Happy Friday, Families! 

First and foremost, I wanted to wish you and your family a very happy and healthy holiday season!

We persevered through the month of December & we've finally made it to winter break! During our morning meetings we've enjoyed so many team builders and cooperative activities that continue to foster the important connections that the kids feel to our classroom and with each other.

Reading:

In reading, we most recently finished up the story of Angel Island and the story of Chinese immigrants who entered the country through this immigration station.  We used our text to talk about the author's point of view in an informational text. The students also enjoyed learning about the history of Angel Island and the poems that were carved on the walls by immigrants who spent time there. Today we read a first-hand account of a woman named Li Keng Wong, who recalled her own experiences at Angel Island in a very personal way.

Writing: Currently, we are working on a writing project about a natural disaster. Students will report on the formation of their natural disasters, warning signs, and ways to prepare for when they occur. After winter break, students will be using Book Creator or Key Note to share their information.

Math:  This week, our class took the Unit 3 Post Test. This test covered all things decimals-- comparing decimals, decimal addition, and subtraction, and rounding decimals. After winter break, we will begin Unit 4, where we will learn the traditional method for multiplying multidigit numbers. Those students who are already mastering these targets will be provided with extensions and alternate activities.

Social Studies:  Students are currently learning about probable causes and effects of events and developments in U.S. history, with a focus on Westward Expansion.  In the coming weeks, our discussions will focus on the California Gold Rush, as well as answer and defend the argument of whether or not they would have traveled West.  

Science:   We have been continuing our learning on the topic of the Earth, Moon, and Stars. Within this unit, we explored concepts such as gravity, how distance affects the brightness of stars, and how day and night occur. 


Important Dates
Monday, Jan. 4th - School Resumes after Winter Break

Wednesday, Jan 13th - Asynchronous Planning Day until 10:15 am (more info to come on this at a later date). 

Monday, Jan. 18th - No School, MLK Day 
Tuesday, Jan. 26 - Early release @ 2:00 p.m.