What are we doing?

Here is a look at what we are doing in 5th grade:

Reading
We have looked at "just right" books, developed workshop expectations, and worked on several reading skills using Scholastic News.  A great magazine that allows children to strengthen their reading skills, while discovering fantastic facts about the world around them.

Math
We have been working on pre-assessments to enable us to develop a challenging and engaging program for each student in math.  These are an eager bunch of learners and have asked for homework during the FIRST week of school?  I sent home work that may not be at their level, but enabled them to shine-up those already learned skills.  We will start place value and decimals using EngageNY curriculum.  Homework for math will depend on the student finishing their daily work in class.  Many times easy numbers are used to teach strategies that can transferred when larger numbers are encountered.

Writing
On the first day of writer's workshop, the very first day of school, I asked the children how long they would like to write in their journals.  I fully expected them to say 10 minutes or so, but they very eagerly, and confidently agreed to 25 minutes.  WOW!!  They seem to enjoy writing.  We will begin our unit on narratives.

Geography
Students are learning about the regions in the United States and major landmarks.  This is a precursor to studying the very first Native Americans and how they arrived in the United States.  Social studies for the year will be learning about U.S. History.  We will volley between social studies and science as we share materials with Mr. Demers class.

Second Grade Buddies
We were able to meet our second grade buddies on Friday afternoon.  We found out their names and something fun about them, along with coloring some pretty great pictures.  Our hopes, mine and Mrs. Berhsing's, is to meet with buddies at least once every three weeks.

Community Gathering
We meet today to roll-out the PBIS program for the year.  Mrs. Baitz and Mr. Wilson showcased a great game of "Bobcat Feud."  Ask you child about this, it was fun and our class were excellent models for how to be respectful, responsible, and safe.

Along with the above, we have been working very hard on routines, expectations, and what it's like to be a fifth grader.

and we are off!!!!!!

As always, please don't hesitate to call me at school 472-5411 ext. 2552 or email lforbes@ossu.org

I enjoy hearing from parents and firmly believe it takes a strong team to teach a child.