Friday, Merry Christmas!

We had a great day today. We finished, A Christmas Carol, made gifts and opened presents. The students did very well on their two songs at the program. May you all have a blessed Christmas. We will see your children on January 2nd, 2014.

Thursday - gift exchange is tomorrow

Students enjoyed seeing Christmas around Cache Valley. Different people came in and had the students join them in various activities about Christmas. Then in the afternoon we went over to practice for our Christmas program. Hope to see you there.

Wednesday

We finished our second, A Christmas Carol movie today. The class seemed to like it. On Friday we will watch the last one. We are hurrying to finish the book too. In math we learned how to recognize acute, obtuse and right angles. Then in the afternoon students practiced for the program set for Friday afternoon. Please make sure to be there early. Also, students need to get their gifts for the exchange here tomorrow. It just saves a lot of grief if the gifts are here a day early.

Tuesday

Students studied their vocabulary words today, tomorrow we will review. Then we started the second of the, "A Christmas Carol." This one is the "Muppet Christmas Carol." Again, we are comparing similarities and differences between the movies and the books. Math was a bit of a challenge today as students began using protractors. I think the most difficult part is remembering where to place it so you can use both angle arms. We worked diligently on the page, and will continue to do so. Students then went to science and library. We finished the day cleaning and reading, "A Christmas Carol." Please remember to send a gift with your child by Thursday. It will make everyone's life calmer. And at this time of the year we seem to all need that.

Monday - Christmas is coming

This morning students read their stories and we finally got to watch Mr. Magoos's A Christmas Carol. We will be watching two other versions and compare those with the actual story by Charles Dickens. In math we struggled with measuring angles. It was new, we redid the paper and some students will have it as homework tonight. Make sure they are putting the lines together and the point of the measuring tool is on the point of the angle. We will continue this tomorrow.

On Thursday we will be doing Christmas around Cache Valley in the morning. On Friday we will have our Christmas Party from 11:00 to 11:45. Before that we will be finishing our last A Christmas Carol, movie. We will be doing a gift exchange. Your child can bring an inexpensive store bought gift or something homemade. Please make sure the gifts are here by Thursday so we don't have to fret on Friday. Thanks!

Friday

Our Hour of Code on Wednesday went really well. Some of the students have already started on the Khan Academy lessons for coding. Some are just reviewing the first lesson to relearn the information. I really would like to use the Khan Academy for all students to help them in the areas they are weak. If you will send me permission, I will put your child in my class. Thursday we learned about adding fractions and Friday we learned how to do word problems with fractions. Students needed to understand which information was necessary. We took reading and spelling tests today and started on our first, "A Christmas Carol" movie. Unfortunately the school Internet did not cooperate. We will be comparing the movies to the book, which is a skill listed under the common core to compare and contrast.

The Christmas program is next Friday at 1:30 in the auditorium You are invited to watch your child in this activity. It is a good idea to arrive early as last year there was standing room only. Also Scrooge is being presented in Preston tonight.

Tuesday, please let me know

This morning we practiced making sentences more exciting. Students had fun adding words to their sentences so the sentences would be more exact in meaning. Then we read our fluency words for the story, "The Bridge Dancers." Then we read the story. In math we are learning to add fractions. This is fairly simple for the students who add well. For those who do not, it is a trial. Please practice basic math facts with your children regularly. It is one thing that parents can do that will help students so very much.

Tomorrow, during math time, we are going to do something very different. We are all going to go on Khan Academy to learn a little computer coding. We will just do it for the one day. Students that find it interesting can continue with Khan Academy lessons. I would like each parent's permission to register their child on Khan Academy. I have sent home an email asking for that permission. If you do not want to do that, they can do this without registering. Please let me know as soon as possible as it does take the parent's email to do this and I need to set a password up. So it will take some time. This should be an eye opener for the children as to how easy basic coding is. Many jobs in the future will either depend on farming or coding.

Monday

Today students reviewed their spelling words. We sat at the table and the students were able to see the connections in the words that they are spelling. Then we went to the computer lab. Students that can type more thatn 20 words per minute with 95% accuracy are being allowed to type stories. We will be getting into power point after Christmas.

In math we learned how to multiply denominators together to get a common multiple. Some students really struggled with where to put which number. We will continue to review, or you can help them at home. Then they went to Science where there are learning about how animals use camouflage

We are having a food bank at the school. Students are encouraged to bring food for those without. Canned food is the best to bring. Thanks for your help. Also, we need any book orders in right away. Please get this done so I can send it in. Thanks!

Friday

So sorry for the lack of posts, my mom has been having some health issues and I had to be gone today. Students should have taken their reading and spelling tests. Some students will be in different spelling groups and their homework pages were handed to them before I left school today. They also had an art activity this afternoon. Our Scholastic reading orders need to be places as soon as possible. If you could please get online and post your order. The password to do so is L8J7V. Thanks

Wednesday

We read the most interesting story today. It was about the first doctor who opened a chest to sew up a heart. The story told how dangerous it was for the doctor, but he knew the man would die if he did not operate. Students then started on their third story. This one is a narrative. They are to tell a story. It is required for the 4th grade common core. This story must have conversations in it. In math we came one step closer to the mathematical way of finding equivalent fractions. It will be nice to get here.

In Social Studies we learned the dance "Mayim" to got with our Hanukkah study. It is a fun dance and the students appeared to be having a great time. Then we sang "Hava Nagila." Students went to choir, they are getting ready for the Christmas Program which will be held about 1:30 on December 20th. If you plan on coming, come early. Scholastic book orders will be due on December 6th. That way we will get the books back in time for Christmas. You can order online. Our class's code is L8J7V http://www.scholastic.com/parents/

Monday and Tuesday

This week we are learning about Hanukkah. On Monday we listened to a Hanukkah story and today we watched a movie and each student made a menorah. As students learn about different cultures, they will learn to appreciate other people. The story of Hanukkah tells how the Jews fought against the Greeks who were trying to destroy the Jewish faith by encouraging the people to give up their beliefs.

We took a math test yesterday and today started anew on equivalent fractions. Up to this point we have just compared models. But tomorrow we will begin seeing the mathematical way to find equivalence.

In reading we reviewed the new words in our reading selection. There were many words that the students were unfamiliar with. We will not be doing normal vocabulary this week, and the first spelling test will be Thursday instead of Wednesday.

Friday

Today students took their reading and spelling tests. They also worked on their fences page. During math we started learning a new strategy in multiplication called decomposing. We took numbers apart and then divided them. We will work more on this on Monday. Then we started our auction and had a great time figuring out how much money we needed and had, and could be buy what we had bid for. I think the auction itself was quite the learning experience. Homework papers are coming home that will go from this Friday until next Sunday. That way the students can still read during Thanksgiving and have a paper for you to sign off.

Thursday Auction tomorrow!

We celebrated another birthday today and finished reading our story. Tomorrow will be the spelling and reading tests. In math we practiced relating connection between multiplying by tens, hundreds, thousands etc. In Social Studies students gave their last native american reports. Almost all of the students were prepared.

Tomorrow, along with being spirit day, is our class auction. Students will bring different items form home and auction them off. It is a reward for good behavior. I am also trying something new. Each student has, on their desk, a little piece of paper. If I have to get after them for calling out, not following instructions, being off task, etc., they put a mark on their page. Anyone with less than three marks at the end of first recess, gets $5.00 of our class money. This rewards those who are doing what they should. I appreciate ideas from parents that make our class move along better. Thanks!

Wednesday

This morning the class reviewed all of the vocabulary words and took spelling tests. In math student practiced multiplying and noticing that relationship between numbers as they are multiplied by tens, hundreds and thousands. In the afternoon two of the groups gave their Native American reports and showed the dioramas. Most did a great job. The last part of the day, after music, we went to see a little play put on at the auditorium. It was very good. Remind your children to bring things for the auction on Friday. We are getting a few things in and we all want them!

Tuesday

We practiced finding the subject and predicate in sentences this morning. Students then started their fluency list. Then they started the reading. It is quite fascinating, things that people used to believe before there were microscopes. In math we are working on division with remainders. We did it in an odd, way, figuring out the multiplication problem that would lead to the division problem. The purpose in this is to make it easier for the students to connect the two operations. We also took a 3x multiplication page. Students took it home. Please help them learn the ones they are not fast on.

In Social Studies students were supposed to bring the assigned parts of their diormas. Many forgot the parts. They can come in before school and during first and second recess to take care of this tomorrow.They will start the reports tomorrow also.

Monday

This Friday will be our Big Bucks Auction. Students have been earning 4B dollars throughout the school year. They earn this by their behavior, work and attitude. To make this auction work, each student needs to bring something to auction. It can be a small toy that the student no longer uses, but is still in good shape, a treat, a craft, anything like that. This is not to be anything expensive, so please help them use wisdom in what they bring.

We did our spelling words this morning and then worked in the computer lab. We hope to work on a short Power Point presentation after Thanksgiving. In math we dealt with the relationship between division and multiplication. In the afternoon students worked on their Native American project. This will be due on Wednesday and Thursday. They need to be working on their diorama too.

Friday

Student took their reading and spelling tests today. Those students who missed spelling words were required to write them ten times. The hope is that they will spend a little more time studying next week. Then the students began on their writing assignments. In math we did story problems that required adding and subtracting. That was startling to some of them. They asked why they needed to learn this. I pulled out my check book and showed them how important it is to know how to add and subtract so you don't get overdrawn. In the afternoon we did some science supporting the information students are learning in Miss Lu's class. We talked about vertebrates and invertebrates and then watched some videos showing the different animals. We watched how a sponge takes food in, we saw jelly fish, and watched a sand dollar move.

On Friday the 22nd we will be having our class auction. Each student is to bring an item to auction off. It is not to be anything expensive, a liter of pop, homemade cookies, a toy in good condition that just isn't used anymore, a book that has been read and put aside. All children must have something to add to the auction so they can participate.

Thursday - School Colors tomorrow and read!

Students wrote a short paper concerning their reading assignment for the week. They also presented their vocabulary words to the class. They are getting very good at this. Each student also re-read the story. Tomorrow there will be a spelling and reading test. In math we worked on word problems using subtraction. Most of the students did quite well on this. In the afternoon students went to science and then headed to the auditorium for an assembly. Ask them about that. We ended the day reading, A Christmas Carol.

Tuesday

This morning students reviewed how to put paragraphs in a logical order. They need to do this for their reports. Next we went over the fluency words and then read our story. It is a folktale called, "Salt." After recess students practiced subtracting and regrouping. This is something that is often a bit of a struggle as students try to understand about zeroes and subtraction. Students then went to science and library. Mrs. Maw said that our class was exceptionally good going to the new middle school library. I gave them all gold cards for good behavior. After the room was cleaned we went back to reading our book, "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens. In December we will be watching movies of the Christmas Carol and compare them to the book.

Monday Veterans Day

This morning we learned about Veterans Day. We listened to the poem, "In Flander's Field" by John McCrae, "In Flanders field the poppies grow. . . " Then we made poppies to remind us of the many sacrifices that have been made for us. We hurried on to do our Language and spelling and then went to the computer lab to type. In math we worked on subtraction. At 11-11 at 11:11 all of the school stood and said the Pledge of Allegiance. This was the time that the armistice was signed that was to end all wars. In the afternoon students went to science and then we had the Veterans Day assembly to honor those who gave so that we could have freedom.

Anyone who still wants to order books, please do so now. We only have two orders in.

Friday

We did our math and spelling tests today. Those who missed more than two had to come in and re-take the test at lunchtime. It seems to me that some of the students aren't studying their words and I hope that this encourages the students to do better. We worked on our writing, then some students read their paragraph on why we shouldn't use drugs. In the afternoon we worked on an art project. In our story this week we learned about stencils, so the students made stencils and colored them in. Then the sheriff sent a few officers to encourage our kids to stay off drugs. We ended the day with the Walk of Fame.

If you have anything you want to order from Scholastic Books, please do it before Monday as I will be sending things off in the afternoon. Thanks!

Thursday - wear red tomorrow

This morning we reviewed our vocabulary words. Students should be able to write their sentences on their homework. Then we worked on writing a thesis statement for an essay and how to write the sentences to explain topic sentences. In math we worked on the subtraction algorithm with three digit numbers. If your student talks about regrouping, it is just the old borrowing, just with a different vocabulary.

Tomorrow is our last day in anti drug week. Students have been asked to wear red. If they don't have an entirely red shirt, then help them find something that is red. We are also working hard to get 1/3 of their AR points by November 15th. Just as an aside, I have told them that next semester, this will not be acceptable. They must be reading the majority of their books at their reading level We will have the Walk of Fame tomorrow at 2:45 and our assembly is at 2:00.

Wednesday Book orders due on Friday

Students took their spelling tests this morning. Then we read, wrote more on our anti-drug essay and took AR tests. During math we took the 2nd half of the math test. I took some of the students this morning, before school, and during morning recess to work on areas they were struggling with the math test. In the afternoon students went to choir and to Miss Lu's class for science.

Remember that book orders are due on Friday. It is best if you order online. If you cannot, just sent the paper, filled out (last time I had two with no names on them) and the money and I will do the ordering. Tomorrow is hat day.

Tuesday

We read our new story today. It is about a visually impaired boy and his friend who start a business. We then did our fluency words and started on the vocabulary words. In math we took a test and corrected it in class. Then students went to the library and to science. Students have been taking AR tests in the morning and hopefully they will achieve their goals.

Tomorrow is wacky hair day.

Monday

Today was mismatched day. Tomorrow will be twin day. I told anyone that didn't have a twin to wear a sports team shirt and jeans and we would be matched. We did spelling and typing this morning. In math we prepared for our test tomorrow. The students seemed to understand the material. In the afternoon students took AR tests and then went to science.

Friday

This morning, after our spelling and reading tests, students started working on their writing. They are learning to add more information to their paragraphs, which is not as easy as it sounds. They are also working on their grammar, spelling and handwriting skills. After recess we reviewed rounding. Students were instructed to take their paper home. Please look at it and see if they need more help. We worked on equivalent fractions in class. Students struggled in following the instructions to write the numbers on the number line showing how many fractional parts were in each section. Once they followed that instruction, it was much easier for them to complete the assignment.

Next week is Red Ribbon week. We will be teaching the students the joy of staying away from addicting substances. Monday is mismatch hair day, Tuesday is twin, or triplet or . . . day, Wednesday is wacky hair day, Thursday is hat day and Friday is red shirt day. Please help your child participate in this activity and more importantly, talk to them at home about the need to stay free from addicting substances. Share with them how difficult it is to stop and how much control of their lives, their money and their freedom people lose by becoming addicted. Thanks for all you do.

Thursday

This morning students practiced their vocabulary words. We watched a power point presentation on the words and then we went through the class and each student had to come up with a good sentence using each word. They made some very interesting sentences. Then we reviewed linking and helping verbs. We started the lesson yesterday, but as we were working through the problems, I just realized we needed another try. So today, we went through the paragraph identifying all of the parts of speech so the students could understand that the same word, used in a different way, can be a different part of speech. I think it went much better.

In math we worked on probability dealing with candy (pictures) and then using a graph, and following specific directions, drew a pumpkin. In the afternoon we reviewed our songs, "Here We Have Idaho," "Idaho Counties," and "This Land is Your Land." Students also were given time to take AR tests.

Have a Happy Halloween

Tuesday parent teacher conference tomorrow

This morning we talked about staying on topic while we write. Students often get started and then veer off into a completely different subject. One of our goals is to help them write a coherent paragraph. We looked at paragraphs that had an odd sentence and figured out which didn't belong. We then reviewed the words for our reading assignment. I explained the meanings of the words students didn't know and then we started the story. During math we covered equivalent fractions. After lunch we rushed over to the book fair, then back to do Social Studies.

Monday parent teacher conference on Wednesday

We studied our spelling words this morning and then went to the computer lab to practice our typing. In math we learned a little about equivalent fractions. We used a number line with 4ths and 8ths. Then students were to look at the number-line and find out which fractions were equivalent. In Social Studies we began learning about the earliest people in Idaho. Then we discussed what archaeologist would find that we had left behind. Students then went to PE.

Friday and Carnival

This morning we took our spelling test and a short part of our reading test. Then the students worked on their writing projects. Students are finishing their "All About Me," and the "Fences" papers. The next project will be a personal narrative. They will be telling a story about their lives. After lunch we make fraction strips and then played a fraction game. Finally we played a game of patterns. It was fun, but it was difficult too.

In the afternoon our room mothers, Mrs. Moyle, Mrs. Henderson and Mrs. Henderson came in and led the children in games. Mrs. Barzee, Mrs. Campbell, and Mrs. Beutler brought treats. Thanks so much for all the people that helped make today fun.

Thursday Halloween parade, party and carnival tomorrow!

This morning students introduced their vocabulary words. They are getting much better on these presentations. We reviewed synonyms and how to write a good sentence using adjectives and adverbs. Students began their genre papers in which they write the genre our weekly story belongs to. Then they answer the questions; how does this story affect me, how does this story affect the world, and then they compare the story to other stories we have read. We also talked about how to use our "writing" paper. This paper should help the students write five paragraph essays without so many re-writes.

In math students started playing with fractions. Tomorrow we will make fraction strips to help students actually see what we are talking about. In Idaho History we finished the movie about the geology of Idaho.

Remember to bring pumpkins tomorrow and be ready for the parade by 12:30. If parents wish to come, come around 12:10 to help your child dress up. You are all invited to watch the parade. We will also be having the Walk of Fame at 2:45.

Wednesday

We read our story today. It is about an entrepreneur who built his own restaurant. It is interesting the things he had to learn, not just from schooling, but from hard work. Students also took their pre=spelling test. Those who studied all of their words did very well. In math we worked more on different ways to multiply numbers, how to re-arrange the factors to make the math easier.

In the afternoon students practiced their handwriting re-writing their spelling words. Then we watched a movie on the geology of Idaho. At the end of the day, students went to music.

Remember to bring pumpkins for our Halloween party!!

Tuesday

Student practiced writing a paragraph today. We talked about what should be in a good paragraph and then we re-ordered sentences to make the paragraph make sense. In math we learned more about factors and prisms. Students used cubes and learned that if you re-arrange the dimensions of a prism, your shape might look different, but you have the same number of cubes. The purpose of this lesson is to teach students that by rearranging the factors, you can find an easier way to multiply. An example might be 5 x 18. We know that 3 x 6 = 18 so we write 5 x 6 x 3. 5 x 6 = 30 x 3 equals 90. That is a lot easier than 5 x 18 = 90. It uses information that the student knows.

Students also had their eyes tested during our Idaho History time. So we went upstairs and whisper sang the counties of Idaho. This helped some of the students learn the song better. Remember to bring a pumpkin before Friday. Our costume walk is about 12:30 and the class will have a party decorating their pumpkins after that.

Monday - Remember the pumpkins!

This morning we reviewed our spelling words, worked in the computer lab with our typing, and learned about the commutative property in math. In the afternoon we worked on our cursive writing, it is really improving. Then we reviewed the Idaho State song and the counties song too. We then moved onto geology of Idaho. Finally, students went to PE and we read from the book I survived.

Remember that the Halloween Carnival is this Friday. Students brought home a paper today to tell more about it. Also, tomorrow, look for the parent-teacher conference papers.

Friday

Today students took reading and spelling tests. The spelling tests are corrected and most of the students did quite well. In math we learned about factor trees. Most of the students seemed to get the idea. In the afternoon students finished their haunted house and made autumn leaves to decorate our classroom. Remember, next Friday is the Costume parade at 12:30, pumpkin decorating in our class at 1 and the party at 2:15. We will be contacting parents to help.

Here is a link to some fun math practice. http://www.topmarks.co.uk/flash.aspx?f=hitthebuttonv11

Thursday

Students took their spelling tests today. Some had not studied their word lists and were very unhappy. Fortunately, tomorrow they can try again. We re-read our story about Wells and Fargo and students were to write a question about the story. While studying math we learned about prime and composite numbers. We did most of the worksheet together so they would understand what to do. They finished it at their desks.

On October 25th we will have our Halloween party. All of the 4th graders will be decorating a pumpkin. Your student can bring a pumpkin at any time between now and then. They must have their names on the pumpkins so they don't get confused.

Wednesday

In English we studied capitalization of titles and places. Students worked on their vocabulary words and finally we read our story. We did not take our spelling pre-test today, but we will do that tomorrow. During math we did something interesting. We would take the factors 3 x 16 and then double one number and halve the other number. This made the multiplication easy to do. So, we took 3 and doubled it and took 16 and halved it and got 6 x 8 and then realize that both equal 48. It is an easier way to multiply numbers from difficult products to more manageable products.

This afternoon we went to see the middle school play. The actors did a good job and our class, most of them, behaved well.

Tuesday

In language we covered pronouns again today. Some of the students are getting the meaning of the word. We also covered writing topic sentences for paragraphs. We reviewed the fluency words for our story. We will read it tomorrow and Thursday. In math we learned about finding factors in multiplication. We learned that some numbers have a lot of factors. If you want to see a treat, come and visit the school to see the 4th grade bug collections, they are really well done. Tomorrow the students will be going to a play at the auditorium at 1:30.

Monday

This morning students worked on identifying and replacing irregular verbs. Then we began studying our spelling words by sorting them into groups. It might be a good idea, when your student is spelling words to ask them about the patterns. Finally we went over to the computer lab to practice typing. I am noticing numbers increasing, that is good. in math we started working on multiples which are numbers that can only divided evenly. We discussed factors, the numbers you multiply together to get a product. Then in the afternoon we watched a short movie on Columbus.

Friday

Today was a pretty normal Friday. We took tests, reviewed our math and fixed tests, and made a haunted pop-up house. We did have an issue with some students running through a door and hurting someone. Those were running, even those who did not cause the injury, wrote a letter and will do some service to make up for the injured person.

Wednesday-Teacher inservice Thursday - no students

Students took their spelling tests today. We also worked on our stories. Students should have finished their vocabulary word and we will review those for the test on Friday. I handed out an outline that should help with the essays. In math we reviewed and took an evaluation (the word test is too scary) to see what we need to review. We will review those items on Friday and then move on to module 3. Remember, the insect collections are due on Friday!

Students went to music and learned about playing recorders. Later in the afternoon we went to the middle school meeting room. Jackie Leavitt came and taught the students about the importance of balancing screen time with other activities. Students should have brought home a paper to discuss what they learned.

Tuesday - Walk of Fame on Friday

Our new student arrived today. She fits in nicely with the class. We reviewed our vocabulary words from the text. Then the students stared their fluency tests for the month of October. We are about half done with that. Then we ready the story, "Starting a Business." It is quite short but talks about different businesses students could start. In math we learned about seconds and how many seconds are in a minute. We played a game, students shut their eyes and then raised their hands when they thought a minute was up. Some did very well.

We will have our spelling tests tomorrow. Then at 2:30, our class will be going to the new middle school meeting room and be taught about the Isafe program. It is designed for children, about how to keep themselves safe. There is no school for students on Thursday though the teachers will be here for inservice. Friday we will have the Walk of Fame at 2:45. All students that have reached 50 AR points will be walking.

Monday - Book order is due tomorrow

We have a new student coming tomorrow. Her name is Samantha Kirby. We have been expecting her for some time, so it will be nice to have her here. We sorted our spelling words today, the students have their list and need to write each word three times. Please make sure they are writing neatly. Then we went to the computer lab, some students are at 2 words per minute and some are above 20 words per minute. In math we practiced changing hours from minutes and minutes to hours. I sent pages home with some of the students that were struggling with this.

Students went to science class today. They are learning about animals. Remember the insect collections need to get finished. We ended the day with another report and a birthday party.

Friday

Today we had our spelling and reading tests. Then we worked more on understanding time. This seems to be a real problem for a lot of students, reading analog clocks. It would be great if you could help them with this at home.

In the afternoon we learned about different ancestors. From Jesse James, to protectors of Joseph Smith, to a little girl whose father wouldn't let the doctors amputate her legs, we learned a lot. Most of our ancestors came from England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Germany and the Scandinavian countries, although there were a few Native Americans too.

Next week the students will go to Miss Lu for science. Remember to get the insect collections finished!

Thursday tomorrow Family History Day

This morning we learned how to use words in our writing that give place and location. Then we discussed things that need to be fixed on our tests. Students are expected to write complete sentences on their tests. We went through some ideas and talked about how to write the answers correctly. Students were warned that they will start losing points starting with tomorrow's test. We also reviewed the homework pages and how to do them correctly. In math we learned about elapsed time. Some students struggle with telling time on an analog clock and so we worked on that too.

Tomorrow afternoon students will be telling us about their families, where they came from (country), showing pictures and artifacts from their family and telling us stories that have been handed down in their family. This ties in with our study of Idaho history. Please help your student find something to tell or bring to class.

Wednesday

Tomorrow will be an interesting day. For the last month students have been earning $5/day in 4b money for their jobs. They have lost money for specific infractions. But we have struggled with behavior issues. So today, every time a student didn't follow instructions I warned, "Tomorrow you will lose $5 or $10 for that." And tomorrow, they will. We cannot learn when students are not involved in learning. Tomorrow, not being involved will be expensive.. I hope they will learn what is acceptable in 4th grade.

Today we learned about words that signal time order. Then we had our spelling test. Finally,students worked on their writing pages. In math we started working on word problems, that is always a little exciting. Then, in the afternoon we learned about timelines. Each student made their own. We talked about the purpose of learning history which is to teach us what works and what does not. Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it. Then the students went to music.

Book orders will be sent in on October 8th, which is next Tuesday. Please make sure all orders are in by that date.

Tuesday

Today we learned about the difference between nouns that are plural and nouns that are possessive. We talked about the difference between the aim, purpose, and audience when we are writing. We reviewed the fluency lists for Daedalus and Icaraus and then reread the story in teams. Finally students worked on finishing their vocabulary words.

In math we added multiple numbers together. The students are pretty familiar with this and it wasn't hard for them at all. We worked on making our handwriting legible. In social studies we learned about the geography of Idaho. Then students went to the library. Remember, there is a spelling test tomorrow.

Monday

It is hard to believe that tomorrow is October. We will add up the students days of reading for those who will get the pizza award. We can't do it till next week, but we will let you know. This morning we sorted and reviewed the spelling words. The students had to do one column in cursive. Then we went to the typing lab. Students are struggling to remember to keep their hands in home position, but once they do, their speed increases.

In math we added longer numbers, the students did just fine with it. Then, we played jacks. Many of our students struggle with hand-writing. Jacks and marbles are two games that help with actual eye hand coordination. While some of the class is playing, other students are at the table with me working on their handwriting. Then in social studies we reviewed our counties song. Finally we are learning America the Beautiful for our patriotic song. We reviewed that and what the words actually mean. In reading we are finishing the story, Sarah Plain and Tall We read part of this story in our reading book. Now the students can find what is happening.

Friday

Students took their "Mae Jemison" reading test today and also took their spelling test. In math students learned how to regroup to the thousand place. We played a fun, and frustrating game, but once they got the hang of it, it was fun. During art we painted pictures for our new story, a myth, Daedalus and Icarus.

Thursday

Students reviewed for the reading test today. We will do the vocabulary tomorrow morning before the test. We also have the spelling test tomorrow, so make sure that studying is done tonight. In Language Arts we discussed comparing and contrasting, a requirement in common core. We also are starting to work on the difference between plural and possessive nouns. In math we worked more on the standard algorithm of addition with three digit numbers. We covered regrouping (carrying) in the tens place. Tomorrow we will cover regrouping in the hundreds place. During Social Studies we practiced our Idaho and the county's song.

Students that did the Rock the Walk, got their papers back today. Those who have not collected the money need to collect it and return the paper with the money.

Wednesday

This morning we read the story about Mae Jemison aloud. Then we watched a short video on her life. Students took a spelling test today. They were given a paper yesterday to practice their words, but only a few got it done. I stapled it to their spelling test so they could remember to get it done before the final test on Friday. We are writing a new paper on "Fences." It is a five paragraph essay to help them prepare for their direct writing assessment. I will correct the essays again and again until the students get it right. It is a bit frustrating, but they will learn by doing it correctly, and learning that trying to squeak by means we have to write the paper again.

In math we got to do the math algorithm today. The students seemed happy to do it the old-fashioned way. I think though, that as they learn different and new ways to add and subtract that they will better understand what we are doing. Students might bring extra papers home today, if they didn't get papers done, I have asked that they be finished and turned in. In Social Studies the students are watching a movie about the geography of Idaho. It is taking a bit of time as they are learning how to take notes too.

Tuesday

Students finished studying their fluency words. Each student should have read the story about Mae Jemison. Students all received the worksheet for studying their spelling words. In math we discovered the importance of estimating. Most students seemed to understand this fairly well. During social studies we learned about the geography of Idaho. We will continue that tomorrow.

Monday

We reviewed our fluency words this morning and then went to the computer lab to work on our typing skills. In math we reviewed subtraction using the number-line. Then in social studies we began learning about the counties of Idaho.

Tomorrow is the "Rock the Walk," the children were to get pledges and then walk around the track to earn money for the PTO. It was really fun last year, but this year, make sure you bring a jacket, just in case. Parents are encouraged to come to cheer on their children.

Friday

I seemed to have missed yesterday. Today students took reading and spelling tests. Then we started subtraction on a number-line. It is a little disconcerting to them right now, but they will get it. The basic idea is to put the two numbers on the number-line, then using tens and hundreds jump your way to the next number. You use the ones to get you to the tens and hundreds. Students then made moon phase posters so they know which phase of the moon is coming. Then they went to PE.

Wednesday

We finished our fluency testing today. When you come in for Parent/Teacher Conferences, we will discuss this. We learned about "Point of View" in language arts and took a pre-spelling test. Students had a new experience in math today. We are learning to add differently. Just as an example, if you were to add 272 and 59, you would look for easy to add numbers. So you might (there are many options) take one away from the 322 and end up with 321. Then move that extra 1 over to 59 and you have 60. 60 is a friend, or easy to add number. Then you would "decompose" 371 to 300 + 20 + 1. Then add your 60 to the 20 in the tens place. You would end up with 300 + 80 + 1. Those are easy to add numbers and the answer would be 381. You can break numbers up in many different ways. It will take a bit of work to understand, but we can do it

Tuesday

Students started fluency testing today. They will do this once every month so that we are able to see how the students are progressing. We also learned about the Constitution today, as September 17th is Constitution Day. We reviewed the preamble, the first three articles, the Bill of Rights, and a few amendments. We will do a little more of this tomorrow.

We reviewed what we have learned in math and will move forward tomorrow. We will start adding large numbers.

Community learning center has begun. If your child is interested in being a part of this, contact Amy Lemmon or Lori Zilles to see what you need to do.

Monday

This morning as the students were reading in groups, I took a group at a time and discussed their tests with them. I am teaching them to write complete sentences as their test answers. We are also working on spelling and following instructions. The other students read, "Two Tickets to Freedom," a story about escaping slaves. It is an excellent story.

In math we took a pre-test to prepare us for our worksheet tomorrow. This worksheet is designed so that I can see if the students have learned about rounding, patterns, and learning to express numbers in many different ways. Those are the three Common Core requirements we have worked on these last three weeks.

Friday

I hope to have the spelling and reading test corrected by Monday. We learned more about recognizing patterns in math today. We practiced a few easy patterns, and then one that was a little more difficult. Students have to recognize the pattern, then they have to put in words what the pattern is. That is hard for many of them.

We re-arranged seats today. I am hoping it will help students stay on task. We also watched the movie, "Cipher in the Snow." We discussed bullying, and what we can do to help ourselves to not become a cipher. We also talked about helping others to feel important. Finally, we went to an assembly in the auditorium. This year we will be encouraging students to read at least 20 AR points per trimester. There will be a fun activity for those who accomplish this goal. We also began to learn the school song for the year, Neil Diamond's, "Their Coming to America." Each class is representing a state, ours is California.

Thursday

In our Daily Oral Language today we learned about comparative and superlative adjectives. We also worked on the difference between too and two. We reviewed for our reading test tomorrow and played a spelling game to review for the spelling tests. Then students came up and shared the information they had learned about their vocabulary words. Finally they did some writing on the story we just finished. In math we worked on patterns and at the end of the day we practiced writing the cursive lower case f.

Tomorrow we will have our spelling and reading tests. We also will be having an assembly at 2:15. This will be to introduce to the students the motivational plans we have for them. Today a note should have come home to tell parents about the insect collection. Please read through it. Also, please make sure that you return the medication release form and the information form for the students.

Wednesday

Today we discussed the heroes in 9-11. We watched a video to show why this tragedy happened. Then we read stories and learned about different people who worked to keep others safe. We also had pictures today and our spelling pre-test. Students who missed words need to write them five times. Some students need handwriting practice and were asked to neatly write their spelling words for practice. We also read "Sarah Plain and Tall."

Tuesday Picture Day tomorrow

Students reviewed the patterns for their spelling words today. We played a game to put each word in the correct category. Students will have a spelling pre-test to take tomorrow. We are also going to have a lesson about 9-11. Students weren't even born when this happened and they need to know what everyone is talking about.

Tomorrow is picture day. If you want your child to have pictures, please send the money for this. Also, the typing program is www.typingweb.com

Monday - Pictures on Wednesday

Students read an excerpt from Sarah Plain and Tall today. Then we went to the computer lab and typed. We went to a free site, www.typingweb.com where the students could put in their own username and password and have their own customized typing program. I hope this will help them all. Students can get on these at home too.

In math we worked more on rounding numbers. Students seemed to do quite well on it. They even were able to recognize their own mistakes. In science Miss Lu is teaching about the scientific method. Then everyone went to PE.

Remember, Wednesday is school picture day. Also, we will be learning about 9-11, and why it was an important day.

Friday

Students took reading and spelling tests this morning. Then we reviewed what the different genres are in our reading. During math we learned how to round five digit numbers. Some students are still struggling with this so it would be helpful if you could review it. One way we do this is to took at the place value we are rounding to. Then move to the right, to the digit in the next lowest place value. If it is five or more, we round the previous number up. If it is less than five we leave the previous digits alone. Then all the numbers following change magically to zeros.

In the afternoon we watched a short video about the book we will be studying next. We will be reading a short excerpt from the book, Sarah, Plain and Tall.

Next Wednesday we have school pictures.

Thursday

Students took their spelling pre-test today. Those who did not get 100% need to write each word ten times so they will be prepared for tomorrow's test. They will only be given 15 of the words. We also prepared for the reading test tomorrow. In math we practiced comparing and ordering five digit numbers. We used the relationship of greater than and less than. Then we practiced multiplication facts on the laptops.

Many of the children are in the play, "The Wizard of Oz." This play will be put on Saturday night at 7 p.m. at the Dahle Performing Arts Center. It is free. It might be fun to bring your family for a good evening of fun. Also, Wednesday, September 11th is picture day.

Wednesday

We reviewed our spelling patterns today. The students took the words home and are to write them three times, twice in cursive if possible. We also read our story Toto. In math students learned different ways to write five digit numbers. We wrote them in written form, expanded form and standard form. We are using those words so they remember each form. We went to music and in social studies students reviewed the Idaho symbols by making folders for their social studies work and drawing on the folders.

Tuesday

It was kind of fun to get back to school today. Students started with their new spelling lists. We sorted the spelling words and the other spelling words that fit the pattern of the words. Students also read the story, "Toto." We will read it again tomorrow. Finally, students fixed their writing and spelling on our science page from the first week of school.

In math we worked on understanding how to say, write and understand five digit numbers. This is a review for some of the students, but not all of them. Those students who understood had another page to do that was a little more difficult. I had these students check their work against each other and explain how they got their answers. It was interesting to hear their discussion.

In Idaho History we learned all of the different symbols of Idaho. Ask your student and see what each one remembers.

Labor Day - No School

Hope you enjoy the lovely rain today. We will see you all tomorrow. Today would be a great day to read!

Thursday Scholastic Book Orders due tomorrow

We went to the Larsen-Sant library today. We were shown all through the library and learned a lot. The students were all given a free book. The good news is that if a parent takes the child back to the library and tells the librarian that the child came to the 4th grade library tour, the child will get another free book!

We worked on math today. Students were learning about less than and greater than. This new program has started with ordering four digit numbers, which for a few of the children is easy. But we will be advancing quickly to the million place. Also, I think I have figured out more about the math program we are using and should be able to give the advanced students more challenging work.

Although we missed language arts today, we still found some time to finish our vocabulary words. We will take our reading and vocabulary test tomorrow along with the spelling test.

Wednesday - Book orders by Friday

Tomorrow we will go to the Preston Library first thing in the morning. Students will learn how to use the library and all of its resources. Today students worked on their vocabulary words. We are practicing using a dictionary and a thesaurus. We also worked on our spelling words.

In math we continued reading and writing four digit numbers and the place value of each number. These activities should allow all students to catch up so we can move forward. Students went to music class today.

Make sure you get your book orders in this week. They need to go out on Friday morning. Reading to your child, at any age, helps them read better too. Even better, read together, both at the same time reading aloud. This helps children speed up to your level and to start recognizing words they already are familiar with, they just don't know how the words look.

Tuesday

This morning in our language arts block students learned how to fingerspell their spelling words. This will enable them to have a new way to practice their words. Then we read the excerpt from the story "Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh." We read the story aloud, as a class. Each student is expected to read the story aloud with me. It is a little hard for the fast readers, but they also learn new words this way, instead of just rushing past them. After our reading was done we practiced writing a paragraph, as they are required to do in their homework, so they could practice how it is to be done. We will continue to do this so students will learn how to do their homework, and how to write a good summary paragraph.

In math we continued working on understanding larger numbers. Students used the blocks to make the number I wrote on the board. Then we did a worksheet together. The students should have taken it home. Please look at it and see if you can figure out the last problem. Our teams worked on it until finally they began to understand it. It was exciting to see how involved students became to get it right. In the afternoon students wrote a hypothesis as Mrs. Lindsey's class did a science experiment for us. Then we came back and wrote the conclusion. It should be interesting to check this.

Monday

Students took their Star tests this morning. They have set their AR goals. Parents, please talk with your student about this goal and help them attain it.

In math we finished our test and then moved on to place value. Students are learning place value and will be able to move up to the millions place. We used hundred, ten and ones blocks to actually see what each place value represents.

Students started learning the song, "Here We Have Idaho" in our Social Studies class. Finally the students were given their homework sheet. They are to read twenty minutes each day. Parents, you are asked to sign the reading. Then the student is to write a brief summary each day including setting, characters, plot, conflict and resolution. We are currently learning to understand first person and third person. They should understand this within the week.

Friday

Students took the first half of the math assessment test today. They will finish it on Monday. Then we learned how we will do our vocabulary words. It always takes longer the first few times. Children need to practice looking up words in the dictionary. We also study synonyms and antonyms while we do this assignment. We practiced doing our Daily Oral Language. The students had P.E. today. Please make sure all of the papers with signatures are returned by Monday.

Thursday

Welcome to 4th grade. Today in school we reviewed expectations in our class. Students learned why we say the Pledge of Allegiance and then we practiced saying it with allegiance. Next we talked about Patriotic Songs and we sang, "My Country Tis of Thee." We took an elementary assessment spelling test so that we can figure out where the children are and what they need in spelling.

I then told the students a little bit about me. They saw some pictures. Then they started writing a five paragraph essay about them. Each paragraph had to have a minimum of four sentences. By the end of this year we will be writing a good five paragraph essay. We then went out and learned the expectations for walking down the hall quietly and how to come in from recess acceptably.

After lunch students worked on their essays and made name tags for the outside wall. They went to the library and practiced, again, the correct way to go down the hall. At the end of the day we read from the book, "Poppy."

We have received most of the notes back. We still need a few more class room helpers and another room mother. Please contact me with that information. Thanks!

Summer Vacation is here!

Let me know if you come to my blog! There are games and activities for you to do. Please take the time to use them. They will help you so much during the summer.

Tuesday Assembly 12:35 on Wednesday

Today went to an assembly with Gary Hogg. He is a children's author and is excellent. Then we worked on our math, and catching up on any missing assignments. In the afternoon we went to the Music Assembly. Tomorrow will be the end of year assembly at about 12:30. On Thursday students will watch a movie in the morning and then have Field Day in the afternoon. Report cards will go home on Thursday, so watch for them.

Friday

Today we did the regular, reading test, spelling test, reviewing math and show and tell. For our activity this afternoon we learned about how people in other countries get to school. I did not send home a homework page as we will not have spelling next week. We will do our reading and work on our power point presentations and math. However, please keep track of the reading your child does so they can earn their points.

Thursday

The field trip was so much fun. We had a great time at the Jump Zone. Aggie Ice Cream is the best. We had a nice walk to the museum, and while waiting, the students rolled down the hill. Everything went very well. You can be pleased with the behavior of your children.

Wednesday Field Trip tomorrow - permission paper required

Our field trip to Logan is tomorrow, Wednesday. Students need to bring their own lunch and something to drink. Their clothing must not have anything on it that will cause damage to the trampolines. This includes gems, buckles, or anything that is sharp or has edges that will cause problems. Also, earring, bracelets, necklaces, watches, anything like that is not to be worn into the trampoline. If it is lost, it is gone. We will remind children to take these things off in the bus and put them in their lunch boxes.

In class today we took our spelling test. All the tests have been recorded and sent home to study. We took fluency tests and students wrote their paper on the reading assignment. In math we continue working on evidences to find what the students understand. In the afternoon we went to music practice. Our program will be on May 21, 2013 at 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Spelling Test tomorrow

We studied our spelling words this morning and then began to work on a Power Point Presentation. This is a requirement in the new Common Core Standards. Students must be able to make a presentation and include pictures and sounds. In math we continued to work on our evidence. The students are doing quite well on this, but it is seriously time intensive. In the afternoon we reviewed symmetry and the different geometrical shapes.

All the library books need to be turned in tomorrow. Please make sure yours are here.

Monday

We went over the fluency words this morning and then read an interesting story about the Golden Spike. It is more interesting because the commemoration was on Friday of last week. After we read the story, we watched a short video about the transcontinental railroad. During math most students finished up year-end test. I have graded all those which have been turned in and every student, so far, has improved a lot. Then we began working on our proofs to make sure each student knows the information taught this trimester.

We used our I-Pads this afternoon to practice our math facts. The nice part about that is I can make sure each student is working at their own level. The homework pages went home today.

Friday

Today was just mixed up. We started with our math test and ended with our reading and spelling test. The we celebrated Zeth's summer birthday.

Spelling words for next week are: fact, factor, manufacture. factory, satisfaction, obtain, entertain, maintain, contain, motel, motor, promote, remote, motion, porter, transport, portable, import, important, support. I would send the words home but the copy machine is having a struggle today. If I get the homework paper done, I will send it. If not, these will do.

Thursday School Colors tomorrow

This morning we read our story and reviewed our vocabulary words. In math we continued to work on our math requirements. Students will work on each requirement until they can pass it off. They have been given a chart to help them understand what needs to be done. The can take it home, but it must come back everyday.

Some of the areas students need help is changing inches to feet to yards, elapsed time (if Johnny left home at 3:30 and it took him 45 minutes to get to Logan, what time would Johnny arrive in Logan?)

They need to know that a rectangle has angles equaling 360 degrees.

If they know three of the angles of the rectangle, without measuring, how would you figure out the fourth angle?

All triangles have 180 degrees, if you know that two angles equal 105 degrees, what does the third angle equal.

Students need to be able to change seconds to minutes to hours and back again.

They need to be able to draw or identify points, rays, lines, line segments, right, obtuse, and acute angles, perpendicular and parallel lines.

This afternoon students went on their mile run. Some did really well. It was kind of warm outside, so most of the students celebrated by dumping their water bottles on their heads. It seemed like a smart thing to do.

Spelling words: autograph - graphics - geography - paragraph - photograph - phonograph - biology - apology - technology - geology - graph - bicycle - tricycle - recycle - motorcycle - telegraph - television - telegram - telethon - telescope

Wednesday - Mile run is Thursday; dress appropriately

Today the students took their spelling test. We re-read the story, "The California Gold Rush." Then the students used their I-Pads to look up their vocabulary words and fill out their vocabulary papers for tomorrow. We will have the I-Pads for two weeks to see if they are useful in the classroom. I know the students enjoy them, and the math games are really exciting. It was fun using the dictionaries too, but we still need practice using the regular dictionaries so the students know how.>p/>

In math we continued working on our evidences so the children can prove what they have learned. These evidences will go on the report cards as a 1: don't understand the concept, 2: Coming to understand the concept, and 3: Completely understand the concept. They have their I Can papers so they can see how they are doing.

The mile run is tomorrow, if the weather is good. Please encourage your student to dress appropriately and to bring a water bottle.

Monday - tomorrow mile run at 1:30 at the high school

We had an exciting day today. We put in on a grant for IPADS and they came. This will give the students the opportunity to focus on work at their own level. This will also help us as we research. We read a story today about the California gold rush. Students should have taken home their fluency words to practice. In math we are going through and reviewing all the information that will be an evidence piece for their grades. I gave each student an "I Can" chart so they can mark off the information they feel comfortable with and then they can get help on the things they are struggling with. This afternoon we got out the I-Pads and got to know how to use them. Tomorrow we will do this in a more student specific fashion.

Tomorrow we will be our turn for the mile run at the high school. Students have been warned to dress appropriately as they will have to run no matter what their shoes or clothing feel like. Please help them to be aware of their shoes.>p/>

Friday

Students finished their reading and spelling tests today. They are getting much better at writing complete sentences and checking their own spelling. In math we reviewed how to put fractions in order, how to use the metric system, and then we started a sheet that will review elapsed time, identifying points, lines, etc and measuring angles using a protractor and subtraction.

In the afternoon students did Show and Tell and then went to the k-2 music program in the auditorium. The exciting news today was that on our field trip, in addition to ice skating and the museum, we also get to spend 90 minutes at the jump zone! On Monday we will send home release forms that must be signed for any student to play at the jump zone. Please make sure your student returns these on Tuesday so we can get that paper work done quickly.

The pink homework forms should be coming home today. Students have been cautioned that these pages are their responsibility. However, when you sign them, please take a glance and make sure they are doing their work well. Thanks!

Thursday

Students read their story, Going West, today in preparation for their test tomorrow. They also studied spelling words and got their vocabulary words done. In math we reviewed the use of metrics. In the afternoon students worked on states and capitals. It was a fun activity.

Wednesday Done with ISATS!

For the majority of the 4th grade, ISATs went very well. We still have a few students who want to race through and that hurts their scores, but the majority took their time, and it showed. Congratulations to all those who succeeded.

This morning we did the regular routine, studied grammar and math, took our spelling tests, had recess and then went to the ISAT tests. We had studied hard this year, trying to make the students so comfortable with the knowledge that they didn't need to fret. They did well and we are pleased.This afternoon we relaxed, we finished our May Day project and dropped off flowers we made to each class to celebrate the first of May. We also had a nutrition lesson with some very interesting information about how to get seeds from our plants.

Notes went home today about the field trip. There might even be a surprise!

Tuesday Language Arts ISAT tomorrow at 10:00

This morning students read their text on "Going West." We also went over our spelling words. We spent a lot of time today reviewing our year's study on language arts. In math the students reviewed the metric system and how to move from Kilometers to meters to centimeters. We also are using the American Standard system. We will be continuing to do this so that students feel comfortable.

Tomorrow is the spelling test and students will have time to study before they take the test.

Monday Language Art ISAT on Wednesday

Students reviewed their new fluency list for reading today. Then we moved on and worked on our language arts. There is a great computer site called prepdog.org This site helps the students practice for their language art ISAT. Start the student on the proficient level and see how they do. These are checked online so that helps students understand their mistakes.

In math class we reviewed our fractions. It has been a few weeks since we have done these and it is so important that the students remember how to do them. There will be a test on measurement, data and geometry so we will mostly focus on those areas.

Please continue to study your spelling words so you will be ready for the test on Wednesday.

Friday - ISAT on Wednesday

Students took their reading and spelling tests today. In math we worked on how to move shapes, slides, turns and flips. Then the students did a worksheet. Homework papers will go home today.

On Wednesday the students will be taking the Language Arts ISAT. If you will go to the links on this page there are two grammar links that will help the students practice for their test.

I just added the "Writing Detective." That might help with the ISAT test too. I will continue searching for things the students can do at home.

Thursday

Students took their spelling test today and did quite well. They re-read The Voyage of the Mayflower and then read the short story, "Pocahontas." Finally they worked on their vocabulary words and then studied Language Arts by practicing their tests on the laptops. For math we reviewed some of the problems the students didn't understand on their ISATs yesterday. Then we began learning about congruent shapes which must have the shape and size the same. At the end of class we began learning about the different ways you can move figures, slides (transitions), flips (reflections, and turns (rotations.)

In Social Studies we learned about the timber industry in Idaho. We discussed the many jobs that are made from lumbering. We also discussed that is was important to take care of our trees so that they are available for future generations.

Wednesday

We had our math ISATs first thing this morning and the students all did well. Just so you know, last year your child took a 3rd grade ISAT. They earned a score. This year, they took a 4th grade ISAT. If their score isn't as high as it was last year, it is because it is a different, more difficult test. However, the children did very well on their tests. After the test we studied for our Language Arts ISAT which is coming next week, on May 1st. We also studied for our spelling test tomorrow and our vocabulary test on Friday. In the afternoon we learned more about Idaho Counties.

Tuesday Math ISAT tomorrow at 8:30

This morning our class reviewed spelling words and analogies. Then we played Language Arts games to help prepare then for next week's test. In math I asked the students to ask questions and we would review anything they didn't understand. We discussed Elapsed Time, fractions, median, range, mode and mean. Then we practiced the different properties of multiplication. There are games on this blog on that will help the students, just click on them.

Monday - Math ISAT is Wednesday

Today started in an interesting way, we lost power. Some of the rooms had no power, some no heat, and some were fine. Unfortunately we didn't have anyway to connect our computers to the printer, so that made it pretty difficult this morning, but we used our white boards and just moved forward. We read our new story about the Mayflower. Then students studied their spelling words. We then reviewed prepositions to help students be prepared for the Language Arts ISAT on May 1.In math we reviewed fractions and then had a worksheet. In Social Studies, we studied math.

There is a new link on this site, it is about fractions and reviews with the children all they have learned. We have gone through some of this in class, but if your child is not comfortable with fractions, this should help.

Friday Next week is the Math ISAT

We did not take our reading test today, instead we worked on our grammar and vocabulary skills. The students did quite well. In math we reviewed Median, Mode, Range and learned how to find the Mean of a series of numbers. Please ask your children to show you this skill. Then we did a review paper. We did addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Then we worked on how to deal with the variable, N. Students had to figure out which operation to use to solve a problem. They were given word problems using money. They had to multiply by 10, 11 and 12. Then they had to use a table to solve a problem. This is causing them much grief, but if they will try it, it will help.

This afternoon we tried Sweet Potato Mushipan, a Japanese dessert and learned more about the history of Japan, its culture, and listened to the music as the finished their cherry blossom pages.

Thursday

Students took their spelling tests today and all of the children who are regularly in our class got 100%! That is great news. We read the article about Early America and then students began work on their vocabulary cards. In math we learned about median, mode, and range. It was a new concept. We have been reading about Early America, so I thought it would be a good idea, especially on the 18th of April, to teach them about the ride of Paul Revere which took place 238 years ago today. We watched a short video and then read aloud the poem, The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere but Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. It was enjoyable.

Wednesday spelling pre-test tomorrow

Students worked very hard on their Direct Writing Assessment this morning. In math students had to read a story, collect data, and then put that data into a chart. They did a good job. In Idaho history we are reviewing the counties of Idaho.

Please review math facts with your children in the next week. This will really help them feel more comfortable on the math ISAT next Wednesday morning.

Tuesday DWA tomorrow

We had a visitor this morning. Officer Dale Golightly came to talk with the class about taking care of each other. He talked to them about the need to protect each other and make everyone feel safe. Then we did our Daily Oral Language and math. Before the ISAT we learned a little bit about Japanese culture. Then the students took the Reading ISAT test. The students did quite well on this. Then they came back to class and we read, drew, talked and just kind of relaxed until lunchtime. In the afternoon the students practiced for the DWA tomorrow. The biggest problem students had with their last DWA was in planning what to write. So that is what we discussed today.

Monday - Reading ISAT tomorrow

Today was a little different. We reviewed reading items that could be on the ISAT tests. We talked about poetry, prose and drama and what each entails. We also discussed different questions that could be on the test. We looked at the questions and why the answers were correct. In math we reviewed fact families and multiplying and dividing to solve word problems. We also talked about prime and composite numbers and making a pattern using a rule. The students then made their own patterns and had their team-mate figure out the rule. We will continue these reviews until we finish the ISAT tests.

4B is taking the first ISAT, Reading, at 10 tomorrow morning. Please make sure students get a good night's sleep and eat well tonight and tomorrow.

Friday - The ISATs are coming, the ISATs are coming!

The ISAT tests start next week. We will do the reading test on Tuesday and the second Direct Writing Assessment on Wednesday. Please make sure that your child has a good rest each night and that they eat a healthy breakfast. Read with them over the week-end and ask questions about the things they have read.

Today we took our reading tests and finished off the spelling tests. In math we worked on line graphs and made those, first on the board, and then the children made their own. For our art activity today students used tissue paper to make flowers for the Cherry Blossom Festival that is being celebrated in Washington D.C. this week.

Thursday

This morning students wrote a short paper on the story we have been reading. The story is an excerpt from, "The Little Prince." We watched a movie about the book. We also reviewed our vocabulary words for the test tomorrow. In math we studied ordered pairs. Many of the students have an activity to take home as homework.

The FCC is considering lowering moral standards on Television

http://apps.fcc.gov/ecfs/upload/display;jsessionid=71fdRmTJk18N2KDfD7sT3JSyJRhLXX3pw80KpbBVKyjTGcxpG07W!638063854!-817071755?z=mcvlq This is a link to the FCC. They are planning to allow more profanity and nudity on television. I think it is important for all people to let their feelings be known about this. The Proceeding number is 13-86 This explains more about the upcoming issue. http://joemiller.us/2013/04/fcc-contemplating-full-frontal-nudity-use-of-the-f-word-on-broadcast-tv/ Thanks, Catherine Winward

Wednesday - Literacy Night tonight 6:30!!

Students took their spelling test today. The spelling papers were corrected and sent home so students can study. We re-read the story of the week. Then, altogether, students took part of an ISAT practice test. We are going through and discussing what the question means and how to take the tests. This is an effort to make the tests less stressful for them.

In math we reviewed Line Plot graphs and Bar graphs.Students who did not finish this paper were required to take it home and do it for homework.Remember to come to the Literacy Night tonight. It sounds like a lot of fun.

Tuesday

Students had time to work on their vocabulary words today. Then we worked on a review of our studies in Language Arts. For math we learned about elapsed time. Please take a minute with your child to discuss this with them. They do find if the elapsed time is strictly hours, but when it is using minutes, it is more difficult for them.

Tomorrow night will be the school's literacy night. It will begin at 6:30 and end by 8:00 p.m. This will take place in the class rooms.

Monday

We read a new story today, a short story, about drawings. Then we reviewed the spelling and vocabulary words. We then went on to computer work to practice for our ISAT tests which will be held later this month. In math we learned about taking surveys and recording and understanding data. Students went home with a new math homework sheet. It gives places for students to write about what they read and a specific place to do the homework.

On April 10th, Wednesday, will be literacy night. It will be held from 6:30-8:00 and will have a lot of fun reading activities. We would love to have you come.

Friday - Happy Spring Break

We took our spelling test this morning and the reading test too. In math we reviewed the different areas we have been studying, fractions, shapes, triangles, angles, area, perimeter, addition and subtraction.

In the afternoon we studied another cultural holiday, Passover. The children had never heard of it before. We ate matzohs and learned about the 10 plagues of Egypt. Then we had Easter cookies. Hope you all have a great Spring Break.

Here are some pages to check out during spring break Math book: Changing and comparing measures U.S. pg 596 Mass and Metric Units 565 Chapter 9 page 500 Fractions Chapter 10 page 562 More fractions Geometry chapter 8 pg 434 Perimeter area and volume chapter 8 464 also, you can go to www.prepdog.org Go to 4th grade and practice some of the available tests to see how you do.

Thursday - reading test tomorrow

Today was fun. For social studies/science, the students displayed the solar systems that they had made. Most of the students in the school came to see the wonderful creations. It was good.

In reading, we reviewed our vocabulary words, Mrs. Fuller helped with the fluency testing we do each month, and then the students went to prepdog.org and practiced the tests to help prepare them for the ISATs. We will review some of these things in class to make sure the students feel comfortable taking the tests. In math we learned the difference between liters and milliliters.

Wednesday

Students took their spelling test this morning. Those who missed words had to write them five times. Students should have the spelling test to take home with them so they can practice spelling missed words correctly. Then we worked to learn what similes mean. In math we compared capacities of teaspoons, tablespoons, cups, pints, quarts, and gallons. Students measured and recorded their measurements. Then we began to fill out the worksheets so they could see how to make equivalents between teaspoons, cups etc. At the end of the day we reviewed information to help the children prepare for their ISAT tests.

Tuesday - spelling test tomorrow, some math tonight

We studied our spelling words this morning and began the review for our vocabulary words. Then each student wrote about how the story, "Louis Braille," had a an affect on them and their lives. In math we learned how to convert inches to feet to yards and back again. We went around the room measuring and converting. Afterwards they all had a worksheet to practice the conversions using math. Those students who did not finish were to take this home as homework. It is due at the start of class tomorrow.

In science the students need to get their solar systems in. We are having a tour of all of them at 12:40 - 1:25 on Thursday if you would like to see all of the work these students did on their solar systems.

Monday - correct Math test for 1/2 points of all missed problems

We read a story about Louis Braille today. It took him three years, as a young boy, to create the system of reading for blind people. It is a good story and encourages the children to keep working at the things that are important. In the afternoon we watched a video about Louis Braille's life. We also reviewed the spelling and vocabulary words.

In math we reviewed the test we took last week. Any student who fixes any problems they missed will receive half credit for each lost point. We learned about metric measurements and will continue on this subject tomorrow. Then we will measure and weigh in both metrics and and U.S. measurements.

Students are in Science this week. Please make sure they all get their planet projects in on time.

Friday - it is cold

We took our reading and spelling tests this morning then the students read the next story about Louis Braille. Many students who finished early got their laptops and went into mathplayground.com On this site students can practice many fun math problems. In math we learned more about U.S. measurement and how it developed.

Please remind your children that it is early spring and likely to be very cold. Some children came to school without coats and then they are cold and miserable. I know we are hoping for warmer days, but the weather can change from rather pleasant in the morning to miserably cold and snowy by the afternoon. I have spoken to the students about this. Please remind them to dress appropriately.

Here is a good link for preparing for the ISAT tests. She has games and practice tests. http://ssoger.weebly.com/isat-practice.html

Thursday - Reading - spelling tests tomorrow

Today was very different, but quite enjoyable. We started class as usual with our morning Daily Oral Language and math review. Then students presented the vocabulary words they had prepared yesterday. We then went over to the auditorium to watch the play, "Hot Rod." The high school students did very well and the children quite enjoyed the play. I would suggest, if you need a night out to enjoy yourselves, that you make an effort to attend the play. After the play we had time to get ready for lunch.

After lunch we put on our coats and hats and went to the Dayton Cemetery. The students researched a list of different questions and wrote the answers. Thankfully Bill Salerno was able to go over with us. Then the students went to music. After music we did a quick lesson on converting inches to feet and feet to yards and yards to miles. We will be dealing with measurements for the next few weeks, although we will continue to review both fractions and geometry.

Wednesday and farewell to a friend

We took a spelling test this morning and then practiced identifying what a direct object was. In math students took their math test. Grades will be done in a few days.

In Social Studies students made posters about Idaho agriculture. They should finish those posters tomorrow. At afternoon recess a group of the girls put on a play as a last hurrah for one of their classmates who is moving. After recess we had a treat and just had time to visit before she left.

Tuesday - Geometry and Spelling test tomorrow

This morning we finished the story about Koko and his kitten All Ball. Then one of the students brought a link to a video about Koko so we watched that too. Next we moved on to our spelling words so the students will be ready for the test tomorrow. Finally, the students worked on an assignment about homographs, words that are spelled the same but have different meanings. We discussed that the "graph" part means "written" so they can distinguish between homographs and homophones, which are words that are sound the same but are spelled differently.

In math we prepared for the test. If you have any questions as to what will be on the test, please refer to yesterday's blog. Students are struggling as they confuse area (multiply lxw) and perimeter (add the length of all four sides) with each other. There will be a fraction problem, adding two fractions with different denominators. I will keep reviewing those so the problems become second nature to all of the students.

In Social Studies we finished the video about Idaho agriculture. Then, since the Russet Burbank potato was created by Luther Burbank, we watched a short video about him.

Monday - P.S. Report card information

Our new report cards are causing some concerns with grading. I thought I would take a minute out to explain. I will also send this letter home with the students. Your child's "Real" math grade is the number grades on the extra sheet of paper. The letter grade is simply the grade on the last two tests. I could have included all of the tests, but the idea is the child was to improve as the trimester went on.

Suppose your child had to do the problem 2/3 + 4/6. We all know that you can't add problems with different denominators, that you must get the denominator the same. This is one of the requirements for the students to learn and is listed on the grade sheet. Suppose your child showed in their work that they got the denominators the same, but then they reduced before they added. (This is an actual circumstance.) When I check the math paper, the answer is wrong. But when I look at how the child did the problem, I realize they almost have the concept, just not 100%. This child would not get a one. The child knows most of the steps, so I would give that child a 2. A 3 means they know and get the problem correct every time.

We are so used to grades, but this grading plan helps parents and teachers see exactly what it is that the child is not understanding. I am asking different children to stay in for a few minutes at different recesses to help those who did not understand fractions clearly. I am working with the first group right now and then will move onto the second group after spring break.

Monday Math test Wednesday

This morning students watched a youtube movie about Koko, the gorilla who knows sign language. Then we went over the fluency list and discussed words that the students didn't understand. Finally, we read the first half of the story about Koko. Students then wrote a short paragraph about the first half of the story.

In math we practiced finding area. The students did fine with rectangles, but they are still struggling with irregular figures. I will not be including irregular figures on this test. We need more work on those. However, the test will cover lines, line segments, points, rays, recognizing obtuse, acute and right angles and triangles, knowing a square, circle, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon, parallelogram and trapezoid. They will need to be able to determine the approximate angles of a triangle and know that all three angles add up to 180 degrees. They will also need to figure perimeter and area.

In Social Studies we learned a bit about agriculture in Idaho. We watched a movie that explained railroads, irrigation and better tools were the three things that improved Idaho's agriculture. We also learned that the two best known products of Idaho are sheep (we didn't know that one) and potatoes.

Friday

Students took their reading test this morning. Those who did not get 100% on their Wednesday spelling test had the opportunity to take it again. Your child should have brought home their hot pink homework paper, their reading test from last week, and their perimeter worksheet from yesterday. Please look at these things to make sure your child is performing up to his/her ability.

In math we learned how to find area by multiplying length x height. Then we did a week review where students were allowed to go to different stations around the room to review a math concept we learned this week.

Mrs. Wilde came in and gave the students a lesson on handling test stress. Then we went to a 4 -H meeting. Students should have brought a 4-H leaflet home to tell you about the meeting.

Thursday - Reading test on Friday

We reviewed for our reading test today and then discussed the difference between fact and opinion. It was interesting to see how often students thought something was a fact when it was an opinion. We corrected the work for the rest of the week. Then we started writing a story. The plot was to be that there were no more things to read. Students needed to include the characters, setting, plot, conflict and resolution in the pre-write.

In math students learned to measure perimeter. They started with four shapes they were to make and then moved on to items around the classroom. Tomorrow we will review the different areas of math we have learned this week while adding figuring out area to the mix.

Wednesday

We started the morning with a spelling test. Any student who missed more than 3 was required to stay in first recess and write their words five times. Hopefully this will help with them being more aware of the words. We also re-read our story and then watched a short film about the invention of the printing press and Johannes Gutenberg.

In math the students learned about symmetry. We had figures for the students to fold and find the lines of symmetry. Then they were given different shapes and made posters that show if a shape is symmetrical or not. Tomorrow we will be working with perimeter.

/

At the end of the day we had a discussion about bullying. The problem is, no one realizes they are bullying, they just think they are being bullied. We talked about what to do if someone is picking on you. We also discussed what not to do.

Tuesday

We read an interesting piece today on how important the printing press is. Students couldn't imagine there being no books at all. We also reviewed spelling words so students can be ready for their spelling test tomorrow. In math we measured the angles of triangles. We also measured the sizes so the students could identify the angle and type of triangle.

Monday

We read a short article today about commercials. We will be reading another article for our test, but this one was interesting. It talked about the different ways that commercials try and get a child's attention. We learned about the Federal Communications Commission. Then we reviewed our spelling and vocabulary words.

Students learned about the different types of triangles and quadrilaterals today. Then we worked a little on measuring angles with a protractor. Tomorrow we will do a little bit more with that. There is a great site to practice the vocabulary of geometry at aplusmath.com There are flashcards and a few games that help with geometry. They also have other flash cards and games that will help with other areas of math.

In Social Studies we learned about some cemeteries in Idaho. We will be making headstones tomorrow. The students are going to decide what information they would want to have on their headstone 65 years from now.

Friday

Report cards are going home today. AR points were supposed to go inside, I didn't notice that till the last one, so I put them on the outside. We had four students in the AR Walk of Fame today, one with over 400 points. Keep reading!

Thursday

Students re-read the article about whales and elephants. We discussed the different ideas in the text. We also read a poem that went with the story. We are taking the second spelling test tomorrow, so students were reminded to study for that. Also, it is Spirit Day so students may want to wear maroon and white. It is also the Walk of Fame tomorrow at the end of the day. Ask your student if they are walking. Students are working hard on reading every Dr. Seuss book that they can find. The PTO is preparing them for the reading night on April 10th. In math we are starting to work on geometry.

Wednesday

We took our math test first thing this morning instead of doing English. We had the ballroom dance team come to do an assembly during math time. It was very well done and the students really enjoyed watching it. We also took our spelling test today. Report cards will be sent home on Friday.

Tuesday - Math test tomorrow

Today two of our students brought us information and links to watch and learn about the Mariana Trench. It was very interesting. Then we went over spelling and vocabulary. Finally students did their spelling pages in preparation for the spelling test tomorrow.

We will also take the math test tomorrow. Students were given a worksheet today that had them write the rule and then work a few problems. Hopefully this will remind them of the rules they forgot during the last test. Students were given their previous math test to take home, correct, and bring back tomorrow.

Monday

We started our new story today. It concerns how whales communicate with other whales many miles away. There is also some research on elephants. It was quite interesting. Then we did our frequency words. Please practice those with your children to help them be fluent with these words. We reviewed our vocabulary meanings today.

We took our math test. There are some areas we need work on so we will study tomorrow, and re-take a different test on Wednesday. Many students seemed to forget things that they know. This way we can make sure the grading in math is accurate.

Students will have a science paper coming home tomorrow. They are to use their ingenuity to come up with a way to represent the solar system. It should be fun for them to get done.

Thursday - no school tomorrow

We took our reading test this morning. In math the students reviewed for the test. I believe we will do the test on Monday after we review. I just felt that the first test wore some of the students out enough that they wouldn't be successful on a math test.

We had the gold card store today. Students earn gold cards based on behavior. On March 6th we will be at a ballroom dance assembly from 10:30-11:30. On Friday is the Walk of Fame for Accelerated Reader points. Students are also being encouraged to read Dr. Seuss books for our Literacy night on April 10th. Classes who read the most Dr. Seuss books will earn a doughnut party.

Wednesday - Math test tomorrow???

We re-read our story today and talked about what the different meanings and feelings in the story. We reviewed our vocabulary words by having each person present the word they prepared yesterday. We had our review spelling test and then went to a pep assembly for the basketball team.

Students went to science and learned about planets and space. Then Mrs. Smith came in and gave each student a pledge to help our school stamp out all bullying. She read them a very good story about not giving into the temptation of bullying, even when there is a cause for it. After recess we practiced writing cursive R and B.

Tuesday - No math test tomorrow

Today we practiced finding the main idea and details in a paragraph. Students went into teams and practiced the skill. Then we got out our definition cards and worked on the definitions of our vocabulary words. In math we had a big review for our math test tomorrow. Most of the students finished their work. Those who did not stayed in until they were done. Anyone not finished was to take it home for homework.

Just to let you know, we had an assembly yesterday and will have another one tomorrow. Our class was absolutely wonderful during the assembly. They used good manners and were very respectful to the speakers. They deserve a pat on the back for their excellent behavior.

I just re-read the schedule for tomorrow. It appears that our pep rally will take place right in the middle of math. So the test will be postponed until Thursday. I know some families will be out of town for that. I will try and make arrangements so those students can take the test early.

Monday

We read a story about music and slavery today. We will be singing some of the songs and I will teach the students what the words hid from the slave owners. Students reviewed spelling and vocabulary words today. They took home their homework sheet. In math we reviewed how to compare fractions. We are preparing for a fraction test on Wednesday.

Today we had an excellent assembly to encourage the children to stop the bullying. Afterwards some of us began talking about some unruly behavior during the assemblies. We are going to get a practice sheet so students can learn the difference between behavior in a nice auditorium, a basketball game inside, a football game outside and a rodeo. We hope to improve the behavior so when people come to our auditorium they will be impressed with the good behavior of our students.

Friday

Today students took their reading tests. We discussed the test before to make sure that those who have been gone would understand the information. In math, after a quick multiplication test, we practiced turning decimals into fractions. We will finish that page on Monday. Then we worked on making geometric shapes. Following directions seemed to be the most difficult part of that assignment. Some students stayed in at recess to see if they could get it done.

Don't forget the Hoedown tonight. It starts at 6:30 and lasts until 8:30. It has a $1 entrance fee and it is $3.00 for dinner. Come and watch your children do their line dances. They have been practicing for weeks.

Thursday - Spirit Day tomorrow - Wear your colors

This morning students took their spelling test. Then we re-read the Anne Frank excerpt. Students worked on homophones. In math they were given a worksheet, with information they knew but presented in a different way. I told them to read the instructions and do the work. Later, I told them that often we will be given tests and we need to learn how to read the directions and look at the paper and figure out how to get it done. We started learning about how decimals and fractions are related as we move forward adding decimals.

In social studies, each team was given a section to read and then report about it to the class. Students reported on agriculture, ranching, sheep vs cattle, and how Idaho became a territory. At the end of the day we looked at some pictures from the 1940s, we talked about how grateful we should be for the things we have.

Tomorrow evening is the Hoe Down. Please come and help support the school.

Wednesday

We will have our spelling test tomorrow. The words are fairly simple this time. Today we learned about homophones. We listed as many as we could on the board. Then we read through and discussed our fluency words. We talked about what it must have been like for people living during the days of the Gestapo. Some of the children had interesting ideas about what it would be like to live then. Students finished their workbooks for their spelling words.

In math class we finished our estimation papers and then played multiplication bingo. That was fun for students. In Social Studies we studied about games that the homesteaders children would play. In our story last week, Mr McBroom and the Big Wind we learned that the children jumped rope and played marbles. Other games the homesteader children played were jacks and dominoes. Then we got out these games and the students took turns playing.

Please remember to attend the Hoe-Down on Friday from 6:30 to 8:30. Entrance cost is $1.00 for anyone not a student at HBL. Dinner is $3.00 per person. There will be line dancing and a silent auction for items brought by parents. Please help out if you can.

Tuesday - Spelling test on Thursday

We learned a little about Anne Frank today. We read a short excerpt from her diary. Then we talked about how racism can hurt many people. We reviewed our spelling and vocabulary words, but we will not have the pre-test until Thursday. Those who don't get 100% will take it again on Friday.

In math we were evaluating how to recognize if the sum of two fractions would be greater than one, equal to one, or less than one. Students who did not finish today's assignment are required to do it for homework. It is due at the start of class tomorrow.

In Social Studies we learned about the problems Native Americans had when the settlers came in. We talked about how ideas and values have changed, but that we shouldn't judge people long ago by our ideas of right and wrong.

/

The school's Hoedown is coming on Friday. Please find the orange paper that your child brought home today to understand what is happening that evening. All the money earned is to be used for the field trips this year. Other funding just isn't there. It should be a lot of fun. If you have something for the auction, you can bring it into Amy or bring it that night. If you would rather just give some money, I am sure that would happily accepted too.

Wednesday

Tomorrow is Valentine's Day. Students are very excited. Many have already brought their valentines in to share. We will have our party at 2:15.

We took our spelling test today so that all we have left tomorrow will be the reading test. We re-read the story today and discussed the questions that might be on the test. We also worked on personification and conjunctions. We had our math test yesterday and most students did fairly well. I will be taking groups tomorrow to work on the problem areas. Tyler Cahoon earned 100% on his test.

We ended the day discussing bullying. Mrs. Smith came in and talked to the students about things they might not see as bullying, but really were. Before she came, we had a class discussion, trying to help students understand how important it is to take care of each other. I hope it has a positive effect.

Tuesday

This morning we finished reading the story about Mr. McBroom and the Big Wind. We quite enjoyed it. We also reviewed our vocabulary and spelling words. Students need to study these on their homework sheets.

The math test was taken today. It is still in the process of being corrected, but most of the students finished on time. These students used the laptops and played fraction games at the site, Thinking Blocks. It is a good place to practice math.

In social studies we continued our study of mining in Idaho. Tomorrow we will learn more about the environmental effects. Students will determine how to still use our resources, but to do it while taking care of the earth. Remember, it is a short week this week. There is no school on Friday or Monday.