February

Hello Families,

Math: We continue to work on multiplication.  Please keep practicing math facts at home!  You can practice digitally on FrontRow or Multiplication.com

Reading: We are almost finished with our unit on reading informational texts.  Right now we are focusing on biographies which are informational texts written in a narrative form.   We have also spoken extensivly about being critical thinkers when consuming media.  How can a traditional informational text- think a book about frogs, for example- give facts in a way that lead or color the reader? 

Writing: We are working hard on a long persuasive letter or speech. Some students are writing about wanting new playground equipment, fixing our lead pipes, or giving more recognition to our custodian or lunch ladies.  

Social Studies/Science: Bridges!!! Bridges!!! Bridges!!!! We are well into our unit on Portland's Bridges.  The information packet on the bridge project went home two weeks ago. If you have questions come see me!

Other:  We have guest speakers on Tuesdays from HEART. Ms. Claire is teaching a unit entitled "Fostering Empathy" which promotes and practices interpersonal skills.
We have Reed College Critical Practice Institute volunteers coming every other Tuesday to work on Calligraphy with our students.  
Ms. Moore is back to coming once a month to work outside in the garden.  We loved having her come do the Cinderella unit with us!
Today we had a one time visit from the RedCross which spoke with the students about emergency preparedness.  Please ask your student about their emergency pillowcase and help your family make a plan using the booklet they took home.

Valentine’s Day is approaching!  We will have a small celebration in the classroom in the afternoon of the 14th.  We will pass out cards and have a healthy snack.  Many students like to make homemade cards or decorate store bought cards.  If your child chooses to participate, please remind them to make cards for everyone.  I’ve included a class list so that students’ names can be spelled correctly.   Please help me support district policy in promoting healthy eating, and leave the candy and sweets at home.  If a child brings candy, they will be allowed to pass it out, but we will not eat candy at school.   We have 20 students in the classroom.