Wednesday

We had an interesting day as the children learned about Christmas around the world. This afternoon students practiced for the Christmas program.

Students will have their Christmas party tomorrow at !0:45 and then we will have the program in the afternoon at the Dahle Performing Arts Center. This begins at 1:30. Hope you are able to come.

Tuesday

This morning we used Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol, to compare and contrast two different versions. Students wrote the setting, characters, plot, conflict, and resolution. We will watch one more and then compare the movies to see which parts are the same and different. It is seasonal and meets the requirements for the Common Core Standards. We also worked through divisibility rules again today.

Tomorrow will be Christmas around the world and practice for the Thursday Christmas program.

Monday - Christmas reading papers went home

Today, as students asked questions about the tragedy in Connecticut, we talked about it as a class. We discussed the emergency procedures that our school has in place, we talked about how to be a helper instead of a hurter. I hope that we were able to calm any fears students might have had.

A homework reading sheet went home today, it is Christmas green. It explains what is happening this week, and it has a place for parents to sign as students read over the holidays.

Friday Test Day - Tragic Day

Friday has turned into a very tragic day with all of the heart-break and heroism in Connecticut. By Monday, most of the children will know about it, and if they don't their friends will make sure they do. I would encourage you to discuss it with them so that they don't first hear about it on Monday. Mr. Rogers, one of my heroes, said that when something bad happened when he was little, his mother said that he should look for the helpers. She told him that there were bad people, but there were many more helpers and that most of the people are helpers. I thought it was a good way to explain insanity to a child and still give them hope.

Next week we will be having some party time, but students still need to stay on task and get their work done. Wednesday is Christmas around the world and practice for Thursday's program. Thursday we will have reading in the morning, party after first recess, (10:45) where children will exchange gifts, and then the program in the afternoon. May you have a very Merry Christmas and may our country be blessed with peace throughout the new year.

Thursday - Tests and White and Maroon day

We went to the auditorium today so the students could do a quick run-through of their Christmas program. The students did pretty well. We are singing, "I'm Getting Nothing For Christmas," and signing and singing, "Away in a Manger." The children did pretty well. The program will be next Thursday at 1:30 p.m. in the Auditorium.

Today we talked about Coming of Age, meaning a time in your life when you must make a good decision and by making it you grow up, even just a little. The students then wrote a story of a time that they made a good decision, even if it was difficult. Then we played jeopardy to help students study for the reading, spelling and vocabulary tests tomorrow.

In math we studied for our test tomorrow. It will cover the normal things and also include double digit division. We will also have a six times table test. The students have got to put the time in to get these down. I am explaining to the children that doing a division problem is a lot like a video game, you have to guess the best way to go, sometimes you go the wrong way, then you have to back up and try again. The test is tomorrow.

Finally we had a treat for Hannukah, learned the dance Hava Nagilla and danced Mayim too. They did a lot better today and seemed to enjoy it more.

Wednesday

We took our spelling test today. Then students got in groups and re-read the story aloud together. This team reading should help with fluency. In math students has a pre-test on their 6 multiplication tables. We need to continue working on these so we can move on in math.

In math we also started using two digit divisors. The students worked on their white boards and then in teams to figure out the answers. We will continue with this tomorrow and then do a worksheet, while I take students aside to work on the questions they missed on their tests.

As we have been celebrating Hannukah this week, we learned the dance, "Mayim." It is a traditional Israeli dance and is quite easy to learn and fun to do. We also lit the fifth candle on our menorah.

We will be having our Christmas party on Thursday, next week at about 10:50 p.m. If your student wants to participate in the present exchange, please have them bring a wrapped gift. If it is something specifically for a boy or a girl, please make sure that is marked on the gift so our boys don't get hair bows.

Tuesday - Spelling test tomorrow

Today we learned about Hannukah and why the Hebrew nation celebrates it. Tomorrow we will be learning a dance and Thursday and Friday we will taste some of the food used to celebrate Hannukah as we continue to learn about the holidays of different cultures.

We covered the spelling words to prepare for tomorrow's test. Students then worked in their workbooks. We learned about metaphors like, "His stomach is an empty pit," or "She has an iceberg for a heart." Next we reviewed the story that we read on Monday and students wrote about one of the characters in the story.

In math students continued working on dividing by multiples of ten. Students should have taken their Friday tests home yesterday. Parents were to sign these and then make sure I get them back. This way I can keep track of where each student needs help and parents can see what we are doing.

Monday - book orders due tomorrow

We read a new story today called, "Bridge Dancers." It told how a younger sister, who had paid attention, was able to help her older sister when she cut her leg. It is a good story. We also started working on our spelling words.

Homework pages went home today. Students will be learning their 6 multiplication tables this week. They must get these down. We are also learning about dividing with multiples of ten. It is fairly easy, and the children seem to be getting it.

If you want to order a book for your child online, you can use the code L8J7V to order.

Friday - Book orders due Monday L8J7V

We took our tests today, made snowflakes and learned Spanish. It was fun. Christmas is coming soon. Students are asked to bring a wrapped gift to exchange with another student. Please keep the gifts inexpensive.

Book orders need to be in on Monday. This can be done online using the classroom code L8J7V. If you do not want your child to know you have ordered a book for them, let me know through email or a phone call and I will keep the book for you to come and pick up. My email is cwinward@wssd.k12.id.us

The Christmas party will be at 10:45 December 20th. In the afternoon the children will do their Christmas program at the Dahle building at 1:30.

Thursday - Tests tomorrow

Students took the Star test again today to see where they are in reading. All students were told the color dot that fits with their score. However, I am encouraging them to make sure they are reading books they find interesting. Dot colors are a good indicator, but enjoying your reading is more important. We played Jeopardy today to give the students the opportunity to study for their reading tests tomorrow. Students started reading the story, then they asked each other questions, finally we played Jeopardy. In math we reviewed dividing with a three number dividend. The students practiced dividing with a multiple of ten divisor. This will not be on the test tomorrow as we just started doing it. Adding and subtracting four digit numbers could be something you could work with to prepare your students for their tests. In Idaho History we wrote a diamante poem and finished our limerick about Louis and Clark. It was fun, then the students ran to music. The school is having a food drive asking students to bring in canned foods for the hungry. If you feel you are able to help, please send a can of food with your child.

Wednesday

Students took their spelling test today and did quite well. We also started on our next five paragraph essay. If they didn't finish these, they are homework. Ask your child and see if they brought it home.
In math today we returned to dividing three digit numbers, 345 / 4 = The students are mostly getting this. However, if you have a few minutes, you might be able to sit down with your child and ask them to do a similar problem just to make sure they are comprehending the process. In Social Studies we read about the Spauldings and Whitmans as they traveled west. It must have been a difficult trek for them.

Tuesday

Today in reading we finished the story, "Sewed Up His Heart." It is a very interesting story. We then reviewed our spelling words. Remember there is a spelling test tomorrow. In math we are talking about what a remainder really means. One problem we did was: If you have 86 students to move in vans with 6 seats each, how many vans will you need? The answer is a surprise to the students because the actual answer is not the answer to the division problem. The quotient is 14 with a remainder of 2. But if you have two students left over, you need one more van, hence the answer, instead of being 14 remainder 2 is 15. Some of the children didn't finish their work and they need to do it as homework. The page is 385 doing problems 3-10. In Social Studies we learned about the different groups of missionaries that came to Idaho. Then the children went to P.E. We are working hard on our A.R. reading. Please encourage your student to take tests on the books they read. Cole has fixed the problem so this should be working at home. Make sure your child is reading books they enjoy. Reading at their level is important to progress, but also reading something pleasant and not as difficult is important to enjoying reading. As the year is coming to a close, we need to thank the parents that come in every week to help. If there are any others who want to come, let me know and we will figure out a schedule for you. Thanks for all you do.

Monday - Homework - fix test

In reading today, we read about the first heart surgery. The story was interesting and the children saw a movie based on the life of Daniel Hale William. We reviewed the spelling words. These have gone home as homework. In math we reviewed the math test. Students took their math test home to fix the problems they got wrong. Then they need to bring the tests back so I can put it in the evidence file for each student. In Social Studies we learned a limerick about Lewis and Clark. Then the students were supposed to make up their own limerick about Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery.

Thursday - report cards tomorrow - finish essay

Students will be taking home a regular report card and a new type of math report card. These reports are based on individual areas that the students are required to learn. We think we have figured out how to best do this and hopefully we will see improvement in all of the areas. Today we reviewed our stories and vocabulary words. We also worked on doubles in multiplication. Did you know that if you take 2 x 6 = 12 and 4 (double of 2) x 6 = 24 (the double of 12) You can also double the 4 to eight and the answer doubles again! This also works with 3 and 6. It makes it a fast way for students to be able to figure out multiplication answers. We are learning two songs for the Christmas program. We are singing with the other 4th grade, "I'm gettin' nothin' for Christmas," and then signing, "Away in a Manger." Students need to finish their essay tonight.

Tuesday - spelling test tomorrow

Students had time to re-read our story this morning. If they brought the book home we are reading pg 208-221. Then they worked on their spelling and learned how to figure out what words meant using context clues. Some students got started on their essay about thankfulness. In math students reviewed division. More are getting it everyday. We just keep doing problems until the light goes on. The hard part is that the students are still struggling with their multiplication facts. Once they get those down, division is much easier. Remember, tomorrow is the spelling test.

Monday

We were back to work today. We read an interesting story about how medicine has changed over the past. We started reviewing our spelling words. In math we began working on division again. I have sent home problems for all four operations. The children are struggling with all of these. Please help them, there are just four per night. If you watch what they are doing, perhaps that one-on-one will get them through this struggle. All is going well. We will start grading the homework pages this week. Please encourage the students to write on their reading, it is required. Thanks!

Tuesday Happy Thanksgiving

Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Remember to be grateful and to read, read, read.

Monday

We got a lot of reading done today. Students also got to go to the gold card store. We reviewed five great rules in math that help in dividing by 2, 3, 5, 9, and 10. Then the students practiced doing this. We also wrote our spelling words in cursive. Students will take a test tomorrow which reviews past spelling words. Tomorrow afternoon we will have a little Thanksgiving Party. I hope to encourage them to pay attention, more to their blessings, and not so much on getting out of school.

Thursday

We had our Direct Writing Assessment today. The students worked very hard. We reviewed for our math test tomorrow and will also take the spelling and reading test. Then we will discuss Thanksgiving, figure our AR points for next trimester, and set goals. Discuss these with your child and see what they need to do to set a goal that will stretch them, but not be too difficult.

Wednesday - Direct Writing Assessment tomorrow

Thursday all 4th and 5th grade students will be doing the Direct Writing Assessment. We have been diligently practicing, and hopefully, all will go well. If you want to practice with them, use the paper I sent home last week and have the student talk through an idea for an essay. Today we took our spelling test, practiced vocabulary words and worked on how to brain-storm for a five paragraph essay. In math we are starting division. We separated students out into groups of two, three, four etc. to see if we would have a remainder. Next we did the same thing with blocks. Tomorrow we will start the dividing on paper.

Tuesday - spelling test tomorrow

Students are working hard to prepare for the Direct Writing Assessment on Thursday. I sent home a paper last week, if you want to help your child with this, go through the paper with them, and ask them to "talk out" a five paragraph essay. You can choose any subject and then see if they can talk through it with you. We are beginning to work on division. Monday we divided tens, hundreds, and thousands. That was pretty easy. Today we estimated division. Tomorrow we will start dividing and finding remainders.

Monday - Picture retakes are tomorrow!

Just a reminder that picture retakes will happen tomorrow. Today we read a folktale called, "Salt." Then students wrote paragraph one and two about Gratitude and Thanksgiving. Their Direct Writing Assessment will be this Thursday. We have had quite a few children ill. We are starting to insist that students wear their coats outside. In math we are learning how to divide multiples of tens, hundreds and thousands. It is pretty easy, but it is starting their section on division. It is absolutely imperative that children know their multiplication families so division is easier.

Friday

The children did a wonderful job singing at the Veteran's Day assembly today. They were very enthusiastic. After the assembly was over we went back to class and read the stories about Veterans that the children brought to class. It led to a good discussion. We had reading, spelling and math tests today. Grades come out just before Thanksgiving so these last two tests are really important. I sent home a practice test and will again this next week. Hopefully that will help you, as parents, assist the children at home to comprehend the concepts.

Thursday Veteran's assembly tomorrow

We had our AR walk yesterday. Some of our students are doing extremely well. We prepared for our math and spelling tests for tomorrow. We also did our 4th paragraph in our five paragraph essay. Tomorrow is our Veteran's Day program. We are asking students to wear red white and/or blue tomorrow. The children have been practicing our songs and are ready to go. The assembly will be at 1:30 at the Dahle Fine Arts Center.

Wednesday

Our school is preparing for our Veteran's Day program. We are singing all of the songs from the Air Force, Navy, Army, Coast Guard and Marines. It is wonderful to hear them sing with such heart. I have sent home two papers today. One is to practice for the math test on Friday. This is last week's test, but the problems will be very similar. Also, I sent home an outline for how to write the five paragraph essays. I am not asking you to have your child write one at home, but you could help your child talk through an essay. When they learn to start thinking that way, the test will be easier for them.

Tuesday - Election Day

We are diligently working to prepare for our direct writing assessments. The children are writing everyday. We are also still working on double digit multiplication. Thanks to all the children that wrote the paper about veterans. That took a lot of work.

Monday

The tests students took on Friday will go home tomorrow. Please go over them with your student. I am reviewing any math problem they got incorrect, I hope to have that done tomorrow. Some of them are reading errors, when a student just didn't pay attention to the instructions. We are continuing to work on double digit multiplication. If you could help your student practice these at home, that would help too. Students do have one each day on their homework. We are practicing for our Veteran's Day program on Friday. Students are supposed to find a veteran and interview them. It is good to know what was suffered for our freedoms. Oh, I nearly forgot, we celebrated Guy Fawkes Day today. I told the students that we would celebrate holidays from different country. In 1605 Guy Fawkes was part of a group who tried to blow up the Parliament. He was caught and punished and the people still celebrate the preservation of the Parliament and King James. We watched a few little videos and ate sausages to celebrate the day. Remember, remember the 5th of November, gunpowder, treason and plot. I see no reason why gunpowder and treason should ever be forgot.

Friday

We took all three tests today. Students were grateful for the afternoon when we made art creations depicting the Lewis and Clark expedition. Remember, Sunday is the end of daylight savings time. Enjoy the extra hour in the morning.

Thursday

We had an exciting assembly today. Three young people danced, acted and sang and taught the children about eating right and exercising. It was good. In math we worked more on multiplying by double digit numbers. Students are still struggling. In their homework next week they will have a problem every night. Hopefully this will help them understand. We just learned that our direct writing assessment will be in 15 days! That is not happy news. We will continue to work on perfecting their writing skills until then, and then we will not stop so that next year, they will feel more confident. In Idaho history we learned more about the Lewis and Clark expedition and Sackagawea.

Wednesday Happy Halloween

We had our pre-test in spelling today. We worked on writing a good sentence. This concentrated on making sure there is a subject and a predicate. Then we used our vocabulary words to do some dictionary work. Next, students came up with sentences with adverbs and adjectives to dress the sentences up. It was fun. In math, we attacked the multiplication algorithm. The biggest problem that I am seeing right now is carrying. The students want to write the entire number in the answer instead of carrying the tens over. We will continue to work on this until they are all more comfortable with it.. I do need to share a nice thing. I am fasting from chocolate till next week, so when the children encouraged me to get the dessert at lunch, I told them it was chocolate so I could't. They told me that the cake always had a marshmallow candy pumpkin on it. I said it would be too tempting to eat the chocolate so I better not. So, your sweet children gave me five pumpkin marshmallows so I could have a treat. What very nice children we have in our class. We went to the play at the auditorium. I have to tell you, our class was very well behaved. Finally, thanks to Mrs. Evans and Mrs. Reeder for their treats today. The children so enjoyed them.

Tuesday

We finished reading our story today. Students made a chart showing the different things that happened in the story. Next we reviewed our spelling words and practiced commas. Finally students worked on their five paragraph essay on transportation. In math we worked, again, or arrays and multiplication. Today I gave the students a problem and had them draw the array that went with the problem. Then we did it in long multiplication fashion. Tomorrow we will begin work on the algorithm that we all recognize when doing two digit multiplication. In Idaho History students wrote all the things they thought Lewis and Clark would be taking with them on their journey. Then we played the game, Go West Across America With Lewis and Clark, an online game on National Geographic. Students had to do some re-thinking on their list. Today was P.E., afterwards we cleaned the room and read our book. We also talked about AR points. If your child wants to take the test online just go to the school website and then to Renaissance Place. Right now 4B is nearly in last place. I know students have been reading.

Monday

We started a new story today, students read it in teams. The studied their spelling words and then started on a new essay about cars. In math we are still trying to master arrays and multiplication. I think they are getting closer. During Idaho History we learned about the Lewis and Clark expedition. We will do a little more tomorrow.

Friday Halloween Party

Thanks so much to Mrs. Ballif, Mrs. Cahoon and Mrs. Parrish who came in to help with our Halloween party. Mrs. Ballif had some great games for the children to play. We all had a really fun time. This morning we did our spelling and reading tests. Then for math we did our arrays again. I think they are getting them a little better. Don't forget the carnival tonight from 6 - 8 at the elementary school. See you there!

Thursday pumpkins tomorrow!

We will have our spelling and reading test tomorrow morning. And then, instead of a math test, we are going to work on our arrays again. We will be doing it with dice and disks. I hope that they find this more enjoyable while still getting the idea. Here is a link that demonstrates the basic idea of arrays. But we are doing it using graph paper to show the actual sizes of each section. We put the numbers inside of each rectangular box. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMLf6sQLa40&feature=related Our Halloween party is tomorrow afternoon. Please make sure your child has a pumpkin to decorate. We will decorate the pumpkins after lunch recess at 12:35 and then there will be the parade at 1 and then we will have our treats. Here are the dioramas from our Idaho Native American presentation:

Wednesday - wear red tomorrow for drug week

Thanks to all of you who were able to make it to parent-teacher conferences. I know it is a hard thing with work and time schedules. Tomorrow is wear red day - it is part of our anti-drug week. Also we are having our Halloween party on Friday. Make sure your child has a pumpkin there.

Tuesday Parent Teacher conferences tomorrow

We are enjoying Red Ribbon Week. Students are wearing their red ribbons and learning how to stay away from drugs. Today we worked on writing a Halloween poem and did our second paragraph in our five paragraph essay. We had a great time with the snow today. In math we re-taught some concepts. In Social Studies students are working on their Native American projects. They are making dioramas and planning reports. Please make sure your child brings their supplies. Parent teacher conferences are tomorrow. The book fair is also going on this week so come and buy some Christmas gifts for your family.

Monday

There is a lot going on this week. It is Parent Teacher Conferences on Wednesday, Thursday students are to wear red for anti-drug week, Friday we can wear costumes and decorate pumpkins. Please make sure your child has a pumpkin to school by Friday morning. We started on a new story today. It was about an entrepreneur and how he stared his business. It was quite interesting. We worked on spelling and then started our new five paragraph essay, What I like (or dislike) about Halloween. Students got off to a great start on these. I know that the more we do them, the easier they will become. In math we learned that if you do doubles of the two multiplication facts, you get the answers to the four multiplication facts. It is a new strategy to help you be able to multiply. We also worked on multiplying by multiples of tens. We traced leaves and hung them around the room. Then the students finalized the plans for their Native American dioramas and projects. They will do their reports on Thursday (we hope.)

Friday

Students should have had spelling, reading and math tests today. They also were supposed to finish their five paragraph essay and draw a Halloween poem with a picture to go with it. Our little grand-daughter was born yesterday afternoon weighing in at 8 lbs 14 ounces. She is just cute

For Wednesday

On Wednesday we took our spelling test, more and more students are passing it. I hope we can reach 100% on that. We are still working on our five paragraph essay. This is really a struggle for the students, but it is something they can do. There is a writing test in December administered by the state and our 4th graders have to know how to do this. Our goal is that by December our students can write a five paragraph essay without a second thought. Currently we are doing one paragraph each day. Our new math program is finally starting to move forward. As teachers we are trying to find out how to meet the state requirements - it is a new experience for all of us, but I believe the students are moving along fine. One of the new parts of the new program is how we grade students. A one in any area means the student has not understood how to do the requirement. A two means the students are beginning to understand and able to do the requirement. A three means they have it. A four is rare, it means, not only do students get the concept, but they are a few steps even beyond understanding. This trimester students will be graded normally, we think. But we are striving to find ways to correct to meet this new goal. If you have any questions about this, we hope to have a flier out to you soon. I will be gone on Thursday and Friday, and that should be the end of my missing school days.

Tuesday - Spelling test tomorrow

Today students wrote their second paragraph of their five paragraph essay. It will take awhile for everyone to learn how to do this, but, considering this is fairly new, they are doing fine. Parents are concerned about math grade. The math program has changed this year, things are different. When students do a paper, if they don't understand, we have them redo the paper, or do similar problems until they understand. This takes time, but we are all working to figure out how to make this work right. If you are patient, we will get it. Please remember to get the pumpkins for your children to decorate for our Halloween party on the 26th.

Monday

There is a lot coming up in the next few weeks. Parent/Teacher conferences are coming up on October 24th. Parents should have received the information on the schedule. Then, on the 26th, the school will be celebrating Halloween. There will be a carnival that night. Our class will be decorating (drawing on) pumpkins for our art project that Friday afternoon. Students need to bring their own pumpkin and drawing materials. If they would like, they can even bring "Pumpkin clothes" to dress their pumpkin. Today we continued working on multiple factors. The biggest problem is that some students multiply the first two numbers and then add in the third one. We are also practicing the five paragraph essay. Students will write one each week, a paragraph each day. I hope this will help them be comfortable with how essays are supposed to work. Spelling and reading are also being done each day. Please make sure students are reading for twenty minutes each night. I am telling the students that it is their responsibility to make sure it is signed.

Thursday Spelling Test tomorrow

This morning we reviewed for our tests tomorrow by playing jeopardy. Students do need to study their spelling words. There will be a substitute tomorrow as I will be finishing the math class that is required for me to take. We sent home papers about Parent Teacher conferences. Please put that on your calendar.

Monday

Today we started a new section in our reading, it will be about business. The last section was about risks and consequences. I guess learning about business could still fit in that area of thought. Students were given new spelling words and were asked to do the multiplication tables again. We did have a math assignment today, pg 282 7-17. Most finished it in class. Those who did not were asked to take it home as homework and get it done. There will be no school on Wednesday as teachers have meetings. Have a good week.

Friday

I was watching the clock to make sure I could get to the preshow at the football game, and suddenly, it was 7:30! Rats! Today we took our spelling and reading test. We didn't take a math test today, just worked on arrays. That is a new math word. It is just a table (or one and ten block manipulatives) that help students understand how multiplication really works. For example, a problem of 12 x 6. We separate the 12 into 1 ten and 2 ones. Then it is easy, in your head to think, well 10 x 6 is 60 (then you color in 6 rows of ten) and then you think 2 x 6, that is easy, 12 and you put dots in the 12 squares. Then you realize, hey, that is 7 tens now and 2 ones. Then you have the answer of 72. It is an interesting way to teach. Mrs. Aston came in again and taught us spanish. We really appreciate that. Thanks also to the other parents that come and help us during the week. It is very appreciated.

Thursday

We practiced story writing today. The children seemed to really enjoy it. Tomorrow the children will practice their performance at the pregame show for the football game. Remember, they need to be at the high school by about 6:40 and line up at 6:50. They need to wear maroon or white. We are working hard on math to make it easier and the students are hard workers. Spelling test is tomorrow - study hard and remember, reading must be done at least five nights a week.

Wednesday

We did something new in math today that caused a few tears, but I think they are starting to understand. The process is to teach them how to do multiplication in their heads. An example would be 74 x 3. Instead of trying to work out the problem on paper, students are asked how to separate 74 into easier numbers, like 70 and 4. Then multiply the 70 x 3 and then the 4 x 3 and then add the answers together. So you would have 210 + 12 =222. Students need to know how to do the regular problem, but this is a different way that allows them to do it in their heads. We did a our spelling test today, and we'll do the final test on Friday. Students are practicing for the pre-game show where they will sing their Flag song. Students need to be at the Westside Football game at 6:45. They need to meet at 6:50 on the north end of the stadium on the west side of the bleachers. Students will be admitted free and should wear a maroon or white shirt and dark jeans. If you have a senior, remember that senior night begins at 6:40, so it might be kind of crazy, and a good idea to come early.

Tuesday

We did the mile run today, everyone did it and everyone finished. On our way back to the school, we walked slowly through the sprinklers, it felt really great! In reading today we used the dictionary and the thesaurus. The students really enjoyed playing with the words. In math we finished our estimating product page and then the students began to work on posters showing a math concept. During Social Studies students were on teams that are working on different Native American tribes. They need to find information on culture, religious ceremonies, responsibility of men and women, traditional clothing and foods, and traditional housing. They also need to be able to identify where the different groups lived. We will be working on this for a couple of weeks.

Monday - help with mile run 1:20 tomorrow

Tomorrow at 1:30 4B is running their mile run. Mrs. Buttars is looking for parents to help her. If you are available, please call the school office 747-3764 and tell Amy. If you just want to help 4B, tell Amy that and then just come on over to our classroom and we will show you where to go. Today was a bit of a catch up. Students got their homework pages. I bet you are just sick of the multiplication tables, but, the students are starting to recognize them. Only a few students have them all down. We also sent spelling words home and reviewed them in class. We read the myth Daedelus and Icarus. We also watched a short movie about it too. Remember, students must have their reading signed by their parent, and for the Pizza for reading, students must read five days every week for a month.

Thursday - Remember tomorrow Spirit Day & Show and Tell

Students finished their fluency tests today. We will do that every couple of weeks so we can see how they are progressing. We worked on drawing conclusions, I think the students were upset when I told them it had nothing to do with art. In math we finished up chapter three with a review and test. They will be able to finish that tomorrow with the substitute. Students went to music today. Remember to wear white or maroon tomorrow. The shirt needs to mostly white or mostly maroon. Have a good week-end.

Wednesday (and Tuesday)

Yesterday we headed out from the class and went to the high school to watch the students run the track to earn money for the school. What great troopers they were - around and around that track until one would think they would drop and they kept going! Today we had our pre-spelling test. 1/3 of the students got 100%. We had our fluency tests and then we read our story about two slaves escaping. We are still working on multiplication, and we will until everyone is very good. We also finished up the chapter on how to solve problems. Then we began working on nouns and pronouns. In Social Studies the students reviewed the symbols of the State of Idaho. I will be gone on Friday this week and in a couple of weeks to attend a math class required for all of the teachers.

Monday

Students are making their own spelling glossary to help them remember how to spell their problem words. I read the story, "Two Tickets to Freedom" to the students today. They will read it on their own this week too. We graded the math tests. Students are struggling on subtraction so we will be working on that with our multiplication facts. We started estimating products, which basically means rounding the number to be multiplied to the largest place and putting in zero and then multiply. It is useful when you don't need to know the exact number, or even better, to check and see if your answer in multiplication, makes sense. In Social Studies we are learning about geology while reviewing the symbols and song of Idaho. Please practice multiplication facts. It is vital that students not only understand why 7x9=63, but the actual fact matters too.

Friday

I have to tell you about something that happened today. Mrs. Sears, one of the students' music teachers, lost her husband on Monday. We explained to the children what had happened, and today they made cards for her. These children sat quietly for 30 minutes and created works of art for Mrs. Sears. The boys and girls all made some of the most touching cards I have ever seen. I know Mrs. Sears will truly be cheered and touched by the effort of these caring children. We had a spelling test, a reading test, and a math test today. The children are doing better on sentence writing. We still need more progress, but I saw some good changes today. Please remember to do the pledges for the Walk-a-thon on the 25th of September.

Thursday

Book orders went home yesterday. Please look through those and see if they can be ordered by Sept. 24th. We are working on our writing skills. Students tend to write, "bare bones," and we are working to put the meat back into the story. We are also working on our multiplication tables and making sure the students know their basic addition and subtraction facts. Until we have those down, higher math is nearly impossible. Please work on these at home, or when you are traveling. One example would be to do the fact family for 8 + 7 If the students will learn these fact families they will feel less frustrated. Also, we have the opportunity to allow students who might be struggling with a specific math concept to go to a class the day before which will help them be prepared for the next day's work. We need your written permission, so if you want to email me here at the school, we will know what you want. Also, it is time to start bug collections for Ms Lu's class. Lastly,the walk-a-thon paper also went home yesterday. Thanks for all you do!

Wednesday - Book Orders

The book orders went out today. If you want to order online, the number is L8J7V. We are really working hard on multiplication while staying on top of the other things we need to be learning. Today was a review day in math. We are reviewing all of the information we covered from the beginning of the year. Please review the multiplication tables with your students so they are fast. In Language Arts we took our spelling test. We had quite a number that got 20/20 and more that just missed it by one or two points. Now we must encourage the students to write the words correctly when they are not on a test. In reading, we re-read the selection about Mae Jamison. We read these aloud together in teams to encourage all students to participate. At first it is quite noisy, but after a short time, you just hear the voices in your group. In Miss Lu's class students are getting ready for their bug collection. A letter went home about that and a walk-a-thon.

Tuesday

We are working to learn all of our multiplication tables. There was much forgotten over the summer. If you have flash cards at home, please use them and know what the products of all the factors are as fast as you can. Tomorrow is our pre-spelling test. You can go to spell city and practice the words. You might also go there to do your multiplication fact families also. There are games there too that you can play. Enjoy!

Monday - Constitution Day

We started out the day with a new song, America the Beautiful, and new desk places. We learned about the Constitution of the United States, about the three branches of government and how a bill becomes a law. In math we started working on discovering rules when I discovered that a lot of our students have forgotten their multiplication tables. We will be working on a massive review. Those students that remember them will be working to understand the concepts behind them and then they will be given other learning opportunities. Homework went home today. You might notice that it had a lot of multiplication. These need to be turned in everyday. We are working on learning to read in teams, some of the teams mastered it, others need more time to practice. We are reading a story about Mae Jemison, an astronaut.

Saturday

I just added a new link, Mars Rover Landing. The landing part is computer generated, but the reaction in the lab and what actually happened is real. I hope you enjoy this.

Friday tests, tests, tests!

We took a spelling test, reading test and math test this morning. We were grateful for Mrs. Aston who came in and helped us learn a little Spanish. Then we went to an assembly to encourage our students to read more and study hard. We have a new school song and sang that today. Just a word about the math test. This test was to give us a starting point, something to let us know what the students know and don't know. Although I continued to emphasize this, some students were really upset. Please assure your child that this test is not a test to add to their grade, it is a test to find out what they need to learn in 4th grade.

Thursday Spelling test tomorrow!

We had an exciting math class today. Students were asked to write numerical expressions. This will take some time to help them understand, we will go over it regularly until everyone is more comfortable. School pictures were taken today, we read an excerpt from Charlotte's Web and are getting ready for our test on that tomorrow. Tomorrow, Mrs. Aston is coming in the afternoon to help teach the children a little Spanish. We will have fun doing that. Once a month, on Friday, I am looking for different parents who can come in and teach them what skills they needed to learn in school to prepare them for their jobs. Does anyone know a mechanic, engineer (train), or beautician that could come? That will take care of the first few months. Thanks for all you do.

Wednesday - Pictures tomorrow

Today students learned how to make tables to solve math problems. We also worked through our multiplication facts. Julie Nash came and taught the students how to do, "Step Up to Writing." This is a writing system that uses colors to help students learn how to write better. We also took the spelling pre-test. Students should have them at home with them and should study the words they missed, as well as review those they got right. In science our students learned about what vinegar would do to an egg. It is really interesting. Then students went to P.E. It is picture day tomorrow, please dress appropriately.

Tuesday

It is September 11th, so we took the students outside and had a flag ceremony today. Then 4B watched a short video called Brain Pop 911. It, in a child's way, teaches about the tragedy on 9-11. We talked about some stories, and then stressed the heroes, that we can all be heroes by helping others. In math we practiced subtraction and multiplication. In reading we practiced cursive writing of our spelling words, then the students did a couple of worksheets on how to spell the words. We are studying the sound long e. Please make sure you are studying your spelling words at home and do the rest of your homework. Mrs. Aston is coming on Friday to teach us a little bit of Spanish. That will be fun for all of us. Picture day is Thursday.

Thursday

Tomorrow is our spelling test. Students took a pretest today and we studied the words again. In math we are working on our 10, 11, and 12 multiplication tables and tomorrow we will review subtraction. In reading we are continuing to talk about risks and consequences. We watched a video on Idaho geography today. The students are cutting and putting together a map of Idaho.

Wednesday

Today students received a green paper for those who would like to be in the After School Program. It will be held Monday - Thursday from 3-5 p.m. Make sure we get the papers back signed. Also, we need the rest of the student information sheets back. Today is the last day I will send in book orders. If you want to send one from home, you need the code L8J7V. We talked more today about settings, character, plot, conflict and resolution. We just read a story about Toto an elephant and we discussed how we would fit the story into those literary devices. We studied spelling and did more with rounding numbers. The students are starting to get that. Picture day is the 13th of September. There will be no spring pictures this year, so this is it.

Tuesday

I hope you all had a good Labor Day. Our little grand-daughter was born early Friday morning and all is well. Today we read a new story about an elephant and a little boy. Students got their new spelling words, all use the long "a" sound. In math we talked about when to use calculators, mental math, or use a pen and pencil Most finished their assignment in class. In Idaho History we learned about primary and secondary sources to tell us about a specific time period. Picture day is coming up on the 13th of September. Also, because I was gone for Friday, I have extended the book orders until tomorrow. The class code is L8J7V.

Thursday

Hi, sorry this is so late in coming but when school got out, I received a phone call from our very pregnant daughter saying, "Hurry to Logan!" So I am writing this from the hospital where we are awaiting the birth of our grand-daughter. For Friday, students will be going on a field trip in the morning to the Preston library. Also, homework packets need to be turned in tomorrow. Also the bookclub orders are due tomorrow. Students will have a spelling test first thing in the morning. Today we worked on spelling and continued practicing rounding numbers. Mrs. Lindsey's class invited us to watch an experiment about mentos and pop. That was fun. The students went to music and we learned about the state seal of Idaho. I will very likely have a substitute tomorrow. Remember, it is Labor Day week-end, no school on Monday.

Wednesday

You may have noticed that the links that came home yesterday didn't work. There is a glitch in the system and we will get new information out to you as soon as possible. Today we took our spelling test. Lettuce and principle were two words that were missed a lot. Study and be ready for 100% on Friday. We learned about rounding numbers today. The basic rule is if you are rounding to the 100s place, look to the number in the tens place. If the number in the tens place is less than five then the number in the hundreds place doesn't change and all the numbers following the hundreds place change to zero. However, if the number in the tens place is five or more, the number in the 100s place increases by one and all the numbers following it still change to zero. I know, if you don't do it often it can make you crazy trying to remember. Students had PE today and will have music tomorrow. Make sure you are reading twenty minutes a night and finishing all the other requirements on your homework sheet. Have a good day! Remember, no school on Monday, it is Labor Day.

Tuesday

Hello! Two things should have gone home today. First, a book club order went home. It needs to be back on Friday. Second, the school sent home information on how to access power school and a student information sheet which we, as teachers, need so we can contact you at home or work. In class today we studied adding suffixes to words ending in a short vowel followed by a consonant. In math we worked on place value up to one hundred million. In Social Studies students learned about the symbols of Idaho. They were supposed to write down the information. Some chose not to do that and their grade on that page will reflect it. I spelled the words and kept urging them to follow the instructions. But, they will learn. Students had P.E. today and we also had some time to practice typing on the computers. Our spelling pre-test is tomorrow! Have a good day!

Monday

Welcome back! Students had a homework page sent home. They should read for twenty minutes each night, five nights a week. The pre-test in spelling will be Wednesday so practice the words. We read in class today and worked on place value in math. We also learned some fingerspelling to help us practice our spelling words. Students went to the library today.

Friday

We had a busy day today. We let our praying mantis go and then someone else found another. We will keep him for a little while and observe his habits. We did Language Arts and Math pre-assessments today. We also did a science experiment, what would happen to a plant if you poured boiling water on it. The students wrote a hypothesis and we will write our conclusion on Monday when we check the plant. Finally we did computers, made book-marks and did show and tell.

Thursday Wear Maroon and White on Friday!

Today we read our stories about what makes us unique. The students did a good job on them. Some were a little afraid to stand up and read, but all did a great job. In math we reviewed division. Right now I am trying to find where they all are and what they need to work on. We watched an interesting video on the Aurora Borealis, a couple on measuring with metrics, and a silly one on the elements. Then the students went to music. We ended the day cleaning the room and then I read to the students until the end of the day. Homework: There is none today except for students who want to be in Honor Choir. They should have a bright pink paper for parents to sign. Honor choir practice is held on Thursday during lunch recess.

Wednesday

Hi! Today in school students wrote two paragraphs telling what is unique about them. Then, they had 150 math problems! Really, but these are just to find out what they know. They are not timed and will not be due for a few more days. We also did a fluency test for all of the children. These assignments will allow me to know where everyone is at the start of the year so I have a benchmark of what to expect in reading, writing and math. We also created our own name tags for the hallway wall and are learning a couple of songs, America (My Country Tis of Thee, and our month's theme song, the first verse of We are different. We are tired and warm, but the day has gone well. Homework: Students have a homework folder that has three papers for parents to sign. Please help your student remember to get them back tomorrow.

Welcome to 4th Grade

Hi, I am so glad to have you as part of the 4th grade class at Harold B. Lee Elementary school. This is the place you can come to see what is going on. Feel free to get in touch with me either through this blog or at the school. Have a great day!

Thursday and Class Trips

6th and 7th grades: These last few days we will learn about rocks and the geologic timeline. Incentive/Reward End of year trip. 6th grade trip: Downata - We will be leaving the middle school at 8 a.m. (good day to show up on time. $6.50 needs to be paid to Mrs. Winward, preferably by Tuesday morning. Students can bring their own food or bring additional money to buy snacks or lunch at Downata. We will be back to school by the time buses leave in the afternoon. 7th grade trip: Lava Hot Springs - leaving at 8:00 a.m. cost $5.50 for admission $3.00 for grilled hamburgers paid to Mrs. Braun by May 29th. Students will be back in time to take the bus home. Students can bring snacks or bring money for the snack bar as they will likely be pretty hungry before lunch at 1:30.

Wednesday

6th and 7th graders took their tests Wednesday. I got them corrected and most students did quite well. The grades are posted.

Tuesday

6th & 7th grade: We finished our review for the final. Students were allowed to write down any information that they needed to study for the test. The test will be worth 100 points. Students have been given the test concepts as notes for the entire year. These should be concepts that they know and understand.

Monday

6th grade students: We reviewed for Wednesday's test. 7th grade students: We reviewed for Wednesday's test.

Thursday

6th grade: We started looking at the rocks today. Students learned about the properties of rocks. Wednesday is the final exam. We will prepare for it Monday and Tuesday. 7th grade: Students learned about vertebrates today by doing ten minute reports. Each team read about a different vertebrate, created a report and gave it during class.

Wednesday

6th grade: We are learning about different types of rock, igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic. After the students reviewed yesterday's information, and did a short review for the final. We watched a video on how each type of rock is created. Tomorrow we will discuss the Mohs scale of hardness and determine which type of rock we are working with. 7th grade; Students learned about echinoderms today. We talked about sea cucumbers, sea urchins, sea stars (star fish) and sand dollars. After determining their characteristics, type of body, movement and how they eat, we watched two short clips showing how they eat and move. Late work must be in tomorrow or it will revert to a zero. All students have been reminded regularly for two weeks about any missing assignments.

Tuesday

6th grade: We have been studying about the land and soil. Today we learned about glaciers and the different land-forms they cause. We learned about the words till, moraine and drumlin. We made our own little glacier and were able to easily see how glaciers affect the landscape. 7th grade; Reports were turned in today by nearly every student. We saw some very interesting arthropods today. Students saw four videos of bees and ants. Most of the videos showed how they live. But one showed a group of researchers that were able to see a real ant colony. They found a deserted colony and poured cement down in the hole. It took a lot of cement. Then, they let it dry for one month. Finally, when all the cement was dry, they dug around the cement and found a huge system of tunnels and rooms that the ants had lived in. It was 8 meters deep and about 50 x 50 meters square. It was something. Please remember, all late papers must by in by the 17th or there will be no credit given.

Wednesday

6th grade: We took the test today, most students did quite well, at least better than the last one. We began studying about the different layers of soil. 7th grade; We corrected an in-class worksheet and watched a couple of videos with the animals we were studying.

Monday

6th Grade: It has been determined that we should retake the planets and moons tests. It did not go well. We will retake it on Wednesday - study, this is the last chance on this test. Today we studied the three types of mountains and used clay to make them. 7th Grade: We began reviewing for the final exam. Students were given a problem and asked to think of creative ways to solve it. We also are finishing invertebrates. It is the jump-rope assembly tomorrow. If you want to attend a workshop about jump-roping, bring $7 to the office tomorrow.

Thursday

6th grade: We took our planets and moon test today. We also, in most of the classes, graded last night's homework. 7th Grade: Students went to the computer lab to find information for their reports. The reports will be due on May 15th. The main idea of the report is: Scientific Ideas That Changed the World. We are having a jump rope assembly next week. Anyone who wants to take a class from these very talented people needs to sign up and pay $7

Wednesday 6th test and homework

6th grade: We studied for our moon and planet test for tomorrow and then students did D40-41. 7th grade: We had 6 students today. We are studying animals, so we watched videos on porifera, cnidarians, platyhelmintheses, nematoda, segmented worms, and mollusks. It was kind of fun.

Tuesday 6th test Thursday

6th grade: Students finished their posters today. They also demonstrated their knowledge about volcanoes. Many students will be gone on the music festival trip tomorrow. The homework due on Thursday is D40-41 1-20. Those in school tomorrow will work on it then. 7th grade: Students read and filled in a chart dealing with invertebrates. We hope to finish it on Friday.

Monday 6th test Thursday - 7th paper May 15

6th Grade: We are learning a little more about volcanoes. We covered the types of volcanoes and then watched some short clips about them Students will have a test on planets and moon phases on Thursday. They must spell correctly. 7th Grade: Students fixed their body systems packet. They also were given a rubric on their last science project. They will be writing a paper on scientific discoveries that changed the world. It is due May 15th and should be 2-3 pages long double spaced.

Thursday ISATs are done!

6th grade: We finished our movie on the volcano Krakatoa. It is a good movie, showing the effects of volcanic eruptions, but it also shows the bravery and kindnesses of the people that were involved. This is a true and heart-wrenching story. 7th grade: The Science ISATs were given today. During class we discussed the questions we could remember and why they had the answers they did. This gave the students the opportunity to learn from the test. Monday is the start of spirit week. It is Mis-mathch day. Tuesday is Blast from the past - dressing in a style from the past. Wednesday is PJs and sweats and Thursday is spirit day, dressed in school colors of blue, white and black.

Tuesday & Wednesday ISATs

I will have a substitute tomorrow so I thought I would put up two days at a time Tuesday 6th grade: We are finishing, or starting, depending on the ISAT the movie Krakatoa. We are learning about the different causes of tsunamis. 7th grade: They were at ISAT testing today and did not have Science. Wednesday 6th grade: Students that are not in ISATs will finish working on earthquakes and volcanos. They will be drawing the different types of faults and boundaries and finishing their locating of earthquakes and volcanoes. 7th grade: We found some jeopardy type quizzes to help students study for their Science ISAT on Thursday. Student, please remember to take care of my substitute. She does have choice and consequences assignments if there are any issues.

Monday ISATS

6th grade: We began a movie about the volcano, Krakatoa, its eruption and the damage it caused. This movie will take about two days to finish. 7th grade: We raced through a science book asking questions, looking at pictures etc. to help students prepare for their Science ISAT. Tomorrow they will have a math ISAT during science class. Wednesday we will have a jeopardy game to help them with their final preparation.

Thursday - ISAT tests next week

All pictures and money must be in by Monday
ISAT tests are next week. It would be a good idea to study things you feel shaky on. There are a lot of good internet sites. Just look up what you need ie "find the main idea" + practice and see what comes up. There are a lot of good math games too. Just brush up on what you need.

6th grade: We studied about original horizontality - how the bottom layers of sentiment are usually the oldest, unless they have been uplifted. We also started finding where many earthquakes are occurring.

7th grade: We studied Physical Science today. We reviewed atoms, compounds, elements and mixtures. Then we moved on to Newton's laws with force and balanced and unbalanced forces. The science ISAT will be on Thursday so we have a couple more days to prepare.

Wednesday

6th grade: We learned about earthquakes and tsunamis today. We will continue learning about them tomorrow.

7th grade: We reviewed the elements, S.I. measuring, and the nature of science. We will do a little more on this tomorrow and then get into physical science

Dr.Heeder spoke to the students about the importance of doing well on their ISAT tests. Students need to be prepared Monday morning so they can do their best. Scores on Reading, Language usage, and Science should advance about seven points over their last year scores. Math scores should advance about 10 points. It might be a good idea to review math facts that you are shaky on. There are lots of internet sites that have games you can play.

Tuesday

6th grade: We discussed the theory of plate tectonics today. Students cut out a map of the world to see if Wagener's theory had possibilities. We watched a short video showing how scientists believe plate tectonics, or continental drift occurred. Students had about ten minutes to work on their homework - C92-93 1-15 in complete sentences.

7th grade: We reviewed how science and technology are different. Next we began on the scientific process. We will finish that tomorrow and move onto Physical Science.

Monday - weed essay and sun dial are due tomorrow

6th grade: Students started their Soil to Spoon posters today. The poster is to express the idea of all we have to eat comes from the soil. The weed essay and sun dial are due tomorrow at the start of each class. If your printer is not working, and that happens, please email your paper to me at cjwinward@blsd.net

7th grade: We reviewed the Earth and Space Study Guide and also covered Personal and Social Perspectives. Tomorrow we will move to the Nature of Science and Wednesday we will work on Physical Science ISAT preparation.

Remember that ISAT tests are next week. Students need to be prepared by getting enough sleep and eating properly. Reviewing the basics of what they learned this year will also help remind them what they know.

Thursday 6th grade last week-end for sun dial and essay

Remember, spring pictures or the money must be in on Monday

6th grade: Soil and conservation people came today and taught the students about the importance of the soil and taking care of animals. Paw prints will go home on Monday.

7th grade: We started on the Earth ISAT study guide. We covered Earth layers and the atmosphere. We reviewed the clouds. Students turned in their body systems booklet.

Wednesday

6th grade: Learned about the planet Earth. Corrected movie worksheets

7th grade: Took a quiz on yesterday's review. Handed out a Biology Study Guide for the ISAT test.

Tuesday 6th grade weed essay and sundials are due in next Tuesday

It is the time of year when some students are starting to forget why they are here. It is like a football game, if you quit playing in the last quarter, you are likely to lose. Don't start breaking rules. Do get your assignments in on time. Do show your maturity by doing what is expected.

6th grade: We still aren't finished with the Big Bang Origin of the Universe movie. We should finish it tomorrow.

7th grade: Students began to pull together there Body Systems packet. It is worth 100 points. Then we worked in teams in studying for the Biology part of the ISAT. We will do a little more Biology tomorrow and then move on to Earth Science.

Monday - 6th grade Weed Essays and sundials are due in one week.

6th grade: We are studying about the Universe. Today and tomorrow we will be watching a movie on the Big Bang Theory: Origin of the Universe. The movie covers many different theories that scientists have had throughout the ages about the universe. It shows how more information has allowed them to change their ideas. Students had a worksheet to fill out.
Students have had over a month to finish their weed essays and sundial. They are due next Tuesday, without exception.

7th grade: We will be reviewing for the ISAT tests so students feel a little more familiar with the information.

Pictures and/or money are due today

Thursday - pictures and/or money need to be back Monday

6th grade: Here are the instructions for the sundial that is due April 17th. The five paragraph weed essay is also due. Get them done now.

Make your own sundial - Due April 17, 2012 or earlier if possible
Supplies:
1. Large piece of paper, cardboard, paper plate or other flat object that can be drawn on
2. A stick, pencil or other straight tall object to use to mark the time
3. Something like clay to anchor the straight stick
4. A marker or pencil
Instructions:
1. Find a good place where the sun will shine for at least five hours
2. Place your flat paper or other object in the sun, anchor it down
3. Determine the directions, North, South, East, West
4. Put the stick or pencil in the bottom center of the paper - mark the entire shadow - write the time.
5. On the next hour, mark the shadow of the straight object – make sure you draw to the end of the shadow
6. Set a timer and then mark the shadow every hour – draw the new line including width and full length
7. Five hour markings are required
Cautions:
1. Put the paper in a place that will not be bothered by animals or wind and anchor it down
2. If you are forced to move the paper, use a compass or marker so you can reset it exactly
3. Set a timer – you think you will remember but it is really frustrating when you miss it by a few minutes

7th grade: We finished our section on body systems. We reviewed and enjoyed jello shaped like the brain, stomach, heart and eye. We will start preparing for the science ISATS next week.

Wednesday pictures or money needs to be turned in

6th grade: Today we used hangers and construction paper and string and we made solar systems. Most finished and did well. Some will have to fix theirs until the directions are followed. Part of the requirements of 6th grade is for the student to learn to follow directions. Most of the students are learning this.

7th grade: We learned about the endocrine system today. Students made cards so we can play the endocrine game tomorrow.

Tuesday - Weed Essay - Sun Dial - hangers - Spring pics or money

6th grade: We finished our planet worksheet today. We also discussed the importance of not plagiarizing. We discussed the Hungarian President who just resigned when it was discovered that he plagiarized his thesis.

7th grade: We discussed the ear and the eye today. Tomorrow we should start the endocrine system.

Money for the spring pictures or the pictures need to be turned in by Monday.

Monday - Spring pictures went home today - Due 4-9

6th grade: Today we started studying the inner planets. Teams found some of the planets characteristics and then we watched a short section on Plato so they could finish the planet sheets. Students should be working on their five paragraph weed essay. This is due on April 17th. They also need to finish the sun dial which is also due on the 17th of April. We have had plenty of sunny days to get it done. All 6th grade students need to bring a wire hanger by Wednesday when we will do our solar system.

7th grade: Students learned more about the brain and discussed how the ear works. We watched two short videos on the ear, then students looked at an audiogram that shows what sounds can hear a be heard at different frequencies and decibels.

Spring pictures went home today. Students must have either the money or pictures back by April 9th. The end of the year field trip will be in jeopardy if students do not get their pictures back.

Thursday 6th grade vaccination papers and wire clothes hanger

6th grade: Students were to turn in their corrected test today. The school handed out vaccination papers to all 6th graders. They are required to have these shots before they start 7th grade. The health department is doing shots April 6th and 9th. You can call for an appointment. Also we will be doing our solar systems next week and each student needs a WIRE hanger, not the kind with cardboard. Please find one. Today we corrected C42-43. We started our section about planets.

7th grade: We learned more about the nervous system. The central nervous system includes the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system includes the outer nerves. We watched a cute video on the parts of the brain and discussed brain injuries. Students are preparing for ISATs by learning to read charts and graphs. We also went outside to inspect stratus clouds.

Wednesday 6th graders fix tests

6th grade: Today students received their tests back. They can fix them by doing the following things: 1. Get a separate piece of paper. 2. Neatly type or write the correct answers in complete sentences only. 3. Staple the test to the new answer sheet, include the bubble sheet. Turn it in at the start of class Thursday - it will only be accepted at the start of class. In class today students worked on C42-43 - it is not homework.

7th grade: We enjoyed learning about our nervous system today. We did a few experiments to help them see how fast they could react.

Tuesday

6th grade: We covered a lot of information today. We reviewed that the seasons are caued by the tilt of the earth. Then we learned that tides are caused by the moon and that spring tides occur when there is a full moon or a new moon. We learned that solar eclipses occur when the moon blocks the sun and lunar eclipses occur when the Earth blocks the moon. Then we started on phases of the moon.

7th grade: We covered the causes of infectious diseases. We talked about pathogens and phagocytes. We also talked about cancer, and diseases that are non-transferable.

Monday

6th grade: We learned about seasons and why we have day and night. Then we discussed what you would need to live on Mars. Work on your essay.

7th grade: We learned about the respiratory system today.

The school had the three screen assembly today encouraging students to take care of themselves and be a leader for good.

Thursday Spring Break until March 26th

6th grade: We finished our unit on Forces and Motion. Students were given the instructions for their sundials. Then we watched Messy Mondays - a number of videos on YouTube that encourage boys and girls to respect each other. This goes along with the Enough is Enough program students saw yesterday.

7th grade: We finished the circulatory system and then watched the Messy Mondays videos which encourage respect between boys and girls in a very amusing way.

School will be out until Monday March 26th - Enjoy!

Wednesday

We watched the Enough is Enough assembly during Tall today - there will be a program for students and adults tonight at 6:30 at the Middle School auditorium. Please come and bring your students, there will be prizes.

6th grade: Students took a test based on the study guide from yesterday.

7th grade: Today we reviewed skeletal, muscular and digestive systems. Then we sang Pump Your Blood which explains how the blood moves through the heart and the body. Lastly we worked on a handout to match up the different functions of our blood with their names.

Tuesday

6th grad: We studied for the test - study guides went home as homework. They will need to be turned in before the test.

7th grade: Studied the heart and the circulatory system, drew and labeled the parts of the heart

Wednesday will be the Enough is Enough assembly where students learn the dangers of drug use.

6th graders were given the opportunity to make ads for the the newspaper. The three winning ads will earn cash.

Monday Homework and test coming Wednesday 6th grade

6th grade: Today we learned about waves, the electromagnetic spectrum. Students have homework- a worksheet pags 119-120 that go with C9 and 10 in the book. On Wednesday we will have a test covering Force and Motion, Newton's Laws, Simple Machines and waves.

7th grade: We studied the digestive system today. Students did an experiment to see how bile breaks up fats. We filled in digestive tract chart and learned what happens to the things we eat.

The school is taking up a collection for a student who is receiving chemo-therapy. I encouraged the students to do without pop this week and drink water instead and then to donate the money. That should help both our sick student and the healthy ones.

Thursday - Daylight Savings Time is Sunday!

6th grade: We learned about simple machines today which encompasses pages F66-F77.

7th grade: We talked about nutrition today. We learned about the importance of the right amount of fat and salt in our diet, and that sugar isn't one of the big necessities of life. We learned that stomach fat can be caused by too much sugar and that drinking two cans of pop a day could lead to the gain of one pound per week. We also learned that diet pop is not healthy either. So, drink water. We live in a place where water is safe and plentiful, oh yes, it isn't very expensive either. Students were given a number of papers to help them make good eating decisions.

Wednesday

It was blowing and snowing like crazy this morning so school was cancelled. It is sunny now, but still blowing. See you tomorrow!

Tuesday

We had many students missing today with the honor music, but we pressed forward and got a lot done.

6th grade: We learned about Newton's three laws of motion. Then we watched examples of each on Plato.

7th grade: Students drew the bone, muscles and skin. We watched an interesting clip on the structure of the skeleton.

Please remember, tonight is the Republican caucus. Be at either the Middle School gym or Paris Elementary gym if you are or plan to register republican.

The Democrats have not said if they plan to caucus as their nominee is already chosen. However, if they do, I will find out and let you know also.

The important part is to get involved and make sure that our country is strong.

Monday

6th grade: We will have many students missing this week with the play, quiz bowl, and music festivals. But all students who will be gone will have worksheets to complete so they can stay with the class. Today we discussed forces and friction. Three of the classes were able to do a tug-of-war to show balanced and unbalanced forces. WE also used a foam ball and a golf ball to show how gravity pulls on different masses.

7th grade: We used graphic organizers to learn about skin and muscles today. Tomorrow we will be drawing bone, muscles and skin.

Thursday

6th grade: Today we worked on the data we acquired yesterday to find average speed, velocity and acceleration. Homework was graded.

7th grade: We started our study of bones today. Students went into the lab and were able to break apart some bones so they could see the material inside. Then we returned to the class and had worksheets to help us learn more about the bones and joints.

There was an attendance assembly today where student's names were drawn for prizes for perfect attendance for February.

Wednesday Homework

Some students came in to get their work because they will be out of town. Students need to let teachers know a few days in advance. Asking a teacher for the next day's work takes extra time as we can't give them what we are doing. Many times the things they learn are in activities that the absent student is missing. Thus we need to copy worksheets for them. It takes time. So please give us a day or two, or at let us know before school starts so we can use our preparation time to get things ready. Thanks for those who have let me know early.

6th grade: Today we raced cars to get numbers ready to figure out average speed, velocity and acceleration. Students that were at their desks while others were racing started their homework which is F15 1-5 - complete sentences are required.

7th grade: Students learned about homeostasis today and then they worked to finish their flower reproduction page. The flower page and the questions are due on Monday at the start of class.

Tuesday

Spring pictures are tomorrow. All students will have their pictures taken.

6th grade: We finished the section on Speed and Distance F1-15. Students were expected to find the average speed from their walk and run yesterday. We also worked on deciphering information in two charts. Wednesday and Thursday we will cover pg F16 - F32 Forces in Motion

7th grade: We are finishing the section on plants. Students worked on a plant diagram and questions that came with it. We will them move forward into body systems. This will catapult us ahead to page 468. We will return to the animal section in May.

Monday - spring pictures on Wednesday

6th grade: We corrected Thursday's lab. Then students took turns checking their average speed of running and walking while others read F1-F15 which is about motion, velocity and average speed. If your student's class had a C&C assignment, but your student has an EX on it. That means the assignment is not for your student.

7th grade: We learned about gymnosperms, dicots and monocots today.

Thursday - end of 2nd trimester

6th grade: We finished up our unit on Electricity and Magnetism today with a team activity answering questions around the room.

7th grade: We began our study of gymnosperms and angiosperms by watching videos on both subjects.

Students will be having Spring pictures on Wednesday. No money needs to be sent until you have seen the pictures and decided if you want them.

Wednesday and Reports - Shirt money is due tomorrow

Shirt money is due tomorrow. Students were sent home a packet to buy school pride shirts. They are under $10.00 for the shirts. There is also a backpack and hoodie available.

6th grade: We did reports today on what we would do without electricity. Students covered some very important topics, including taking care of neighbors, conserving energy and how to stay healthy. There were some funny topics too, like how would they ever survive without their cell phones.

7th grade: We also did reports today on the plant to people reports.

Tuesday - End of the trimester will be on Thursday

Hope you all had a nice President's Day.

6th grade: We learned which metals are magnets. We also learned about the magnetic field around the Earth and saw pictures of the Aurora Borealis. Students were to write, in class, what they would do if they had no electricity for one day, one week and one year. We will discuss and share the stories tomorrow.

7th grade: We finished the drawings of the microscopic parts of plants. Students showed their drawings to me and they will be entered in the gradebook for next trimester.

Thursday - Last of work due today except for absences this week

All late work had to be in today. I need to have time to correct it and waiting till next week just doesn't work. Any students that were absent last week have as many days as they were gone to finish the work. The end of the trimester is the 23rd.

6th: Today we reviewed electric current with a short video. Then we started on magnets. Each team was given a magnet and materials to see which were magnetic and which were not.

7th: Students learned about roots and stems. We went upstairs to look at the huge tree slice we have. Students could see the rings. Then we ended using the microscope and drawing parks of the root, plant embryo, stem and leaf.

There is no school on Monday, please remember to celebrate President's Day.

Wednesday - any late work is due tomorrow

6th grade: Our class today was a review of electrical circuits and then a safety discussion. Students were to draw pictures showing the need for safety around electricity.

7th: Today we discussed seeds and seed dispersal. Students discussed the different ways seeds could move. We also began a discussion on the root. This covers pages 262-267.

Tuesday - all late work must be in 2-16 7th grade Plant to People due Wednesday

Last Thursday all students were told what their late assignments are. If they are in by Thursday they can still earn 60% of their score. I will not accept any work for this trimester after Thursday.

6th grade: We learned about circuits and how parallel circuits are different from series circuits. Then we went into the lab and worked with parallel and series circuits.

7th grade: We discussed the differences between vascular and non-vascular plants. Next we learned about pollination and seeds. Students watched a video of a bee pollinating a flower. Then they each got two seeds and broke them open to see the baby plant inside. Finally we began drawing and labeling three types of seeds. We will finish this in class tomorrow.

Plant to people assignment is due on Wednesday at the start of class. Students should write approximately one page about how their plant gets from the ground to people. It requires at least four steps and a drawing showing what is happening.

Monday tomorrow is the dance

Tomorrow is the Valentine Dance. Students who plan to attend the dance must dress in their best clothes. Boys must have shirts with collars and ties. Dr. Heeder has ties to loan if none are available at home. There will also me open gym and a movie for those disinclined to dance.

6th grade: We finished our experiment on the sand and water and wrote up the graph today. Students made many choices on how to do the graph so that it would show the information correctly. We also discussed circuits. A student brought in a circuit board and we were able to see it work correctly. Students learned that a closed circuit allows electricity to flow while an open circuit disrupts the flow of electricity.

7th grade: Students reviewed non-vascular plants today. They were given a worksheet to fill out all they remembered. Then we watched a ppp on non-vascular, seedless, non-flowering plants and vascular, seed-less, non-flowering plants. Their plant to people project is due on Wednesday. Students are to write a page and draw the process of a specific plant as it moves from the growing to a use for people.

Thursday Valentine's Dance Tuesday

Tuesday is the Valentine's Dance. It will be held in the cafeteria. The gym will be open for basketball and the auditorium will have a movie. There are rules for the dance, it is best dress, a collar shirt and tie for the boys, best dress for the girls. Students are expected to act respectful to everyone.

6th grade: Today students were told their grades. Students that had zeros were given a yellow sticky note with their missing assignments on it. They must be done by February 16th. Students also worked on SI measurements and drew how lightning works.

7th grade: Students were told grades and given any work they need to make up. Please be aware that C&C assignments are only for students who are misbehaving. If your student has no grade there, they are fine. If there is a zero or a grade, then they were the misbehaving student. Students were to read 250-255 and do 1-4. This should have been completed in class, if not, it was homework.

Wednesday

6th grade: Today we played with magnets and discussed how magnetic fields and forces are similar to electric fields and forces. Then we watched more of Plato and learned about static electricity.

7th grade: We discussed the structure of plants today. Students were also given a rubric on a project we are doing called from plant to people. Students are supposed to choose a plant and explain at least four steps of how we get that plant from the field to something people can use it for.

Tuesday

6th grade: We are studying about electricity. Yesterday we did experiments that showed how static electricity caused balloons to stick to the wall and we played with tape as it exhibited an attracting charge and a repelling charge. Today we played with water and showed how static electricity could cause the water to move. Then we watched and took outline notes on Plato so students could see the electrons.

7th grade: Yesterday we graded the tests. Students were given them back today and will be able to fix them for half credit. The correct answers must be written on a separate sheet of paper. Each answer must be a complete sentence. Just writing the letter of the answer is not acceptable. The corrected test must be stapled to the original test. These are due at the start of class, no late papers will be accepted.

Then we started the study of plants. Students watched a short video on plants that are partly heterotrophs, meaning they have to find their own food. We watched a venus fly trap and a trumpet pitcher as they ate their food. Then students were given two leaves, one that is from a regular plant, one that was from a Christmas Cactus. We tore the leaves apart and talked about vascular plants and what they require to live.

Thursday

6th grade: We worked on, and then graded, E92-93. Students were supposed to be nearly finished, some were. Then students showed their alternative energy projects. I will keep them up in the lab until Monday after school when students will be asked to take them home.

7th grade: Students took the chapter test today. We will start on the plant unit on Monday.

Wednesday

6th grade: We built the projects using alternative energy. Students had homework E92-93 1-20. They will have some time in class today and tomorrow to work on this.

7th grade: We reviewed for the test today. We played a game that should have let the students understand what is expected. Students also took home a worksheet that will be due in the morning.

Tuesday

6th grade: Students planned an alternative energy model in class today. They will need to bring the supplies assigned in class. I did check planners, as usual, and all should have their assignments written down. We watched videos on different types of energy and how it is used. We also discussed how useful different energy sources are.

7th grade: We are beginning a review for the test on Thursday. This test will cover Bacteria, Virus, Protist and Fungi. Students need to be here tomorrow for the review.

Monday

6th grade: We began learning about alternative energy sources today. We will continue this tomorrow. All but 6th hour discussed the experiment yesterday and why it would need to be redone.

7th grade: We worked on a fungus experiment today. We filled bottles with warm water and yeast and then one other ingredient to see what would happen. We also used magnifying classes to look at mold.

Thursday

So sorry I missed yesterday's update. I got home and my Internet isn't working again. But, for today:

6th grade: We learned about pressure, that heat increases pressure and cold reduces pressure. We put a balloon, first in cold water and then in hot water so students could feel the increase in pressure. We talked about the state of matter changing due to heat and cold. We saw, using a beaker, warm water, an ice cube and a digital thermometer, that hot water rises and cold water falls. We discussed why when you put hot water on a metal jar lid that it comes off quickly. We also discussed that ice cubes, even though colder don't contract because of the crystalline formation of water molecules.

7th grade: We learned about fungi today. Students drew a mushroom so they could see the different parts. Then we watched a ppp on fungi. We then observed what it would be like seeing a fungi spore explode by filling a balloon with cotton and then popping it. That was fun.

Tuesday

6th grade: We learned about Kinetic and Potential energy. Then we discussed three methods of heat energy transfer: Radiation, Conduction and Convection. Students are to have biomes, periodic table and anti-drug posters in by Thursday. read E 54-58

7th: We spent the day drawing and learning about protists. This is covered on pages 226-235.

Monday

A scoliosis permission page has gone home with all students. It is for parent's permission to test their child for scoliosis, a problem with the backbone, tomorrow. Students will not be tested without a signed parent permission slip.

6th grade: Students who took their tests were given the tests to take home and fix. To fix a test students must write a complete sentence as an answer. If they just list 1. C I will not grade it. The point of correcting tests is to allow students to learn what they missed. By writing a complete sentence students better learn the material. They also learn how to change questions to facts. This must be on a separate piece of paper that is stapled to the test. These rules have been explained again to the students. Those who did not take the test will be taking it Wednesday during TALL. Please make sure you study E-1/E49 - make sure that you turn in E48-E49 1-15 if you were absent.

7th grade: Today we started learning about Protists. We learned about protozoans which are animal like protists.

Thursday

6th graders: We spent the day finishing our biomes, periodic tables and the anti-drug poster. From now on it is homework that is due January 26th.

7th graders: We finished our drug unit by watching a very interesting movie on the affect of drugs on your brain, on your life and on your family. We sincerely hope that our students will make good decisions concerning these things.

Wednesday

6th grade: Today we took a test covering E1-E49

7th grade: Students worked on the anti-bad stuff commercial art work. We discussed how there can be road-blocks in getting to our goals and drugs and alcohol can really slow you down from where you want to be.

Monday 6th grade homework tonight - test on Wednesday

6th grade: We started our review for the test on Wednesday Students do have homework unless they finished it in class. Read E 1-45 and do 1-15 in complete sentences on E48-49

7th grade: Students turned in their homework and we discussed how advertisements try to trick you. We watched some old cigarette commercials and discussed the music, and the mood that was set. Then we watched a funny old beer commercial, through the man's eyes as he got more and more drunk. We listened to the kids on the tapes whose lives we have been following the last few days.

Thursday

6th grade: We finished our study on avoiding drug and alcohol. Students ended the day making posters and preparing for the test next week. The test will cover pages E1-E45

7th grade: Today students practiced ways to say no to alcohol, then we listened to a tape hearing how other kids do that. We still have four more classes to finish this program, I think we may combine a few.

Wednesday

6th grade: We watched a movie on the effects of smoking. Students discussed why it is so hard to quit and how smoking can affect others. Students were to find out how much a pack of cigarettes costs. We will review pages E4 - E45 on Monday and test on it on Tuesday or Wednesday depending on how the review goes.

7th grade: We watched a movie on how smoking cigarettes affects people. Students took notes and wrote down questions which we discussed at the end of the movie.

Tuesday

6th grade: Today we did the last Slick Tracy book. The homework tonight is page 7 and 10. It needs to be done with adults. As mid-term reports go out on Thursday, please make sure that these are completed, and any late ones are turned in so students can at least get 60% on the late ones.

7th grade: There is no homework in 7th grade. Students discussed today the different circumstances that might entice a student to use alcohol.

Monday

We covered more information on alcohol abuse today. Students were to turn in their homework at the start of class. There is homework today in both classes.

6th grade: We talked about different types of pressure to get students to make wrong choices. Students acted out a short skit on how to make good choices. The students are to do pages 7 and 10 of their workbook at home.

7th grade: Students discussed their interviews with their parents. Then they were assigned to write a half page (if double spaced a whole page) on alternatives to drinking. This can include things they would say, activities they could participate in and things they could drink that are safe.

Thursday - homework 6th and 7th grade

6th grade: Today we discussed how advertisements can trick us into thinking alcohol consumption will make you beautiful, stronger, etc. Homework is for the students to watch tv commercials and programs and identify the alcohol use and how it is being made to look beautiful and good.

7th grade: Students reviewed the facts about alcohol abuse. Their homework is to interview an adult about the adult's ideas on how to avoid alcohol abuse.

Wednesday + homework for parents and students

My classes are doing Project Northland for the next 6-8 days. Basically it is a program designed for students to help them practice avoiding alcohol abuse. The 6th grade has booklets for four days that the students will be taking home. Parent participation is a big part of this. Please make sure that parents take the time to review these with the students. In the past we did these once a week, but we are trying, this year, to do it everyday in hopes that the parents will be able to participate more fully. The 7th graders will have a few assignments to do with their families too. But not as many as the 6th graders.

6th Grade: Slick Tracy Comic Book: parents and students fill out a short quiz and write each other a letter.

7th Grade: Students will review the "All Important Facts" for their homework.