Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.

1. What is required in the homework assignment book planner?
2. Do we get to go on any Field Trips in 4th Grade?
3. Can I sign up to work on Weisner's Wacky World of Wisdom newspaper?
4. Can we chew gum in class?
5. Does our class get to watch TV every day?
6. What's the most important rule in class?
7. Do you have any Words of Wisdom?

What is required in the homework assignment book planner?

This is an extremely important resource. Students will copy the assignments 
exactly as they're written on the board in class. Parents will review these 
assignments and sign each day verifying that the requirements have been 
fulfilled. If assignents are incomplete please notify me by written note. 
Any questions, comments, or assignment verification can be addressed in the 
Message Box on the homework assignment page. I will view and "stamp" this 
book each morning and I will get back to you on your inquiries. This book 
must travel to and from school each and every day of the school year!

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Do we get to go on any Field Trips in 4th Grade?

A big part of 4th Grade is studying Local History. We even get to go on 
a "Scavenger Hunt" searching for important areas of local history interest. 
Traditionally, we visit Locust Grove, Albany, New York City (Art and Music 
trip) as well as others. We also go on a fun cruise boat trip from Newburgh 
to West Point. We will update you as we approach the dates for these trips. 
Please sign up to be on our district list of chaperones for one of these 
exciting events. Students are not allowed to ask, "Are we there yet?" on any 
of these class trips.

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Can I sign up to work on Weisner's Wacky World of Wisdom newspaper?

Yes, you can! Toward the end of September, information will be sent out 
inviting you to be a part of the exciting newspaper team. We usually meet 
before school on Thursday and / or after school on Thursday afternoon. The 
newspaper is often issued on Friday. You get to be a writer, reporter, and 
assistant editor for this fun publication. Your parents are invited to come 
help, too. Even if you aren't able to come to Thursday's groups, we will 
work on articles and research in class. Everyone will be involved!

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Can we chew gum in class?

Not ordinarily. However, limited research has shown that gum chewing may 
enhance brain activity and help get the creative juices flowing. We are 
required to take a number of New York State Tests in 4th Grade. If you think 
chewing gum may help you do your best on these tests, we'll allow it. 
Information on these tests, results, extra help and practice activities, 
will be extended to you as we approach these important testing dates. 
New York Sate English Language Arts in January (3 days)
New York State Math Test in March (3 days)
Science Test in late April or early May (2 days)

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Does our class get to watch TV every day?

No, but rumor has it that we don't have to do any work, and we get to watch 
TV all day. TV and the Internet can be extremely helpful in adding depth and 
understanding to our curriculum studies. These tools can be overused and 
misused as well. We'll discuss appropriate and meaningful use of our five 
new computers in class. We will watch certain videotapes and TV episodes 
that will help make your learning more enjoyable. Popcorn and hot chocolate 
will not be served each time either (if you've heard that rumor).

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What's the most important rule in class?

Raising your hand is extremely important. We not only want to participate in 
class in the appropriate manner, but we all want to be able to hear and 
understand what the speaker is saying. Whether that speaker is Mr. Weisner 
or one of your classmates, we need to respectfully listen to each other and 
think carefully before we speak.
The Golden Rule is to make Mr. Weisner happy and proud of you each and every 
day!

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Do you have any Words of Wisdom?

As a matter of fact, by the end of the year we will have an entire marble 
notebook filled with Words of Widsom and helpful advice. Each day we copy 
down a famous quote, saying, or proverb into our notebooks. We write down 
what it means and how it's connected to that day's lessons. We also have to 
write in this journal/notebook what we learn each day in school. We will 
discuss how this works in class. By the end of the year, you will have 
created a book filled with wisdom and memories of your 4th grade experience.

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