January 20, 2010

READING

For the rest of January and the month of February, the children will be preparing for the state tests. We will be reading many stories in class and reviewing all of the reading skills and strategies . Grammar and writing activities will also be included. There will be homework each week for the children to practice the skills covered in class connected to grammar, reading comprehension, and writing. Also, the children should be reading each night for at least 20 minutes. They still need to keep track of their reading on their reading logs which were sent home at the beginning of the month.

 

SPELLING

The children will be having a different spelling list each week connected to our animal unit in Science.  This week they need to study and write sentences on Amphibian words.  Next week will be the Reptiles, and then Birds and Mammals will be forthcoming.  There will not be a pretest for these words as they are a bit challenging.  However, we will be learning about them in class through our science studies.

MATH

The children are completing the unit on multiplication.  Our focus has been on practicing strategies for memorizing the facts.  Please practice at home whenever possible...the students really need to constantly review.

Our next unit will be on graphing and probability.  We will also be working on ISAT preparation for math as well.  There will be daily homework, and unfortunately, the children will have weekend homework also.  As with most of our homework,  the kids should be able to complete their assignments on their own.

SCIENCE

Our "Fantastic Fish" are now on our door "aquarium" for all to enjoy.  One of the children named the water "salsh" water as the fish on display are a mixture of salt water fish and fresh water fish...all swimming together!  You can see the project when you come to visit for conferences. Our new group we are studying is the Amphibian group.  Reptiles, birds, and mammals will be coming soon.  Everyone is enjoying the exposure to these incredible animals!

 

Have a wonderful few weeks, and stay warm!!

Remember to call or email with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Kathy O'Shaughnessy