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!