Weekly Update

Writing/Spelling

In writing, students are working on Chapter 2 of their Informational Books.  In this chapter, we zoom in to a focused topic that is related to our bigger topic.  For example, one student is focusing on the solar system in Chapter 1 and Venus in Chapter 2.  Another student is writing about explorers in Chapter 1 and Christopher Columbus in Chapter 2.  Students are making great progress!  In Spelling, students will get their new sorts on Monday. 

Reading

In reading, we continued to use close reading to dig deeper into texts.  This past week we added poetry to our close reads.  Take a look at what we noticed about a poem called "Victory" below.  We will continue with close reading during our minilessons and in reading groups.  

Writing our thoughts in the margins

Highlighting confusing, important, and interesting words

Here are our combined thoughts about the poem.  We had some pretty deep thinking!

Math

In math this past week, we continued in Chapter 8: Fractions.  We learned a lot this week!  In addition to factors and multiples and prime and composite numbers, we also discussed equivalent fractions and fractions in simplest terms.  We even discussed greatest common factors to help us in simplifying fractions.  Remember that your child can always get extra practice at home by logging on to our class textbook.  The video below (also found under my "Links and Resources" tab of the blog) will help you to access the games, activities, practice pages, videos, and other resources that our online textbook provides!

Social Studies

In social studies, we are currently discussing pioneers in Chapter 5.  Students will receive the Chapters 4 and 5 study guide this week, and the combined test will be next week.  

Other Important Info.  

• Jump Rope for Heart is this week! 
• This Friday is Counselor's Day at Long!  Make sure you tell Mrs.Maddock and Ms. McArthur "thank you" for all that they do.  
• PRISM projects are due Monday, February 9th.  PRISM night is Thursday, February 19th. 
• The class Valentine's Day Party is Friday, February 13th from 2:00-3:00.  That week, students will be making their Valentine's Day bags in class.  I will provide the bags and decorating materials.  However, I will tell students that they may bring in their own favorite stickers or scrapbooking items as well.  Also, if you child brings in Valentines, please make sure that they have one for every student in the class. We have 21 students, and I will be sending home a class list soon to help with filling them out.
• Six Flags Read to Succeed Reading Logs are due Friday, February 27th  If students are wanting to participate, they need to read 6 hours in addition to their class reading log minutes.  As a reward, they will receive a free admission ticket to Six Flags theme park!