Ms. Kelly, our reading specialist, shared this research on reading. We just wanted to share wtih you
Happy Spring Break & Happy Reading!
10 to 15 minutes of daily reading shows a 20 percentile point increase on standardized tests (Dick Anderson)
“...and the amount of time spent reading is the best predictor of growth on the 5th grade standardized test.” Nagy/Anderson
But what does 45 minutes get you?
• 90th percentile child reads 5 times as much as the 50th percentile child (90th percentile child reads approximately 45 minutes/day)
• 50th percentile child reads 9 times as much as the 10th percentile child Dick Anderson
Variation in Amount of Independent Reading
Minutes/Day Reading Exposed to # Words/Year Percentile Rank
67.3mins/day 4,733,000 # of words/year 98th Percentile Rank
33.4 2,357,000 90th
16.9 1,168,000 70th
9.2 601,000 50th
4.3 251,000 30th
1.0 51,100 10th
Reading Research Quarterly, Vol. 3, 1988,
“Growth in reading and how children spend their time out of school.”
"Children who read the most, read the best.”
NAEP
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Weekly Newsletter, March 26-April 10
Weekly Highlights:
March 27: If I Were Mayor Essays due to Ms. Hudson/ Mrs. Dynda
March 30: No School for Students (Spring Break begins)
*Mrs. Sagona has challenged the school to read 1 million minutes by May 15. If the students and teachers reach the goal, each class will earn an ice cream party and an additional recess. Students should continue to read each night for 20 minutes (at least) and record this information on their reading logs. We continue to record the minutes we read each day in school on the log as well.
Math 4:
Mathematics is the study of patterns and relationships. In this unit, students explore the patterns that exist in the multiplication and division of multi-digit numbers and within the measurement system for time.
In Grade 3, students multiplied multi-digit by single digit numbers and practiced a variety of strategies for multiplication and division. Earlier in Grade 4, students developed fluency with single digit multiplication and division and applied their knowledge of factors and multiples to whole numbers and fractions. In this unit, students examine the patterns in multiples of ten and the inverse patterns that occur in division. They refine and apply the strategies learned in Grade 3 to multiply multi-digit numbers and divide multi-digit by single digit numbers. Students also recognize that the context of a division problem determines how any remainder will be used.
Grade 3 students learned to tell time to the minute and to determine elapsed time using clocks and calendars. In this unit, students tell time to the second and investigate equivalent periods of time. They determine elapsed time without the use of manipulatives and use elapsed time to determine start and end times.
THIS WEEK: We will be solving multi-step word problems. As we read the problem, we will have to determine if we are dividing or multiplying. Students have been given their review packet early, so they can begin to practice for the unit assessment.
The review packet is due on April 24. Our unit test will take place on April 25 & April 27. April 26 is Take Your Daughter/Son to Work Day.
http://www.multiplication.com/
A great website that allows students to work at their own pace on word problems/real world application of multiplication & divsion:
http://www.thinkingblocks.com/
We continue to use the Khan academy website to help practice our math at home. This is a great site where students (if a login is created) can track their progress and have example problems to work on. It has been featured in CNN as an up and coming way for teachers to assess individual students learning.
http://www.khanacademy.org/
Social Studies:
Students will identify something in their community or world that they would like to change and discuss ways that they can make a difference. This will lead to opitonal participation in an essay contest "If I Were Mayor I Would..." a statewide competition open to fourth graders. All students will write an essay, but students will decide for themselves if they wish to participate. This will conclude our social studies unit.
For more information on the contest, visit the link below:
http://mdmunicipal.org/index.aspx?NID=168
Reading:
We continue to focus on characterization. We will focus on how characters relate to one another, how character's actions can show their true feelings, and synonyms for various traits as well as classic examples of people who possess those qualities.
Some examples are:
Louis Armstrong was a tolerant person. A synonym for tolerant is understanding.
The White Witch of Narnia was mischievous. A synonym for mischievous is naughty.
Lord Volermort was malicious. A synonym for malicious is evil.
Our next task will be to create sociograms about ourselves. We will analyze them to gather inforamtion about our character traits. This will lead us to use sociograms to compare the Lorax to the Tree (in The Giving Tree) or the Once-e-lor and the Boy (from The Giving Tree).
READING HOMEWORK: Students are asked to read 20 minutes each night at home and record on their reading log. This is an independent book of their choosing. We will not have a book talk this week!
Writing:
We will cotinue to revise our quarter 3 writing projects. All final copies are due to Ms. Hudson by March 29. We continue to practice the 6 Traits of writing.
A link to a website for additional information on the 6 Traits is below:
http://www.edina.k12.mn.us/concord/teacherlinks/sixtraits/sixtraits.html
Spelling:
Sort 18 will focus on consonant alteration. We will review silent and sounded consonants. Our spelling test for this sort will be on THURSDAY, March 29.
A great resource we found includes other ways for students to practice their spelling, even some apps for devices. The spelling activities that we suggested in the students spelling journals are just suggestions. Please feel free to adapt as your child needs to.
http://support.weta.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=43183.0&dlv_id=48444
Happy Spring Break to you all! I will be camping in Asheville, North Carolina all week! I can't wait to hear what exciting things you are doing. See you April 10th!
March 27: If I Were Mayor Essays due to Ms. Hudson/ Mrs. Dynda
March 30: No School for Students (Spring Break begins)
*Mrs. Sagona has challenged the school to read 1 million minutes by May 15. If the students and teachers reach the goal, each class will earn an ice cream party and an additional recess. Students should continue to read each night for 20 minutes (at least) and record this information on their reading logs. We continue to record the minutes we read each day in school on the log as well.
Math 4:
Mathematics is the study of patterns and relationships. In this unit, students explore the patterns that exist in the multiplication and division of multi-digit numbers and within the measurement system for time.
In Grade 3, students multiplied multi-digit by single digit numbers and practiced a variety of strategies for multiplication and division. Earlier in Grade 4, students developed fluency with single digit multiplication and division and applied their knowledge of factors and multiples to whole numbers and fractions. In this unit, students examine the patterns in multiples of ten and the inverse patterns that occur in division. They refine and apply the strategies learned in Grade 3 to multiply multi-digit numbers and divide multi-digit by single digit numbers. Students also recognize that the context of a division problem determines how any remainder will be used.
Grade 3 students learned to tell time to the minute and to determine elapsed time using clocks and calendars. In this unit, students tell time to the second and investigate equivalent periods of time. They determine elapsed time without the use of manipulatives and use elapsed time to determine start and end times.
THIS WEEK: We will be solving multi-step word problems. As we read the problem, we will have to determine if we are dividing or multiplying. Students have been given their review packet early, so they can begin to practice for the unit assessment.
The review packet is due on April 24. Our unit test will take place on April 25 & April 27. April 26 is Take Your Daughter/Son to Work Day.
http://www.multiplication.com/
A great website that allows students to work at their own pace on word problems/real world application of multiplication & divsion:
http://www.thinkingblocks.com/
We continue to use the Khan academy website to help practice our math at home. This is a great site where students (if a login is created) can track their progress and have example problems to work on. It has been featured in CNN as an up and coming way for teachers to assess individual students learning.
http://www.khanacademy.org/
Social Studies:
Students will identify something in their community or world that they would like to change and discuss ways that they can make a difference. This will lead to opitonal participation in an essay contest "If I Were Mayor I Would..." a statewide competition open to fourth graders. All students will write an essay, but students will decide for themselves if they wish to participate. This will conclude our social studies unit.
For more information on the contest, visit the link below:
http://mdmunicipal.org/index.aspx?NID=168
Reading:
We continue to focus on characterization. We will focus on how characters relate to one another, how character's actions can show their true feelings, and synonyms for various traits as well as classic examples of people who possess those qualities.
Some examples are:
Louis Armstrong was a tolerant person. A synonym for tolerant is understanding.
The White Witch of Narnia was mischievous. A synonym for mischievous is naughty.
Lord Volermort was malicious. A synonym for malicious is evil.
Our next task will be to create sociograms about ourselves. We will analyze them to gather inforamtion about our character traits. This will lead us to use sociograms to compare the Lorax to the Tree (in The Giving Tree) or the Once-e-lor and the Boy (from The Giving Tree).
READING HOMEWORK: Students are asked to read 20 minutes each night at home and record on their reading log. This is an independent book of their choosing. We will not have a book talk this week!
Writing:
We will cotinue to revise our quarter 3 writing projects. All final copies are due to Ms. Hudson by March 29. We continue to practice the 6 Traits of writing.
A link to a website for additional information on the 6 Traits is below:
http://www.edina.k12.mn.us/concord/teacherlinks/sixtraits/sixtraits.html
Spelling:
Sort 18 will focus on consonant alteration. We will review silent and sounded consonants. Our spelling test for this sort will be on THURSDAY, March 29.
A great resource we found includes other ways for students to practice their spelling, even some apps for devices. The spelling activities that we suggested in the students spelling journals are just suggestions. Please feel free to adapt as your child needs to.
http://support.weta.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=43183.0&dlv_id=48444
Happy Spring Break to you all! I will be camping in Asheville, North Carolina all week! I can't wait to hear what exciting things you are doing. See you April 10th!
Monday, March 26, 2012
Congratulations Jason!
Jason has worked incredibly hard all year to achieve his goals. One of his goals was to earn his Black Belt in karate. He earned this reward last weekend. Here he is showing the class his new belt today:
Please join me in congratulating him for his hard work!
Monday, March 19, 2012
Weekly Newsletter, March19-23
Weekly Highlights:
March 19: MSA Math, 9:30
March 20: Lunch & Recess from 12:20-1:20
March 30: No School for Students (Spring Break begins)
*Mrs. Sagona has challenged the school to read 1 million minutes by May 15. If the students and teachers reach the goal, each class will earn an ice cream party and an additional recess. Students should continue to read each night for 20 minutes (at least) and record this information on their reading logs. We continue to record the minutes we read each day in school on the log as well.
*In Janaury, Ms. Hudson's reading class read 20,000 minutes. In February, we read 45,000 minutes! Keep up the great work. Students should record EVERY minute they read on their reading logs each day in class and at home, in the car, at soccer practice, in the dentist office.....everywhere they read! Listening to books on tape count as well.
Math 4:
Mathematics is the study of patterns and relationships. In this unit, students explore the patterns that exist in the multiplication and division of multi-digit numbers and within the measurement system for time.
In Grade 3, students multiplied multi-digit by single digit numbers and practiced a variety of strategies for multiplication and division. Earlier in Grade 4, students developed fluency with single digit multiplication and division and applied their knowledge of factors and multiples to whole numbers and fractions. In this unit, students examine the patterns in multiples of ten and the inverse patterns that occur in division. They refine and apply the strategies learned in Grade 3 to multiply multi-digit numbers and divide multi-digit by single digit numbers. Students also recognize that the context of a division problem determines how any remainder will be used.
Grade 3 students learned to tell time to the minute and to determine elapsed time using clocks and calendars. In this unit, students tell time to the second and investigate equivalent periods of time. They determine elapsed time without the use of manipulatives and use elapsed time to determine start and end times.
THIS WEEK: We will be solving multi-step word problems. As we read the problem, we will have to determine if we are dividing or multiplying.
http://www.multiplication.com/
We continue to use the Khan academy website to help practice our math at home. This is a great site where students (if a login is created) can track their progress and have example problems to work on. It has been featured in CNN as an up and coming way for teachers to assess individual students learning.
http://www.khanacademy.org/
Social Studies:
Students will identify something in their community or world that they would like to change and discuss ways that they can make a difference. This will lead to opitonal participation in an essay contest "If I Were Mayor I Would..." a statewide competition open to fourth graders. All students will write an essay, but students will decide for themselves if they wish to participate.
For more information on the contest, visit the link below:
http://mdmunicipal.org/index.aspx?NID=168
Reading:
We continue to focus on characterization. We will focus on how characters relate to one another, how character's actions can show their true feelings, and synonyms for various traits as well as classic examples of people who possess those qualities.
Some examples are:
Louis Armstrong was a tolerant person. A synonym for tolerant is understanding.
The White Witch of Narnia was mischievous. A synonym for mischievous is naughty.
Lord Volermort was malicious. A synonym for malicious is evil.
Our next task will be to create sociograms about ourselves. We will analyze them to gather inforamtion about our character traits. This will lead us to use sociograms to compare the Lorax to the Tree (in The Giving Tree) or the Once-e-lor and the Boy (from The Giving Tree).
READING HOMEWORK: Students are asked to read 20 minutes each night at home and record on their reading log. This is an independent book of their choosing. They are then asked to prepare for a book talk on Fridays. They should bring the book and be able to tell us something about the book (other than just a summary). A paper copy of these directions was given to students. They should complete the paper to turn in as well!
Some examples are:
*What is your favorite part of the book? Why?
*Why did you choose to read this book?
*Who would you recommend reading this book? Why?
*What characters are you most like? Why?
*Are you going to continue to read this book or will you abandon it? Why?
*Can you share a favorite part of the story with us? Why?
*Who is your least favorite character? Why?
*Would you act the same way as the character? Why?
Writing:
We will cotinue to revise our quarter 3 writing projects. All final copies are due to Ms. Hudson by March 29. We continue to practice the 6 Traits of writing.
A link to a website for additional information on the 6 Traits is below:
http://www.edina.k12.mn.us/concord/teacherlinks/sixtraits/sixtraits.html
Spelling:
Sort 18 will focus on consonant alteration. We will review silent and sounded consonants. Our spelling test for this sort will be on THURSDAY, March 29.
A great resource we found includes other ways for students to practice their spelling, even some apps for devices. The spelling activities that we suggested in the students spelling journals are just suggestions. Please feel free to adapt as your child needs to.
http://support.weta.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=43183.0&dlv_id=48444
March 19: MSA Math, 9:30
March 20: Lunch & Recess from 12:20-1:20
March 30: No School for Students (Spring Break begins)
*Mrs. Sagona has challenged the school to read 1 million minutes by May 15. If the students and teachers reach the goal, each class will earn an ice cream party and an additional recess. Students should continue to read each night for 20 minutes (at least) and record this information on their reading logs. We continue to record the minutes we read each day in school on the log as well.
*In Janaury, Ms. Hudson's reading class read 20,000 minutes. In February, we read 45,000 minutes! Keep up the great work. Students should record EVERY minute they read on their reading logs each day in class and at home, in the car, at soccer practice, in the dentist office.....everywhere they read! Listening to books on tape count as well.
Math 4:
Mathematics is the study of patterns and relationships. In this unit, students explore the patterns that exist in the multiplication and division of multi-digit numbers and within the measurement system for time.
In Grade 3, students multiplied multi-digit by single digit numbers and practiced a variety of strategies for multiplication and division. Earlier in Grade 4, students developed fluency with single digit multiplication and division and applied their knowledge of factors and multiples to whole numbers and fractions. In this unit, students examine the patterns in multiples of ten and the inverse patterns that occur in division. They refine and apply the strategies learned in Grade 3 to multiply multi-digit numbers and divide multi-digit by single digit numbers. Students also recognize that the context of a division problem determines how any remainder will be used.
Grade 3 students learned to tell time to the minute and to determine elapsed time using clocks and calendars. In this unit, students tell time to the second and investigate equivalent periods of time. They determine elapsed time without the use of manipulatives and use elapsed time to determine start and end times.
THIS WEEK: We will be solving multi-step word problems. As we read the problem, we will have to determine if we are dividing or multiplying.
http://www.multiplication.com/
We continue to use the Khan academy website to help practice our math at home. This is a great site where students (if a login is created) can track their progress and have example problems to work on. It has been featured in CNN as an up and coming way for teachers to assess individual students learning.
http://www.khanacademy.org/
Social Studies:
Students will identify something in their community or world that they would like to change and discuss ways that they can make a difference. This will lead to opitonal participation in an essay contest "If I Were Mayor I Would..." a statewide competition open to fourth graders. All students will write an essay, but students will decide for themselves if they wish to participate.
For more information on the contest, visit the link below:
http://mdmunicipal.org/index.aspx?NID=168
Reading:
We continue to focus on characterization. We will focus on how characters relate to one another, how character's actions can show their true feelings, and synonyms for various traits as well as classic examples of people who possess those qualities.
Some examples are:
Louis Armstrong was a tolerant person. A synonym for tolerant is understanding.
The White Witch of Narnia was mischievous. A synonym for mischievous is naughty.
Lord Volermort was malicious. A synonym for malicious is evil.
Our next task will be to create sociograms about ourselves. We will analyze them to gather inforamtion about our character traits. This will lead us to use sociograms to compare the Lorax to the Tree (in The Giving Tree) or the Once-e-lor and the Boy (from The Giving Tree).
READING HOMEWORK: Students are asked to read 20 minutes each night at home and record on their reading log. This is an independent book of their choosing. They are then asked to prepare for a book talk on Fridays. They should bring the book and be able to tell us something about the book (other than just a summary). A paper copy of these directions was given to students. They should complete the paper to turn in as well!
Some examples are:
*What is your favorite part of the book? Why?
*Why did you choose to read this book?
*Who would you recommend reading this book? Why?
*What characters are you most like? Why?
*Are you going to continue to read this book or will you abandon it? Why?
*Can you share a favorite part of the story with us? Why?
*Who is your least favorite character? Why?
*Would you act the same way as the character? Why?
Writing:
We will cotinue to revise our quarter 3 writing projects. All final copies are due to Ms. Hudson by March 29. We continue to practice the 6 Traits of writing.
A link to a website for additional information on the 6 Traits is below:
http://www.edina.k12.mn.us/concord/teacherlinks/sixtraits/sixtraits.html
Spelling:
Sort 18 will focus on consonant alteration. We will review silent and sounded consonants. Our spelling test for this sort will be on THURSDAY, March 29.
A great resource we found includes other ways for students to practice their spelling, even some apps for devices. The spelling activities that we suggested in the students spelling journals are just suggestions. Please feel free to adapt as your child needs to.
http://support.weta.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=43183.0&dlv_id=48444
Mark at the Junior Olympics
This past weekend, Mark competed in the PVS Junior Olympics for swimming.
He swam the:
100 Freestyle
50 Butterfly
100 IM
50 Free
50 Back
100 Back.
He improved his time in all categories except the Butterfly. Way to go Mark!
He swam the:
100 Freestyle
50 Butterfly
100 IM
50 Free
50 Back
100 Back.
He improved his time in all categories except the Butterfly. Way to go Mark!
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Ted Talk
I just wanted to share with you an interesting Ted Talk that we used in our marking period meeting last quarter. It was very inspiring to think about not having to have all the answers (not that I ever thought I did!) I wanted to share with you so that you would have an idea what Mrs. Dynda, Mr. Beddick, Ms. Cooper, and I are learning to help improve the quality of our program in fourth grade.
http://blog.ted.com/2010/12/15/how-to-learn-from-mistakes-diana-laufenberg-on-ted-com/
As always, I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Diane
http://blog.ted.com/2010/12/15/how-to-learn-from-mistakes-diana-laufenberg-on-ted-com/
As always, I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Diane
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Spring Break by Zaria
I hope everyone enjoys spring break. I know I will! I am going to my grandpa's house in North Carolina. Hope you have plans too. Also I hope you did a great job on the MSA. Give yourself a pat on the back for trying anyway. Remember 3-30-12 no school spring break starts!
Sincerely,
Zaria
Sincerely,
Zaria
Monday, March 12, 2012
Weekly Newsletter March 12-16
Weekly Highlights:
March 12 & 13: MSA Reading, 9:30
March 13: Green Team
March 14: Pi Day
March 16 & 19: MSA Math, 9:30
*Mrs. Sagona has challenged the school to read 1 million minutes by May 15. If the students and teachers reach the goal, each class will earn an ice cream party and an additional recess. Students should continue to read each night for 20 minutes (at least) and record this information on their reading logs. We continue to record the minutes we read each day in school on the log as well.
*In Janaury, Ms. Hudson's reading class read 20,000 minutes. In February, we read 45,000 minutes! Keep up the great work. Students should record EVERY minute they read on their reading logs each day in class and at home, in the car, at soccer practice, in the dentist office.....everywhere they read! Listening to books on tape count as well.
Math 4:
Mathematics is the study of patterns and relationships. In this unit, students explore the patterns that exist in the multiplication and division of multi-digit numbers and within the measurement system for time.
In Grade 3, students multiplied multi-digit by single digit numbers and practiced a variety of strategies for multiplication and division. Earlier in Grade 4, students developed fluency with single digit multiplication and division and applied their knowledge of factors and multiples to whole numbers and fractions. In this unit, students examine the patterns in multiples of ten and the inverse patterns that occur in division. They refine and apply the strategies learned in Grade 3 to multiply multi-digit numbers and divide multi-digit by single digit numbers. Students also recognize that the context of a division problem determines how any remainder will be used.
Grade 3 students learned to tell time to the minute and to determine elapsed time using clocks and calendars. In this unit, students tell time to the second and investigate equivalent periods of time. They determine elapsed time without the use of manipulatives and use elapsed time to determine start and end times.
THIS WEEK: We will continue to focus on division strategies. The most important part of the conversation we have about division is that we are breaking apart a number into EQUAL parts. We will draw pictures to show equal parts. We will also learn the traditional algorithm. Be sure to continue practicing those basic facts at home!
http://www.multiplication.com/
We continue to use the Khan academy website to help practice our math at home. This is a great site where students (if a login is created) can track their progress and have example problems to work on. It has been featured in CNN as an up and coming way for teachers to assess individual students learning.
http://www.khanacademy.org/
Social Studies:
Students in fourth grade are making connections from the past to the present to establish critera to create change. Students continue to evaluate various situations to show who is not being treated fairly, who is being discriminated against, and ways to prevent bullying/teasing. Since Mayor Prats visited us, we will identify something in their community or world that they would like to change and discuss ways that they can make a difference. This will lead to opitonal participation in an essay contest "If I Were Mayor I Would..." a statewide competition open to fourth graders.
For more information on the contest, visit the link below:
http://mdmunicipal.org/index.aspx?NID=168
Reading:
Our skill focus will be on characterization for the next two weeks. We will focus on how characters relate to one another, how character's actions can show their true feelings, and synonyms for various traits as well as classic examples of people who possess those qualities.
Some examples are:
Louis Armstrong was a tolerant person. A synonym for tolerant is understanding.
The White Witch of Narnia was mischievous. A synonym for mischievous is naughty.
Lord Volermort was malicious. A synonym for malicious is evil.
READING HOMEWORK: This week we are just asking the class to read for 20 minutes each night and record on their reading logs. It's a great week to read outside in a hammock!
Writing:
Students will begin to develop writing projects for quarter 3. This week's focus from the 6 traits of writing will be SENTENCE FLUENCY. Students should complete their rough drafts this week and continue to conference with classmates to revise their work. Final drafts of quarter 3 projects are due March 29.
A link to a website for additional information on the 6 Traits is below:
http://www.edina.k12.mn.us/concord/teacherlinks/sixtraits/sixtraits.html
Spelling:
Due to MSA testing, we will resume spelling next week.
A great resource we found includes other ways for students to practice their spelling, even some apps for devices. The spelling activities that we suggested in the students spelling journals are just suggestions. Please feel free to adapt as your child needs to.
http://support.weta.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=43183.0&dlv_id=48444
March 12 & 13: MSA Reading, 9:30
March 13: Green Team
March 14: Pi Day
March 16 & 19: MSA Math, 9:30
*Mrs. Sagona has challenged the school to read 1 million minutes by May 15. If the students and teachers reach the goal, each class will earn an ice cream party and an additional recess. Students should continue to read each night for 20 minutes (at least) and record this information on their reading logs. We continue to record the minutes we read each day in school on the log as well.
*In Janaury, Ms. Hudson's reading class read 20,000 minutes. In February, we read 45,000 minutes! Keep up the great work. Students should record EVERY minute they read on their reading logs each day in class and at home, in the car, at soccer practice, in the dentist office.....everywhere they read! Listening to books on tape count as well.
Math 4:
Mathematics is the study of patterns and relationships. In this unit, students explore the patterns that exist in the multiplication and division of multi-digit numbers and within the measurement system for time.
In Grade 3, students multiplied multi-digit by single digit numbers and practiced a variety of strategies for multiplication and division. Earlier in Grade 4, students developed fluency with single digit multiplication and division and applied their knowledge of factors and multiples to whole numbers and fractions. In this unit, students examine the patterns in multiples of ten and the inverse patterns that occur in division. They refine and apply the strategies learned in Grade 3 to multiply multi-digit numbers and divide multi-digit by single digit numbers. Students also recognize that the context of a division problem determines how any remainder will be used.
Grade 3 students learned to tell time to the minute and to determine elapsed time using clocks and calendars. In this unit, students tell time to the second and investigate equivalent periods of time. They determine elapsed time without the use of manipulatives and use elapsed time to determine start and end times.
THIS WEEK: We will continue to focus on division strategies. The most important part of the conversation we have about division is that we are breaking apart a number into EQUAL parts. We will draw pictures to show equal parts. We will also learn the traditional algorithm. Be sure to continue practicing those basic facts at home!
http://www.multiplication.com/
We continue to use the Khan academy website to help practice our math at home. This is a great site where students (if a login is created) can track their progress and have example problems to work on. It has been featured in CNN as an up and coming way for teachers to assess individual students learning.
http://www.khanacademy.org/
Social Studies:
Students in fourth grade are making connections from the past to the present to establish critera to create change. Students continue to evaluate various situations to show who is not being treated fairly, who is being discriminated against, and ways to prevent bullying/teasing. Since Mayor Prats visited us, we will identify something in their community or world that they would like to change and discuss ways that they can make a difference. This will lead to opitonal participation in an essay contest "If I Were Mayor I Would..." a statewide competition open to fourth graders.
For more information on the contest, visit the link below:
http://mdmunicipal.org/index.aspx?NID=168
Reading:
Our skill focus will be on characterization for the next two weeks. We will focus on how characters relate to one another, how character's actions can show their true feelings, and synonyms for various traits as well as classic examples of people who possess those qualities.
Some examples are:
Louis Armstrong was a tolerant person. A synonym for tolerant is understanding.
The White Witch of Narnia was mischievous. A synonym for mischievous is naughty.
Lord Volermort was malicious. A synonym for malicious is evil.
READING HOMEWORK: This week we are just asking the class to read for 20 minutes each night and record on their reading logs. It's a great week to read outside in a hammock!
Writing:
Students will begin to develop writing projects for quarter 3. This week's focus from the 6 traits of writing will be SENTENCE FLUENCY. Students should complete their rough drafts this week and continue to conference with classmates to revise their work. Final drafts of quarter 3 projects are due March 29.
A link to a website for additional information on the 6 Traits is below:
http://www.edina.k12.mn.us/concord/teacherlinks/sixtraits/sixtraits.html
Spelling:
Due to MSA testing, we will resume spelling next week.
A great resource we found includes other ways for students to practice their spelling, even some apps for devices. The spelling activities that we suggested in the students spelling journals are just suggestions. Please feel free to adapt as your child needs to.
http://support.weta.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=43183.0&dlv_id=48444
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
International Night by Erin
It's coming! It's the world in LES. It's INTERNATIONAL NIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
One world. One school. Come! I'm even doing a table. I'm Chinese (adopted) Come and see all the worlds like you've never seen them be for. Cultures, food, clothes that you never knew. One night only. There's going to be a parade, a welcome table and much, much more! Be there only on the 16th of March. Don't miss it. :) 6:30-8:30 PM
One world. One school. Come! I'm even doing a table. I'm Chinese (adopted) Come and see all the worlds like you've never seen them be for. Cultures, food, clothes that you never knew. One night only. There's going to be a parade, a welcome table and much, much more! Be there only on the 16th of March. Don't miss it. :) 6:30-8:30 PM
World Read Aloud Day
If any other parents/grandparents, etc. want to come in to read to us, just call or email Ms. Hudson and she will set up a good time for you to visit our classroom.
Next week is Pi Day and the MSA.......many more exciting things planned so stay tuned!
Monday, March 5, 2012
Weekly Newsletter, March 5-9
Weekly Highlights:
March 7: Mayor Pratt visits Grade 4
March 7: World Read Aloud Day
March 9: Class Pictures at 2:15 PM
Looking Ahead:
March 12 & 13: MSA Reading, 9:30
March 16 & 19: MSA Math, 9:30
*Mrs. Sagona has challenged the school to read 1 million minutes by May 15. If the students and teachers reach the goal, each class will earn an ice cream party and an additional recess. Students should continue to read each night for 20 minutes (at least) and record this information on their reading logs. We continue to record the minutes we read each day in school on the log as well.
*In Janaury, Ms. Hudson's reading class read 20,000 minutes. In February, we read 45,000 minutes! Keep up the great work. Students should record EVERY minute they read on their reading logs each day in class and at home, in the car, at soccer practice, in the dentist office.....everywhere they read! Listening to books on tape count as well.
Math 4:
Mathematics is the study of patterns and relationships. In this unit, students explore the patterns that exist in the multiplication and division of multi-digit numbers and within the measurement system for time.
In Grade 3, students multiplied multi-digit by single digit numbers and practiced a variety of strategies for multiplication and division. Earlier in Grade 4, students developed fluency with single digit multiplication and division and applied their knowledge of factors and multiples to whole numbers and fractions. In this unit, students examine the patterns in multiples of ten and the inverse patterns that occur in division. They refine and apply the strategies learned in Grade 3 to multiply multi-digit numbers and divide multi-digit by single digit numbers. Students also recognize that the context of a division problem determines how any remainder will be used.
Grade 3 students learned to tell time to the minute and to determine elapsed time using clocks and calendars. In this unit, students tell time to the second and investigate equivalent periods of time. They determine elapsed time without the use of manipulatives and use elapsed time to determine start and end times.
THIS WEEK: Students will begin this week by estimating products to determine the reasonableness of answers. We will use the bottle caps that Green Team has been collecting to determine an estimate of how many bottle caps we have total, how many per color, how many we have used in our projects, and how many we will need for our next mural project. We will then move into division strategies. We will use cubes to divide into equal parts. We will draw pictures to show equal parts. We will also learn the traditional algorithm. Be sure to continue practicing those basic facts at home!
http://www.multiplication.com/
We continue to use the Khan academy website to help practice our math at home. This is a great site where students (if a login is created) can track their progress and have example problems to work on. It has been featured in CNN as an up and coming way for teachers to assess individual students learning.
http://www.khanacademy.org/
Social Studies:
Students in fourth grade are making connections from the past to the present to establish critera to create change. Our week will begin with an examination of important events in American immigration. We will then have a visit from Mayor Pratts. He will discuss his job, why governement is important, and how individual citizens can create change/participate in their government. Students will identify something in their community or world that they would like to change and discuss ways that they can make a difference. This will lead to opitonal participation in an essay contest "If I Were Mayor I Would..." a statewide competition open to fourth graders.
For more information on the contest, visit the link below:
http://mdmunicipal.org/index.aspx?NID=168
Reading:
Our skill focus this week will be cause/effect relationships that are stated or implied. The first strategy is to identify the cause when given the effect. The second strategy is to analyze the relationship between cause and effect when given both. The higher order thinking strategy is to share cause and effect relationships and determine whether they are literal (in the book) or inferred (in one's head)
We will then move on to discuss characterization. We will focus on how characters relate to one another, how character's actions can show their true feelings, and synonyms for various traits as well as classic examples of people who possess those qualities.
Some examples are:
Louis Armstrong was a tolerant person. A synonym for tolerant is understanding.
The White Witch of Narnia was mischievous. A synonym for mischievous is naughty.
Lord Volermort was malicious. A synonym for malicious is evil.
READING HOMEWORK: Students are asked to read 20 minutes each night at home and record on their reading log. This is an independent book of their choosing. They are then asked to prepare for a book talk on Fridays. They should bring the book and be able to tell us something about the book (other than just a summary). A paper copy of these directions was given to students. They should complete the paper to turn in as well!
Some examples are:
*What is your favorite part of the book? Why?
*Why did you choose to read this book?
*Who would you recommend reading this book? Why?
*What characters are you most like? Why?
*Are you going to continue to read this book or will you abandon it? Why?
*Can you share a favorite part of the story with us? Why?
*Who is your least favorite character? Why?
*Would you act the same way as the character? Why?
Writing:
Students will begin to develop writing projects for quarter 3. This week's focus from the 6 traits of writing will be SENTENCE FLUENCY.
A link to a website for additional information on the 6 Traits is below:
http://www.edina.k12.mn.us/concord/teacherlinks/sixtraits/sixtraits.html
Spelling:
Sort 12 will focus on adjective suffixes -ful, -ous, and -ious. These suffixes suggest "full of" or "having the qualities of." Our spelling test for this sort will be on Friday, March 9.
A great resource we found includes other ways for students to practice their spelling, even some apps for devices. The spelling activities that we suggested in the students spelling journals are just suggestions. Please feel free to adapt as your child needs to.
http://support.weta.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=43183.0&dlv_id=48444
March 7: Mayor Pratt visits Grade 4
March 7: World Read Aloud Day
March 9: Class Pictures at 2:15 PM
Looking Ahead:
March 12 & 13: MSA Reading, 9:30
March 16 & 19: MSA Math, 9:30
*Mrs. Sagona has challenged the school to read 1 million minutes by May 15. If the students and teachers reach the goal, each class will earn an ice cream party and an additional recess. Students should continue to read each night for 20 minutes (at least) and record this information on their reading logs. We continue to record the minutes we read each day in school on the log as well.
*In Janaury, Ms. Hudson's reading class read 20,000 minutes. In February, we read 45,000 minutes! Keep up the great work. Students should record EVERY minute they read on their reading logs each day in class and at home, in the car, at soccer practice, in the dentist office.....everywhere they read! Listening to books on tape count as well.
Math 4:
Mathematics is the study of patterns and relationships. In this unit, students explore the patterns that exist in the multiplication and division of multi-digit numbers and within the measurement system for time.
In Grade 3, students multiplied multi-digit by single digit numbers and practiced a variety of strategies for multiplication and division. Earlier in Grade 4, students developed fluency with single digit multiplication and division and applied their knowledge of factors and multiples to whole numbers and fractions. In this unit, students examine the patterns in multiples of ten and the inverse patterns that occur in division. They refine and apply the strategies learned in Grade 3 to multiply multi-digit numbers and divide multi-digit by single digit numbers. Students also recognize that the context of a division problem determines how any remainder will be used.
Grade 3 students learned to tell time to the minute and to determine elapsed time using clocks and calendars. In this unit, students tell time to the second and investigate equivalent periods of time. They determine elapsed time without the use of manipulatives and use elapsed time to determine start and end times.
THIS WEEK: Students will begin this week by estimating products to determine the reasonableness of answers. We will use the bottle caps that Green Team has been collecting to determine an estimate of how many bottle caps we have total, how many per color, how many we have used in our projects, and how many we will need for our next mural project. We will then move into division strategies. We will use cubes to divide into equal parts. We will draw pictures to show equal parts. We will also learn the traditional algorithm. Be sure to continue practicing those basic facts at home!
http://www.multiplication.com/
We continue to use the Khan academy website to help practice our math at home. This is a great site where students (if a login is created) can track their progress and have example problems to work on. It has been featured in CNN as an up and coming way for teachers to assess individual students learning.
http://www.khanacademy.org/
Social Studies:
Students in fourth grade are making connections from the past to the present to establish critera to create change. Our week will begin with an examination of important events in American immigration. We will then have a visit from Mayor Pratts. He will discuss his job, why governement is important, and how individual citizens can create change/participate in their government. Students will identify something in their community or world that they would like to change and discuss ways that they can make a difference. This will lead to opitonal participation in an essay contest "If I Were Mayor I Would..." a statewide competition open to fourth graders.
For more information on the contest, visit the link below:
http://mdmunicipal.org/index.aspx?NID=168
Reading:
Our skill focus this week will be cause/effect relationships that are stated or implied. The first strategy is to identify the cause when given the effect. The second strategy is to analyze the relationship between cause and effect when given both. The higher order thinking strategy is to share cause and effect relationships and determine whether they are literal (in the book) or inferred (in one's head)
We will then move on to discuss characterization. We will focus on how characters relate to one another, how character's actions can show their true feelings, and synonyms for various traits as well as classic examples of people who possess those qualities.
Some examples are:
Louis Armstrong was a tolerant person. A synonym for tolerant is understanding.
The White Witch of Narnia was mischievous. A synonym for mischievous is naughty.
Lord Volermort was malicious. A synonym for malicious is evil.
READING HOMEWORK: Students are asked to read 20 minutes each night at home and record on their reading log. This is an independent book of their choosing. They are then asked to prepare for a book talk on Fridays. They should bring the book and be able to tell us something about the book (other than just a summary). A paper copy of these directions was given to students. They should complete the paper to turn in as well!
Some examples are:
*What is your favorite part of the book? Why?
*Why did you choose to read this book?
*Who would you recommend reading this book? Why?
*What characters are you most like? Why?
*Are you going to continue to read this book or will you abandon it? Why?
*Can you share a favorite part of the story with us? Why?
*Who is your least favorite character? Why?
*Would you act the same way as the character? Why?
Writing:
Students will begin to develop writing projects for quarter 3. This week's focus from the 6 traits of writing will be SENTENCE FLUENCY.
A link to a website for additional information on the 6 Traits is below:
http://www.edina.k12.mn.us/concord/teacherlinks/sixtraits/sixtraits.html
Spelling:
Sort 12 will focus on adjective suffixes -ful, -ous, and -ious. These suffixes suggest "full of" or "having the qualities of." Our spelling test for this sort will be on Friday, March 9.
A great resource we found includes other ways for students to practice their spelling, even some apps for devices. The spelling activities that we suggested in the students spelling journals are just suggestions. Please feel free to adapt as your child needs to.
http://support.weta.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=43183.0&dlv_id=48444
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