Post date: Mar 09, 2014 5:47:26 AM
Good Evening All.
I'm writing to you from the lobby of the Mt. View Performing Arts Center, as I bask in the sounds of music once again. On that note, I am extremely grateful that the kids in the class were receptive to the idea of coming to see the show on Thursday, and that 7 parents stepped on such short notice to drive us all here. I'm a very proud dad and a very lucky teacher.
Recap of the Week
Science: Two big projects are underway, and you parents should be seeing engagement in and evidence of both: the science exposition project and the animal board game. Although I provide instructions and support, both of these endeavors depend heavily upon student's ingenuity, organization, and enthusiasm, and I can only hope that a high level of each exists in each kid. Parents, please check in often with your student about both -- most of the work, especially for the science fair project, is done at home.
English: Grammar struck again this week, this time in the form of some videos that attempt (and not always succeed) to add humor to an otherwise dry subject. The kids seemed to understand the lessons and could create examples of all of the principles explained. On Friday they met in book club groups to discuss their animal books and to propose cumulative projects (none of which was an essay, to no surprise).
Social Studies: The second half of our relatively short unit on Japan ends this coming Monday with the student-created quiz on chapter 22. After that, we'll be working almost exclusively on preparations for the SF-Marin Walkabout, with each group creating (and printing) their one-page handout to assist them as docents during one specific portion of the trip. Printing 13 copies of each document will probably be a challenge, and I'm hoping that each group will be resourceful and efficient in how they make that happen. If they pass the burden onto you parents, please let me know.
After we return from the Walkabout, there will be a change to the teaching arrangement. Our class will go to room 19 where Nate Vevea will take over the instruction as the kids learn about Cultures of the Americas, The Renaissance & Reformation, and the Age of Exploration. During that hour I will be teaching science to the students of room 19.
Calendar:
Spring Portraits -- March 11 & 12
Laps for Learning -- Friday, March 14, 2014
Walkabout, Part 2 -- Tuesday 3/18/14 to Thursday 3/20/14
Staff Learning Day -- Friday, 3/21/14
Science Fair -- Friday 4/4/14
Yosemite Week -- Monday 4/7/14 to Friday 4/11/14
Diversity Conference -- April 11
Spring Break -- Monday 4/14/14 to Friday 4/18/14
Jumba Fundraiser -- April 25
Spring Auction -- May 3
Room 19 Walkabout -- May 13, 14, 15
Memorial Day -- May 26
Step-Up Day -- June 2
Talent Show -- June 11
Field Day & BBQ -- June 13
Last Day of School -- June 18
Sincerely,
Chris