Three weeks from today is the annual fourth grade field trip to the Central Wisconsin Environmental Station. Fourth graders have been doing this trip for years, and it is one of the most memorable and educational trips we take.
Today an informational note, sample schedule, driver note, and permission/medical slip is coming home. Please return the last two pages - that's the driver's note and permission/medical slip. Payment needs to be returned as well.
This is still three weeks out, so there is no rush at this time. Read the note carefully. There's a lot of information in there. As the dates get closer, I'll send reminder notes home along with even more information like a supply list and emergency phone numbers.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Frindle
This week we started reading Frindle by Andrew Clements for reading class. As I am rereading it I am reminded how much I like this book. Today's assignment is to read chapters 5 and 6, and most kids will have it done by the end of the day. I'm going to have them bring their books home anyway for you to see.
People ask me, "What are some simple ways to help my child read?" Here's a simple way. Show an interest in what your children are reading. Ask questions about it. Read it. Tell them your favorite parts. This is a great book for that. It's short, creative, and there's some stuff that adults get a lot quicker than the kids. Parents can offer some insight that the kids might not pick up on their own. (And I think the 30 minutes it will take you will be time well spent.)
Have a great long weekend.
People ask me, "What are some simple ways to help my child read?" Here's a simple way. Show an interest in what your children are reading. Ask questions about it. Read it. Tell them your favorite parts. This is a great book for that. It's short, creative, and there's some stuff that adults get a lot quicker than the kids. Parents can offer some insight that the kids might not pick up on their own. (And I think the 30 minutes it will take you will be time well spent.)
Have a great long weekend.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Wednesday, 10/24 Newsletter Updates
Spelling and Memory
Sometimes it's nice to have a short week off, but next week it's business as usual. Spelling lists and memory slips are attached to the printed newsletter coming home today.
Costume Day
Wednesday is costume day. The costume parade is immediately in the morning. Remember, costume judging will happen in the following categories: story book character, Biblical character, inanimate object, animal, historical character, and miscellaneous. Be creative, but of course, remember our school's guidelines - no ghosts, devils, weapons, etc.
The Costume Day Party will happen at the end of the day...and I don't have my note in front of me, but I think it is at 2:30. You should have received a note last week.
Chapel on Thursday
Because of Costume Day, Mr. Voelker and the seventh graders will lead chapel on Thursday morning instead of Wednesday. The theme will focus on Reformation Day and All Saints Day.
A Busy Week Ahead...And Possibly An Absolutely Crazy Week!!!
I will be gone next Friday, November 2. Last year I was invited to serve on the advisory board of the CCBC - that's the Cooperative Children's Book Center - at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Friday is our fall meeting. For more information click here http://www.education.wisc.edu/ccbc/.
I also have the honor and priviledge of upholding my civic duty. In other words, I have been called for jury duty. My first possible date to report is next Thursday, November 1. I don't know how long it will last or how many days I report or, well, anything really. Every day I need to call and find out what to do the next day. Whether I am here or not is up in the air until the day before. I will do my best to have the children prepared for me being gone...if I'm gone. Thanks in advance for your understanding.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q1W7 Slips At School: 1. second commandment and meaning. 2. third commandment and meaning.
Religion - Joseph and his brothers and Joseph in Egypt.
Reading - Frindle. This is our reading book for a while. Frindle doesn't take the place of a silent reading book, so students need to be sure to have one of those as well.
English - Descriptive paragraphs. Revising, editing, proofreading, and publishing.
Math - Missing numbers in addition and subtraction, subtraction stories, fractions, multiplication, elapsed time.
Science - Electricity and magnetism. Test late in the week?
Social Studies - Finish chapter 3. Test late in the week? (I won't put both tests on the same day if I can avoid it.)
Spelling - SPELLING LIST, UNIT 7: carved, garden, harm, farther, barked, alarm, chart, starved, harder, parked, smartest, charge Extra Words: guard, hardware, harbor, garbage Bonus Words: compartment, argument
Sometimes it's nice to have a short week off, but next week it's business as usual. Spelling lists and memory slips are attached to the printed newsletter coming home today.
Costume Day
Wednesday is costume day. The costume parade is immediately in the morning. Remember, costume judging will happen in the following categories: story book character, Biblical character, inanimate object, animal, historical character, and miscellaneous. Be creative, but of course, remember our school's guidelines - no ghosts, devils, weapons, etc.
The Costume Day Party will happen at the end of the day...and I don't have my note in front of me, but I think it is at 2:30. You should have received a note last week.
Chapel on Thursday
Because of Costume Day, Mr. Voelker and the seventh graders will lead chapel on Thursday morning instead of Wednesday. The theme will focus on Reformation Day and All Saints Day.
A Busy Week Ahead...And Possibly An Absolutely Crazy Week!!!
I will be gone next Friday, November 2. Last year I was invited to serve on the advisory board of the CCBC - that's the Cooperative Children's Book Center - at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Friday is our fall meeting. For more information click here http://www.education.wisc.edu/ccbc/.
I also have the honor and priviledge of upholding my civic duty. In other words, I have been called for jury duty. My first possible date to report is next Thursday, November 1. I don't know how long it will last or how many days I report or, well, anything really. Every day I need to call and find out what to do the next day. Whether I am here or not is up in the air until the day before. I will do my best to have the children prepared for me being gone...if I'm gone. Thanks in advance for your understanding.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q1W7 Slips At School: 1. second commandment and meaning. 2. third commandment and meaning.
Religion - Joseph and his brothers and Joseph in Egypt.
Reading - Frindle. This is our reading book for a while. Frindle doesn't take the place of a silent reading book, so students need to be sure to have one of those as well.
English - Descriptive paragraphs. Revising, editing, proofreading, and publishing.
Math - Missing numbers in addition and subtraction, subtraction stories, fractions, multiplication, elapsed time.
Science - Electricity and magnetism. Test late in the week?
Social Studies - Finish chapter 3. Test late in the week? (I won't put both tests on the same day if I can avoid it.)
Spelling - SPELLING LIST, UNIT 7: carved, garden, harm, farther, barked, alarm, chart, starved, harder, parked, smartest, charge Extra Words: guard, hardware, harbor, garbage Bonus Words: compartment, argument
Friday, October 19, 2007
Friday, 10/19, Newsletter Updates
Field Trip
What a great trip! First of all, it poured rain while we were driving. When we turned left on Hwy G in Nekoosa, there was an amazing blue sky, and when we turned right on Batterman Road, the sun came out. What a blessing! Be sure to ask (if you haven't gotten an earful already) about the cranberry harvest and the cheese factory. We also had a great variety of cheeses and cranberries to eat. Enjoy the cranberries! Let me know if the recipes worked out.
An Apology
When I planned the field trip, the first call I made was to the cheese factory. Thursday was a day they said would work, and that day also worked for the cranberry marsh. I completely forgot about band that day. So, band students and parents, I apologize for making you miss a lesson. I should have scheduled the trip for a different day, but it totally slipped my mind, and for that I apologize.
Book Order
The October book order will be due next week on Wednesday, October 24.
Here are some books I can recommend. By no means are these the only good books available. This is simply meant to be a starting point for you in your shopping.
- Lunch Money - Andrew Clements is one of my all-time favorite authors.
- Flush - A future read aloud. Students may want their own copy.
- The Good Dog - The story is told by the dogs in a neighborhood.
- Lawn Boy - Start mowing lawns, end up rich in the stock market and investing in a prize-fighter.
- A Wrinkle in Time - An all-time classic by a Christian author.
- The Giver - Might be hard for 4th grade, but parents, you would love it.
- Igraine the Brave - I haven't read it yet, but I certainly can recommend the author.
- Inkheart/Inkspell - A father, when he reads aloud, somehow magically "reads" characters alive...and real people become characters in the books. This switching is the conflict as characters are trapped in stories that aren't their own.
- Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing - First in the "Fudge" series.
- Roald Dahl Pack - Very funny author.
- Little House Box Set - If you haven't read the Little House books here's a great chance.
The Upcoming Week - School Mon/Tues/Wed Only!
Memory - None, short week.
Religion - Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, Esau, and one of my favorite stories Jacob, Rachel, and Leah.
Reading - Begin a novel together. What novel? It's a secret...for now!
English - Personal Narratives. Describing Paragraphs.
Math - Shapes, fractions, adding money, lines, segments, rays, and angles.
Science - Continue electricity and magnetism.
Social Studies - Chapter 3: The New England States
Spelling - None, short week.
What a great trip! First of all, it poured rain while we were driving. When we turned left on Hwy G in Nekoosa, there was an amazing blue sky, and when we turned right on Batterman Road, the sun came out. What a blessing! Be sure to ask (if you haven't gotten an earful already) about the cranberry harvest and the cheese factory. We also had a great variety of cheeses and cranberries to eat. Enjoy the cranberries! Let me know if the recipes worked out.
An Apology
When I planned the field trip, the first call I made was to the cheese factory. Thursday was a day they said would work, and that day also worked for the cranberry marsh. I completely forgot about band that day. So, band students and parents, I apologize for making you miss a lesson. I should have scheduled the trip for a different day, but it totally slipped my mind, and for that I apologize.
Book Order
The October book order will be due next week on Wednesday, October 24.
Here are some books I can recommend. By no means are these the only good books available. This is simply meant to be a starting point for you in your shopping.
- Lunch Money - Andrew Clements is one of my all-time favorite authors.
- Flush - A future read aloud. Students may want their own copy.
- The Good Dog - The story is told by the dogs in a neighborhood.
- Lawn Boy - Start mowing lawns, end up rich in the stock market and investing in a prize-fighter.
- A Wrinkle in Time - An all-time classic by a Christian author.
- The Giver - Might be hard for 4th grade, but parents, you would love it.
- Igraine the Brave - I haven't read it yet, but I certainly can recommend the author.
- Inkheart/Inkspell - A father, when he reads aloud, somehow magically "reads" characters alive...and real people become characters in the books. This switching is the conflict as characters are trapped in stories that aren't their own.
- Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing - First in the "Fudge" series.
- Roald Dahl Pack - Very funny author.
- Little House Box Set - If you haven't read the Little House books here's a great chance.
The Upcoming Week - School Mon/Tues/Wed Only!
Memory - None, short week.
Religion - Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, Esau, and one of my favorite stories Jacob, Rachel, and Leah.
Reading - Begin a novel together. What novel? It's a secret...for now!
English - Personal Narratives. Describing Paragraphs.
Math - Shapes, fractions, adding money, lines, segments, rays, and angles.
Science - Continue electricity and magnetism.
Social Studies - Chapter 3: The New England States
Spelling - None, short week.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Tomorrow's Field Trip
Schedule
8:45 – Leave School
9:15ish – Arrive at Cranberry Marsh
11:15ish – Depart Cranberry Marsh
12:00 – Lunch at school
12:45 – Leave School
1:15 – Begin Cheese Factory Program
2:45ish – Leave Cheese Factory
3:00 – Taste Testing Time!
Morning Drivers - VanNatta, Whitemarsh, Williamson, Wilhorn (5 each) Please be ready at 8:45.
Afternoon Drivers – VanNatta, Mohr, Williamson, Wilhorn Please be ready to leave at 12:45.
Lunch – Students will be at school for a normal lunch period. They will be able to take hot lunch.
Morning and Afternoon – The whole trip happens during the school day. There is no need to arrive early. Bus students can take the bus both to and from school.
Weather – Please be ready for anything at the cranberry marsh. The current forecast calls for scattered thunderstorms and an 80% chance of rain. It is always colder at the marsh. Be prepared.
I think that’s it! Pray that we stay dry, for safe travel, and that everything goes as well as it can.
8:45 – Leave School
9:15ish – Arrive at Cranberry Marsh
11:15ish – Depart Cranberry Marsh
12:00 – Lunch at school
12:45 – Leave School
1:15 – Begin Cheese Factory Program
2:45ish – Leave Cheese Factory
3:00 – Taste Testing Time!
Morning Drivers - VanNatta, Whitemarsh, Williamson, Wilhorn (5 each) Please be ready at 8:45.
Afternoon Drivers – VanNatta, Mohr, Williamson, Wilhorn Please be ready to leave at 12:45.
Lunch – Students will be at school for a normal lunch period. They will be able to take hot lunch.
Morning and Afternoon – The whole trip happens during the school day. There is no need to arrive early. Bus students can take the bus both to and from school.
Weather – Please be ready for anything at the cranberry marsh. The current forecast calls for scattered thunderstorms and an 80% chance of rain. It is always colder at the marsh. Be prepared.
I think that’s it! Pray that we stay dry, for safe travel, and that everything goes as well as it can.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Monday Updates and Field Trip Information
The printed Friday newsletter is coming home today. Sorry for the delay. Included is the Q1W6 memory slip. There is no spelling list attached. This is a review week for spelling.
Also included is information about this week's field trip. Please fill in the permission slip and complete the bottom portion for volunteers to drive. Not many are needed, and parents are welcome to join us on the field trip. Soon after this email I will send another with the field trip information sheet and permission slip attached. Printed versions are in take-home folders.
Also included is information about this week's field trip. Please fill in the permission slip and complete the bottom portion for volunteers to drive. Not many are needed, and parents are welcome to join us on the field trip. Soon after this email I will send another with the field trip information sheet and permission slip attached. Printed versions are in take-home folders.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Science Test - Woo-Hoo!!!
I just finished grading the science tests and wanted to share how we did. There were two 100% tests (A's) and six 95% tests (A-'s). As a class our average was 90%. That's a B+. Well done!
Friday, 10/12 Newsletter Updates
Field Trip Next Week
Next week on Thursday, October 18, we will be taking a field trip to a cranberry marsh and to Dairy State Cheese in Rudolph. This is the first activity that is part of our Wisconsin History study in social studies. Most of the study will be in the spring. More information will come on Monday including costs, details and permission slips.
Choir on Sunday
This Sunday at the 10:30 service at Immanuel the 3rd and 4th grade choir will be singing. Student should be upstairs at 10:10 for a quick rehearsal. The choir will sing at the beginning of the service. They then may sit with their parents for worship. St. Lukes families are certainly excused to attend the special service you are having this weekend.
Math Assignments
We have been working hard on our math assignments so far, and I hope this continues. But be careful, students! Remember the way we have done examples in class. Remember how to organize papers. Remember your labels, problems with more than one question, and to read the whole question carefully. This is normally the time of year when students start thinking, "I got this math stuff down! Time to take it easy." That's when the silly mistakes happen. Don't let it happen to you!
Note Coming Home With the Boys
There is an additional note coming home with the boys today. All the information you need to know is in the note. Parents, please read it and send back the signature form.
And Finally...
I didn't get this done until after the kids went home so there is not printed version today. Memory slips and the printed newsletter will come home on Monday. Feel free to do the next three verses for the memory slip over the weekend. You'll get the slip on Monday.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q1W6 Slips At School: 1. Books of the New Testament 2. The First Commandment and its meaning.
Religion - Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah, their children.
Reading - Plum Creek, point of view, author's purpose, end of Theme 1.
English - Writing narratives and paragraphs that describe.
Math - Rounding, perimeter, triangles, rectangles, squares, and circles.
Science - Electricity and magnetism.
Social Studies - Finish chapter 2. Test mid-week. This chapter has been fragmented due to weird scheduling this week (Women in History presentation, picture day, etc.), so it will be done differently. Maybe open book, groups, or something to that effect.
Spelling - No list. Review lesson.
Next week on Thursday, October 18, we will be taking a field trip to a cranberry marsh and to Dairy State Cheese in Rudolph. This is the first activity that is part of our Wisconsin History study in social studies. Most of the study will be in the spring. More information will come on Monday including costs, details and permission slips.
Choir on Sunday
This Sunday at the 10:30 service at Immanuel the 3rd and 4th grade choir will be singing. Student should be upstairs at 10:10 for a quick rehearsal. The choir will sing at the beginning of the service. They then may sit with their parents for worship. St. Lukes families are certainly excused to attend the special service you are having this weekend.
Math Assignments
We have been working hard on our math assignments so far, and I hope this continues. But be careful, students! Remember the way we have done examples in class. Remember how to organize papers. Remember your labels, problems with more than one question, and to read the whole question carefully. This is normally the time of year when students start thinking, "I got this math stuff down! Time to take it easy." That's when the silly mistakes happen. Don't let it happen to you!
Note Coming Home With the Boys
There is an additional note coming home with the boys today. All the information you need to know is in the note. Parents, please read it and send back the signature form.
And Finally...
I didn't get this done until after the kids went home so there is not printed version today. Memory slips and the printed newsletter will come home on Monday. Feel free to do the next three verses for the memory slip over the weekend. You'll get the slip on Monday.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q1W6 Slips At School: 1. Books of the New Testament 2. The First Commandment and its meaning.
Religion - Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah, their children.
Reading - Plum Creek, point of view, author's purpose, end of Theme 1.
English - Writing narratives and paragraphs that describe.
Math - Rounding, perimeter, triangles, rectangles, squares, and circles.
Science - Electricity and magnetism.
Social Studies - Finish chapter 2. Test mid-week. This chapter has been fragmented due to weird scheduling this week (Women in History presentation, picture day, etc.), so it will be done differently. Maybe open book, groups, or something to that effect.
Spelling - No list. Review lesson.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Mid-Terms Today, Picture Day Tomorrow
Mid-term grades are coming home today. I emphasize in class that grades are for students, teachers and parents, and that's it. So I put the mid-term reports in sealed envelopes, and that is how they should reach you - sealed. There is a signature form at the bottom. Please sign and return that form with any questions or comments. Thanks.
Remember, tomorrow is picture day. We will be taking a panoramic picture and individual pictures. If you wish to order both, please include a separate check with each order. Thanks, again.
Remember, tomorrow is picture day. We will be taking a panoramic picture and individual pictures. If you wish to order both, please include a separate check with each order. Thanks, again.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Newsletter Updates for Thursday, 10/4
Mid-Terms on Monday
We are officially half way through the first quarter. Yes, already. On Monday mid-terms will come home with the fourth graders. This is not an official grade report. It is simply an update as to where your child is. Take time to discuss where and how improvement can happen, and don't forget to acknowledge where success is happening as well. Please send the signature form back as soon as possible.
School Pictures on Tuesday
Order forms went home earlier this week for school pictures. Remember, seperate checks are needed for individual packages and the panoramic all-school photo.
Women in History Presentation on Thursday at 1:00
This was just recently added to the schedule. I don't know much about the presentation at this point other than simply what it says. We will take a look at the roles of women throughout history.
The Upcoming Week
Religion - Abraham, Isaac.
Memory - At Home: Q1W5 Slips At School: 1. Historical Books of the Old Testament (Genesis - Esther) 2. Poetic Books and Prophetic Books of the Old Testament (Job - Malachi) These are two seperate assignments.
Reading - Theme and Point of View in our Literary Elements Books, Lou Gehrig, prefixes and suffixes, One the Banks of Plum Creek.
English - Diamonte Poem.
Math - Expanded form, missing numbers in subtraction, adding columns of numbers, scales, clocks, rounding.
Science - Energy, work, force, simple machines. Possible test late in the week.
Social Studies - Continue chapter 2.
Spelling - UNIT 5 Word List: hoop, wounded, shoot, booth, broom, boost, mood, fooling, afternoon, spoon, smooth, tooth Extra words: raccoon, bloomed, useful, route Bonus Words: souvenir, routine
We are officially half way through the first quarter. Yes, already. On Monday mid-terms will come home with the fourth graders. This is not an official grade report. It is simply an update as to where your child is. Take time to discuss where and how improvement can happen, and don't forget to acknowledge where success is happening as well. Please send the signature form back as soon as possible.
School Pictures on Tuesday
Order forms went home earlier this week for school pictures. Remember, seperate checks are needed for individual packages and the panoramic all-school photo.
Women in History Presentation on Thursday at 1:00
This was just recently added to the schedule. I don't know much about the presentation at this point other than simply what it says. We will take a look at the roles of women throughout history.
The Upcoming Week
Religion - Abraham, Isaac.
Memory - At Home: Q1W5 Slips At School: 1. Historical Books of the Old Testament (Genesis - Esther) 2. Poetic Books and Prophetic Books of the Old Testament (Job - Malachi) These are two seperate assignments.
Reading - Theme and Point of View in our Literary Elements Books, Lou Gehrig, prefixes and suffixes, One the Banks of Plum Creek.
English - Diamonte Poem.
Math - Expanded form, missing numbers in subtraction, adding columns of numbers, scales, clocks, rounding.
Science - Energy, work, force, simple machines. Possible test late in the week.
Social Studies - Continue chapter 2.
Spelling - UNIT 5 Word List: hoop, wounded, shoot, booth, broom, boost, mood, fooling, afternoon, spoon, smooth, tooth Extra words: raccoon, bloomed, useful, route Bonus Words: souvenir, routine
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
"Be Transformed" Theme T-Shirts Are Here!
The t-shirts with this year's school theme have arrived! Everyone completed an order form at registration. Students all receive a shirt free of charge, and many parents ordered one for yourselves. Students are receiving them today and are asked to wear the shirts tomorrow. The whole school will proclaim that we will "Be Transformed" by the Power of God!
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Soccer Game and Social Studies Test
Tonight's Soccer Game
Tonight the Immanuel soccer team is playing Assumption Middle School at 7:00 at Washington School. This game will be under the lights on the varsity field. The two teams played last week to a 1-1 tie. That game also included 3 shots that banged off the goalpost or crossbar. It was a great game, and tonight's game should be just as good.
Friday's Social Studies Test
Students are bringing home their social studies test today. I was somewhat disappointed with the grades, so on Monday, without any warning, we did the first part of the test again orally. It wasn't the best way to review it, but I really thought we knew the information better than we did. This is the sheet attached to the top of the test. It did not affect their grades.
Tonight the Immanuel soccer team is playing Assumption Middle School at 7:00 at Washington School. This game will be under the lights on the varsity field. The two teams played last week to a 1-1 tie. That game also included 3 shots that banged off the goalpost or crossbar. It was a great game, and tonight's game should be just as good.
Friday's Social Studies Test
Students are bringing home their social studies test today. I was somewhat disappointed with the grades, so on Monday, without any warning, we did the first part of the test again orally. It wasn't the best way to review it, but I really thought we knew the information better than we did. This is the sheet attached to the top of the test. It did not affect their grades.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Friday 9/28 Newsletter Updates
School Directory Coming Home Today
That just about says it...look in your child's take-home folder for the school directory. There is one per family, so your oldest child will have the book.
Four Day Week
Next week is only a four day week. Friday is a professional development day. Teachers will be at school working on various activities, but kids...enjoy the long weekend!
Midterms...Already???
Well, not just yet. Midterms will come home a week from Monday on October 9. File that away in the back of your mind. One week and we will see officially how the year is going!
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q1W4 Slips At School: Returning Thanks, prayers 1 & 2. These are two seperate assignments. They do not need to be said together.
Religion - Abraham
Reading - Literary Elements: Genre. Finish My Name is Maria Isabel, characters' feelings and actions, Lou Gehrig.
English - Finish sentences. Test on Tuesday.
Math - Larger subtraction problems, subtraction with regrouping, expanded form, adding columns of numbers.
Science - Motion, friction, kinetic and potential energy, work and motion.
Social Studies - Begin chapter 2 about regions.
Spelling - UNIT 4: those, coach, solid, include, crew, plus, operate, broke, upset, tune, June, floating Extra Words: plume, renew, husband Bonus Words: honor, populated
That just about says it...look in your child's take-home folder for the school directory. There is one per family, so your oldest child will have the book.
Four Day Week
Next week is only a four day week. Friday is a professional development day. Teachers will be at school working on various activities, but kids...enjoy the long weekend!
Midterms...Already???
Well, not just yet. Midterms will come home a week from Monday on October 9. File that away in the back of your mind. One week and we will see officially how the year is going!
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q1W4 Slips At School: Returning Thanks, prayers 1 & 2. These are two seperate assignments. They do not need to be said together.
Religion - Abraham
Reading - Literary Elements: Genre. Finish My Name is Maria Isabel, characters' feelings and actions, Lou Gehrig.
English - Finish sentences. Test on Tuesday.
Math - Larger subtraction problems, subtraction with regrouping, expanded form, adding columns of numbers.
Science - Motion, friction, kinetic and potential energy, work and motion.
Social Studies - Begin chapter 2 about regions.
Spelling - UNIT 4: those, coach, solid, include, crew, plus, operate, broke, upset, tune, June, floating Extra Words: plume, renew, husband Bonus Words: honor, populated
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Another Video Has Been Added
The kids enjoyed the first video so much that I thought I'd add another. "Why? What's up with all the Stellar Kart?" you may wonder. I'm so glad you asked...
Next week they are going to be in concert in Green Bay on Friday night (October 5) at a place called the Cup O' Joy. (www.cupojoy.com) It is a non-profit Christian coffee house that simply brings in bands and provides a Christian atmosphere. Concerts are free, but they do pass the plate. You can donate to the band or to Cup O' Joy's ministry.
I am planning on going with my family. There is no school that day, so if you are looking to fill the day with something, maybe this is it. They will be loud - Make A Loud Noise, Psalm 98:4! - but the drive home will be quiet with the kids sleeping, right? Anyway, I just wanted to make you aware of it. Other than the 2-hour drive, the price is right and the message is great!
If you have any questions, let me know. I'll do my best to answer them.
Next week they are going to be in concert in Green Bay on Friday night (October 5) at a place called the Cup O' Joy. (www.cupojoy.com) It is a non-profit Christian coffee house that simply brings in bands and provides a Christian atmosphere. Concerts are free, but they do pass the plate. You can donate to the band or to Cup O' Joy's ministry.
I am planning on going with my family. There is no school that day, so if you are looking to fill the day with something, maybe this is it. They will be loud - Make A Loud Noise, Psalm 98:4! - but the drive home will be quiet with the kids sleeping, right? Anyway, I just wanted to make you aware of it. Other than the 2-hour drive, the price is right and the message is great!
If you have any questions, let me know. I'll do my best to answer them.
Picture Day, Parking, and Mornings
I'm not sure what happened with that last post. Apparently I published it accidentally. My apologies. Here is what it was supposed to say.
Picture Day
Picture Day is Tuesday, October 9. That day we will take the all-school panoramic photo, individual pictures, and sports photos (this one won't affect 4th grade). If you plan on ordering more than one item (for example: an individual photo package AND a panoramic photo), seperate checks will be needed for each. I'm not sure why this is...I was just asked to communicate it to you.
Parking Proceedures
A few reminders: 1. Students being dropped off in the morning are to be dropped off in the back parking lot. Yes, it is longer to walk, but it is the safest place. When parking in the front, please be sure to come down Eleventh Street from the north. Don't come from the south and swing all the way around to the parking spots. (The police have requested that one personally.)
Morning Arrival Time
Students are allowed up into the halls and classrooms at 8:25. BUS students who arrive before that are to go to the cafeteria until they are dismissed at 8:25. WALKERS and DROPPED-OFFERS are to remain outside until 8:25. Yes, it will get colder. Yes, it may be rainy. Arriving on time will solve those problems. There have been too many people in the building before that time, and supervision becomes a problem. Thanks for your understanding.
Picture Day
Picture Day is Tuesday, October 9. That day we will take the all-school panoramic photo, individual pictures, and sports photos (this one won't affect 4th grade). If you plan on ordering more than one item (for example: an individual photo package AND a panoramic photo), seperate checks will be needed for each. I'm not sure why this is...I was just asked to communicate it to you.
Parking Proceedures
A few reminders: 1. Students being dropped off in the morning are to be dropped off in the back parking lot. Yes, it is longer to walk, but it is the safest place. When parking in the front, please be sure to come down Eleventh Street from the north. Don't come from the south and swing all the way around to the parking spots. (The police have requested that one personally.)
Morning Arrival Time
Students are allowed up into the halls and classrooms at 8:25. BUS students who arrive before that are to go to the cafeteria until they are dismissed at 8:25. WALKERS and DROPPED-OFFERS are to remain outside until 8:25. Yes, it will get colder. Yes, it may be rainy. Arriving on time will solve those problems. There have been too many people in the building before that time, and supervision becomes a problem. Thanks for your understanding.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Culver's Night and Various Other Stuff
Don't forget! Tonight is the first Culver's Night of the year. Culver's donates 10% of all proceeds from people who say they are there for Immanuel back to the school. Unfortunately, my family will be there without me. We have a soccer game in Marshfield. I'll be supporting the Vesper Fire Department at their monthly brat fry.
If you have one of those music-liking fourth graders and he/she comes home talking about some cool sounding CD (or strange sounding CD, depending on their perspective), it's a new one I got that I shared with them. My favorite band, the David Crowder Band, just released their new album called Remedy. Two songs I played are "O, For A Thousand Tongues to Sing" - straight out of the hymnal, but not sounding like church - and a song called "We Won't Be Quiet." Both songs fit our class theme perfectly! For more information, check http://www.davidcrowderband.com/.
Finally, mark your calendars for next Tuesday. Immanuel's soccer team will be playing Assumption Middle School at 7:00 at Washington School. This is the second year we are playing under the lights on the varsity field. There will be pregame and halftime music, great people from school, and a great game to watch.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Video Added to the Website!
I'll admit, I am having fun playing with this site a little bit. I found a way to add videos! The first video is from a Christian band called Stellar Kart. This song - Activate - was the last one I cut from our CD because it didn't fit. The song is about living your life so that others see Jesus in your life. It's easy to just slip by without doing much, but God wants more. Activate! Get Started! BE LOUD! The video itself shows that you should be yourself and not something else. I hope you find it as funny as I do.
Parents, I hope that our kids see that following Jesus isn't only sitting quietly in church, so to speak. These guys have a lot of fun, make a lot of noise, and are devoted to Jesus. I'm afraid people don't always see those things fitting together.
The videos are located down the right side. Click on the video and it will play at the top of the page.
Have a great rest of the weekend. Enjoy the weather, Go Packers!, and see you in the morning.
Parents, I hope that our kids see that following Jesus isn't only sitting quietly in church, so to speak. These guys have a lot of fun, make a lot of noise, and are devoted to Jesus. I'm afraid people don't always see those things fitting together.
The videos are located down the right side. Click on the video and it will play at the top of the page.
Have a great rest of the weekend. Enjoy the weather, Go Packers!, and see you in the morning.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Friday 9/21 Newsletter Updates
Magazine Sales
Going into today our class was in third place. In first place was the eighth graders. Their average was 1 order per student higher. So far I don't know the results after today's orders have been totaled. I DO know that our envelope was packed. It was really full! If we don't catch them, it won't be because we didn't try!
Of course, the real reason we get excited about this is that every bit of profit goes directly to our school, and every little bit helps. Thanks for all your time and efforts helping your kids in their first official year of participating.
The Year So Far
Every morning in devotions we take prayer requests. Today my turn came up. My prayer was one of thanksgiving for a class that has been so responsible. They are doing a great job of getting their work done, turning things in on time, staying organized, and reading tons of books. So thank YOU too, parents, for your role in the success of your children. If the rest of the year goes this smoothly, they should cut my pay...but don't tell anyone that!
Book Covers
Please remember to get textbooks covered. The best stuff to use is brown bags from the grocery store. Remember, don't use the elastic covers. They are damaging some books.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home - Quarter 1 Week 3 Slips. Turn them in as soon as they are done. Lots of people are taking advantage of the weekend. At School - 1. Asking a Blessing Part 1. 2. Asking a Blessing Part 2. There are two assignments this week, and students may say them any morning. Don't procrastinate!
Religion - Noah and the Flood.
Reading - Continue in our Literary Elements books. Continue writing in our Reading Journals. Continue reading great books! Donavan's Word Jar, characters' feelings and actions, My Name is Maria Isabel.
English - Sentences. Possible test mid-late week.
Math - Test Monday. Students shouldn't have to study - honestly! - since the book continues to review each lesson. The test will be on the first 5 lessons. Then on to number lines, addition stories, missing numbers in subtraction, and adding 3-digit numbers.
Science - Test Tuesday on chapter 1. Then chapter 2: force, energy, motion, and work.
Social Studies - Possible test late week. The students have been working hard on their cards. These can/should be used to review like flashcards. These work for me as a daily assignment, but are great to keep and use for reviewing. For now we've kept the information simple. I also told the kids that the book starts with the longest lessons with the longest lists of vocabulary words. I'm not sure why, but that's the way it is. We decided that if we get used to long lessons with lots of information, the shorter lessons will be a piece of cake!
Spelling - UNIT 3: mine, tie, wild, type , smile, drive, size, blind, visit, thick, die, prize Extra words: fifty, picnic, decide, tiny Bonus Words: none. Again, the test is on Friday.
Have a great weekend. Is this summer? Shouldn't we still be off school? WOW! Enjoy it while it lasts. Next week we may be shoveling snow!
Friday, September 14, 2007
Friday Newsletter Updates
September Book Orders
Book orders are due Thursday, September 20. I always try to give some suggestions and recommendations for each book order I hand out. These are simply meant to be a starting point as you browse the book order. There's a lot of great books in the September order, so on to the recommendations:
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler - A great mystery in New York City.
The Tale of Despereaux - One of those books with different stories that all come together at the end.
Island Pack - High adventure. More and more each page.
The Penderwicks - Describes a summer vacation most of us would love to have.
Stormbreaker - Another great adventure book. First in a series.
Princess Acadamy - This is a new book, but it's quickly becoming a personal favorite.
Back to School Newbery Value
Number the Stars - A chapter is in our Reading book.
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry - A great book, but might be tough for 4th graders.
Bridge to Terabithia - Better than the movie…and I never saw the movie!
The Chronicles of Narnia - Again, better than the movie…and I did see this movie.
A Series of Unfortunate Events - Totally better than the movie. One of my favorite series.
Judy Blume Pack - Hilarious. Parents, do you remember reading about Fudge?
Magazine Sales
Monday is the second turn-in day. We had a great start as a class! There is a pink note included in take-home folders that tells the prizes and promotions for Monday's turn-in. Remember, every little bit counts, and all profits go directly to our school.
Walk For Education
Tomorrow is the annual St. Lukes Walk For Education. Walkers will leave St. Lukes at 10:30, walk down 8th Street to Immanuel, and then head back on 12th Street. Everyone is welcome to stay for a picnic at St. Lukes in the picnic shelter. Everyone received a pledge sheet in a recent newsletter. Any donations go directly toward the technology fund here at school.
Basketball Note
Mr. Voelker has sent home a note with all of last year's basketball players and anyone else who said they were interested for this year. We already need to get an idea of how many players there will be at each grade level in order to properly schedule games. Please take the time to fill out the form and return it to school as soon as possible. Thanks.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home - Quarter 1 Week 2 Slips. Remember, these are due by next Friday, but can be turned in as soon as they are completed. At School - The Evening Prayer. Students may again split it up to learn it, but they will need to say the whole thing by Friday. If you learned the Morning Prayer, this one is really easy!
Religion - Adam and Eve and the Family of God.
Reading - We are all reading some great silent reading books! This week we started writing in our reading journals about our books. We also received our Literary Elements books, and will be working with them in the weeks to come. We also will be in our Reading book, reading Donavan's Word Jar.
English - Sentences (declarative, interrogative, imperative, exclamatory)
Math - Writing numbers to 999, adding money, adding with regrouping, even and odd numbers. I told students today that it is taking me less time to grade 19 papers this year than it took to grade 10 last year. It's not because of some great difference in math ability, but rather that I remembered to teach and model how to organize a math paper, and these guys are really doing a great job of keeping their papers neat and orderly. THANK YOU!!!
Science - Physical changes, chemical changes. Possible test late in the week.
Social Studies - Continue U.S. geography, land, rivers, and natural resources.
Spelling - UNIT 2: asleep, empty, queen, deal, needed, spelling, east, feelings, tea, keeping, beneath, agree Extra words: easy, method Bonus Words: elevator, suggested The test is on Friday.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Two Tuesday Notes - School Newsletter and Social Studies
School Newsletter - Coming with today's school newsletter is our Acceptable Use Policy for computers, a signature form, and an informational letter. Please take a few moments to go over the policy and return the signature form. New students should also return the password form so we can create a new account for you.
Social Studies - Students are bringing home a different assignment today. They are to read a lesson. As they read they are to define the vocabulary words and answer the review question at the end of each section. However, each word and question is on a notecard. Definitions and answers should be on the back side of each card. I'll explain more about this in the future, and after one lesson, I already have a few ideas about how to make the process easier. Thanks!
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