11/2/01

Dear Parents,

Wow, another busy week comes to a close! The kids were

very excited as they anticipated the events that surrounded Halloween. Now, I am excited that the events are over J

Next week we will finish the book Morning Girl by Michael Dorris. The novel focuses on the closeness of a Native American family set on a Caribbean Island just prior to the arrival of Columbus.

In math, we have begun dividing with multiple dividends. I have stressed to the kids the importance of memorizing their math facts, (multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction.) Commiting these to memory will make every facet of mathematics less complicated.

In science, we continue to learn about living things. We have discussed the "web of life" and the kids have a list of the vocabulary words. In independent groups the students completed an experiment with two pumpkins. One was rotten and the other was good. They completed a chart which compared and contrasted the properties of each. They were able to witness a living thing decompose and predict how it could be recycled in the environment.

In writing, we continue to do numerous activities, however, this week we will focus on details. For instance, they had to write the directions from room 48 to the main office. The directions had to be specific enough to ensure that even an "alien" could find its way. They broke down into groups of two or three and followed the directions that their classmate read to them. Next week, the students will write directions on making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. It could get sticky!

In regard to those students who are signed up for the ELA afterschool program, we will expect those children to remain in school every Monday. Unless you contact the school, we will expect that you have made arrangements to have your child picked up at 5 p.m.

Sincerely,

                                                                                Mrs. Kirch