Week of 12/5

Hi Families!! Hope you've had a great weekend! Here is the agenda for the week:

Reading - We will be reading a nonfiction article on owls, as well as an owl legend and answering some comprehension questions.  The children will create an owl book with important facts about owls.  They will need to know these facts for their test on Thursday.  They will also be continuing their leveled books this week.  Some are already done and ready to start on the related work.  Wow!  These kids are such readers!! We have the 2nd highest amount of AR points in the school!  I'm so proud of them for all that reading!!  The more you read, the better reader you become!

English - Last week, the children researched a type of owl.  This week they will take their notes and turn them into a report.

Spelling - List 12 on spellingcity.com   Compound words

Math - Last week we began double digit multiplication.  This week we will continue to work on this.  Boy, did the children learn quickly how hard it is, when you don't know your facts!  Ouch!  We were consistently taking speed tests until a few weeks ago when we started computers and had less time.  Many children completely quit studying as a result of that.  They really need to work on times daily, even just for 10 minutes.  Even some of the children that passed their speed tests through 12's had forgotten a lot.  I told the children we would make time for speed test for the next 2 weeks.  I have some that are so close to passing them all and want that opportunity.  We did take 2 speed tests last week.  They knew what days they were having them too, but I don't think many took the opportunity to study though.  I did have a few pass and move on. As it stands, I have about half the class that have passed all the facts, 4 or 5 that are on 7's or 8's and the rest are on 9's or above.....pretty darn good, if they will keep reviewing so they will retain them. :)

Science - We will be dissecting our owl pellets this week! Gross, but fun!!

Social Studies - We are done with the Northeast.  We will take a hiatus from social studies until January when we start the Southeast region.

I sent home a note Friday about materials needed for gingerbread houses.  These materials are: 6 graham crackers, 1 tub of frosting, and 1 package of candy. ( We talked about what might make good candy for gingerbread houses, so seek your child's input.)  These items are due on December 14th.  Thanks so much!!