Celebration Auction and Fun Fest Weekend
I wanted to update you on the success of the Celebration Weekend. Altogether both events raised $44,000! Amazing! Our class basket brought $200 by itself. It went from a suggested donation of $3-$5 per family to $200 for the school. That's great! It's over double what we purchased it for.
Standardized Testing
Fourth graders take the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills. This will take place the week of April 7. These tests are your basic fill-in-the-bubble type test. Students at Immanuel take them in 2nd, 4th, and 6th grade we use the results to track progress of groups of children. What are we as a school teaching well? Where can improvement happen?
All students need to worry about is A. Get rest and B. Do your best and C. Don't worry about it and D. Enjoy the week with less homework!
Memory Assignments
Everyone is bringing home their 4th quarter memory assignments today. All our assignments come from hymns traditionally sung in Lutheran churches, although some are more familiar than others. There is a letter attached with all the details. We are starting next week with our first assignment (details below) even though it's not the fourth quarter yet.
Students also received a CD of all the songs. The CD is meant to be a tool to help them learn. Listening to the song while following along with the words definitely helps!
End of the Quarter
Next week is it! End of the third quarter! All assignments must be turned in by the end of the week.
The Upcoming Week
Religion - We are still working on our book organizing service project for the school and practicing or the Spring Program with Mrs. Ader.
Memory - At Home: None At School: Amazing Grace verses #1-5 as numbered on the handout. Students must say at least 3 verses. 3=B, 4=A, 5=A plus extra credit
Reading - One Grain of Rice, making judgments.
English - Possessive pronouns, adjectives, and articles.
Math - More division, graphing, angles.
Science - Flowers and plant reproduction.
Social Studies - The Pacific States.
Spelling - UNIT 25 doctor, dollar, power, sugar, corner, collar, danger, ladder, labor, cellar, other, motor Extra Words: hunger, calendar, horror, officer, explore, porch Bonus Words: examiner, firefighter
Friday, March 28, 2008
Friday, March 14, 2008
Friday, 3/14 Newsletter Updates
Spring Has Sprung...Or At Least Spring Break
No school next week. It's Spring Break! As I tell the kids, whether you travel across the hall, across the street, across town, or across the country, remember that God goes with you. Take a break from school, but don't take a break from Him. (After all, He's not!)
Choir Sings on Palm Sunday
The 3/4 grade choir is singing at Palm Sunday worship - that's this Sunday. You should have received two notes about it this week. Student should arrive at 10:10 to rehearse. The choir sings at the beginning of worship and then are welcome to sit with their parents. Students are also welcome to attend an earlier service, stay to sing, and then may leave when the choir is done.
Spring Program
The annual Spring Program is coming, and the third and fourth graders have all of the main parts. Honestly, I don't know too much about it, but after break Mrs. Ader will be working with the class (and I get to teach second grade!) a couple times a week. The performance date is Friday, April 18.
Culver's Night
Tuesday, March 25 - the Tuesday after Spring Break - is Immanuel Culver's Night. We try to have guest servers at each Culver's Night, and on the 25th the servers will be the Speed Stacking after school group. A sign-up form will come home on Monday, March 24. Kids are invited to work for 30 minutes taking trays to people in the restaurant. Any attendees may also have to opportunity to demonstrate Speed Stacking to the guests that night. Watch for more information after break. (And all participation is optional.)
End of the Third Quarter
After break there will be 9 days left in the 3rd quarter. We made a pretty clean break today, ending chapters and such, and will start fresh when we come back. Keep that in mind - 9 days! - to improve grades or keep them from slipping.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q3W8 will be handed out on Monday. At School: Begin 4th quarter hymns. Will be assigned on Monday.
Religion - Miracles of Jesus. We also have a service project for school we will be working on.
Reading - Red Writing Hood, summarize and paraphrase, One Grain of Rice.
English - Pronouns, adjectives, articles.
Math - More long division, customary and metric weights, triangles, symmetry.
Science - Unit A, living things. We will start a looooong term project too.
Social Studies - Chapter 12, the Pacific States.
Spelling - None, review week.
No school next week. It's Spring Break! As I tell the kids, whether you travel across the hall, across the street, across town, or across the country, remember that God goes with you. Take a break from school, but don't take a break from Him. (After all, He's not!)
Choir Sings on Palm Sunday
The 3/4 grade choir is singing at Palm Sunday worship - that's this Sunday. You should have received two notes about it this week. Student should arrive at 10:10 to rehearse. The choir sings at the beginning of worship and then are welcome to sit with their parents. Students are also welcome to attend an earlier service, stay to sing, and then may leave when the choir is done.
Spring Program
The annual Spring Program is coming, and the third and fourth graders have all of the main parts. Honestly, I don't know too much about it, but after break Mrs. Ader will be working with the class (and I get to teach second grade!) a couple times a week. The performance date is Friday, April 18.
Culver's Night
Tuesday, March 25 - the Tuesday after Spring Break - is Immanuel Culver's Night. We try to have guest servers at each Culver's Night, and on the 25th the servers will be the Speed Stacking after school group. A sign-up form will come home on Monday, March 24. Kids are invited to work for 30 minutes taking trays to people in the restaurant. Any attendees may also have to opportunity to demonstrate Speed Stacking to the guests that night. Watch for more information after break. (And all participation is optional.)
End of the Third Quarter
After break there will be 9 days left in the 3rd quarter. We made a pretty clean break today, ending chapters and such, and will start fresh when we come back. Keep that in mind - 9 days! - to improve grades or keep them from slipping.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q3W8 will be handed out on Monday. At School: Begin 4th quarter hymns. Will be assigned on Monday.
Religion - Miracles of Jesus. We also have a service project for school we will be working on.
Reading - Red Writing Hood, summarize and paraphrase, One Grain of Rice.
English - Pronouns, adjectives, articles.
Math - More long division, customary and metric weights, triangles, symmetry.
Science - Unit A, living things. We will start a looooong term project too.
Social Studies - Chapter 12, the Pacific States.
Spelling - None, review week.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Friday, 3/7 Newsletter Updates
I'm Back At School
I made it back to school today. When I woke up this morning my bedroom wasn't spinning so I figured the classroom wouldn't be spinning either. And it's not! With all the different Lutheran Schools Week activities that have been going on and with various teachers in the room, much of the morning has been spent figuring out what has and hasn't been done. Next week looks like a normal schedule week again so we'll get back on track.
I have a pile of papers to be graded. A number of students have been absent this week, so I'll have to figure out what I have and don't have from people. Hopefully on Monday we'll have everything all straightened out and back to normal.
Stay Healthy
Whatever you can do to stay healthy, make it happen. There have been numerous people absent from fourth grade, and we're not the only class. Hopefully whatever this is will run its course quickly and we'll all be healthy again.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q3W7 Slips At School: Prayer After Meals and Prayer at the Beginning of the School Day. Some students still need to get caught up. In some cases, the effort to get caught up with late work means that the current week's work isn't getting done.
Religion - More of Jesus's healings.
Reading - Main idea and details, The Case of Pablo's Nose, summarizing, In the Days of King Adobe.
English - Informative composition.
Math - Division, finding information, turn/flip/slide (rotation/reflection/translation), fraction of a set.
Science - Keeping the digestive, circulatory, and nervous systems healthy.
Social Studies - Finish the Southwest Desert States.
Spelling - UNIT 23 addition, sadness, lovable, endless, handful, plentiful, breathless, happiness, solution, careful, function, stillness Extra Words: information, celebration, capable, available
I made it back to school today. When I woke up this morning my bedroom wasn't spinning so I figured the classroom wouldn't be spinning either. And it's not! With all the different Lutheran Schools Week activities that have been going on and with various teachers in the room, much of the morning has been spent figuring out what has and hasn't been done. Next week looks like a normal schedule week again so we'll get back on track.
I have a pile of papers to be graded. A number of students have been absent this week, so I'll have to figure out what I have and don't have from people. Hopefully on Monday we'll have everything all straightened out and back to normal.
Stay Healthy
Whatever you can do to stay healthy, make it happen. There have been numerous people absent from fourth grade, and we're not the only class. Hopefully whatever this is will run its course quickly and we'll all be healthy again.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q3W7 Slips At School: Prayer After Meals and Prayer at the Beginning of the School Day. Some students still need to get caught up. In some cases, the effort to get caught up with late work means that the current week's work isn't getting done.
Religion - More of Jesus's healings.
Reading - Main idea and details, The Case of Pablo's Nose, summarizing, In the Days of King Adobe.
English - Informative composition.
Math - Division, finding information, turn/flip/slide (rotation/reflection/translation), fraction of a set.
Science - Keeping the digestive, circulatory, and nervous systems healthy.
Social Studies - Finish the Southwest Desert States.
Spelling - UNIT 23 addition, sadness, lovable, endless, handful, plentiful, breathless, happiness, solution, careful, function, stillness Extra Words: information, celebration, capable, available
Monday, March 3, 2008
Class ID Day
Today is Class ID Day. Our ID, selected to be unique and to guarantee we didn't match any other classes was orange hat, hooded sweatshirt, swimwear or shorts, sandals, and a blanky and/or stuffed animal. Don't they look good?
Friday, February 29, 2008
Where's George?
Erica's mom brought us a $1 bill with a red stamp on it reading http://www.wheresgeorge.com/. (It looked like the one pictured.) We went to the website, entered the dollar's serial number and year, and here's what we found:1. We were the only people to enter information about this dollar since it was entered into the website, however...
2. This dollar was entered in the website and then spent in Wahpeton, North Dakota on December 16, 2006. Which means...
3. This bill has travelled 354 Miles in 1 year and 74 days. That's an average of 0.81 miles per day. And finally...
4. It's Erica's job to spend it. (Tough job!)
Friday, 2/29 Newsletter Updates
Happy LEAP Day!
Next Week is Lutheran Schools Week. Here's the Schedule:
The first week of March is always Lutheran Schools Week, and we're not waiting until Monday to get started. It starts tomorrow!
Saturday - Celebration Auction. Tickets are still available as I type this, but they are going fast. Last year was a great fun time. (Especially, in my opinion, watching the expressions on people's faces who hadn't heard a "real" auctioneer in action. And that includes myself.)
Sunday - All students attending the 9:00 service at Immanuel are invited to sing at the beginning of worship. We have been practicing Good News at school. The FUNFEST is from 11:00-3:00 in the school gym. (I challenge anyone in the toilet paper toss!)
Monday - Class ID Day. We chose a unique identity so we wouldn't be confused with any other classes. Orange stocking caps (if anyone has an extra, please send it!), hooded sweatshirts, swimsuits (boys) or "over the swimsuit" shorts/skirt (girls), sandals, stuffed animal and/or blanky. Bruce VanNatta will also give a presentation at 2:00.
Tuesday - Classroom switch day. Students will get 4 different lessons from 4 different teachers. The fourth graders will be in the 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th grade classrooms in the morning.
Wednesday - Dress-Up Day. Talent Show at 2:15. School visitation all day long. Come and see Immanuel in action!
Thursday - The First Ever Great Student/Teacher Quiz Bowl. It's sort of a "Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader" sort of thing. It's at 10:00.
Friday - School color day - wear your Immanuel clothes or your maroon and gold. David Britton will give a concert at 2:00, and there will also be a pep rally for the basketball teams going to the Tri-State Tournament in Freeport, Illinois.
The Upcoming Week
With next week being Lutheran Schools Week, we may or may not get to all these things. We'll just have to "roll with it." Sometimes activities take longer than expected, sometimes less. But it's worth it to celebrate the great school we have and the great organization of Lutheran Schools we have and the awesome God that makes it all possible.
Memory - At Home: Q3W6 Slips At School: 1. The Lord's Prayer 2. Prayer Before Meals.
Religion - Jesus heals the paralyzed man. Thanks to the whole class for their efforts in leading chapel. Thanks to everyone who was able to attend. If you weren't able to join us, I hope your fourth grader gave you all the details. It was quite memorable.
Reading - Finish Riding Freedom activities. The Kids' Invention Book.
English - Paragraph that classifies, informative composition.
Math - Millimeters, stories about a fraction of a group, Test 13.
Science - Finish our tours of the circulatory and digestive system.
Social Studies - Chapter 11, the Pacific States.
Spelling - Changing y to i with various endings. Unit 22 families, worried, ugliest, funnier, happily, easily, heavier, earlier, tiniest, supplied, luckily, relied EXTRA WORDS: activities, countries, goodies, applied BONUS WORDS: enemies, hurriedly
Next Week is Lutheran Schools Week. Here's the Schedule:
The first week of March is always Lutheran Schools Week, and we're not waiting until Monday to get started. It starts tomorrow!
Saturday - Celebration Auction. Tickets are still available as I type this, but they are going fast. Last year was a great fun time. (Especially, in my opinion, watching the expressions on people's faces who hadn't heard a "real" auctioneer in action. And that includes myself.)
Sunday - All students attending the 9:00 service at Immanuel are invited to sing at the beginning of worship. We have been practicing Good News at school. The FUNFEST is from 11:00-3:00 in the school gym. (I challenge anyone in the toilet paper toss!)
Monday - Class ID Day. We chose a unique identity so we wouldn't be confused with any other classes. Orange stocking caps (if anyone has an extra, please send it!), hooded sweatshirts, swimsuits (boys) or "over the swimsuit" shorts/skirt (girls), sandals, stuffed animal and/or blanky. Bruce VanNatta will also give a presentation at 2:00.
Tuesday - Classroom switch day. Students will get 4 different lessons from 4 different teachers. The fourth graders will be in the 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th grade classrooms in the morning.
Wednesday - Dress-Up Day. Talent Show at 2:15. School visitation all day long. Come and see Immanuel in action!
Thursday - The First Ever Great Student/Teacher Quiz Bowl. It's sort of a "Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader" sort of thing. It's at 10:00.
Friday - School color day - wear your Immanuel clothes or your maroon and gold. David Britton will give a concert at 2:00, and there will also be a pep rally for the basketball teams going to the Tri-State Tournament in Freeport, Illinois.
The Upcoming Week
With next week being Lutheran Schools Week, we may or may not get to all these things. We'll just have to "roll with it." Sometimes activities take longer than expected, sometimes less. But it's worth it to celebrate the great school we have and the great organization of Lutheran Schools we have and the awesome God that makes it all possible.
Memory - At Home: Q3W6 Slips At School: 1. The Lord's Prayer 2. Prayer Before Meals.
Religion - Jesus heals the paralyzed man. Thanks to the whole class for their efforts in leading chapel. Thanks to everyone who was able to attend. If you weren't able to join us, I hope your fourth grader gave you all the details. It was quite memorable.
Reading - Finish Riding Freedom activities. The Kids' Invention Book.
English - Paragraph that classifies, informative composition.
Math - Millimeters, stories about a fraction of a group, Test 13.
Science - Finish our tours of the circulatory and digestive system.
Social Studies - Chapter 11, the Pacific States.
Spelling - Changing y to i with various endings. Unit 22 families, worried, ugliest, funnier, happily, easily, heavier, earlier, tiniest, supplied, luckily, relied EXTRA WORDS: activities, countries, goodies, applied BONUS WORDS: enemies, hurriedly
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Chapel Tomorrow!
Everything is ready to go for chapel tomorrow, or at least all the stuff I remembered that needs to be ready! Come and worship with us at 9:00 if you can. Come see a day in the life of Joe Normal and see the loud (the volume kind) events in his day and the loud (the "make a joyful noise" kind) events in his day. Learn a new song. Sing an old one in a new way. See if the kindergarteners and first/second/third graders remember our singing lessons from today.
Everyone has a leading role during the service and in the message, and everyone should be practicing their speaking part for tomorrow. No, students don't need to memorize anything, but be able to read it clearly and fluently.
Maybe we'll see you tomorrow!
Everyone has a leading role during the service and in the message, and everyone should be practicing their speaking part for tomorrow. No, students don't need to memorize anything, but be able to read it clearly and fluently.
Maybe we'll see you tomorrow!
Friday, February 22, 2008
Friday, 2/22 Newsletter Updates
Midterms Next Tuesday
This weekend I'll be calculating midterm grades for the third quarter. Midterms will come home on Tuesday. Please sign and return the signature form as soon as possible. Any missing assignments (late and incomplete, not missing from absences) will be figured as zeros, and there are a number of items missing.
Missing Work
All students with missing work received a list today of all missing assignments. These need to be taken care of as soon as possible. What's happening, especially in memory, is that kids are working to get caught up on work but then their current work doesn't get completed causing even more late work. Students need to get caught up and stay caught up.
Parent Contacts
If I haven't spoken to you already, plan on hearing from me in the near future. I'm wondering if you have an questions or concerns about the year so far or where we're going from here or questions about re-enrollment and the upcoming year.
Parking on Monday
If you plan on being her Monday morning, 2/25, machinery will be here to take snow away from parking lots and side streets. Parking will only be permitted on streets farther away from school.
The Upcoming Week
Religion - Chapel planning.
Memory - 1. The 3rd Article Meaning from "In the same way" to "all believers" 2. "On the Last Day" to the end.
Reading - Finish Riding Freedom activities. (Did you read any of the book? If not, you're missing out on a great (short) book and a great opportunity to share your child's excitement for a a great book.
English -Paragraphs that classify.
Math - Similar and congruent figures, Multiplying by multiples of 10, more long division, millimeters.
Science - Tours of the digestive, circulatory, and nervous systems.
Social Studies - Chapter 10, The West, Mountain States.
Spelling - Lesson 21 nonstop, replaced, inactive, refill, incorrect, rethink, nonfat, reread, retell, return, incomplete, repay Extra Words: nonfiction, nonsense, indirect, independent
This weekend I'll be calculating midterm grades for the third quarter. Midterms will come home on Tuesday. Please sign and return the signature form as soon as possible. Any missing assignments (late and incomplete, not missing from absences) will be figured as zeros, and there are a number of items missing.
Missing Work
All students with missing work received a list today of all missing assignments. These need to be taken care of as soon as possible. What's happening, especially in memory, is that kids are working to get caught up on work but then their current work doesn't get completed causing even more late work. Students need to get caught up and stay caught up.
Parent Contacts
If I haven't spoken to you already, plan on hearing from me in the near future. I'm wondering if you have an questions or concerns about the year so far or where we're going from here or questions about re-enrollment and the upcoming year.
Parking on Monday
If you plan on being her Monday morning, 2/25, machinery will be here to take snow away from parking lots and side streets. Parking will only be permitted on streets farther away from school.
The Upcoming Week
Religion - Chapel planning.
Memory - 1. The 3rd Article Meaning from "In the same way" to "all believers" 2. "On the Last Day" to the end.
Reading - Finish Riding Freedom activities. (Did you read any of the book? If not, you're missing out on a great (short) book and a great opportunity to share your child's excitement for a a great book.
English -Paragraphs that classify.
Math - Similar and congruent figures, Multiplying by multiples of 10, more long division, millimeters.
Science - Tours of the digestive, circulatory, and nervous systems.
Social Studies - Chapter 10, The West, Mountain States.
Spelling - Lesson 21 nonstop, replaced, inactive, refill, incorrect, rethink, nonfat, reread, retell, return, incomplete, repay Extra Words: nonfiction, nonsense, indirect, independent
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Look Outside and Look Up
If you happen to get your email soon, look outside at the moon. The eclipse is starting at 7:43 pm Central Time. That's now! And you can totally see it. It should be a glowing red ball by 9:00.
And did anyone get the Christopher Columbus question yet?
And did anyone get the Christopher Columbus question yet?
This Afternoon and Tonight
Choir at Lenten Worship
This is a just a reminder. A note was sent home last week. Church starts tonight at 4:00. The 3/4 grade choir is singing at the beginning of worship. Students may then go sit with their parents or stay and sit up front. I will be there and so will another teacher. If you are unable to be here to get your child after school, we will be walking over to church directly after school. You can meet us there.
Lunar Eclipse Tonight
Tonight there will be a total lunar eclipse. As best as I can find, the eclipse will start at for us around 9:00. The moon will be completely in the Earth's shadow, but still not completely dark. The first fourth grader to come and tell me how an eclipse just like this one saved Christopher Columbus will receive an engraved plaque and honor and praise above all other fourth graders...or maybe just a few extra credit points in Science.
This is a just a reminder. A note was sent home last week. Church starts tonight at 4:00. The 3/4 grade choir is singing at the beginning of worship. Students may then go sit with their parents or stay and sit up front. I will be there and so will another teacher. If you are unable to be here to get your child after school, we will be walking over to church directly after school. You can meet us there.
Lunar Eclipse Tonight
Tonight there will be a total lunar eclipse. As best as I can find, the eclipse will start at for us around 9:00. The moon will be completely in the Earth's shadow, but still not completely dark. The first fourth grader to come and tell me how an eclipse just like this one saved Christopher Columbus will receive an engraved plaque and honor and praise above all other fourth graders...or maybe just a few extra credit points in Science.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Friday, 2/15 Newsletter Updates
No School Next Monday
Just a reminder that next Monday is a professional day. Teachers will have a large group meeting, grade level meetings with the principal, and time for collaboration with one another. Enjoy the long weekend!
Classroom Celebration Auction Basket Update
If anyone is still planning on sending in a donation for the basket, that's great. If you're planning on donating in other way, that's fine too. Here's what is in our basket (and a lot of kids said, "I'm telling Mom I want that basket." Just warning you.)
1. Slinky
2. Tiddly Winks
3. Marbles
4. Jacks
5. Pick-Up Sticks
6. A big tub of Lincoln Logs
7. Wooden ABC/123 Blocks (Is this what all the 4th graders wanted?)
8. WWII Spotter Cards (these are a deck of cards that show friendly and enemy aircraft from World War II)
Lutheran Schools Week is Coming
The first week of March is always Lutheran Schools Week. Here at Immanuel we start out with the Celebration Auction and the Spring Fun Fest on Saturday (March 1) and Sunday (March 2). All students are invited to sing at Immanuel worship on Sunday morning, and the rest of the week is filled with fun activities. Keep an eye on the newsletter for more details.
February 27 Chapel Service
Yes, you read the last note correctly. We, the fourth graders of Immanuel Lutheran School, will be leading the school in worship on Wednesday, February 27.
The Upcoming Week
Religion - Chapel planning and preparation.
Memory - At Home: Q3W4 Slips At School: 1. The Third Article 2. The Third Article's Meaning up to "...the true faith" (the first paragraph)
Reading - Riding Freedom. Have you seen your child's book? Did you read any of it? (Caution: Reading two chapters may cause an uncontrollable urge to complete the book.) Have you seen the post-it notes they are working on?
English - Complete Theme 3 - Proper, common, singular, plural, and possessive nouns and pronouns.
Math - Polygons, long division, similar and congruent shapes.
Science - Digestive, Circulatory, and Nervous System. We will be changing our roles in science class next week from "student" to "tour guide." It ought to be interesting.
Social Studies - Finish the Great Plains States. Begin the West.
Spelling - UNIT 20 unused, dislike, unclean, unheard, disagree, disabled, unkind, unfriendly, unable, unhappy, unsafe, disobey Extra Words: uncertain, disappear, undecided, unload Bonus Words: unwittingly, dishonest
Just a reminder that next Monday is a professional day. Teachers will have a large group meeting, grade level meetings with the principal, and time for collaboration with one another. Enjoy the long weekend!
Classroom Celebration Auction Basket Update
If anyone is still planning on sending in a donation for the basket, that's great. If you're planning on donating in other way, that's fine too. Here's what is in our basket (and a lot of kids said, "I'm telling Mom I want that basket." Just warning you.)
1. Slinky
2. Tiddly Winks
3. Marbles
4. Jacks
5. Pick-Up Sticks
6. A big tub of Lincoln Logs
7. Wooden ABC/123 Blocks (Is this what all the 4th graders wanted?)
8. WWII Spotter Cards (these are a deck of cards that show friendly and enemy aircraft from World War II)
Lutheran Schools Week is Coming
The first week of March is always Lutheran Schools Week. Here at Immanuel we start out with the Celebration Auction and the Spring Fun Fest on Saturday (March 1) and Sunday (March 2). All students are invited to sing at Immanuel worship on Sunday morning, and the rest of the week is filled with fun activities. Keep an eye on the newsletter for more details.
February 27 Chapel Service
Yes, you read the last note correctly. We, the fourth graders of Immanuel Lutheran School, will be leading the school in worship on Wednesday, February 27.
The Upcoming Week
Religion - Chapel planning and preparation.
Memory - At Home: Q3W4 Slips At School: 1. The Third Article 2. The Third Article's Meaning up to "...the true faith" (the first paragraph)
Reading - Riding Freedom. Have you seen your child's book? Did you read any of it? (Caution: Reading two chapters may cause an uncontrollable urge to complete the book.) Have you seen the post-it notes they are working on?
English - Complete Theme 3 - Proper, common, singular, plural, and possessive nouns and pronouns.
Math - Polygons, long division, similar and congruent shapes.
Science - Digestive, Circulatory, and Nervous System. We will be changing our roles in science class next week from "student" to "tour guide." It ought to be interesting.
Social Studies - Finish the Great Plains States. Begin the West.
Spelling - UNIT 20 unused, dislike, unclean, unheard, disagree, disabled, unkind, unfriendly, unable, unhappy, unsafe, disobey Extra Words: uncertain, disappear, undecided, unload Bonus Words: unwittingly, dishonest
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Tuesday, 2/12 Newsletter Updates
Riding Freedom
We just started a novel in Reading class called Riding Freedom. We have two main focusses. First, there are 5 different groups, each concentrating on a different topic. The topics are 1. girl stuff 2. boy stuff 3. laws and beliefs 4. grown-up stuff 5. setting. Each group will be able to offer details to the discussion on their area of "expertise."
Second, the students' daily assignments are "What are you thinking?" Post-it notes. As students read, I want them to pay more attention to their conversation with the author, so to speak. As they think about what they read, students are to write what thoughts come to their head and jot it down. Suggestions are listed on their bookmark. All the notes are stuck in the book, used for class discussion, and turned in the next day.
Celebration Auction Fourth Grade Basket
If you haven't sent in a donation for our class Classic Toys basket, and still wish to do so, please do so this week. A donation of $3-5 is requested. If you are donating in other ways, thank you!
Memory
Memory slips are coming home (Q3W3) today. Sorry for the delay. Also, this week's at-school assignments are the meaning of the second article, split in two parts. There are many students with missing memory assignments, and the hole is getting deeper for some, unfortunately. Kids, do you best to stay caught up.
Spelling
This week's spelling list is coming home today as well. Again, sorry for the delay.
The Reading Conference
The reading conference was fantastic. One highlight included meeting John Archambault, the author of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom (A told B and B told C I'll meet you at the top of the coconut tree!) Other highlights included many of the speakers, but I won't bore you with reading details. One thing I learned is included in how we are doing the Riding Freedom unit.
Valentine's Day
Yes, we are having a Valentine's Day party on Thursday, and yes, we will exchange valentines. The party will be from 1:45-2:45 so Mr. Altis will still have an opportunity for choir at the end of the day.
Chapel Service on February 27
Our class's opportunity to lead chapel is in two weeks! We will lead our school's worhip on Wednesday, February 27. We'll begin planning and practicing shortly. Mark your calendars.
We just started a novel in Reading class called Riding Freedom. We have two main focusses. First, there are 5 different groups, each concentrating on a different topic. The topics are 1. girl stuff 2. boy stuff 3. laws and beliefs 4. grown-up stuff 5. setting. Each group will be able to offer details to the discussion on their area of "expertise."
Second, the students' daily assignments are "What are you thinking?" Post-it notes. As students read, I want them to pay more attention to their conversation with the author, so to speak. As they think about what they read, students are to write what thoughts come to their head and jot it down. Suggestions are listed on their bookmark. All the notes are stuck in the book, used for class discussion, and turned in the next day.
Celebration Auction Fourth Grade Basket
If you haven't sent in a donation for our class Classic Toys basket, and still wish to do so, please do so this week. A donation of $3-5 is requested. If you are donating in other ways, thank you!
Memory
Memory slips are coming home (Q3W3) today. Sorry for the delay. Also, this week's at-school assignments are the meaning of the second article, split in two parts. There are many students with missing memory assignments, and the hole is getting deeper for some, unfortunately. Kids, do you best to stay caught up.
Spelling
This week's spelling list is coming home today as well. Again, sorry for the delay.
The Reading Conference
The reading conference was fantastic. One highlight included meeting John Archambault, the author of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom (A told B and B told C I'll meet you at the top of the coconut tree!) Other highlights included many of the speakers, but I won't bore you with reading details. One thing I learned is included in how we are doing the Riding Freedom unit.
Valentine's Day
Yes, we are having a Valentine's Day party on Thursday, and yes, we will exchange valentines. The party will be from 1:45-2:45 so Mr. Altis will still have an opportunity for choir at the end of the day.
Chapel Service on February 27
Our class's opportunity to lead chapel is in two weeks! We will lead our school's worhip on Wednesday, February 27. We'll begin planning and practicing shortly. Mark your calendars.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Basketball Schedule
This weather is something! Tonight's basketball games have been cancelled. This affects parents who were scheduled to work the concession stand. No basketball tonight, Monday, 2/4.
Also on Wednesday, 2/6, there will be both girls AND boys practice from 3:45 - 5:00. It is my understanding that the boys' games were to be completed by now, but because games have been rescheduled at later dates, they will continue to practice. (Is this right?)
Have a safe, snowy afternoon! Right now it looks like the U.P. and this is some of that two-inches-per-hour lake effect snow. Wow!
Also on Wednesday, 2/6, there will be both girls AND boys practice from 3:45 - 5:00. It is my understanding that the boys' games were to be completed by now, but because games have been rescheduled at later dates, they will continue to practice. (Is this right?)
Have a safe, snowy afternoon! Right now it looks like the U.P. and this is some of that two-inches-per-hour lake effect snow. Wow!
Friday, February 1, 2008
Friday, February 1 Newsletter Updates
Report Cards Today
Envelopes are coming home today, sealed as usual, with report cards. Also included are signature forms to sign and return as soon as possible, the newsletter, memory slips, and a note about the upcoming Celebration Auction. There's tons of information. Thanks for taking the time this weekend to wade through it.
We just got a basketball tournament note from Mr. Voelker too. That should be in everyone's take-home folders.
The Celebration Auction
It's only one month away! Today's note talks about our classroom basket donation. I'll let the note give the details, but in a nutshell, our basket is "Classic Toys" and the suggested donation is $3-5 per fourth grader. Thanks to everyone for your support of this great event.
Planet 10!
We spent some time today creating planets on the computer and launching them into the solar system to survive or meet some grisly end. (Including aliens!) The goal of the lesson was to create a planet with the correct combination of elements to support life. Some were very successful. Others...well...let's just say when the oceans begin to boil life is not headed down the happy yellow brick road, if you know what I mean.
Here's the link if you'd like to see it: http://www.solarsystem.org.uk/planet10/
I'll Be Gone Friday
I will be attending the Wisconsin State Reading Association annual convention next week on Thursday and Friday. Each year is a great opportunity to learn more about teaching reading. This year Mrs. Betts and I will be presenting a sectional to teachers from around that state about the Newbery Committee and the 5 Mile Book Club we've done in past years. It's an honor to be invited, and we are looking forward to it.
I don't think the substitute will be Mr. Kinderschmacker. (Ask the kids about him!)
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q3W2 Slips At School: 1. First Article and meaning, "He defends..." to the end. 2. The Second Article of the Apoltle's Creen (no meaning). Some students need to finish the second paragraph of the 1st article's meaning. Due to the snow day and late start I said that could carry over to next week, but that means 3 assignment next week for them.
Religion - Miracles of Jesus
Reading - Finish Theme 3. We will be starting another class novel unit.
English - Nouns. Singular and plural and possessive.
Math - Rate word problems, multiplying 3-digit numbers, estimating.
Science - Finish the solar system.
Social Studies - The Great Plains states.
Spelling - No list. Review lesson.
Envelopes are coming home today, sealed as usual, with report cards. Also included are signature forms to sign and return as soon as possible, the newsletter, memory slips, and a note about the upcoming Celebration Auction. There's tons of information. Thanks for taking the time this weekend to wade through it.
We just got a basketball tournament note from Mr. Voelker too. That should be in everyone's take-home folders.
The Celebration Auction
It's only one month away! Today's note talks about our classroom basket donation. I'll let the note give the details, but in a nutshell, our basket is "Classic Toys" and the suggested donation is $3-5 per fourth grader. Thanks to everyone for your support of this great event.
Planet 10!
We spent some time today creating planets on the computer and launching them into the solar system to survive or meet some grisly end. (Including aliens!) The goal of the lesson was to create a planet with the correct combination of elements to support life. Some were very successful. Others...well...let's just say when the oceans begin to boil life is not headed down the happy yellow brick road, if you know what I mean.
Here's the link if you'd like to see it: http://www.solarsystem.org.uk/planet10/
I'll Be Gone Friday
I will be attending the Wisconsin State Reading Association annual convention next week on Thursday and Friday. Each year is a great opportunity to learn more about teaching reading. This year Mrs. Betts and I will be presenting a sectional to teachers from around that state about the Newbery Committee and the 5 Mile Book Club we've done in past years. It's an honor to be invited, and we are looking forward to it.
I don't think the substitute will be Mr. Kinderschmacker. (Ask the kids about him!)
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q3W2 Slips At School: 1. First Article and meaning, "He defends..." to the end. 2. The Second Article of the Apoltle's Creen (no meaning). Some students need to finish the second paragraph of the 1st article's meaning. Due to the snow day and late start I said that could carry over to next week, but that means 3 assignment next week for them.
Religion - Miracles of Jesus
Reading - Finish Theme 3. We will be starting another class novel unit.
English - Nouns. Singular and plural and possessive.
Math - Rate word problems, multiplying 3-digit numbers, estimating.
Science - Finish the solar system.
Social Studies - The Great Plains states.
Spelling - No list. Review lesson.
Monday, January 28, 2008
A Few Monday Updates
Coming home today are a bunch of handouts:
1. Third Quarter at-home memory verses.
2. Third Quarter at-school memory assignments.
3. Q3W1 Slips.
4. This week's spelling list.
5. Division facts flashcards.
Also, students recieved a new checklist for their reading journal. Checklists are located inside the front cover and contain 10 topics they will journal about during the quarter as they apply to their current silent reading book. Students are to cover the topic as clearly as possible in their letter to Mr. W. Two letters must be completed each week. (Exceptions: If the first letter is great and earns a +, the student is done. If the second letter is not a +, students may choose to write a third letter.) Students are also receiving a bookmark that reviews all the things I discuss about their journals with them.
1. Third Quarter at-home memory verses.
2. Third Quarter at-school memory assignments.
3. Q3W1 Slips.
4. This week's spelling list.
5. Division facts flashcards.
Also, students recieved a new checklist for their reading journal. Checklists are located inside the front cover and contain 10 topics they will journal about during the quarter as they apply to their current silent reading book. Students are to cover the topic as clearly as possible in their letter to Mr. W. Two letters must be completed each week. (Exceptions: If the first letter is great and earns a +, the student is done. If the second letter is not a +, students may choose to write a third letter.) Students are also receiving a bookmark that reviews all the things I discuss about their journals with them.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Thursday, January 24 Newsletter Updates
I will do my best to get everything in here from home. Ethan went home sick yesterday with his mom. She took the morning off with him today, and now I am home with him for the afternoon. While he sleeps I'll get the newsletter done.
Pancake Supper
Tonight is the night! Pancakes, pancakes, pancakes!!! There is still time to help out. Come tonight and ask where people are needed. I'm sure there is a place for you. Remember, it's the volunteers that make these amazing events...well...amazing! Enjoy the great meal!
End of the Quarter Today - Report Cards Next Week
Today is the end of the quarter. With only a few exceptions all homework and missing work was turned in. Grades will be calculated tomorrow and report cards printed on Monday. After double checking and adding comments, report cards will be ready to go late next week.
Best Work?
This morning students and I talked about the importance of always doing your best.
Here's an example: Since last week I have been reminding students that all work needed to be completed by today for the end of the quarter. This morning we added 30 minutes to memory time and when it was all said and done I still filled in 11 zeros in the gradebook.
Here's another example: Students know what I expect on math assignments - labels on story problems, showing work (like on large addition problems), writing addition problems vertically, showing regrouping, etc. I don't do this to be the big, mean teacher. It's because when kids don't do these things they make mistakes. Too many students continue to repeat these mistakes.
And here's the most frustrating part. This is simply NOT what this class is like. They are smart, do great work, help one another, and have the ability to be excellent students. Let's do everything we can to get back on track as the third quarter starts.
Monday Speed Stacks Meeting Cancelled
Due to a suddenly scheduled appointment that is out of the building, I won't be at school for Speed Stacks that night. We will continue with the schedule as planned. There will probably be an added meeting in February.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - I don't remember what the assignments are, but all third quarter papers will come home on Monday.
Religion - Jesus' earthly ministry.
Reading - Finish timeline of Look to the North, start next story.
English - Nouns
Math - Continue lessons 54, 55, etc.
Science - Planets and the solar system.
Social Studies - Finish the Great Lakes States
Spelling - List will come home on Monday.
Pancake Supper
Tonight is the night! Pancakes, pancakes, pancakes!!! There is still time to help out. Come tonight and ask where people are needed. I'm sure there is a place for you. Remember, it's the volunteers that make these amazing events...well...amazing! Enjoy the great meal!
End of the Quarter Today - Report Cards Next Week
Today is the end of the quarter. With only a few exceptions all homework and missing work was turned in. Grades will be calculated tomorrow and report cards printed on Monday. After double checking and adding comments, report cards will be ready to go late next week.
Best Work?
This morning students and I talked about the importance of always doing your best.
Here's an example: Since last week I have been reminding students that all work needed to be completed by today for the end of the quarter. This morning we added 30 minutes to memory time and when it was all said and done I still filled in 11 zeros in the gradebook.
Here's another example: Students know what I expect on math assignments - labels on story problems, showing work (like on large addition problems), writing addition problems vertically, showing regrouping, etc. I don't do this to be the big, mean teacher. It's because when kids don't do these things they make mistakes. Too many students continue to repeat these mistakes.
And here's the most frustrating part. This is simply NOT what this class is like. They are smart, do great work, help one another, and have the ability to be excellent students. Let's do everything we can to get back on track as the third quarter starts.
Monday Speed Stacks Meeting Cancelled
Due to a suddenly scheduled appointment that is out of the building, I won't be at school for Speed Stacks that night. We will continue with the schedule as planned. There will probably be an added meeting in February.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - I don't remember what the assignments are, but all third quarter papers will come home on Monday.
Religion - Jesus' earthly ministry.
Reading - Finish timeline of Look to the North, start next story.
English - Nouns
Math - Continue lessons 54, 55, etc.
Science - Planets and the solar system.
Social Studies - Finish the Great Lakes States
Spelling - List will come home on Monday.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Since We Are Studying the Planets...
Here is an interesting article about a mysterious NASA photo.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,324800,00.html
Many of the kids wanted to know the address of the article and photo. The original photo can be accessed from that article. Anyone know for sure what it/he/she is?
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,324800,00.html
Many of the kids wanted to know the address of the article and photo. The original photo can be accessed from that article. Anyone know for sure what it/he/she is?
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
More Congratulations!
Tomorrow in the school spelling bee the fourth grade will be represented by Anthony and Jordan S., winners of our classroom competition. Nice work gentlemen! I should mention that Paige and Dakotah were in the final four (and then Mr. Wilhorn got mean and broke out the hardest words!), and Dakotah "dueled" Anthony for a quite some time.Now we'll see how it all shakes out tomorrow in the school bee. Let's just hope "cherrie" isn't one of the words...
Monday, January 21, 2008
I Thought I'd Share Anyway
The fourth graders will get a kick out of this - win or lose. Here is a picture from yesterday. No, I didn't just wander off dejectedly into the wilderness after this stunning loss. I did sit in stunned silence next to Nathan after the game wondering how in the world that just happened. And yes, it was cold, but nothing like today's English assignment. (You'll understand when you see the assignment.)This picture was taken, obviously, in the Lambeau Field Atrium before we went outside since the thermometer still reads 60 degrees.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Friday, January 18 Newsletter Updates
Sorry, but I think there will be a lot of stuff in here. I try to keep them all brief.
End of Quarter Next Week
The second quarter ends on Thursday. (No school on Friday) All work must be completed since all grades will be calculated on Friday. Students were told about all of their missing assignments today and that they should really stay focused next week.
Pancake Supper
Less than one week! Please consider volunteering for a shift for set-up, kitchen, servers, or clean-up. At the very least, come and eat! How could a person stay away? It's inconceivable!
Substitute on Monday
I will not be here on Monday morning. I am taking a personal day (half-day) to travel home from Green Bay. Yes, the rumors are true. I have a ticket to the Packer game. Rather than drive home in the middle of the night, in sub-zero temeratures, by myself, I'm going to spend the night with friend in Appleton and come back by noon. (Hopefully a very happy man.)
Snow Sculpture Tomorrow
Yes, it's going to be freezing, but the snow sculpture competition will go on...as far as I have heard. Consider coming to help Mr. Betts and Mrs. Macomber. The competition has been moved to the Centrailia Center (the old Wal-Mart) so people can go inside and warm up.
Social Studies Test
We took a SS test earlier in the week. There was an opportunity to earn 8 extra credit points. I was surprised - and disappointed - at how many children didn't even attempt the extra credit. Some didn't even turn in the sheet with the test. Doing the extra credit was their choice, but I still think doing the extra credit was the correct choice.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q2W8 slips due Thursday. At School: 1. Close of the commandments, first half. 2. Close of the commandments, second half.
Religion - Jesus the healer.
Reading - Look to the North.
English - Special writing assignment on Monday, complete final copy of how-to paragraph or paragraph of information.
Math - Adding and subtracting numbers with 4 or 5 digits, division facts, division with remainders, calendars, rounding to 1000s.
Science - The Solar System.
Social Studies - The Great Lakes States.
Spelling - SPELLING LIST UNIT 16 Students are required to write the abbreviation, not the entire word. Pres. (President), Dr. (Doctor), Ave. (Avenue), Hwy. (Highway), Rd. (Road), St. (Street), Fri. (Friday), Sat. (Saturday), Sept. (September), Dec. (December), tsp. (teaspoon), lb. (pound) Extra words: Wed. (Wednesday), Gov. (Governor), Mt. (Mount), Dr. (Drive)
End of Quarter Next Week
The second quarter ends on Thursday. (No school on Friday) All work must be completed since all grades will be calculated on Friday. Students were told about all of their missing assignments today and that they should really stay focused next week.
Pancake Supper
Less than one week! Please consider volunteering for a shift for set-up, kitchen, servers, or clean-up. At the very least, come and eat! How could a person stay away? It's inconceivable!
Substitute on Monday
I will not be here on Monday morning. I am taking a personal day (half-day) to travel home from Green Bay. Yes, the rumors are true. I have a ticket to the Packer game. Rather than drive home in the middle of the night, in sub-zero temeratures, by myself, I'm going to spend the night with friend in Appleton and come back by noon. (Hopefully a very happy man.)
Snow Sculpture Tomorrow
Yes, it's going to be freezing, but the snow sculpture competition will go on...as far as I have heard. Consider coming to help Mr. Betts and Mrs. Macomber. The competition has been moved to the Centrailia Center (the old Wal-Mart) so people can go inside and warm up.
Social Studies Test
We took a SS test earlier in the week. There was an opportunity to earn 8 extra credit points. I was surprised - and disappointed - at how many children didn't even attempt the extra credit. Some didn't even turn in the sheet with the test. Doing the extra credit was their choice, but I still think doing the extra credit was the correct choice.
The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q2W8 slips due Thursday. At School: 1. Close of the commandments, first half. 2. Close of the commandments, second half.
Religion - Jesus the healer.
Reading - Look to the North.
English - Special writing assignment on Monday, complete final copy of how-to paragraph or paragraph of information.
Math - Adding and subtracting numbers with 4 or 5 digits, division facts, division with remainders, calendars, rounding to 1000s.
Science - The Solar System.
Social Studies - The Great Lakes States.
Spelling - SPELLING LIST UNIT 16 Students are required to write the abbreviation, not the entire word. Pres. (President), Dr. (Doctor), Ave. (Avenue), Hwy. (Highway), Rd. (Road), St. (Street), Fri. (Friday), Sat. (Saturday), Sept. (September), Dec. (December), tsp. (teaspoon), lb. (pound) Extra words: Wed. (Wednesday), Gov. (Governor), Mt. (Mount), Dr. (Drive)
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