Endings and Beginings
Ch. 9 Test Monday- Students will take their Ch. 9 test on Monday. We have reviewed the study guide in class and all vocabulary can be found under the link "Student Resources." This will be our last textbook based assessment.
Number the Stars- A friendly reminder that on Tuesday students will be reading the historical fiction, Number the Stars, in class. Students may either, purchase a copy for classroom use, read along with the display on the board, or bring a device with a pdf or digital copy. Kindle has a free 30 day copy and you can also find a free pdf of this book online. I will post the link to the pdf on Monday. Please be mindful that we will keep to the academic calendar and pacing, even if there are parties, lockdowns, and whatever end of the year events occur. This means, sometimes your kiddo may need to read a chapter at home. Below is a link to the academic calendar for your reference. I will update our class website with new resources for Number the Stars on Monday, after our assessment.
Sense of Urgency: So, you know how some educators may get a case of the "Mays?" Maybe they do a few more videos than normal or let the kids transition more slowly than before. My case of the "Mays" is a on the other end of the spectrum. This week, I began the "Urgency Countdown.” Although there are 25 more school days left, between me being out for DI Globals, STAAR testing and lockdowns, I only have 19 more instructional days left with your kiddo! I'm on the hustle! For example, you may have noticed your kiddo had several pieces of homework this week. Moving forward, any unfinished classwork will be assigned for homework. We don't have any extra class time to catch up. Another example was our crazy class "to do list" today which included 5 academic activities and 5 logistical tasks (passing out papers, checking work, etc). The 4th graders have really been stepping up to the challenge (we got 9 out of 10 items done today). If your child is getting "stressed out" by my sense of urgency, please contact me. So far they have risen to these expectations and seem to thrive on the fast pace, but as always, your child's well being and happiness is my first priority. I can soften the pace, if needed. Just reach out :)
Sunblock: Please feel free to send your child to school with sunblock in their backpack. I am not allowed to share my sunblock or put sunblock on them, but students are allowed to keep sunblock in their backpacks and apply themselves. We will continue to go outside for recess and instructional activities, and I want to make sure students are comfortable and protected. It is getting hot out there!
As always, thank you for your home support. Travis parents are truly the best!
Sincerely,
Ms. Chapel