Weekly Updates

Week of 4/29

We made it to May! We're winding the year pretty fast so please be on the lookout for important information about recognition and end of the year activities!

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Field Day

Sommer Parents,


We need your help! Our annual Field day will be on Friday, May 17th! In order to make this day run smoothly, we are in need of parent volunteers to help run each of the stations. Please sign up if you can commit to helping us at any of the following times on that day (linked)


8:15 - 9:55 am 2nd & 4th

10:10 - 11:50 am PK, K, 1st

12:45 - 2:25 pm 3rd & 5th


Please note: If you would like to walk around with your child during their field day time, please do not volunteer to help during that time frame, as you will need to stay at your assigned station. 


Thank you for supporting Patsy Sommer PE and making this day a blast for our students! 


Coach Krusely, Coach Park, & Coach A

Mari Mancusi Author Visit

We are VERY excited to host Mari Mancusi, author of one of next year's Texas Bluebonnet List nominees, New Dragon City on May 13th! 


Visit this website for how to purchase an autographed book: https://sommer-newdragoncity.square.site

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: Students are going to continue their research on their topic on a historical event/figure. Students will continue to dive into our Research Resources to analyze relevant information about their narrowed topic, and regardless if they are creating a label or writing a speech, they will plan as if they are writing a full research essay. 

Social Studies: This week we are diving into the leadership of Abraham Lincoln and his influence/impact. We will then transition into the Reconstruction!

Math: This week students will engage in a life simulation where their goal is to balance their budget given a series of choices (places to live, cars to buy, utility payments, etc) and a predetermined set of life circumstances (occupation/salary, a spouse or not, children or not, etc). This will put our recent learnings of personal financial literacy to the test when students are faced with things they may want, but may not need all within a set of constraints. In the end, students will write a journal entry explaining their choices and give a glimpse into their life as future adults. Should be fun! 

Science: This week in science we are conducting a Balloon Rocket Investigation Design Challenge. Students will investigate and explain how equal and unequal forces acting on an object cause patterns of motion and a transfer of energy by designing a simple experimental investigation that tests the effects of force on an object in a system. HUGE thank you to everyone who donated and sent supplies for this investigation :) Y'all ROCK-et 🚀 

Week of 4/22

Here's a look at our week! We're winding the year pretty fast so please be on the lookout for important information about recognition and end of the year activities!

Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer, and complete it before April 5, 2024.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Math STAAR on Tuesday, April 23

Here are a couple of important things to keep in mind as you help your student prepare for the test:

🎈 Science Supplies Needed

Next week (Week of April 29 - May 3) we will be conducting a Balloon Rocket Design investigation in science. If you are able, check out our Sign Up Genius to see if you can help by sending supplies.  

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: We are going to be continuing our Research Project through this week, with the focus being on finding 5 Primary sources to create a well rounded amount of information.

Social Studies: We will continue to look at the causes and effects of the Civil War, and how the North & South were vastly different from each other economically, and physically. 

Math: On Monday we are continuing our review of all the wonderful things we've learned this year as we prepare for the Math STAAR test on Tuesday, April 23. Woo! 

After Tuesday our focus shifts to reviewing for our LAST math test of the year. We are testing for our last unit that we learned before STAAR on Measurement Conversions and Personal Financial Literacy. Students will receive and work on a study guide in class this week and will test on Friday, April 26. (If you're reading this, you can know that we'll be allowing students to use their Study Guides on their test... but don't let them know that ;) 

Science: On Monday we will have a little extra math practice before our final STAAR of the year! Then on Wednesday we'll shift to focusing on wrapping up our final science unit we learned before STAAR on Traits and Adaptations. Students will receive and work on a study guide in class this week and will test on Friday, April 26. (If you're reading this, you can know that we'll be allowing students to use their Study Guides on their test... but don't let them know that ;) 

Week of 4/15

Hi! Reunion Ranch permission slips went home last week. If you plan attending our Reunion Ranch field trip at the end of the year, please read in the info below about registering as a volunteer. We ask this be done early to ensure adequate time for the district to approve you to attend (it must be done EVERY year if you've done it before). Here is look at our week. 

Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer, and complete it before April 5, 2024.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Science STAAR on Tuesday, April 16

Here are a couple of important things to keep in mind as you help your student prepare for the test:

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: As we wind down towards the end of the school year, we are going to be starting our End of Year Research Project! This project will involve choosing a historical topic from the 20th-21st century, and creating an artifact or becoming a living museum of the figure. This week will be dedicated to finding our topic and then creating questions on what to research for that topic.  

Social Studies: We are going to discuss Supply and Demand, as well as how the creation and use of the Cotton Gin impacted the economy. 

Math: This week we are continuing our review of all the wonderful things we've learned this year as we prepare for the Math STAAR test on Tuesday, April 23.  

Science: This week we are continuing our review of all the wonderful things we've learned this year as we prepare for the Science STAAR, on Tuesday, April 16. Then we'll shift gears and begin using our science time for the next few days to engage in a little extra math practice before our final STAAR of the year!  

Week of 4/8

Hi! Reunion Ranch permission slips went home today. If you plan attending our Reunion Ranch field trip at the end of the year, please read in the info below about registering as a volunteer. We ask this be done early to ensure adequate time for the district to approve you to attend (it must be done EVERY year if you've done it before). Here is look at our week. 

Kindergarten & Pre-K Roundup (see linked flyer)

If you have an incoming Kindergarten student, an incoming PreK (4 by September 1st) student, or KNOW anyone of this age send them the flyer linked above to join Round-up on April 10th.

Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer, and complete it before April 5, 2024.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: We will be getting our new book club books this Thursday and being our final book club rounds next Friday! We will also be reviewing how to write a strong Summary with all the relevant information. 

Social Studies: Starting Thursday, the students will dive into how and why Eli Whitney created the Cotton Gin. They are going to analyze the effects that it had on population and production.

Math: This week we are continuing our review of all the wonderful things we've learned this year as we prepare for the Math STAAR test on Tuesday, April 23.  

Science: 

This week we are learning about the Total Solar Eclipse (and viewing it!) and then focusing on reviewing for the Science STAAR next week, on Tuesday, April 16.  

Week of 4/1

Hi! We're in our final marking period of the year and are entering into one of the busiest times of the year! If you plan attending our Reunion Ranch field trip at the end of the year, please read in the info below about registering as a volunteer. We ask this be done early to ensure adequate time for the district to approve you to attend (it must be done EVERY year if you've done it before). Here is look at our week. 

Celebrate Neurodiversity Week April 1-5

Next week, April 1-April 5, we are celebrating Neurodiversity! Neurodivergent thinkers exhibit a wide array of differences between how they think, process information, behave and communicate. Types of neurodivergence include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and dyslexia. Please join us in recognizing the diverse strengths of the neurodivergent community by celebrating in different ways! Help us to increase understanding and acceptance, and empower all individuals.   

☀️😎 Solar Eclipse Permission Form

Last Thursday your child brought home a permission form to participate in viewing the Solar Eclipse on Monday, April 8. Our campus has secured glasses for all students and staff. Please make sure your child returns the signed form ASAP so we know if they will be able to join us outside to view the eclipse! Reminder, parents are welcome to join us! 

Kindergarten & Pre-K Roundup (see linked flyer)

If you have an incoming Kindergarten student, an incoming PreK (4 by September 1st) student, or KNOW anyone of this age send them the flyer linked above to join Round-up on April 10th.

Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer, and complete it before April 5, 2024.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will be reviewing all genres of Reading using Escape rooms, mystery activities and practice with articles and questions. We will also be playing Vocabulary BINGO everyday with a list of 75 words of terminology that we have used through the entire year. 

Social Studies: N/A

Math: This week we begin our study of Measurement Conversions and Personal Financial Literacy. The goal is for students to extend the work they began in 4th grade with measurement conversions. In 4th grade, students used relationships and patterns in a table to help them make measurement conversions.  Here are some of the goals students will be working toward this week: 

Science: 

This week we begin our final unit before we take the Science STAAR test (on April 16th): Traits and Adaptations. In this unit, students will explore the concept of survival in the wild and how organisms adapt to their environments. Students will learn about the different structures and functions of various species and how they help the organism survive in its environment. They will also learn about instinctual and learned behaviors that increase the chances of survival in organisms, such as turtle hatchlings returning to the sea or orcas hunting in packs. Additionally, students will explore the relationship between the structure and function of organisms and how this relationship helps the organism survive. 

We will also begin our focused review of everything we've learned this year to prepare for the Science STAAR on Tuesday, April 16th.  


Week of 3/25

Hi! We're in our final marking period of the year and are entering into one of the busiest times of the year! If you plan attending our Reunion Ranch field trip at the end of the year, please read in the info below about registering as a volunteer. We ask this be done early to ensure adequate time for the district to approve you to attend (it must be done EVERY year if you've done it before). Here is look at our week. 


Class Picture Day is Tuesday, March 26. 

If you plan on purchasing a picture or package, make sure to send the completed envelope with money with your student on Tuesday. These went home on Friday, March 22.

☀️😎 Solar Eclipse Permission Form

Last Thursday your child brought home a permission form to participate in viewing the Solar Eclipse on Monday, April 8. Our campus has secured glasses for all students and staff. Please make sure your child returns the signed form ASAP so we know if they will be able to join us outside to view the eclipse! Reminder, parents are welcome to join us! 

Kindergarten & Pre-K Roundup (see linked flyer)

If you have an incoming Kindergarten student, an incoming PreK (4 by September 1st) student, or KNOW anyone of this age send them the flyer linked above to join Round-up on April 10th.

Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer, and complete it before April 5, 2024.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: Continuing our Across Genres Unit, we are going to be assessing Nonfiction & Argumentative similarities and differences. We are also going to be writing an Extended Constructed Response, as well as a Short Constructed Response.

Social Studies: We have our Manifest Destiny Assessment this Thursday, so we are going to continue reviewing on all things Westward Expansion. 

Math: This week we begin our final unit before we take the Math STAAR test (on April 23rd): Measurement Conversions and Personal Financial Literacy. Our focus this week will be on Personal Financial Literacy. Here are some of the goals students will be working toward this week: 

We started on last Friday and students have loved learning more about taxes and why they're important. I would highly encourage you to engage your student in conversations around these topics and make connections related to your own experience as appropriate. 

Science: This week we begin our final unit before we take the Science STAAR test (on April 16th): Traits and Adaptations. In this unit, students will explore the concept of survival in the wild and how organisms adapt to their environments. Students will learn about the different structures and functions of various species and how they help the organism survive in its environment. They will also learn about instinctual and learned behaviors that increase the chances of survival in organisms, such as turtle hatchlings returning to the sea or orcas hunting in packs. Additionally, students will explore the relationship between the structure and function of organisms and how this relationship helps the organism survive. 

FYI today we took our Final TTAP science test of the year. This is not a graded assignment for the gradebook. 

Week of 3/18

Welcome back from Spring Break! We hope everyone enjoyed the week off; the students have loved sharing the highlights of their weeks with each other and us in class! With that being said it's hard to believe, but we're in the homestretch of 5th grade! 2 more months! Please continue to look here for updates and important info about our weeks!


Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer, and complete it before April 5, 2024.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: We are going to reviewing Fiction and Poetry this week while reading multiple articles to compare the similarities and differences between the genres. We will also be creating Extended Constructed responses by putting together broken pieces from a finished response.  

Social Studies: This week we will diving into the journey of Lewis and Clark along with how the Gold Rush impacted the economic landscape of the United States. 

Math: This week we conclude our unit on the Coordinate Plane and 2-D Geometry with a test on Thursday, March 21st. We will review in class and students will have time in class to work on their study guide. I would also recommend having them study at home using the IXL lessons they've been working on the last few weeks as well as notes we've taken in their math journals. They DO need to have the attributes of quadrilaterals and triangles memorized. These attributes are in their notes. 

Science: This week also conclude our study on the Interdependence of Organisms with a test on Wednesday, March 20th. We will review in class and students will also have time to work on a study guide in class.  

Week of 3/4

Hi! 1 week to Spring Break! Whoo-hoo! :) here's a look at the week:

Book Fair is this week! 

Middle School Transition

Have a question about Middle School Transition?


Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer, and complete it before April 5, 2024.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will be focusing on our Extended Constructed Response by breaking down the restating the questions and into getting citing evidence followed by the conclusion. 

Social Studies: We are going to analyze articles over the Louisiana Purchase with partners and teaching what we learned to the class!

Math: This week we continue our unit on the Coordinate Plane and 2-D Geometry. This week, students work with classifying 2-D figures culminates in 5th grade as they sort and classify these figures into hierarchies. This week we are focusing on identifying triangles by their sides (scalene, equilateral, isosceles) and angles (acute, obtuse, right). I've encouraged the students to make flashcards or start studying from their journals to familiarize themselves with all the vocabulary in this unit. 

Science: This week continue our study on the Interdependence of Organisms. In this unit students observe the way organisms live and survive in their ecosystem by interacting with the living and nonliving elements. Students describe the flow of energy through a food chain and food web and explore the impact on ecosystems caused by overgrazing and human activity.  

Week of 2/26

Hi! 2 weeks to Spring Break! Whoo-hoo! :) here's a look at the week:

Middle School Transition

Have a question about Middle School Transition?


Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer, and complete it before April 5, 2024.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: We will be having our Argumentative Assessment this Thursday Feb 29th! The next coming days will be used on reviewing and practicing the skills that had been introduced. 

Readers are also starting research on a Historical Topic from their book using the Library Resources app within Classlink. 

Social Studies: We are going to continue through Manifest Destiny by reading articles that center around the Louisiana Purchase. 

Math: This week we continue our unit on the Coordinate Plane and 2-D Geometry. This week, students work with classifying 2-D figures culminates in 5th grade as they sort and classify these figures into hierarchies. All of the groundwork for this has been laid over the previous five years of geometry instruction as students have learned the various attributes that are essential in defining shapes. The goal is for students to understand classes of shapes and their properties, without necessarily needing to see a particular shape as an example.    

Science: This week continue our study on the Interdependence of Organisms. In this unit students observe the way organisms live and survive in their ecosystem by interacting with the living and nonliving elements. Students describe the flow of energy through a food chain and food web and explore the impact on ecosystems caused by overgrazing and human activity.  

Week of 2/12

Hi! We've been referring to this week as our "wonky week." So please read the following info to know what to expect this week in 5th grade.

Though our days will be all out of wack, we'll hopefully have some good times and pockets of normalcy this week :)  

Maturation lesson and form

As part of the RRISD 4th and 5th grade Health Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) requirements, classes on maturation and hygiene will be provided for 4th and 5th grade students. Boys and girls will be separated for the instructional program.  


Per HB 1525, districts must receive parent permission for your student to participate in the lessons. Parents MUST opt-in and MUST complete the form in order for the student to participate in the Always Changing videos.


The date set is for Friday, February 16th and students will gather during their Specials time. Again, boys and girls will be separate.

Middle School Transition Dates to get on your calendar (I know.... I can't believe it either!)

Have a question about Middle School Transition?


Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer, and complete it before April 5, 2024.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will be diving into what differentiates Claims froms Arguments and how we can identify them. By doing this, we will be able to create our own claims and start developing arguments over our own topics. 

Our readers will also be getting their new Historical Fiction Books for book club on Tuesday! We will be increasing the quantity of writing in each entry for the first time since January, which might be an adjustment but we are up to the task.  

Math: This week we dive into our new unit on the Coordinate Plane and 2-D Geometry.  In this unit, students engage with two major geometry topics - the coordinate plane and classifying 2-D figures. First, students learn about the coordinate plane and how we can use it to precisely locate points and other 2-D objects. Students apply their understanding of the coordinate plane as they create and interpret scatterplots. Students again use their knowledge of graphing points on the coordinate plane as they study additive and multiplicative patterns. Students create and use a variety of representations, including tables, graphs, and equations, and analyze how each representation offers a different perspective of these patterns.    

Science: This week we begin our next unit on the Interdependence of Organisms. In this unit students observe the way organisms live and survive in their ecosystem by interacting with the living and nonliving elements. Students describe the flow of energy through a food chain and food web and explore the impact on ecosystems caused by overgrazing and human activity. This week we are focused on the interaction of living and nonliving elements in different ecosystems.  

Week of 2/5

Hi! There's a lot going on in Feb. Please take a look at the information and important dates to see what we have going on this month! Reminder that next week is our in-class Valentine's Day celebration. Please review the previously sent email with our class lists and reminders about if your child is bringing in Valentines for the class.

Maturation lesson and form

As part of the RRISD 4th and 5th grade Health Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) requirements, classes on maturation and hygiene will be provided for 4th and 5th grade students. Boys and girls will be separated for the instructional program.  


Per HB 1525, districts must receive parent permission for your student to participate in the lessons. Parents MUST opt-in and MUST complete the form in order for the student to participate in the Always Changing videos.


The date set is for Friday, February 16th and students will gather during their Specials time. Again, boys and girls will be separate.

Middle School Transition Dates to get on your calendar (I know.... I can't believe it either!)

Have a question about Middle School Transition?


Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer, and complete it before April 5, 2024.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will begin our Argumentative Unit with diving into what Claims and Counterclaims are! Our first debate topic will be focused on if Soda is good for you, we will be analyzing the article and scoping our the Arguments and Evidence that the author used. 

SS:  I will be testing our learners this week over the Bill of Rights, and we are going to have our Assessment this Thursday and will be reviewing on Wednesday. 

Math: This week we conclude our unit on Multiplying and Dividing Fractions.  In this unit, students connect their understanding of whole number multiplication and division to fractions. On Thursday we will begin our next unit with an introduction to the Coordinate Plane.   

We will have our next math test is tomorrow, Wednesday, February 7th. Students have their notes and corrected study guides they can use to review.

Science: This week we conclude our unit on Changes to Land, Fossils and Fossil Fuels. The science test is on Thursday, February 8th. Students have their notes and corrected study guides to review from.

Week of 1/29

Hi! Can you believe we're in February this week? There's a lot of exciting things on the horizon so please read through in the information below!

Announcements:

✂️📝😉 School supply restock!

Ask your child if they need any new pencils, erasers, or glue sticks and maybe a new pair of scissors. We've noticed  some students seem to be running low on these school supplies and we still have a few months of school left!

Middle School Transition Dates to get on your calendar (I know.... I can't believe it either!)

Have a question about Middle School Transition?


Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Reunion Ranch: End of Year Field Trip... Parents WELCOME!

At the end of the year, we will be attending our last field trip to Reunion Ranch on May 7th.  All parents are welcome!  In order for you to join parents must be approved through the district.  If you haven’t already done so, please go to this link, Field Trip Volunteer, and complete it before April 5, 2024.  We can not guarantee that you will be permitted to attend if the District doesn’t have ample time to complete your application. You can expect more details regarding this field trip as we get closer to the event. 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will be testing over Poetry, this will include completing POETS, inferring in Poetry, and they types of poetry. We also will be having our in Class Poetry Slam THIS FRIDAY. Students have been working hard on their Poems and we are all so excited to hear them! 

SS:  We will be analyzing the Bill of Rights and creating a hand jive performance for each of the Amendments, ask your learner to perform the Bill of Rights hand jive for you at home! 

Math: This week we continue our unit on Multiplying and Dividing Fractions. This week we really start to dive into what I consider the most challenging part of this unit, distinguishing between operations (multiplication vs division) and within division, correctly identifying if they should divide a whole number by a fraction or the fraction by a whole number. We'll do lots of practice processing through story problem scenarios to practice this together.

Heads up, we will have our next math test on Wednesday, February 7th. Students will receive and have time to work on their study guide later this week in class. 

Science: This week we continue our unit on Changes to Land, Fossils and Fossil Fuels. We'll connect the learning we did within our hands-on investigations the last 2 weeks with some in class assignments, articles and sorts.

Heads up, we will have our next science test on Thursday, February 8th. Students will receive and have time to work on their study guide next week in class. 

Week of 1/8

Welcome back and happy new year! We hope you all had a great break. We've loved hearing about all the wonderful things that were done from the students and are excited to get back into it and rock the rest of 5th grade! Mr. Garcia is out this week so please be sure to include Mrs. Kim in all emails. Here's a look at our week. 

Announcements:

UPDATES FROM PTA! 

✂️📝😉 School supply restock!

Ask your child if they need any new pencils, erasers, or glue sticks and maybe a new pair of scissors. Some students seem to be running low on these school supplies. 

A Note from PTA Regarding Yearbook Photos:

Hello Sommer parents!  Here are the instructions for uploading photos to share with the yearbook team.  Please upload your images in the proper folders, so we can create an awesome yearbook!   


1.  Log-in to your https://www.treering.com account. 

2.  Scroll down to the “Share School Photos” section and click “Upload School Photos”. 

3.  Click on the folder that you are wishing to add photos to. 

4.  Click the green “Add Photos” button. 

5.  Choose where you would like to upload your photos from and choose the photo. Please tag or name the person/people in the photo.  You can also add a caption, any additional information is always helpful!  

6.  Click “Save a Copy To My Photos”.  That way you can use those photos for your personal pages, if you choose to do so.   

7.  Click “Done”!  


Each grade-level folder contains separate folders for each class.  Click on your child’s grade, then the appropriate class folder, and then select “Add Photos” in the green box in the upper right corner.  


Pre-k Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/304277373


Kindergarten Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303563941


First Grade Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303563964


Second Grade Folder:

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303563968


Third Grade Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303563975


Fourth Grade Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303563996


Fifth Grade Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303564005


Here’s a link with a video that can assist you with uploading photos.  If you have any further questions, please email the yearbook team: sommeryearbook@gmail.com. 


Thank you,

Mara Crow

Middle School Transition Dates to get on your calendar (I know.... I can't believe it either!)

Have a question about Middle School Transition?


Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: In reading, we will be focusing on Poetry. At the beginning of the week, students will learn about one of this genre's key elements, figurative language. We will be talking about similes, metaphors, hyperbole, onomatopoeia, personification, and alliteration. Students will have an opportunity to review these types of figurative language and how they affect the poem. Students will also be asked to find examples of figurative language in their book club books this week. This book club will be novels in verse or poetry books. Students' book club reading, sticky notes over figurative language, and double-entry notes are due Friday. I encourage you to check in with your child about their book and if they are working on this assignment. It does count as their 30 minutes of reading at night.  

SS:  In social studies, we are talking about our nation's formation after the end of the Revolutionary War. We start by talking about the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation (AoC) and will be talking about the Constitutional Convention. We will talk about the key plans proposed at the Convention and the Great Compromise that helped form our current government. We will also talk about two key founding fathers, James Madison and George Mason.  

Math:  This week we are wrapping our unit on adding and subtracting fractions. Students will test this Thursday and we are wrapping up with connecting the skills to solve problems related to perimeter and data analysis. Students will receive a study guide that they can use to study from on Wednesday. 

Science: This week we started our new unit on changes to land, fossils, and fossil fuels. Thank you for the science supply donations. Students will observe how fossils are evidence of living things from the past and how they help us learn more about the environment of that time. Students will need to bring in a small object that they can use to imprint into model magic tomorrow. 

Week of 12/11

Where has the time gone? We cannot believe we're at the end of the semester and halfway through 5th grade! Please read the following info from PTA, middle school, and about our week. We hope you have a happy holiday break! 

Announcements:

UPDATES FROM PTA! 

✂️📝😉 Need a small gift to give your child over the break? It might be time for school supply restock!

Ask your child if they need any new pencils, erasers, or glue sticks and maybe a new pair of scissors. Some students seem to be running low on these school supplies. 

A Note from PTA Regarding Yearbook Photos:

Hello Sommer parents!  Here are the instructions for uploading photos to share with the yearbook team.  Please upload your images in the proper folders, so we can create an awesome yearbook!   


1.  Log-in to your https://www.treering.com account. 

2.  Scroll down to the “Share School Photos” section and click “Upload School Photos”. 

3.  Click on the folder that you are wishing to add photos to. 

4.  Click the green “Add Photos” button. 

5.  Choose where you would like to upload your photos from and choose the photo. Please tag or name the person/people in the photo.  You can also add a caption, any additional information is always helpful!  

6.  Click “Save a Copy To My Photos”.  That way you can use those photos for your personal pages, if you choose to do so.   

7.  Click “Done”!  


Each grade-level folder contains separate folders for each class.  Click on your child’s grade, then the appropriate class folder, and then select “Add Photos” in the green box in the upper right corner.  


Pre-k Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/304277373


Kindergarten Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303563941


First Grade Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303563964


Second Grade Folder:

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303563968


Third Grade Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303563975


Fourth Grade Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303563996


Fifth Grade Folder: 

https://web.treering.com/school/249846/2023/school-content/school-photos/303564005


Here’s a link with a video that can assist you with uploading photos.  If you have any further questions, please email the yearbook team: sommeryearbook@gmail.com. 


Thank you,

Mara Crow

Middle School Transition Dates to get on your calendar (I know.... I can't believe it either!)

Have a question about Middle School Transition?


Clothes Closet Volunteers Needed!!  

We have (2) more RRISD Clothes Closet shifts in 2023 and we need a few volunteers.  The next shifts are December 9th and 13th. During a shift you help unpack, sort, hang and organize clothing for our RR families in need. Click HERE to learn more and sign-up! 

HERE is a video to learn more about this wonderful RRISD program that our PTA participates in. 


Sommer's Lost & Found is FULL!! 

Please check Lost & Found for your child's misplaced items! Last day to collect before the holiday break is December 14. 


Spirit Wear Holiday Sale Underway

See Flyer or click HERE to shop now!


Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: We are going to create our Affix Superheros! Students will use an affix word that we have studied thus far in the semester to create a superhero that has powers related to the meaning of the words. We are also going to read a few plays to end the semester in a joyful way!

SS:  N/A

Math:  This week we are continuing our practice of adding and subtracting fractions with like and unlike denominators by making equivalent fractions mostly using numerical strategies. This week students are extending their learning by comparing sums and differences and completing a check-in to see what they've learned so far!

Students have several skills they can practice on IXL that will support their understanding of adding and subtracting fractions. Have them pull up their IXL Recommended Skills for some extra practice at home! 

Science: This week we wrap up our unit on Cycles and Patterns in Nature. Students took their test today and will spend this week doing some Hour of Coding activities.

Week of 12/4

9 more days until the winter break! We feel all the excitement and anticipation with our classes. We've reminded students that with the end in sight that we still want to stay focused and end this semester strong! If you know your child will be missing any days, please send BOTH of us an email so we can plan ahead or know who may need to makeup work. Here's a look at our week.

Announcements:

UPDATES FROM PTA! 

Please learn more about all things PTA and upcoming events on our PTA WEBSITE. 

Also, please be sure to Renew your annual membership ($10 & obligation free) to support all the wonderful programs PTA brings to our campus, and enjoy some Membership Discounts &  Perks along with it. 


Clothes Closet Volunteers Needed!!  

We have (2) more RRISD Clothes Closet shifts in 2023 and we need a few volunteers.  The next shifts are December 9th and 13th. During a shift you help unpack, sort, hang and organize clothing for our RR families in need. Click HERE to learn more and sign-up! 

HERE is a video to learn more about this wonderful RRISD program that our PTA participates in. 


Sommer's Lost & Found is FULL!! 

Please check Lost & Found for your child's misplaced items! Last day to collect before the holiday break is December 14. 


Toy Collection Drive for Brown Santa. 

Boxes will be outside classrooms/ at the front office from November 27th - December 6th to donate to Williamson County's Brown Santa Toy Drive. Please bring UNWRAPPED gifts to help those in need. See Flyer.


Spirit Wear Holiday Sale Underway

See Flyer or click HERE to shop now!


Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 


Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: We do have our Reading Assessment tomorrow, then on Thursday we will jump into Character Relationships in Drama. 

SS:  We are going to continue to review for our American Revolution Test this Friday, adding the Treaty of Paris on Wednesday. 

Math:  This week we are continuing our practice of adding and subtracting fractions with like and unlike denominators by making equivalent fractions mostly using numerical strategies, moving beyond models. 

Science: This week we continue our unit on Cycles and Patterns in Nature. This week's focus is on concluding our exploration of the water cycle and reviewing the properties of weather and learning about climate. Students will be expected to distinguish between weather and climate. We will have our unit test December 11.

Week of 11/27

Announcements:

Welcome back! We've loved hearing about everyone's exciting/relaxing weeks and know students are looking forward to the next break. 3 more weeks! Here's a look at our week.


UPDATES FROM PTA! 

Please learn more about all things PTA and upcoming events on our PTA WEBSITE. 

Also, please be sure to Renew your annual membership ($10 & obligation free) to support all the wonderful programs PTA brings to our campus, and enjoy some Membership Discounts &  Perks along with it. 


World Of Sommer: Friday, 12/1, 5 - 7:30 pm

We are only 2 weeks away from our wonderful World of Sommer Event! 

With 8 cultural booths, 13 performances, 4 activity stations, henna tattoo, sugar skull face painting, board games, regional snacks, student art displays, food trucks and more, you do not want to miss this fun, free community event!!! See flyer for more info! 

We still have many opportunities to participate and help make this event a success! 

We can't wait to see you and your family on December 1st!

 - Mili Gupta, PTA DEI Chair


Clothes Closet Volunteers Needed!!  

We have (2) more RRISD Clothes Closet shifts in 2023 and we need a few volunteers.  The next shifts are December 9th and 13th. During a shift you help unpack, sort, hang and organize clothing for our RR families in need. Click HERE to learn more and sign-up! 

HERE is a video to learn more about this wonderful RRISD program that our PTA participates in. 


Sommer's Lost & Found is FULL!! 

Please check Lost & Found for your child's misplaced items! Last day to collect before the holiday break is December 14. 


Toy Collection Drive for Brown Santa. 

Boxes will be outside classrooms/ at the front office from November 27th - December 6th to donate to Williamson County's Brown Santa Toy Drive. Please bring UNWRAPPED gifts to help those in need. See Flyer.


Spirit Wear Holiday Sale Underway

See Flyer or click HERE to shop now!


Purchase your Yearbook! 

Purchase and learn more about personalizing your 2023- 24 yearbook HERE! 


Special THANKS and Recognition for: 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: We are starting our Drama unit this week! Beginning with elements of Drama, then leading into each of the elements individually for a deeper dive!

SS:  In social studies, we are jumping into the American Revolution after all the buildup! The students are excited to finally get into some of the battles, including Lexington and Concord! 

Math:  This week we are continuing our practice of adding and subtracting fractions with like and unlike denominators. Ask your student to model for you how to add two fractions together using a model! They should be able to show you and give an explanation as to why their model works.  

Science: We used our Lego mini figurines to observe how the Earth's rotation shows the change in directions of the shadow throughout the day. Students used flashlights to show how the Lego's shadow appears in different places on a paper clock. This week students will explore the relationship between the Sun, Earth, and weather. They will learn about the water cycle and how the interaction between the Sun and the ocean influences weather patterns. They will learn about the water cycle and how the Sun's energy drives the evaporation of water from the ocean's surface. Students will investigate how this evaporation leads to cloud formation, precipitation, and weather patterns. By identifying patterns in the water cycle and weather phenomena, students will be able to make predictions and develop strategies to explain and understand the impact of the Sun on weather.  

Week of 11/13

Announcements:

We hope everyone had a great weekend. Please take a look at our week! 


JOIN PTA TODAY: 

On Monday, December 4th, we are hosting author Varsha Bajaj for our 3rd-5th grade students.  Her book Thirst is nominated this year for a Texas Bluebonnet Award. 

Born to a large family in Mumbai, Varsha Bajaj first came to the United States in 1986 as a graduate student. She worked as a counselor before becoming a writer. To learn more about her and her work, you can visit her website. 

If you would like to order one of her books, please see the attachment or click on THIS LINK and order BEFORE November 13th.

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will be learning about character relationships and how a character's traits can be compatible or incompatible with one another. We will see how they can positively or negatively impact a relationship and what conflict it will bring. This will tie into our plot diagram by comparing how overtime, a character's development can impact the plot.

SS:  On Tuesday, students will be placed in the perspective of a Loyalist or a Patriot and be put in a position where they need to decide what side of the revolution they would be on. 

Math:  Today (Monday) in math students took their unit test on multiplying and dividing decimals. On Tuesday we will begin our new unit focusing on adding and subtracting fractions. We begin this week with concrete models of adding fractions and connect to student's learning of adding fractions from 4th grade.  

Science: This week in science we begin our study of Earth's Rotation (and space!).

Students will investigate Earth's rotation and its impact on the day/night cycle, as well as the apparent movement of the Sun across the sky and its effects on shadow positions and shapes. Students will observe and record the positions and shapes of shadows at different times of the day. By investigating the cause-and-effect relationship between Earth's rotation and the Sun's movement, students will gain a deeper understanding of the day/night cycle and the apparent motion of the Sun. 

On FRIDAY we will be doing a demonstration using small action figures such as Lego Men. Please have your child to bring ONE small figure from home (please do NOT go buy anything - if your child doesn't have one, they can share with a partner.)

Week of 11/6

Announcements:

We hope everyone had a great weekend. Please take a look at our week! Mrs. Kim will be out Wednesday and Thursday.


JOIN PTA TODAY: 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will be exploring Characterization and how we can see the development of a character throughout a plot. We will also be having our Book Club on Thursday due to no school on Friday. 

SS:  We will be giving presentations on our Iron Chef about the different Taxes (Sugar, Tea, Stamp, Quartering, Townshend). 

Math:  This week we are wrapping our unit on multiplying and dividing decimals. Students have practiced solving problems using strip diagrams, algorithms, and area models. We will be testing Monday (11/13). Students will be receiving a study guide which will be completed in class and reviewed in class Thursday (11/9).

Science: Today, students took the practice Science STAAR. We will take a few of these before the test in the spring and as I told students it is a snapshot of how they would do if they were to take the STAAR now. We will use the data to progress monitor as we continue to teach units which have not been covered yet in 5th grade. There is not anything students need to do to prepare for them. We just ask them to try their best! We are wrapping up our unit on forces and students will test on Thursday (11/9).

Week of 10/30

Announcements:

We hope everyone had a great weekend. It's been a welcomed change to cooler weather but with the rain we've had a lot of indoor recess which we know has made the students a little restless. Tuesday is Storybook Character Dress Up day. Please note that we are requesting no full face coverings, accessories that could be considered weapons, and overall keep it school appropriate (remembering that there are students as young as 3 attending our school).  Here's a look at our week!


JOIN PTA TODAY: 

We are using a new company this year with many exciting new features! Personalize pages with YOUR pictures (2 included and more available), get a soft or hard cover, etc! Fifth grade parents- don't forget to purchase your Recognition Ad! Buy NOW; Personalize on your own time.

Learn more HERE and order today!

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will be continuing reviewing how to write a strong summary using SWBST, while also integrated the Theme of fictional passages into it. 

SS:  We will be analyzing causes and effects of the French and Indian War. 

Math:  This week we are connecting our knowledge of dividing whole numbers to divide decimals. Students will demonstrate and solve division of decimals using hundredths grids, strip diagrams and using the standard algorithm.

Science: We are continuing our unit in forces. Students will design investigations to test for a force (friction, gravity or magnetism). Students will decide on a question to investigate. Then, they will plan their experiment to test their question. 

Week of 10/23

Announcements:

We hope everyone had a great weekend. Once again we're enjoying the opportunity to meet and talk to parents about the things we . Thank you for your support in partnering with us in your child's learning! Here is a look at our week.


JOIN PTA TODAY: 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: We will be analyzing some fiction passages while filling out Plot Diagrams with partners and individually. Towards the end of the week we will be reviewing Somebody Wanted But So Then for Fiction Summary. 

SS:  We have our first Social Studies test over Colonization on Thursday Oct. 26 this week. We will be reviewing during the week over our first 9 weeks. 

Math:  This week we are continuing in our unit on multiplying decimals. Students are applying and connecting their knowledge of multiplication of whole numbers and what we learned about decimals to show and represent multiplication with multiple strategies (number lines, repeated addition, area models, etc...)

Science: We have begun our unit on forces. Students will be able to design an investigation and determine the variable and constants in an investigation.

Week of 10/16

Announcements:

We hope everyone had a great weekend. Once again we're enjoying the opportunity to meet and talk to parents about the things we . Thank you for your support in partnering with us in your child's learning! Here is a look at our week.


Fall Conference Sign up - Please click the link to sign up for fall conference if you have not already. If there are no available dates and you would like a conference please reach out to us to schedule one.


UIL SIGN-UP SHEET - Sign up Sheet Form 

The bolded link above is the sign up sheet for UIL if you have a learner that is interested in joining this year. 


PTA Healthy Lifestyles - Building Healthy Bodies Mural

Students are invited to share a photo prioritizing their overall health. Each grade level will have a pyramid of photos, shining bright on the wall outside of the cafeteria and gym for all to see. Examples of a picture to submit may include: playing a sport; hiking with family; cooking/baking a healthy item; or celebrating a happy event. There are many possibilities. Photos are accepted September 4th-October 20th and passed along to their P.E. coaches. You may also email your child’s picture to (sommerptahl@gmail.com) 


JOIN PTA TODAY: 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will starting jumping into our Fiction Unit by first giving out new Book Club Books on Friday and activating prior knowledge about Plot Diagrams. Students will have their test Tuesday (10/17) on nonfiction texts.

SS: We will be doing a running dictation on Famous Colonists for a few days before we jump into the middle and southern colonies. 

Math: This week we are wrapping up our math unit on volume, whole number multiplication and whole number division. Students will take their 3rd math test on Wednesday, Oct 18th. A study guide review will be provided in class on Monday and students will have the opportunity in class to complete and check their study guide. 

Science: This week in science we conclude our study of Energy. Students will be reviewing for their 3rd science test on Friday, October 20th. Students will receive a study guide and be given time in class to review for the test. Encourage them on Thursday evening to go over their study guide at home if they have time. 

Week of 10/10

Announcements:

We hope everyone had a great long weekend. We used Monday to meet with many of you for fall conferences and it's been wonderful to meet you all as well as share how our year is going so far. Thank you for your support in partnering with us in your child's learning! Here is a look at our week.


Fall Conference Sign up - Please click the link to sign up for fall conference if you have not already. If there are no available dates and you would like a conference please reach out to us to schedule one.


PTA Healthy Lifestyles - Building Healthy Bodies Mural

Students are invited to share a photo prioritizing their overall health. Each grade level will have a pyramid of photos, shining bright on the wall outside of the cafeteria and gym for all to see. Examples of a picture to submit may include: playing a sport; hiking with family; cooking/baking a healthy item; or celebrating a happy event. There are many possibilities. Photos are accepted September 4th-October 20th and passed along to their P.E. coaches. You may also email your child’s picture to (sommerptahl@gmail.com) 


JOIN PTA TODAY: 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will be examining context clues in a mix of fiction and non-fiction articles along with some test taking strategies that will help our learners break down unknown words and phrases. 

SS: We will be analyzing the first colony of Virginia this week and see how this early colony impact the growth of the first 13 colonies.

Math: This week students will practice using the standard algorithm (long division) to solve for division problems. In fifth grade, students will use the standard algorithm to solve problems involving division with two digit divisor and up to a 4 digit dividend.

Science: We are continuing our unit on energy by focusing on electrical energy. Students will use batteries, light bulbs, wires, and a switch to explore how electrical energy flows on a path in a closed circuit. Students will explore how this works in parallel and series circuits. 

Week of 10/2

Announcements:


Fall Conference Sign up - Please click the link to sign up for fall conference if you have not already


PTA Healthy Lifestyles - Building Healthy Bodies Mural

Students are invited to share a photo prioritizing their overall health. Each grade level will have a pyramid of photos, shining bright on the wall outside of the cafeteria and gym for all to see. Examples of a picture to submit may include: playing a sport; hiking with family; cooking/baking a healthy item; or celebrating a happy event. There are many possibilities. Photos are accepted September 4th-October 20th and passed along to their P.E. coaches. You may also email your child’s picture to (sommerptahl@gmail.com) 


JOIN PTA TODAY: 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: By using the Boxes and Bullets Method, we are strengthening our reading comprehension that will allow us to create strong responses/summary of what we are reading. We will be introduced to a 6 point checklist to help us create a strong Summary, We will be practicing this strategy by reading a number of Non-Fiction Articles. 

SS: Our Colonization Unit brings us to a discovery of the Mayflower compact and how that impacted early settlement within the early colonies. 

Math: Students are exploring volume this week. Students began this week developing strategies to solve for the number of cubes in the tower, which has led to great discussions and introduction of the formula: length x width x height or base/area x height. 

Science: We are continuing our unit on energy by focusing on light. Students are exploring and investigating how light travels in a straight line and can reflect (bounce) or refract (bend). By the end of the week we will begin exploring electrical energy with circuits.

Week of 9/26

Happy Tuesday! We hope you all enjoyed the long weekend. It's officially fall, despite the 90 degree weather. Here's to apple and pumpkin spice everything season! Here's a look at our week.

Announcements:

Pony up/Fall fundraiser Info:

DATES: September 12th-29th

Our once-a-year, No-Hassle Fall Fundraiser will be taking place September 12-29, with four quarterly classroom competitions/prizes!!  Our goal this year is $30,000.  The funds raised from this go to helping our school.  Some examples would be: 

You can click here to donate.  Let's Pony Up Sommer Stallions!


PTA Healthy Lifestyles - Building Healthy Bodies Mural

Students are invited to share a photo prioritizing their overall health. Each grade level will have a pyramid of photos, shining bright on the wall outside of the cafeteria and gym for all to see. Examples of a picture to submit may include: playing a sport; hiking with family; cooking/baking a healthy item; or celebrating a happy event. There are many possibilities. Photos are accepted September 4th-October 20th and passed along to their P.E. coaches. You may also email your child’s picture to (sommerptahl@gmail.com) 


JOIN PTA TODAY: 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: Our learners will be introduced to the boxes and bullets method. This method will be used throughout the year in reading and writing to track our thinking as well as extend our details in our writing. 

SS: We will start diving into the first settlements and colonization of the Colonies this week through read alouds.

Math: We are in our new unit on whole number multiplication and division. In 4th grade students were able to do 2 digit x 2 digit multiplication. This year we are continuing on with 3 digit x 2 digit multiplication. Students will be able to represent multiplication in area models as well as using the standard algorithm. We will move into applying these skills in solving for volume of rectangular prisms at the end of this week.

Science: We are in our new unit on forms of energy. Students will explore the 5 forms of energy (mechanical, electrical, light, thermal, sound) and how different items use and produce different forms of energy (energy transfer). This week we will dive a little deeper into light and explore how light travels.

Week of 9/18

Happy Monday! We hope you all had a great weekend. Here is a look at our week!

Announcements:

Pony up/Fall fundraiser Info:

DATES: September 12th-29th

Our once-a-year, No-Hassle Fall Fundraiser will be taking place September 12-29, with four quarterly classroom competitions/prizes!!  Our goal this year is $30,000.  The funds raised from this go to helping our school.  Some examples would be: 

Starting on Tuesday, September 12th you can click here to donate.  Let's Pony Up Sommer Stallions!


PTA Healthy Lifestyles - Building Healthy Bodies Mural

Students are invited to share a photo prioritizing their overall health. Each grade level will have a pyramid of photos, shining bright on the wall outside of the cafeteria and gym for all to see. Examples of a picture to submit may include: playing a sport; hiking with family; cooking/baking a healthy item; or celebrating a happy event. There are many possibilities. Photos are accepted September 4th-October 20th and passed along to their P.E. coaches. You may also email your child’s picture to (sommerptahl@gmail.com) 


JOIN PTA TODAY: 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will be examining author's purpose and text structure and analyzing why an author would use a specific structure. 

SS: It is Constituion week! We are going to be exploring many different parts of our constitution by breaking down key components of the constitution!

Math: We are continuing in our unit on extending decimals to the thousandths place. This week students will continue to apply their knowledge of perimeter to solve for problems with deicmals. Students will then analyze data in stem and leaf plots to be able to solve word problems where they will need to interpret the data and add and subtract decimals. We will test on Friday (9/22).

Science: This week students will explore how to separate mixtures and solutions using tools like heat (evaporation), sieve, filter, etc... Students will know that mixtures are a combination of two or more subtances and solutions are mixtures where one substance dissolves in another and changes their physical properties. Students will be tested in this unit on Thursday (9/21).

Week of 9/11

Happy Monday! We hope you all had a great weekend. Here is a look at our week. Our PTA fundraiser is up and running with a new theme this year so please take a look. 

Announcements:

Pony up/Fall fundraiser Info:

DATES: September 12th-29th

Our once-a-year, No-Hassle Fall Fundraiser will be taking place September 12-29, with four quarterly classroom competitions/prizes!!  Our goal this year is $30,000.  The funds raised from this go to helping our school.  Some examples would be: 

Starting on Tuesday, September 12th you can click here to donate.  Let's Pony Up Sommer Stallions!


JOIN PTA TODAY: 

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: Our new unit in Nonfiction will begin this week, learners will be able to analyze information such as text features and nonfiction articles. They will collaborate with peers on creating responses over articles.

SS: This week we will be creating a map of the United States using charts, diagrams and textbooks. This activity will take us the rest of the week in our Social Studies block.  

Math: We're in our new unit on extending decimal place value to the thousandths place. We identified how the thousandths place is a small part of my whole and how we use decimals to help us be more precise or accurate as with determining Olympic or NASCAR race times. This week we are applying previous skills students covered in their previous grades to decimals in the thousandths, such as adding and subtracting and rounding.

Science: We are in our new unit in Mixtures and Solutions. Students review the different between them and be able to identify mixtures as two or more substances combines and solutions as a special type of mixture where the properties of the substances changes. Students will explore what happens when different substances are combined and what happens to their physical properties. 

Week of 9/5

Happy Monday! We hope everyone had a great long weekend and we cannot believe we're already in September! Thank you for those who came to our parent info night last week. We've sent out the slideshow with the info we shared so please let us know if you have not received it or if you have any additional questions. Please take a look at some of the important things we have coming up as well as what we are learning in class this week! 

Announcements:

JOIN PTA TODAY: 

Spiritwear Sale Happening NOW (through Sept 9)! 

Gear up for the school year with Sommer spirit wear! 📚 Enjoy a 30% discount across our entire website during the back-to-school sale. With hundreds of designs waiting for you, shop now and get your order in just 10-12 business days! Shop at https://1stplace.sale/93664

Back-to-School Sale Info

Other info:

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we are going to explore examples of Reading Responses and dive into what makes a strong response. Towards the end of the week, we will then be creating our own based on our independent reading. 

SS: We are going to start an activity called Iron Chef. This activity will place your learner in a group based on one of our regions of the United States. They will have a role in creating a presentation for the class. 

Math: We're in our new unit on extending decimal place value to the thousandths place. Students will apply the skills they have previously learned in 3rd and 4th grade and apply them to the thousandths place. We will connect this to fractions and how decimals help us to be more precise or accurate, like with times in an Olympic race.

Science: Students will be assessed in our first unit on Classifying Matter con Friday. We are finishing this week up with conductors and insulators of thermal energy with investigating how ice melts in cups made of different materials. We will review for our test on Thursday and students will have their notes in their journals and a study guide that they can use to review. 

Week of 8/28

Happy Monday! Please take a look at some of the important things we have coming up as well as what we are learning in class this week

Announcements:

JOIN PTA TODAY: 

Spiritwear Sale Happening NOW (through Sept 9)! 

Gear up for the school year with Sommer spirit wear! 📚 Enjoy a 30% discount across our entire website during the back-to-school sale. With hundreds of designs waiting for you, shop now and get your order in just 10-12 business days! Shop at https://1stplace.sale/93664

Back-to-School Sale Info

Other info:

Important Dates:


Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will be beginning the process of preparing for Book Club with the creation of Double Entry Notes. These notes will be required to participate in Book Club when it is up and running. Our week will be built around reading activities that allow our learners to create their notes as practice. 

SS: We began to plug in coordinates from around the United States and sharing with partners about different regions. 

Math: We started the second part of our first unit which working with the order of operations. Students observed how order is important in solving expressions. Students have notes in their journals (and Math tab on this website) and we will continue using PEMDAS to solve expressions. We will testing in this unit on Friday which will be on prime and composite numbers and order of operations.

Science: This week we are exploring a different measurable and testable properties to help us classify matter by their properties. Today we explored using mass to classify objects and students used pan balances and triple beam balances to measure the mass of an object. This week we will explore solubility, state of matter, electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity.

Week of 8/21

We are excited to have our students back at school and to be a part of their final year in elementary school and at Sommer. Please take a look at the information below about announcements, important dates, and a brief overview of what we are learning in class this week.

Announcements:

JOIN PTA TODAY: 

Spiritwear Sale Happening NOW (through Sept 9)! 

Gear up for the school year with Sommer spirit wear! 📚 Enjoy a 30% discount across our entire website during the back-to-school sale. With hundreds of designs waiting for you, shop now and get your order in just 10-12 business days! Shop at https://1stplace.sale/93664

Back-to-School Sale Info

Other info:

Important Dates:

Here's what we're learning:

Reading/Writing: This week we will be introducing our Depth and Complexity Icons that we will be using throughout the year using a read aloud. We will then discuss what it means to be a good listener through a number of activities. 

SS: We are going to talk about different characteristics of a map this week, along with analyzing a number of maps and creating some ourselfs. 

Math: We started our first unit of math (Prime and Composite numbers and order of operations). Today we drew arrays and connected the number of arrays with the number of factors a number has. Student will be able to identify prime and composite numbers and justify their thinking using the number of factors. 

Science: We in our first unit of Classifying Matter. Today we talked about changing our perspectives on what scientists do and what they look like. We want our 5th graders to think of themselves as scientists! This week we will begin talking about observations and inferences and move into how we classify matter by their properties.