9/16/11

Happy Friday!  We've completed our first full week of school, and we accomplished lots of learning!

In Math, we continue to work on addition and subtraction strategies.  We are learning that there are many ways to solve a problem, and the students are getting really good at using more mental math!

During Science class, we are still studying nutrition.  We have read some informational pages from www.choosemyplate.gov to learn a lot about healthy eating habits.  If any of you parents are interested, visit the Choose My Plate website.  There is so much information there!

In Social Studies, we have just finished up being cartographers, or map-makers!  Each student designed his/her own island.  The students used the Fab 4 Map Features to help them develop their maps.  Ask your child if he/she can list the Fab 4 Map Features for you!

In Language Arts and Guided Reading, our theme unit is "Journeys."  During both class periods, students are engaged in stories in which the main character(s) are on some type of journey.  In Whole Group Language Arts, we are also learning about some "tools" to help students with reading comprehension.

Reminders:
* No School Monday, September 19 - Teacher in-service
* Popcorn bag book report due Wednesday, September 28
* Walk to School Day - October 5 (rain date October 7) - more info to come

Homework:
* Math - None
* Science - None
* Social Studies - New Jersey map due Tuesday
* Language Arts - Popcorn bag book report
* Mrs. Duvall's Guided Reading Group - chapter 4 worksheet and chapter 4 vocabulary word

** Just a little note about homework - MANY of the 4th graders are using their time at school very wisely, so don't be surprised if they don't have a lot of homework to bring home at night!

Have a WONDERFUL weekend!!