tuesday, February 14, or they can be dropped off at the room at 12:15, which
is when we will be eating. PLEASE DO NOT DROP ITEMS OFF AT THE OFFICE. THERE
IS NO ROOM FOR STORAGE EXCEPT IN THE CLASSROOM. ALL ITEMS SHOULD BE DELIVERED
TO ROOM 505. Each table is responsible for bringing all the items they may
need (ie, plates, utensils, food, beverages, etc.) They are also encouraged to
decorate their table (ie, flowers, table clothes, flameless candles, etc.) and
to dress nicely (ie. like for a wedding or going to church). We do have PE
that day, so I would recommend that students bring a change of clothing.
There will be some time on Tuesday, February 14 for students to pass out
Valentine’s Day cards to their classmates. While this is not mandatory, I do
require that if your child brings in a card for one person they bring one in
for everyone. For your convenience, you will find a complete class list in
your Parent Folder.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students finished, Bud, Not Buddy. All 5th graders will complete a
Response to Literature using this book. We will use this assessment like a
District Write, and hope to see an improvement from their fall writing sample.
Students also continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, all reading
goals can be found on our class website. If your child completed projects this
week, including Oral Presentations, you will find them in your Parent Folder.
Please review, sign, and return them on Monday.
Social Studies: Students took the Chapter 2 Test, which you will find in your
Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return this on Monday. (NOTE: In
addition to the regular score, I also put down a percentage and letter grade
so that students can see what grade this test would receive next year.) We
began Chapter 3: The Age of Exploration. This week we read and discussed
Lesson 1: A Legendary Land, which focused on the explorations of Leif Eriksson
and other early European explorers. We also read and discussed Lesson 2:
Background to European Exploration, which focused on the different trade
routes to the east and Portugal’s search for a water route to Asia.
President Report: Students spent an hour in Computer Lab this week
researching. They also had an hour of designated class time to work on taking
notes and writing their rough drafts. Rough Drafts should be completed by
Tuesday, February 7.
Writing: We continued working on our Personal Narrative Unit. This week
students worked on getting ideas by thinking of things they care about (ie,
family, friends, pets) and then thinking of specific events involving that
subject. After coming up with several events they began writing about one of them.
Math: We continued Unit 10: Fractions, Mixed Numbers, and Decimals. This week
students reviewed comparing and ordering fractions using equivalent fractions.
Students also worked on problems to see the correlation between fractions and
decimals. This week we completed Lesson 15 in Hands-On Equations. Students
used “legal moves” to solve for the value of X and (-X) in problems such as
3(-X) + (-X) = 9 + (-X). CRAZY!
Science: In class we reviewed the Chapter 3 Study Guide and students took the
test, which you will find in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and
return this on Monday. (NOTE: In addition to the regular score, I also put
down a percentage and letter grade so that students can see what grade this
test would receive next year.) We are skipping around a bit in the textbook
and began Chapter 7: Types of Matter. This week we read and discussed Lesson
1: Properties of Matter, which focused on what matter means and the different
forms of it. We also read about the fact that matter can change its’ state.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 146
- 153. This assignment is due next Wednesday, February 8.
Science Lab: Students watched how their circulatory system affects their heart
rate and reviewed for the Chapter 3 Test.
2nd Step: We continued Unit II: Impulse Control and Problem Solving. This week
students completed Lesson 5, which focused on how to resist the impulse to cheat.
Dates to Remember:
Feb. 6 Storybook Poster Contest drawing due by today!
Feb. 9 3rd-5th Grade Spelling Bee
Feb. 14 Read-A-Thon begins (See flyer in Parent Folder)
Donuts with a Loved One (See flyer in Parent Folder)
Elegant Luncheon 12:15 Room 505
Feb. 16 President Report due
Feb. 17 School Recess Day – NO SCHOOL
Feb. 20 President’s Day – NO SCHOOL
Feb. 25 Ed Fund Auction
March 1 Yearbook Orders /$$ due by today!
March 2 Read-A-Thon ends
End of 2nd Trimester
March 8 Teacher Work Day – NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
NOTE: I will use this day to begin conferences.
March 9 School Recess Day – NO SCHOOL
March 12- Conference Week – 12:00 dismissal
March 16
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
January 27, 2012
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Even though we only had a 4-day week, we’ve been very busy! Students
picked 2 (or in some cases 3) of their peers to complete a President Report
with. The direction sheet was sent home on Thursday. If your child hasn’t
asked you to sign it yet, please do so ASAP. There will be class time for
students to work on this report and Oral Presentations will be given on the
due date, Thursday. February 16.
Bio Report Up-Date
All students have been given their final Bio Reports back, along with their 2
rubrics and Research Folder. We have gone over these in class and students
have had time to ask clarifying questions. Please take a look at their reports
and rubrics over the weekend and return the rubrics, signed, on Monday in your
Parent Folder. I am also asking that students bring back their final report,
so that they can be displayed in the classroom.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students met in their mixed leveled groups to discuss the 5th grade
core book, Bud, Not Buddy. Remember the book will be discussed in class on
Tuesdays and Thursdays. Requirements are the same as regular Book Club.
Students also continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, all reading
goals can be found on our class website. If your child completed projects this
week, including Oral Presentations, you will find them in your Parent Folder.
Please review, sign, and return them on Monday.
Social Studies: We went over the Chapter 2 Study Guide this week. The Chapter
2 Test is Monday, January 30. Remember, since I went over the Study Guide with
students, they will not be able to use it while taking the test on Monday.
Writing: Students were given writing buddies and we began our Personal
Narrative Unit. We reviewed strategies that good writers use and went over our
Word Tornadoes (something we began last year). In this week’s lesson students
worked on getting ideas by looking around the room and finding things that
reminded them of something else. They made a list of at least 4 things, and
then picked one to begin writing about.
Math: We began Unit 10: Fractions, Mixed Numbers, and Decimals. This week
students reviewed the meaning of fractions and how to change an improper
fraction to a mixed number and how to change a mixed number to an improper
fraction. We jumped back into Hands-On-Equations. This week we completed
Lesson 14. Students used “legal moves” to solve for the value of X and * in
problems such as 3*-X=12! It was a great review for students who attended
Bollinger last year, and new students are on their way to enjoying this fun
and challenging program.
Science: We finished Chapter 3: Human Body Systems. This week students read
and discussed Lesson 5:The Excretory System, which focused on how the
excretory system filters blood and eliminates waste, along with what would
happen if the kidneys were to stop working. Students began the Chapter 3 Study
Guide, which is due Monday, January 30. We will review the Study Guide in
class therefore students will not be able to use it when taking the test on
Thursday, February 2.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages
60-67. This assignment is due next Wednesday, February 1.
Science Lab: Students participated in activities to monitor how their heart
rate can change based on what they are doing.
Computer Lab: Mrs. Ward was out this week, so students were able to use this
time to begin working on their President Report.
Spelling Bee: We’re excited to have Frances Talino and Sharon Riise represent
our class again at this year’s Spelling Bee. If one of these two is not able
to make it, Raj Raghuram is our alternate. Congratulations!
Dates to Remember:
Jan. 30 Social Studies Chapter 2 Test
International Festival 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Feb. 2 Chapter 3 Science Test
Feb. 6 Storybook Poster Contest drawing due by today! (see flyer in Parent
Folder)
Feb. 9 FYI- 3rd-5th Grade Spelling Bee
Feb. 14 Read-A-Thon begins
Donuts with a Loved One (more information to follow)
Feb. 16 President Report due
Feb. 17 School Recess Day – NO SCHOOL
Feb. 20 President’s Day – NO SCHOOL
Feb. 25 Ed Fund Auction (see flyer in Parent Folder)
March 1 Yearbook Orders /$$ due by today! (see flyer in Parent Folder)
March 2 Read-A-Thon ends
March 8 Teacher Work Day – NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
NOTE: I will use this day to begin conferences.
March 9 School Recess Day – NO SCHOOL
March 12- Conference Week – 12:00 dismissal
March 16
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
January 20, 2012
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Students did a great job this week presenting 5 of their questions and
their object for their biography reports. We learned many facts about some
great composers, painters, authors, and poets. Students also enjoyed listening
to music, seeing paintings, and hearing some famous poems. Job well done!!
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students met in their mixed leveled groups to discuss the 5th grade
core book, Bud, Not Buddy. Remember the book will be discussed in class on
Tuesdays and Thursdays. Requirements are the same as regular Book Club.
Students also continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, all reading
goals can be found on our class website. If your child completed projects this
week, including Oral Presentations, you will find them in your Parent Folder.
Please review, sign, and return them on Tuesday.
Social Studies: We finished Chapter 2: Indians of North America. This week
students discussed Lesson 4: Eastern Woodlands, which focused on the Iroquois
and Cherokee tribes. We also read and discussed Lesson 5: Middle America,
which focused the Mayas and Aztec tribes. Students were given the Chapter 2
Study Guide, which is due Wednesday, January 25. We will go over the Study
Guide and the test will be Monday, January 30. Since I am going over the Study
Guide with students, they will not be able to use it while taking the test.
Math: We finished Unit 8: Shapes. You will find the scored and corrected test
in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return this on Tuesday.
Science: We continued Chapter 3:. This week students read and discussed Lesson
3:The Respiratory System, which focused on where gas exchange takes place and
how cellular respiration happens in animal cells. We also read and discussed
Lesson 4: The Circulatory System, which focused on the different parts of the
heart, how blood and blood vessels work, and how the Circulatory and
Respiratory Systems work together.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 50
- 59. This assignment is due next Wednesday, January 25.
Science Lab: Students did a great activity mimicking digestion. If they
haven’t shared their experience, please ask them about it.
Computer Lab: Students began learning how to use Excel.
Art with Ms. Tess: Last week students began an art project with Ms. Tess using
perspective and oil pastels. Students had some time this week to finish their
projects, which are on display in the class.
Dates to Remember:
Jan. 23 Staff Development Day – NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
Jan 25 In-Class Spelling Bee(Top 2 spellers represent our class on Feb. 9.)
See “links page” on website for spelling tips / words
Jan. 30 Chapter 2 Social Studies Test
International Festival 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Feb. 9 FYI- 3rd-5th Grade Spelling Bee
Feb. 14 Read-A-Thon begins
Donuts with a Loved One (more information to follow)
5th Grade Luncheon (more information to follow)
Feb. 17 School Recess Day – NO SCHOOL
Feb. 20 President’s Day – NO SCHOOL
Feb. 25 Ed Fund Auction (see flyer in Parent Folder)
March 2 Read-A-Thon ends
Read Across America Day
March 8 Teacher Work Day – NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
NOTE: I will use this day to begin conferences.
March 9 School Recess Day – NO SCHOOL
March 12- Conference Week – 12:00 dismissal
March 16
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
January 13, 2012
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
We’ve got a lot going on! Please make sure to keep a lookout for notices
and emails from the school. In February alone we have the Spelling Bee, Donuts
with a Loved One, the 5th Grade Luncheon, and the Read-A-Thon.
Performing Arts Up-Date
I wanted to let you know that students had their first performing arts class
this week. We will meet with Ms. Jodi once a week for ½ an hour Wednesday
mornings.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students met in their mixed leveled groups to discuss the 5th grade
core book, Bud, Not Buddy. Remember the book will be discussed in class on
Tuesdays and Thursdays. Requirements are the same as regular Book Club.
Students also continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, all reading
goals can be found on our class website. If your child completed projects this
week, including Oral Presentations, you will find them in your Parent Folder.
Please review, sign, and return them on Tuesday.
Math: We continued Unit 8: Shapes. This week students reviewed the different
types of polygons. We also worked on naming triangles based on the number of
sides and the measurement of their angles. (FYI- We had slightly lighter math
this week, to allow for more time in the Computer Lab.)
Biography Report: Students had some class time to edit work and put together
their timeline. Many hours were also spent in Computer Lab this week so that
students could finish typing. Final reports should be turned in with some type
of report folder. (Students were shown an example in class.) Along with their
final draft, students also need to turn in their Research Folder, including
all rough drafts. While all projects are to be turned in on Tuesday, January
17, students do not need to bring in their object and come dressed in their
costume until the day of their oral presentation. Please check the Oral
Presentation schedule, which was given out Thursday, to see when your child
needs to bring their presentation items to school.
Science: Students had time Wednesday to discuss their Study Guide answers with
their table groups. Using this Study Guide, students took the Chapter 2 Test
on Thursday, which you will find in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign,
and return this on Tuesday. We began Chapter 3: Human Body Systems. This week
students read and discussed Lesson 1:The Human Body, which gave an overview of
the different organ systems we have and how bodily materials are transported.
We also read and discussed Lesson 2: The Digestive System, which focused on
how food is broken down by our body. (Our science chapter ties in beautifully
with another activity students participated in. This week one of my former
students, along with another Junior from Cal High, who are in Advanced
Anatomy, came in and gave a presentation on the skeletal and circulatory
systems to receive extra credit. They did a great job and students had fun
completing some activities after the discussion. If your child hasn’t shared
this with you, please ask them about it.)
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages
38-49. This assignment is due next Wednesday, January 18.
Science Lab: Students reviewed for the Chapter 2 Test.
Grammar: Students continued Unit 2: Nouns.
Computer Lab: Students had over 4 hours this week to finish their Bio Report.
2nd Step: We continued Unit II: Impulse Control and Problem Solving. This week
students completed Lesson 4, which focused on how to deal with gossip.
Dates to Remember:
Jan. 16 Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday – NO SCHOOL
Jan. 17 Biography Report due!
(FYI- Students need to turn in all rough drafts with their final report.)
Jan. 17- Biography Report Oral Presentations
Jan. 19
Jan. 23 Staff Development Day – NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
Jan 25 In-Class Spelling Bee (Top 2 spellers represent our class on Feb. 9.)
See” links page” on website for spelling tips / words
Feb. 9 FYI- 3rd-5th Grade Spelling Bee
Feb. 14 Read-A-Thon begins
Donuts with a Loved One (more information to follow)
5th Grade Luncheon (more information to follow)
Feb. 20 Presidents Day – NO SCHOOL
Feb. 25 Ed Fund Auction (see flyer in Parent Folder)
March 2 Read-A-Thon ends
Read Across America Day
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
January 6, 2012
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Happy New Year! I hope you all had a wonderful break. I know students
came back with many stories about places they went. I was excited to share
some wonderful news with the class about my break. If they haven’t shared this
information with you, please ask them about it!
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students were given our second 5th Grade Core Book, Bud, Not Buddy.
Core Book Club meets Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning next week. Requirements
are the same as regular Book Club. Students have been given a copy of the
goals, but you can also find them on our class website. Students continue to
meet in Book Club groups. Remember, these goals can be found on our class
website. If your child completed projects this week, including Oral
Presentations, you will find them in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign,
and return them on Monday.
Math: We began Unit 8: Shapes. This week students reviewed basic geometric
ideas (points, line segments, and parallel and perpendicular lines.) Students
also worked on measuring and creating angles.
Biography Report: As you know, ALL NOTES AND ROUGH DRAFTS were due Wednesday,
January 4. The only class time now given for this report will be to type the
final drafts. At home students need to edit all sections. If they like, they
can also print out the pictures required on their timeline. Please check in
with them, and review the Check-Off sheet in their Research Folder, so that
you can stay aware of their progress. (NOTE: Just because a section has been
checked-off does not mean that that section is ready to type. Many checked-off
sections still have convention errors that must be corrected.)
Science: On Wednesday, students were given the Chapter 2 Study Guide, which is
due Wednesday, January 11. The test is Thursday, January 12. Students will
complete the Study Guide on their own, and discuss answers with their table
groups next week, which means that they will be able to use their Study Guide
while taking the test.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages
36-37. This assignment is due next Wednesday, January 11.
Science Lab: This week students used microscopes to see how water moves
through plants to help them survive.
Grammar: Students continued Unit 2: Nouns. This week students worked on
singular and plural possessives.
Computer Lab: Students had 2 hours this week to work on their Bio Report. All
typing will be completed at school. To see how your child is progressing,
review their Check-Off Sheet, located in their Research Folder.
2nd Step: We continued Unit II: Impulse Control and Problem Solving. This week
students completed Lesson 3, which focused on how to say “no” to their friends
and kids of other ages.
Dates to Remember:
Jan. 12 Science Chapter 2 Test
Jan. 13 P.J. Day for Room 505
Promotion Pictures due!
Jan. 16 Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday – NO SCHOOL
Jan. 17 Biography Report due!
(FYI- Students need to turn in all rough drafts with their final report.)
Jan. 17- Biography Report Oral Presentations
Jan. 19
Jan. 23 Staff Development Day – NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
December 16, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
We’ve had a festive, yet productive week! Students did an amazing job
during their two Holiday Sign-A-Long performances. I’m glad so many of you
were able to attend. We also had a great time chatting with fiends at the
Holiday Breakfast and we have some budding engineers who got to strut their
stuff when making candy trains. Thank you to all the parents who helped
organize, set up, run, and clean-up our festivities. Also thank you for the
class Christmas and Birthday gifts. They were very generous and I loved my
yummy lunch Friday! I hope you and your families are able to relax a bit over
the Winter Break.
5th Grade Memories Part 2 DVD
If you ordered the 5th Grade Memories DVDs your child was given Part 2 this
week. Please take a minute or two and check that the DVD works. You can do
this by simply checking that the DVD plays in your DVD player. If you have any
problems, let me know ASAP and I will have another copy for your child when we
return from break.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, these goals
can be found on our class website. If your child completed projects this week,
including Oral Presentations, you will find them in your Parent Folder. Please
review, sign, and return them on Monday.
Math: We reviewed multiplying and dividing decimals this week. I was happy to
see many students received 100% on the nightly review. When we return from
break we will work on geometry.
Social Studies: We continued Chapter 2: Indians of North America. This week
students read and discussed Lesson 4: Eastern Woodlands, which focused on the
daily life of the Iroquois and Cherokee tribes.
Biography Report: Students had over 2½ hours of class time designated for
working on their report this week. As you know, Friday, December 16, students
had 24 Notes and 24 Rough Draft sections due. Our next due date is Wednesday,
January 4, which is when ALL Notes and Rough Drafts are due. When students
come to school on Wednesday, January 4, they should have at least ½ of their
rough drafts edited and ready to type. FYI- when we return, homework will go
back to normal. Please check in with them, and review the Check-Off sheet in
their Research Folder, so that you can stay aware of their progress.
Science: We finished Chapter 2: Plant Structures and Functions. This week we
read and discussed Lesson 2: Plant Transport Systems, which focused on how
different materials move in plants and how roots are different. We also read
and discussed Lesson 3: Photosynthesis and Respiration, which focused on the
job of leaves and what happens during respiration.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 32
- 35. This assignment is due next Wednesday, January 4.
Science Lab: This week students used microscopes to see how water moves
through plants to help them survive.
Computer Lab: Students had over 2 hours in Computer Lab this week to work on
typing sections for their Bio Report. All typing will be completed at school.
To see how your child is progressing, review their Check-Off Sheet, located in
their Research Folder.
2nd Step: We continued Unit II: Impulse Control and Problem Solving. This week
students completed Lesson 2, which focused on how to resist the impulse to lie.
Dates to Remember:
Dec. 19 – Winter Break
Jan. 3
Jan. 4 ALL Notes and Rough Drafts are due by today!
Jan. 13 P.J. Day for Room 505
Jan. 16 Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday – NO SCHOOL
Jan. 17 Biography Report due!
(FYI- Students need to turn in all rough drafts with their final
report.)
Jan. 17- Biography Report Oral Presentations
Jan. 19
Jan. 23 Staff Development Day – NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
Happy Holidays
and I’ll see you next year!
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
December 9, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Students had a treat this week when Penny Warner, author of Code Busters,
came to our class to talk about several different kinds of codes. Students
were able to purchase a signed copy of her book. If you would still like to
order a book, please get your orders in by Monday, December 12. If you have
misplaced the order form that was sent home this week, you can find a copy in
the email I sent out on November 30.
Adopt-A-Family Up-Date
Thank you to those of you who brought in items for the 5th grade family! Your
generosity is appreciated. I’d also like to thank the families who donated
gift-wrap. We finished wrapping items this week. I’m happy to say that we
ended up with over 30 boxes full of gifts for the 6 different families
Bollinger Canyon was helping. Thanks again for your support!
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, these goals
can be found on our class website. If your child completed projects this week,
including Oral Presentations, you will find them in your Parent Folder. Please
review, sign, and return them on Monday.
Math: We finished Unit 9: Factors and Multiples. Students took the Unit 9
Test, which you will find in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and
return this on Monday.
Social Studies: We continued Chapter 2: Indians of North America. This week
students read and discussed Lesson 3: Great Plains, which focused on the daily
life of the Mandan and Kiowa tribes.
Biography Report: Students have had over 3 hours of class time designated for
working on their report this week. As you know, Friday, December 9, students
had 16 Notes and 16 Rough Draft sections due. Our next due date is Friday,
December 16. At that point, students need to have a total of 24 Notes and 24
Rough Drafts due. When students come to school on Monday, they also need to
have most (if not all) of the rough drafts that have been checked off ready to
type. (Meaning any revisions that need to be made should be done.) All typing
will be completed at school. There again will be no Grammar, Daily Math, Daily
Geography, or Current Event next week so that students can focus on this
report. Please check in with them, and review the Check-Off sheet in their
Research Folder, so that you can stay aware of their progress.
Science: Students had time to work in their table groups to discuss answers on
their Chapter 1 Study Guide, which they were able to use when taking the test
this week. You will find this corrected test (along with their study guide) in
your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return this on Monday. We began
Chapter 2: Plant Structures and Functions. This week we read and discussed
Lesson 1: Vascular Plants, which focused on how seedless and seed plants are
different and the job that flowers do.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 20
- 27. This assignment is due next Wednesday, December 14.
Science Lab: This week students reviewed for the Chapter 1 Test.
Computer Lab: Students had over 2 hours in Computer Lab this week to work on
research or to begin typing up sections for their Bio Report. Again, please
make sure to review your child’s Check-Off Sheet, which is located in their
Research Folder, so that you are aware of their progress!
Sign-A-Long: 5th grade continued meeting to practice songs for our upcoming
Holiday Sign-A-Long.
Dates to Remember:
Dec. 16 A total of 24 Notes and Rough Draft sections are due by today!
Holiday Sign-A-Long - Parents / Families 9:00 a.m. in MPR
Dec. 19 – Winter Break
Jan. 3
Jan. 4 ALL Notes and Rough Drafts are due by today!
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
December 2, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
We were off and running this week! 6:00 came awful early, but I think
students will say it was well worth it. We had an amazing experience at Glide.
The students worked very hard preparing breakfast trays, passing trays out,
getting together lunches, and cleaning up. They really enjoyed themselves and
felt good about what they had done, which was evident in our class discussion
once we returned. We also had a really good discussion about what they can do
in the future to better our community and things that they are thankful for.
Thank you to all of the parents who drove /chaperoned. We couldn’t have done
it without you!
5th Grade Memories DVD Up-Date
Just a heads up that I have almost enough footage for the 5th Grade Memories,
Part 2 DVD. If you haven’t ordered the DVDs, but would like to do so now, it’s
not too late. Have your child bring in $30 (checks made out to Bollinger
Canyon School) and you will receive Part 2 – Part 4. (FYI- Several weeks ago I
asked for student requests for our class library and Book Club groups. Using
the money from DVD sales, I was able to purchase over $800 worth of books for
our class. I’m excited to add 9 more books for Book Club and over 12
nonfiction books and 20 fiction books to our library!)
Water Usage Check-In
It’s time for our water usage check-in to see which household has the greatest
decrease in water usage. Remember, do NOT send in water bills. All we need is
the number of gallons recorded on your most recent bill. To be in the running
for an extra homework pass, the data needs to be in by Wednesday.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, these goals
can be found on our class website. If your child completed projects this week
or last week you will find them in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign,
and return them on Monday.
Math: Students have made corrections to their Unit 7 Test, which was given
before Thanksgiving Break, and you will find it in their Parent Folder. Please
review, sign, and return it on Monday. We began Unit 9: Factors and Multiples.
This week students worked on determining if numbers are prime or composite,
and finding the prime factorization of numbers.
Social Studies: You will find the Chapter 1 Test in your Parent Folder. Please
review, sign, and return this on Monday.
Biography Report: We’ve had over 4 hours of class time designated for research
this week. As you know, Friday, December 2, students had 8 Notes and 8 Rough
Draft sections due. Our next due date is Friday. December 9. At that point,
students need to have a total of 16 Notes and 16 Rough Drafts due. There will
be no Grammar, Daily Math, Daily Geography, or Current Event next week so that
students can focus on this report. Please check in with them, and review the
Check-Off sheet in their Research Folder so that you can stay aware of their
progress.
Science: Students were given the Chapter 1 Study Guide, which is due
Wednesday, December 7. The test is Thursday, December 8. While I will not go
over the Study Guide with students, they will be able to discuss their
responses with their table groups and then use the information while taking
the test. (The same way we did with the Chapter 1 Social Studies test.)
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 18
- 19. This assignment is due next Wednesday, December 7.
Science Lab: This week students learned how animals are classified and how
scientists decide what classes animals are grouped in.
Computer Lab: Students worked on gathering information for their research report.
Sign-A-Long: 5th grade continued meeting to learn songs for our Holiday
Sign-A-Long.
Dates to Remember:
Dec. 5 Adopt-A-Family items are due by today.
5th Grade baby picture for yearbook due!
Dec. 8 Science Chapter 1 Test
Dec. 9 A total of 16 Notes and Rough Draft sections are due by today!
Dec. 16 A total of 24 Notes and Rough Draft sections are due by today!
Holiday Sign-A-Long - Parents / Families 9:00 a.m. in MPR
Dec. 19 – Winter Break
Jan. 3
Jan. 4 ALL Notes and Rough Drafts are due by today!
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
November 18, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Wow, time goes by quicker and quicker. I’m not sure how it happened, but
our next field trip is just about here. We are going to Glide Memorial Church
on Tuesday, November 29 to serve breakfast and help prepare lunches for that
day. The following parents are driving/chaperoning: Mrs. Stanchina (6), Mr.
Schmitt (7), Mrs. Retamal (4), Mrs. Vannucchi (5), Mrs. Serafin (6), and Mrs.
Kouns (4). Remember students and drivers/chaperones need to be in Room 505 by
6:00 a.m. (NOTE CHANGE IN TIME)We will leave promptly at 6:15. After we
complete our service, the entire class will stop by McDonalds in San Ramon,
where the students can purchase a small breakfast / snack. On Monday we will
do a math lesson and students can figure out how much money they need for the
snack they would like to purchase. Please make sure to take a look at the
information flyer in your Parent Folder regarding this trip.
Welcome to Room 505!
We are excited to welcome Lori Liu to our class this week! It is a crazy time
of the year and students have done a great job making her feel welcome. I know
the community will do the same as she and her family get settled in. Again
welcome!
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, these goals
can be found on our class website.
Math: We finished Unit 7: Dividing Decimals, and students took the Unit Test
this week.
Social Studies: We began Chapter 2: Indians of North America. This week
students read and discussed Lesson 1: Northwest Coast, which focused on the
Chinooks and Makahs tribes. Students were assigned Lesson 2: Southwest, which
is due Monday, November 28.
Biography Report: This week students selected people to do their biography
report on. We went over the directions and a timeline in class and these items
were sent home for your review. If you haven’t seen your child’s paperwork
yet, please ask them for it so that you are aware of the criteria and due
dates. We spent some time in the Computer Lab this week and students were able
to print out information on their person. While there will be class time when
we return from Thanksgiving Break to work on this report, students should be
working on it every day at home too. There will be no grammar, Daily Math,
Daily Geography, or Current Event for the next several weeks so that students
can focus on this report. Please check in with them, and review the Check-Off
sheet in their Research Folder so that you can stay aware of their progress.
Science: We finished Chapter 1: Structure of Living Things. This week we read
and discussed Lesson 3: Diversity of Organisms, which focused on how living
things are grouped together and what fungi and bacteria are.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 10
- 17. This assignment is due next Wednesday, November 30.
Science Lab: This week students used microscopes to see both plant and animal
cells.
Pen Pals: Students were excited this week to introduce themselves to our 3rd
grade pen pals from Cascade View Elementary in Snohomish, Washington. A former
Bollinger teacher, Ms. Michelotti (now Mrs. Vaule) and I are still close and
are trilled that our kids will get to know each other. Down the line, students
will even get a change to meet via teleconferencing.
2nd Step: We began Unit II: Impulse Control and Problem Solving. This week
students completed Lesson 1, which focused on different calming-down
techniques they can use when upset. (See the 2nd Step letter included in this
week’s Parent Folder.)
Sign-A-Long: 5th grade began meeting this week to learn songs for our Holiday
Sign-A-Long. We have purchased shirts for the students to wear for our
performances. The $8.50 donation to cover the cost is due November 29.
Dates to Remember:
Nov. 21 Thanksgiving Break – NO SCHOOL
Nov. 25
Nov. 29 Glide Memorial Field Trip - meet in Room 505 by 6:00 a.m.
$8.50 for Holiday Sign-A-Long T-Shirt due
Nov. 30 Hot Cocoa on sale $1.50
Dec. 2 8 Notes and Rough Draft sections are due by today!
Dec. 5 Adopt-A-Family items are due by today. (see flyer in Parent Folder)
5th Grade baby picture for yearbook due!
Dec. 9 A total of 16 Notes and Rough Draft sections are due by today!
Dec. 16 A total of 24 Notes and Rough Draft sections are due by today!
Sign-A-Long for Parents / Families 9:00 a.m. in the MPR
Dec. 19 – Winter Break
Jan. 3
Jan. 4 ALL Notes and Rough Drafts are due by today!
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
November 10, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Students worked hard this week finishing up our 1st Trimester
assessments. Remember that your child will bring home their report card on
Wednesday, November 16.
Newspapers Needed
If you signed up to donate your newspaper, or if you are able to donate your
newspaper, please have your child bring it in each day next week. (FYI-
students received their Current Event sheet on Friday so that, if they choose,
they can complete it over the weekend.)
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, these goals
can be found on our class website. If your child completed projects this week,
you will find them in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return them
on Monday.
Math: We finished Unit 6: Multiplying Decimals, and students took the Unit
Test this week. We began Unit 7: Dividing Decimals.
Social Studies: We finished Chapter 1: The First Americans. This week students
read and discussed Lesson 3: Early Civilizations, which focused on the Olmec,
Mound Builders, and Anasazi civilizations. We also read about timelines and
how to use them. Students were given the Chapter 1 Study Guide and over 2
hours of class time to work on it. They were also given 20 minutes on Thursday
to discuss their answers with their table groups. Since I have not gone over
the Study Guide with the class, students will be able to use it on Monday when
they take the test.
Biography Report: Next week we are starting a Biography Report. Students were
given a list of names to choose from. I suggested that they pick 3 or 4 names,
because once a student picks a person, no other student may do that same
person. We will pick names to research on Tuesday, November 15. More
information will be sent home next week, so keep your eyes open for it.
Science: We continued Chapter 1: Structure of Living Things. This week we read
and discussed Lesson 2: From Cells to Organisms, which focused on how living
things are organized, how cells work together, and some plant and animal organ
systems.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 6 -
9. This assignment is due next Wednesday, November 16.
Science Lab: This week students got an overview of the topics we will be
covering over the next few months, including plant cells, animal cells, the
circulatory system, and the digestive system.
Buddies: We met with our 3rd Grade buddies to finish the listening activity we
began two weeks ago.
2nd Step: We finished Unit I: Empathy Training. This week students completed
Lesson 7, which focused on the fact that we are all different in some ways,
but similar in others.
Class Election: Running for an office, giving a speech, and waiting to hear
the results can be a nerve-racking experience, however this trimester we had
record breaking numbers of students running for office. I want to acknowledge
the following students who ran for office this trimester: Lily Shamel, Grace
Serafin, Sam Blythe, Brynn Kan, Sharon Riise, Sean Stanchina, Frances Talino,
Peter Vannucchi, Shashank Varanasy, Abraham Villatoro, Sarah Katherine Hille,
Anushka Vispute, Josh Giffins, Isabelle Molz, Jake Coleman, William Proctor,
and Raj Raghuram. WOW!! That being said, we know that only one person can
hold each office, and our 2nd Trimester Officers are: President- Miss Brynn
Kan, Vice-President- Miss Sharon Riise, Secretary- Mr. Sean Stanchina, and
Treasurer- Mr. William Proctor. Congratulations to our newly elected officers,
and to all our candidates!! (FYI- All election speeches will be on the 5th
Grade Memories Pt. 2 DVD.)
Dates to Remember:
Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day – NO SCHOOL
Nov. 14 Cookie Dough orders due by today! (Time was extended!!)
Chapter 1 Social Studies Test
Nov. 16 Breakfast Book Club
Report Cards go home today!
2nd Trimester Auction
Nov. 21 Thanksgiving Break – NO SCHOOL
Nov. 25
Dec. 5 5th Grade baby picture for yearbook due by today!
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
November 4, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Have we all traveled through time? Students have barely had time to relax
after MSI, finishing our Map Projects and assembling our USA Pizzas and the
end of the 1st Trimester is already next week! That means…..it’s assessment
time. We’ve started taking these short assessments in class this week and will
finish up next week. I have blocked out time each day for these tests, so
please make sure your child is present and on time every day. Make-ups are
difficult to schedule, and may mean your child will miss recess. Below you
will find the 5th grade standards that will be assessed this trimester.
Please review them. Report cards will be sent home on Wednesday, November 16.
Assessment Alert
The following assessments were given this week and are in your Parent Folder.
Please review, sign, and return them on Monday.
Chapter 5 Science Test (yellow)
WOD Test (goldenrod)
Estimating #1 (yellow)
1st Trimester Math Assessment #1 (green)
Vocabulary: Key Words (yellow)
Math Assessment #4 (green)
Whole Number Assessment #1 / GROW (purple)
Fact and Opinion (purple)
Text Organization (pink)
1st Trimester Math Assessment #3 (yellow)
Whole Number #1 (green)
Math Assessment #2 (purple)
Comprehension: Main Idea and Details / Geography Assessment #1 (yellow)
Predicting Outcomes (green)
Comprehension: Summarize / Multiplication Assessment #2 (pink)
Essential Skills to Be Assessed for 1st Trimester
Fifth Grade:
LANGUAGE ARTS:
Word Analysis, Fluency, Systematic Vocabulary Development
• Reads grade level material fluently and accurately
• Uses knowledge of word origins and word relationships to determine the
meaning of vocabulary
Reading Comprehension / Literary Response
• Identifies and understands the main idea and significant details presented
in text
• Draws conclusions and inferences about text and supports with evidence from
text
• Distinguishes facts, inferences, and opinions from text
• Understands and analyzes narrative text (main problem / conflict,
character action/ motives, literary elements, and themes)
• Independently applies reading strategies
Listening and Speaking
• Listens and responds critically to oral communication, asking relevant
questions to support understanding
• Uses effective techniques of oral language in discussions
Writing Strategies, Applications, Conventions
• Writes fluent, focused, and clear texts – Response to Literature
• Revises and edits selected drafts to improve writing
• Uses correct sentence structure including grammar, punctuation, and
capitalization
• Spells grade level words correctly in written work
HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES:
• Geography
• Research/gathers and applies relevant, accurate information
• U.S. History – shows understanding of development of the nation
MATH:
Number Sense
• Understands and manipulates decimals and very large numbers
• Estimates, calculates, and solves problems: whole numbers and decimals
Algebra and Functions
• Understands algebraic expressions and equations: solves and evaluates
Statistics / Data Analysis / Probability
• Collects, displays, analyzes, compares, and interprets different data sets
Math Reasoning
• Understands / uses / explains different problem solving strategies
SCIENCE:
• Participates in activities and discussions (LAB and in class)
• Demonstrates understanding of concepts (LAB and in class)
ARTS, PHYSICAL EDUCATION, SOCIAL GROWTH, LIFE SKILLS
• ALL SKILLS IN THESE AREAS WILL BE ASSESSED
WORK/STUDY SKILLS
• ALL SKILLS IN THIS AREA WILL BE ASSESSED
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Last week students finished their 1st Trimester Words of the Day and
were asked to study 7 per night. This week we played WOD Jeopardy to review
for the test, which was given Friday. You will find this scored test in your
Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return it on Monday. Students continue
to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, these goals can be found on our class
website. If your child completed projects this week you will find them in your
Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return them on Monday.
Math: We continued Unit 6: Multiplying Decimals. This week students multiplied
decimals by decimals.
Social Studies: We began Chapter 1: The First Americans. This week students
read and discussed Lesson 1: The Search for Early Peoples, which focused on
why the nomads came over the land bridge, the early migration routes, and some
theories as to when people came to the Americas. We also read and discussed
Lesson 2: Ancient Indians, which focused on changes early peoples made when
the giant Ice Age animals became extinct and how farming changed their lives.
(FYI-Students were assigned Lesson 3 on Wednesday (11/2) and it is due Monday
(11/7)).
Science: We reviewed the Chapter 5 Study Guide and students took the test on
Thursday, which you will find in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and
return this on Monday. (FYI- Many students lost points on the short answers
because they did not use complete sentences. I went over several times in
class that a complete sentence should have the question in the answer. This
means that you should be able to read just the answer and know exactly what
the question was. Hopefully students can learn from this and improve their
scores in the future.) We began Chapter 1: Structure of Living Things. This
week we read and discussed Lesson 1: Cells, which focused on the different
organelles in animal and plant cells, and how cells can be seen.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages iv
- 5. This assignment is due next Wednesday, November 9.
Science Lab: This week students reviewed what they have learned about weather,
air pressure and ocean currents in preparation for their Chapter 5 test.
2nd Step: This week students completed Lesson 6, which focused on how
students can show consideration and concern for others through active listening.
Dates to Remember:
Nov. 10 1st Trimester Ends
PJ Day for Room 505
Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day – NO SCHOOL
Nov. 16 Breakfast Book Club
Report Cards go home today!
Nov. 21 Thanksgiving Break – NO SCHOOL
Nov. 25
Dec. 5 5th Grade baby picture for yearbook due by today!
(see flyer in Parent Folder)
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
October 28, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
It’s been a busy week. Students had an amazing time at MSI. The weather
was beautiful, the scenery was spectacular, and students caught 2 bat rays, a
baby flounder, several Dungeness crabs, and many other small fish. If your
child hasn’t shared their experience with you, please ask them about it. There
were also some interesting U.S. Maps made today. Thanks to all of the parents
who made both of these events successful.
5th Grade Memories on DVD
As mentioned earlier in the year, I am again offering parents the chance to
get many of our 5th grade memories memorialized on film. Throughout the year
I will tape field trips, buddy activities, class parties, art with Ms. Tess,
the Talent Show, class activities, etc. These memories will be put onto 4 two
hour long DVDs. The total cost for the 4 DVDs is $40. (Please make checks
payable to Bollinger Canyon School. Receipts will be sent home upon receiving
your order.) This money will be used to purchase the DVDs, their cases, and
cover pages. The rest of the money will be used to buy items for the class.
(Students have already submitted book requests for our class library and Book
Club.) On the inside of the cover there will be a list of the chapters
contained on the DVD. The DVD itself will be similar to a DVD movie, in that
you will have a main screen with the option of starting from the beginning, or
going through the different chapters. (This means if you want you can go
directly to Art with Ms. Tess even though it may be toward the end of the
DVD.) If you are interested in receiving a copy of the memories, please fill
in the section provided at the bottom of the newsletter. All money and orders
are due by Tuesday, November 1.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, these goals
can be found on our class website. If your child completed projects this week
you will find them in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return them
on Monday.
Math: We began Unit 6: Multiplying Decimals. This week students multiplied
whole numbers and decimals.
Social Studies: Students created a pizza in the shape of the United States.
This was lunch on Friday.
Science: Students played their MSI board games to review MSI concepts. We also
completed another dichotomous key to identify different types of trees.
Students were given the Chapter 5 Study Guide and were able to work on it when
we returned from our MSI field trip. (Unfortunately, many students forgot that
I had told them to bring it to school on Thursday, so they will need to
complete this assignment at home.) The Study Guide is due Tuesday and the test
is Thursday. November 3.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 126
- 127. This assignment is due next Wednesday, November 2.
Science Lab: Students turned in their severe weather pamphlet. This week they
read weather maps and then use their new knowledge to explain what the weather
will be like in California this weekend.
Buddies: We met with our 3rd grade buddies and walked with them during the
Halloween Parade.
2nd Step: This week students completed Lesson 5, which focused on what it
means to be fair.
Dates to Remember:
Oct. 31 Staff Development Day – No School for Students
Nov. 1 5th Grade Memories DVD orders and $$ due by today!
Chapter 5 Science Study Guide due
Nov. 3 Chapter 5 Science Test
Nov. 4 1st Trimester Word of the Day Test
Nov. 8 Cookie Dough orders due by today!!
Nov. 10 1st Trimester Ends
Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day – NO SCHOOL
Nov. 16 Report Cards go home today!
Nov. 21 Thanksgiving Break – NO SCHOOL
Nov. 25
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
October 21, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Our long anticipated MSI trip is next week! Parent chaperones and students
must be in Room 505 by 6:15 a.m. Please pack your child a “garbage free”
lunch, to help the environment, a snack, and some bottled water. Students will
be working hard and will more than likely get a little dirty and wet. Be
prepared! (See handout in Parent Folder for more information.)
5th Grade Memories on DVD
As mentioned earlier in the year, I am again offering parents the chance to
get many of our 5th grade memories memorialized on film. Throughout the year
I will tape field trips, buddy activities, class parties, art with Ms. Tess,
the Talent Show, class activities, etc. These memories will be put onto 4 two
hour long DVDs. The total cost for the 4 DVDs is $40. (Please make checks
payable to Bollinger Canyon School. Receipts will be sent home upon receiving
your order.) This money will be used to purchase the DVDs, their cases, and
cover pages. The rest of the money will be used to buy items for the class.
(Students have already submitted book requests for our class library and Book
Club.) On the inside of the cover there will be a list of the chapters
contained on the DVD. The DVD itself will be similar to a DVD movie, in that
you will have a main screen with the option of starting from the beginning, or
going through the different chapters. (This means if you want you can go
directly to Art with Ms. Tess even though it may be toward the end of the
DVD.) If you are interested in receiving a copy of the memories, please fill
in the section provided at the bottom of the newsletter
Here is the schedule for Friday, October 28th. Feel free to stop by when
students are making or eating our U.S. Pizzas. Don’t forget your cameras!
8:30 – 9:15 School Wide Parade (Parents can see us out on the blacktop.)
9:15 – 10:00 Students Create U.S. Pizzas
10:00 – 12:00 Instruction Time
12:00 – 12:45 Students Eat in the Classroom
1:00 – 1:45 Instruction Time
Around the Classroom:
Reading: We read Eye of the Storm: Chasing Storms with Warren Faidley, a story
in our reading anthology. Students were intrigued with his pictures. We’ll be
watching some of his short videos on Oct. 28th. Students continue to meet in
Book Club groups. Remember, these goals can be found on our class website. If
your child completed projects this week you will find them in your Parent
Folder. Please review, sign, and return them on Monday.
Math: AMB finished Unit 5: Variables and Expressions. The Unit Test was given
and students have corrected any missed questions. You will find this test in
your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return it on Monday. TAAB
continued to review math concepts. (FYI- Starting next week math groups will
dissolve and everyone will work on the same lessons.)
Social Studies: We continue the U.S. Map Project, which is due by Monday,
October 24. While no specific class time was given for this assignment,
students were able to work on it when finished with their other work.
Science: Students continue working on their board games to review MSI
concepts. Ms. Julie also played Jeopardy with the class to review MSI
vocabulary terms and walked them through using a dichotomous key to identify
different items. We finished Chapter 5: Earth’s Weather. This week we read and
discussed Lesson 5: Predicting the Weather, which focused on what we can learn
from low and high pressure systems,, weather fronts, and how forecasters
collect data.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 120
- 125. This assignment is due next Wednesday, October 26.
Science Lab: Students finished their severe weather pamphlet.
Buddies: We met with our 3rd grade buddies to read this Month’s Book of the
Month, Eraserheads. Students then completed the listening / giving directions
activity. Make sure to ask them how it went!
2nd Step: This week students completed Lesson 4, which focused on ways to
figure out how someone feels as a result of a given situation.
Dates to Remember:
Oct. 24-28 Red Ribbon Week (see flyer in Parent Folder)
Oct. 24 U.S. Map Project due by today!
Oct. 25 Cookie Dough fundraiser begins!
Oct. 27 MSI Field Trip – Chaperones/students meet in Room 505 by 6:15 a.m.
Oct. 28 Halloween Parade 8:30 a.m. on the blacktop
1:45 Dismissal
Oct. 31 Staff Development Day – No School for Students
Nov. 8 Cookie Dough orders due by today!!
________ Yes, I’d like to order _______set(s) of the 5th Grade Memories DVDs.
I have included $________ to purchase the DVDs.
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
October 14, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Conference Week is officially over. Thanks for helping to make it a
productive and positive experience. Despite our half days, students have been
busy working on Math, Book Club, Science, and their U.S. Map. Please remember
that students should be working on this map 15 minutes each night in addition
to any class time.
Our first field trip, MSI, is approaching. In your Parent Folder you will
find student permission slips and chaperone forms. Please fill them out and
return them ASAP. (NOTE: Since we are leaving from Richmond this year,
students and chaperones do not need to meet at school until 6:15 a.m. Enjoy
the extra ½ hour of sleep!)
Newspapers Needed
If you signed up to donate your newspaper, or if you are able to donate your
newspaper, please have your child bring them in each day next week. (FYI-
Students received their Current Event sheet on Friday so that, if they chose,
they can complete it over the weekend.)
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continue to meet in Book Club groups. Remember, these goals
can be found on our class website. Nice job to those of you who noticed I
didn’t include the sample rubric for their oral presentation in last week’s
Parent Folder. I sent it home Tuesday of this week, so hopefully your child
has shared it with you.
Math: AMB took the Unit 4 Test this week and have corrected any missed
questions. You will find this test in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign,
and return it on Monday. They also began Unit 5: Variables and Expressions.
This week students worked on taking words and putting them into expressions
with variables. TAAB finished Unit 5: Variables and Expressions. The Unit Test
was given and students have corrected any missed questions. You will find this
test in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return it on Monday. TAAB
is also working on reviewing math concepts.
Social Studies: We continue the U.S. Map Project, which is due by Monday,
October 24. While no specific class time was given for this assignment,
students were able to work on it when finished with their other work.
Science: Last week, while reviewing the MSI Packet, it became clear that many
students weren’t paying attention or contributing to the class discussion.
Because of this, I gave a “pop quiz” on the information we had covered. We
discussed the quiz after the fact. Most students did not perform well and have
said that they will pay better attentions during these types of discussions.
You will find your child’s quiz in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign,
and return it on Monday. We finished reading the packet about the San
Francisco Estuary. Students began working in groups to create a board game to
review concepts in preparation for MSI. We also continued Chapter 5: Earth’s
Weather. This week we read and discussed Lesson 4: Severe Weather, which
focused on the different causes of thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, and
monsoons.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 112
- 119. This assignment is due next Wednesday, October 19.
Science Lab: Students started a severe weather pamphlet. Each student will
work individually by picking a severe type of weather and creating a pamphlet
on it explaining where this severe weather happens, what it looks and feels
like, and what to do if you are caught in this kind of weather.
Spelling: Last week students took their final States and Capitals Spelling
Test, which you will find in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and
return this on Monday.
Dates to Remember:
Oct. 19 Breakfast Book Club Meeting 7:30 a.m. in the MPR
Oct. 21 FYI- Reflection Projects due by today. (see flyer in Parent Folder)
Oct. 24 U.S. Map Project due by today!
Oct. 27 MSI Field Trip – Chaperones/students meet in Room 505 by 6:15 a.m.
Oct. 28 Halloween Parade
Oct. 31 Staff Development – No School for Students
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
October 7, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
Believe it or not, conferences begin tomorrow and will continue into next
week. Conferences are scheduled back to back, so please be prompt. In order
to respect everyone’s time, I will be using a timer. (ie: If you are 5
minutes late, your conference will be shortened by 5 minutes.) Remember,
students are required to attend their conference!
Wonderful Water Presentation
We’d like to thank Mr. Buehler, Lauren’s dad, who came in this week and spoke
to all of the 5th grade classes about his career in the water industry. He
works for a company who takes salt water and puts it through a process to make
it drinkable. He’s also worked for a company who uses a drill-less procedure
to fix underground pipes (sorry can’t remember the proper term form it). We
were also able to watch some pretty cool videos. I’m sure your child came home
and told you all about the alligator in the pipes.
Primo’s Run For Education
The Primo’s Run for Education is here! If you are registered and would like to
walk with the Bollinger Staff, including Mrs. Smith, meet us at the Iron Horse
marquee at 8:15 Sunday, October 9. If you haven’t registered yet, it’s not too
late. Check out the link on our class web site or go to www.primosrun.com.
Hope to see you there!
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students are now in leveled reading groups and are into their first
Book Club book. Book Club meets on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of each
week, and will run the same way as when students read Bridge to Terabithia.
Remember, nightly reading goals can be found on the web site if your child
loses their goal sheet. We have reviewed the different projects that need to
be completed when they finish each book. To help students keep track of their
projects they were given a Book Club Project Organizer. Each child also
received a description of each project. In your Parent Folder this week you
will find a sample rubric for their oral presentation. Copies of the project
descriptions can be found on the class web page.
Math: AMB continued Unit 4: Division of Whole Numbers. This week students
solved problems with double-digit divisors. TAAB began Unit 5: Variables and
Expressions. This week students worked on taking words and putting them into
expressions with variables.
Social Studies: We began the U.S. Map Project, which is due by Monday, October
24. Students had over 3 hours of class time this week to begin their map.
While students should bring their map to school each day, they will also need
to work on the map each night for homework.
Science: We began reading a packet to get prepared for our upcoming field trip
to MSI. We also continued Chapter 5: Earth’s Weather. This week we read and
discussed Lesson 3: Oceans and Air Temperature, which focused on how the
oceans affect the temperature on land, the movement of currents, and the
causes of El Niño.
Science Alliance: I sent an email out about the District’s 5th Grade Science
Fair and the Science Alliance. If your child is interested, you can “sign them
up” by attending one of the upcoming informational meetings. There is no need
to notify Mrs. Smith. See the email sent out September 27 for more information.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Workbook pages 108
- 111. This assignment is due next Wednesday, October 12.
Science Lab: Students learned about ocean currents and how the movement of our
planet affects them. They also learned how the ocean currents affect marine
life living in coastal areas.
Spelling: As you know, last week students took a States and Capitals Spelling
Test, which contained all 50 states. Students were able to see their tests and
decide if they wanted to improve their score by taking the test again this
week. (If your child hasn’t had you review and sign their first attempt,
please ask them about their test. It was sent home on Tuesday for you to
review, sign, and return.) We will discuss your child’s score during our
conference next week.
2nd Step: This week we completed Lesson 3, which focused on the effects that
students’ behavior might have on others.
Dates to Remember:
Oct. 9 Primo’s Run
Oct. 10- Conference Week – 12:00 Dismissal
Oct. 14
Oct. 11 Science Alliance Meeting – see email sent out Sept. 27 for more info
Oct. 12 Final Science Alliance Meeting – see email sent out Sept. 27 for
more info
Oct. 19 1st Breakfast Book Club Meeting 7:30 a.m. in the MPR
Oct. 24 U.S. Map Project due by today!
Oct. 27 MSI Field Trip – Chaperones / students meet in Room 505 by 5:45 a.m.
Oct. 28 Halloween Parade
Oct. 31 Staff Development – No School for Students
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
September 30, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
As you know, we have been learning about conservation and reclamation of
water. Last week students were asked to bring in their daily water usage,
according to their household’s last water bill. We collected this data from
students and then analyzed it. Some observations we made: the more people in
your household didn’t necessarily mean the more water used (Talino family, you
are my new hero. Even with 7 household members, you had one of the lowest
water consumptions in our class.), people with pools tended to use more water,
and we discovered that water leaks add up. Students were pretty excited and
impressed with each other, so I have decided to make this challenge. We will
continue to collect data every other month. The student whose household can
make the largest decrease in their gallons used per day will earn an extra
Oops Slip (ie. homework pass) each Trimester. Let the conservation begin!
How Can You Help?
E-Scrip
I know parents are always looking for ways they can help out Bollinger. Well,
I have a way that only takes 5 minutes of your time and will cost you NOTHING!
E-Scrip. This program is so easy to sign up for and brings in thousands of
dollars for our school every year. Simply go to www.escrip.com (or use the
link that’s on our class web site), click on “Sign-Up – It’s Free!”, follow
the 6 easy steps to register your Safeway Club Card, credit cards, Macy’s
card, and other participating merchants. That’s it. Then, every time you use
those cards, up to 4% of your purchase will go directly to Bollinger Canyon
School. Once you sign up, the system automatically renews your membership
each year, EXCEPT for Safeway. Unfortunately, Safeway requires that you renew
your membership each year, but it is a very easy process. I would be happy to
help anyone having difficulty. Students with a participating family will earn
$mith Bucks. If you are already signed up, please let me know. If you sign
up, please let me know.
Primo’s Run For Education
Another great way that your entire family can support our school, have fun
together, and get some fresh air and exercise all at the same time is the
annual Primo’s Run for Education, which is on Sunday, October 9. All of the
funds raised from this event go directly back to our classrooms and students
through a grant program in the form of books and materials supporting ELA,
math, science and the arts. The San Ramon Education Foundation awarded over
$100,000 in grants last year. In addition, all schools can earn cash
incentives for their PTA just by getting participants and volunteers at the
race. Be sure to designate Bollinger Canyon as your school when you register
or sign-up to volunteer. FYI- I've made a challenge to the class. If we can
get 75% of the class to register, then we will have a popcorn / movie
afternoon. In addition, the Bollinger class with the highest registration
percentage will receive a pizza party from Ms. Wells. Students who register
will earn $mith Bucks. (FYI- As of Friday, we only have 4 people registered.
We need 19 more to reach our goal.) To register check out the link on our
class web site or go to www.primosrun.com
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students began working on some beautiful artwork, which ties nicely
into Bridge to Terabithia. Next week we will begin leveled Book Club groups.
Math: AMB began Unit 4: Division of Whole Numbers. This week students used
patterns to divide and estimate quotients. TAAB finished Unit 4: Division of
Whole Numbers. Students took the unit test and have corrected any missed
problems. You will find this in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and
return it on Monday. MATH REMINDERS: Remember, if students are having problems
viewing the math online, check out the short videos I posted on our class
website. Also, if your child is taking the Unit Pretest, please make sure they
complete it by themselves. This way I get an accurate analysis of what they
can and can’t do.
Writing: Using Bridge to Terabithia, students completed three Comprehension
Pieces. One was a Summary. In this piece, students wrote a summary, which
included 8 major events from the book. Students also completed a 3 Character
/ Setting. In this piece students described 3 main characters and the setting.
The final piece we completed was the Timeline, which included 8 major events
from the book. You will find these writing assignments in your Parent Folder.
While I have written comments on them, they are not scored. As a class, we
discussed some student examples. Students were able to see what I expect and
how to make their work better. Most students need to work on adding more
details and expanding their ideas.
Social Studies: We took the Constitution Quiz, which you will find in your
Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return this on Monday.
Science: Students took the Chapter 4 Test, which you will find in your Parent
Folder. Please review, sign, and return this on Monday. We began Chapter 5:
Earth’s Weather. This week we read and discussed Lesson 1: Earth’s Atmosphere,
which focused on defining air pressure and explained the different variables
that can have an effect on it. We also read and discussed Lesson 2: Air
Currents and Wind, which focused on the reasons temperatures are different
around the world, global winds, and how land and water temperatures affect air
pressure.
Science Alliance: I sent an email out about the District’s 5th Grade Science
Fair and the Science Alliance. If your child is interested, you can “sign them
up” by attending one of the upcoming informational meetings. There is no need
to notify Mrs. Smith.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet pages
102 - 107. This assignment is due next Wednesday, October 5.
Science Lab: Students learned about air pressure and how it affects our atmosphere
Spelling: Students were given their final region of States / Capitals as
spelling words this week, and a test was given today. Next week they will
complete the same test (all 50 states) and I will record their best score.
3rd Grade Reading Buddies: Last week we met with Ms. Twitchell’s 3rd grade
class, who are our reading buddies this year. This week we met again to read
September’s Book of the Month, One Smart Cookie.
2nd Step: Last week we began 2nd Step. This program is used by all grades.
(Please see the 2 letters in your Parent Folder for a detailed description.)
Unit 1 focuses on Empathy. Last week we did Lesson 1, which worked on reading
clues (body language, facial expressions) to see how people are feeling. This
week, Lesson 2 focused on communicating feelings and giving support. (FYI- Our
Cal High CIT (Careers In Training) intern, Julie Rovai, will take over 2nd
Step next week.)
Dates to Remember:
Oct. 5 Spirit Day
Oct. 7 MSI fee due by today ($75 checks made out to Bollinger Canyon)
Oct. 9 Primo’s Run
Oct. 19 1st Breakfast Book Club Meeting 7:30 a.m. in the MPR
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
September 23, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
At this point most students have a scheduled and confirmed conference
time. Thank you for such a quick response! If you have not turned in your 3
choices please do so ASAP. As you can see, conferences are 20 minutes long and
back-to-back. It is imperative that you and your child arrive ON TIME. I will
use a timer to honor everyone’s time. If you are late, your conference will
be shortened.
I am asking my students to think about two goals they would like to work
on. These goals need to be specific. (i.e., not, “I want to work on math”, but
“I want to work on adding multiple digit numbers.”) After discussing these
two goals with you, students should write them on the lines provided at the
end of this newsletter, and turn them in on Monday.
How Can You Help?
E-Scrip
I know parents are always looking for ways they can help out Bollinger. Well,
I have a way that only takes 5 minutes of your time and will cost you NOTHING!
E-Scrip. This program is so easy to sign up for and brings in thousands of
dollars for our school every year. Simply go to www.escrip.com (or use the
link that’s on our class web site), click on “Sign-Up – It’s Free!”, follow
the 6 easy steps to register your Safeway Club Card, credit cards, Macy’s
card, and other participating merchants. That’s it. Then, every time you use
those cards, up to 4% of your purchase will go directly to Bollinger Canyon
School. Once you sign up, the system automatically renews your membership
each year, EXCEPT for Safeway. Unfortunately, Safeway requires that you renew
your membership each year, but it is a very easy process. I would be happy to
help anyone having difficulty. Students with a participating family will earn
$mith Bucks. If you are already signed up, please let me know. If you sign
up, please let me know.
Primo’s Run For Education
Another great way that your entire family can support our school, have fun
together, and get some fresh air and exercise all at the same time is the
annual Primo’s Run for Education, which is on Sunday, October 9. All of the
funds raised from this event go directly back to our classrooms and students
through a grant program in the form of books and materials supporting ELA,
math, science and the arts. The San Ramon Education Foundation awarded over
$100,000 in grants last year. In addition, all schools can earn cash
incentives for their PTA just by getting participants and volunteers at the
race. Be sure to designate Bollinger Canyon as your school when you register
or sign-up to volunteer. FYI- I've made a challenge to the class. If we can
get 75% of the class to register, then we will have a popcorn / movie
afternoon. In addition, the Bollinger class with the highest registration
percentage will receive a pizza party from Ms. Wells. Students who register
will earn $mith Bucks. (FYI- As of Friday, we only have 2 people registered.
We need 23 to reach our goal.) To register check out the link on our class web
site or go to www.primosrun.com
Newspapers Needed
If you signed up to donate your newspaper, or if you are able to donate your
newspaper, please have your child bring them in each day next week. Having
current, local newspapers in class will be greatly appreciated by students who
don’t have access to these at home. (FYI- Students received their Current
Event sheet on Friday so that, if they chose, they can complete it over the
weekend.)
Around the Classroom:
Math: AMB finished Unit 3: Review Multiplication of Whole Numbers. Students
took the unit test and have corrected any missed problems. You will find this
in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and return it on Monday. TAAB
continued Unit 4: Division of Whole Numbers. This week students worked on
solving problems with zeros in the quotient and double-digit divisors. MATH
REMINDERS: Remember, if students are having problems viewing the math online,
check out the short videos I posted on our class website. Also, if your child
is taking the Unit Pretest, please make sure they complete it by themselves.
This way I get an accurate analysis of what they can and can’t do.
Writing: Using Bridge to Terabithia, students completed three Responses to
Literature. One was a Character Trait. In this piece, students chose a main
character and focused on one of the character’s traits. Next, using the text,
the students found two examples that supported that character’s trait and then
wrote about a time when they exhibited that trait. Students then wrote an
Author’s Message. In this piece students pick a message they think was
important to the author and find two examples from the text that support that
message. The final response we completed was a Text to Text. In this piece
students wrote about another book that somehow reminded them of Bridge to
Terabithia. Students had to find two ways the books were similar and two ways
that the books were different. You will find these writing assignments in your
Parent Folder. While I have written comments on them, they are not scored.
As a class, we discussed some student examples. Students were able to see
what I expect and how to make their work better. Most students need to work
on adding more details and expanding their ideas.
Social Studies: Students played another Jeopardy game to help review concepts.
Table groups also had time to play each other’s Constitution board games. The
Constitution Quiz is Monday, September 26. (Please don’t stress about this
quiz. It only has 11 questions and covers basic information about the writing
of our Constitution, the branches of government and some famous amendments.)
Science: Students completed the Chapter 4 Study Guide and we went over all
answers in class. Students should use this study guide to prepare for the
test, which is Monday, September 26.
Science Homework: Since students are taking the Chapter 4 Test on Monday, we
will wait until then to begin Chapter 5: Earth’s Weather. Pages 98 – 101
will be assigned Monday and due Wednesday, September 28.
Science Lab: Students reviewed for their upcoming Chapter 4 Test.
Spelling: Students were given their 4th region of States / Capitals as
spelling words this week, and took the test today. Students will not only be
held accountable for spelling these words correctly, but they will also need
to know where each state is located in that region. Next week’s test will
contain all 50 states and capitals. (FYI- I’ve decided to given students next
week’s words today so that they can work on it over the weekend if they want to.)
Dates to Remember:
Sept. 26 Constitution Quiz
Science Chapter 4 Test
Oct. 7 MSI fee due by today ($75 checks made out to Bollinger Canyon)
Oct. 9 Primo’s Run
Oct. 19 1st Breakfast Book Club Meeting 7:30 a.m. in the MPR
Student Goal #1
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
Student Goal #2
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
September 16, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
As you know, we started using a new component of our math program this
week. Students will now go online most nights to complete their math homework.
Some students / parents have been experiencing problems with trying to access
the website. I’ve tried troubleshooting through email, but am not sure how
effective it’s been. So, I’ve made a few “how to” videos and posted them on
our class website. Simply click on “Help with Online Math Homework”, which
appears under the “Homework” link. Hopefully this will help. (Remember, if all
else fails, students complete both sides of the assigned worksheet and call it
a day.)
Belated Welcome!
I’m not sure where my mind was last week, but we were excited to add a new
addition to our class. Please help me in welcoming Elika Oakley and her family
to the Bollinger community. Students have done a great job making her feel
like one of the gang!
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students finished their first core book, Bridge to Terabithia. Next
week students will write several different types of Response to Literatures
using this book.
Math: AMB received their Chapter 2 Tests back and corrected any missed
problems. You will find this in your Parent Folder. Please review, sign, and
return it on Monday. They began Unit 3: Review Multiplication of Whole
Numbers. This week students worked on estimating products and reviewing the
Properties of Multiplication. TAAB took the Unit 3 Test and have corrected any
missed problems. You will find this test in your Parent Folder. Please review,
sign, and return it on Monday. They began Unit 4: Division of Whole Numbers.
This week students worked on using patterns to find quotients and estimation.
Social Studies: Students finished reading about the Constitution. Working in
table groups, students made a board game to review for the Constitution Quiz,
which is Monday, September 26. Students will have time next week to play each
other’s games. We also played a Jeopardy game to help review concepts.
Science: We finished reading Chapter 4: Earth’s Water. This week students read
and discussed Lesson 4: California’s Water Supply, which focused on where
California’s fresh water comes from and the different ways we can conserve
water. Students completed Interactive Worksheet pages 90 – 93 in class.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet pages
94-95. This assignment is due next Wednesday, September 21.
Science Lab: This week students created their own water cycle to observe how
water moves around our planet.
Spelling: Students were given their 3rd region of States / Capitals as
spelling words this week, and took the test today. Students will not only be
held accountable for spelling these words correctly, but they will also need
to know where each state is located in that region. I’ve decided to given
students next week’s words today so that they can work on it over the weekend
if they want to. CONFUSION! Sorry for the confusion regarding the first
section on the spelling packet. Students are only required to find the
monetary value of the capitals. For extra credit they can find the value of
the states too and earn $100 $mith Bucks.
Dates to Remember:
Sept. 26 Constitution Quiz
Oct. 7 MSI fee due by today ($75 checks made out to Bollinger Canyon)
Oct. 9 Primo’s Run
Oct. 19 1st Breakfast Book Club Meeting 7:30 a.m. in the MPR
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
September 9, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
In case you missed the email I sent out, the following parents were
“selected’ to chaperone our trip to MSI on Thursday, October 27: Mr.
Stanchina, Mrs. Millen, Mr. Shamel, Mr. Kan, Mrs. Vannucchi, Mr. Schmitt, Mrs.
Talino, Mrs. Serafin, Mrs. Hille, and Mrs. Coleman. Students and chaperones
must be in Room 505 by 5:40 a.m. We will be traveling, by bus, to the Marine
Science Institute’s vessel, which sails out of Redwood City. We should return
back to campus by 2:00 and students will stay at school until regular
dismissal at 2:55. Parents may sign their child out through the office when
we return from MSI. REMINDER: As I stated at Back-to-School Night we did not
collect for this trip during registration. The fee is $75 per student. We need
this fee no later than Friday, October 7. If you are having financial
difficulty, please let me know. We can split the fee into two payments or we
can offer a partial scholarship. All students will be able to attend, but
please keep me in the loop if there is a problem!
5th Grade Parent Informational Meeting
If you are interested in getting information about or helping with 5th grade
activities (US Pizzas, Candy Trains, Holiday Breakfast, Colonial Afternoon,
Promotion, etc.) please attend the meeting on Wednesday, September 14. We
will meet in Room 505 at 2:15. I hope to see you there!
Newspapers Needed
If you signed up to donate your newspaper, or if you are able to donate your
newspaper, please have your child bring them in each day next week. Having
current, local newspapers in class will be greatly appreciated by students who
don’t have access to these at home.
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students continued to meet in their Core Book Club groups to discuss
Bridge to Terabithia.
Writing: Students completed the Fall District Write this week. Your child’s
score will be discussed during October Conferences.
Math: We completed our first week of Board Math, which is a program that is
completed orally as a class and reviews and previews math concepts. AMB
finished Unit 2: Addition and Subtraction Number Sense. This week students
worked on adding and subtracting decimals. This unit test was given on Friday.
Please look for it in next weeks’ Parent Folder. TAAB continued Unit 3: Review
Multiplication of Whole Numbers. This week students solved problems with
3-digit factors and learned about exponents. FYI Our math book is available to
students online. Check our class website for information on how to access
this valuable website. We went to the website as a class this week and
practiced locating pages/information.
Social Studies: Students continued reading about the Constitution. This week
we learned about the Bill of Rights and remaining 17 Amendments.
Science: We continued reading Chapter 4: Earth’s Water. This week students
read and discussed Lesson 3: Freshwater Resources, which focused on where
earth’s usable fresh water is found, explaining what a watershed is, different
causes for water pollution, and how fresh water is cleaned.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet pages
84-89. This assignment is due next Wednesday, September 14. Class time was
given for students to begin this homework.
Science Lab: Their first experiment showed how much water on our planet is
fresh water and how much is salt water. They were also able to visualize how
much of the fresh water on Earth is a drinkable resource.
Spelling: Students were given their second region of States / Capitals as
spelling words this week, and took the test today. Students will not only be
held accountable for spelling these words correctly, but they will also need
to know where each state is located in that region. To help review for the
test the class played a state map game. CONFUSION! Sorry for the confusion
regarding the first section on the spelling packet. Students are only required
to find the monetary value of the capitals. For extra credit they can find the
value of the states too and earn $100 $mith Bucks.
Dates to Remember:
Sept. 14 5th Grade Informational Parent Meeting 2:15 in Room 505
Sept. 15 School-wide Fall pictures
Sept. 16 Breakfast Book Club registration / $40 due by today!
Oct. 7 MSI fee due by today ($75 made out to Bollinger Canyon)
Oct. 9 Primo’s Run (see Parent Folder for more information)
Oct.19 1st Breakfast Book Club Meeting 7:30 a.m. in the MPR
Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
September 2, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: mcerri@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
It was great seeing so many of you at Back-To-School Night. Thanks for
your support. I know it was a lot of information for new parents. Don’t
hesitate to ask questions! Please make note of my voice mail number, e-mail
address, and our class web site, which are listed above. Newsletters, along
with teacher generated notices, Book Club goals, sample post-its, sample
Reader’s Workshop Journaling, field trip information, homework, upcoming
events, links to helpful web sites, and a place to see the answers of
“frequently asked questions” are just some of the items that are posted on the
web site weekly. Our Class Secretary will be responsible for inputting some
of the data. If you haven’t had time to log on and bookmark this web site,
please do!
A few things I forgot to mention at Back-to-School Night:
1) I feel bad that when introducing myself I didn’t tell you that I am
married. My husband teaches History at Tennison High in Hayward, which is
where he grew up and we live. We are hoping to adopt a baby in the very near
future.
2) Here’s a friendly reminder to returning parents/children and some
information to new parents/children. If you decide to bring in a treat to
celebrate your child’s birthday, please remember that we have a student in our
class who is allergic to peanuts. Please plan accordingly.
3) Please make sure to check your Parent Folder each Friday. This will
contain all work completed that week and notices from school. I also send home
99% of the assessments we take in class for you to review, sign, and return.
This way you will always know how your child is doing and there should be no
surprises during conferences or report card time.
4) Band / strings is offered once a week for an hour. Students are
responsible for making up any missed work.
5) I will be offering DVDs again this year. I will put together 4, 1 hour 45
minutes DVDs throughout the year that you can purchase for a total of $40. The
5th Grade Memories DVDs will consist of field trips, buddy activities,
classroom projects / activities, etc. Money collected for this will be used to
purchase DVD supplies and other items for our classroom, such as books. I will
send out the sign-up for this when I have the first DVD completed, which is
usually in October sometime.
6) Slight change: We can take 10 adults to MSI with us. Please see below.
MSI Field Trip
Our first field trip is on Thursday, October 27. Students and chaperones must
be in Room 505 by 5:40 a.m. We will be traveling, by bus, to the Marine
Science Institute’s vessel, which sails out of Redwood City. We should return
back to campus by 2:00 and students will stay at school until regular
dismissal at 2:55. Parents may sign their child out through the office when
we return from MSI. The following parents signed up to chaperone at
Back-to-School Night: Mr. Kan, Mr. Schmitt, Mrs. Stanchina, Mrs. Coleman, Mrs.
Vannucchi, Mrs. Millen, Mrs. Serafin, Mrs. Hille, and Mr. Villatoro. If you
have not signed up, but would like to attend, please let me know by Tuesday,
September 6. (If you do not receive a hard copy of this newsletter, simply
send me an e-mail with the information.) REMEMBER: We can only take 10 adults
with us. I will pull names of interested parents from a hat on the morning of
Wednesday, September 7. I will notify everyone later that day as to who was
“selected”. (REMINDER: As I stated at Back-to-School Night we did not collect
for this trip during registration. The fee is $75 per student. We need this
fee no later than Friday, October 7. If you are having financial difficulty,
please let me know. We can split the fee into two payments or we can offer a
partial scholarship. All students will be able to attend, but please keep me
in the loop if there is a problem!)
5th Grade Parent Informational Meeting
If you are interested in getting information about or helping with 5th grade
activities (US Pizzas, Candy Trains, Holiday Breakfast, Colonial Afternoon,
Promotion, etc.) please attend the meeting on Wednesday, September 14. We
will meet in Room 505 at 2:15. I hope to see you there!
Around the Classroom:
Reading: Students completed the Gates-MacGinitie Reading Test, which tests
students’ vocabulary and comprehension skills. Students will be given the same
test in the spring and we hope to see growth. While reading Earthquake Terror,
a story in our anthology book, we reviewed the different types of Post-Its
(Questions, a WOW Moment, Character Trait, Setting, Character Feeling, Problem
/ Solution, Prediction / Answer). Students also learned / reviewed how to put
these Post-Its into their Reader’s Workshop Journal. In mixed ability groups,
students began their first core book, Bridge to Terabithia. For this book,
Book Club groups will meet on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to discuss
their post-its before expanding on them in their Reader’s Workshop Journals.
You can find the reading goals on our class web page. For each of these
meetings, students will be responsible for reading up to, but not going
beyond, the reading goal. In order for the Book Club meetings to run smoothly
and to make sure all students participate, it is vital that all members do
their part, read the designated pages and have Post-Its (a minimum of 5). The
first time a student is not prepared for Book Club, they will be fined $50
$mith Bucks, and a letter will be sent home for you to sign. The second
offense will cost $100 $mith Bucks and another letter will be sent home for
you to sign. On the third offense, the student will be fined $150 $mith Bucks
and will no longer be able to participate in Book Club while students are
reading that book. When they begin their next Book Club book, that student
will start with a clean slate. After our first core book is finished,
students will be in leveled groups, select their books, decide on their
reading goals, and meet Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of each week. To help
keep you informed, these goals will be posted on the web site under “Book Club”.
Math: Students were tested into groups, which began on Tuesday. The two groups
this year are Angry Math Birds (AMB) and Team Awesome Angry Birds (TAAB).
These groups are based on what students need to work on. I work with each
group during each math period. While a group is waiting for my instruction,
they will work on Tile Cards or another math related activity. After I have
taught or reviewed the concept, students will do practice problems out of
their textbook. Before the end of the math period, all work will be
corrected, and questions answered. Homework is assigned which reviews the
concepts taught in class. This week AMB worked on estimating sums and
differences of whole numbers and decimals. TAAB worked on estimating products
and multiplication.
Social Studies: Working in table groups, students dissected the Constitution
of the United States’ Preamble, putting it into their own words. We began
reading about the Constitution and the reasons it was created. We learned
about the 7 Articles.
Science: As you hopefully know, we have a new Science teacher this year, Mrs.
De Rosa, and Science Lab will be run a bit differently. The textbook, along
with workbook, will be completed in class or for homework. As a class, we will
a read and discuss a lesson on Friday. Homework will be assigned that reviews
what we’ve just read and will be due / corrected Wednesday in class. Students
will then go to Science Lab on Thursday to complete a lab based on the same
concept. This process will continue throughout the year. To help prepare for
our first field trip, Marine Science Institute, we are starting with Chapter
4: Earth’s Water. Last week we read and discussed Lesson 1: Earth: The Blue
Planet, which focused on the causes of the oceans’ salinity and where fresh
water is found. This week students read and discussed Lesson 2: The Water
Cycle, which focused on what makes water change form, what happens to water
after if evaporates, and how clouds form.
Science Homework: Students need to complete the Interactive Worksheet pages 74
- 83. This assignment is due next Wednesday, September 7. Class time was given
for students to begin this homework.
Science Lab: Their first experiment showed how much water on our planet is
fresh water and how much is salt water. They were also able to visualize how
much of the fresh water on Earth is a drinkable resource.
Spelling: Students were given their first region of States / Capitals as
spelling words this week, and took the test today, which is in your Parent
Folder for you to review, sign, and return. Students will not only be held
accountable for spelling these words correctly, but they will also need to
know where each state is located in that region. Each week the tests will
include previously used states and capitols. (Tests will be cumulative). FYI-
Since next week is a short week, students were given their next set of
spelling words today. If they so choose, students can begin it over the weekend.
Class Constitution: Remember, students must memorize our Class Constitution by
Tuesday, September 6. I will videotape each child reciting the constitution,
and then splice them all together. (This will appear on the first 5th Grade
Memory DVD.)
Class Election: Running for an office, giving a speech, and waiting to hear
the results can be a nerve-racking experience, however this year I had record
breaking numbers of students running for office. I want to acknowledge the
following students who ran for office this trimester: Lily Shamel, Grace
Serafin, Jenny Dawson, Sam Blythe, Sharon Riise, Sean Stanchina, Karcher
Kouns, Shashank Varanasy, Frances Talino, Peter Vannucchi, Jacob Millen,
Joshua Tjan, Rory O’Neil, Sarah Katherine Hille, Anushka Vispute, Charlie
Schmitt, Josh Giffins, and Raj Raghuram. WOW!! That being said, we know that
only one person can hold each office, and our 1st Trimester Officers are:
President- Miss Jenny Dawson, Vice-President- Mr. Karcher Kouns, Secretary-
Mr. Joshua Tjan, and Treasurer- Mr. Charlie Schmitt. Congratulations to our
newly elected officers, and to all our candidates!! (FYI- All election
speeches will be on the 5th Grade Memories Pt. 1 DVD.)
Bollinger Bulldog Pledge: Students watched the Bollinger Bulldog video and
have signed the pledge. We’re asking that parents also review the pledge with
their child and sign the pledge too. Students will earn $1,000 $mith Bucks by
returning the signed pledge on Tuesday, September 6. Thank you for your support.
Dates to Remember:
Sept. 5 NO SCHOOL - Labor Day
Sept. 6 Class Constitution must be memorized by today!
Sept. 14 5th Grade Informational Parent Meeting 2:15 in Room 505
Sept. 15 School-wide Fall pictures
Oct. 9 Primo’s Run (more info to follow)
Oct. 16 Kids Night Out (more info to follow)
_____ Yes, I would like to attend the MSI field trip on Thursday, October 27.
I will be in Room 505 by 5:45 a.m. and understand that we will not be back to
campus until around 2:00 (depending on traffic).
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
August 26, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/h3.aspx
Dear Parents,
What a wonderful short week we have had! I look forward to seeing many
familiar faces and meeting the new parents next week at Back-to-School Night,
Wednesday, August 31 at 6:00 in Room 505. If have not already added your
email address to our class web page, please do so. This will help ensure that
you are aware of important information throughout the school year.
Please remember to sign and return the bottom portion of this letter with
the Parent Folder on Monday, August 29.
Around the Classroom:
* Students used teamwork and problem solving skills to put together a class
puzzle / banner.
* Students learned about the class procedures.
* Students participated in activities to help them get to know their classmates.
* Students received information about class elections.
* Working together, students created a Class Constitution containing the
classroom rules. This is posted in the class and will be recited every day
after the Pledge of Allegiance. (FYI- Students need to have it memorized by
Tuesday, September 6.)
* Students made their first class book, writing about what they know best,
themselves.
* Students began taking assessments so I can see where they are. (Your
child’s first Timed Math Facts Test is in your Parent Folder. Please review,
sign, and return this on Monday.)
Parent Newsletter
In order to save paper, you can choose to view the Parent Newsletter on the
class web page and NOT receive a hard copy. Please let me know what your
preference is by filling out the section at the end of this week’s newsletter.
5th Grade Parent Informational Meeting
If you are interested in getting information about or helping with 5th grade
activities (US Pizzas, Candy Trains, Holiday Breakfast, Colonial Afternoon,
Promotion, etc.) please attend the meeting on Wednesday, September 14. We
will meet in Room 505 at 2:15 I hope to see you there!
Morning Drop-Off
The earliest students are to be on campus is 8:15 a.m.
(Before this time there is NO supervision!)
At 8:15 they are to walk directly to the playground using the fire lane
(in between the MPR and Kindergarten playground).
STUDENTS ARE NOT TO WALK TO THEIR CLASSROOM FIRST!
Students and/or parents are NOT to hang out in the quads.
When the 8:25 a.m. bell rings students are to line up at their designated spot.
Dates to Remember:
Aug. 29 Intent to Run for Office must be given to Mrs. Smith by today!
Aug. 31 Back-To-School Night 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in Room 505
Sept. 2 Speeches / Class Elections held!
Sept. 5 NO SCHOOL - Labor Day
Sept. 6 Class Constitution needs to be memorized by today!
Sept. 14 5th Grade Informational Parent Meeting 2:15 in Room 505
_______ I would like to receive a hard copy of the Weekly Newsletter.
_______ I will go on-line each week and read the Weekly Newsletter on the
class web page.
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade Class
Parent Newsletter
August 24, 2011
Voice Mail: 242-3260
e-mail: msmith2@srvusd.net
Web Site http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/
Dear Parents,
Welcome to Fifth Grade! I’m looking forward to another great year with
many of you. We’re also excited to welcome some new parents and children to
our class. I look forward to seeing you (NO CHILDREN ALLOWED) at Back to
School Night on Wednesday, August 31 from 6:00 pm – 7:00 p.m. in Room 505.
The following pages will provide you with information about class rules, my
discipline policy, and homework expectations. Although I have gone over these
items in class, please read them over again with your child.
The parent-student-teacher dynamic must include open lines of communication in
order to foster the best educational experience for your child. In an effort
to keep you informed, I will send home a Weekly Homework Progress Report and a
newsletter on Fridays in your Parent Folder. I have also created a class web
site to help keep you better informed. Students will be updating the site
daily, so make sure to bookmark it on your computer. After checking the web
site, feel free to contact me anytime to discuss questions or concerns you may
have during the year, either via email or voice mail.
In this Parent Folder I have included the following:
1. Information on our upcoming election
2. Class Fines (for your information)
3. My behavior/discipline/homework policy
4. A student information sheet – please fill out NEATLY and return to me as
soon as possible.
Thank you for your support and I look forward to seeing you in the following
weeks!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Smith
Mrs. Smith’s 5th Grade
Behavior/Discipline/Homework Policy
In order to have a safe and successful learning environment, the classroom
expectations are as follows:
Classroom Rules: (the following rules will be in place daily)
1. Be Prompt. (On time for class, assignments turned in on time)
2. Be Prepared. (Students will need all supplies, homework, books, etc.)
3. Be Positive! Participate!
4. Respect all People and Property.
Positive Rewards:
The most positive reward for following all rules and turning in all homework
is LEARNING! This is a value I want to foster in all my students. Students
will earn table points and/or “$mith Bucks” for being on task.
Daily Level System:
All students will be on a Daily Level System, which is comprised of three
levels. Remaining on the Green Level is the goal of each student.
Green Level: All students begin on this level each day. Student is following
the class rules and is having a GREAT DAY!
Yellow Level: Student has broken one of our classroom rules and receives a
verbal warning. If the behavior continues, they will pull their card and move
to the “yellow level”.
Consequence: A logical consequence will be determined.
Red Level: Student continues to be disruptive.
Consequence: Contact of parent(s); Possible suspension from classroom.
Homework:
It is imperative that homework is complete and turned in on time. Students
are required to write down assignments in their homework notebook. Please
check this notebook in the evening to understand what is expected of your
child for the following day. Homework is checked daily to assess how well
students comprehend material from lessons taught in class. Students who are
not prepared take away learning time from other students. Late or incomplete
work will be marked down, but it is required to be turned in. Students who
have missing work will be fined $mith Bucks and are benched during recess.
They will use this time to complete their work if applicable.
The following are the guidelines that need to be followed for all homework
assignments:
• All homework must have the proper heading:
* First and Last Name (Upper Right)
* Date (Upper Right)
* Subject or title of assignment (Middle)
* The student’s ID number in the top left hand corner of the page
with a circle around it.
• Assignments need to be written in pencil on clean, white paper, unless
otherwise specified.
• Math assignments are to be completed on clean, white graph paper.
• Homework needs to be written neatly.
• Assignments are to be turned in on time.
Weekly Homework Progress Report
Each day when students write down homework in their Student Planners, they
will also be responsible for highlighting their assigned work on a Weekly
Homework Progress Report. During the week homework helpers (responsible
students at each table who are picked by Mrs. Smith) will mark any assignments
that are missing or incomplete. All students will bring home a Weekly Homework
Progress Report every Friday in their Parent Folder, have it signed by a
parent, and return it in their Parent Folder on Monday. Students who are
missing work MUST attach the completed work to the signed Weekly Homework
Progress Report and return it on Monday in their Parent Folder. Students will
receive one “Oops Slip” (homework pass) each trimester. Students missing work
will be fined $mith Bucks and will be benched during recess. Excessive late
homework assignments (10 or more per trimester) will result in the loss of
participating in that trimester’s class auction.
Absences:
Students will need to make up any work missed because of absence. Students
will have a homework buddy who will bring materials home for them. If your
child is absent, they will need to check the web site (see below) for their
homework assignments. If you are planning to have your child out of the
classroom for any reason, please contact me ahead of time so that arrangements
can be made.
(http://teacherweb.com/CA/BollingerElementary/MrsSmith/index.html)
Thank you for going over this form with your child. Please sign and return
this page by Friday, August 26th.
I have read, and will support, the fifth grade behavior/discipline/homework
policy.