Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Thursday, May 16, 2013
May 16th, 2013
THE HANDWRITING COMPETITION RESULTS WILL BE OUT TOMORROW!
THANKS FOR SO MUCH SUPPORT FOR OUR SCHOOL PLAY. IT WAS FABULOUS.
This morning we reviewed all the parts of speech we have learned this year in a class butcher paper activity. We learned the idiom: Out of the Frying Pan, into the Fire. Next, we used the school iPads to review SAT words. Finally, we added another paragraph to our Danny Critical Analysis.
HOMEWORK TONIGHT FOR MY LANGUAGE ARTS STUDENTS IS TO FINISH HANDWRITING THEIR DANNY PAPERS. We will be conferencing and editing with them tomorrow. AFTER THE PAPERS HAVE BEEN PEER EDITED TOMORROW, STUDENTS WILL TYPE THEIR ESSAYS TO BE DUE MONDAY.
The Danny papers are to be formatted for Monday in double-spaced 12 font like this:
THANKS FOR SO MUCH SUPPORT FOR OUR SCHOOL PLAY. IT WAS FABULOUS.
This morning we reviewed all the parts of speech we have learned this year in a class butcher paper activity. We learned the idiom: Out of the Frying Pan, into the Fire. Next, we used the school iPads to review SAT words. Finally, we added another paragraph to our Danny Critical Analysis.
HOMEWORK TONIGHT FOR MY LANGUAGE ARTS STUDENTS IS TO FINISH HANDWRITING THEIR DANNY PAPERS. We will be conferencing and editing with them tomorrow. AFTER THE PAPERS HAVE BEEN PEER EDITED TOMORROW, STUDENTS WILL TYPE THEIR ESSAYS TO BE DUE MONDAY.
The Danny papers are to be formatted for Monday in double-spaced 12 font like this:
Title (centered)
by Name of Student (centered)
First paragraph is indented. First sentence contains Danny, the Champion of the World (underlined, because it is the title of a book) and the name of Roald Dahl, who wrote it. The next section of this paragraph is a brief summary of the book. It can be a few sentences. The third section of this paragraph is the Analytical Thesis Statement (or ATS). It reads like: Five things I will be discussing....or Interesting points I reflected upon are.... or something of that nature.
Second paragraph is indented. The first sentence mentions the first point of the ATS above. A minimum of 4-5 sentences should be used for each sentence. Vary sentence lengths. Give details, connections, etc.
Third paragraph is indented. The first sentence mentions the second point of the ATS above. And so forth.
Fourth...
Fifth...
Sixth...
The seventh paragraph is indented. The first section of this paragraph mentions all five points of the original ATS in a different way. The next section includes a favorite or interesting part of the book. The last part is a recommendation for who should read this book and the reason why. It should also include a grabber, so the reader wants to read the book.
We completed Math Test 10B. Students left for the German field trip and those who stayed learned about fractals online.
After lunch was Foreign Language. We then worked on poetry, went to art, and learned about time in Science.
Music was spent practicing songs for Graduation ceremonies on Tuesday.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
May 1st, 2013
Finally back! What a week! Sorry not to have posted, but the following should help:
We have begun learning about the Judicial Branch of the United States government. We learned that the executive and legislative branches are elected by the people, but members of the judicial branch are appointed by the President (executive branch) and confirmed by the Senate (Legislative branch). We located the Judicial Branch responsibilities in Article III of the Constitution. Congress chooses the number of Supreme Court judges. It was an even number until 1869. We learned about judges being removed through impeachment and the three lengths of their terms (till death, retirement, or impeachment), and we also learned that they have to apply the law with only justice in mind. When the Supreme Court makes a ruling, all the lower courts must agree with, and uphold, that ruling in their cases.
WE WILL BE HAVING AN OPEN BOOK TEST ON ALL GOVERNMENT INFORMATION BASED ON STUDENT NOTES IN TWO WEEKS' TIME.
SAT Words for the week with their definitions follow:
We have begun learning about the Judicial Branch of the United States government. We learned that the executive and legislative branches are elected by the people, but members of the judicial branch are appointed by the President (executive branch) and confirmed by the Senate (Legislative branch). We located the Judicial Branch responsibilities in Article III of the Constitution. Congress chooses the number of Supreme Court judges. It was an even number until 1869. We learned about judges being removed through impeachment and the three lengths of their terms (till death, retirement, or impeachment), and we also learned that they have to apply the law with only justice in mind. When the Supreme Court makes a ruling, all the lower courts must agree with, and uphold, that ruling in their cases.
WE WILL BE HAVING AN OPEN BOOK TEST ON ALL GOVERNMENT INFORMATION BASED ON STUDENT NOTES IN TWO WEEKS' TIME.
SAT Words for the week with their definitions follow:
superfluous: more than is needed, desired, or required
surreptitious: marked by quiet and caution and secrecy; taking pains to avoid being observed
tactful: having or showing a sense of what is fitting and considerate in dealing with others
tenacious: stubbornly unyielding
transient: lasting a very short time
THERE WILL BE A TEST ON THESE WORDS ON FRIDAY
Spelling activity skit writing and testing continues. We have two chapters left in Danny, the Champion of the World. Sergeant Samways had a brilliant accent today, dropping his "h" and adding them to random words beginning with vowels. We tried that with some of the student names today!
MATH HOMEWORK IS TO FINISH THE UNIT 4 REVIEW MULTIPLE CHOICE PACKET. I am very pleased with the hard work these kids do in their reviewing of concepts. They are sharp, quick, students who don't shirk work.
After lunch we had Meridian Math Club and S.I.R. Next, we worked on our How-to sheets. THESE ARE DUE TYPED ON MONDAY. Students should type out the details, showing the steps to do the actual activity. They should color or draw illustrations to match their work. Also, they will be signing up for a day to present their How-to.
We listened to poetry and how words affect our moods.
Students went to P.E. and then our school talent show.
REMEMBER, CAMPING IS NEXT WEEK! MORE DETAILS TO FOLLOW.
Monday, April 22, 2013
22 April 2013
REMEMBER, TOMORROW IS ANOTHER OPEN HOUSE. ARCHES ACADEMY PASSPORT NOTICES HAVE GONE HOME WITH EACH FAMILY.
This morning I did show and tell about my son in New Zealand on X-Factor. We worked on haiku poetry, Writing Rally stories, and read Danny.
MATH HOMEWORK IS CHAPTER 1. STUDENTS CHOOSE 2 PROBLEMS ON EACH OF THE LAST TWO PAGES TO COMPLETE.
After lunch we worked more on stories. A student from the Earthquake minicourse gave a presentation on Earthquake safety and drills.
In science we learned about genes, chromosomes, DNA, and what mutations are. The 4th Grade went to Art.
After P.E. we worked on Middle Ages fonts and read more of Danny.
HOMEWORK IS TO PREPARE A BOOK REPORT OF YOUR OWN CHOICE. ALSO, PLEASE TYPE YOUR STORIES AND EMAIL THEM TO ME AT: keriwahl@yahoo.com. Or to your own google drive.
We must be illustrating by tomorrow to meet the Friday deadline.
This morning I did show and tell about my son in New Zealand on X-Factor. We worked on haiku poetry, Writing Rally stories, and read Danny.
MATH HOMEWORK IS CHAPTER 1. STUDENTS CHOOSE 2 PROBLEMS ON EACH OF THE LAST TWO PAGES TO COMPLETE.
After lunch we worked more on stories. A student from the Earthquake minicourse gave a presentation on Earthquake safety and drills.
In science we learned about genes, chromosomes, DNA, and what mutations are. The 4th Grade went to Art.
After P.E. we worked on Middle Ages fonts and read more of Danny.
HOMEWORK IS TO PREPARE A BOOK REPORT OF YOUR OWN CHOICE. ALSO, PLEASE TYPE YOUR STORIES AND EMAIL THEM TO ME AT: keriwahl@yahoo.com. Or to your own google drive.
We must be illustrating by tomorrow to meet the Friday deadline.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
18 April 2013
THANK YOU TO THOSE BRINGING IN WATER BOTTLES FOR THE SCHOOL! WE ARE TRYING TO GET 2 WATER BOTTLES FOR EACH STUDENT SO THAT WE ARE PREPARED IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY.
This morning we added to our list of executive departments (Cabinet) for which the president is responsible. They are:
1. Department of Agriculture
2. Department of Commerce
3. Department of Defense
4. Department of Education
5. Department of Energy
6. Department of Health and Human Services
7. Department of Homeland Security
8. Department of Housing and Urban Development
9. Department of the Interior
10. Department of Justice
11. Department of Labor
12. Department of State
13. Department of Transportation
14. Department of the Treasury
15. Department of Veterans Affairs
We discussed very briefly what some of the responsibilities were of each department. Students had heard many things from the news and home discussions. They are interested in current events. Please discuss them with your children.
THERE IS A VOCABULARY TEST TOMORROW FOR LANGUAGE ARTS.
After reviewing once more the words for the week, we jumped right in to our Invention stories. THE ROUGH DRAFTS ARE DUE MONDAY. IF POSSIBLE, THEY SHOULD BE TYPED. Next Friday we teachers will be scanning the stories and sending them to a publishing company to be made into real hard-bound books. It is imperative that students produce quality work. I am pleased with the initiative these students are taking in writing lots and following plots, character development, problems, etc. in the fictional styles, and information sorting in the non-fiction styles.
In Danny, the doctor tells about giving Mr. Victor Hazell a shot. It was very funny. Let's just say we will always be kind to doctors' dogs after this!
MATH HOMEWORK IS TO FINISH REVIEW 11. We worked like crazy people today to get it done. We used a goal setting method which is quite simple. Students think of where they want to be in 10 minutes. They draw a circle there on the paper. Then, when the timer goes off, if they are there they get to fill in a smiley face. What a motivator! Like I said, it was simple, yet effective! TOMORROW IS CUM. TEST 11. SEND YOUR CHILD WITH A LITTLE EXTRA SNACK FOR MORNING RECESS. It helps them get through till lunchtime.
After lunch and Foreign Language 5th Graders went to Art. 4th Graders wrote in their best cursive and illustrated haiku poems we wrote yesterday. They are lovely. We are collecting poems to fill a bulletin board early next week.
After recess we worked again on our Invention stories and Newspaper stories. Most students are finished with their newspaper articles or fun pages. We also practiced for the school play.
This morning we added to our list of executive departments (Cabinet) for which the president is responsible. They are:
1. Department of Agriculture
2. Department of Commerce
3. Department of Defense
4. Department of Education
5. Department of Energy
6. Department of Health and Human Services
7. Department of Homeland Security
8. Department of Housing and Urban Development
9. Department of the Interior
10. Department of Justice
11. Department of Labor
12. Department of State
13. Department of Transportation
14. Department of the Treasury
15. Department of Veterans Affairs
We discussed very briefly what some of the responsibilities were of each department. Students had heard many things from the news and home discussions. They are interested in current events. Please discuss them with your children.
THERE IS A VOCABULARY TEST TOMORROW FOR LANGUAGE ARTS.
After reviewing once more the words for the week, we jumped right in to our Invention stories. THE ROUGH DRAFTS ARE DUE MONDAY. IF POSSIBLE, THEY SHOULD BE TYPED. Next Friday we teachers will be scanning the stories and sending them to a publishing company to be made into real hard-bound books. It is imperative that students produce quality work. I am pleased with the initiative these students are taking in writing lots and following plots, character development, problems, etc. in the fictional styles, and information sorting in the non-fiction styles.
In Danny, the doctor tells about giving Mr. Victor Hazell a shot. It was very funny. Let's just say we will always be kind to doctors' dogs after this!
MATH HOMEWORK IS TO FINISH REVIEW 11. We worked like crazy people today to get it done. We used a goal setting method which is quite simple. Students think of where they want to be in 10 minutes. They draw a circle there on the paper. Then, when the timer goes off, if they are there they get to fill in a smiley face. What a motivator! Like I said, it was simple, yet effective! TOMORROW IS CUM. TEST 11. SEND YOUR CHILD WITH A LITTLE EXTRA SNACK FOR MORNING RECESS. It helps them get through till lunchtime.
After lunch and Foreign Language 5th Graders went to Art. 4th Graders wrote in their best cursive and illustrated haiku poems we wrote yesterday. They are lovely. We are collecting poems to fill a bulletin board early next week.
After recess we worked again on our Invention stories and Newspaper stories. Most students are finished with their newspaper articles or fun pages. We also practiced for the school play.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
17 April 2013
This morning we learned about the 15 Departments that the President of the United States heads. Students need to be taking notes. They will have their first open-book test in May. It will be about U.S. Government.
MATH HOMEWORK WAS WORKBOOK EXERCISE 6, THE LAST EXERCISE BEFORE THE REVIEW. Today we learned that 1 cm "cubed" is 1 milliliter. We converted cubic centimeters to milliliters. Some students expressed a desire to start on the review early. That is okay.
We attended the rehearsal for "Hope of America" this morning. It was incredible! You will absolutely enjoy it tonight. Please see the batch email sent or check the post on this blog for more information and details.
This afternoon we learned that the definition of Haiku is changing. We wrote class haikus and experimented with our own. We will be refining these tomorrow and illustrating them.
After P.E. we completed more standardized testing.
See you tonight!
MATH HOMEWORK WAS WORKBOOK EXERCISE 6, THE LAST EXERCISE BEFORE THE REVIEW. Today we learned that 1 cm "cubed" is 1 milliliter. We converted cubic centimeters to milliliters. Some students expressed a desire to start on the review early. That is okay.
We attended the rehearsal for "Hope of America" this morning. It was incredible! You will absolutely enjoy it tonight. Please see the batch email sent or check the post on this blog for more information and details.
This afternoon we learned that the definition of Haiku is changing. We wrote class haikus and experimented with our own. We will be refining these tomorrow and illustrating them.
After P.E. we completed more standardized testing.
See you tonight!
"Hope of America" Detailed Instructions for Tonight's Performance!
THE HOPE OF AMERICA PERFORMANCE IS TONIGHT
WHERE: BYU Marriott Center
500 E University Parkway, Provo, UT 84606
Phone:(801) 422-1211
QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS CALL:
Michelle Templeman 801-358-4523, Lara Allen 801-362-6265,
Heather Shallenberger 801-687-7849, and Keri Wahl 801-691-9227
Traffic will be terrible, so please consider that as you plan when to leave for the performance tonight.
6:15: Students must be in their assigned seats – please take them to the bathroom before they sit in their seats in the flag.
6:45 – 7:15: Pre-show begins
7:00: After 7:00, No students will be permitted to sit with their class in the flag.
7:30: The Show begins
DROP OFF LOCATION and TIME
- Please bring your child to the NORTH WEST entrance of the Marriott Center at 6:15. STUDENTS THAT ARE NOT IN THEIR SEATS BY 7:00, WILL NOT BE IN THE FLAG.
- As you bring them in to their seats, ask them to show you our designated pick-up spot on the NW patio. We have marked our meeting place with a blue ribbon, and all of the students were there and saw it today during rehearsal. It is behind the ticket office, next to the bike racks. As you enter the Marriott center, you should enter the doors across from Portal S and T. PLEASE Have your student show you where our class will meet following the performance on your way into your seats so you can find it faster after the show.
- BRING YOUR STUDENT TO THEIR SEATS TO BE SURE THEY FIND US. ENTER THROUGH PORTAL V, AND WALK DOWN SECTION 20
- We will have a Yellow Sign that says, “Meridian School” to help you find us faster
STUDENT SEATING ASSIGNMENTS
- The following list identifies each students assigned seat:
Portal V, Section 20, Row 5
Seat 16- Joe, S-17 Allie, S-18 Max, S-19 Katherine, S-20 Sam, S-21 Bekah, S-22-Gavin
Portal V, Section 20, Row 8
Seat 18- Olivia, S-19 Iver, S-20 Arden, S-21 Harrison, S-22 Capri, S-23 Eric, S-24 Sophie, S-25 Lara
Portal V, Section 20, Row 9
Seat 18- Kobe, S-19 Myka, S-20 William, S-21 Heather, S-22 Kian, S-23 Jaydenn, S-24 Petya, S-25 Michelle, S-26 Riley
CLOTHING REQUIREMENTS
- Please bring your student in a white T-shirt, and DARK jeans or uniform pants. Not light jeans, tan, or any other color….ONLY wear Dark Jeans, or Navy Uniform pants. We have their red shirts and will hand them out when they get to their seats.
- Please have them bring dark sunglasses for the performance
WHERE WE WILL BE SITTING, SO YOU CAN FIND US FOR PICTURES IN THE FLAG:
When you are in the audience looking at the flag, the easiest way to find us is to follow these simple directions:
- Look at the bottom right corner of the blue square in the flag
- Directly under that blue corner, there are two rows of white stripes
- We will are the next two rows below them, (rows 8 and 9), of red stripes white stripes. We have 9 total seats on each row of the red stripe, and they go from the aisle in 9 seats.
- The other row of our remaining 7 seats (row 5) is the next red strip down closer to the floor, in the same seats as rows 8 and 9.
BEST SEATS TO SIT IN FOR A STRAIGHT SHOT FOR PICTURES AND VIDEO:
If you would like to sit in the audience directly across from our school so you can photograph or video you student at the best angle, Be sure to sit somewhere between Portals J and K. You can enter through either of those Portals as you make your way to your seats.
PICK UP LOCATION:
- Right after the performance, we will exit the Marriott Center as a class, through the doors directly across from Portal T.
- As a class, we have chosen our designated pick-up spot on the NW patio just outside of those doors. We have marked our meeting place with a blue ribbon, and all of the students were there and saw it today during rehearsal.
- You will find us directly behind the ticket office, next to the bike racks and railings. We will have a yellow sign that says “Meridian School” to help you find us faster.
- Please do your best to come directly to our pick-up location to find your student. They will be anxious to see you. Please do not make other pick-up arrangements with your student aside from these. We have to be sure each student is accounted for and is picked up.
One further request: Could you take lots of pictures? We will be participating with the kids and won't be able to "see" the flag. If you could email any pictures you take to me, that would be great.
Thanks again for your continued support. The kids have worked very hard to prepare for tonight, and it is a wonderful performance. You’re going to love it!
-Keri Wahl
Monday, April 15, 2013
April 15, 2013
Happy Tax Day!
ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT IS THE "HOPE OF AMERICA" PERFORMANCE. Students should bring a pair of sunglasses tomorrow for the show. We do have flashlights for the class.
Our new vocabulary words are:
spurious: plausible but false OR could be, but not true
submissive: inclined or willing to submit to orders or wishes of others or showing such inclination OR tends to surrender to orders or wishes of others or showing such tendencies
substantiate: establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts OR to back up something
subtle: difficult to detect or grasp by the mind or analyze OR difficult to see or understand or take apart and put together (as in learning)
superficial: of, affecting, or being on or near the surface OR fake, not deep feelings
ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT IS THE "HOPE OF AMERICA" PERFORMANCE. Students should bring a pair of sunglasses tomorrow for the show. We do have flashlights for the class.
Our new vocabulary words are:
spurious: plausible but false OR could be, but not true
submissive: inclined or willing to submit to orders or wishes of others or showing such inclination OR tends to surrender to orders or wishes of others or showing such tendencies
substantiate: establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts OR to back up something
subtle: difficult to detect or grasp by the mind or analyze OR difficult to see or understand or take apart and put together (as in learning)
superficial: of, affecting, or being on or near the surface OR fake, not deep feelings
We are not doing grammar or idioms this week. Instead, we are concentrating on finishing our Meridian newspaper featured articles and working on our invention stories. NEWSPAPER STORIES OR ARTICLES OR FEATURED WORKS ARE DUE THURSDAY. INVENTION STORY ROUGH DRAFTS ARE DUE NEXT MONDAY, A WEEK FROM TODAY.
Danny found his dad in a pit in Hazell's Wood today.
MATH HOMEWORK IS 11:4:A. We began volume today by learning what 3-dimensional really means, how to depict 3-D pictorally, and how to write "cubed" correctly. We created 3-dimensional objects out of cubes, guessed and checked the volume, and also built cubed objects. Students learned that a cube 1 foot by 1 foot by 1 foot actually needed 1,748 cubic inches to fill the space! Groups of students predicted, then built cubes 6 cubes long by 6 cubes wide by 6 cubes high. They figured out how many cubes were needed to complete the cube. This is a great brain exercise!
After lunch we had Meridian Math Club, S.I.R., and some students elected to work on their Invention stories. We then moved to poetry, dong a hands-on rotational pre-write assignment with verbs, nouns, and adjectives having to do with the seasons. This will expand to a haiku syllabic lesson tomorrow.
4th Graders went to Art and 5th Graders learned more about genetics, specifically dominant and recessive genes and crossovers. They learned how to chart BB, Bb, and bb off-spring. We used hair color, size, and earlobes to determine physical traits. We discussed physical and character (personality) traits that can be passed on to children.
After P.E. students reviewed the "Hope of America" schedule for Wednesday. We will be leaving the school at 9:15 a.m. to go to the Marriott Center for a rehearsal. PLEASE BRING A SACK LUNCH ON WEDNESDAY, AS WE WILL RETURN TO SCHOOL JUST AFTER LUNCH.
We also read a few invention books to get more ideas for our stories. HOMEWORK IS 30-40 MINUTES OF READING AND WORK ON YOUR INVENTION STORY.
Friday, April 12, 2013
April 12, 2013
This morning we got to hold a real crocodile claw and puffer fish from Florida! Gross! Cool!
After the Language Arts test we worked on spelling tests, finishing poems, invention stories, and read from Danny. His father hasn't come back from poaching, and Danny uses a Baby Austin to go find him. We also evaluated Victor Hazell's description.
MATH HOMEWORK IS PRACTICE 1, PROBLEMS 7-10. We already did 1-6 in school. Those who were up-to-date were rewarded with computer time, and those who weren't up-to-date were rewarded with catch-up time!
After lunch and a nice, long recess we learned about Marie Curie and win-win situations. Students then worked more on the Meridian newspaper. We completed a service by cleaning the school in ten minutes flat. Then on to mini-courses.
It was a good day!
READING HOMEWORK FOR 30-40 MINUTES EACH DAY. BOOK REPORT OF YOUR CHOICE DUE THE LAST WEEK OF THE MONTH.
After the Language Arts test we worked on spelling tests, finishing poems, invention stories, and read from Danny. His father hasn't come back from poaching, and Danny uses a Baby Austin to go find him. We also evaluated Victor Hazell's description.
MATH HOMEWORK IS PRACTICE 1, PROBLEMS 7-10. We already did 1-6 in school. Those who were up-to-date were rewarded with computer time, and those who weren't up-to-date were rewarded with catch-up time!
After lunch and a nice, long recess we learned about Marie Curie and win-win situations. Students then worked more on the Meridian newspaper. We completed a service by cleaning the school in ten minutes flat. Then on to mini-courses.
It was a good day!
READING HOMEWORK FOR 30-40 MINUTES EACH DAY. BOOK REPORT OF YOUR CHOICE DUE THE LAST WEEK OF THE MONTH.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
April 11, 2013
This morning we introduced the Judicial Branch. The Supreme Court interprets the constitution, decides states' rights, and reviews laws. Again...fierce debate.
A vocabulary race found the girls' knowledge ahead of the boys' knowledge for tomorrow's test. PLEASE STUDY THE SAT WORDS FOR THE TEST TOMORROW. THEY ARE ON THE BLOG POST.
The idiom for the day was: "Kill Two Birds with One Stone".
Most students completed their spelling activities today. Any unfinished tests will be completed tomorrow.
Danny found out his father is a pheasant poacher, descended from the best!
MATH HOMEWORK IS 11:3:A. Many problems will have to be converted to smaller measures before the operation can be performed.
Foreign Language and 5th Grade Art. 4th Graders completed their "Color Poems". They have done an awesome job, with lots of attention to detail.
Recess and Invention Story brainstorming, along with poetry completion, and then music.
PLEASE HAVE YOUR CHILD REVIEW THE "HOPE OF AMERICA" SONGS.
READING HOMEWORK IS 30-40 MINUTES EACH NIGHT. BOOK REPORT DUE AT THE MONTH'S END.
A vocabulary race found the girls' knowledge ahead of the boys' knowledge for tomorrow's test. PLEASE STUDY THE SAT WORDS FOR THE TEST TOMORROW. THEY ARE ON THE BLOG POST.
The idiom for the day was: "Kill Two Birds with One Stone".
Most students completed their spelling activities today. Any unfinished tests will be completed tomorrow.
Danny found out his father is a pheasant poacher, descended from the best!
MATH HOMEWORK IS 11:3:A. Many problems will have to be converted to smaller measures before the operation can be performed.
Foreign Language and 5th Grade Art. 4th Graders completed their "Color Poems". They have done an awesome job, with lots of attention to detail.
Recess and Invention Story brainstorming, along with poetry completion, and then music.
PLEASE HAVE YOUR CHILD REVIEW THE "HOPE OF AMERICA" SONGS.
READING HOMEWORK IS 30-40 MINUTES EACH NIGHT. BOOK REPORT DUE AT THE MONTH'S END.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
April 10, 2013
LANGUAGE ARTS TEST ON FRIDAY.
We learned about the Legislative Branch of government today. The House of Representatives and Senate make and pass laws, create spending bills, make treaties, and impeaching officials. We had quite the debate about whether the president should have "friends" in the Legislative Branch, to whom he offers favors. Quite a few points about corruption and standards.
After playing our SAT vocabulary game and finishing editing our grammar sheet, students discussed and wrote responses to the idiom: "Time heals all wounds". Several students voluntarily stayed in during recess to add more to their entries. Most students have completed their newspaper spelling activity. They have begun testing. We read to the problem in Danny, the Champion of the World. Danny's father has left, and someone is coming. It is the middle of the night.
MATH HOMEWORK IS WORKSHEET 11: 2:A. We worked away on more compound measurements. Several students had "aha" moments today.
After SIR/Meridian Math Club, we had a lesson on color poems. Next, we began creating our own poems. ROUGH DRAFTS ARE DUE TOMORROW.
Color Poem Instructions
Choose a Color Green
Choose a Sense Feels like butterflies fluttering in my nervous stomach.
Choose a Sense Tastes like freshly picked kiwifruit sliced in my salad.
Choose a Sense
etc.
Senses are feelings, taste, smell, sound, touch, movement, sight, etc.
We also worked heavily on our 4/5 Meridian Newspaper articles. These kids have very creative, interactive ideas. ARTICLES WILL BE DUE BY THURSDAY NEXT WEEK.
PE and then Performance Series Testing finished up the day.
HOMEWORK FOR READING IS 30-40 MINUTES IN A BOOK OF YOUR CHOICE. A BOOK REPORT IS DUE THE END OF APRIL.
We learned about the Legislative Branch of government today. The House of Representatives and Senate make and pass laws, create spending bills, make treaties, and impeaching officials. We had quite the debate about whether the president should have "friends" in the Legislative Branch, to whom he offers favors. Quite a few points about corruption and standards.
After playing our SAT vocabulary game and finishing editing our grammar sheet, students discussed and wrote responses to the idiom: "Time heals all wounds". Several students voluntarily stayed in during recess to add more to their entries. Most students have completed their newspaper spelling activity. They have begun testing. We read to the problem in Danny, the Champion of the World. Danny's father has left, and someone is coming. It is the middle of the night.
MATH HOMEWORK IS WORKSHEET 11: 2:A. We worked away on more compound measurements. Several students had "aha" moments today.
After SIR/Meridian Math Club, we had a lesson on color poems. Next, we began creating our own poems. ROUGH DRAFTS ARE DUE TOMORROW.
Color Poem Instructions
Choose a Color Green
Choose a Sense Feels like butterflies fluttering in my nervous stomach.
Choose a Sense Tastes like freshly picked kiwifruit sliced in my salad.
Choose a Sense
etc.
Senses are feelings, taste, smell, sound, touch, movement, sight, etc.
We also worked heavily on our 4/5 Meridian Newspaper articles. These kids have very creative, interactive ideas. ARTICLES WILL BE DUE BY THURSDAY NEXT WEEK.
PE and then Performance Series Testing finished up the day.
HOMEWORK FOR READING IS 30-40 MINUTES IN A BOOK OF YOUR CHOICE. A BOOK REPORT IS DUE THE END OF APRIL.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
April 9th, 2013
This morning we learned the duties of the Executive Branch. STUDENTS SHOULD LOOK ONLINE OR IN THE NEWSPAPER FOR ANY ARTICLES DEPICTING THE PRESIDENT AND HIS DUTIES.
We reviewed our SAT words with a coin flipping game. REVIEW THE WORDS ON THE TERM THREE SAT VOCABULARY POST, MADE YESTERDAY.
Grammar was more editing practice.
Students worked on spelling words. A test is due by Friday (they are done at school). The activity is a mixed paragraph using spelling words and newspaper words. Can you tell we are trying to get a lot of exposure to newspapers? IF YOU HAVE AN ALREADY READ NEWSPAPER THAT IS A DAY OR TWO OLD, WE'D LOVE TO HAVE IT!
We read more of Danny, the Champion of the World.
Math today was lonnnnnnnggggg! We learned more compound measurements and worked hard on story problems. I will tone it down a bit over the next few days, but we will continue to multiply, divide, add and subtract compound measurements. HOMEWORK IS COMPLETING THE MEASUREMENT PACKET WORD PROBLEMS (6-9) AND THE TAKE-HOME TEST 11-1-A.
After a lot of specialists, we acted out life in a city during the Middle Ages and learned about guilds. Of particular interest was that around 1000 A.D. men started to eat less meat and women ate more healthily. A direct result of women living longer was that they bore more children, causing a population "boom" in Europe. Interesting.
HOMEWORK IS READING FOR 30-40 MINUTES, A BOOK OF YOUR CHOICE. THERE WILL BE A BOOK REPORT DUE AT THE END OF APRIL!
We reviewed our SAT words with a coin flipping game. REVIEW THE WORDS ON THE TERM THREE SAT VOCABULARY POST, MADE YESTERDAY.
Grammar was more editing practice.
Students worked on spelling words. A test is due by Friday (they are done at school). The activity is a mixed paragraph using spelling words and newspaper words. Can you tell we are trying to get a lot of exposure to newspapers? IF YOU HAVE AN ALREADY READ NEWSPAPER THAT IS A DAY OR TWO OLD, WE'D LOVE TO HAVE IT!
We read more of Danny, the Champion of the World.
Math today was lonnnnnnnggggg! We learned more compound measurements and worked hard on story problems. I will tone it down a bit over the next few days, but we will continue to multiply, divide, add and subtract compound measurements. HOMEWORK IS COMPLETING THE MEASUREMENT PACKET WORD PROBLEMS (6-9) AND THE TAKE-HOME TEST 11-1-A.
After a lot of specialists, we acted out life in a city during the Middle Ages and learned about guilds. Of particular interest was that around 1000 A.D. men started to eat less meat and women ate more healthily. A direct result of women living longer was that they bore more children, causing a population "boom" in Europe. Interesting.
HOMEWORK IS READING FOR 30-40 MINUTES, A BOOK OF YOUR CHOICE. THERE WILL BE A BOOK REPORT DUE AT THE END OF APRIL!
Monday, April 8, 2013
Term 4 SAT Words
April 29, 2013
superfluous: more than is needed, desired, or required
surreptitious: marked by quiet and caution and secrecy; taking pains to avoid being observed
tactful: having or showing a sense of what is fitting and considerate in dealing with others
tenacious: stubbornly unyielding
transient: lasting a very short time
NO WORDS FOR TWO WEEKS BECAUSE OF PUBLISHING DEADLINES
April 15, 2013
The new SAT words are:
spurious: plausible but false OR could be, but not true
submissive: inclined or willing to submit to orders or wishes of others or showing such inclination OR tends to surrender to orders or wishes of others or showing such tendencies
substantiate: establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts OR to back up something
subtle: difficult to detect or grasp by the mind or analyze OR difficult to see or understand or take apart and put together (as in learning)
superficial: of, affecting, or being on or near the surface OR fake, not deep feelings
April 8, 2013
The new SAT words are:
- restrain:to hold back, control, limit, repress, check, slow down
- reverence: deep, profound, respect for someone or something
- sagacity: ability to make good judgments, foresight, discernment, keen perception
- scrutinize: investigate, searching, watching, guarding, examine, close look
- spontaneous: unplanned in advance, spur of the moment
April 8, 2013
A big "Hello" to you! Hope you enjoyed your Spring Break!
This morning we began learning about the U.S. government system. We learned the three branches of government: judicial, executive, and legislative. Every morning for a few minutes we will learn new facets of our legal system.
The new SAT words are:
The idiom today was: "It's Never Too Late to Mend".
We are reading Danny, the Champion of the World as a read aloud. The kids really enjoy listening to the voice of the author. This will lead to debating hot topics, like poaching, gun control, etc. We are also critically evaluating Crispin a little bit, every day.
MATH HOMEWORK OVER SPRING BREAK WAS EXERCISES 2 &3. MANY STUDENTS STILL NEED TO COMPLETE THIS. HOMEWORK TODAY IS WORD PROBLEMS 1-5. When your child is working on 3 lb. 4 oz. x 7, have him or her do it in their heads. The process is so much harder at the beginning, but so liberating when it doesn't have to be written later. For example: 3 lb. x 7 = 21 lb. Also, 4 oz. x 7 = 28 oz. We know 28 oz = 1 lb. 12 oz., so we add the extra lb. to 21. The total is 22 lb. and 12 oz. Remind students to practice multiplying two digit numbers by one digit numbers in their heads. Example: 44 x 3 = (40 x 3) + (4 x 3) = 120 + 12 = 132.
After lunch we had SIR and Meridian Math Club. We then started our poetry unit, creating I-poems. IF IT WASN'T COMPLETED IN SCHOOL, IT BECAME HOMEWORK. The finished poems are hanging on the loft railing. The form for it is:
First line: First Name
Second line: 2 adjectives describing the person's personality
Third line: 4 words describing physical characteristics
Fourth line: 5 nouns of things the person enjoys
Fifth line: A descriptive word or short phrase summing up that person
4th Graders went to Art. 5th Graders had an introductory lesson on Heredity. HOMEWORK IS TO CHECK PINKY FINGERS, DOUBLE-JOINTEDNESS, AND TONGUE ROLLING.
After P.E. students partnered up and presented the differences between knights and serfs in a creative visual presentation, a large puzzle of sorts. I was impressed that the students worked so well with assigned partners. This class has amazing social dynamics.
HOMEWORK IS TO READ FOR 30-40 MINUTES - A BOOK OF YOUR CHOICE.
This morning we began learning about the U.S. government system. We learned the three branches of government: judicial, executive, and legislative. Every morning for a few minutes we will learn new facets of our legal system.
The new SAT words are:
- restrain:to hold back, control, limit, repress, check, slow down
- reverence: deep, profound, respect for someone or something
- sagacity: ability to make good judgments, foresight, discernment, keen perception
- scrutinize: investigate, searching, watching, guarding, examine, close look
- spontaneous: unplanned in advance, spur of the moment
The idiom today was: "It's Never Too Late to Mend".
We are reading Danny, the Champion of the World as a read aloud. The kids really enjoy listening to the voice of the author. This will lead to debating hot topics, like poaching, gun control, etc. We are also critically evaluating Crispin a little bit, every day.
MATH HOMEWORK OVER SPRING BREAK WAS EXERCISES 2 &3. MANY STUDENTS STILL NEED TO COMPLETE THIS. HOMEWORK TODAY IS WORD PROBLEMS 1-5. When your child is working on 3 lb. 4 oz. x 7, have him or her do it in their heads. The process is so much harder at the beginning, but so liberating when it doesn't have to be written later. For example: 3 lb. x 7 = 21 lb. Also, 4 oz. x 7 = 28 oz. We know 28 oz = 1 lb. 12 oz., so we add the extra lb. to 21. The total is 22 lb. and 12 oz. Remind students to practice multiplying two digit numbers by one digit numbers in their heads. Example: 44 x 3 = (40 x 3) + (4 x 3) = 120 + 12 = 132.
After lunch we had SIR and Meridian Math Club. We then started our poetry unit, creating I-poems. IF IT WASN'T COMPLETED IN SCHOOL, IT BECAME HOMEWORK. The finished poems are hanging on the loft railing. The form for it is:
First line: First Name
Second line: 2 adjectives describing the person's personality
Third line: 4 words describing physical characteristics
Fourth line: 5 nouns of things the person enjoys
Fifth line: A descriptive word or short phrase summing up that person
4th Graders went to Art. 5th Graders had an introductory lesson on Heredity. HOMEWORK IS TO CHECK PINKY FINGERS, DOUBLE-JOINTEDNESS, AND TONGUE ROLLING.
After P.E. students partnered up and presented the differences between knights and serfs in a creative visual presentation, a large puzzle of sorts. I was impressed that the students worked so well with assigned partners. This class has amazing social dynamics.
HOMEWORK IS TO READ FOR 30-40 MINUTES - A BOOK OF YOUR CHOICE.
Friday, March 29, 2013
March 29th, 2013
This morning we shared very entertaining non-fiction book reports. I was very impressed with how well the students write using the 3-point essay style. The reports ranged from parrot intelligence to monkeys to spiders to WWI to WWII to survival tactics to art and so forth. They were well written and show lots of detail.
HOMEWORK FOR READING OVER THE VACATION IS AT LEAST 40 MINUTES A DAY. IT WOULD BE BETTER IF KIDS WENT TO THE PUBLIC LIBRARY AND PICKED OUT A DOZEN OR SO BOOKS TO READ.
The kids are struggling a bit with symbolism in reading. We are beginning a critical analysis (the first one) of Crispin, comparing characters, setting, problem/solution, and plot, with the theme "Change". It is a difficult concept to grasp. As one student put it: "What! Can't I just read a book for fun? Or do I have to think about every book I read from now on?" My answer was that a book that you put time into, and immerse yourself in, should change who you are in some small way or big way. Thinking about it critically enhances your thought process and makes you question the world and yourself, making you stronger. I'm not sure the kids understand, but we will be critically analyzing literature through the rest of the year. It is a rich and rewarding experience. Yes, they will still be able to love books, and I want them to see them in new ways. I would like them to complete their own critical analysis before the year's end.
In math we learned three separate ways to solve measurement problems. Bar models, number bonding, and the "Mrs. Penrod" way. STUDENTS HAVE EXERCISED 2 AND 3 TO COMPLETE OVER SPRING BREAK. If your child has lost his/her math book, please locate it over Spring Break. Problems include:
5 km 3 m - 2 km 48 m = ____ km____m
Use English and Metric systems if you are practicing with your child.
After lunch we had Cultural Roundtable and played the funnest game ever! 1,2,3, Freeze! in French. We played as a school in the gym. Pictures were taken.
At 12:30 we began our Performance Series testing. Most students completed a test. We will be taking one test per week throughout the rest of the school year. These tests map students' progress and drive instruction. They are good indicators for how quickly and consistently children are learning concepts. Please encourage your child to do his/her best.
Mini-courses were exciting, as always. DOES ANYONE HAVE STYROFOAM SHEETS FROM PACKAGING WE COULD USE FOR THE NEXT EARTHQUAKE MINICOURSE?
Have a wonderful Spring Break!
HOMEWORK FOR READING OVER THE VACATION IS AT LEAST 40 MINUTES A DAY. IT WOULD BE BETTER IF KIDS WENT TO THE PUBLIC LIBRARY AND PICKED OUT A DOZEN OR SO BOOKS TO READ.
The kids are struggling a bit with symbolism in reading. We are beginning a critical analysis (the first one) of Crispin, comparing characters, setting, problem/solution, and plot, with the theme "Change". It is a difficult concept to grasp. As one student put it: "What! Can't I just read a book for fun? Or do I have to think about every book I read from now on?" My answer was that a book that you put time into, and immerse yourself in, should change who you are in some small way or big way. Thinking about it critically enhances your thought process and makes you question the world and yourself, making you stronger. I'm not sure the kids understand, but we will be critically analyzing literature through the rest of the year. It is a rich and rewarding experience. Yes, they will still be able to love books, and I want them to see them in new ways. I would like them to complete their own critical analysis before the year's end.
In math we learned three separate ways to solve measurement problems. Bar models, number bonding, and the "Mrs. Penrod" way. STUDENTS HAVE EXERCISED 2 AND 3 TO COMPLETE OVER SPRING BREAK. If your child has lost his/her math book, please locate it over Spring Break. Problems include:
5 km 3 m - 2 km 48 m = ____ km____m
Use English and Metric systems if you are practicing with your child.
After lunch we had Cultural Roundtable and played the funnest game ever! 1,2,3, Freeze! in French. We played as a school in the gym. Pictures were taken.
At 12:30 we began our Performance Series testing. Most students completed a test. We will be taking one test per week throughout the rest of the school year. These tests map students' progress and drive instruction. They are good indicators for how quickly and consistently children are learning concepts. Please encourage your child to do his/her best.
Mini-courses were exciting, as always. DOES ANYONE HAVE STYROFOAM SHEETS FROM PACKAGING WE COULD USE FOR THE NEXT EARTHQUAKE MINICOURSE?
Have a wonderful Spring Break!
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
March 27th, 2013
Hi! Finally!
The only homework still due is the 3-point essay non-fiction book report, due Friday.
Great fieldtrip to the Clark Planetarium.
Finished Crispin. Very intense.
Goodnight!
The only homework still due is the 3-point essay non-fiction book report, due Friday.
Great fieldtrip to the Clark Planetarium.
Finished Crispin. Very intense.
Goodnight!
Friday, March 22, 2013
March 22nd, 2013
ALL GRADING FOR TERM 3 WILL BE COMPLETED TOMORROW AND "PUSHED" THROUGH TO THE INTERNET FOR PARENTS TO SEE. PLEASE CHECK THE MERI.ACHIEVE WEBSITE FOR GRADES.
MYSTERY BOARDS AND TEACHER ESSAYS ARE DUE MONDAY!!!(SEE BELOW)
Sorry, but this Friday we just didn't have time for the Language Arts Test. We will get to it next week.
This morning we learned about conventions: Punctuation, Grammar, Vocabulary, Spelling, Capitalization, etc. We learned that building each other up in ideas with the strategy, "Yes, and..." helps story ideas grow. It is fun to have different workshops from different teachers during our annual Writing Rally. Our topic this year has been: Inventions Make the World Go Round.
After a very productive recess, where most of the students worked on catch up items or Mystery Boards, we had a lesson from Miss Sherman. We brainstormed ideas for our invention story we will be publishing in May.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE REVIEW #10. Students worked while I pulled them aside individually to review their grades. Please know that they have had the last two weeks to do any catch-up work that was required.
Also, please note that it is extremely difficult to get an A in Math. The cumulative tests are very difficult, requiring students to show proficiency in any past concept. Also, they have 2-4 points per test allotted to using the new concept in a new way, to see if the student is able to apply it across the different math strains. Some are very difficult indeed. It is graded on the British system: 60-70% shows the student has a grasp on the concept. By 80%, mastery is developing.
After lunch students worked more on teacher essays and Mystery Boards. TEACHER ESSAYS ARE DUE MONDAY. THEY SHOULD BE TYPED OUT ACCORDING TO THE SPECIFICATIONS OF THE BLOG YESTERDAY. PLEASE FOLLOW THE BLOG!
Chad Morris, author of the new book, The Inventor's Secret, entertained and inspired us to greater heights today. He urged the kids to 1. Feed your mind 2. Imagine 3. Do 4. Never give up. He had some fun presentations. I was pleased that two of our class were brave enough to go up and participate. The top Jazz readers had some extra time with Mr. Morris after the all-school assembly.
After a music practice, we attended very popular mini-courses. It was a good day.
MYSTERY BOARDS AND TEACHER ESSAYS ARE DUE MONDAY!!!(SEE BELOW)
Sorry, but this Friday we just didn't have time for the Language Arts Test. We will get to it next week.
This morning we learned about conventions: Punctuation, Grammar, Vocabulary, Spelling, Capitalization, etc. We learned that building each other up in ideas with the strategy, "Yes, and..." helps story ideas grow. It is fun to have different workshops from different teachers during our annual Writing Rally. Our topic this year has been: Inventions Make the World Go Round.
After a very productive recess, where most of the students worked on catch up items or Mystery Boards, we had a lesson from Miss Sherman. We brainstormed ideas for our invention story we will be publishing in May.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE REVIEW #10. Students worked while I pulled them aside individually to review their grades. Please know that they have had the last two weeks to do any catch-up work that was required.
Also, please note that it is extremely difficult to get an A in Math. The cumulative tests are very difficult, requiring students to show proficiency in any past concept. Also, they have 2-4 points per test allotted to using the new concept in a new way, to see if the student is able to apply it across the different math strains. Some are very difficult indeed. It is graded on the British system: 60-70% shows the student has a grasp on the concept. By 80%, mastery is developing.
After lunch students worked more on teacher essays and Mystery Boards. TEACHER ESSAYS ARE DUE MONDAY. THEY SHOULD BE TYPED OUT ACCORDING TO THE SPECIFICATIONS OF THE BLOG YESTERDAY. PLEASE FOLLOW THE BLOG!
Chad Morris, author of the new book, The Inventor's Secret, entertained and inspired us to greater heights today. He urged the kids to 1. Feed your mind 2. Imagine 3. Do 4. Never give up. He had some fun presentations. I was pleased that two of our class were brave enough to go up and participate. The top Jazz readers had some extra time with Mr. Morris after the all-school assembly.
After a music practice, we attended very popular mini-courses. It was a good day.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
March 21st, 2013
This morning we all synergyzed to move the gym floor over about 10 feet! It "floats" during the year, and boy, was it heavy!
Next we went to Mrs. Penrod's classroom to learn about organizing writing. After recess, we visited Mr. Glenn for another writing trait. At 10:00 we were treated with a visit from the inventors of the 3-D Printer. It was awesome! Before our eyes a computer told a machine what to create, and a 3-dimensional cube was formed! The kids had so many questions. The part I specifically liked was that the inventor said, "Your imagination is the only limit to what you can achieve."
THERE WAS NO MATH HOMEWORK GIVEN TODAY.
After lunch we had Foreign Language. 5th Graders went to Art. 4th Graders worked on Open House poster projects for Tuesday night.
We organized the teacher interview material. STUDENTS MUST WRITE OUT THE FIRST THREE PARAGRAPHS OF THEIR TEACHER ESSAY TONIGHT. It would be better if they typed it out. A parent can type while the child reads it to them, but it is more effective for the child to type. It should look like this when it is typed:
Indent first paragraph. Teacher's name in first sentence. Two or three interesting points about the teacher to catch our attention. Analytical Thesis Statement (Three things / Four things). List the categories that you are going to highlight about this teacher.
Indent second paragraph. First item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent third paragraph. Second item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent fourth paragraph. Third item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent fifth paragraph. Repeat the three categories. Write some more interesting points about the teacher. Use a "hook" at the end, so the reader wants to really get to know this teacher.
Note: There may be four or five "points" the students wants to make. This is okay. Also, students should use one direct quote from the teacher.
OTHER HOMEWORK INCLUDES TYPING OUT THE MYSTERY. MOST STUDENTS HAVE DONE THIS. IF YOU CHILD HASN'T DONE IT, PLEASE HELP HIM OR HER TYPE IT OUT.
Today was also the school spelling bee.
Next we went to Mrs. Penrod's classroom to learn about organizing writing. After recess, we visited Mr. Glenn for another writing trait. At 10:00 we were treated with a visit from the inventors of the 3-D Printer. It was awesome! Before our eyes a computer told a machine what to create, and a 3-dimensional cube was formed! The kids had so many questions. The part I specifically liked was that the inventor said, "Your imagination is the only limit to what you can achieve."
THERE WAS NO MATH HOMEWORK GIVEN TODAY.
After lunch we had Foreign Language. 5th Graders went to Art. 4th Graders worked on Open House poster projects for Tuesday night.
We organized the teacher interview material. STUDENTS MUST WRITE OUT THE FIRST THREE PARAGRAPHS OF THEIR TEACHER ESSAY TONIGHT. It would be better if they typed it out. A parent can type while the child reads it to them, but it is more effective for the child to type. It should look like this when it is typed:
Teacher Name
Subject Taught
written by Name of Student
Indent first paragraph. Teacher's name in first sentence. Two or three interesting points about the teacher to catch our attention. Analytical Thesis Statement (Three things / Four things). List the categories that you are going to highlight about this teacher.
Indent second paragraph. First item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent third paragraph. Second item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent fourth paragraph. Third item in first sentence. Details and "meat" about that topic in at least four or five sentences. Some students will be able to write considerably more about some topics. Use complete sentences.
Indent fifth paragraph. Repeat the three categories. Write some more interesting points about the teacher. Use a "hook" at the end, so the reader wants to really get to know this teacher.
Note: There may be four or five "points" the students wants to make. This is okay. Also, students should use one direct quote from the teacher.
OTHER HOMEWORK INCLUDES TYPING OUT THE MYSTERY. MOST STUDENTS HAVE DONE THIS. IF YOU CHILD HASN'T DONE IT, PLEASE HELP HIM OR HER TYPE IT OUT.
Today was also the school spelling bee.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
March 20th, 2013
This morning we prepared for Writing Rally and reviewed homework progress.
At 8:30 Mrs. Shallenburger treated us to a Five Senses program centered around writing and inventions. Popcorn was the medium! Students wrote about taste, sound, sight, texture, similes, metaphors, etc.
Mrs. Hagen taught a writing workshop. STUDENTS SHOULD BE THINKING ABOUT A STORY LINE FOR A PUBLISHED BOOK USING THE THEME: "INVENTIONS MAKE THE WORLD GO ROUND". We will be writing these in April.
MATH HOMEWORK IS A COPIED PACKET. We reviewed line graphs and applied algebraic formula to them. For instance, if x=3 and y=12, x=4 and y=16, the formula is y=4x. Hopefully we will work the review tomorrow and take the test on Friday.
At 12:00 six wonderful parents turned up and drove students to the East Bay Post Office in Provo for a tour of the facilities. Thank you so much. We were able to get our boy off to the MTC.
P.E. ensued when students returned. After PE we were treated with a Meridian Talent Show. Students were given copies of their history grades.
TERM 3 ENDS ON FRIDAY. PLEASE CHECK THE MERI.ACHIEVE-TECHNOLOGY.US WEBSITE TO CHECK YOUR CHILD'S GRADES.
At 8:30 Mrs. Shallenburger treated us to a Five Senses program centered around writing and inventions. Popcorn was the medium! Students wrote about taste, sound, sight, texture, similes, metaphors, etc.
Mrs. Hagen taught a writing workshop. STUDENTS SHOULD BE THINKING ABOUT A STORY LINE FOR A PUBLISHED BOOK USING THE THEME: "INVENTIONS MAKE THE WORLD GO ROUND". We will be writing these in April.
MATH HOMEWORK IS A COPIED PACKET. We reviewed line graphs and applied algebraic formula to them. For instance, if x=3 and y=12, x=4 and y=16, the formula is y=4x. Hopefully we will work the review tomorrow and take the test on Friday.
At 12:00 six wonderful parents turned up and drove students to the East Bay Post Office in Provo for a tour of the facilities. Thank you so much. We were able to get our boy off to the MTC.
P.E. ensued when students returned. After PE we were treated with a Meridian Talent Show. Students were given copies of their history grades.
TERM 3 ENDS ON FRIDAY. PLEASE CHECK THE MERI.ACHIEVE-TECHNOLOGY.US WEBSITE TO CHECK YOUR CHILD'S GRADES.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
March 19th, 2013
This morning we simulated a spelling bee. Students have the opportunity to compete in Meridian's Spelling Bee on Thursday. Sign-up sheets are in our room.
After vocabulary and the idiom "Sit on the Fence", we read more of Crispin. Students learned of his relationship to Lord Furnival. We are still working on senses strategies. READING IS JUST NON-FICTION.
MATH HOMEWORK WAS EXERCISE 6 AND A WORKSHEET. Today we learned the purpose of line graphs and reviewed probability terms. Students made line and bar graphs of their own skittles packet! Many students have taken the opportunity to raise their math grades. The deadline for this term is Friday.
Students have finished their teacher interviews. They organized their information to prepare to write an essay on the teacher. We had a lesson about feeding the audience meat, rather than bare bone information.
The art assembly for the Arbor Day posters was this afternoon. Kudos to the winners!
After vocabulary and the idiom "Sit on the Fence", we read more of Crispin. Students learned of his relationship to Lord Furnival. We are still working on senses strategies. READING IS JUST NON-FICTION.
MATH HOMEWORK WAS EXERCISE 6 AND A WORKSHEET. Today we learned the purpose of line graphs and reviewed probability terms. Students made line and bar graphs of their own skittles packet! Many students have taken the opportunity to raise their math grades. The deadline for this term is Friday.
Students have finished their teacher interviews. They organized their information to prepare to write an essay on the teacher. We had a lesson about feeding the audience meat, rather than bare bone information.
The art assembly for the Arbor Day posters was this afternoon. Kudos to the winners!
Monday, March 18, 2013
March 18th, 2013
FIELD TRIP OPPORTUNITY THIS WEDNESDAY TO EAST BAY POST OFFICE. LEAVING SCHOOL AT 12 NOON. RETURNING AROUND 1:40. IF YOU WANT TO DRIVE, PLEASE CONTACT ME AT keriwahl@yahoo.com or call the school and leave a message.
MY APOLOGIES IF YOU HAVEN'T YET CONFERENCED WITH ME. IT IS A CRAZY TIME FOR US. OUR SON LEAVES ON A MISSION ON WEDNESDAY. LIFE SHOULD TONE DOWN A TAD AFTER THAT.
This morning we handed out graded assignments and reviewed the goals of the next two weeks:
-Mystery Boards to be finished this week
-Art awards tomorrow(?)
-Spelling Bee Thursday
-Interviews to be finished by tomorrow. Teacher 3-pt. essays due typed by Friday.
-Non-fiction book report research 3-pt. essays due by Friday, March 29th.
-Writing Rally Wednesday - Friday this week.
-This Wednesday Field trip to East Bay Post Office in Provo.
-Talent Show at 2:30 this Wednesday.
-Grades for Term 3 will be posted this Friday, March 22nd.
-Term 4 begins Monday, March 25th.
-Open House at Meridian, March 26th, at 6:30 p.m.
-Spring Picture Day next Wednesday, March 27th.
- Next Wednesday, March 27th, Field Trip to Clark Planetarium in SLC. Leaving @ 8:45.
Could we be any busier??? And at that, I probably left something out!
New SAT vocabulary words follow:
querulous: habitually complaining
rancorous: showing deep-seated resentment
reclusive: withdrawn from society; seeking solitude
reconciliation: the reestablishing of cordial relations
renovation: the act of improving by renewing and restoring
THERE WILL BE A LANGUAGE ARTS TEST ON FRIDAY!
PLEASE REVIEW PLURAL APOSTROPHE USE WITH YOUR CHILD. Ask: How do you spell "the milk of the cats"? the cats' milk Ask: How do you spell "the jerseys of the teams"? the teams' jerseys, etc. Most students need a review of where the apostrophe comes in possessive case.
Today we wrote on the idiom Eureka! Our reading of Crispin got us to Bear being taken captive to Lord Furnival's house. THERE WAS NO CRISPIN HOMEWORK TONIGHT. READ YOUR NON-FICTION BOOK!
In Math we handed out graded assignments and completed Exercise 5, which is about reading bar graphs. We spent the second half of math in the computer lab, creating graphs on an online website (google "make a graph"). Students were pretty savvy with x- and y- axes! They also understood the terms range and data. It is sinking in! MATH HOMEWORK IS WORKSHEET 10:5:A.
After lunch we read and had math club. There is a section in the Orem Public Library that many of these kids would like. They have a comic book section. Even the girls might get hooked! Take your child to the library often!
Students worked on Writer's Workshop. Most worked on Mystery Boards and interview questions. Tomorrow we will be organizing our essays.
4th Graders went to Art. 5th Graders continued their work and then met to form Open House committees. Assignments will go out tomorrow.
After PE we read about Life on the Manor - Chapter 7. We looked for answers to questions in the readings. All students were on task and handed in their homework early so they could go skating tonight.
MY APOLOGIES IF YOU HAVEN'T YET CONFERENCED WITH ME. IT IS A CRAZY TIME FOR US. OUR SON LEAVES ON A MISSION ON WEDNESDAY. LIFE SHOULD TONE DOWN A TAD AFTER THAT.
This morning we handed out graded assignments and reviewed the goals of the next two weeks:
-Mystery Boards to be finished this week
-Art awards tomorrow(?)
-Spelling Bee Thursday
-Interviews to be finished by tomorrow. Teacher 3-pt. essays due typed by Friday.
-Non-fiction book report research 3-pt. essays due by Friday, March 29th.
-Writing Rally Wednesday - Friday this week.
-This Wednesday Field trip to East Bay Post Office in Provo.
-Talent Show at 2:30 this Wednesday.
-Grades for Term 3 will be posted this Friday, March 22nd.
-Term 4 begins Monday, March 25th.
-Open House at Meridian, March 26th, at 6:30 p.m.
-Spring Picture Day next Wednesday, March 27th.
- Next Wednesday, March 27th, Field Trip to Clark Planetarium in SLC. Leaving @ 8:45.
Could we be any busier??? And at that, I probably left something out!
New SAT vocabulary words follow:
querulous: habitually complaining
rancorous: showing deep-seated resentment
reclusive: withdrawn from society; seeking solitude
reconciliation: the reestablishing of cordial relations
renovation: the act of improving by renewing and restoring
THERE WILL BE A LANGUAGE ARTS TEST ON FRIDAY!
PLEASE REVIEW PLURAL APOSTROPHE USE WITH YOUR CHILD. Ask: How do you spell "the milk of the cats"? the cats' milk Ask: How do you spell "the jerseys of the teams"? the teams' jerseys, etc. Most students need a review of where the apostrophe comes in possessive case.
Today we wrote on the idiom Eureka! Our reading of Crispin got us to Bear being taken captive to Lord Furnival's house. THERE WAS NO CRISPIN HOMEWORK TONIGHT. READ YOUR NON-FICTION BOOK!
In Math we handed out graded assignments and completed Exercise 5, which is about reading bar graphs. We spent the second half of math in the computer lab, creating graphs on an online website (google "make a graph"). Students were pretty savvy with x- and y- axes! They also understood the terms range and data. It is sinking in! MATH HOMEWORK IS WORKSHEET 10:5:A.
After lunch we read and had math club. There is a section in the Orem Public Library that many of these kids would like. They have a comic book section. Even the girls might get hooked! Take your child to the library often!
Students worked on Writer's Workshop. Most worked on Mystery Boards and interview questions. Tomorrow we will be organizing our essays.
4th Graders went to Art. 5th Graders continued their work and then met to form Open House committees. Assignments will go out tomorrow.
After PE we read about Life on the Manor - Chapter 7. We looked for answers to questions in the readings. All students were on task and handed in their homework early so they could go skating tonight.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
March 13th, 2013
FRIDAY IS THE LAST DAY TO RE-ENROLL FOR NEXT YEAR WITH THE 10% TUITION DISCOUNT AND 50% REGISTRATION DISCOUNT.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD IS COMING TO SCHOOL IN PROPER UNIFORM ATTIRE, PARTICULARLY SHOES.
This morning we learned another way to organize essays: Web fashion. Students practiced choosing a topic and dividing it into three subtopics, branching those out to be details. We are working on rough drafts for our March non-fiction book reports.
After an idiom, "Till the cows come home," we worked again on spelling, read Crispin, and then did catch-up work or Mystery Boards. HOMEWORK WAS TO READ CHAPTER 40 THROUGH THE END OF THE PACKET (ABOUT 8 PAGES).
In math, we conducted two probability experiments with dice and pennies. We collected data in the form of line plot graphs and tally mark graphs. Also, we learned what an outcome is. Tomorrow we will do experiments with multiple outcomes. HOMEWORK WAS EXERCISE 3.
After lunch we were favored with a trip to the Orem Library. PLEASE LOOK INTO GETTING YOUR CHILD A LIBRARY CARD AND TAKE THEM REGULARLY! The kids were so excited to be there. The non-fiction section is great! There are very good "reading incentives" in the form of In and Out Burgers, movie tickets, etc. Check it out.
After P.E. we had read aloud and students worked on Writer's Workshop and catch-up till the end of the day.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD IS COMING TO SCHOOL IN PROPER UNIFORM ATTIRE, PARTICULARLY SHOES.
This morning we learned another way to organize essays: Web fashion. Students practiced choosing a topic and dividing it into three subtopics, branching those out to be details. We are working on rough drafts for our March non-fiction book reports.
After an idiom, "Till the cows come home," we worked again on spelling, read Crispin, and then did catch-up work or Mystery Boards. HOMEWORK WAS TO READ CHAPTER 40 THROUGH THE END OF THE PACKET (ABOUT 8 PAGES).
In math, we conducted two probability experiments with dice and pennies. We collected data in the form of line plot graphs and tally mark graphs. Also, we learned what an outcome is. Tomorrow we will do experiments with multiple outcomes. HOMEWORK WAS EXERCISE 3.
After lunch we were favored with a trip to the Orem Library. PLEASE LOOK INTO GETTING YOUR CHILD A LIBRARY CARD AND TAKE THEM REGULARLY! The kids were so excited to be there. The non-fiction section is great! There are very good "reading incentives" in the form of In and Out Burgers, movie tickets, etc. Check it out.
After P.E. we had read aloud and students worked on Writer's Workshop and catch-up till the end of the day.
Vocabulary Lists
querulous: habitually complaining
rancorous: showing deep-seated resentment
reclusive: withdrawn from society; seeking solitude
reconciliation: the reestablishing of cordial relations
renovation: the act of improving by renewing and restoring
March 15th
NO WORDS! CATCH UP WEEK
March 8th Test
procrastinate: postpone doing what one should be doing
prosaic: lacking imagination or wit
prosperity: having good fortune
provocative: tending to provoke, stimulate, excite
prudent: careful and sensible
February 29th Test
parched: dried out by heat or excessive exposure to sunlight
perfidious: tending to betray
pragmatic: concerned with practical matters
precocious: exceptionally early development or maturity (especially in mental aptitude)
pretentious: making claim to or creating an appearance of (often undeserved) importance or distintion
February 22nd Testmundane
found in the ordinary course of events- marked by blithe unconcern
- rich and superior in quality
- a person who delivers a speech or oration
- intended to attract notice and impress others
February 15th Test
-
invulnerable to fear or intimidation - (Not allowing anyone or anything to scare you or put you down)
-
spontaneously derived from or prompted by a natural tendency - (In that very moment)
-
a feeling of extreme joy
-
someone who is employed to persuade legislators to vote for legislation that favors the lobbyist's employer
-
the property of being long-lived
- hypothesis an educated guess; a possible explanation of facts or phenomena facts or phenomena
- undue haste, lack of thought or deliberation
- attribute or credit to
- lacking worth or importance
- incapable of being avoided or prevented
February 1st Test
- foster providing or receiving nurture or parental care though not related by blood or legal ties
- filled with or attended with
- avoiding waste
- repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse
- having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy
January 25th Test
extenuating: partially excusing or justifying
florid: elaborately or excessively ornamented
forbearance: a delay in enforcing rights or claims or privileges;refraining from acting
fortitude: strength of mind that enables one to endure adversity with courage
fortuitous: occurring by happy chance
January 17th Test
emulate: try to equal or match, to copy
enervating: causing debilitation
ephemeral: short-lived, like the life of a butterfly
evanescent: disappear, as in a vapor
exemplary: worthy of imitation
January 10th Test
diligent: quietly and steadily persevering in detail or exactness (Keeping on keeping on)
discredit: being held in low esteem (underestimate effort)
disdain: lack of respect accompanied by a feeling of intense dislike (hate - can't stand)
divergent: tending to move apart in different directions (wandering away)
empathy: understanding and entering into another's feelings (feeling with someone)
Monday, March 11, 2013
March 11th, 2013
10% RE-ENROLLMENT DISCOUNT ON NEXT YEAR'S TUITION EXPIRES ON FRIDAY.
THE BOOK FAIR IS HERE!
FIELD TRIP TO THE OREM LIBRARY ON WEDNESDAY AT NOON. WE WILL BE THERE FROM 12:15-1:30ISH. ANY PARENTS WHO WANT TO COME, PLEASE CONTACT ME, OR BE AT THE SCHOOL BY NOON. PARENTS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND!
This morning we wrote about the idiom: The Grass is Always Greener on the Other Side of the Fence. We also worked on spelling studying and testing. The students are becoming very independent, yet still love to help each other by testing, giving study hints, and practicing together.
SOME STUDENTS HAVE NOT YET HANDED IN THEIR TYPED 3-POINT ESSAYS.
We read another chapter in Crispin, Cross of Lead. We are continuing Friday's review of reading strategies while we read. Today we worked on Inference, Wonderful Words, Questioning, and ended with Predicting.
READING HOMEWORK IS NON-FICTION READING FOR 30-40 MINUTES.
THIS WEEK THERE WILL BE NO LANGUAGE ARTS TEST!!! That's okay. The kids have already thanked me!!! Instead, it is a "catch-up" week. I have posted math tests, language arts tests, and history tests to redo. I am busily grading and inputting grades. Students have until Thursday to pull any tests up.
MATH HOMEWORK WAS TO COMPLETE EXERCISE 1.
Also, students were able to work on Mystery Boards today, brainstorm or continue Writer's Workshop, and plug away at interviewing teachers.
We are brainstorming ideas for committees for the Open House on the 26th. Great ideas!
After P.E. we learned about feudalism, kings, vassals, and the kiss of peace oaths. Oaths are promises made in God's name. Covenants are promises made between god and man. That was one clarification the students decided on. We learned that money, politics, and special skills earned people power in the Middle Ages. Today, we have many more rights than the common person in their time.
THE BOOK FAIR IS HERE!
FIELD TRIP TO THE OREM LIBRARY ON WEDNESDAY AT NOON. WE WILL BE THERE FROM 12:15-1:30ISH. ANY PARENTS WHO WANT TO COME, PLEASE CONTACT ME, OR BE AT THE SCHOOL BY NOON. PARENTS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND!
This morning we wrote about the idiom: The Grass is Always Greener on the Other Side of the Fence. We also worked on spelling studying and testing. The students are becoming very independent, yet still love to help each other by testing, giving study hints, and practicing together.
SOME STUDENTS HAVE NOT YET HANDED IN THEIR TYPED 3-POINT ESSAYS.
We read another chapter in Crispin, Cross of Lead. We are continuing Friday's review of reading strategies while we read. Today we worked on Inference, Wonderful Words, Questioning, and ended with Predicting.
READING HOMEWORK IS NON-FICTION READING FOR 30-40 MINUTES.
THIS WEEK THERE WILL BE NO LANGUAGE ARTS TEST!!! That's okay. The kids have already thanked me!!! Instead, it is a "catch-up" week. I have posted math tests, language arts tests, and history tests to redo. I am busily grading and inputting grades. Students have until Thursday to pull any tests up.
MATH HOMEWORK WAS TO COMPLETE EXERCISE 1.
Also, students were able to work on Mystery Boards today, brainstorm or continue Writer's Workshop, and plug away at interviewing teachers.
We are brainstorming ideas for committees for the Open House on the 26th. Great ideas!
After P.E. we learned about feudalism, kings, vassals, and the kiss of peace oaths. Oaths are promises made in God's name. Covenants are promises made between god and man. That was one clarification the students decided on. We learned that money, politics, and special skills earned people power in the Middle Ages. Today, we have many more rights than the common person in their time.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
History - Middle Ages
Name____________________
Middle Ages – Chapter 1 & 2
Due Wednesday, February 27th, 2013
Instructions:
- Read Chapter One (Things Fall Apart) and Chapter Two (The Not-So-Dark Ages)
- Choose and complete one of the following activities.
- In addition, on a separate lined sheet of paper and in your best cursive, answer the review questions below in complete sentences or paragraphs:
Multiple Intelligence Activies to choose from:
Verbal-linguistic
| Create a wordsearch or crossword puzzle using at least 30 new words from the chapters. |
| Visual-spatial | Make a Rome Visitor's Guide. Include pictures of sites, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Palatine, the Appian Way, the Forum, Hadrian's Villa, Mausoleum to Augustus, Arches of Constantine, Severus, Titus, Roman Aquaducts |
| Kinesthetic-body | Research Hadrian's Wall (122 A.D.) Construct a small model of the wall. Label it and write facts about it. Bring it in to share. |
| Natural-science | Find out how aquaducts worked. Create a small flow-chart or model explaining how they worked. |
| Musical-rhythmic | Write a song about the Middle Ages. |
| Mathematical-logical | Create a poster showing how cities during the Middle Ages and cities during our time are the same and different. |
| Intrapersonal | Write three journal descriptive journal entries, as if you were a Hun. Each entry should be at least 50 words, and include details of your traditions and history. |
| Interpersonal | Create a leadership plan to keep the Roman Empire alive. Who will lead? What qualities will he/she need? What are the first tasks to be done? Why? |
Review Questions to answer:
Chapter One:
- Why is the date A.D. 476 important in the history of Rome? Briefly describe what happened in that year.
- What events helped lead to the fall of Rome?
- Name at least two barbarian tribes that attacked the Western Roman Empire.
Chapter Two:
- How did the lives of people in Europe change in the first few years after the fall of the Roman Empire?
- How did the lives of people in Europe change in the long run after the fall of the Roman Empire?
- Why was the period from about A.D. 500 to about A.D. 800 referred to as the Dark Ages?
- Why is the term Dark Ages rarely used today?
Name____________________
Middle Ages – Chapter 3&4
Due Wednesday, March 6th, 2013
Instructions:
- Read Chapter Three (Two Churches) and Chapter Four (Prayer and Work)
- Choose and complete one of the following activities.
- In addition, on a separate lined sheet of paper and in your best cursive, answer the review questions below in complete sentences or paragraphs.
Multiple Intelligence Activities to choose from:
Verbal-linguistic
| Write, type out, and deliver a speech to the class (3-point essay!) persuading the church to stay together or to separate. You must use valid points from the chapter. |
| Visual-spatial | In uppercase, handwrite a complete page of by copying a few paragraphs from the chapters as a monk would! Make sure you don't separate or punctuate words. Use uppercase. Decorate the borders with small pictures. |
| Kinesthetic-body | Take pictures of your parents or grandparents doing a difficult task. Ask them if they will teach you how to do it. Have them take pictures of you learning the task. Create a small poster showing the experience. Label the steps. |
| Natural-science | Research city gardens or indoor gardens. Find out what plants and herbs grow well indoors. Start your own seeds in small containers. Label them with the type of plant and date planted. Water them. Take pictures of them or bring them in to show the class. |
| Musical-rhythmic | Prayer is a form of singing. Research monastary chants. Record several of them to play to the class. Teach the class the meaning of the chant. |
| Mathematical-logical | Design a weekly schedule for Sain Benedict's monastary or convent, as if you are the abbot. Make sure you include rules, times of activities, and use intricate handwriting. |
| Intrapersonal | Write a business letter to a monk or a nun in Utah. Ask them why they decided on their lifestyle, what they contribute to society, and for any other information. Address an envelope and read the letter to the class before sending it away. |
| Interpersonal | There were many arguments about how things should be done in the Christian Church. Interview at least 3 adults. Ask for ideas of how to resove conflicts. Write their tips on a poster. |
Review questions to answer:
Chapter Three:
- In what city does the pope of the Roman Catholic Church live?
- What were two differences between Christians in the eastern and the western parts of the Roman Empire?
- What happened in 1054?
Chapter Four:
- Why is St. Benedict remembered today?
- How did monks and nuns who lived in monastaries or convents spend their days?
- List three rules from The Rule of St. Benedict.
March 6th, 2013
Busy is an understatement in this class!
We started off by looking at tests and grades. Each child received a progress report of Vocabulary and Grammar this morning. Students may retest throughout the next six school days to bring up their grades. Please help them study for their tests! They may sign up to retake the tests during recess, lunch, and before and after school.
We created rhyming couplets to help with vocabulary memory, worked on plural and singular apostrophe "s" rules, tested and studied spelling, and read more of Crispin. READING HOMEWORK TONIGHT IS CHAPTER 23 AND 24.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE REST OF THE REVIEW. We competed in algebra today, winning candy bars. We plotted and graphed algebraic equations. We made connections with the algebra we know from geometry. It is coming together!
After lunch was Meridian Math Club, study hall, and S.I.R. Writer's Workshop was great! Students received Mystery Boards. Many students worked on those, while others worked on stories and yet others worked on typing 3-point essays. THREE POINT ESSAYS ARE DUE TYPED OUT TOMORROW! PLEASE SEE YESTERDAY'S POST TO FIND THE PARAMETERS OF THE ASSIGNMENT.
After P.E. students shared history presentations. It is fun to see which of the multiple intelligences they choose. They love the freedom of choosing. It is empowering. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THE STUDENTS GET 10 POINTS FOR THE ACTIVITY. 10 POINTS ARE ALSO ASSIGNED TO THE REVIEW QUESTIONS. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE QUESTIONS ARE ANSWERED IN COMPLETE SENTENCES.
Please find attached the Mystery Object Project Guide:
We started off by looking at tests and grades. Each child received a progress report of Vocabulary and Grammar this morning. Students may retest throughout the next six school days to bring up their grades. Please help them study for their tests! They may sign up to retake the tests during recess, lunch, and before and after school.
We created rhyming couplets to help with vocabulary memory, worked on plural and singular apostrophe "s" rules, tested and studied spelling, and read more of Crispin. READING HOMEWORK TONIGHT IS CHAPTER 23 AND 24.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE REST OF THE REVIEW. We competed in algebra today, winning candy bars. We plotted and graphed algebraic equations. We made connections with the algebra we know from geometry. It is coming together!
After lunch was Meridian Math Club, study hall, and S.I.R. Writer's Workshop was great! Students received Mystery Boards. Many students worked on those, while others worked on stories and yet others worked on typing 3-point essays. THREE POINT ESSAYS ARE DUE TYPED OUT TOMORROW! PLEASE SEE YESTERDAY'S POST TO FIND THE PARAMETERS OF THE ASSIGNMENT.
After P.E. students shared history presentations. It is fun to see which of the multiple intelligences they choose. They love the freedom of choosing. It is empowering. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THE STUDENTS GET 10 POINTS FOR THE ACTIVITY. 10 POINTS ARE ALSO ASSIGNED TO THE REVIEW QUESTIONS. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE QUESTIONS ARE ANSWERED IN COMPLETE SENTENCES.
Please find attached the Mystery Object Project Guide:
Name____________
Mystery Board Project Guide
(Due March 21st)
| Components | Attributes |
| Beginning Clue 1 Clue 2 Clue 3 Ending |
|
| Setting |
|
| Border |
|
| Title |
|
| Name |
|
| Other |
|
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
March 5th, 2013
This morning we prepared nametags for "I stand for the (Lorax)..." Day tomorrow.
We played a spinner game in vocabulary, spinning to the definition or picture and racing to tell the vocab word. Next, we reviewed apostrophe rules with possessive case. Our LANGUAGE ARTS TEST ON FRIDAY will have many sentences needing to be corrected in this area. "A penny saved is a penny earned" was our idiom. Some students are writing over 100 words during the allotted time. The new Crispin reading was handed out. HOMEWORK IS READING CHAPTERS 20-22.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE FIRST THREE PAGES OF THE REVIEW. We inserted numbers into x and y values and plotted points for graphs. This is a tricky concept. I will be sending home more algebra practice for the students over the next two days. FRIDAY IS SLATED TO BE THE MATH TEST. Students received progress reports showing grades and assignments missing. They have the opportunity to redo tests and assignments that they feel are unsatisfactory. I am compiling packets to be completed, but students will have to complete them on their own time, at recess, or at home. CATCH UP FOLDERS WERE COMPILED AND SENT HOME WITH STUDENTS. THEY HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO RAISE THEIR GRADES!
Today was our heavy specialist day.
HISTORY PROJECTS ARE DUE TOMORROW. They should not take longer than about 20 minutes. Students received the assignments last week, so it won't be a surprise! We have reviewed the assignment three times as a class. You may read the history material to or with your child, if you like.
STUDENTS IN MY LANGUAGE ARTS CLASS ARE REQUIRED TO TYPE THEIR FREE CHOICE 3-POINT ESSAYS BY THURSDAY. THE PARAGRAPHS ARE FINISHED. MAKE SURE THEY COME HOME WITH THEM TOMORROW. SOME STUDENTS TOOK THEIRS HOME TODAY. THEY MUST FOLLOW THE FOLLOWING FORMAT:
Indented first paragraph. First sentence contains the topic. Second sentence has an original thought. Third sentence names the three reasons or things to be discussed.
Indented second paragraph. First sentence contains the first of three things to be discussed. Five or six more descriptive sentences follow. They should include good adjectives and adverbs, lots of "voice", or personality. Who, what, where, when, why, how...these are all good questions to garner more information. Also, emotions (feelings), touch, sight, smell, sound, speech, movement are good descriptive ways to ellaborate.
Indented third paragraph. First sentence contains the second of three things to be discussed. Five or six more supporting sentences follow. Be sure you vary the beginnings of your sentences. You don't want every sentence to start with the same word!
Indented fourth paragraph. First sentence contains the third of three things to be discussed. Five or six more sentences follow. Keep up the level of energy. Make it just as descriptive as the other paragraphs.
Indented fifth paragraph. First sentence repeats the three reasons or things in a new or different way. Second sentence has an original thought or interesting fact. The last sentence is a "grabber". It attempts to sway the reader to form an opinion or make a decision about the three things. It should be a strong sentence.
Do not type "The End". This is not a story. We will be illustrating these in class, so don't worry about doing illustrations. These will be going on a bulletin board, so make sure they are neat.
We played a spinner game in vocabulary, spinning to the definition or picture and racing to tell the vocab word. Next, we reviewed apostrophe rules with possessive case. Our LANGUAGE ARTS TEST ON FRIDAY will have many sentences needing to be corrected in this area. "A penny saved is a penny earned" was our idiom. Some students are writing over 100 words during the allotted time. The new Crispin reading was handed out. HOMEWORK IS READING CHAPTERS 20-22.
MATH HOMEWORK IS THE FIRST THREE PAGES OF THE REVIEW. We inserted numbers into x and y values and plotted points for graphs. This is a tricky concept. I will be sending home more algebra practice for the students over the next two days. FRIDAY IS SLATED TO BE THE MATH TEST. Students received progress reports showing grades and assignments missing. They have the opportunity to redo tests and assignments that they feel are unsatisfactory. I am compiling packets to be completed, but students will have to complete them on their own time, at recess, or at home. CATCH UP FOLDERS WERE COMPILED AND SENT HOME WITH STUDENTS. THEY HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO RAISE THEIR GRADES!
Today was our heavy specialist day.
HISTORY PROJECTS ARE DUE TOMORROW. They should not take longer than about 20 minutes. Students received the assignments last week, so it won't be a surprise! We have reviewed the assignment three times as a class. You may read the history material to or with your child, if you like.
STUDENTS IN MY LANGUAGE ARTS CLASS ARE REQUIRED TO TYPE THEIR FREE CHOICE 3-POINT ESSAYS BY THURSDAY. THE PARAGRAPHS ARE FINISHED. MAKE SURE THEY COME HOME WITH THEM TOMORROW. SOME STUDENTS TOOK THEIRS HOME TODAY. THEY MUST FOLLOW THE FOLLOWING FORMAT:
Title (centered and bolded)
by Name Name (centered and bolded)
Indented first paragraph. First sentence contains the topic. Second sentence has an original thought. Third sentence names the three reasons or things to be discussed.
Indented second paragraph. First sentence contains the first of three things to be discussed. Five or six more descriptive sentences follow. They should include good adjectives and adverbs, lots of "voice", or personality. Who, what, where, when, why, how...these are all good questions to garner more information. Also, emotions (feelings), touch, sight, smell, sound, speech, movement are good descriptive ways to ellaborate.
Indented third paragraph. First sentence contains the second of three things to be discussed. Five or six more supporting sentences follow. Be sure you vary the beginnings of your sentences. You don't want every sentence to start with the same word!
Indented fourth paragraph. First sentence contains the third of three things to be discussed. Five or six more sentences follow. Keep up the level of energy. Make it just as descriptive as the other paragraphs.
Indented fifth paragraph. First sentence repeats the three reasons or things in a new or different way. Second sentence has an original thought or interesting fact. The last sentence is a "grabber". It attempts to sway the reader to form an opinion or make a decision about the three things. It should be a strong sentence.
Do not type "The End". This is not a story. We will be illustrating these in class, so don't worry about doing illustrations. These will be going on a bulletin board, so make sure they are neat.
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