We have made it to our final week of school before our Holiday Break begins!!! Whoohoo!
I know the kids are excited as am I about having sometime to spend with family and friends. This week during ELA we will be combining classes with Mrs. Fortson and doing workstations. I think the kiddos will really enjoy this and will get to work with another class. Our focus during work stations are the following: The students will spend 15 minutes in each station.The stations consist of a Stem station: Making ice cube trays, Christmas Around the World: this is how other countries celebrate the holidays, Ginger Bread Tradition, and Writing (The Day I got caught in a snow globe). Each class will get to do every station. Mrs. Fortson and I are excited to get to work with both classes at one time.
Math: This week we will finish up with Topic 8! Because I was out on Friday, we will have the test tomorrow. I will be introducing Fractions.
Science: We are not starting a new unit so the will get a double dose of Social Studies!
Social Studies: Standard: 4.36 We are studying the purpose and obstacles on creating the new Cumberland Settlement, including: Richard Henderson, James Robertson, John Donelson, salt licks, Transylvania Purchase, Cumberland Compact and Battle of the Bluffs
Our Classroom Holiday Party is Thursday, December 17th from 9:00-11:15. We will have a breakfast and do games. If you have not signed up to come please send an email or note is stating you are coming. I need these by Tuesday. Also you can sign up for food on sign up genius. Lastly, if you want to send in treats for the gift bags, please have those in by Wednesday.
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Derry's Week December 7-11th
Hey all! The holiday is right around the corner and then we won't be blogging until the new year. I can't believe how fast this month is going. Here are the cliff notes for this week:
ELA: We are reading a "Eye of the Storm." The students have a story packet but are not to do it. We are working on this together in class. This only becomes work if they do not turn in their other assignments.
Writing/Grammar/Advanced Word Study: We are working on Compare and Contrast. We took a practice MICA writing test last week that did not go as well as I thought it should. So, this week we are breaking apart the writing. One group is solely writing introductions, one group is details, and one group is conclusions.
Advanced Word Study: We are doing the same words from last week because we did not get to finish studying them. Some of the assignments for advance word study have been to put their words in a sentence and to define the words by telling what type of word it is.
Grammar: We are focusing on past, present, and future verb tense
Math: We are working on Topic 8: This is division by 2 digit and 3 digit. We will be testing on Friday. Please be working with your child on multiplication facts and helping them with the steps of division.
Social Studies: We are continuing with The American Revolution. Right now we are focusing on the main leaders and the African Americans that were a pivotal part of the war. This week I did not assign any homework except for them to put all notes in interactive notebook. Some of the students are not glueing these in and will need them for their test. It is their responsibility to put these in their notebooks.
Science: Mrs. Fortson is finishing up with the moon phases. There will be a test this Thursday.
Lastly, My homeroom class has been sent an email about the Holiday party. Please be on the look out for an email from Renee Clowers. It will be to sign up for supplies. Thanks again for all you all do daily to ensure your child is succeeding.
ELA: We are reading a "Eye of the Storm." The students have a story packet but are not to do it. We are working on this together in class. This only becomes work if they do not turn in their other assignments.
Writing/Grammar/Advanced Word Study: We are working on Compare and Contrast. We took a practice MICA writing test last week that did not go as well as I thought it should. So, this week we are breaking apart the writing. One group is solely writing introductions, one group is details, and one group is conclusions.
Advanced Word Study: We are doing the same words from last week because we did not get to finish studying them. Some of the assignments for advance word study have been to put their words in a sentence and to define the words by telling what type of word it is.
Grammar: We are focusing on past, present, and future verb tense
Math: We are working on Topic 8: This is division by 2 digit and 3 digit. We will be testing on Friday. Please be working with your child on multiplication facts and helping them with the steps of division.
Social Studies: We are continuing with The American Revolution. Right now we are focusing on the main leaders and the African Americans that were a pivotal part of the war. This week I did not assign any homework except for them to put all notes in interactive notebook. Some of the students are not glueing these in and will need them for their test. It is their responsibility to put these in their notebooks.
Science: Mrs. Fortson is finishing up with the moon phases. There will be a test this Thursday.
Lastly, My homeroom class has been sent an email about the Holiday party. Please be on the look out for an email from Renee Clowers. It will be to sign up for supplies. Thanks again for all you all do daily to ensure your child is succeeding.
Monday, December 7, 2015
Fortson Weekly Updates for December 7th
Happy December! There will only be a few more posts for 2015-can you believe that?? I know that your family is looking forward to the holiday break! We will continue with our normal schedule this week. Next week, we will change classes Monday-Wednesday. Please note the following:
Math: Fortson math class will be working on decomposing fractions as a sum of a unit fraction using tape diagrams. There will be homework, so please follow up with your child.
**All students need to continue to practice math fact fluency. We are working on this in our math class but also in my homeroom!
Reading/ELA: This week we will start a new story and the students have a story packet. They have a work plan that helps them navigate through our stations each day. Students are responsible or turning in this work by Friday. They have plenty of time during the week to finish this work. I have already announced to our students that any unfinished work on Friday will result in not being able to participate in our book buddy activity on Friday. Reading challenge sheets are due by next Friday.
Science: This week there will be a test over moon phases. Students should use their interactive notebooks to study this material. They will be responsible for identifying the moon phases by picture. There is a homework/classwork assignment that will be given out the day before your child tests. This is required and students must make a 85 or better. They are allowed to use the textbook to find evidence for their answers. Students making less than 85 will have to redo this assignment.
Social Studies: We will continue with Revolutionary Period. Please visit Mrs. Derry's page for specific information. Students have received several items that were to be glued into the interactive notebook. I am finding these all over the floor. I am sure that they will need these to study!
A letter went home today and was sent via email on Sunday evening about class events this month. Please take a minute to look over this if you have not already had a chance to read it.
Math: Fortson math class will be working on decomposing fractions as a sum of a unit fraction using tape diagrams. There will be homework, so please follow up with your child.
**All students need to continue to practice math fact fluency. We are working on this in our math class but also in my homeroom!
Reading/ELA: This week we will start a new story and the students have a story packet. They have a work plan that helps them navigate through our stations each day. Students are responsible or turning in this work by Friday. They have plenty of time during the week to finish this work. I have already announced to our students that any unfinished work on Friday will result in not being able to participate in our book buddy activity on Friday. Reading challenge sheets are due by next Friday.
Science: This week there will be a test over moon phases. Students should use their interactive notebooks to study this material. They will be responsible for identifying the moon phases by picture. There is a homework/classwork assignment that will be given out the day before your child tests. This is required and students must make a 85 or better. They are allowed to use the textbook to find evidence for their answers. Students making less than 85 will have to redo this assignment.
Social Studies: We will continue with Revolutionary Period. Please visit Mrs. Derry's page for specific information. Students have received several items that were to be glued into the interactive notebook. I am finding these all over the floor. I am sure that they will need these to study!
A letter went home today and was sent via email on Sunday evening about class events this month. Please take a minute to look over this if you have not already had a chance to read it.
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Fortson Weekly Updates for November 30th
Look out December...here we come! Just a few more weeks and I know that we are all counting down! Here is what is happening this week:
Math: Fortson math class has started a new unit: fractions. I will be updating the math page with resources to help you navigate this unit. This is the major work of our math content, so we will be working on setting a good foundation. We will be in this unit through the first of next year.
ALL of my students should practice math facts every week! Knowing multiplication facts is extremely important!
ELA: For grammar this week, we will continue with verbs. This week we will focus on subject/verb agreement. Students still struggle with verbs, so we will focus on this until the end of the quarter.
Writing: We are working on compare/contrast informational writing. We will be writing to a prompt this week and it will be graded using the TN rubric.
Science: We will continue with moon phases this week. I will plan for us to finish up the information this week and we will plan for a test next Tuesday (Fortson) and Thursday (Derry).
Social Studies: Mrs. Derry will continue with the Revolutionary Unit. Students should be looking over information every week to help retain important people, places and events.
Upcoming events:
Craft Fair @ HVES December 1st
Holiday Party (9-11am) December 17th
Last day of quarter/reward movie December 18th
Sunday, November 29, 2015
Mrs. Derry Nov.30th-Dec. 4th
Wow, I truly can't believe we are going into December this week. I hope everyone had a wonderful break and is refreshed to finish out these next 3 weeks. I want everyone to know that I am blessed to be your child's teacher and feel so thankful to be at Hardin Valley. This is what is going on this week:
ELA: Writing: Compare and Contrast
ELA: Writing: Compare and Contrast
ADW Study: Vowel sound in shout
Grammar: Subject Verb Agreement (We will go over rules of the subject verb agreement.
Reading: How The Night Came From The Sea. This genre is a myth.
Math: We will be going over Topic 8: Division
Social Studies: We will be discussing the major military battles, campaigns and turning points of the American Revolution. Bunker (Breed's) Hill, Valley Forge, Princeton and Trenton, Saratoga, King's Mountain, and Yorktown. We will also be discussing how the Revolution affected the Watauga Settlement.
Science: Refer to Mrs. Fortson's part on the Science page.
My homeroom will be doing a service project for a local school. We are going to be collecting toboggans and gloves for student's at Sarah Moore Greene Magnet School. I will be delivering them right before we go on break. I will give more detail this next week.
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Thanksgiving Day Classroom Activities
Happy Thanksgiving! We will be doing some great activities that you can link here:
http://www.scholastic.com/scholastic_thanksgiving/
Pilgrim Interviews are here
http://www.scholastic.com/scholastic_thanksgiving/
Pilgrim Interviews are here
Friday, November 20, 2015
The Book Fair ends today but you can order online until Friday, November, 27.
click http://bookfairs.scholastic.com/homepage/hves
click http://bookfairs.scholastic.com/homepage/hves
Monday, November 16, 2015
Fortson Weekly Updates for November 16th
Congratulations to my Pen Man finders! First finders got a donut!
Here is what is happening this week:
Math: In Fortson math class this week, we will begin fractions on Tuesday. All students will be taking the Knox County Module assessment over the next two weeks. I will be updating the Fortson math page with resources to help us as we navigate our new content.
ELA: This week, I have uploaded the new spelling pattern words to study. We will be working on homophones. We are also working on helping verbs. There will be some homework assignments if students do not finish the assignments in class.
Reading: We will be reading our new story this week, Adalina's Whales. Students are learning to be strategic readers by close reading and understanding story structure. As you listen to your child read to you at home, stop and ask questions so that they begin to reflect on what they are reading, not just calling words on a page.
Science: New Unit! This week, we will start talking about the Earth and the moon. There are great resources for this unit, so check back later this week as I update the science page. Also, make sure to check out the pictures posted on the page this week with our mealworms.
Social Studies: This week, we will focus on pre-Revolutionary figures and events. Students should have many resources in their interactive notebook, and we will be talking about Paul Revere's ride in reading this week. Mrs. Derry is updating her page, so check there for specific information about her class.
Reminders: Don't forget that we will go on our field trip next Monday. If you volunteered to go, then I will be sending out an email to you to give you the 411. Students should wear their class tshirts.
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Derry's Week of Nov. 16th
Wow... We are one week away from Thanksgiving break. I can't believe how fast this year is flying bye. Our schedule is going to be off just a little this week due to part of the fourth grade going on their field trip Monday. We also have Book Fair this week which will end on Thursday. On Monday during Math, we will stay in homeroom. During this time, we will administer the Module 1 Math test.
On Monday, we will also be going to the Book Fair with our book buddies.
Math: We will be finishing up Topic 7 and testing on Friday.
ELA: We will be reading Adelina's Whales
Grammar: Main and helping verbs.
ADW Study: We will be working on Homophones
Science: Adaptations project is Due Nov. 18th.
Social Studies:
Nov: 16th Week: We will be discussing the major military battles, campaigns, and turning points of the American Revolution.
Mon/Wed: We will discuss Lexington and Concord, Second Continental Congress, and Declaration of Independence. We will also discuss Thomas Paine. We watch a short video on Lexington and Concord.
On Monday, we will also be going to the Book Fair with our book buddies.
Math: We will be finishing up Topic 7 and testing on Friday.
ELA: We will be reading Adelina's Whales
Grammar: Main and helping verbs.
ADW Study: We will be working on Homophones
Science: Adaptations project is Due Nov. 18th.
Social Studies:
Nov: 16th Week: We will be discussing the major military battles, campaigns, and turning points of the American Revolution.
Mon/Wed: We will discuss Lexington and Concord, Second Continental Congress, and Declaration of Independence. We will also discuss Thomas Paine. We watch a short video on Lexington and Concord.
Tues./Thurs: Studies: SS Weekly
Break up in groups and discuss the Major military battles and campaigns.
Bunker (Breed's) Hill
Valley Forge
Saratoga
King's Mountain
Yorktown
Portal Closes on Wednesday night. I will have all grades in the Aspen gradebook. Please know that if you see a 50, that its probably a missing assignment. If your child has a missing assignment, they have till the end of the 9 weeks to get it in. Also, if your child brings home a grade they are not happy with, they may do a redo. Please refer to Mrs. Fortson's redo policy which will give detail on how to re-turn in an assignment. Mrs. Derry's class follows the same policy.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Fortson Weekly Update for November 9th
There are some great things happening this week in Fortson/Derry Class:
Math: Fortson math class is taking a recap week to review and spiral some skills that we have worked on since the beginning of school. This week we will focus on area of regular and irregular polygons, factors and multiples. I have chosen this material based on assessments in class. As you know, we continue to spiral material all year long, so this will not be the last time we visit this content.
* Please note that we will begin our unit-Fractions- next week. The is the largest work of our grade level content and we will be working through this until Christmas. I will try to update the Math page to give you some helpful resources including online websites and apps that you can use to help your child.
Reading: This is probably the most important thing that we work on each day. I am still having my Reading Challenge each nine weeks, but I am looking for ways to encourage reading at home. One of the greatest investments is have your child read to you each night and set aside quiet time for them to read. I will update soon...
ELA/Writing: We are working diligently on our spelling patterns each week. Students are practicing with hands on activities and they will receive homework to help them practice these patterns at home. We definitely have a ways to go, but already students are writing and reviewing and catching mistakes, even when they don't know the correct spelling! That's an improvement!!
*Vocabulary/Spelling/Grammar lists are posted under the ELA page. I give these out to your student each week. Mrs. Derry's class is using the same word patterns!
Writing: We will begin with our informational writing this week. Specifically, we will be looking at comparing and contrasting two pieces of text and organizing our writing.
Science: Heredity, Biodiversity and Change! We will finish this unit this week! Students in both classes should be studying their notes. This is a small unit, but full of content. Students should be able to illustrate (explain) complete and incomplete metamorphosis and explain content vocabulary.
Adaptation Projects are due NEXT week! Please visit the Science page for specific information. This is a project grade!
Social Studies: Mrs. Derry has started a new unit this week. Please visit her SS page content information and resources.
Math: Fortson math class is taking a recap week to review and spiral some skills that we have worked on since the beginning of school. This week we will focus on area of regular and irregular polygons, factors and multiples. I have chosen this material based on assessments in class. As you know, we continue to spiral material all year long, so this will not be the last time we visit this content.
* Please note that we will begin our unit-Fractions- next week. The is the largest work of our grade level content and we will be working through this until Christmas. I will try to update the Math page to give you some helpful resources including online websites and apps that you can use to help your child.
Reading: This is probably the most important thing that we work on each day. I am still having my Reading Challenge each nine weeks, but I am looking for ways to encourage reading at home. One of the greatest investments is have your child read to you each night and set aside quiet time for them to read. I will update soon...
ELA/Writing: We are working diligently on our spelling patterns each week. Students are practicing with hands on activities and they will receive homework to help them practice these patterns at home. We definitely have a ways to go, but already students are writing and reviewing and catching mistakes, even when they don't know the correct spelling! That's an improvement!!
*Vocabulary/Spelling/Grammar lists are posted under the ELA page. I give these out to your student each week. Mrs. Derry's class is using the same word patterns!
Writing: We will begin with our informational writing this week. Specifically, we will be looking at comparing and contrasting two pieces of text and organizing our writing.
Science: Heredity, Biodiversity and Change! We will finish this unit this week! Students in both classes should be studying their notes. This is a small unit, but full of content. Students should be able to illustrate (explain) complete and incomplete metamorphosis and explain content vocabulary.
Adaptation Projects are due NEXT week! Please visit the Science page for specific information. This is a project grade!
Social Studies: Mrs. Derry has started a new unit this week. Please visit her SS page content information and resources.
Monday, November 9, 2015
Derry's Update for week of November 9th
Here is our update for the week. Please know that I have been putting grades in this weekend and still have more to add. Please continue to check agenda's. If your child is missing an assignment, Mrs. Fortson and I will circle and let you know its missing.
If your child does not finish the activity in class, it becomes homework. All ELA is due by Friday.
ELA: The Man Who Named the Clouds
Today we predicted what the story was about and what genre the story is.
Our grammar skill is action and linking verbs
Advanced Word Study: words ending in -ing and -ed
Math: We have moved on to Topic 7: Double digit by Double Digit Multiplication
Social Studies: This week we will be adding to our interactive notebook with the Mounting Tensions in the Colonies and discussing Paul Revere.
Science: Refer to Mrs. Fortson's icon.
Encore: Monday: Art 2 (Moultry), Tuesday: Music, Wednesday: Library, Thursday: PE 2, Art 1: Didi
If your child does not finish the activity in class, it becomes homework. All ELA is due by Friday.
ELA: The Man Who Named the Clouds
Today we predicted what the story was about and what genre the story is.
Our grammar skill is action and linking verbs
Advanced Word Study: words ending in -ing and -ed
Math: We have moved on to Topic 7: Double digit by Double Digit Multiplication
Social Studies: This week we will be adding to our interactive notebook with the Mounting Tensions in the Colonies and discussing Paul Revere.
Science: Refer to Mrs. Fortson's icon.
Encore: Monday: Art 2 (Moultry), Tuesday: Music, Wednesday: Library, Thursday: PE 2, Art 1: Didi
Monday, November 2, 2015
Start of November
ELA: We are reading "If I want to be a President.
The skill we will be working on this week is main idea/details and inferring.
Grammar: Plural Possessive nouns
Writing: This week will be writing our prompt in two sessions. First session is 30 minutes and the second session is 45 minutes. They are writing their opinion piece.
Advanced Word Study: This week we are working on Words which contain -ear, -ir, -our, -ur
but have the /er/ sound.
Math: Topic 5: We are finishing up Topic 5. We will continue to work on multiplication with 2 and 3 digit numbers. I will test on topic 5 possible on Thursday.
Science: Mrs. Fortson is working on Adaptations. Please be aware that there is a Science packet that was assigned today and is due by Friday.
Social Studies: This week were are discussing Benjamin Franklin and the French and Indian War. I will be uploading material we will be using throughout the next few weeks. The War of Independence will be covered till Winter Break.
I will be grading all week and should have all grades updated this week.
The skill we will be working on this week is main idea/details and inferring.
Grammar: Plural Possessive nouns
Writing: This week will be writing our prompt in two sessions. First session is 30 minutes and the second session is 45 minutes. They are writing their opinion piece.
Advanced Word Study: This week we are working on Words which contain -ear, -ir, -our, -ur
but have the /er/ sound.
Math: Topic 5: We are finishing up Topic 5. We will continue to work on multiplication with 2 and 3 digit numbers. I will test on topic 5 possible on Thursday.
Science: Mrs. Fortson is working on Adaptations. Please be aware that there is a Science packet that was assigned today and is due by Friday.
Social Studies: This week were are discussing Benjamin Franklin and the French and Indian War. I will be uploading material we will be using throughout the next few weeks. The War of Independence will be covered till Winter Break.
I will be grading all week and should have all grades updated this week.
Fortson Updates for November 2nd
Happy November! Here is what is happening:
Math: Fortson math class will continue with multiplication and division. There will be homework this week to help us continue practicing our concepts. I would like to assess for this unit on Friday. However, I will make this decision based on class performance during the week. We are also reviewing concepts such as factors. multiples, prime and composite numbers.
**All other math classes need to check the agenda for assignments*
ELA/Reading: I have uploaded the new spelling pattern words on the ELA page. Your student received a copy of these words and our grammar focus skill today. Based on last week's assessment, students really need to be studying these words and these patterns.
Writing: We are working on a spiral skill this week- narrative writing. We are working to build good endurance in our writing and also to help develop and organize our writing.
Science: We will continue with our new unit. There is a homework assignment this week. It went home today in Derry and Fortson classes. Fortson class received the new Adaptation Project. Please visit the Science page on the blog if you need to download another copy of the information packet or need more insight into what we are studying. Due dates are listed on the page.
Social Studies: We will begin a new unit this week. We are building up to the Revolutionary War. Please check back this week to the SS page for more insight into what we are studying and for downloads of digital material. Mrs. Derry will be updating the blog this week with specific information.
Math: Fortson math class will continue with multiplication and division. There will be homework this week to help us continue practicing our concepts. I would like to assess for this unit on Friday. However, I will make this decision based on class performance during the week. We are also reviewing concepts such as factors. multiples, prime and composite numbers.
**All other math classes need to check the agenda for assignments*
ELA/Reading: I have uploaded the new spelling pattern words on the ELA page. Your student received a copy of these words and our grammar focus skill today. Based on last week's assessment, students really need to be studying these words and these patterns.
Writing: We are working on a spiral skill this week- narrative writing. We are working to build good endurance in our writing and also to help develop and organize our writing.
Science: We will continue with our new unit. There is a homework assignment this week. It went home today in Derry and Fortson classes. Fortson class received the new Adaptation Project. Please visit the Science page on the blog if you need to download another copy of the information packet or need more insight into what we are studying. Due dates are listed on the page.
Social Studies: We will begin a new unit this week. We are building up to the Revolutionary War. Please check back this week to the SS page for more insight into what we are studying and for downloads of digital material. Mrs. Derry will be updating the blog this week with specific information.
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Monday, October 26, 2015
Derry Updates for the week October 26th
I hope everyone had a great weekend. I can't believe that October is coming to a close. This week is getting underway with the Pumpkin projects coming in today. Everyone is excited to see the pumpkin creations and the student's were real proud of their hard work. As a parent, I know that you guys have to put in some effort as well, so thanks for being so amazing!
Here is what's going on this week:
ELA: We are starting a new story Horses Heroes. We will be discussing fact and opinion, and working on possessive plural nouns.
Math: Topic 5: Multiplying and Rounding
Science: We will begin our new unit...check out the Blog PAGE!! Students will be taking notes and the textbook will be a great resource for some of this material. Mrs. Fortson will upload material as she get's it scanned into the computer.
Social Studies: We are finishing up with the Colonies. Mrs. Derry's class is taking a quiz tomorrow on labeling the New England, Middle, and Southern Colonies. Mrs. Fortson's class will do this on Thursday. Both classes will take a content test on Friday.
Late work: I have a sheet that students will sign and date when they are missing work. This is just another way for parents to beware that something is missing.
Here are our awesome pumpkins:
Here is what's going on this week:
ELA: We are starting a new story Horses Heroes. We will be discussing fact and opinion, and working on possessive plural nouns.
Math: Topic 5: Multiplying and Rounding
Science: We will begin our new unit...check out the Blog PAGE!! Students will be taking notes and the textbook will be a great resource for some of this material. Mrs. Fortson will upload material as she get's it scanned into the computer.
Social Studies: We are finishing up with the Colonies. Mrs. Derry's class is taking a quiz tomorrow on labeling the New England, Middle, and Southern Colonies. Mrs. Fortson's class will do this on Thursday. Both classes will take a content test on Friday.
Late work: I have a sheet that students will sign and date when they are missing work. This is just another way for parents to beware that something is missing.
Here are our awesome pumpkins:
Fortson Updates for October 26
Happy last week of October! Here is what is happening this week:
Math- Fortson math class will continue with division. There are some great websites on my math page as well as the Website Resource page. Last week's division quiz was given out for students to redo. Please check with your child about this quiz. There will be homework assignments this week.
For all other students, please check your child's agenda for daily assignments.
ELA/Reading: For reading, we have started a new story with a new story packet. We work on this during the week and students must turn it in on Friday to receive full credit. We are also working on some small group reading work that should also help students on Friday's SS test.
Spelling words went home today. We we over these and there is a homework assignment that combines practice with these words as well as our grammar focus of singular possessive nouns. I also emailed this list to parents on Sunday night and you can download a copy of it on the ELA page if you need one! There will be a spelling/grammar test on Friday,
Writing: We will be assessing opinion writing this week. Students will receive a timed prompt and are expected to use the strategies and graphic organizer that we worked on in class for the past two weeks. This assessment will count as a grade.
Science: We will begin our new unit...check out the Blog PAGE!! Students will be taking notes and the textbook will be a great resource for some of this material. I will upload material as I get it scanned into the computer.
Social Studies: This week will be the last week of the Colonization unit. Please visit the SS page for updates from Mrs. Derry. Just a reminder that part 1 of the SS test is Wednesday. Part 2 will be on Friday.
Check out our pumpkins:
Math- Fortson math class will continue with division. There are some great websites on my math page as well as the Website Resource page. Last week's division quiz was given out for students to redo. Please check with your child about this quiz. There will be homework assignments this week.
For all other students, please check your child's agenda for daily assignments.
ELA/Reading: For reading, we have started a new story with a new story packet. We work on this during the week and students must turn it in on Friday to receive full credit. We are also working on some small group reading work that should also help students on Friday's SS test.
Spelling words went home today. We we over these and there is a homework assignment that combines practice with these words as well as our grammar focus of singular possessive nouns. I also emailed this list to parents on Sunday night and you can download a copy of it on the ELA page if you need one! There will be a spelling/grammar test on Friday,
Writing: We will be assessing opinion writing this week. Students will receive a timed prompt and are expected to use the strategies and graphic organizer that we worked on in class for the past two weeks. This assessment will count as a grade.
Science: We will begin our new unit...check out the Blog PAGE!! Students will be taking notes and the textbook will be a great resource for some of this material. I will upload material as I get it scanned into the computer.
Social Studies: This week will be the last week of the Colonization unit. Please visit the SS page for updates from Mrs. Derry. Just a reminder that part 1 of the SS test is Wednesday. Part 2 will be on Friday.
Check out our pumpkins:
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Fortson Updates for October 19th
As I am typing the date, it is hard to believe that we are over half way through the month of October! Here is what is happening this week:
Math: Fortson math class will continue with division practice. We are working on using place value understandings with the standard algorithm. The best way to learn division is to practice it. Students will have several nights of homework this week. I will also assess this week to see where we stand with students' understanding.
**Homeroom parents, please check your child's agenda nightly for math assignments**
Reading: This week we are doing a play together. Students are assigned parts and will perform this small play on Friday. We will do a status of the class on Friday, so students need to have their books with them at school.
Writing: We are working together on opinion writing this week. We are creating a model piece as a whole class as we learn how to set up an opinion writing prompt. Students will be writing to an opinion prompt that will be timed next week. This is good practice for future writing assessments.
Science: This week, students received a study guide on Tuesday. This is due on Wednesday. Both Derry and Fortson classes received this and should have written in the agenda. We will have a lab this week on Tuesday (Fortson) and Thursday (Derry). The unit test will be on Friday, October 23rd. Students should be studying nightly.
Social Studies: We will continue with the colonization period. Please see Mrs. Derry's updates on the blog for more detailed information. You can also check the blog for downloads and resources to help your child through this unit.
PUMPKIN PROJECT!!! The pumpkin projects are due on Monday, October 26th. Students will receive a grade for this project. Hopefully, the students are already planning the creation of their explorer pumpkin. Please make sure not to carve and cut open the pumpkin in any way. Students must take home the pumpkin on Friday, October 30th.
Report cards went home on Tuesday. Please sign and return these to us in the next 2 days.
Math: Fortson math class will continue with division practice. We are working on using place value understandings with the standard algorithm. The best way to learn division is to practice it. Students will have several nights of homework this week. I will also assess this week to see where we stand with students' understanding.
**Homeroom parents, please check your child's agenda nightly for math assignments**
Reading: This week we are doing a play together. Students are assigned parts and will perform this small play on Friday. We will do a status of the class on Friday, so students need to have their books with them at school.
Writing: We are working together on opinion writing this week. We are creating a model piece as a whole class as we learn how to set up an opinion writing prompt. Students will be writing to an opinion prompt that will be timed next week. This is good practice for future writing assessments.
Science: This week, students received a study guide on Tuesday. This is due on Wednesday. Both Derry and Fortson classes received this and should have written in the agenda. We will have a lab this week on Tuesday (Fortson) and Thursday (Derry). The unit test will be on Friday, October 23rd. Students should be studying nightly.
Social Studies: We will continue with the colonization period. Please see Mrs. Derry's updates on the blog for more detailed information. You can also check the blog for downloads and resources to help your child through this unit.
PUMPKIN PROJECT!!! The pumpkin projects are due on Monday, October 26th. Students will receive a grade for this project. Hopefully, the students are already planning the creation of their explorer pumpkin. Please make sure not to carve and cut open the pumpkin in any way. Students must take home the pumpkin on Friday, October 30th.
Report cards went home on Tuesday. Please sign and return these to us in the next 2 days.
Monday, October 19, 2015
Week October 19th
Derry's Class: I just wanted to say what an awesome event the Hoedown was and thank you so much for everyone's participation. I have never seen so many people in one place for a school event. I know that we raised so much money for our amazing school. This week's focus:
ELA: We will be working on opinion writing, plural nouns, and concentrating on correct punctuation in everything we write.
Advanced Word study: We are focusing on ar, or, er words and how the sounds are different. The students will be working with these words in work stations and will do a dictation test on Friday.
Reading: This week we are doing a Reader's Theatre. "Colonial Time Machine," will focus on historical periods and events, bringing history alive.
Math: Finishing up Topic 4: Fact Families
Social Studies: Colonial Times: This week we will talk about the Triangular Trade and what life was like in the New England, Middle, and Southern Colonies.
Monday's Homework:
ELA/Reading: If your child did not finish the Advanced Word Study, it was homework. The Advanced Word Study was a word sort.
Math: Worksheet on Division
Social Studies: We went over five sheets on New England, Middle, and Southern colonies. We went over together. They had to cut out and put in interactive notebook. If they did not finish this, it is homework. All they need to do is cut and glue in notebook.
Reminder: The pumpkin project is approaching and their are several students who have not turned in their timeline and personality web. The timeline was due last week and the personality web was due today. Please know that this is a grade and we are preparing your child to be able to hit deadlines. It is important that they are held accountable. Please encourage them to do this on their own.
ELA: We will be working on opinion writing, plural nouns, and concentrating on correct punctuation in everything we write.
Advanced Word study: We are focusing on ar, or, er words and how the sounds are different. The students will be working with these words in work stations and will do a dictation test on Friday.
Reading: This week we are doing a Reader's Theatre. "Colonial Time Machine," will focus on historical periods and events, bringing history alive.
Math: Finishing up Topic 4: Fact Families
Social Studies: Colonial Times: This week we will talk about the Triangular Trade and what life was like in the New England, Middle, and Southern Colonies.
Monday's Homework:
ELA/Reading: If your child did not finish the Advanced Word Study, it was homework. The Advanced Word Study was a word sort.
Math: Worksheet on Division
Social Studies: We went over five sheets on New England, Middle, and Southern colonies. We went over together. They had to cut out and put in interactive notebook. If they did not finish this, it is homework. All they need to do is cut and glue in notebook.
Reminder: The pumpkin project is approaching and their are several students who have not turned in their timeline and personality web. The timeline was due last week and the personality web was due today. Please know that this is a grade and we are preparing your child to be able to hit deadlines. It is important that they are held accountable. Please encourage them to do this on their own.
Thursday, October 15, 2015
Fortson Weekly Updates for 10/14
As you can see, we have changed the blog to reflect both Mrs. Derry's class information as well as our class information. We have also worked very hard to provide you resources and the latest information on the pages...especially the Social Studies and Science pages. These are works in progress! When you check the blog, take a minute to scroll down through the last few posts. Often we post more than one in a week. Some of the information belongs to both classes as well!
Math: Fortson math class has continued with division practice. We have worked on the standard algorithm with one digit divisors into 2, 3 and 4 digit dividends. We have connected the inverse operation of multiplication with the process of division. We also learned another strategy- the place value block strategy. While this might seem tedious for those of us who learned math the "old" way, this really allows students to understand the importance of place value and what is happening in division, not just memorize an algorithm. I will try to update the math page this weekend with some helpful videos and information.
Reading: We started over with our reading challenge for 2nd nine weeks. Students are required to read at least one chapter book every nine weeks and submit a comprehension activity sheet. Status of the Class n Friday.
ELA/Writing: We have begun our opinion writing unit. Students will critique another student's writing and will get feedback on their own writing. We are developing a use graphic organizer to help students organize their thoughts.
Science: DERRY and FORTSON-We continued with our Ecosystem unit. The plan is to assess this unit next Friday. Students will receive a study guide next week. They received a packet that we worked on in class and that they will need to finish and turn in completed no later than Wednesday of next week.
Social Studies: See Mrs. Derry's SS update on the blog!
Math: Fortson math class has continued with division practice. We have worked on the standard algorithm with one digit divisors into 2, 3 and 4 digit dividends. We have connected the inverse operation of multiplication with the process of division. We also learned another strategy- the place value block strategy. While this might seem tedious for those of us who learned math the "old" way, this really allows students to understand the importance of place value and what is happening in division, not just memorize an algorithm. I will try to update the math page this weekend with some helpful videos and information.
Reading: We started over with our reading challenge for 2nd nine weeks. Students are required to read at least one chapter book every nine weeks and submit a comprehension activity sheet. Status of the Class n Friday.
ELA/Writing: We have begun our opinion writing unit. Students will critique another student's writing and will get feedback on their own writing. We are developing a use graphic organizer to help students organize their thoughts.
Science: DERRY and FORTSON-We continued with our Ecosystem unit. The plan is to assess this unit next Friday. Students will receive a study guide next week. They received a packet that we worked on in class and that they will need to finish and turn in completed no later than Wednesday of next week.
Social Studies: See Mrs. Derry's SS update on the blog!
Field Trip: Mrs. Maestri, Ms. Clauss, Mrs. Fortson, Mrs. Derry will be taking their students on a field trip to Fort Loudon and The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore, TN. Here the students will learn about how our area was involved in the French and Indian War as well as gain a deeper appreciation for accomplishments of the Cherokee people of East Tennessee. The date of the trip is Monday, November 23. The students will need to order a sack lunch from the cafeteria or bring one from home. We will leave at 8:00 and return to school by about 2:00. The admission fees will be 6.75 for students and 1.50 for chaperones. Please sign and return this slip by Friday, November 6.
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Derry Weekly Updates for October 14th
Hello Mrs. Derry's class. I am officially sharing the blog with Mrs. Fortson. Yay!!! I hope everyone had a relaxing Fall Break. I have updated the Social Studies page with your homework that is due Friday. Please also remember to turn in your timelines for the Pumpkin project. The next part of the pumpkin project "the Personality Web," is due Monday, October 19th. Thanks to all who sent in money or items for our basket. All I can say is "WoW!!!" It truly is amazing and should make a great silent auction item. Don't forget you can purchase Hoedown tickets before school. I am looking forward to seeing you all there.
Monday, October 5, 2015
Weekly Updates for week of October 5th
Conference Week! We are looking forward to meeting with all of our parents this week. If you are unable to make it or didn't schedule a time with me, please contact me and we will work out a time to meet together. This is a great opportunity for use to communicate about what is happening in class.
Here is what is happening this week:
Math: Please check your child's agenda for specific assignments this week. Fortson Math class will begin division understanding and practice this week. There will be several homework assignments.
Reading: Students needs to turn in their reading comprehension sheets by Friday to receive credit for books read. I am counting one of these as a quiz grade. This week we will start a new story and work on drawing conclusions.
ELA: This week we will focus on forming plural nouns spelling patterns as well as identifying common and proper nouns. We will have an assessment on Friday over this concept.
Writing: We are working on opinion piece writing.
Science: We will focus on types of consumers and will have a lab that helps us to understand the needs of animals.
Social Studies: This week we will work through early settlers and settlements.
Here is what is happening this week:
Math: Please check your child's agenda for specific assignments this week. Fortson Math class will begin division understanding and practice this week. There will be several homework assignments.
Reading: Students needs to turn in their reading comprehension sheets by Friday to receive credit for books read. I am counting one of these as a quiz grade. This week we will start a new story and work on drawing conclusions.
ELA: This week we will focus on forming plural nouns spelling patterns as well as identifying common and proper nouns. We will have an assessment on Friday over this concept.
Writing: We are working on opinion piece writing.
Science: We will focus on types of consumers and will have a lab that helps us to understand the needs of animals.
Social Studies: This week we will work through early settlers and settlements.
Thursday, October 1, 2015
Homework for October 1st
Happy 1st of October! Our school year is moving along quickly! Here is what is happening:
Math: Fortson Math class- No homework. We took an assessment today that we will finish tomorrow.
ELA/Reading: Don't forget that your child must finish one chapter book this nine weeks and complete a comprehension activity sheet. They should be reading each night if possible.
Science: Derry's class- Students need to finish the Reading comprehension worksheet over the plant experiment. This is due on Friday. I will not be meeting with Mrs. Derry's class tomorrow.
Fortson Class- no science today.
Social Studies: Mrs. Derry started the new unit today. There is no homework assigned. Please take a moment to visit the SS page. We have put some of the standards that we will be covering over the next weeks. We will be adding the remaining standards next week. As you will see, this is a large amount of content that we have to cover!
4th grade class t-shirts order forms were sent home today. We want every student to have a t-shirt and need to get these order as soon as possible. We want to have these for our field trips and other school related events. T-shirts are $6 each.
Conferences start next week. Please make sure that you have a time scheduled...I am looking forward to seeing all of my families.
Math: Fortson Math class- No homework. We took an assessment today that we will finish tomorrow.
ELA/Reading: Don't forget that your child must finish one chapter book this nine weeks and complete a comprehension activity sheet. They should be reading each night if possible.
Science: Derry's class- Students need to finish the Reading comprehension worksheet over the plant experiment. This is due on Friday. I will not be meeting with Mrs. Derry's class tomorrow.
Fortson Class- no science today.
Social Studies: Mrs. Derry started the new unit today. There is no homework assigned. Please take a moment to visit the SS page. We have put some of the standards that we will be covering over the next weeks. We will be adding the remaining standards next week. As you will see, this is a large amount of content that we have to cover!
4th grade class t-shirts order forms were sent home today. We want every student to have a t-shirt and need to get these order as soon as possible. We want to have these for our field trips and other school related events. T-shirts are $6 each.
Conferences start next week. Please make sure that you have a time scheduled...I am looking forward to seeing all of my families.
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Homework updates for September 30th
Here is what happened today:
Math: Fortson Math Class- Finish #6 and #7 only in our classwork packet. You have an unit assessment tomorrow! Please remember that this will spiral concepts we have already worked on including place value, subtraction and area/perimeter. Make sure you know how to multiply 2 digits x 1 digit, 3 digits x 1 digit and 4 digits x 1 digit. You will also have several problems that are 2 digits x 2 digits. You can use any of the strategies that we have practiced in class.
ELA/Reading: Finish reading your chapter book!
Science: Fortson class: Plant Experiment Reading Comprehension packet is due tomorrow. We had a good bit of time to work on this in class today and this is something that we read today together. Use complete sentences on the last three questions.
Derry Class: See you tomorrow! If you didn't turn in your ecosystem packet that was due on Tuesday, please make sure that you bring it completed!
Social Studies: We will start your new unit tomorrow! Check back for the updated SS page.
Friday is Coupon Celebration Day!
Math: Fortson Math Class- Finish #6 and #7 only in our classwork packet. You have an unit assessment tomorrow! Please remember that this will spiral concepts we have already worked on including place value, subtraction and area/perimeter. Make sure you know how to multiply 2 digits x 1 digit, 3 digits x 1 digit and 4 digits x 1 digit. You will also have several problems that are 2 digits x 2 digits. You can use any of the strategies that we have practiced in class.
ELA/Reading: Finish reading your chapter book!
Science: Fortson class: Plant Experiment Reading Comprehension packet is due tomorrow. We had a good bit of time to work on this in class today and this is something that we read today together. Use complete sentences on the last three questions.
Derry Class: See you tomorrow! If you didn't turn in your ecosystem packet that was due on Tuesday, please make sure that you bring it completed!
Social Studies: We will start your new unit tomorrow! Check back for the updated SS page.
Friday is Coupon Celebration Day!
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Homework Updates for September 29th
There are many things planned for our short week. Please note the following:
Picture day is tomorrow! Please make sure to send in picture order forms.
Coupon Book Celebration is Friday. We will enjoy a parade and water ballon throw at Dr. Poe (for those selling 4 or more books). Our class will enjoy the Game Truck on Friday afternoon. Your child has the option of dressing up as their favorite Inside Out Character. They do not have to have a costume..they can simply just dress in one color to represent their favorite character.
Math: Please check your child's agenda for specific assignments. Fortson Math Class was assigned a multiplication practice sheet for homework. This is due tomorrow.
ELA/Reading: Students should finish their chapter books by next Friday (this includes the comprehension activity sheet) to get credit on this nine weeks. All students must complete one book and activity sheet. This counts for a reading quiz grade.
Science: Fortson class met with me today. We continued to talk about ecosystems. The ecosystem homework packet from last week was due today. Don't forget the Fortson Freebie on the science page. I will meet with Fortson's class tomorrow and Derry's class on Thursday.
Social Studies: Students will be starting their new unit on Thursday. I will update the blog page for SS so that we have as many resources as we need.
Picture day is tomorrow! Please make sure to send in picture order forms.
Coupon Book Celebration is Friday. We will enjoy a parade and water ballon throw at Dr. Poe (for those selling 4 or more books). Our class will enjoy the Game Truck on Friday afternoon. Your child has the option of dressing up as their favorite Inside Out Character. They do not have to have a costume..they can simply just dress in one color to represent their favorite character.
Math: Please check your child's agenda for specific assignments. Fortson Math Class was assigned a multiplication practice sheet for homework. This is due tomorrow.
ELA/Reading: Students should finish their chapter books by next Friday (this includes the comprehension activity sheet) to get credit on this nine weeks. All students must complete one book and activity sheet. This counts for a reading quiz grade.
Science: Fortson class met with me today. We continued to talk about ecosystems. The ecosystem homework packet from last week was due today. Don't forget the Fortson Freebie on the science page. I will meet with Fortson's class tomorrow and Derry's class on Thursday.
Social Studies: Students will be starting their new unit on Thursday. I will update the blog page for SS so that we have as many resources as we need.
Friday, September 25, 2015
Week Updates for September 24-25th
Happy Friday! Here is what happened yesterday and some information about next week-a lot of info:
Math: Always check your child's agenda for daily homework assignments. Fortson Math Class- We will continue with 2 digit by 2 digit multiplication. We are working on using open arrays and distributive property as a strategy. We will begin working on the standard algorithim as a strategy as well. We will continue with multiplication through next week- so there will be a unit assessment later next week. Please check back on the math page. I will try to provide some resources to help with assignments (for those of us who didn't learn the open array strategy when we were in elementary school :) ) Also, don't forget that students have an spiral notebook that we use for note taking!
ELA/Reading: We will have STATUS OF THE CLASS on Friday. At this point, students should have completed at least one book. Most students have completed several, but have not turned in their comprehension sheets. This one book will count as a grade for this nine weeks. A great way to earn an easy grade!!
SS Weekly week 8- We used this for our reading this week. Most students finished the open note quiz with text evidence in class. If they needed more time, I encouraged them to take it home on Thursday night. It is due completed in class today.
Science: We started our new unit in both classes this week. Students received a Ecosystem packet that is due on Tuesday of next week. They are able to use their textbook if needed. They will have Friday and Tuesdayt morning during morning work time to work on this as well.
Social Studies: Fakebook pages are due on Friday. Students have had 3 weeks to complete this project. They also received class time in both Mrs. Derry's class as well as in our class (when they completed other work). There is a unit test today over explorers. This will be an open book test, so students need to have their textbook, interactive notebook and any SS Weekly newspapers to use.
Upcoming:
Math: Always check your child's agenda for daily homework assignments. Fortson Math Class- We will continue with 2 digit by 2 digit multiplication. We are working on using open arrays and distributive property as a strategy. We will begin working on the standard algorithim as a strategy as well. We will continue with multiplication through next week- so there will be a unit assessment later next week. Please check back on the math page. I will try to provide some resources to help with assignments (for those of us who didn't learn the open array strategy when we were in elementary school :) ) Also, don't forget that students have an spiral notebook that we use for note taking!
ELA/Reading: We will have STATUS OF THE CLASS on Friday. At this point, students should have completed at least one book. Most students have completed several, but have not turned in their comprehension sheets. This one book will count as a grade for this nine weeks. A great way to earn an easy grade!!
SS Weekly week 8- We used this for our reading this week. Most students finished the open note quiz with text evidence in class. If they needed more time, I encouraged them to take it home on Thursday night. It is due completed in class today.
Science: We started our new unit in both classes this week. Students received a Ecosystem packet that is due on Tuesday of next week. They are able to use their textbook if needed. They will have Friday and Tuesdayt morning during morning work time to work on this as well.
Social Studies: Fakebook pages are due on Friday. Students have had 3 weeks to complete this project. They also received class time in both Mrs. Derry's class as well as in our class (when they completed other work). There is a unit test today over explorers. This will be an open book test, so students need to have their textbook, interactive notebook and any SS Weekly newspapers to use.
Upcoming:
- Monday- NO SCHOOL! This is a student holiday...so enjoy your long weekend.
- Wednesday: School pictures- picture information went home to all students last Tuesday.
- Parent Conferences- if you haven't scheduled one with me, please do so as soon as possible. I like to have my students lead our conferences, so please bring your student with you!
- Last Day of the NINE weeks is October 9th. Please look for more information about what we need to do before this date.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Homework Updates for September 23rd
Here is what is happening today:
Math: Please check your child's agenda. Fortson math class was given a packet that we started in class. This packet is not due until Friday. There will be some class time to work on this tomorrow as well. I am putting together more information on the Math Page. Hopefully, this will be a resource that you can use. There are several links already on there, so check it out!
ELA/Reading: I am doing a reading check this week. If your child has not completed one chapter book, then I will be asking them to spend time in class doing so on Friday. Please check in with your child and make sure they are reading nightly. Once they finish a book, they will complete a comprehension sheet and you need to sign the log.
No other homework assigned tonight.
Science: Derry's class came to science today. We took some notes in our interactive notebook. There was no homework assigned tonight.
Social Studies: Fakebook pages are due on Friday. There is a test on Friday. There was a study guide given for students to study from this week.
Math: Please check your child's agenda. Fortson math class was given a packet that we started in class. This packet is not due until Friday. There will be some class time to work on this tomorrow as well. I am putting together more information on the Math Page. Hopefully, this will be a resource that you can use. There are several links already on there, so check it out!
ELA/Reading: I am doing a reading check this week. If your child has not completed one chapter book, then I will be asking them to spend time in class doing so on Friday. Please check in with your child and make sure they are reading nightly. Once they finish a book, they will complete a comprehension sheet and you need to sign the log.
No other homework assigned tonight.
Science: Derry's class came to science today. We took some notes in our interactive notebook. There was no homework assigned tonight.
Social Studies: Fakebook pages are due on Friday. There is a test on Friday. There was a study guide given for students to study from this week.
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
Homework Updates for September 22nd
Whew! Back to normal today! Here is what is happening:
Math: please check your child's agenda for math assignments. Fortson math class does not have any new homework assignments. You can check the math page to see what concepts we are working on.
ELA/Reading: We will not be starting a new unit this week. I have decided to work through SS Weekly to help reinforce our Social Studies standards as well as reading strategies. Students are working through an assignment in class. If they do not finish it by Thursday, then it is possible that it will become homework.
If your student has not finished a chapter book, I will be assigning Friday study hall to help him/her finish it before the end of the nine weeks. Most of the students have finish at least one and most are working toward our challenge (which is five books this nine weeks). I think it is reasonable to require students to finish at least one chapter book on their level in a nine week period. Thank you for your support!
Science: We have started our new unit, Interdependence (Ecosystem). I put some resources on the blog page for Science and you can also use the Science textbook. Students are taking notes in the interactive notebook and this should have all the required content.
Social Studies: They will be finishing explorers. Please note that the Fakebook pages are due on Friday. They also have a major unit test over this material. Please refer to the interactive notebook for content to study. The textbook is a great resource as well.
Tuesday folders went home today! Please check this folder for important information.
Math: please check your child's agenda for math assignments. Fortson math class does not have any new homework assignments. You can check the math page to see what concepts we are working on.
ELA/Reading: We will not be starting a new unit this week. I have decided to work through SS Weekly to help reinforce our Social Studies standards as well as reading strategies. Students are working through an assignment in class. If they do not finish it by Thursday, then it is possible that it will become homework.
If your student has not finished a chapter book, I will be assigning Friday study hall to help him/her finish it before the end of the nine weeks. Most of the students have finish at least one and most are working toward our challenge (which is five books this nine weeks). I think it is reasonable to require students to finish at least one chapter book on their level in a nine week period. Thank you for your support!
Science: We have started our new unit, Interdependence (Ecosystem). I put some resources on the blog page for Science and you can also use the Science textbook. Students are taking notes in the interactive notebook and this should have all the required content.
Social Studies: They will be finishing explorers. Please note that the Fakebook pages are due on Friday. They also have a major unit test over this material. Please refer to the interactive notebook for content to study. The textbook is a great resource as well.
Tuesday folders went home today! Please check this folder for important information.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Homework Updates for September 17th
Math: Please check your child's agenda for specific assignments. Fortson's math class has a worksheet that needs to be completed. They need to fill in the front and pick 5 of the problems to draw open arrays on the back of the sheet.
ELA/Reading: There is a spelling and vocabulary test tomorrow. Spelling contracts are due by tomorrow afternoon. Students have been working on these in class but might need to work on them more at home tonight.
Science: Mrs. Derry's class took the Cell assessment today. Fortson and Derry classes need to finish the cell lab sheets and turn them by tomorrow. Most students have already turned these in. They count as a quiz grade.
Social Studies: Our class did a reading comprehension assignment in class with the SS Weekly newspapers. They also watched a video on the explorers. They should continue to work on the project.
**Please note that I made a goof on the Fortson freebie this week! I put two pictures of Christopher Columbus on the document. The one for Ferdinand Magellan is not correct. I will try to get this corrected and uploaded by later tonight. So check back if you need this. **
ELA/Reading: There is a spelling and vocabulary test tomorrow. Spelling contracts are due by tomorrow afternoon. Students have been working on these in class but might need to work on them more at home tonight.
Science: Mrs. Derry's class took the Cell assessment today. Fortson and Derry classes need to finish the cell lab sheets and turn them by tomorrow. Most students have already turned these in. They count as a quiz grade.
Social Studies: Our class did a reading comprehension assignment in class with the SS Weekly newspapers. They also watched a video on the explorers. They should continue to work on the project.
**Please note that I made a goof on the Fortson freebie this week! I put two pictures of Christopher Columbus on the document. The one for Ferdinand Magellan is not correct. I will try to get this corrected and uploaded by later tonight. So check back if you need this. **
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Homework Updates for September 16th
Math: Please check your child's agenda for specific assignments.
ELA/Reading: Spelling contract went home today. Students must earn a total of 20 points to receive full credit. We will have some class time tomorrow and Friday for students to work on this. However, our time will be limited. This is a homework assignment. We will have a vocabulary/spelling test on Friday.
Science: DERRY science day today! We had a great cell lab with 5 stations. Students should make sure that their completed lab sheet is turned in on Friday...this also goes for FORTSON kids who did the lab on Monday. Labs count as 30%, so these labs are important!
**DERRY students have a cell test tomorrow! Please make sure to bring your completed study guide to class for us to check and for you to turn in. I am taking this for a grade!**
Social Studies: Please note that Mrs. Derry has given a due date for the Explorers project. Some of you have been able to use the Fortson freebie from this weekend. I hope that it was helpful to you. Please let me know if I can support this in any way.
Progress reports went home today. Please sign and return the entire folder with report to school. This will be the means by which you will receive reports each nine weeks.
ELA/Reading: Spelling contract went home today. Students must earn a total of 20 points to receive full credit. We will have some class time tomorrow and Friday for students to work on this. However, our time will be limited. This is a homework assignment. We will have a vocabulary/spelling test on Friday.
Science: DERRY science day today! We had a great cell lab with 5 stations. Students should make sure that their completed lab sheet is turned in on Friday...this also goes for FORTSON kids who did the lab on Monday. Labs count as 30%, so these labs are important!
**DERRY students have a cell test tomorrow! Please make sure to bring your completed study guide to class for us to check and for you to turn in. I am taking this for a grade!**
Social Studies: Please note that Mrs. Derry has given a due date for the Explorers project. Some of you have been able to use the Fortson freebie from this weekend. I hope that it was helpful to you. Please let me know if I can support this in any way.
Progress reports went home today. Please sign and return the entire folder with report to school. This will be the means by which you will receive reports each nine weeks.
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Homework updates for September 15th
Happy Tuesday!
A few reminders first:
-Tuesday folders went home today. Please take a minute to look through your child's graded papers as well as important information that was sent home from HVES.
-Hoe Down Basket information is coming from our room mom, Lynn Schneider. We would love to have an AWESOME basket! Thank you in advance for your help.
-Conferences are approaching and I would love to meet with all of my students and parents. I have some available time slots, so if you haven't signed up, please contact me ASAP.
Math: Please check your child's agenda. Fortson math class has a practice worksheet that was started in class today due tomorrow. Please practice math facts daily! Congratulations to Ellie and Maddox for being the first to 30!
ELA/Reading: None assigned today. Students should be studying their spelling words daily. There will be an assessment on Friday. Students should also be reading every day.
Science: We took a science test today. No homework assigned.
Social Studies: Students should be working on their project. Please note that the test will NOT be this week.
A few reminders first:
-Tuesday folders went home today. Please take a minute to look through your child's graded papers as well as important information that was sent home from HVES.
-Hoe Down Basket information is coming from our room mom, Lynn Schneider. We would love to have an AWESOME basket! Thank you in advance for your help.
-Conferences are approaching and I would love to meet with all of my students and parents. I have some available time slots, so if you haven't signed up, please contact me ASAP.
Math: Please check your child's agenda. Fortson math class has a practice worksheet that was started in class today due tomorrow. Please practice math facts daily! Congratulations to Ellie and Maddox for being the first to 30!
ELA/Reading: None assigned today. Students should be studying their spelling words daily. There will be an assessment on Friday. Students should also be reading every day.
Science: We took a science test today. No homework assigned.
Social Studies: Students should be working on their project. Please note that the test will NOT be this week.
Monday, September 14, 2015
explorer project clipart
I have had several students who need some help with clipart. So, I created a Word document that you can adjust (please adjust before printing as the sizes have not been measured for the project) and then print out either at school or at home. Hope that this helps! Please visit the Social Studies page for this download.
Weekly Updates for September 14th
Here is what is happening today and this week!
Math: please check your child's agenda for specific math assignments. Fortson math class received 4 extension problems to do for homework, due tomorrow. Students should practice math facts daily.
ELA/Reading: This week, we are starting a new story: Letters Home from Yosemite. We will continue with realistic/narrative fiction writing as well as analytical writing using text evidence. We will compare and contrast two female characters and support our analyzing with text evidence.
A new set of vocabulary words and spelling words for the week was included in the class email. You will receive a paper copy of these tomorrow in the Tuesday folder.
Science: We will continue with cells this week. There is a science test tomorrow. Students will turn in the study guide to me tomorrow after review and before the test. The Cell Station lab will be due completed by Friday. Mrs. Derry's class will take the test on Thursday.
Social Studies: Mrs. Derry has decided to postpone the SS test that was scheduled for Friday. She wants to have more time to review and teach the material that students will be assessed on for this unit. Don't forget that the Fakebook pages are due next Friday, September 25th. You can visit the SS page for more information.
Progress reports will go home this week. Please remember that this is a picture of where your child is at this point in the nine weeks. There are 4 more weeks of improvement! Don't forget that redos are available and any missing work can be turned in for credit.
Math: please check your child's agenda for specific math assignments. Fortson math class received 4 extension problems to do for homework, due tomorrow. Students should practice math facts daily.
ELA/Reading: This week, we are starting a new story: Letters Home from Yosemite. We will continue with realistic/narrative fiction writing as well as analytical writing using text evidence. We will compare and contrast two female characters and support our analyzing with text evidence.
A new set of vocabulary words and spelling words for the week was included in the class email. You will receive a paper copy of these tomorrow in the Tuesday folder.
Science: We will continue with cells this week. There is a science test tomorrow. Students will turn in the study guide to me tomorrow after review and before the test. The Cell Station lab will be due completed by Friday. Mrs. Derry's class will take the test on Thursday.
Social Studies: Mrs. Derry has decided to postpone the SS test that was scheduled for Friday. She wants to have more time to review and teach the material that students will be assessed on for this unit. Don't forget that the Fakebook pages are due next Friday, September 25th. You can visit the SS page for more information.
Progress reports will go home this week. Please remember that this is a picture of where your child is at this point in the nine weeks. There are 4 more weeks of improvement! Don't forget that redos are available and any missing work can be turned in for credit.
Thursday, September 10, 2015
Homework updates for September 10th
Math: Please check your child's agenda. Fortson math class needs to finish the classwork packet that we started yesterday. There are only a few questions left for you to complete. Everyone should practice math facts!
ELA/Reading: Tomorrow we will have a reading assessment and an ELA assessment. Please look over your vocabulary words!
Science: I have uploaded a copy of the study guide (that students will actually complete!) to the Science page. Students will get this tomorrow in both Fortson and Derry's class. Fortson test is tentatively set for Tuesday 9/15 and Derry's class test is set for 9/17. Students may use their interactive notebook to answer all questions on the study guide. The test will be taken from this material only.
Social Studies: I have uploaded a copy of the Explorers Fakebook page that Mrs. Derry assigned today. Please visit the SS page for more information. I will upload a rubric when available. The due date is September 25th.
Please remember to sign the agenda tonight. I will check chapter books tomorrow-students need to have these at school. Don't forget coupon books and Harmony Hawks tryouts tomorrow afternoon.
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Homework Updates for September 9th
Here is what is happening today:
coupon sales are still going strong! WOOHOO to Fortson class! We are in the lead for fourth grade. Thank you for participating in this program to help our school.
Math: please check your child's agenda for math assignments. All students need to practice multiplication fluency.
ELA/Reading- Vocabulary and Spelling test on Friday over last three weeks. No new words this week. I need all students to show that they have completed at least one book by the end of next week. Regardless if your child is participating in the reading challenge, it is very important that every student be reading every day. We have been in school for a month, so most students (there are exceptions) should have finished at least one book. Remember that they need to complete a comprehension activity sheet for the book to be counted as completed.
Science- great resources are on the science page. Students will get a science study guide this week. Test next Tuesday.
Social Studies- we will go to SS on Thursday and Friday of this week.
*don't forget that all redos must be turned in by Friday for them to count on this progress report. I can accept them through the end of the nine weeks though.
coupon sales are still going strong! WOOHOO to Fortson class! We are in the lead for fourth grade. Thank you for participating in this program to help our school.
Math: please check your child's agenda for math assignments. All students need to practice multiplication fluency.
ELA/Reading- Vocabulary and Spelling test on Friday over last three weeks. No new words this week. I need all students to show that they have completed at least one book by the end of next week. Regardless if your child is participating in the reading challenge, it is very important that every student be reading every day. We have been in school for a month, so most students (there are exceptions) should have finished at least one book. Remember that they need to complete a comprehension activity sheet for the book to be counted as completed.
Science- great resources are on the science page. Students will get a science study guide this week. Test next Tuesday.
Social Studies- we will go to SS on Thursday and Friday of this week.
*don't forget that all redos must be turned in by Friday for them to count on this progress report. I can accept them through the end of the nine weeks though.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Homework Update for Sept 8th
Math: Please check your child's agenda for tonight's assignment. All students need to practice math facts! Check out the math page for some ideas of great apps to use!
Reading: students should be reading each night.
ELA: Friday assessment over last 3 weeks (words and spelling).
Science: Interactive notebook was updated today. Cell test next Tuesday 9/15.
Don't forget the coupon books! PTA meeting tonight!
Reading: students should be reading each night.
ELA: Friday assessment over last 3 weeks (words and spelling).
Science: Interactive notebook was updated today. Cell test next Tuesday 9/15.
Don't forget the coupon books! PTA meeting tonight!
Monday, September 7, 2015
Weekly Updates for September 8th
Woohoo! for a 4 day week! I hope that you and your family enjoyed your long weekend together. Here are a few things to note for this week:
ELA/Reading: We will start our new story: The Horned Toad Prince. Students have a story packet and we will be working on this in class. Students need to keep up with this and participate in class. It is an easy grade as we do this together. They need to remember to turn it in on Friday for full credit.
Vocabulary/Spelling patterns: This week, we will NOT have new vocabulary and spelling. Instead, I have decided to spiral our last three weeks. This Friday we will assess these words and spelling patterns. You can visit the ELA/Reading page on the right side of the page. There you will find each weekly list. (Just in case you need another copy!)
Writing: We are still working on the writing process, RUPR, UNRAVEL and how to cite text evidence. This is a very important skill. We are using theme related questions to work on this type of writing. Some students are also writing realistic fiction and others are practicing analytical writing using informational passages.
Math: Please review your child's agenda for math assignments. Fortson math class will begin a new topic this week: Multiplication. Our fourth graders really need good practice with multiplication facts. Please allow students to practice these online or with flash cards. This is a foundational skill and we need them to master to be successful in our next concepts.
Science: Please visit the Science page. I am in the process of uploading additional information. There are links and pictures that will help students study for our cell unit assessment. This week, we will continue to learn about plant and animal cells. Next week, we will have a lab day to investigate each type of cell. Please note that our class assessment is tentatively planned for September 15th. I will be giving them a study guide this week.
ELA/Reading: We will start our new story: The Horned Toad Prince. Students have a story packet and we will be working on this in class. Students need to keep up with this and participate in class. It is an easy grade as we do this together. They need to remember to turn it in on Friday for full credit.
Vocabulary/Spelling patterns: This week, we will NOT have new vocabulary and spelling. Instead, I have decided to spiral our last three weeks. This Friday we will assess these words and spelling patterns. You can visit the ELA/Reading page on the right side of the page. There you will find each weekly list. (Just in case you need another copy!)
Writing: We are still working on the writing process, RUPR, UNRAVEL and how to cite text evidence. This is a very important skill. We are using theme related questions to work on this type of writing. Some students are also writing realistic fiction and others are practicing analytical writing using informational passages.
Math: Please review your child's agenda for math assignments. Fortson math class will begin a new topic this week: Multiplication. Our fourth graders really need good practice with multiplication facts. Please allow students to practice these online or with flash cards. This is a foundational skill and we need them to master to be successful in our next concepts.
Science: Please visit the Science page. I am in the process of uploading additional information. There are links and pictures that will help students study for our cell unit assessment. This week, we will continue to learn about plant and animal cells. Next week, we will have a lab day to investigate each type of cell. Please note that our class assessment is tentatively planned for September 15th. I will be giving them a study guide this week.
Friday, September 4, 2015
Updates for September 4th
Happy Friday! What a great week. Today, we took the STAR assessment in Reading. We will be taking the Math STAR assessment next week. We also took a reading comprehension with writing component assessment today.
Don't forget that Monday is a holiday. On Tuesday night, PTA will have a general meeting at 6:15. If you would like to come earlier to meet the new fourth grade teacher, she will be in her room from 3:30-5:30. I know some of your students will now have her for math.
Enjoy this weekend!!
Don't forget that Monday is a holiday. On Tuesday night, PTA will have a general meeting at 6:15. If you would like to come earlier to meet the new fourth grade teacher, she will be in her room from 3:30-5:30. I know some of your students will now have her for math.
Enjoy this weekend!!
Thursday, September 3, 2015
Homework updates for Thursday, September 3rd
Math: Please check your child's agenda for specific math assignments. Fortson Math Class will be completing math worksheet 2-6 and 2-7. There is an assessment tomorrow over addition and subtraction of multi digit numbers. Word problems using addition and subtraction will be included.
ELA/Reading: Students need to finish the story packet for On the Banks of Plum Creek. They had one more section to finish from today's lesson. There were several students who left books in the lockers. I have tried (I hope successfully) to upload the part of the story they were to finish. If your child has her packet, then this should help!
Don't forget that we have a vocab and spelling test tomorrow!
Science: cell activity worksheets are due tomorrow.
Social Studies: Mrs. Derry said that they are studying explorers. They have information in their interactive notebook to help them study as they go along. Please look for a new assignment next week that will be more involved and require some at-home time. This assignment will be given to them next week.
Please sign the agenda tonight!
ELA/Reading: Students need to finish the story packet for On the Banks of Plum Creek. They had one more section to finish from today's lesson. There were several students who left books in the lockers. I have tried (I hope successfully) to upload the part of the story they were to finish. If your child has her packet, then this should help!
Don't forget that we have a vocab and spelling test tomorrow!
Science: cell activity worksheets are due tomorrow.
Social Studies: Mrs. Derry said that they are studying explorers. They have information in their interactive notebook to help them study as they go along. Please look for a new assignment next week that will be more involved and require some at-home time. This assignment will be given to them next week.
Please sign the agenda tonight!
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Homework Updates for Wednesday, September 2nd
Math: Please check your child's agenda each night for assignments. Fortson Math Class has an addition/subtraction worksheet that we started in class due tomorrow. We will have an assessment on Friday over addition and subtraction of large numbers.
ELA/Reading: Vocabulary and Spelling words will be assessed on Friday. Please remember that any vocab or spelling words could be included on any assessment. I have uploaded the lists from the previous weeks under the ELA/Reading page to the right.
Reading Challenge update: Please make sure to ask your child if he/she has completed an activity sheet for a finished book. You will need to initial the reading log (which I have and can give to him when he finishes a book) agreeing that you observed your child reading the listed book.
Science: We have just started our new unit on Cells. I have included a couple of great links under the science page and will continue to add to this page any great resources that I find. Once I give out the study guide, there will be a copy of that also for you to have.
Social Studies: no homework assigned. Students took an open book test today.
Harmony Hawks signups are Friday. Tryouts are next Friday (11th).
Coupon Books go home tomorrow!
No school next Monday.
ELA/Reading: Vocabulary and Spelling words will be assessed on Friday. Please remember that any vocab or spelling words could be included on any assessment. I have uploaded the lists from the previous weeks under the ELA/Reading page to the right.
Reading Challenge update: Please make sure to ask your child if he/she has completed an activity sheet for a finished book. You will need to initial the reading log (which I have and can give to him when he finishes a book) agreeing that you observed your child reading the listed book.
Science: We have just started our new unit on Cells. I have included a couple of great links under the science page and will continue to add to this page any great resources that I find. Once I give out the study guide, there will be a copy of that also for you to have.
Social Studies: no homework assigned. Students took an open book test today.
Harmony Hawks signups are Friday. Tryouts are next Friday (11th).
Coupon Books go home tomorrow!
No school next Monday.
Welcome!
I am excited to have you visit my blog and hope that you will find it useful. I will continue to post new information as it arrives. I have set up pages to the right of the screen and you will be able to click on a specific subject and see information regarding what we are doing in class. This is a new blog, so check back often!
I am excited to have you visit my blog and hope that you will find it useful. I will continue to post new information as it arrives. I have set up pages to the right of the screen and you will be able to click on a specific subject and see information regarding what we are doing in class. This is a new blog, so check back often!
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Place Value Extension Menu
Place Value Extension Menu Links:
*please note that these sites have been reviewed, but there are ads on each site. Please report any problems to Mrs. Fortson!largest US cities
largest US cities 2
TN colleges and universities
TN Colleges and Universities 2
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)