The past two weeks have been a blur. As I sit back and reflect, I realize that I could not have asked for a better start to the year. I feel like the students quickly got acclimated to their new responsibilities and routines. They are doing such a wonderful job switching classes and keeping up with their homework. If this is any indication for the rest of the year, we will be able to accomplish so much together.

   I appreciate all who came to Open House. Although it is a condensed version of our schedules and expectations, I hope it helped you see where we are headed for the year.  I am pleased to see all of the forms coming back. Our directory is done, the green emergency cards are making their way back to me, and all of the Sneak a Peek forms have been returned. This is so helpful!

     Here is a quick update on Language Arts and Social Studies. We have already finished our first novel The Kid in the Red Jacket. The students will be taking the AR test tomorrow and have a book response do on Friday. It can be found in their red novel folder. Starting this week we will begin focusing on informational text. We will also start guided reading groups as we study about hurricanes.

     The spelling schedule is written in their agendas if you need to check up on that. In English, we will be having a test on NOUNS Wednesday. We will move into verbs and subjects and predicates. They are getting excellent practice in mixed skills by completing their morning work packets. Our writing focus will continue to be on persuasive writing this 9 weeks. Be looking for a letter that will be coming home to you this week!!

  In Social Studies we spent some time learning the themes of Social Studies by creating their own societies. This will be an ongoing project as we continue through the 9 weeks. We have begun a study of the economy and they enjoyed doing an economic simulation called “Snakes and Donuts”. We will finish up the unit soon with an exciting guest speaker and a quiz by the end of the week. Map skills and the Civil War are next on our horizon!

     As always, please feel free to contact me via email or a note if you have any questions. Have a wonderful week and thanks for sharing your children with me!