January 12, 2014

It was great to see the students again after a very long Christmas break.  We will be working hard over the next couple of weeks learning new concepts and  completing required mid year assessments. 

In math we are reviewing the following concepts:  single digit by 4 digit multiplication and double digit by double digit multiplication, long division with a single digit divisor, comparing fractions, adding and subtracting fractions with common denominators, and multiplying a whole number times a fraction.  These are all concepts that should be mastered at this point in time.  The biggest area of concern that I have is accuracy.  Students need be sure of the facts and also need to be reminded to work carefully.

In reading we will be studying some short articles and focusing on skills such as compare and contrast, summarizing, and using text to support answers to questions.  We are also enjoying the book Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper.  This is a fantastic story about a fifth grade girl with Cerebral Palsy. 

In writing we are learning about commas and when to use them. 

Our Social Studies lessons will continue to focus on the colonies. 

Some upcoming dates to keep in mind:
January 14:  Mrs. Maxson has a meeting and will be out of the classroom in the morning
January 15:  Mrs. Maxson has a meeting all day and will be out of the building
January 16:  Students will be given the Dibels test
January 20:  Black and White day - everyone wear black and white!!
January 21:  Brainstormers will be visiting our school in the morning.  Try to avoid scheduling appointments because this is a really cool assembly!
January 22:  Students will take the Inquizit math screener
January 23:  Mrs. Maxson will be doing reading assessments with each individual student.  I will be out of the room all day.
January 24:  No School - teacher inservice day

February 12:  Field trip to Grand Rapids.  Please avoid scheduling appointments and look for more information to be sent home soon.

Spelling Bee

The fifth grade spelling bee was held on Thursday, January 9.  Congratulations to the winner, Zach Fitzwilliams and runner up, Jenna Fynwever!  Way to go!!

Snow Day!

Well, friends, happy snow day!  I just wanted to give you a heads up regarding eloquence day.  We are in the process of rescheduling it again, and hopefully we will be able to have our special day on Friday, January 10.

Stay warm and safe.  See you soon, I hope!!