Hi Parents and Happy Mother's Day to all of the Moms!

If you haven't had the opportunity to return the Portfolio Picnic flyer, please do so as soon as possible--it's coming up quickly!  We have finished with the testing (finally!) and will continue to work toward being prepared for 5th grade.  I am reminding the students that we still have one month of school left, no matter how relieved we all are that the testing is over!

Math- Next week students will review factors and multiples, as well as double digit multiplication and the division process. We will also begin looking at prime factorization and composite numbers. Some of this information is review and some of it is to better prepare them as they begin fifth grade.

Reading- This week we begin reader's theater plays with the students. This is a great way for students to learn the format of plays, choose roles, and work hard in a group setting to be ready to perform the play for the class. This is also great practice with communicating and speaking in front of a group. We continue with our book clubs and Daily 5 rotations as well.

Writing- Students will wrap up any poetry work they have left next week. The week after next we will do some lessons on letter writing.

Social Studies- We wrap up chapter 9 this week with the test and then begin chapter 10.

Science-  Students will fill in the summative study guide for their Rock, Rattle, and Roll planner test. They will be given the test as well.

IB focus: Parents, we are moving into our sixth planner next week- How we Express Ourselves - Art 101.

Central Idea- We express our ideas, feelings and beliefs through art and literature.

Lines of Inquiry:

*    Reasons behind expression
*    Different mediums of art
*    The impact of literature on others

Next week we will begin with activities introducing map skills and the locations in Ancient Greece we are studying. We will also spend the week watching videos, exploring websites, reading, and doing activities in regards to Greek daily life, architecture, and pottery. Students will learn about the 3 types of columns used in Ancient Greek architecture, the meanings behind the art on their pottery, and what daily life was like for men and women. Liz Spencer will also be in our rooms next week to help produce their next piece of art work- clay friezes.