Embedded Files
May 20 Classroom Newsletter
Hello Parents and Students,
CONGRATULATIONS TO BAND AND ORCHESTRA STUDENTS ON A GREAT YEAR! The band concert tonight was spectacular, and I am excited for the orchestra performance later this week. We are so lucky to have such a stellar music program. These moments will last a lifetime.
ABOUT THE EOGS NEXT WEEK:
Reading EOG Friday 5/29
Math EOG Thursday 5/30
As you have heard before, please be sure your child gets adequate rest and a good breakfast (or pack a heavy snack with fruits, granola bar, or other preferred health foods, no junk food please). Students may ignore breakfast, but they love to snack as soon as they get to school, and I am happy for them to fill up before a 3 hour test. They can bring a water bottle to keep with them during the test and a book to read when they are done.
Here is a link to the NCDPI practice tests. We are doing these in class, but if you would like to view them, click below
Here's a link to a slide show on ways to boost your child's confidence. https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/learning-at-home/homework-study-skills/8-surprising-ways-to-boost-your-childs-confidence-before-a-test#slide-1
If you sent me an encouraging 2-5 sentence note for your child on Class Dojo this week, I will print it and put it on your child's desk on the 29th or 30th.
The Library is winding down and students should return all books by May 31 or pay the fine for lost books. Overdue notices were sent home in this week's Monday Folders. Students who have outstanding fines will not be able to participate in the first half of field day. This is a school-wide policy.
What is going on in ROOM 310?
What is going on in ROOM 310?
We are busy reviewing many skills from the year. Students have EOG practice packets from NCDPI and Wake County for homework this week.
We are also very busy with ongoing projects:
- Theme Essay about THE HOPE CHEST by Karen Schwabach (4 paragraphs, published)
- Biography Wax Museum- Students will be researching a historical figure who has overcome challenges and made great contributions to our world. They will write a speech and present this in costume to our 1st grade reading buddies and classmates May 6th.
- NC STATE SYMBOLS PROJECT: Students have each been assigned an NC State Symbol to research. They are creating Google Slides/Sites to present their information. These are due on Friday May 24. Most students will finish in class, but they are welcome to do research at home if time allows. The assignment are posted on Google Classroom
END OF THE YEAR CELEBRATION
I would love to throw a special celebration for the students for the end of the school year. If you are interested in participating in a picnic on the last day, let me know on Class Dojo. We could have the celebration at 1:30 or 3:00pm depending on interest. If your child will not attend on the last day of school, please let me know so I can plan to say goodbye earlier.
FIELD DAY:
Please use the link to volunteer for Field Day!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E094CAEAF28AB9-2019
HAVE A GREAT WEEK! PLEASE DON'T HESITATE TO MESSAGE ME ON CLASS DOJO WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS!
April 8 Classroom Newsletter
Hello Parents and Students:
We are one week into 4th quarter and it is a time of new beginnings outside and inside the classroom. While the pollen is flying, we begin our Geometry Unit in 4th Grade math, Social Studies units on Transportation and Economics, and a final Science unit on Health.
In English/Language Arts, we have just begun our last Expeditionary Learning:Responding to Inequality: Ratifying the 19th Amendment. We are reading the book The Hope Chest by Karen Schwabach. In the book, the main character Violet becomes involved in the effort to pass the 19th amendment. For homework on Monday-Thursday students will be writing a summary, personal reaction and prediction or question for each chapter. Asking them about the events and their own reactions to the chapter is a great way to help them develop their comprehension and vocabulary. There is an audio version of the book on our Google Classroom that your child can access for you if you would like to hear more!
Third Quarter Report Cards will be sent home in Monday Folders today. Please keep the regular 4th Grade and Elective Report cards for your records. Send the envelope back to school by Friday so that I can file them to use in June for our 4th Quarter report cards.
Third Quarter Math Check-In Testing will be on Wednesday from 9:30-11:00am for all students in our class. This includes students in Ms. Edward's math class.
Remember Spirit Week this week:
Monday: Pajama Day
Tuesday: Twins Day
Wednesday: Wacky Wednesday
Thursday: Spring Spirit hats/sunglasses beachwear
Friday: Team Spirit--WES Wizard, College, Pro, etc spirit gear
SPRING BREAK
No School Monday April 15-Monday April 22.
Looking Ahead:
We will have a busy week Tuesday April 23-Friday April 26.
Wednesday April 24 we have a WCPSS 4Cs Testing Pilot in the morning.
Thursday April 25 we will be attending the NC Symphony. We will leave around 10am and return around noon. We do not need chaperones for this trip. Students arriving after 10am will have an academic packet to complete, so please schedule accordingly.
March 25 Classroom Newsletter
We have a packed week of activities planned!
CONGRATULATIONS to Jenifer, Mira and Sierra who performed wonderfully in the school play, Junie B. Jones the Musical last week. Our class enjoyed the performance on Wednesday afternoon. On Friday, our track/field team members, Kale'a, Keitrea, Roger and Trey did an excellent job representing Washington at the Wake County Elementary Schools Track meet.
Calendar Items: Friday, March 29th is a TEACHER WORKDAY April 15-19 is our SPRING BREAK
Monday April 22 is a Teacher Workday
COASTAL FIELD TRIP THIS THURSDAY MARCH 29!
Thanks to all who volunteered to donate snacks! Please bring them by Wednesday.
- WE WILL LEAVE PROMPTLY at 6:00,am so have your child here by 5:45am.
- WE WILL RETURN around 7:30pm. We will send alerts on CLASSDOJO to update as we get on the road to return to Washington after dinner.
***Students should wear the 4th grade Field Trip T-shirt. We will send these home on Monday (3/25).
FOURTH QUARTER ELECTIVES begin on Monday (3/25)!
Elective report cards will be sent home with the 3rd quarter report cards on Monday April 8th.
Academics this WEEK:
Math: For this week and next our learning goals are:
- We will have our second Fractions Unit Test on Wednesday. Students will show models decomposing fractions with denominators of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 100. They will use visual strategies (models, numberlines) and write equations to solve word problems to add, subtract and multiply fractions and mixed numbers.
ELA: Writing Opinion Essays about the American Revolution in EL, Publishing and performing plays, beginning Wordly Wise Vocabulary Lesson 10, reading biographies of historical figures
Social Studies: Students are exploring why NC is called "First in Freedom," NC Revolutionary Battles
Science: Continue Moon Phases with Ms. Bergquist, students have a Brainpop Assignment on WakeID
MATH LINKS FOR PARENTS
Click on the links below if you would like know more about our teaching of Fractions
WCPSS: Fractions Unit Information for Parents (overview)
Adding and Subtracting Fractions 1
Adding and Subtracting Fractions 2
Adding and Subtracting Fractions 3
Adding and Subtracting Fractions 4
6 Ways to Support Your Child's Mathematical Development
Math EOG Released Items: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/docs/accountability/testing/releasedforms/mathgrade4rel.pdf
March 11, 2019 CLASSROOM NEWSLETTER
Hello Everyone!
Thanks to everyone for making us feel so appreciated on Teacher Appreciation week last week. I am honored to work with your children at Washington. Here is the news you need to know about our upcoming school and classroom activities:
Academics this week:
Math: Adding and Subtracting Fractions, test on Thursday
ELA: Reading a type of persuasive writing called "broadsides" to identify opinions, reasons and evidence, writing the "missing scene" from the Divided Loyalties play, small guided reading groups studying Benjamin Franklin and Wordly Wise vocabulary Book 4 Lesson 9
Science/SS: Students begin a 3 week unit on Moon Phases with Ms. Bergquist
Friday March 15 is Spring Picture Day!
Order forms for the whole class picture were sent home last week in Monday Folders. I have extra forms if anyone needs another.
COASTAL FIELD TRIP
We are making the final preparations for our COASTAL FIELD TRIP, Thursday March 28.
- Pick Up Permission Slips were sent in this week's Monday Folders. Please return them by Friday to let us know who has permission to pick your child up when we return from the trip.
- Packing Lists and Itineraries were also sent home in Monday folders. Please keep these for your information. Remember to send lunch for your child. Let me know if you have any additional questions. We will send 4th grade t-shirts home the week of the trip for students to wear on trip day.
- OUR SNACK SIGN UP IS FULL! Thanks to all the families who are donating snacks and waters. Don't forget to send in your donations on March 27 so we can sort and pack them.
MATH LINKS FOR PARENTS
Click on the links below if you would like know more about our teaching of Fractions
WCPSS: Fractions Unit Information for Parents (overview)
Adding and Subtracting Fractions 1
Adding and Subtracting Fractions 2
Adding and Subtracting Fractions 3
Adding and Subtracting Fractions 4
6 Ways to Support Your Child's Mathematical Development
Math EOG Released Items: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/docs/accountability/testing/releasedforms/mathgrade4rel.pdf
Have a great week!
February 25, 2019 CLASSROOM NEWSLETTER
We really enjoyed a close up view of the Carolina Hurricanes at the PNC Arena with the ENTIRE school today. It was a great feeling of school spirit and celebration with students from Wake and surrounding counties. Everyone showed STAR behavior.
COASTAL FIELD TRIP: I have 3 chaperones so far for the Coastal Field trip. Please consider coming along! It is a really memorable trip, and your child would love to share those memories with you. Payment for chaperones is $40, due February 28.
Here's what's ahead this week in learning;
Math: We will have our test on Decimals on Wednesday. Students will bring home a review on Tuesday
Language Arts: We are in Act 2 of "Divided Loyalties" now. Students will be analyzing characters thoughts, feelings and actions, and writing first person narratives to show their understanding of the characters. They will also continue to work on finding main ideas and supporting details in the text. The Wordly Wise vocabulary homework is from Lesson 8. In this lesson, they will read about the Great Pyramids and answer questions in complete sentences using the new vocabulary.
Social Studies: Students will continue working with Ms. Laney on Government in NC
Science: begins again March 11 with Ms. Bergquist's unit on Moon Phases
Take Time for your child to READ ACROSS THE RAINBOW at home each night!
READ ACROSS THE RAINBOW is a program that is run by our Media Center Specialist. Students begin with a red (pink) chart that they fill out for each book they read. Once the chart is full they get a charm, and the next color chart in the rainbow. It is a great way to
February 18, 2019 CLASSROOM NEWSLETTER
I hope everyone enjoyed a long weekend! We are so lucky to have Mr. Accardi with us which gives students more small group instruction, discussion and quicker feedback from a teacher. If you are interested in observing a lesson in our classroom or helping with a small group this spring, please let me know.
Going through all the books we have read in guided reading groups as I was cleaning the room yesterday, it struck me how much work students have done to grow their knowledge and reading skills this year. We are currently reading the play "Divided Loyalties" about a family before, during and after the Revolutionary War. This week, students will have an assessment to show how they have learned to identify characters feelings/thoughts about the war and cite specific evidence from the text. Then they will begin to write a story from the perspective of one of the characters in the play.
Math: We are working on decimals this week, most likely with a final assessment on Wednesday, February 27. Students are plotting decimals to the hundredths on a number line, comparing fractions and decimals, ordering decimals and completing word problems with decimals.
Science/Social Studies: Students will take a 3 week break from science to focus on a social studies unit on Government with Ms. Laney.
READ-volution FIELD TRIP:
Next Monday, February 25, we will go to the RBC Center for the "READ-volution Celebration." Students will get to see the Hurricanes play and enjoy trivia and reading-themed activities.
COASTAL FIELD TRIP
Final payment for the Coastal Field Trip is due on Thursday February 28. The cost is $64 for students and $40 for chaperones. You can send in a check, cash, or pay online (under "Parents" on our school website, washingtones.wcpss.net). Thanks so much to those who have already paid. If you are not sure, please send me a message on Class Dojo.
Chaperones are still needed for our Coastal Field Trip. You are welcome to join us! If you are planning to come with us, please let me know. You must be a WCPSS registered volunteer.
READ ACROSS THE RAINBOW SHEETS
The Read Across the Rainbow reading incentive program is back for second semester! Students can read and fill in books on their colored “bingo” cards to earn a charm of their choice. Complete all the colors of the rainbow by the end of the school year to earn a special rainbow charm. Red (pink) sheets went home in Monday folders, and the first day to return completed sheets to the Media Center is February 19th. Questions? Contact our Media Specialist, Mrs. Hash, in the Media Center or at rhash@wcpss.net.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP INFORMATION NEEDED
A few of our amazing teachers are working to build a functional database of community partners that teachers can use when they are looking for resources. If you (or anyone you know) has an area of expertise that might be useful in one of our events, electives or classrooms, please fill out this google form so they can reach out! Authors, Artists, Scientists, Programmers...calling anyone and everyone who is interested in giving back to Washington! Please fill out the Google Form here: https://goo.gl/forms/1OkVJrzHnt7NWein1
Thanks for reading! As always, don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. Have a great week.
February 11, 2019
Wow! I hope everyone had a chance to enjoy a taste of Spring weather last week. The class was extremely productive. The work going home in Monday Folders today should give you a taste of what we have been working on, from fractions to summaries of Patriots and Loyalist beliefs, and the experiences of African Americans and Native Americans in the Revolutionary War. Students also had a hands-on introduction to electrical energy that involved building a variety of circuits to light bulbs and run motors. Students also signed up for their new Friday Focus specials. They will learn what their 3rd and 4th quarter focus special is this week.
Please note these calendar dates:
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15: EARLY RELEASE DAY (Students dismiss at 1:20).
MONDAY FEBRUARY 18: TEACHER WORKDAY
TUESDAY FEBRUARY 19: REGULAR SCHOOL DAY due to snow in December
Students will dismiss at 2:20 so that teachers can attend professional development. Please make sure your child knows how they will get home on Friday. Monday February 18 i
VALENTINE'S DAY IS FEBRUARY 14
We will be celebrating Valentine's Day on Thursday with notes of appreciation in the classroom. Everyone is welcome to send in valentine's cards and treats. A list of student names will be sent home on Monday with students.
CHAPERONES NEEDED!
We have only one parent who has volunteered to chaperone our COASTAL FIELD TRIP on March 2. I am hoping more of you are planning to come along! The fee for chaperones is $40, due February 28.
WAKE UP AND READ BOOK DRIVE!
Please send in gently used or new books that we can donate to school children in need across WCPSS. The class with the most books wins a popsicle party! You can also send books for adults as they can be exchanged with used book sellers for children's titles. Please send me a message if you have any questions!
WHAT WE ARE UP TO THIS WEEK:
Math: Students will be begin a 2 week unit on Decimals. Our unit test should be on Friday February 22.
English Language Arts: Students will be focusing on these Guiding Questions:
- How did the American Revolution and the Events leading up to it affect the people in the colonies?
- How does a person's perspective influence his or her opinion?
They will read Act 1 of the play Divided Loyalties, write a paragraph describing one of the characters, and read multiple books that show the experience of real-life people during the revolution. They will also work on writing complete sentences and using precise vocabulary to express their understanding.
Social Studies: The Revolutionary War in NC
- How did the North Carolina colony participate in the American Revolution?
- What important battles were fought in our state?
Science: Sound and Light Energy
January 15, 2019 CLASS NEWSLETTER
Hi Everyone-
January seems to be flying by. Please note that Friday is a FULL school day. It was originally an early release day but this was changed to make up for the snow days in December. In other calendar news, there are NO ELECTIVES until Monday, January 28th while students sign up for second semester electives and we complete mid-Year reading assessments. Students will attend their Specials Focus that they usually go to on Fridays from Monday-Friday this week and next week.
PINK PERMISSION SLIP EXPLAINED
In Monday Folders, Mr. Accardi sent a pink permission slip that will allow or disallow Mr. Accardi to anonymously submit student work for his teacher licensure program. Again, the names of the students will NOT be included in this work, just the work itself. Also, Mr. Accardi will be video recording himself teaching multiple lessons and small group activities. There is a possibility that student faces could appear in these video recordings. The recordings will be submitted ONLY to his teacher licensure program. They will NOT be published online. Return the form to let us know if we can use your child's work. Don't hesitate to let us know if you have any questions. You are welcome to visit us and meet Mr. Accardi when you have a chance!
EVERYONE IS INVITED! MATH AND SCIENCE NIGHT 2019
When: Thursday, January 24
5pm- Food Trucks open, 6-8pm Activities and Science Fair
What: Hands on stations, demonstrations and activities that build interest and exposure to math and science concepts
Where: WashinGTon Elementary
Hosted by: Washington PTA/Staff with volunteers from NCSU, Enloe Women in Science, Wake County 4-H, Goodnight Lego Engineering, AoPS Math Academy, and White Deer Park
"WAKE UP AND READ" BOOK DRIVE
We need your new and gently used children’s books! Washington Wizards is participating in a book drive for WAKE Up and Read. We will collect new and gently-used books for children ages birth to 12. We will have a bins at carpool and in the office until February 15. The goal is to collect 110,000 books – enough to share at thirteen schools, as well as community centers and child care facilities across Wake County. Even if you don’t have children’s books, you can purchase items to support the drive, including through the WAKE Up and Read Amazon, Barnes, and Noble, or Quail Ridge Books wish lists. Donations are also welcome and may be made online through the Wake Ed Partnership.
What we are working on this week:
ELA: Revising, Editing and Publishing Choose your own adventure stories, examining story structure for narratives, writing quotations, and ordering adjectives
Math: Assessment for Perimeter and Area (Tuesday-Wednesday), Pre-Assessment for Equivalent Fractions, begin Fractions Unit (Thursday)
Science: Rocks and Minerals with Ms. Marathe
Social Studies: Finishing up reading, research and projects on the Lost Colony at Roanoke
As always, if you would like to request a conference, please contact me through Class Dojo. I can set up a time in the morning or afternoon, or do a phone conference.
Thank you and have a great week!
JANUARY 7, 2019 CLASS NEWSLETTER
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
I hope you enjoyed fun family time over winter break. Thanks for all the holiday treats! 2019 is already off to a strong start at Washington.
A NEW ADDITION TO OUR CLASSROOM!
Mr. Chris Accardi is joining us as a student teacher this semester. He says, "Hello and Happy New Year! My name is Christopher Accardi and I am so excited to perform my Student Teaching Internship in Mrs.Pleasant’s class. I was born and raised in New Jersey, moving to North Carolina to continue my career as an Educator. I am entering the final semester in Meredith College's Master’s of Arts in Teaching program. I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree from Rutgers University, where I studied American Studies and Education. I have always had a passion for teaching and I am extremely enthusiastic about the field of education. It is my top priority to continue to learn and grow as an educator. I will always strive to create an environment where my students feel comfortable and confident in their abilities as students. I can’t wait to meet all of your children and share this journey with them!"
IT'S TIME TO CHOOSE ELECTIVES!
Elective Choice forms for 3rd and 4th quarter are in today's Monday Folders. Please help your child make choices that will help them grow and nurture their talents. If you have any questions, Amy Wilkinson, Magnet Coordinator will be holding Elective Registration Q&A Sessions 8:00-8:45 AM or 4:00-4:45 PM Friday 1/10.
UPCOMING SCHOOL EVENTS
The Spelling Bee will be on Tuesday night, 6:00-8:30pm. Congratulations to Vansh for being a finalist!
Washington PTA will be at Chick-Fil-A on Thursday night in Cameron Village.
Math and Science Night is January 24th.
CURRICULUM THIS WEEK:
ELA : Students did a great job completing informational research essays about an animal's defense mechanisms before the break. Ask them about how the slow pufferfish could escape the sharp jaws of a barracuda! Now they will combine their informational research and creative writing skills to make a "Choose Your Own Adventure Story" They will also continue building reading skills in guided reading groups and through research projects. Mid-year individual assessments will begin in the next 2 weeks.
MATH: Students completed a division test right before the break. Since Thursday we have been working on working on multi-step word problems. Here is a great website that we used in class for building the ability to model and solve a variety of forms of word problems:
https://www.mathplayground.com/tb_multiplication/index.html Scroll down until you see the "Disappearing Dinos" game. Check it out with your child!
SOCIAL STUDIES: Students are learning about the Europeans arrival in North Carolina. They are completing a variety of tasks including responding to videos, studying timelines, and reading articles to learn about the famous mystery of the Lost Colony.
Science: Students began a unit on Rocks and Minerals with Ms. Marathe today!
DECEMBER 3, 2018 CLASS NEWSLETTER WEEK 15
Hello Parents and Students,
We have 3 project-packed weeks until Winter Break! Everyone is doing a great job working together on Social Studies and ELA research projects. Ask your child what they are learning in their expert animal groups!
2nd QUARTER PROGRESS NOTES will go home on Monday December 10, so look for these in next week's MONDAY FOLDER. Please ask for the Monday folder each week if your child is not bringing it to you independently. That way you will not miss important information. And as always, check this website for updates!
WHOLE SCHOOL FIELD TRIP: There will be a whole school field trip on February 25 to the RBC Center for a READ-volution Celebration with the Carolina Hurricanes Hockey Team. There is no cost for the trip and transportation is provided. Please read and return the permission slip by this FRIDAY, December 7. More information will be sent home about the trip after Winter break.
MAKE READING A PRIORITY AT HOME: Please make sure your child is reading 20 minutes each night and recording their titles/pages in their agenda. Daily reading increases reading accuracy, fluency, vocabulary, content knowledge, and even concentration. There is nothing like curling up with a book, but if your child is online, they can build their skills with Readworks.org. I have created a list of articles with quizzes and I can receive daily feedback on their reading. Over the break I will assign dozens of articles so students can continue to make progress on their reading goals with a daily article as they have time. We will also visit the media center library as a class the week before winter break to stock up on books.
ELA THIS WEEK: We will continue our unit on Animal Defense Mechanisms. The students will continue to research a specific animal and record notes. Eventually they will use the information to write their own animal adventure story combining their fiction skills and nonfiction research.
MATH: Students will complete their multiplication assessments early this week and we will begin learning concepts of division using visual methods. Here is a link to an explanation of the lesson we will have on Wednesday as we look at the visual models of division: WCPSS Division Video:Visual Model
We will then focus on the Area Model for division, as explained in this video: WCPSS Division Video: Area Model
SOCIAL STUDIES NEWS! Students will be working in teams to create a presentation on Native Americans from each of the 3 regions of NC. This project will be due next Wednesday so that students will have time to present their lessons to the rest of the class.
Science: We will take the month of December off from Science as we focus on Social Studies.
NOVEMBER 27, 2018 CLASS NEWSLETTER WEEK 14
Hi Everyone!
Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. I am thankful to have such a wonderful classroom in a school that honors each student's gifts and talents.
Thanks also to everyone who has come in for a first semester conference. If you have not had time for a conference, please let me know and I will work to arrange a time to talk. We can meet over the phone or in person.
This week we are diving into collaboration in Language Arts. The class will be split into four groups to work on an Animal Research project on springbok deer, ostriches, armadillos and monarch butterflies. Students will work closely to research their animal using a variety of materials including books, articles and websites. They will present to the class at the end of the unit. They will also complete an independent project researching their own animal. Please let them access the internet at home if possible to research their animal. There are links on our Google Classroom to safe sites to find information.
If your child is taking 4th grade math, you have probably noticed all the ways we teach multiplication now. The "standard algorithm" or method we were traditionally taught is not required until 5th grade. I have introduced the students to the traditional way, but the Area Method is a bigger part of our 4th grade curriculum. The Lattice Method is another model that does not require multiplying with zeros, and is easier for many students. Here are videos showing the methods I have taught:
- Area model: https://learnzillion.com/lesson_plans/6075-use-an-area-model-for-multiplication-of-two-digit-numbers-by-two-digit-numbers/
- https://www.khanacademy.org/math/arithmetic-home/multiply-divide/multi-digit-mult/v/multiplication-5-2-digit-times-a-2-digit-number
- https://www.khanacademy.org/math/arithmetic-home/multiply-divide/place-value-area-models/v/lattice-multiplication
These are posted on our google classroom for students, but you can show them these if they need help with homework! Please help your child memorize all their multiplication facts if they have not already. I can send home flashcards if you request them.
In Science, students are in their last week of the Landforms Unit with Ms. Bergquist. We will take a break from Science to work on Social Studies for the month of December.
I hope you have a great week!
NOVEMBER 12, 2018 CLASS NEWSLETTER FOR WEEK 12
Hi Everyone-
Happy Veteran's Day!
REPORT CARDS for homeroom and electives will be sent home Tuesday. Please keep the report card. Sign and return the report card envelope to me by Friday so that I can reuse it all year. Thanks!
Parent Conferences are ongoing. Click this link to sign up: Parent Conference Sign Up for this week!
The Festival of the American Indian at the Museum of History is this Friday (11/16) . We will walk to the museum, enjoy a short cultural performance with dancing, drumming and speakers from the 8 recognized tribes of NC. Then small groups will explore exhibits and special classes and displays. We have 3 chaperones but ideally we would have 2 more. We will leave school around 10am and be back by 2:30pm at the latest. Your child and I would love for you to join us!
PICTURE DAY IS WEDNESDAY (11/14)! We will take pictures before recess. You can send in a change of clothes if you'd like.
Testing on Thursday: Your child will take the NC Check-In Math Assessment from 10:50-11:50 on Thursday (11/15). All fourth graders will take the 4th grade level test.
Early Release Day on Tuesday 11/20. Students will dismiss at 1:20. Boys and Girls Club will be open.
Here's what we are learning this week:
Math: Test on Addition and Subtraction, and Solving Multistep Problems Tuesday, then we will begin Unit 4: Multiplication and Division
English Language Arts: Students are studying animal behavior to develop note-taking, summarizing, retelling and building vocabulary. They will be completing an assessment this week to show their mastery of identifying the main idea and supporting details after watching a video and reading text independently from a book on Animal Defenses.
Social Studies: American Indians in NC
Students will begin a 3 week unit on the American Indian tribes in NC's three regions. They will read the Social Studies Weekly newspaper and complete research on the 8 major tribes of our state. Eastern Band of Cherokee (tribal reservation in the Mountains), Coharie (Sampson and Harnett counties), Lumbee (Robeson and surrounding counties), Haliwa-Saponi (Halifax and Warren counties), Sappony (Person County), Meherrin (Hertford and surrounding counties), Occaneechi Band of Saponi Nation (Alamance and surrounding counties), Waccamaw-Siouan (Columbus and Bladen counties).
Science: Landforms Unit Continues with Ms. Bergquist
Have a great week!
Week 11 NEWSLETTER 11/5/18
Hi Parents and Students,
We have a week full of events ahead! Second quarter electives begin Monday (11/5). If you would like to volunteer in the classroom please contact me on Class Dojo.
The Enchanted Forest Book Fair begins Monday. Our class will preview the fair on Tuesday at 12:15pm. They will get to return to purchase books as a class on Thursday at 10:25am. They can also bring money on Wednesday and Friday.
PTA Arts and Letters Night is this Thursday (6:00pm-8:15pm) the Book Fair will also be open for families at the event. I hope you can attend this night of storytelling and fun. I will be there!
2-Hour Delay Tuesday: This Tuesday (11/6) school will open on a 2-hour delay due to voting. The first bell will ring at 10:50, and the late bell rings at 11:20am. Before Care runs from 7-10:50 on Tuesday.
Veteran's Day Holiday: Monday November 12 school will be closed in honor of our veterans.
Report Cards go home on Tuesday November 13.
NC Check-Ins: These are WCPSS assessments of your child's mastery of first quarter math skills. It is an online test. Our class will be testing on November 15. If you know in advance that your child will be absent, please let me know.
Field Trip to the Festival of the American Indian is next Friday November 16. We will leave campus around 10am and return around 2:30pm. Please let me know by Thursday if you are planning to chaperone. You must be a registered as a WCPSS volunteer.
Parent-Teacher Fall Conferences: Please sign up for a 20 minute conference by clicking here: FALL CONFERENCES SIGN UP
HERE'S WHAT WE ARE LEARNING THIS WEEK:
Math: Addition and Subtraction with Large Numbers
Students will be focusing on solving word problems that require addition and subtraction up to the hundred thousands place. They will be estimating answers to check if their exact answers are reasonable.
English Language Arts: Nonfiction Comprehension
We are exploring how animals use their bodies and behaviors to protect themselves. Students are reading multiple types of text including a textbook, articles, picture books, and websites. They are finding main idea and key details, summarizing, retelling and learning new vocabulary. Ask them about what animal defense mechanisms they find most interesting!
Social Studies: American Indians in NC
Students will begin a 3 week unit on the American Indian tribes in NC's three regions. They will read the Social Studies Weekly newspaper and complete research on the 8 major tribes of our state. Eastern Band of Cherokee (tribal reservation in the Mountains), Coharie (Sampson and Harnett counties), Lumbee (Robeson and surrounding counties), Haliwa-Saponi (Halifax and Warren counties), Sappony (Person County), Meherrin (Hertford and surrounding counties), Occaneechi Band of Saponi Nation (Alamance and surrounding counties), Waccamaw-Siouan (Columbus and Bladen counties).
Science: Landforms Unit Continues with Ms. Bergquist
Have a great week!
Week 10 NEWSLETTER 10/29/18
Hello Parents and Students!
JUST A REMINDER: WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 31 is a full school day!
Picture Day will be November 14.
CHAPERONES NEEDED
Our trip to the Festival of the American Indian Education Day is coming up in 3 weeks! If you are planning to chaperone, please confirm this in a Dojo message or written note to me this week. We need at least 4 parents to make the trip safe and successful.
WRITER-IN-RESIDENCE
This week published children's book author Kelly Starling Lyons is teaching writing lessons daily in all the fourth grade classrooms. She will guide students in a writing workshop where they will each write a personal narrative about an important moment in their lives. It's a great week to share memories with them of times they have overcome a challenge, learned something new, achieved a goal, spent time with loved ones in a special way, or enjoyed a family tradition. Talk to them at home about their story ideas. Today we got to enjoy a Google Hangout with Ms. Starling Lyons' illustrator Vanessa Brantley Newton.
Click below for more information about Ms. Starling Lyons and her illustrator, Ms Brantley Newton:
Illustrator: Vanessa Brantley Newton
YOU ARE WELCOME TO JOIN US for a celebration and sharing of students stories at 12:15pm on Friday 11/2. You can stay afterward for lunch with your child!
Math
Here is the link to an "At a Glance" chart for parents with our 4th grade math goals in case you were interested in seeing what math we are covering for the entire year: Fourth Grade Math at a Glance for Parents. I sent the math tests your child has corrected this quarter home in Monday Folders today (10/29).
This week we will be working on using the standard algorithm (the traditional method of carrying/borrowing) for addition and subtraction. We will also review rounding strategies so that students can estimate answers to check if their exact answers are reasonable. I am happy to have volunteers! You are welcome any day of the week from 9:30-10:20 to work with very small groups!
Multiplication and Division will begin in mid-November after our Quarterly Assessment. Please practice multliplication and division facts 0-12 with your child daily if they have not yet memorized all single digit facts.
SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR: THE ENCHANTED FOREST
The Enchanted Forest Book Fair will run Monday, November 5th - Friday, November 9th. The Book Fair will be open in the Media Center only during regular school hours, except for Thursday, November 8th at Arts & Letters Night. Look for the flyer in Monday folders.
Volunteer to help at the Book Fair, and receive a 5% discount on your purchases!
The Book Fair depends on the support of many parent volunteers. From set up, to assisting during class preview and shopping times, to fair break down, we need YOUR help! Please sign up here if you can — no prior experience necessary: http://signup.com/go/oMracYC
Thanks so much for your support! Have a great week.
Week 9 NEWSLETTER 10/23/18
Hello Parents and Students,
Wow! It is hard to believe that it is the last week of our first quarter of 4th grade! Students are growing in all areas.
Wednesday October 24 is Unity Day to combat bullying. Wear Orange on Wednesday to show that we are together against bullying and for kindness, acceptance and inclusion.
PICTURE DAY HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED! WEAR YOUR SMILES ON WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 14th. Please send in any money orders by that time, or you can order online.
English Language Arts:
This week students are doing final edits of a 4 paragraph essay about a famous poet and his/her inspiration for writing poetry. They are also writing an essay on their own inspiration for writing a poem. On Friday, as a celebration of our poetry unit, we will be hosting a "Poetry Slam" for our first grade reading buddies. Students are preparing to present their own self-written poem, complete with a Google Slide presentation. If you are able to contribute juice, muffins or cookies on Friday please send me a message on Class Dojo.We could also use some napkins if anyone has some leftover party supplies.
Math:
We will have a test on Place Value on Wednesday. Thursday they will be starting a "TRIP AROUND THE WORLD" project that will involve calculating large numbers, comparing numbers, place value and research skills as they each plan a personal trip around the world. The challenge comes in as they try to stay under 100,000 miles each as a group of 5-6 people. If you are available from 9:25-10:25am on a weekday and would like to assist with small groups working on addition and subtraction skills, please send me a message on Class Dojo. Dates are flexible.
Science:
Students begin Landforms Unit with Ms. Bergquist on Monday!
WEEK 8 NEWSLETTER 10/15/18
Hi Parents and Students!
I am really looking forward to a full week of learning and growing at Washington this week! Here is what I have to update you on today:
MATH: Our Unit 2 Math Assessment on Area, Perimeter, multistep problems and comparisons will be on Tuesday. Here is a slide show that will help your child prepare. This is also posted on Google Classroom for students: Area and Perimeter Test Practice Problems
ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS: Students will finish their final draft of a 4 paragraph essay about the life and inspiration of a famous poet this week. They are in the process of publishing these on Google Docs so you are welcome to see their work!
POETRY PROJECT: On Wednesday students should bring in a small object or picture of an object that is important to them. Your child will write a poem about the object. Thanks for helping your child find something that has meaning to them.
READING LOGS: Your child should be reading 20 minutes each night and writing their book titles down in their agenda daily Monday-Thursday. Please check in with your child to be sure this is a habit.
SCHOOL PICTURE DAY: I do not have a new date yet. I will let you know when it is scheduled!
FIELD TRIP INFORMATION
Please return all field trip forms and lunch orders by Wednesday October 17. Payment for the history field trip ($6.00) is also due. You can pay for this now with the online payment system or you can send in a check or cash. If you can chaperone the history field trip or coastal field trip please let me know. We need about 5 chaperones for both trips. If you have already volunteered, THANK YOU!
Fall Picnic: Welcome Fall and have fun seeing other Washington families and staff. This Thursday is our fall picnic. Students are welcome to stay after school and you will meet them. Just have them sign the form in their Monday folder.
PTA ROOM PARENT: If you are interested in being our PTA room parent please send me a note on Class Dojo. I would really appreciate it!
Afternoon Check Out:Please do not check students out in the office after 3:15pm. If you have an appointment for your child or need to leave early, please come to the building by 3:15. This is to help with an orderly dismissal for all students.
Thanks for looking at your child's Monday Folders, signing reading logs, signing permission slips, reading this newsletter and all the other things you do to help support our class!
WEEK 7 NEWSLETTER 10/8/18
Hi Parents and Students!
It was great to be back in the classroom today! I will share a slideshow of my journey to Japan as soon as possible with the class. I was able to visit an elementary school and talk to students as well. It was really amazing to get to experience another culture and to see the routines of school children there. It was also exciting to see the growth class made on the lessons while I was gone as I graded and completed Interim Progress Notes this weekend.
Interim Reports are in Monday Folders today. Please take a look at these and contact me if you have any questions or concerns. These grades often change over the quarter as student gain more skills. I will be sending out conference times in November, but if you want to meet in October before end of quarter assessments just send me a message on Class Dojo.
T-shirt orders for our 4th grade field trips are also in Monday folders. The fee is already included in the Coastal Field Trip fee, we just need sizes for each student.
Picture Day is on FRIDAY! We will have pictures at noon before lunch and recess. Students are welcome to bring a change of clothes.
Here's what we are working on this week:
Math: Area and Perimeter Unit Test is scheduled for Thursday unless more review is needed.
Science: Animal Studies with Ms. Laney
ELA: Students will write an informational essay about a poet (Robert Frost, Walter Dean Myers or Valerie Worth). They are also reading biographies of poets in small groups. This week they have a tic-tac-toe board of activities to work on vocabulary, reading independently, speaking and listening and writing. Here is a sneak peak: TIC-TAC-TOE
Here is the information you need for your child to participate in this year's PTA Reflections contest. It is a great opportunity to be creative and celebrate your young artist!
Heroes Around Me.pdfWEEK 5-6 Newsletter 9/24/18
Hi Parents and Students!
Ms. Burch will be teaching the class this week while I am in Japan. She is an experienced teacher and has a long history at Washington. See more information below about what they are working on this week. Please be sure to send any transportation changes to the front office. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the school at 919-856-7960. You can reach Mr. Grant by email at bgrant@wcpss.net or Ms. Sykes at rskyes@wcpps.net.
PLEASE NOTE THAT FRIDAY IS A FULL SCHOOL DAY. Due to the hurricane days, the early release was cancelled by WCPSS.
FIELD TRIP PERMISSION SLIPS
Thanks to everyone who returned their permission slips and payment this week! Remember that you can pay online with the OSP system!
What we are working over the next 2 weeks:
Math:
Students will work on solving multiplicative comparisons. These are problems where students need to figure out how many times more or how many times less an amount is than another. Here is a video to explain what we are learning. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EUV1wMmVH8.
They will also study prime and composite numbers. Here is a video we will use to introduce the skill: https://learnzillion.com/lesson_plans/15-determine-the-numbers-from-1-100-that-are-prime-using-area-models-or-t-charts/?card=268
English Language Arts:
Students will continue reading Love that Dog by Sharon Creech. They will look closely at how the main character is changing, and how he finds inspiration to write his own poetry. They will take an assessment where they find evidence in the text to support their written answers. In week 2, they will look closely at a biography of William Carlos Williams to see what his inspiration for writing was. Then they will select a poet of their choice to research. They will write an informative paragraph about what they learn. They will also meet in small guided reading groups to analyze poetry.
Students will begin writing their own collection of poetry on October 1.
Science:
Students will be starting their Animal Studies Unit with Ms. Laney
We will resume Social Studies in mid-October.
I hope everyone has a wonderful week!
WEEK 4 NEWSLETTER 9/17/18
Hi Parents and Students!
I hope everyone is staying safe and dry as Florence heads away from our area. I look forward to seeing you again soon!
Notes for the week ahead:
Electives will begin on Tuesday. Students put their schedules in their agendas on Wednesday for you to see.
Open House will be on Thursday from 6:15-7:15pm for 3-5th grade. K-2 will be from 5:00-6:15. Students who signed up to stay after school are still welcome to stay. You do not need to send a new permission slip.
Wednesday is a SCHOOL HOLIDAY. School will be closed for students and teachers.
Interim Reports will go home on next Monday 9/24 in Monday Folders.
Make Up Days due to Hurricane Florence: UPDATED!
- Wednesday, October 31 will now be a full school day for students (it was a workday).
- The September 28th and October 19 early release days are now full school days.
While we are out of school, here are some ways to keep your child in the swing of 4th grade.
- Reading for at least 20 minutes per day. Students should be writing the titles and pages of the books they are reading each day next to the sketch of the book on each daily column in their agenda.
- If you have access to internet and a device,
- Complete the math assessment on prodigy.com.
- Read the books I have assigned on biguniverse.com
- They can also build an online library and read their own non-fiction and fiction on Big Universe.
- Start the Science assignment on our Google Classroom (they log into wakeid.wcpss.net to access our classroom).
- Also on Google Classroom: Social Studies assignments and a link to newsela.com, another reading site where they can take quizzes.
- Practice multiplication and division facts with flashcards or online (multiplication.com, aaamath.com)
Students are finishing up their first math and reading unit assessments. I will send assessments home after they are fully completed, graded and corrected. Students are responsible for correcting errors and meet with me in small groups or whole class depending on the needs. It may be up to a week after an assessment before they come home in Monday folders.
I will be going to Japan from Sept 24-Oct 5. Ms. Burch will be the substitute for the first week. Dr. W will be substituting the second week. Both are very talented and experienced substitutes at Washington Elementary. I am providing them with the same detailed lessons that I would teach. For me, this is the chance of a lifetime and I am looking forward to sharing what I learn with the class. I will be attending a festival with a school in Kyoto and learning from teachers there as well as exploring the country. Look for photos and information on Google classroom those 2 weeks!
As always, let me know if you have any questions at all. I'm looking forward to seeing many of you at Open House!
WEEK 3 NEWSLETTER 9/10/18
Hi Parents and Students!
One of the coolest things about Washington is the choice of electives. This provides each student with a special schedule that builds on his/her individual gifts and talents. Last week all students in the class signed up for first and second quarter electives. You will receive their schedule later this week. Electives will start next Monday September 17. If you have any questions about their electives, you may contact me on Class Dojo, or email Ms. Wilkinson, magnet coordinator at awilkinson@wcpss.net.
Students also got to chose the Friday Focus special that they will take. The specialist teachers have designed quarter long projects that students will participate in for 45 minutes each Friday. Ask your child which Friday Focus they chose.
OPEN HOUSE is on Thursday from 6:15-7:15 pm for 3rd-5th grades. K-2nd grade is 5pm-6:15. If you would like to have your child stay after school and enjoy a pizza dinner (or they can bring dinner) the day of Open House so that you can attend, let me know and I will send a permission slip. Forms were sent home in Monday folders last week.
HERE'S WHAT WE ARE WORKING ON!
ELA: Unit 1: Poetry, Poets and Becoming Writers
We have been reading the book Love that Dog by Sharon Creech. In the book, a boy named Jack writes a journal in verse as he studies poems. In class, we are studying the same poems that Jack studies in the book. Students are practicing skills of summarizing, finding theme, and making inferences. Our first assessment is on Tuesday. I am also assessing reading skills for each student with our MCLASS assessments. I will share these with parents when completed.
Math: Collecting and Analyzing Data in Frequency Tables and Graphs
Students have learned to create bar graphs and line plots to show data. They are learning to ask questions using the data and answer their questions using calculations. We will be having our first assessment on Wednesday.
Science: Magnetism
Students are studying the force of magnetism. This past week they explored what objects magnets can attract, poles, and induced magnetism. This week they will use the Scientific Method to complete an experiment to test how the force between two magnets changes when the distance between the magnets increases.
Social Studies: Geographical Regions of NC
Students are reading about the three regions of North Carolina (Coastal Plains, Piedmont and Mountains). They are beginning to use our Google Chromebooks and our Google Classroom to create a brochure advertising specific characteristics of one of the regions.
Hopefully now you will have some topics you can discuss with your child at meals, car rides or that moment you have together.
I am looking forward to a full week of learning and growing together! Please don't hesitate to message me on Class Dojo, email me at sandrews2@wcpss.net if you have any questions.
WEEK 2 NEWSLETTER
Hi Parents and Students!
We had a great first week of learning. Students got to make sculptures, read poetry, began a whole class novel that is written in verse called Love that Dog by Sharon Creech, interpreted and created their own bar graphs and line plots, and begin to explore magnetism. They got to know each other by completing a group challenge called "Saving Fred." This is such a fun, creative and kind group of students. Thanks to all the parents who sent snacks, tissues, clorox wipes, art supplies, paper and notebooks!
Here is what you need to know this week:
- ELECTIVES
Elective Choice Forms were due back today. We will sign up for electives on Thursday in the Media Center. If you have not returned the form please do so by Wednesday.
- OPEN HOUSE
Open House is next Thursday 9/13. K-2 is 5:00-6:15pm. 3-5 is 6:15-7:15pm. I look forward to seeing you and sharing more about our curriculum, procedures and activities we have planned this year.
Permission slips are in today's Monday folder if you would like to have your child stay after school the day of Open House so that you can attend. Pizza and child care will be provided.
- HOMEWORK
Students will have a math sheet each day this week. They should write their homework in their agenda daily and bring it home.
Please have your child read for a minimum of 20 minutes Monday through Thursday. They will record this reading daily in their agenda and have you sign on Fridays. This is one of the most important ways to help your child make growth.
- LUNCH WITH YOUR CHILD
Parents are welcome to attend lunch with their children beginning September 10. (for Kindergarteners, please wait until September 17 when they have learned routines).
- CLASS DOJO
If you have a question or comment please don't hesitate to text me using Class Dojo. I check my messages in the morning before school and after dismissal. Please make sure not to send transportation changes on Class Dojo. I am not always able to access Dojo during class time. ALL TRANSPORTATION CHANGES MUST GO THROUGH THE OFFICE. Thanks!
I am looking forward to a short but wonderful week! If you have any questions about any of the items above or more message me on Dojo, email me at sandrews2@wcpss.net or send a note with your child. I look forward to seeing you soon at Open House!
Welcome to Room 310!
Welcome to Room 310!
Dear Parents and Students,
Welcome to our class website! We will be posting important information on a weekly basis. Here are some basics to know as we get started on a great year of learning. This information is also in the class letter in Monday Folders.
Daily Schedule
8:50-9:25 Arrival and Morning Meeting
9:25-10:25 Math
10:25-12:25 English Language Arts
12:25-1:00 Science/Social Studies
1:00-1:30 Lunch
1:30-1:45 Read Aloud/Pack Up
1:45- 2:15 Recess
2:15-3:00 -Elective 1 (Specials during down time and on Fridays)
3:00-3:45- Elective 2 (in Classroom during down time and Fridays)
Water/Snacks
I encourage students to bring a water bottle daily. They will have time to refill it after lunch. Since our lunch is at 1pm so it is important that students bring a snack or two for the morning. This should be a healthy snack, not sodas and large bags of junk food. If you choose to send in a treat for your child’s birthday that is fine, but we may only share store bought items and please no nuts. These treats will be shared during lunch.
Communication
I use Class Dojo for daily communication and behavior and hope all of you will connect to our class. Forms with your child’s code are in today’s Monday folder.
Transportation Changes
If you have transportation changes please contact the front office at 919-856-7960. This will ensure that the message is received and your child will be notified of the change. Sending an email or Dojo message may not get to the teacher who is dismissing your child.Please note that 4th graders dismiss from their second elective for most of the school year.
Monday Folders
Monday folders are sent home weekly. In them you will receive a weekly newsletter and the completed work from the previous week. Please empty the folder and return it by Wednesday of each week. Occasionally the folder is sent home on Tuesdays if we have a test or other items that need a bit more time to collect. I will send a Dojo message if folders are not sent home on Monday.
Homework
Homework is given daily in math Monday – Thursday when needed. The students are also asked to read for pleasure for 20 minutes each day. At times they may have work to complete from reading, science, or social studies but it is not on a daily basis.
We work hard in class and I know the students have activities to do after school so I limit the amount of homework I give. I will assign a few long term individual or group projects and students are encouraged to break these into small chunks to fit into their schedules. If you ever need help with materials for projects just let me know.
Volunteer Registration
Parent volunteers are a huge part of this classroom. Please make sure that you sign up through Wake County to become a volunteer by October 31. This has to be done yearly and well in advance of trips and other volunteer opportunities. Come to school and the office will assist you in registering or re-registering.
Field Trips
We have 3 field trips planned for his year.
Friday Nov. 16- American Indian Heritage Education Day at the NC Museum of History (chaperones needed)
Tuesday April 25- NC 4th grade Symphony Day
TBD- NC Coastal Field Trip to Tryon Palace, Beaufort Harbor, Fort Macon and Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium
Conferences
I will send out schedules for parent teacher conferences in the fall and spring. Conferences can be held by phone or in person. You are welcome to request conferences throughout the school year.
I look forward to the year and our time together!
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