6/12
This week we are finishing chapter 9, decimals. Please continue to review the chapter vocabulary with us.
GO Math pages
Tuesday 510-514
Wednesday 531-532
Thursday 537-538
Friday (No school)
Tuesday the 19th will be our final Book Club meeting. Please confirm that your child is finishing their book this week and preparing for their final meeting focus. I will send out culminating activities shortly.
We have been learning our cursive letters in class. Please encourage your child to begin writing in cursive at home. I spoke to them about muscle memory, and that they will get better with continued practice.
Letters practiced so far (only lower case):
a, c, d, e, i, l, p, and t
6/5
Tomorrow we are heading to Citi Field! We are excited to see Mr. G and have an interactive weather experience. Again, I have one available ticket for tomorrow. Please let me know if you are able to join!!
Your child should come with a packed lunch in a clear bag as well as a factory sealed water bottle. We will return at 3:30. I will send an email if there is any discrepancy with time.
This morning we had our fourth Book Club meeting. Our conversations were deep and insightful. Thank you for checking that we are prepared each week.
Friday we are heading to the Linden Boulevard Multiplex to see Show Dogs. Your child should come with a lunch and layers for the theater. Please send in the trip slip and money for the ticket when you get a chance.
Today we began our final PBL unit on Immigration. Feel free to ask us why people began immigrating to the United States in the 1800s!
Next week, we are heading to Forest Park for our field day. We will take a bus and are looking for chaperones. This is our final trip of the year and is free!
In math we are working through decimals in chapter 9. Please help us by reviewing the vocabulary for this chapter in our GO Math books.
Tuesday 523-524
Wednesday 521-522
Thursday No School
Friday 515-517
5/29
This week we are having our class Writing Celebration on Thursday. By tomorrow, our Narrative Pieces must be typed so we can do final revisions and be ready to share.
Friday we will head to the Catskills to meet our pen pals. Last week we sent out the information sheet for the day. Please be reminded to pack breakfast and lunch, to wear layers, and to wear closed toe shoes. We depart at 6:30 am, so please be here at 6:15 am. The arrival time, pending traffic, should be 7:30pm at PS 376. Like last time, I will send out an email when we are about 45 minutes away.
This week we are diving into decimals in math. Please help your child by practicing the vocabulary within chapter 9 of their GO Math book.
GO Math Homework
Tuesday 499-500
Wednesday 505-506
Thursday 511-512
Friday 509-510
Today we took the practical part of the NYS Science Assessment. We will take the written exam next week, so please review your child's packet for accuracy and completion.
Today was one of the best book clubs we have had this year, the conversation was robust and it was truly impressive. Please review your child's notes for next week's meeting on Monday night.
Looking ahead, Wednesday the 6th we will head to Weather Day at Citi Field. Please send your child with lunch in a clear bag and a factory sealed water bottle. They are not able to bring other bottles due to the field's rules.
Friday the 8th, we are heading to the Linden Multiplex to see Snow Dogs. I am looking for chaperones for this day. We have one other trip after this, so if you have been unable to join us earlier in the year you will have the first opportunity to claim a day!
The last book report of the school year is due on Thursday! Please ensure this is completed promptly.
5/22
This evening we are drafting our Realistic Fiction writing piece. As small groups, we collaboratively developed a plot line and described our characters and setting. Today, we began taking this off the map and into our own draft paper. This draft is due in the morning.
This week I sent home the permission slip, and detailed itinerary, for the June 1 trip to the Catskills. Please be sure to send that slip back as soon as possible. This is a free trip, but please send your child with snacks and lunch. Your child should also wear layers as it can typically be colder in the higher altitudes.
I sent out confirmation emails today for the trip to Citi Field for Weather Day. I had a lot of interest and invited families who have not yet joined us on a trip. We have a few more field trips and want to encourage your attendance at those trips as well.
Tomorrow, I will send home the permission slip for the Citi Field trip. Please send in that slip and the ticket price as soon as possible. If there is a financial burden, please let me know as there are scholarships available.
This evening your child needs to read chapter 12 of The Hope Chest and complete the summary notes and summary in their purple. book.
Wednesday: Read Chapter 13 and complete summary notes and summary.
Thursday: Read Chapter 14 and complete summary notes and summary.
Friday: Read Chapter 15 and complete summary notes and summary.
This week we will finish chapter 12 in Go Math and begin chapter 9. We will begin relating decimals to fractions!
Go Math
Tuesday 695-696
Wednesday 701-702
Thursday 499-500
Friday 505-506
5/15
This week we are developing characters and problems for our Realistic Writing. We are working in small groups to plan problems and develop dynamic characters.
In mathematics we are completing chapter 12 in GO Math.
Tuesday: 669-670
Wednesday: 677-678
Thursday: 683-684
Friday: 689-690
We are continuing to dive deep into The Hope Chest and are writing an essay this week regarding the character Myrtle and Jim Crow Laws. Please ask us what these are!
Today we had our first Book Club meeting. We meet once a week to discuss a focus that our selected book group chose. Each week we should come prepared with a Thinking Map which appropriately responds to the focus so we can talk off it during the discussion. Each student's participation ensures a quality meeting. Our next meeting is May 22.
As a reminder, PS 376 is a uniform school. Please send your child in a uniform each day. Our classroom is cool because of the AC, so having a sweater in the classroom is appropriate.
There are 6 weeks left of school, please remind your child that summer vacation begins at the end of June and school behavior is still necessary.
5/8
We had a remarkable trip to the South Street Seaport to meet our pen pals on Friday. Thank you for sending us with appropriate clothing and a packed lunch. We look forward to seeing them again at the beginning of June. I will send out those permission slips later this month.
Yesterday, Ms. Salchli sent a permission slip home regarding walking to and from our PS 376 garden. Please send those in by tomorrow as we are going to be helping her plant an apple tree. This being said, please send your child with sneakers tomorrow as we will be outside for part of the day.
We are continuing to practice for the NYS Science Exam which is at the beginning of June. The homework schedule was sent out last week and is posted in the Announcements section of my website. Your child should be completing these diligently each evening and using complete sentences where appropriate.
Today we are having a book viewing as we are going to have the opportunity to select our own books for the final round of Literature Circles. The aim of this culminating round is student led discourse. You will see your child come home with a packet where they, with their peers in their Book Club, will select a focus for each section of chapters. There is space to plan thinking ahead of time to prepare for discussion. Ultimately, real reading occurs when there is actual authentic talk between peers about the text.
READY Math pages
Tuesday 266-267
Wednesday 268-269
Thursday 270-271
Friday 272-273
In PBL and Reading we are researching all about the Women's Suffrage Movement. Your child has a document on Google Classroom which should have all of their research for five Suffragettes. They will take this information and begin to develop and iMovie.
Additionally, we are reading The Hope Chest. This historical fiction text gives us a look into the time period and the pressures that women and girls had.
The Hope Chest Homework
Tuesday
Read chapters 4 and 5 in The Hope Chest.
Read the Reader's Guide that includes the Historical Background, Glossary, and Fill in the Summary Notes from the Readers Guide for Chapter 4 and 5.
It will be very helpful. Chapter 5 has a lot of terms you haven't heard about so make sure you read the glossary so you have an idea of what the words mean.
Wednesday Read chapter 6 in The Hope Chest.
Read the Reader's Guide that includes the Historical Background, Glossary, and fill in the Summary Notes from the Reader’s Guide for Chapter 6. page 50-51 in your purple book.
Thursday
Read chapter 6 in The Hope Chest.
Read the Reader's Guide that includes the Historical Background, Glossary, and fill in the Summary Notes from the Readers Guide for Chapter 6. page 50-51 in your purple book.
Friday
Read chapter 8 of The Hope Chest and complete steps 1 and 2 on your Essay Prompt/Planner on page 58 in the purple book. Bring home post-its. Make sure you number the page number and paragraph number on the post-it note!
page number
paragraph number
Myrtle was ______
Fill in the summary notes for Chapter 8 on pages 60-61.
5/1
As of now, we have all completed day 1 of the NYS Math Exam! Thank you for making sure we got to school early with full bellies. Please ensure we get a restful sleep tonight and have a calm morning so we can continue to shine tomorrow.
Our book reports were due today, confirm with your child that they have handed it in. Only one more for this school year!
On Friday, we will head to the South Street Seaport to meet our pen pals from the Catskills. We will return by 3:30pm to PS 376. If there is a delay, I will send out an email. Please be sure your child is wearing appropriate clothing and shoes, and that they pack a lunch.
We had a lot of interest in chaperone's for the trip to see Mr. G on June 6. I will send out confirmation emails soon as we only have tickets for 2 chaperones.
In June, your child will take their final State Test of the year in science. This week I will send home a practice packet that will require your child to complete a few questions a night, so we may review in class. This being said, the packet must go between home and school each evening! Below is that schedule:
May 3
Pages 1- 3
May 4
Pages 4 - 6
May 7
Pages 7 - 9
May 8
Pages 10 - 12
May 9
Pages 13 - 15
May 10
Pages 16 - 18
May 11
Pages 19 - 21
May 14
Pages 22 - 24
May 15
Pages 25 - 27
May 16
Pages 28 - 30
May 17
Pages 31 - 33
May 18
Pages 34 - 36
May 21
Pages 37 - 39
May 22
Pages 40 - 42
May 23
Pages 43 - 45
May 24
STEAM Expo
Pages 46 - 48
May 25
STEAM Expo
Pages 49 - 51
May 28
No School
May 29 - Science Practical Exam
Pages 52 - 54
May 30 - Science Practical Exam
Pages 55 - 57
May 31 - Science Practical Exam
Pages 58 - 60
June 1 - Science Practical Exam
Pages 61 - 62
June 4 -
Science Written Exam!!!
Please keep in mind, your child will only do the Practical Exam on ONE of these days. There are multiple days in order to accommodate all of the fourth graders.
4/17
We completed the New York State ELA Tests! Thank you for your encouraging notes, they really helped us to persevere through on Wednesday and Thursday. Please feel free to begin sending in sealed Encouraging Notes for the math test on May 1 and 2.
Your child has a Physical Education essay which is due this week. On Friday, they were each given the prompt.
Please keep an eye out for information regarding spring field trips!
This week we are revising, editing, and publishing our Hattie and Aunt Nell essays. These are due on Friday. Your child can begin publishing on Google Classroom.
Additionally, your child should be publishing their Investigative News Stories on Google Classroom. Next week we will begin publishing these into Podcasts!
In math we are continuing to complete geometry in chapter 10. Quiz your child on the vocabulary for this chapter, as it makes the different between surviving and thriving for this chapter.
Go Math Pages:
Tuesday 579-580 and 585-586
Wednesday 591- 592 and 593-594
Thursday 595-598
Friday's Socratic Seminar will debate the question: Which branch of government is most important?
Your child should prepare for each branch, as their role will be decided on Friday.
The last set of chapters for Tale of Despereaux is due on Thursday! The culminating project will be due on Tuesday. Below is the assignment, choices, and check in deadlines.
You choose ONE of the following projects as an end of novel project. You may pick who to work with, be sure to choose someone who you can depend on to share the work equally.
Task due Tuesday, April 24th.
Check-in Dates
Thursday, April 19…………………………….….…..Project choice due to Ms. Webster
Friday, April 20………….First Draft/Sketch/etc to be reviewed by Ms. Webster
Monday, April 23………………..…………………………………..Final revisions and edits
Tuesday, April 24……………………………...…….……………………..Final Presentations
4/10
Tomorrow is the first day of the New York State ELA Test. Please have your child get a full night of sleep tonight and eat a healthy and hearty breakfast in the morning. Your child has all of the skills and strategies to truly master this exam and they get to show it off tomorrow!
Please arrive by 7:45 am to ensure a smooth morning for your child on Wednesday and Thursday.
Please take a look at our class calendar for Friday's Socratic Seminar. It was changed because of scheduling conflicts. Your child should come to school prepared to be a pilot.
Which amendment, in the Bill of Rights, is most valued by citizens?
Resources:
https://newsela-media.s3.amazonaws.com/pdfs/primary-source-billofrights-18277-article_only.pdf?AWSAccessKeyId=AKIAIOXSRXVQ3RGAX2FA&Expires=1523393049&Signature=l5JRJ3P5mPO3ciPIYh7AJ8RRH%2Bk%3D
blob:https://www.readworks.org/bc2bac05-f155-6041-bdaf-466de6bb0c0e
https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/articles/teaching-content/explaining-bill-rights/
https://www.brainpop.com/socialstudies/usgovernment/billofrights/
We have begun chapter 10, geometry! Encourage your child to cut out chapter 10 vocabulary in their GO Math book to study as this is a very language dense unit.
Go Math Homework:
Tuesday 565-566
Wednesday 551- 552
Thursday 561- 562
Friday 563-564
3/27
Tomorrow we will take our chapter 6 math assessment. Please review tonight's homework and practice finding the answer with 2 strategies. We have been using benchmark fractions and finding common denominators to compare fractions.
Go Math Homework
Tuesday: 375-376
Wednesday: 377-379
Thursday: 380-382
This week we are writing an essay a day to prepare for the New York State ELA exam. I am grading them and returning within 24 hours. If your child earns 0-2 they need to rewrite the essay to make corrections the next day.
Your child should continue reading Tale of Despereaux. The next set of chapters are due on Thursday with their completed roles.
Chapters 24-28
How did Miggery Sow get her name?
2. What two tragedies did Miggery experience in her young life?
3.What rules did Miggery have to follow in her new life?
4. How did Miggery lose her hearing?
5. What happened on Mig’s 7th birthday?
6. What was Mig’s wish?
What wish came true for Miggery?
What did the soldier suggest to be eaten instead of soup?
How did Miggery end up going to the castle?
*No Essential Questions this week, create your own!
Due Tuesday, April 10
Chapters 29-33
What was Miggery’s first task as servant, and why?
What jobs did Louise try to find for Miggery?
What happened when Miggery was sent to the cook?
Why was Miggery oblivious to the horrors of the dungeon?
What warning did Gregory have for Miggery?
What connection did Roscuro have with Miggery Sow? What is your prediction for his plan, and what made the napkin move on the tray?
*No Essential Questions this week, create your own!
If you can help, we are low, or have none, of the following:
hand soap
composition notebooks
pencils
highlighters
Today I sent home the Spring Break Packet. This and their March book report are due on April 9 when we return.
Enjoy your break, please read every day!
3/20
Thank you all for joining me during Parent Teacher Conferences last week. I think it speaks volumes about a community when there is 100% attendance for conferences.
This week in math we are continuing use of equivalent fractions. Please ask your child about the Identity Property.
GO Math HW:
Tuesday 355-356
Wednesday 363-364
Thursday 369-370
Please check to see that your child has completed typing their "Double Dutch" and "It's Our World, Too" essay. This was due on Monday.
On Friday, we had Robert Smith from NPR join us. It was wonderful being able to hear from a professional about the process and motivation of journalists. Your child should have written a thank you note on Google Classroom informing him of something they learned, something that surprised them, and something they are still wondering.
You child should be preparing for Friday's Socratic Seminar with the link below:
In your opinion, which Suffragette was the biggest trailblazer?
https://newsela.com/text-sets/315316?utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=web
We are continue our Literature Circles this week with chapters 13-17 of Tale of Despereaux, which are due Thursday. Additionally, chapters 18-23 are due Monday the 19th.
13-17
1. What hurt Despereaux even more than not saying goodbye to the Princess?
2. What did Despereaux think about to get him through the tough times in the darkness?
3. Who is Gregory? What is similar but different about them?
4. Why would Gregory say he would save Despereaux when he has never saved any other mice?
5. What does Chiaroscuro mean and how was he similar to Despereaux?
6. What is the difference between darkness and the light according to the mice and rats?
*No Essential Questions this section, create your own! (Consider character trait questions.)
18-23
1. Why was the red cloth so precious to the prisoner?
2. Describe what Roscuro saw when he came into the light of the castle.
3. How did Roscuro feel when he was called a Rat?
4. Describe the most important thing to the Queen, besides her family.
5. What happened when Roscuro looked back at the Princess?
6. What did Roscuro promise as he departed the hall?
7. What orders were send out in the kingdom of Dor after the death of the Queen?
*No Essential Questions this week, create your own! (Consider character feeling questions.)
Please return signed report cards ASAP!
A reminder that the ELA assessment is right after we return from Spring Break. April 11-12!!
The math dates are May 1-2.
3/18
Use the link below to get to newsela.com for access to useful articles for this week's Socratic Seminar.
In your opinion, which Suffragette was the biggest trailblazer?
https://newsela.com/text-sets/315316?utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=web
3/15
Math HW page update:
Thursday 335-336
Friday 343-344
3/13
Yesterday and today I sent home appointment confirmation slips. If you did not receive one from your child please let me know so I can get you an appointment for Thursday's Parent Teacher Conferences.
Thursday will be a half day for students, they will dismiss at 11:20.
Today, in writing, I collected your children's 3 maps that they have created in planning for their current Response to Literature. They will begin drafting tomorrow and that draft will be due Thursday.
In math this week, we began chapter 6, equivalent fractions. Thus far, we have been using models to show equivalence. Use of double number lines or bar models have been most efficient in our room.
Go Math HW
Tuesday: 329-330
Wednesday: 337-338
Thursday: 343-344
Friday: 349-350
You may have noticed Tale of Despereaux has been coming home. We are beginning another round of Literature Circles. This text is a wonderful example of the wide range of emotions we can feel from misery to love. If you can, read alongside your child each week to discuss the questions and have your own Book Club. This way your child will be even more prepared for their Literature Circles.
On Thursday, chapters 1-6 will be due and Monday, March 19 chapter 7-12 will be due. Your child has the packet with the questions, their roles, and future due dates.
Friday, March 16 the culminating activity for I Survived: True Stories will be due. Your child can choose between one of the following tasks:
Friday we will be having a journalist visit our classroom from NPR! Please be prepared with questions for him as he has his own Podcast on NPR and is an expert in the field.
Investigative News Stories should be drafted by Friday!
3/9
Pre Reading Questions for Tale of Despereaux. Use an appropriate map to record thinking.
3/8 The culminating activity for I Survived: True Stories will be your choice. This will be due Friday, March 16.
Select an option below which will best show your understanding of the text.
3/5
I Survived: True Stories
Monday: I Survived: True Stories Whirlwinds and Twisters and respond to the following:Which two sentences prove that Henryville Elementary took precautionary measures when it came to Tornados?
Tuesday:
I Survived: True Stories Devastating Hit and respond to the following:What was the mood that the author wanted you to feel during this section? Identify two details to support this mood.
2/27
In math this week we are beginning chapter 8, multiplying fractions. Today we practiced modeling this idea with repeated addition of a fraction. The language I use in the classroom to support this concept would like look this: 8 x 1/10= 8/10 is eight groups of one tenth is eight tenths.
Go Math Pages:
Tuesday 459-460
Wednesday 465-466
Thursday 473-474
Friday 479-480
This week in writing we are finishing our first Response to Literature essay. Today we typed our essays and will move through the editing process tomorrow. If your child was absent today, please have them log into Google Classroom and type their essay. Thursday we will make the edits digitally, and Friday we will celebrate, within our classroom, this accomplishment.
Please ask to see your child's reading log daily to ensure your child is reading 45+ minutes a day.
Additionally, on Friday, we will articulate our February Mock ELA scores.
I Survived: True Stories Reading Responses
Tuesday
pages 96-103 "Earthquake Warnings"
Why were the leaders of Kamaishi’s schools especially worried about the tsunamis? How did they prepare their students for the tsunamis? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.
Wednesday
pages 103-106 "A Black Raging River"
How do the nonfiction text features contribute to the understanding of the destruction of this tsunami? Use 2 details from the text to support your thinking.
Thursday
pages 106-115 "Finding Hope" and "The Tsunami Files"
What caused the damage to the Fukishima Daiichi power plant? Identify 2 details to support your response.
Friday
pages 121-124 Introduction and "An Ordinary Day"
What causes the 'extra ordinary' superstorms? Use 2 details from the text to support your answer.
Please encourage your child to prepare for our Socratic Seminars each week. The questions are posted on their monthly calendar. With preparation from your child we can have deep and rigorous discussion within the classroom. On Google Classroom, I post additional texts which may support an opinion for the discussion. Your child can do additional research and, if provided enough time, I can make copies to distribute their research to the class.
Ask your child their reading, writing, or math goal! We know goals are attainable when we constantly remind ourselves of them with the right mindset. :)
2/13
Yesterday and today we have been completing our final ELA Mock exam. Please review your child's assessment log on Thursday to review their scores. Our goal is growth from September, and with the right mindset, a lot of us are achieving that goal.
This week we are reading a excerpt from "Sheep" as we look at character change from beginning to end. This will become our Response to Literature writing piece for February. This essay is due February 28.
This week we have begun drafting our Investigative News Stories. On Friday, we reviewed the pivotal aspects of our articles to ensure we did not have any missing parts.
For example:
The issue: the damage that spraying appears to do
Who’s affected: villagers, company, government
The technical background: the harmfulness and non-approved status of the chemical; the regulations
The villains: authorities who don’t respond or fail to issue warnings
The motives: the relationship of the company to district and national authorities
The end: where this leaves us or what might happen next.
Please read your child's draft to check they have these five sections.
In math, we are continuing chapter 7, adding and subtracting fractions. Your child can use strategies such as the number line, bar model, like with like, or decomposing to complete each problem. In order to check their work, your child should show their work 2 ways for each problem.
Thursday, your children will participate in a Socratic Seminar. The guided question will be: Do you think the artifacts from the Titanic should be salvaged, or left alone?
They will use their I Survived book, articles from READY, articles that I posted on Google Classroom, and any other appropriate articles they research to participate in this discussion.
Scholastic book orders are due Thursday, if you're interested. NHM7F is our class online code.
Please be reminded that school will be closed from February 16-25. Your child will receive their Mid Winter Break packet this week. It will be due upon their return on February 26. Encourage your child to complete their book report for February during this time.
We had a visit from Omegaman yesterday! Ask your child what is a 'Dream Maker' versus a 'Dream Breaker' and how it can help them through the rest of the school year, on their sports team, etc.
2/9
Each Friday we complete data articulation and reflect on the prior week's assessments. Thank you for continuing the practice of reviewing this information in your child's homework folder and signing. Each Monday it is checked to maintain communication between home and school regarding your child's progress.
Please be sure your child is reading 40 minutes each evening and recording it in their Reading Log. This document is also checked on Mondays.
This weekend's "I Survived" homework includes finishing book 2 "The Titanic Disaster" and responding to the following question using a RACE response:
How was Jack saved? Who did he find when he was saved?
Begin to prepare for our next Socratic(2/15): Should the Titanic's artifacts be salvaged, or left alone? (additional texts on Google Classroom)
1/30
As of this week, we have begun chapter 7 in math, fractions! Please help your child by encouraging them to use part-whole models.
Go Math Pages:
Tuesday 401-402
Wednesday 399-402
Thursday 407-408
Friday 405-406
Our Argumentative Essay is winding down as we come to the close of the month. At this point, we are all publishing. If you have access to the internet, please have your child log into Google Classroom and do any last minute edits/revisions. Ask them who is their audience? What are their sources? Did they refer to the opposing view 3 times?
January Book Reports are due Thursday! Refer to the rubric glued in your child's homework notebook for grading expectations.
This week we starting reading "I Survived: True Stories." These are beautiful (brand new!) books that we received. Please encourage your child to keep it in good condition by covering it with a paper bag or having it in a zip lock back as it transports between home and school.
Each night they will read a section and respond to a question. We are reading the text to focus on the setting and how the characters react to the setting, Additionally, we are gaining additional schema on these Epic Disasters.
Tuesday: "An Explosion" and "Swallowed by Darkness" Answer the following question in a RACE response:
Why did Walter get off the sled? Do you think he regretted this decision?
Wednesday: "The Long Winter" Answer the following question in a RACE response:
Cite 2 details from the text that support the following statement: Minnie Freeman was a hero.
Thursday: "Rescue Mission" Answer the following question in a RACE response: Use details from the text to describe Will. (character traits!!)
Friday: "More Precious" Answer the following question in a RACE response: Why didn't it matter to Will that his perfume bottle broke?
We are low on pencils, if you can, please send them in with your child so we can add them to our Writing Center.
Thank you to those who have sent in signed Progress Reports. They need to be returned by February 7.
When the Book of the Month comes home with your child, please take the time to read it and discuss the theme. This is a big shift in fourth grade as we look at character change from the beginning to end. (Please then remind your child to return it to school so it can go to the next home. :] )
We use the green Social Studies Passport book multiple times throughout the week. If it is at home, please send it to school with your child.
1/9
This week in math we are continuing chapter 4, division. Please keep referring to your child's notes as we progress through this chapter.
Go Math pages:
Tuesday 233-234 (Show all work)
Wednesday 231-232 (Show all work)
Thursday 269-270 (Show all work)
Friday 271-276 EVEN Numbers only (Show all work)
Our Journalism PBL is continuing as we dive into our investigative news stories this week. We are doing this by completing additional interviews and research. Last Friday, we paired up and prompted each other with key ideas or questions in order to deepen our work. If your child's interviews are digital, please send them in on a flash drive or email them to me so your child has access in class.
Friday, we are heading to the New York Times Printing Press to enrich our Journalism PBL. Please be sure your child gets their permission slip in and they pack a lunch for Friday.
I am looking for one more chaperone for this trip. Please let me know if you are interested!
We had a great time today at the Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum! It was amazing to be in the oldest home in all of New York State. This colonial home gave us a glimpse into life in New Amsterdam.
Ask your child what things were in the home that are similar to what we have today, and which items are different.
As always, each Friday we fill our Assessment Logs. These logs are attached to your child's homework folder and keep you updated with their latest assessments.
1/2
Happy New Year!
In order to continue communication between home and school, 404 has begun implementing a 3 step process for classroom behavior. If a child does not follow one of the class rules they will receive a warning. The second time they do it the student reflects on their actions. Finally, the third time will be a note home for you to sign. Ensuring we all follow expectations in the classroom helps to protect the rights of every child to learn and enjoy school.
Today in writing, we looked back at our opinion essays from December. I provided each student the time to revise and edit their writing based on the feedback I gave over break. Many children were using their time wisely this afternoon and made the edits, however they still need to log into Google Classroom to make them digitally. If you have internet access, please help your child to make these revisions this evening.
We are continuing division this week and began using a strategy that looks very similar to the long division we learned as children. Notice in the example, (in your child's math notebook) that they have a 'cheat sheet' of base facts which they can use to help solve. This example also includes an equation and a model that matches.
Go Math pages:
Tuesday: 257-257 (use partial quotients! You may need scrap paper, be sure to keep it with your book!)
Wednesday: 263-264 (use partial quotients! You may need scrap paper, be sure to keep it with your book!)
Thursday:213-214 (use partial quotients! You may need scrap paper, be sure to keep it with your book!)
Friday: 211-212 (use partial quotients! You may need scrap paper, be sure to keep it with your book!)
Because of Winn Dixie roles for chapters 5-8 are due tomorrow. Chapter roles for 9-12 will be due Tuesday, January 9. Please remind your child to read the description for each role so they complete the task correctly.
This month we will begin our study of Colonial Times. Our driving question throughout the unit is 'What motivates people to colonize other lands?' We will be heading to the Wyckoff Museum on January 11. Please keep an eye out for that permission slip and send in $7. If there is a financial issue, please let me know as we want all students to attend.
Thank you for helping your children begin research for their investigative news story. I saw some extremely eager journalists this morning ready to share! Your child will need their research for Friday.
12/19
Tonight, your child should complete their draft of their opinion writing essay. Their prompt is : What is an issue in school that is important to you? Why?
Please be sure your writer has this on loose leaf paper and is skipping lines, for class tomorrow.
We will revise tomorrow in class and need them to be published by Friday. If you have computer access, please encourage your child to type Thursday evening.
This week in math we have been using compatible numbers and partial quotients to divide. Today, we put a model of partial quotients in our notebooks, Please refer to this for support.
Go Math Pages:
Tuesday: 245-246
Wednesday: 207-208
Thursday: 201- 202
Friday: See Winter Packet
This week we will begin our introduction into investigative news stories. Please keep an eye out for the directions this week as to how you can support your journalist.
Book reports are due January 2, but feel free to hand them in by Thursday.
Have a wonderful holiday break!
12/15 Optional Extension Math Task
Mrs. Monet has one hundred two pieces of drawing paper. Mrs. Monet has nine art tables. On the first day of school, Mrs. Monet wants to put the same amount of drawing paper on each art table. How many pieces of drawing paper does Mrs. Monet put on each art table the first day of school? Mrs. Monet buys drawing paper in packages of one hundred forty-four. Mrs. Monet buys seven packages of drawing paper. If each day Mrs. Monet uses the same amount of drawing paper as she did on the first day of school, how many days will the packages of drawing paper last before she has to buy more? Show all your mathematical thinking.12/15 Optional Extension Math Task
12/12
Today we completed the Mock Math Exam. Please look for this score and their ELA score on Friday in their assessment log.
We are looking to complete our drafts for this month's writing by Monday. As of tonight, your child should have their introduction complete and have their 3 chosen reasons. This month's prompt is "What is an issue in school that is important to you? Why?"
To support your writer in their introduction tonight, follow the steps below...
1.Engage the reader by creating a scene- 3 sentences SHOWING why this is an issue
(ex: Imagine you enter the cafeteria and smell fresh herbs, vegetables, and...
2. Explain the issue at hand- Unfortunately, we don’t have fresh food being served. Everything is frozen or in a can.
3. Establish your point of view- That is why I strongly feel that we need fresh food to be served in the cafeteria.
4. Introduce your 3 reasons (thesis statement)- If we had fresh food we would eat healthier, have more energy and build good eating habits.
Tomorrow we will begin division in math, we will be sure to bring our math notebooks home so you can see which strategies we are using.
If your child seemed uneasy regarding the math practice test this week, or you're looking for support in Common Core math grades 3-5 please attend a workshop at PS 376 at 9 am in room 119.
This week's Go ,Math pages:
Tuesday 197-198
Wednesday 219-220
Thursday 201-202 (Round THEN divide!)
Friday 239-240
Don't forget, Friday is Pajama Day!
12/5
Today and tomorrow we are taking the Mock ELA Exam. Please ensure your child is on time and has had breakfast so they can reach their full potential. Next week, we will complete the Mock Math Exam.
If your child has a change in dismissal/person picking them up, you must send a note in with your child.
Please continue practicing your child's multiplication facts as we finish chapter 3. If you need flashcards, please let me know.
Go Math Pages:
Tuesday 187-188 Use the area model!
Wednesday 185-186 Use the area model!
Thursday 189-190 Use the area model!
Friday 195-196 Use the area model!
We completed "Eagle Song" last month, therefore our reading responses are transitioning back to Bookmarks. This week we are looking at Courage (T-1). Your child should be reading a fiction book on their level in order to complete their RACE responses each evening.
11/28
Tomorrow is Wacky Wednesday! Please encourage your child to show their school spirit by looking a little goofy. :)
Our Haudenosaunee essays are due on Thursday. We will finish revising tomorrow and begin typing them in class. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to complete the publishing process Wednesday night.
This week in math we are finishing up chapter 3, multiplying 2 by 2 digit numbers. Your child should be using the area model or place value strategies to solve. This is modeled in their math notebooks.
Next week we will begin division. Fact fluency is essential to your child's success as we progress through these chapters. I have extra math flashcards if you need them. Please let me know!
Go Math Homework:
Tuesday 165-166
Wednesday 175-176
Thursday 169-170
Friday 177-178
Book reports are due on Friday, December 1. Your child should have the September book report for reference as well as their rubric glued in their homework notebook. A large shift in 4th grade is your child's ability to identify a theme. This should be included in their book reports.
You can help your child to identify theme by asking them to look at what the character says/does/thinks throughout the text.
11/21
This week in math we began chapter 3. This chapter is all about two by two digit multiplication. I will encourage your children to take home their math notebooks to use as a reference for completing their homework. The strategies we use in class are different then Go Math. This week we are practicing multiplying these numbers using place value and the area model.
Tuesday: Go Math 155-156
Wednesday: Go Math 161-162
Thursday: Go Math 133-134
Tonight is the last night we will spend researching for our Haudenosaunee essays as tomorrow we will begin drafting. If there are any 'holes' in our pieces we need to fill those tonight so we may draft over the long weekend. Please ensure your child's draft is complete by Monday.
If you still have your child's report card, please sign it and return it ASAP.
November's Scholastic orders are due tomorrow. NHMF7 is the class code, please remember that you can see their reading levels in the catalogs.
Eagle Song chapter 7 roles are due on Tuesday.
Book reports are due December 1!
11/17
Math pages 143 through 144
Read for 40 min and LOG it!
Eagle Song Chapter 5 Role due Tuesday
Scholastic Orders due Wednesday, November 22
Writing : Continue researching on chosen topics. 5Ws!
Book Report due December 1!
TAG PBL: Your task:
Report on ONE event you do this weekend in your Reporter Pad. Identify the 5Ws. Be direct and descriptive.
11/14
Thursday, November 14 is a half day (dismissal at 11:20) for Parent Teacher Conferences. SASF will be closed this day, if your child attends this program please send them in with a note for alternate dismissal.
If you have not received an appointment reminder please send your child in with a note or send me an email specifying whether you are available from 1:00 pm- 3:00 pm or 4:30 pm- 7:30 pm.
This week in math we are transitioning from only multiplying one digit numbers by four digit numbers to multi step word problems. Please encourage your child to annotate their questions to find signal words for operations, and determine WHAT they are answering. This should alleviate confusion regarding if it is a one or two step problem.
We are moving forward with our writing about the Haudenosaunee. This week we have been practicing the skill of paraphrasing by replacing words with synonyms, rearranging ideas, or summarizing the text.
November 28 we are scheduled to visit the Natural History Museum for Native American Cultures Day. Look out for that permission slip in the next week or so.
If you're looking to enrich our study of Native Americans, please attend the event below. It would be great to have some student reporters share all they saw with the class!
November 18, 2017
Native American Giving Thanks Celebration
1 PM – 4 PM, Sunset Park, BrooklynCome give thanks with Indigenous communities from North & South America, the Caribbean and Hawaii. Native American Pow Wow, dancing, singing, drumming, vendors and more.
11/6
Tomorrow, Tuesday November 7, school is closed.
This month, in lieu of Bookmarks, we will be participating in Literature Circles for the book "Eagle Song." Your child is in a group of 3-4 students with rotating roles for each chapter. They have a packet which has the specific role they will complete for each chapter and the due date. On each due date, your child should have their role complete so they can meet in their group prepared for discussion. Below are the roles:
DISCUSSION DIRECTOR: Chooses and answers (the night before) TWO questions for the group to discuss together in a RACE response. When meeting with the group: 1. Ask question to group 2. Group discusses 3. Moves conversation along so all may speak.
WORD WIZARD: Finds words that are difficult or used in an unfamiliar way and provides definitions, may include the vocabulary words for each chapter and any additional words. Use circle map to collect word parts, replacement words, sentences before and after, etc. When you meet with your group: share the word, show where it is in the story, and have each person try to predict the definition.
SUPER SUMMARIZER: Maps out the important parts of chapter using a tree map. Remember to use STORY. Setting, Talking character, Oops! There’s a problem, Resolution, Yes! There’s a solution.
IROQUOIS CONNECTOR: Finds connections between the story and Iroquois aspects from another book. Share connection in a double bubble map.
Please have your child log into Google Classroom to complete their pen pal letter for Ms. Salchli and log in to complete their Informational Books. These were due on November 1.
10/24
Thursday is picture day! If you are ordering photos, please send in your envelopes ASAP so I can get them to the PSA.
Friday, the PSA is hosting a movie night for Moana. Please see the flyer in your child's homework folder tonight for information regarding this event.
This week in math we are beginning Chapter 2, which is focused on multiplying one digit numbers. Please encourage your child to use comparison and bar models when showing their work 2 ways. You can find this model in the 2.1 lessons of your child's Go Math books.
Please keep an eye out for Friday's assessment log. We will have a weekly assessment working on our skills working with theme and inferences. Please help your child by encouraging their reading of fiction for 40 minutes each night.
Thursday, November 2, we are heading to the National Museum of the American Indian. Your child should receive a permission slip for the trip this week. It is free, please be sure to send your child with a lunch that day.
10/17
Thursday we are heading to the Prospect Park Zoo. Behavior in class 4-404 was impressive last week at the NY Aquarium. Please again discuss appropriate behaviors when traveling off campus. Also, pack a disposable lunch for your child that day.
Friday we will have a math assessment on chapter 5. We worked on identifying multiples today by using their divisibility rules. These are in their notebooks as well as page 286 in their Go Math book.
We will also have an assessment on main idea and details in a nonfiction text. Help your child by reading an article and asking them why we circle repeated word to identify main idea.
Please ensure you are looking at, and signing, your child's assessment log each Friday. There will be assessments added each week as we progress through the school year.
10/12
Here is the Group C task from today's factor lesson. Feel free to try and solve this!
Martin's Muffin Shop wants to design a box to hold three dozen mini muffins. Martin's Muffin Shop wants the mini muffins to be arranged in the shape of a rectangle with the same number of mini muffins in each row and the same number of mini muffins in each column. The boxes could hold one layer of mini muffins or multiple layers of mini muffins. What are all the possible arrangements of mini muffins in a box that Martin's Muffin Shop can decide to use? Show all your mathematical thinking.
10/10
Please pack a lunch for your child TOMORROW and gear for potential rain. We will head to the NY Aquarium tomorrow morning to explore California Sea Otters in kelp forest ecosystems. Please discuss appropriate behavior with your child regarding off campus trips.
Today we began chapter 5 in math. This chapter focuses on factors, multiples, and patterns. Please help your child by creating arrays or factor rainbows. This has been modeled in their math notebooks. If they seem to be struggling with their homework, encourage your child to bring their math notebook to and from school each day. Additionally, if your child does not know their multiplication facts, please begin use of flashcards to practice. I have sets of cards if you need them. Please let me know.
We are diligently practicing our researching skills in writing. As your child continues to research on their animal, have them stop and ask themselves, "Is this relevant to this category?" If not, what category should it go to?
Please review and sign your child's assessment log from Friday if you have not already done so.
Next week we are heading to the Prospect Park Zoo. Please ensure the permission slip and money for that trip are in ASAP. If there are monetary concerns, please let me know.
Today, I sent home information regarding an upcoming PSA meeting and Picture Day. They should be in your child's folder.
October's Scholastic orders are available, please encourage your child to choose books on or above their level. The online code is NHM7F.
10/3
Please take a look in your child's homework folder for their assessment log stapled in the back. Each Friday we write in the previous week's assessment score and next steps. Please sign next to the assignment to confirm you've seen their scores.
The READY Exams that are on there are a Baseline. Their actual scores will not count for a grade, but I want you to see where they are, presently, with grade 4 standards. This score should improve as we take additional mocks as the year progresses.
Regarding our PBL supplement trips: If you have not already, please send in the permission slip and $8 for the NY Aquarium on October 11. This week I will send home a second permission slip for the Prospect Park Zoo on October 19. This trip will be $7. If there is a money issue, please let me know.
Our trips in November and December will NOT have a fee. :)
Monday, in Writing, we began our Informational unit. We will be researching and developing a book for an animal of our choice. Tomorrow, Wednesday, we will have our confirmed animal. If possible, please take your child to your local public library to find text on their animal.
Friday, in Math, we will have our first Bi-Weekly Skill Assessment. This will be checking for mastery of chapter 1. This includes place value and addition/subtraction of whole numbers. Today, I retaught subtracting whole numbers. Your child should use expanded form or standard algorithm to solve.
Please ensure your child is reading each night and is completing their RACE response from their Bookmark. This week's is P5.
If you have any donations for the Hurricane Relief Drive, please send them to our classroom.
9/26
In writing, we are continuing our Realistic Fiction piece. By Friday, we need to be published. Please be sure your child has a flash drive available if they will be typing at home, as we do not yet have Google Classroom access.
This week in math, we are working through Chapter 1. Please continue to review place value with your child.
October 11 is our field trip to the NY Aquarium. Please send in $8 cash with your child's signed permission slip as well as a packed and disposable lunch.
On Monday, we officially started completing Bookmarks based on our 40 minutes of reading each night. In your child's Homework Notebook, there will be the Bookmark Expectations glued. It is pasted below. Your child should write their paragraph below the homework they wrote that morning.
Bookmark Expectations:
-Answer the question
- Cite evidence
- Explain the evidence
Describe the main character of the book in five or fewer words. Avoid using trite words (nice, good, bad, mean, etc.).
The main character in Cow Won’t Bow is Cow. To begin with, Cow was a selfish character. At one point in the story Cow said, ‘In this play, I’m the star!’ When Cow said this he was not giving the rest of the actors credit in the play and taking it all for himself instead of sharing.
Book reports are due Monday! Again, I do not accept them late. They may be typed or hand written and the rubric is also glued inside your child's homework notebook.
9/19
Please be advised we do not have school Thursday and Friday. We will resume classes on Monday, September 25.
This week we have been completing the Mock Math exam. This data is used to drive my instruction and small groups throughout the school year. I ask that your child puts in their best effort so I am aware of their strengths and weaknesses as soon as possible.
We have been pre writing for our Realistic Fiction stories. Today we looking at our character's struggles and motivations to get through their struggle. By Wednesday, we will be drafting. Please ensure your child drafts over the long weekend. If you can, read their story and provide feedback to ensure it is a realistic story. We will need to edit, revise, and publish upon our return the week of the 25th. Therefore, it is vital that your child drafts over the long weekend.
Our field trip to Prospect Park Zoo, on the 28th, has been postponed until mid October.
If your family is ordering Scholastic Books please send in those orders by tomorrow. Cash/check is okay, but online is preferred. NHM7F is the class code.
Book reports are due October 2nd. As a reminder, they are not accepted late. Please review the rubric glued in your child's homework notebook when planning their fiction book report.
Your child's Social Studies 'Passport' should be going to and from school each night as we study New York Geography.
9/12
Our first four days of school are underway!
Please join me TOMORROW, September 13, for Curriculum Night. I will share classroom expectations and protocols for this school year.
Session 1: 4:30 pm- 5:20 pm
Session 2: 5:30 pm- 6:30 pm
This week we started Chapter 1 in our math book. We are learning about Place Value up to the hundred thousands. Please review this skill with your child by choosing a digit and asking what the value is of that number.
In PBL we are learning about animal defense mechanisms, We are reading passages and using Close Reading strategies to research animals in the rain forest.
On September 28, we are heading to the Prospect Park Zoo to supplement our PBL unit. Please be on the look out for that permission slip.
Today we began brainstorming for our Narrative Writing Unit. Our first piece will be a realistic fiction story based on a story we WISH we could read.
If you still need school supplies, please send them in ASAP.
Back to School Blast is THIS Saturday from 10-1 in the school yard. I'll be there!
8/7
Below is the school supply list you will need entering into the fourth grade in September. Please bring the supplies in on Thursday, September 7, 2017.
2 Yellow 2 Blue
2 Orange 2 Black
Optional Supplies
This week we are finishing chapter 9, decimals. Please continue to review the chapter vocabulary with us.
GO Math pages
Tuesday 510-514
Wednesday 531-532
Thursday 537-538
Friday (No school)
Tuesday the 19th will be our final Book Club meeting. Please confirm that your child is finishing their book this week and preparing for their final meeting focus. I will send out culminating activities shortly.
We have been learning our cursive letters in class. Please encourage your child to begin writing in cursive at home. I spoke to them about muscle memory, and that they will get better with continued practice.
Letters practiced so far (only lower case):
a, c, d, e, i, l, p, and t
6/5
Tomorrow we are heading to Citi Field! We are excited to see Mr. G and have an interactive weather experience. Again, I have one available ticket for tomorrow. Please let me know if you are able to join!!
Your child should come with a packed lunch in a clear bag as well as a factory sealed water bottle. We will return at 3:30. I will send an email if there is any discrepancy with time.
This morning we had our fourth Book Club meeting. Our conversations were deep and insightful. Thank you for checking that we are prepared each week.
Friday we are heading to the Linden Boulevard Multiplex to see Show Dogs. Your child should come with a lunch and layers for the theater. Please send in the trip slip and money for the ticket when you get a chance.
Today we began our final PBL unit on Immigration. Feel free to ask us why people began immigrating to the United States in the 1800s!
Next week, we are heading to Forest Park for our field day. We will take a bus and are looking for chaperones. This is our final trip of the year and is free!
In math we are working through decimals in chapter 9. Please help us by reviewing the vocabulary for this chapter in our GO Math books.
Tuesday 523-524
Wednesday 521-522
Thursday No School
Friday 515-517
5/29
This week we are having our class Writing Celebration on Thursday. By tomorrow, our Narrative Pieces must be typed so we can do final revisions and be ready to share.
Friday we will head to the Catskills to meet our pen pals. Last week we sent out the information sheet for the day. Please be reminded to pack breakfast and lunch, to wear layers, and to wear closed toe shoes. We depart at 6:30 am, so please be here at 6:15 am. The arrival time, pending traffic, should be 7:30pm at PS 376. Like last time, I will send out an email when we are about 45 minutes away.
This week we are diving into decimals in math. Please help your child by practicing the vocabulary within chapter 9 of their GO Math book.
GO Math Homework
Tuesday 499-500
Wednesday 505-506
Thursday 511-512
Friday 509-510
Today we took the practical part of the NYS Science Assessment. We will take the written exam next week, so please review your child's packet for accuracy and completion.
Today was one of the best book clubs we have had this year, the conversation was robust and it was truly impressive. Please review your child's notes for next week's meeting on Monday night.
Looking ahead, Wednesday the 6th we will head to Weather Day at Citi Field. Please send your child with lunch in a clear bag and a factory sealed water bottle. They are not able to bring other bottles due to the field's rules.
Friday the 8th, we are heading to the Linden Multiplex to see Snow Dogs. I am looking for chaperones for this day. We have one other trip after this, so if you have been unable to join us earlier in the year you will have the first opportunity to claim a day!
The last book report of the school year is due on Thursday! Please ensure this is completed promptly.
5/22
This evening we are drafting our Realistic Fiction writing piece. As small groups, we collaboratively developed a plot line and described our characters and setting. Today, we began taking this off the map and into our own draft paper. This draft is due in the morning.
This week I sent home the permission slip, and detailed itinerary, for the June 1 trip to the Catskills. Please be sure to send that slip back as soon as possible. This is a free trip, but please send your child with snacks and lunch. Your child should also wear layers as it can typically be colder in the higher altitudes.
I sent out confirmation emails today for the trip to Citi Field for Weather Day. I had a lot of interest and invited families who have not yet joined us on a trip. We have a few more field trips and want to encourage your attendance at those trips as well.
Tomorrow, I will send home the permission slip for the Citi Field trip. Please send in that slip and the ticket price as soon as possible. If there is a financial burden, please let me know as there are scholarships available.
This evening your child needs to read chapter 12 of The Hope Chest and complete the summary notes and summary in their purple. book.
Wednesday: Read Chapter 13 and complete summary notes and summary.
Thursday: Read Chapter 14 and complete summary notes and summary.
Friday: Read Chapter 15 and complete summary notes and summary.
This week we will finish chapter 12 in Go Math and begin chapter 9. We will begin relating decimals to fractions!
Go Math
Tuesday 695-696
Wednesday 701-702
Thursday 499-500
Friday 505-506
5/15
This week we are developing characters and problems for our Realistic Writing. We are working in small groups to plan problems and develop dynamic characters.
In mathematics we are completing chapter 12 in GO Math.
Tuesday: 669-670
Wednesday: 677-678
Thursday: 683-684
Friday: 689-690
We are continuing to dive deep into The Hope Chest and are writing an essay this week regarding the character Myrtle and Jim Crow Laws. Please ask us what these are!
Today we had our first Book Club meeting. We meet once a week to discuss a focus that our selected book group chose. Each week we should come prepared with a Thinking Map which appropriately responds to the focus so we can talk off it during the discussion. Each student's participation ensures a quality meeting. Our next meeting is May 22.
As a reminder, PS 376 is a uniform school. Please send your child in a uniform each day. Our classroom is cool because of the AC, so having a sweater in the classroom is appropriate.
There are 6 weeks left of school, please remind your child that summer vacation begins at the end of June and school behavior is still necessary.
5/8
We had a remarkable trip to the South Street Seaport to meet our pen pals on Friday. Thank you for sending us with appropriate clothing and a packed lunch. We look forward to seeing them again at the beginning of June. I will send out those permission slips later this month.
Yesterday, Ms. Salchli sent a permission slip home regarding walking to and from our PS 376 garden. Please send those in by tomorrow as we are going to be helping her plant an apple tree. This being said, please send your child with sneakers tomorrow as we will be outside for part of the day.
We are continuing to practice for the NYS Science Exam which is at the beginning of June. The homework schedule was sent out last week and is posted in the Announcements section of my website. Your child should be completing these diligently each evening and using complete sentences where appropriate.
Today we are having a book viewing as we are going to have the opportunity to select our own books for the final round of Literature Circles. The aim of this culminating round is student led discourse. You will see your child come home with a packet where they, with their peers in their Book Club, will select a focus for each section of chapters. There is space to plan thinking ahead of time to prepare for discussion. Ultimately, real reading occurs when there is actual authentic talk between peers about the text.
READY Math pages
Tuesday 266-267
Wednesday 268-269
Thursday 270-271
Friday 272-273
In PBL and Reading we are researching all about the Women's Suffrage Movement. Your child has a document on Google Classroom which should have all of their research for five Suffragettes. They will take this information and begin to develop and iMovie.
Additionally, we are reading The Hope Chest. This historical fiction text gives us a look into the time period and the pressures that women and girls had.
The Hope Chest Homework
Tuesday
Read chapters 4 and 5 in The Hope Chest.
Read the Reader's Guide that includes the Historical Background, Glossary, and Fill in the Summary Notes from the Readers Guide for Chapter 4 and 5.
It will be very helpful. Chapter 5 has a lot of terms you haven't heard about so make sure you read the glossary so you have an idea of what the words mean.
Wednesday Read chapter 6 in The Hope Chest.
Read the Reader's Guide that includes the Historical Background, Glossary, and fill in the Summary Notes from the Reader’s Guide for Chapter 6. page 50-51 in your purple book.
Thursday
Read chapter 6 in The Hope Chest.
Read the Reader's Guide that includes the Historical Background, Glossary, and fill in the Summary Notes from the Readers Guide for Chapter 6. page 50-51 in your purple book.
Friday
Read chapter 8 of The Hope Chest and complete steps 1 and 2 on your Essay Prompt/Planner on page 58 in the purple book. Bring home post-its. Make sure you number the page number and paragraph number on the post-it note!
page number
paragraph number
Myrtle was ______
Fill in the summary notes for Chapter 8 on pages 60-61.
5/1
As of now, we have all completed day 1 of the NYS Math Exam! Thank you for making sure we got to school early with full bellies. Please ensure we get a restful sleep tonight and have a calm morning so we can continue to shine tomorrow.
Our book reports were due today, confirm with your child that they have handed it in. Only one more for this school year!
On Friday, we will head to the South Street Seaport to meet our pen pals from the Catskills. We will return by 3:30pm to PS 376. If there is a delay, I will send out an email. Please be sure your child is wearing appropriate clothing and shoes, and that they pack a lunch.
We had a lot of interest in chaperone's for the trip to see Mr. G on June 6. I will send out confirmation emails soon as we only have tickets for 2 chaperones.
In June, your child will take their final State Test of the year in science. This week I will send home a practice packet that will require your child to complete a few questions a night, so we may review in class. This being said, the packet must go between home and school each evening! Below is that schedule:
May 3
Pages 1- 3
May 4
Pages 4 - 6
May 7
Pages 7 - 9
May 8
Pages 10 - 12
May 9
Pages 13 - 15
May 10
Pages 16 - 18
May 11
Pages 19 - 21
May 14
Pages 22 - 24
May 15
Pages 25 - 27
May 16
Pages 28 - 30
May 17
Pages 31 - 33
May 18
Pages 34 - 36
May 21
Pages 37 - 39
May 22
Pages 40 - 42
May 23
Pages 43 - 45
May 24
STEAM Expo
Pages 46 - 48
May 25
STEAM Expo
Pages 49 - 51
May 28
No School
May 29 - Science Practical Exam
Pages 52 - 54
May 30 - Science Practical Exam
Pages 55 - 57
May 31 - Science Practical Exam
Pages 58 - 60
June 1 - Science Practical Exam
Pages 61 - 62
June 4 -
Science Written Exam!!!
Please keep in mind, your child will only do the Practical Exam on ONE of these days. There are multiple days in order to accommodate all of the fourth graders.
4/17
We completed the New York State ELA Tests! Thank you for your encouraging notes, they really helped us to persevere through on Wednesday and Thursday. Please feel free to begin sending in sealed Encouraging Notes for the math test on May 1 and 2.
Your child has a Physical Education essay which is due this week. On Friday, they were each given the prompt.
Please keep an eye out for information regarding spring field trips!
This week we are revising, editing, and publishing our Hattie and Aunt Nell essays. These are due on Friday. Your child can begin publishing on Google Classroom.
Additionally, your child should be publishing their Investigative News Stories on Google Classroom. Next week we will begin publishing these into Podcasts!
In math we are continuing to complete geometry in chapter 10. Quiz your child on the vocabulary for this chapter, as it makes the different between surviving and thriving for this chapter.
Go Math Pages:
Tuesday 579-580 and 585-586
Wednesday 591- 592 and 593-594
Thursday 595-598
Friday's Socratic Seminar will debate the question: Which branch of government is most important?
Your child should prepare for each branch, as their role will be decided on Friday.
The last set of chapters for Tale of Despereaux is due on Thursday! The culminating project will be due on Tuesday. Below is the assignment, choices, and check in deadlines.
You choose ONE of the following projects as an end of novel project. You may pick who to work with, be sure to choose someone who you can depend on to share the work equally.
Task due Tuesday, April 24th.
- Independently- Respond to the following with an essay. You will be graded using the New York State Grades 4-5 Writing Evaluation Rubric.
Using “The Tale of Despereaux as a resource, is this quote true? Love is a crazy ridiculous thing. - In groups of 2 or 3- Create your own quest. Despereaux went on a quest to save Princess Pea. Develop a quest that you may encounter as a kid in Brooklyn. This may be written in narrative form or developed digitally. Confirm digital ideas with teacher prior to beginning. Will be graded using Narrative Writing Rubric or PBL Rubric.
- In groups of 2- At the end of the story, we learn that Miggery Sow has been reunited with her father. Imagine Miggery comes back to the castle to visit the Princess Pea one year later. Now that you know what these characters are like and how they speak, write a scene, from a play, showing Miggery and the Princess together again. What room are they in? What do they talk about? Is anyone else with them? Be sure to show how you think each character may have changed over the year.
Be ready to share your scene on the due date. You may perform it or have it already recorded and ready to hit play! Should be 3-5 minutes in length.
You will be graded using the PBL project.
Check-in Dates
Thursday, April 19…………………………….….…..Project choice due to Ms. Webster
Friday, April 20………….First Draft/Sketch/etc to be reviewed by Ms. Webster
Monday, April 23………………..…………………………………..Final revisions and edits
Tuesday, April 24……………………………...…….……………………..Final Presentations
4/10
Tomorrow is the first day of the New York State ELA Test. Please have your child get a full night of sleep tonight and eat a healthy and hearty breakfast in the morning. Your child has all of the skills and strategies to truly master this exam and they get to show it off tomorrow!
Please arrive by 7:45 am to ensure a smooth morning for your child on Wednesday and Thursday.
Please take a look at our class calendar for Friday's Socratic Seminar. It was changed because of scheduling conflicts. Your child should come to school prepared to be a pilot.
Which amendment, in the Bill of Rights, is most valued by citizens?
Resources:
https://newsela-media.s3.amazonaws.com/pdfs/primary-source-billofrights-18277-article_only.pdf?AWSAccessKeyId=AKIAIOXSRXVQ3RGAX2FA&Expires=1523393049&Signature=l5JRJ3P5mPO3ciPIYh7AJ8RRH%2Bk%3D
blob:https://www.readworks.org/bc2bac05-f155-6041-bdaf-466de6bb0c0e
https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/articles/teaching-content/explaining-bill-rights/
https://www.brainpop.com/socialstudies/usgovernment/billofrights/
We have begun chapter 10, geometry! Encourage your child to cut out chapter 10 vocabulary in their GO Math book to study as this is a very language dense unit.
Go Math Homework:
Tuesday 565-566
Wednesday 551- 552
Thursday 561- 562
Friday 563-564
3/27
Tomorrow we will take our chapter 6 math assessment. Please review tonight's homework and practice finding the answer with 2 strategies. We have been using benchmark fractions and finding common denominators to compare fractions.
Go Math Homework
Tuesday: 375-376
Wednesday: 377-379
Thursday: 380-382
This week we are writing an essay a day to prepare for the New York State ELA exam. I am grading them and returning within 24 hours. If your child earns 0-2 they need to rewrite the essay to make corrections the next day.
Your child should continue reading Tale of Despereaux. The next set of chapters are due on Thursday with their completed roles.
Chapters 24-28
How did Miggery Sow get her name?
2. What two tragedies did Miggery experience in her young life?
3.What rules did Miggery have to follow in her new life?
4. How did Miggery lose her hearing?
5. What happened on Mig’s 7th birthday?
6. What was Mig’s wish?
What wish came true for Miggery?
What did the soldier suggest to be eaten instead of soup?
How did Miggery end up going to the castle?
*No Essential Questions this week, create your own!
Due Tuesday, April 10
Chapters 29-33
What was Miggery’s first task as servant, and why?
What jobs did Louise try to find for Miggery?
What happened when Miggery was sent to the cook?
Why was Miggery oblivious to the horrors of the dungeon?
What warning did Gregory have for Miggery?
What connection did Roscuro have with Miggery Sow? What is your prediction for his plan, and what made the napkin move on the tray?
*No Essential Questions this week, create your own!
If you can help, we are low, or have none, of the following:
hand soap
composition notebooks
pencils
highlighters
Today I sent home the Spring Break Packet. This and their March book report are due on April 9 when we return.
Enjoy your break, please read every day!
3/20
Thank you all for joining me during Parent Teacher Conferences last week. I think it speaks volumes about a community when there is 100% attendance for conferences.
This week in math we are continuing use of equivalent fractions. Please ask your child about the Identity Property.
GO Math HW:
Tuesday 355-356
Wednesday 363-364
Thursday 369-370
Please check to see that your child has completed typing their "Double Dutch" and "It's Our World, Too" essay. This was due on Monday.
On Friday, we had Robert Smith from NPR join us. It was wonderful being able to hear from a professional about the process and motivation of journalists. Your child should have written a thank you note on Google Classroom informing him of something they learned, something that surprised them, and something they are still wondering.
You child should be preparing for Friday's Socratic Seminar with the link below:
In your opinion, which Suffragette was the biggest trailblazer?
https://newsela.com/text-sets/315316?utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=web
We are continue our Literature Circles this week with chapters 13-17 of Tale of Despereaux, which are due Thursday. Additionally, chapters 18-23 are due Monday the 19th.
13-17
1. What hurt Despereaux even more than not saying goodbye to the Princess?
2. What did Despereaux think about to get him through the tough times in the darkness?
3. Who is Gregory? What is similar but different about them?
4. Why would Gregory say he would save Despereaux when he has never saved any other mice?
5. What does Chiaroscuro mean and how was he similar to Despereaux?
6. What is the difference between darkness and the light according to the mice and rats?
*No Essential Questions this section, create your own! (Consider character trait questions.)
18-23
1. Why was the red cloth so precious to the prisoner?
2. Describe what Roscuro saw when he came into the light of the castle.
3. How did Roscuro feel when he was called a Rat?
4. Describe the most important thing to the Queen, besides her family.
5. What happened when Roscuro looked back at the Princess?
6. What did Roscuro promise as he departed the hall?
7. What orders were send out in the kingdom of Dor after the death of the Queen?
*No Essential Questions this week, create your own! (Consider character feeling questions.)
Please return signed report cards ASAP!
A reminder that the ELA assessment is right after we return from Spring Break. April 11-12!!
The math dates are May 1-2.
3/18
Use the link below to get to newsela.com for access to useful articles for this week's Socratic Seminar.
In your opinion, which Suffragette was the biggest trailblazer?
https://newsela.com/text-sets/315316?utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=web
3/15
Math HW page update:
Thursday 335-336
Friday 343-344
3/13
Yesterday and today I sent home appointment confirmation slips. If you did not receive one from your child please let me know so I can get you an appointment for Thursday's Parent Teacher Conferences.
Thursday will be a half day for students, they will dismiss at 11:20.
Today, in writing, I collected your children's 3 maps that they have created in planning for their current Response to Literature. They will begin drafting tomorrow and that draft will be due Thursday.
In math this week, we began chapter 6, equivalent fractions. Thus far, we have been using models to show equivalence. Use of double number lines or bar models have been most efficient in our room.
Go Math HW
Tuesday: 329-330
Wednesday: 337-338
Thursday: 343-344
Friday: 349-350
You may have noticed Tale of Despereaux has been coming home. We are beginning another round of Literature Circles. This text is a wonderful example of the wide range of emotions we can feel from misery to love. If you can, read alongside your child each week to discuss the questions and have your own Book Club. This way your child will be even more prepared for their Literature Circles.
On Thursday, chapters 1-6 will be due and Monday, March 19 chapter 7-12 will be due. Your child has the packet with the questions, their roles, and future due dates.
Friday, March 16 the culminating activity for I Survived: True Stories will be due. Your child can choose between one of the following tasks:
- Identify examples of figurative language, onomatopoeia, or idioms from the book. Select one. Create a poster explaining what the author “really” means, or the connotative meaning. Draw a picture or use clip art to illustrate the literal meaning. Include the excerpt from the text on the poster. Be sure to cite the page number. Write a paragraph or two explaining the connotative meaning.
- When tragedy strikes, newspapers report on the event. Pretend that you are a news reporter during the historical time period and interview the main character. Write an I Survived newspaper article, using details from the book to tell the character’s story. Be sure to provide the who, what, where, when, why, and how details. This should be digital.
Friday we will be having a journalist visit our classroom from NPR! Please be prepared with questions for him as he has his own Podcast on NPR and is an expert in the field.
Investigative News Stories should be drafted by Friday!
3/9
Pre Reading Questions for Tale of Despereaux. Use an appropriate map to record thinking.
- Look at Desperaux on the cover. Where do you think he is going? Why is he carrying a needle?
- What does it mean to conform? When is it necessary and not necessary?
- Do you know anyone who is desperate? Or in despair? What are your thoughts and feelings on these words or people?
- What does it mean to be a hero or heroine? What qualities do your favorite heroes and heroines have?
3/8 The culminating activity for I Survived: True Stories will be your choice. This will be due Friday, March 16.
Select an option below which will best show your understanding of the text.
- Identify examples of figurative language, onomatopoeia, or idioms from the book. Select one. Create a poster explaining what the author “really” means, or the connotative meaning. Draw a picture or use clip art to illustrate the literal meaning. Include the excerpt from the text on the poster. Be sure to cite the page number. Write a paragraph or two explaining the connotative meaning.
- When tragedy strikes, newspapers report on the event. Pretend that you are a news reporter during the historical time period and interview the main character. Write an I Survived newspaper article, using details from the book to tell the character’s story. Be sure to provide the who, what, where, when, why, and how details. This should be digital.
3/5
I Survived: True Stories
Monday: I Survived: True Stories Whirlwinds and Twisters and respond to the following:Which two sentences prove that Henryville Elementary took precautionary measures when it came to Tornados?
Tuesday:
I Survived: True Stories Devastating Hit and respond to the following:What was the mood that the author wanted you to feel during this section? Identify two details to support this mood.
2/27
In math this week we are beginning chapter 8, multiplying fractions. Today we practiced modeling this idea with repeated addition of a fraction. The language I use in the classroom to support this concept would like look this: 8 x 1/10= 8/10 is eight groups of one tenth is eight tenths.
Go Math Pages:
Tuesday 459-460
Wednesday 465-466
Thursday 473-474
Friday 479-480
This week in writing we are finishing our first Response to Literature essay. Today we typed our essays and will move through the editing process tomorrow. If your child was absent today, please have them log into Google Classroom and type their essay. Thursday we will make the edits digitally, and Friday we will celebrate, within our classroom, this accomplishment.
Please ask to see your child's reading log daily to ensure your child is reading 45+ minutes a day.
Additionally, on Friday, we will articulate our February Mock ELA scores.
I Survived: True Stories Reading Responses
Tuesday
pages 96-103 "Earthquake Warnings"
Why were the leaders of Kamaishi’s schools especially worried about the tsunamis? How did they prepare their students for the tsunamis? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.
Wednesday
pages 103-106 "A Black Raging River"
How do the nonfiction text features contribute to the understanding of the destruction of this tsunami? Use 2 details from the text to support your thinking.
Thursday
pages 106-115 "Finding Hope" and "The Tsunami Files"
What caused the damage to the Fukishima Daiichi power plant? Identify 2 details to support your response.
Friday
pages 121-124 Introduction and "An Ordinary Day"
What causes the 'extra ordinary' superstorms? Use 2 details from the text to support your answer.
Please encourage your child to prepare for our Socratic Seminars each week. The questions are posted on their monthly calendar. With preparation from your child we can have deep and rigorous discussion within the classroom. On Google Classroom, I post additional texts which may support an opinion for the discussion. Your child can do additional research and, if provided enough time, I can make copies to distribute their research to the class.
Ask your child their reading, writing, or math goal! We know goals are attainable when we constantly remind ourselves of them with the right mindset. :)
2/13
Yesterday and today we have been completing our final ELA Mock exam. Please review your child's assessment log on Thursday to review their scores. Our goal is growth from September, and with the right mindset, a lot of us are achieving that goal.
This week we are reading a excerpt from "Sheep" as we look at character change from beginning to end. This will become our Response to Literature writing piece for February. This essay is due February 28.
This week we have begun drafting our Investigative News Stories. On Friday, we reviewed the pivotal aspects of our articles to ensure we did not have any missing parts.
For example:
The issue: the damage that spraying appears to do
Who’s affected: villagers, company, government
The technical background: the harmfulness and non-approved status of the chemical; the regulations
The villains: authorities who don’t respond or fail to issue warnings
The motives: the relationship of the company to district and national authorities
The end: where this leaves us or what might happen next.
Please read your child's draft to check they have these five sections.
In math, we are continuing chapter 7, adding and subtracting fractions. Your child can use strategies such as the number line, bar model, like with like, or decomposing to complete each problem. In order to check their work, your child should show their work 2 ways for each problem.
Thursday, your children will participate in a Socratic Seminar. The guided question will be: Do you think the artifacts from the Titanic should be salvaged, or left alone?
They will use their I Survived book, articles from READY, articles that I posted on Google Classroom, and any other appropriate articles they research to participate in this discussion.
Scholastic book orders are due Thursday, if you're interested. NHM7F is our class online code.
Please be reminded that school will be closed from February 16-25. Your child will receive their Mid Winter Break packet this week. It will be due upon their return on February 26. Encourage your child to complete their book report for February during this time.
We had a visit from Omegaman yesterday! Ask your child what is a 'Dream Maker' versus a 'Dream Breaker' and how it can help them through the rest of the school year, on their sports team, etc.
2/9
Each Friday we complete data articulation and reflect on the prior week's assessments. Thank you for continuing the practice of reviewing this information in your child's homework folder and signing. Each Monday it is checked to maintain communication between home and school regarding your child's progress.
Please be sure your child is reading 40 minutes each evening and recording it in their Reading Log. This document is also checked on Mondays.
This weekend's "I Survived" homework includes finishing book 2 "The Titanic Disaster" and responding to the following question using a RACE response:
How was Jack saved? Who did he find when he was saved?
Begin to prepare for our next Socratic(2/15): Should the Titanic's artifacts be salvaged, or left alone? (additional texts on Google Classroom)
1/30
As of this week, we have begun chapter 7 in math, fractions! Please help your child by encouraging them to use part-whole models.
Go Math Pages:
Tuesday 401-402
Wednesday 399-402
Thursday 407-408
Friday 405-406
Our Argumentative Essay is winding down as we come to the close of the month. At this point, we are all publishing. If you have access to the internet, please have your child log into Google Classroom and do any last minute edits/revisions. Ask them who is their audience? What are their sources? Did they refer to the opposing view 3 times?
January Book Reports are due Thursday! Refer to the rubric glued in your child's homework notebook for grading expectations.
This week we starting reading "I Survived: True Stories." These are beautiful (brand new!) books that we received. Please encourage your child to keep it in good condition by covering it with a paper bag or having it in a zip lock back as it transports between home and school.
Each night they will read a section and respond to a question. We are reading the text to focus on the setting and how the characters react to the setting, Additionally, we are gaining additional schema on these Epic Disasters.
Tuesday: "An Explosion" and "Swallowed by Darkness" Answer the following question in a RACE response:
Why did Walter get off the sled? Do you think he regretted this decision?
Wednesday: "The Long Winter" Answer the following question in a RACE response:
Cite 2 details from the text that support the following statement: Minnie Freeman was a hero.
Thursday: "Rescue Mission" Answer the following question in a RACE response: Use details from the text to describe Will. (character traits!!)
Friday: "More Precious" Answer the following question in a RACE response: Why didn't it matter to Will that his perfume bottle broke?
We are low on pencils, if you can, please send them in with your child so we can add them to our Writing Center.
Thank you to those who have sent in signed Progress Reports. They need to be returned by February 7.
When the Book of the Month comes home with your child, please take the time to read it and discuss the theme. This is a big shift in fourth grade as we look at character change from the beginning to end. (Please then remind your child to return it to school so it can go to the next home. :] )
We use the green Social Studies Passport book multiple times throughout the week. If it is at home, please send it to school with your child.
1/9
This week in math we are continuing chapter 4, division. Please keep referring to your child's notes as we progress through this chapter.
Go Math pages:
Tuesday 233-234 (Show all work)
Wednesday 231-232 (Show all work)
Thursday 269-270 (Show all work)
Friday 271-276 EVEN Numbers only (Show all work)
Our Journalism PBL is continuing as we dive into our investigative news stories this week. We are doing this by completing additional interviews and research. Last Friday, we paired up and prompted each other with key ideas or questions in order to deepen our work. If your child's interviews are digital, please send them in on a flash drive or email them to me so your child has access in class.
Friday, we are heading to the New York Times Printing Press to enrich our Journalism PBL. Please be sure your child gets their permission slip in and they pack a lunch for Friday.
I am looking for one more chaperone for this trip. Please let me know if you are interested!
We had a great time today at the Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum! It was amazing to be in the oldest home in all of New York State. This colonial home gave us a glimpse into life in New Amsterdam.
Ask your child what things were in the home that are similar to what we have today, and which items are different.
As always, each Friday we fill our Assessment Logs. These logs are attached to your child's homework folder and keep you updated with their latest assessments.
1/2
Happy New Year!
In order to continue communication between home and school, 404 has begun implementing a 3 step process for classroom behavior. If a child does not follow one of the class rules they will receive a warning. The second time they do it the student reflects on their actions. Finally, the third time will be a note home for you to sign. Ensuring we all follow expectations in the classroom helps to protect the rights of every child to learn and enjoy school.
Today in writing, we looked back at our opinion essays from December. I provided each student the time to revise and edit their writing based on the feedback I gave over break. Many children were using their time wisely this afternoon and made the edits, however they still need to log into Google Classroom to make them digitally. If you have internet access, please help your child to make these revisions this evening.
We are continuing division this week and began using a strategy that looks very similar to the long division we learned as children. Notice in the example, (in your child's math notebook) that they have a 'cheat sheet' of base facts which they can use to help solve. This example also includes an equation and a model that matches.
Go Math pages:
Tuesday: 257-257 (use partial quotients! You may need scrap paper, be sure to keep it with your book!)
Wednesday: 263-264 (use partial quotients! You may need scrap paper, be sure to keep it with your book!)
Thursday:213-214 (use partial quotients! You may need scrap paper, be sure to keep it with your book!)
Friday: 211-212 (use partial quotients! You may need scrap paper, be sure to keep it with your book!)
Because of Winn Dixie roles for chapters 5-8 are due tomorrow. Chapter roles for 9-12 will be due Tuesday, January 9. Please remind your child to read the description for each role so they complete the task correctly.
This month we will begin our study of Colonial Times. Our driving question throughout the unit is 'What motivates people to colonize other lands?' We will be heading to the Wyckoff Museum on January 11. Please keep an eye out for that permission slip and send in $7. If there is a financial issue, please let me know as we want all students to attend.
Thank you for helping your children begin research for their investigative news story. I saw some extremely eager journalists this morning ready to share! Your child will need their research for Friday.
12/19
Tonight, your child should complete their draft of their opinion writing essay. Their prompt is : What is an issue in school that is important to you? Why?
Please be sure your writer has this on loose leaf paper and is skipping lines, for class tomorrow.
We will revise tomorrow in class and need them to be published by Friday. If you have computer access, please encourage your child to type Thursday evening.
This week in math we have been using compatible numbers and partial quotients to divide. Today, we put a model of partial quotients in our notebooks, Please refer to this for support.
Go Math Pages:
Tuesday: 245-246
Wednesday: 207-208
Thursday: 201- 202
Friday: See Winter Packet
This week we will begin our introduction into investigative news stories. Please keep an eye out for the directions this week as to how you can support your journalist.
Book reports are due January 2, but feel free to hand them in by Thursday.
Have a wonderful holiday break!
12/15 Optional Extension Math Task
Mrs. Monet has one hundred two pieces of drawing paper. Mrs. Monet has nine art tables. On the first day of school, Mrs. Monet wants to put the same amount of drawing paper on each art table. How many pieces of drawing paper does Mrs. Monet put on each art table the first day of school? Mrs. Monet buys drawing paper in packages of one hundred forty-four. Mrs. Monet buys seven packages of drawing paper. If each day Mrs. Monet uses the same amount of drawing paper as she did on the first day of school, how many days will the packages of drawing paper last before she has to buy more? Show all your mathematical thinking.12/15 Optional Extension Math Task
12/12
Today we completed the Mock Math Exam. Please look for this score and their ELA score on Friday in their assessment log.
We are looking to complete our drafts for this month's writing by Monday. As of tonight, your child should have their introduction complete and have their 3 chosen reasons. This month's prompt is "What is an issue in school that is important to you? Why?"
To support your writer in their introduction tonight, follow the steps below...
1.Engage the reader by creating a scene- 3 sentences SHOWING why this is an issue
(ex: Imagine you enter the cafeteria and smell fresh herbs, vegetables, and...
2. Explain the issue at hand- Unfortunately, we don’t have fresh food being served. Everything is frozen or in a can.
3. Establish your point of view- That is why I strongly feel that we need fresh food to be served in the cafeteria.
4. Introduce your 3 reasons (thesis statement)- If we had fresh food we would eat healthier, have more energy and build good eating habits.
Tomorrow we will begin division in math, we will be sure to bring our math notebooks home so you can see which strategies we are using.
If your child seemed uneasy regarding the math practice test this week, or you're looking for support in Common Core math grades 3-5 please attend a workshop at PS 376 at 9 am in room 119.
This week's Go ,Math pages:
Tuesday 197-198
Wednesday 219-220
Thursday 201-202 (Round THEN divide!)
Friday 239-240
Don't forget, Friday is Pajama Day!
12/5
Today and tomorrow we are taking the Mock ELA Exam. Please ensure your child is on time and has had breakfast so they can reach their full potential. Next week, we will complete the Mock Math Exam.
If your child has a change in dismissal/person picking them up, you must send a note in with your child.
Please continue practicing your child's multiplication facts as we finish chapter 3. If you need flashcards, please let me know.
Go Math Pages:
Tuesday 187-188 Use the area model!
Wednesday 185-186 Use the area model!
Thursday 189-190 Use the area model!
Friday 195-196 Use the area model!
We completed "Eagle Song" last month, therefore our reading responses are transitioning back to Bookmarks. This week we are looking at Courage (T-1). Your child should be reading a fiction book on their level in order to complete their RACE responses each evening.
11/28
Tomorrow is Wacky Wednesday! Please encourage your child to show their school spirit by looking a little goofy. :)
Our Haudenosaunee essays are due on Thursday. We will finish revising tomorrow and begin typing them in class. If you have internet access at home, please encourage your child to complete the publishing process Wednesday night.
This week in math we are finishing up chapter 3, multiplying 2 by 2 digit numbers. Your child should be using the area model or place value strategies to solve. This is modeled in their math notebooks.
Next week we will begin division. Fact fluency is essential to your child's success as we progress through these chapters. I have extra math flashcards if you need them. Please let me know!
Go Math Homework:
Tuesday 165-166
Wednesday 175-176
Thursday 169-170
Friday 177-178
Book reports are due on Friday, December 1. Your child should have the September book report for reference as well as their rubric glued in their homework notebook. A large shift in 4th grade is your child's ability to identify a theme. This should be included in their book reports.
You can help your child to identify theme by asking them to look at what the character says/does/thinks throughout the text.
11/21
This week in math we began chapter 3. This chapter is all about two by two digit multiplication. I will encourage your children to take home their math notebooks to use as a reference for completing their homework. The strategies we use in class are different then Go Math. This week we are practicing multiplying these numbers using place value and the area model.
Tuesday: Go Math 155-156
Wednesday: Go Math 161-162
Thursday: Go Math 133-134
Tonight is the last night we will spend researching for our Haudenosaunee essays as tomorrow we will begin drafting. If there are any 'holes' in our pieces we need to fill those tonight so we may draft over the long weekend. Please ensure your child's draft is complete by Monday.
If you still have your child's report card, please sign it and return it ASAP.
November's Scholastic orders are due tomorrow. NHMF7 is the class code, please remember that you can see their reading levels in the catalogs.
Eagle Song chapter 7 roles are due on Tuesday.
Book reports are due December 1!
11/17
Math pages 143 through 144
Read for 40 min and LOG it!
Eagle Song Chapter 5 Role due Tuesday
Scholastic Orders due Wednesday, November 22
Writing : Continue researching on chosen topics. 5Ws!
Book Report due December 1!
TAG PBL: Your task:
Report on ONE event you do this weekend in your Reporter Pad. Identify the 5Ws. Be direct and descriptive.
11/14
Thursday, November 14 is a half day (dismissal at 11:20) for Parent Teacher Conferences. SASF will be closed this day, if your child attends this program please send them in with a note for alternate dismissal.
If you have not received an appointment reminder please send your child in with a note or send me an email specifying whether you are available from 1:00 pm- 3:00 pm or 4:30 pm- 7:30 pm.
This week in math we are transitioning from only multiplying one digit numbers by four digit numbers to multi step word problems. Please encourage your child to annotate their questions to find signal words for operations, and determine WHAT they are answering. This should alleviate confusion regarding if it is a one or two step problem.
We are moving forward with our writing about the Haudenosaunee. This week we have been practicing the skill of paraphrasing by replacing words with synonyms, rearranging ideas, or summarizing the text.
November 28 we are scheduled to visit the Natural History Museum for Native American Cultures Day. Look out for that permission slip in the next week or so.
If you're looking to enrich our study of Native Americans, please attend the event below. It would be great to have some student reporters share all they saw with the class!
November 18, 2017
Native American Giving Thanks Celebration
1 PM – 4 PM, Sunset Park, BrooklynCome give thanks with Indigenous communities from North & South America, the Caribbean and Hawaii. Native American Pow Wow, dancing, singing, drumming, vendors and more.
11/6
Tomorrow, Tuesday November 7, school is closed.
This month, in lieu of Bookmarks, we will be participating in Literature Circles for the book "Eagle Song." Your child is in a group of 3-4 students with rotating roles for each chapter. They have a packet which has the specific role they will complete for each chapter and the due date. On each due date, your child should have their role complete so they can meet in their group prepared for discussion. Below are the roles:
DISCUSSION DIRECTOR: Chooses and answers (the night before) TWO questions for the group to discuss together in a RACE response. When meeting with the group: 1. Ask question to group 2. Group discusses 3. Moves conversation along so all may speak.
WORD WIZARD: Finds words that are difficult or used in an unfamiliar way and provides definitions, may include the vocabulary words for each chapter and any additional words. Use circle map to collect word parts, replacement words, sentences before and after, etc. When you meet with your group: share the word, show where it is in the story, and have each person try to predict the definition.
SUPER SUMMARIZER: Maps out the important parts of chapter using a tree map. Remember to use STORY. Setting, Talking character, Oops! There’s a problem, Resolution, Yes! There’s a solution.
IROQUOIS CONNECTOR: Finds connections between the story and Iroquois aspects from another book. Share connection in a double bubble map.
Please have your child log into Google Classroom to complete their pen pal letter for Ms. Salchli and log in to complete their Informational Books. These were due on November 1.
10/24
Thursday is picture day! If you are ordering photos, please send in your envelopes ASAP so I can get them to the PSA.
Friday, the PSA is hosting a movie night for Moana. Please see the flyer in your child's homework folder tonight for information regarding this event.
This week in math we are beginning Chapter 2, which is focused on multiplying one digit numbers. Please encourage your child to use comparison and bar models when showing their work 2 ways. You can find this model in the 2.1 lessons of your child's Go Math books.
Please keep an eye out for Friday's assessment log. We will have a weekly assessment working on our skills working with theme and inferences. Please help your child by encouraging their reading of fiction for 40 minutes each night.
Thursday, November 2, we are heading to the National Museum of the American Indian. Your child should receive a permission slip for the trip this week. It is free, please be sure to send your child with a lunch that day.
10/17
Thursday we are heading to the Prospect Park Zoo. Behavior in class 4-404 was impressive last week at the NY Aquarium. Please again discuss appropriate behaviors when traveling off campus. Also, pack a disposable lunch for your child that day.
Friday we will have a math assessment on chapter 5. We worked on identifying multiples today by using their divisibility rules. These are in their notebooks as well as page 286 in their Go Math book.
We will also have an assessment on main idea and details in a nonfiction text. Help your child by reading an article and asking them why we circle repeated word to identify main idea.
Please ensure you are looking at, and signing, your child's assessment log each Friday. There will be assessments added each week as we progress through the school year.
10/12
Here is the Group C task from today's factor lesson. Feel free to try and solve this!
Martin's Muffin Shop wants to design a box to hold three dozen mini muffins. Martin's Muffin Shop wants the mini muffins to be arranged in the shape of a rectangle with the same number of mini muffins in each row and the same number of mini muffins in each column. The boxes could hold one layer of mini muffins or multiple layers of mini muffins. What are all the possible arrangements of mini muffins in a box that Martin's Muffin Shop can decide to use? Show all your mathematical thinking.
10/10
Please pack a lunch for your child TOMORROW and gear for potential rain. We will head to the NY Aquarium tomorrow morning to explore California Sea Otters in kelp forest ecosystems. Please discuss appropriate behavior with your child regarding off campus trips.
Today we began chapter 5 in math. This chapter focuses on factors, multiples, and patterns. Please help your child by creating arrays or factor rainbows. This has been modeled in their math notebooks. If they seem to be struggling with their homework, encourage your child to bring their math notebook to and from school each day. Additionally, if your child does not know their multiplication facts, please begin use of flashcards to practice. I have sets of cards if you need them. Please let me know.
We are diligently practicing our researching skills in writing. As your child continues to research on their animal, have them stop and ask themselves, "Is this relevant to this category?" If not, what category should it go to?
Please review and sign your child's assessment log from Friday if you have not already done so.
Next week we are heading to the Prospect Park Zoo. Please ensure the permission slip and money for that trip are in ASAP. If there are monetary concerns, please let me know.
Today, I sent home information regarding an upcoming PSA meeting and Picture Day. They should be in your child's folder.
October's Scholastic orders are available, please encourage your child to choose books on or above their level. The online code is NHM7F.
10/3
Please take a look in your child's homework folder for their assessment log stapled in the back. Each Friday we write in the previous week's assessment score and next steps. Please sign next to the assignment to confirm you've seen their scores.
The READY Exams that are on there are a Baseline. Their actual scores will not count for a grade, but I want you to see where they are, presently, with grade 4 standards. This score should improve as we take additional mocks as the year progresses.
Regarding our PBL supplement trips: If you have not already, please send in the permission slip and $8 for the NY Aquarium on October 11. This week I will send home a second permission slip for the Prospect Park Zoo on October 19. This trip will be $7. If there is a money issue, please let me know.
Our trips in November and December will NOT have a fee. :)
Monday, in Writing, we began our Informational unit. We will be researching and developing a book for an animal of our choice. Tomorrow, Wednesday, we will have our confirmed animal. If possible, please take your child to your local public library to find text on their animal.
Friday, in Math, we will have our first Bi-Weekly Skill Assessment. This will be checking for mastery of chapter 1. This includes place value and addition/subtraction of whole numbers. Today, I retaught subtracting whole numbers. Your child should use expanded form or standard algorithm to solve.
Please ensure your child is reading each night and is completing their RACE response from their Bookmark. This week's is P5.
If you have any donations for the Hurricane Relief Drive, please send them to our classroom.
9/26
In writing, we are continuing our Realistic Fiction piece. By Friday, we need to be published. Please be sure your child has a flash drive available if they will be typing at home, as we do not yet have Google Classroom access.
This week in math, we are working through Chapter 1. Please continue to review place value with your child.
October 11 is our field trip to the NY Aquarium. Please send in $8 cash with your child's signed permission slip as well as a packed and disposable lunch.
On Monday, we officially started completing Bookmarks based on our 40 minutes of reading each night. In your child's Homework Notebook, there will be the Bookmark Expectations glued. It is pasted below. Your child should write their paragraph below the homework they wrote that morning.
Bookmark Expectations:
- Choose 1 response each night based on the book you are reading.
- Respond by writing one paragraph. All questions can be answered fully.
- Be sure to use RACE.
-Answer the question
- Cite evidence
- Explain the evidence
Describe the main character of the book in five or fewer words. Avoid using trite words (nice, good, bad, mean, etc.).
The main character in Cow Won’t Bow is Cow. To begin with, Cow was a selfish character. At one point in the story Cow said, ‘In this play, I’m the star!’ When Cow said this he was not giving the rest of the actors credit in the play and taking it all for himself instead of sharing.
Book reports are due Monday! Again, I do not accept them late. They may be typed or hand written and the rubric is also glued inside your child's homework notebook.
9/19
Please be advised we do not have school Thursday and Friday. We will resume classes on Monday, September 25.
This week we have been completing the Mock Math exam. This data is used to drive my instruction and small groups throughout the school year. I ask that your child puts in their best effort so I am aware of their strengths and weaknesses as soon as possible.
We have been pre writing for our Realistic Fiction stories. Today we looking at our character's struggles and motivations to get through their struggle. By Wednesday, we will be drafting. Please ensure your child drafts over the long weekend. If you can, read their story and provide feedback to ensure it is a realistic story. We will need to edit, revise, and publish upon our return the week of the 25th. Therefore, it is vital that your child drafts over the long weekend.
Our field trip to Prospect Park Zoo, on the 28th, has been postponed until mid October.
If your family is ordering Scholastic Books please send in those orders by tomorrow. Cash/check is okay, but online is preferred. NHM7F is the class code.
Book reports are due October 2nd. As a reminder, they are not accepted late. Please review the rubric glued in your child's homework notebook when planning their fiction book report.
Your child's Social Studies 'Passport' should be going to and from school each night as we study New York Geography.
9/12
Our first four days of school are underway!
Please join me TOMORROW, September 13, for Curriculum Night. I will share classroom expectations and protocols for this school year.
Session 1: 4:30 pm- 5:20 pm
Session 2: 5:30 pm- 6:30 pm
This week we started Chapter 1 in our math book. We are learning about Place Value up to the hundred thousands. Please review this skill with your child by choosing a digit and asking what the value is of that number.
In PBL we are learning about animal defense mechanisms, We are reading passages and using Close Reading strategies to research animals in the rain forest.
On September 28, we are heading to the Prospect Park Zoo to supplement our PBL unit. Please be on the look out for that permission slip.
Today we began brainstorming for our Narrative Writing Unit. Our first piece will be a realistic fiction story based on a story we WISH we could read.
If you still need school supplies, please send them in ASAP.
Back to School Blast is THIS Saturday from 10-1 in the school yard. I'll be there!
8/7
Below is the school supply list you will need entering into the fourth grade in September. Please bring the supplies in on Thursday, September 7, 2017.
- 1 package of pencils
- 12 black marble composition notebooks
- Plastic Folders in the following colors:
2 Yellow 2 Blue
2 Orange 2 Black
- 1 box of colored pencils or crayons
- 1 pack of dry erase markers
- 1 package of blue or black pens
- 2 yellow highlighters
- 2 blue highlighters
- 1 package of glue sticks (boys)
- 1 glue bottle (girls)
- 2 packs of post-its
- 2 packs of wide ruled loose-leaf paper
- 1 pack of white computer paper
- 2 rolls of paper towels
- 2 boxes of tissues
- 1 bottle of hand sanitizer
- 1 pack of Lysol wipes
- 1 box of gallon size Ziploc bags
- 1 flash drive
- Headphones or Ear-buds (inexpensive)
- 1 dictionary and 1 thesaurus for home
- 1 protractor for home
- 1 ruler for home
Optional Supplies
- Soap
- Clipboard
- 1 pack of 3in. x 5in. index cards
- Construction Paper
- Scotch tape