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.