Social Studies: We are exploring the regions of the Western Hemisphere, from geography to climate to culture.
ELA:
We are starting Unit 5, which is a study on the time period known as the Renaissance.
First, thank you all for indulging me in the elf thing. From my perspective, the majority of the kiddos absolutely loved taking part in this silliness. I worried when I was moved to 5th grade (from teaching first) that I wouldn't be able to "elf it up" with my students anymore. I was wrong. This age, this sometimes-slow-sometimes-quick transition from childhood to adolescence, is so hard. It's confusing, frustrating, and crazy uncomfortable. Giving kids an excuse to embrace their inner child for a little longer can do a world of good as they grow into adulthood. I don't mind making myself look and sound foolish if it helps my students learn that while life is serious business, you can (and should) approach situations with whimsy, creativity, kindness, and as much joy as you can muster.
And not that this is that serious, but I can't imagine many of your 5th graders are stoked about how close January 5th happens to be. As a human, I'm also bummed that our break is about to end (while also recognizing how fortunate I am to be an adult who still gets to experience these breaks!). In the spirit of adding whimsy to make life's situations a little easier, your D203-er is morphing again.
This letter will be going home with students on Monday, so please make sure you read it either electronically or when it comes home. It explains the rationale of these new personas (and is much shorter than the elf letter...bonus!). As always, the last thing I want is for anyone to feel uncomfortable with my shenanigans, so please reach out with any concerns.
This final half of 5th grade is chock full of just...so...much. Please understand there will be growing pains, and please make sure to reach out when you are concerned or questioning something happening in class. That said, as students are moving to the Middle School in one half of a year, I expect your 5th grader to communicate questions/concerns with me directly as much as appropriate. (You are always welcome and encouraged to follow up to make sure I received messages, of course!)
Again, thank you for sharing your child with me. I am looking forward to watching them all spread their magic this final half of 5th grade!