Sunday, January 6, 2013

January 7th - 11th 2013!

I can't wait to see all my smiling faces tomorrow! I look forward to all the stories about the interesting things y'all have been up to over break.
We are back to normal this week :o) Here is the rundown...

Math
We are continuing with fractions and starting decimals this week. We will look at comparing fractions, plotting fractions on a number line, adding with like denominators, and the relationship between fractions and decimals. Thank you so so much to those of you who helped me prepare the activities for the kiddos this week. I appreciate your help more than you know!

Language Arts
In reading we are looking at traditional literature (folktalkes, fairytales, fables, and etc) and how characters in these genres interact and change through the story. We are going to continue to talk about theme as this is a tough topic for most kiddos to grasp!
In writing we are jumping back to personal narratives but this time students will write to specific prompt.We are also going to talk about tricks writers use to 'hook' their readers. This is one of my favorite lessons because it allows kiddos to get creative and solve a common problem- how to start a story!
Before we left for break, I reassessed the students spelling abilities like I promised at the beginning of the year. I have rearranged some word word groups based on their scores. Students will start their new groups this week!

Science
We are starting a new unit! We are going to look at soil, discuss what different types of soils are made of, and what types of soil are useful for different climates. We have a couple labs planned for this week - so it should be a lot of fun!

Texas History
When we left for break students were writing advertisements for the new colonies in Texas. This week the colonist are going to have a problem with the Mexican government. Soon we will reach the Texas Revolution! Yay!

Fourth Grade 411
-I will be out Thursday afternoon for a math training. The math TEKS have changed, so I Mr. Gubb and I will learn about the changes!
-Science Fair is RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER! If you feel unsure, have any questions, or would just like an extra pair of eyes; I will be here after school on Tuesday and Wednesday to answer any questions you may have. I will make myself available until four on those days.