Embedded Files
February 2nd, 2026 - Reading Unit 5 Test and Field Trip Week
Hello Families!
On Tuesday the kids will take their first field trip of the year to Morrill Hall. We’ll leave Arnold via bus around 9:30, and arrive at the Museum by 10:00. Part of the tour will be guided, and the other part will allow time for the kids to explore the hands-on areas of the museum.
Fitting Futures
Are you staying warm? Are you in need of anything? The note below is regarding a program that supplies clothing to Arnold families. Please consider this, if applicable, and reply with the requested information.
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Hello, Arnold families!
Fitting Futures is a community partner that provides clothing, shoes, and hygiene products for students in LPS Title I schools. Volunteers from Fitting Futures deliver bundles of these items for a limited number of Arnold students each week. If your PreK-5th Arnold student(s) would benefit from receiving a bundle that includes 2 outfits, a new pair of shoes, and hygiene items, please respond to your child's classroom teacher who will pass the information on to Ms. George and Mrs. Wesche (school counselor and social worker. Please respond with all of your Arnold children's shirt size, pants, size, shoe size, and age. Each Arnold student can participate once a semester, so if your child participated in the first half of the school year, they are now eligible again. This resource is first come, first serve, but we currently have lots of open spots to fill!
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Reading
This week the kids will wrap up Unit 5 by taking their unit test on Monday and Tuesday. They will also present their research reports to the class. On Wednesday, the class will begin Unit 7, which focuses on astronomy and the solar system. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take home their new list of spelling words on Wednesday, and their first test of Unit 7 will be on February 10th. The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
February 10th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #1
February 19th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #2
February 26th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids will continue practicing how to tell time. We’ll also continue practicing telling time before and after the hour, as well as elapsed time.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday, unless we have a test.
Reading Homework
Another reading homework will come home this week on Monday. Just a reminder, the kids need to complete five, 1-minute reads and four comprehension questions. Please have your child practice all five reads, even if he/she completes the passage in one minute. Also, please remind your child to complete their answers with complete sentences.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 26th, 2026 - 100th Day Spirit Week
Hello Families!
I hope you are staying warm this frigid weekend! I think we got a gift of a cold day Friday, but it’s always nice to have a surprise break in the middle of a long winter. This week, there are several celebrations set up to celebrate the upcoming 100th Day of School. Click the link below to see each day's celebration.
Reading
This week the kids will continue learning about light and sound in Unit 5. We’ll also start researching inventors Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take their third test of Unit 5 on Wednesday, January 28th, due to the cold day. The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
January 9th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
January 20th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
January 28th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids have begun practicing how to tell time. We’re working on time to the hour, half hour, quarter hour and even down to the five and one minute increments. This week we’ll also practice telling time before and after the hour, as well as elapsed time.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday, unless we have a test.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will come home this week on Monday. Just a reminder, the kids need to complete five, 1-minute reads and four comprehension questions. Please have your child practice all five reads, even if he/she completes the passage in one minute. Also, please remind your child to complete their answers with complete sentences.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 20th, 2026 - Normal Week?
Hello Families!
After a long week of conferences, Math tests and Math MAP tests last week, the kids have a pretty “normal” week ahead of them.
Reading
This week the kids will continue learning about light and sound in Unit 5. We’ll also start learning about some famous inventors, including Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take their second test of Unit 5 on Tuesday, January 20th. Then, a new list of words will come home on Wednesday. The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
January 9th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
January 20th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
January 27th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids will begin learning about measurement and telling time during the next week or so of lessons. We will get back to having regular homework starting Tuesday evening.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday, unless we have a test.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will come home this week on Monday. Just a reminder, the kids need to complete five, 1-minute reads and four comprehension questions. Please have your child practice all five reads, even if he/she completes the passage in one minute. Also, please remind your child to complete their answers with complete sentences.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 12th, 2026 - Conferences & Math Test Week
Hello Families!
It’s conference week at Arnold Elementary! Click on the link below to see the time you have chosen.
Mr. Wachter-Winter Conference Times 2026
If you have yet to sign up, and would still like to, please follow the sign-up procedure below.
Log into ParentVUE
Select your elementary student in the upper left corner
Click on the Conference tile
On a mobile device, tap Parent Teacher Conferences in the upper right corner
Click on the teacher's name to select a time. (this is also what to choose if you need to change your time)
Click on a block of time to select that timeslot. Your student's name should then appear in that block of time. Once selected, it will turn purple.
Click the X in the top right corner to close the window. Save is not required.
Reading
This week the kids will continue learning about light and sound in Unit 5. We’ll also start learning about some famous inventors. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will receive new spelling words on Monday, and their first test of Unit 5 will be the following Tuesday, January 20th. The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
January 9th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
January 20th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
January 27th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids will take their Unit 4, part 1 test, as well as their mid-year math MAP Test. Ugh! The only good thing about those tests back-to-back is that the kids will have NO homework this week!
Normally, in my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday, unless we have a test.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will come home this week on Monday. Just a reminder, the kids need to complete five, 1-minute reads and four comprehension questions. Please have your child practice all five reads, even if he/she completes the passage in one minute. Also, please remind your child to complete their answers with complete sentences.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 5th, 2026 - Happy New Year!
Hello Families!
Welcome back to school! I hope you and your family had a good break from school, and are ready to crank things up for the 2nd semester.
Reading
This week the kids will begin Unit 5 in reading, which focuses on the science of light and sound. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will receive new spelling words on Monday, and their first test of Unit 5 will be on Friday. The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
January 9th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #1
January 20th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #2
January 27th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids have been practicing fractions concepts, and will continue to do so in upcoming lessons. We’ll also begin learning how to tell time.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday, unless we have a test.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will come home this week on Monday. Just a reminder, the kids need to complete five, 1-minute reads and four comprehension questions. Please have your child practice all five reads, even if he/she completes the passage in one minute. Also, please remind your child to complete their answers with complete sentences.
Conferences
A friendly reminder that conferences are coming up soon on January 12th and 14th. Look for an email with a sign up link from the school this week, if you haven’t already registered.
Morrill Hall
The kids will be going on a field trip February 3rd to Morrill Hall! The link below gives information about the trip. A copy of the letter will be coming home, as well.
Morrill Hall Field Trip Parent Letter
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 15th, 2025 - Unit 4 Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week the kids will take their Unit 4 reading test that concludes our unit on the Roman Empire. They will also complete a slideshow and a writing assignment summarizing what they have learned during this unit. Our next unit will focus on light and sound. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take their third spelling test of Unit 4 on Monday, December 15th. Then, the kids will get a bit of a break from spelling until we return in January. The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
November 17th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
December 5th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
December 15th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids have been practicing fractions concepts each day before their regular lesson. After each mini-lesson, the kids have a chance to answer a question correctly and earn a “piece of the pie” coupon. This week, we’ll draw one lucky winner who will have the chance to hit Mr. Roberson in the face with a pie! This is a long standing tradition in third grade and an event the kids never forget. The pie-smashing will take place on Wednesday. Can’t wait!
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday, unless we have a test. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will come home this week on Monday. Just a reminder, the kids need to complete five, 1-minute reads and four comprehension questions. Please have your child practice all five reads, even if he/she completes the passage in one minute. Also, please remind your child to complete their answers with complete sentences.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 8th, 2025 - Unit 3 Math Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
We are coming to the end of our unit about the Roman Empire. This week will complete a compare and contrast between Julius and Augustus Caesar, as well as write a summary about all we’ve learned during this unit. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will bring home their third and final spelling list from Unit 4 on Monday. The test will be a week later, on December 15th. The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
November 17th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
December 5th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
December 15th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids will spend Monday reviewing and then take their Unit 3 test on Tuesday and Wednesday. On those nights the kids will not have homework.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday, unless we have a test. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will come home this week on Monday. Just a reminder, the kids need to complete five, 1-minute reads and four comprehension questions. Please have your child practice all five reads, even if he/she completes the passage in one minute. Also, please remind your child to complete their answers with complete sentences.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 2nd, 2025 - Reading MAP Test Week
Hello Families!
This week kids will take their mid-year MAP Test in reading. This is the standardized test all third graders take during the year. It’s not necessarily based on skills they’ve been directly practicing, but rather a broader scope of third grade skills. The test will take place on Wednesday and Thursday at 9:00.
Reading
The kids will continue Unit 4 in reading this week, and will continue to learn about the Roman Empire. We’ll also learn about Julius Caesar and his reign in Rome. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will finally take their 2nd spelling test of Unit 4 on Friday, December 5th. It’s been a minute since they brought these words home to study, so any practice this week would be beneficial. The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
November 17th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
December 5th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
December 15th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids have been practicing rounding, adding and subtracting larger numbers and lots of place value work. This week we will begin learning about various types of graphs.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will resume this week, and the kids will bring an assignment home on Tuesday evening. Just a reminder, the kids need to complete five, 1-minute reads and four comprehension questions. Please have your child practice all five reads, even if he/she completes the passage in one minute. Also, please remind your child to complete their answers with complete sentences.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 24th, 2025 - Happy Thanksgiving!
Hello Families!
This week the kids will wrap up a couple of writing assignments and review a few skills we’ve learned earlier this year.
In Math, we’ll keep exploring place value, adding and subtracting, and rounding.
More than anything, I hope to have a little fun with the kids this week and enjoy the time we have together before the Thanksgiving break.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 17th, 2025 - Thank You!
Hello Families!
November 17th, 2025 - Thank You!
Hello Families!
Thanksgiving
With Thanksgiving being so close, I wanted to take a moment to thank you all for the privilege of being your child’s teacher. With no kids of my own, I become quite attached to yours, and I’m so glad I get to spend my days with them!
Reading
The kids will continue Unit 4 in reading this week, which focuses on the Roman Empire. We’ve learned about their government so far, and what life was like for Romans. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take their first spelling test of Unit 4 on Monday. Then, they will bring home their 2nd spelling list on Tuesday. Due to the holiday break, their 2nd test will be well down the road on December 5th. The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
November 17th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
December 5th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
December 15th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids have been practicing rounding, adding and subtracting larger numbers and lots of place value work. We’ll continue working on those items this week. In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Reading Homework
The kids will bring home a reading homework assignment on Monday evening, which will be due on or before Friday. Just a reminder, the kids need to complete five, 1-minute reads and four comprehension questions. Please have your child practice all five reads, even if he/she completes the passage in one minute. Also, please remind your child to complete their answers with complete sentences.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 10th, 2025 - Unit 4 Reading Begins
Hello Families!
Reading
The kids will begin Unit 4 in reading this week, which focuses on the Roman Empire. This unit provides the kids a great opportunity to learn about the vast world we live in and gives great background on different cultures. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will bring home their next spelling list on Tuesday, and their test will be the following Monday. The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
November 17th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
December 5th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
December 15th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids have practiced how to round numbers to the nearest 10 and 100. We’ll continue to polish those skills, as well as add and subtract larger numbers this week.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Reading Homework
I forgot to mention that Reading Homework began last week, and will continue this week. The assignment will come home on Mondays, and is due on or before Friday. The kids need to complete five, 1-minute reads. Please have your child practice all five reads, even if he/she completes the passage. There are also four comprehension questions to answer. Please remind your child to complete their answers with complete sentences.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 3rd, 2025 - November, already?
Hello Families!
Conferences
Hello families! It was a pleasure to meet with so many families last week and share the good progress your children are making! If you weren’t able to attend, a packet has been sent home with information to review. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Reading
The kids are just about ready to wrap up Unit 3 on the human body. We have a couple more lessons this week, followed by a unit test. Our next unit we’ll go waaaaaaay back in time to the Roman Empire! The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
Our third spelling test of Unit 3 will be on Wednesday, November 5th. Then, the kids will have a bit of a break from spelling until the following week. Thank you for helping your child to practice his/her words during the week! The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
October 21st-Unit 3-Spelling Test #1
October 28th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #2
November 5th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids have begun rounding numbers. I’m very pleased with how the first two lessons have gone, as we’ve practice rounding to the nearest 100. This week we’ll round to the nearest 10, and then expand our practice with bigger numbers. We’ll practice addition, subtraction in the upcoming lessons.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 27th, 2025 - Fall Conferences Week, Part 2
Hello Families!
Conferences
The second night of fall conferences will be on Monday, October 27th. I really enjoyed meeting with families on the first night, and I’m looking forward to sharing more good news on Monday! If you’re scheduled for Monday, click the link below to see your designated time.
Reading
The kids are working their way through the body’s systems in their reading lessons. So far we’ve learned about the skeletal and muscular systems, as well as the nervous system. We’ll keep learning more this week as we progress. They are also enjoying our paragraph practice lessons, as well. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
Our second spelling test of Unit 3 will be on Tuesday, October 28th. Then, the kids will get their new list of words on Wednesday. Thank you for helping your child to practice his/her words during the week! The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
October 21st-Unit 3-Spelling Test #1
October 28th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #2
November 5th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids have begun reviewing place value and how to build numbers. We’ll practice addition, subtraction, rounding and estimation in the upcoming lessons.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 20th, 2025 - Fall Conferences Week
Hello Families!
Conferences
The first night of fall conferences will be on Wednesday, October 22nd. The kids should have brought home a confirmation time sheet last week. If not, click the link below to see your designated time.
Reading
The kids have begun learning about the human body in reading. We’ve spent a few days on the skeletal system and will delve into the muscular and nervous system this week. In the process, we are practicing writing proper paragraphs with detailed sentences and conventions. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
Our first spelling test of Unit 3 will be on Tuesday, October 21st. Then, the kids will get their new list of words on Wednesday. Thank you for helping your child to practice his/her words during the week! The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
October 21st-Unit 3-Spelling Test #1
October 28th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #2
November 5th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids will take their Unit 2 test on multiplication and division on Tuesday and Wednesday. Then, we’ll begin a new unit that focuses on addition, subtraction and rounding numbers on Thursday.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 15th, 2025 - Quarter 2 Begins!
Hello Families!
I hope you had a nice fall break and were able to spend a little time with family and friends. Amazingly, 2nd quarter is upon us and it’s time to crank things up again at school!
Conferences
Conferences are coming up on the 22nd and 27th of October. The kids will bring home a conference time confirmation note on Wednesday evening. The link below shows the times as of this email.
Reading
This week the kids will begin Unit 3 in reading. The unit focuses on the human body and we’ll learn all about the amazing machine that is our bodies! The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
Our first spelling test of Unit 3 will be on October 21st. The kids should bring their take home list on Wednesday evening. Thank you for helping your child to practice his/her words during the week! The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
October 21st-Unit 3-Spelling Test #1
October 28th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #2
November 5th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids will wrap up the last few lessons of Unit 2. We have practiced multiplication and division extensively and will continue to do so this week.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 6th, 2025 - Quarter 1 Ends
Hello Families!
Reading
This week the kids will wrap up Unit 2 in reading. The kids will write a mini-research report about an animal and we’ll take our unit test towards the end of the week. Our next unit is about the human body. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
Our third spelling test of the unit is on Tuesday. Then, the kids will have a bit of a break from spelling as we wrap up the quarter. Thank you for helping your child to practice his/her words during the week! The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
September 22nd-Unit 2-Spelling Test #1
September 30th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #2
October 7th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids will continue learning their multiplication and division facts. We have now completed our introduction of each number through ten, and will continue to practice ways to learn each fact.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Conferences
Conferences are coming up on the 22nd and 27th of October. I am looking forward to meeting with you and sharing the progress of your child! There is much to celebrate as we conclude the first quarter of the year. I will send home a conference time confirmation note soon.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 29th, 2025 - Hello October!
Hello Families!
Reading
This week the kids will continue learning about animal classification. We are still learning about the different kingdoms, vertebrates and invertebrates and all about the many different ways living things are categorized. We will also begin practicing a mini-research report and continue to practice good sentence structure, conventions and grammar. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
Our second spelling test of the unit is on Tuesday. Then, the kids will bring home their new spelling words on Wednesday. Thank you for helping your child to practice his/her words during the week! The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
September 22nd-Unit 2-Spelling Test #1
September 30th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #2
October 7th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids will begin Unit 2, which is an extension of Unit 1. We’ll learn our 6s, 7s and 8s and continue practicing ways to memorize our facts.
Remember, in my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 22nd, 2025 - Unit 1 Math Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week the kids will continue learning about animal classification. We are learning about the different kingdoms, vertebrates and invertebrates and all about the many different ways living things are categorized. The link below provides details of the unit.
Spelling
Our first spelling test of the year is on Monday. Then, the kids will bring home their new spelling words on Tuesday. Thank you for helping your child to practice his/her words during the week! The tests for this unit are tentatively scheduled for the dates below.
September 22nd-Unit 2-Spelling Test #1
September 30th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #2
October 7th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Math
In math class, the kids will take their first unit test towards the end of the week. We’ll spend a few days reviewing the skills we’ve learned first, then tackle the test.
Remember, in my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 15th, 2025 - Unit 1 Reading Concludes
Hello Families!
Reading
This week the kids will conclude their first reading of the year and take a practice unit test. We’ll go over good test taking strategies and practice the skills we’ve been working on since school began. Our next unit will be about Animal Classification. The link below provides details of the unit.
Math
In math class we will continue to practice multiplication and division strategies, and focus on word problems.
Remember, in my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 8th, 2025 - Picture Day and Math MAP Test Week
Hello Families!
On Monday, the kids will have their pictures taken for the annual composite. Our time is around 9:40, so thankfully we can get ours taken early and then go about our day.
MAP Math Test
This week your child will take the Reading MAP Test on Wednesday and Thursday. There is nothing you need to do to help your child prepare, other than make sure he/she gets a good night of rest and a healthy breakfast in the morning. This test is not based specifically on things that have been taught, but rather gives a general sense of a student's reading abilities to this point.
Reading
The class is nearing the end of the story “The Wind in the Willows.” We’ve done a lot of reviewing of phonics, letter sounds, vowel sounds and more. We’ll continue our practice this week and add some writing activities to our lessons. The link below provides details of the unit.
Math
In math class so far we have practiced our 5s, 2s, 10s, 9s and 3s. Next up is 4s and more word problems. There a some great skip counting songs on YouTube created by “Hopscotch.” The kids love listening to them and singing along as we practice. Check them out if you have time!
Remember, in my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 3rd, 2025 - Hello, September!
Hello Families!
I hope you had a restful weekend and were able to spend some quality time with your family and friends. When I was a kid, we usually started school after Labor Day, so it’s crazy to me that we’re about to start week #4!
Reading
This week, the kids will continue their unit in reading called, “The Wind in the Willows.” We’re learning a lot about the theme of a story, and how stories can have lessons to be learned based on the characters and their actions. We’ve also been reviewing some phonics skills and sentence practice. The link below provides details of the unit.
Math
In math class so far we have practiced our 5s, 2s, 10s and 9s. We’ve looked for patterns in their answers and even learned some songs to sing as we practice. This week we’ll add 3s and 4s and try to master those facts.
Remember, in my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
August 25th, 2025 - The Wind in the Willows Continues
Hello Families!
We’ve made it through week #2 and week #3 is upon us. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the kids and we’re starting to find our groove and getting back into the school routine.
Reading
This week, the kids will continue their unit in reading called, “The Wind in the Willows.” We’ve met several animal characters and talked about how they show personification (acting like people). Our daily read alouds have been fun and the adventures will continue this week. The link below provides details of the unit.
MAP Reading Test
This week your child will take the Reading MAP Test on Wednesday and Thursday. There is nothing you need to do to help your child prepare, other than make sure he/she gets a good night of rest and a healthy breakfast in the morning. This test is not based specifically on things that have been taught, but rather gives a general sense of a student's reading abilities to this point.
Math
In math class we have spent a lot of time learning about multiplication and have been practicing counting by 5s. We’ve also begun the process of understanding how multiplication and division really go hand in hand. This week we’ll start to learn our 2s, 10s and perhaps we’ll get to 9s.
Remember, in my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her assignment each day. You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
August 18th, 2025 - The Wind in the Willows Begins
Hello Families!
What a great first three days we had! I have really enjoyed getting to know the kids! Their individual personalities and talents are beginning to shine through and I'm so excited for the fun times we have ahead.
Reading
This week, the kids will begin their first unit in reading called, “The Wind in the Willows.” Our lessons will be based on that classic children’s tale, which we will read over the next couple of weeks. We start slowly with basic phonics, sentence structure and some skill work. The kids really enjoy this story and I’m looking forward to sharing it with them. The link below provides a preview of our the unit.
Math
In math class we have begun learning about multiplication and have been practicing counting by 5s. We’ll continue that practice this week and eventually expand our practice to include more and more numbers in the next few weeks.
Remember, in my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. The kids did a great job with the first lesson and almost everyone returned their first assignment! You likely noticed there is a place for the kids to have a parent or older sibling sign off on their work. That doesn’t mean you have to check their work. It’s just a way to hold your child accountable for completing his/her work.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
August 13th, 2025 - The Beginning
Hello Families!
I hope this email finds you well, rested and ready to return your child to school. Our journey begins tomorrow and I’m super excited to get to know your children. I’ve been doing this a long time...27 years, all at Arnold...and the first day is still magical to me. There are so many fun experiences ahead of us, and I can’t wait to share them with your kids.
Reading
This week, the kids will participate in a number of welcome activities as we get to know each other. We’ll also start our reading lessons with grammar and sentence structure practice. I’ll share more with you next week, but the link below does provide a preview of our first reading unit.
Math
Your child may attend math class with me, or perhaps walk to a different teacher for that segment of the day. Regardless, your child will receive the same basic instruction. Our goal is to find a placement that best fits your child’s needs.
In my math class, you can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday. I like to give the kids a break on the weekend, so no homework will be assigned on Fridays. There are often exceptions to this rule, however. It’s possible a lesson won’t go as planned, and I’ll cancel the assignment. Or, if we have a test, there won’t be any homework assigned. This week, the kids will have one homework assignment on Thursday.
Class Website
When you get a chance, please check out our class web page. It’s filled with lots of information and may provide you with quick answers to questions you might have. Included you’ll find spelling lists, math homework schedules, field trip information and more!
Thank you!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be your child’s teacher. It’s an honor I hold high, and there is nothing more important to me than giving them a great school experience.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
August 7th, 2025 - Welcome to Third Grade!
Hello Families!
Welcome to the 2025-26 school year at Arnold Elementary! I am really looking forward to getting to know your child and helping him/her have the best year of school possible!
Each week I will send a family email that gives a preview of the week ahead. Hopefully that weekly email will help you stay informed as to what is going on with your child's education.
While you're here...check out our class site! There are lots of useful tabs about homework, spelling lists, field trips, conferences and more! The site will be updated weekly as events on our calendar draw closer and closer.
Thanks for dropping by and enjoy the site!
Mr. Wachter
May 19th, 2025 - The End
Hello Families!
This week marks the end of your child’s third grade year. I really hate this time of year. I get so attached to the kids and it’s really hard to say goodbye. Thursday will be bittersweet, to say the least. Thankfully, we have some fun things planned for the week before we have to say goodbye.
School Days Portfolios
On Tuesday, the kids will receive their year-end “School Days…” portfolio. In it they will find their best work, photographs, messages from their classmates and profiles written by me. They are a labor of love and something I hope your child keeps forever as a memory of their third grade year!
School Days Music Videos
We’ll also watch our class music videos on Tuesday. They are another keepsake for the year, and something I hope you and your kids will enjoy for many years to come. I will send an email Tuesday evening that has downloadable links to each video. I beg of you to download them and save them. They are fun to look at now, but will mean even more in the future!
Last Day Fishing
Lastly, we’ll celebrate the last day of school by going fishing across the street at Bowling Lake! We’ll fish from 10:00 to 12:00, then come back and eat lunch in the classroom. All fishing materials will be provided for the kids.
I am so thankful I got to be your child’s teacher. I will treasure the time we had together. Thank you all for your support this year and everything you did to help your child succeed in school.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
May 12th, 2025 - Viking Voyages Commence!
Hello Families!
Last Day Fishing
Another friendly reminder the third graders will celebrate the last day of school (May 22nd) by going fishing across the street at Bowling Lake, from 10:00 to 12:00. If you would like to join us, please reply to this email and I’ll submit your name for volunteer approval.
Reading
The kids concluded Unit 9 last week in reading, and this week will begin a set of lessons about Viking Voyagers. We’ll take one more trip back in time and learn about some astonishing tales of the sea and some crazy adventures about Vikings yoyagers!
Math
In Math class, the kids will take their final Unit test on Tuesday and Wednesday. We will likely have one more new homework assignment on Monday, and then the rest of the time would be ideal for a number of kids to get caught up on missing assignments. Most kids will bring home a stapled packet of missing work on Monday.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
May 5th, 2025 - Fossil Dig Week!
Hello Families!
Fossil Dig
On Friday, the kids will conduct a fossil dig! This is a springtime tradition in third grade, and it wraps up what the kids were learning about fossils during our trip to Morrill Hall in February. The dig can get a little messy, so I would suggest not wearing dresses or ties that day! 🙂
Last Day Fishing
The third graders will celebrate the last day of school (May 22nd) by going fishing across the street at Bowling Lake, from 10:00 to 12:00. The kids brought home an informational letter last week with all the details. If you would like to join us, please reply to this email and I’ll submit your name for volunteer approval.
Reading
This week in reading we will wrap up Unit 9. The kids have been studying a variety of explorers and will write an opinion piece on which explorer was the most successful. Please click on the link below to learn more about the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take their final spelling test of the year on Wednesday. Thank you for helping them find time to study at home in preparation for the test.
April 22nd-Unit 9-Spelling Test #1
April 29th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #2
May 7th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In Math class, the kids will continue to practice a variety of computation problems. We’ll end the week doing a little review for our final test of the year. You can expect homework to come home Monday, Wednesday and Thursday this week.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
May 5th, 2025 - Fossil Dig Week!
Hello Families!
Fossil Dig
On Friday, the kids will conduct a fossil dig! This is a springtime tradition in third grade, and it wraps up what the kids were learning about fossils during our trip to Morrill Hall in February. The dig can get a little messy, so I would suggest not wearing dresses or ties that day! 🙂
Last Day Fishing
The third graders will celebrate the last day of school (May 22nd) by going fishing across the street at Bowling Lake, from 10:00 to 12:00. The kids brought home an informational letter last week with all the details. If you would like to join us, please reply to this email and I’ll submit your name for volunteer approval.
Reading
This week in reading we will wrap up Unit 9. The kids have been studying a variety of explorers and will write an opinion piece on which explorer was the most successful. Please click on the link below to learn more about the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take their final spelling test of the year on Wednesday. Thank you for helping them find time to study at home in preparation for the test.
April 22nd-Unit 9-Spelling Test #1
April 29th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #2
May 7th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In Math class, the kids will continue to practice a variety of computation problems. We’ll end the week doing a little review for our final test of the year. You can expect homework to come home Monday, Wednesday and Thursday this week.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 28th, 2025 - Hello May!
Hello Families!
Last Day Fishing
The third graders will celebrate the last day of school (May 22nd) by going fishing across the street at Bowling Lake, from 10:00 to 12:00. The kids will bring home an informational letter this week with all the details. If you would like to join us, please reply to this email and I’ll submit your name for volunteer approval.
Reading
This week in reading we will continue to learn about early explorers and take notes about their adventures. We are working our way up to an opinion writing piece about which explorer was the most successful. Please click on the link below to learn more about the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take their 2nd spelling test of Unit 9 on Tuesday. Then, they’ll bring home their final list of new words for the year on Wednesday. The tentative dates of our next spelling tests are listed below.
April 22nd-Unit 9-Spelling Test #1
April 29th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #2
May 7th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In Math class, has begun practicing 2 digit x 1 digit problems, as well as 2 digit divided by 1 digit problems. We’ll also apply those skills to a variety of word problems. You can expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday this week.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 22nd, 2025 - The Homestretch
Hello Families!
I was doing some planning for the last month of school and it really hit me that our time is running out! Thankfully, we’ve made it through “test season” and have a number of fun things planned to finish the year. It’s been an amazing ride and I intend to truly cherish the next month and enjoy every moment.
Reading
We are learning about different explorers in reading, and taking notes about each during our lessons. We’ll continue that this week and will work our way up to an opinion writing piece about which explorer was the most successful. Please click on the link below to learn more about the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take their next spelling test on Tuesday, and then bring a new list of words home on Wednesday. The tentative dates of our next spelling tests are listed below.
April 22nd-Unit 9-Spelling Test #1
April 29th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #2
May 7th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In Math class, the kids have begun their final unit. We’ll explore new and more challenging computation questions to help prep them for fourth grade. We’ll also apply those skills to word problems. You can expect homework to come home Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 14th, 2025 - NSCAS Math Test Week
Hello Families!
Thankfully last week’s test filled week is over! However, there is still one big one to go this week, as the kids will take their state Math test on April 15th and 16th. I was extremely pleased with the effort of the class as a whole! I am excited to see what they can do this week!
Reading
This week the kids will begin Unit 9 in reading, which focuses on the Early Explorers of America. We’ll take a number of trips back in time as we learn about those early pioneers. Please click on the link below to learn more about the unit.
Spelling
Spelling will resume this week, as the kids will take home their new words on Monday. But oddly, due to the long upcoming weekend, their test will not take place until the following week. In other words, they will have plenty of days to practice! The tentative dates of our next spelling tests are listed below.
April 22nd-Unit 9-Spelling Test #1
April 29th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #2
May 7th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #2
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In Math class the kids will do a little prep work on Monday for the NSCAS exam. Then, we’ll crank up the last unit of the year on Thursday. You can expect homework to come home on Monday and Thursday, but not Tuesday and Wednesday due to the state test.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 7th, 2025 - Hello, Test Season!
Hello Families!
Test season is upon us. This week, the kids will take their Nebraska state reading test (NSCAS) on Tuesday and Wednesday. Then, the following week they will take their state Math test on April 15th and 16th.
Reading
In reading, the kids will spend the week writing a summary and creating a slideshow about what they’ve learned about Native Americans. We’ll also take our Unit 8 reading test on opposite days of the state test. Our next unit focuses on early explorers of America. You can read a preview of that unit below.
Spelling
There will be no spelling words this week due to the reading test schedule. The tentative dates of our next spelling tests are listed below.
April 22nd-Unit 9-Spelling Test #1
April 29th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #2
May 7th-Unit 9-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In Math class we’ll also take our Unit test on measurement and geometry. You can generally expect homework to come home Monday through Thursday, with a few exceptions. For example, on Monday there will be no new homework assignment. Kids that are missing assignments will bring extra copies home that evening to finish.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
March 31st, 2025 - Hello, April!
Hello Families!
Just a reminder…The state reading and math tests (NSCAS) are fast approaching. In the coming weeks, we’ll be reviewing skills and practicing for those state exams. The dates for the reading exam will be the mornings of April 8th and 9th. The math exams will also be in the mornings of April 15th and 16th.
Reading
The kids are continuing their study of very early Native American settlers and what life was like for them in a new land. This week we’ll begin practice writing summaries of the chapters we read. We’ll also review skills that will help the kids prepare for the NSCAS exam.
Spelling
Our next spelling test will be bumped to Wednesday of this week, as I have to be gone for a portion of the day Tuesday due to a funeral. I didn’t want a sub to have to worry about the exam, and it will give the kids an extra day to practice.
March 24th-Unit 8-Spelling Test #1
April 2nd-Unit 8-Spelling Test #2
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In Math class we began learning about shapes and angles in our geometry portion of Unit 7. We’ll continue that study this week. You can expect homework to come home every day (M-Th), with the exception of Friday.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
March 24th, 2025 - NSCAS is Coming!
Hello Families!
The state reading and math tests (NSCAS) are fast approaching. In the coming weeks, we’ll be reviewing skills and practicing for those state exams. The dates for the reading exam will be the mornings of April 8th and 9th. The math exams will also be in the mornings of April 15th and 16th.
Reading
The kids are learning about the very early Native American settlers and what life was like for them in a new land. This week we’ll continue our studies and learn about new cultural traditions they developed over time.
Spelling
Due to the snow day, the first spelling test of Unit 8 was pushed back until Monday, March 24th. The second test will be adjusted accordingly, as well.
March 24th-Unit 8-Spelling Test #1
April 1st-Unit 8-Spelling Test #2
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Reading Homework
Reading homework has ended for the year.
Math
In Math class we’ve been learning about customary and metric measurements. We’ll continue that study this week. You can expect homework to come home every day (M-Th), with the exception of Friday.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
March 17th, 2025 - 4th Quarter Begins!
March 17th, 2025 - 4th Quarter Begins!
Hello Families!
I hope you all had a nice Spring Break and your kids are recharged for the last quarter of the year. It’s crazy to think the year is ¾ over, already. I definitely plan on savoring the moments this last quarter before our time together ends.
Reading
This week the kids will begin a new unit about Native Americans. We’ll learn about their early migration, settlement, and customs. Please click on the link below for more information.
Spelling
The kids will take their third spelling test of Unit 7 on Tuesday, March 4th (revised due to the snow day). Thank you for helping your child practice at home in preparation for the tests.
March 21st-Unit 8-Spelling Test #1
March 31st-Unit 8-Spelling Test #2
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Reading Homework
Reading homework has ended for the year.
Math
The kids will begin a new unit upon their return to school. Unit 7 focuses on weights, measures and geometry. We’ll also continue to revisit fractions until mastery.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
March 3rd, 2025 - Chick Hatching Week!
Hello Families!
Embryology
The time has arrived for our chicks to hatch! Starting possibly Monday, and most certainly Tuesday, we will be keeping a close eye on the incubator and crossing our fingers for some furry little friends to join the class. Our big play day will be Thursday. If your child wanted to bring a camera that day, he/she would be welcome to do so.
Reading
This week the kids will wrap up their study of Astronomy. We’ll take our unit test towards the end of the week. We’ll also do some quarterly reading checks this week as we wrap up quarter 3.
Spelling
The kids will take their third spelling test of Unit 7 on Tuesday, March 4th (revised due to the snow day). Thank you for helping your child practice at home in preparation for the tests.
February 11th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #1
February 21st-Unit 7-Spelling Test #2-Cancelled
March 4th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Reading Homework
The kids will have one final reading homework assignment this week. Last week we had our highest rate of return, so let’s keep the momentum going the last week before break and return all of those assignments!
Math
The kids took their area and perimeter test last week. This week, the kids are working on equivalent fractions. If the lessons go well, we may test towards the end of the week. But, with the snow days, I may delay that exam until after Spring Break.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
February 24th, 2025 - Embryology Continues
Hello Families!
Well…that was a short week last week! This week we will attempt all the things I spoke of in last week’s email. 😁
The only real change is our next spelling test. Since we had no time to practice due to snow days, I canceled test #2 on Friday. We will resume spelling this week, but I’m not exactly sure what day they will bring their new words home. It will likely be Wednesday, but I need to do some lessons adjustments and alter our pacing. I will keep you posted on list #3 for Unit 7.
Thanks for reading and stay warm!
Eric Wachter
February 19th, 2025 - Egg Candling Week
Hello Families!
Embryology
The kids have begun learning about life cycles in our Embryology Unit. Twelve eggs were delivered to us last week, and the class has taken turns turning the eggs, as a mother hen would do. This will continue for two more weeks until they hatch! This week, we will candle the eggs (use a high powered light to see into the shell) to see which eggs are developing properly. Here’s hoping for a healthy crop!
Reading
Last week the kids completed a mini-research report on planets, and will continue to learn more about astronomy this week. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will take their second spelling test of Unit 7 on Friday, February 21st (revised due to the snow day). Thank you for helping your child practice at home in preparation for the tests.
February 11th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #1
February 21st-Unit 7-Spelling Test #2
February 27th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Reading Homework
There will be no new reading homework assignment this week due to the short week. Instead, please encourage your child to return last week’s assignment, if they haven’t already.
Math
Well, so much for regular homework! The snow day got us off track again, but the kids did have a homework assignment on Friday to make up for the missed day. We’ll continue to learn about area and perimeter this week.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
February 10th, 2025 - Baby Chicks, Museums, Valentine’s and Fancy Friday!
Hello Families!
Morrill Hall
Our trip to Morrill Hall is finally here! We’ll go to the museum on Thursday, February 13th, and get to experience being paleontologists for a day. We’ll also explore some fun, hands-on areas. The link below further explains the dates and times of the trip and what the kids will be doing.
Morrill Hall Parent Letter 2025
Valentine’s Day
The kids will celebrate Valentine’s Day on Friday, February 14th with a small class party. The kids are welcome to bring cards and treats, provided they are store bought items. Please click on the link below to read more details.
Embryology
The class will receive a dozen eggs on Tuesday to mark the start of our Embryology Unit. If all goes well, we’ll have 12 fluffy little friends hatching in 21 days. This is the experience the kids remember most about third grade, so it should be an exciting time of the year!
Fancy Friday
The kids are encouraged to dress up in fancy clothes for “Fancy Friday” this week. The lunch room will be decorated in fancy fashion, and the kids will eat their lunch in “style.” I may even have to put on a tie for this occasion!
Reading
The class began learning about the solar system and planets last week in their new reading unit. We’ll continue with similar lessons on astronomy this week. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will take their first spelling test of Unit 7 on Tuesday, February 11th. Then, they will bring list #2 home on Wednesday. Thank you for helping your child practice at home in preparation for the tests.
February 11th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #1
February 20th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #2
February 27th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Reading Homework
The next fluency homework assignment will come home on Monday, and will be due on Friday. Last week only six kids returned this assignment. Extra reading practice like this can only help their progress, so I appreciate those of you helping your child to finish and return this assignment weekly.
Math
In math class, the kids began Unit 5, which focus first on the study of area and perimeter. Thankfully, we are done with testing for a bit, so homework assignments will become a bit more regular again this week.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 3rd, 2025 - Unit Test Week & Welcome Milana!
Hello Families!
New Student!
The kids will welcome a new student to class on Monday. Her name is Milana, and she is coming to America from Ukraine. She speaks limited English, so the kids will be counted on to help her become accustomed to Arnold and help her feel comfortable and safe. We will practice Ukrainian words and phrases along the way and I know this experience will be so fun! Thank goodness for Google Translate, too! 🙂
Мілана,
Ми дуже раді, що ви приєдналися до нашого класу. Буде так весело познайомитися з вами. Діти ДУЖЕ раді зустрічі з вами. До зустрічі в понеділок!
Morrill Hall
Our trip to Morrill Hall is coming up on February 13th. The link below explains the dates and times of the trip and what the kids will be doing.
Morrill Hall Parent Letter 2025
Valentine’s Day
The kids will celebrate Valentine’s Day on Friday, February 14th with a small class party. The kids are welcome to bring cards and treats, provided they are store bought items. Please click on the link below to read more details.
Reading
This week the kids will finish up their research project and take their Unit 5 Reading Test. Our next unit will be about Astronomy and outer space. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will bring home their first spelling list of Unit 7 on Wednesday. The test will be the following week on February 11th. Thank you for helping your child practice at home in preparation for the tests.
February 11th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #1
February 20th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #2
February 27th-Unit 7-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Reading Homework
The next fluency homework assignment will come home on Monday, and will be due on Friday. Please remind your child to complete the assignment during the week and return it by Friday.
Math
In math class, the kids will wrap up unit 4 on measurement and telling time. They will take their unit test in reading, as well. Unit 5 will revisit fractions, a little geometry and weights and measures.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 27th, 2025 - 100th Day Spirit Week
Hello Families!
100th Day Spirit Week
This week there are different daily celebrations to mark the 100th Day of School. Click on the link below to see each daily
Morrill Hall
Our trip to Morrill Hall is coming up on February 13th. The link below explains the dates and times of the trip and what the kids will be doing.
Morrill Hall Parent Letter 2025
Reading
This week the kids will begin to research a famous inventor. We’ll take notes, write a rough draft and then turn that rough draft into a final project. We’re also working on conjunctions and adverbs during grammar. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will take their final spelling test of Unit 5 on Wednesday, January 29th. Any extra practice at home before the test would be beneficial.
January 10th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #1
January 17th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #2
January 29th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Reading Homework
The next fluency homework assignment will come home on Monday, and will be due on Friday. Please remind your child to complete the assignment during the week and return it by Friday.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 21st, 2025 - Early Bird Weekly Email!
Hello Families!
Morrill Hall
I am sending out next week’s email extra early, because I wanted you to be aware of the upcoming field trip the kids have on February 13th. Your child should have brought home an informational letter about our Morrill Hall field trip today (Friday). If not, the link below is a copy of the same letter. The letter explains the dates and times of the trip and what the kids will be doing.
If you are interested in joining us, please let me know by January 24th.
The school will then get in touch with you regarding the new process for volunteering for a field trip. It takes a week or two to get approved, so don’t delay!
Morrill Hall Parent Letter 2025
Reading
This week the kids will continue to study light and sound in reading. We will begin to research famous inventors soon, which will be their biggest writing project to date. We’re also working on various parts of speech, specifically adverbs. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will bring home their third spelling list of Unit 5 on Tuesday, and their third test will be on the following Tuesday, January 28th. Last week’s tests were much improved overall! Still, any extra practice at home before the test would be beneficial.
January 10th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #1
January 17th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #2
January 28th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Reading Homework
The next fluency homework assignment will come home on Monday, and will be due on Friday. The vast majority of kids are not completing this assignment. Please remind your child to complete the assignment during the week and return it by Friday.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 13th, 2025 - Conferences and Math MAP Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week the kids will continue to study light and sound in reading. We’re also working on various parts of speech, specifically adverbs. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will bring home their second spelling list of Unit 5 on Monday, and their second test will be on Friday. Last week’s tests proved the words are getting harder and harder, as a number of kids really struggled on the exam. Any extra practice at home before the test would be beneficial!
January 10th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #1
January 17th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #2
January 28th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math and MAP Test
The kids will take part 1 of their Unit 4 math test this week on Monday and Tuesday. Then, they will take the Math MAP test on Wednesday and Thursday. Since that is so much testing, they will get a nice break from homework this week.
Reading Homework
The next fluency homework assignment will come home on Monday, and will be due on Friday. The vast majority of kids are not completing this assignment. Please remind your child to complete the assignment during the week and return it by Friday.
Conferences
Conferences take place on Monday and Wednesday of this week. The link below is to the schedule of those that have registered.
2nd Semester Conference Times 2025
If you haven’t signed up, it’s not too late. Follow the steps below to register.
January 2025
1. Log into ParentVUE
2. Select your elementary student in the upper left corner
3. Click on the Conference tile
1. On a mobile device, tap Parent Teacher Conferences in the upper right corner
4. Click on the teacher’s name to select a time. (this is also what to choose if you need to change your time)
5. Click on a block of time to select that timeslot. Your student’s name should then appear in that block of time. Once selected, it will turn purple.
6. Click the X in the top right corner to close the window. Save is not required.
If you have another elementary student, select the next student in the upper left corner of ParentVUE (home screen on a mobile device). Repeat steps 4-6 for that student.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 6th, 2025 - Happy New Year!
Hello Families!
Welcome to 2025 and the second semester of school! I hope your family had some time off the past couple of weeks and were able to spend some quality time with each other. While I’m sad half the year is over, we still have lots of fun things ahead in third grade!
Reading
This week the kids will begin Unit 5, called Light and Sound. In this unit, we’ll learn about just that…light and sound. We’ll also learn about inventors and the origins of many of today’s modern conveniences. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will bring home their first spelling list of Unit 5 on Monday, and their first test will be on Friday. You might have notice the words are getting harder and harder, which requires even more practice. Any extra practice before the test would be beneficial!
January 10th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #1
January 21st-Unit 5-Spelling Test #2
January 28th-Unit 5-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
The kids will continue with Unit 4 in math. We’ve been learning about fractions and will continue to do so. Soon we’ll move into telling time and revisit some graphing.
Reading Homework
The kids will also bring home a reading fluency homework assignment on Monday. As always, the goal of the assignment is to read and answer questions using complete and detailed sentences. The kids will also practice their fluency skills by reading aloud for 1 minute, on five separate reads. This assignment will come home on Mondays, and not be due until Friday. This should allow plenty of time to complete the assignment. If your child finishes early, he/she can bring it back to school anytime during the week.
Conferences
Have you signed up for January’s conferences yet? If not, follow the steps below.
January 2025
1. Log into ParentVUE
2. Select your elementary student in the upper left corner
3. Click on the Conference tile
1. On a mobile device, tap Parent Teacher Conferences in the upper right corner
4. Click on the teacher’s name to select a time. (this is also what to choose if you need to change your time)
5. Click on a block of time to select that timeslot. Your student’s name should then appear in that block of time. Once selected, it will turn purple.
6. Click the X in the top right corner to close the window. Save is not required.
If you have another elementary student, select the next student in the upper left corner of ParentVUE (home screen on a mobile device). Repeat steps 4-6 for that student.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 16th, 2024 - Unit 4 Reading Test Week
December 15th, 2024 - Unit 4 Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
It’s hard to believe we are wrapping up the first semester of school for 2024-25. I’ve really enjoyed teaching your children this year and I’m so glad we still have another semester to go. I hope all of you have a great Holiday season and a relaxing two week break from school following this week!
Reading
This week the kids will wrap up their study of the Roman Empire and take their Unit 4 test. Following the break, our new unit will be science oriented and focus on Light and Sound. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will take their third spelling test of Unit 4 on Monday. Any extra practice before the test would be beneficial!
November 19th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
December 6th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
December 16th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
The kids began Unit 4 last week, which focuses on fractions, graphing and telling time.
We’ve been practicing fractions during an Intervention unit the past couple of weeks and the kids have been earning coupons for passing “exit questions” after each lesson. On Wednesday, one lucky student will have a coupon drawn and have the opportunity to smash a pie in Mr. Roberson’s face! This is a third grade tradition and always a fun way to celebrate learning about fractions.
Reading Homework
On Monday, the kids will bring home their next weekly reading homework assignment. As always, the goal of the assignment is to read and answer questions using complete and detailed sentences. The kids will also practice their fluency skills by reading aloud for 1 minute, on five separate reads. This assignment will come home on Mondays, and not be due until Friday. This should allow plenty of time to complete the assignment. If your child finishes early, he/she can bring it back to school anytime during the week.
Conferences
Have you signed up for January’s conferences yet? If not, follow the steps below.
January 2025
1. Log into ParentVUE
2. Select your elementary student in the upper left corner
3. Click on the Conference tile
1. On a mobile device, tap Parent Teacher Conferences in the upper right corner
4. Click on the teacher’s name to select a time. (this is also what to choose if you need to change your time)
5. Click on a block of time to select that timeslot. Your student’s name should then appear in that block of time. Once selected, it will turn purple.
6. Click the X in the top right corner to close the window. Save is not required.
If you have another elementary student, select the next student in the upper left corner of ParentVUE (home screen on a mobile device). Repeat steps 4-6 for that student.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 9th, 2024 - Unit 3 Math Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week the kids will continue to learn about the Roman Empire. We read a lot about Julius Caesar last week and will finally move on to Augustus Caeser this week. We’ll wrap up our lesson on the Roman Empire soon and will take our Unit 4 Test next week. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will bring home their third of Unit 4 on Tuesday. Our tests for this unit will fall on the following days.
November 19th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
December 6th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
December 16th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In math class, the kids will spend Monday reviewing before we take our Unit 3 test on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Reading Homework
On Monday, the kids will bring home their next weekly reading homework assignment. As always, the goal of the assignment is to read and answer questions using complete and detailed sentences. The kids will also practice their fluency skills by reading aloud for 1 minute, on five separate reads. This assignment will come home on Mondays, and not be due until Friday. This should allow plenty of time to complete the assignment. If your child finishes early, he/she can bring it back to school anytime during the week.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 2nd, 2024 - MAP Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
I hope you had a nice, relaxing weekend and had a chance to recharge your family’s batteries. It’s funny how fast five days can fly by, but I’m looking forward to seeing the kids bright and early Monday!
Reading
This week the kids will continue to learn about the Roman Empire. We’ll study Julius and Augustus Caesar in our lessons, and learn how their lives impacted the empire. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will take their second spelling test of Unit 4 on Friday. Their third list will come home the following Monday. Our tests for this unit will fall on the following days.
November 19th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
December 6th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
December 13th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
MAP Reading Test
We’ll also take our mid-year MAP reading test on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. There is nothing the kids need to do to prepare for this test other than to get a good night’s rest and eat a good breakfast in the morning.
Math
In math class, the kids will wrap up Unit 3 and begin prepping for their Unit Test. This week we’ll practice graphing, as well as reviewing addition, subtraction and rounding.
Reading Homework
On Monday, the kids will bring home their 4th weekly reading homework assignment. As always, the goal of the assignment is to read and answer questions using complete and detailed sentences. The kids will also practice their fluency skills by reading aloud for 1 minute, on five separate reads. This assignment will come home on Mondays, and not be due until Friday. This should allow plenty of time to complete the assignment. If your child finishes early, he/she can bring it back to school anytime during the week.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 25th, 2024 - Happy Thanksgiving!
Hello Families!
I find it a little hard to believe we have already arrived at Thanksgiving. I swear we were just getting started! This week the kids will do some fun activities in accordance with their lessons to celebrate a week of giving thanks. There will be no reading homework due to the short week, and their next spelling test isn’t until after the break on December 6th.
Have a great week and enjoy the holiday break!
Eric Wachter
November 18th, 2024 - Unit 4 Reading Underway
Hello Families!
Reading
Last week, the kids began learning about the Roman Empire and its origin. We’ve learned about legends and how it supposedly came into existence. This week, we’ll learn about more mythical figures and what civilization was like so long ago. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will take their first spelling test of Unit 4 on Tuesday, and then bring home their second spelling list on Wednesday. Our tests for this unit will fall on the following days.
November 19th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
December 6th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
December 13th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In math class, the kids have been practicing addition and subtraction with larger numbers. We’ll continue that practice this week. We’ll also continue to practice rounding with larger numbers.
Reading Homework Begins
On Monday, the kids will bring home their 3rd weekly reading homework assignment. As always, the goal of the assignment is to read and answer questions using complete and detailed sentences. The kids will also practice their fluency skills by reading aloud for 1 minute, on five separate reads. This assignment will come home on Mondays, and not be due until Friday. This should allow plenty of time to complete the assignment. If your child finishes early, he/she can bring it back to school anytime during the week.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 11th, 2024 - Unit 3 Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week the kids will take their Unit 3 Test in reading. Then, on Wednesday we’ll start our new Unit on the Roman Empire. If you’d like to read more about this unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
The kids will bring home their first spelling list from Unit 4 on Wednesday. Our tests for this unit will fall on the following days.
November 19th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #1
December 6th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #2
December 13th-Unit 4-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
This week in Math the kids will continue to practice rounding numbers to the nearest 10 and 100. We’ll also begin practicing addition and subtraction with larger numbers.
Reading Homework Begins
On Monday, the kids will bring home their next weekly reading homework assignment. As always, the goal of the assignment is to read and answer questions using complete and detailed sentences. The kids will also practice their fluency skills by reading aloud for 1 minute, on five separate reads. This assignment will come home on Mondays, and not be due until Friday. This should allow plenty of time to complete the assignment. If your child finishes early, he/she can bring it back to school anytime during the week.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 4th, 2024 - Election Week & Reading Homework Begins
Hello Families!
This week the kids will get a chance to cast their own vote on some of the important issues of 2024. We'll vote for the next president, the next two senators and the next three congress people. While those decisions are important, we'll also focus in on the REALLY important things to third graders, like choosing their favorite soda or candy bar. Ha! 😁
Just a reminder we will have school Monday, then have Tuesday off for Election Day, and return to school on Wednesday.
Reading
The kids will wrap up their study of the human body this week in Unit 3, and take our unit test the following week. The last few lessons focus on disabilities and ways to overcome them or assist people with them. If you’d like to read more about our unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Our spelling lessons got bumped a day last week, and your kids should have brought home their new spelling words on Friday. Our third test of Unit 3 will now take place on Friday, November 8th.
October 22nd-Unit 3-Spelling Test #1
October 30th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #2
November 8th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
The kids have begun Unit 3 in Math. We’ve begun learning how to estimate and round numbers. We’ll continue with that skill this week, as well as begin to practice addition and subtraction.
Reading Homework Begins
On Monday, the kids will bring home a new, weekly reading homework assignment. The goal of the assignment is to read and answer questions using complete and detailed sentences. The kids will also practice their fluency skills by reading aloud for 1 minute, on five separate reads. This will require a bit of assistance, as a family member will need to set a timer for 1 minute.
This assignment will come home on Mondays, and not be due until Friday. This should allow plenty of time to complete the assignment. If your child finishes early, he/she can bring it back to school anytime during the week.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
October 28th, 2024 - Pajama Day Friday!
Hello Families!
Reading
The kids will continue learning about the human body this week in Unit 3. We’ll spend a couple of days on the nervous system, and end the week learning about vision and hearing. We’ll also continue to practice prefixes, similes and metaphors as we complete our lessons. If you’d like to read more about our unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Our spelling tests in Unit 3 will take place on the following dates. The third list of words for Unit 3 will come home on Thursday, October 31st, 2024.
October 22nd-Unit 3-Spelling Test #1
October 30th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #2
November 6th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
The kids have begun Unit 3 in Math. This week, we’ll practice place value and begin learning about rounding numbers.
Pajama Day!
Arnold has earned their next 10,000 SOAR Ticket challenge! On Friday, November 1st, your child is welcome to wear pajamas to school!
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 21st, 2024 - Unit 2 Math Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
The kids have begun learning about the human body and its systems in Unit 3. So far, we’ve focused on the skeletal system. This week we’ll learn about the muscular and nervous system. We’ll also focus on prefixes, similes and metaphors as we complete our lessons. If you’d like to read more about our unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Our spelling tests in Unit 3 will take place on the following dates. The second list of words for Unit 3 will come home on Wednesday, October 23rd.
October 22nd-Unit 3-Spelling Test #1
October 30th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #2
November 6th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
The kids will take their Unit 2 math test on Tuesday and Wednesday next week. Unit 3 will begin on Thursday and the early lessons will focus on addition and subtraction strategies.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 16th, 2024 - Hello Fall!
Hello Families!
I hope you had a nice break from school and were able to do some fun things with your family. It looks like fall has finally arrived and we can look forward to some calm, comfortable weather before Old Man Winter arrives!
Reading
The class will begin Unit 3 in reading this week. In Unit 3, the lessons will focus on the human body and how it functions. If you’d like to read more about our unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Your child will bring home the first spelling list of Unit 3 on Wednesday. Our spelling tests in Unit 3 will take place on the following dates.
October 22nd-Unit 3-Spelling Test #1
October 30th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #2
November 6th-Unit 3-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In math class we are close to wrapping up Unit 2. Our main focus will be to continue to learn our math facts and applying strategies to solve word problems.
Conferences
Conferences coming up soon on October 16th and 21st. The link below shows the conference time you selected.
Just a friendly reminder to sign up if you haven’t already. Follow the steps below to register.
To schedule a conference:
1) Log into your ParentVUE account
2) Click the Conference tab
3) Click on the conference row you would like to schedule a meeting for
4) Select a date/time that works for you
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 7th, 2024 - Quarter 1 Concludes
Hello Families!
Reading
The kids have been learning a lot about animals and how they’re classified in Unit 2. This week, the kids will pick an animal and complete a mini-research report. We’ll practice how to take notes, write a rough draft and then a final draft of our animal. If you’d like to read more about our unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Your child should have brought home his/her third spelling list last Wednesday. Our next test will take place on Wednesday.
October 9th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In math class we’ll keep practicing our math facts, as well as work on some word problems. The kids have now practiced all facts through 9. We’ll review them daily until they are 100% embedded in their brains!
Conferences
Have you signed up for conferences yet? If not, please follow the steps below to register online.
Our school is using Synergy ParentVUE to schedule conferences. Please choose only one-time slot per child.
To select a conference time, follow the directions below. If you don’t yet have a ParentVUE account or need assistance selecting a time slot for conferences, please call the school office.
1) Log into ParentVUE
2) Select your elementary student in the upper left corner
3) Click on the Conference tile
On a mobile device, tap Parent Teacher Conferences in the upper right corner
4) Click on the teacher’s name to select a time. (this is also what to choose if you need to change your time)
5) Click on a block of time to select that timeslot. Your student’s name should then appear in that block of time. Once selected, it will turn purple.
6) Click the X in the top right corner to close the window. Save is not required.
If you have another elementary student, select the next student in the upper left corner of ParentVUE (home screen on a mobile device). Repeat steps 4-6 for that student.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 30th, 2024 - Unit 2 Math Begins
September 30th, 2024 - Unit 2 Math Begins
Hello Families!
Reading
The kids have begun Unit 2 in reading, called Animal Classification. We’ve spent a lot of time learning about different ways scientists classify living things. This week, our reading lessons will feature reptiles and birds.If you’d like to read more about our unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Your child should have brought home his/her second spelling list last Wednesday. Our first test will take place on Wednesday, and their third list will come home on Thursday.
October 2nd-Unit 2-Spelling Test #2
October 9th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In math class we will begin Unit 2. The second unit is very similar to the first, in that we’ll continue to practice multiplication and division with larger numbers. This week, we’ll begin to learn 6s, 7s and 8s.
Conferences
Have you signed up for conferences yet? If not, please follow the steps below to register online.
Our school is using Synergy ParentVUE to schedule conferences. Please choose only one-time slot per child.
To select a conference time, follow the directions below. If you don’t yet have a ParentVUE account or need assistance selecting a time slot for conferences, please call the school office.
1) Log into ParentVUE
2) Select your elementary student in the upper left corner
3) Click on the Conference tile
On a mobile device, tap Parent Teacher Conferences in the upper right corner
4) Click on the teacher’s name to select a time. (this is also what to choose if you need to change your time)
5) Click on a block of time to select that timeslot. Your student’s name should then appear in that block of time. Once selected, it will turn purple.
6) Click the X in the top right corner to close the window. Save is not required.
If you have another elementary student, select the next student in the upper left corner of ParentVUE (home screen on a mobile device). Repeat steps 4-6 for that student.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 23rd, 2024 - Unit 1 Math Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
The kids have begun Unit 2 in reading, called Animal Classification. We will discuss vertebrates and invertebrates, warm and cold blooded animals as we learn about a variety of different animals. If you’d like to read more about our new unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Your child should have brought home his/her first spelling list last Wednesday. Our first test will take place on Tuesday, and their second list will come home on Wednesday.
September 24th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #1
October 2nd-Unit 2-Spelling Test #2
October 9th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In math class we will spend a couple of days reviewing what we’ve learned in Unit 1, and then take our first test at the end of the week.
Conference Sign-Up
Have you signed up for conferences yet? If not, please follow the steps below to register online.
Our school is using Synergy ParentVUE to schedule conferences. Please choose only one-time slot per child.
To select a conference time, follow the directions below. If you don’t yet have a ParentVUE account or need assistance selecting a time slot for conferences, please call the school office.
1) Log into ParentVUE
2) Select your elementary student in the upper left corner
3) Click on the Conference tile
On a mobile device, tap Parent Teacher Conferences in the upper right corner
4) Click on the teacher’s name to select a time. (this is also what to choose if you need to change your time)
5) Click on a block of time to select that timeslot. Your student’s name should then appear in that block of time. Once selected, it will turn purple.
6) Click the X in the top right corner to close the window. Save is not required.
If you have another elementary student, select the next student in the upper left corner of ParentVUE (home screen on a mobile device). Repeat steps 4-6 for that student.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 16th, 2024 - Unit 1 Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
The week the kids will wrap up our first reading unit of the year and take our first unit test on Tuesday. On Wednesday, we’ll start Unit 2 which is called “Animal Classification.” The kids will learn about a variety of different animals, their traits and their habitats. If you’d like to read more about our new unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Spelling begins in Unit 2, and you can expect to see a take home practice list come home with your child on Wednesday. There will be three tests in Unit 2 on the following days.
September 24th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #1
October 2nd-Unit 2-Spelling Test #2
October 9th-Unit 2-Spelling Test #3
If you ever need an extra copy of the list, click below or visit the spelling tab on our class website.
Modified Spelling Lists 2024-25
Math
In math class we will continue to practice our count bys while learning how to solve multiplication and division problems. We’ve practiced 5s, 2s, 10s, 9s, 3s and 4s so far. This week we will add 0s and 1s to our practice as we wrap up Unit 1.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 9th, 2024 - Picture Day & Math MAP Test Week
Hello Families!
Math MAP Test
This week your child will take the Math MAP Test on Wednesday and Thursday. There is nothing you need to do to help your child prepare, other than make sure he/she gets a good night of rest and a healthy breakfast in the morning. This test is not based specifically on things that have been taught, but rather gives a general sense of a student's mathematics abilities to this point. For more information about the test, click on the link below.
Picture Day
Picture Day is on Monday, September 9th. Our window of time begins around 9:40, so we should be done before lunch.
Reading
The kids will read more of “The Wind in the Willows” this week, and will continue working on things like a story’s theme, dialogue and personification, as well as a number of phonics based reviews. We are also going to start practicing opinion writing. If you’d like to read more about our new unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Spelling does not begin until Unit 2, so there will be no lists coming home in the next couple of weeks.
Math
In math class we will continue to practice our count bys while learning how to solve multiplication and division problems. We’ve practiced 5s, 2s, 10s, 9s and 3s so far. This week we will add 4s to our practice as we wrap up Unit 1.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
September 3rd, 2024 - Picture Day is Coming!
Hello Families!
I hope you all had a long, restful weekend. I did, but my brain must have been on an extended vacation as I forgot to send the weekly email last night! :)
Picture Day
Just a reminder Picture Day is coming on Monday, September 9th. Our window of time begins around 9:40, so we should be done before lunch.
Reading
We are about halfway through the Unit 1 lessons in our reading curriculum. The kids will read more of “The Wind in the Willows” this week, and will continue working on things like a story’s theme, dialogue and personification, as well as a number of phonics based reviews. If you’d like to read more about our new unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Spelling does not begin until Unit 2, so there will be no lists coming home in the next couple of weeks.
Math
In math class we will continue to practice our count bys while learning how to solve multiplication and division problems. We’ve practiced 5s, 2s, 10s and 9s so far. This week we will add 3s to our practice.
Strings Instrument
Is your child interested in learning how to play a string instrument? If yes, please click the links below regarding a special program offer.
String Project Parent Letter 2024-25
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
August 26th, 2024 - Reading MAP Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading MAP Test
This week your child will take the Reading MAP Test on Wednesday and Thursday. There is nothing you need to do to help your child prepare, other than make sure he/she gets a good night of rest and a healthy breakfast in the morning. This test is not based specifically on things that have been taught, but rather gives a general sense of a student's reading abilities to this point. For more information about the test, click on the link below.
Reading
We will continue with Unit 1 lessons in our reading curriculum. The kids have been reading sections of “The Wind in the Willows” each day, and have been working on things like a story’s theme, dialogue and personification, as well as a number of phonics based reviews. If you’d like to read more about our new unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Spelling does not begin until Unit 2, so there will be no lists coming home in the next couple of weeks.
Math
In math class we will continue to practice our count bys while learning how to solve multiplication and division problems. We’ve practiced 5s and 2s and will add 10s and 9s this week.
Strings Instrument
Is your child interested in learning how to play a string instrument? If yes, please click the links below regarding a special program offer.
String Project Parent Letter 2024-25
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
August 19th, 2024 - Welcome to Week #2
Hello Families!
We had a wonderful first week of school! I have loved getting to know your children this week and I’m beyond excited for the year to come.
Reading
After a week of warm-up activities, this week the kids will crank up the CKLA Reading curriculum. The Unit 1 lessons are based on a classic tale called, “The Wind in the Willows.” We’ll read a bit of that story each day and complete a number of accompanying assignments. If you’d like to read more about our new unit, please click on the link below.
Spelling
Spelling does not begin unit Unit 2, so there will be no lists coming home in the next couple of weeks.
Math
In Math class, the kids began learning about multiplication and we practiced counting by 5s. This week, we’ll make connections between multiplication and division, as well as add 2s to our practice.
Class Website
Have you had a chance to visit the class web page? If not, please take a look when you get a chance! There is a lot of information to be found, including a copy of the weekly email, homework links, spelling links and lots of general information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
August 8th, 2024 - Welcome to Third Grade!
Hello Families,
Welcome to the 2024-25 school year at Arnold Elementary! I am looking forward to getting to know your child and helping him/her have the best year of school possible!
Each week I will send a family email that gives a preview of the week ahead. Hopefully that weekly email will help you stay informed as to what is going on with your child's education.
While you're here...check out our class site! There are lots of useful tabs about homework, spelling lists, field trips, conferences and more!
Thanks for dropping by and enjoy the site!
Mr. Wachter
May 21st, 2024 - "School Days..." Portfolios and Music Video Links
Hello Families!
Below are the links to our "School Days…" Music Videos for 2023-24. We had a great time watching them today, and they brought back a lot of fun times, great memories and lots of emotions! I hope you will all take the time to watch them again with your child. I also beg of you to download them and keep them forever. I will also add them to the “Portfolios” tab on the class web site: Mr. Wachter's Class
The kids also received their “School Days…” Portfolios today. Like the videos, I hope you take some time to look through them with your child and relive some of the special moments from their third grade year. Please find a safe place for these portfolios and keep them forever!
One more time I'd like to thank you all for allowing me the honor of being your child's teacher. This was a special class and I will remember your kids forever. Have a great summer and please stay in touch!
Sincerely,
Eric Wachter
May 20th, 2024 - The End
Hello Families!
This week marks the end of your child’s third grade year. I have so many mixed emotions at this time of year! I think we are all looking forward to summer, but at the same time, I am so sad to say goodbye to your children. I have enjoyed this class immensely, and Thursday will be a very bittersweet day. Thankfully, we have some fun things planned for the week before we have to say goodbye.
School Days Portfolios
On Tuesday, the kids will receive their year-end “School Days…” portfolio. In it they will find their best work, photographs, messages from their classmates and profiles written by me. They are a labor of love and something I hope your child keeps forever as a memory of their third grade year!
School Days Music Videos
We’ll also watch our class music videos on Tuesday. They are another keepsake for the year, and something I hope you and your kids will enjoy for many years to come. I will send an email Tuesday evening that has downloadable links to each video. I beg of you to download them and save them. They are fun to look at now, but will mean even more in the future!
Last Day Fishing
Lastly, we’ll celebrate the last day of school by going fishing across the street at Bowling Lake! We’ll fish from 10:00 to 12:00, then come back and eat lunch in the classroom. All fishing materials will be provided for the kids. Please read the note in the link below for more information.
Thank you all for your support this year and everything you did to help your child succeed in school. I am so thankful I got to be your child’s teacher and will treasure the memories of this year for the rest of my life.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
May 13th, 2024 - Final Tests Week
Hello Families!
Reading & Math
This week the kids will wrap up their final two units of reading and math. We’ll spread the testing out over a couple of days so it’s not too overwhelming.
Spelling
The kids took their final spelling test of the year on Friday.
Last Day Fishing
The third graders at Arnold will celebrate the last day of school by going fishing across the street at Bowling Lake! We’ll fish from 10:00 to 12:00, then come back and eat lunch in the classroom. All fishing materials will be provided for the kids. Please read the note in the link below for more information.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
May 6th, 2024 - Fossil Dig Week
Hello Families!
Science
On Friday of this week, the kids will become paleontologists for a day and excavate a fossil from a plaster mold. This lesson will wrap up some earlier lessons we had on life cycles. Hopefully the weather will cooperate so we can conduct this lesson outside on the south sidewalk. This activity can be a little messy, so the kids are encouraged to not wear their Sunday best. 😀
Last Day Fishing
The third graders at Arnold will celebrate the last day of school by going fishing across the street at Bowling Lake! We’ll fish from 10:00 to 12:00, then come back and eat lunch in the classroom. All fishing materials will be provided for the kids. Please read the note in the link below for more information. The information note will come home on Wednesday, as well
Reading
We are nearing the end of Unit 9, our last reading unit of the year. We still have a couple of more explorers to learn about, and will complete a final opinion writing piece. Please read the letter below for a full description of the unit.
Spelling
The kids brought home their final spelling list of the year on Friday. We’ll take that final test on Friday of this week. If you ever need an extra copy of a spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 9, Spelling Test #2-May 10th
Math
In math class, we will continue to practice strategies to solve word problems. We are also working on our math facts every day. Any extra practice at home is beneficial!
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 29th, 2024 - No Tests Week! 😄
Hello Families!
After a couple of crazy weeks of testing, the kids will get a nice break this week with some regular lessons! Thanks to all of you that made an extra effort to have your child resting and fueled up during our test stretch. I’m really proud of their effort and I hope they feel the same!
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll learn about more early explorers to the Americas. We will also continue to practice opinion writing during the course of the unit. Please read the letter below for a full description of the unit.
Spelling
Okay, I lied. We do have one test this week for spelling. That will be pushed back to Thursday, as we adjusted our pacing a touch last week. You can expect that new list to come home Monday evening. If you ever need an extra copy of a spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 9, Spelling Test #2-May 2nd
Unit 9, Spelling Test #2-May 9th
Math
In math class, we will continue to practice strategies to solve word problems. We are also working on our math facts every day. Any extra practice at home is beneficial!
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 22nd, 2024 - NSCAS Math Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll continue learning about early settlers to the Americas. Last week the kids learned about Christopher Columbus and his different voyages, and we’ll continue to learn about those that came after him. Please read the letter below for a full description of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take their next spelling test on Wednesday, April 24th. Then, they should bring home a new list on Thursday. However, we might make some slight adjustments to our pacing, so that might get pushed back a day. If you ever need an extra copy of a spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 9, Spelling Test #1-April 24th
Unit 9, Spelling Test #2-May 1st
Unit 9, Spelling Test #2-May 8th
Math
In math class, we began our final unit of the year, which focuses on problem solving. We’ll continue that practice this week.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
NSCAS Preparation
The Math NSCAS test will be administered on Wednesday and Thursday this week, from 9:15 to 10:15. A good night of sleep and a healthy breakfast are two good ways to help your child be ready to do his/her best this week!
Math - April 24th and 25th
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 15th, 2024 - Reading and Math Tests Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll conclude Unit 8 and our study of Native Americans. We’ll take the unit test on Monday and Tuesday, before we start Unit 9 on Wednesday. Our 9th unit of the year will focus on Early Explorations of North America. Please read the letter below for a better description of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take home their next spelling list on Wednesday, April 17th. If you ever need an extra copy of a spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 9, Spelling Test #1-April 24th
Unit 9, Spelling Test #2-May 1st
Unit 9, Spelling Test #2-May 8th
Math
In math class, we’ll conclude our current unit on geometry. We’ll start the week with some review lessons, and then take the unit test on Wednesday and Thursday. Our final unit of the year will focus on problem solving and applying the strategies we learned this year to solve real world problems.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
NSCAS Preparation
Just a reminder, the state math test will be coming up soon. We will continue our preparation for that test by working on extra math problems during our Intervention block.
Math - April 24th and 25th
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 8th, 2024 - Solar Eclipse Week
Hello Families!
On Monday, the solar eclipse will hit Lincoln between 12:00 and 3:00. LPS has made the decision to keep the kids indoors for this eclipse (unlike in 2017), so we will not be navigating the dangers of an eclipse outdoors.
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll continue learning about the earliest settlers to America. We’re studying different tribes and the different regions they settled in upon arrival to North America. Please read the letter below for a better description of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take home their next spelling list on Monday. Their next test will not take place until April 9th, as we’ll pause our lessons for a couple of days to take the state reading test. If you ever need an extra copy of a spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 8, Spelling Test #2-April 9th
Unit 9, Spelling Test #1-April 24th
Unit 9, Spelling Test #2-May 1st
Unit 9, Spelling Test #2-May 8th
Math
In math class, we began unit 7 last week, which focuses on Geometry and liquid measurements. We are also practicing math facts every day. Any extra practice at home with their facts is beneficial!
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
NSCAS Preparation
The Nebraska State Reading test has arrived! We will take the reading exam on Wednesday and Thursday of this week. The Math tests will be later in the month. There is nothing you need to do to prepare your child, other than helping them get a good night of sleep and a healthy breakfast.
Reading - April 3rd and 4th
Math - April 24th and 25th
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 1st, 2024 - NSCAS Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll continue learning about the earliest settlers to America. We’re studying different tribes and the different regions they settled in upon arrival to North America. Please read the letter below for a better description of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take home their next spelling list on Monday. Their next test will not take place until April 9th, as we’ll pause our lessons for a couple of days to take the state reading test. If you ever need an extra copy of a spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 8, Spelling Test #2-April 9th
Unit 9, Spelling Test #1-April 24th
Unit 9, Spelling Test #2-May 1st
Unit 9, Spelling Test #2-May 8th
Math
In math class, we began unit 7 last week, which focuses on Geometry and liquid measurements. We are also practicing math facts every day. Any extra practice at home with their facts is beneficial!
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
NSCAS Preparation
The Nebraska State Reading test has arrived! We will take the reading exam on Wednesday and Thursday of this week. The Math tests will be later in the month. There is nothing you need to do to prepare your child, other than helping them get a good night of sleep and a healthy breakfast.
Reading - April 3rd and 4th
Math - April 24th and 25th
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
March 25th, 2024 - NSCAS Prep Continues
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll continue learning about the earliest settlers to America. Last week, we learned about the migration to America, and will continue to learn about different settlers this week. Please read the letter below for a better description of the unit.
Spelling
The kids took home their practice lists last Thursday, and our next test will be on Thursday, March 28th. If you ever need an extra copy of a spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 8, Spelling Test #1-March 28th
Unit 8, Spelling Test #2-April 9th
Math
In math class, we’ll take our Unit 5, part 2 test on Monday and Tuesday. We’ll start Unit 7 (and come back to Unit 6 later), which focuses on Geometry and will be good practice for the state exams.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
NSCAS Preparation
The Nebraska State Reading and Math tests are fast approaching. The kids have been doing lots of review work during Interventions, and will continue to do so over the next several weeks. The test dates are as follows.
Reading - April 3rd and 4th
Math - April 24th and 25th
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
March 18th, 2024 - Quarter 4 Begins
Hello Families!
I hope you all had a great Spring Break and your kids have recharged their batteries for the stretch run of 4th quarter!
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll wrap up our last lessons of Unit 7, and take our Unit 7 Test. Unit 8 will begin on Wednesday and will focus on Native Americans and early settlement into America.
Spelling
Our 1st spelling test of Unit 8 won’t take place on March 28th, as the kids won’t get their new words until this Thursday. There are also only two lists in this unit, as there are fewer lessons overall. If you ever need an extra copy of a spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 8, Spelling Test #1-March 28th
Unit 8, Spelling Test #2-April 9th
Math
In math class, we’ll continue learning about area, perimeter and fractions in part 2 of Unit 5. We’ll also review fractions and learn about fraction equivalence.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
March 4th, 2024 - Quarter 3 Ends
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll finish most of our lessons regarding the solar system. Our Unit 7 test will actually occur after Spring Break, but the bulk of our work will conclude this week. We’ll continue to learn about gravity, the space shuttle and some famous astronauts in our next few lessons.
We’re also working in small groups and writing a skit about a conversation with the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. We’ll continue writing them Monday and then perform them later in the week.
Spelling
Our 3rd spelling test of Unit 7 will take place on Tuesday. Any extra practice tonight would be beneficial! If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 7, Spelling Test #1-February 15th
Unit 7, Spelling Test #2-February 26th
Unit 7, Spelling Test #3-March 5th
Math
In math class, we'll take our Unit 5, part 1 test on Monday and Tuesday. Then, we’ll continue learning about area, perimeter and fractions in part 2.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
The kids will have one final Reading Homework this week. The assignment will come home Monday evening, and will be due on Friday. This will be the final reading homework of the year. Thank you for helping your child get into the routine of returning this assignment each week!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 26th, 2024 - Hello Spring and Email Change
Hello Families!
I hope this email finds you all well, and I hope you had a chance to enjoy some of the beautiful weather this weekend. It really feels like spring has arrived!
I wanted to mention my email address has changed. Back when I started at LPS (when dinosaurs roamed the Earth 🙂), we didn’t even have email! When we finally got it, we were only allowed seven characters to our address, so the final ‘r’ in my last name was cut off. Well, after many years of pleading, and after many updates and upgrades, I’m happy to announce that missing ‘r’ has finally been allowed to be added to my email address. The old one (ewachte@lps.org) may still work for the time being, but eventually it will be fully replaced by: ewachter@lps.org. Thanks for making that adjustment for future use.
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll continue exploring the solar system in Unit 7. We’ll learn about gravity, the space shuttle and learn about some famous astronauts in our next few lessons.
Spelling
Our 2nd spelling test of Unit 7 will take place on Monday. Any extra practice tonight would be beneficial! The kids will bring home Unit 7, Spelling List #3 on Tuesday. Their third test of Unit 7 will be on March 5th. If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 7, Spelling Test #1-February 15th
Unit 7, Spelling Test #2-February 26th
Unit 7, Spelling Test #3-March 5th
Math
In math class, we'll continue learning about area and perimeter, and prepare for our Unit 5, part 1 test.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
The kids will have a Reading Homework this week. The assignment will come home Monday evening, and will be due on Friday. Thank you for helping your child get into the routine of returning this assignment each week!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 20th, 2024 - A Normal Week?
Hello Families!
After the craziness of the last two weeks (field trips, hatching chicks, conferences, Valentine’s Day), it appears we’ll have a routine week of school! It was nice visiting with so many of you last week at conferences. If we didn’t get to meet, I will send home a packet of information with your child this week for you to look over. Please let me know if you have any questions after reviewing the notes.
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll continue with Unit 7, which focuses on our solar system. Most of the kids have memorized a song we sang about the planets, and they may well have sung it at home, too! We’ll learn more this week and maybe a new song or two. :)
Spelling
The kids will bring home Unit 7, Spelling List #2 on Tuesday. Their next test will be on February 26th. If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 7, Spelling Test #1-February 15th
Unit 7, Spelling Test #2-February 26th
Unit 7, Spelling Test #3-March 5th
Math
In math class, we have begun our new unit on Geometry. This unit is always a nice change of pace from their regular math lessons. Last week we learned about area and perimeter, and this week we’ll practice the distributive property, as well as begin learning about angles and shapes.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
The kids will have a Reading Homework this week, even though it’s a four day week. The assignment will come home Tuesday evening, and will be due on Friday. Thank you for helping your child get into the routine of returning this assignment each week!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 12th, 2024 - Conferences and Valentine's Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll continue with Unit 7, which focuses on our solar system. We’ll learn about the vastness of space and the kids will get a lesson in truly how small our place on Earth is compared to the rest of the universe. Please click on the link below for a preview of the unit.
Spelling
The kids brought home their first spelling list of Unit last Friday. As you know, our spelling tests have two components. The first, is spelling the word correctly. The second, is placing each word in the correct column based on their sound. This is really tricky fro some kids! So, for this unit, I’m going to separate both tasks. I will give a straight spelling test, then give them a separate word sort assignment on their Google Classroom. I think this will make their lives easier! If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 7, Spelling Test #1-February 15th
Unit 7, Spelling Test #2-February 26th
Unit 7, Spelling Test #3-March 5th
Math
In math class, I pushed the Unit 4, Part 2 test to Monday and Tuesday. Once we complete that exam, we’ll begin our new unit, which focuses on geometry. This is very timely, as it will help the kids be successful on their spring state exams!
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
The kids will have a Reading Homework this week, even though it’s a four day week. The assignment will come home Monday evening, and will be due on Thursday. Last week on seven kids turned their homework in, so any help you can give to help your child complete this important practice is much appreciated!
Conferences
Second semester conferences will be held on February 12th and 14th. Your scheduled time is based on what worked for you last fall. Please click on the link below to double check your time. A copy of this note will also be coming home. Please let me know if your time does not work and we can reschedule.
Mr. Wachter’s Second Semester Conference Times 2023-24
Valentine’s Day
Our class will have a small, informal Valentine’s party on Wednesday, February 14th. Your child is welcome to bring cards and treats for their friends! However, you don’t have to bring anything. There will be lots of cards and candies for everyone to enjoy. The link below shows all the kids in our class, should you want to write names on each Valentine.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 5th, 2024 - Field Trip and Chicks Week
Hello Families!
Morrill Hall Field Trip
On Tuesday, February 6th, the third graders will be taking their first field trip of the year to Morrill Hall! The following link is to an informational letter regarding the trip.
Morrill Hall Parent Note 2023-24
Kids are welcome to bring a camera, but I will also be taking a lot pictures that I will share with everyone. Parents are welcome to join us on this trip, provided you register as a Level III volunteer. Click on the link below to register.
https://wapp.lps.org/gold/volunteer/volunteer.cfm
Embryology
Our baby chicks will start hatching this week! Some may arrive on Tuesday, but most on Wednesday. Thursday will be a super fun day, as we get to play with them! Kids are welcome to bring cameras, phones, tablets, etc. to take pictures. Don’t worry if you don’t have a camera. I will take LOTS of pictures and share them with you all.
Conferences
Second semester conferences will be held on February 12th and 14th. Your scheduled time is based on what worked for you last fall. Please click on the link below to double check your time. A copy of this note will also be coming home. Please let me know if your time does not work and we can reschedule.
Mr. Wachter’s Second Semester Conference Times 2023-24
Reading
This week in reading, we’ll take our Unit 5 Test. Then, we’ll spend a little extra time getting caught up with old assignments before we start Unit 7 on Friday. In Unit 7, the kids will learn about astronomy, the planets and outer space. Please click on the link below for a preview of the unit.
Spelling
The kids bring home a new spelling list this week, but not until Friday. I will do my best to get the spelling tests from last week graded quickly and sent home. If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 7, Spelling Test #1-February 15th
Unit 7, Spelling Test #2-February 26th
Unit 7, Spelling Test #3-March 5th
Math
In math class, we’ll spend a few days studying a variety of graphs, including pictographs, bar graphs and line plots. We’ll also continue to practice telling time and calculating elapsed time, as well. Towards the end of the week, we’ll take part 2 of the Unit 4 test.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
The kids will have a Reading Homework this week. The assignment will come home Monday evening, and will be due on Friday.
Valentine’s Day
Our class will have a small, informal Valentine’s party on Wednesday, February 14th. Your child is welcome to bring cards and treats for their friends! However, you don’t have to bring anything. There will be lots of cards and candies for everyone to enjoy. The link below shows all the kids in our class, should you want to write names on each Valentine.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
January 29th, 2024 - 100th Day of School
Hello Families!
It's hard to believe, but this week marks the 100th day of school. The school will celebrate with the following fun activities.
Reading
This week in reading the kids will continue with Unit 5, which focuses on the science of Light and Sound. We will spend much of the week working on a Research Report of a famous inventor. Please click on the link below for a preview of the unit.
Spelling
The kids will take their next spelling test on Wednesday. We'll practice in class, but any extra practice at home would be great. If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 5-Spelling Test #1-January 23rd
Unit 5-Spelling Test #2-Canceled
Unit 5-Spelling Test #3-January 31st
Math
In math class, we’ll continue with part two of Unit 4. We’ll continue to practice telling time and calculating elapsed time, as well.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
The kids will have a Reading Homework assignment this week. The assignment will come home Monday evening, and will be due on Friday.
Conferences
Second semester conferences will be held on February 12th and 14th. Your scheduled time is based on what worked for you last fall. Please click on the link below to double check your time. A copy of this note will also be coming home. Please let me know if your time does not work and we can reschedule.
Mr. Wachter’s Second Semester Conference Times 2023-24
Morrill Hall Field Trip
Next week on February 6th and 7th, the third graders will be taking our first field trip of the year to Morrill Hall. Our class will attend on February 6th. The following link is to an informational letter regarding the trip. A copy will also be sent home this week.
Morrill Hall Parent Note 2023-24
Parents are welcome to join us on this trip, provided you register as a Level III volunteer. Unfortunately, the museum also charges adults $7 to enter. Click on the link below to register as a school volunteer.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 23rd, 2024 - Chick Embryo Candling Week
Hello Families!
We are off to a great start with our chicken eggs. The class will be taking turns as mother hens, rotating the eggs three times a day for the next 13 days, or so. On Wednesday, we’ll candle the eggs to see if they are developing properly. Candling is simply holding them close to a very bright light, and peeking inside the shell to check their growth. Cross your fingers for 12 healthy, developing chicks!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will continue with Unit 5, which focuses on the science of Light and Sound. Please click on the link below for a preview of the unit.
Spelling
Hopefully you saw my email last week about revising our spelling schedule. In an effort to offset the snow days, and give the kids proper study time, we moved our test to this Tuesday. Then, they will take home a new list on Wednesday. If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 5-Spelling Test #1-January 23rd
Unit 5-Spelling Test #2-Canceled
Unit 5-Spelling Test #3-January 31st (I think!)
Math
In math class, we’ll begin part two of Unit 4. We’ll continue to practice measurement and fractions, but will introduce telling time, as well.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
We will have Reading Homework this week…finally! The assignment will come home Monday evening, and will be due on Friday.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 16th, 2024 - Embryology Time!
Hello Families!
This week the kids will receive a dozen eggs for our Embryology Unit. Using an incubator, we’ll take care of them for the next 21 days. If all goes well, we’ll have a dozen little furry friends joining our class for a couple of days of fun. This is the unit kids always remember about third grade and I’m so excited to make some new memories with the class!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will continue with Unit 5, which focuses on the science of Light and Sound. Please click on the link below for a preview of the unit.
Spelling
Due to school being canceled last Friday, our next test will take place on Friday, January 19th. If we have another closure, this date will be adjusted. The kids should have brought home a practice list last week. If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 5-Spelling Test #1-January 19th
Unit 5-Spelling Test #2-January 26th
Unit 5-Spelling Test #3-February 5th
Math
In math class, we’ll begin reviewing for our Unit 4, Part 1 Test. We’ll also begin some measurement and time lessons in the next week and a half.
Math MAP
Due to the short week and school closures, we postponed the Math MAP Test to this week. Our goal is to take it Thursday and Friday, but we’ll see how it goes with the weather.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
We will have Reading Homework this week, provided we have at least a four day week. If we have another closure, we’ll probably skip this week’s assignment.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 10th, 2024 - Happy Snow Year!
Hello Families!
I’ve almost sent this email three times, but I think we’re actually going to have school tomorrow. I think! :) I hope you’ve all had a nice break and are ready to crank things up for the second semester. I have missed your kids terribly and I can’t wait to see them tomorrow!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will begin Unit 5, which will focus on the science of Light and Sound. Please click on the link below for a preview of the unit.
Spelling
Our next test will take place on Friday, January 18th. The kids should bring home a practice list tomorrow evening. If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 5-Spelling Test #1-January 18th
Unit 5-Spelling Test #2-January 25th
Unit 5-Spelling Test #3-February 2nd
Math
In math class, we’ll continue learning about fractions. We’ll also begin some measurement and time lessons in the next week and a half.
Math MAP
The kids will also take their mid-year Math MAP Test this week. I’m looking forward to seeing the progress from the fall MAP Test!
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
There will be no reading homework this week due to the snow days. We’ll resume those assignments next week.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 18th, 2023 - Happy Holidays
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will take their Unit 4 reading test on Monday and Tuesday. I will also conduct some quarterly assessments to check the progress of the kids’ reading levels. We’ll also celebrate the end of the semester with some fun activities before the break! When we return in January, we’ll begin Unit 5, which will focus on the science of Light and Sound. Please click on the link below for a preview of the unit.
Spelling
There will be no spelling list this week due to the end of the quarter. Our next test will take place on Friday, January 12th. The last few test have been HARD, so I’m glad they are getting a bit of a break! If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 5-Spelling Test #1-January 12th
Unit 5-Spelling Test #2-January 22nd
Unit 5-Spelling Test #3-January 29th
Math
In math class, we’ll continue learning about fractions. Last week we learned about unit fractions, and how they are the building block for fractions. This week, we’ll continue our study and focus on comparing fractions.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
There will be no reading homework this week. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her weekly reading homework by Friday each week, or even earlier if it's finished.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 11th, 2023 - Unit 4 Reading Concludes
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will wrap up their lessons about the Roman Empire. We have learned about the rise of power, and now the kids are learning about how Rome fell. After our lessons conclude this week, we’ll take our Unit 4 test at the first of next week.
Spelling
Our next test will take place on Friday, December 15th. The kids should have brought home their new spelling list last Friday, which gives them a full week to practice at home. Thanks for helping your child get into the routine of studying their words nightly. If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 4-Spelling Test #1-November 17th
Unit 4-Spelling Test #2-December 5th
Unit 4-Spelling Test #3-December 15th
Math
In math class, we’ll begin Unit 4, which focuses on fractions and telling time, among other things. Most lessons in Unit 4 are two day lessons, so I would look for homework to come home about every two days, depending on how the lessons go in class.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
Reading homework will continue this week. This will be the last assignment before winter break. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her weekly reading homework by Friday each week, or even earlier if it's finished.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 4th, 2023 - Reading MAP Test Week
Hello Families!
This week the kids will take their mid-year Reading MAP Test on Wednesday and Thursday. There is nothing that needs to be done in preparation for it, other than to come to school rested and ready to do their best!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will continue learning about the Roman Empire. Last week we took notes and wrote a rough draft of an opinion essay. We’ll write a final draft this week, as well as continue to learn about the legends and leaders from Roman times.
Spelling
Our next test will take place on Tuesday, December 5th. Then, the kids will bring home the third and final practice list for Unit 4 on Wednesday. Thanks for helping your child get into the routine of studying their words nightly. If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 4-Spelling Test #1-November 17th
Unit 4-Spelling Test #2-December 5th
Unit 4-Spelling Test #3-December 15th
Math
In math class, we’ll wrap up Unit 3 on Monday and spend a couple of days midweek reviewing for our test. I would anticipate homework coming home on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. The review homework is particularly important, as it’s directly related to their upcoming test. The test will take place on Thursday and Friday.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
Reading homework will continue this week. As a bonus, everyone who returned their assignment on time last Friday will get to eat in the room on Monday! Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her weekly reading homework by Friday each week, or even earlier if it's finished.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 28th, 2023 - Hello December!
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will continue learning about the Roman Empire. We’ll read a couple of legends, as well as prepare to write an opinion essay.
Spelling
The kids will bring home their second spelling list of Unit 4 on Wednesday evening. Our test will take place next week on December 5th. Thanks for helping your child get into the routine of studying their words nightly. If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 4-Spelling Test #1-November 17th
Unit 4-Spelling Test #2-December 5th
Unit 4-Spelling Test #3-December 15th
Math
In math class, we’ll continue addition and subtraction with regrouping. We’ll also work on word problems and practice with numbers through the hundred thousands.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
Reading homework will resume this week, and you can expect an assignment to come home Tuesday evening. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her weekly reading homework by Friday each week, or even earlier if its finished.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 20th, 2023 - Happy Thanksgiving!
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will continue learning about the Roman Empire. Please click on the link below for a preview of the unit. We’ll also sprinkle in a few fun learning activities about Thanksgiving and take some time to reflect on all the things we are thankful for in life.
Spelling
The kids will not begin a new spelling list this week. Spelling will resume after Thanksgiving break. If you ever need an extra copy of the spelling list, simply click on the link below for the word lists.
Unit 4-Spelling Test #1-November 17th
Unit 4-Spelling Test #2-December 5th
Unit 4-Spelling Test #3-December 15th
Math
In math class, we’ll continue with Unit 3. So far, we’ve practiced rounding numbers, as well as addition and subtraction with regrouping. We’ll continue with more subtraction this week and practice subtracting across zeros.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
There will be no reading homework this week due to the holiday break. Those assignments will resume when we return in a week. Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her weekly reading homework on time, so far!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 13th, 2023 - Unit 4 Reading Begins
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will begin learning about the Roman Empire. How did it begin? How did it thrive? How did fall and who were the key characters? We’ll answer those questions during the next several weeks of lessons! Please click on the link below for a preview of the unit.
Spelling
Our next spelling test for Unit 4 will be on Friday of this week. Your child should bring home a practice list Monday evening. If not, click on the link below for their words.
Unit 4-Spelling Test #1-November 17th
Unit 4-Spelling Test #2-December 5th
Unit 4-Spelling Test #3-December 15th
Math
In math class, we’ll continue with Unit 3. We began rounding numbers to the nearest 10 and 100, and the kids did a very solid job picking up this new concept! We’ll continue with more rounding, as well as addition and subtraction practice.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
We will have another reading homework assignment this week. The assignment will come home Monday evening, and will be due Friday. (Feel free to return it earlier, if it’s finished) Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her weekly reading homework. If the assignment gets lost, just click on the link below for an extra copy to print.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 6th, 2023 - Unit 3 Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will wrap up their study of the human body. They will take their Unit 3 Test mid-week. The following week we will begin learning about Ancient Rome. Please click on the link below for a preview of the unit.
Spelling
Our next spelling test for Unit 3 will be on Tuesday of this week. Your child should have brought home a practice list last week to study. If not, click on the link below for their words.
Unit 3-Spelling Test #1-October 24th
Unit 3-Spelling Test #2-November 1st
Unit 3-Spelling Test #3-November 7th
Math
In math class, we’ll continue with Unit 3. Unit 3 focuses primarily on addition and subtraction skills, which will be a nice break from all the multiplication and division the kids have been studying. This week we’ll begin to learn how to round numbers, as well.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
Thank you for helping your child complete and return his/her weekly reading homework. Unfortunately, last week even fewer kids returned their work than the previous week. Your child will bring home a new assignment on Monday evening, so hopefully this week will have more kids complete their work. Click below to see due dates for each assignment and/or to print an extra copy.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 30th, 2023 - Math Unit 3 Begins
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will continue learning about the human body in Unit 3. We’ll continue learning about the body’s different systems and how each works. This week we’ll continue learning about the brain, as well as vision and hearing. Please click on the link below for a preview of what the kids will be learning.
Spelling
Our next spelling test for Unit 3 will be on Wednesday of this week. Your child should have brought home a practice list last week to study. If not, click on the link below for their words.
Unit 3-Spelling Test #1-October 24th
Unit 3-Spelling Test #2-November 1st
Unit 3-Spelling Test #3-November 7th
Math
In math class, we’ll begin Unit 3. Unit 3 focuses primarily on addition and subtraction skills, which will be a nice break from all the multiplication and division the kids have been studying.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
Just a reminder…Reading Homework will be a weekly assignment during full weeks of 2nd and 3rd quarter. Each assignment will come home on a Monday, and be due at the end of the week on Friday. Last week only 9 kids returned theirs on time. Please help your child get into the routine of practicing their reading during the week, and returning their assignment by Friday. Click below to see due dates for each assignment and/or to print an extra copy.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
October 23rd, 2023 - Reading Homework Begins
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will continue learning about the human body in Unit 3. So far we’ve discussed the body’s different systems, including the skeletal, muscular, nervous systems. Please click on the link below for a preview of what the kids will be learning.
Spelling
Our first spelling test for Unit 3 will be on Tuesday of this week. Your child should have brought home a practice list last week to study. If not, click on the link below for their words.
Unit 3-Spelling Test #1-October 24th
Unit 3-Spelling Test #2-November 1st
Unit 3-Spelling Test #3-November 7th
Math
In math class, we’ll spend a couple of days reviewing what we’ve learned in chapter 2, then take our Unit 2 Test at the end of the week.
Math Homework Links
Did your child forget his/her Math homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Reading Homework Links
Reading Homework will be a weekly assignment during full weeks of 2nd and 3rd quarter. Each assignment will come home on a Monday, and be due at the end of the week on Friday. Click below to see due dates for each assignment and/or to print an extra copy.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 18th, 2023 - Quarter 2 Begins
Hello Families!
I hope you all had a nice fall break and were able to recharge the batteries for quarter two. Hopefully we can enjoy some mild temperatures before the cold comes to visit!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will begin Unit 3, which is about the human body. Please click on the link below for a preview of what the kids will be learning.
Spelling
You can expect a spelling list to come home on Wednesday evening. Refer below for the test dates of Unit 3.
Unit 3-Spelling Test #1-October 24th
Unit 3-Spelling Test #2-November 1st
Unit 3-Spelling Test #3-November 7th
Math
In math class, we’ll wrap up Unit 2. This week we’ll practice 10s, and do plenty of fact and word problem practice. Our Unit 2 test will take place next week.
Extra Math Homework Link
Did your child forget his/her homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 9th, 2023 - Conferences Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will take their Unit 2 test about the animal kingdom. We’ll spread the test out over a couple of days, so it’s not too overwhelming. When we come back after fall break, the kids will begin Unit 3, which is about the human body.
Spelling
There will be no spelling this week, due to the Unit 2 testing.
Unit 3-Spelling Test #1-October 24th
Unit 3-Spelling Test #2-November 1st
Unit 3-Spelling Test #3-November 7th
Math
In math class, we’ll continue with Unit 2. We practiced 8s last week, and will add 7s this week, as well as work on word problems. Continued practice at home with math facts is always beneficial.
Extra Math Homework Link
Did your child forget his/her homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Conferences
Conferences are fast approaching on October 9th and 11th. Click on the link below to reserve a time, if you haven’t already done so.
Mr. Wachter’s Fall Conferences
Your child should have brought home a confirmation letter on Friday with your conference time. If not, just click below to see your conference date and time.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
October 2nd, 2023 - Hello October!
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will close out Unit 2 and our study of the animal kingdom. We’ve learned a lot about animal classification, and will add to our knowledge this week as we learn about amphibians. Our lessons will conclude at the end of the week, and then we’ll take our Unit 2 test next week.
Spelling
Our third spelling test of Unit 2 will be this Friday, October 6th. Your child will bring home a practice list Monday evening, so they’ll have all week to practice. Click the link below if you’d like early access to the spelling lists.
Unit 2-Spelling Test #1-September 20th
Unit 2-Spelling Test #2-September 29th
Unit 2-Spelling Test #3-October 6th
Math
In math class, we’ll begin Unit 2. Unit 2 will continue with our study of multiplication and division. We’ll practice 6s on Monday, and add 7s and 8s in the ensuing lessons. Continued practice at home with math facts is always beneficial.
Extra Math Homework Link
Did your child forget his/her homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Conferences
Conferences are fast approaching on October 9th and 11th. Click on the link below to reserve a time, if you haven’t already done so.
Mr. Wachter’s Fall Conferences
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 25th, 2023 - Math Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will continue to learn about the animal kingdom in Unit 2. We’ve learned about fish and amphibians, so far, and will explore reptiles, birds and mammals in the coming lessons.
Spelling
Your child should have brought home his/her second spelling list on Friday. Our second spelling test of Unit 2 has been moved to Friday, September 29th, as I got a bit off track with a couple of lessons last week. You might have noticed the second list is very long, too! However, there are only 10 root words, with added endings of -ed and -ing. So, if your child can spell the root word, the other two spellings should be a bit easier. Click the link below for access to the spelling lists.
Unit 2-Spelling Test #1-September 20th
Unit 2-Spelling Test #2-September 29th
Unit 2-Spelling Test #3-October 6th
Math
In math class, we are wrapping up Unit 1, and will take our test towards the end of the week. If you have a few idle minutes, practicing math facts with your child is a great way to help him/her learn them!
Extra Math Homework Link
Did your child forget his/her homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress through the year.
Conferences
Conferences are fast approaching on October 9th and 11th. Click on the link below to reserve a time, if you haven’t already done so.
Mr. Wachter’s Fall Conferences
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 18th, 2023 - Picture Day Tuesday
Hello Families!
A friendly reminder that Picture Day will take place on Tuesday, September 19th. Our window of photos starts around 10:00, so thankfully we’ll be done before lunch and recess.
Reading
This week in reading, the kids will continue with Unit 2. The focus of this unit is on classifying animals. Last week, the class took a virtual field trip and visited a zoo in Washington, D.C. We took notes on the animals and their habitats, and will continue to do more of the same this week. The link below is to a welcome letter that explains the unit in detail.
Spelling
Your child should have brought home his/her first spelling list last week, and our first test will be this Wednesday, September 20th. You might have noticed the first list is very long! After this first exam, I may alter the number of words your child will study. Click the link below for access to the spelling lists.
Unit 2-Spelling Test #1-September 20th
Unit 2-Spelling Test #2-September 28th
Unit 2-Spelling Test #3-October 5th
Math
In math class, we finished the week practicing our 4s multiplications and divisions. This week, we’ll add 1s and 0s practice, as well as practice word problems. If you have a few idle minutes, practicing math facts with your child is a great way to help him/her learn them!
Extra Math Homework Link
Did your child forget his/her homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress from the year.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
September 11th, 2023 - Reading Unit 1 Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week in reading the kids will take their Unit 1 Test. We’ve had a lot of fun reading about the adventures of Mole, Rat and Toad in the story, “The Wind in the Willows.” After we complete the test mid-week, we’ll begin Unit 2 which focuses on Animal Classification. The link below is to a welcome letter that explains the unit in detail.
Spelling will begin in Unit 2, and I will keep you posted as to when their first spelling list will come home.
Math
In math class, we finished the week practicing our 9s multiplications and divisions. This week, we’ll add 3s and 4s practice, as well as practice word problems. If you have a few idle minutes, practicing math facts with your child is a great way to help him/her learn them!
Extra Math Homework Link
Did your child forget his/her homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress from the year.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 4th, 2023 - Math MAP Test Week
Hello Families!
I hope you all had a great holiday weekend and got a chance to recharge your batteries for the week ahead.
Reading
In reading, we are wrapping up Unit 1. We will finish the story, “The Wind in the Willows,” this week, which we’ve been reading a little bit of each day. One of our big goal this week is to construct and write a paragraph about one of the characters and what personality traits best embody that character. Capital letters, complete sentences and a proper ending will be our focus.
Math
In math class, we will begin learning our 9s on Tuesday, as well as steadily review the numbers we’ve been practicing. If you have a few idle minutes, practicing math facts with your child is a great way to help him/her learn them!
MAP Test
It completely slipped my mind to inform you last week that we are beginning our fall MAP Tests. Last week, the kids took their reading test, and this week they will take their math test. There is really nothing to do to prepare for them, other than just focus and try your best. They are just standardized tests that all kids in 3rd, 5th and 8th grade take at LPS. The results help me understand what skills we need to focus on, and which skills have been mastered for each child. The math test will take place on Wednesday and Thursday of this week, so we will likely only have one math homework assignment coming home Tuesday evening.
Extra Math Homework Link
Did your child forget his/her homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress from the year.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
August 28th, 2023 - Hello, September!
Hello Families!
I hope you all had a great weekend and maybe even go to see the air show. We got to see a couple glimpses last week as they practiced - absolutely amazing stuff! One more friendly reminder to give the class website a look when you have time. There is lots of good information only a click away!
Reading
In reading, we are continuing our way through Unit 1. In this unit, the kids have been reading a story called, “The Wind in the Willows.” The two main characters are Mole and River Rat, and they take little adventures each lesson. Asking your child about Mole and River Rat would be a great conversation starter to see how their day went!
As we read, we’ve been practicing theme and sequencing, as well as learning about dialogue and narration. We have also been practicing point of view, and will continue to do so with our lessons this week.
Another friendly reminder we will have no spelling words during Unit 1, which runs to mid-september. Like our math curriculum, the reading units wraparound over several weeks, so a spelling test may occur during the middle of the week. I will do my best to communicate when those tests will be during Unit 2.
Math
In math class, we introduced division last week and continued to practice our facts with 5s. We added 2s last Friday, and will continue to practice them this week. We will add 10s and possibly 9s practice by the end of the week.
Extra Math Homework Link
Did your child forget his/her homework? Just click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress from the year.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
August 21st, 2023 - Off and Running!
Hello Families!
We had a wonderful first week of school to kick off your child’s third grade year! I was so pleased to see the kids get to know each other and I think we’re going to have an amazing year. Hopefully you’ve had a chance to look through the class website. If not, check out a few links below when you have a chance.
Reading
In reading, we started our new curriculum last Thursday. I have been attending training on how to teach it, but wasn’t really sure how it would go until I started teaching the lessons. One of my favorite sayings is, “You can’t go around it. You have to go through it.” Well, we finally went through the first two lessons and I’ve really enjoyed it so far! The lessons are very detailed and cover A LOT of learning. I feel like the intensity has shot way up, but in a good way.
Just a reminder that there will be no spelling words during Unit 1, which runs to mid-September. Like our math curriculum, the reading units wraparound over several weeks, so a spelling test may occur during the middle of the week. I will do my best to communicate when those tests will be during Unit 2.
Math
In math class, we introduced multiplication and practiced learning our 5s. I was really pleased with my lessons, and I feel like the majority of kids are picking it up quickly! We’ll continue our practice this week and introduce division, as well.
Extra Math Homework Link
Just a reminder…If your child forgets his/her assignment or you need an extra copy for some reason, click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress from the year. So, if the dog eats the homework…you can print another one! :)
Headphones
Another friendly reminder that headphones can be brought from home, if your child so chooses. The ones from school don’t always fit precisely, so that’s an option, if interested.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
August 14th, 2023 - The Beginning
Hello Families!
Welcome to the 2023-24 school year! I am so excited to be your child’s teacher this year. Third grade is filled with lots of fun learning experiences and I’m so glad I get to go on the journey with your child!
Weekly Updates
My goal each week is to send an informational email on Sundays or Mondays (If it’s a busy weekend) to keep you apprised of all the happenings in your child’s class. This email will also be posted on our class web page should you want to refer to an older message. Click on the links below to the website and do some exploring to see what it has to offer!
CKLA Reading
This year your child will begin a new reading curriculum called CKLA Reading. Teachers have been attending training on this program during the summer and we’re wrapping our heads around what the instruction will look like each week.
We will cover eight units throughout the year, with approximately two per quarter. The feedback from pilot teacher’s is that kids LOVE this program. Kids fall in love with the characters and find it hard to let them go when the unit is over. How great is that??? If kids are that engaged, they can’t help but learn! Click on the link below to preview what we'll be learning in Unit 1.
Unit 1-The Wind in the Willows
Spelling
One big change this year will be with spelling. The old program was very regimented. The kids got a spelling list about every week, and tests were on Fridays. The new program does not follow that pattern. There are far fewer tests, and they will not happen every Friday. In fact, there are NO SPELLING TESTS during Unit 1. Weird, right?
Like our math curriculum, the reading units wraparound over several weeks, so a spelling test may occur during the middle of the week. I will do my best to communicate when those tests will be.
Math
In math class, your child will have homework 2-3-4 times per week. It really depends on the lesson. If it’s a two day lesson, there might only be two assignments that week. If it’s a series of one day lessons, there could be more homework. If you are ever curious if your child has homework, just shoot me an email and I can let you know.
Extra Math Homework Link
If your child forgets his/her assignment or you need an extra copy for some reason, click on the Homework tab for Math. You’ll find a PDF of all the assignments for each unit as we progress from the year. So, if your dog eats their homework…you can print another one! :)
Headphones
I will provide each child with a set of headphones to start the year. However, if your child has a pair he/she would like to bring from home, that would be great! I know the school ones don’t always fit properly, so a familiar pair from home might be a good idea.
Thank You!
Thank you for reading and thank you for allowing me to be your child’s teacher. Please let me know if you have any questions and I will do my best to keep you updated with these weekly emails and the webpage.
Have a great week!
Eric Wachter
August 10th, 2023 - Open House
Hello Families,
Hopefully I got a chance to visit with you tonight at Open House. I know things get a bit crazy, so please shoot me an email if I wasn't able to answer any of your questions.
Please take a test drive of this site while you're here! There are lots of tidbits of information you might find helpful. I will be updating this over the weekend, so some things may not be quite ready for 2023-24. Just check back each week and I'll do my best to keep you posted on your child's school happenings.
Thanks for dropping by and enjoy the site!
Mr. Wachter
May 22nd, 2023 - The End
Hello Families!
It’s hard to believe the end has arrived. The longer I teach, the faster each year seems to go. I have thoroughly enjoyed being your child’s teacher, and I hope your child has made some memories that will last a lifetime. I wish you and your family all the best in the future, and please know I will always be interested in the life and well being of your child!
School Days Portfolio and Music Videos
On Tuesday, the kids will receive their year end, “School Days Portfolio.” This keepsake contains their best work, has lots of pictures, memories, etc. It will be fun to look at now, but even more fun to look at several years from now. I hope your child keeps their portfolio for many years to come.
We will also watch our year end music videos on Tuesday. These videos also capture the highlights of the year and all the fun things we’ve done. I will send out links to each video after school on Tuesday. You can download and save them, and watch them for many years to come!
Last Day Fishing
On the last day of school, the kids will go fishing across the street at Bowling Lake. Fishing experts from the Game and Parks Commission will provide all necessary fishing materials and be on hand to teach the kids fishing skills and safety. We’ll arrive at the lake around 10:00, and return to school by 12:00, just in time for lunch. Let’s hope for clear skies and comfortable temperatures!
Thanks for reading and thank you again for allowing me the privilege of being your child's teacher.
Eric Wachter
May 15th, 2023 - The End is Near
Hello Families!
Reading
This week the kids will wrap up a number of items in reading and complete some activities that will be a part of their year end, “School Days…” portfolio. With the end being so near, we will all make an effort to enjoy our last moments together!
Math
In Math class, the kids will conclude Unit 6. We’ll review for the test early in the week, then take our final exam on Thursday and Friday.
Last Day Fishing
On the last day of school, the kids will go fishing across the street at Bowling Lake. Fishing experts from the Game and Parks Commission will provide all necessary fishing materials and be on hand to teach the kids fishing skills and safety. You are welcome to join us, too! You just need to register as a “Level III Volunteer.” More details can be found in the letter link below. The same letter will also come home with your child this week.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
May 8th, 2023 - Chick Hatching Week!
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 6, Week 6
This week the kids will take their Unit 6 reading test. We’ll spread it out over a couple of days so it’s not too overwhelming. There are no more spelling lists this year.
Math
In Math class, the kids will continue with Unit 6. We’ll continue to practice a variety of different strategies to solve multi-step word problems. We’ll also continue comparing larger numbers and practice using variables when we write equations.
Embryology
The chicks are coming! We’ll possibly start seeing “pipping” on Tuesday, but most likely Wednesday. If we’re lucky, we’ll get to see them hatch during the school day. By Thursday, they should all be hatched!
We have set aside lots of playtime on Thursday to conclude this fun adventure. Your child is welcome to bring a camera/phone/device to take pictures on Thursday to commemorate the event. I will also take A LOT of pictures, which will be assembled into a music video that will be shared with all families. Thus, don’t worry if your child doesn’t have a camera. I will take lots of pictures for everyone.
Last Day Fishing
On the last day of school, the kids will go fishing across the street at Bowling Lake. Fishing experts from the Game and Parks Commission will provide all necessary fishing materials and be on hand to teach the kids fishing skills and safety. You are welcome to join us, too! You just need to register as a “Level III Volunteer.” More details can be found in the letter link below. The same letter will also come home with your child this week.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
May 1st, 2023 - The Chicks Are Growing!
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 6, Week 4
This week the kids will wrap up their regular set of reading lessons for the year. The theme of the week is animals and how we can learn how to protect and take care of them. As we read several expository texts, we’ll practice rereading, comparing and contrasting and context clues to help us learn new vocabulary words. We’ll also practice adjectives and adverbs in grammar. You can expect one last spelling list for the year to come home Monday evening.
Math
In Math class, the kids will continue with Unit 6. We’ll practice a variety of different strategies to solve multi-step word problems. We’ll also compare larger numbers and practice using variables when we write equations.
Embryology
Last Wednesday, the kids learned that 7 out of our 12 eggs are developing properly. I was hoping for a little higher number, but hopefully all seven will hatch. The good news is, we’ll share the chicks across the grade level so each room has a balanced amount to play with next week.
Last Day Fishing
On the last day of school, the kids will go fishing across the street at Bowling Lake. Fishing experts from the Game and Parks Commission will provide all necessary fishing materials and be on hand to teach the kids fishing skills and safety. You are welcome to join us, too! You just need to register as a “Level III Volunteer.” More details can be found in the letter link below. The same letter will also come home with your child this week.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
April 24th, 2023 - Poetry Week
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 6, Week 5
The past few weeks the kids have been practicing their fluency by reading a variety of different poems. We’ll continue that practice this week. In doing so, we’ll practice point of view, idioms and reading with repetition and rhyme. There will be no spelling this week due to the short week.
Math
In Math class, the kids will begin Unit 6. Unit 6 will focus primarily on word problems. We’ll practice a variety of different strategies to solve each problem. We’ll also compare larger numbers and practice using variables when we write equations.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 18th, 2023 - The Eggs Are Coming!
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 6, Week 3
This week in reading, the kids will continue Unit 6. Their stories will focus on space this week, as they read a variety of biographies about astronauts. We will practice rereading, problems and solutions and comparative adjectives as we complete our work. Spelling will resume this week, and you can expect a list to come home Monday evening.
Math
In Math class, we’ll wrap up Unit 7 this week. We’ll spend a few days reviewing what we’ve learned, then take our test at the end of the week.
Embryology
The class will receive a dozen eggs this Wednesday to begin our Embryology unit in science. We will take care of them by turning and rotating them three times a day, for three weeks. If all goes well, they will hatch and become class pets for a day! This is the unit that that kids remember most about third grade, so I’m glad the time has finally come for the fun!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
April 11th, 2023 - NSCAS Math Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 6, Week 2
This week in reading, the kids will begin Unit 6, their final reading unit of the year. This week, the kids will practice making predictions, idioms and theme as we read a variety of historical fiction stories. This week we will not have a spelling test, as the kids will already be taking a weekly reading test and the NSCAS math test on Friday. I think that’s enough tests for one week!
Math
In Math class, we’ll continue with Unit 7. This week the kids will continue our study of geometry and continue studying different types of shapes and their characteristics.
NSCAS
This week the kids will take their state math test on Thursday and Friday. There is nothing extra the kids need to do to prepare for this test, other than get a good night's rest and to eat a healthy breakfast.
Reading-April 5th and 6th
Math-April 13th and 14th
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 3rd, 2023 - NSCAS Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 6, Week 1
This week in reading, the kids will begin Unit 6, their final reading unit of the year. Our stories this week are myths, dramas and fairy tales. As we read, we’ll practice making predictions, theme, root words and adjectives. You can expect a spelling list to come home Monday evening.
Math
In Math class, we’ll continue with Unit 7. This week the kids will delve into geometry and start studying different types of shapes and their characteristics.
NSCAS
The state reading and math tests are here! This week the kids will take their state reading test on Wednesday and Thursday. There is nothing extra the kids need to do to prepare for the exams, other than get a good night's rest and to eat a healthy breakfast. The following week, the kids will take their state math test on Thursday and Friday.
Reading-April 5th and 6th
Math-April 13th and 14th
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
March 27th, 2023 - Unit 5 Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 5, Week 6
This week in reading, the kids will take their Unit 5 reading test. We’ll break it apart and do a portion of the test each day, so it’s not too overwhelming. Due to the test, we will not have a spelling list this week.
Math
In Math class, we’ll begin Unit 7. This week the kids will learn about different types of liquid measurement, as well as the mass of objects using customary and metric measurements.
NSCAS
The state reading and math tests are soon approaching. There is nothing extra the kids need to do to prepare for the exams, other than get a good night's rest and to eat a healthy breakfast. Each test will be taken over two days, on the following dates.
Reading-April 5th and 6th
Math-April 13th and 14th
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
March 20th, 2023 - Energy Week
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 5, Week 5
This week in reading, the kids will learn about various types of energy, as we read a series of expository texts. In the process, we’ll practice asking and answering questions, cause and effect, contractions and possessive pronouns. You can expect a spelling list to come home on Monday evening.
Math
In Math class, we’ll wrap up part 2 of Unit 5. We’ll continue to practice comparing fractions, finding equivalent fractions and will review all the skills of unit 5 before our test at the end of the week.
NSCAS
The state reading and math tests are soon approaching. There is nothing extra the kids need to do to prepare for the exams, other than get a good night's rest and to eat a healthy breakfast. Each test will be taken over two days, on the following dates.
Reading-April 5th and 6th
Math-April 13th and 14th
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
March 6th, 2023 - Citizenship Week
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 5, Week 4
This week in reading, the kids will learn about citizenship, as we read a variety of stories about great citizens. In the process, we’ll practice asking and answering questions, point of view, affixes and pronouns. We will have our last reading homework of the year and you can expect a spelling list to come home on Monday evening.
Math
In Math class, we’ll begin part 2 of Unit 5. During part 2, we’ll revisit fractions. We’ll practice comparing, look for equivalent fractions and practice a variety of word problems.
Writing
In writing, the kids have been working on Personal Essays. The topic is “Someone I Admire,” and we should finish those up this week. Copies of each will be put in their year-end school portfolios for you to enjoy.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
February 27th, 2023 - Read Across America Week
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 5, Week 3
This week in reading, the kids will learn about teamwork, and how teams can achieve more together. We’ll read a couple of stories about heroes, and practice asking and answering questions, point of view, pronouns and context clues. We will have a new reading homework assignment this week and spelling will resume, as well.
Math
In Math class, we’ll continue to practice perimeter and area. Towards the end of the week we’ll take our Unit 5, part 1 test.
Read Across America
There are a few fun themes we’ll celebrate this week, as the kids participate in “Read Across America Week.” Each day we’ll read a special book, and the kids can partake with these special activities.
Monday-Wear Your Favorite Sports Team
Tuesday-Wear a Colorful Outfit
Wednesday-Wear Red
Thursday-Bring a Stuffed Animal to School
Friday-Pajama Day
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 22nd, 2023 - Conservation Week
Hello Families,
Reading - Unit 5, Week 2
This week in reading, the kids will learn about conservation and recycling. We’ll practice summarizing, point of view, homographs and pronouns as we read a variety of realistic fiction stories. We will not have any new reading homework this week due to the short week. However, please have your child turn in his/her assignment that would have been due last Friday. We will not have spelling either, due to the short week.
Math
In Math class, we’ll also begin Unit 5. This week, the kids will continue to learn about the area and perimeter of shapes. We will also continue to practice their math facts and review telling time.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 13th, 2023 - Unit 5 Reading and Math Begins
Hello Families,
Reading - Unit 5, Week 1
This week in reading, the kids will begin Unit 5. We’ll practice summarizing, point of view, root words and pronouns as we read a variety of fairy tales. We will have reading homework this week and spelling will resume, with a list coming home Monday evening.
Math
In Math class, we’ll also begin Unit 5. This week, the kids will learn about the area and perimeter of shapes. They will also continue to practice their math facts and review telling time.
Valentine’s Party
On Tuesday, February 14th, we will have a small Valentine’ Day party in the classroom. The kids are welcome to bring Valentines and treats for their classmates, if they so choose. Attached is a letter with a little more information and a class list, if your child wants to address each card.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 6th, 2023 - Unit 4 Reading and Math Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 4, Week 6
This week in reading, the kids will take their Unit 4 Reading Test. To avoid fatigue, we will break it up across the week and do a little portion each day. We will have reading homework, but there will be no spelling words this week.
Math
In Math class, we’ll continue to practice graphing at the beginning of the week. Then, we’ll spend a couple of lessons reviewing for our Unit 4 Math Test at the end of the week.
Valentine’s Party
Next week on February 14th, we will have a small Valentine’ Day party in the classroom. The kids are welcome to bring Valentines and treats for their classmates, if they so choose. Look on the "Events" tab for a letter with a little more information and a class list, if your child wants to address each card.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 30th, 2023 - Poetry Week
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 4, Week 5
This week in reading, the kids will read a variety of poems in reading. As we read, we’ll discuss characteristics of different types of poetry, figurative language and the theme of each poem. You can expect a spelling homework and a reading homework to come home on Tuesday evening.
Math
In Math class, we’ll continue our study of telling time and calculating elapsed time. As the week progresses, we’ll switch our focus to how to make, read and interpret graphs.
Conferences
Second semester conferences are here! The link below will show you the time of your conference. I’m looking forward to discussing your child’s progress with you!
If you have yet to schedule a time, please consider choosing one of the open slots. You can just reply to me with what works best for you.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 23rd, 2023 - Aviation Week
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 4, Week 4
This week in reading, the kids will read a variety of stories about flight, and learn about the history of aviation. As we read, we’ll discuss cause and effect, practice rereading and study multiple meaning words. You can expect a spelling homework and a reading homework to come home on Tuesday evening.
Math
In Math class, we’ll begin part II of Unit 4. We started learning about how to tell time last week on both analog and digital clocks. This week we’ll continue with that practice as well as learn how to calculate elapsed time.
Conferences
Second semester conferences are fast approaching! The link below will show you the time that worked last fall. Let me know if that doesn’t work, and we can reschedule. I’ve also attempted to attach a copy to the weekly email, but I’ve heard that doesn’t always work. Please let me know if you can’t access the schedule.
If you have yet to schedule a time, please consider choosing one of the open slots. You can just reply to me with what works best for you.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 17th, 2023 - Animal Adaptations Week!
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 4, Week 3
This week in reading, the kids will read a variety of stories about animals and how they survive in their environments. As we read, we’ll compare and contrast different animals, practice rereading and learn new vocabulary words by using sentence clues. You can expect a spelling list and a reading homework to come home on Tuesday evening.
Math
In Math class, we’ll begin part II of Unit 4. We’ll continue to review fractions, but will also begin telling time.
Conferences
Second semester conferences are fast approaching! The link below will show you the time that worked last fall. Let me know if that doesn’t work, and we can reschedule. I’ve also attempted to attach a copy to the weekly email, but I’ve heard that doesn’t always work. Please let me know if you can’t access the schedule.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 9th, 2023 - Talent Week!
Hello Families!
Reading - Unit 4, Week 2
This week in reading, the kids will read a variety of stories about individual talents. In doing so, we’ll talk about a variety of jobs and careers that just might inspire interest from your child! As we read, we’ll practice point of view, asking and answering questions, prefixes and contractions. Spelling will resume this week, as well as reading homework.
Math
In Math class, we’ll wrap up our fraction practice and then spend a couple of days practicing measurement. If all goes well, we’ll likely take the Unit 4, Part 1 test towards the end of the week.
Nuisance Items
Lately a lot of kids have been bringing toys, candy and an infinite supply of pens, markers, scissors, etc. to school. In addition to that, last week there were several girls wearing ultra long, press-on nails. Those in particular became quite a distraction, as several girls shared them amongst their classmates. Then on Friday, I found about 20 of them crushed and broken on the classroom floor. Ugh! So, I have asked the kids to minimize the extra supplies they bring, and to please not wear fake nails to school.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 4th, 2023 - Happy New Year!
Hello Families!
Happy New Year to you and your family! I hope you all had a restful break from school, and your children are recharged and ready for 2nd semester. I am really looking forward to seeing them, as that extra two days of break kept me from properly saying goodbye.
Reading - Unit 4, Week 1
This week in reading, the kids will begin Unit 4. We’ll read a variety of folktale stories during our lessons. While doing so, we’ll practice asking and answering questions, point of view and root words. In grammar, we’ll learn about linking verbs. There will be no spelling words or no reading homework this week due to the three day week.
Math
In Math class, we have a couple of more lessons on fractions. Next week we’ll begin learning about different types of measurement.
Writing
In writing, we'll finish up our research reports from second quarter. Then, we'll move on and practice some acrostic and cinquain poetry for a couple of weeks.
Thanks for reading and have a great rest of your week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
December 19th, 2022 - Happy Holidays!
Reading
This week (Unit 3, Week 6) in reading, the kids will wrap up Unit 3 by taking a grammar and vocabulary test. We’ll also do some fun activities to end the semester as we head into break. There will be no spelling words or no reading homework this week.
Math
In Math class, the kids will continue with Unit 4 and expand our knowledge of fractions. We’ll also revisit rounding, which proved difficult for a lot of kids on the Unit 3 test.
Morrill Hall
Thanks to those folks that were able to join us at Morrill Hall last week! I’m so sorry if the date change altered the plans of anyone to attend. I was beyond frustrated to hear of that news. For some kids, this was their very first field trip due to the pandemic. We were quite wound up, but the enthusiasm was warranted and fun to see. I’m glad they got to experience this trip and thanks again to all of those who were able to join us.
Thanks for reading, have a great week and enjoy the holiday break!
Eric Wachter
December 12th, 2022 - Morrill Hall Field Trip Week!
Hello Families!
Reading
This week (Unit 3, Week 5) in reading, the kids will learn about the pioneers and how they expanded our country by moving west in the 1800s. In the process, we’ll practice summarizing and sequencing, affixes and verbs. Spelling will continue this week, and you can expect a spelling list to come home Monday evening. Reading homework will also come home on Monday evening, and will be due on Friday.
Last week, nine kids were at the risk of missing their Friday homework, as they did not complete their homework during the week. Luckily we had some time Friday morning, and most of them completed their assignment late. If possible, please remind your child to complete his/her assignment during the week and make sure it gets returned on time Friday.
MAP Reading Test
We’ll also take our mid-year MAP reading test on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. There is nothing the kids need to do to prepare for this test other than to get a good night’s rest and eat a good breakfast in the morning.
Math
In Math class, the kids will begin Unit 4 which will begin with fractions. We’ve been practicing them during Interventions the past couple of weeks, so hopefully the transition to a new skill will be an easy one.
Field Trip
Don’t forget, our first field trip of the year is on Tuesday! The link below explains the details of the trip. In short, we’ll leave school at 12:00, tour the museum and complete activities from 12:30 to 1:30, and return to school by 2:00.
December 13th - 12:00 to 2:00
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 5th, 2022 - Unit 3 Math and MAP Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week (Unit 3, Week 3) astronomy and planets will be the focus as the kids read a variety of expository texts in their lessons. In the process, we’ll practice summarizing, main idea, verbs and suffixes. Spelling will continue this week, and you can expect a spelling list to come home Tuesday evening. Reading homework will also come home on Monday evening, and will be due on Thursday.
MAP Reading Test
We’ll also take our mid-year MAP reading test on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. There is nothing the kids need to do to prepare for this test other than to get a good night’s rest and eat a good breakfast in the morning.
Math
In Math class, the kids will wrap up Unit 3. We’ll spend a couple of days reviewing, then tackle our unit test on Wednesday and Thursday.
Field Trip
Don’t forget, our first field trip of the year is fast approaching. The link below explains the details of the trip.
December 13th - 12:00 to 2:00
Book Order
It’s not too late to turn in a book order! I will likely place any student orders tomorrow or Tuesday, so return them quickly if you’re still interested.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 29th, 2022 - Welcome Back!
Hello Families!
I hope you all had a relaxing break from school and got to spend some quality time with your family and friends. It’s hard to believe we’re down to the last month of the quarter. Time really flies!
Reading
This week the kids will continue with Unit 3 in reading (week 2). We’ll read a variety of historical fiction stories this week while practicing visualization, cause and effect and idioms. We'll also begin to learn about verbs. Spelling will resume this week, and you can expect a spelling list to come home Tuesday evening. Reading homework will resume, as well.
Math
In Math class, the kids will continue practicing addition, subtraction and rounding. We’ll gradually introduce larger numbers for their calculations as we go through the week.
Field Trip
Our first field trip of the year is fast approaching. The kids will bring home an informational letter on Tuesday night, and I will attempt to attach it to the weekly email (though that doesn’t seem to work for some reason.). I’ll also post the letter on our class web page below.
December 13th - 12:00 to 2:30
Book Order
Your child will also be bringing home a Scholastic Book Order note on Tuesday. There are three pamphlets included you can order from, but you can also use our class code and order books online. If you choose to order books, please return the form or place your order by Friday to ensure their delivery before the holiday break.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 21st, 2022 - Happy Thanksgiving!
Hello Families!
Reading
This week will be pretty relaxed in your child’s classroom. We are going to read a couple of Thanksgiving stories, complete a Thanksgiving writing assignment and just enjoy the moments of being together this week. There will be no spelling or reading homework this week, due to it being a short week.
Math
In Math class, the kids will continue practicing addition, subtraction and rounding. We will also have a little fun and complete a Thanksgiving mystery number riddle.
Thanks for reading and have a great thanksgiving week!
Eric Wachter
November 14th, 2022 - Unit 2 Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
In reading this week (Unit 2, Week 6), the kids will take their Unit 2 Test. We’ll spread the test out over three days, and do one section per day, so it’s not too overwhelming. There will be no spelling test this week due to the Unit Test.
Math
In Math class, the kids will continue with Unit 3. Last week, the kids learned how to round to the nearest 10 and 100. We’ll continue to practice rounding this week, but will also begin to explore addition and subtraction strategies with larger numbers.
Reading Homework
This week, the kids will begin their new reading homework assignment. We practiced how to complete it in class last week, so they should understand what to do this week.
The goal will be to complete five 1-minute reads, which will require an adult timing the child. Then, there are some comprehension questions specific to the story, as well as some general questions that can be asked of any story we read.
Reading homework will be sent home on Monday and it will be due on Friday. It’s okay to return it early, if completed, but they have until Friday to complete it.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 7th, 2022 - Poetry Week and New Reading Homework
Hello Families!
Reading
In reading this week (Unit 2, Week 5), the kids will read a variety of poems. While doing so, we’ll practice point of view, similes and plural possessive nouns. You can expect a spelling list to come home Monday evening, as well.
Math
In Math class, the kids will continue with Unit 3. We’ve spent the first few lessons reviewing place value, and the kids have done great! This week we’ll begin learning how to round numbers, as well as practice addition and subtraction strategies.
Reading Homework
This week, the kids will practice a new reading homework assignment. We’ll learn how to complete it in class this week, and then it will be sent home as a new assignment starting November 14th.
The goal will be to complete five 1-minute reads, which will require an adult timing the child. Then, there are some comprehension questions specific to the story, as well as some general questions that can be asked of any story we read.
The assignment will be sent home on Mondays (of a full week) and it will be due on Friday. It’s okay to return it early, if completed, but they have until Friday to complete it.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 31st, 2022 - Animal Rescue Week
Hello Families!
Reading
In reading this week (Unit 2, Week 4), the kids will read about endangered animals and learn how people can help protect them. We’ll practice rereading and point of view again, as well as suffixes and singular possessive nouns as we read a variety of expository texts. You can expect a spelling list to come home Monday evening, as well.
Math
In Math class, the kids will begin Unit 3. This unit we will revisit addition and subtraction concepts with more challenging questions. We’ll still continue to practice our math facts daily, and any extra practice at home would be beneficial.
Writing
In writing, we have begun the process of learning how to create a research report. Last week the kids picked their dinosaurs, and we began to take notes on their appearance. We’ll continue the note taking process this week and focus on habitat, behavior and diet.
Homework Club
If interested, there are spots open in our after school homework clubs. Click on the link below for more information and to register.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
October 24th, 2022 - Conferences Week
Hello Families!
Reading
In reading this week (Unit 2, Week 3), the kids will read about the election process and the impact our leaders have on our community. We’ll practice rereading, discuss point of view, prefixes and irregular plural nouns in our lessons. Spelling will resume this week, and you can expect a list to come home Monday evening.
Math
In Math class, the kids will wrap up Unit 2 this week with our test on Thursday and Friday. We have practiced all our multiplication and division facts, so we’ll continue to practice those facts until they are memorized!
Conferences
I hope you’re looking forward to conferences as much as I am this week! When I fill out the information I’m going to present, it always makes me feel good to see the growth that each and every child is making. It doesn’t matter if it’s been a hard quarter or a great quarter…every child makes progress! I’m really excited to share that growth with you.
If you haven’t registered, there are still a few times available on Wednesday evening.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 19th, 2022 - Immigration Week
Hello Families!
I hope you've had a relaxing fall break, so far. I know tomorrow will be chilly, but hopefully you can take a bit of time with your family to unwind and enjoy the time together before we crank school back up on Wednesday.
Reading
In reading this week (Unit 2, Week 2), the kids will read a variety of stories about immigration, and learn how our country was built from people all over the world. We’ll practice theme, making predictions, similes and nouns as we read a variety of historical fiction texts. We will not have spelling this week due to only having three days of school.
Math
In Math class, the kids will continue their study of multiplication and division. We’re also practicing our fluency almost daily. Any extra practice with math facts at home would be beneficial.
Conferences
Just a reminder that conferences are next week on Monday and Wednesday. Please click on the link below to register if you haven’t already. Check the tab on the website if you need a reminder for your time.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 10th, 2022 - Unit 2 Reading Begins
Hello Families!
Reading
This week the kids will begin Unit 2 in reading. We will practice making predictions, discuss theme, nouns and antonyms as we read a variety of folktale stories. Spelling will resume, and you can expect a take-home list to come home Monday evening.
Math
This week the kids will continue with Unit 2 in math class. We will practice 7s multiplications and divisions, practice more story problems and also practice writing our own problems.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 3rd, 2022 - Unit 1 Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week the kids will take their Unit 1 Reading test to conclude our first set of lessons. The test is quite long, so we’ll take a part or two each day during the course of the week.
There will be no spelling this week due to the unit test.
Math
This week the kids will begin Unit 2 in math class. Unit two will continue our practice of multiplication and division. This week we’ll add 6s and 8s to our practice, as well as practice more story problems.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 26th, 2022 - Memorials and Monuments Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week we will be Week 5, of Unit 1 in reading. Our stories this week will feature numerous monuments and famous memorials across the United States. We’ll practice main idea, asking and answering questions and homographs during our lessons.
A practice spelling list should come home with your child on Monday evening, and our weekly test will be on Friday. If your child forgets his/her list, you can access them by going to the spelling tab of our class website.
Math
In math this week, we’ll spend the first part of the week reviewing for our Unit 1 Test. The test will take place on Thursday and Friday to conclude our week.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 19th, 2022 - Inventions Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week we will begin Week 4, of Unit 1 in reading. Our stories this week will center around problem solving and inventions. We’ll again practice asking and answering questions, as well as cause and effect and metaphors as we read a variety of biographies.
A practice spelling list should come home with your child on Monday evening, and our weekly test will be on Friday. If your child forgets his/her list, you can access them by going to the spelling tab of our class website.
Math
In math this week, we’ll look at patterns in 1s and 0s multiplications and divisions. We’ll also continue to practice building fact fluency.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 12th, 2022 - Communities and Cultures Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week we will begin Week 3, of Unit 1 in reading. This week, the kids will practice asking and answering questions, sequencing and compound words as we read a variety of narrative non-fiction texts. The stories will present the kids with some different cultural traditions and discuss how those differences can help build community.
A practice spelling list should come home with your child on Monday evening, and our weekly test will be on Friday. If your child forgets his/her list, you can access them by going to the spelling tab of our class website.
Math
In math this week, we’ll get back to our normal week of lessons now that the Math MAP test has concluded. We’ll continue to practice fact fluency, and add 4s, 1s and 0s to our routine.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
September 6th, 2022 - MAP Math Test Week
Hello Families!
I hope you had a nice Labor Day weekend, and your kids have had a chance to recharge their batteries for week four of school!
Reading
This week we will begin Week 2, of Unit 1 in reading. This week, the kids will again practice visualization, as well as sequencing and context clues, as we read a variety of realistic fiction stories.
A practice spelling list should come home with your child on Monday evening. Like last week, we’ll practice those words and skills during the week and take a spelling test on Friday. Please remember, if your child forgets his/her list, you can access them by going to the spelling tab of our class website.
Math
In math this week, we’ll continue to practice multiplication and division. We will introduce and practice 3s this week, and continue to practice 5s, 2s, 10s and 9s.
MAP Testing
On Thursday and Friday of this week, your child will take another fall MAP test. This week they will “show what they know” regarding their math skills. Again, this is not a test based on things I’ve directly taught them. It just provides me with general information about their reading abilities, and helps me plan my instruction.
Class Website
Have you looked at the class website yet? No? What are you waiting for??? Check it out, already! :)
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
August 29th, 2022 - MAP Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week we will begin Week 1, of Unit 1 in reading. Each unit is six weeks long. The first five weeks are spent practicing a variety of skills. We’ll take weekly assessments after weeks two and four, and during week six we’ll take a longer, unit test.
This week, the kids will practice visualization, character traits and synonyms while reading a variety of fantasy stories.
You can also expect a spelling list to come home with your child on Monday evening. We’ll study those words and skills during the week and take a spelling test on Fridays. If your child forgets his/her list, remember you can access them by going to the spelling tab of our class website.
Math
In math this week, we’ll continue to practice multiplication and division. So far we have introduced and practiced 5s and 2s. This week we’ll expand our practice with 10s and 9s.
MAP Testing
On Thursday and Friday, your child will take the fall MAP Reading Skills Test. This is a standardized test that all third graders in the state take, and it is not directly based on things they have been taught in LPS. It just provides me with general information about their reading abilities, and helps me plan my instruction.
Class Website
Have you looked at the class website yet? If not, check it out! It can answer a lot of questions with a simple click!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
August 22nd, 2022 - Week #2
Hello Families
I hope your child had fun last week in school! We spent a lot of time getting to know each other, and I think a lot of new friendships were made or cemented. That being said, I understand starting a new school year can be hard, and your child may not feel comfortable yet. I promise I will continue to work on bonding with your child this week and throughout the year!
Reading
This week we will focus a lot on basic sentence structure and proper writing conventions. I will also continue with a series of fall screening tests to assess the current reading abilities of your child.
Math
In math last week, multiplication was introduced for the first time. We practiced repeated addition, making sketches and counting by 5s to solve equations. We will continue these strategies this week, as we move on from 5s and begin to practice 2s. We’ll also begin to make connections between multiplication and division.
Class Website
If you haven’t had a chance, please take a moment to look over our class website. You’ll see news about spelling lists, field trips, conferences, etc. I hope you find it to be a good resource for this school year. Basically, my goal is to make as much information as possible just a click away.
Thanks for reading and thanks in advance for the communication throughout the year!
Eric Wachter
August 15th, 2022 - Welcome to Third Grade!
Welcome!
I’m so glad the new school year has finally arrived! It’s an honor to be your child’s teacher, and I hope you’re as excited as I am to start our journey together. My goal is to send out a weekly email to keep you in the loop regarding the happenings in your child’s classroom. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns as the year progresses.
Reading
This week we’ll ease our way into the year with several introductory lessons about routines and schedules. We’ll also do several introductory reading activities and do lots of sentence practice to begin the year.
Math
In Math class, we will dive right in! We’ll begin exploring multiplication and division, and will spend the majority of quarter 1 on those concepts. Depending on your child’s Math teacher, homework assignments may vary from night to night.
Many of the first lessons in unit one take two days, so there will commonly be gaps in the nights they have homework. If a lesson doesn’t go well, I might skip the homework that night. If you're ever curious if your child had homework or not, just shoot me a quick email and I will let you know.
Class Website
Please take a moment to look over our class website. I hope you find it to be a good resource for this school year. You’ll see news about spelling lists, field trips, conferences, etc. Basically, my goal is to make as much information as possible just a click away.
Thanks for reading and thanks in advance for the communication throughout the year!
Eric Wachter
May 23rd, 2022 - The End
Hello Families!
It’s hard to believe, but the end has arrived. I swear, the older I get, the faster time flies. While I’m excited for a little break, this is always a hard time of year for me. I become really attached to your kids, and it’s so hard to say goodbye. In fact, I fight saying goodbye, and much prefer to say, “I’ll see you next time.” Thankfully, we have three more days together and we have lots of fun things planned to end the school year!
School Days Portfolio
On Monday, the class will get their year end “School Days Portfolio.” Within that yearbook are lots of work examples, photos, memories, etc. I really encourage you to sit down with your child and read through it when you get a chance. If your child saves nothing else from third grade, I hope he/she chooses to save their portfolio.
School Days Music Videos
Also on Monday, we will watch our “School Days Music Videos.” There are 7 videos that cover the highlights of the school year. They are set to music and serve as a great keepsake of all the fun we’ve had! I will send out an email Monday evening with downloadable links to each video. I will also post links to them on our class web page.
I hope you can find the time to sit down and watch them with your child. If nothing else, please, please, please, consider downloading them and saving them as keepsakes from your child’s third grade year.
Movie Time
On Tuesday, the kids will celebrate the end of the year by watching a movie. We’ll also celebrate our summer birthdays with a tasty treat!
Last Day Fishing
Lastly, the kids will go fishing at Bowling Lake on Wednesday from 10:00 to 12:00. Many of you have volunteered to attend, and thank you in advance for registering as a “Level III Volunteer.” Don’t worry…I’m not putting you to work! :) If you choose to join us, you can simply enjoy the morning fishing with your child. We'll walk over to the lake around 9:45, so it would probably be easier to meet us there if you are volunteering.
The forecast looks like rain, but unless it’s a monsoon, we will likely still fish. I would dress for the weather…maybe an older pair of shoes that might get muddy, and/or something to match the temperature.
https://wapp.lps.org/gold/volunteer/volunteer.cfm
Thank You!
Finally, I’d like to thank you all for the opportunity to be your child’s teacher. It’s a honor I take very seriously, and I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done to make this year a success. Please know I will always be interested in your child's growth and successes as he/she goes through school and life!
Have a great summer and...I'll see you next time! :)
Eric Wachter
May 16th, 2022 - The End is Near
Hello Families!
Reading: Wrapping It Up
This week the kids will simply do some review lessons from prior in the year as we wrap up our reading curriculum. There will be no more spelling words the rest of the year.
Math: Unit 6 Test Week
In my Math class, we’ll spend Monday and Tuesday doing some review lessons in preparation for our Unit 6 Test. We’ll take the test on Wednesday and Thursday, and take Friday to do any last work for Unit 6. I only anticipate homework on Tuesday evening this week, and that will be the last homework assignment of the year.
School Days Portfolio
The kids will also spend some time this week completing a few final activities for their year-end, “School Days Portfolio.” Their portfolios will be filled with pictures, reflections, their best work and lots of memories from the year. If your child keeps nothing else from third grade, I sure hope they keep their portfolio! The kids will receive their portfolios on Monday, May 23rd, of the last week of school.
School Days Music Videos
Also next Monday the 23rd, the kids will watch their year-end music videos. The videos are collections of photos from the various activities we’ve done this year. It’s always a super fun time watching and reflecting on all we’ve done as a class. Sometimes they bring tears, sometimes they bring laughter, but they always bring a lot of joy!
After we watch them, I’ll send all the families a link to each video. They are downloadable, so you can save them forever! Like their portfolios, I truly hope you save the videos as keepsakes of a great year!
Last Day Fishing
Just a reminder…the kids will spend the morning of the last day of school fishing at Bowling Lake! Fishing experts will be onsite to train the kids, then we’ll fish from 10:00 to 12:00. Parents are welcome to join us on this trip, provided you register as a Level III volunteer. Click on the link below to register, and/or refer to the attached letter for more information.
https://wapp.lps.org/gold/volunteer/volunteer.cfm
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
May 9th, 2022 - Unit 6 Reading Test and Fossil Dig Week!
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 6, Week 6
This week we will wrap up Unit 6 in reading with our last test of the year. There are several components to it, so we’ll spread it out over several days so it’s not so overwhelming. There will be no more spelling words the rest of the year.
Math: Unit 6
In my Math class, we’re getting close to wrapping up Unit 6. This week we’ll practice more two-step word problems. In doing so, we’ll look for missing information and/or cross out extra information that is not needed. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 6-7
Tuesday - Homework 6-8
Wednesday - No Homework
Thursday - Homework 6-9
Friday - No Homework
Fossil Dig!
On Friday afternoon, the kids will conclude their study of fossils by doing a fossil dig! The fossil molds are made of Plaster of Paris, so things can get a little messy. Please have your child dress accordingly in case the plaster gets on their clothes.
Last Day Fishing
The kids will spend the morning of the last day of school fishing at Bowling Lake! Fishing experts will be onsite to train the kids, then we’ll fish from 10:00 to 12:00. Parents are welcome to join us on this trip, provided you register as a Level III volunteer. Click on the link below to register, and/or refer to the attached letter for more information.
https://wapp.lps.org/gold/volunteer/volunteer.cfm
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
May 2nd, 2022 - Let's Try this Again...Animals Week!
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 6, Week 4
After I sent out last week’s email, I decided to switch up the instructional weeks and save “Animals Week” for a full week of school. Sooooooo…THIS week the kids will focus on Expository Texts, as they read about a variety of different animals. We’ll practice comparing and contrasting, rereading and try and understand new vocabulary by looking at context clues. This week will feature the last spelling list of the year.
Math: Unit 6
In my Math class, we’ll continue to practice word problems and variables, as well as writing our own story problems. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 6-4
Tuesday - Homework 6-5
Wednesday - No Homework
Thursday - Homework 6-6
Friday - No Homework
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 25th, 2022 - Animals Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 6, Week 4
This week the kids will focus on Expository Texts, as they read about a variety of different animals. We’ll practice comparing and contrasting, rereading and try and understand new vocabulary by looking at context clues. Due to the short week, we will not have spelling words this week.
Math: Unit 6
In my Math class, we’ll continue with unit 6. We’ll continue to practice word problems as well as practice using variables as we write equations. I anticipate homework on Monday and Wednesday of this week, but I will likely give them time to finish Wednesday’s assignment in class, so they don’t have to bring it home over the long weekend.
Monday - Homework 6-2
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - Homework 6-3 (Likely done in class)
Thursday - No School
Friday - No School
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 18th, 2022 - Outer Space & State Math Test Week
Hello Families!
This week the kids will take their state math test on Tuesday and Wednesday. Like the reading test, there really isn’t anything to do to prepare for this test that we haven’t been doing all year. A good night of rest and a focused mind is really all that matters to them doing their best!
Reading: Unit 6, Week 3
Unit 6 continues in reading this week. Our stories this week will focus on biographies of famous astronauts. We’ll learn how they solved problems on their space missions, practice rereading, as well as practice adjectives and adverbs in our grammar lessons. Spelling will continue this week, and you can expect a list to come home Monday.
Math: Unit 6 Begins
In my Math class, we’ll begin unit 6 on Thursday, after the state test on Tuesday and Wednesday. Unit 6 practices a lot of word problems, as well as a good number sense review as we compare numbers. Due to the testing this week, I only anticipate homework on Thursday this week.
Monday - No Homework
Tuesday - State Math Test
Wednesday - State Math Test
Thursday - Homework 6-1
Friday - No Homework
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
April 11th, 2022 - Weather Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 6, Week 2
In reading this week, we’ll continue Unit 6. We’ll continue practicing making predictions, discuss story themes and learn more about adjectives as we read a variety of stories about weather. Spelling will continue this week, and you can expect a list to come home Monday.
Math: Unit 7 Concludes
In my Math class, we’ll wrap up Unit 7. Prior to the test, we’ll continue learning about geometric shapes, and practice classifying their differences. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 7-6
Tuesday - Review Homework
Wednesday - Homework
Thursday - No Homework
Friday - No School
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
April 4th, 2022 - NSCAS Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
This week the kids will take their state reading test on Tuesday and Wednesday. There really isn’t anything to do to prepare for this test that we haven’t been doing all year. A good night of rest and a focused mind is really all that matters to them doing their best!
Reading: Unit 6, Week 1
In reading this week, we’ll begin Unit 6. We’ll practice making predictions, discuss themes and learn about adjectives as we read a variety of drama stories. Spelling will resume this week, and you can expect a list to come home Monday.
Math: Unit 7 Continues
In my Math class, we’ll continue with Unit 7. This week the kids will continue learning about customary and metric measurements. We’ll also begin to learn about the principles of geometry later in the week. Most of the lessons in Unit 7 are two days each, so you can anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 7-3
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - Homework 7-5
Thursday - No Homework
Friday - Homework 7-6 (we might get this done in class)
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
March 28th, 2022 - Welcome to Test Season!
Hello Families!
Spring has sprung, and unfortunately that means it’s officially “Test Season” in third grade. Last week, the kids finished Unit 5 in math and took a test. This week, we’ll finish Unit 5 in reading with a test. Then after this week, the kids will take their NSCAS reading exam, which all third graders in the state will take. Lastly, a few weeks down the road the kids will take the NSCAS math portion of the test. I wish the dominoes didn’t fall this way, but ‘tis the season! Please see the attached letter for more details.
Reading: Unit 5, Week 6
As mentioned, we’ll take our Unit 5 reading test this week. We’ll spread the test out over a couple of days so it’s not so overwhelming. We will not have spelling this week, as a result.
Math: Unit 7 Begins
In my Math class, we’ll begin Unit 7 in math, rather than unit 6. The district made this change because Unit 7 will cover liquid volume, measurement and geometry, which will be on the NSCAS test in a few weeks. This week, I anticipate only a couple of homework assignments due to two day lessons.
Monday - No Homework
Tuesday - Homework 7-1
Wednesday - No Homework
Thursday - Homework 7-2
Friday - No Homework
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
March 21st, 2022 - 4th Quarter Begins!
Hello Families!
I hope you had a restful spring break and are ready to crank it up for the stretch run of this school year. I always start to get a little nostalgic at this point, and really make it a point to enjoy every moment. The last quarter always flies by, so I hope your child is ready to go and have some fun this last quarter!
Reading: Unit 5, Week 5
We are nearing the end of Unit 5 in reading. This week, we’ll learn about different types of energy by reading a variety of expository texts. We’ll practice asking and answering questions, as well as cause and effect and homophones. You can expect a practice spelling list to come home Monday evening. Just a reminder that reading homework has ended. However, it’s never too late to turn in any of those late assignments!
Math: Unit 5 Concludes
In my Math class, we’ll wrap up the second half of unit 5 this week. We’ll spend a couple of days reviewing and then take the test on Thursday and Friday so it’s not too overwhelming. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 5-9
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - Review Homework
Thursday - Test (No Homework)
Friday - Test (No Homework)
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
March 7th, 2022 - Chick Hatching Week!
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 5, Week 4
We are moving right along in Unit 5 in reading! This week, we’ll read a couple of biographies about inspirational women. We’ll again practice answering and asking questions, point of view and examine the prefixes and suffixes on root words. You can expect a practice spelling list to come home Monday, as well as a reading homework page. This is the final reading homework assignment they will have, so please help your child complete and return it by Friday.
Math: Unit 5 Test, part 2
In my Math class, we’ll begin the second half of Unit 5. This week, the kids will revisit fractions and learn about equivalent fractions. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - No Homework
Tuesday - Homework 5-7
Wednesday - No Homework
Thursday - Homework 5-8
Friday - No Homework
Chick Hatching!
On Monday, but most likely Tuesday, we will have chicks hatching in our room! The process takes several hours, so hopefully the kids will get a chance to see one hatch live! By the time they dry out and fluff up, I’m hoping we can have a little play-time on Wednesday. Thursday will be a really fun day, as I’ve promised the kids many chances to play with them that day! Then, just like that, they will return to the farmer that donated the eggs early Friday morning.
Your child is more than welcome to bring a camera/ipad/tablet/phone to take pictures of the chickadees. Fun, fun, fun! :)
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 28th, 2022 - Read Across America Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 5, Week 3
This week we’ll continue with Unit 5 in reading. Our stories will focus on teamwork, and how working together is a great way to solve problems. We’ll read a cool story about rescue dogs and one about wildfires and how firefighters go about fighting them. We’ll practice answering and asking questions, point of view and learn new vocabulary words by using context clues.
You can expect a practice spelling list to come home Monday, as well as a reading homework page. A number of kids continue to forget their reading homework, so please be on the lookout for that weekly assignment on Tuesday evening.
Math: Unit 5 Test, part 1
In my Math class, we’ll continue to practice area and perimeter, and prepare for the first half of Unit 5’s test. We will take half of the test on Wednesday and half on Thursday, so it’s not so overwhelming. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 5-5
Tuesday - Review Homework
Wednesday - Unit 5 Test, part 1 (No Homework)
Thursday - Unit 5 Test, part 1 (No Homework)
Friday - No Homework
Read Across America Week
This week is also “Read Across America Week.” To celebrate, the attachment shows a number of different fun ways the kids can dress each day this week in honor of reading.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 22nd, 2022 - Twosday Fun and Recycling Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 5, Week 2
This week we’ll continue with Unit 5 in reading. Our stories will focus on recycling, and the best ways we can reuse, recycle and reduce the amount of waste we produce. In doing so, we’ll practice point of view, summarizing and homographs. You can expect a practice spelling list to come home Monday, as well as a reading homework page. Only seven kids returned their reading homework last week, so please be on the lookout for that weekly assignment on Tuesday evening.
Math: Area, Perimeter and the Distributive Property
In my Math class, we’ll continue to practice area and perimeter, and we’ll also explore the Distributive Property and learn how it can help us solve the area of larger shapes. We are in the middle of a series of two-day lessons, so I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - No School
Tuesday - Lesson 5-2
Wednesday - No Homework
Thursday - Lesson 5-3
Friday - No Homework
2-22-22 Tuesday
Just a reminder, the kids can celebrate the crazy “2” date on Tuesday by wearing tutus, tennis shoes, ties and tiaras, if they so choose! :)
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 14th, 2022 - Unit 5 Begins
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 5, Week 1
This week we’ll begin Unit 5 in reading. We’ll read a couple of different fairy tales and study summarizing, point of view and root words. Spelling will resume this week, and you can expect a practice list to come home Monday, as well as a reading homework page.
Math: Unit 5 Begins
In my Math class, we’ll finish our Unit 4 Test on Monday, then begin Unit 5 on Tuesday, which will focus on area and perimeter. The first lesson will take at least 2 days, so I think there will only be homework on Wednesday or perhaps Thursday. This is a good time for anyone with late assignments to get caught up!
Monday - Finish Unit 4 Test
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - Homework 5-1 (or perhaps Thursday?)
Thursday - Homework 5-1 (Might do in class?)
Friday - No School
Valentine’s Day Party
Just a reminder we’ll end the day Monday with a small Valentine’s Party in the classroom. Your child is welcome to bring Valentines and store-bought treats, if they so choose. Please avoid any peanut-based treats so as to avoid potential allergy concerns. I also have some extra Valentines if any students would like some. Just let me know.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
February 6th, 2022 - Unit 4 Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 4, Week 6
This week we’ll take our Unit 4 reading test. There are a couple of different stories, a written question, vocabulary and grammar portions. We’ll break it up over a few days so it’s not too overwhelming for the kids. There will be no spelling words this week, but you can expect a reading homework to come home.
Math: Graphing Continues
In my Math class, we’ll continue practicing different types of graphs, as well as review telling time each day. With the Friday closures the past few weeks, my judgement has been off squeezing everything in. Thus, last Thursday I did not send home the 4-13 Homework as I didn’t get as far as I had hoped in the lesson. We’ll do that Monday, instead. The rest of the week is a bit of a gamble, too, so I think the following is what the week will look like in terms of homework.
Monday - Homework 4-13
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - Homework 4-14 (I think!)
Thursday - Review Homework
Friday - Unit 4 Test, Part 1, Day 1
Valentine's Day
The class will have a small Valentine's Party a week from Monday, on the 14th. Your child is welcome to bring Valentines and store bought treats, pencils, erasers, etc., if you so choose. To be safe, please don't bring any treats that have peanuts in them due to some allergies. I attached a letter about the party, as well as a class list of names, if you want to address each individually.
We will make some "Monster Bags" in class this Friday that will house their Valentines. All materials for the bags will be provided. Please do not feel you need to bring Valentines cards for the party, as that is purely optional.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 31st, 2022 - Poetry Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 4, Week 5
This week in reading our stories will focus on poetry. We’ll read both narrative and free-verse poems, and discuss the structure of each. We’ll also discuss the theme of each poem, as well as identifying the various forms of figurative language used by the authors. We will have spelling this week, as well as reading homework.
Math: Unit 4
In my Math class, we’ll continue practicing telling time, as well as begin to learn about graphs. Elapsed time seems to be improving with most kids, but I know it’s still a hard concept. We’ll keep practicing throughout the week. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 4-11
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - Homework 4-12
Thursday - Homework 4-13
Friday - No School
Conferences
Conferences are coming up on January 31st and February 2nd. Please look at the attachment to see when you are scheduled. I’m looking forward to visiting with you about your child’s progress! It was announced last week that all conferences will take place on Zoom. The link below will take you to my Zoom app, and I will invite you in when it’s time for your conference.
https://lps.zoom.us/j/5261813917
Or, if you prefer, I can always send home information for you to look over at your own convenience. None of this is ideal, of course, but thanks for making the best of things during these crazy times!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 24th, 2022 - Aviation Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 4, Week 4
This week in reading our stories will focus on aviation. We’ll read a variety of expository texts about the origin of flight, and practice rereading, cause and effect, and multiple meaning words. We will resume with spelling and reading homework this week.
Math: Unit 4
In my Math class, we’ll continue practicing telling time. Our time lesson last Thursday didn’t go as planned, so I pushed back the homework a day so we could practice a bit more. We will also begin practicing elapsed time this week, which is always a tricky concept. Any extra practice at home would be very helpful. For example, ask your child what time it will be in 30 minutes? Or, if running errands, ask what time will it be if we’re gone for an hour or two? Simple little practice like that can be very helpful! I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 4-8
Tuesday - Homework 4-9
Wednesday - Homework 4-10
Thursday - No Homework
Friday - No School
Conferences
Conferences are coming up on January 31st and February 2nd. Please look at the attachment to see when you are scheduled. I’m looking forward to visiting with you about your child’s progress! It was announced last week that all conferences will take place on Zoom. The link below will take you to my Zoom app, and I will invite you in when it’s time for your conference.
https://lps.zoom.us/j/5261813917
Or, if you prefer, I can always send home information for you to look over at your own convenience. None of this is ideal, of course, but thanks for making the best of things during these crazy times!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 18th, 2022 - Animal Adaptations Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 4, Week 3
This week in reading our stories will focus on expository texts, specifically regarding animals and how they adapt to their environments to survive. We’ll practice rereading, comparing and contrasting, as well as sentence clues to learn new vocabulary words. Due to the shortened week, we will skip reading homework and our spelling test this week.
Math: Unit 4
In my Math class, we’ll begin practicing telling time. We had an intervention on time earlier in the year, so hopefully this concept will be easy to learn for the kids. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - No Homework
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - Homework 4-7
Thursday - Homework 4-8
Friday - No School
Conferences
Conferences are coming up on January 31st and February 2nd. Please look at the attachment to see when you are scheduled. I’m looking forward to visiting with you about your child’s progress!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
January 10th, 2022 - Talent Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 4, Week 2
This week in reading we’ll continue with Unit 4. We’ll again practice asking and answering questions and point of view, along with prefixes, as we read a variety of stories that highlight hidden talents people have. We’ll also take some time to think about our own special talents, and what we can offer to others. Spelling will resume this week and a practice list should come home Monday.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will also resume this week, and you can expect an assignment to come home Monday, as well.
Math: Unit 4
In my Math class, we’ll practice measuring and learn how measurement and fractions go together. Then, we’ll review for our Unit 4, part 1 test which will be mid-week.
Monday - Homework 4-6
Tuesday - Unit 4 Review Homework
Wednesday - Unit 4, part 1 Test (No Homework)
Thursday - Unit 4, part 1 Test (No Homework)
Friday - No Homework
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
January 5th, 2022 - Happy New Year!
Hello Families!
Welcome back to school! I hope you all had a relaxing break and were able to spend some quality time with your family and friends!
Reading: Unit 4, Week 1
This week in reading we’ll begin Unit 4. We will practice asking and answering questions, point of view and root words while reading a variety of folktales. Spelling will not resume this week due to the short week.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will also not come home this week due to the short week. That assignment will start again next week on January 10th.
Math: Unit 4
In my Math class, we’ll continue to practice fractions using number lines and fraction bars. We’ll also practice different ways to compare fractions. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - No School
Tuesday - No School
Wednesday - Homework 4-4
Thursday - Homework 4-5
Friday - No Homework
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 20th, 2021 - Happy Holidays!
Hello Families!
It’s hard to believe we’ve come to the end of the first semester. It seems like we were starting the year up just a couple of weeks ago, and here we are halfway through. Crazy! It’s been a pleasure being your child’s teacher, and I’m glad we still have half of the year together yet to come! I hope you have a great holiday break and get to spend some quality time with your family and friends!
Reading: Unit 3, Week 6
This week in reading we’ll take our Unit 3 test to wrap up the first semester. There will be no spelling this week due to the test.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will not come home this week due to the short week. We’ll resume with that weekly assignment in mid-January.
Math: Unit 4
In my Math class, we’ll continue to practice fractions using number lines and fraction bars. We’ll also learn about mixed numbers and improper fractions. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - No Homework
Tuesday - Homework 4-3
Wednesday - No Homework
Thursday - No School
Friday - No School
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 13th, 2021 - Pioneers Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 3, Week 5
This week in reading we’ll practice summarizing again, as well as sequencing and suffixes, as we read a variety of texts about pioneers and the westward expansion of the United States in the 1880s. Spelling will continue this week, and you can expect a practice list to come home Tuesday evening.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will continue again this week. The assignment will come home Monday, and is due at the end of the week on Friday.
Math: Unit 4
In my Math class, we’ll begin a new unit that first focuses on fractions. We’ve been pre-teaching fractions during our Interventions portion of the day and that has gone really well so far. So, hopefully this transition will be pretty smooth, as we take a break from focusing on addition and subtraction. The first several lessons are two-day lessons, so I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - No Homework
Tuesday - Homework 4-1
Wednesday - No Homework
Thursday - Homework 4-2
Friday - No Homework
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
December 6th, 2021 - Outer Space Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 3, Week 3
This week in reading we’ll practice summarizing, main idea and prefixes as we read a variety of expository texts about outer space. Spelling will continue this week, and you can expect a practice list to come home Tuesday evening.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will continue again this week. The assignment will come home Monday, and is due at the end of the week of Friday.
Math: Unit 3
In my Math class, we’ll wrap up our study of addition, subtraction and rounding this week. We’ll spend a couple of days reviewing before taking our Unit 3 test on Thursday and Friday. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 3-19
Tuesday - Unit 3 Review HW 1
Wednesday - Unit 3 Review HW 2
Thursday - No Homework
Friday - No Homework
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 30th, 2021 - History Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 3, Week 2
This week in reading we’ll practice cause and effect, visualization, idioms and prefixes as we read a variety of historical fiction texts. Spelling will resume this week, and you can expect a practice list to come home Tuesday evening.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will resume again this week. The assignment will come home on Tuesday, and is due at the end of the week of Friday.
Math: Unit 3
In my Math class, we’ll continue our practice of addition and subtraction through word problems. Towards the end of the week we’ll do some place value practice as we wrap up Unit 3. I anticipate homework on the following evenings. However, I may try and compact a few lessons, so please know this might change as the week progresses.
Monday - Homework 3-14
Tuesday - Homework 3-16
Wednesday - No Homework
Thursday - Homework 3-17
Friday - No Homework
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 22nd, 2021 - Happy Thanksgiving!
Hello Families!
I hope you are doing well, and are ready to spend some quality time with your family and friends. The older I get, the more I appreciate this holiday as it's really just a time to reflect on all your blessings and to appreciate the things you are thankful for, especially during these crazy, pandemic days. I am certainly thankful for my job and the chance to spend my days with your children! They are teaching me as much as I am teaching them, and I'm truly grateful for them all!
Reading: Unit 3, Week 1
This week in reading we’ll continue with Unit 3, Week 1, as it has wrapped around from last week to this week. We’ll practice folktales, problems and solutions, literary devices and visualization. We’ll also start learning about verbs in grammar. There will be no spelling this week due to the short week.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will not be sent home this week due to the short week. It will resume the week after Thanksgiving, and hopefully I can put the correct assignment with the correct due date in their mailboxes this time. Ha!
If you ever need an extra copy of an assignment, you can download a copy by going to the class web page and clicking on the Homework and Reading tabs.
Math: Unit 3
In my Math class, we began practicing subtraction last week and will continue with our practice this week. I was super pleased to see how the kids did, as we had a subtraction intervention about six weeks ago. That pre-unit work really paid off, as most of the kids are picking it up quickly! I anticipate only having homework on Monday evening due to the holiday.
Monday - Homework 3-13
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - No Homework
Thursday - No Homework
Friday - No Homework
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 15th, 2021 - Unit 2 Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 2, Week 6
This week in reading we’ll wrap up our Unit 2 studies in reading, and take our unit test. We’ll spread the test over a few days so it’s not too overwhelming. Then, by the end of the week we’ll start Unit 3, and wrap that week into the two day week before Thanksgiving. Thus, we won’t have spelling this week, or next week, either due to the short week.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will continue this week. The majority of kids remember to bring their assignments by the end of the week, which is great! Hopefully the late ones will trickle in on Monday. We will have another assignment this week that will come home Monday, and be due on Friday.
If you ever need an extra copy of an assignment, you can download a copy by going to the class web page and clicking on the Homework and Reading tabs.
Math: Unit 3
In my Math class, we have transitioned to adding two and three digit numbers, and this week we’ll begin our subtraction practice. You can tentatively expect homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 3-9
Tuesday - Homework 3-10
Wednesday - Homework 3-11
Thursday - No Homework
Friday - Homework 3-12 (Possibly)
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
November 8th, 2021 - Poetry Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 2, Week 5
This week in reading we’ll read a variety of different poems, including narrative and free-verse poems. While doing so, we'll practice point of view, similes, and possessive nouns. We will have spelling this week and you can expect a spelling list to come home Monday evening.
Reading Homework
Reading homework will begin this week! The assignment will come home on Monday, and be due at the end of the week on Friday. Most of the assignment can be done independently, but your child will need someone to time him/her for five, 1-minute reads during the week.
If you ever need an extra copy of an assignment, you can download a copy by going to the class web page and clicking on the Homework and Reading tabs.
Math: Unit 3
In my Math class, we will spend much of our week practicing how to round numbers to the nearest 10 and 100. Generally those two skills are picked up quickly. Where it gets tricky is when we round to the nearest 10 within a 3-digit number, or round to the nearest 100 within a 4-digit number. Any extra help you can provide with homework would be great this week! You can tentatively expect homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 3-5
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - Homework 3-6
Thursday - Homework 3-7
Friday - Homework 3-8 (Possibly)
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
November 1st, 2021 - Red Ribbon Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 2, Week 4
This week in reading we’ll practice point of view and rereading again, as well as suffixes, while reading a variety of expository texts about animals and how people can help them survive. We will have spelling this week and you can expect a spelling list to come home Monday evening.
Reading Homework
This week the kids will also practice a new, weekly reading homework assignment. The assignment will come home on Mondays, and be due at the end of the week on Fridays.
Each assignment will include…
A short story to read
Five, 1-minute fluency reads
Comprehension questions to be answered with complete sentences
Generic, short answer questions on the back
Thank you in advance for your help with the 1-minute reads and for reminding your child to return each assignment by the end of the week.
The first assignment will come home on November 8th, and will run weekly through the third quarter.
If you ever need an extra copy of an assignment, you can download a copy by going to the class web page and clicking on the "Homework" and "Reading" tabs.
Math: Unit 3
In Math class, we’ll finally change gears and move away from multiplication and division practice. Unit 3 focuses on addition and subtraction practice, word problems and rounding. You can tentatively expect homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 3-2
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - Homework 3-3
Thursday - Homework 3-4
Friday - No Homework
The LPS Print Shop was temporarily out of blue paper when I ran the homework copies for Unit 3, so the homework was printed on white paper. So, if you see some white homework assignments coming home, please know those are the correct Unit 3 assignments.
*Please Note: Many of you noticed a typo on Homework 2-14, problem #12. The equation frame had some typos in it that surely did NOT help your child solve the problem. Sorry about that! :)
Red Ribbon Week
Lastly, this week the kids will also learn about “Red Ribbon Week” by celebrating a drug free lifestyle. Each day we’ll learn about the dangers of drugs and how to make choices to ensure a healthy life. As part of the celebration, the kids can dress up differently on each day of the week. The schedule is attached as well as listed below.
Monday-Pajama Day
Tuesday-Wear Tie Dye or Bright Colors
Wednesday-Wear Arnold Clothes or Blue
Thursday-Wear Sweatpants and Sweatshirts
Friday-Wear Camouflage or Green Clothing
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 25th, 2021 - Conferences Week
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 2, Week 3
This week in reading we’ll practice point of view, rereading, irregular plural nouns and prefixes while reading a variety of expository texts about government and the importance of voting. Spelling will resume this week, and you can expect a spelling list to come home Monday evening.
Math: Unit 2
In my Math class, we’ll spend the first two days of the week reviewing for our Unit 2 Test. We’ll take part 1 of the test Wednesday, and part 2 on Thursday. You can expect homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Review 1 HW
Tuesday - Review 2 HW
Wednesday - No Homework
Thursday - No Homework
Friday - Homework 3-1
Conferences
Conferences are Monday and Tuesday of this week. I’m looking forward to meeting with you all about the progress of your child. A conference time sheet is attached to this email.
Flag Mural
When you come for conferences, be sure and look at our flag mural project in the third grade hallway. The kids each had a chance to decorate a rectangle section of the flag, which was then assembled altogether to make one large flag. The attached picture shows the finished project, which turned out really well!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 20th, 2021 - Quarter 2 Begins!
Hello Families!
Reading: Unit 2, Week 2
This week in reading we’ll practice making predictions, plural nouns, similes and understanding theme while reading a variety of historical fiction stories about immigration. Due to the three day week, we will not have spelling words this week.
Math: Unit 2
In my Math class, we’ll tackle 10s multiplications and divisions, practice fact fluency and practice a variety of word problems. You can expect homework to come home on the following evenings.
Wednesday - Homework 2-7
Thursday - Homework 2-9
Friday - Homework 2-12
Conferences
Attached is the conference schedule for October 25th and 27th. If you haven’t signed up yet, click on the link below to do so.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 11th, 2021 - Unit 2 Reading Begins!
October 11th, 2021 - Unit 2 Reading Begins!
Hello Families!
Reading
This week we’ll begin Unit 2 in reading. In week 1, we’ll practice making predictions, learn about theme and practice antonyms while reading folktales. Spelling will resume this week, and you can expect a practice list to come home Monday evening.
Math
In my Math class, we’ll tackle 7s multiplications and divisions, practice fact fluency and learn about square numbers. You can expect homework to come home on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 2-4
Tuesday - Homework 2-5
Wednesday - Homework 2-6
Thursday - No Homework
Conferences
Conferences are fast approaching! Have you signed up, yet? Click on the link below to register, if you haven’t.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
October 4th, 2021 - Unit 1 Reading Test Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week it’s Unit 1, Week 6 in reading. This concludes the first unit of reading, and we’ll take our Unit 1 Reading Test this week. The test has several sections, so we’ll break it apart and spread it over a few days so it’s more manageable. There will be no spelling words this week due to the test.
Math
In Math class, we’ll begin unit 2. In this unit, we’ll continue to practice multiplication and division facts. This week we’ll tackle 6s, 7s and 8s, as well as practice real world word problems. You can expect homework to come home on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 2-1
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - Homework 2-2
Thursday - Homework 2-3
Friday - No Homework
Conferences
It’s never too late to sign up for conferences! Click on the link below to register, if you haven’t.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 27th, 2021 ~ Landmarks and Monuments Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week it’s Unit 1, Week 5 in reading. Our stories this week will center around some of our country's great landmarks and monuments. The kids will learn about the Grand Canyon, Mt. Rushmore, the National Mall and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, to name a few. We’ll again practice asking and answering questions. We’ll also practice finding the main idea of a story, and learn about homographs, as well. You can expect a spelling list to come home on Monday evening, and our test will again be on Friday.
Math
In Math class, we’ll take our Unit 1 Test on Wednesday and Thursday. We’ll spend Monday and Tuesday reviewing, and then give the test a go. This unit is quite long, so hopefully a little review will get them primed for the exam. You can expect homework to come home on the following evenings.
Monday - Review HW 1
Tuesday - Review HW 2
Wednesday - Test, Part 1-No Homework
Thursday - Test, Part 2-No Homework
Friday - No Homework
Conferences
It’s never too late to sign up for conferences! Click on the link below and register, if you haven’t.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
September 20th, 2021 ~ Inventions Week
Hello Families!
Reading
This week it’s Unit 1, Week 4 in reading. This week our stories will center around great inventions. We’ll explore some common and not so common inventions from over the years in our stories. We’ll practice asking and answering questions again, as well as learn about cause and effect and metaphors. You can expect a spelling list to come home on Monday evening, and our test will again be on Friday.
Math
In my Math class, we are approaching the end of Unit 1. This week we’ll explore the Property of One and the Zero Property. We’ll also continue to practice our fluency as we try and master all our facts. You can expect homework to come home on the following evenings.
Monday - No Homework
Tuesday - Homework 1-15
Wednesday - Homework 1-16
Thursday - Homework 1-17
Friday - Homework 1-18
Picture Day
A friendly reminder Picture Day is Wednesday, September 22nd. Send your child to school in his/her best! :)
Conferences
It’s never too late to sign up for conferences! Click on the link below to register, if you haven’t.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 13th, 2021 ~ Here Comes Fall!
Hello Families!
I hope you all had a nice weekend, and are ready for a new week! I was driving home from church this morning and I noticed one tree amongst a sea of green trees that had turned completely orange. I guess that means fall is about here, and hopefully those brutally hot temperatures are behind us!
Reading
This week is Unit 1, Week 3 in reading. Our lessons this week will focus on narrative nonfiction stories. We'll practice sequencing, compound words, and practice asking and answering questions. You can expect a spelling list to come home on Monday evening, and our test will again be on Friday.
Math
In my Math class, we will learn how to find the area of a square or rectangle, practice the distributive property, and also add 4s multiplications and divisions to our arsenal of new skills. You can expect homework to come home on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 1-11
Tuesday - Homework 1-12
Wednesday - Homework 1-13
Thursday - Homework 1-14
Friday - No Homework
Conferences
It’s never too late to sign up for conferences! Register through the link below, if you haven’t.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
September 7th, 2021 ~ Hello September!
Hello Families!
I hope you had a nice long weekend and got to enjoy some quality time with your family and friends! Seems crazy we’re already into September and the fourth week of school!
Reading
It’s Unit 1, Week 2 in reading this week. This week we’ll continue to practice visualization as we read a variety of realistic fiction stories. We’ll also practice sequencing and context clues. You can expect a spelling list to come home on Tuesday evening, and our test will again be on Friday.
Math
In my Math class, we will begin our study of 3s multiplication and division. We will also take the fall MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) test for Math on Wednesday and Thursday. That means we’ll only have homework on Tuesday evening (Homework 1-10).
Speaking of homework, I was pleased to see a note on one of the homeworks last week from a parent stating her child worked really hard, but wasn't quite able to finish the entire assignment. That's okay! Working 20-30 minutes should be the maximum, then return what you have finished. The school year is a marathon, not a sprint, and one homework assignment is just part of that journey. So please...do not work all night on an assignment!
(*Please note, a handful of students attend math with Mrs. Menghini. We all do the same lessons, but the pacing may not quite be the same. Therefore my homework assignments might not match the same day that she gives hers.)
Conferences
Almost everyone has signed up for conferences, which is awesome! Click on the link below to register, if you haven’t.
Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Eric Wachter
August 30th, 2021 ~ Unit 1 Reading Begins!
Hello Families!
I hope you had a nice weekend and were able to recharge your batteries. I am a huge Husker football fan, so it was nice watching us play, even though the ending broke my heart!
Reading
This week is Unit 1, Week 1 of Reading. Each week we will tackle a handful of skills as we read a variety of different stories. This week, we’ll focus on fantasy stories as we learn about character traits, synonyms and practice visualization. The link below will take you to the Reading tab on our class website, if you want a closer look at each week’s skills we’ll be practicing.
Spelling
We’ll also start spelling this week. You can expect a practice list to come home on Monday, and our tests will take place on Fridays. The link below will take you to a master list of all spelling lists for the entire year.
Math
In Math class, we will continue our practice with multiplication and division. We will continue to build fluency with 5s and 2s, and will also start to practice our 10s and 9s. I anticipate homework on the following evenings.
Monday - Homework 1.6
Tuesday - No Homework
Wednesday - Homework 1.7
Thursday - Homework 1.8
Friday - Homework 1.9
Class Website
I hope you have had a chance to look at the class website. All the links above come from the site, and there is a lot more to explore. Please check it out when you have a chance, bookmark it, and I promise it will make your life easier! :)
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
Conferences
Thanks to everyone that has signed up for conferences so far! Click on the link below if you haven’t, yet.
Thanks for reading and have a good week!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
August 23rd, 2021 ~ Off and Running!
August 23rd, 2021 ~ Off and Running!
Dear Families,
We had a great week of school last week! I have really enjoyed getting to know your kids, and I am so excited for the year to come.
Reading
This week we’ll continue to ease our way into reading by learning the procedures of our weekly assignments. We’ll practice “Retrievals,” which is retrieving skills the kids have already learned, and applying them to our work this week. We’ll also practice how to take “Annotations,” which is a way we take notes about the stories we read each week. We’ll also finish up some of the fall reading screening tests that help me develop guided reading groups.
Math
In Math class, we practiced making equal groups and arrays as we learned about the principles of multiplication. We practiced multiplying by 5s, and this week will introduce division with 5s. Then, we’ll end the week by practicing our 2s.
Class Website
Have you looked at the class website yet? If you have, you might have seen you can find specials rotations, lunch menus, future spelling lists, etc. So much information is a click away! Conference information, field trip information and more will be coming as the year progresses.
Conferences
Speaking of conferences...be on the lookout for an email Monday morning regarding conference sign-ups.
Thanks for reading and have a good week!
Eric Wachter
August 16th, 2021 ~ Welcome to Third Grade!
August 16th, 2021 ~ Welcome to Third Grade!
Dear Families,
Welcome!
I’m so glad the new school year has finally arrived! It’s an honor to be your child’s teacher, and I hope you’re as excited as I am to start our journey together. My goal is to send out a weekly email to keep you in the loop regarding the happenings in your child’s classroom. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns as the year progresses.
Reading
This week we’ll ease our way into the year with several introductory lessons about routines and schedules. We’ll also do several introductory reading activities and do lots of sentence practice to begin the year.
Math
In Math class, we will dive right in! We’ll begin exploring multiplication and division, and will spend the majority of quarter 1 on those concepts. Depending on your child’s Math teacher, homework assignments may vary from night to night.
Many of the first lessons in unit one take two days, so there will commonly be gaps in the nights they have homework. Of course, if a lesson doesn’t go well, I might skip the homework that night. If you're ever curious if your child had homework or not, just shoot me a quick email and I will let you know.
Class Website
Please take a moment to look over our class website. I hope you find it to be a good resource for this school year. You’ll see news about spelling lists, field trips, conferences, etc. Basically, my goal is to make as much information as possible just a click away.
Conference Sign-Up
Speaking of conferences, there will be an email sent at the end of the week regarding registering for Parent-Teacher Conferences. This will be done electronically again this year, so be on the look-out for that notice, likely on Friday.
Thanks for reading and thanks in advance for the communication throughout the year!
Eric Wachter
Web Site: Mr. Wachter’s Class
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