Hi Families,

This week is full of activities! Monday I am off campus with Ms. Heemer and Ms. Whitehouse at a Writing training and Friday is Field Day (more information is coming in the Tuesday folder). So... Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday leave us with lots of things to do.

Writing: "Bringing out the story structure" by using a story mountain and using mentor texts to illustrate the concept.

Reading: We will finish our read aloud of Hank the Cowdog as we continue to review the jobs essential to a successful literature circles. The plan is for students to begin their literature circles next week with books they have reviewed and chosen to read as small groups. We are also beginning our second planner "The Heart of the Story" which will use the book The Tiger Rising as we explore character traits.

Math: Finishing up chapter 3 with number sentences: true and false, the use of parentheses, and open. Multiplication quiz on Thursday! Review those facts with your children.

Social Studies: Vocabulary test on chapter 2 words on Tuesday and the chapter 2 test on the 4 regions of Texas on Thursday. We have done quite a bit of discussion and preparation for this in class already.

Science: A quick one week unit on magnets

Parents, please remind your student of the importance of doing their homework; it is the way I can see if they are understanding the concepts taught in class and I can tell by the results on Wordly Wise and spelling tests if they are doing the work necessary to prepare. The math homework is especially critical as we are moving into new concepts; much has been a review of 3rd grade up to this point. Many students are also failing to read their 30 minutes a night and I am hearing plenty of excuses as to why. They must read Monday-Thursday; it's the way to strengthen your fluency and improve. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Have a great week!