Happy Thursday Families!

It's hard to believe that the first half of the school year has come to a close. It has been so rewarding to watch how the students have continued to grow and change as learners. I can't wait to see what 2023 brings! 

Here are the concepts we are focusing on as we continue to work after Winter Break:

Literacy
Our students just wrapped up reading our shared text, "Angel Island".  The text told about the history and hardships surrounding immigrating through Angel Island in the early 20th century.  As we worked through the text, we practiced identifying the author's point of view and the evidence the author used to support the points that were made throughout. When utilizing non-fiction, because it can be more challenging to analyze, we have been practicing using inferencing skills and strategies within the text to help identify the author's point of view. 

Writing
Our students are working to wrap up their current analytical essays.   The prompt given was "Which classroom pet would be best for the classroom?". As we work towards their end product, we will continue to focus on students' organization, explaining how the evidence in their papers support the key ideas and the overall thesis, and writing effective and engaging lasting impressions within their conclusions.  

Math
Students have worked hard to master the standard algorithm of multiplication for both 2-digit by 2-digit and 3-digit by 2-digit problems. Throughout the unit, a variety of multiplication strategies have been practiced and emphasized. I am constantly amazed by the thinking processes that are demonstrated by students and their ability to explain their thinking. For those students who were ready to extend their learning in this area, many challenges have been available to stretch their thinking! By the end of the unit, students will be required to demonstrate their proficiency if using the standard multiplication strategy on three digit by two digit multiplication problems. 

Social Studies
When we return from break, we will shift our focus to the Colonial Era.  Through reading various texts, discussions, and activities, our students will work to answer how facing the complexities of America's past could help us to meet the challenges of the present?

Science
We are starting to wrap up our studies about the Earth's systems.  Recently, we analyzed how farming and industries negatively impact Earth's four systems (biosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere).  We also discussed ways people could protect the Earth, which involved the conservation of resources, such as fossil fuels.  In our investigation yesterday, we took on the role of engineers and used various materials to design a water filter that could remove dirt and produce clean water.Through this investigation, we explored the consequences of pollution and ways to protect the Earth's systems. Be sure to ask your student how effectively their group's filter was in cleaning the "polluted" water!

Upcoming Events

December 22nd - January 9th(Thursday): WINTER BREAK

January 16th: No School (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day)

Friendly Reminders

*As winter weather approaches, please make sure your student is properly dressed for recess.

*Please remind your student to charge his/her iPad and Logitech Crayon every night.

*Orchestra & Band Parents: Please make sure your students have their instrument on assigned days.

*Please remember to send your student with a healthy snack - nothing feeds the brain like a healthy snack!  

*Please continue to have your student practice their multiplication facts up to 12.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Winter Break and that you are able to take time to rest and be surrounded by Peace, Love and Joy!