Calliope Weekly Update
March 8-12, 2010
Week Twenty-five
Conferences: I will be emailing a conference sign-up list to you over the weekend. Please email back with preferred times. Looking forward to seeing you.
Big-Basket Raffle: Please donate by March 17th. Our theme is Ice Cream Social. We have received two nice sets of bowls. Still needed: items such as sugar cones, sprinkles, scoops, syrup, spoon set, a Friendly’s gift card, etc. Thank you. Thank you!
Williston Variety Show: tonight 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Come see your teachers and friends perform! $5.00 at the door. Call ahead for availability.
Green Breakfast: March 17th! Hope to see you here
Reading and Writing: We celebrated the completion of our research on Friday morning with a “cupcake” celebration—students decorated their own cupcakes in honor of the “icing on the cake” which was the presentations of our research. Students will work in guided reading groups starting next week and will be writing their second response to literature in the weeks to come.
Math: Fourth graders learned quick strategies for big multiplication problems. Third graders continued their work with fractions. Third graders explored area model, set model, and linear model fractions. Students used a variety of manipulatives to represent, compare and order fractional amounts. Students also learned several new games: Fraction Top-it, Wipeout, Building Rectangles, Fraction Memory and Fraction Riddles.
Word Study: Mr. B’s spelling group did a power cursive week, and will resume their work with sorting words by spelling concepts next week. Ms. S’s spellers began unit 7 and are studying the addition of suffixes to words ending /y/, as well as, learning the capital C, O and G in cursive.
Science: We kicked off our next science unit—States of Matter—this week. Students are learning how to identify the difference between solids, liquids and gases. Students worked in groups to create collage posters of each state of matter. Next week, we will explore the properties of each state in depth.
Responsive Classroom: We welcomed two new students to Calliope this week! Rudy is a 4th grader in Ms. Schoolcraft’s class, and his brother Wayne is a 2nd grader in Mrs. Dodge’s class. Calliope students have been warm and welcoming to their new classmate, and have done a great job showing the boys around, introducing themselves, and helping explain Calliope routines and rituals.
Ask me about:
• Friday’s surprise
• Writing for the Blue & Gold
• Our presentations
• Calliope Yellow Pages
• How to solve 999 x 999 in 40 seconds or less. Can you do it, parents?!
Please Enjoy the warm weather and don’t forget to “spring ahead” this weekend!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
March 5, 2010
Calliope Weekly Update
March 2-5, 2010
Week Twenty-four
Reading and Writing: Students have already begun presenting their research. We have heard twelve presentations this week, and look forward to presentations through Thursday of next week. Students are doing a fantastic job making their presentations interesting, speaking loudly and clearly, and addressing the audience. Students are also asking great questions of their peers when it’s time for questions and comments. We enjoyed a break in our regular routine on Wednesday, when we visited the Flynn theater for a performance of the story Frindle by Andrew Clements. Students in both classes got some good laughs, and wrote responses to the question, “what would it be like if the Calliope 3-4’s all started using made-up words?!”
Math: Third graders have started up with a unit on Fractions. We read Ed Emberly’s Picture Pie and used construction paper circles to create symmetrical “masterpieces”—using the whole, half, quarter, and eighth pieces of the circles. Students then wrote number sentences to show the total amount of each color paper used. Fourth graders are working on concepts of measurement.
Word Study: Both spelling classes did a week of review. Students in Ms. S’s class did a Unit 6 “retake” on Friday to hopefully improve overall scores.
Science: Third and fourth graders completed the CSSU Science Inquiry task entitled Soil Soakers this week. Students worked independently, in pairs, and in small groups to follow the scientific process in response to the question: what Earth material is best suited for planting seeds—clay, sand, humus or gravel?
Responsive Classroom: We’d like to compliment students for their mature and respectful behavior at the Flynn this week. This is a solid stretch of teaching and learning time—from February break to April break—and we’re really getting back into the groove. Thanks for supporting your child with homework routines.
Ask me about:
• Student of the week: Megan
• Jambalaya ♫
• Frindle
Other: Our next Calliope event is the Green Breakfast on Wednesday, March 17th at 7:30. Look for a flyer in Friday folders this week, and you may be contacted by our room parents if you had signed up to bring something “green” to the event. Parent/teacher conferences will soon be scheduled for the end of this month. Look for information in next week’s Friday folders. Thanks to the eight parent chaperones to the Flynn this week! Have a great weekend!
March 2-5, 2010
Week Twenty-four
Reading and Writing: Students have already begun presenting their research. We have heard twelve presentations this week, and look forward to presentations through Thursday of next week. Students are doing a fantastic job making their presentations interesting, speaking loudly and clearly, and addressing the audience. Students are also asking great questions of their peers when it’s time for questions and comments. We enjoyed a break in our regular routine on Wednesday, when we visited the Flynn theater for a performance of the story Frindle by Andrew Clements. Students in both classes got some good laughs, and wrote responses to the question, “what would it be like if the Calliope 3-4’s all started using made-up words?!”
Math: Third graders have started up with a unit on Fractions. We read Ed Emberly’s Picture Pie and used construction paper circles to create symmetrical “masterpieces”—using the whole, half, quarter, and eighth pieces of the circles. Students then wrote number sentences to show the total amount of each color paper used. Fourth graders are working on concepts of measurement.
Word Study: Both spelling classes did a week of review. Students in Ms. S’s class did a Unit 6 “retake” on Friday to hopefully improve overall scores.
Science: Third and fourth graders completed the CSSU Science Inquiry task entitled Soil Soakers this week. Students worked independently, in pairs, and in small groups to follow the scientific process in response to the question: what Earth material is best suited for planting seeds—clay, sand, humus or gravel?
Responsive Classroom: We’d like to compliment students for their mature and respectful behavior at the Flynn this week. This is a solid stretch of teaching and learning time—from February break to April break—and we’re really getting back into the groove. Thanks for supporting your child with homework routines.
Ask me about:
• Student of the week: Megan
• Jambalaya ♫
• Frindle
Other: Our next Calliope event is the Green Breakfast on Wednesday, March 17th at 7:30. Look for a flyer in Friday folders this week, and you may be contacted by our room parents if you had signed up to bring something “green” to the event. Parent/teacher conferences will soon be scheduled for the end of this month. Look for information in next week’s Friday folders. Thanks to the eight parent chaperones to the Flynn this week! Have a great weekend!
February 19, 2010
Calliope Weekly Update
February 15-19, 2010
Week Twenty-three
Reading and Writing: Our research reports are in final form! Students did an excellent job using the “big 6” model for research and writing 4 or 5 paragraph reports on their choice topic. We will be sharing this exciting product the week after break. Students have also spent time reviewing parts of speech through the coveted “P.O.S. ball” (parts-of-speech), as well as fun with Mad Libs. Students have also had some solid time for independent reading. Please encourage your child to read for pleasure over break. Often we’re so busy during the week that it’s difficult to really “get in” to a book. Teachers do some of their best reading over school vacations!
Math: Fourth graders took their end-of-the-unit math assessment on fact extensions (50 x 600, for example), word problems, and multidigit multiplication. Fourth graders also dabbled a bit in fractions this week. Third graders also completed the end-of-the-unit assessment in multiplication and division. Students took a pre-assessment for our upcoming unit on fractions. Both classes continue to work on multiplication facts on a weekly basis.
Word Study: Mr. B’s spellers reviewed homophones and tricky spelling “demons.” Ms. Schoolcraft’s spellers completed unit 6 with a look at multisyllabic words with open syllables, open syllable exceptions, and the addition of suffixes to these words.
Science: All students completed the science inquiry task, “playground trash” this week. The guiding question for the investigation was “Will putting magnets together make a difference in the distance needed to attract objects?” Students worked in small groups to conduct an experiment, and then worked independently to analyze and apply the data collected. Ask your child about this experiment. Later in the week, we reviewed student responses to the “NECAP practice” questions regarding this experiment, and compared student responses to the questions asked. We will continue to practice writing about our science thinking in weeks to come.
Responsive Classroom: Both classes have really enjoyed combining classes for Friday morning meetings. We continue to hold students accountable for their work, reinforcing complete work with team choice time on Fridays and upholding the logical consequence of “work room” for incomplete work. Please encourage your child to turn in homework daily.
Ask me about:
• Student of the week: Dominic
• Four Winds: Animal tracking
• My research project!
Other: Thank you for all that you do to support our 3-4 Calliope endeavors. Just a friendly reminder, there is no school for students on Monday, 3/1 (teacher professional development), and we will be going to the Flynn on Wednesday, 3/3 to see Frindle. We have emailed the parent volunteers who will be attending (we had to do first-come, first-served for chaperones)…sorry we couldn’t take all of you! Have a fantastic vacation and we’ll see you in March!
February 15-19, 2010
Week Twenty-three
Reading and Writing: Our research reports are in final form! Students did an excellent job using the “big 6” model for research and writing 4 or 5 paragraph reports on their choice topic. We will be sharing this exciting product the week after break. Students have also spent time reviewing parts of speech through the coveted “P.O.S. ball” (parts-of-speech), as well as fun with Mad Libs. Students have also had some solid time for independent reading. Please encourage your child to read for pleasure over break. Often we’re so busy during the week that it’s difficult to really “get in” to a book. Teachers do some of their best reading over school vacations!
Math: Fourth graders took their end-of-the-unit math assessment on fact extensions (50 x 600, for example), word problems, and multidigit multiplication. Fourth graders also dabbled a bit in fractions this week. Third graders also completed the end-of-the-unit assessment in multiplication and division. Students took a pre-assessment for our upcoming unit on fractions. Both classes continue to work on multiplication facts on a weekly basis.
Word Study: Mr. B’s spellers reviewed homophones and tricky spelling “demons.” Ms. Schoolcraft’s spellers completed unit 6 with a look at multisyllabic words with open syllables, open syllable exceptions, and the addition of suffixes to these words.
Science: All students completed the science inquiry task, “playground trash” this week. The guiding question for the investigation was “Will putting magnets together make a difference in the distance needed to attract objects?” Students worked in small groups to conduct an experiment, and then worked independently to analyze and apply the data collected. Ask your child about this experiment. Later in the week, we reviewed student responses to the “NECAP practice” questions regarding this experiment, and compared student responses to the questions asked. We will continue to practice writing about our science thinking in weeks to come.
Responsive Classroom: Both classes have really enjoyed combining classes for Friday morning meetings. We continue to hold students accountable for their work, reinforcing complete work with team choice time on Fridays and upholding the logical consequence of “work room” for incomplete work. Please encourage your child to turn in homework daily.
Ask me about:
• Student of the week: Dominic
• Four Winds: Animal tracking
• My research project!
Other: Thank you for all that you do to support our 3-4 Calliope endeavors. Just a friendly reminder, there is no school for students on Monday, 3/1 (teacher professional development), and we will be going to the Flynn on Wednesday, 3/3 to see Frindle. We have emailed the parent volunteers who will be attending (we had to do first-come, first-served for chaperones)…sorry we couldn’t take all of you! Have a fantastic vacation and we’ll see you in March!
February 12, 2010
Calliope Weekly Update
February 8-12, 2010
Week Twenty-two
Permission Slip to Sign and Return: We will be going to the Flynn Theater on Wednesday, March 3rd to see Frindle. Please sign the permission slip (sent in Friday folders) and please return with payment by this Thursday, 2/18. Thanks.
Reading and Writing: Students are working diligently in class on their research projects. Part B was finished for nearly all students on Friday, which means our research is done and we’re on to report writing! Students have gathered a number of interesting facts and information to answer their research questions. We are using a graphic organizer to develop the draft of our 4 or 5 paragraph report. We look forward to some good writing in the next week!
Math: Third graders learned a new math game, “Leftovers,” in which students demonstrate their understanding of division. Third graders also added a new “center” to math…multiplication fact games on laptops. We’ve been playing a balloon pop fact game, as well as, multiplication Pac-man. Students also practiced their skills and strategies with problem solving, including a valentine logic problem. Fourth grade mathematicians are working with the multidigit array model for solving multidigit multiplication problems (like 36 x 22). This visual representation demonstrates the connection between number/place value and multiplication. Both classes continue to make progress on weekly fact tests.
Word Study: Ms. Schoolcraft’s spellers reviewed open syllable concepts in unit 6. They will finish the unit next week with a Unit test on Friday. Ms. Schoolcraft’s spellers also wrote silly spelling stories using unit six words, including lots of rhyming! We will share these next week! Mr. B’s spellers have published their new silly spelling stories to the blog—posted as Silly Spelling Stories II. Students also commented on others’ stories. Great writing and spelling work!
Science: Our two classes joined together twice this week to practice some science inquiry. Students reviewed vocabulary and the scientific process on Monday, and gathered again on Tuesday to work in small groups to do a “bird beaks and survival” experiment. Ask your child about the beak types: tweezers, spoons, toothpicks, and which was the most versatile beak! On Thursday, we had one more science experiment…
Responsive Classroom: Both classes enjoyed lunch and recess together on Thursday to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Students did a wonderful job sharing valentines with their classmates in all of Calliope 3-4. We gathered in the kiva to sing and complement each other after lunch. Students shared heartfelt thoughts and comments about each other.
Ask me about:
• Student of the week: Rachel
• Mr. Bolger’s mad scientist valentines
• Ms. Schoolcraft’s mad lib valentines
• Tuesday 2/9 was Vermont Writes day. Students in both classes did 7-minute writes and shared with spelling groups.
• How do you divide two apples among nine kids? (hint: first divide one apple among nine kids. Then divide the second among nine kids. Each kid ends up getting 2/9 of an apple)
Other: Thank you to families who sent in goodies for our Valentine’s soiree. We had plenty of treats and a good time was enjoyed by all.
February 8-12, 2010
Week Twenty-two
Permission Slip to Sign and Return: We will be going to the Flynn Theater on Wednesday, March 3rd to see Frindle. Please sign the permission slip (sent in Friday folders) and please return with payment by this Thursday, 2/18. Thanks.
Reading and Writing: Students are working diligently in class on their research projects. Part B was finished for nearly all students on Friday, which means our research is done and we’re on to report writing! Students have gathered a number of interesting facts and information to answer their research questions. We are using a graphic organizer to develop the draft of our 4 or 5 paragraph report. We look forward to some good writing in the next week!
Math: Third graders learned a new math game, “Leftovers,” in which students demonstrate their understanding of division. Third graders also added a new “center” to math…multiplication fact games on laptops. We’ve been playing a balloon pop fact game, as well as, multiplication Pac-man. Students also practiced their skills and strategies with problem solving, including a valentine logic problem. Fourth grade mathematicians are working with the multidigit array model for solving multidigit multiplication problems (like 36 x 22). This visual representation demonstrates the connection between number/place value and multiplication. Both classes continue to make progress on weekly fact tests.
Word Study: Ms. Schoolcraft’s spellers reviewed open syllable concepts in unit 6. They will finish the unit next week with a Unit test on Friday. Ms. Schoolcraft’s spellers also wrote silly spelling stories using unit six words, including lots of rhyming! We will share these next week! Mr. B’s spellers have published their new silly spelling stories to the blog—posted as Silly Spelling Stories II. Students also commented on others’ stories. Great writing and spelling work!
Science: Our two classes joined together twice this week to practice some science inquiry. Students reviewed vocabulary and the scientific process on Monday, and gathered again on Tuesday to work in small groups to do a “bird beaks and survival” experiment. Ask your child about the beak types: tweezers, spoons, toothpicks, and which was the most versatile beak! On Thursday, we had one more science experiment…
Responsive Classroom: Both classes enjoyed lunch and recess together on Thursday to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Students did a wonderful job sharing valentines with their classmates in all of Calliope 3-4. We gathered in the kiva to sing and complement each other after lunch. Students shared heartfelt thoughts and comments about each other.
Ask me about:
• Student of the week: Rachel
• Mr. Bolger’s mad scientist valentines
• Ms. Schoolcraft’s mad lib valentines
• Tuesday 2/9 was Vermont Writes day. Students in both classes did 7-minute writes and shared with spelling groups.
• How do you divide two apples among nine kids? (hint: first divide one apple among nine kids. Then divide the second among nine kids. Each kid ends up getting 2/9 of an apple)
Other: Thank you to families who sent in goodies for our Valentine’s soiree. We had plenty of treats and a good time was enjoyed by all.
February 5, 2010
Calliope Weekly Update
February 1-5, 2010
Week Twenty-one
Reading and Writing: The next two weeks are dedicated to the 3-4 research project. Students are using the Big Six model to research a topic of their choice. Students will be writing a report about their research and presenting to their classmates in kiva the week before break. This work will be done during our reading and writing blocks over the next two weeks. Both classes are now reading Mrs. Frisby & the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O’Brien.
Math: Third graders used arrays to explore division models, and made some discoveries about the relationship between multiplication and division. Students learned a new math game called Leftovers, where students explored the concept of remainders. Fourth graders continue their work with decimals, extending to the thousandths place, and are exploring linear metric measurement.
Word Study: Mr. B’s kids continue learning different spelling patterns involving vowel combinations and are gaining independence in writing and publishing their silly spelling stories to the blog. Ms. S’s spelling group continues to work with open syllables, including open syllable exceptions and the schwa sound in Alaska.
Social Studies: Students completed their Vermont map “post test” on Thursday. We were able to compare our pre and post VT maps, and honestly, couldn’t stop laughing!
Responsive Classroom: Because we have truly combined our two 3-4 classrooms, we will be celebrating Valentine’s Day with a joint soiree on Thursday afternoon. We have asked students to write cards for students in both core classes. We understand that may make things more difficult on the home front, but we want to celebrate our combined community, and just think…double the valentines! Students will not have spelling homework next week. Instead good spelling skills should be applied to each valentine card! Thanks for your support with this.
Ask me about:
• Tell Grandparents: Google our “Bolgerwritingblog” and take a look at all the good writing! They can even post a comment.
• Thanks for all the support with our Haiti fundraiser. Ask what our schoolwide total was!
• Friday’s assembly: Peter & the Wolf. Can you name the instruments?
Other: We will be going to the Flynn Theater on Wednesday, March 3rd to see Frindle. We will be able to take a few chaperones from each class. Please contact us soon if you are interested in chaperoning. Details will follow shortly.
February 1-5, 2010
Week Twenty-one
Reading and Writing: The next two weeks are dedicated to the 3-4 research project. Students are using the Big Six model to research a topic of their choice. Students will be writing a report about their research and presenting to their classmates in kiva the week before break. This work will be done during our reading and writing blocks over the next two weeks. Both classes are now reading Mrs. Frisby & the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O’Brien.
Math: Third graders used arrays to explore division models, and made some discoveries about the relationship between multiplication and division. Students learned a new math game called Leftovers, where students explored the concept of remainders. Fourth graders continue their work with decimals, extending to the thousandths place, and are exploring linear metric measurement.
Word Study: Mr. B’s kids continue learning different spelling patterns involving vowel combinations and are gaining independence in writing and publishing their silly spelling stories to the blog. Ms. S’s spelling group continues to work with open syllables, including open syllable exceptions and the schwa sound in Alaska.
Social Studies: Students completed their Vermont map “post test” on Thursday. We were able to compare our pre and post VT maps, and honestly, couldn’t stop laughing!
Responsive Classroom: Because we have truly combined our two 3-4 classrooms, we will be celebrating Valentine’s Day with a joint soiree on Thursday afternoon. We have asked students to write cards for students in both core classes. We understand that may make things more difficult on the home front, but we want to celebrate our combined community, and just think…double the valentines! Students will not have spelling homework next week. Instead good spelling skills should be applied to each valentine card! Thanks for your support with this.
Ask me about:
• Tell Grandparents: Google our “Bolgerwritingblog” and take a look at all the good writing! They can even post a comment.
• Thanks for all the support with our Haiti fundraiser. Ask what our schoolwide total was!
• Friday’s assembly: Peter & the Wolf. Can you name the instruments?
Other: We will be going to the Flynn Theater on Wednesday, March 3rd to see Frindle. We will be able to take a few chaperones from each class. Please contact us soon if you are interested in chaperoning. Details will follow shortly.
January 29th, 2010
Calliope Weekly Update
January 25-29, 2010
Week Twenty
Reading and Writing: Students practiced responding to reading in a variety of ways this week. Mr. B’s class finished reading aloud The Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne and watched the film on Monday. Both classes are currently reading Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O’Brien aloud.
Math: Third grade mathematicians were treated to a special math class with Mrs. Dodge on Tuesday, while Ms. S taught the first graders about comparing numbers (and < > alligator mouths). Third graders continue to make arrays and learned about shortcuts for mastering multiplication facts, as well as, tricks for nine’s. Fourth graders took an assessment worked on manipulating numbers with decimals.
Word Study: Mr. B’s spelling group did a review unit this week. Ms. S’s spellers learned about open syllables and y as a vowel (y-cry-/i/ and y-baby-/e/).
Social Studies: Students interacted with their salt-dough Vermont landform maps by playing a “battleship” style game this week. Students also identified and painted Lake Champlain, the Connecticut River, the Winooski River, White River, and Lake Memphremagog. Next week, students will do a post-assessment by drawing a map of VT. It will be exciting to compare student pre and posttests!
Responsive Classroom: It seems to be the time of year around Calliope that a revisit of our school, house, and classroom rules is due. We spent some time as a house during our Wednesday kiva meeting discussing expected and unexpected behavior and followed up that conversation in our classrooms. On Monday, Ms. S’s class watched a movie, Monsters vs. Aliens (until the DVD skipped and then we watched Bee Movie). Students had earned this movie with “substitute stickers,” demonstrating respectful behavior with a substitute. Finally, on Friday, our lobby sing was dedicated to Haiti, and we sold ribbons to the Allen Brook community. We have raised over $555 and will finish this fundraiser just before February vacation.
Ask me about:
• Student of the week: Alyse
• Verb…it’s what you do!
• Noun…PPT
• Mr. B & Ms. S’s friendly battleship competition
Other: Please look for your child’s report card in Friday folders, and sign and return the envelope next week. Students have an early release on Tuesday, February 2nd. Thank you for all that you do in support of Calliope!
Teacher Comments: We will not be writing personal comments this week due to report cards. Please know that we have both spent a considerable amount of time working on each child’s report card. Your feedback would be greatly appreciated! We couldn’t be more proud of our third and fourth graders!
January 25-29, 2010
Week Twenty
Reading and Writing: Students practiced responding to reading in a variety of ways this week. Mr. B’s class finished reading aloud The Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne and watched the film on Monday. Both classes are currently reading Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O’Brien aloud.
Math: Third grade mathematicians were treated to a special math class with Mrs. Dodge on Tuesday, while Ms. S taught the first graders about comparing numbers (and < > alligator mouths). Third graders continue to make arrays and learned about shortcuts for mastering multiplication facts, as well as, tricks for nine’s. Fourth graders took an assessment worked on manipulating numbers with decimals.
Word Study: Mr. B’s spelling group did a review unit this week. Ms. S’s spellers learned about open syllables and y as a vowel (y-cry-/i/ and y-baby-/e/).
Social Studies: Students interacted with their salt-dough Vermont landform maps by playing a “battleship” style game this week. Students also identified and painted Lake Champlain, the Connecticut River, the Winooski River, White River, and Lake Memphremagog. Next week, students will do a post-assessment by drawing a map of VT. It will be exciting to compare student pre and posttests!
Responsive Classroom: It seems to be the time of year around Calliope that a revisit of our school, house, and classroom rules is due. We spent some time as a house during our Wednesday kiva meeting discussing expected and unexpected behavior and followed up that conversation in our classrooms. On Monday, Ms. S’s class watched a movie, Monsters vs. Aliens (until the DVD skipped and then we watched Bee Movie). Students had earned this movie with “substitute stickers,” demonstrating respectful behavior with a substitute. Finally, on Friday, our lobby sing was dedicated to Haiti, and we sold ribbons to the Allen Brook community. We have raised over $555 and will finish this fundraiser just before February vacation.
Ask me about:
• Student of the week: Alyse
• Verb…it’s what you do!
• Noun…PPT
• Mr. B & Ms. S’s friendly battleship competition
Other: Please look for your child’s report card in Friday folders, and sign and return the envelope next week. Students have an early release on Tuesday, February 2nd. Thank you for all that you do in support of Calliope!
Teacher Comments: We will not be writing personal comments this week due to report cards. Please know that we have both spent a considerable amount of time working on each child’s report card. Your feedback would be greatly appreciated! We couldn’t be more proud of our third and fourth graders!
January 22nd, 2010
Calliope Weekly Update
January 19-22, 2010
Week Nineteen
Reading and Writing: Students completed the CSSU on-demand grade-level writing task this week. Third and fourth graders wrote reports on assigned topics. Although guided reading groups did not meet this week, students had independent reading time and read-aloud.
Math: Both third and fourth graders are working to master the basic multiplication facts. Fourth graders continue their work with decimals, and third graders continue to study multiplication. Fourth graders are also reviewing the concepts of the first semester in anticipation of a semester-end assessment next week.
Word Study: All third and fourth graders completed the January round of the Developmental Spelling Assessment (DSA). This assessment helps us match students to their developmental spelling stage and plan instruction accordingly. Regular word study work will resume next week.
Science: Our Four Winds parents led us in an exciting exploration of snow! We learned about the names of different snow crystals, their commonalities and differences, conducted an experiment using “old” and “new” snow, collected and examined snowflakes outside, and even created six-sided coffee filter snowflakes!
Responsive Classroom: Our field trip to Catamount was a successful day of adventures and winter fun …students were able to engage with old and new friends, play in the snow, and possibly try something new. Thank you to all parent volunteers…we couldn’t have done this without you! (And, Ms. Schoolcraft and her group of 7 skiers may still have been at Catamount as we speak! )
Calliope students have taken the lead on ABS fundraising efforts for Haiti relief. We have made over 500 ribbons, and sold almost half that in our short week. Students should be proud of their leadership and enthusiasm in this school-wide effort.
Thursday afternoon, the Allen Brook school community gathered in the gym for the first-ever 3-4 chorus concert! The students sang beautifully, projected their voices, and faced the audience in a poised manner. We were so proud to see so many Calliope faces up there…GREAT JOB!!!
Ask me about:
• Julia Neeld, soloist
• Put a Little Love in Your Heart
• Under the Full Moonlight
Other: Thank you for all that you do to support your child and Calliope from home. It makes such a difference to work with such a caring, supportive community of families. Thank you. Report cards will be sent home Friday, January 29th. Enjoy the weekend!
January 19-22, 2010
Week Nineteen
Reading and Writing: Students completed the CSSU on-demand grade-level writing task this week. Third and fourth graders wrote reports on assigned topics. Although guided reading groups did not meet this week, students had independent reading time and read-aloud.
Math: Both third and fourth graders are working to master the basic multiplication facts. Fourth graders continue their work with decimals, and third graders continue to study multiplication. Fourth graders are also reviewing the concepts of the first semester in anticipation of a semester-end assessment next week.
Word Study: All third and fourth graders completed the January round of the Developmental Spelling Assessment (DSA). This assessment helps us match students to their developmental spelling stage and plan instruction accordingly. Regular word study work will resume next week.
Science: Our Four Winds parents led us in an exciting exploration of snow! We learned about the names of different snow crystals, their commonalities and differences, conducted an experiment using “old” and “new” snow, collected and examined snowflakes outside, and even created six-sided coffee filter snowflakes!
Responsive Classroom: Our field trip to Catamount was a successful day of adventures and winter fun …students were able to engage with old and new friends, play in the snow, and possibly try something new. Thank you to all parent volunteers…we couldn’t have done this without you! (And, Ms. Schoolcraft and her group of 7 skiers may still have been at Catamount as we speak! )
Calliope students have taken the lead on ABS fundraising efforts for Haiti relief. We have made over 500 ribbons, and sold almost half that in our short week. Students should be proud of their leadership and enthusiasm in this school-wide effort.
Thursday afternoon, the Allen Brook school community gathered in the gym for the first-ever 3-4 chorus concert! The students sang beautifully, projected their voices, and faced the audience in a poised manner. We were so proud to see so many Calliope faces up there…GREAT JOB!!!
Ask me about:
• Julia Neeld, soloist
• Put a Little Love in Your Heart
• Under the Full Moonlight
Other: Thank you for all that you do to support your child and Calliope from home. It makes such a difference to work with such a caring, supportive community of families. Thank you. Report cards will be sent home Friday, January 29th. Enjoy the weekend!
January 15, 2010
Calliope Weekly Update
January 11-15, 2010
Week Eighteen
Literacy: Students were engaged in lots of independent work time this week as Mr. B and Ms. S worked diligently to complete the January literacy assessments.
Math: Third graders have been working with fact triangles, multiplication and division fact families and using the multiplication table. Students shared their array projects, which are prominently displayed on the border of the Calliope lockers…they look fabulous! Mr. B’s 4th grade mathematicians are continuing their work with decimals.
Writing: We reviewed the format for writing a constructed response this week. Students had the opportunity to practice their skills, while writing about their teachers! How flattering!
Word Study: Ms. Schoolcraft’s class continued to work with schwa this week, specifically with words ending in -et. Mr. B’s class continues their work in the spelling-writing connection.
Social Studies: Students finished up their Vermont maps using toothpick flags to label important landforms and towns, and of course, green paint. They look outstanding!
Responsive Classroom: Looking forward to Catamount, gearing up for the making of our 4th Calliope Music CD, putting together a Calliope response to Haiti, discussing with our students the expected changes next year, and working with them to find some acceptance, perspective, and comfort in the middle of all these changes, OH MY!
Ask me about:
• New Student teacher from Champlain College: Jessica Palmer
• Assessments, Assessments, Assessments
Other: No school on Monday in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Wednesday will be our field trip to Catamount from 9-1. Thursday morning will be our January 4-winds, and Thursday afternoon will be music to our ears as we attend the chorus concert. Phew! Enjoy your three day weekend!
January 11-15, 2010
Week Eighteen
Literacy: Students were engaged in lots of independent work time this week as Mr. B and Ms. S worked diligently to complete the January literacy assessments.
Math: Third graders have been working with fact triangles, multiplication and division fact families and using the multiplication table. Students shared their array projects, which are prominently displayed on the border of the Calliope lockers…they look fabulous! Mr. B’s 4th grade mathematicians are continuing their work with decimals.
Writing: We reviewed the format for writing a constructed response this week. Students had the opportunity to practice their skills, while writing about their teachers! How flattering!
Word Study: Ms. Schoolcraft’s class continued to work with schwa this week, specifically with words ending in -et. Mr. B’s class continues their work in the spelling-writing connection.
Social Studies: Students finished up their Vermont maps using toothpick flags to label important landforms and towns, and of course, green paint. They look outstanding!
Responsive Classroom: Looking forward to Catamount, gearing up for the making of our 4th Calliope Music CD, putting together a Calliope response to Haiti, discussing with our students the expected changes next year, and working with them to find some acceptance, perspective, and comfort in the middle of all these changes, OH MY!
Ask me about:
• New Student teacher from Champlain College: Jessica Palmer
• Assessments, Assessments, Assessments
Other: No school on Monday in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Wednesday will be our field trip to Catamount from 9-1. Thursday morning will be our January 4-winds, and Thursday afternoon will be music to our ears as we attend the chorus concert. Phew! Enjoy your three day weekend!
January 8, 2010
Calliope Weekly Update
January 4-8, 2010
Week Seventeen
Literacy: Ms. Schoolcraft finished reading The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi aloud this week and started a new read aloud, Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh by Robert O’Brien. Students in both classes spent time finishing their responses to literature with the book Brave Irene and worked independently while Mr. B and Ms. S worked to complete January’s reading assessments.
Math: Fourth grade students have focused this week on learning a variety of strategies for solving problems like this: Gaylord Farm harvested a truckload of potatoes. They sold 400 potatoes on Saturday at the farmer’s market, and had 324 left over. How many, exactly, did they harvest? 324 = P - 400. One great strategy is to write out the fact family for the number sentence: (P – 400 = 324, P – 324 = 400, so 400 + 324 = P, and 324 + 400 = P). Seeing it written as an addition problem makes it simple to solve for P. P = 724.
Third graders started a unit on multiplication. They explored the fact that multiplication is the study of things in equal groups, and is an efficient strategy for repeated addition. Students explored the concept of arrays, circles and stars, and read a math book entitled Each Orange has Eight Slices by Paul Giganti, Jr. Students will be working on a project around this book in the upcoming week.
Writing: Both classes completed publishing responses to text about the book Brave Irene by William Steig.
Word Study: Ms. Schoolcraft’s class studied the schwa this week. Mr. B’s class is really working on applying spelling rules in writing, and is publishing silly stories on the spelling blog.
Social Studies: Students worked in cross-class pairs to create salt-dough physical maps of the state of Vermont. We added a little math into the mix when we created dough using 1 part flour, 1 part salt, and 2/3 part water.
Responsive Classroom: With so many changes in our support staff (Ms. Gail, Ms. Landrigan, Ms. Kozlik), Calliope is reviewing classroom and house norms and expectations as we get settled into what is classically a great stretch of learning time (January and February).
Ask me about:
• Maps
• Our new classroom teacher Ms. Hillary
• Brainpop
• My narrative
Other: The Cochran ski program started today. Students are dismissed at 1:20 on Fridays to attend the ski program. Calliope will be attending the Catamount Family Center for our winter field trip at the end of the month. Please check the Friday folders for additional information and a permission slip.
January 4-8, 2010
Week Seventeen
Literacy: Ms. Schoolcraft finished reading The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi aloud this week and started a new read aloud, Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh by Robert O’Brien. Students in both classes spent time finishing their responses to literature with the book Brave Irene and worked independently while Mr. B and Ms. S worked to complete January’s reading assessments.
Math: Fourth grade students have focused this week on learning a variety of strategies for solving problems like this: Gaylord Farm harvested a truckload of potatoes. They sold 400 potatoes on Saturday at the farmer’s market, and had 324 left over. How many, exactly, did they harvest? 324 = P - 400. One great strategy is to write out the fact family for the number sentence: (P – 400 = 324, P – 324 = 400, so 400 + 324 = P, and 324 + 400 = P). Seeing it written as an addition problem makes it simple to solve for P. P = 724.
Third graders started a unit on multiplication. They explored the fact that multiplication is the study of things in equal groups, and is an efficient strategy for repeated addition. Students explored the concept of arrays, circles and stars, and read a math book entitled Each Orange has Eight Slices by Paul Giganti, Jr. Students will be working on a project around this book in the upcoming week.
Writing: Both classes completed publishing responses to text about the book Brave Irene by William Steig.
Word Study: Ms. Schoolcraft’s class studied the schwa this week. Mr. B’s class is really working on applying spelling rules in writing, and is publishing silly stories on the spelling blog.
Social Studies: Students worked in cross-class pairs to create salt-dough physical maps of the state of Vermont. We added a little math into the mix when we created dough using 1 part flour, 1 part salt, and 2/3 part water.
Responsive Classroom: With so many changes in our support staff (Ms. Gail, Ms. Landrigan, Ms. Kozlik), Calliope is reviewing classroom and house norms and expectations as we get settled into what is classically a great stretch of learning time (January and February).
Ask me about:
• Maps
• Our new classroom teacher Ms. Hillary
• Brainpop
• My narrative
Other: The Cochran ski program started today. Students are dismissed at 1:20 on Fridays to attend the ski program. Calliope will be attending the Catamount Family Center for our winter field trip at the end of the month. Please check the Friday folders for additional information and a permission slip.
December 18, 2009
Calliope Weekly Update
December 14-18, 2009
Week Sixteen
Literacy: In Mr. Bolger’s Reading, four book groups are approaching the ends of their books this week. Ask your child about his or her book. Ms. Schoolcraft’s readers read a book entitled Fortunately, by Remy Charlip, and then published their own class book modeled after the pattern…fortunately/unfortunately. Ask your child what his or her “event” was! Students also continued to examine fiction and nonfiction text.
Math: Mr. Bolger’s math class was visited again by Master Math Teacher Claire Earley. She and Mr. Bolger taught the class together, and ten ABS and WCS teachers sat in and listened intently as our students grappled with the problems and explained their thinking. The class received a number of compliments for how earnestly they worked and how willing they were to take risks. A central question they debated was “What does subtraction mean?” (Hint: it doesn’t always mean taking away.) Third grade mathematicians wrapped up their unit of multi-digit addition and subtraction with an assessment on Thursday (with some very high scores!) and will round out the days before vacation with work on portfolio problems.
Writing: Two big things happened in Mr. Bolger’s Writing class this week. First, in the middle of a talk about what makes a good story, Mr. Bolger ripped off his shoe right in the middle of class, yelled, and hurled it across the room at a spider. Then he charged over, scooped up the shoe, dropped to his knees and hammered on the floor with it. The second big thing was that students got Pocket Pads – little flip pads to carry around with them for jotting down funny, sad, or interesting things they notice and might want to write about. Ms. Schoolcraft’s class did some creative writing for a treasured friend who will be leaving to student teach next semester…Ms. Landrigan.
Word Study: In Bolger spelling, the spelling bee concluded on Tuesday with Julia Neeld emerging as the winner! Beyond that, students studied high-frequency words this week. We will do the same for next week’s short week, and we’ll return to our regular sorting when we get back. Ms. Schoolcraft’s spelling group reviewed 1-1-1 words and v-e words with vowel and consonant suffixes, and did a Unit 4 assessment “retake” on Friday.
Social Studies: Students in both classes worked on independence, problem solving skills, and collaboration as they completed a map scale packet this week.
Responsive Classroom: In Mr. B’s class this week students shared “What color I am most like – and why.” Students in Ms. S’s class celebrated “tell someone they’re doing a good job week” by complimenting others.
Ask me about:
• H1N1 shots
• Crystals: In Mr. Bolger’s class, Jordan kindly shared her crystal-growing kit with the class. Everyone carefully mixed up the solution, and now they are watching anxiously as the crystals begin to form on the dangling yarn.
• Junior Great Books presentation
Other: Wow…what a whirlwind week! Just 3 more days until winter break! We will have our house cookie swap on Monday, December 21st. Please be sure to bring in 2 dozen cookies to share with the team. There will be no weekly update next week due to the short week and holiday. Have a restful, joyous, and safe winter break with family and friends. See you next year!
Mr. Bolger and Ms. Schoolcraft
December 14-18, 2009
Week Sixteen
Literacy: In Mr. Bolger’s Reading, four book groups are approaching the ends of their books this week. Ask your child about his or her book. Ms. Schoolcraft’s readers read a book entitled Fortunately, by Remy Charlip, and then published their own class book modeled after the pattern…fortunately/unfortunately. Ask your child what his or her “event” was! Students also continued to examine fiction and nonfiction text.
Math: Mr. Bolger’s math class was visited again by Master Math Teacher Claire Earley. She and Mr. Bolger taught the class together, and ten ABS and WCS teachers sat in and listened intently as our students grappled with the problems and explained their thinking. The class received a number of compliments for how earnestly they worked and how willing they were to take risks. A central question they debated was “What does subtraction mean?” (Hint: it doesn’t always mean taking away.) Third grade mathematicians wrapped up their unit of multi-digit addition and subtraction with an assessment on Thursday (with some very high scores!) and will round out the days before vacation with work on portfolio problems.
Writing: Two big things happened in Mr. Bolger’s Writing class this week. First, in the middle of a talk about what makes a good story, Mr. Bolger ripped off his shoe right in the middle of class, yelled, and hurled it across the room at a spider. Then he charged over, scooped up the shoe, dropped to his knees and hammered on the floor with it. The second big thing was that students got Pocket Pads – little flip pads to carry around with them for jotting down funny, sad, or interesting things they notice and might want to write about. Ms. Schoolcraft’s class did some creative writing for a treasured friend who will be leaving to student teach next semester…Ms. Landrigan.
Word Study: In Bolger spelling, the spelling bee concluded on Tuesday with Julia Neeld emerging as the winner! Beyond that, students studied high-frequency words this week. We will do the same for next week’s short week, and we’ll return to our regular sorting when we get back. Ms. Schoolcraft’s spelling group reviewed 1-1-1 words and v-e words with vowel and consonant suffixes, and did a Unit 4 assessment “retake” on Friday.
Social Studies: Students in both classes worked on independence, problem solving skills, and collaboration as they completed a map scale packet this week.
Responsive Classroom: In Mr. B’s class this week students shared “What color I am most like – and why.” Students in Ms. S’s class celebrated “tell someone they’re doing a good job week” by complimenting others.
Ask me about:
• H1N1 shots
• Crystals: In Mr. Bolger’s class, Jordan kindly shared her crystal-growing kit with the class. Everyone carefully mixed up the solution, and now they are watching anxiously as the crystals begin to form on the dangling yarn.
• Junior Great Books presentation
Other: Wow…what a whirlwind week! Just 3 more days until winter break! We will have our house cookie swap on Monday, December 21st. Please be sure to bring in 2 dozen cookies to share with the team. There will be no weekly update next week due to the short week and holiday. Have a restful, joyous, and safe winter break with family and friends. See you next year!
Mr. Bolger and Ms. Schoolcraft
December 11, 1009
Calliope Weekly Update
December 7-11, 2009
Week Fifteen
Dear Parents,
Literacy: In Mr. Bolger's reading, students have revisited this week what topics, what genres, and which authors really move them. Many kids are finally landing that book or that series that they can't put down. It has been exciting. Ms. Schoolcraft’s readers explored features of nonfiction text and noticed these features (captions, headings, bold words, etc) and how they enhance comprehension. Readers in both classes continue to write in their journals the thoughts they have about their reading.
Math: Fourth graders have focused on data collection and analysis with a particular focus on finding median and mean. Students measured heads of family members, and Megan reported getting her measuring tape wet measuring her fish's head. Third graders practiced partial sums addition, trade-first subtraction, and engaged in a variety of tasks manipulating numbers during group work and our games station. Third graders earned their 2nd popcorn party of the year by transitioning quietly from station to station during math.
Writing: Mr. Bolger's Writing this week has centered on students' developing their narrative stories. Ms. Schoolcraft’s authors will be finished with narratives and both classes will begin writing responses to text next week.
Word Study: Mr. B's spelling class earned the privilege of wearing pajamas for Friday's spelling bee when the group averaged an 85.9% on Thursday’s test -- a review of all their first semester words. Ms. S’s group has been hard at work with v-e words and the addition of vowel suffixes to both v-e words and 1-1-1 words. Students wore clothes backwards on Thursday, and drilled sounds backwards, spelled and wrote words backwards, and sat in chairs backwards!
Social Studies: Students finished world and North America maps this week, and started working on map scales. We will continue this work next week.
Responsive Classroom: Over the past several weeks, we have noticed many students working more efficiently, effectively, and independently. Also, we're seeing students in much of our cross-classroom work cooperate readily and productively. We've got a good head of steam going as we arrive soon at our Winter Break. Snowflake Bentley "saw beauty where others did not," and reading his story this week reminded us that we don't need more beautiful things. We just need to better see the beauty in the world, the people, and even the snowflakes around us.
Cookies! Just a reminder that Calliope house will be having our cookie swap on Monday, December 21st. We hope this experience will be a positive one for you and your child, as you select a recipe and prepare it together. Not only will we be able to share tasty treats on Monday, but we’ll hopefully learn a little more about Calliope family traditions, as well. December 15th is a half-day for students; please plan accordingly. Enjoy the chilly, snowy weekend!
December 7-11, 2009
Week Fifteen
Dear Parents,
Literacy: In Mr. Bolger's reading, students have revisited this week what topics, what genres, and which authors really move them. Many kids are finally landing that book or that series that they can't put down. It has been exciting. Ms. Schoolcraft’s readers explored features of nonfiction text and noticed these features (captions, headings, bold words, etc) and how they enhance comprehension. Readers in both classes continue to write in their journals the thoughts they have about their reading.
Math: Fourth graders have focused on data collection and analysis with a particular focus on finding median and mean. Students measured heads of family members, and Megan reported getting her measuring tape wet measuring her fish's head. Third graders practiced partial sums addition, trade-first subtraction, and engaged in a variety of tasks manipulating numbers during group work and our games station. Third graders earned their 2nd popcorn party of the year by transitioning quietly from station to station during math.
Writing: Mr. Bolger's Writing this week has centered on students' developing their narrative stories. Ms. Schoolcraft’s authors will be finished with narratives and both classes will begin writing responses to text next week.
Word Study: Mr. B's spelling class earned the privilege of wearing pajamas for Friday's spelling bee when the group averaged an 85.9% on Thursday’s test -- a review of all their first semester words. Ms. S’s group has been hard at work with v-e words and the addition of vowel suffixes to both v-e words and 1-1-1 words. Students wore clothes backwards on Thursday, and drilled sounds backwards, spelled and wrote words backwards, and sat in chairs backwards!
Social Studies: Students finished world and North America maps this week, and started working on map scales. We will continue this work next week.
Responsive Classroom: Over the past several weeks, we have noticed many students working more efficiently, effectively, and independently. Also, we're seeing students in much of our cross-classroom work cooperate readily and productively. We've got a good head of steam going as we arrive soon at our Winter Break. Snowflake Bentley "saw beauty where others did not," and reading his story this week reminded us that we don't need more beautiful things. We just need to better see the beauty in the world, the people, and even the snowflakes around us.
Cookies! Just a reminder that Calliope house will be having our cookie swap on Monday, December 21st. We hope this experience will be a positive one for you and your child, as you select a recipe and prepare it together. Not only will we be able to share tasty treats on Monday, but we’ll hopefully learn a little more about Calliope family traditions, as well. December 15th is a half-day for students; please plan accordingly. Enjoy the chilly, snowy weekend!
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