Exploring Science Through Fun and Games!

Over the past few days we have learned a lot of new concepts in science.  To help in our exploration of this new information, we've had a lot of fun with an experiment and a game.

We explored the effects of wind and water erosion on sand, soil, and rocks.  The students discovered that sand was the most impacted by wind and water erosion.  Ask your child to explain our experiment.

We went on an "Incredible Journey" to discover how a water molecule moves on Earth.  The students began at a station such as "lake", then rolled a dice to see where the water molecule would travel to next.  Some found that they were trapped in the same place for a long time, just like water in real life.  Ask your child about this fun game.

We've been exploring, playing, and moving to make science more accessible, interesting, and fun!

Congratulations Skylar!

At an assembly held on December 5, Skylar Halley received a character award for Habit 3 "Put First Things First" from the 7 Habits of Happy Kids.  Skylar's certificate read,

Skylar Halley is a great example of Habit 3 “Put First Things First”.  He is focused during class, puts forth his best effort on all assignments, and participates in class discussions.  I can count on Skylar to have his homework completed and returned in a timely manner.  He works well with his peers helping them stay on task during partner and group work.  Skylar understands the value of “work first, then play”.

Congratulations Skylar!

Multiplication!

Practice makes perfect!  It's an old cliche, but when it comes to memorization of multiplication facts - it's true!  A couple weeks ago, students brought home fact triangles.  I hope you are still using those on a regular basis.  A little practice every day aids in memory.  You wouldn't let your child show up for the recital or ball game without attending the practices.  The same holds true for math class.  If you want to get better at math, you have to put in the time practicing.  Encourage your child to work on memorizing the basic facts of multiplication.  Practice makes perfect!

American Education Week

In honor of American Education Week, I'd like to thank parents for all you do help your child succeed in his/her educational endeavors.  By ensuring your child is reading, completing spelling homework, and practicing math facts, you are adding invaluable assistance to your child and me!  It’s vitally important that your child knows that you value their education.  Knowing that you have high expectations for their future success will encourage your child to work to the best of their ability.  So during this week set aside to honor those who educate children, I want to extend a big THANK YOU to parents.  You are your child’s first and best teacher!  Keep up the good work!

Congratulations Abby!

Congratulations to Abby Schaefer on receiving the award for the 7 Habits trait "Begin with the End in Mind" at this week's awards assembly.  

Abby's certificate reads:

Abby Schaefer is a good example of the second trait “Begin with the End in Mind”.  She works hard on all assignments and knows that hard work will help her gain knowledge. I can count on Abby to complete all her homework and return it in a timely manner.  She works well with a partner or in a group to complete an assigned task.  Abby is a positive leader in our classroom!

Field Trip Slide Show

Enjoy the Photo Peach slide show of pictures from our trip to Jefferson County Park on Monday, November 7, 2011.


Jefferson County Park November 7, 2011 on PhotoPeach

Jefferson County Park Field Trip

On Monday, November 7 we will be taking a field trip to Jefferson County Park. We will be spending all day at the park. Please make sure your child is dressed for the weather. We will be outside most of the day. Good walking shoes/boots and layers of clothing would be a good idea. Therese has some great activities planned for us to explore animal habitats and adaptations. These are things we have been studying in Science so it will be fun to do some hands-on learning!

Your child needs to bring lunch and something to drink! I would prefer that you not send soda pop with your child.

It should be a great day!